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Volume 7 • Issue 32 saratogatodaynewspaper.com

$32,000,000 Thoroughbreds Sell for Big Bucks

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS - The two-day Saratoga selected yearling sales at Fasig-Tipton raked in $32 million from August 6 – 7, with 107 Thoroughbreds sold at a median price of $225,000 and a high bid of $1,575,000. photo by Sharon Castro Photography

Yearlings sell for millions at Fasig-Tipton.

See Fasig-Tipton page 6

City Wants Safer Route for Geyser Elementary’s Students

by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS – Though students at Geyser Road Elementary are not currently allowed to walk or bike to school each morning, the city is taking its own steps to see that changed and make their route safer in the process.

The Saratoga Springs City Council unanimously voted to pursue federal funding from the Safe Routes to School program in the name of making the pedestrian commute to and from the elementary school more walker or biker-friendly by adding “safe connections along and across Geyser Road,” during their August 7 meeting.

Prior to the vote, the council was given a presentation by the city planning board’s senior planner

Kate Maynard, who noted that about 20 percent of the city’s population lives in the southwest region; mainly in neighborhoods on the south side of Geyser Road. She added that the proximity to not only the elementary school but also Veteran’s Memorial Park as reasons why safer access across Geyser should be considered.

See Safer page 6

Inside TODAY...

Worth A Visit

pgs 32-41

Visitor Center, Volunteers Keep Tourists Informed

by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS – During the hot summer months leading into the Thoroughbred racing season, Saratoga Springs welcomes thousands of tourists each and every day.

Located along Broadway at the intersection of Congress Street, the Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center is the place where many people experiencing Saratoga for the first time start their trip -

whether they’re fans of horses, history or even mineral water.

“Whether it is a visitor, someone from a tour group, someone passing through on their way to another destination or some of the kids walking home from the high school, this building is really quite a hub of service and activity for everyone,” said Johnnie Roberts, the center’s coordinator. “We’re here to serve the community.”

See Volunteers page 7

Racing Hall of Fame pg 5 RSVP pgs 20-21 Winner’s Circle pgs 23-27 Photo by MarkBolles.com

Paul Schumacher discusses dining options with MaryAnna and Greg Strid visiting from NJ

Historic Home pgs 30-31

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

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Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

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Marchione’s Campaign Trail Stops at Jerry Bailey’s House Photo by MarkBolles.com

Above: Event organizers Joe and Josey Kakaty with guest of honor Kathy Marcione and hosts Jerry and Suzee Bailey Politics was the main topic of conversation at the Saratoga Lake home of Hall of Fame jockey Jerry Bailey on the evening of Wednesday, August 9.

Dozens of enthusiastic supporters gathered for the guest of honor, Saratoga County Clerk Kathy Marchione.

Marchione will be running for the New York state senate seat currently held by Roy McDonald.

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TODAY

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

Brian S. Latshaw, 28, of 41 Edmond Dr., Ballston Spa, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony.

Latshaw was arrested January 4 in Ballston Spa and has been sentenced to time served, five years of probation and mandatory use of an ignition interlock device.

Daniel J. Champlin, 27, of 113E Terrace Ct., Clifton Park, was resentenced August 2 by Judge Jerry J. Scarano to one to three years in state prison, probation terminated, after admitting to a violation of his probation. Champlin was originally convicted January 11, 2010, of thirddegree burglary, a class-D felony, for which he was sentenced to five years of probation.

Krzysztof Sekowski, 58, of 200 East Center St., Lee, Massachusetts, was resentenced August 2 by Judge Jerry J. Scarano to 30 days in Saratoga County Jail with credit for time served and continued probation after admitting to a violation of his probation. Sekowski was originally convicted December 17, 2009, of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony, for which he was sentenced to time served and five years of probation.

guilty to a charge of fourth-degree attempted criminal possession of a controlled substance, a class-D felony. Rokjer was arrested June 1 in Milton and has been sentenced to three months in Saratoga County Jail and five years of probation.

Angel L. Irizarry, 24, of 463 Pawling Ave., Troy, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree attempted criminal sale of a controlled substance, a class-C felony. Irizarry was arrested February 23 in Halfmoon and has been sentenced to two years in New York State Prison and two years of post-release supervision.

Michael G. Ash, 34, of 73 Johns St., #2, Hudson Falls, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree burglary, a class-D felony. Ash was arrested January 11 in Moreau for an incident that occurred January 1 and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing September 29.

Xi Chen, 23, of 30 Sterling Heights, Clifton Park, was convicted of first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, a class-E felony. Chen was arrested February 26 in Saratoga Springs and has been sentenced to six months in jail and five years of probation.

James Lorman, 24, of 81 Saratoga Ave., Ballston Spa, pleaded guilty to a charge of seconddegree burglary, a class-C violent felony. Lorman was arrested February 28, 2011, in Saratoga Springs and has been sentenced to six and a half years in state prison and five years of post-release supervision.

Catrina Sumner, 30, of 188 South Broadway, Apt. 14, Saratoga Springs, pleaded guilty to a charge of failing to report an address change within 10 days, a class-E felony. Sumner was arrested May 14 in Saratoga Springs for an incident that occurred April 1 and has been sentenced to one year in Saratoga County Jail.

Kellie M. Rokjer, 34, of 56A West St., Ballston Spa, pleaded

Lisa A. Freemantle, 39, of 23338 Route 50 South, Apt. 1, Saratoga

Springs, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree attempted criminal sale of a controlled substance, a class-C felony. Freemantle was arrested May 4 in Saratoga Springs for an incident that occurred August 1, 2011, and has been sentenced to two years in New York State Prison and two years of post-release supervision.

Bruce C. Albert, 57, of 52 Zephyr Lane, Apt. 6, Saratoga Springs, pleaded guilty to a charge of first-degree criminal contempt, a class-E felony. Albert was arrested March 17 in Saratoga Springs and has been sentenced to nine months in Saratoga County Jail.

Justin P. Rock, 27, currently residing at the Saratoga County Jail, Ballston Spa, pleaded guilty to a charge of second-degree attempted criminal possession of a forged instrument, a class-E felony. Rock was arrested November 7 in Ballston Spa for an incident that occurred October 7 and has been sentenced to one and a half to three years in New York State Prison and to make restitution in the amount of $684.38 plus surcharge.

Darin E. Davis, 42, of 122 Tallow Wood Dr., Clifton Park, pleaded guilty to two counts of second-degree unlawful surveillance, a class-E felony. Davis was arrested October 31 in Clifton Park for incidents that occurred October 29 and October 30 and has been sentenced to six months in Saratoga County Jail and five years of probation.

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WEEK IN REVIEW Saratoga Spring Water Will Be Served at Presidential Inauguration

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SARATOGA SPRINGS – Whether the citizens of the United States vote this November to keep President Barack Obama in the Oval Office or choose to hand Mitt Romney the reigns, a presidential-sized thirst will be quenched by Saratoga Spring Water.

The spring water, which is sold in the iconic blue bottles all around the region and at the historic Saratoga Race Course, will be served to official guests of the 57th Presidential Inauguration ceremonies scheduled for January, 21, 2013. New York’s senior senator Chuck Schumer made the announcement at the Geyser Road bottling plant August 3. Schumer is involved as a member of the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies, which helps select food, beverages and performers for the inauguration ceremony.

Schumer toured the bottling facility, and afterward stated that the water has long been his beverage of choice, so the decision to include it at the inauguration was a “no brainer.”

Governor: Bath Salts, Synthetic Marijuana Officially Illegal to Possess or Sell ALBANY – New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo announced August 7 that the state’s Department of Health (DOH) has released new regulations aiming to crack down on

the increasing use of bath salts and synthetic marijuana.

The regulations were approved by the Public Health and Health Planning Council to expand the list of currently prohibited drugs and chemicals to include many more substances that are used to make the synthetic products. Distributors had been exploiting a loophole in the previous law which allowed them to simply modify the substance’s listed ingredients.

The regulations will also see that the first time an establishment or employee is caught, they will be charged with possession of an illicit substance. To make sure the law is followed, violators now face fines up to $500 and the possibility of 15 days in jail.

"Bath salts and other synthetic drugs pose a direct, serious threat to public health and safety, and we must do everything we can to remove these harmful substances from sale and distribution in New York," Governor Cuomo said. "The actions we are announcing today attack the problem by helping our law enforcement officers enforce the rules, expanding the list of banned substances used to manufacture bath salts, and imposing tougher penalties so those who sell these drugs are held accountable."

Bath Salts are sold under names including, White Lightning, Snow Leopard, Tranquility, Zoom, Ivory Wave, Red Dove, Vanilla Sky and others. Synthetic marijuana is sold as Spice, K2, Blaze and Red Dawn X among other names.

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Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012 Cuomo also announced a new tollfree hotline 1-888-99SALTS (1-888997-2587). Individuals with information about illegal distribution of bath salts or synthetic drugs are encouraged to call this hotline. For more information, visit www.health.ny.gov/professionals/narcotic/index.htm .

Schuylerville Teen Killed in Crash NISKAYUNA – Police have confirmed that a 16-year-old from Schuylerville died after a head-on collision in Niskayuna. Authorities say Nicholas Giovannone was not wearing a seat belt while he drove down Aqueduct Road around 4 p.m.

August 4.

Giovannone’s 1991 Honda reportedly crossed over the center lane and directly hit an on-coming 2002 Ford Taurus. The other driver, 25-year-old Joseph Mormon-Tibbs of Schenectady, was airlifted to Albany Medical Center with serious injuries Police say Giovannone’s speed was a factor in the crash, but have not determined how fast he was going at the time of the accident.

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Wendy Long to Debate at Skidmore College SARATOGA SPRINGS – Democratic U.S. junior senator Kirsten Gillibrand and her Republican challenger Wendy Long have agreed to a debate scheduled a few weeks before their November contest.

TODAY

Cable news outlets NY1 and YNN have said they will host a live debate between the two candidates at Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs October 17.

Gillibrand is embarking on her second campaign for Senate. She was appointed in 2009 to replace Secretary of State Hilary Rodham Clinton before winning an election in 2010, allowing her to finish the last two years of Clinton’s term.

Long is a New York City-based attorney who won a three-way Republican primary in June.

Bonacio Construction Announces Vibrant Commercial Mix at the Springs SARATOGA SPRINGS - Sonny Bonacio, president of Bonacio Construction announced the commercial tenants to occupy the first floor space at The Springs starting this fall, including a dry cleaner, daycare, and barbershop, leaving just one space available for lease.

The first to open will be Cudney’s Cleaners, followed by Learning to Know Daycare and Educational Center, and Major League Barbers.

The Springs are still in search of the right tenant for the last commercial space.

To hear more about Commercial Opportunities, please call Julie Bonacio 518-584-9007 or visit www.bonacio.com

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Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

Hall of Fame Inducts 2012 Class SARATOGA SPRINGS — The National Museum of Racing will induct its 2012 Hall of Fame class Friday at 10:30 a.m. at the Fasig-Tipton sales pavilion.

Jockeys John Velazquez and Anthony Hamilton, trainers Roger Attfield and Robert Wheeler, and racehorses Ghostzapper and Planet will be enshrined. Tom Durkin, the track announcer for the New York Racing Association, will serve as the event’s master of ceremonies.

The ceremony is free and open to the public. The inductions will also be available through a live stream available on the Museum’s website at www.racingmuseum.org as well as on www.fasigtipton.com.

Radio coverage will be provided by Horse Racing Radio Network.

Through August 6, Velazquez has won 4,841 races and has earned more than $268 million in his career. He won the Eclipse Award for Outstanding Jockey in 2004 and 2005 and led all North American riders in earnings during those years. He led all New York jockeys in wins from 2001 through 2004 and set a record with 65 wins at Saratoga in 2004.

Velazquez has won 22 riding titles at New York Racing Association tracks and has nine Breeders’ Cup wins. He posted 50 Grade 1 wins from 2006 through 2011. Velazquez won the Kentucky Derby in 2011 with Animal Kingdom and the Belmont Stakes in 2007 with Rags to Riches and 2012 with Union Rags. His other major victories include the Travers, Alabama, Champagne, Sanford, Personal Ensign, Whitney, King’s Bishop, Hollywood Derby, and Kentucky Oaks.

Through August 6, Roger Attfield has saddled the winner of 1,745 races and has purse earnings of more than $90 million. He has won the Sovereign Award for Outstanding Canadian Trainer a record eight times and trained three Canadian Triple Crown winners (Izvestia, With Approval, and Peteski). Attfield has won a record-tying eight runnings of the Queen’s Plate and seven editions of the Canadian Breeders’ Stakes. He won his first Breeders’ Cup race in 2011 when Perfect Shirl took the Filly and Mare Turf. Attfield is a mem-

ber of the Canadian Racing Hall of Fame. The many other stakes races he has won in the United States include the Wood Memorial, Flower Bowl, Shadwell Turf Mile, Maker’s Mark Mile, Elkhorn, Yellow Ribbon, Orchid, and Carter Handicap.

Robert Wheeler, whose career spanned from 1938 through 1992, won 1,336 races and trained for prominent owners such as C.V. Whitney, J. Rukin Jelks, Greentree Stable, and Nelson Bunker Hunt. He conditioned 56 stakes-winning horses, including 1982 Champion Older Female Track Robbery. The majority of his career predates the grading of races, but from 1976 on he won 18 of the 69 (26 percent) graded stakes his horses ran in and 44 of his 175 (25 percent) overall stakes attempts. In 1959 and 1960, Wheeler’s West Coast-based division included Tompion, winner of the Santa Anita Derby, Blue Grass Stakes, and Malibu, and the distaff pair of Bug Brush and Silver Spoon.

Bug Brush won six stakes at 4 and set a world record the day she beat males Hillsdale and Terrang in the San Antonio Stakes. Silver Spoon, a member of the Hall of Fame, won 10 stakes in two years, including the trainer’s first of back-to-back wins in the Santa Anita Derby, in which she defeated Preakness winner Royal Orbit. He also sent out five winners of the Hollywood Juvenile Championship, which prior to the Breeders’ Cup era was one of the nation’s top races for 2-year-olds.

From 1959 through 1969, Wheeler was on the leaders list of the top 30 North American trainers seven times in terms of earnings. His division accounted for more than 60 percent of the earnings of the C.V. Whitney stable when it led all owners in 1960.

Ghostzapper (Awesome AgainBaby Zip, by Relaunch) won 9 of 11 career starts and earned $3,446,120. He was named Horse of the Year and Champion Older Male in 2004 when he posted a 4for-4 record. Trained by Hall of Fame member Bobby Frankel, Ghostzapper won the 2004 Breeders’ Cup Classic in stakesrecord time, covering the 1¼mile distance in 1:59.02. That

year, he also won the Woodward Stakes, Tom Fool Handicap, and Iselin Handicap.

At 3, Ghostzapper won the Vosburgh Stakes. He closed out his career with a victory in the Metropolitan Handicap at age 5.

Ghostzapper raced for Frank Stronach and is currently a stallion at Stronach’s Adena Springs in Kentucky.

Foaled in Virginia at Maj. Thomas W. Doswell’s Bullfield Stable in 1855, Planet was sired

by Revenue out of the Boston mare Nina. Planet was a sensation from the start. He made his debut with a victory over four others in mile heats for a purse of $10,750 in Fairfield, Va., on May 4, 1858, and went on to establish a record for career purse earnings

that stood for 20 years. Planet displayed his remarkable skill and versatility by compiling a record of 27-4-0 from 31 starts and earning $69,700. Known as “The Great Red Fox,” Planet was regarded by many turf experts to be second only to the mighty Lexington among the greatest American racehorses prior to the Civil War.

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Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

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Safer Roads for Walking or Biking Fasig-Tipton Saratoga continued from Page 1 “At present, the school district has a policy allowing each school to establish whether or not walking is recommended,” said Maynard. “In the case of Geyser Elementary, it was deemed not currently appropriate, so kids are not allowed to by that policy to either walk or bike to school.”

The “Safe Routes to School” program aims to improve the health and well-being of students in kindergarten all the way to eighth grade by encouraging them to walk or bike to school while ensuring they will be safe from motorists on busier streets. The program also hopes to encourage more active lifestyles in younger students by giving them the opportunity to walk or bike.

During the presentation, Maynard stressed the importance of applying for this federal money right away, before the program is consolidated.

“This is the last chance that we will have Safe Routes program application potential. The program

is slated to be eliminated and will be folded into larger, overarching principles in terms of a program, so it won’t function on its own as the Safe Routes to School program, and this is the last opportunity to look at this particular item specifically about walking and biking to school.”

There is currently $1.2 million in federal grants set aside for this region, but it was not revealed what the project involving Geyser Road Elementary could cost. The minimum application amount being considered is set at $50,000.

Superintendent Piccirillo spoke on behalf of the school district and thanked the city for the opportunity.

“It is great to be able to collaborate with the city,” stated Piccirillo.

“Geyser Road was an excellent choice for this type of project. It’s one of our schools that we do not allow students to access the campus because we feel it’s not safe. The city reached out to the district and engaged us. That’s very important to us because we need to have a strong

partnership of that nature.”

Piccirillo sees this as an opportunity to not only make Geyser Road Elementary more easily accessible, but also the rest of the buildings in the district.

“We hope that what this ends up being, for all of us, is a model to replicate out for future partnerships, but also replicate out for the district how best to go about developing Safe Routes to School-type of projects for all of our other buildings in the district,” said Piccirillo.

The city council would vote later in the evening to begin the process of obtaining the grant. Before the public comment period, where five members of the public would voice their support, Mayor Scott Johnson acknowledged that the Geyser Road School would give the city its best shot at federal money.

“I think it’s a wonderful partnership that we’ve developed with the school district,” stated Johnson.

“Every school in the city has an argument to be made along the same lines, but [Geyser Road] was best for development because it also helps a sort of underserved segment of our community. It also gives us the best chance at receiving the grant.”

Selected Yearling Sales continued from Page 1 While the $1,575,000 bid by Todd Pletcher on the daughter of Medaglia d’Oro and Wait a While exceeded last year’s high bid of $1.2 million, the overall sales numbers at the Humphrey S. Finney Pavilion were down compared to 2011, in part due to a slow start Monday. Gross sales over the two-day period declined 2.7 percent compared to 2011, from $32,892,000 last year to $32,000,000 for 2012.

Monday sales at Fasig-Tipton totaled $13,590,000 over 52 horses sold, as compared to the $16,155,000 spent across 49 yearlings in 2011. But wallets opened up dramatically Tuesday evening, with 55 Thoroughbreds selling for a combined $18,410,000, as compared to $16,737,000 over 54 horses last year.

The average sales price for 2012 declined 6.3 percent to $299,065, compared to 2011, while the median price dropped 10 percent to $225,000.

While 103 horses were sold in 2011, 107 horses were bought in 2012, translating into a 3.9 percent increase. The buy-back rate also increased from 22 percent to 34 percent. A total of 55 horses went unsold, compared to 29

unsold Thoroughbreds in 2011.

The biggest spender at the 2012 sales was none other than manager John Ferguson, who put down $3,325,000 for eight yearlings. Though Ferguson was the biggest buyer at the sales, the number pales in comparison to 2011, when Ferguson purchased 13 horses for $8,530,000.

The next highest bidder was Sheikh Hamdan of Shadwell Estate Co. (brother of Sheikh Mohammed), who spent $1.5 million across three yearlings.

