Saratoga Today 4-13

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Volume 7 • Issue 15 saratogatodaynewspaper.com

‘Super Saturday in September’

Beekman St. Revival

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS – The Beekman Street Arts District is like no other district in Saratoga Springs – much less the rest of upstate New York. With new shops, galleries and restaurants coming to the historic and picturesque neighborhood, many believe the district is on the verge of a major growth spurt, a revitalization that promises to bring new life and excitement to this wonderfully unique corner of Spa City.

Steeplechase Tradition Jumps into Saratoga

by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS - Local racing fans know that September signals the traditional end to the annual six-week meet at Saratoga Race Course. This year, the racing season will last just a little longer, and offer you the chance to enjoy the historic race course like never before. NYRA and the National Steeplechase Association (NSA) are teaming up to present the Inaugural Steeplechase Festival at Saratoga on September

15. The event was announced April 11 at a press conference held at the National Museum of Racing.

The event will feature world-class steeplechase racing coinciding with a daylong festival featuring music, food, vendors, equine shows, a 9furlong fun walk on the dirt track, and carriage rides. Sponsors and their guests will even have access to the historic infield at Saratoga for the first time in over 100 years.

Event organizers were visibly excited during the announcement, which they think could bring thousands of steeplechase and equine fans to Saratoga. An influx of tourists

See Steeplechase page 5

Photo by Daniel Schechtman

Beekman Street Arts District

Season Begins The Oklahoma Track Opened Thursday, April 12

See Growing page 9

Fashion Police

Photo Provided by NYRA.com

Inside TODAY...

Spa City Bouncers Required to Stand Out

by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS – As the conversation over changing the city’s last call hour continues, a proposal by Public Safety Commissioner Chris Mathiesen could be looked at as a compromise between himself and the bar owners who have rallied together to protect their businesses – and bottom lines. Mathiesen’s requir-

ing that establishments within Saratoga Springs employing bouncers or designated security staff be outfitted with an easily identifiable piece of attire or insignia to help them stand out from customers. This way, the commissioner says authorities would be able to tell who’s who should they respond to an incident downtown.

See Last Call page 8

pgs 15-25 Veterans

pg 7

Business

pg 14

Calendar pg 27 Pulse

pgs 28-31

YMCA

pg 37

10,000 copies distributed weekly • Call To Advertise • (518) 581-2480

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Geyser Creek Seems A Bit Fishy Photos by Šstockstudiosphotography.com

Parents and children took part in the annual fish stocking of Geyser Creek within Saratoga Spa State Park. Hundreds were on hand to assist in releasing an estimated 700 fish to mark the start of fishing season. Brown trout were brought in from Herkimer County by the Van Hornesville Fish Hatchery. Families came from all over the Capital Region and were more than happy to lend a hand stocking the creek.

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BLOTTER 3

Friday, April 13, 2012

No Release for Saratoga Man Charged with Attempted Murder ALBANY - Nicholas Ture, the 23-year-old Saratoga Springs man who nearly stabbed his mother, Dru Ture, to death was denied his appeal last week and will serve the remainder of his 15-year sentence in jail, barring any new developments in the case.

Because the decision by the appeals court was unanimous, another appeal attempt is not considered likely. The appeal denial was handed down by the Third Judicial Department of the Appellate Division of the New York State Supreme Court in Albany.

Ture has been carrying out his sentence since pleading guilty to attempted murder in April 2010. In September of 2009, Ture repeatedly stabbed his mother in the neck back at

the Van Rensselaer St. Saratoga Springs home they shared. She sustained injuries that nearly cost her her life. Police arrived on the scene to find Dru Ture injured from the attack in her driveway and being assisted by two employees from the city’s Department of Public Works.

Besides attempted murder, additional felony charges Ture has pleaded guilty to include: two assault charges and one count of criminal possession of a weapon.

Originally, country psychiatrists determined that Ture was incompetent to stand trial, however, this decision was later reversed following his treatment. Ture was then considered mentally fit and thereby capable of answering the charges of which he pleaded guilty to.

Gregory E. Pierre-Louis, 27, of 106 Clamsteam Road, Clifton Park, pleaded guilt to a charge of second-degree attempted criminal possession of marijuana, a class-E felony. Pierre-Louis was arrested December 10, 2010, in Halfmoon and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing June 7.

Ian A. Ward, 20, of Ballston Spa, was charged with unlawful possession of marijuana, a violation. Ward was arrested April 7 in Wilton and is expected to return to court at a later date.

Nathaniel W. Homhaun, 25, of Gansevoort, was charged with second-degree harassment, a violation. Homhaun was arrested April 5 in Wilton and is expected to return to court at a later date.

Tracey M. McNicholas, 46, of Wilton, was charged with petit larceny, a class-A misdemeanor, and second-degree harassment, a violation.

McNicholas was

arrested April 11 in Wilton and is expected to return to court at a later date.

Keith J. Vanarsdal, 28, of Queensbury, was charged with driving while intoxicated and driving with a blood-alcohol content exceeding the legal limit, both misdemeanors. Vanarsdal was arrested April 8 in Saratoga Springs and is expected to return to court at a later date.

Joseph Parks Russell, 19, was charged with fifth-degree criminal possession of stolen property, a class-A misdemeanor, and petit larceny, a class-A misdemeanor.

Russell was arrested April 8 in Saratoga Springs and is expected to return to court at a later date.

James J. Fitzgerald, 28, of Clifton Park, was charged with third-degree falsely reporting an incident, a class-A misdemeanor.

Fitzgerald was arrested April 8 in Saratoga Springs and is expected to return to court at a later date.

Craig A. Valcik, 32, of Adirondack Circle, Gansevoort, has been charged with unlawfully fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle, a misdemeanor. Valcik was arrested April 5 for an incident that occurred November 7 and is expected to return to court at a later date.

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WEEK IN REVIEW

Skidmore Drives $416.4 Million Annually in Local Economic Activity

photo provided

The Zankel Music Center at Skidmore College draws thousands of visitors each year for world-class performances.

SARATOGA SPRINGS - Skidmore College has recently announced that a comprehensive study completed by the Capital District Regional Planning Commission, an Albany-based organization, revealed that the college’s local economic impact on Saratoga County totals to $416.4 million annually, with an annual employment impact of 3,080 jobs.

“There’s also the $46 million the college will spend this year to purchase a range of goods and services, and this certainly makes a difference locally,” said Philip A. Glotzbach, president of Skidmore. That figure does not include the dollars Skidmore students return to the community when choosing to spend money at local shops and restaurants.

Contributions by members of the Skidmore community to the local region are not limited to just revenue and jobs. Community service, cultural and educational programs, and volunteering offered by the students and faculty of Skidmore continue to afford Saratoga Springs immeasurable benefits.

“Saratoga Springs and its surrounding communities give the college a powerful sense of place. The vibrant culture here provides a quality of life that is hard to beat,” Glotzbach told gatherers at the sixth annual Community Leaders Breakfast where the study’s findings were released.

Court Denies Demolition of 66 Franklin Street SARATOGA SPRINGS - A demolition request by the owner of the building at 66 Franklin Street in Saratoga Springs has been denied

by State Supreme Court Justice Thomas D. Nolan Jr., who ruled late last month to uphold a previous decesion in 2011 which also denied the owner’s demolition request. The owner, Joseph Boff, tried to demolish the building in December of 2008, but was opposed by the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation, who claimed the house held historical value and should not be demolished.

The court noted that Boff can still attempt to claim a demolition permit by applying to the city’s Design Review Commision, which holds jurisdiction over the demolition of buildings located in the historic district.

The Saratoga Citizen Proposal Will Be Put to Vote SARATOGA SPRINGS – The New York State Appellate Division has upheld the right of Saratoga Citizen’s proposed amendment to the city charter be put on the ballot this November in a decision made April 5. The proposal replaces the current mayoral format, with one run by a city manager. Patrick Kane

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of Saratoga Citizen originally supplied a petition of over 2,300 signatures to the city in 2010. The city rejected the petition, saying that some signatures were invalid, that it was improperly bound and that it did not provide a summary of what it would cost to change. Saratoga Citizen sued the city, and the New York State Supreme Court rejected the city’s claims, and upheld the petition. The city appealed that ruling, leading up to April 5 decision.

The amendment will now be put to a vote on the November election ballots.

Wilton Town Board WILTON - The Wilton Town Board met for their monthly meeting Thursday, April 6, where they discussed zoning laws, the town hall’s building use policy and highway department buisneess.

The town board accepted the resignation of longtime zoning board member Al Mottau, a frequent contributer to Saratoga TODAY newspaper. Mottau resigned from the board after decades of dedicated service, and will be recognized for his commitment to Wilton at the next town board meeting.

The board also discussed the highway department’s request for a new pick-up truck, which would replace an older model. Because of

TODAY

the mild winter, the department spent approximatly $155,000 less on salt and sand from January through April as compared to 2011.

That savings could disappear if November and December bring more heavy winter storms - but if there remains significant savings, Councilman Robert Pulsifer recommended the highway department use the leftover funds to catch up on their equipment repair and replacement schedule.

Children Charged Graveyard Vandalism

In

MECHANICVILLE – Five juveniles, ranging from ages 9 to 13 were taken into custody April 9 in connection to the vandalism of over 90 tombstones in Hudson View Cemetery. Some of the grave markers damaged date back to the 1700s.

The cases were submitted to Family Court. Four of the five suspects are from Mechanicville, the other is from Stillwater. The suspect’s names and genders were not released due to their age. Police were able to locate the suspects when another juvenile met with investigators April 6. The damage was discovered March 30 by a groundskeeper.

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Friday, April 13, 2012

Steeplechase Festival at Saratoga Slated for September continued from Page 1 of that size would certainly provide a nice after-season boost to the local economy.

“I think Saratoga just got much more exciting with this terrific line up for a super Saturday in September,” said Barry Potoker, local businessman and co-chairman of the new event along with Bob Giordano.

“On September 15, a new light is going to shine on the facet of this gem I call Saratoga. It will be a day when the curtain rises for an encore after the last races on Labor day weekend,” said Giordano, who you might recognize as the “May I Help You” guy from the Race Course.

For those unacquainted, steeplechase is a form of horse racing that dates back to 18th century Ireland, and features horses jumping over gates while attempting to match a predetermined “optimum time” set for the course. Penalties are issued for exceeding the optimum time, but there is no advantage to turning in a particularly fast time. The event is based on similar events that take place along the East Coast, like the Far Hills Races in New Jersey.

There will be four traditional steeplechase races, with purses totaling $100,000. This includes the Steeplechase Cup, a main event with a $50,000 purse. There will be no wagering on the races through the race course. Purse money is being funded through sponsorships.

While steeplechases are occasionally held during the meets at Saratoga and Belmont Park, this is the only world-class steeplechase event in New York state. Tickets are expected to cost only $20 for the inaugural festival, which when compared to ticket prices for similar events, is a bargain. Organizers are hopeful that this event will be a huge success, and already seem to have the support from the business community.

“We want a crowd; we want it to be fun. We want everyone to say ‘we can’t wait until next year,’” said Girodano. “Over $50,000 has already been committed to this project after one small press release on March 8.”

A portion of the proceeds from this event will benefit two organizations with local connections and great causes. Saratoga Bridges, a nonprofit organization offering support to the disabled and their families, and the Retired Thoroughbred Foundation, a group working to save Thoroughbred race horses from abuse or neglect once their

Photo provided by NYRA.com

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days on the track are over.

“I think the unique part of this is many people aren’t aware that Thoroughbreds compete in the steeplechase community,” said Jeff Cannizzo, the Executive director of New York Thoroughbred Breeders, Inc. “It’s going to be very interesting

to see the racing at Saratoga up close and personal on the infield grounds, which hasn’t happened in anyone’s lifetime here.”

Those attending the first Steeplechase Festival at Saratoga can expect a wealth of options when looking for something to do.

Special sections will be set up for tailgating and returning college students. A vendor village will run parallel to the infield on the ground level, and there will be open seating in the clubhouse all day.

For more information, visit the event’s website at www.steeplechasefestivalatsaratoga.org.

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OBITUARIES Rita V. Clechenko

Saratoga Springs, NY – Rita V. Clechenko died peacefully Thursday, March 29, 2012, surrounded by family.

Rita was predeceased by her husband, Kurt Clechenko.

Rita is survived by her children, Peter Clechenko, David Clechenko, Carol Hulett and their spouses. She also leaves behind five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Following Rita’s wishes, there will be no service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to

Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, (518) 584-5373.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Karl Albert Hahnenberger Saratoga Springs, NY Karl Albert Hahnenberger died Friday, March 30, 2012.

Born July 31, 1922, in Reichenbach, Germany, he was the son of the late Jakob and Frieda Hahnenberger.

Karl is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Ellen (Muller) Hahnenberger; daughters, Margret (Rich) Hickey and Karen (Roger) Elem; brother, William Hahnenberger; grandchildren, Scott (Kristine) Hickey, Kevin Hickey, Erika (Ryan) McCabe and Reid Elem; great-grandchildren, Logan and Liam; niece, Carol (Frank) Raia; and nephew, William (Marcia) Hahnenberger.

Relatives and friends are invited to a memorial celebration from noon-2 p.m. Saturday, April 21, 2012, at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, (518) 584-5373.

Burial will be private at the convenience of the family.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Peter's ALS Regional Center, 19 Warehouse Row, Albany, NY 12205.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Josephine “Josie” Wasner Saratoga Springs, NY – Josephine “Josie” Wasner, 87, passed away Friday, April 6, 2012.

Born March 19, 1925, in New York City, she was the daughter of the late Ernest and Anna Podesva.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her beloved husband, Kenneth Wasner, and her four brothers, Edward, Ernest Jr., Paul and Albert Podesva.

Survivors include many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

Burial will be private at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saratoga County Animal Shelter, 6010 County Farm Rd., Ballston Spa, NY 12020 in memory of Josie and her love for her two cats.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com

Donald Taylor Saratoga Springs, NY – Donald Taylor, 83, passed away Tuesday, April 3, 2012.

Born March 10, 1929, in Great Neck, Long Island, he was the son of the late Harry and Mary Angelo Taylor.

In addition to his parents, Don was predeceased by his wife, Alice E. Taylor.

Survivors include his loving companion and sweetheart, Ann Pearsall; sons, Donald R. (Wendy) Taylor and Robert T. Taylor; brother, Raymond (Ila) Taylor; granddaughter, Erin

(Matt) Gardner; and great-grandchildren, Hailie and Wyatt Gardner.

Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 260 Osborne Rd., Loudonville, NY 12211.

Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, (518) 584-5373.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

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James Rockwood Kuelzow Saratoga Springs, NY – James Rockwood Kuelzow, 83, passed away peacefully Sunday, April 1, 2012.

Born April 1, 1929, in Jackson Heights, NY, Jim was the son of the late Rockwood August Kuelzow and Ruth Penrose Monahan.

Survivors include his loving wife, Mary; four children, Christopher James (Ann) Kuelzow, Cathy Ann (Kallanna) Manjunath, Robert James (Elizabeth) Kuelzow, Suzanne Marie (David) Winton; and eight grandchildren, Sarah Winton (Aidan) Sweeney, Eric Winton, Matthew Winton, Daniel Kuelzow, Caitlin Kuelzow, Julia

Kuelzow, Maxwell Kuelzow and Cal Manjunath.

Funeral services with military honors were held Thursday, April 5, 2012, at the Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Rd., Schuylerville.

Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, (518) 5845373.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Stratton VA Medical Center, 113 Holland Ave., Albany, NY 12208 or Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Louise Karen McDonnell Saratoga Springs, NY Louise Karen McDonnell, 79, died peacefully Friday, April 6, 2012.

Born January 19, 1933, in New York City, she was the daughter of the late William and Emma Hansen.

Louise is survived by her husband, John; sons, Michael Gildea (Sharon) and John (Tanya) McDonnell; daughters, Patricia Fernet and Susan Clare (Tim); grandchildren, Candace Bousman, Lauren Andreini, Bryan and Sean Fernet, Brigid and Patrick Clare, and Liam and Aidan

McDonnell; great-grandchildren, Lilith Fernet, Grace and Will Bousman and Finn and Henry Andreini. She also leaves behind her faithful companion dog Katy.

Burial will be at the convenience of the family.

For those who wish to remember Louise in a special way, contributions may be made to the Saratoga County Animal Shelter, 6010 County Farm Rd., Ballston Spa, NY 12020.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

James E. Stevens, Jr. Hoosick Falls, NY – James E. Stevens, Jr., 85, formerly of Saratoga Springs, passed away Sunday, April 8, 2012.

Born May 30, 1926, in Saratoga Springs, he was the son of the late James E. and Flora May (Deyoe) Stevens, Sr. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by one son, Patrick Stevens; a sister, Alice (Stevens) Maher; and a brother, William Stevens.

Survivors include his wife, Theresa (Hebert) Stevens; two sons, Thomas Stevens and

Joseph (Janie) Stevens; one daughter, Karen Stevens; and a sister-inlaw, Marilyn Stevens.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday, April 13, 2012, at St. Clement’s Church, 231 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs.

