Saratoga Today 4-19

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Volume 8 • Issue 15 • April 19 – April 25, 2013

600 and Counting

by Brian Cremo Saratoga TODAY As a 22-year-old in 1988, Alphonse “Phonsey” Lambert took over a Saratoga Central Catholic baseball program that had never won a sectional game and had just two wins in its previous two seasons.

“It was very much a matter of trying to change the culture,” said Lambert, who at the time was the youngest high school baseball coach in New York State. “We were known primarily in the 1980s as just a basketball school. We were the doormat of the Northern conference. Then we came in and my goal, immediately, was to win the league in three years.”

The Saints did just that. After going 10-11 in his first season, Lambert led the Saints to the first of what would be three consecutive league titles just two years later.

I n d e p e n d e n t

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F r e e saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com • (518) 581-2480

Combating Crime

by Patricia Older Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS — In spite of Assistant Chief Greg Veitch’s assurances at Tuesday night’s City Council meeting that crime was not on an increase in Saratoga Springs, noting that for the “last five to 10 years, [our] crime rate has been relatively stable,” statistics are showing otherwise.

Records for 2012 show that burglaries in the Spa City were up by 30 percent and larcenies were up by 10 percent and already this year, reports of those types of crimes are ahead of last year’s numbers.

In addition, several particularly violent crimes have occurred in a short period of time, including a machete attack following a family cookout; a woman brutally beaten

Featured Stories Autism Fair and Carnival on April 21, the 2nd Annual Autism Fair will seek to increase autism awareness.

See Story pg. 7

Greenfield Ambulance Greenfield faced with ambulance decision that could cost taxpayers more.

See Story pg. 6

Inside TODAY

Photo provided by Mark Bolles

and robbed on a city street; and a gang-style beating of a man following an all-night get together.

With the recent rash of seemingly more brazen and brutal crimes, a standing room only crowd was at Tuesday’s meeting and many

expressed concern about feeling safe walking the streets of Saratoga.

City resident Robin Dalton addressed the board, noting that for the first time in her life, she feels the See Police pg. 14

The Horses Are Back

Blotter 3 Obits 5 RSVP

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Boomerang 17-23 Pulse 26-28 Sports 36-40

Weekend Forecast FRIDAY

73|45 SATURDAY

53|32 SUNDAY Photo Provided See Lambert pg. 37

Photo provided by Mark Bolles

See Story pg. 2

53|33

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Back in Town With Saratoga Opening Day just around the corner, th Oklahoma Training Track opened Saturday, April 13. More horses filed in throughout the week in what is the 33rd year since the track opened for training in 1980

Photos provided by Mark Bolles

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013 The following are arrests made by the Saratoga Springs Police Department.

Ariel M. Spencer, 31, of Grand Ave., Saratoga Springs was arrested April 14 and charged with third degree assault. Spencer was processed and celled until a City Court arraignment.

Jeffrey D. Hulett, 21, of Rodgers Lane, Saratoga Springs was arrested April 14 and charged with DWI with a BAC more than .08. He was also charged with speeding and an unsafe lane change. Hulett was placed under arrest for DWI and transported to the police department.

Zaccarif Viscusi, 22, of Avalon Way, Altamont was charged with second degree criminal trespassing, and resisting arrest April 14.

He was transported to the police department where he was processed and celled pending a City Court arraignment.

Kevin J. Ceglarski, 22, of Holly Berry Road in Bristol, Connecticut was arrested April 14 and charged with criminal trespassing in the second degree. He was transported to the police department where he was processed and celled pending a City Court arraignment.

Susan A. Waters, 45, of Limerick Lane, Ballston Spa was arrested April 14 and charged with DWI with a BAC more than .08 and failure to stop at a stop sign. Waters was transported to the police department where she was processed and then released to a third party.

Amir Rivera-Lieberman, 19, of Skidmore College was charged with exposure of a person, on April 14. Officers arrested RiveraLieberman, brought him in to the police department, processed

him and then turned him over to Skidmore Security.

Norachessie Buitrago-Falcon, 28, of West Fenlon St., Saratoga Springs, was arrested April 14 and charged with assault in the third degree. Officers placed Buitrago-Falcon under arrest and transported her to the police department. The victim was treated at the scene for minor injuries.

Zachary T. Pettit, 20, of Wampum Drive, Saratoga Springs was arrested April 14 for DWI, aggravated DWI with a BAC over .18, speeding, unlawful possession of marihuana and open container.

Pettit was processed and then celled pending a City Court arraignment.

Matthew K. Lattanzio, 20, of North Toll St. in Scotia was charged with second degree criminal impersonation. Lattanzio was placed under arrest and transported to the police department.

Andrew J. Gardner, 34, of Quail Court, Saratoga Springs was charged with disorderly conduct on April 14. Gardner was transported to the police department where he was processed and celled pending a city court arraignment.

Henry O. Frelinghuysen, 26, of Route 9, Saratoga Springs was arrested April 13 and charged with DWI, BAC more than .08, speeding and following another motor vehicle too closely.

Frelinghuysen was transported to the police department where he was processed and released to a third party.

Arielle L. Carnevale, 23, of Vischer Ferry Road, Clifton Park was arrested April 12 and charged with failure to keep right, equipment lighted head lamps, failure to comply with lawful order of the police and DWI. Carnevale was

BLOTTER transported to the police department where she was processed and released to a third party.

Allison M. Fisher, 40, of Fawn Road, Gansevoort was charged with Petit Larceny and arrested April 12.

Fisher was arrested and transported to the police department. Fisher was processed and arraigned.

David H. Wright, 69, of Casey Road, Schuylerville was arrested April 17 and charged with third degree stalking. Wright was arrested on a City Court warrant from a domestic incident that occurred on April 3. He was processed and arraigned in City Court.

Connor F. Demarco, 20, of Brampton Lane, Northumberland was arrested April 16 and charged with seventh degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of marihuana and possession of a controlled substance outside the original container.

Demarco was found to be in possession of narcotics, arrested, processed, and released on an appearance ticket

to return to court at a later date.

Justin J. Tavarez, 22, of Courtlandt Ave. in the Bronx was charged with fourth degree

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grand larceny and arrested April 16. Tavarez was processed and arraigned in City Court.

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week in Review

Matthew Dorsey Appointed by Mayor Johnson as City Attorney Locally Owned and Operated 5 Case Street, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866 Phone: (518) 581-2480 Fax: (518) 581-2487 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com Hours of Operation 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

Monday–Friday Publisher/Editor Chad Beatty 581-2480 x 212 cbeatty@saratogapublishing.com General Manager Robin Mitchell 581-2480 x 208 rmitchell@saratogapublishing.com Advertising Chris Bushee 581-2480 x 201 cbushee@saratogapublishing.com Jim Daley 581-2480 x 209 jdaley@saratogapublishing.com Cindy Durfey 581-2480 x 204 cdurfey@saratogapublishing.com Art Department Richard Hale 581-2480 x 202 Production Director, Website rhale@saratogapublishing.com Eric Havens 581-2480 x 207 ehavens@saratogapublishing.com Jessica Kane 581-2480 x 215 jkane@saratogapublishing.com Editorial Patricia Older 581-2480 x 203 Mangaing Editor, Business patricia@saratogapublishing.com Chelsea DiSchiano 581-2480 x 214 Features Editor, Education, Pulse chelsea@saratogapublishing.com Brian Cremo 581-2480 x 206 Sports Editor, Obituaries, Briefs brian@saratogapublishing.com Trina Lucas 538-1190 RSVP, Events and Benefits trina@saratogapublishing,com Calendar Cindy Durfey 581-2480 x 204 cdurfey@saratogapublishing.com Photographer Mark Bolles 490-1757 mbolles@photoandgraphic.com Distribution Kim Beatty 581-2480 x 205 kbeatty@saratogapublishing.com

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Mayor Scott Johnson appointed Matthew Dorsey as city attorney April 17, filling the post vacated by attorney Joseph Scala in late February.

Dorsey previously served as city attorney in 2004 and 2005 under Mayor Michael Lenz, as assistant city attorney in 1998 and 1999 and as special counsel to the city from 2002 to 2006.

“I am tremendously honored by this opportunity to work with Mayor Johnson and the rest of the City Council,” Dorsey said in a statement released by the mayor’s office.

Dorsey, who will continue his private practice at the firm O’Connell and Aronowitz P.C. while filling the part-time position, said at this point he only plans to stay in the post for the remainder of Johnson’s final term in office, which

ends in January.

“I thought it was a unique opportunity to return to public service,” Dorsey said.

When he served as city attorney in 2004 and 2005, Dorsey revised the city’s ethics code — the first revision to the code in more than 30 years.

Dorsey has been an attorney in Saratoga Springs for 16 years.

His brother, Stephen Dorsey, is the Saratoga County attorney and his grandfather was the city attorney in Saratoga Springs for 26 years, ending in 1964.

Dorsey is also the president of the Saratoga Springs Rotary Club and sits on the board of directors of the Saratoga Springs Rotary Education Foundation.

He is a graduate of Brown University and Vanderbilt Law School and a 1984 graduate of Saratoga Springs High School.

State Police Make Arrest for Assault Weapon Sale MOREAU - William G. Greene, 51, of Pine Road, Moreau, was charged with the misdemeanors of unlawful transfer of an assault weapon and disposing of a weapon without a NICS background check.

The New York State Police in Wilton arrested Green for the alleged unlawful transfer of an assault weapon on Tuesday, April 16.

In response to a NYS Gun Tip Line

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

Peter Martin Sworn In As County Clerk After 4-Month Vacancy SARATOGA COUNTY – After a four-month vacancy, Saratoga County finally has a new county clerk. Peter Martin, a Saratoga Springs attorney selected

by Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo to fill the vacancy, was sworn in during a brief ceremony Wednesday, April 17 at the county complex.

He is currently the only Democrat holding countywide office. Martin was sworn in by Charles Foehser, the county’s records management coordinator, who has been acting county clerk since former deputy clerk Kate Jeanson resigned in February. Martin is currently the only Democrat holding countywide office.

The clerk’s office is the official repository of the county’s legal records, including deeds, mortgages and court filings, and also runs the state Department of Motor Vehicles offices in the county. The clerk’s post has been vacant since January 1, when Kathy Marchione stepped

down after being elected to the state Senate.

By law, it is up to the governor to appoint someone to hold the post until a special election in November. The two major political parties submitted names for Cuomo to consider. Martin, 55, has never held public office, and has said he won’t run for election in November, meaning his appointment ends December 31. Martin, who ran unsuccessfully for Saratoga Springs finance commissioner back in 2009, is a former senior vice president and general counsel for the Ayco Company, a national financial services firm based in Saratoga Springs that he retired from in 2008. He went on to a role as chairman of the board for the Arthritis Foundation Northeast Region. Martin said he plans to continue some involvement with the Arthritis Foundation while serving as county clerk. He has lived in Saratoga Springs since 2004 and is married with two adult daughters.

call, an investigation was initiated regarding an assault weapon being offered for sale on a Facebook page for gun enthusiasts.

An undercover State Police Investigator responded to the posting, eventually meeting with the person selling the rifle and

ultimately purchasing the weapon.

The weapon is a RGuns .223-5.56 caliber assault style rifle with a pistol grip, which meets the definition of an assault weapon.

Greene was issued an appearance ticket for a future court date in the Town of Moreau Court.

obituaries

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

Robert W. Wertman W I LT O N — Robert W. We r t m a n , 77, known to his family and friends as “Bucky”, passed away unexpectedly at home on Sunday, April 14.

Born in Albany, May 7, 1935, Bucky was one of three sons born to the late Howard G. and Mabel Barkman Wertman. He was the loving husband

of the late Nancy Lee Teschke Wertman with whom he enjoyed almost 30 of marriage before her passing on July 10, 2011.

Bucky was the loving step-father of David R. (Karen) Hoffman of Wilton and Brian T. (Laura) Hoffman of Horseheads; cherished grandfather of Meagan, Nicholas, Kate Nicole and Jessica Hoffman; brother of Roger (Beverly) Wertman of Latham, and the late Howard Wertman, whose wife Linda of Clifton Park survives; brotherin-law of Carl and Lorraine Teschke of Chicopee, Massachusetts and James Teschke of Guilderland. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Claudia M. (Stevens) Didziulis SARATOGA SPRINGS — Claudia M. (Stevens) Didziulis, 78, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 15 at Saratoga Hospital after a long illness.

Born September 9, 1934 in Ballston Spa, she was the daughter of the late Clifford and Gwendolyn (Painter) Stevens.

Claudia is survived by her children, daughter Sandra Durkin and her husband Patrick of Queensbury, and son Dr. Stephen Didziulis and his wife Dr. Kristine Butcher of Thousand Oaks, California.; her grandchildren, who were her greatest pride

and joy, Matthew Durkin and his companion Ariel Nereson of Pittsburgh, Katherine Durkin of Queensbury, Claire Didziulis and Julia Didziulis both of Thousand Oaks, California. Claudia is also survived by her brother Clifford Stevens and his wife Eleanor of Saratoga Springs along with other family members including nieces, nephews and cousins.

Relatives and friends may call from 9–10:30 a.m., Saturday, April 20 at The Church of St. Peter. A funeral service will follow at 10:30 a.m. at the church.

Terrance Lee Dickerson RALEIGH, N.C. — Terrance Lee Dickerson, 62, formerly of Gansevoort, passed away Sunday, April 14 at Duke University Hospital in Durham, North Carolina following a long battle with leukemia.

Terry was predeceased by his son, Nicholas Dickerson, of Morrisville, North Carolina and his father-in-law, Richard C. Vladyka, Sr. of North Granville.

In addition to his wife and parents, survivors include a son, Nathan Dickerson and his girlfriend, Shannon Phillips of Saratoga Springs; a daughter, Noelle Dickerson and her husband Ricky Crews of Raleigh; two grandchildren, Alexander Dickerson and Mya Crews of Raleigh; three sisters,

Deborah Mattox and her husband Thomas of Elizabethtown, Kathryn Bassett and her husband Ricky of Lewis and Cynthia Carlson of Elizabethtown; his mother-inlaw, Audrey Vladyka of North Granville; a sister-in-law, Julie Smith and her husband Jeffrey of Ballston Spa and two brother-inlaws, Richard C. Vladyka, Jr. and Edward Vladyka and his wife Brenda of Granville.

Additional survivors include two sons, Jason Dickerson of Pittsfield, Massachusetts and Benjamin Dickerson of Queensbury as well as several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial celebrating Terry’s life will be at 11 a.m., Friday, April 19 at St. Clement’s Church. Burial will follow at St. Peter’s Cemetery.

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 obits@saratogapublishing.com

Wendy Susko Robichaud STILLWATER — Wendy Susko Robichaud, 41, passed away Saturday at her home with her loving family by her side. She was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer less than a year ago.

Born on August 23, l971 at St. Peter’s Hospital, Albany, she was the daughter of David C. Susko of Troy and Barbara Clow Susko of East Greenbush.

In addition to being survived by her

parents, Wendy was the beloved wife of Timothy Robichaud and the loving and devoted mother of Isabella and Maximillian.

She is also survived by her sister, Michele (Fardin Sanai) and her brothers David of Denver, Colorado and Michael of Binghamton; many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and extended family and friends including Don, Joan and family.

Richard K. Oliver Sr. S A R A T O G A SPRINGS — Richard K. Oliver Sr., 59, of Palm Harbor, Florida passed away Monday, January 14 after a long battle with ALS. Born on April 24, 1953 in Saratoga Springs, he is a son of the late Charles R. and Violet M. (Clark) Oliver.

He served in the US Navy from 1971 to 1978 aboard the USS Eisenhower. He also was a firefighter with the Saratoga Springs Fire Department from 1986 until his retirement in 2004.

In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his brother, Charles J. Oliver; two sisters, Mary Oliver-Bradley and Joyce E. Oliver; a brother-in-law, Ernest Wren; and a sonin-law David Zabielski, all of Saratoga Springs.