Following Pletcher’s $1,575,000 purchase of the gray/roan filly, the next highestselling yearling went for $1.2 million to Ferguson on a Thoroughbred sired by Street Cry. Stonestreet and George Bolton were listed as the buyer of the third-highest selling horse of the sales, a $1.1 million purchase on a horse sired by Empire Maker.

Pletcher, Ferguson, and Stonestreet and George Bolton were the only buyers to spend seven-figures at the sales.

Fasig-Tipton will begin their New York-bred selected yearling sales in Saratoga Springs Saturday, August 11 – Sunday, August 12.

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Volunteers Crucial to Visitor Center continued from Page 1 The center is more than just a place to pick up brochures and pamphlets about the local sights and events (though there is certainly no shortage of them), and offers several small exhibits looking at the history of the city’s transportation, government, recreation and even fashion. Pictures of contemporary artists performing at Saratoga Performing Arts Center line the hallway, featuring artists such as Bruce Springsteen and Art Garfunkel. A perennial garden maintained by the Heritage Area Garden Club surrounds the back patio all year round.

According to Roberts, what makes the center truly special is the involvement of numerous volunteers from all over Saratoga County.

She estimates about 40 people give their time to educate and promote the city’s history, culture and resources.

“All of the people who greet you and assist you when you walk in the

door are volunteers, so we are really heavily indebted to the public at large,” said Roberts. “Some of our volunteers even travel, not all of them are from Saratoga. Some come as far as Rexford, Clifton Park, Mechanicville and Gloversville.”

Along with history, you can find out what’s yet to come for Saratoga Springs, whether it’s their on-going summer concert series in Congress Park or posters promoting the 150th anniversary of Thoroughbred racing in Saratoga in 2013.

“People come here and they could be on their way to or from anywhere. We keep information about all kinds of different places located all around the state,” said Roberts. “Usually what happens by being so helpful and service-oriented, we find that people sometimes decide to stay here in the city.”

To look around at the building’s interior and exterior decorum allows anyone hoping to learn more about the city’s history a brief sum-

mary of some of its most significant events. The front of the building features four large murals above the front door, depicting scenes ranging from a pivotal moment in the Revolutionary War when British General John Burgoyne’s surrendered to American General Horatio Gates following the Battle of Saratoga in 1777, or when the native Mohawks brought Sir William Johnson to High Rock Spring, making him the first white man to set foot there.

The building was constructed in 1915, and was originally used as a trolley station by the Hudson Valley Railway Company. The ticket counter along with two long, wooden benches remain in the building to serve as a functional reminder of its past. In 1941, the building would convert from a trolley hub and transform into a hub of hydration after New York State assumed control of the building and began operating a water drinking hall.

“Locals often call this the old

Photo by MarkBolles.com

Visitor Center Drink Hall, because when the trolleys stopped running, the state took over the building and operated a state drink hall where everyone could come and drink many of the bottled waters,” said Roberts.

“People would literally come here, buy bottled water and drink it here.”

The drink hall would close in 1965, but a large electric icebox and murals depicting the springs still remain on display at the center.

From there, the building would be used for different local and federal agencies.

“During the mid-sixties, the city

took over the building and it was used as office space, but also the city’s youth commission operated out of here. I remember going to junior high dances that were held out back; it was very fun,” said Roberts with a laugh.

The building was eventually named to National Register of Historic Places as well as being designated a city landmark. The Heritage Area Visitor Center would officially open its doors in 1987 and has offered tourists the information they’ve come looking for ever since.

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OBITUARIES

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

TODAY

Curvin Gingrich O’Rielly Jr.

Pauline S Schaff Pauline S Schaff, age 79, passed away Friday, August 3, 2012.

She was born August 20, 1932 in Schuylerville, NY, to the late Albert Mike Almy and Dortha Blanchard.

Pauline is survived by her sisters Marylou Folts, Patricia Kail, Alice Williams, Charlene Ennis and Joyce Salmon.

She is preceded in death by her parents, son Owen Almy, brothers Albert Almy Jr. and William Almy; sisters Joan Van Aernam, Nancy Eveland and Carol Almy.

Funeral service were held Tuesday August 7, 2012.

Beatrice C. Monroe Saratoga Springs, NY - Beatrice C. Monroe, “Bea,” passed away Tuesday, July 31, 2012. She was 65 years young.

Bea leaves behind her husband of 45 years, Albert Monroe; her son Richard

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Monroe; her daughter Kim Monroe; step-son Albert Monroe; several grandchildren and many wonderful friends as well as her cat, Shadow. Funeral services were Saturday, August 4, 2012.

Rose Kathryn Matt Saratoga Springs, NY – Rose Kathryn Matt, 3 months short of 90 years, died peacefully in her sleep May 25, 2012. Rose was born on August 23, 1922, the daughter of the late Anthony F. Matt and mother Lena I. Viscosi Matt.

Rose is survived by her two sons, Robert S. Marchese of Saratoga Springs, NY, and Bruce A. Marchese of Glenmont, NY; Robert’s daughter Emily of Saratoga Springs, NY; and also many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was closely predeceased by her older brother John L. Matt and her sisterin-law Grace Jean Massaro, both of Rutger St. in Utica (1948 co-founders of Matt Funeral Services, Inc.).

Services were Tuesday, July 31, 2012.

Curvin Gingrich O’Rielly Jr., of Saratoga Springs, NY, died August 3, 2012.

Curvin was born the son of Curvin G. O’Rielly and Marcella Olson O’Rielly on December 14, 1941, in Barberton, Ohio.

Survivors include his loving partner, Barbara Michelson of New York, NY; his sister, Kate O’Rielly of Lake Oswego, OR; his ex-wife, Lois Kramer-Metraux of Old Greenwich, CT; his children, MaryAnn Waring (Dave Sculley) of Newburyport, MA, Kirstin O’Rielly Drabek (Darren) of Saratoga Springs, NY, Curvin Gingrich “C.G.” O’Rielly III of Norwalk, CT, Erin O’Rielly of San Francisco, CA; and his four grandchildren, Tristan, Elizabeth, Charlotte and Teddy.

A memorial service will be held this December in New York City.

Beatrice R. Angelini Saratoga Springs, NY - Beatrice R. Angelini passed away Sunday, August 5, 2012. She was 88.

Born on October 13, 1923 in Corona, NY, she was the daughter of the late James and Elizabeth DeSetto.

In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her husband Raymond R. Angelini, who passed away in 2002; two brothers, James and Franklin DeSetto and two sisters, Ronnie DeSetto and Florence Maag.

Survivors include her son, Dr. Raymond F. (Mary) Angelini of Saratoga Springs; her daughter, Barbara Taverna of Clifton Park; six grandchildren, Christina Palleja, Paul Taverna, Elizabeth, Melissa, Matthew and Michael Angelini; three great-grandchildren, Marissa, Anthony and Brianna Palleja and several nieces and nephews.

Services are 11 a.m. Friday, August 10, 2012 at St. Clement’s Church, 231 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs.

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 Eric Havens at ehavens@saratogapublishing.com.

Saratoga County Deceased Veteran of the Month Charles Edward Ovitt The Saratoga County Veterans Service Agency has named Charles Edward Ovitt the August 2012 Deceased Veteran of the Month. Ovitt will be honored Tuesday, August 21 during a public ceremony. The ceremony begins at 2:30 p.m. at 40 McMaster St. in Ballston Spa, and is followed by a reception.

Ovitt, born May 2, 1918, enlisted in the U.S. Army from 1942 – 1945. He fought in three major battles in the European theater of operations during World War II. After the war, Ovitt returned to work for the town of Hadley, as well as the Bancroft Concrete Co. Ovitt is survived by his wife, Caroline Ovitt; his daughter, Carol Ann Grey; and his son, Charles E. Ovitt Jr.

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Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

Saratoga Springs City Council for 8/6

by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS – While there wasn’t much excitement planned for their August 7 meeting, the Saratoga Springs City Council tackled an agenda heavy with appointments, announcements, budget transfers and scheduled public hearings for later this month.

After the public hearing regarding an amendment to the Capital Budget for the police department’s infrastructure saw no speakers, the council saw a presentation from the city’s senior planner Kate Maynard and Saratoga Springs City School District Superintendent Michael Piccirilo. They spoke regarding the opportunity to obtain federal funding to develop the area leading to Geyser Road Elementary School in order to make the route safer for children who wish to walk or bike to school. The council would unanimously vote to continue pursuing the grant money later in the evening.

The usual public comment period at the start of the meeting was rolled into the comment period for the presentation for a safer route to Geyser Road Elementary. Five different people spoke in support of pursuing the money, including Molly Gagné of the Southwest Neighborhood Association, who asked the council to make sure they are in contact with CDTA in regards to the bus stops along the route, as people were currently “standing in ditches” waiting for public transportation.

Mayor Scott Johnson chimed in soon after, assuring Gagné that the proper calls had been made to CDTA and that they were working on the situation.

Returning to address city council was Rose Oropallo, the 9/11 first-responder who is in a legal quagmire with the city over property which she says was auctioned off by the city, despite still technically belonging to her. Oropallo spoke quickly, but her message was clear: give me back my land.

The story of Oropallo and her husband being duped by a Ponzi scheme has rallied the community behind their cause, with another speaker behind Oropallo urging the city to stop “perpetuating this

wrong,” and asked why the city doesn’t seem interested in helping.

The city’s 2011 audit was also presented during the meeting with Willard G. Reynolds from Bollam, Sheedy, Torani and Co. offering “clean opinion” on the city’s finance. Reynolds pointed out that the $1 million tax stabilization fund that the city has wasn’t much and could be wiped out relatively quickly, but that about 75 percent of the municipalities he audits have no such fund to speak of.

Once again being brought forth by the public were cries to do more to help preserve the New York City Ballet’s residency at Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC). The ballet, which normally resides at the venue for two weeks, announced earlier this year that they would be reducing their typical stay from two weeks down to just one beginning in 2013.

SPAC officials have cited rising costs associated with hosting the ballet as well as lackluster attendance as the reasons behind the move.

Over the last three council meetings, members of the community have asked the council to do more to ensure the ballet can return to the full two week residency. The council voted in July on a resolution affirming their “strong support for collaboration and cooperation” between the ballet and SPAC to continue working together.

A speaker during the public comment period challenged the council to do more, stating that the charges that their vote was “largely symbolic” ring true unless any action could be taken.

Critics of SPAC’s decision claim this sets a precedent for the ballet to be cut completely somewhere down the line.

SPAC President Marcia White has stated previously her desire to keep the ballet, but that it would need to be financially sustainable.

A number of hearings were scheduled for the council’s August 20 meeting regarding parking along Woodlawn Avenue between Division and Church street, as well as further hearings regarding Capital Budget Amendments for the Lake Avenue fire station and the police staion.

Malta Town Board

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY MALTA – The Malta Town Board met Monday, August 6, for their regularly scheduled meeting, where new officials were appointed, construction along the Zim Smith Trail was discussed and a mass gathering permit submitted by Saratoga Festivals, LLC, for an Oktobeerfest celebration was approved.

Audrey Ball, director of parks, recreation and human services for the town of Malta, alerted the town board that a contract they were set to award later in the meeting for construction on the Zim Smith Trail might have to wait. Ball informed the board about recent plans submitted by the Saratoga County Sewer District Number 1, which intends to begin construction work of its own that could intersect with the trail.

While how much the sewer district’s project would interfere with the trail was unknown at the time of the meeting, Ball hoped to avoid any duplication of services, where the town would first complete their construction project, only to have it dug up and rebuilt shortly thereafter by the county.

Before Ball’s report, the town

board was set to vote on awarding a $898,500 contract to Kubricky Construction. The project will link the Zim Smith Trail to the Luther Forest Technology Campus and repave sections of the trail.

Though the town will have to complete the project before asphalt plants close in the fall, the board hopes to have more information about the county’s plans by August 20, when they will reconvene and reconsider the contract. Ball and the board members expressed optimism that the trail could still be completed, despite the potential delay of twoweeks.

Three new officials were also appointed at the Monday meeting.

Dom Refino was appointed to fill the animal control officer position, and was approved 4-1 by the board.

Councilman Peter Klotz was the one dissenting vote (although he did wish Refino success in his new position). Refino takes over for Don Stack, who retired at the end of July.

Peter Ostrander was also appointed to the deputy animal control officer

position, replacing the retired Chuck Sovern.

James Fauci was appointed unanimously by the board to fill the town justice position, which was vacated

by James Nichols Sr. earlier this year.

Near the end of the meeting, the board approved a mass gathering permit submitted by Saratoga Festivals, LLC, which plans to hold on Oktobeerfest celebration in the fall. The permit will allow the organization to host 500 people or more during their event.

Looking ahead, the board rescheduled their September meeting to Tuesday, September 4. The September 4 meeting will be preceded by a public hearing, when the town will consider a joint fire station approval certificate of incorporation.

The certificate would allow the Malta Ridge and Round Lake fire stations to establish a new corporation, allowing them to pool their resources to build and operate a new fire station in downtown Malta.

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SARATOGA

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Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

TODAY

Local Gigs Week of 8.10-8.16:

Send listings to entertainment@saratogapublishing.com

Friday, 8.10:

•Frank Chase, 7 pm

•Blue Angel, 9 pm

•Parrot Beach Buffet Tribute, 6:30 pm

@ 9 maple avenue - 587.7759

•13/4 feat. Party Boat, 9 pm @ bailey’s - 583.6060

•Jamcrackers, 8 pm @ caffè lena - 583.0022

•Funk Evolution, 9 pm @ dango’s - 587.2022

•Rich Ortiz, 9 pm @ gaffney’s - 587.7359

•GRAVITY, 9:30 pm @ irish times - 583.0003 •Peg & Bill Delaney w/Brian Melick, 8:30 pm @ one caroline street - 587.2026

•The McKrells, 9 pm @ the parting glass - 583.1916

•Just Nate, 6:30 pm @ primelive ultra lounge - 583.4563

•Sly Fox & The Hustlers, 10 pm @ putnam den - 584.8066

•Total Soul, 6:30 pm @ siro’s - 584.4030

•The Refrigerators, 8 pm @ vapor - 581.5772

@ seven horse pub - 581.0777 @ siro’s - 584.4030

•DJ Playground, 9 pm @ vapor - 581.5772

Sunday, 8.12: •Sonny and Perley, 7 pm @ caffè lena - 583.0022

•The Vibratones, 8 pm @ dango’s - 587.2022

•Franklin McCare, 8 pm @ gaffney’s - 587.7359

•Jeff Brisbin, 6 pm @ irish times - 583.0003

•Jeff Strange, 8 pm @ the parting glass - 583.1916

•Vivid (from CT), 6:30 pm @ siro’s - 584.4030

Thursday, 8.16: •Vivid (from Saratoga), 8 pm @ dango’s - 587.2022

•Garland Nelsen w/Soul Session, 8 pm @ gaffney’s - 587.7359

Saturday, 8.11:

•Black Abbey, 8:30 pm

•Todd Nelson’s TN3, 9 pm

•Joe’s Boys, 8:30 pm

@ 9 maple avenue - 587.7759

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

•Jon Shain & Danny Gotham, 8 pm @ caffè lena - 583.0022

•Even the Odd, 9 pm @ dango’s - 587.2022

•Rick Bolton & Saratoga All Stars, 9 pm @ gaffney’s - 587.7359

•Grand Central, 9 pm @ the parting glass - 583.1916 •Jeanee O’Connor w/ Peg & Bill Delaney, 7:30 pm @ panza’s - 584.6882

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

•Headband Jack, 10 pm @ putnam den - 584.8066

@ irish times - 583.0003 @ the parting glass - 583.1916

•Stone Revival Band, 10 pm @ putnam den - 584.8066

Open Mics: •Sun. Open Mic, 7 pm @ bailey’s - 583.6060

•Mon. w/Steve Candlen, 8 pm @ irish times - 583.0003

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

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

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

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

SARATOGA

TODAY

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

PULSE

Red and Gold Gala to Host Academy Award-Winning Composer John Corigliano LAKE LUZERNE - American composer John Corigliano will appear in a “Red and Gold Gala” concert, reception and dinner at Luzerne Music Center as part of a composerin-residence program Sunday, August 12 at 5 p.m.

The evening will begin with a concert featuring the Luzerne Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Albany Symphony music director David Alan Miller.

The Orchestra will perform works by Corigliano, to include: “The Red Violin Suite” (1999), which won an Academy Award for Original Music Score, and “Three Hallucinations” (1981), based on the film score to “Altered States.”

Celebrated American solo violin virtuoso Elizabeth Pitcairn, president, CEO and artistic director of the Luzerne Music Center, will join the Orchestra for “The Red Violin Suite” in partnership with her legendary Red Mendelssohn Stradivarius of 1720, said to have inspired the Academy Award-winning film “The Red Violin.”

The concert will be followed by a reception, with silent auction, gala dinner and live

auction featuring a private island vacation in the Bahamas for up to 12 guests. Tickets for the concert, reception and dinner are $150 per person, $500 for a table of four and $1,000 for a table of eight. Concert-only tickets are available for $50 each. All proceeds will benefit the Luzerne Music Center.

Elizabeth Pitcairn and her “Red Violin” have had a long association with Corigliano, and it was at Pitcairn’s behest that he agreed to come to the Luzerne Music Center for the gala and a four-day residency. Over the residency, Corigliano, will coach the center’s students, faculty members and festival guest artists in the presentation of his works.

“We are looking forward to presenting the Red and Gold Gala and are especially grateful to the Adirondack Trust Company for its generous underwriting of Mr. Corigliano’s residency at Luzerne Music Center.

Opportunities like this are critical to the mission of our music center: building young artists and audiences of the future,” stated Pitcairn.

Luzerne Music Center is a 501 (c)3 nonprofit educational organization that is both a

summer performing arts center and a rustic Adirondack summer camp for talented musicians, ages nine - 18. The Center prides itself on presenting world-class performers, composers and conductors as part of its curriculum.

Corigliano continues to add to one of the richest, most unusual and most widely celebrated bodies of work any composer has created over the last 40 years. His numerous scores — including three symphonies and eight concerti among over 100 chamber, vocal, choral and orchestral works — have been performed and recorded by many of the most prominent orchestras, soloists, and chamber musicians in the world.

Corigliano serves on the composition faculty at the Juilliard School of Music and holds the position of distinguished professor of music at Lehman College, City University of New York, which has established a scholarship in his name.

Those interested in attending the Red and Gold Gala may order tickets online at www.luzernemusic.org or contact Sarah Kline, events coordinator, at (518) 368-7204 and events@luzernemusic.org.

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Conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin and Composer Jennifer Higdon Headline Pre-Performance Talk at SPAC SARATOGA SPRINGS – Yannick Nézet-Séguin, one of the world’s most sought-after conductors, and Jennifer Higdon, a Pulitizer Prizewinning American composer, will come together at Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC)

Friday, August 10 at 7 p.m. in the Hall of Springs to share insights with Orchestra audiences at a special preperformance talk. Two towering figures in the classical music world, Nézet-Séguin and Higdon will be discussing the August 10 Orchestra pro-

gram, which features Higdon’s critically acclaimed “Concerto for Orchestra,” a 2002 orchestral work which will have its SPAC debut later that evening. Tickets to the pre-talk are $5 and available at www.spac.org or at the box office. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis and limited to 80 participants.