Burial will follow in the family plot at St. Peter’s Cemetery, West Ave., Saratoga Springs.

Donations may be made to Saratoga Hospital, 211 Church St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

To view the full-text version of the obituaries printed on this page, visit the archive section of SaratogaTodayNewspaper.com. It is the policy of Saratoga TODAY to publish obituaries as a service to our readers. Please send your obituaries to Christina James at cjames@saratogapublishing.com.

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A TRIBUTE TO VETERANS

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Korean Veterans Secure Plaque for the Military Museum A lot of hard work and fundraising finally paid off Saturday, March 31 for a group of local Korean War veterans. A commemorative plaque, funded entirely through the donations of a few generous individuals, was unveiled at the New York State Military Museum. The plaque brings with it the chance for later generations to remember the brave men and women who perished. But more than that, and unlike many conventional war monuments, this plaque’s focus is centered around the war’s immeasurable cost.

“We wanted to focus on the lives lost,” said Gene Corsale, a Korean veteran and the chairman of the plaque committee. “[The plaque] doesn’t say how brave they were or that they were heroes. We just wanted to focus on the numbers, the cost of

the war, and those we left behind.”

The plaque’s logo depicts a silhouette of New York state with United States and Korean flags crossed behind it. Beneath the logo, a list of casualties, prisoners of war, soldiers that are MIA, and those wounded in action presents one staggering statistic after another. The plaque ends with a message, “Freedom is not free,” and reconnects the lives lost with the original objective: freedom.

During the plaque’s dedication ceremony, Corsale gave a moving speech highlighting some of the postwar struggles that Korean War veterans have experienced.

“We are the veterans of the Korean Police Action, the Korean War, the forgotten war. The government hesitated as to what exactly to call this undeclared war, so over the years we

were assigned, and answered to, all of the three aforementioned titles,” Corsale said in his speech.

“But 61 years ago, when called upon, we served our country faithfully and honorably as our past generations have done. With war’s end and as time passed by, we sought some recognition of our forgotten war, yet…our efforts were rarely acknowledged,” Corsale said.

As a step toward that acknowledgement, the local veterans took matters into their own hands, designing, funding and finding placement for their memorial themselves.

“A group of Korean vets undertook the daunting task of generating funds to have their own bronze plaque cast, their feelings inscribed thereon, and placed in a conspicuous location among other war memorials with [the

Photos Provided

Saratoga County Deceased Veteran of the Month Corporal John Albert Furlow The Saratoga County Veterans Service Agency has named John Albert Furlow the April 2012 Deceased Veteran of the Month. Furlow will be honored Tuesday, April 17 during a public ceremony. The ceremony begins at 2:30 p.m. at 40 McMaster St., Ballston Spa, and is followed by a reception.

Corporal Furlow, Clifton Park, was enlisted in the U.S. Army Infantry from 1950-1953. He served during the Korean War and was a mortar gunner in four battle campaigns. He received a distinguished unit citation, Good Conduct Medal, a United Nations Medal and a Purple Heart.

After leaving the Army, Corporal Furlow worked for Preston Trucking Company for 32 years and was a member of the VFW Halfmoon-Clifton Park, the Jonesville Fire Company and the VFW Color Guard.

Corporal Furlow is survived by two sons, David and Robert Furlow.

plaque’s] wording recognizing the rarely mentioned, or known, or considered, the horrible-human-physical cost of war.”

You can visit the brand-new plaque at the New York Military Museum, 61 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs.

The Korean War Plaque was made Possible through the Donations of the Following Generous Individuals: • Michael Aikey • Leonard Breen & Helen Mary • George S. & Jean Covell • Gene & Barbara Corsale • Jack & Agnes Downing • Paul & Suzanne Darling • Louise M. Finan (In memory of Chaplain Jim Finan) • Robert S. Garland • Kock Elan Jung • James C. & Ceclia McConkey

• McNeil Financial Group • John J. & Janice O’Brien • Paul O’Keete • Lincoln J. & Jane Orohogio • Frank & Delores Parillo • William E. & Lillian Reid • William & Marjorie Shaw • Saratoga Springs Police Benevolent Association • Frank J. & Patricia Trepanier

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Last Call Proposal Held Up, New Rules for Bouncers continued from Page 1 “We are asking the establishments that employ bouncers to have them easily identified by some sort of garment. The whole purpose of that is to differentiate the staff from the patrons so that if there is some kind of an altercation, the police will know who is in charge,” said Mathiesen.

The New York State Liquor Authority and city ordinance cur-

rently requires bouncers to be certified, as well as carry their certification on them while working.

There is, however, no requirement stating that they display that certification. Mathiesen’s addition says any bar in the city employing a designated security staff will be subject to the ordinance.

“We think having a visible presence in an establishment might tone down some the problems that might otherwise occur,” said

Mathiesen. “This is going above and beyond the requirements of the State Liquor Authority (SLA).

They require the bouncers to carry their certification with them.

We’re not asking them to display their certification, just that they be easily identified through some sort of garment.”

The new legislation is another turn in the debate over Saratoga Springs’ downtown bar scene during the late night hours, which

started heating up after Mathiesen’s tenure as Public Safety Commissioner began back in January. The commissioner campaigned on the promise to see something done about the reports of unruly behavior and public intoxication. This led to the much talked about idea of changing the last call hour in Saratoga Springs from 4 a.m. to 3 a.m.

“We spent 30 years building the nightlife here in Saratoga, and I don’t think it’s a good idea for the commissioner to be messing with that,” said John Baker, owner of Gaffney’s on Caroline Street.

Gaffney’s currently requires their doormen to be dressed in a buttoned down white shirt bearing their logo. Baker says to comply with the new rule, he’s ordered nametags that will identify the person working at the door right away, and hopes it will be sufficient.

The last call change ran into a considerable roadblock this week, as the SLA informed the city that a change in Saratoga Springs’ last call hour would mean all of Saratoga County would also be required to adhere to the change.

His enthusiasm involved with changing the last call hour was based on a legal opinion obtained before he was elected.

“In 2010 there was a legal opinion issued by the county attorney for Commissioner [John] Franck when he brought up the idea of changing the last call hour, and that opinion was to the effect that there wasn’t anything in the alcoholic beverage control (ABC) law that would preclude a municipality from having a different last call hour than the surrounding county,” said Mathiesen. “A lot of what I was planning for last call was based on that decision.”

Mathiesen contacted the SLA earlier this year when he took office and inquired about that 2010 opinion. He says he was told there was nothing in the ABC law that would prevent them from having a different last call than the county. After Mathiesen sought a more formal statement regarding the decision, he received a phone call April 5 from the SLA stating that it was not appropriate for there to be a different last call for the municipality. Mathiesen is still considering his next move, but he has not ruled out approaching county officials regarding the change.

“I don’t think there’s an awful lot of revenue generated between three and four at night and I think the case in Saratoga Springs is that most establishments aren’t even open then. It would be a big help to our city, a big help in dealing with this problem, and may actually help the rest of the county too,” said Mathiesen.

Commissioner Mathiesen has put bar owners in the tough position of having to defend their right to make money during the late night hours, while maintaining that they are doing all they can to make sure their customers are not being over served. Mathiesen met with bar owners, officials from the State Liquor Authority and members of the city’s police force in early March to discuss what responsibilities are expected of bars and clubs in Saratoga Springs. That meeting led to the legislation requiring bouncers to be licensed, and bartenders making sure not to over serve alcohol to their patrons.

“The commissioner has brought a lot of attention to over-serving, getting doormen certified, and using the TIPS program, but it’s not a perfect situation.

Unfortunately, you can do everything in the world and something bad can happen,” said Baker.

The topic has drawn considerable resistance from bar owners and business associations alike, with no better example than during the workshop held March 27 called “Nightlife in Saratoga Springs - Is it safe?” Mathiesen publically referred to the atmosphere of the bar scene as “dangerous,” much to the chagrin of the overwhelming majority of bar owners and business people in attendance.

Representatives from the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Business Association, and Convention and Tourism Bureau asked Mathiesen to address his comments during a recent city council meeting, saying that the negativity is undermining their efforts to promote the city as a safe place to visit.

“I think all the bars and restaurants have banded together to try and keep Saratoga safe,” says Baker. “But I don’t think changing closing hour is going to make a difference, and that it would be a deterrent to our tourism and the atmosphere here in the city.”

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Friday, April 13, 2012

Growing Arts District Readies for First Friday continued from Page 1 “I think this year is going to be very, very good,” said Mary Chen, owner of the 70 Beekman Street building and Beekman Street Art Gallery.

Chen was one of the first galleries to open along Beekman Street in 2003, and over the years has witnessed the ebb and flow of the district. In 2008, when the economic recession began, many galleries and shops were unable to survive the difficult climate and were forced to close or relocate.

“Unfortunately, the arts tend to be one of the first things to get cut out of someone’s shopping plans if their money is tight,” said Saratoga County Supervisor Joanne Yepsen, who helped the Beekman Street Arts District come up with a long-term strategic plan in 2006. “So we had a bit of a downturn [in 2008], but things are really picking up again. I believe we are going to see Beekman Street become even more of a destination as the location continues to grow.”

With a national economy that has slowly, if only tentatively, begun to right itself, more and more shops, galleries and restaurants are once again opening up along the little village in Spa City.

“We opened our gallery just last November,” said Michael Bray, who

works alongside his wife, Sharon Crute, at her recently opened gallery on Beekman Street. “We’ve seen a lot of the ‘for rent’ or ‘for sale’ signs starting to disappear, and we’re working together to grow again as Saratoga’s center for the arts. I think Beekman Street is on the verge of reinventing itself as an arts district.”

Also coming to Beekman Street is a brand-new restaurant at 70C Beekman Street, the building owned

by Chen.

“They’re called European Soul Food, owned by Deborah Nelson,” said Chen. “They want to open as soon as possible, maybe in June.

They’re going to add a lot of diversity to the street.”

The newest addition to the Beekman Street District is the Spa City Bicycleworks shop. The shop opened its doors last month as a place for cyclists to come and find new bikes, supplies, rent bikes, schedule rides or simply hang out.

“We want to create a nice little community where cyclists can come and hang out with free Wi-Fi and coffee in the courtyard,” said owner Tony Ferradino. “Upstairs we have resident artists who use the space, sculptors and painters that will open their studio doors up during the First Friday event. We also rent bicycles so that people can come to the district and ride around if they’d like.”

Come May 4, the Beekman Street

The Beekman Street Arts District Arts District will hold its inaugural First Friday event of the year, with most, if not all of the businesses and galleries along the street opening their doors to customers interested in enjoying the latest and greatest artwork, products, food, music and more.

“We didn’t do many musical performances at the gallery last year,” said Chen. “This year, we will start to again. Sometimes we perform; sometimes we have a local musician perform at our gallery or on the street. They have been very, very nice, and we’re excited to have that again for the First Friday event.”

Other shops, like Nicole LaFayette’s Lafayette Jewelry Designs, will be showcasing their own products and wares while also serving up some food and refreshments to visiting patrons.

“I’m making some new pieces of different jewelry lines that I’ll be showing,” said LaFayette, “and I’ll probably have some food out for people. I’ve been here since 2008,” she added, “and I’ve found that between this year and last year, I’m starting to have more repeat customers. More people are remember-

Photos by Daniel Schechtman • Saratoga TODAY

ing my shop and the work we do here, so more people are coming to the district to help support it.”

“Our hope is that the district grows overtime, and eventually more of artists and more businesses will feed the activity, which will add to the economic development of the street,” said Yepsen. “I think there are a lot of combined factors that are all moving in the right direction now to increase traffic, as well as to increase the variety of businesses located in the Arts District.”

The Beekman Street First Friday event is scheduled to begin Friday, May 4, and will continue throughout the spring and summer season on the first Friday of every month.

To learn more about the Beekman Street Arts District or the First Friday events, visit www.saratogaartdistrict.com, search “Beekman Street” on Facebook or visit Beekman Street in person between Congress Street and West Circular Street.

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Friday, April 13, 2012

TODAY

SARATOGA

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Friday, April 13, 2012

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Summer Camp Directory

SARATOGA

Friday, April 13, 2012

TODAY

This Week’s Spotlight Town of Wilton Wilton Recreation offers a fullday summer camp program for children in grades one through nine.

With available pre-camp and postcamp care, working parents can ensure their children are having fun in a safe environment before and after the camp’s regular 9 a.m.-3 p.m. hours. Parents who register their children for before and after camp care can drop off their children prior to camp opening at 8:30 a.m. and can pick them up at 5:30 p.m. Bussing is available for Wilton residents who register for regular camp hours (9 a.m.-3 p.m.).

Wilton Recreation Camp offers a full schedule of daily on-site activities, themed events, and exciting trips for kids who register for offsite adventures. Daily on-site activities include arts and crafts, sports, playground fun, and other organized group games. This year’s scheduled field trips include: Million Dollar Beach in Lake George, Saratoga County Fair, bowling, white water rafting, and at least two swimming days per week at nearby pools and beaches.

The summer 2012 camp will open June 26 and run until August 10.

Registration begins has begun at Gavin Park and will close June 13.

As there are only 300 spaces available, be sure to mark your calendar!

Camp registration forms are available online at http://www.townof wilton.com/ or can be picked up, weekdays, at Gavin Park 9 a.m.-5 p.m. For any other questions, call the park office at (518) 584-9455.

SARATOGA

TODAY

Friday, April 13, 2012

EDUCATION

13

Ballston Spa Odyssey of the Mind Team off to World Championships Photo Provided

HEAD OF THE CLASS - (from left to right) Alyson Demskie, Caitlin Shanley, Maggie Zink, Allyson Block, Lydia Freehafer, Katie Barno and Hope Danison show off the 6-foot structure they created for a demonstration on different dimensions.

Stewart’s Shops Pledges $60,000 to SUNY Empire State for Community College Graduate Scholarships Stewart’s Shops has pledged $60,000 over three years to SUNY Empire State College to support graduates of community colleges as they continue their education at SUNY Empire State College.

The Empire State College Foundation will match this gift, enabling the program to now provide $40,000 annually to community-college alumni who live or work in the Stewart’s Shop service area throughout eastern New York State.

Stewart’s also funded this program from 2007 to 2011 with gifts of $14,000 each year, which also were matched by the Empire State

College Foundation. After four years, the program resulted in significantly increased graduation rates among the students receiving scholarship support. When the current pledge is completed in 2015, this program will have provided almost a quarter of a million dollars in scholarship funding.

“This remarkable scholarship program is a three-way win. It benefits students in the communities that Stewart’s Shops serves, it gives a boost to community-college graduates seeking to go on for a bachelor’s degree,” said Hugh Hammett, VP for external affairs at SUNY Empire State College.

The Ballston Spa High School Odyssey of the Mind team has qualified to represent New York State in the 2012 World Championships held in Ames, Iowa over three days in May. The team consists of seven tenth-graders, who will compete against high schools from across the state to create an original solution to this year’s structure problem.

The “You Make the Call” event required the teams to build an eightinch weight-bearing structure made only of balsa wood and glue in their choice of three weights: 9, 12 or 15 grams. Bonuses were awarded to teams for using either of the lower two sizes.

The Ballston Spa team, after testing several designs, elected to make a 9gram structure, which after doubling held an impressive 793 pounds before breaking.

In addition to the structure, the problem required the teams to write and perform an eight-minute mathematicsthemed skit, including an original device that would demonstrate a mathematical function on two objects. The BSHS team made a six-foot tall head,

with moving eyes, lips and tongue, to demonstrate how two 2-dimensional objects turned into 3D. They were also scored on the creativity of their props, costumes and humorous skit.

At the world championships, the team will face competitors from around the globe while experiencing international interpretations of the problem solutions as well as developing global understanding and nurturing life-long friendships.

The members of the Ballston Spa High School team are Maggie Zink, Caitlin Shanley, Lydia Freehafer, Alyson Demskie, Hope Danison, Allyson Block and Katie Barno. The team is required to pay for all of their expenses for themselves and their families, including travel, meals and accommodations, and will be accepting donations, holding numerous fund-raising events and soliciting community and business sponsorships.

For more information contact Laurie Freehafer at laurie.freehafer@gmail.com.

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BUSINESS

Friday, April 13, 2012

Parade of Homes to Showcase Latest Residential Design Trends

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY LATHAM - The Capital Region’s most reputable names in home building and construction are coming together once again for the 12th annual Parade of Homes Tour, where the latest and greatest home design trends and technologies will be on display for all to view.

Set for June 1-3 and June 9-10, the public is invited to tour 15 beautifully designed homes to find the latest styles, finishes, materials and tech-

nologies available from the area’s premier builders.

“Having been a member of the Parade of Homes Committee since 2000, I am most excited and encouraged by the response we have received from the builders for this year’s event. To have 15 of the most prestigious homebuilders in the area participating is phenomenal,” said Ed

business briefs New Hire at Roohan Realty

Gilligan, chairperson for the 2012 Parade of Homes Committee.