Survivors include his wife,

Becky Oliver of Palm Harbor; his children, Melissa Oliver-Zabielski of Saratoga Springs, Katie Oliver-Garmley (Greg) of Schuylerville, Richard Oliver Jr. (Julie) of Pingree Grove, IL., and Lyndsey Brown of Palm Harbor; his grandchildren, Brendan, Jaime, Dalton, Riley, Khyler, Kyerra and Jennah; his sister, Wanda Wren and one brother, Jesse Oliver; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

A memorial service will be conducted at 1 p.m.

Saturday, April 27, at the PBA range on Wiebel Avenue.

John J. “Jack” Carey Jr. S A R A T O G A SPRINGS — John J. “Jack” Carey Jr., 78, a longtime resident of Saratoga Springs, passed away Friday, January 11 in Sarasota, Florida, following a long illness.

He was predeceased by his parents.

Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Carole; three loving daughters,

Colleen Carey, Maureen Ireland and Jacquelyn Pietrantone; eight grandchildren, of whom he was so proud and one sister, Barbara Britton.

Relatives and friends may call from 4–6 p.m., Thursday, April 25 at the William J. Burke & Sons/ Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes.

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Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

Bad Boys, Bad Boys, Whatcha Gonna Do When They Come For You…

by Chad Beatty Saratoga TODAY

As reported on today’s front page and in prior week editions of Saratoga TODAY, crime is up in the Spa City. I don’t think this comes as a shock to anyone. We have witnessed unprecedented growth over the past few years and seen our ‘city in the country’ flourish as most of the nation remains stagnant.

Unfortunately with growth comes more people; with more people comes more opportunity; and with more opportunity comes more crime.

Add to this the substantial growth in our surrounding areas such as Malta and Wilton, and you have the potential for the perfect storm.

So is growth a bad thing?

Absolutely not. Take a weekend drive across the center of the state where there has been negative growth and you will find poverty, crime and boarded up business fronts. Or call the good people of Detroit and see what they have to say about growth; I imagine they would respond with a resounding “Bring it on.” I personally consider myself very blessed to be a business

owner in such a vibrant region.

So what do we do to combat the crime issue while embracing our vibrant and robust status as a year-round tourist destination as well as a technology hub?

There are a lot of theories related to the causes of crime such as: the economy, mental illness and drug addiction, which definitely do correlate to crime rates. But I think there is a simpler solution that we can begin working on immediately: get more boots on the ground.

In 2009 the Saratoga Springs Police Department had a total of 72 patrolmen. Flash forward to today and you see a roster of 58. That is a reduction of 20 percent! Yes, 20 percent!

As our city is flourishing, our law enforcement ranks are

shrinking.

How can we justify this reduction to local law enforcement while approving continued growth? We can’t. We need more officers. There will be some naysayers that want less police presence, but to them I ask this: Question: Who doesn’t like to see police officers walking the streets and patrolling the neighborhoods?

Answer: Criminals!

If you aren’t a criminal you should welcome additional officers. If you are a criminal I couldn’t care less what you think. Follow the simple rules of society or suffer the consequences.

So I say to City Council: Figure this out. Our families deserve better. Our businesses deserve better.

Our tourists deserve better.

Greenfield Struggles to Answer Ambulance Problem

by Patricia Older Saratoga TODAY GREENFIELD CENTER – According to a report issued by the town of Greenfield Ambulance Committee, the town has only a couple of choices when it comes to ambulance service – either start their own or get a central location and hire a service to staff and run it.

The Ambulance Committee charged with looking at the problem the town of Greenfield Center has had since its ambulance provider – Corinth Emergency Squad – went out of business is leaning

toward the recommendation the town start its own service.

But town supervisor, Dick Rowland, wants the town residents to tell him what they want.

“The question is, does the populace want to hire a more extensive ambulance service and do they want to pay for it,” said Rowland, noting that a public hearing had been set for May 2 at 7 p.m. in the town’s community center.

Greenfield was faced with having to find an ambulance service when Saratoga Emergency Medical Service went out of business a few years ago. Rowland said he was notified SEMS was closing their doors one month prior to the company ceasing operation.

The town immediately began looking at what their options were including Community Emergency Service in Ballston Spa, Wilton’s and Jessup Landing’s. Rowland asked for proposals to cover emergency services for the town.

He said that Jessup Landing suggested a flycar, which is a paramedic response vehicle stationed in a central location and supported with a paramedic 24/7. If there is a need for emergency response, the paramedic would respond and an ambulance would follow.

Rowland said they really wanted a real ambulance service, so they looked at the proposals from Empire and Wilton.

“Two years ago we got results of reports for Wilton and Empire,” explained Rowland. “Empire’s came in at $50,000 and they bill the patients; Wilton wanted $160,000 and to have an ambulance in borrowed space.”

Rowland said since they budget already had $50,000 available, they went with Empire.

“It made the most sense,” Rowland said.

In the meantime, a committee was formed to determine what route would be the best for the town in the long run.

“They were charged with giving us options but not decisions,” said Rowland, “But the committee has seemed to have taken on the role of decisions.”

He said “rumors [began] to float around town,” concerning Empire’s performance, so he requested their records.

“Those records showed at least a paramedic and an EMT were on every run,” said Rowland, adding that they next had Empire send out a blind survey created by the committee to see if patients were happy with the service.

“We had a 10 percent response and all related positive responses except for one and it really wasn’t a complaint,” said Rowland.

He said that to continue with Empire’s service, the cost to the residents is approximately seven cents per thousand.

“If we start an ambulance service from scratch, it would cost even more,” said Rowland, adding that even if they contracted out with an in-town service, taxes would go up for people.

“We need to hear from the residents,” said Rowland. “It is going to make an impact on people’s lives medically and financially and it is important to me they let us know what they want,” said Rowland.

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

NEWS 7

2nd Annual Autism Fair and Carnival Showcases Different Resources Available for Unique Disorder

by Chelsea DiSchiano Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — About once a week, Julie Marks and Mary Fornabia receive phone calls from frantic parents whose children have been diagnosed with some form of autism and have no idea what they’re supposed to do next.

After realizing just how many families in the Capital Region don’t know what resources are available to those with children or relatives on the autism spectrum, Marks, who works at Saratoga Bridges, and Fornabia, who works at the Parent Network of the Capital Region, decided to connect and create an information fair where the public can discover all the resources available in the area.

The first Autism Fair and Carnival took place last April and was a breakout success with 30 vendors and about 500 attendees. This year, both Marks and Fornabia are hoping to see an even bigger turnout at the fair, which will take place at the Intramural Gym on the Skidmore campus Sunday, April 21 from 12—3 p.m. This year has already seen an increase in vendors—jumping from last year’s 30 booths to 46 that will be present this year.

“Having one place to go to where you could find out about all kinds of services in your community—nothing like that had ever been done before in the Capital Region,” said Fornabia, who works as a special education resource specialist at the Parent Network. “In creating this fair, we found what those services are and that there are a lot more out there than what we realized.”

Though Fornabia and Marks have spearheaded the creation and production of the fair, they both said they owe much of their success to the event’s biggest sponsor, The Law Offices of Wilcenski & Pleat, PLLC., and over 20 psychology students from Skidmore who have volunteered their time to help coordinate the event.

The Skidmore students will help out in several different ways, from guiding cars to the parking lot at the campus entrances to supervising children at the fair’s play areas and bounce house.

“The students are exceptional and last year helped us out tremendously,” Marks said.

“It’s essential to have them because they supervise the children and man the bounce house and make sure they’re safe and comfortable,” Fornabia added.

“For parents that’s really important, because to walk into an event like this and walk around vendors while holding the hand of a child that may be very sensitive to what’s going on—the noise, the loudness, and those kinds of things— it’s very important because many times parents of kids with autism have a very difficult time getting out into the community, whether it’s food shopping, going to the bank or gathering information like this.”

Fornabia also said that it’s often hard for parents of autistic children to take them in public because of the common misconceptions made by the general public.

“Someone with autism could look just like you or me, so you may see a child in a store having a tantrum or see someone having a meltdown or acting in a way that might be quirky or odd and they may have autism—and the public may think those parents are either not being good parents or not disciplining their child or that that’s a weird person,” Fornabia explained.

For that reason, Marks and Fornabia emphasized the importance of the fair in educating not just families or individuals on the autism spectrum, but also in educating teachers, employers, service providers and the general public.

“Parents who just found out their kid was diagnosed need to be educated, and not only do they need to be educated, but they want to be educated and they want to learn—but there’s no single place you can go to get all the information you need. You can’t go to a library and open a book and find all the information you need,” Fornabia said. “Even in our school settings, children with autism are integrated into regular settings. It’s no longer the day and age of selfcontained classes where you lump all kids with disabilities into one class—children with autism are integrated into classes so teachers, parents and the public all need to be educated.”

Marks also spoke as to why it’s

so important for employers to be educated on autism issues as well. “[Employers] hire people on the spectrum and don’t know it, and that’s okay—people on the spectrum are really intelligent and able to get typical jobs, but an employer may have this quirky employee who has no interpersonal skills or says things that are politically incorrect or they’re failing on their job, and an employer doesn’t understand that, ‘Wow, there’s something more to this,’” Marks said.

Several colleges will be present at the fair to showcase the different college programs and resources that are available for those on the autism spectrum, which Marks said has been a huge request from parents.

The fair will have plenty to offer for children with autism and their parents, as well as the public. There will be an arts and crafts and face painting area, a bounce house and a quieter area with sensory toys for the kids, all of which will be supervised by Skidmore students so that parents and relatives can be free to walk around and visit the 46 exhibitors that

will be present. Representatives from Best Buy will also be on hand to showcase different iPad apps that are available for kids on the autism spectrum and will show how to use them. Finally, there will also be a full directory with details and contact information for each exhibitor that will be

made available to all attendees.

The 2nd Annual Autism Fair and Carnival is open and free to the public. For more information on the event, contact Julie Marks at jmarks@saratogabridges.org or Mary Fornabia at mfornabia@ pncrny.org.

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BUSINESS

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

Barry, Bette & Led Duke, Inc. Founder Michael F. Bette Dies

Michael F. Bette

LATHAM — Michael F. Bette of the Bette Companies died unexpectedly during a visit to his alma mater, Manhattan College, on Thursday, April 11. The chairman of the Bette Companies was 76.

Bette began his career with D. Fortunato, a Long Island-based contracting firm and when the company expanded to the Capital District in 1965, Bette was selected to co-manage the company’s upstate operations with Robert Barry.

In 1973, the two established their own construction firm, Barry & Bette, Inc. and after 10 years of success in the area construction

market, they formed Barry, Bette and Led Duke, Inc. (BBL).

Through Bette’s leadership over the next 26 years, BBL grew to become a nationally-ranked general contracting firm with divisions in Florida, Texas and Watertown.

In 1999, Bette became Chairman of the Bette Companies and along with his sons formed Bette & Cring Construction Group, First Columbia, BBL Florida and BBL Texas, ensuring the continuation of the family’s construction and real estate development businesses.

Over the past 50 years, Bette was responsible for the successful delivery of over $8 billion worth of construction projects including heavy highway, educational

facilities, health care facilities, multi-family housing, high rise luxury condominiums, military facilities and general office buildings, both public and private. He was a licensed Professional Engineer and an active member of several regional building organizations.

Bette’s projects included major work at The New York World’s Fair, Empire State Plaza and numerous colleges including Siena, SUNY Albany and Albany College of Pharmacy; and numerous hospitals, including St. Peter’s, Ellis and Albany Medical Center. He changed the skyline of Southwest Florida and constructed many of the high rise condominiums along the Gulf Coast. In the Midwest and

Texas he specialized in multi-family projects, becoming the fifth largest multi-family builder in the nation.

“He was proud of the many close business relationships that he formed and deeply valued every employee,” said Bette’s son, Matt. “He had a positive impact on many construction professionals working throughout the region. He knew that the recipe for success involved integrity, hard work and a can-do attitude.”

In keeping with Bette’s wishes and in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Michael Bette’s name to Catholic Charities, 40 North Main Ave., Albany, NY, 12203 and St. Peter’s Hospital Foundation, 319 South Manning Blvd., Suite 114, Albany, NY, 12208.

YMCA Receives Donation from Stewart’s Foundation SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Regional YMCA was recently chosen to receive a donation of $6,750 from the Stewart’s Foundation. These particular funds will go towards renovating, revitalizing and upgrading their Malta Child Care Center. This will include safety and security items, flooring, lighting, ceiling tiles, toilets, painting and classroom supplies.

This NYS licensed childcare facility is open year-round, Monday through Friday, and provides care to children ages 6 weeks to 5 years.

These children will be exposed to nurturing care from a handful of

our dedicated day care employees.

The center serves over 80 children, many of who would not have access to quality childcare without the generous support of organizations such

as Stewart’s Shops. For more information about the Saratoga Regional YMCA’s Malta facilities or childcare programs, please visit our website at www.saratogaregionalymca.org.

New Doctors on Staff at Saratoga Hospital SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Hospital recently welcomed the following physicians to its medical staff: Dr. Heather Marie Engelhart, emergency medicine, received her medical degree from Albany Medical College and completed an internship at the Naval Medical Center, San Diego, and a residency at Albany Medical Center. Engelhart is in practice with Saratoga Emergency Physicians, which provides medical coverage at Saratoga Hospital’s Alfred Z. Solomon Emergency Center.

Dr. Michael George Geci-Black, emergency medicine, received his medical degree from Medical College of Georgia in Augusta.

He completed both an internship and residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals in Philadelphia.

Geci-Black is board certified in integrated holistic medicine and is in practice with Saratoga Emergency

Physicians, providing medical coverage at Saratoga Hospital’s Alfred Z. Solomon Emergency Center.

Dr. Philip C. James, pediatrics, received his medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine in Wichita. He completed both an internship and residency at the University of Kansas Medical Center.

James is board certified in pediatrics and in practice at Glens Falls Pediatric Associates in Saratoga Springs, Dr. Thomas Reed, radiology, received his medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx. He completed an internship and residency at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City and a fellowship at the University of Wisconsin Hospital.

Reed is board certified in radiology and in practice with Millennium Medical Imaging.

For more information or a referral, call (518) 580-2450.

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

BUSINESS

9

The Healing Touch—The Power of Reiki

by Patricia Older Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS — When I was younger, I used to believe that as I entered my 40s and 50s, life would become a little easier. The children would be grown and settling into their own adulthoods; I would be wellestablished in a career; and my husband and I could begin to enjoy more of life.

What I have learned is that, unfortunately, for many of us, life has a cumulative affect—all those bumps in the road begin to add up even though we have moved past them. Add to the mix the unsettling events our country has endured in the past dozen years—9/11, Iraq, the struggling economy—and many of us find ourselves carrying more stresses in our lives than ever before.

We feel as though we are in a transitional period, again, but we are older and our minds and bodies seem to have a more difficult time just brushing past things like we use to easily do.

I am no exception.

The stress of life weighs heavily on my mind. I don’t sleep well, I always am “tired” and I just don’t feel good. Stress, as medically proven, can be life-threatening.

Recently, I decided to do something about it and went for my first

Reiki session with Gina Clemente.

It will not be my last.

Reiki, (pronounced ray-key,) is an ancient Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. The practice is based on the idea that an unseen life force energy flows through each of us–if our life force is low, we feel unhealthy; if it is high, we feel good and on top of life.

“Reiki is a stress-reduction technique,” explained Gina, who switched careers 10 years ago to open her own business. “We work with the energy source in people’s bodies.”

Gina’s own life took a new direction a decade ago when she was going through a particularly stressful transitional period. She had had a very successful career in retail, working her way up at a popular local Broadway shop from saleslady to manager over the course of 17 years.

But when her personal life and professional life began to undergo major changes, she felt the stress begin to wear on how she was feeling and how she was coping with everyday life.

She had a family to raise and an uncertain future. Life was wearing on her.

She had heard about Reiki, so she decided to try it.

“I had had massages before and I had heard about Reiki,” said Gina, who admits there is a spiritual component to the practice.

Gina Clemente. Photo courtesy of MarkBolles.com

The session changed her life.

“I knew it was what I wanted to do,” said Gina, who was raising a young daughter at the time and who was facing the store she had worked at for so many years closing.