“We are thrilled to offer audiences a pre-performance talk ‘dream team’ on August 10 as Yannick NézetSéguin and Jennifer Higdon come together to share insights on the evening’s program before the curtain rises,” said Marcia J. White, SPAC’s president and executive director.

“This is a not-to-be-missed opportunity to experience two of classical music’s greatest talents in an up-close and personal setting. We are proud to offer audiences rich opportunities like this one as part of our highly regarded pre-performance talk series.”

One of the most sought-after con-

ductors on the international classical music scene, Yannick Nézet-Séguin has been widely praised by audiences, critics and artists alike for his musicianship, dedication and charisma. A native of Montreal, NézetSéguin made his Philadelphia Orchestra debut in 2008, and in June of 2010 was named the Orchestra’s next music director, a post he takes up with the 2012-13 season. The Philadelphia Inquirer proclaimed his appointment as the Orchestra’s next music director as “the number one classical music event of the year.” He is also the music director of the Rotterdam Philharmonic, principal guest conductor of the London Philharmonic and artistic director and principal conductor of Montreal’s Orchestre Métropolitan. NézetSéguin made his SPAC debut Wednesday, August 8, the first of three consecutive programs he will conduct at SPAC this season. In September, Nézet-Séguin becomes the eighth music director of The Philadelphia Orchestra, one of the “Big Five” American orchestras.

Pulitzer Prize-winner Jennifer Higdon is one of the most performed living American composers working today. A major figure in contemporary classical music, Higdon com-

Yannick Nézet-Séguin • photo by Marco Borggreve

pletes between 5-10 pieces a year representing a range of genres, from orchestral to chamber and from choral and vocal to wind ensemble.

Hailed by the Washington Post as "a savvy, sensitive composer with a keen ear, an innate sense of form and a generous dash of pure esprit," Higdon's list of commissioners is extensive and includes The Philadelphia Orchestra, The Chicago Symphony, The Atlanta Symphony, The Baltimore Symphony and The Cleveland Orchestra, as well as such groups as the Tokyo String Quartet and the President's Own Marine Band. Higdon received the 2010 Pulitzer Prize in music for her “Violin Concerto,” with the committee citing Higdon’s work as a “deeply engaging piece that combines flowing lyricism with dazzling virtuosity.” She holds the Rock Chair in Composition at The Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia.

The pre-performance talk will be followed by The Philadelphia Orchestra’s 8 p.m. program, which features Yannick Nézet-Séguin leading a program that includes Higdon’s “Concerto for Orchestra”; Prokofiev’s “Violin Concerto No. 1” and Tchaikovsky’s “Symphony No. 2.” The soloist for the evening is Arabella Steinbacher, a young German-Japanese violinist who has emerged as one of today’s leading violinists on the international concert scene. Steinbacher, who regularly performs with the world’s major orchestras, made her first appearance at SPAC in 2009. She has received numerous recording honors including the ECHO-Klassik Award, two German Record Critics Awards and the Editors Choice Award from Gramophone magazine.

Tickets and more information are available at www.spac.org, by calling (518) 584-9330 or at the Route 50 box office.

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PULSE

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

One Fine Day for Shelters of Saratoga

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS Shelters of Saratoga (SOS) has “One Fine Day” planned for Tuesday, August 21: an afternoon tea party fundraiser at Union Gables for the only adult emergency shelter in Saratoga, Warren and Washington counties.

The fundraiser, held from 1 - 4 p.m. at 55 Union Avenue, will include traditional tea party fare

by Maestro’s at the Van Dam (including vegan and gluten-free options), locally blended organic teas by Schenectady’s Divinitea, live music by the Garland Nelson Ensemble of Soul Session, silent auctions and more, all for a good cause.

“We’ve increased our capacity and just added an additional 13 beds to our facility here,” said Cindy Harrington, director of marketing and development for SOS. “Because we’re a nonprofit, we are always in need of additional funds to help support our programs and the shelter.

Saratoga is such a beautiful place,” she added, “that sometimes people aren’t really aware that homelessness does exist here.”

The afternoon event, which calls for guests to don “tea party attire,” will also showcase specialty booths from local businesses, as well as a suite of silent auction items to bid on.

“We’ll have several different baskets featuring products from some of our local businesses,” said Harrington. “We have a couple different golf packages, including one for a Naples, Florida resort for a week-long stay.”

“The goal of Shelters of Saratoga’s summer fundraiser, One Fine Day, is to increase that awareness and secure support for the provision of needed services,” said Peter Whitten executive director of SOS in a written statement. “[Our] goal is to do more than provide temporary help; we aim to empower our guests and assist them in developing life skills that will help them to permanently overcome homelessness.

Reservations for One Fine Day are $60 per person, or $50 for

guests under 35 or over 65. To learn more information or to make reservations for the event, please call (518) 581-1097 or

visit www.sheltersofsaratoga.org.

Interested parties are encouraged to make reservations by August 15.

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Mayhem Festival Correction: In last week’s review of the Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival, the lead guitarist for the band Slayer was incorrectly identified as Jeff Hanneman.

While Hanneman is the original guitarist for the band, he was replaced by Pat O’Brien of Exodus for the performance at SPAC while dealing with a medical issue. Saratoga TODAY regrets the error.

Pat O’Brien • photo provided

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SARATOGA

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

SCT Performs “The Music Man” SARATOGA SPRINGS - The Saratoga Children's Theatre presents four performances of “The Music Man,” Friday, August 10 and Saturday, August 11.

Located at the Bernhard Theatre (located on the Skidmore College campus), performances will be held at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. for both days.

Doors open 30 minutes before the show.

All tickets are general seating and sold at the door. Adults are $10; children 18 and under are $5.

For more information, visit www.saratogachildrenstheatre.org.

The Saratoga Children’s Theatre cast for “The Music Man.” • photo provided

TODAY

Saratoga Arts Seeks Fine Artists for Outdoor Exhibition S A R A T O G A SPRINGS - Saratoga Arts is looking to feature talented fine artists at their upcoming Art in the Park exhibition and sale - but the deadline for entry is fast approaching.

Artists hoping to display their original works September 15 in Congress Park are asked to register by Wednesday, August 15. The September 15 exhibition is scheduled from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Space is limited for this exhibition, and advanced registration is required. For fees and

registration form, interested parties may visit www.saratoga-arts.org/exhibitions, contact Saratoga Arts at (518) 584-4132 or email Sandra Natale at snatale@saratogaarts.org.

PULSE

SARATOGA

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Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

National Museum of Dance Hall of Fame to Induct Ben Vereen SARATOGA SPRINGS Michele Riggi, president of the National Museum of Dance and Hall of Fame, has announced that Broadway legend, dancer, singer and actor Ben Vereen will be honored Saturday, August 11, with an induction ceremony and gala launching him into the National Museum of Dance’s Hall of Fame.

Few entertainers today are as accomplished or versatile as Ben Vereen. His performances are legendary in the artistic community, celebrated for their ability to transcend time. Known for his passionate performances and wearing his heart on his sleeve, Vereen has carved out a place for himself in the country’s artistic legacy, a legacy which will be recognized at the August 11 ceremony.

On Broadway, Ben Vereen has appeared in “Wicked,” “I’m Not Rappaport,” “Hair,” “Jesus Christ Superstar,” “Pippin,”

“Grind,” “Jelly’s Last Jam,” and “A Christmas Carol.” His role in “Pippin” garnered him both the prestigious Tony Award and the Drama Desk award for “Best Actor in a Musical.”

For over 40 years, Vereen has showcased his versatility and creativity, performing countless one-man shows not only in the United States, but also Europe, Asia and the Caribbean. He was the first simultaneous winner of the “Entertainer of the Year,” “Rising Star” and “Song and Dance Star” awards from the American Guild of Variety Artists. He also earned a coveted spot in the Casino Legends Hall of Fame.

In 2011, he released his CD, “Steppin’ Out - Live with Ben Vereen,” and staged a triumphant return to Broadway with his concert Ben Vereen On Broadway At Town Hall.

Best known for his unforgettable role as Chicken George in

“Roots,” some of Vereen acting credits include: “How I Met Your Mother,” “Intruders: They are Among Us,” (for which he garnered an Emmy nomination), “The Jesse Owens Story,” “Ellis Island” (for which he was nominated for a Golden Globe), “An Accidental Friendship” (earning an NAACP Image Award nomination), “Ben Vereen: His Roots” (earning seven Emmy Awards), “Tenspeed and Brownshoe,” Louis Armstrong in “Louis Armstrong - Chicago Style,” and motion pictures “Sweet Charity,” “All That Jazz,” “Funny Lady” and “Why Do Fools Fall in Love,” to name a few.

Ben Vereen recently finished shooting the Disney television pilot Bunheads, starring Sutton Foster.

For more information on attending the induction ceremony and gala, visit www.dancemuseum.org

‘Dark Days, Starry Nights’ Series Continues with Free Concerts in Congress Park SARATOGA SPRINGS The 2012 Congress Park Summer Concert Series, presented by the Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center, will continue on Tuesday evenings in August from 7-8:30 p.m, featuring some of the best local talent and acts the region has to offer. The August series, “Dark Days, Starry Nights,” which are held during the Tuesday dark days of the Saratoga Race Course, began with the rollicking Betsy and the Byegons August 7.

Concerts are held at the War Memorial on the edge of the great lawn.

The series resumes August 14 with an encore performance by Gary Ferris - who returns to the series by popular demand.

Dressed in a World War II Army officer’s

uniform, historian and entertainer Ferris will re-create the kind of live radio show that was hosted by Bob Hope and Glenn Miller during the war, featuring songs from the era, letters from soldiers and their sweethearts as well as period ad spots. Ferris will deliver vocals for many songs of that decade.

For the August 21 performance, swing by the park for Travins and Tondreau.

Featuring the guitar and vocals of Doug Travins and Paul Tondreau, the duo spans multiple genres and decades with their repertoire.

Expect acoustic sound at its best from this popular pair, featuring blues, country and rock, old and new, covering the sounds of Brooks and Dunn, Billy Joel, Neil Diamond, John Mayer and more.

On August 28, the popular jazz duo Sonny and Perley will close the series. This highly-acclaimed jazz duo is known for their smooth styling of bossa nova, international cabaret and American songbook standards.

All concerts are weather permitting. In the case of inclement weather, please call the Visitor Center at (518) 587-3241 after 5 p.m. on the day of the concert to confirm the scheduled performance.

The Summer Concert Series is a program coordinated by the Saratoga Springs Heritage Visitor Center. This concert is made possible by the generous donations of the Adirondack Trust Company and Patrick Pipino of the Putnam Street Ben and Jerry’s.

photo provided

Ben Vereen

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BUSINESS

SARATOGA

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

TODAY

Custom Tailor La Sartoria Returns to Saratoga Springs

by Trina Lucas Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS Vincenzo MonTesano knows quality.

And he knows that people who appreciate quality will come back to him time and again.

In April, MonTesano’s La Sartoria of Saratoga reopened at 376 Broadway. (‘La sartoria’ is Italian for “the tailor shop.’) The new location is on the second floor of the historic Arcade building, with sweeping views of town which he refers to as “my television.” It is an ideal spot for this custom clothier whose priority is service. The space is bright and welcoming, with plenty of room for measuring, cutting and sewing. In fact, the sunlight and yards of fabric and colorful threads call to inspire creativity.

“Custom clothing is not made-tomeasure,” explains MonTesano in his deep Italian accent. “Custom means that if you show me a picture, I will create it for you. I will make the pattern, I will select fabrics for you to choose from and I will sew the piece to fit you and only you.”

With such attention to detail, it’s no wonder that La Sartoria has been selected by a New York designer to

create the samples for a spring/summer line being previewed during Fashion Week this September.

MonTesano’s next step is to produce his own ‘samples’ for men and women. He hopes to showcase them in a charity fashion show next spring, and produce a catalogue, an idea book, shortly thereafter.

His most immediate goal, however, is to relieve his stores of traditional inventory. Toward that end, La Sartoria currently has all stock on sale at least 50 percent off, with tropical wool, Italian suits priced at $250-550, from original prices of up to $1,200.

“Fabric costs nothing. I can buy fabrics in Italy and England and elsewhere in bulk. And until it is cut, I have not lost any money,” he states.

“But stocking ready-to-wear suits means I must wait until the right person walks in and tries one on. It is not cost effective for me.”

Because MonTesano buys large quantities of fabric, he can offer custom-made suit specials for men and women. For instance, one can choose from four classic solids and three stripes, and have a custom suit for about $1,600. Ordinarily, a custom suit would cost at least $1,500, before the cost of the fabric, which can start at more than $600.

La Sartoria provides much more than suits, though.

They can design and create casual clothing, ladies’ daywear, and, key in Saratoga Springs, cocktail and formal attire.

Made of the finest fabrics, with lasting quality, custom orders are turned around in two weeks or less, based on the customer’s needs.

M o n Te s a n o grew up next door to a tailor’s shop in his hometown of Bari, on the Adriatic coast of Italy. At age 11, he decided to ask for a job, and was put to work as an errand boy, making deliveries, posting mail and fetching coffee. Between the shop and the streets, he started picking up on the business and by 18, knew how to make a suit.

In 1973, MonTesano, then 21, came to the United States. He found his way to Schenectady and started working at the Boston Store in the former Mohawk Mall. They had been reluctant to hire him because of his youth, but he quickly proved he not only knew clothing, he also knew how to deliver the highest customer service. After just eighteen months, MonTesano left to open a shop of his own in Glenville’s Mayfair Shopping Center, providing suits for many GE executives. As the workforce there dwindled, he moved north, first to Clifton Park and then to Saratoga, opening La Sartoria of Saratoga at 506 Broadway (the site of the current Turkish Bazaar) in 2000.

“But the rent got too high,” says MonTesano. “It went up 4 percent every year, so after 11 years, I was paying $7,000 each month. And in the down economy, people weren’t buying enough suits or dresses.”

MonTesano reevaluated his business plan and temporarily relocated across the street to 489 Broadway, eliminating some inventory and shifting his focus to special orders and custom-made clothing. In the summer of 2011, he took another step back, closed the shop and went to Italy to reconnect with his roots. He visited with his mentor, brushed up on his skills and came back deter-

Photo by MarkBolles.com

Top: Vincenzo MonTesano works his magic at La Sartoria’s 376 Broadway location in Saratoga Springs. mined to stand out by remaining true to his standards of quality and service.

On a trip to New York City several years ago, Montesano had befriended a fellow tailor he met in a sewing supply store. The two shared common interests, values and goals, and in 2007, opened La Sartoria II together in downtown Schenectady. Thanks to his business partner, MonTesano was able to maintain the second location throughout his transitions in Saratoga.

Now the pair will operate both shops, providing custom clothing for men and women, with ready-made suits, Italian leather shoes and more available within days of a special order.

In addition, La Sartoria offers tuxedo rentals with alterations for all members of the wedding party.

MonTesano tells the story of a frantic bride whose bridesmaids realized their zippers were broken. The gentlemen had rented tuxedos from La Sartoria, so she called and asked if he could help. Within hours of the wedding, MonTesano put everything aside and replaced each zipper – in

dresses he hadn’t made or sold. It was simply a matter of customer service, just one of the things that sets him apart.

This commitment to service has earned La Sartoria new business from a New York boutique. The three-story Fifth Avenue store is contracting with MonTesano and his partner to handle all of their tailoring, including that coming when they open their new men’s store, also on Fifth. Both boutiques will send needed alterations via overnight delivery, and MonTesano will turn the items around within the week.

“For me, it is all about the customer service,” declares MonTesano. “I promise to give my customers what is needed to make them happy. I want them to feel good and if they don’t, I will do whatever I have to to make it so.”

La Sartoria of Saratoga is at 376 Broadway, on the second floor. For hours and appointments, call (518) 226-0641.

SARATOGA

TODAY

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

Cunningham’s Ice and Coin Laundry Celebrates 75 Years in Ballston Spa

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY BALLSTON SPA - The corner of Church Avenue and East High Street in Ballston Spa has hosted the Cunningham name for 75 years - first as a Chrysler Plymouth dealership in 1937, a laundromat in 1961 and eventually an ice business in 1975. Owned by Dave and Karen Avenarius, who purchased the business in 2003, Cunningham’s Ice and Coin Laundry continues to offers customers one convenient location for their laundry services, picking up their ice and for auto repair and sales services in the three-bay garage.

“This is the oldest laundromat still running in Ballston Spa,” said Dave Avenarius.

But while Cunningham’s may be the oldest, their laundry equipment is 21st century state-of-the-art quality.

“We did extensive rehab of the inside of the laundromat this winter,” said Avenarius. “We took out a lot of our outdated equipment and brought in a new Dexter line of washers and dryers - the best of what 2012 has to offer.”

Along with being the only airconditioned laundromat in Saratoga County, Cunningham’s

also boasts the area’s first eightload washing machines - great for large loads of laundry, king size comforters, pillows, sheets and more.

“We offer the hottest dryers and the hottest water for the best clean in Saratoga County,” added Avenarius. “We also bought a super-high efficiency hot water system.” The system helps Cunningham’s keep their energy costs and usage low, which enables them to pass along the savings to their customers.

Since purchasing the building in 2003, Avenarius has invested in many other upgrades. Their ice equipment has been upgraded, allowing them to provide seven and 20 pound bags of cubed ice, along with 10 pound blocks. The ice is sold to both residential and commercial clients.

The building itself has seen new floors, woodwork, repairs to the roof, the façade and a fresh coat of paint.

“One of my customers once told me that Cunningham’s was like a spa for her clothing,” said Avenarius.

To learn more about Cunningham’s Ice and Coin Laundry, visit www.cunninghamslaundromat.com, call (518) 8856788 or stop by their location at 9 Church Avenue in Ballston Spa.

photo provided

Cunningham’s Ice and Coin Laundry celebrates 75 years at 9 Church Avenue in Ballston Spa.

BUSINESS

17

Stephanie Ferradino Joins Couch White, LLP

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS Stephanie Ferradino, an attorney specializing in land use, real estate development, zoning and planning, has joined Couch White, LLP as a partner.

Ferradino, whose clients include GlobalFoundries, Saratoga Hospital and Callanan Industries, Inc., was a 2012 recipient of Saratoga TODAY’s Women of Influence award.

“I’m incredibly excited to be a part of such a talented firm,” said Ferradino, who believes her expertise in land use law will complement the existing business at Couch White.

“Couch White represents people who complete a lot of construction projects, but they don’t have anybody in their office at the very inception of the project to help their clients get the municipality’s approvals, which allows them to take the next

step.

That’s exactly where I come in,” said Ferradino.

Based in A l b a n y, N e w York, Couch White is a fullservice business law firm that focuses its practice on energy, construction, commercial and business, environmental and labor and employment law.

Ferradino will work out of their offices at 18 photo by MarkBolles.com Division Street in Stephanie Ferradino Saratoga Springs.

“Ms. Ferradino’s expertise in Couch White. “Her specialized land use and real estate develop- experience, coupled with strong ment/zoning and planning, along corporate and transactional legal with her strong commitment to the skills, will bring great value to Saratoga community, are a great the services we provide our asset to Couch White,” said clients. We are very excited to Leonard H. Singer, partner at have her on board.”

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TODAY

It’s Time to Relax- at the Spa!

by Christina James Saratoga TODAY The summer season in Saratoga can be stressful. While kids are enjoying their vacation from school, partygoers are attending galas every weekend night, and bettors are occupying the race course, the constant motion can wear a person out.