The Capital Region Builders and Remodelers Association (CRBRA) has announced that the following builders will be participating in the Parade of Homes Showcase: Amedore Homes, Bette Cring, Bella Homes, Belmonte Builders, Bryland, Camelot Associates, Keystone Builders, Paige Contracting, Parkside at the Crossings, Patanian Homes, Rosenblum Companies, Saratoga Builders, The Michaels Group, Tralongo Builders and Witt Construction.

In addition to the Parade of Homes Tour, local chefs will be cooking up delicious dishes in the featured homes’ gourmet kitchens for the Chefs on Parade Competition.

Participating establishments include Carmine’s Brazilian Grill, Angelo’s 677 Prime, Jacob & Anthony’s, Bangkok Bistro, Paolo Lombardi’s, Yono’s, Mallozzi’s, Lake Ridge and more.

To purchase tickets for the tour, visit www.crbra.com, where they will be made available after May 15. The CRBRA will be donating proceeds from the ticket sales to the American Cancer Society.

TODAY

Robin Dalton SARATOGA SPRINGS Roohan Realty is pleased to announce that Robin Dalton has joined the Commercial Services Division of Roohan Realty as a commercial sales specialist.

“I am thrilled to be joining the commercial team and look forward to contributing to our future success!” said Dalton.

Robin grew up in New York City and graduated from Cornell University in 2002. She worked on Capitol Hill in Washington, before becoming a producer for 20th Century Fox. In 2008, she moved to Saratoga Springs and joined the residential sales team of Roohan Realty.

Robin is very involved in the local community serving on the Foundation Board of Saratoga Hospital, as well as fundraising for Saratoga Sponsor-A-Scholar and Yaddo. She is also a contributing writer with Mamatoga Magazine, an avid marathon runner and Ironman triathlete.

Mrs. Dalton lives in Saratoga Springs with her husband, Matt, and their two young sons. She can be reached at (917) 476-9977 or at daltonrobin@gmail.com.

Scott Varley Group Launches Commercial Real Estate Sector SARATOGA SPRINGS – The

Scott Varley Group at RealtyUSA, based out of Saratoga Springs, has announced the launch of Varley Commercial, a separate sector of The Scott Varley Group that deals solely with commercial real estate transactions specifically in and around Saratoga County. The operation will be housed at Varley’s 28 Division Street offices in Saratoga Springs.

To spearhead the development and branding of Varley Commercial, Scott Varley has hired Kevin Philbin. Philbin has been in the real estate business for more than 25 years and specializes in residential and commercial real estate transactions at all levels.

“With launching Varley Commercial we want to be known as the source to turn to if you have commercial property you want to sell or buy in Saratoga County,” noted Scott Varley, president of The Scott Varley Group.

Working with Philbin at Varley Commercial is Joan Purtell, who has been with Scott Varley since 2009. She has more than 32 years of experience in the real estate industry, is a NY State General Appraiser, and has completed the CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member) courses for accreditation. Additional commercial agents will be added in the near future.

A Varley Commercial website is in development (www.varleycommercial.com) and will be launched soon. However, their bright red and yellow signs can be seen now in front of prime commercial properties in Saratoga Springs and Saratoga County.

SARATOGA

TODAY

Friday, April 13, 2012

15

Does Everything Really Happen for a Reason?

Gayle LaSalle I’m the Boss of Me Do you believe that everything happens for a reason? This is an assertion we hear from many people, usually when something unfortunate occurs. Someone loses a job and their friend tries to make them feel better by saying: “Everything happens for a reason; you’ll see.”

Even when the worst thing imaginable happens, like the death of a loved one, someone will undoubtedly utter those words: “Everything

happens for a reason.”

I, for one, do not believe this.

I don’t believe that when towns get decimated by tornados, it happens for a reason. I don’t believe that when those we love die, it happens for a reason. I don’t believe that when a person loses a job, he or she loses it for a reason; at least not a reason that is meant to benefit him or her.

Now, if believing this is comforting to some, who am I to tell them not to believe it? However, I do see some negatives to having this belief.

I’ve seen people wait for the “reason” to be revealed to them. In the meantime, they are unhappy and depressed by their current situation.

Also, I simply cannot believe that some awful things could happen for a reason. For example, could a parent who loses a child to a drunk driver lose that child for a reason?

Even if the outcome is that the parent goes on to become an advocate against drunk-driving, it would just be too incredibly cruel.

There is another way to think about this. From my point of thinking, I am the Boss of ME! Yes, bad things do happen, and yes, even to

the best of people. Yet, fate does not rule my life. This means that how I respond to both the good and not-sogood circumstances in my life is my own choice – not some undefined fateful reason. I believe it is our own determination, actions and motivations that can create a purpose out of the difficult situations in our life. It’s all about choices.

One can choose to look for the reason or wait for it to be revealed.

Or, one can choose to find a purpose – to create a purpose. That parent, who suffered the loss of a child, has taken the road to purpose by becom-

ing an advocate. They have chosen to create a purpose out of tragedy, but I can’t, just can’t, believe that was the reason such a tragedy occurred. The person who loses a job and decides to create their own business and goes on to be successful did not lose their job for a reason. Rather, they made choices that lead them to a better place. To me, this way of viewing life is more about personal leadership and life choices. I find my outlook to be more empowering and life-affirming. It favors choosing to think like a victor of circumstances over think-

ing like a victim. It takes us from depending on fate to creating our own future. Again, this is my way of thinking and likely my best way of coping. For those that have a deep faith or other deep beliefs that include fate and esoteric thinking, I not only wouldn’t try to change their thinking, I don’t want to. It works for them. For those who struggle with this kind of thinking or are not sure, I hope this helps you to see personal choices as life’s tools; tools that find an explanation for, and are a way of coping with, things that are otherwise difficult.

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TODAY

Digging Up Your Bones: Learning to Forgive and Let Go

Meghan D. Lemery LCSW-R My siblings and I grew up without pets. It’s not that we didn’t love the idea of playing catch in the backyard with Fido- we just all suffered from severe allergies. Any time we did visit a home with pets was pretty much reminiscent of John Travolta in “The Boy in the Plastic Bubble,” circa 1976.

Loaded up on allergy medicine, we had about a 20-minute window of fun before red eyes and runny noses forced us to return to a dander-free zone.

Although we didn’t have pets, I still had the opportunity to observe my friends’ dogs and learn a few things along the way. Dogs love bones; at least that’s what Google tells me. Most dogs, when they have a bone, will play with it and carry it around with them until

they become bored and bury it. On a lazy afternoon, a dog can dig up the bone at any time, ALWAYS remembering where it was hidden.

This practice of burying bones that dogs repeat religiously reminds me of the habits we humans have of burying our past burdens. Just like dogs, we too bury, but in a way that allows us to easily return to and “dig up” old resentments.

I think this is what we do with our grudges. We bury the offense deep in our hearts and when we have a bad day or a weepy moment we return to our past and dig up our “bones.” How many bones of un-forgiveness do you have buried in your heart? I bet you would be surprised if you took a moment to write down all of the old bones you carry around.

I recently had the opportunity to speak at the annual New York State Parks and Recreation Conference.

I hosted a workshop on owning your self-worth and dealing with un-forgiveness in your life. I asked each participant to write down on an index card all the bones they kept digging up from the past.

People started writing immediately. Suddenly, the room became

quiet and very heavy.

As I looked around the room, I saw some people cover their cards in shame, a few people had tears in their eyes and some appeared angry. It was as if the offenses they were writing about had occurred yesterday.

When we bury our bones of un-forgiveness we get stuck.

Resentment, guilt, bitterness and regret begin to color our mood and keep us in the past. When we don’t allow ourselves to heal from our bones we stunt our growth, becoming stagnant spiritually, emotionally, and sometimes even physically.

Our bones keep us from living freely and in the present.

Think about a person that has offended you recently. Can you immediately recall every single offense that person has committed against you? Do you keep your bones hidden and take them out every time you feel sorry for yourself on a bad day? Do not go another day letting these bones of unforgiveness take up space in your heart. Dig them up now and free yourself from the burden of hurt and blame.

Here’s the deal, if someone hurt you, chances are it’s more about them than it is about you. If a relationship fails, perhaps it’s because the person could not give you something they don’t have themselves. You cannot have a loving, open, respectful relationship with someone who does not love and respect themselves. It’s impossible to give others emotional health if we don’t possess it first. Stop blaming yourself for everything that has gone wrong in your life and look at the bigger picture. If

you had a critical parent that was never easy to please, chances are they had a critical parent as well.

Anything a person does to hurt you is usually tied to an old bone they have buried in their backyard.

Most of the time when we hurt others, it is related to our own junk from the past or the emotional holes we have in our hearts.

Don’t make every single bad thing that has happened to you about YOU. Think about where the other person was in their life when the offense occurred. Hurt people hurt people.

Oftentimes the hardest person to forgive is not someone else, rather, it is YOU. A psychiatrist who was working with institutionalized mental health patients in the 1950s interviewed patients about the reasons they were depressed, or in some cases, mentally unstable. Every single person he interviewed confessed that they could not forgive themselves for the mistakes they had made. This un-forgiveness literally made people lose their minds.

We were not meant to live with the burdens of un-forgiveness. It can make our hearts sick and our

minds heavy with worry and fear.

Whatever bones you need to dig up and face once and for all, do it NOW. At the workshop I taught a few weeks ago, I asked the participants to give me the cards they had written their bones on. I then went around the room and collected each card, ripped it up and threw it into the trash. One gentleman did not want to give me his card. In fact, he began to hand me the card but then took it back. He was afraid to let go and heal.

Sometimes letting go is a terrifying process. Sometimes we center our entire lives around being a victim and tell the story of our bones over and over again. Recognize that you may be afraid to let go and heal. It’s okay to be afraid, just don’t get stuck in your fear of letting go. Face the fear, deal with the pain and forgive yourself or the person you are holding a grudge toward. Facing this pain of un-forgiveness is a process that requires patience, healing, compassion and love. Work with a therapist or a trusted loved one to address your bones and heal your heart.

Next time you see Fido playing with his bone in the backyard, take the time to check in with your heart and deal with your old bones of unforgiveness!

Wishing you a bone-free heart today and always!

Ms. Lemery is a psychotherapist practicing in Glens Falls and Saratoga Springs. For more information, visit meghanlemery.com.

SARATOGA

TODAY

Friday, April 13, 2012

17

The Power of Estate Magnification

Stephen Kyne Sterling Manor Financial

Clients come to our firm looking to achieve many goals.

Among those goals is often a desire to leave a legacy to their family or a charity. What many people don’t realize is that you don’t have to have a sizeable nestegg to leave a substantial, taxadvantaged legacy.

It’s possible to create an estate at your death, seemingly out of thin air, and leave a sizeable sum to your children, grandchildren, or even a charity. If structured properly, that legacy could even flow to your heirs on a tax-free basis, and without probate!

How, you ask? By utilizing a strategy we call “estate magnification.” If you used a portion of your income to purchase a life insurance policy, you could create a legacy upon your death.

Because proceeds of a life insurance contract, if structured properly, flow to a beneficiary on a tax-free basis, you could leave a sizeable benefit with no tax implications for your heirs. That seems like a simple enough concept, but how can we build on it?

By structuring an insurance policy to pay on the death of the second spouse, regardless of the order in which they die, the cost of a policy can be greatly reduced.

Because, from the insurance company’s viewpoint, the risk of two people dying is less than the risk of one, so they can charge much less for the same policy. The favorable cost structure of a second-to-die insurance policy means that we, as planners, can offer clients more flexibility around their legacy plans.

For example, let’s assume two healthy 50-year-old clients, who don’t otherwise have an estate, want to allocate $500/month of

their income to create an estate for their heirs. Referring to the chart, Company A would provide $1,190,855 on a guaranteed basis to their heirs, upon the death of the second spouse. In order to provide the same benefit in a taxable investment account by age 85, for example, you would need an average rate of return of 11.5 percent for 35 years! A policy on just one of their lives, from the same company, would only provide a death benefit of $613,344, or a taxable equivalent of 7.42 percent rate of return. This example shows you the power of second-to-die estate magnification.

While this example illustrates two healthy spouses, it is also possible to utilize the strategy if

only one spouse is healthy, and the other is of poorer health. With a single-life policy, insuring the less-healthy spouse could be prohibitively expensive, but with a second-to-die policy, both could be insured at a cost lower than even the healthy spouse could attain on their own.

As you can see by the chart, which represents actual insurance company illustrations, different companies may provide vastly different benefits, even to the same clients. If your advisor works for Company B, you may end up with a policy that doesn’t provide the best benefit for your circumstance. It is important that you work with an independent advisor to ensure that you maxi-

mize the effect of the strategy by being paired with a policy that gives you the greatest return on your premium.

Estate planning is an important part of your financial plan, and the power of estate magnification means that you don’t have to be rich to leave a legacy to those you love.

Stephen Kyne is a partner at Sterling Manor Financial, an independent financial planning company in Saratoga Springs.

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Friday, April 13, 2012

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TODAY

Simple, yet so delicious; One-Skillet Herbed Fish Delight

Suzanne Voigt Farmers’ Market Back when I didn’t know any better, I loved to buy herbed tilapia from the grocery store. It was a treat to have a “prepared” dish that was so delicious and I thought, healthy.

Since then, I have learned that tilapia in grocery stores is often farm-raised in less than stellar conditions and that the fish is being unsustainably caught in the wild.

Sadly, I put away this meal and steered clear of the fish aisle of the grocery store.

Then along came Captain Rick, owner of Pura Vida Fisheries, and now a vendor at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market. Rick is a multigenerational fisherman, fishing from his home in while practicing sustainable fishing practices. (He has been president of the NYS Sustainable Fisheries over the years.) His fish is fresh caught, never frozen and tastes so good!

Thanks to the arrival of Pura Vida at the market, I now have fish back in my life and feel assured that it is as good for me as it tastes.

This recipe highlights Pura Vida’s wonderful fish and is one of my family favorites. The simplicity of this dish is great for a busy household and the mildly spicy taste

makes it special. Note: This meal requires only a one-stop shopping trip: you can find all the ingredients you need right at the farmers’ market. Serve with artisan bread and sautéed fresh spinach or salad, for a complete tasty and healthy market meal.

Ingredients (serves four) 2 tbsp. vegetable oil 2 lb. fish fillets (a mild white fish from Pura Vida) 1 cup diced onions (I like to mix yellow and red) 3 cloves of local garlic, crushed 2 ½ cups cubed vine ripened tomatoes from Sushan

Hydroponic Farm 1/4 cup water as needed (or white wine, or cider) 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, chopped fine, from Sushan Hydroponic Farm A dash of hot red pepper flakes Salt and pepper to taste Directions Heat 1 tbsp. of oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Cook fish fillets, sprinkling with a little salt, if desired. White fish fillets are thin and cook quickly—don’t overdo it.; 1-2 minutes a side is enough.

Transfer fillets to a plate. (It’s OK if the fish breaks apart a bit.)

Add the remaining oil to the pan and add onions and garlic, sautéing until onions soften but not brown (2 minutes or so).

Add the tomatoes, red pepper and water (wine or cider) and simmer until juices reduce to a sauce; this usually takes 5-7 minutes. Add more liquid if needed.

Return fish fillets to the pan.

Sprinkle with the cilantro, cover pan and let simmer for a minute or two, re-warming fish and melting in the cilantro flavor.

Serve quickly, adding ground black pepper and salt to taste.

The Perfect Complement to any Fine Wine: Sleeves!

John Reardon Compliments to the Chef Hello my Foodie Friends! This is John again from Compliments to the Chef on Broadway in beautiful downtown Saratoga Springs! Today we are going to “just chill” as my son says. My friends Dave Lowendehale, Emanuel Russrevn and Dave Ironcro all stop by my house from time to time and always bring two things: their wives and chilled wine. How do they keep it cold you ask? They use wine cooler sleeves! These sleeves are such a must-have that there have been times when Laurie, Lynn and Joanne have sent their hus-

bands back home to retrieve the sleeve! To save them the trip, I have started keeping extras!

Yes, wine sleeves are becoming very popular. They are easy to prepare, work quickly, and eliminate mess and condensation on your table. They keep your bottle cold for hours and there is nothing better than chilled white wine in the summer! The weather has another beautiful weekend in store for us, so why not relax for a change?

Enjoy some wine or champagne, forget about gas prices and the fact that you have yard work to do and try out a wine

sleeve!

Lecreuset and Vacu Vin make some of the best, and the directions are easy: • Store your sleeve in the freezer • Take it out of the freezer • Place it over the bottle • After less than 5 minutes your wine is chilled • Champagne and sparkling wines- 46-50˚F (Dry White Wines, 50-55˚F; Rose, 52˚F; Red Wines, 54-64˚F) Nothing too fancy, but another helpful tool for you to have in the kitchen! So get some cheese and crackers and just chill!