The morning I went, I wondered if I could relax enough to let the process do its ‘magic.’ I had a lot on my plate, including interviews, deadlines and horses that wouldn’t stay in their pasture.

Gina met me at her open door.

We sat down and had a quiet conversation in her office on Washington See Reiki page 15.

10

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

This Week’s SPOLIGHT

Wilton Recreation

Wilton Recreation offers a full-day summer camp program for children entering grades one through 9. With available pre-camp and post-camp care, working parents can ensure their children are having fun in a safe environment before and after the camp’s regular hours, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Parents who register their children for before and/or after camp care can drop off their registered campers after 8 a.m. and can pick them up until 5:30 p.m. Busing is available for Wilton residents who register for regular camp hours. This camp offers a full schedule of daily onsite activities, themed events, and exciting trips for those campers registered for off-site adventures.Daily onsite 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 2013 Summer Camp opens on June 25 and runs until August 9.

Registration begins March 11 at Gavin Park, 10 Lewis Drive, Saratoga Springs and closes June 12. As there are only 300 spaces available, be sure to mark your calendar! Camp registration forms are available at www.townofwilton.com/gavin-park/ or can be picked up at the park office, weekdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Any questions, please call (518) 584-9455.

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

Summer Camp Guide

11

12

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

Spring’s Generous Spirit

St. Clement’s Hosts Record-Breaking BALL

by Trina Lucas Saratoga TODAY Spring may not have been in the air last Friday, but it was definitely in the spirit of those arriving at Saratoga National Golf Club for the 19th Annual St. Clement’s Festival. More than 250 came out of the icy rain to support The Spring BALL (an acronym for Building a Lasting Legacy since 1918).

Event chair Margaret Keeney greeted guests at registration, thanking them for braving the weather and pointing out the display of live auction items waiting to be ‘won.’ Nearby, committee member Annie Krasnicki encouraged people to purchase chances for New York Yankees tickets, a Kindle Fire HD and $500 in restaurant gift certificates (won by Ed Spickler, Mandy Whalen and Joe Bokan, respectively). With so much to see, the crowd lingered in the lobby; parents, friends and alumni all catching up and excited for the festivities ahead.

Upstairs, Keeney’s Co-Chair MaryAnn Penney welcomed friends and sponsors on their way to the silent auction. Close to 90 packages included sports memorabilia, Opera Saratoga tickets, Saratoga Polo passes, overnight escapes, wine, teeth whitening, fitness classes, jewelry, an autographed Tory Burch tote, and even dinner for eight at Augie’s Family Style Italian Restaurant with transportation provided by St. Clement’s Church Pastor, Fr. Paul Borowski.

There were also hours of lessons, for everything from polo with Will Orthwein, who was chatting with friends near the bid sheet, to swimming with Skidmore coach Jill Greenleaf. Other popular items were hot lunch for a year, reserved parent parking and bowling with ‘Mrs. McFadden,’ the Pre-K teacher. Keeping a close watch on their bids were Augie and Lisa Vitiello, Lisa Sondhof, Kevin and Cheryl Theriault, Guy and Helen Mastrion, Dan and Ann Frankowski, Jeff and Heath Ames, Chris and Liz O’Brien and Suzanne Barrick.

The highlight of the silent auction was a showcase of incredible projects created and assembled by the St. Clement’s students and homeroom parents. Among the treasures were a handmade pasta bowl with Italian specialties, a child’s chair and side table decorated with Junior K handprints, a pair of Adirondack chairs painted by second-graders blowing through straws and a Rosary assembled of beads handmade by one of the first-grade classes.

Bidding was particularly high on a sunflower painting that featured first-grade hands as the petals and fingerprints for the center.

Frank Mihalek claimed an art easel with fingerprint flowers and butterflies from one kindergarten class, and Lucy Forester was thrilled to win the other kindergarten’s gardening package in a flowerpot covered with fingerprint bees and bugs. The most expensive masterpiece, however, was a pint-sized, decoupage picnic table designed by Joanne McFadden’s class. Sponsors Bob and Lisa Moser took home the original piece for more than $2,200.

The silent auction action slowed a bit when Prime rolled out their delicious food stations. Once again, Mazzone Hospitality delivered a fabulous feast. Seen enjoying the fare were Michael and Margie Rotchford, Chuck and Erin Judge, Liz and Tab Beauregard, Stuart and Susan deVoe, Brian O’Donnell, John Conley, Nikki Roche, Maureen Parker, Jen Weaver, Emily Thomas, Rachel Ward, Peter Pedrotty, Kim and Eric Purdy, John Burke, Melody Loftus, Martin Sharp, Lee Wishart, Brian Conerney and Pat Kyne.

With the captive dining audience in the ballroom, Master of Ceremonies Shirl Penney opened a brief program by introducing Fr. Paul and the school principal, Jane Kromm. In turn, the pair recognized Kathy and Joe Bokan, the evening’s Honorary Chairs, before handing the microphone back to Penney for the live auction. While the rest of the band took a break, The Audiostars’ Jay Yeager served as coauctioneer, bantering with Penney to rally the crowd and increase bids on the fourteen packages.

Mike and Jill DeAnzeris will be returning to Saratoga National to golf and dine after their winning bid, and Joe and Josey Kakaty

Event Co-Chairs Margaret Keeney and MaryAnn Penney

now have a week-long Lake Placid vacation to plan. Jodi and Carl Leuchten are prepared for braces as high bidders on a package from Byrne Orthodontics, and Bonnie and Larry Farrelly can look forward to a personal Iron Chef experience with Tribecca’s Marc Forgione.

In the end, both auctions raised a total of $69,000. And, thanks to the generous support of lead sponsors The Adirondack Trust Company, Rich and Mary Flaherty, Morgan RV Management, John and Judi McSwieney, Dynasty Financial, The Rigabar Family and AYCO, Pirate’s Booty (who provided bags and bags of snacks scattered on the tables) and Tom and Kerry Selfridge, The Spring BALL grossed a record-breaking $126,000.

“It was wonderful to see the tremendous support for St. Clement’s School last Friday night,” said Keeney. “It felt like our event was the place to be in Saratoga!”

“We had a fantastic team of volunteer parents who worked tirelessly to put this fundraiser together and it showed. We are very grateful to our sponsors and the countless businesses and individuals who donated to the auctions and raffle.

Our success would not have been possible without everyone’s support. I am so proud to be part of the St. Clement’s family.”

Adding to her co-chair’s remarks, MaryAnn Penney stated, “I am overwhelmed by the turnout and generosity. It was great to see so many from the community side-byside with parents and alumni, supporting our children’s school. We really can’t thank our sponsors and attendees enough. They made the event our most successful yet.”

First-grade teacher Anna Farone, Lance Bell and Colleen Guarino

Chuck Judge, John McSwieney, Joe Kakaty and John LaRow

Joe and Jess Rigabar with Elaine Sillery and Jordan Laccetti

Bob and Lisa Moser

Honorary Chairs Kathy and Joe Bokan

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

Education

13

Winner of Freirich Business Competition Awarded $20,000, Heads to China in August

by Chelsea DiSchiano Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Samuel Schultz, a senior majoring in Asian studies and international affairs at Skidmore College, recently won $20,000 by placing first in the Third Annual Kenneth A. Freirich Business Plan Competition.

The prize money will help Schultz fulfill his dream of opening a business called Summer Destinations, an advising and placement company for Chinese students ages 8-14 who want to attend residential summer camps in the United States.

Schultz’s idea for the business was born after he visited his father, who is a director of a summer camp, and was introduced to some children from Beijing and spoke with them about their

experience.

“It’s common for Chinese kids to come to the U.S. for educational opportunities, and the summer camp experience is definitely a place for growth,” Schultz explained. “[Summer Destinations] is kind of the consultant middle man—we occupy the void space between these two areas and then connect the two.”

But the first place prize for Schultz almost didn’t happen—he was originally cut from the contest after the first round, which narrowed contestants down from 14 to six. But with a stroke of luck, one of the final six participants dropped out of the competition and Schultz was chosen as the alternate and allowed into the final round of the competition. “[Being cut] made me realize I had a good idea but I had a lot of work to do,” Schultz said. “Then I got a phone call that one of the

contestants had dropped out and I was the alternate so I was kind of thrown back in, which really helped my confidence and enthusiasm for it, because in my eyes I already had won just by getting into the six finalists.”

After he got into the final six, Schultz knew he had a lot of hard work to do, but was aided by his mentor, Nancy Wekselbaum, a member of the Skidmore Class of 1973 and president of the Gracious Gourmet, based in Bridgewater, Connecticut. Each of the final six contestants were supplied their own mentor. “[Nancy] was really helpful and really encouraging—when it came to my personal business, she was a judge in the first round so she really had the inside scoop as to what I really needed to work on,” Schultz said. “As my mentor, she really helped me with my delivery and really focusing on selling and pitching the idea, as opposed to getting caught up in the minute details. She really helped establish the face of the business and I credit her help 100 percent with the success we had.”

After Schultz found out he won, he said he was excited and “is still a little shocked.” Schultz, who speaks Mandarin, will head to Beijing in August to officially start his new venture business with the help of his prize money that will cover his startup costs.

“I’m very nervous of course, but my excitement outweighs my nervousness. It’s a big step but it’s really exciting,” Schultz concluded. “It’s nice to have a plan and have this great adventure ahead of me.”

A second prize of $10,000 in cash and $4,000 in legal services donated by the New York law firm Phillips Nizer went to first-year students Alexander Nassief and Brianna Barros for Rum Dogs

Inc., an enterprise that has developed a proprietary method for aging rum in barrels submerged in the Caribbean Sea. A third prize of $5,000 in cash and $2,000 in accounting services donated by the Saratoga Springs accounting firm Flynn, Walk, Diggin was awarded to junior management and business major Seth Berger for his plan to develop the firm he established in

2010, East Coast Lacrosse, into a leader in custom athletic apparel.

For more information on the Freirich Business Competition, visit www.skidmore.edu/management_business/freirichbusinessplan.php.

Everything Family... seek

Skidmore College senior, and Third Annual Kenneth A. Freirich Business Plan Competition winner, Samuel Schultz (left) poses with proud mother. Photo provided.

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find play

visit us online at saratogamama.com!

14

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

Police Department Faces Challenges As City Grows continued from page 1

streets of Saratoga Springs are no longer safe.

“I came to the city council meeting tonight because after the recent assaults in Saratoga Springs, I find myself, for the first time, nervous to walk somewhere in my neighborhood after the sun sets,” said Dalton.

Jennifer Leidig echoed Dalton’s concerns, telling board members that while she recognizes everyone has a responsibility in being safe, she is still concerned over the recent assaults.

“I am here to lend my voice to the countless women who enjoy living in a pedestrian-friendly community,” said Leidig. “We realize that it’s just not the city’s responsibility; and we realize it’s just not citizens’ responsibility, but we have to somehow work together.”

Veitch said most of the Spa City’s problem with an increase in crime came with the 2007 layoff of several police officers.

“We are trying to do everything we can to maintain the number of

officers on the street,” said Veitch, adding that the department, in the wave of budget cuts has eliminated K-9 units, DARE and training officers. “We have even taken three officers out of the traffic division and placed them in patrol. We are doing all we can to maintain the levels of officers out on the street on active duty.”

Lt. John Catone earlier in the week said the real staffing issues came following the 2009–2010 budget cuts in which seven officers were laid off.

“In doing that, other factors weren’t taken into account,” explained Catone. “We had several retire, others suffered long-term injuries and there are about a dozen who are members of the National Guard and we’ve had two wars.”

The department had 72 officers on staff in 2009—in 2013, there are 58.

He noted that while he is budgeted for 67 officers, it is usually a nine to 10 month process from once a candidate is chosen until

they are an active member of the department.

First, Catone explained, is an extensive background check, which can take up to three months to complete. Next, the police academy only accepts recruits twice a year – January or July – and the course is six months long. Following graduation from the academy, the recruit is required to complete 13 weeks of mandated field training.

“It is problematic,” said Catone, “The city has grown, the population has grown and the amount of events held in the city has more than tripled. All these increases in people result in increases in crime.”

He also pointed out that it is not just the growth of Saratoga which contributes to the issue, but the municipalities that surround it, including Malta, Wilton, Milton and the recent addition of GlobalFoundries.

“What other city can go from 30,000 to 100,000 in a short period of time on a regular basis?” said Catone, adding that the growth and the popularity of the Spa City means “we are doing something right.”

Catone said he would like for his department to be more proactive in their fight against crime.

“With staffing, we have to be reactive because we do not have enough people to be pro-active,” said Catone. “That is why it is important for citizens to help.”

He noted that while most people

would like to believe drugs are not an issue in the Spa City, they are one of the causes of the increase in crime.

“We know the increase in burglaries and larcenies is because of an increase in drug trafficking,” said Catone, adding that people with drug addictions often resort to crime to feed their habits.

He also said that while some of the crimes in the city have become more violent, he noticed that domestic assaults were also becoming increasingly more violent.

Catone also pointed out that many of the people turning up in blotter are not even from Saratoga Springs, noting that when popular bars in some Capital District cities have closed, some of the problems transferred here.

For example, he said, when Sneaky Pete’s closed, Club Shadow opened on Caroline Street. While it had a bar downstairs, it also had a club room upstairs that became a problem with assaults and out of control patrons. After it was shut down in the summer of 2011, the crowd moved to the Metro and the “same problem” erupted. The Metro closed its door last fall.

Catone said to combat those issues, the police department, along with the Saratoga County DA’s office and representatives from the state’s liquor authority met with restaurant and tavern owners.

“We basically said they had to take responsibility,” said Catone, adding that Gaffney’s owner, John Baker, took the bull by the horns and organized everyone.

“We had overwhelming

support,” said Catone, adding that the bar and restaurant owners have even “set up a texting system for problematic customers so that they can’t start a problem at another establishment.”

He said that system and support for the downtown businesses has helped.

“Last year we had regular issues, but no longer had the large scale riots and fights,” said Catone, adding that it made it easier to send his officers to other areas in town with the cooperation. “By getting them on board by policing themselves and making the changes they made, it has made a big difference.”

As for residents’ concerns about the increases in crime, Catone said everyone has to become involved in helping keep the city safe by becoming more aware and by paying attention to their surroundings.

“You do not have to be nervous every time a car pulls up, but if you see someone who doesn’t need to be there, pay attention,” said Catone.

“If you need us to check it out, give us a call and we’ll check it out.”

He said that the City had approved the purchase of six security cameras to be installed in the downtown area. A test camera was installed last year and proved successful. Cameras have already been installed in Congress Park for several years following the vandalism of Spit and Spat.

“Saratoga is still a great place to come to, to raise your family, to enjoy,” said Catone. “But we are still a city and with a city, you will have city problems.”

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

The Healing Touch . . . continued from page 9 Street. Soothing music played quietly in the background and the lights were slightly dimmed.

“During the initial conversation, I try to get a specific reason the person is seeking Reiki or an overall view of what they want,” explained Gina, adding that the process can be personal, emotional and spiritual for many people.

I must admit, going into the session, I was a bit skeptical. It was difficult for me to fathom how one’s energy could pass through the Reiki practitioner’s hands and somehow energize me and make me feel better.

Gina had me remove my shoes and lay down on a small table with a comfortable cushion, pillow and knee pillow. She dimmed the lights a little more. I closed my eyes and waited.

About two minutes later, I felt as Gina gently placed the palms of her hands on my ankles. I worked to concentrate and see if I could “feel” the energy coursing through my body. I was tense.

What surprised me, though, was I did begin to relax and as I did that, I let my thoughts go and quit trying to feel something happening. I listened to the soothing music and the gentle sounds of what sounded like a small creek flowing nearby. My thoughts carried over into other things.

“Some people fall asleep, others relax and meditate, others remain fully aware, but just go with the feelings,” Gina explained.

After about 15 minutes, Gina moved quietly from my feet to right side, gently touching my hip and waist area. It is a very unobtrusive touch—gentle and barely there. After a few minutes, I realized I really could not determine if her palms were still on me, but I did begin to feel what I can only describe as energy moving throughout my body.