With all of your many obligations, it’s easy to forget something pretty important- yourself. That’s what makes August the perfect time to spoil yourself beautiful at Sanctuary Spa of Saratoga Springs.

A veritable haven of health and wellness, Sanctuary Spa is located in the center of it all, just one block off of Broadway on Railroad Place in downtown Saratoga Springs.

Housing the latest medical innovations, combined with more traditional spa services, Sanctuary Spa is a unique chance for mothers everywhere to recharge their batteries and recuperate from the hustle and bustle of the summer season.

“As soon as you enter the door,

wafts of aromatherapy will put your every care to the wayside,” said the spa’s marketing manager, Liz Harmon. “Spa services have become an essential choice to maintain a healthy mind, body and spirit.”

Opened in 2006 by Dr. Stanley Docyk and RN Debra Docyk, Sanctuary Spa sets an incredibly high standard for the services they offer and takes pride in staying current with the fast-paced beauty industry.

“Sanctuary is always growing,” said Harmon. “The Hydrafacial is our latest medical facial innovation which has been seen on ‘Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,’ and ‘The Doctors.’ This new non-invasive facial resurfacing treatment will leave you with more refined skin texture and tone, even just after one treatment.”

In addition to facials, the spa offers massages, manicures, pedicures and various other cosmetic procedures including cellulite reduction, Botox injections, laser

hair removal, hyper-pigmentation and wrinkle reduction. And after a trip to the spa’s relaxation room, you’ll leave feeling as good as you look!

The spa’s retail boutique carries an extensive line of skin care products ranging from YONKA Paris, Darphin to medical brands like Obagi and Neova. Gift items like Seda France candles, Mor cosmetics, Oka B sandals and Kaplan lip gloss are also available.

For more information about Sanctuary Spa or how to set your mom up with a day of relaxation, visit www.sanctuarysaratoga.com or call (518) 587-5219.

Photos Provided

Left: The inviting manicure/pedicure station; Top: The relaxation room at Sanctuary Spa; Bottom: Front Lobby

SARATOGA

TODAY

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

Sixth Annual Trooper Joseph Longobardo 5K Walk/Run

Register now for the September 2nd Sixth Annual Trooper Joseph Longobardo 5K Walk/Run, beginning at 10 a.m. at Saratoga Spa State Park. The event honors the memory of New York State Trooper Joseph Longobardo, who was killed in the line of duty September 3, 2006. The 5K race raises money for the Joseph A. Longobardo Scholarship at Amsterdam High School.

Kids are invited to participate in the kid’s fun run. Strollers and dogs are also welcomed to attend the race.

Register before August 19 for $20 and receive a complimentary Tshirt. Registration is $25 from August 20 – September 1, or $30 on the day of the race.

To register, visit www.active.com or www.finishright.com.

To learn more about Joseph Longobardo, visit www.longobardomemorial.org.

The Wesley Community Unveils Saratoga Springs Community Garden The Wesley Community unveiled a new community garden Tuesday, August 7. Located behind the Embury Apartments, the Saratoga Springs Community Garden contains more than 50 planting beds for joint use by Saratoga Springs and Wesley residents, many of whom would otherwise have nowhere to garden.

The Wesley Community president and CEO Brian Nealon (left) celebrated the occasion by harvesting vegetables with the garden’s volun-

teer coordinator Susan Bokan (center) and Mike Ingersoll (right) from the LA Group, which designed the project. Dozens of volunteers donated expertise, materials and hundreds of hours to planning and constructing the garden.

Happy Birthday J-Bird!

Love, Kristina, Mom, Dad and Katy

Community Corner

19

Happy Birthday Heather!

Hope you have a great day. You’re a great sister and a wonderful mom, we’re lucky to have you.

Love Aunt Tiff, Madison, Vince and Anthony

the

Tooth fairy club Take a look at this week’s new club member The tooth fairy club is sponsored by:

Jillian 659 Saratoga Rd. Gansevoort, NY 12831 (518) 226-6010

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Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

TODAY

Photos by Deborah Neary for MarkBolles.com

Left: Aidan Conley, Ambassador Earle Mack, John and Leona Velazquez; Right: Ramon and Sharon Dominguez, Maylan Studart, Anita and Graham Motion

Trina Lucas A Thoroughly Elegant Evening The Saratoga Springs City Center became the center of New York City on Sunday, August 5, as the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation celebrated their annual gala, “An Evening for the Thoroughbred.” Guests walked the red carpet into a makeshift Sardi’s, complete with caricatures on the wall of the barroom. The team from Mazzone Hospitality circulated with champagne and passed hors d’oeuvres. Prospective bidders like Susan and Shell Evans, Jeff Tarr, Catherine Moraetis, and Brad Weisbord browsed the silent art auction, while John and Leona Velazquez greeted Ambassador Earle Mack.

Just a few short steps from ‘Sardi’s,’ a gated entry welcomed everyone to Central Park.

Beyond the garden wall was a life-size mural of the famous city oasis. The setting, created by Fine

Affairs, was completed by a soft pretzel vendor and a traditional food cart. Spotted near the center fountain were jockey Edgar Prado and his wife, Liliana, as well as Beth Daly, Jeff Cohen, Jim and Rozie Gagliano, Laura Barillaro, Diane Parker and Ray and Francine Muccio. Lisa Beige, Gary Downey, and Salley and Al Pike enjoyed the park’s bubbly station. Agent Barry Berkelhammer shared stories with trainers Joe Orseno and Ralph Nicks, while their wives, Michelle and Stacy, chatted with Terri Pompay, Angelina Ramlall and jockey Rajiv Maragh. Three generations of the Hancock family, Dell, Debbie and Allison, toasted with Elizabeth Locke.

Back on the Sardi’s scene, Barbara Banke of Southstreet Thoroughbred Holdings, and owner of Kendall Jackson, arrived to visit with those sampling her estate’s Rachel Alexandra red.

Relaxing over a glass at the nearby high-top were Dan and Deb Morgan with friends Lori Blaker and Steven Prain. At the next table, Guadalupe and Joe Warren took a break together, while Anthony and Joan Mitola grabbed a seat to catch up with Jeffrey and Elisabeth Raine.

Caricature artist Phil Singer kept the ink flowing as he captured many of the attendees on their way into dinner, including Richard Morell, and Naima and Ara Kradjian. The crowd was definitely reluctant to trade the spirited cocktail lounge for the ballroom. Graham Motion, trainer of 2011 Derby Winner Animal Kingdom, lingered with his wife, Anita, jockeys Maylan Studart and Ramon Dominguez, and Dominguez’ wife, Sharon.

Capturing a Vision

Photos by Deborah Neary for MarkBolles.com

Left: Barbara Banke, owner of Kendall Jackson, signs a bottle of their Rachel Alexandra red for auction; Top Right: Michelle and Joe Orseno, Terri Pompay, Barry Berkelhammer, Stacy and Ralph Nicks, Angelina Ramlall and Rajiv Maragh; Bottom Right: Bryan Pettigrew, Shannon White, Eric Hamelback, Carlie Ambrose and Bob Curran The band soon relinquished the stage and hosts Tom Durkin and Carolyn Conley encouraged everyone to be seated for dinner. Standing in front of the New York City skyline, Durkin started with a story of the first time jackets were removed in the Saratoga Clubhouse following the lead of Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney. He ended the tale with a declaration that, for their own comfort, gentlemen in attendance should also feel free to remove their jackets, because due to a mechanical glitch, the room’s air conditioning was not working. So guests were about to truly experience a summer night in the city!

Conley and Durkin continued their witty

On Tuesday, August 7 the Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council (SCEOC) presented the newest collection of photographs being added to their continuing photo project “Estamos Aqui” (We are Here). Close to 250 guests mingled on the clubhouse porch for VISIÓN, “a look at life behind the scenes.”

Mentored by photographer Skip Dickstein, fifteen Latino immigrants documented their everyday lives, presenting an authentic picture of their experiences in Saratoga County. Upon arrival at the event, the black and white photographs called to attendees and spoke more than a thousand words hung on the lattice backdrops of the porch. Event chairs Cindy Photo Provided Munter and Michelle Paquette wound through the crowd, welcoming friends and thanking Event chairs Michelle Paquette (left) and Cindy Munter with supporters like Bob and Cathy Allen, Denise Bobby Flay

repartee, introducing TRF’s Diana Pikulski, who spoke briefly before dinner was served. The highlight of the evening, however, came later as Ogden Mills ‘Dinny’ Phipps was presented with the 2012 Earle Mack Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation Champion Award.

Endowed by Ambassador Earle Mack, himself a tireless advocate for the Thoroughbred racing and breeding industry, the award is given to those who have made significant contributions toward improving the safety and welfare of Thoroughbred horses during and after their racing careers. Ambassador Mack stated, “Dinny Phipps has lived a life of commitment and

Polit and Lisa Vitiello. They encouraged many to purchase raffle tickets for the framed photograph donated by Dickstein.

At 5:30 p.m., Julie Hoxsie, Executive Director of SCEOC, greeted everyone and spoke about the Latino Community Advocacy Program, the evening’s beneficiary. She then introduced the program coordinator, Krystle Nowhitney, who in turn introduced this year’s photographers, all immigrants, originally from Mexico, Guatemala, Panama and Peru. While every photo said something unique, there were stand-outs that had been pre-selected by jury.

Certificates of Honorable Mention were presented to Estuardo Ottoniel Del Cid Marroquin, Juan Aguayo, Exon Castillo Ortego, and Alfonso Rodriguez Garcia. Best in Show went to Elenterio Martinez Ramirez, a junior at

responsibility to Thoroughbreds. Under his chairmanship, The Jockey Club has taken the lead in moving the industry to deal with the complex issues surrounding retirement of Thoroughbred race horses when their racing careers are over.”

The celebration concluded with a live auction conducted by Fasig-Tipton. Donors of the select Stallion seasons included Darley Stud, Charles Fipke, Hill n Dale Farm, Kenneth Ramsey, Spendthrift Farm, Adena Stallions, Becky Thomas and Walmac Farm.

It was “An Evening for the Thoroughbred” indeed!

Saratoga Springs High School.

In his program statement, Ramirez said, “I think the world is like a great door of dreams, but opportunity will not find you, you have to find it.” He went on to express his gratitude to those who offer him help.

Following the brief presentation, festivities continued with summer cocktails courtesy of Saratoga Eagle, Chopin and Southern Wine & Spirits. Several congratulated the photographers on their significant accomplishment. Spotted chatting with two honorees were Leslie Benton and Linda LaRou. Others revisited the exhibit, choosing which photographs they wanted to order in prints.

Seen were committee members Mary Alice Lee and Tamie Ehinger, as well as Dr. Michael Ortiz and his wife, Julie, Angelo Calbone,

SARATOGA

TODAY

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

Dance Fever

around the perimeter. Ally and David Meyers, John Witt, Cari Endres and Janine Robinson sampled lasagna bites, eggplant parmesan, sushi, pot stickers, shrimp tempura and filet. For a sweet treat, there were psychedelic-colored cupcakes and truffle pops that Kate and Andrew Jarosh agreed were divine.

While the band took a much-needed break, the Rotchford’s called attention to the real reason for the party. Images of the littlest patients appeared on television monitors as Dr. Denny Snyder, a Saratoga native and one of the founders of Medical Missions for Children, took the stage to thank sponsors and patrons for their support. Among those in attendance were Elizabeth Jameson of Saratoga Style, Mary Gavin and Ron and Michele Riggi.

Michael Rotchford introduced honoree Bruce Mosler, recognizing his extraordinary contributions of both time and money, before Margie ral-

lied the crowd for the live auction. Her enthusiasm was contagious and motivated Agatha Benton to bid high on a box at the Saratoga Race Course for the Alabama Stakes, complete with a case of wine from Chateau Belle-Vue Winery.

Several other packages went for over $2,000 thanks to bidders like Robert Moser, who ended up with a box for Travers. And Reed Hatkoff is on his way to Los Angeles after winning airfare and tickets to “Dancing with the Stars.”

It was back to the dance floor for the “Age of Aquarius” and other favorites. Dennis and Sharon Collins proved why they’ve been chosen to perform with Whitney Houston, Roberta Flack and Beyonce. They kept more people dancing than sitting, and the fun was still going well past 9 p.m. when the event was scheduled to close.

Heather Bohm-Tallman stepped away from her crazy booth to capture the disco scene, and even she couldn’t resist a few moves to the tunes.

Other “Solid Gold” dancers included Monica Quaintance, Peyton Horn, Louis Wolfowitz, Leslie LaGuardia, Marcella Jewel, Jill Snyder, Mary Clark and Raul Martinez.

Studio PRIME lit an inferno of success, netting almost $90,000 in support of Medical Missions for Children. The funds raised will assist MMFC’s effort to send teams of surgeons, anesthesiologists, dentists and nurses to the most remote and underprivileged communities in the developing world to repair cleft lip and palate deformities, burn injuries, microtia (absence of the outer ear) and head/neck injuries. To learn more, visit www.mmfc.org.

Studio PRIME was the scene of a true disco inferno on Saturday, August 4. Dancing started promptly at 6 p.m., as Margie and Michael Rotchford welcomed their first guests. The Dennis Collins Band beckoned Teddy Foster, Joanne Wheelock, Joyce Austin and Tammy Margan to the floor, and the lessons they took to learn “the Hustle” paid off. After a quick stepand-repeat photo, others quickly joined them upon arrival at Saratoga National Golf Club.

Draped in white, with elegant, floor-length linens on the tables, the tent let ‘70s color pop at the Medical Missions for Children benefit.

More than 300 attendees got their groove on in bell bottoms, go-go boots and plenty of polyester. Maureen Parker and Angela Beddoe made a splash in colorful mini-dresses, while Robin Malatino, Elizabeth Byrne-Chartrand and Kim Burton rocked jumpsuits. The hostess herself also wore a fabulous jumpsuit with soft green and blue paisley over silver on the bodice, and flyaway legs revealing white satin pants. Kim Vanyo of Khymanyo Studio created the custom design for Margie.

Several of the men sported wide-collared shirts and leisure jackets, including Steve Burton, Chad Perkins Photos by Deborah Neary for MarkBolles.com and Joseph Zaid. Left:Teddy Foster, Joyce Austin, Joanne Wheelock and Tammy Margan Middle: Chair Margie Rotchford encourages auction bidding to Spotted enjoying a support Medical Missions for Children; Right: Robin Malatino and Beth Jameson cocktail behind large dark shades were Gloria Ford, Laura Ross, Jerod Hudson, Bill Brahler and Vince Riggi.

Complementing the required disco ball were oversized black and white balloons, more than two-feet in diameter, donated by Kevin Smith of Hidden Gardens.

Angelo Mazzone, Lauren Holmes and their Photos by Deborah Neary for MarkBolles.com Prime team built Left: Monica Quaintance, co-chair Michael Rotchford, Louis Wolfowitz, honoree Bruce Mosler, Peyton Horn and Mark Todrys; Middle: bright dinner stations

Jerod Hudson, Mary Clark, Maureen Parker and Bill Brahler

Martha MacGregor, Joann Grande, Jen Merriman and Christine Harmon, who was also excited about her own son’s achievement that day. (Troy Harmon’s pop-rock band, NameSake, released their debut album, “Borders & Fences” on Tuesday.) County Supervisor Joanne Yepsen dropped in before the city council meeting and caught up with event committee member Martha Strohl.

An array of food was provided by local restaurants including the new Druthers, Maestro’s at the Van Dam, Longfellows, Cantina, Prime at Saratoga National, Elizabeth’s Table, The Olde Bryan Inn, Fifty South, Panza’s, Mama Mia’s and Augie’s.

Enjoying the spread were committee member Sue Koppi and her husband, Jeff, Mark and Teri

Collins, Dan and Jill Snyder, Laura Paul, Mandy D’Andrea-Whelan, Sheila Pierce and Lisa Sondhof.

And speaking of food, there was quite a buzz when Bobby Flay stopped by. He talked with Cathy Masie before posing for a quick photo with Paquette and Munter.

Thanks to lead sponsors like NYRA, Centerplate, The Wishing Well and countless members of the Honorary Committee, VISIÓN was another great success for the Latino Community Advocacy Program. LCAP addresses the special needs of the Spanish-speaking immigrant population in Saratoga County, with the ultimate goal of promoting economic self-sufficiency to immigrants in the community. The bilingual staff provides assistance Photo Provided by facilitating communication and access to health, Best in Show winner Elenterio Martinez Ramirez legal, and educational services. For more information, visit www.saratogaeoc.org.

Let us know about your event, cause or celebration. ‘RSVP’ to trina@saratogapublishing.com.

RSVP

Spotlight

21

You can dance, you can sing, you can paint the track pink. Whatever you choose, be sure to RSVP! On Saturday, August 11, there is Song & Dance at the annual gala for the National Museum of Dance. Michele Riggi chairs the elegant event with Honorary Chairs Marylou Whitney and John Hendrickson, and it is truly one of the most exquisite benefits of the season.

(Preparations to transform the School of the Arts began on Wednesday!)

Ben Vereen headlines this year’s celebration as he is inducted into the Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney Hall of Fame. Vereen will also entertain guests, and the New York Song and Dance Company will dazzle with a show-stopping performance. For details, visit www.dancemuseum.org.

What happens when you cross “American Idol” with “The Gong Show”? Find out on Monday, August 13, at the Riders Up! jockey karaoke competition benefitting the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund (PDJF).

Among those scheduled to compete at Vapor Night Club are Junior Alvarado, Javier Castellano, David Cohen, Ramon Dominguez, Alan Garcia, Julien Leparoux, Mike Luzzi, Rajiv Maragh, Rosie Napravnik, Edgar Prado, Joel Rosario, Maylan Studart and John Velazquez. The $100 ticket price includes passed hors d'oeuvres (from 67:30 p.m.), a cash bar, silent auction, dancing, and clearly, a lot of horsing around. Advance reservations are available at www.pdjf.org.

Put on some pink to end the week as NYRA celebrates women and their contributions to the Thoroughbred industry with Fabulous Fillies Day at the Saratoga Race Course. All fans wearing pink on Friday, August 17, will receive free admission.

The highlight of the day-long affair will be the Sizzling Hot Pink Saratoga Hat Luncheon to benefit The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) in the At the Rail Pavilion. This year’s event will pay tribute to BCRF Founder and Chairman Evelyn H. Lauder, and honor Virginia Kraft Payson, a renowned owner/breeder and a pioneer woman sports journalist and author.

ESPN’s Jeannine Edwards will serve as Mistress of Ceremonies.

Event guests will have the opportunity to shop at the Fabulous Fillies boutique featuring Encounter, Nina McClemore, Northeastern Fine Jewelry, Rulu New York and the Pink Paddock.

There will also be silent and live auctions.

General tickets are $150 per person and may be purchased by contacting NYRA Director of Community Relations Joanne Adams at (518)584-6200, or jadams@nyrainc.com.

Kick off Travers Week on Monday, August 20, with the 2nd Annual Taste of Saratoga, also supporting PDJF. Guest chefs at The Stadium Café will include jockeys Rajiv Maragh, David Cohen, Javier Castellano, Ramon Dominguez, Shaun Bridgmohan and Simon Husbands. Local chefs John Ireland (Panza's 28 Tables), James Demers (PRIME at Saratoga National), Mike Kiernan (Sysco) and John LaPasta (Maestro’s at the Van Dam) will judge the dishes for the prestigious Jockey Boot Trophy, and the first 25 attendees will vote for their favorite to receive the new People’s Choice Award. Limited tickets are now available for $65 each at both Stadium locations.