Remember “Life Happens in the Kitchen” Take care, John

SARATOGA

TODAY

Friday, April 13, 2012

19

The Banana Bread Makeover

by Jodie Fitz for Saratoga TODAY

In light of the latest cake pop craze, I wondered: why not bring pop-culture to the breakfast table?

So, I decided to give banana bread a makeover. I started with my banana bread recipe, filled my cake pop molds and turned them into breakfast fun by serving them sandwich-style. The crew at my counters loved them. I hope yours do too!

Jodie Fitz’s Banana Bread Sandwich Pops 1 ¼ cups flour 1 banana ¾ cup sugar ¼ cup water ¼ cup butter, softened 3 eggs 1 tablespoon molasses 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Coat a cake pop pan with nonstick cooking spray, followed by a dusting of flour. The cake pop pan has two pans that both have the equal number of semicircle cups on each side that get put together. You are going to want to spray and coat each side with flour, although you only fill the bottom half with the batter. As they bake, they will expand into the top half of the pan to form a ball shaped edible treat.

In some cases, the batter often flows out of the top air-rated hole and you simply scrape that excess away.

In a bowl, mix the banana, sugar, water, eggs, butter, molasses and vanilla extract together with an electric mixer. Add in all of the dry ingredients and beat well. Fill one half of the cake pop pan with the mixture. Add on the second half of the pan as directed when making

Celebrate April: Let’s Get Outside Month

The national Children and Nature movement has designated April as Let’s G.O. (Get Outside) Month, and in our area, there is no reason for kids and families not to get outside and experience all of the wonderful benefits that come from being in nature.

Here a few of the numerous activities planned in the month of April at local parks. A complete list can be found at www.childrenandnaturesaratoga.org.

• There are two Earth Week activities co-sponsored by Hudson Crossing Park and the Saratoga National Historical Park: the Recycled Art Show and the Canal Clean Sweep. Details about these events are available at www.hudsoncrossingpark.org.

• At the Saratoga National Historical Park you can "Take a Hike!"

Sunday April 22 from 1-3 p.m. Children ages7-12 are encouraged to join park ranger Linda White on a free hike through the battlefield. Children must be accompanied by an adult on the hike. At the end of the program each child will have the opportunity to take home a Junior Ranger patch and a special parting gift •Saratoga Springs Public Library is offering a program Sunday, April 29 from 1-3:30 p.m. called “Reconnecting with Nature: A Program for Parents and Their Children.” Participants will meet at the library and then walk to Congress Park with an educator from the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park to collect sticks and other items to make a twig vase. This program is for children ages 3-9 and their parent or caregiver. Registration is required; call (518) 584-7860 option 3 for reservation.

• Saratoga PLAN is offering several Family Walks in the Woods on lands conserved and maintained by Saratoga P.L.A.N. These walks are free and open to the public by reservation and are open to all ages from walking children to babies in slings and toddlers in strollers. All hikes start at 11 a.m. and will be cancelled for rain. To register, contact J'Mae at (518) 567-9527. The walks will be on Tuesday, April 17 on the Zim Smith Trail, and Tuesday, April 24 at the Galway Nature Preserve.

Children and Nature Saratoga is an all–volunteer organization that is dedicated to the importance of outdoor experiences for children and for the health of our community. Visit www.childrenandnaturesaratoga.org for more information.

cake pops and bake for 25 minutes.

Let the banana bread molds cool for at least 10–15 minutes before removing the top tray of the pan.

Remove the banana bread molds completely and let them cool the rest of the way. Once they are fully cooled, and just before serving, slice them in half and fill them with one slice of banana and my cream cheese peanut butter spread.

Jodie Fitz’s Peanut Butter Spread ½ cup whipped cream cheese 1 tablespoon smooth peanut butter 1 tablespoon honey Let the cream cheese set to room temperature. Stir cream cheese, peanut butter and honey together until the mixture is fully smooth.

Note: You can also fill the center with creamy peanut butter and jelly for a different twist.

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TODAY

Shabby Chic, Redefined Kate Towne Sherwin Saratoga SAHM

We have a chair in our home that’s been with us since we bought our first house nearly ten years ago, a secondhand armchair that, because it’s sort of off-white, we’ve always called “the white chair.” I’ve been known to say, about a thousand times a day, things like: “Did you just hit your brother? Go sit in the white chair!” or “Don’t talk back to me! Go sit in the white chair!”

Indeed the white chair, which I imagine had a somewhat genteel lifestyle in its previous home, the home of a lovely well-mannered friend of mine, somehow came to be our “time-out chair.” The boy sent to serve his time in the white chair would usually toss himself into it while muttering under his

breath. Inevitably he would pick, pick, pick, with great vehemence, at the small frayed hole in one of the chair’s arms. “Stop picking at that hole in the chair!” I would reprimand during the time-out, thus eliciting further frowns, mutterings and furtive pickings from the captive boy.

The white chair couldn’t take all that picking, several times a day, by several different small boys, over the course of all those years.

The arm with the small frayed hole became the arm with the large gaping hole. Shredded fabric and stuffing puffs scattered like snow all around the surrounding floor.

Yellow foam underneath was exposed after the boys had picked out all the stuffing. This was my boys’ very favorite stage of the death of that one arm—the foam was even more fun to pick at than the fabric and stuffing had been.

So satisfying! So calming! So destructive! They picked it clean down to the wooden frame of the arm, like vultures on a carcass.

Truth be told, I’ve never minded the white chair. We have five kids.

They’re all boys. The oldest is only seven. I think people understand when they see the white

chair. Unfortunately, though, for a long time it was one of the first things visitors saw upon entering our home, since our front room was our playroom until just recently. My husband was always pretty embarrassed by its raggedy appearance so close to the front door, so visible, and so the white chair has been on my mind for a couple of years now, in that casual, occasional way I have of keeping something in mind until a solution presents itself.

We didn’t have another armchair that could switch places with it. A brand-new chair wasn’t high on our list of things we should spend money on, and though I’d kept my eyes and ears open, I hadn’t yet found a suitable hand-medown. I actually did make an attempt to fix it once. A large chunk of the now pockmarked and holey yellow foam padding had viciously and triumphantly been torn from the arm, from the staples that had secured it to the wood underneath, and left on the floor; I saved the foam for several weeks before remembering to buy super glue. I intended to put it back in its place, if for no other immediate reason than to cover up the

exposed wood with its hard edges.

Feeling inspired and pretty proud of myself, I glued it back into place and made plans to sew up the shredded fabric. I even considered buying a slipcover for the chair, though it would surely need fixing 75 times a day as it got rumpled and disarrayed and left in a heap on the floor. I think the glued foam only lasted as long as these ideas ran through my head before I found it on the ground again, the only sign of my attempted repair the wet-looking spots on the wooden arm where I’d squirted the glue.

Last year, we moved the playroom to a different room in our house, farther back and more hidden from the front door; not having the white chair greet visitors upon arrival has been such a relief.

Then recently, a friend who was replacing some of his furniture offered us one of his old chairs— the hand-me-down I’d been waiting for. Still in good condition (no holes!), at first I wondered if I should put it in the front room, which has been kind of bare and unwelcoming and short on seating since we’d moved the playroom and all its furniture out. But given

that we really spend most of our time in the playroom, even when we have company, I thought our mental health would be better served to replace the white chair with this new brown chair. The boys love the new brown chair, and one friend even remarked that she didn’t think it was a great time-out chair because of how comfortable it is.

And the white chair? I moved it back into the front room to fill the need for seating. It’s back to being one of the first things visitors see when they come in, in all its threadbare, tattered glory. I still send the boys to spend their timeouts in it when the brown chair already has an occupant. I’ve recently begun thinking of new ways to repair and cushion the arms (a folded dishtowel glued in place?). Once again I’m on the lookout for the perfect slipcover.

Kate Towne Sherwin is a stayat-home mom (SAHM) living in Saratoga Springs with her husband, Steve, and their sons Thomas (7), Gabriel (5), John Dominic (3), Xavier (2), and Thaddeus (3 months). She can be reached at sksherwin@hotmail.com.

Environmentally Friendly Gardening Tips from

by Debbie Oligny for Saratoga TODAY Gardening and promoting a healthy planet can go hand in hand.

Here are some ideas to get you started: • Strengthen the health of your soil by using compost or other organic methods. How about starting your own compost pile?

• Begin or expand your edible garden.

• Convert to a natural or organic lawn care program or reduce or replace your traditional lawn with less water-intensive plants.

• Collect rainwater for your garden and/or plant a rain garden. A rain garden is a garden created to allow water to seep naturally into the ground to help replenish and improve the quality of groundwater supply.

• Attract nature to your garden, not necessarily rabbits and deer but consider hummingbirds, songbirds, butterflies and bees.

• Recycle plastic containers that purchased plants come

in. Oligny's Country Gardens offers a pot recycling service for customers.

• Use organic options for disease and pest control.

• Plant a tree. Trees are essential for a healthy environment. They will improve your air quality to help fight global warming and provide food and shelter for songbirds and other wildlife.

Strategically placed trees not only provide shade, privacy screens and aesthetic beauty, but can also reduce your home energy costs.

For more detailed information contact Debbie or Brian Oligny at: Oligny's Country Gardens 390 Wilton-Gansevoort Rd. Gansevoort, NY 12831 (518) 745-7604 Email: olignysinc@nycap.rr.com www.olignys.com Go here to sign up for our gardening emails!

Remember Earth Day, April 22, and Arbor Day, April 27

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Earth Day projects for the family

Jenny Witte Mamatoga Earth Day is a great time to introduce kids to the concepts of sustainability and environmental protection. Here are some fun crafts and activities you and your little ones can take part in to celebrate this Earth Day! One easy and affordable project to start with is an Earth Day clean up, right in your own home. This can coincide perfectly with spring cleaning! Have each family member go through their closets and rid them of any clothing that has been outgrown during the past year. Bag them up and donate them to a local nonprofit organization like the Franklin Community Center. They may also take donations of furniture and food items as well. You can set up a time to drop off donations by calling them at (518) 587-9826. Not only would you be making a valuable donation to your very own community, you would also be reusing and recycling!

Upcycling is the process of using goods or waste material to produce something with an often better purpose than the original item.

Upcycling takes the concept of recycling one step further. A fun craft idea for an Earth Day project is creating an upcycled bird feeder from a milk carton.

What you’ll need: One empty, clean, quart-sized cardboard milk carton Scissors String or cord Hole punch or pencil Bird seed How to build your bird feeder: Cut a hole in the milk carton – it should be big enough for a bird to come by, sit and eat the seed, but not so big that the carton will become unstable.

Use a hole punch to cut a hole in the top of the milk carton and put a string through the hole.

Alternatively, you can use a pencil to poke a hole on either side of the flap at the top of the carton.

Tie a knot in the string.

Fill the carton with bird seed until it reaches the top of the hole.

Hang the carton on a tree branch and watch the birds enjoy their snack!

Tips: A quart-sized carton works perfectly as it isn’t too large and will hold a decent amount of food.

Kids can decorate the outside of the carton, but keep in mind that it will be outside in the elements.

Decorations may wash off in the rain. Also, you don’t want the birds pecking at flaking paint!

Check your bird feeder regularly and refill seed as needed.

Another great craft to try with kids involves a simple piece of artwork made using materials gathered on a nature walk. On Sunday, April 22, (7a.m.-10 a.m.), you can celebrate Earth Day with a fun bird walk on Saratoga’s own Bog Meadow

Trail. The walk will be held by Marne Onderdonk, a bird enthusiast, member of the HudsonMohawk Bird Club, and “Citizen Scientist Volunteer” for the Vermont Center for Ecostudies. Call (518) 587-5554 for more information on how you can take part.

Another great, local, Earth Day event is happening at Skidmore College’s Case Center. On Saturday, April 21, beginning at noon, there will be free food, good music, and many tables with activities including tie-dye, henna, plant potting, and more! This is a great event to bring kids to. Have fun and learn about Earth Day at the same time!

On Sunday, April 22, come join me and other families interested in natural living for a fun-filled day of family activities during the Natural Family Festival! The festival takes place from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Sportsplex of Halfmoon, (6 Corporate Drive, Halfmoon).

Families can shop, partake in family activities, and even help set a world

record! The festival is hosting the Great Cloth Diaper Change, where you can join other participants in an attempt to break the world record for the most cloth diapers changed at one time. This world record attempt is a great way to show the world how many people are already choosing and using reusable cloth diapers successfully. Cloth diapering is a great way to be eco-friendly,

and at the festival, you can learn more about cloth diapering and how it can easily fit into your lifestyle. In addition, the festival will also be showcasing green, eco-friendly, holistic and natural family resources from throughout the Capital District, southern Vermont and western Massachusetts. I’ll be there at the Mamatoga table, so stop by and say hello!

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Friday, April 13, 2012

Spring into Action

by Clare Colamaria for Saratoga TODAY As this new season of spring unfolds, for many of us it is time to rethink and reshape what have become complacent lifestyles and standards for ourselves and for our aging loved ones. Have you ever heard the little voice in the back of your head saying, “you better do something; this cannot continue on like this; it’s not going to get easier.”? So, when exactly do you come to the realization that changes need to take place? When does that process begin, how do you get it moving and who will help you face this daunting task… it does not need to be

daunting. Change is a good thing! Change opens the doors to new possibilities; it frees the soul of otherwise paralyzing situations.

Let’s talk for a minute about how caring for a sick or aging loved one affects our day to day momentum. Do we plan our loved one‘s schedule or does their schedule dictate our every move, thought, and feeling of happiness? Do we have a life anymore, one that’s easygoing, one where we are free to feel excited about an upcoming event with friends or family members or are those feelings clouded over with anxiety, worry and guilt because we feel obligated to care for and be there for our loved ones? I would say, in my experience working with many families from all different backgrounds, most of us want to care for our sick or aging loved ones.

Not always, but in most cases, we feel it is our duty now to look after them and it also gives us

TODAY

the sense of feeling needed and appreciated by the ones we love. For others who do not feel appreciated or for those that are given constant guilt trips throughout the day, you are the caregivers who need to come to terms with this. No matter what we do or how hard we try, it will never be enough. We not only will be unable to make them happy or feel content, but we will become exhausted, unhappy and maybe even a bit resentful after a period of time.

Before things get to this point, we need to stop and ponder what lies ahead for them and us. This is the time when we need to look at a multitude of things: their overall health and diagnosis; where they reside and if there are appropriate alternatives; the status of their estate, finances, power of attorney, proxy, living will and directives; in-home assistance; and last, but not least, we need to ask ourselves: “how long can we carry these responsibilities without sacrificing our own lifestyle and happiness?”

If you feel alone in all of this and have other family members you can reach out to, then speak up and tell them you want and need their help and support. Distribute the tasks which need addressing, and get things in order to facilitate clear decision-making as a group or family.

Of course, you can always consult with professional services who will guide you through these very important steps.

So many times our own feelings of overwhelming pressure, worry, guilt or procrastination can be a major roadblock for the changes that must occur. We need to think outside the box. If you are one of those people who know you need a nudge to make choices and changes, then by all means seek professional guidance.

Here is something else to keep an open mind about- by taking action and making changes, you are giving yourself permission to hand over some of the responsibility, yet still have control over the matters at hand. You are not saying goodbye to your loved one, but opening yourself up to the idea of a new beginning, one of peace of mind, enjoyable gatherings and shared joy.

There are many wonderful options and alternatives. You might be amazed at what our local communities have to offer. Once you see for yourself the different care options and lifestyles, you will feel more comfortable making the necessary changes.

Please remember, if you are aware that you will need to make changes in the near future, whether that is three, six, or 12 months from now, most likely the time to do so is right now.

Procrastination and waiting for the “right” time will only place you in a critical situation and not relieve you of any worries. Oftentimes, families wait too long, and the subtle changes they were waiting for have now escalated to extreme, inyour- face changes. You are now faced with a crisis. Once a crisis occurs all bets are off, and it’s time to start over with minimal choices and options, if any at all. So once again, hear me when I say, “Do not wait for a crisis – spring into action!”

Clare Colamaria is the founder of A Senior’s Choice, a service that provides guidance and introduces families to the many options and alternatives for eldercare lifestyles and changes.

Don’t wait – call (518) 424-2527 now or visit www.aseniorschoiceonline.com.

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Senior Activities & Events Under the Big Top Event A fun seniors’ night out, “Under the Big Top” is a not-for-profit event hosted by Saratoga Springs’ Wesley Community on April 20 from 5:30-8 p.m. A dinner of roasted pork loin or chicken will be served. Festivities include dancing, a juggler, balloon sculptures, a caricature artist, singalongs, a trivia contest and prizes. Tickets are $15 per person or two for $25 and can be purchased by calling Pat Rachiele at (518) 691-1565.

Wilton Seniors Plan April Bus Trip The Wilton Seniors will head to Mt. Haven in Milford, Penn., Wednesday, April 25.