It was a warm and pleasant experience. A muscle gently twitched in one of my legs, then another followed a few minutes later.

When she moved to my head and shoulders, the sensation seemed to flow towards her hands. I described it afterwards as a hot flash without the heat and unpleasantness.

Gina explained that when she is working on someone, she can feel their energy force through her palms.

“I am still fascinated by it,” said Gina. “When I am working on

someone, I feel it in my hands, head and body.”

She added that the session can also be emotional.

“Sometimes I get emotional readings,” said Gina, adding that the practice of Reiki encompasses “everything”—spiritual, emotional and physical.

“The process never ceases to amaze me—it is the person on the table who actually directs the session,” said Gina, who received her advance Reiki training in 2003 and Master’s training in 2009.

She noted that early in her career, she volunteered at events with Double H Hole in the Woods and most recently working with cancer patients through Glens Falls Hospital providing sessions for women undergoing treatment in a retreat setting. She explained that several of her clients are cancer patients undergoing treatment.

“It helps them feel better,” said Gina. “Reiki is a wonderful compliment to traditional medicine.”

She said that for most people, the concept of Reiki and how it works is difficult to understand, but once they have a session, it becomes much clearer.

“It is very personal. When people experience it, they have a grasp on the process,” said Gina.

When my session was finished, I didn’t magically feel renewed, but I did feel as though I had experienced something special.

I will admit that later that afternoon, I felt as if I had more energy and tackled more chores than usual.

I felt better than I had in recent memory.

Gina explained that the experience is unique to each individual, but that once someone decides to release control of the process, the magic, (my word,) takes over.

“When people just learn to trust the process, healing occurs whether mental, physical or emotional,” said Gina, who admits she gets something positive out of the process herself.

“It is a wonderful feeling to see someone start to feel better or to feel renewed,” said Gina. “I know this is what I was meant to do with my life.”

For more information on sessions and private classes, Gina can be reached at (518) 791-6565. She is located at 229 Washington Street and her website is www.reikihealingwithgina.com

15

16 16 NEWS

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

Wilton Planning Board Delays Vote on Mega Building

by Patricia Older Saratoga TODAY WILTON — Planning Board members held off on making a State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) decision for the Gordon Development mega building project planned for Route 9 across from the former Everglades Restaurant after several residents and a lawyer for Thomas Farone, who is building apartments across the road from the project, pointed out zoning changes appear to have been made by the town just to allow such a large project go through unencumbered.

New York’s SEQR Act requires all state and local government agencies to consider environmental impacts equally with social and economic factors. It is the first step in the project going forward. If the board determines the project will not have significant adverse environmental impacts, a determination of non-significance, a negative declaration, is declared and the project can move forward. If an action is determined to have potentially significant adverse environmental impacts, an “Environmental Impact Statement”

is required and could alter the project or stop it all together.

“My client is not opposed to apartments, but the size and scope of this monster building is not acceptable,” said Andrew Brick, representing Farone. “There are numerous discrepancies and misinformation throughout their application.”

Citing town zoning code 129.49.26, Brick noted that in the hamlet zone where the project is proposed for, additional buildings “should relate in design and scale to adjacent buildings.”

“This one is unlike any other building in the area,” said Brick.

Another area he said was inconsistent was the required parking for the number of units and commercial space. Their project calls for 114 one, two and three bedroom luxury apartments and 170,000 square feet of retail space.

He noted that the project requires a minimum of 98 parking spaces and while the applicant says they are providing 100, the numbers are wrong.

“Once you look above the [restricted parking] residential area,

there are only 87,” noted Brick.

He also pointed out that the placement of the Dumpster would require a zoning board variance; the economics of the price of the rental units not feasible with comparable units is the area; and that traffic from the project could be a serious issue in the future.

“This building is a monster and does not belong in that particular area,” said Brick.

Resident Bob Walsh said that the original Master Plan for the town was “a masterful job,” but that “this town for the last few years has done its best to get rid of it.”

He pointed out that while he does not oppose growth, he felt the town board needed to look toward the future and the impacts this type of development might have on Wilton.

Pointing out that while Saratoga and Malta have similar buildings, he said Wilton does not have the same infrastructure they do.

“Malta and Saratoga Springs have four lanes where these buildings are located and all we have are two,” said Walsh. “Maybe push it back off the road a little so we don’t get bogged down.”

Continuing, he said the town systematically changed zoning so that the building could be constructed without variances or restrictions.

“The town has basically changed the zoning law to allow this type of building,” said Walsh.

The most passionate argument came from resident Connie Walsh who argued that the Town Board changed the number of units allowed per acre from eight to 15.

Board chairman Michael Dobis questioned exactly when the zoning changes occurred.

“In September,” said Towers, adding that technically, the changes were “just made” with the acceptance of the controversial zoning law changes made by the Town Board at the first of the year.

“I’m concerned now,” said Dobis, adding he had confronted the town board himself after being told there was no cap on units per acre. “I know I had the discussion with the town board way back when in the hamlet area there was no cap at all.”

“That’s what they’ve been trying to tell us too,” said Towers. “But, it is historically in print—it was eight units per acre.”

He noted that when he talked to the town board about the density he was under the impression there was no unit cap.

“Initially, the maximum density was eight and when the hamlet came through, there was no cap, so I went to the town board and said ‘you are creating a nightmare,’” said Dobis.

“I told them they need to give a cap on the number, but I lost the argument—they said they wanted to give this building a lot of flexibility. They finally did put a cap of 15.”

Towers went on to point out that a public hearing on the zoning changes even mentions changing the unit cap.

“Even the public hearing reads that way—‘eliminate some additional requirements such as maximum density of eight units per acre . . . and eight units per floor,’” said Towers.

She continued that when the project first came to light almost a year ago, it needed several variances, but that the zoning board and the planning board kept kicking it around between themselves until the planning board finally gave positive recommendations.

“All these variances were needed by the zoning board and here are all these positive recommendations by this board,” said Towers. “Then the town went and repealed all these variances — how can something this big come without variances?”

After the public hearing ended, two hours into the meeting, Dobis said he was not prepared to make a SEQR determination at this point, noting that he wanted “to research the facts and see what is going on.”

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

A Beginner’s Guide to Using Twitter

by Chelsea DiSchiano Saratoga TODAY As social media websites continue to rapidly blossom and become integrated into our everyday conversations, it can be hard to keep track of how to use it all and remember the correct terminology for each site.

Twitter is no exception—seriously, what’s with all the hashtag talk?

Twitter can get confusing pretty fast for those who aren’t too familiar with the site, so here is a quick list of common Twitter terminology to help you figure out what it all means and how to use it correctly: Twitter handle: A twitter handle is what you call your username for the site. Each twitter handle has the “@” sign before it—for example, my personal Twitter handle is @chelseadish. Normally, I would want to use my full name “@ ChelseaDiSchiano” as my Twitter handle, but because my last name is too hard for a lot of people to spell, I shortened it to @chelseadish. If you ever want to find my account or mention me on Twitter, you can do so by typing my handle into the search bar or into the tweet you are composing, and the same goes for any other user you wish to find.

Follower: A follower is someone who has chosen to subscribe to all of your tweets. When someone follows you, they will see everything you choose to post on Twitter. If you wish to follow that person’s tweets as well, you can click on their Twitter handle and click the “follow” button.

Hashtag: Hashtag is one of the most commonly used terms on Twitter. A hashtag is when you insert a pound sign before a word as a way of organizing subjects. When you insert a hashtag into a tweet, the word you hashtag is then added to a list of topics on Twitter that people can search. If you click on a hashtag, it will show you all the other tweets associated with that same hashtag.

For instance, if you have a tweet and write #Saratoga, anyone who searches Saratoga on Twitter will see your tweet, and you can also see anyone else’s tweets that mention #Saratoga.

Mention: A mention is when someone else references you in their tweets by using your Twitter handle. You can see all of your mentions by clicking the “connect” button on the top of your homepage. This will show you when someone mentions you, retweets you, or “favorites” one of your tweets.

Favorite: When you click on

someone else’s tweet, you have the option to reply or retweet it—and then there is the option to click the “favorite” button with a star next to it. The favorite button is Twitter’s version of a Facebook “like.” When you favorite someone else’s tweets, it doesn’t show up anywhere on your Twitter profile. However, Twitter does compile all of the tweets you favorite so you can go back and look at them later. To look at all the tweets you have “favorited,” simply click “View my profile” and then you will see on the top left of your profile a list that includes Following, Followers, and Favorites. Click the “favorites” button and you will see all of your favorite tweets.

Trending Topic: There is a list on the bottom left side of your home page on Twitter that says “Trends” on the top. Basically, it lists a few topics that are being tagged more than any other topics on Twitter that day. Trending topics are a way of seeing what is popular in the news or among followers on Twitter.

Direct Message: Direct Messages are the only private way of communicating on Twitter.

When you compose a tweet, reply to someone else’s tweet, or retweet somebody, any one of your followers will see it. However, when you direct message someone, that conversation will only be between you and the other person. You can access your direct messages by clicking the wheel on the top right corner of your homepage and selecting “direct messages.”

Here are some common

acronyms used on Twitter: ICYMI: In Case You Missed It Usually used when a topic was mentioned earlier but is being tweeted about again RT: Retweet Used when someone tweets something someone else has already tweeted DM: Direct Message Used when referencing a private direct message MT: Modified Tweet Used when you are retweeting someone but slightly modify their tweet for some reason, like correcting a spelling error FF: Follow Friday Used on Fridays, to mention Twitter users you would like to recommend people should follow TT: Trending Topic Used to reference a topic that is included on the list of the day’s trending topics NSFW: Not Safe for Work Used if tweeted with a link to an article or video that is probably best to read/watch at home instead of in the office OOMF: One Of My Followers Used if referencing one of your followers without using their Twitter handle

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Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

Gardening in Small Spaces and Yards

by Kristi Jones, The Backyard Diva for Saratoga TODAY Love to garden but don’t have the space? Then consider container gardening and square foot gardening. The two options fit the bill for people who live in apartments, have small yards or don’t have the time to till the ground and fight weeds.

Container and square foot gardening can be very productive and rewarding for small spaces; I like to say ‘you can’t grow wrong’ with using containers. With the correct conditions you can succeed—fertile soil, water, sun and

even companion and edible flowers added your vegetable or herb containers can make the most beautiful, colorful and tasty additions to your balcony, patio, or courtyard— even indoors on the windowsill.

Well-designed containers placed strategically around your living space can make the home more welcoming and act as attractive focal points in your yard.

The great thing about container and square foot gardening is it is often easier than growing a typical garden. There is less weeding and bending involved making it ideal for those with limited mobility. In addition, deer, rabbits and other wildlife are less likely to dine on plants in your container garden so it makes the option perfect for those with pesky critters.

Pots and containers can be moved fairly easily giving you the opportunity to shift them around for a change of scenery, or a seasonal change. Container gardening has become very popular in urban areas, with the rising costs of food and the simple fact that you know that your food is healthy and organic. Plus, nothing tastes better than a homegrown tomato, or fresh cut herbs added to a meal.

WHAT TO GROW A wide variety of seasonal food crops can be grown successfully in containers—even some dwarf variety of fruit trees. Herbs, tomatoes, peppers and eggplant are generally the most productive in containers with high yielding varieties

available. Have a shadier spot?

Well, that’s okay too because lettuce, greens, kale and bok choy will grow well. Of course, why not try anything from zucchini to artichokes? The possibilities are really limitless. Strawberries are great in hanging containers, tomatoes also do well in upside down type containers. If floor space is limited, why not utilize all that valuable space with hanging baskets.

Companion planting in containers can provide the best bang for your buck–giving you the most out of your container also benefitting your plants and creating bright cheery containers for your outdoor area.

Keep in mind when companion planting that shallow rooted plants prefer to grow near deep rooted plants so each plant can get their nutrients from different levels. In addition, some smaller plants like a bit of weather protection they get from bigger plants.

Growing tomatoes and basil together increases the vigor and flavor of both crops and together they make a delicious salad. Add a few marigolds in with your tomatoes and basil for a pop of color also helping to repel several harmful insects.

Lettuce and onions are a great success when planted together, both are easy to grow and you can create some beautiful arrangements using different colour varieties of lettuce.

The Chamomile herb is a great companion with the sweet fragrance and pretty flowers it brings potassium, sulfur and calcium to the surface of the soil.

Nasturtiums deter blackfly away from vegetables, adding great color and are also edible.

Get the most out of your garden by experimenting with the many companion plant combinations in a container this season.

CONTAINERS The larger the container you use, whether store brought, built from 2X4’s or crafted from pallets, the better.

Of course, you can get very creative with container gardening; use anything from old wash tubs, pallets, clay or plastic pots, hanging baskets, almost anything that is deep enough to add soil and a drain base. Pots that are too small will restrict the root area and cause the soil to dry out too quickly and stunt the growth of the plant. Keeping your containers moist is the biggest factor, in some cases you may need to water daily since container soil heats more quickly than ground soil. This can be an advantage where plants may mature more quickly.

Proper drainage is also key to being successful at container gardening. Choose containers with drainage holes and by adding one to two inches of rocks and broken clay pots to the base under the soil you can help ensure proper drainage for your plants.

Fertile soil and regular feeding is another key component to productive container gardening.

Most potting soil blends sold in stores do not have enough accessible nutrients for your plants; you will need to add those. When making up your soil mixture for your vegetable containers a 50-50 mix of good compost and sphagnum peat-based potting soil yields excellent results.

Now to choose a good organic fertilizer for regular feeding—it will be important to keep your vegetable containers well fertilized for higher yields. I like to use a combination of Epsom salts added to water during the growing period, about ¼ cup of Epsom salts to one gallon of water every five to seven days. Epsom salts are a natural source of magnesium which

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

Top left: Make use of an old pallet to plant flowers and vegetables; Top right: Almost anything can be used as a container; Below: garden areas can be made with 2x4s.

enables roots to absorb much needed nutrients from the soil.

If you notice any leaf discoloration a boost of Epsom salts will do wonders for everything in your garden from roses to lawns and vegetables. During production of your container garden, fertilizing at least once weekly with an organic fertilizer will be very important, a fish fertilizer is a good choice and available at most nurseries, but be sure to follow the directions on the label.

Container gardens can be enjoyed for one season and discarded, or designed to last for years.

Use your imagination, combine upright and trailing plants, edibles and flowers.

Happy Gardening.

See more gardening ideas from Kristi at www.backyarddiva.ca and facebook.com/backyard diva

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Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

Day Trips—Five Places to Visit Within a Day

by Kate Towne Sherwin Saratoga TODAY As I remember it, every Sunday when I was a little girl, my parents loaded all us kids in the van and “took a ride” to and around Vermont. Our annual overnight in

Plattsburgh when my dad had to work up there is a treasured memory. Our family summer vacation spot is still only an hour away. To say I’ve been schooled to understand the value of a close locale that requires a scenic not-too-long drive and involves an entertaining something and a good spot to eat is somewhat of an understatement.

“What would you put on a list of good day trips?” I asked my dad after receiving this assignment, and after thinking about it for a moment (with his characteristic excited eye twinkle,) he handed me a piece of paper with both sides covered with his ideas.

The following list was culled from Dad’s ideas and mine (thanks to Mom for her input too,) and I’ve listed them in order of closest to farthest.

Some of these trips I’ve done; and I’m excited to do those I haven’t, so I feel confident that whether you’re looking to spend a day with your honey, your grandchildren, or your best friends, you’ll find a few ideas here that fit the bill.

Wayside Country Store and Arlington Recreation Park Arlington, Vermont Distance: ~33 miles Time to travel: ~50 minutes by car Cost: Gas and meal

This was the day trip we took most often on our Sunday rides around Vermont during my childhood. Less than an hour away from Saratoga Springs is the Wayside Country Store—a true country general store that first opened in 1850 and has been run by its current owners since 1984. Its tagline is, “If we don’t have it, you don’t need it!” but what we stopped for was the subs (its chicken salad is said to be particularly good,) the perfect lunch-to-go for a picnic at the Arlington Recreation Park less than four miles away. At the park, you’ll find a playground, one-mile fitness trail, access to the Battenkill River, and a par 3 golf course.