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Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

PUZZLES PUZZLES PUZZLES

Sudoku

TODAY

Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself.

Leo Tolstoy

Words to know: interdict: tr. V, To prohibit, forbid

Crossword

See puzzle solutions on page 44

ACROSS

See puzzle solution on page 44

Scrabblegram

See puzzle solution on page 44

1 Mouth part 4 Pay a call 10 2011 NBA MVP Derrick 14 Big time 15 Legalese adverb 16 Dark, in verse 17 It can be placed at a window 18 While 19 Much 20 Problem for French Open tennis officials?

23 Deserves a treat, perhaps 25 Niamey is its capital 26 Number from the past 27 Some columnists 30 Challenge for an aspiring vascular surgeon?

33 23-Down holder 34 Bikini event, briefly 35 Spill-handling org.

38 “Come on-a My House” and “Hey There”?

42 Ran last in 45 Converse 46 Word in some font names 47 Chums 49 Daily chore for Travolta?

53 St. __: Rose’s Minnesota home town on “The Golden Girls” 54 Top with no back 55 Hypotheticals 58 Longtime Eastern European leader 59 Words of exhaustion 60 Wild scene 61 Discovered 62 Choice examples 63 Abbr. on a business card DOWN 1 Bush from Florida 2 “__ you happy now?”

3 Burglar alarm alternative 4 Rural bundles 5 Musical milkman 6 100-year-old treats 7 Eponymous 17th-century settler 8 “Do __ once!”

9 Light chow 10 Work on wheels, perhaps 11 Make beholden 12 Better, to an impatient boss 13 Appears onstage 21 Café supply

Movie Review The Amazing Spider-Man Can you reboot a franchise that once held the record for largest opening weekend in history? Can you create something original using a character who was first introduced to the world in 1962?

Peter Parker, age 4, (played by Max Charles) is playing hide and seek one night when he discovers someone has broken into his father’s study. His father, Richard (played by Campbell Scott), sees this and takes some important papers, his wife Mary (played by Embeth Davidtz) and his son to the home of his Aunt May (played by Sally Field) and Uncle Ben (played by Martin Sheen). Peter is left in that home for his own safety and never sees his parents again. At least a decade later, Peter (played as a teenager by Andrew Garfield), is being bullied by an athlete named Flash Thompson (played by Chris Zylka) and has a crush on a student named Gwen Stacey (played by Emma Stone). When Peter returns home at the end of the day, bruised and beaten by Flash, he finds papers in his father’s briefcase that show he once worked with a man named Dr. Curt Connors (played by Rhys Ifans). Connors works at a company named Oscorp, so Peter disguises himself as an intern to gain access to the lab and, hopefully, Connors.

Little does he know that the tour for new interns is led by Gwen Stacey. She knows immediately that the ID badge that Peter’s wearing belongs to someone else, but allows him to continue on the tour regardless. Peter sneaks away from the group and finds a lab filled with genetically-modified spiders that are producing biocable. As is often the case with people who bother animals for no reason, Peter gets bitten. Security eventually finds him and escorts him

At The Movies With Trey Roohan

Gasoline Alley

22 Caltech grad, perhaps: Abbr.

23 Dark quaff 24 Cover girl Macpherson 27 Many a wine 28 Suffix with Congo 29 Like some cereal 31 2011 superhero film starring Chris Hemsworth 32 Tribe met by Lewis and Clark 35 Command from Captain Kirk 36 Gardener’s supply 37 Shows curiosity 38 Elegant fabric 39 Artistic digs

40 Concert mementos 41 “Once __ ...”

42 Sporty ties 43 First name in circumnavigation 44 Be artistic 47 Do lunch?

48 Center with an MBA 50 Circuit holder 51 Hobbled 52 Largest island in the Tuscan Archipelago 56 Deceive 57 Inebriate

out of the building. While on the subway, he discovers that he has gained far more than knowledge from his visit.

Now, I saw the 2002 “Spider-Man” film starring Tobey Maguire and the 2004 sequel. I liked it initially, but over time, I grew tired of it. I thought 2004’s “Daredevil” was a much better film, despite mixed reviews from moviegoers and critics. Not to mention, I believe Kirsten Dunst gave a less-than-stellar performance as Parker’s love interest, Mary Jane Watson. Not to mention the irony of having blonde Kirsten Dunst dye her hair red to play Mary Jane Watson and then having redhead Emma Stone dye her hair blonde to play Gwen Stacey. Forgetting all that for a second, this was a much better film than the one we got from Sam Raimi. Director Marc Webb and company have created something with a much darker, more serious tone, a better story, and a solid conclusion. I enjoyed this film very much. (7.3/10) For comments and questions, contact me at movies@roohanrealty.com.

Broom Hilda

Animal Crackers

WINNER’S circle

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Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

Saratoga TODAY’S Guide to the 2012 season at the Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York

Sunday, August 12 Saratoga Picnic Mat Giveaway

Week Four at the Saratoga Race Course

Brendan O’Meara The following weekend at the Spa is packed with four Grade 2 races: one August 10, one on August 11, and two for juveniles August 12.

NBC travels to the Spa this weekend for live coverage of the three Grade 2 races. For Friday, August 10, turf reigns with the running of the Grade 2 $200,000 National Racing Museum and Hall of Fame for 3-year-olds and up at nine and a half furlongs.

This field is led by Daddy Nose Best, a wise-guy horse coming into this year’s Kentucky Derby off a powerful win the Grade 3 Sunland Derby. Trainer Steve Asmussen runs him back on the turf where he broke his maiden a year ago here at the Spa. On July 14, Daddy Nose Best finished fourth on the grass at Arlington Park in the Grade 3 American Derby. Asmussen mused that his Scat Daddy-colt was hung in

an awkward position.

“He was in a no-man’s land there,” Asmussen said. “It was danged if you do, danged if you don’t [tackle the leaders]. Nobody went by anybody that day. He had a nice breeze last Monday and I like how he comes out of his turf races better.”

Daddy Nose Best drilled fiveeighths of a mile in 1:03 2/5 around the “dogs” (cones placed far from the rail to keep horses from running along the fence) on the Oklahoma Training Track.

It looks as though his calling is on the grass and he picks up leadingrider Ramon Dominguez and 2-1 favoritism.

Chad Brown saddles second choice Yari (7-2), a gelded son of First Samurai, who is 3-2-0 on the grass. The Hall of Fame will be his first crack at a stakes.

“We didn’t know what he was when he came in – dirt, turf, long, short,” Brown said. “It’s always a surprise when they can break out of the maiden claiming ranks and into stakes company.”

At 4-1, trainer Philip Gleaves shipped Csaba from his base in Calder for this Grade 2.

“He’s graded-stakes placed on the grass this past winter at Gulfstream Park and coming off a nice win at

Calder,” Gleaves said. “You’d think his pedigree – with Kitten’s Joy and War Chant [as broodmare sire] – screams turf, and we thought we’d give him another chance.”

Julien Leparoux gets the mount.

Spring to Sky, trained by Bruce Brown, is tagged with 12-1 odds on the morning line and is without a win on grass. That said, his trainer likes his chances for his horse, who gets Javier Castellano in the irons.

“I wasn’t training him to run long; he got pressed and hung in there,” Brown said. “I brought him up here early and trained him on the grass, and he just got better and better. His odds should come down. He’s from the family of [1999 female turf champion] Soaring Softly. He’s good on dirt, but he floats on the turf.”

Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas sends out the coupled entry of Skyring and Optimizer. Quick Wit, Shkspeare Shaliyah and Raconteur (Main Track Only) round out the field.

Saturday features the Grade 2 $500,000 Fourstardave and Shug McGaughey saddles Data Link, coming in off a blistering half-mile breeze in 46 and change. He won the Grade 1 Maker’s 46 Mile at Keeneland and won his last start over Get Stormy in the Grade II

Monmouth Stakes. “ [ T h e Fourstardave is] going to be a solid race, but he’s a solid horse,” said McGaughey. “It will be the kind of race where whoever gets the best trip will probably win. They’ll be cooking in this race, too, with Wise Dan, Get Stormy and some others.”

Leading trainer Todd Pletcher,

who already has eight wins with juvenile horses, plans on saddling four of them this weekend: two fillies in the Adirondack and two colts in the Saratoga Special.

Kauai Katie and Can’t Explain worked Monday morning at the Oklahoma Training Track. Kauai

Photo Provided by NYRA.com

Fort Larned

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circle Katie went five furlongs in 1:02.57 and Can’t Explain drilled four furlongs in 49.67.

Pletcher’s colts—Drum Roll and Shanghai Bobby—both breezed five furlongs in 1:02.46 in preparation for the Saratoga Special.

How they came out of it Last weekend’s Grade 1 Whitney Invitational and Grade 1 Vanderbilt showed track fans and handicappers alike why they run these races.

In the Whitney, Ron the Greek was heavily favored, but could do no better than second as Ian Wilkes’s Fort Larned hit the wire first at odds of 7-1.

“I always thought he belonged [up there] in the division,” said Wilkes, who trains Fort Larned for owner Janis Whitham. “You question yourself coming off a race like the Stephen Foster; you got beat,

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

you got your head handed to you.

But this horse keeps rattling off those 108 Beyer Speed Figures. He stays consistent.”

Ron the Greek and stablemate Flat Out closed strongly for Hall of Fame trainer Bill Mott to finished second and third.

“Both horses ran excellent,” said Hall of Fame trainer Bill Mott of Ron the Greek and Flat Out. “They were head and head coming down the lane, and both horses ran well and tried hard. I think we got parked out a little bit on the turn with Ron the Greek. Last time he had an inside trip and got up by a nose.

Today he went around and it cost him that length [that he lost by].”

Todd Pletcher’s duo of Rule and Caixa Eletronica failed to fire and, as far as Pletcher was concerned, he saw no excuse.

“I’m not sure where either one would run, but I would say they’re

doubtful for the Woodward,” Pletcher said. “Both came out of the race in good order. Nothing really unfolded as we thought it might. I thought Caixa Eletronica was in a really good spot at the three-eighths pole and then just kind of flattened out a little bit. Rule was never really able to get into the position we hoped for and flattened out as well.

We’ll regroup with both.”

As for the Vanderbilt, the Dale Romans-trained Shackleford had little to show for all the hype and finished a distant eighth. Instead it was Poseidon’s Warrior who shocked the crowd in the mud to win at odds of 36-1.

Romans chalked up Shackleford’s performance to the slop.

“I didn’t expect him to run like that, but he’s 0-for-3 in the mud,” Romans said. “That’s the only excuse we can make for him.

Johnny [Velazquez] said when he held him together he was moving along fine. Soon as he dropped his head, it was like he was spinning his wheels. Getting beat by a nose or getting beat by a neck, you think you’re going to have the best horse.

Getting beat that far, something is wrong, and this time I’m just going to blame the racetrack. They had it in as good shape as they possibly can with that much rain.”

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An Old Veteran Stays On-Track

Marilyn Lane “Solenzano had worked hard for me for several years and I thought I’d do the old fellow a favor and retire him,” said Bill Mott about his stable pony. “I took him to a friend’s farm where I knew he would get good care, and I set off for the racing season. When I got back, my buddy told me I’d better come out to look at him.”

Most horses tail off when you change their routine, but what Mott found with “Soly” was not typical.

“He was lethargic, and that’s just not like him,” said Mott. “I knew I needed to change something, so I brought him back to the track to figure out what to do next. Almost immediately his eyes brightened and he started to gain weight. When I finally put the tack on him, he got back to his old self right away.”

You may think because he’s 22 years-old, Soly would no longer be suited for his demanding job, but cruising beside world-class runners is the work he thrives on. It’s retirement that didn’t suit him; working is his gig. And when he’s not working, he’ll wait patiently to be told what to do next.

Mott doesn’t have to ask Soly twice when a morning training exercise requires a quick response; the spirited brown horse is more than willing to belly down to get one to the pole for a work-out or catch a

horse that’s doing too much. The ties!” Ground ties is when a rider can skilled pair make it look easy, a lot step off a horse, drop the reins and like a game. the horse will stay put. That’s a dis“Soly works as hard as any horse cipline few horses possess, and it’s in the barn,” said Mott’s stable especially impressive to see an exemployee, Pat Hammel. She’d been racehorse standing completely unatgrazing Soly when a groom suggest- tended on the racetrack! ed the limited grass be reserved for I looked up his record. Solenzano runners. Hammel was quick to was bred in France and broke his defend her turf. “This horse deserves maiden in his first start as a two-yearevery kindness we can possibly provide him,” she stated. The dignified old fellow seemed to almost swagger as she led him off to his stall beside Mott’s office.

Hammel readily admits, “I love this horse.” She went on to tell me a thousand and one reasons why. “You know, Soly’s earned something like a $170,000; Christophe Clement trained him; he was a turf specialist; he’s been a model; he gets Christmas cards from all over; entire families come out here just to get Photo courtesy of Pat Hammel their picture taken with Solenzano bound to stay wherever there’s work to be him, AND he ground done.

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26 old in that country. He raced exclusively in France through his 4-yearold season, winning 8 of 20 starts. In

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the United States and still under 1995 at Belmont Race Course with French-born Clement’s care, he Jerry Bailey in the irons. He closed added his ninth and final victory in out his racing career with a thirdplace finish in a $25,000 claiming event at Calder in November of 1996. In typical Clement fashion, the horse was taken out of training rather than left to descend down the ladder.

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

He came home to that trainer’s stable at Payson Park Training Center in Indiantown, Florida.

I learned more of Solenzano’s story from Wendy Culberson, who’s been a Payson Park regular for many years, the last 17 of which she’s served as the outrider. Additionally,

Culberson specializes in re-training off-the-track Thoroughbreds at her nearby farm.

“I’m on the track every morning at Payson, so naturally with all the good horses I see, I’m continually spotting ones I’d like to own,” said Culberson. “I’ve gotten several off Christophe through the years and I told him right off that if he ever needed a home for Solenzano, I’d love to have him. He was gorgeous and a beautiful mover.”

Clement ended up giving the stallion to Culberson soon after that last Calder race. She took him home, gelded him and gave him time to adjust. “He was a little nasty at first but soon mellowed out,” she said.

Culberson recalled, “He was quite

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

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easy to re-school. It didn’t take long at all for me to start outriding on him – and let me tell you, I never missed catching one off of him.

He’s super-fast and has an enormous stride.”

Payson Park has been Bill Mott’s winter home since the 1990s, and the sage trainer soon took note of Culberson’s handsome new mount.

“Bill’s gotten several horses from me over the years and he was anxious to get his hands on this one,” Culberson admitted. “I didn’t want to give him up, but when you have a chance to place a horse in the right hands, you should do it – you have to make room for others. I don’t ever have to worry about a horse going to Bill; he’s such a good caregiver. Matter-of-fact, he’s actually bad for my business because he keeps his horses forever.”

Mott’s had Solenzano for 14 or 15 years now, and as you may have figured out, he’s not looking to retire him – not until the horse says, “that’s enough.” As the photos indicate, the old veteran does whatever is asked of him, anything to avoid getting turned out and left behind. People at the barn told me he tolerated an all-day modeling session like a pro. That job had to be a whole lot easier than striding alongside the likes of Royal Delta, To Honor and Serve or going Flat Out, but easy isn’t what this horse wants. He’s perfectly happy to be Mott’s go-to mount, accompanying those runners other lead ponies can’t keep pace with. Mott’s pleasure with him is obvious, from his light hands on the reins to the new awning protecting Soly from Saratoga’s hot afternoon sun.

Hammel told me, “The good hors-

Jockey Davis

Racing Academy. The young lad was champing at the bit to ride races.

“It’s too soon,” were the words coming from many of the people on the backstretch, but his dad felt differently.

“He could gallop and work horses till the cows come home, but the only way to learn to ride races is to ride races,” said his father, retired jockey Robbie Davis. Wesley Ward has been urging Robbie to give Dylan the green light. On Monday, the light turned green, and the only thing

by Marilyn Lane Saratoga TODAY On Monday, August 6, Dylan Davis put on white pants and slipped his arms into the sleeves of racing silks for his first-ever rides as a jockey. He’s been galloping horses for two years and spent a year at Chris McCarron’s North American

Photo by MarkBolles.com

Davis breaks from the gate on Black Rhino (WW Blinkers).

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Photo courtesy of Pat Hammel

Soly with Bill & his dog Stogie. es actually prefer to go out with Soly, they seem to understand each other.

But we don’t use him to take horses to the post in the afternoons – over there, he remembers who he used to be.”

“When out of town races force Mott to miss morning training, Soly

usually enjoys those days off. The boss is really fussy about who rides the lead ponies,” said Hammel.

I’m not surprised, it’s those kind of details that put Bill Mott in the Hall of Fame. There is no one better at keeping horses on the right track.

Soly with model - If she gets spurs to match, I’m out of here!

brighter was the smile on Dylan’s face His first mount came in the fourth race. Dylan’s anxious family members watched closely. Photographers were lined up three-deep when his father walked at his side from the Jockeys’ Quarters to the Paddock.

When the Paddock Judge called “Riders up,” it was Robbie who boosted Dylan into the saddle.

Wesley Ward’s Black Rhino made the lead but faded to finish fourth.

They say a picture is worth a thousand words – and the picture I saw was of one of complete elation. He didn’t win, but he did accomplish something even more important: he piloted that horse safely around the course.

After the race, when he stepped on the scales, another picture flashed in

my mind: that of the famous Norman Rockwell painting of Eddie Arcaro weighing out after a race. Class has its own, undeniable look, and that is what I saw and admired most of all in Dylan.

Dylan said that morning, “You only have a matter of minutes to get ready for the next race.” Of course, he had to wipe a little dirt off his face from race four as he quickly changed into Ice Wine Stable’s burgundy and light blue diamond silks for the next race.

This time Wesley Ward legged him up on Fierce, a maiden two-year-old filly. There was nothing fierce about her race, and she finished last in the eight-horse field. Like her rider, this filly begs for more experience, and one thing you can bet on is that Wesley Ward will be there to provide

the education they both need.

There must have been a dozen reporters crowded around Dylan after he weighed in from that race.

I’d been spending time with him since spring, so didn’t feel I needed to join in that busy session. I just watched him continue to smile and admired his composure under this intensity.

Later, I waited for Dylan outside the Jocks Room with several members of his family. What a group of winners they are. I asked his grandmother how she was feeling and she shyly admitted, “I didn’t get this nervous when Robbie started; maybe that’s because I was so young then, or maybe it’s because Robbie’s first rides were on Quarter Horses and they rode for ham sandwiches.”

Photo courtesy of Pat Hammel

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Single Parents of the Capital District Calling single parents ages 30 – 70 (with young or adult children) - Parents Without Partners (PWP) meets at 6:45 p.m, August 4, for their singles orientation and open house at the Shenedehowa Adult Community Center at Clifton Commons.

Learn more at www.meetup.com/PWP796 or by calling (518) 348-2062.

Antiques Show and Sale at the Adirondack Museum The show will be open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. both Saturday, August 11 and Sunday, August 12. Visitors interested in an early buying opportunity can visit on Saturday from 8-10 a.m. Tickets will be available at the door. For additional information, visit w w w. a d i r o n d a c k m u s e u m . o rg or call (518) 352-7311.