The bus will depart from the Lillian Worth Senior Center at 6:45 a.m. and stop en route to pick up travelers at the Senior Citizens Center of Saratoga Springs. At Mt. Haven, the group will enjoy an allyou-can-eat breakfast buffet, followed by a movie and bingo in the lounge. Later in the day, the group will watch a variety show and enjoy an open bar of liquor, draft beer, wine, mixed drinks and soda, followed by an all-you-can-eat dinner buffet. The group is expected to return to Wilton at 8 p.m.

The cost to participate is $38 for members and $48 for non-members. To sign up, call the Wilton Seniors any Tuesday between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. at (518) 587-6363.

Fifth Annual Tools for Caregivers Event Resources You Can Use When a Senior Relies on You The 5th annual “Tools for Caregivers” day will be held at Hudson Valley Community College’s Bulmer Communications Center in Troy on Saturday, April 21, starting at 8 a.m. Sponsored by the Capital Region Caregiver Coalition, this event is designed to educate and offer support to family caregivers – individuals who provide assistance to senior relatives, friends, significant others and neighbors who are elderly, ill or disabled. The program is free, but registration is required. Call (518) 269-3976 to register. Spanish translation may be available in some workshops. For more information about this event or the Capital Region Caregiver Coalition, visit www.capitalregioncaregiver.com.

The Senior Citizens Center of Saratoga Springs 5 Williams Street, Saratoga Springs, (518) 584-1621 www.saratogaseniorcenter.org, seniorcentermarketing@gmail.com

Spring Dance The High School Key Club will host the annual center dance (formerly the “Senior Prom”) featuring hors d’oeuvres, desserts, beverages and live dance music April 20.

Health Fair The center’s annual Health Fair will be held Wednesday, May 2, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The center will be filled with health care professionals holding clinics and screenings as well as answering questions.

Upcoming Trips and Adventures: (Call the center for additional information or to sign up) Turning Stone April 30. $25 includes bus transportation, $20-$25 player “bucks” and a $5 coupon toward lunch. Leave at 8 a.m. and return at 7 p.m.

California Wine Country September 14-20. Early sign up: $2,999/double includes airfare, lodging, 11 meals with visits to San Francisco and numerous vineyards.

Beijing, China October 29-November 6. Early sign-up: $1,999/double. Leaves from JFK Airport and includes airfare, lodging, 15 meals and tours of Beijing Zoo, Tiananmen Square, The Great Wall and more.

Volunteer Opportunities for Older Americans

The New Yorkers Volunteer Senior Corps is made up of more than 31,000 seniors in New York who contribute their time and talents in one of three Senior Corps programs. Foster Grandparents serve one-on-one as tutors and mentors to more than 8,400 young people who have special needs. Senior Companions help more than 1,100 homebound seniors and other adults maintain independence in their own homes.

Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) volunteers conduct safety patrols for local police departments, participate in environmental projects, tutor and mentor youth, respond to natural disasters, and provide other services through more than 3,600 groups across New York.

Senior Corps offers a network of programs that tap the rich experience, skills and talents of older citizens to meet community challenges. To learn more about Senior Corps and how you or your organization may be able to partner, contact the Corporation for National and Community Service New York State Office at (518) 431-4150.

-Contact Your Local Office for the Aging for More Opportunities Local offices for the aging have many opportunities available for older volunteers and can be an important source of information on other volunteer opportunities available in your community. The Saratoga County Office of Aging can be reached at (518) 884-4100 or by stopping in at 152 West High St., Ballston Spa.

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Options for Changing Your 2012 Medicare Coverage By: Kathy Colleton, Senior Director of Emerging Markets, Care Improvement Plus With 2012 well under way, many Medicare beneficiaries in have some experience using their health care benefits and may be starting to realize what they like– and dislike–about their coverage. Beneficiaries who aren’t fully satisfied with their coverage should know that they may still have the option to make changes this year.

Many beneficiaries assume they must wait until the fall enrollment period to change their coverage–but through what is referred to as the “Special Election Period,” those who meet certain criteria may qualify to enroll in a new Medicare plan anytime of the year.

Recognizing that individual health and coverage needs can change over the course of a year, Medicare allows a variety of beneficiaries to make changes to their coverage during the Special Election Period. For example, eligible beneficiaries with chronic illnesses such as diabetes or heart failure are allowed to enroll in a Special Needs Plan for their condition. Once they enroll, the Special Election Period ends. Additionally, eligible Medicare beneficiaries receiving Medicaid assistance may switch their coverage at anytime of the year.

When eligible beneficiaries request a special election, depending on the nature of the Special Election Period, they can: discontinue current Medicare Advantage plan enrollment and enroll in Original Medicare, transfer from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan that best fits their needs, or switch from their current Medicare Advantage plan to another Medicare Advantage plan that better meets their needs.

If you are considering changing your Medicare coverage, it is important to take some time to evaluate your current plan, compare it to other options available in your area, and ensure that an alternative plan will provide the type of care you need.

When doing so, some questions to ask include: Is my current plan providing the type of care and coverage expected for my health conditions?

Are there services I was hoping to obtain with my plan, but did not receive, such as prescription drug coverage or occasional in-home visits? Do other plans in my area offer these services? Would other plans in my area make better financial sense for me?

Do I have access to the physicians I trust and need to see through my current plan?

Care Improvement Plus provides specialized Medicare coverage for under-served and chronically ill beneficiaries in select counties throughout .

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HELPING HANDS

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Skidmore invites the public to North Woods Service Day Skidmore College’s North Woods, a large tract of forested land directly north of the main campus, will be the focus of a community service day Saturday, April 14, to help with trail maintenance, clean up, and erosion control.

The event will offer an opportunity for local residents, along with Skidmore students, faculty, and staff, to work together on the trails to help maintain and protect this resource, which is available for public use.

Volunteers will meet at 10 a.m. at the Falstaff’s building on the Skidmore campus. The first phase of the work will run until noon, at which time lunch will be provided. Projects will then continue into the afternoon. Participants should dress appropriately, with long pants, boots, and work gloves.

Those interested in volunteering should register by Wednesday, April 11, by contacting Riley Neugebauer, sustainability coordinator at Skidmore, at (518) 580-5865 or rneugeba@skidmore.edu.

Estherville Animal Shelter Luncheon Still has Seats Available!

American Diabetes Association Tour de Cure Hilton Garden Inn, Clifton Park Spring has sprung! Come celebrate at Angelo's Prime Bar + Grill and support the American Diabetes Association Tour de Cure. The event is Thursday, April 26, from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Before April 24, tickets will cost $25; at the door the cost will be $30.

Sample some of Angelo's Prime Bar + Grill and Mazzone Hospitality's favorites. There will also be a signature cocktail and cash bar, and a silent auction featuring sports memorabilia, jewelry, wine packages, and more. Musical entertainment will be provided by Chris Wright from Discovery DJ's of New York. For Tickets or more information visit, www.diabetes.org/spring.

North Country Wild Care’s Annual Spring Fundraiser

Photo provided

Skidmore volunteers take a break during trail maintenance work in the college's North Woods.

Gideon Putnam Resort, Saratoga Springs North Country Wild Care’s annual spring fundraising dinner will take place Sunday, April 29, from 4-8 p.m. In addition to music by Mike LaPoint, there will be a silent auction, a dinner with a choice of three entrees, and a chance to hear wildlife rehabilitators discuss their rehabilitation success stories.

To reserve a space, contact Julie Lafountain at 15 Sonja Lane, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 or call (518) 885-8969. The cost to attend this fundraiser is $40 per person before April 15, and $45 per person thereafter. The dinner choices include roast sirloin, pan-seared chicken breast and garden vegetable risotto (vegan and gluten-free).

For more information about North Country Wild Care, visit www.northcountrywildcare.org. For wildlife emergencies, call their hotline at (518) 964-6740.

Puttin’ on the Ritz, the Estherville Animal Shelter Luncheon has extended its April 6 ticket deadline to April 15. The luncheon will take place Saturday, April 21 from 12:30-5 p.m. at Hyatt Place. Lunch will be catered by Longfellows and will be an Italian-taste sensation! Tickets are $30 in advance and can be purchased by contacting (518) 882-5562.

New Volunteer Orientation at Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park The Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park is looking for people who are interested in becoming part of their team of volunteers. A new volunteer orientation session is scheduled Wednesday, April 18, at 7 p.m. at the park office (80 Scout Rd.) for people who are interested in learning more about the organization and in volunteering. Refreshments will be served. If you are interested in attending this session, call the park office at (518) 450-0321 or send an email to info@wiltonpreserve.org to receive more information.

Upcoming Blood Drives Glens Falls Hospital 100 Park St., Glens Falls Friday, April 13, from 6:30-11:30 a.m.

Curtis Lumber 885 Route 67, Ballston Spa Thursday, April 19, from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Please call 1-800-REDCROSS to schedule an appointment.

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Friday, April 13, 2012

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: Morning 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. • 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. 654-9255; 792-0271 Services: Sunday at 10 a.m.

Corinth United Methodist Church 243 Main Street 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. (Rt. 50) 885-8361; fbcballstonspa.org Services: 10:15 a.m.

First Presbyterian Church of Ballston Spa 22 West High St. • 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.

Grace Brethren Church 137 W. Milton Rd., Ballston Spa 587-0649 • Rev. Dan Pierce Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Handicapped accessible.

Grace Community Church of Malta 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.Comfort Suites, Clifton Park Greater Grace Community Church 43 Round Lake Rd. Ballston Lake (Malta Mall) 899-7777; .ggcc-malta.org Pastor David Moore Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Greenfield Center Baptist Church 30 Wilton Rd., Greenfield Center, NY 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 • 6644442 Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

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

Jonesville United Methodist 963 Main St., Clifton Park 877-7332 Services: Sunday 8:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.; Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

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

LivingWaters 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. • 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 10:30 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; 10:30 a.m. Service; 11:45 a.m.

Coffee & Fellowship in Living Stone Hall; Wednesday: noon potluck luncheon; 1 p.m. choir rehearsal; 2 p.m. Bible Study Group Presbyterian-NE Congregational Church 24 Circular St., Saratoga Springs 584-6091; pnecc.org Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m.

RELIGION Quaker Springs United Methodist Church 466 Route 32 South 695-3101; qsumc.com Pastor Jim Knapp 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 & 11:30 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; rcda.org/churches/St.JosephsChurch 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; rcda.org/churches/ 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 mornings 8:30 & 10:30 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 Saratoga Friends Meeting(Quaker) Rts. 32 and 71, Quaker Springs

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587-7477; 399-5013 Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Saratoga United Methodist Church Henning Rd., 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 7:45, 9 & 10:45 a.m.; Acts II Contempory 10:45 a.m.

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

Soul SavingStation 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 Services: Friday 8 p.m. 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. Gail Falsetti-Pastor Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Saratoga Springs 624 North Broadway 584-1555; saratoga-uu.org Services: 10 a.m. Religious education and nursery care at the 10 a.m. service each Sunday.

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

West Charlton United Presbyterian Church 1331 Sacandaga Rd. 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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upcoming town meetings Town of Ballston: Ballston Town Hall 323 Charlton Road 885-8502 • townofballstonny.org 4/14: Solar Workshop, 7 p.m.

4/17: Board of Health, 6:45 p.m.

4/18: Parks & Rec., 7:30 p.m.

4/19: Farmland Protection, 7 p.m.

Village of Ballston Spa: 66 Front Street 885-5711 • ballstonspany.org Town of Greenfield: 7 Wilton Road 893-7432 • townofgreenfield.com Town of Malta: 2540 Route 9 899-2818 • malta-town.org 4/16: Town Board, 6:30 p.m.

4/17: Planning Board, 6:30 p.m.

Town of Milton: 503 Geyser Road 885-9220 • townofmiltonny.org City of Saratoga Springs: 474 Broadway 587-3550 • saratoga-springs.org 4/17: City Council, 7 p.m.

4/18: Design Review Commission, 7 p.m.

Town of Saratoga: 12 Spring Street, Schuylerville 695-3644 • townofsaratoga.com Village of Schuylerville: 35 Spring Street 695-3881 villageofschuylerville.org 4/16: Planning Board, 6:30 p.m.

Town of Stillwater: 66 East St., Riverside Mechanicville, NY 12118 www.stillwaterny.org 4/16: Planning Board, 7 p.m.

4/19: Town Board, 7 p.m.

Town of Wilton: 22 Traver Road 587-1939 • townofwilton.com 4/18: Planning Board, 6:30 p.m.

Saratoga County Board of Supervisors 40 McMaster St., # 1 Ballston Spa, NY 12020-1985 (518) 885-2240 www.saratogacountyny.gov 4/17: Labor Management Safety, 3 p.m.

4/17: Board meeting, 4 p.m.

4/18: Budget Committee, 3 p.m.

4/19: InterCounty, 10:30 a.m.

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

Friday, April 13, 2012

L A LOC

s f e i br

Treasures Consignment Boutique & Thrift Shop Seeks Donations

60 West Ave., Saratoga Springs Treasures Consignment Boutique & Thrift Shop of Saratoga Hospital is seeking your fabulous, fresh and unique donations for the upcoming spring and summer seasons.

Donations are accepted Tuesday – Saturday up until 5 p.m. For more information, call (518) 580-4200.

Open Tuesday – Saturday 11 a.m. 6 p.m.

Registration begins April 18 for SUNY Adirondack’s 2012 Summer Enrichment Program Registration gets under way Wednesday, April 18, for the popular Summer Enrichment Program offered by SUNY Adirondack Continuing Education. Courses and activities will be offered at SUNY Adirondack’s main campus in Queensbury for children who have completed grades three through nine. The program will run Mondays through Thursdays for three weeks from Monday, July 9 through Thursday, July 26.

Daily registration will take place from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday in the Continuing Education Office in Washington Hall starting Wednesday, April 18, through Friday, June 15. Mail-in registration must be postmarked no earlier than Wednesday, April 18. Registrations will be handled on a first-come, first-served basis.

SUNY Adirondack Continuing Education is also looking for qualified 10th and 11th graders to serve as Summer Enrichment Program faculty assistants.

Summer Enrichment class description brochures have been mailed to area schools. Please contact your child’s school or call SUNY Adirondack Continuing Education at (518) 743-2238 for a copy of the brochure.

Information can also be obtained by visiting the college’s website at www.sunyacc.edu/ContinuingEd.

Early Earth Day Tree Inventory Seeks Volunteers April 21 How would you like to help remove dangerous carbon dioxide from our air, assist in retaining crucial rainwater, improve home heating costs and add to local home values - all before lunchtime on Saturday? By participating in Saratoga's Street Trees Pay Us

Back, the pre-Earth Day Tree Inventory Saturday, April 21, you can do all of the above by helping to assess and catalog the status of the trees which lend so much to the streets and avenues - and residents of Saratoga Springs.

Volunteers are asked to meet at 10 a.m. at The High Rock Avenue Pavilions to help assess and catalog the status of the trees in unsurveyed neighborhoods in Saratoga Springs.

Whether your interest is as a Saratoga Springs business owner or resident, grab a few pencils, a good measuring tape, a GPS unit if you have one, a few neighbors and friends and join in on the fun!

5th Annual LaVoy 5k Needs Sponsors!

This run, held April 28, is in memory of Kristen LaVoy whose life was short but full because of the donation of others. The event educates the public about organ, tissue and eye donation and is a great opportunity for your organization to give something as someone did for Kristen. The funds raised from this event go directly to The Center for Donation & Transplant (Donate Life). For more details, email klavoy5k@hotmail.com or call (518) 928-5808.

Earth Week Recycled Art Show - Call for Entries In celebration of Earth Week, Hudson Crossing Park is seeking artists to exhibit their work at Saratoga National Historical Park Friday, April 20 – Sunday, April 29 for the second annual Recycled Art Show. Entries must be submitted by Friday, April 9 to www.hudsoncrossingpark.org/artshow, which provides entry forms, submission details and pictures of past entries.

St. Peter’s Keys Run Registration The 33rd annual St. Peter’s Keys Run will be held Saturday, April 21.

Pre-registration is $18 or $23 for day-of registration. The children’s mile is $10. The race benefits the Community Hospice of Saratoga and The St. Peter’s Youth Group.

Applications can be downloaded at www.saratogastryders.org.

For more information email laura@saratogastryders.org or call Jeff Clark at (5118) 581-7550.

The Saratoga Regional YMCA Hosts Healthy Kids Day YMCA, 290 West Ave., Saratoga Springs On Saturday, April 28, the Saratoga Regional YMCA will be celebrating Healthy Kids Day with a free community event that will help families find fun through active play and educational oppor-

tunities to improve health and wellbeing. This event is open to all, not just our members. At Healthy Kids Day, participants will enjoy open swim, face painting, outdoor physical challenges, nail painting, rock climbing and much more. There will also be raffle drawings for various prizes! In addition, each youth that participates in Healthy Kids Day will receive a YMCA drawstring bag.

Healthy Kids Day takes place from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information, call Taraya Ricci at (518) 583-9622, ext. 120 or visit www.saratogaregionalymca.org.