For more information: Wayside Country Store 3307 VT Rte 313 W Arlington, VT 05250 (802) 375-2792 https://www.facebook.com/WaysideCountryStore Route 7A Arlington, VT 05250 (802) 375-9564 http://events.benningtonbanner.com/arlington_vt/venues/ show/2906425-arlington-recreation-park Continued on p. 21

Photo Provided

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013 Continued from p. 20

Shrine of Our Lady of Martyrs

Auriesville Distance: ~35 miles Time to travel: ~50 minutes by car Cost: Gas and meal (and shopping?)

It would be hard for anyone to have missed the recent canonization of a Native American woman from our area: St. Kateri Tekakwitha was born in 1656 in a Mohawk village called Ossernenon, which we now know as Auriesville. It was also the same village where three Jesuit missionaries were martyred during the 1640s – one of whom was St. Isaac Jogues. It is after him that the small seasonal Catholic Church on Saratoga Lake is named. The Shrine in Auriesville makes a wonderful day trip for anyone interested in the history and spirituality of the location—it is over 400 acres of beautiful grounds on which are several chapels, museums, a cemetery and an outdoor Stations of the Cross. There is also a gift shop and has a coliseum that seats 6,500 people with standing room for an additional 3,500.

You can arrange for a guided tour or walk about on your own. Be sure to either pack a lunch to picnic on the grounds or plan to buy your meal at the Visitors Center.

For more information: Shrine of Our Lady of Martyrs 136 Shrine Road Fultonville, NY 12016 (518) 853-3033 http://www.martyrshrine.org

Norman Rockwell Museum and The Red Lion Inn Stockbridge, MA Distance: ~74 miles Time to travel: <1 hour 30 minutes by car Cost: Gas, tolls, meal, museum admission ($16 for adults, $5 for ages 6–18, children under 5 free; see website for senior and college student discounts) If you’ve never been to the Norman Rockwell Museum, hailed on its web site as the “most popular year-round cultural attraction in the Berkshires,” I highly recommend setting aside a day to visit. It houses the world’s largest collection of Rockwell’s work, and has a vibrant and constant calendar of events, exhibitions and programs. The Stockbridge setting only adds to its appeal, with Stockbridge’s reputation as having the “most famous Main Street in America” due to Rockwell’s portrayal of it and its many other attractions, including Tanglewood, Chesterwood and the Berkshire Theatre Festival. One of the well-known local sites is The Red Lion Inn, just around the corner, which has operated continuously since the 18th century. With its long front porch and décor of antiques, artwork, and colonial pewter, its character is elegant and distinctive. Between its more formal Main Dining Room, the rustic Widow Bingham’s Tavern, or its al fresco dining in The Courtyard in the warm weather, you’ll be able to find a place that fits the experience you want to have.

For more information: Norman Rockwell Museum 9 Route 183 Stockbridge, MA 01262 (413) 298-4100 http://www.nrm.org The Red Lion Inn 30 Main Street Stockbridge, MA 01262 http://www.redlioninn.com/ Continued on p. 22

Photo Provided

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The Vermont Country Store and Mildred’s Dairy Bar

Weston, VT Distance: ~70 miles Time to travel: <1hour 45 minutes by car Cost: Gas, meal, shopping

Many of you might be familiar with the Vermont Country Store’s catalog, with its simple drawn depictions of its old-timey products. As noted on its web site, the store itself “invites you to step back in time” with its offerings of penny candy, Vermont maple syrup and cheeses from local farms, clothing and home goods and other old-time and hand-crafted products. On the Store’s property is the Bryant House Restaurant, open for lunch or dinner, but I’m most interested in the brand new (as of May 2013) Mildred’s Dairy Bar, which has just my kind of food: burgers, hot dogs, fries, sandwiches, ice cream and milkshakes. It has indoor (screened gazebo) and open air seating of its own; or bring your food to the Village Green across the street.

For more information: The Vermont Country Store 657 Main Street Weston, VT 05161 (802) 824-3184 http://www.vermontcountrystore. com Mildred’s Dairy Bar http://www.vermontcountrystore. com/store/company/static/Visit-Us/ Bryant-House-Restaurant

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

Basketball Hall of Fame and Friendly’s Resaurant

Springfield, MA Distance: 120 miles Time to travel: ~2 hours by car Cost: Gas, tolls, meal, museum admission: $19 for adults, $15 for seniors, $14 for children 5–15, and children 4 and under are free (Note: See web site for special passes, as well as hours, as they change frequently)

I hear a lot about the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, but I rarely hear about the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, MA. Founded over 50 years ago, it memorializes the game that Dr. Naismith invented more than a century ago with basketball history, interactive exhibits, skills challenges, live clinics and basketball shooting contests. There are a few eating options on site including Max’s Tavern, Subway and Cold Stone Creamery; and pre-ordered box lunches are available as well (see Hall of Fame web site for details.) For the full Springfield experience, however, consider stopping at Friendly’s on the way home instead—it was founded in Springfield in 1935, and remains one of my favorite places. The closest one to the Hall of Fame is less than a mile away on Sumner Avenue.

For more information: Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame 1000 Hall of Fame Avenue Springfield, MA 01105 (413) 781-6500 or 1-877-4HOOPLA http://www.hoophall.com Friendly’s Restaurant 65 Sumner Avenue Springfiend, MA 01108 (413) 737-8719 http://friendlys.com Kate Towne Sherwin lives in Saratoga Springs with her husband and sons. She can be reached at sksherwin@hotmail.com.

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

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Haven’t Saved Enough For Retirement? How to Get Back on Track

by Stephen Kyne for Saratoga TODAY So, you’re getting to the point that you feel like you should be close to retirement, but you don’t feel you have the assets you know you’ll need to be able to maintain a sustainable lifetime in retirement.

Consider that many people will be retired for almost as many years as they spent working. Just as the cost of living at the end of your career is higher than it was at the beginning, so too will it be higher at the end of your retirement than at the beginning. That’s right— most people’s expenses actually increase in retirement. Your cost of living will double about every 15 years, meaning that what costs you $50,000 at age 60 will cost you $100,000 by age 75 and $200,000 by age 90.

What’s a person to do?

Timing: First, be sure that you don’t jump into retirement too early.

Retiring means that you’re irrevocably walking away from your most reliable stream of income during what are your prime earning years. Delaying retirement by just a few years, from when it “feels” right to when it actually is, may be the single most impactful decision in helping to ensure a sustainable retirement.

Social Security: For many people, Social Security benefits will comprise a large piece of guaranteed retirement income. Far too many people choose to begin receiving benefits the moment they are eligible. People do this for many reasons, but if you’re considering taking your Social Security benefits because you need the extra cash flow at age 62, then you are likely to be in greater dire straits later in retirement.

Electing benefits at age 62 means you’ve decided to receive only 75% of what you’d be eligible for at full retirement age. Delaying to age 70 would make you eligible

to receive up to 132% of what you’d get at full retirement age. That’s 76% more than if you elected at age 62.

Before choosing to receive benefits, be sure to have your financial advisor run a comprehensive analysis to help you determine the optimal age for electing benefits.

Savings: If you’re close to retirement, be sure that you’re contributing as much as possible to your various retirement savings plans, either individually, or through your employer. Once you’re over age 50, the government allows a “catchup” provision, which allows you to potentially increase your taxdeductible retirement contributions. Be sure that you’re managing risk in these accounts to capitalize on appropriate growth potential without risking over-reaching and suffering a loss just before retirement.

Advice: If you’re committed to your own retirement goals, then you should be working with a professional financial advisor. You’re only retiring once (hopefully), but you’re not the first person to retire.

Your advisor can help you avoid reinventing the wheel by offering insight from experience that comes with helping many other clients tackle the same decisions you’re working through.

Because you contribute to your retirement accounts systematically, through your regular paychecks, it’s often easier to accumulate assets than it is to know when and from which accounts to receive income.

Structuring an income strategy from your accounts which allows for preservation of principal, whenever possible, can make the difference in the overall sustainability of your retirement.

When should I retire? When should I elect Social Security? How should my assets be invested? What

should I do about planning for healthcare? How do I take income?

These are questions your advisor helps people with every day.

Assessing your preparedness for retirement is no small matter and retirement is not something to be entered into lightly. If you’re close to retiring, but not sure you’re financially ready, there are things you can do. From simple things, like increasing your savings rate, to more difficult decisions, like working a few years longer, the decisions you make today can have a tremendous impact on your success in retirement.

Stephen Kyne is a partner at Sterling Manor Financial in Saratoga Springs. Securities and investment advisory services are offered solely through Cadaret, Grant & Co, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Sterling Manor Financial and Cadaret, Grant are separate entities.

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LOCAL BRIEFS

Upcoming Town Meetings Town of Ballston: Ballston Town Hall 323 Charlton Road 885-8502 www.townofballstonny.org 4/30: Town Board, 7:30 p.m.

5/1: Zoning Board of Appeals, 7:30 p.m.

Village of Ballston Spa: 66 Front Street 885-5711 www.ballstonspany.org 4/23: Village Board of Trustees, 7:30 p.m.

Town of Greenfield: 7 Wilton Road 893-7432 www.townofgreenfield.com 4/30: Planning Board, 7 p.m.

Town of Malta: 2540 Route 9 899-2818 www.malta-town.org 5/6: Town Board, 7 p.m.

5/21: Planning Board, 6:30 p.m.

Town of Milton: 503 Geyser Road 885-9220 www.townofmiltonny.org 4/25: Zoning Board, 7 p.m.

5/8: Planning Board, 7 p.m.

5/15: Town Board, 7 p.m.

City of Saratoga Springs: 474 Broadway 587-3550 www.saratoga-springs.org 4/24: Planning Board, 7 p.m.

5/21: Saratoga Springs City Council, 7 p.m.

Town of Saratoga: 12 Spring Street, Schuylerville 695-3644 www.townofsaratoga.com 5/13: Town Board, 7 p.m.

Village of Schuylerville: 35 Spring Street 695-3881 www.villageofschuylerville.org 4/22: Planning Board, 6:30 p.m.

5/13: Board of Trustees, 6:30 p.m.

Town of Stillwater: 66 East St., Riverside Mechanicville, NY 12118 www.stillwaterny.org 5/8: Board of Trustees, 7 p.m.

Town of Wilton: 22 Traver Road 587-1939 www.townofwilton.com 5/15: Planning Board, 7 p.m.

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

April 24-27 Union Fire Company No. 2 Fundraisers Support Ballston Spa Robotics The Village of Ballston Spa’s Union Fire Company No. 2 is donating $1,500 from their annual Good Friday Fish Fry, as well as the $288 from a raffle drawing, to the Ballston Spa High Schools Robotics team. The total donation of $1,788 will help the team offset the cost of attending the 2012-2013 FRC World Championship, April 24-27 at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis, Mo. Please contact Ballston Spa’s Coordinator of Development Courtney Lamport at clamport@bscsd.org, or (518) 8847195, for additional information on sponsorship opportunities.

April 27 Pizza and Wing Night There will be a pizza and wing night at Victory Mills Fire Department on Saturday, April 27, 4 p.m.–8 p.m. Eat-in or carry out. A 12 cut cheese pizza will be $11; 12 cut with the works, $18, toppings are $2 each–sausage, pepperoni, peppers, onions, mushrooms and extra cheese. One dozen wings with celery and bleu cheese is $8; extra bleu Cheese .75 cents, plain, mild, hot or extra hot.

Northeast College Showcase at Gavin Park The first annual Northeast College Showcase, featuring 35 teams from the northeast and Canada, will take place on April 27 and 28 at Gavin Park in the Town of Wilton. More than 700 student athletes from 35 teams will be participating. The tournament’s primary purpose is to provide an opportunity for these athletes, U16 to U18, to showcase their soccer skills to the college coaches in attendance. Games begin at 8 a.m.

April 27, 28 Volunteer Fire Departments host RecruitNY Program The RecruitNY program will take place again at volunteer

fire departments throughout the state Saturday, April 27 and Sunday, April 28. Volunteer fire departments will be opening their doors to educate the public about becoming a volunteer first responder in an effort to attract and enlist more volunteers. A full listing of specific fire departments participating can be found at www.recruitny.org. Many fire departments are planning demonstrations and are eager to answer questions residents may have. For specific details, residents are encouraged to contact their local fire department.

Pickleball Tournament at Gavin Park Wilton Recreation is hosting a Pickleball Tournament at Gavin Park April 27 and 28 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., for players 45 years of age and older. Trophies and medals will be awarded. Register in person or via “snail” mail (proof of age required.) The tournament is double elimination, mixed doubles, men’s doubles, and women’s doubles – one category per registration, please. Entry fee is $22 per person, which includes a tournament polo shirt and light refreshments. Registration ends April 24. If you have any questions, please contact the park office during regular business hours from Monday through Friday at (518) 584-9455.

May 3 Adult and Senior Center: Cinco de Mayo Celebration

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013 featuring Mark Lawson of Mark Lawson Antiques as he educates participants on the world of antiques and performs appraisals.

This special event will take place on Saturday, May 4 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Admission for Malta residents with one appraisal item is $9; nonresidents $10. General Admission for Malta residents is $2; non –residents $3. Pre-registration is encouraged. Call (518) 899-4411 for more information.

Boston Bus Trip There will be a Boston bus trip on Saturday, May 4, sponsored by the Greenwich Elk’s Auxiliary. The bus will leave the Greenwich Elks lodge on Route 40 in Greenwich at 6 a.m.

Participants will be dropped off at Quincy Market. The bus returns to the Lodge by 11 p.m. Cost is $55.

Mail a check or money order to Kim Strainer, 9 St. Lea Court, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 or call (518) 3616994 for more information.

May 4, 5 May Day Soccer Classic at Gavin Park Kick off spring with the 15th annual May Day Soccer Classic at Gavin Park in the Town of Wilton on Saturday, May 4 and Sunday, May 5. Over 100 top boys and girls soccer club teams from the Capital District, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Vermont will be competing. Admission and parking are free. For additional information, please go online to www.swysc.net.

The Saratoga High School Key Club is sponsoring the Spring Mixer at the Adult & Senior Center of Saratoga on Friday, May 3 from 6-8:30 p.m. The Key Club is organizing the entire event with refreshments including hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, punch and desserts. Music will be provided

by DJ Bob LaBombard. Tickets are $5 for members and $10 for non-members. Sign up early to make song requests. The Center at 5 Williams St. Stop by Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. to purchase tickets or call (518) 584-1621.

May 11

May 4

Greenwich Elks Lodge: Mother’s Day Brunch

Spring Antique Appraisal Show Malta Community Center will have a fun and informative event

Victory Mills Fire Department: Trip to Mohegan Sun Casino The Victory Mills Fire Department’s seventh annual trip to Mohegan Sun casino will be Saturday, May 11 from 6 a.m. to midnight. Cost is $40 a ticket. With each ticket you will receive a $15 meal coupon and $15 free bets.

Seats are limited, so get yours now by calling Brian Baker at (518) 858-6110.

May 12

The Greenwich Elks Lodge will be hosting a Mother’s Day brunch, Sunday, May 12 from 10 a.m.–2

p.m. Moms eat free with family.

It’s $15 for adults, $7 for children 6-14 years old and children under 5 years old are free. There will be a full breakfast buffet with juice, fruit, eggs, home fries, seafood casserole, potato salad and a turkey and roast beef carving station.

Mimosas and Bloody Mary’s will also be available for an additional fee after noon. No reservations are needed, but for groups of more than eight people, please call (518) 692-2061. Proceeds will benefit youth and community programs.

May 18 Area Iraq and Afghanistan Vets: The Town of Malta Wants to Thank You The Town of Malta is holding an Armed Forces Day Parade on Saturday, May 18, starting at 10 a.m. at the Malta Community Center on Bayberry Drive, with a special theme to recognize and thank veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan for their service and to publicly welcome them home. All veterans of all wars and eras are welcome and encouraged to join in as well. The Malta Veterans Committee is asking area veterans and family members to contact them or the Town of Malta’s Department of Parks & Recreation directly to sign up. In addition to the veterans, Malta hopes military families and area groups and organizations at large that have supported the military and veterans community over the years will also come to participate or cheer our veterans on.