Saratoga Arts needs volunteers Pick up an application to volunteer online at www.saratogaarts.org/opportunities or stop by The Arts Center at 320 Broadway, Saratoga Springs.

Lake George Festival

Music

This week-long event will feature over 70 professional and student musicians in seven live performances and dozens of open rehearsals. Everyone participating is a volunteer. Events are held in a variety of public venues, such as local churches, museums, hotels and in the village’s popular Shepard Park amphitheater.

Admission is free to all events.

For more information, call (518) 791-5089 or visit www.lakegeorgemusicfestival.com.

Engineering Enrichment Summer Program Proves Popular in Ballston Spa The interest in participating in STEM enrichment opportunities continues to grow in the district as students prepare for the rigors of high school science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) classes. The critical think-

ing, communication, creativity and collaboration skills will benefit the students in their future educational experiences and eventual employment in the 21st century workforce.

The summer program’s activities included constructing the tallest paper tower, designing solar ovens to cook s'mores, and building a magnetic levitating train. For additional information, contact Ballston Spa High School at (518) 884-7150, ext. 2317.

Equine Light Tuesday

System

Dan Sumeral, known horse trainer and author from Virginia, will be demonstrating the unique diagnostic and therapeutic Equine Light System Tuesday, August 21, from 2-5 p.m. and 7-10 p.m. at the 4H Training Center on Middle Line Rd., Ballston Spa. A userfriendly, state-of-the-art and effective-on-all-horse-breeds system that delivers a photodynamic light shown to accelerate healing, and decrease pain and inflammation in a drug-free manner. This is free lecture and demonstration.

Register prior with Lynn at (518) 268-9542, knotdr@juno.com.

The Saratoga Jewish Cultural Festival Continues Congregation Shaara Tfille/The Jewish Community Center of Saratoga Springs will host The Yiddishkeit Klezmer Ensemble on August 12 at 2 p.m. The band will perform Yiddish songs as well as original and traditional instrumental Klezmer on a variety of instruments: clarinet, fiddle, trombone, accordion, voice, bass and percussion. The event will consist of two sets performed by these four musicians: Brian Bender, David Tasgal, Anna Sobel and Michael Suter. Refreshments will be provided. The cost is $5. Contact the office at (518) 584-2370 or saratogakjcc@verizon.net to RSVP.

Copper Trout Continues

Gallery

The Copper Trout Gallery at Cambridge Lantern Works in Cambridge, NY will continue its first season show entitled “Pairs,” until August 26. Nancy ClarkKrauss, gallery owner, is pleased to present her own work and that of her late husband, the designer Dan Krauss. Also featured in the August show at the Copper Trout is the acclaimed artist George Van Hook. For more information, call (518) 677-8797

Grange Meeting Milton Grange #685 will hold their monthly meeting on Saturday August, 11 at the Old Stone Church located at 159 Stone Church Road in Ballston Spa. The public is invited to join members for the meeting which includes a pancake breakfast beginning at 8 a.m. The cost is $5 per person and reservations are required. Reservations can be made by contacting Carol at (518) 2757595.

Argyle Central School District chosen as finalist Winning a grant of $10,000 or $25,000 can enhance educational opportunities for a school district in a rural community. Argyle Central School District in Argyle was recently named as a finalist to receive consideration for an America’s Farmers Grow Rural Education grant. To see the full list of finalists, visit www.GrowRuralEducation.com.

Branding Seminar conducted by Allegory Studios The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with Saratoga Economic Development Corporation, will be holding a Branding Seminar conducted by Allegory Studios on Wednesday, August 15 from 9:30 a.m. to noon at the Chamber Office, 28 Clinton Street, Saratoga Springs.

This interactive presentation will illustrate an easy method for creating brand messages using storytelling. Cost is $25 and is limited to 25 people. To register, or for more information, visit www.saratoga.org or call (518) 584-3255. This seminar is only available to Chamber and Saratoga Economic Development Corporation Members.

Eighth Annual Cardboard Boat Race Hudson Crossing Park presents its 8th Annual Cardboard Boat Race on Saturday, August 11 (rain date Sunday, August 12) at Fort Hardy Park Beach on Route 29 in Schuylerville from 8 a.m. to 3pm.

The first race launches at 1pm and best photo opportunities are between noon and 2 p.m. Admission is free for spectators. Pre-registration discounts for individuals and companies are available at www.hudsoncrossingpark.org.

Gavin Park After School Program Need after school care for your student? Registration for Wilton Recreation’s NY State Licensed After School Program is underway.

Busing is available directly from all elementary schools in the Saratoga Springs City School District.

(Parents must make arrangements through the Saratoga Schools Bus Garage.)

After School Program fees are payable in five installments; the first installment is due upon registration.

Gavin Park is located at 10 Lewis Drive, Wilton. For more information, please contact the park office at (518) 584-9455. Space is limited and going fast. For details, visit www.townofwilton.com.

Saratoga Announces Schedule of Classes

Hospital August Childbirth

Saratoga Hospital will host the following Childbirth Series of classes in August. Registration is required. For more information or to register, visit www.saratogahospital.org.

• Childbirth Refresher August 13 from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. This class is for individuals who have already experienced childbirth and would like to review childbirth preparation and techniques, or would like to work toward a more positive birth experience.

August Brings Bountiful Produce to Farmers' Market in Wiswall Park August is a great time of year to find all the local favorites including sweet corn, tomatoes, peaches, plums, new potatoes, squash, cucumbers, and even some early apples. Other agricultural products like meat, eggs, honey, maple syrup, wine and beer are also available.

There is music in the gazebo on Saturday mornings and Concerts in the Park after the market on Thursdays. Upcoming musicians include Ryan Jenson on August 11, Tom Choiniere on August 18, and Sandy Shoor on August 25. For more information, visit www.ballston.org or call (518) 885-2772.

A.L.L. Fall Study Groups Are Filling Classes continue to fill for the fall 2012 term of the Academy for Lifelong Learning (A.L.L.) at Saratoga Springs, set to begin September 10. The Academy is a nonprofit membership organization of mature learners sponsored by Empire State College and affiliated with the Elderhostel Institute Network.

Study groups meet during the daytime on Mondays through Thursdays. For more information, call (518) 587-2100, ext.

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SARATOGA

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upcoming town meetings Town of Ballston: Ballston Town Hall 323 Charlton Road 885-8502 www.townofballstonny.org 8/15: Parks & Rec, 7:30 p.m.

Village of Ballston Spa: 66 Front Street 885-5711 www.ballstonspany.org 8/13: Village Board, 7:30 p.m.

Town of Greenfield: 7 Wilton Road 893-7432 www.townofgreenfield.com 8/14: Planning Board, 7 p.m.

Town of Malta: 2540 Route 9 899-2818 www.malta-town.org 8/13: Historic Preservation, 7 p.m.

Town of Milton: 503 Geyser Road 885-9220 www.townofmiltonny.org City of Saratoga Springs: 474 Broadway 587-3550 www.saratoga-springs.org 8/15: Design Review Commission, 7 p.m.

Town of Saratoga: 12 Spring Street, Schuylerville 695-3644 www.townofsaratoga.com Village of Schuylerville: 35 Spring Street 695-3881 www.villageofschuylerville.or Town of Stillwater: 66 East St., Riverside Mechanicville, NY 12118 www.stillwaterny.org 8/16: Town Board, 7 p.m.

Town of Wilton: 22 Traver Road 587-1939 www.townofwilton.com 8/15: Planning Board, 6:30 p.m.

Saratoga County Board of Supervisors 40 McMaster St., # 1 Ballston Spa, NY 12020-1985 (518) 885-2240 www.saratogacountyny.gov 8/13: Buildings & Grounds Committee, 3 p.m.

8/13: Public Health Committee, 4 p.m.

8/14: Public Safety Committee, 3 p.m.

8/14: Social Programs Committee, 3:30 p.m.

8/14: Public Works Committee, 4 p.m.

8/15: Economic Development Committee, 3 p.m.

8/15: Law & Finance Committee, 4 p.m.

8/15: Agenda, 5 p.m.

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

SARATOGA

TODAY

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

living

10 - Aug 16 Aug

events Ongoing Events Oklahoma Training Track Tours The National Museum of Racing, 191 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs This walking tour covers approximately one mile and lasts for one and a half hours. $10; 8:30 a.m.

June 2 - October 27 (518) 584-0400, ext. 120

Saratoga Artisans and Crafters’ Market

High Rock Pavillion Thursdays, June 8 - August 31 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

(518) 461-4893

Tang Museum Concerts: UpBeat on the Roof

Tang Museum, Skidmore College, 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs A different artist performs every Friday through August 31 at 7 p.m. on the Tang Museum rooftop patio. For more information, call (518) 580-8080.

History, Legends, Lore and More

Saratoga Springs Visitor Center, 297 Broadway This tour departs the Visitor Center daily at 10:30 a.m. rain or shine and is 90 minutes long. Tickets are $5 for adults and children under 12 are free. For more information, call (518) 587-3241.

Friday, August 10 Flores Fine Art Gallery Equine Reception 492 Broadway, Downtown Saratoga From, 6 - 9 p.m., enjoy live music, light hor d’oeuvres, door prizes

and a bourbon bar. For more information, visit www.floresart7.com

Saturday, August 11 Tang Museum Family Saturdays Tang Museum, Skidmore College Programs include a brief tour of a current Tang exhibition followed by a hands-on art activity.

Reservations are strongly suggested. 2 - 3:30 p.m. For more information (518) 580-8080.

Summer Jazz to Benefit the Race Track Chaplaincy Saratoga City Center, 522 Broadway Dine, Dance and Laugh. Don Scanlons Rhythm Boys with vocalist Colleen Pratt. Cost is $100. For more information, call (518) 2650057.

National Museum of Dance 2012 Gala National Museum of Dance, 99 South Broadway Support the museum by attending their biggest fundraising event. For more information, call (518) 5842225, ext. 3001

Sunday, August 12 1st annual NY Horse Park Texas BBQ fundraiser The Saratoga Winery, 462 Route 29 West, Saratoga Springs It's a festive evening of great food and wine featuring music by Ria Curley. Find out what's happening with the horse park. Cost is $50.

For more information, call (518) 636-5384

18th Century Day General Philip Schuyler House, US Route 4, Schuylerville The grounds abound with 18th century activities, including puppet shows, music, oxen cart rides, blacksmithing, basket weaving, chair caning, candle making, tinsmithing and more. For more information, call (518) 664-9821, ext.

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Summer Stroll - The Good Life: North Broadway NW Corner of N. Broadway & Van Dam St. Executive Director of Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation, Samantha Bosshart, will lead a tour

CALENDAR

of the Grand Queen Annes along this famed corridor. Cost is $5. For more information, call (518) 5875030.

Monday, August 13 Wildflower Walk Saratoga Spa State Park Join a park naturalist in a relaxing walk through Spa Park’s cornucopia of wildflowers. With each wildflower discovery, discuss its medicinal qualities, legends and folklore surrounding the flower, and other interesting anecdotes.

Cost is $3. For more information, call (518) 584-2000, ext. 150

Jockey Karaoke Contest Vapor Night Club, Saratoga Casino and Raceway All proceeds from this event go to supporting these men and women who have given so much to the great sport of horse racing. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Cost is $100. For more information, call (630) 2346691.

Tuesday, August 14 Tang Museum: Public Tour of Terry Adkins: Recital Tang Museum, Skidmore College Public Tour of Terry Adkins: Recital 1 p.m. Free and open to the public.

For more information, call (518) 580-8080.

Spa Park Garden Q&A Saratoga Spa State Park Caretakers of the Spa Park gardens, Dan and Joan, will be by the gardens at the Route 9 entrance of Avenue of the Pines to answer your gardening questions from 8 9:30 a.m. For more information, call (518) 584-2000, ext. 150.

Blood Drive Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St. American Red Cross Blood Drive.

All blood types needed. For more information, call 1-800-RedCross.

Wednesday, August 15 Using Your Post 9/11 Veteran Education Benefit Online

This informational webinar will provide a rundown of the Post 9/11 G.I. Bill and answer frequently asked questions. In addition, two veterans on a path to degree completion will discuss their experiences. To register, visit ecveterans.eventbrite.com. For more information, call (518) 6088450.

Jocks & Jokes Prime at Saratoga National, 458 Union Avenue Saratoga Springs Celebrity Jockey’s tending the Veranda Bar 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. All proceeds & gratuities will be split between the PDJF & TRF. For more information or to make reservations, call (518) 583- 4653.

Spa Park Historical Walking Tour Saratoga Spa State Park The walking tour will take place around the historic Spa Complex which was built in 1935 as a part of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal.

Tour begins at 10 a.m. Registration is required. Fee is $3 per person. To register, call (518) 584-2000, ext.

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Thursday, August 16 Flying Fingers Sign Language Concert Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St. Enjoy a sign language performance by the Flying Fingers Sign Language Troupe. For ages 5 and up. No registration necessary.

Open to the public. For more information, call (518) 584-7860, ext. 3

Pups for Preservation- A Dog Friendly Downtown

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influenced L'Amour au theater; Glacial Decoy, a masterpiece of exits and entrances; and one of the company's most-requested pieces, Foray Forêt. For more information, visit www.spac.org

Upcoming Events Friday August 17 Chicago - The Musical The Saratoga Arts Center, 320 Broadway Saratoga Springs Tickets are $20 For ticket information, call (518) 393-3496

Saturday August 18 - 26 Travers Festival Saratoga Race Course From Saturday, August 18 through Sunday, August 26, 2012 Saratoga Springs will host the 17th annual Travers Festival. For more information, visit www.saratogaracetrack.com

Farmers’ Markets Saratoga Springs

High Rock Park Wednesdays 3 - 6 p.m.

Saturdays 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. www.saratogafarmersmarket.org

Greenfield Center

Middle Grove Park on Middle Grove Rd. Fridays 4 - 7 p.m. www.greenfieldhistoricalsociety.com

Ballston Spa

Tour meets at NW Corner of N. Broadway & 4th St. Enjoy an hour-long tour of historic North Broadway with your favorite pup followed by Yappy Hour at the Ice House on Putnam Street. Dog treats will be provided along the route. Pre-registration required.

Space limited. To register or for more information, (518) 587-5030

Wiswall Park on Front St. Thursdays 3 - 6 p.m.

Saturdays 9 a.m. noon www.ballston.org

Trisha Brown Dance Company

Corner of Lake Hill Rd. and Route 50 Saturdays 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Saratoga Performing Arts Center, 108 Avenue of the Pines Celebrating 40 years of presenting abstract dance that is inventive, intellectual and cutting edge, the Trisha Brown Dance Company will present three works: the Baroque-

Burnt Hills / Ballston Lake

Malta

Community Center Tuesdays 3 - 6 p.m. www.saratogafarmersmarket.org

Send your calendar items to Eric Havens at ehavens@saratogapublishing.com before 5 p.m. on Monday for Friday publication.

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Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

TODAY

Inside the Batcheller Mansion

by Hollis Palmer Saratoga TODAY If an American equivalent to Downton Abbey or Upstairs Downstairs were to be produced, it should be set in Saratoga and it should feature the Batcheller Mansion. That is because no other house reflects the family who had it built, the city it is built in, and America at the time it was built (1874) more than this great mansion.

Built to host grand affairs, its stately, intimidating exterior gives way to a gracious, embracing interior. With a formal foyer and parlor, the house was designed to insure the protocols of the Victorian culture.

The Batchellers were politically and socially connected and needed an elegant space in which to entertain. The dining room was conceived to comfortably accommo-

date more than twenty and its three main rooms can host receptions for over one hundred guests.

Both George Sherman Batcheller and Catherine Cook were from the informal aristocracy that formulated and directed the United States in the early 1800s. George always used his middle name, Sherman, because he was related to Roger Sherman who signed the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation and the Constitution. He was only 20 when he graduated from Harvard Law School; the young Batcheller was destined for greatness.

Immediately after graduation, he moved from Batchellerville to Saratoga to read New York State law. By October 1858, having recently turned 21, he was nominated for the New York State Assembly by the new, upstart Republican Party. He won by a two-to-one margin. When he took

office he was the youngest New York Assemblyman ever, at the age of 21 years, 5 months.

Throughout his working days, he would return to the Assembly on two other occasions. His career would include serving as a Lt. Colonel in 115th New York Volunteers, the Provost Marshal of North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida (age 25), the Inspector General of the New York State Militia, a Judge on the International Tribunal in Alexandria Egypt, the Acting Secretary of the Treasury, the Council (Ambassador) to Portugal, and the President of the Appeals Court of the International Court in Alexandria.

Batcheller was brilliant, born to an upper middle class family, and obviously extremely politically connected. It was in his selection of a wife where he truly excelled. In 1861, Batcheller married Catharine

Cook, an educated, sophisticated woman who would support his career at a time when it was difficult for a woman to have a career of her own.

Catherine was only sixteen when her mother became an invalid. She immediately stepped in taking over as her father’s hostess. At the time, her father was the Superintendent of the New York State Banking Department. Before she was twenty she hosted senators, governors, generals and presidential candidates. While George was raised in a financially comfortable family, Catharine’s family was wealthy.

Catharine attended Albany Female Academy - which would later become Albany Academy for Girls - where she won an award for her language skills in French.

While in Egypt, Catharine and George hosted a reception in honor of former President Grant.

Catharine, who was fluent in sever-

al languages, introduced Grant to everyone in their native languages.

Catherine’s diplomatic skills were so respected that in 1903, the Khedive of Egypt hosted a reception in her honor. After she returned home, she suffered heart issues and died ten days later. The family took a year to have the grand mausoleum designed and built in Greenridge Cemetery. It was built to resemble those found in Egypt.

The Batchellers had three children. The oldest daughter, Anna, lived less than two months, a son lived six months, and the youngest daughter Katherine (Kate) who would eventually own the house.

After her father’s death in 1908, Kate returned to Saratoga. Having lived abroad for almost half her life, Kate had a beautiful house, but not a home. In 1910, Josephine Amelia La Saux, of Paris, became her companion. In 1916, Kate sold the house that had cost her parents

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Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

This is part four of Hollis Palmer and Saratoga TODAY’s series featuring historic houses in Saratoga Springs and the people who once called them home.

Photo by Hollis Palmer • Saratoga Today

Above: (Left) The Batcheller Mansion’s elegant sitting room adjacent to the large double doors located at the front of the building. (Right) The portrait of Catherine Batcheller which hangs in the mansion to this day. over $65,000 to build to a member of the Mabee family for under $17,000. After the Mabee family sold the house in the 1930s, it started a downward cycle, eventually being abandoned in the 1960s.

Rescued from the wrecking ball in the 1970s, the house was one of the first of Saratoga’s great mansions to be restored.

In each of the Batchellers’ wills, there was a codicil that if the fami-

ly still owned the house when the last descendent died, the house was to be left to the city and set up as the Batcheller Memorial. Since the book on the family came out in 2009, there have been numerous opportunities for people to enjoy the house. It appears the family’s wish has come true; the house now stands as a memorial to the Batchellers and their era. ********

Interesting facts about the Batchellers and their mansion: The house would belong to all three of the Batchellers; it was in Catherine’s name until her death in 1903, George’s until he died in 1908, before the house would become Kate’s.

Most people who pass the house never notice that not one porch has steps. Everyone who joined the Batchellers on their porch had to pass through the formal parlor.

When the house was completed, it had five bathrooms at a time

when most homes had none.