New Complete Streets Program Public Hearing Saratoga Springs City Hall Saratoga Springs gets even greener thanks to a new Complete Streets proposal which will be presented Tuesday, April 17 at 6:15 p.m. Shared Access Saratoga and Sustainable Saratoga will join with city officials, community members, and you, too, for a public hearing and presentation regarding this policy to promote and encourage access for alternative modes of transportation including walking, cycling and public transportation throughout the city. For more information, visit the city’s website at www.saratoga-springs.org.

Fire Tower Hours at Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park The Cornell Hill Fire Tower will be open on the following dates from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.: April 14 and 15, May 12 and 13, June 9 and 10, July 14 and 15, August 11 and 12, September 8, 9, 22 and 23, and October 13, 14, 27 and 28. The tower will also be open on June 2 for the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park’s Wildlife Festival.

The fire tower will only be open if the weather permits. To confirm that it is open, call (518) 469-0918.

Parking for the tower is in Parking lot #3 on Scout Rd. For more information, visit www.wiltonpreserve.org.

A Berry Delicious Contest!

Hand Melon Farms, Greenwich This incredible summer-long pick-your-own contest randomly chooses one winner who will receive an entire summer’s worth of pick-your-own fruits and vegetables! There will also be four second-place winners, who each will win 20 pounds of pick-your-own berries. Entering the contest is as easy as signing up for their email newsletter by going to the Hand Melon Farm’s website www.handmelonfarm.com. For more information, call (518) 692-2376.

TODAY

Skidmore hosting "Science Cafe's" at Virgil's 86 Henry St., Saratoga Springs Enjoy informal community discussions about current scientific topics! A short introduction to the science behind a topic is followed by lively discussion of social, political and ethical implications.

The dates and topics are: April 19: Melatonin: a promising natural sleep aid April 26: Should We Grow Our Fuel? American biofuel production The cafe's are led by senior Skidmore College biology majors and the public is encouraged to attend! For more information, visit www.sciencecafes.org.

Volunteer Environmental Educators Needed at Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park The Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park is looking for people who are interested in becoming part of their team of volunteer Environmental Educators. This is a great opportunity for people who are interested in teaching classes both at the park and in schools or other venues. The Environmental Educators also lead nature walks and assist in the public education programs. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer Environmental Educator, call the park office at (518) 450-0321 or send an email to info@wiltonpreserve.org. An orientation is scheduled for Wednesday, April 18 at 7 p.m. at the park office (80 Scout Rd.) for people who are interested in learning more about the organization and volunteering.

AGC NYS Offering Scholarship Opportunities The Associated General Contractors of New York State (AGC NYS) is now accepting applications for their undergraduate, graduate and diesel technology scholarship program. For eligibility requirements, contact Brendan Manning at (518) 456-1134. To download an application, visit https://www.agcnys.org/programs/s cholarship. The deadline to submit applications is May 15, 2012.

Saratoga Rowing Association’s Silent Auction Celebration Saratoga Rowing Association is holding a silent auction April 19 at 6 p.m. featuring Longfellows' lavish hors d' oeuvres and chef's tables; music by Mike Perkins; and special guest appearances. Tickets are $40 and available online at www.saratogarowing.com/silentauction. If you or someone you know has an item or service to donate to the auction, contact Karen at klazar1@nycap.rr.com.

SARATOGA

TODAY

CALENDAR

Friday, April 13, 2012

27

living

13 - Apr. 20 Apr.

events Weekend-Long Saratoga Tattoo Expo Saratoga City Center, 522 Broadway, Saratoga Springs Join fellow ink-fiends April 13-15 for live tattooing, body piercing, tattoo contests, giveaways and entertainment. The expo takes place Friday, April 13 from 3-11 p.m., Saturday, April 14 from 11 a.m.-11 p.m., and Sunday, April 15 from 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Admission is $10 for a day pass or $25 for a weekend pass. For more information, visit www.saratogatattooexpo.com.

Friday, April 13 Apple-a-Day Nursery School Book Fair Barnes and Noble 3029 Route 50, Saratoga Springs Join our friends from Apple-a-Day Nursery School for a fun-filled day starting at 10 a.m.! Activities are planned throughout the day including scavenger hunts, arts and crafts, games, story-time and more!

Saturday, April 14 Meet the Authors Jennifer Roy and Julia DeVillers Barnes and Nobles 3029 Route 50, Saratoga Springs Twin authors Jennifer Roy and Julia DeVillers are celebrating the release of their two newest books, “Cordially Uninvited” and “Double Feature.” Come meet the authors, walk the red carpet, and be part of this royally fun book signing starting at 11 a.m.

26th Conservation Banquet of the Adirondack Chapter of Trout Unlimited Great Escape Lodge, Queensbury The festivities begin at 5 p.m.

Tickets are $40 and are available by calling (518) 792-5549. Proceeds benefit cold water resources in our region. Events include social hour, silent auction, live auction, raffles and dinner. For more information, contact Ron Briggs at briggsr49@adelphia.net.

Lasagna Dinner Old Saratoga Reformed Church, 48 Pearl St., Schuylerville Enjoy a lasagna (meat and vegetarian) dinner from 4-6 p.m. Adults $8, children 5-10 $4. Reservations preferred, but walk-ins are welcome.

Takeout available. Contact Amber at (518) 587-8224 or Paulette at (518) 695-3024 for reservations or information.

Roast Turkey Dinner Trinity United Methodist Church, Ballard Rd., Wilton From 3:30-6:30 p.m. enjoy mashed potatoes, vegetables, roast turkey, cranberry sauce, drinks, desserts and more! Cost is by donation and takeouts are available. Call (518) 584-9107 for more information.

Sunday, April 15 Elks’ Breakfast Buffet 1 Elks Lane, Route 9, Saratoga Springs Let the Saratoga-Wilton Elks serve you a buffet breakfast from 8:30-11 a.m. Adults $7, seniors/military with ID $6, children 5-12 $5, under 5 free, takeout $8.

Saratoga Central Catholic Booster Club Brooks BBQ SCC School parking lot, 247 Broadway, Saratoga Springs The Saratoga Central Catholic Booster Club is sponsoring a Brooks BBQ from 2-5 p.m. $10 for a chicken dinner, $12 for a rib dinner. For more information, contact Tami Cohan at (518) 791-1475.

Monday, April 16 SUNY Adirondack Music Workshops SUNY Adirondack Campus, Queensbury The SUNY Adirondack Music Program will offer workshops on songwriting and insights into the music industry by professional musicians Steve Gillette and Cindy Mangsen, including a performance by the duo. Day-long program starts with a performance by Steve and Cindy from 12:45 p.m. to 1:50 p.m. in the SUNY Adirondack Theater; a music business workshop from 2:15 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.; and a songwriting workshop from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. There is no cost.

Attendees of the workshops are asked to RSVP at 743-2200, ext.

2468 so enough workshop seating can be provided. For more information, contact Diane Bargiel at number above, or email at bargield@sunyacc.edu.

Parkinson’s Support Group The Parkinson's Support Group of Saratoga will meet at Woodlawn Commons in Saratoga Springs at 2 p.m. This meeting is open to anyone with Parkinson's Disease, family members and friends. For more information, call Joyce Garlock at (518) 885-6427.

Tuesday, April 17 The Creative Place International 320 Broadway, Saratoga Springs Creative Place International, a new nonprofit organization providing cultural resources in Saratoga and the Capital District, will hold auditions from 6-9 p.m. for various roles in “American Soup,” a new play with music by Saratoga Playwright Mary Jane Hansen at the Arts Center.

Actors must pre-register for their audition at pbs@capital.net or by calling (518) 584-7780. Rehearsals begin July 16 for performances at the Arts Center August 3-12.

Participation in “American Soup” will be on a volunteer basis. For details on CPI and “American Soup,” go to www.thecreativeplaceinternational.org. For more information, contact Bill Snyder at (518) 584-7724.

Brookside Museum Networking Breakfast 6 Charlton St Ballston Spa. School district personnel will be on hand from 7:30-8:30 a.m. to discuss future projects in the district, including construction of the new Milton Terrace South Elementary School, and provide information on the school budget. Cost is $5 with advance reservation, $10 day-of. To RSVP, email info@ballston.org or call (518) 885-BSPA (2772).

Waldorf “Mother Nature’s Child” Film and Discussion Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St., Saratoga The Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs and Children & Nature present: "Mother Nature's Child- Growing Outdoors in the Media Age” film screening and discussion from 7-9 p.m. Moderated by J. Eva Nagel, PhD. For information, contact Anne Carey Maguire at (518) 587-2224.

Wednesday, April 18 Southern Adirondack Audubon to host Habitat Gardening Crandall Library Community Room, Glens Falls Suggestions for organic control methods will be offered and explained. Native plants will be a seminal theme, as they are critical in attracting wildlife, and as the wildlife can play a part in the organic control. This program starts at 7 p.m. and will interest those who have a desire to improve their yards and gardens, therefore aiding both wildlife and themselves. This is a free public program.

Thursday, April 19 Saratoga Rowing Association Night Longfellows Restaurant, Saratoga Springs Join Saratoga Rowing Association for their Silent Auction Celebration at 6 p.m.! Get to know one another

better and to enjoy a great evening of music, fun, food and great deals!

For information or if you have items or services you might be willing to donate, contact Karen Travis with the Silent Auction Committee at klazar1@nycap.rr.com.

Friday, April 20 For Earth’s Sake Grand Opening & Cash Mob 120 West Ave., Saratoga Springs Starting at 11 a.m., a “Cash Mob” that has been organized by the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce will begin. Like a flash mob, a cash mob brings community members together but rather than dancing, floods the doors of a pre-selected local business, infusing collective cash into its register.

Become a “mobber” by spending $10-$20 in support of this new store. This is a great opportunity to make a huge difference in our local economy! Call (518) 306-6605 for more information.

Principessa Elena Society 13 Oak St., Saratoga Springs The Principessa Elena Society is hosting its monthly Italian dinner from 5-7 p.m. Seniors $8, Adults $9, Children 5-12 $5, Under 5 free, Takeout $10. For more information, call (518) 584-4163.

Upcoming Sustainable Saratoga’s Street Trees Early Earth Day Inventory High Rock Avenue Pavilions, Saratoga Springs Help catalog, assess and preserve part of our city’s living history as you measure and survey trees at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 21. Families are welcome! Bring pen and tape measure. For information, contact Tom Denny: tomdenny2010@gmail.com

Send your calendar items to Emily Fowler at efowler@saratogapublishing.com before 5 p.m. on Monday for Friday publication.

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SARATOGA

PULSE

Friday, April 13, 2012

TODAY

Local Gigs Week of 4/13-4/20:

Send listings to entertainment@saratogapublishing.com

Brubeck Brothers Quartet to Play Skidmore Friday, April 13

Friday, 4.13:

•Chris Dukes Bank, 10:30 pm

•Michael Benedict Jazz Vibes, 9 pm

•Frank Jaklitsch & Fighting 86's, 7 pm

@ 9 maple avenue - 587.7759

•Brubeck Brothers Quartet, 8 pm @ arthur zankel music center - 580.5321

•Ryan Jenson, 9 pm @ bailey’s - 583.6060

•Radio Junkies, 9 pm @ bentley’s - 899.4300

•Matt & Shannon Heaton, 8 pm @ caffè lena - 583.0022

•Juke Joint Jokers, 9 pm @ gaffney’s - 587.7359

•Marcus Ruggiero, 8:30 pm @ irish times - 583.0003

•Bodells, 6 pm; Philip the Meatbox, 10:30 pm @ jp bruno’s - 745.1180

•Double Take, 9 pm @ the mill - 899.5253

•Tim Wechgelaer 9 pm @ the parting glass - 583.1916

•Rich Ortiz, 6:30 pm @ primelive ultra lounge - 583.4563

•Sister Sparrow & Dirty Birds, 9 pm @ putnam den - 584.8066

•Journey Tribute, 8 pm @ vapor - 581.5772

•Tony Jenkins Jazz Trip, 8:30 pm @ wallabee’s jazz bar - 792.8282

Saturday, 4.14: •Arch Stanton Quartet, 9 pm @ 9 maple avenue - 587.7759

•The Blackouts, 9 pm @ bailey’s - 583.6060

•Nate, 9 pm @ bentley’s - 899.4300

•Hazel Dickens Tribute, 8 pm @ caffè lena - 583.0022

•Rick Bolton & the Dwyer Sisters, 9 pm @ gaffney’s - 587.7359

•Neversink, 9:30 pm @ irish times - 583.0003

•

@ jp bruno’s - 745.1180 @ the parting glass - 583.1916

•Out of the Box, 6:30 pm @ primelive ultra lounge - 583.4563

•Spring Bass w/Flinch & more, 9 pm @ putnam den - 584.8066

•DVDJ Biggie/ DJ Playground, 9 pm @ vapor - 581.5772

•Two Planets Away, 9 pm @ wallabee’s jazz bar - 792.8282

Sunday, 4.15: •Keeping Company w/Cage, 6 pm @ arthur zankel music center - 580.5321

•Dirck Toll: Riveting Perplexity, 2 pm •Girlyman w/Edie Carey, 7 pm @ caffè lena - 583.0022

Thursday, 4.19: •The Play Doughs, 8 pm @ gaffney’s - 587.7359

•Jeff Walton, 6 pm @ horseshoe inn - 587.4909

•Irish Celtic Session, 7 pm @ the parting glass - 583.1916

•Dopapod w/Third Nature, 9 pm @ putnam den - 584.8066

•Brent Haviland & Bryan Mull, 9 pm @ wallabee’s jazz bar - 792.8282

Friday, 4:20: •Blue Angel, 9 pm @ 9 maple avenue - 587.7759

•Justin Joyner, 9 pm @ bailey’s - 583.6060

Open Mics: •Tue. w/Rick Bolton, 8 pm @ gaffney’s - 587.7359

•Wed. Open Mic, 8 pm @ putnam den - 584.8066

•Thur. Open Mic, 7 pm @ caffè lena - 583.0022

•Thur. Open Mic, 10 pm @ circus café - 583.1106

PULSE

SARATOGA

TODAY

Friday, April 13, 2012

Spring Swing Soiree

NitroJive - photo provided SARATOGA SPRINGS - The Saratoga Music Hall will feature a special swing concert/dance Saturday, April 14, from 7:3011:30 p.m. The event starts off with a beginning dance lesson taught by local swing dance specialists from the Saratoga SAVOY. The event will feature the band Nitrojive, with local musician and singer, Billy Deuel. The band will play three sets with the first starting at 8 p.m. The Swing Soiree is coordinated and sponsored by the Saratoga SAVOY and is part of the successful Diamond Dance series, which boasts the most attended monthly big band/swing dance in the Northeast.

"April 14 may be the anniversary of the sinking of Titanic and

just days before our taxes are due, however, you will forget all of this when you hear the band," said event coordinator, Dave Wolf.

"The band, NitroJive, is known for its energy and ability to make you feel as if you were transported to a swing club of the late 1940s."

The event is a Dance Flurry Affiliate series called the Diamond Dance, sponsored by the Saratoga SAVOY and Rayna's Artisan Catering.

The event opens its doors at 7:30 with a dance lesson and Nitrojive will take the stage at 8 p.m. Admission is only $15.

For more information, visit www.saratogasavoy.com/files/diamonddance.html or call (518) 587-5132.

Auditions for Saratoga Shakespeare Company SARATOGA SPRINGS Saratoga Shakespeare Company is casting a contemporary “Twelfth Night,” directed by William Finlay. The company is celebrating its twelfth summer season of free outdoor theater in beautiful Congress Park.

Auditions are scheduled for Saturday, April 21 from 9 a.m 4 p.m. at the Saratoga Springs Library (in the Susman Room, lower level), located at 49 Henry Street in Saratoga Springs.

For an audition appointment, contact Sara Friedman via email at saratogashakespeare@gmail.com or call (347) 875-0621 and leave your name and call-back number.

Rehearsals begin Monday July 2, and performances are scheduled for July 17–July 29.

All roles are open. The company is seeking male and female performers of all ages, and types; multicultural casting for all roles.

Actors should prepare one or two Shakespearean monologues and bring their pictures and resumes to the auditions.

For further information, or to donate online, visit www.saratogashakespeare.com or Saratoga Shakespeare’s Facebook page.

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Saratoga Springs Brown Lunch Bag Series Returns April 19 SARATOGA SPRINGS - On April 19, the second installment of the 2012 Spring Series of the Brown Bag Lunch Program will present the composer Chauncey Olcott and his ties to our fair city.

City Historian Mary Ann Fitzgerald will share the story of Songwriter Hall of Famer, Chancellor Olcott. Widely known to all as “Chauncey,” his list of accomplishments includes singer, actor and lyricist. Come hear the story of the amazing life of Chauncey Olcott, a true Saratoga Springs treasure. His popular hit tune, “When Irish Eyes are Smiling,” was written in Saratoga Springs

while at his summer home on Clinton Street, well-known for the rose gardens and Irish thatched-roof cottage. As a special treat, this program will include a live performance by members of the Racing City Chorus who will perform the beloved Olcott song “My Wild Irish Rose,” written for the 1889 NYC production “A Romance of Athlone” (Ireland). Based on Olcott’s biography written by his wife Rita, with various articles and photos, we will explore the highlights of his prolific career.