July 5, 6 Auziliary of Veterans of Foreign Wars Announces Officers The Men’s Auxiliary of Veterans of Foreign Wars Gurtler Brothers Post 420, located in Saratoga Springs, proudly announces the election of the Auxiliary Officers for 2013-14.

The elected members are President Thomas Curley, Senior Vice President Joseph Arpei, Junior Vice President Michael Biss, Treasurer Frank Dudla, Chaplain Lester Cole, Secretary William Pettigrew, Adjutant Larence LaBelle, Guard jack Dejnozka, three-year Trustee Larence LaBele, two-year Trustee John Keene and one-year Trustee Jay Downing.

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

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

Friday, April 19 Strong Women Healthy Heart Program Malta Community Center, 1 Bayberry Dr., Malta, 2 p.m.

This is a fun way to make positive changes to eat better, move better and improve your general health and well-being. Presented by Diane Whitten, Educator for the Cornell Cooperative Extension. Call to register at (518) 682-2492.

Spring Rummage, Garage Sale and Bake Sale Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church, 175 Fifth Avenue, Saratoga Springs Friday, April 19, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday, April 20, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Teen and Tweens Friday Night Movie Round Lake Library-Malta Branch, Malta Community Center, 6 p.m.

This week’s movie, Hotel Transylvania—an animated comedy about Dracula who is now a manager of a luxury resort.

For more information call (518) 682-2495.

American Girl Evening Stillwater Area Community Center 19 Palmer Street, 6:30 p.m.

Meet Molly, a young girl waiting for her father to come home from war in 1944, and join us for a tea party. Bring any doll along to this free evening. Call the library at (518) 664-6255 to RSVP or for more information.

All You Can Eat Dinner Principessa Elena Society, 13 Oak St., Saratoga 5-7 p.m.

Italian Cuisine, Cash bar avail. All Welcome. For more information call (518) 584-4163.

Saturday, April 20 Empowerment! Beyond Our Wildest Dreams Annual Conference Hilton Garden Inn, 235 Hoosick St., Troy

7:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

For people with Down Syndrome or other disabilities is presented by the Down Syndrome Aim High Resource Center (DSAHRC) and the Center for Disability Services.

Highlights include the morning keynote presentation, Your Dreams Can Come True, featuring actor Chris Burke, known for his roles as Charles “Corky” Thatcher on “Life Goes On,” and the angel of faith on “Touched by an Angel;” with Joe and John DiMasi. Call (518) 944-2107 or go to www.cfdsny.org for information.

To register go to www.dsahrc.org

Heritage Hunters History Faire 50 West High St., Ballston Spa 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Saratoga County historians, historical societies, churches, cemeteries, funeral homes, lineage groups and youth groups will be present with displays and resource people. There will be door prizes, hands-on activities and the workshops. For more information on this family event, email melfrejo@aol.com or call (518) 587-2978.

The Environment: Earth Day Celebration Case Green, Skidmore Campus Noon-9 p.m.

Celebrate the earth as Skidmore student clubs offer activities that support and promote stewardship of the environment.

Meet Molly: An American Girl Program Saratoga Springs Public Library, H. Dutcher Community Room 1 p.m.

Join educator, Teresa Wood as she brings to life the story of WWII through her Meet Molly program.

Children and families will get to see the American Girl Doll, Molly as well as a doll house that shows a home during WWII while listening to stories and learning more about this time period. For more information on this program, please visit: http://historyhouses. webs.com/programdescriptions. html. Visit www.sspl.org to view all of our programs & events.

Sunday, April 21 Concert: Los Angeles Guitar Quartet Arthur Zankel Music Center, Ladd Concert Hall, 8 p.m.

calendar This quartet consists of four uniquely accomplished musicians who bring new energy to the concert stage with programs ranging from Bluegrass to Bach. $8 adults, $5 senior citizens and Skidmore community; Free for students and children.

For ticket information call (518) 580-5321 or go to www. skidmore.edu/Zankel and to view more event for the week.

Breakfast Buffet Saratoga-Wilton Elks, 1 Elks Ln. Rt 9, Saratoga Springs 8:30–11 a.m.

Information: (518) 584-2585

Monday, April 22 Criminal Justice System: Talk by Jeff Deskovic Davis Auditorium, Palamountain Hall 6:30 p.m.

Jeff Deskovic, who was wrongly incarcerated for 16 years, will discuss his imprisonment and the work his foundation does to reform the criminal justice system. Visit www.skidmore.edu for more events to raise awareness during Social Justice Month.

Tuesday, April 23 After The Fire Monthly Meeting Halfmoon Town Hall, Harris Rd. 7 p.m.

New members are always needed and are welcome to attend, find out more about our organization, and see how you can help your neighbors in need. After The Fire helps Saratoga County residents who have suffered a loss due to fire. For more information call (518) 435-4571 or visit www.afterthefire.org.

Wednesday, April 24 Fitness, Fun and Friendship—Volkswalk Start Point: Brueggers, 453 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 10 a.m. (Register 30 minutes before start) Join the Empire State Capital Volkssporters for Fitness, Fun and Friendship. A ‘volkswalk’ is a leisurely walk (typically 10k or 6.2 miles. A three mile route is also offered) through a scenic and or historic area over a pre-marked

trail. For more information visit www.ava.org or ESCV www.walkescv.org.

Free Screening for Uninsured Men and Women Clifton Park (call for location) 4–7 p.m.

There will be a free screening for breast, cervical and colorectal cancer for women aged 40-64 and for men age 50-64. For more information call the Cancer Services Program of Saratoga County at (518) 580-2132.

Appointments are limited.

Roast Pork Loin Dinner Saratoga-Wilton Elks, 1 Elks Ln. Rt 9, Saratoga Springs 4:30–7 p.m.

Information: (518) 584-2585

Thursday, April 25 Jeff Walton Singer/ Songwriter Saratoga Springs Public Library, H. Dutcher Community Room 12 p.m.

Jeff Walton is always busy recording and performing. His rock solid rhythm guitar, amazing harmonica leads and vocal style, all his own, make this one man band a true crowd pleaser. Though a great songwriter in his own right, an extensive repertoire and appreciation for requests make for good times and interactive performances.

Karen and Gary Dake Foundation For Children The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in Saratoga Springs 6–10 p.m.

Join us at for a night to celebrate our mission. Proceeds from the event will go toward grants for the purchase of adaptive equipment or services for a local child with disabilities. The carnival themed festivities include a magician, caricature artist, music by Free Play, open bar and delicious treats from Lily and the Rose. There are great silent auction and raffle prizes - check out the full list (link below) and get in on the fun even if you can’t be at the event! For more information, event tickets or to purchase raffle tickets, please call Susan at: (518) 226-0252 or email the Foundation at: colburnfoundation@nycap.rr.com.

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Family Friendly Events Friday

It’s Parents Night Out at Tiny Tots Tea Room! Drop the kids off from 5:30-8pm and enjoy a night out, or a quiet night in. Kids will have a blast with dinner, dessert, arts, crafts and of course play!

Reservations are required by calling (518) 348-1050.

Saturday

Saratoga Independent School hosts the Capital Consignments Family Sale from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. and a half price sale on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Save money on gently used baby gear, furniture, clothing, accessories and lots more. Admission is free.

Wilton Mall is hosting its first Saratoga County Kids Expo from 12-4 p.m., with lots of local kid-friendly vendors and entertainment to enjoy.

Sunday

Saratoga Bridges, The Parent Network of the Capital Region & the Skidmore College Psychology Department Present the2nd Annual Autism Awareness Information Day & Carnival at Skidmore College from 12–3 p.m.

Compliments of:

Seek • Learn Find • Play Visit us online!

Blood Drives April 19, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.

Capital District Developmental Disabilities Services Offices 3 Care Lane, Saratoga Springs April 20, 7:30–11:30 a.m.

St. Thereses Church 1 Wilton Gansevoort Rd, Gansevoort

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

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Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

Harold Ford Heads For Bigger and Better Things with Tribute to Johnny Cash

by Chelsea DiSchiano Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — As he prepares for his upcoming show at Saratoga Music Hall this weekend, Harold Ford, otherwise known as the Johnny Cash lookalike/tribute singer, stopped to reflect on his band’s accomplishments and look ahead to his promising future.

Ford, who has played guitar since he was 15 but spent 23 years working in forest services out West, said his career as a tribute singer to Johnny Cash has “snowballed” faster than he could have imagined. It was only four years ago when he sang his first Johnny Cash song on stage—at an open mic, where his girlfriend pushed him to sing a song and suggested he sing Johnny Cash.

“People were pretty enthusiastic about it,” Ford stated simply. “It snowballed from there and it just started coming to us—we didn’t look for anything.”

Since then, Ford formed his band—complete with his friend

Photo Provided by Harold Ford

Laura Lucy paying tribute to June Carter—and has since traveled extensively throughout the U.S., up to Canada and even played a tour in British Columbia.

But Ford made a point to emphasize that he is not a Cash impersonator.

“I’ve never spent five minutes trying to impersonate him—I just don’t identify with that kind of thing,” Ford said. “I was born with this voice and I like his songs. I’m not out there trying to change my voice to sound like Cash—I want no part of any fake impersonating.”

Ford did say he seems to feel the spirit of Johnny Cash in him when he performs, hence his band’s mantra: “The Spirit of Johnny Cash.”

“I feel the spirit of the music and

it just seems to come out that way naturally, so mostly I’m thankful for being able to do it,” Ford said. “I’m just getting out there with my guitar and the voice I was born with, and I really appreciate the niche that seems to be snowballing us everywhere.”

Ford added that his somewhat astonishing physical similarity to Johnny Cash adds to the “spirit” experience people get when they see him on the streets or watch him perform. Recently, when he was visiting the Tennessee Performing Arts Center in Nashville, a venue that Cash himself played at, Ford said he

received many stares.

“What’s nice about Tennessee Performing Arts is that Cash has been there, and some of the employees were doing double-takes when they saw me—the security guard almost fainted,” Ford said with a laugh. “He turned around and saw me and sat down in his chair— I think things like that are funny.

I’m not a crazy person, and I’m not Cash, but there’s some spirit effect or something.”

The future looks bright for Ford: the band will play at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center on June 28, and a tour in Europe may be in store for the future.

“We’ve had offers from Scotland and England [to come play], but we want to connect the dots and make a tour—people from Scotland are begging us to come over, but we still have a lot we want to do in the States and we’re making the scene into Nashville and we’re being told that everybody is so excited,” Ford said.

The band’s first Nashville show is a “rite of passage,” Ford said.

“It’s going to be the first Cash show in Nashville since he passed away, so it’s kind of an honor for me,” Ford explained. “Tommy Cash (Johnny Cash’s younger brother) bought the first four tickets and a lot of important people are going to be there.”

Ford added that the Nashville show is sure to bring his band even more status after they play.

“We’re really going to be certified after we get through Nashville— it’s a status thing,” Ford said. “You have to apply to those places—they don’t let just anybody play, and they haven’t let anyone who plays Cash down there since he passed away, so we’re really pleased and they’re saying people are excited.”

Until then, Harold Ford and The Cash Band will be playing several tour dates, including their show at Saratoga Music Hall Friday, April 26. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the show beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased by calling (518) 683-0913.

“We’re deliberately setting this Saratoga Music Hall show up with a lot of different things than [the locals] have seen before, so they’re not going to see a cookie-cutter show,” Ford said. “The beginning of the show is a lot different and is more high-energy, and the show ends with high energy.”

“I love what I’m doing,” Ford said. “It’s meaningful for me and it seems to be that way for the audience, too.”

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

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Local Bands Invited to Submit Auditions for Saratoga Performing Arts Center’s 4th Annual “Battle of the Bands” SARATOGA SPRINGS — Rising rock stars in the Capital Region and beyond will have the opportunity to showcase their talents and compete for valuable prize packages on Friday, May 24 at 7 p.m. at Saratoga Performing Arts Center’s Fourth Annual Battle of the Bands, presented by WEQX and The Recording Company.

One of the region’s most popular music competitions, this year’s event will feature two winners: a “judge’s choice” and “audience favorite.” Interested bands have until May 2 to submit online entry forms and YouTube video auditions of original music at www.spac.org; 10 finalists will be chosen to compete at the May 24 event at the Spa Little Theatre.

“The Capital Region is fortunate to have an abundance of innovative, talented musicians and bands which

we are proud to showcase each year at SPAC’s Battle of the Bands competition,” said Marcia J. White, SPAC’s president and executive director.

“Like last year, we anticipate that thousands will participate in this event in some way, either as contestants, online voters, or audience members. It will be a great, highenergy kick-off to our season.”

New this year, two winners will be selected at the live competition; one by the judges and the other by the audience. The judges’ selection will win 25 hours of studio recording time at The Recording Company, airplay on northeast radio station WEQX and custom t-shirts and merchandise from Saratoga Statement. The audience favorite will have the opportunity to perform live at a SPAC event.

The format of SPAC’s Battle of

the Bands is unique in that it allows the public to participate in the audition process. From May 3–8, the public will have the opportunity to view audition videos and vote for their favorite band. The band receiving the most public votes receives one of the 10 finalist spots; the remaining nine finalists are chosen by a selection committee.

The top finishers of last year’s Battle of the Bands were 10-piece party band CRUSH, which took first place, followed by rock/alternative group VONTUS and the eclectic four-piece band, The Dependents.

“For the artists, Battle of the Bands represents an opportunity to stand on the same stage where music legends have performed. We are looking forward to seeing who will fill those shoes,” White concluded.

Brookside Museum Going Green

by Brian Cremo Saratoga TODAY BALLSTON SPA – As the local beneficiary of the fourth annual “Go Green” Build, the Saratoga County Historical Society’s Brookside Museum will have a new natural, sustainable water garden and sustainable ecosystem.

The partnership between Kohl’s Department Stores and Chip’s Landscaping jumpstarted the effort, which will be in the works starting Saturday morning, April 19 and unveiled to the public between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. the same day.

“We’re absolutely honored,” said Brookside Museum Executive Director Joy Houle. “Chip’s Landscaping and Kohl’s are great to the Saratoga county community, so we’re thrilled that they chose our site to install the feature.”

The project is taking advantage of Brookside’s massive roof system, which has the potential to capture over 34,000 gallons of annual precipitation.

The water from the roof will pass through an underground system that leads to the natural water garden, which will include a pondless waterfall, a natural stream and a rainwater harvesting system that will utilize runoff from the expansive roof. This recycled water will also irrigate the plants surrounding the feature.

“We’ve got a gigantic building,” Houle said. “We have the downspouts, which collect the rain water.

One of those downspouts, just one, is all that is required to sustain this garden.”

The surrounding gardens will feature native plants, “nativores,” and contain historical artifacts as well. The sustainable ecosystem will furthermore enhance what is already an educational experience at the museum, as an outdoor history-learning lab that can be used for lessons on sustainable practices now, compared to practices of the past.

“We call it, ‘learning and making history with green,’” Chip’s Landscaping Master Gardener Sue Ann DuBois said. “This year’s build offers a host of opportunities for our county museum, rich in Saratoga history, and the opportunity to make history with green technology. Children and adults from the region will be able to experience firsthand new green technology and mini ecosystems in an environment that respects our local history.”

“Sue (Ann DuBois) is committed to the work that we do here in terms of education and preservation,” Houle said. “I think she saw the potential for the future here.”

Houle believes the project will bring “infinite possibilities” and can be used in a wide array of different

groups of people, whether it be kids, gardening groups or senior citizens with an interest in gardening.

“I would love to believe that it will draw more people,” Houle said. “It is another garden and in this community, and in this county, people love looking at gardens.

There isn’t a 100 percent defined picture of what the project will look like, according to Houle.

Although the ideas may be flexible, she is in anticipation of a very subtle and “natural enhancement” to the backyard. A lot depends on the donations from the community, which has exceeded expectations thus far.

Suzanne Trudell, manager of Kohl’s Department Stores, said, “They have more volunteers this year than the past three years all together.”

In addition to Kohl’s and Chip’s, an array of local businesses helped support the project.