When Catharine was returning from meeting with the Queen of Portugal in 1891, the axle on her carriage broke and she was hospitalized in critical condition. She would eventually recover enough to return to the United States that summer; however, when it was time for George to return to Lisbon in the fall of 1891, she elected to stay in Washington D.C. An 1891 portrait of Catharine still hangs over the desk of the head

of Girls Academy.

There are few families which left behind such a plethora of information to serve historians. In various archives are some of George’s Civil War letters, Catharine’s school diary from 1852, Kate’s diary, and 30 letters from George to Catherine during their engagement, two memoriam, calling cards and a day book. Most of these have been transcribed and are free to the public at http://www.batchellerpapers.com.

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The Importance of Mentorship Passing the Baton to the Next Generation

Meghan D. Lemery LCSW-R This summer I had the opportunity to work with an intern who is currently studying psychology at American University in Paris. Elisabeth is a delightful, wise beyond her years, young lady who is eager to learn the business of helping people along the path to wellness and healing. When she contacted me and asked me for the opportunity to intern I was beyond excited and humbled at the thought of playing such a significant role in the education of a future colleague.

Both of us were unclear as to how we would craft an internship that would provide her with a fulfilling experience. I was hesitant to ask clients to allow her to observe because of the confidentiality issues and emotional vulnerability that takes place amongst the four walls of a clinician’s office.

But here is what surprised me: almost every client I asked not only agreed to have an intern observe, but did so enthusiastically. When I took

the time to thank them for being so vulnerable and helping to make this internship so interesting, everyone responded that they would love to help give this young collegiate an opportunity to learn and grow.

Elisabeth’s last day was this past Wednesday, and while I am sad to see her go, I am beyond excited to see how this experience will shape the next few years of her training. We both left this experience enriched, renewed and energized to continue building our careers.

While she was the intern, I felt many times I learned more about my practice through her eyes and keen observations. Having this experience renewed my faith in the importance of helping people heal their hearts and spirits, and re-energized my passion for helping to pass the baton of wisdom to the next generation. It is often in being the teacher that we become the student. Working with Elisabeth helped me to slow down and to remember the tremendous courage and vulnerability it takes for people to come and share their stories of pain.

Her reaction and respect to this experience helped me to take a step back and recognize the powerful process that takes place in my office on a daily basis. In any profession or role in life it is easy to become desensitized and stale. We get wrapped up in the details of getting through the day and getting the work done and we lose the bigger picture and passion for what we do. Elisabeth brought a sense of perspective to my work and

helped me to have a deeper respect for the clients and profession at large.

I am grateful for the experience and will take the lessons I learned forward to continue to shape my practice personally and professionally.

The best way to ensure our success, in the pursuit of a goal or career building, is to help others along the path to achieving their own dreams and goals.

Too often we become so consumed with our own quest for success that we can allow that drive to take on a competitive, ego-driven nature that will step on toes and compromise integrity to get what we want in business. While we may achieve our goal, we will be left feeling exhausted, irritated and very much alone.

Whatever goal or dream you are in the process of trying to achieve, stop and take time to offer your wisdom, support and guidance to a fellow colleague or student on a similar quest.

When we take the time to offer our knowledge and wisdom to the next generation we gain a sense of purpose and legacy. We can all remember a

teacher, coach or boss that gave us the encouragement and tools we needed to chart the course for success.

Likewise, we can all remember the ones who didn’t. I still remember the conversation I had with a high school educator who told me I would never get into the colleges I chose to apply to and that they were all beyond my academic level. This same person told me just because I was passionate about a career in counseling didn’t mean it was a practical, sensible choice. Thankfully I had other teachers who supported my passion and ambition and encouraged me to reach higher and dream bigger. And for the record, I got in to every school I applied to. Had I listened to this advice, I never would have applied to the schools I was interested in or pursued a career in the field I was meant to.

The words we speak over students can either make them or break them.

We have to be willing to take our time, wisdom and gifts to train the next generation who will join us in our professions or roles, be it in the

family or community. The best way to learn is hands on training. Take time to give a young person an opportunity to learn the trade you specialize in. I strongly believe that when we invest in shaping the lives of our students, we too become wiser in the process.

The biggest investment we can make is in people. Playing a role in shaping the destiny and success of a young person is one of the most rewarding experiences we can have on this planet! Don’t wait to be asked, find someone to mentor today!

A very special thank you to Elisabeth for the opportunity to work with you this summer and watch you grow! I have no doubt you will be a tremendous asset to the profession and am proud to have you as a future colleague!

Ms. Lemery is a psychotherapist practicing in Glens Falls and Saratoga Springs, New York. For more information email meghanlemery@yahoo.com or visit www.meghanlemery.com

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Sit down Stand up and Watch the Olympics

by Michael Lapolla, Certified American College of Sports Medicine Exercise Specialist and owner of Saratoga Health & Wellness for Saratoga TODAY Happy summer! It’s hard to believe, but August is upon us, the Olympics have recently started, and the race course is open. For many people, this season is a great time to get outside and get more active. It’s a time for yard-work, evening walks, swimming, hiking and biking. Opportunities to be active abound with more seasonable weather conditions and longer daylight hours. Many people may even lose a few pounds through the summertime, mostly because of increased movement and activity.

And yet, there’s some irony to the Olympics. As we live vicariously through our Olympic athletes, root for our favorites and hope for U.S. Gold, we do most of it from the comfort of our couches while watching our televisions, iPads or computers. We use the DVR so we can sit down and watch our shows later. NBC has created cell phone and tablet apps this year, so we can tune in to the Olympics 24-hoursper-day! If you love the Olympics like I do, you may have a hard time ungluing your eyes from your cell phone. This is fantastic, but all this sitting down comes at a price!

For all the good technology has done for us, it has removed a lot of our ‘moving time’ from a typical day and encouraged more slothful and sedentary behavior. According to research published just last week (University of North Carolina), energy expenditure (calories burned) through all activity has dropped by almost 30 percent since 1965! It’s been described by many researchers as a staggering drop, in such a short period of time.

Research from the Mayo Clinic has estimated that the use of energy and time-saving technology devices (most new popular technologies) has decreased the calories we expend daily by 200-300 calories per day which translates to a weight gain of 20-30 pounds per year. Wow. Along the same lines, the amount of time we spend sedentary (sitting, watching TV, using the computer, texting on our cell phones) has increased by almost 50 percent over that same time period. We know that

being sedentary is bad for your health, but how bad really? Well, to put it bluntly, physical inactivity has been studied and some recent statistics suggest that if you sit for more than 11 hours per day, you have nearly a 40 percent increased risk of dying in the next three years. That’s pretty scary. A lack of adequate physical activity may be as harmful as cigarette smoking or hypertension, according to a report published just last week in Lancet.

The research touting the benefits of regular activity abound.

Prominent national organizations suggest that getting the recommended amount of daily physical activity: ● Reduces your risk of a first heart attack by 90 pecent ● Reduces your risk of type II diabetes by 50 percent ● Reduces your risk of stroke by 70 percent ● Reduces the risk of cancer by 30-70 percent ● Reduces or eliminates osteoarthritis pain And the list goes on.

How much activity do we really need? The American College of Sports Medicine recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per week, which correlates to about 10,000 steps per day. Getting enough activity for the average American is possible, especially if you follow the simple steps provided here.

Getting Started One of the first things we’ll recommend to our clients is the purchase of a pedometer. At Saratoga Health & Wellness, we use a hightech device that uses accelerometry to measure physical activity (including steps) which can be stored on a computer and reviewed at a later time. This device records baseline activity data on a computer and provides a good foundation for setting future goals. Once you’ve got your device, it’s time to get started.

Your first order of business is to wear your activity tracking device for two to three weeks and take an average of your daily steps. When it comes to health, weight loss and activity, it’s all about the average.

We use this average daily step count to determine your starting point.

Here are some cut points that we use to assess baseline activity and step information: ● Less than 5,000 steps per day: You’re sedentary. ● 5,000-7,499 steps per day: You’re mildly active. ● 7,500-9999 steps per day: You are somewhat active. ● 10,000-12,000 steps per day: You’re active. ● More than 12,000 steps per day: You’re highly active.

Increase your Activity When we counsel our clients, we

use a two-pronged approach. First, we drill into our clients the importance of the AVERAGE DAILY STEPS over time. There will always be down days, but we emphasize the importance of realizing that every activity affects your DAILY AVERAGE. Your initial focus should be to increase your activity to get into the next active category, by increasing your average daily steps by about 10-20 percent per week. The average American takes approximately 5,000 steps per day, so check out the suggestions below to increase daily activity. ● While you’re at work, stand up once per hour and walk for one minute. Most people take about 120 steps per minute. If you walked one minute each waking hour, you’d increase your daily step average by about 1,000 steps. ● Taking one extra 60-minute walk per week would increase your daily average by 1,000 steps. ● Adding one extra gym workout per week would at about 500 steps to your average daily steps. ● Parking the car further away each day can add about 200 steps per day to your average.

Reduce Time

your

Sedentary

Next, we emphasize reducing your sedentary time, in other words, the amount of time you spend sitting. Standing up activates skeletal muscle, burns calories and stimu-

lates many of the physiological processes that improve health. Next time you find yourself sitting down, consider standing up tall, pulling your shoulders back and remaining erect for at least a minute. This simple activity has proven to be extremely effective at not only burning calories (200-300 calories/day), but improving blood sugar control as well. If you can’t stand for any length of time, make an opportunity to take a break for a quick walk every hour- if even for a bathroom break.

Lastly, change your mentality and think outside the gym. Most people can make significant improvements in health without joining a gym.

Mowing the lawn, taking an evening walk, and sitting down less often can help to increase your overall daily moving average. You don’t have to join a gym to reap the benefits of being active.

Enjoy your summer and thanks for reading.

Michael Lapolla is a Certified American College of Sports Medicine Exercise Specialist and owner of Saratoga Health & Wellness (Locals’ Choice Award Winner, Best Fitness Facility, 2012). Michael and his educated staff design custom exercise programs for a wide range of clients.

You may contact the Saratoga Health & Wellness team at (518) 306-6987.

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TODAY

Summer Stuffed Peppers —

Grilled comfort food.

local at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market, including the white wine.

Ingredients (For four.)

Traditional stuffed peppers usually involve cooking rice, making a stuffing and baking in the oven.

But with the temperatures approaching 90 degrees, boiling rice and turning on the oven just doesn’t sound appealing.

However, local farmers are now harvesting sweet bell peppers, and stuffed peppers are just sooo good.

Here is a way to beat the heat of baking by using your grill and skipping the rice altogether. This time, stuff the peppers with layers creamy fresh and local chèvre cheese, just-picked tomatoes, and fresh basil for a lighter, summery version of the dish. The best part of this dish? You can pick up almost all the ingredients fresh and

4 large green bell peppers with wide even bottoms 12 oz. chèvre (soft goat cheese) 3 tsp. chopped, flat-leaf parsley 16 large leaves of fresh basil 2 large plum tomatoes seeded and cut into ¼-inch slices Ground pepper to taste 1 tsp. fresh thyme, chopped 1 tbsp. olive oil (high quality) ¼ cup dry white wine

Directions 1. Turn on grill and set for medium-high temperature 2. Cut the tops off the peppers and set aside for later use. Core and seed the peppers.

3. Press 1 tbsp. of chèvre into the bottom of each pepper. Place 2 basil leaves on top of the chèvre and sprinkle with ½ tsp. parsley.

4. Divide the tomato slices evenly over the basil. Sprinkle with a small amount of pepper and

thyme.

5. Layer 2 more basil leaves in each pepper and drizzle ½ tsp. olive oil over the basil.

6. Crumble the remaining chèvre into the peppers. Sprinkle more ground pepper and the remaining thyme on top of the cheese.

7. Place the tops back on peppers and rub the outside of the peppers with the remaining olive oil and put into an aluminum-baking pan. Pour wine into bottom of pan and put pan in the grill and cover.

8. Bake about 35 minutes, then if you desire decorative grill lines and want to add some char, remove the peppers from the dish, place directly on the grill grate and close the lid. Turn off heat and let peppers cook in the closed grill another 5 minutes. The

peppers should be tender.

9. Serve immediately as a light meal or as a vegetable side dish with your favorite grilled meat or poultry.

Put a Cork in it!

John Reardon Compliments to the Chef

Hello my Foodie Friends! Well, its summer time and we do like to entertain in Saratoga Springs! So when my friends, Phil and Kathy, come up from Connecticut, they always bring a “A bottle of white, a bottle of red / Perhaps a bottle of rose instead” and with it, extra corks they save for my Cork Cages® at

Compliments to the Chef! Phil is an aficionado on wine corks and he will tell you every thing you always wanted to know about them but were afraid to ask. For instance, only cork from Mediterranean countries is considered of high enough quality to be used in wine bottle stoppers. There is a lot more, and if you ask him, he will bring video in Beta, VHS or DVD. So, as I said earlier, we have the latest Cork Cages® from Epic. I know many wines are starting to go to screw tops and there is a lot nice supporting information about them,

but I am a romantic, and wine with a screw top will never do for me. Cork Cages® are a fun and innovative way for you to keep and cherish all of your wine memories. Instead of throwing the corks in a drawer or the trash, make a keepsake of your corks with these unique decorative accessories. Each one of the 20 patented and different Cork Cages® feature meticulously hand-crafted metal work. Oh and they hold a lot of corks! One of them holds corks and a special bottle wine from that day you proposed. They are a big hit this summer and it is hard to stay stocked, but we just received the latest batch and their newest models, the Hot Air Balloon and the Eiffel Tower. They are a beautiful decoration for your home because, as I always say: “Life Happens in the Kitchen.”

PS - Special thanks to our friend Jeff for donating his corks for our displays too.

Take care, John and Paula

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Back to School Healthy Recipe Ideas Created by A&P's Corporate Dietitian Jacqueline Gomes, RD, MBA Lunchbox Alternatives The kids are back to school and that means packing their lunch boxes. Here are some tips to help children eat healthier during the school day.

Transform healthy foods into tasty foods: Sure we want them to eat their banana, but if we add a little peanut butter and a whole-wheat tortilla it might go down a little easier.

Peanut Butter & Banana Pinwheels not only taste great but are a complete meal that includes protein, fruit and whole grains. These are fast and easy to prepare. Simply spread peanut butter inside a wholewheat tortilla, place a banana in center, roll up and slice into pinwheels.

A cookie-cutter sandwich: Whole grains are important because of their fiber and antioxidant content. If your child is not quite ready to take the leap toward

brown, whole grain breads, you can try items like Stroehmann’s Soft n’ Tasty whole grain white, or you can mix it up by using one slice whole wheat and one slice white. Simple tip: Invest in cookie cutters to transform a typical sandwich into fun shapes and puzzles. These are always a hit with smaller children.

Dip or dunk?

Kids love to dip their food because it adds excitement to regular items like apples or grapes. A really cool recipe that the kids will love is fruit and cheese kabobs. All you need are small wooden skewers and large chunks of fruit, like grapes, pineapple, or strawberries, and cubes of cheese. These are easy enough for young children to prepare and are perfect to prepare ahead of time so they’re ready to go when you’re packing lunches in the morning. Use their favorite yogurt as a dip, and you’ll have both a fruit serving and dairy serving for the day.

Drinking a serving of veggies?

Did you know that a ½ cup of

basic tomato sauce counts as a full vegetable serving? Consider a warm lunch by heating up last night’s pasta dinner, adding a ½ cup of tomato sauce and a little Parmesan cheese for a delicious home-cooked lunch. Kids need the complex carbohydrate of pasta to provide energy for after-school activities as well as for normal brain function. This meal will stay warm for a few hours in an insulated thermos.

Pack what your child likes.

There's really no point in packing a healthy lunch that you know your child won't eat. Take them to the grocery store, add some new foods to their diet gradually, ask them to help you prepare the new foods, and make sure you feed them a balanced and varied diet at home. Most children tend to eat healthy foods if offered different foods.

Fall is coming sooner than you may think - so get your kids excited for great, healthy lunches now before the school year begins!

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Things your Child Needs to Know BEFORE Kindergarten

by Christina James Saratoga TODAY It’s that time of year again. The summer is winding down and busy moms everywhere are preparing for their little ones to put away the bathing suits and get out the backpacks. If you’re a mom who has a child entering kindergarten, you’re especially busy.

Properly preparing for your child’s transition into kindergarten can set the tone for their social and educational experiences for the rest of their life. Equipping them with not only the physical tools they will need for their new learning endeavors (crayons, glue, notebooks), but

also the social and academic skills required to get the most of their education, is imperative.

Social skills like self-control, proper play etiquette, basic manners and knowledge of conflict resolution can ready your child for positive interactions amongst their peers.

Creating expectations and modeling appropriate behaviors at home can eliminate potential behavioral problems or distractions once in an academic environment. Teaching your child how to interact with others and to have a happy demeanor can also ensure that your child will be readily-accepted by other children and will begin to grow as a social being.

Certain gross- and fine-motor skills should be developed prior to

your child’s kindergarten debut as well. The ability to hop, throw, catch, climb and skip are signs that you child is ready for the playground environment, while threading beads, cutting out shapes, stacking blocks and using a glue stick indicate preparedness for kinesthetic learning activities.

While kindergarten might be your child’s first experience in traditional educational setting, teachers do not expect their entering students to be blank slates. It is important that your kindergartner posses certain academic skills prior to that first day of school. Language skills like reciting the alphabet, identifying upper- and lower-cased letters, showing interest when others read aloud, and using pictures to communicate ideas are all

signals that your child is ready for the tasks ahead.

Additionally, mathematical proficiencies like being able to sort objects by color, shape and size, counting with meaning and identifying numbers up to 10, and displaying positional competency, prior to being introduced to kindergarten, are important to make sure your child isn’t left behind.

Sound like a lot? Don’t be overwhelmed. Educational resources for parents are abundant online, and best of all- they’re totally free.

One website in particular, www.icanteachmychild.com, has a variety of lesson plans, creative teaching ideas, and thematic learning units, broken up by age groups. A particular post on this site called “71 Things your Child Needs to Know Before Kindergarten” is especially helpful Encompassing everything from social and behavioral expectations, to your child’s artistic and physical development, this comprehensive list will help you gauge your child’s readiness for that first educational step. The complete list can be found at www.icanteachmychild.com/ 2012/03/71-things-yourchild-needs-to-know-beforekindergarten/.

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Summer Lovin’ (and a Complaint) Kate Towne Sherwin Saratoga SAHM There is so much I love about this summer.

Thomas finally—finally!—learned how to ride a two-wheeler with no training wheels! “It’s too hard!” and “I’ll never get it!” have been replaced with expert riding around our yard, all laid back and nonchalant like it’s no big deal. (The final motivation—after years of encouragement and cajoling and forced practice—was the promise of the cheese of his choice from Putnam Market. For real. An hour after that offer was made Thomas was riding around the yard sans training wheels. His selection? An asiago.)

The two older boys are basically expert swimmers now, thanks to their annual summer lessons at Skidmore.

John took lessons this year too, for the first time. At the beginning of the twoweek session he was not 100 percent comfortable in the water; at the end of the two-week session I watched him swim underwater to Steve standing a couple feet away. Amazing.

“Foot bath” has become a part of the boys’ vocabulary, which cracks

me up. They’ve spent more time outside this summer than ever before, and when they come in their feet are caked with dirt. They sit on chairs outside the bathroom waiting for their turn for a “foot bath,” when they’ll submerge their feet in a pink emesis tub (from my most recent maternity stay in the hospital) filled with warm soapy water.