In the introduction to her 1939 book, Rita Olcott wrote that the present generation needs to know about men like Chauncey. Rita

had hoped that her book would help the “lost generation” find its way back home.

The Brown Bag Series is a monthly, hour-long program presented in partnership by the Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center and the Saratoga Springs Public Library. This event is conducted in the Dutcher Community Room located on the main floor of the library.

This program is free and open to the public. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. Tea and coffee are provided. For more information, contact the visitor center at (518) 587-3241.

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PULSE

SARATOGA

Friday, April 13, 2012

St. Clement’s Spring Ball Comes to Canfield Casino April 20

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS - Great food, great music, great company and for a great cause - what more could you ask for in a night out?

The St. Clement’s Alumni Association is gearing up for their annual Spring Ball Friday, April 20 from 6:30 - 11:30 p.m. at the Canfield Casino in Congress Park.

Proceeds from the event will be collected by the association, which in turn uses all of the funds to directly benefit the St. Clement’s Regional Catholic School.

“The Spring Ball will feature a catered dinner from Hattie’s Restaurant, dancing along to the Audiostars, and silent auction and live auction with over 120 items up for bid,” said Maryann Penney, a

volunteer helping to organize the Spring Ball.

The evening will begin at 6:30 p.m. with a cocktail hour, with plenty of hors d’oeurves, and a full dinner and dessert provided by Hattie’s Restaurant. For those looking for a little extra refreshment, there will be a cash bar for guests to take advantage of.

The Spring Ball will have over 120 items up for bid during the silent and live auctions - a wide array of products covering sports, fashion, food and much more.

“The live auction will have New York Giants and New York Jets tickets with accommodations,” said Penney. “With the Jets tickets, that includes field access for the national anthem and player announcements. We will also have VIP seats to the Fashion Week Show with backstage passes, or the Marc Forgoione experience - dinner for two at Forgoione’s Tribeca wait-listed restaurant. You’ll also get to have a meet and greet with Marc, who is the new Iron Chef.”

Other items include a Clubhouse table for eight along the finish line at the Saratoga Race Course, with Embrace the Race apparel and pad-

dock passes; gift certificates for local restaurants and shops; and gift certificates for several local children’s events, such as to the Children’s Museum at Saratoga or the Strike Zone.

Dress for the event is business casual or festive attire.

To attend, guests are asked to RSVP by April 16. Reservations are $60 each; seniors will be charged $30 each, and guests 30 and under will also be charged $30 each.

To secure your ticket, call (518) 587-8578 or email Wvmaryann@aol.com.

TODAY

“Rumors” to Close Season at Home Made Theater SARATOGA SPRINGS - Home Made Theater (HMT) wraps up their 27th season with Neil Simon’s “Rumors” at the Spa Little Theater in the Saratoga Spa State Park. The show runs weekends April 20 through May 6.

America’s foremost comic playwright Neil Simon delights audiences with this boisterously entertaining play. The Deputy Mayor of New York City is hosting a party in his elegant home when he is shot in the earlobe and his wife goes missing. Everyone tries to conceal the embarrassing events of the evening from the police and the media. A truly contemporary comedy of wit and political mischief.

The director of “Rumors” is

Kirk Starczewski who has directed numerous HMT productions including “A Little House Christmas,” and who wrote and directed HMT’s past two murder mystery fundraisers.

Performances are Fridays and Saturdays April 20, 21, 27, 28 and May 4 and 5 at 8 p.m. Matinees are on Sundays, April 29 and May 6 at 2 p.m. An optional dinner package is available at Bookmakers Restaurant at the Holiday Inn prior to the evening performances or following the matinee performances for an additional $21 per person. Ticket prices are $23 and $26. For reservations or further information, call HMT at (518) 587-4427 or visit www.homemadetheater.org.

Calling All Artists for First Night, Art in the Park SARATOGA SPRINGS Saratoga Arts is seeking artists for several upcoming exhibitions: for First Night Saratoga, the July 7 Art in the Park and the September 15 Art in the Park.

First Night Saratoga, the Spa City’s New Year’s Eve family-oriented celebration of the arts and of the community, is seeking artists to participate in the December 31 event. This year's theme is Explore the Night.

Each year, thousands of revelers come to Saratoga Springs to experience a wide-ranging variety of arts and music. The goal this year is to bring the spirit of the arts together as never before, offering the most talented and creative performers around a chance to display their work.

Saratoga Arts is looking for musicians of every genre to fill the venues with an array of sounds from the traditional to the cutting edge. The organization is striving to present an entertaining and eclectic mix that will delight, inspire and enlighten music lovers of every stripe. Classical, country, rock, roots, world music, alternative and beyond - both established and emerging artists are welcomed to share their talent and let their music be heard.

All facets of the arts are an important part of First Night.

Dance, comedy, theater and performance artists are also encour-

aged to participate. Works of originality, imagination and expression will be showcased, highlighting the diverse talent our region has to offer. Think out of the box and impress with your creativity!

Artists whose proposals are accepted will receive a stipend from Saratoga Arts.

Please submit ideas to the First Night Coordinator, at jmarchand@saratoga-arts.org prior to August 1, or bring/mail proposals to Saratoga Arts, 320 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

For further information, call (518) 584-4132..

Saratoga Arts is also seeking artists for its two outdoor art exhibitions.

On Saturday, July 7, the first of Saratoga Arts’ Art in the Park exhibition and sale will occur in Saratoga Springs’ historic Congress Park from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. The second Art in the Park exhibition will be Saturday, September 15 from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Both Art in the Park exhibits feature original fine artwork.

Artists need to register for Art in the Park by the Friday, June 4 deadline.

Space is limited for each exhibition, and advanced registration is required. For fees and registration forms, go to www.saratogaarts.org/exhibitions or contact Saratoga Arts at (518) 584-4132 or snatale@saratoga-arts.org.

PULSE

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Tango Fusion Dance Company’s Grand Opening Celebration

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS After years spent running a successful dance studio in New York City, Diane Lachtrupp, a Galway native, has returned to Saratoga Springs, where she will be holding a grand opening celebration for her new dance studio at 153 Regent Street Thursday, April 19.

Lachtrupp’s studio, the Tango Fusion Dance Company, offers a wide array of classes covering many skill levels and dancing styles, including foxtrot and swing, salsa, West Coast swing, hip-hop, tango and more.

“We want to bring dance to everybody,” said Lachtrupp, who has won numerous awards for her dancing and has worked with or employed several dancers on the hit television show, “Dancing with the Stars.”

“It’s something in your body.

You are learning a new language a language that brings you a lot of exercise, a lot of joy, and is something you can meet other people with and make new friends.”

To celebrate their grand opening in Saratoga Springs, the Tango Fusion Dance Company is inviting anybody and everybody to come by their new studio next Thursday, where interested parties are allowed to try one free class during the evening. For younger children in kindergarten through third grade, hip-hop classes begin at 4 p.m. For children in fourth grade and older, a free hip-hop class begins at 5 p.m. For adults, try either a beginner or intermediate level foxtrot and swing class at 6 p.m.; a beginner or intermediate salsa class at 7 p.m.; or a beginner or intermediate West Coast swing class at 8 p.m.

“This is our starting place,” said Lachtrupp, who hopes to expand the studio and offer even more classes in the near future. “We were giving lessons here in our home for a while, where we have a studio. But we’re ready for the bigger space now with more classes,

“Ajax in Iraq” at Skidmore SARATOGA SPRINGS - The Skidmore College Department of Theater is pleased to announce its Spring 2012 mainstage production, “Ajax in Iraq,” by Ellen McLaughlin, directed by Lary Opitz. Performances are April 1315 and 19-22. All shows are in the Janet Kinghorn Bernhard Theater at 8 p.m. except Sunday matinees at 2 p.m.

Past and present collide in Ellen McLaughlin's mash-up of Sophocles' classic tragedy “Ajax” with the recently ended war in Iraq. The play follows the parallel narratives of Ajax, an ancient Greek military hero, and A. J., a modern female American soldier, and explores the timeless struggle soldiers face in trying to make sense of war.

“We're very excited to be presenting a production that deals so well with the important questions surrounding our soldiers returning from Iraq and currently serving in Afghanistan,” said director Lary Opitz. “This play combines Ajax with the story of a female American soldier stationed in Iraq.

photo provided

“Ajax in Iraq,” comes to Skidmore April 13-15, 19-22 in the Janet Kinghorn Bernhard Theater.

The play focuses on the timeless concerns about how we deal with our heroes and how soldiers struggle to make sense out of the wars they have been sent to fight. We believe that this play is certainly timely and we are proud to be able to honor our soldiers and veterans with this work.”

For reservations, call the Skidmore Theater Box Office at (518) 580-5439 or email boxoffice@skidmore.edu. Tickets are $12 general admission and $8 for students and senior citizens. For group sales, contact Kathy Mendenhall at (518) 580-5431 or kmendenh@skidmore.edu.

and I think our students were ready group of people that love to dance, a community where you can go out too.”

One new class Lachtrupp and her and you can dance together,” said two instructors, Johnny Martinez Lachtrupp.

To learn more about the Tango (Lachtrupp’s husband) and Juan Soler, are excited to begin at the Fusion Dance Company, visit expanded studio is their salsa per- www.tangofusiondance.com. Or, formance class, which will start swing by the new studio at 153 Regent Street for their grand openMay 2.

“That’s going to be an eight- ing open house celebration Thursday, April 19. week commitment, where we’ll meet every Wednesday night at 7:30,” said Lachtrupp.

“It will be an adult performance class teenagers are welcome too - but it’s going to be a performance class. At the end of the eight weeks, we’ve already booked a couple of places to perform.”

Lachtrupp also plans to hold a dancing summer camp once school gets out, where she hopes to encourage some of her younger students to branch out from their hip-hop classes into salsa or swing dances. photo provided “I’m hoping to build a Diane Lachtrupp and Johnny Martinez

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Community Corner

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TODAY

Best Buy Saratoga Helps Make a Wish Come True Best Buy Saratoga Springs Store No. 541’s Blue Angel Volunteers went all out to welcome special guest 9-year-old Emma North to their store this past week. Emma, a Ballston Spa resident, was the recipient of a Make-A-Wish Foundation electronics shopping spree.

Arriving at the Saratoga Springs location in a limousine, Emma was welcomed with red carpet at the front of the store and an entourage of Best Buy employees greeting her with cheers and handmade signs to celebrate her visit.

Emma enjoyed her shopping experience and the attention she received from the entire Best Buy staff. Like many young consumers, an iPod Touch and the newly released iPad were at the top of her list.

“When we heard about Emma’s impending visit I knew that our Blue Angel Volunteers would make this a special day for Emma and her family,” Best Buy manager Nick Miszko said. “I couldn’t be prouder of them today.”

For more information about the Saratoga Springs Best Buy Blue Angel volunteers, contact Stan Hudy at (518) 703-3931 or email Stanley.Hudy@BestBuy.com.

"The older the fiddle, the sweeter the tune."

-Irish Saying

Happy 60th Mom! You are much loved!

-your children

Bob Frawley Earns Champions for Children Award The New York State Association for the Education of Young Children (NYSAEYC) has recognized Saratoga Springs resident Bob Frawley for his work in the enrichment of children. Frawley will be honored during NYSAEYC’s 10th Annual Champions for Children Awards Event at the Buffalo Hyatt Regency Hotel, in Buffalo, New York. The celebration is taking place Friday, April 20, at 6 p.m., during the Annual NYSAEYC Conference. The awards dinner honors all who work in the field of early care and education by recognizing exceptional individuals.

Jessie the Therapy Dog Helps Young Readers Second graders at Lake Avenue Elementary love reading to Jessie, who is a new addition to the Dog T h e r a p y International Program this year.

The children build their reading confidence by reading to the dog in a safe environment.

Some local kids have some fun in the great outdoors as part of Children and Nature Saratoga’s G.O. (Get Outside) Campaign.

SARATOGA

TODAY

Friday, April 13, 2012

Sudoku

PUZZLES PUZZLES PUZZLES

33 Freedom makes a huge requirement of every human being. With freedom comes responsibility. For the person who is unwilling to grow up, the person who does not want to carry his own weight, this is a frightening prospect.

Eleanor Roosevelt

Words to know: propriety: n., Good social form

Crossword

See puzzle solutions on page 36

ACROSS See puzzle solution on page 36

Scrabblegram

See puzzle solution on page 36

1 In tears, say 6 NPR’s Totenberg 10 Pasta grain 15 Greenish shade 16 Hemoglobin mineral 17 Like healthy soil 18 Pie nut 19 *Casual-wear brand since 1873 21 Work on film 23 Betwixt 24 Familia member 25 *Enters a witness protection program, say 29 Maine __ cat 30 Unbeatable service 31 Morlock prey 32 Sister of Rachel 34 More than serious 36 Presaging times 38 Skin-care brand with a “For Men” line 42 *Compromised choice 46 Take off the TiVo 47 Encrust, in a way 48 Goddess of discord 49 Obi-Wan portrayer 52 On the road 54 “Imagine that!”

55 Wyoming city near Yellowstone 58 *Wedding shop array 61 Distortion, perhaps 62 Little songbird 63 City on the Aare 64 Song that first topped the charts on 4/13/1957 ... or how its singer’s name appears in the answers to starred clues 68 Blink of an eye 71 Bench clearer 72 Pickup shtick 73 “L’chaim!” is one 74 Seafood serving 75 Author Blyton 76 Els of the PGA DOWN 1 Unruly do 2 Cry after Real Madrid scores 3 With the order switched 4 Give the slip 5 1990 Robert Frost Medal recipient Levertov 6 Zero, in Real Madrid scores 7 Fuming state 8 Super stars?

9 Twisted balloon shape, often 10 Christian bracelet letters 11 Weed whacker 12 Muse for Yeats

Movie Review

Gasoline Alley

44 Trumpet effect 45 Toothbrush choice 50 The Aragón is a tributary of it 51 Southern language 53 Hollywood’s Mimieux 55 Holding device 56 Refueling ship 57 Street of many mysteries 59 Finalize, as a cartoon 60 Program problem 62 Timely question 65 Patch, say 66 Prefix with corn 67 “Xing” one 69 Popular CBS procedural 70 Parisian season

The Hunger Games

Surrounding the capital city of a nation in ruins are 12 separate districts that are all overpopulated by desperate residents. How do you pacify such angry citizens?

Simple: Reality television. No, not “Jersey Shore,” but something much worse. Or better, depending on how you look at it.

Katniss Everdeen (played by Jennifer Lawrence of Winter’s Bone and X -Men: First Class) is a skilled tracker, hunter, and survivalist who lives in the impoverished District 12 where most earn their living in the mines. Her mother (played by Paula Malcolmson) has been struggling since her husband died, leaving her to raise Katniss and her sister Prim by herself. Katniss (Lawrence) is 16 and a close friend of Gale Hawthorne (played by Liam Hemsworth) who dreams of running away.

Every year, each of the 12 districts randomly selects two children (one boy and one girl) or “tributes” no younger than 12 and no older than 18 and Gale (Hemsworth) believes he’s dodged the bullet as long as he can. Still, when the tributes are selected, Gale is spared and so is Katniss. But when Prim (Katniss’s sister) is chosen, Katniss volunteers to take her place. Making her and Peeta Melark, (a baker’s son portrayed by Jess Hutcherson of Bridge to Terabithia and Journey to the Center of the Earth) the candidates for the 74th annual, winner-take-all, death match known as The Hunger Games. Held in the Capital, The Hunger Games are broadcast live to the entire nation. Each participant is trained, sponsored and ranked and

At The Movies With Trey Roohan

13 OB/GYN test 14 Boxer with a cameo in “The Hangover” 20 Produce offspring 22 Floor installer 25 Tureen utensil 26 Less chummy 27 De __: from square one 28 Feudal estates 29 Onion kin 33 Suffix with oct35 History test section, often 37 Start to fast?

39 Zachary Taylor, by birth 40 The senior Saarinen 41 Beasts of burden 43 Sargasso Sea denizen

then locked in a massive, futuristic Colosseum with remote control hazards, predators and cameras hidden throughout.

Now, this was a much-anticipated film. I was greatly intrigued by the trailers, but Twilight was also much-anticipated and no matter how much love it gets from the audience, I haven’t even been able to sit through the first installment. Then, I saw the generally positive response from critics and took it upon myself to see this highly entertaining, dramatic effort and I urge those patrons out there who haven’t seen it to do so at there earliest possible convenience.

This is a great film. (8.0/10) For comments and questions, contact me at movies@roohanrealty.com .

Broom Hilda

Animal Crackers

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Friday, April 13, 2012

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classified TODAY’s

M A R K E T P L A C E

Call (518) 581-2480 x 204

Publication day Friday

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Cushman Turtle Stool, original tag.