Mulhalland Enterprises, Baccalupo Trucking, Milton Dunkin’ Donuts and Ballston Spa McDonalds have all shown their support.

“It really is a community garden in the sense that Saratoga County is supporting it,” Houle said.

As long as the weather cooperates, the build will take place starting at 8 a.m. Otherwise, it will begin the following day, April 21.

The Schedule MAY 2: SUBMISSION DEADLINE Bands wishing to participate must submit online applications and YouTube video auditions to www. spac.org by 11:59 p.m. Thursday, May 2. Only videos with original music will be accepted.

MAY 3–8: ONLINE VOTING The public will have the opportunity to view the audition videos at www.spac.org and vote for their favorite band.

The other nine finalists will be chosen by a SPAC selection committee.

MAY 10: FINALISTS ANNOUNCED Ten finalist bands will be announced on May 10 on SPAC’s Facebook page and at spac.org.

MAY 24: LIVE COMPETITION at SPA LITTLE THEATRE Finalists will have 10 minutes to perform for a live audience and a panel of celebrity judges at the Spa Little Theatre. The event is run “American Idol”-style with three celebrity judges reviewing the performance of each band following their time slot. Bands will be evaluated and the two winners will be chosen, one based on the judges’ selection, and the other based on audience response.

More information on Battle of the Bands is available on SPAC’s website at www.spac.org.

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Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

week of 4/19-4/25

Send event listings to ads@saratogapublishing.com

friday, 4/19:

saturday, 4/20:

Rob Pulisifer of ETown Express, 9 pm

Acoustic Circus, 9 pm

Frankie Lessard, 9 pm

On Your Mark, 9 pm

Christin Ohlman & Rebel Montez, 8 pm

Larry Hooker, 6:30 pm

Rick Bolton & Jeff Walton, 5 pm Ubuntu, 9 pm

Roots Revival Show 2013, 9 pm

@ Bailey’s - 583.6060

@ Bentley’s - 899.4300

@ Caffè Lena - 583.0022

@ Gaffney’s - 583.7359

@ Gaffney’s - 583.7359 @ The Mill - 899.5253

@ Primelive Ultra Lounge - 583.4563 @ Putnam Den - 584.8066

The Machine, 7 pm

Kelly Brothers, 8:30 pm

@ Upstate Concert Hall - 371.0012

Funk Evolution, 10:30 pm

sunday, 4/21:

@ Irish Times - 583.0003 @ JP Bruno’s - 745.1180

Kottonmouth Kings, 5 pm

Side Tracked, 9 pm

@ Upstate Concert Hall - 371.0012

Big Medicine, 9 pm

monday, 4/22:

@ The Mill - 899.5253

@ The Parting Glass - 583.1916

Exodus, 7 pm

Just Nate, 6:30 pm

@ Upstate Concert Hall - 371.0012

The Hornitz with Mitochi, 8 pm

wednesday, 4/24:

The Heaters, 8 pm

REO Speedwagon, STYX and Ted Nugent, 7 pm

@ Primelive Ultra Lounge - 583.4563 @ Putnam Den - 584.8066 @ Ravenswood - 371.8771

Steel Panther, 7 pm

@ Glens Falls Civic Center - 798.0202

@ Upstate Concert Hall - 371.0012

thursday, 4/25:

The Audiostars, 7 pm

Rich Ortiz, 9 pm

@ Vapor - 792.8282

saturday, 4/20: Terry Gordon Quartet, 9 pm

@ Gaffney’s - 583.7359

Blue Boy “Dabs O’ Honey” Tour, 9:30 pm @ Putnam Den - 584.8066

@ 9 Maple Avenue - 583.2582

open mic nights:

The Blackouts, 9 pm

Sun. Open Mic, 7 pm

Spoiler, 9 pm

Tue. w/Rick Bolton, 8 pm

Dakota Dave Hull, 8 pm

Wed. Open Mic, 8 pm

Karaoke, 10 pm

Thur. Open Mic, 7 pm

2U - U2 Tribute Band, 9:30 pm

Thur. Open Mic, 10 pm

@ Bailey’s - 583.6060

@ Bentley’s - 899.4300 @ Caffè Lena - 583.0022 @ Circus Café - 583.1106

@ Irish Times - 583.0003

@ Bailey’s - 583.6060

@ Gaffney’s - 587.7359

@ Putnam Den - 584.8066 @ Caffè Lena - 583.0022 @ Circus Café - 583.1106

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

VOTE

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VOTE

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

VOTE

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Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

VOTE

food

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

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Frenchy Loeb—Farmers’ Market Customer and Vendor

Before she moved to Saratoga Springs in 2004, Marianne (Frenchy) Loeb of Frenchy Loeb Jewelry and Art was already a loyal customer at farmers’ markets, so it was a given that she would seek out the Saratoga Springs Farmers’ Market shortly after moving to the area, and later joined the Market as a vendor.

While Frenchy is staffing her table at the Winter Farmers’ Market, her husband James Zack will pick up their CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) shares for vegetables and eggs and shop for cheese, yogurt, milk, apples and other fruit in season, baked goods and other staples.

Many vendors at the Market have had prior careers, and Frenchy is no exception.

“My parents were jewelers for

many years in Albany where I worked as a teenager,” she remembers. “Then I chose another path, and while living in New York City worked for the Metropolitan Transit Authority.”

Even so, art was always part of her life, and after leaving the MTA, she was a watercolor artist for five years on Saint Martin before moving to Saratoga and embarking a new career making handcrafted jewelry from her own designs.

Before joining the Market, she ran a shop in the Beekman Arts District in Saratoga Springs and was a vendor at area craft shows. Her long connections to farmers’ markets as a customer, and her devotion to a locally-based economy, led her to apply to the Saratoga Farmers’ Market about five years ago.

“I was elated when I was accepted to the Wednesday Market at High Rock Park, and later joined the Winter Market when it moved to the Division Street School.”

Frenchy creates jewelry for any budget.

“My crystal earrings cost as little as $5 for a pair,” she said. She also

makes gold-filled or sterling silver necklaces embellished with faceted gemstones.

“One of my favorite projects is designing bridal and bridesmaids’ jewelry sets,” Frenchy noted. “And I also sell beads, repair beaded jewelry, even taking on complicated projects that other jewelers have turned down.”

Last summer, Frenchy introduced hats and hair accessories to the Market. When fascinators became all the rage in Britain, Frenchy made several clever designs which were quite popular, especially during the track season.

Frenchy will be at her usual spot at the Winter Market until April 27. Instead of rejoining the Market for the summer, she’s made an important change.

“In early October, I was driving north on Route 9 in Wilton, when I saw a sign, ‘Commercial Property for Rent.’ Right away, I knew the cute cottage near Saratoga Wine and Spirits would be the perfect location for a retail outlet, and I’ve called it Frenchy’s.”

In addition to selling beads at Frenchy’s, and her work and sales spaces, she will offer jewelry and hatmaking classes, and exhibit other artists’ work. “Now Jim and I have reclaimed the part of our house that my projects had taken over.”

Although Frenchy won’t be a vendor at the Summer Market, she and Jim will be making the rounds every week for their groceries.

They especially enjoy using a variety of vegetables for the following hot and spicy recipe with cool yogurt on the side.

Spicy Ethiopian Vegetable Stew— Ye’atakilt W’et (Adapted from World Vegetarian Classics, by Celia Brooks-Brown.”)

Serves four. Ingredients marked * are available now at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market Ingredients: 1 tbsp sunflower oil 1 large onion, diced * 2 cloves garlic, chopped fine * 1 tbsp berbere (Purchase this Ethiopian hot seasoning from

Keep Your Spirits Up

by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY Hello my Foodie Friends!

Before we talk about food, all of us here at Compliments to the Chef would like to send ours thoughts and prayers to the people of Boston and the families that were affected by the Patriot Day horror. My son was there that day and thank God he was spared any physical harm.

Well, we are excited about a new line of cookware we just got in from Zwilling J.A. Henkels. It is called ZWILLING® Spirit. We have taken these pans home and put them through our tests and they passed with flying colors—they’re

easy to use and easy to clean— the clean part really wowed me.

It is my job to clean, and when it so easy that basically you just run water over it, that impresses me. It cooks best on medium heat, which means even heat distribution for evenly cooked food and energy savings. It also has stay-cool handles and it works on all cook tops.

It is worthy of my two thumbs up seal of approval!

Remember my Friends: “Life Happens in the Kitchen” Take care, John and Paula Pro-Quality Pans The contemporary design of the ZWILLING Spirit range is guaranteed to draw admiring looks in any kitchen. The ergonomic handles ensure ease of handling.’

Food preparation is aided by the multi-layer SIGMA Clad material employed which distributes the heat to the edges, making for an evenly browned result. Each of the pans is available in four sizes.

•

With Thermolon™ Granite Coating. Free from PTFE and

•

•

PFOA. And it can be used at up to 842°F without any risk of damage to health (compared to 500°F for most other coatings).

Not suitable for use with sharp objects. Heat distribution up to the rim–the whole surface can be used for frying.

Ergonomic Handle.

Ergonomically shaped handle for perfect handling. Hanging loop.

Care. It is recommended that

•

•

coated pans are cleaned by hand.

Cookers. Suitable for all types of cookers (electro, gas, ceran, halogen, induction).

3-layer SIGMA Clad material The 3-ply SIGMA Clad material with a strong aluminum core provides an even and quick heat distribution up to the pot’s rim. The cookware’s whole surface can be used for cooking or frying.

health food stores, or make it yourself from one of the many recipes on-line.)

1 tbsp paprika 2 cups green beans, cut small pieces (or use frozen saved from summer) 1 large carrots washed, cut to a ½ inch dice * 1 potato about 7 oz, cut to a ½ inch dice * 2 medium tomatoes, coarsely chopped * ¼ cup tomato paste 2 cups vegetable broth or water, (plus an additional ¾ cup for the couscous) 1 cup parsley chopped fine * ¾ cup dry couscous ¾ cup low fat plain yogurt * Salt and Pepper to taste Directions: In a small sauce pan with a lid, heat ¾ cups of vegetable broth to a boil, remove from the heat, stir in the couscous, cover and set aside.

In a large saucepan, heat 1 tsp oil on medium heat, add the onion and cook until soft with over medium heat. Add the remaining oil, garlic, berbere spice and paprika, and sauté for about 2 minutes.

Add the green beans, carrots, and potatoes. Stir to coat the vegetables with oil, cover the pot, lower the heat, and cook for another 5 minutes.

Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, 2 cups of vegetable broth or water, and salt and pepper to taste.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then simmer, uncovered until the vegetables are all tender.

Stir in the parsley just before serving.

Serve on four plates with ¼ of the couscous and ¼ of the yogurt each plate.

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fun and games Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

Puzzles

See puzzle solutions on page 36

Across 1 Their first parts are geog. indicators 5 Her last film was “Two-Faced Woman” 10 Newspaper page 14 Injure, in a way 15 __ dome 16 Denpasar’s island 17 __ mentality 18 *Celebrating the big five-oh, say 20 __-Locka, Florida 21 Sum, sometimes 22 Country across the sea from Eritrea 23 *Small museum piece 27 Oil-rich African country 29 City on the Rhone 30 “__ Theme”: “Doctor Zhivago” song 32 Tram contents 33 Hog : sow :: rabbit : __ 35 Freak (out) 36 Court cry 37 What the answers to starred clues end in, in more ways than one 40 Pigeon-loving Muppet 42 Fjord cousin 43 __ Victor 44 Bargainer with GM 45 LeVar’s “Roots” role 47 Bender 51 Icky coating 53 *Dancer with many fans 55 Its young are called crias 57 Rock’s __ Lobos 58 Touch clumsily 59 *Profit factors 62 Siouan tribe 63 __ d’amore 64 Terse observation 65 W.S. winner in four of the last five years 66 Flex 67 Leafy recess 68 Pirate played by Laughton Down 1 Art movement 2 Elude 3 Code talkers’ tribe 4 5-Across’s home: Abbr.

5 Lose it 6 Member of a large kingdom

Level: 1

2

3

4

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

4/17/13

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

See puzzle solution on page 36 7 Clear 8 Spa specimen 9 Lacking siblings 10 President with a B.A. from Columbia 11 Shoulder-length hair styles 12 The “you” in the 1968 lyric “Gee I think you’re swell” 13 Imitated 19 Brain tests, briefly 21 “Put up your dukes, then!”

24 Break up 25 Statistician’s input 26 Common folk group 28 __ Perce tribe 31 Seaweed extract 34 Beige relative 36 Atheist activist Madalyn Murray __

At the Movies with Trey Roohan Groundhog Day (1993)

Have you ever had déjà vu? What about one of those days that just would not end? What would you do in the face of that? Indulge? Give up? What if neither of those were options?

Phil Connors (played by Bill Murray) is an egotistical, self-centered weatherman for WPBH in Pittsburgh.

For the fourth time in his career, he makes a trip to Punxsutawney to witness firsthand the prediction handed down by Punxsutawney Phil, the groundhog.

He has little interest in the story and is more concerned with a possible move to network television. Making the trip with him are Larry, his cameraman (played by Chris Elliot) and Rita, his segment producer (played by Andie MacDowell). Before they depart for Punxsutawney, Rita (MacDowell) displays an upbeat nature which Phil finds grating, to say the least. Their first stop in town is a hotel which Phil states emphatically that he will not stay in. Rita then tells him that he is booked in a bed and breakfast and that the hotel is where Rita and Larry will be staying. Phil’s relieved and states that keeping “the talent”, meaning him, happy is the mark of a good producer. February 2nd arrives and Phil is greeted by several cheery, local residents all of whom he greets with sarcasm glibness. One of them, Ned Ryerson (played by Stephen Toblowsky), is a former high school classmate Phil has no memory of that has since become an insurance salesman. Phil makes a quick getaway to avoid a sales pitch and, much to Ryerson’s delight, steps up to his knee in a puddle by the curb. Phil makes some crude remarks to Rita, does little to hide his disdain during the broadcast, and then makes it clear that he wishes to return home as soon as possible. That plan is thwarted, however, by the arrival of a blizzard on the outside of town that Phil incorrectly predicted would pass them by. He returns to the bed and breakfast to find there is no hot water in the shower and turns in for the night. Imagine his surprise when he hears an identical radio broadcast the next morning and everyone he encounters tells him that it is, still, Groundhog Day. This film is, without a doubt, genius. The transformation made by Murray’s character throughout the film from cynical and obnoxious to despondent and self-injurious and, finally, to enlightened is a joy to behold. The other characters, oblivious to the events in the story, provide valuable contrast and comic relief. I will caution anyone who has not seen this film, if you enjoy the song I Got You, Babe by Sonny and Cher, you may not by the time the movie ends.

Even so, if you haven’t seen, you haven’t seen Shakespeare the way it was meant to be played. (9.0/10) For comments and questions, contact me at movies@roohanrealty.com.

37 Dennis the Menace neighbor 38 German opener 39 Super Fro-Yo sellers 40 Eat at 41 Drop zone?

45 Dole’s running mate 46 Put forth without proof 48 City SE of Roma 49 Ate (at) 50 “__ Scissorhands” 52 Checked for the last time?

54 Like one who is 52-Down 56 Fast horse 59 Pen’s mate 60 Brief commitment 61 Crow’s croak 62 Pen filler

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

Palate, Palette, Pallet Palate is the roof of your mouth.

A cleft palate is a common birth defect.

Palette is a hand-held board used for mixing paint.

His palette contains red, green, and yellow paint.

Pallet is a flat platform on which goods are loaded.

Several pallets at the warehouse contain new DVD players.

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

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36

SPORTS

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

Community Sports Bulletin Two Titles Up For Grabs at Kaged Kombat Championships SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Kaged Kombat fighting championships kick off Saturday, April 20, featuring two title belts up for grabs at the Saratoga Springs City Center.

The venue is anticipating approximately 600 people to attend the MMA action that is set to include 11 matches total, as 24 of the area’s top fighters show off their skills in the cage.

One of those local fighters is Spa City Brazilian JiuJitsu’s Kiril “The Russian Assassin” Gron, who will be fighting for the 145 pound title against Dee Hart from D&B Combat Sports.