Child's table, maple refinished. Godui framed prints, original 1869. Picnic table w/seperate benches. Antique Gypsy Black Kettle. Liberty Blue Dishes. All mint condition. Make offers. 383-3617

AIRLINES ARE HIRING- Train for hands on Aviation Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified- Job Placement Assistance.

CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance (866)296-7093

Space Reservation Due Monday 5:00 p.m.

TODAY

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GARAGE SALE Neighborhood Yard Sale Friday & Saturday 9am-2pm Wilton: 18, 53, 57 Glenburnie Dr., 33 Jessica Trace and 32 Challedon Dr. Huge Moving Sale Saturday April 14th from 9-3. 1063 Ridge Rd, Broadalbin. Furniture,childrens items,bicycles,toys,board games, tons of household items.

Tool Box found in Saratoga Springs.

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SARATOGA

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CLASSIFIED

Friday, April 13, 2012

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE

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FOR RENT Saratoga Eastside 1st fl. apartment for rent – unfurnished 2 bdrm, a/c, d/w, w/d, 3 porches, off-st. prkg., walk to B’way/track, gas heat, small pets okay, no smoking, $900/mo + security +utilities. Call (518) 584-1724

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SPORTS

SARATOGA

Friday, April 13, 2012

TODAY

Community Sports Bulletin Adrirondack Sportsman’s Alliance Awards Four Scholarships at Annual Fundraiser Photo Provided

AWARD CIRCUIT - (from left to right) Morgan Wiley, Austin Bovee, Rachel Daellenbach and Samantha Eggleston show off their certificates from the Adirondack Sportsman’s Alliance after being named their scholarship winners for 2012.

Saratoga Rowing Association Offering an Adult Learn-to-Row Program Saratoga Rowing Association (SRA) is now offering an Adult Learn-To-Row program. This is a seven-week session beginning July 10 and ending August 30 (with no class scheduled for the week of August 13). Classes will meet on Tuesday and Thursday each week at 6 p.m. at SRA’s boathouse located at 543 Union Avenue in Saratoga Springs. Registrants must be 18 years of age or older to join. The cost is $150, plus a $10 temporary membership to the SRA. You can register at www.saratogarowing.com or call the office at (518) 587-6697.

Puzzle Solutions from p.33 Send your sports stories or briefs to Andrew Marshall, Sports Editor at amarshall@saratoga publishing.com

The Adirondack Sportsman’s Alliance held their annual fundraiser and presented four scholarships to graduating high school seniors in the area, totaling $2,200. Winners were determined through an essay contest where participants were asked to write about their plans for the future as well as their thoughts on the great outdoors. Three different types of scholarships were awarded, including two Adirondack Sportsman’s Alliance Scholarships, The Mike Sutphin Scholarship, and the Michael Suriano Scholarship.

The Adirondack Sportsman’s Alliance scholarhships were awarded to Samantha Eggleston and Austin Bovee.

Eggleston is graduating from Corinth High School and he will be attending the University at Albany. Eggleston is a member of the National Honor Society, the Science Honors Society, and the Foreign Language Honors Society.

Bovee is also a graduate of Corinth High School, and will be attending SUNY Adirondack in the fall. Bovee is currently enrolled in the Syracuse University Project Advance, to help develop his skills as a writer. He plans to study creative writing while enrolled at SUNY. The Mike Sutphin Scholarship was

awarded to Morgan Wiley. Wiley is graduating from Mohonesen High School later this year and will be attending Siena College. Wiley is a member of the National Honor Society, the Science Honors Society, and the Spanish Honors Society. She will major in biology during her undergraduate studies.

Finally, the Michael Suriano Scholarship was awarded to Rachel Daellenbach. Rachel will graduate from Schuylerville High School before moving on to study at the Word of Life Bible Institute at Schroon Lake. Rachel belongs to the National Honors Society and the Future Business Leaders of America. She also volunteers her time teaching Sunday school. She hopes to continue her studies in childhood education.

The Adirondack Sportsman’s Alliance takes great pride in giving back to their community. In addition to the scholarships, they also provide disabled hunters the opportunity to get back into the woods for cost-free guided hunts, as well as make numerous contributions to local food pantries.

Last Call for ZUMBA Classes at Gavin Park!

The Town of Wilton Parks and Recreation Department is still registering for their Latin-inspired, dance-centric Zumba classes! Courses are scheduled in two sessions, and Session A meets Monday evenings from 6-7 p.m. beginning April 9 and Session B takes place Wednesday evenings from 6-7 p.m. beginning April 11. Registration ends very soon, so act quickly! For information including price breakdowns call the Town of Wilton at (518) 584-9455.

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SPORTS

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Saratoga Regional YMCA Selected in LIVESTRONG Community Impact Project Recieved over 4,500 votes from community to bring researchbased cancer support program to region.

by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS – The Saratoga Regional YMCA was selected as a winner in the 2012 LIVESTRONG Community Impact Project, thanks to the support the project received through an online vote campaign on the foundation’s website. This award means Saratoga Regional YMCA will be able to implement LIVESTRONG at the YMCA, which is a research-based program that offers support to cancer survivors who are adjusting to life after treatment.

The program will be offered at all five of the Saratoga Regional YMCA’s branches including Corinth, Wilton, Battenkill, Malta and the main branch on West Avenue in Saratoga Springs. This is thanks in part to the 4,732 votes cast in favor of the Saratoga Regional YMCA. “It was such a short campaign, and the way the information went viral absolutely blew my mind.

We knew we were working hard on our end to get this out there, but the outreach that we had and the effect that it made was tremendous,” said Melissa McCreary, the Group Health and Wellness Director for Saratoga Regional YMCA. The grant is for $3,500, and according to LIVESTRONG’s website this now means the Saratoga Regional YMCA can use that money to support the initiative and launch other projects, as well as fund stipends or purchase extra supplies.

The program’s focus ranges anywhere from rebuilding muscle mass and endurance, to helping survivors cope emotionally by restoring their self-esteem and confidence.

“We need to know where they’re coming from, we need to know what they can or can’t do.

We want to know what’s going to benefit them both physically and emotionally so when they walk out of here they feel stronger as a person,” said McCreary.

The program is not expected to be implemented until 2013, as staff must complete a six-month training course before the initiative can begin.

“When you’re dealing with cancer patients and cancer survivors, you’re not just looking at someone walking in off the street looking for a new fitness program. You’re looking at the physical and emotional sides of things. Many cancer patients that I’ve spoken to have said it’s overwhelming to walk into a fitness facility, and before we can help them work back to

where they want to be, we need the training to support that,” said McCreary.

LIVESTRONG will work with the Saratoga Regional YMCA for the first year, but the YMCA is responsible for sustaining the program after that. Though it’s a great problem to have, McCreary says she may not have enough positions for the many people who’ve expressed interest in being involved with the program.

Saratoga Regional YMCA was nominated out of the LIVESTRONG’s Region 8 candidates, who included New York and the surrounding New England states.

There were six total

YMCAs selected from Region 8, three of which can be found in New York state including: Saratoga, Buffalo-Niagara YMCA, and Broome County YMCA. Two facilities in Connecticut were also selected, along with one facility in Massachusetts.

In all, 90 programs across the country will benefit from over $1.4 million provided by the LIVESTRONG Foundation. The 90 programs receiving funds in 2012 are the largest number of community-based awards granted in a single year in the history of the foundation.

The 12-week program will be free for those who wish to attend, with specific programs designed to aid individuals reaching the end of their cancer treatment adjust to the physical and emotional changes they may have experienced.

The Community Impact Project works by replicating successful programs from one community and bringing them to others. All across the United States organizations like Saratoga Regional YMCA apply to bring these programs to their communities. If an organization is approved, LIVESTRONG then opens the process for voting from within the communities, as a way to gauge longterm sustainability of a community-based program. Voting was opened for the 2012 campaign to the general public March 7 and remained open until March 23.

The LIVESTRONG website is reporting that over 450,000 total votes were received nationwide.

Skidmore Women’s Lacrosse Holds on to Beat Clarkson SARATOGA SPRINGS - The Skidmore College women's lacrosse team scored the game's final three goals, including two in the final minute, for an 11-10 Liberty League win over Clarkson University, Saturday at Wachenheim Field. The Thoroughbreds are 2-2 in league play and 7-3 overall.

The Golden Knights fall to 3-4 and 0-2.

Abbie Hamlin's game-winner with three seconds to play capped a wild Skidmore comeback.

The Thoroughbreds appeared in control after the first half with an 8-4 lead. Seven players scored for Skidmore in the half with Spencer Morgan connecting twice and Sam Ziemba scoring her first collegiate goal.

Clarkson was called for a foul

with nine seconds to play, giving Hamlin a restart from about 25 yards out. The senior midfielder calmly ran through the Golden Knight defense to score her fourth of the season with only three seconds remaining in regulation.

For the Thoroughbreds, Morgan finished with two goals and an assist. Melville and Stebbins had two goals each, while Stebbins had four caused turnovers, four ground balls and three draw controls.

Melville had a game-high five caused turnovers. Lauren Madden, RobinFetterolf and Summer Segalas scored single goals.

Skidmore outshot Clarkson 3825 and had a slight 24-21 edge in ground balls. Rachel Klein earned the win in goal with eight saves.

The Thoroughbreds host William Smith April 13 at 4 p.m.

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Friday, April 13, 2012

It’s Time For A Change at Augusta National

Damian Fantauzzi -OpinionIt is hard to believe that the Augusta National Golf Club still discriminates against women. Augusta National isn’t alone though, because there are a couple dozen exclusive country clubs throughout the nation (not to mention some tennis clubs) that also subscribe to this same archaic tradition.

This is not a new issue for Augusta, but this year the CEO for IBM is a woman, Virginia Rometty, and traditionally the company's head is invited to join and IBM sponsors the Masters.

Sounds like the higher-ups at Augusta National have to face some facts about their policies relating to the entitlements of membership to its organization!

This is a prehistoric philosophy that is practiced by certain groups of people who think they have exclusive rights and are socially better than another group, whether it’s the feminine gender, a different race, someone with different theological beliefs or another ethnicity that are character-

istically contrary to their socioeconomic parameters. To me, it's like a comparison to India's caste system, where social structure determines a person's class distinction by heredity. Another example is in Saudi Arabia where they ban women from taking gym classes and participating in sports, not to mention that they aren’t allowed to drive.

Then there's the Olympic Committee, an old-boys club, who barred South Africa from the Games from 1970 to 1991 because of apartheid, but not the Saudis for their gender apartheid, whose petro-dollars aid the International Olympic

who disagree with their country club's rules, why do they allow the club to hold its ground?

I would not be associated with any organization that would ban my wife from becoming a member. I have a very difficult time with discrimination; it is a cancer that can be cured through education.

For some reason there is a mechanism where wealthy white men feel that women can't be their equal or maybe realistically, feel threatened by that possible occurrence! A handful of these exclusive country clubs not only exclude women, but they also prevent

“Augusta National, the most famous private golf club in the world, should be opening their doors to the female gender!”

Committee.

In America, this practice of bigotry is not as widespread as it was 50 years ago. I consider these fancy private clubs as being disgracefully illogical to our form of democracy. This is especially true when you consider that many of the people who belong to these organizations are part of America's leadership class. Augusta has members who are executives from companies like American Express, General Electric and Motorola. Even though there are some members

African-Americans and Jews from qualifying as members of their organization.

Augusta National Golf Club is where the Masters has been played since 1933 and it really has gotten away with its philosophical ruling against female membership for decades. In 2002, feminist Martha Burk took on the club's ruling and put a crack in the glass ceiling, with her pointed protest against the principles and conditions that customarily governs the club's behavior against female

membership. It is most likely an awkward situation for IBM and its CEO Virginia (Ginni) Rometty. Is IBM considering some sort of a retribution for the refusal to recognize Ginni as an honorary member of Augusta National? If they don't respond, what could it mean as a potential backlash by continuing its relationship with the country club? After all, women are IBM users and purchasers; watch out for a large boycott by women!

In short, Augusta National, the most famous private golf club in the world, should be opening their doors to the female gender! In 1990 the gap and lack of African-American membership was closed by allowing black men to join the club. Since we are not part of the mindset of the Saudi world, American women have all the rights that men have. I don't understand how in the 21st century there can be such an undemocratic ruling of any place or at any time in this great nation of ours. Any exclusive country club that denies membership because of gender, sexual orientation, race or religion should be declared unconstitutional and penalized for their ruling.

Why would any man want to be a member of an organization that doesn't consider his mom, wife or sister an equal? The cure is simple; don't accept their rules as being engraved in stone! It's wrong in accordance with what our nation stands for; it's about the continuing growth of democracy for all and its function. It's time for change!

TODAY

Challenge Yourself at the Tuff eNuff Obstacle Course 5K

The Tuff eNuff Challenge: Overcoming the Obstacles 5K will take place Saturday, May 19. Join the Prevention Council for their inaugural Tuff eNuff Challenge and turn your standard 5K run into a fun, muddy adventure for families and athletes alike. Mirroring our mission of helping families navigate the challenges of adolescence, the Tuff eNuff Challenge will present a variety of obstacles that stand in the way of success. Crawl under, hurdle over, and wade through these obstacles on your way toward victory. There will be two courses - one for kids and one for adults. You should definitely prepare to get muddy and have a great time doing it. Costumes and enthusiasm encouraged - especially for adventurous teens that’ll have plenty of time to clean off the mud before prom night.

There will also be food vendors, bounce houses, and other fun activities for spectators who may not want to get so dirty. Registration is only $25 if done before April 15 and $30 between April 16 and May 18. You may register the day of the race for $40 ($25 for teens with high school ID.) The first wave of participants begins at 9 a.m. and the second wave starts at 10 a.m. sharp.

The kid’s course is $10 (For children 10 and under) and the registration for their course opens at 7:30 a.m. the day of the race.

There will be awards for the top three fastest men, top three fastest women and top three funniest costumes. So get creative, challenge yourself and your athletic ability and support the Saratoga Prevention Council at the Tuff eNuff Obstacle 5K!

SARATOGA

TODAY

SPORTS

Friday, April 13, 2012

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Saratoga Softball Splits Pair of Games Over Spring Break Blue Streaks quell Queensbury 7-2, but fall to Suburban Council rival Shaker 8-3 during a pair of matinee games at SSHS.

by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY It might be spring break for the majority of high school students in the area, but the Saratoga Springs varsity softball team was hard at work April 10 as they hosted the Queensbury Spartans for a matinee game that got underway at 11 a.m. The early start time didn’t seem to affect the Blue Streaks’ offensive output, scoring five runs in the bottom of the first. Queensbury would respond the next inning, managing two runs in the top of the second. That would be all they’d get, as Saratoga would tack on two more runs in the bottom of the third, and cruise to a 7-2 victory.

For the Blue Streaks, Kristi Burgess, Jeanine Rodriguez and Morgan Rumpf all knocked in two RBIs apiece, and Makaylee Dowd would chip in with a double and score a run. Burgess had a hit in all three of her at-bats.

Rodriguez also managed to score two runs. The team managed 13 hits on the afternoon.

Burgess was also the starting pitcher for Saratoga Springs and pitched a complete-game surrendering two runs, six hits, walking one batter and striking out two.

After giving up the two runs in the second inning, Burgess would settle down and stifle the Queensbury bats, allowing only one hit in the final three innings.

For Queensbury, Brooke Meader and Sara Miele each had

a hit, with both RBI being credited to Miele during the second inning. Queensbury starting pitcher Rachel Malloy struck out six Blue Streak batters during her six innings of work, but gave up seven earned runs on the 13 hits.

Burgess would not have such an easy time against Shaker the next afternoon, as she would be tagged for eight runs (four earned) on five hits, walking four batters to go along with four strikeouts in the 8-3 loss. She would also be held hitless after going three for three against Queensbury.

The two teams played to a 1-1 tie after the first inning, but Shaker would go on to score three runs in the top of the second. Saratoga chipped away at their lead scoring runs in the next two innings, but Shaker would respond right back with two runs in the top of the fifth, and two more for insurance in the top of the seventh.

Shaker starting pitcher Erica Lallecorsa would get the win, giving up three earned runs while striking out four and walking only one. Jillian Hogan had a great day behind the plate for the Bison, going two for two, with two RBI and a triple.

After two afternoon games at home, the Saratoga Springs Blue Streaks will be on the road for another matinee game against Mohonasen April 13, before returning home to play Glens Falls April 16.

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BRACING FOR IMPACT - It was a tough day on the basepaths for Queensbury, who could not manage to plate another run against Burgess after scoring two in the second inning.

©stockstudiosphotography.com

A SWING AND A MS. - Kristi Burgess (15) pitched very well for the Blue Streaks against Queensbury, scattering six hits over seven innings and striking out two batters on her way to a complete-game victory April 10.

LIVESTRONG pg. 37

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Mendoza pg. 38 Friday, April 13, 2012

Vol. 7 • Issue 15 • FREE • Saratoga TODAY

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