Amsterdam’s Tom Regal brings his Muay Thai style and striking force to the 170 pound title fight against Plattsburgh Combat Sports’ James Dysard, who’s known for his high-level wrestling prowess.

The City Center doors open at 6 p.m. before the first fight starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at the door or from the fighters for $40.

Vendors will be present and selling merchandise throughout the night’s action.

JMJC Claims 12 Medals at US Nationals

Left to right standing: Brad Bolen, Tony Sangimino, Pete Stanley, Jack Hatton, Alex Turner. Left to right kneeling: Cammi Kaichi, Nick Kossor, Hannah Martin, Ashley Hejlik.

Photo courtesy of Lou DiGesare/realjudo.net

Send your sports stories or briefs to Brian Cremo, Sports Editor at brian@saratoga publishing.com

VIRGINIA BEACH — Burnt Hills High School graduate, Hannah Martin, 24 from the Jason Morris Judo Center (JMJC) in Glenville, led a record performance for the JMJC, capturing her second straight 63kg US Sr. National title at the Virginia Beach convention center April 13.

The JMJC won nine elite medals and 12 overall, both bests for the program. The JMJC also won the unofficial medal count with the second place team being the Olympic Training Center, who had seven medals.

These results bring the JMJC’s total medal count in its 12 year history at the Nationals to 85.

That includes 25 gold medals.

Martin came in as the No. 1 seed and capped off her victory with a close win over rival, No. 2 seed, Janine Nakao, in the final. This served as a great tune up for Martin who will compete next week at the Pan Am Championships in Costa Rica. Martin now has a career total of seven medals at the Nationals.

Puzzle solutions from pg. 34

Liberty League Recognizes Two Skidmore Athletes

John McCarthy

Jonah Epstein

Skidmore’s John McCarthy was named the Liberty League’s Men’s Golf Co-Performer of the Week (Nick Palladino, Rochester), April 15.

The senior won the Manhattanville Spring Invitational with 72-74— 146, leading the Thoroughbreds to a team title. It is the second time in less than a month that McCarthy was named Performer of the Week (March 25).

Also, Skidmore freshman Jonah Epstein was named Men’s Tennis Rookie of the Week after going 2-0 at No. 5 singles and No. 2 doubles in a pair of Skidmore wins. He beat Antony Kim of RPI, 1-6, 6-2 (104) in a 9-0 win over the Engineers. He also had a 3-6, 6-1, 7-5 win over Tyler Tisdale of Stevens in the midst a 6-3 team win.

Saints Help Host Hannah’s Hope Benefit SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Central Catholic Saints Baseball Team, along with the Saratoga Central Catholic Booster Club, will be hosting a fundraising event in conjunction with the Saints taking on Hudson for a varsity baseball game. On Saturday, April 27 at 7 p.m., the game under the lights will help support Hannah’s Hope Fund (http://www.hannahshopefund.org/). Hannah and her dad, Matt Sames, will be in attendance to throw out the ceremonial first pitch of the game.

Hannah’s Hope Fund for Giant Axonal Neuropathy (GAN), Inc. is a public charity whose mission is to raise funds to support the development of a treatment and cure for GAN. It is also a resource for doctors, scientists and families world-wide.

There will be a full concession, bake sale, 50/50 raffle and a chance to purchase raffle tickets to win four tickets to any regular season Orioles game at Camden Yards. All proceeds from the evening will be donated to Hannah’s Hope Fund. Please join the SCC Saints baseball program and the booster club in supporting a very worthy cause on April 27.

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

SPORTS

37

Continued from p. 1

600: Lambert Reaches Career Milestone After that, “it just snowballed.”

Twenty-six years after taking over as head coach, Lambert has catapulted the Saints to a Class B powerhouse that has established a winning tradition and won four Section II championships in the last six seasons.

With Monday’s 4-0 shutout victory over St. Johnsville, Lambert reached the milestone of 600 games coached. The Saint’s 15-0 win over Canajoharie, Wednesday, officially puts Lambert at 601. During that span, he has gone 434-167 (.722 winning percentage).

Reaching the high school landmark is just another accolade for Lambert, who is No. 5 all time in Section II wins.

“It’s [600] a number,” Lambert said. “I never hit a ball, never threw a pitch and never stole a base. It has been all the players. I’ve just been fortunate enough to be in the position where I can put everybody in the places where they’re supposed to go.”

The only active Section II coaches ahead of Lambert in wins are league rival Fort Plain’s Craig Phillips (681-204) and Queensbury’s Jay Marra (563-273).

The Western Athletic Conference has seen many clashes between teams coached by Lambert and Phillips, who is the No. 1 all-time winningest coach in the section’s history and has been coaching Fort Plain for the past 37 years.

“Craig and I have had some tremendous battles over the years,” Lambert said.

The section recognized both schools in 2013 by inviting them

to Rivalry Night, Friday, May 3 at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium. The other six schools attending the matchups of foes are all AA schools, making Fort Plain and Saratoga Catholic the only small schools invited.

It’s not the first time the two have been honored together.

In 2010, Lambert received the Diamond Sports Regional Coach of the Year award in Nashville, Tenn.

That same year, Phillips was named the National Coach of the Year.

“That was a really big honor,” Lambert said. “Seeing all these great college coaches and everything else … receiving an award at that stage is pretty humbling.”

Lambert needs just three more wins to pass Lake George’s Scott Snyder (437-203) and 15 to pass Warrensburgh’s George Khoury (449-198).

Climbing to the No. 3 spot this season is by no means out of reach, as the Saints have won over 20 games eight times during Lambert’s tenure.

What makes the sectional wins more impressive is that the Saints have won four of their five Section II titles as members of Class B, despite being the size of a Class C school. On average, a graduating class size is between 25 and 30 kids.

A prime example of this can be seen in a framed photograph, on Lambert’s desk, of the seniors on his 2007 team. That graduating class had just nine boys. Seven of them played ball.

That season, the Saints won their first Section II Class B crown.

But the first and lone Section CC title, in 2000, might trigger

Saints baseball coach Alphonse Lambert (right) has a pre-game talk with sophomore Ryan Czarnecki before game No. 600, Monday, April 14. Photo courtesy of MarkBolles.com.

some of Lambert’s fondest memories. That year, the Saints were 27-2 and finished runner up for the state title with players like Tim Stauffer, who set school records in season wins (13), batting average (.586) and consecutive innings without giving up a hit (19).

“I really feel as though, if we were able to get that done in that championship game, that might have been the most complete baseball team to come out of the area,” Lambert said. “We just went through everybody in sectionals.”

Over the course of 600 games, Lambert has been able to journey on what he calls “a great ride” of meeting talented coaches, players and people in general, who he says he “could never have imagined.”

When he was a 1984 graduate of Saratoga Catholic, he never thought he would one day turn a no-name program into a local powerhouse.

“I played baseball here and I played on some of the struggling football teams,” Lambert said. “I thoroughly enjoyed playing and I always wanted to bring a winner to the school. Winning that first championship was a goal of ours. I never imagined that 26 years later the program would be where it is now.”

The passion for coaching what he calls “the greatest game ever invented” hasn’t left him. Since his early days of coaching, Lambert has always enjoyed leading a team. With strong support from his parents,

and later learning coaching techniques from personnel including Ron Ravena (Ballston Spa football), Murry O’Neill (Burnt Hills football) and Tom Rentz (Corinth and Hadley Luzerne baseball), he built a structure which has now accumulated into the definition of success.

Coaching 600 games is just a small dent in what he hopes will be a career that doubles that. If he had to put a number on how many more years he would like to coach—35.

“I love coaching baseball,” Lambert said. “I love being around the kids and meeting new challenges every year. I can not see myself ever giving it up. I just have a lot of energy and a lot of desire when it comes to coaching baseball.”

National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame to Host Triple Crown Countdown SARATOGA SPRINGS — The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame will host its annual Countdown to the Triple Crown program on Saturday, April 27 at 1 p.m. in the Museum’s Hall of Fame Gallery. Veteran handicappers Tom Amello, Jeff Carle, and Jeanne Wood will be on hand to offer analysis and predictions for the 139th running of the Kentucky Derby and answer questions from the audience about the Triple Crown series. The program is free and open to the public.

There will be giveaways from the Museum’s gift shop, as well as from

EMBRACE THE RACE, The Apparel for the Horseracing Lifestyle. Guests will also receive complimentary issues of the Triple Crown preview edition of The Blood-Horse, featuring past performances. The program will feature video of key Derby prep races provided by Capital OTB TV and an audience-driven discussion with the panel.

Amello has produced the “Trackfacts” selection sheet at Saratoga Race Course since 1988.

In April of 1992, he began production of a television version of Trackfacts for Capital OTB TV.

Amello later developed a second show for Capital OTB, Trackfacts Live, which was a 90-minute program that aired on Capital OTB TV through 2012.

Carle was the leading apprentice jockey at the Belmont Park spring and fall meets in 1989, as well as that year’s Saratoga meet.

He won 290 races during his career and had purse earnings in excess of $5.3 million. After his riding career ended because of injuries, Carle turned to training. He operated a public stable for 10 years and won several stakes races. Carle has

appeared on a variety of OTB programs and produced several news and feature stories for the network.

Wood has been a program host and handicapper at Capital OTB since 1998. Among the programs she hosts are Horses ’n Courses, a weekly recap of stakes races, and Saratoga Newsdesk, a live program from Capital OTB’s summer studio at Saratoga Race Course.

Brien Bouyea, the communications officer at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, will serve as the program’s moderator.

38

SPORTS

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

Fear Cannot Evolve Into Respect

Damian Fantauzzi

Mike Rice, the former head basketball coach at Rutgers University, seemed to think his method of teaching would produce results. The use of fear creates a very unhealthy atmosphere, no matter the situation. Where does this idea come from, that in order to demand respect, there has to be an environment of fear as a means to develop discipline

Invitational first of three straight regatta weekends

by Brian Cremo Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS – The 16th annual Saratoga Invitational is set to host upwards of 1200 teams from the Northeast from Friday, April 26 to Sunday, April 28.

Last year, the entries were in the 900 range.

“This is by far the largest,” Eric Catalano, SRA Executive Director and varsity girls coach, said. “It’s a race that has grown so much in the Northeast. It’s probably one of, if not the fastest regatta out there this time of year. We’re attracting the top crews from the Northeast.”

In 2012, the Saratoga Rowing Association had to add a third day, Friday, to the event because of its growth. The three-day weekend will also include the Liberty League Championships, which are taking place Sunday morning, before the Invitational resumes at 9:30 a.m. and goes to about 4:30 p.m.

Aside from Saratoga Springs, local teams from Shenendehowa, Niskayuna, Shaker, Albany, Burnt Hills, Stillwater, Ballston Spa, Emma Willard and Scotia-Glenville will be competing amidst a couple thousand athletes who will be in town from states including Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Massachusetts.

One group out of Boston will be bringing over 225 athletes, alone.

“Saratoga is already a destination for so many reasons and we’re really excited to be able to add rowing to that list,” Catalano said.

Aside from a few events

featuring seventh and eighth graders, the majority of the competition will be between varsity level crew teams, ninth through 12th grade.

The regattas are entering one of the most exciting times of the season, said Catalano who is in anticipation of the end of April through the beginning of May when Saratoga Springs hosts three regattas in a row. After the Invitational, the Sectional Championships start Saturday, May 4, before New York State Championships round off the action the following week, starting Saturday, May 11.

“We really get the opportunity to show off our town, and Saratoga has become a real rowing destination in the Northeast,” Catalano said.

“Each year we try to bring a little more to the regattas, so that Saratoga is recognized as one of the top rowing destinations in the country.

We’re well on our way, with attendance going up.”

One of the things SRA is also working is putting together live streaming video for future regattas to be watched on.

“It’s another thing we’re trying to add to our repertoire to hopefully get us to another level,” Catalano said.

The first race is set for Friday, April 26 at 3 p.m.

This weekend may be a bit quieter, but the SRA is hosting an open house for the Adaptive Rowing Program, Saturday, April 20 from 3-5 p.m. The group provides people of all ages with physical, intellectual and sensory disabilities the opportunity to row.

and control? That’s how the communist leaders of nations like Red China, the former Soviet Union and North Korea became so powerful. The populace lived in fear for their lives and their families.

I have seen many different coaching philosophies throughout my career as a basketball coach.

Mike Rice is not the only guy to use the bullying tactic of fear. So it isn’t really a matter of being in awe of what he did as much as it is a question of why. Seeing the clips of his rants and antics during some practice sessions is, to me, a disgusting and disappointing scene. SNL had a funny skit with Melissa McCarthy portraying a female coach who acted like Mike Rice—very funny, but it demonstrated the absurdity of that methodology. Every coach has his or her own techniques and style that adds to a coaching philosophy.

I’m not one who likes to criticize another coach because of all the different styles practiced, no matter what the sport, but there are very few who have succeeded in using a mean spirited approach in the teaching of a sport.

To an extent, there will always be a pedestal that many coaches are elevated to by the players, parents and supporters. That’s because in most cases, a coach is revered as a person of great esteem and superiority. I have had conversations with many coaches where, in some circumstances, we had agreements and disagreements about the methods of teaching to the learning curve of the studentathletes. My belief is that punishment is not a good learning tool, especially in coaching. For example, if there was a drill the kids didn’t understand, or execute properly, I would stop to redefine the drill and its purpose. I would do this versus the punitive tactic of putting them on the baseline to run, which is a negative reinforcement. A coach is a teacher.

In math, if a student messes up a problem, it’s the teacher’s job to help them understand the correct way. You don’t put them out in the hallway and have them run up and down the corridor!

When one becomes a teacher or coach, he or she has to understand that not all of the students are going to be on the same learning curve, especially in comprehension. I do not believe, when

Associated Press. Kevin Rivoli

performing in athletics, that kids make mistakes on purpose. So why punish them? In education, the teacher or coach has to deal with the frustration that not all of the students or players are going to be on the same page as you.

When I taught art, I was mainly a drawing teacher. I believed that I could teach anyone how to draw. I also understood that some students had the innate skill for rendering and some did not. It was my job to guide, with patience, those who wanted to learn that skill, no matter what level they could get to. Ideally, in the profession of educating, you would like to have everyone be on the same level of understanding the assignment, but in reality that just isn’t going to happen. Even teaching at a private school, where the students have to be tested to be accepted, there’s going to be a learning curve—it’s human nature.

The worst thing a coach or teacher can do is to assume the individuals know what they’re talking about or demonstrating. You can be teaching five students the same lesson, but there’s the possibility of five different interpretations. This is a challenge that can frustrate a coach, and the mentor must learn to deal with this reality by demonstrating compassion for accepting the dilemma of those who are puzzled by the lesson or drill.

Bullying individuals for not performing to the coach’s expectations will just compound the lack of

confidence the player might have.

Coaches should be accountable for their behavior. A pep talk does not need to become an assault.

I hear the term “tough love” used over and over, but does the recipient understand that the embarrassment experienced in front of their peers is meant to inspire them? The use of reverse psychology, which is probably the most used and misunderstood approach in coaching, can turn into a situation of disdain between the coach and athlete that sometimes can’t be rectified. Count to 10, bite your upper lip, have compassion and practice patience for the players or students who are struggling because they’re not doing it purposely or for spite. In order to demand respect, it has to become a two-way street of give and take.

Obviously, Mike Rice was wrong and it cost him his job, along with athletic director Tim Pernetti, who was guilty by association. I understand, on behalf of the Alumni, there is a move to reinstate Pernetti. I believe that coaches need to remember that players don’t make mistakes on purpose and, most of all, team members are not all gifted with innate athletic abilities. It takes patience and empathy to have a successful career as a coach or as a volunteer coach. A simple, good rule to follow is to understand that the kids come first and it’s not about you, the coach.

Week of April 19 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; April 25, 2013

39

Volume 8 • Issue 15

See Phonsey Lambert Coaches 600th Game pg. 37

FREE

Week of April 19 – April 25, 2013

SPORTS

See Invitational pg. 38

Invitational Set to be Biggest Yet