I have a folder filled with the “written punishments” I’ve had Thomas and Gabe do every time they’ve gotten in trouble so far this summer.

Sometimes I look through them, and they make me laugh every time. There are several standard ones, like “It is not okay to hit [insert brother’s name].

I’m sorry and will try to do better,” but two of my favorites are “Running into John with my bike is not okay. I will try harder to keep my brothers safe” and “It is not okay to poke my brother in the head. I will try to be kinder.”

(It’s just amazing, too, how these exercises calm both them and myself down and allow the day to resume afresh. I’ve seen tremendous improvement in Gabe’s writing ability.)

Speaking of writing ability, Johnny, who had been crushed by his older brothers’ pronouncements that his writing and drawing efforts are “just scribbles,” has blossomed with Momand-John writing and drawing time.

The other day he showed Xavey how to write his letters and draw a spider.

As for the littlest boys, Xavey, for his part, has developed the most

emphatic “No” (a favorite of his) and “Yes” (which he pronounces “Ness”), which, coupled with his basically mild manner (even as a two-year-old) is one of the cutest things we’ve ever seen. For example, I might say, “Xavey, eat your dinner please.” Xave yells, “No!!!” Me: “Do you want your dessert?” Xave: “Ness!” Me: “Then you have to eat your dinner.” Xave: “Ness.” And goes ahead and eats.

Taddy’s got news too—he recently got up on all fours for the first time; he has since wanted to do it every waking minute and has added rocking-on-allfours and lunging to his repertoire. He also chews on everything and chatters away happily and loudly.

I love that the Olympics are on. I love that the boys get to see so many different sports, and so many different countries represented. I love the universality of it—that no matter what country an athlete is from or what life circumstances, whether having grown up comfortably in the U.S. or in a refugee camp in Eastern Europe, they’re all beholden to the same techniques and rules of their sports. I was struck by it while watching a particular swimming event in which two swimmers were neck-in-neck, stroking the same rhythm with their arms, their faces turning for air nearly in sync—differences of culture and upbringing were nonexistent at that moment.

We’ve had the TV on almost all the time since they started—but only almost, since the experience is nearly

overshadowed by the commercials, which are often atrocious. Who thought it was a good idea to have commercials for shows like “Grimm” on in the middle of the day, on a Sunday, when families are surely spending time together, all ages watching the Olympics? I’ve had this complaint many many times, usually in conjunction with things like Sunday afternoon football—commercials for adult shows that portray violence, the sinister sense that all is not well, or images better suited to a horror film (yes “Grimm,” I’m talking about you—Thomas and John weren’t even really paying attention to the Olympics during one recent TV session, but their attention was drawn to the TV like a magnet when the “Grimm” commercial unexpectedly came on [that’s another thing—there’s never any warning!]. As Steve fumbled with the remote control and I sprang from my seat to manually change the channel if the remote control was too slow, both of us yelling to try to distract them, they watched, with their mouths hanging open, as a human face morphed into a face from hell. This after a commercial for a show that had fire, explosions, injured people, all set to a soundtrack intensely ominous. Great images for kids to

have burned into their memory, no?

Comforting images that allow them to sleep well at night, to feel safe. (No chance such images might encourage too much dwelling on evil, right?)

Don’t even get me started on the sexy commercials—that’s a whole other column.

I’ve heard of commercial skip features that seem to involve a certain amount of prerecording of programs—we are not so fancy in our house yet, but it might be time to start looking into it (at least in time for the 2014 Winter Olympics). In the meantime, back to more wholesome thoughts: summer reading lists, hot pasta after swimming in the cold lake, hearing the boys chatting together in the early morning when they first wake up, little boys falling exhaustedly into bed each night. I hope you’re all having a wonderful summer!

Kate Towne Sherwin is a stay-athome mom (SAHM) living in Saratoga Springs with her husband, Steve, and their sons Thomas (7), Gabriel (6), John Dominic (4), Xavier (2), and Thaddeus (7 months). She can be reached at sksherwin@hotmail.com.

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AND WE’RE OFF

The Race to Secure the Well Being of our Elders Clare Colamaria Our Elders, Our Actions

When it comes to our elders, parents or to a loved one’s safety, well being and quality of life, there are many subjects I wish to share with my readers. For instance, how many steps does it take to safe guard our elders against harm’s way and mishaps? What should we be looking for and exactly who is in charge

of the monitoring? To name a few topics that most families take for granted until it is suddenly thrown into their laps, or so it seems, are weather, driving, spending patterns, fraud and the cost of assistance and or care. Some elders need to make more than one transition for higher levels of care depending on a multitude of circumstances, for instance their home environment, their diagnosis, their medications and the affect it has on them, their mental and physical state. In this column I

will be asking you a series of questions which you will most likely be able to answer without hesitation.

By taking the time to think these questions through and jot down your answers, you will then have a guideline of proactive actions to address.

Take action now, do not procrastinate these steps. These are common concerns and can create a crisis or emotional burden on your loved one and the family if not monitored carefully to prevent things from getting out of control. Let’s recognize

and address these subtle and sometimes frustrating subjects to help guide families through the steps necessary for a peaceful series of life transitions.

Let’s start with the weather. If it’s not hot and humid, it’s rainy and slick or cold and snowy - in any of these situations, one may be concered with a loved one’s safety and well being. Can they handle the dangers that come along with the weather patterns, such as heat waves and high humidity? Are they suffering from some form of dementia where they are unaware of any risk that may be jeopardizing their health? Do they remember how to control their thermostat? Perhaps they object to any assistance or advice from family or friends because of their determination to hold onto their independence, which in many cases can become a tragedy.

Unfortunately, but typically, this can be the case. This one simple topic of weather should raise a few eyebrows for many of you. Why? Because it once again is a subject we take for granted. However, when we are the primary care giver of our parents or an aging loved one, it falls onto our laps to be their eyes, ears and mouth. This one simple subject could make things extremely dangerous and forever change their lifestyle and your care giving position if not carefully reviewed and reconstructed. This is a perfect time to involve your siblings, family or friends and get the assistance your loved ones need and the support you as the primary caregiver require to be the best you can be for the sake of your loved one. We need to take the bull by the horns and establish a routine which begins with general safety. It always begins with safety first!

How about driving? Is your loved one still in control of his or her car keys and is that a wise idea? Ask yourself, how is their reaction time?

Would they be able to make a quick decision and react if a person or object came into their path without warning? How about their peripheral vision and their posture? Can they see effectively over the steering wheel and manipulate the gas and brake pedal without straining their back, neck, arms and legs? Can they turn their body or head with ease to be sure there are no other cars in their path when changing lanes or making a turn? And, do they follow

SARATOGA

TODAY

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

the rules of the road or do they have their own set of rules which they expect others to follow? Are they the only ones in danger or are they putting others at risk? Safety check!

Who is in charge of our loved ones diet and nutrition? Who does their shopping and who is checking expiration dates on food and over the counter medications? Are they eating at least three meals a day that contain fruits, vegetables and some form of protein? A now for the most important and taken for granted question: are they staying hydrated?

Dehydration can cause many problems and complications, many times dehydration lands our elders in the hospital because of the havoc it creates. Here are some to be aware of: decreased levels of urine output which can lead to a UTI (urinary tract infection). This is a result of the body’s attempt to save as much fluid as possible. Dehydration can cause excessive fatigue, clouded thinking or increased symptoms of dementia or confusion, muscle - joint pains and cramps, unusual food cravings.

Water is essential to the body’s normal functioning and the brain may send different signals in an attempt to get people to start drinking again.

Most often our elders need to be reminded to drink fluids of any kind, but avoid alcohol, which increases the chances of dehydration and other complications. A sudden urge to eat or drink means that the body is in survival mode and is trying to get its hands on much needed fluids.

Elderly dehydration can easily be avoided by close monitoring.

Who’s monitoring their bank accounts and monthly spending?

Are they being taken advantage of or victimized by scams on the elderly? Does this ring any bells “they used to have $20,000 in their check-

ing account and now it’s down to $3,500.” There is help out there.

Most banks will have services to assist you and your loved one if either of you are unable to do their bills and budget on a regular basis.

If your loved ones are being scammed or victimized through telemarketing, internet, door to door solicitation or mail, please contact State of New York Office of the Attorney General, Consumer Frauds and Protection Bureau at (518) 4746728. They are eager to assist.

Are you familiar with the cost of care? The average cost of in home care is $20 an hour; assisted living is $3,300 per month; memory care is $5,500 per month and nursing home care is $8,000 per month. What are the needs of your loved one now, how long will the assistance be utilized before the next level of care is put into place and can their monthly income combined with savings handle the necessary changes? I always encourage my readers and clients to seek the professional advice of an attorney who specializes in elder law, estate planning and Medicaid applications. Be sure to discuss with your attorney; POA (power of attorney), health proxy, living will and or advance directive.

I hope these questions and topics, which may have raised your awareness, are a helpful reminder to take action now and make revisions to your routine and the activities of your loved ones.

If you need to review other areas of concern or familiarize yourself with other challenges you may be faced with, please go to my website at www.aseniorschoiceonline.com or contact me directly at clare@aseniorschoiceonline.com or (518) 424-2527.

Clare Colamaria - Founder

39

Senior Events & Activities Free Veterans’ Aid Seminar The Landing, 27 Woodvale Rd., Emeritus Building, Queensbury Emeritus at Landing of Queensbury is hosting a free seminar August 14 at 6 p.m. regarding U.S. veterans’ aid and assistance.

Harry Candee, New York State Veterans’ Counselor, will be discussing eligibility requirements, the various pensions available and how to begin the application process.

Please RSVP to Erin Gryniak at (518) 7935556. Refreshments will be served.

The Lillian Worth Senior Center 18 Traver Road, Gansevoort (518) 587-6363

Wilton Seniors Upcoming Trips Delaware and Ulster Railroad Wednesday, August 15 Bus departs the Wilton Senior Center at 6 a.m. and will pick up Saratoga Seniors en route. Seniors will arrive in Delaware and Ulster Railroad at 10:30 a.m. where they will be transported on a journey back to the sophisticated atmosphere of the early days of railroading. Lunches with fresh salads, seasonal vegetables and roasted potatoes will be served on the train and participants will have the choice of chicken marsala or beef burgundy. Seniors will board the bus for the trip to the Blenheim Gilboa Visitors Center and Lansing Manor at 1:30 p.m.

Arriving at 2:45 p.m., participants will be able to explore the science of energy and electricity through video and computer technology at the completely renovated visitors center. A trip next door to Lansing Manor, an early American country estate, will make any history lover’s dreams come true. The bus will depart at 4:30 p.m. with an expected 6:30 p.m. return. Cost is $51 per person and includes driver’s tip. For more information, call (518) 587-6363.

Indian Head Resort, N.H. Tuesday-Thursday September, 4-6 Tickets are priced as follows: single $456, double $346, triple $326, quad $316.

Price includes: round-trip transportation; driver tip; two nights lodging; two dinners; two breakfasts from choice of menu; Mt. Washington cruise, including lunch; Rocks Estate; Sugar Hill sampler; Harmen's cheese; chutters; Franconia notch tour; welcome cocktail reception; floor shows; evening entertainment; baggage handling; and state tax and gratuities. For information, call Wilton Seniors at (518) 587-6363.

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

Events at the Center “Salmon Fishing in the Yemen” Movie Presentation The film will be shown Wednesday, August 25, at 3 p.m. A fly fishing expert is called to the Yemen to help realize a sheik’s vision of bringing the sport to the desert and embarks on a humorous journey of faith and romance. Cost is $2 for members, $4 for non-members.

Snacks provided. Please sign up in advance.

Free Self-care Presentation On Tuesday, August 14, at 2:30 p.m., Vicki Bueno from MVP is doing a self-care presentation entitled “A Guide for People Age 50 and Over.” Explore the basics of self-care, how to manage our own health, and how to make informed decisions. Each participant will receive the MVP Self Care Handbook. There is no charge for this presentation, but registration is required.

Zumba Gold Begins in September!

Zumba Gold combines dance and exercise to a salsa beat giving seniors a fun way to work out! Instructor Lizette Orozco welcomes beginners and experienced Zumba Gold lovers. A free introductory class will be held from 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m., Monday, August 27. Regular classes will be scheduled every Monday from 11:30-12:15 beginning September 10. Cost for the weekly classes will be $10/month and membership will be required. Please register

in advance for all classes.

Upcoming Trips and Adventures: (Call the center for additional information or to sign up) Lake Placid Trip The center is sponsoring a bus trip to Lake Placid on September 18. Take an elevator to the top of Whiteface Mountain for a bird’seye view of the Adirondacks in autumn, then head into the village for shopping and lunch before enjoying a scenic boat ride on Lake Placid. Admission includes bus fare, Whiteface Mountain Memorial Highway fee and boat fare. Bring lunch money with you.

Cost is $48 for members, $63 for non-members. Bus leaves the center at 7:30 a.m. and returns at 8:30 p.m. Please sign up now!

Minimum attendance needed by August 31 to guarantee trip. Participants must be able to travel independently.

Savannah, Beaufort and Jekyll Island Trip October 21-27, the center will be visiting the southeast coast including Savannah, Beaufort and Jekyll Island for a seven-day, and six-night trip. Enjoy a four-day stay in Savannah, the “Belle of Georgia” then head to Jekyll Island, the historic playground of millionaires. Your next stop is in Beaufort, SC. Beaufort’s history dates back to the 1500s with striking mansions and scenery.

Price includes motor coach transportation, lodging, 10 meals, guided tours and free time to explore. Trip cost is $599 double occupancy. Minimum attendance is needed

by August 31! Full details available at the center’s website.

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

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

SARATOGA

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

40

TODAY

Summertime Stock Market

Stephen Kyne Partner at Sterling Manor Financial, LLC Every four years the Summer Olympics roll around and it’s hard to believe that the Summer Games are upon us once again. It seems like just yesterday when Michael Phelps won a record eight gold medals at a single Olympics in Beijing. No matter what the storyline is heading into the Olympic Games, I can't help but stay glued to the television and watch the athletes awe us with their extraordinary feats of athleticism, agility, speed and calculated recklessness.

When the events are over and the winners are awarded their medals, it's just astounding to think that out of thousands of athletes that compete in

these sports, the ones who end up on the medal podium are the best in the world, or as we like to say, “world class.”

It was 2008 the last time we had the opportunity to watch these athletes compete on such a grand scale, but the athletes that make it to these games are not chosen at random or for their perceived potential. They must earn their trip to London by performing well in trials. Much like these Olympic athletes, stocks too compete for the right to be chosen into your portfolio. Think about it for a second. Out of the thousands of stocks that are traded throughout the global exchanges, all of these stocks have to compete against each other on a day-to-day basis. Olympians are chosen to represent his or her country based on quantifiable metrics like time, distance, points. Those that rank the best are rewarded with a spot on the Olympic team. So when one has to determine which stock, sector or asset class is worthy of that coveted spot on an Olympic team, meaning a place in your portfolio, it's best to start by putting each stock through its own Olympic competition.

One quantifiable metric that has a tried and true history of providing an

objective measure of performance is price. Every day stocks compete in the market and every day the result of these competitions are recorded. By recording the results of this daily competition, we can rank stocks, sectors and even asset classes in order to objectively see which areas of the market are performing the best, in addition to seeing which stocks areas are performing the worst. As a result, these records provide the ability to select holdings in a portfolio that have earned their way in the same manner that Olympic athletes must earn their ticket to the Olympic Games.

The past few years have been a trying time in the market as the market has been wrought with volatility, and the feeling of “summertime blues” hasn’t been truer.

2012 started off on a positive note for the market; however, from April to June the market experienced a 10 percent pullback. Going back to the origination of the S&P 500 in 1928, this stock market index has experienced an average of one 10 percent pullback per year. Only about a quarter of the time do pullbacks like this lead to “bear markets,” which is commonly defined as a 20 percent market correction (Research compiled by Dorsey, Wright & Associates, LLC, utilizing data provided by Thomas Reuters). We don’t know when one of these bear markets is going to rear its ugly head, but having the flexibility to become more defensive is important to mitigate the volatility, and ultimately protect your money. The same tools that are used to select stocks in your portfolio are used to select more

defensive positions. With that said, here are some of the leadership themes that are shaping up in the market as we move through the summer months.

• The stock market continues to present some opportunities. As it stands today, roughly half of all stocks are showing overall positive trends in this market. The other side of this means that the other half are in negative trends. Therefore, stock selection is likely going to continue to be important.

• In addition to stock selection, asset class selection remains important. Oftentimes it is not what you own that makes the difference, but what you do not own. If there has been one consistent theme it has been the weakness from international markets. For instance, the MSCI EAFE

Index is down more than 20 percent over the past 12 months (period beginning 7/25/2011 and ending 7/25/2012). There is no doubt the worries over the Euro, Greece and Spain have all led to increased volatility in the overseas market. Out of six major asset classes (Domestic Equities, Fixed Income, Foreign Currency, Commodities, International Equities and Cash), International Equities continues to rank in the bottom half at position number four, and thus is an asset class that will continue to receive an underweighted position in the portfolio until it is able to demonstrate leadership qualities.

• At the end of the day, a lot of the trends that have unfolded in the market over the past year and have come during a time period in which the U.S. Dollar Index has actually been strong, posing a gain of 14 percent in the last year. Typically, during periods in which the U.S. dollar is strong, International Equities and Commodities tend to come under more pressure and this is exactly what we have seen recently. At the same time, fixed income investments and select areas of the U.S. stock market tend to do better during periods of time when the U.S. dollar is performing well.

Stephen Kyne is a partner at Sterling Manor Financial, LLC in Saratoga Springs.

Securities and investment advisory services are offered solely through Cadaret Grant & Co., Inc. Sterling Manor Financial and Cadaret Grant are separate entities.

SARATOGA

TODAY

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

41

“It is what it is” - But, does it have to be?

Gayle LaSalle I’m the Boss of Me This is a statement that I’ve been hearing a lot lately. It’s not really a new idea and is similar to others I’ve heard frequently such as: What’s done is done.

It’s who I am.

It’s just the way it is.

I am who I am.

These statements connote that the truth is simply that... the truth. "It is what it is," allows us to align ourselves with the reality of a particular situation: "I might as well acknowledge that it's raining and deal with it; it is what it is."

Yes, some things are what they are and cannot be changed, and some things simply aren’t worth the effort to change. Certainly we can’t change what has already happened. We can’t change other people.

Yet, “it is what it is,” seems, in many ways, to have become an overused, lazy way of explaining nothing, or avoiding a discussion, or avoiding finding a solution. It often explains nothing, but rather seems like an apathetic shrug when one doesn’t know what else to say. "It is what it is," sounds a lot like one of those empty responses we give (or get) when one party in a conversation is uninterested in actually talking about the subject. In this way, it can actually come across as quite rude. I know I’ve experienced it this way.

More importantly - “it is what it is,” seems to have become an excuse, not an explanation! It denotes an attitude of apathy, hopelessness and limited motiva-

tion to make changes in those things that are not what they can be.

So, now I ask: Maybe in some situations, “it is what it is,” but in most situations, does it have to be? Do we have to accept things as they are? Gosh, I hope not!

How many things in this world would not be what they are today if people simply accepted everything as they were? Women would not have gotten the right to vote when they did if women like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton took the attitude of “it is what it is.” Black people would have been sitting in the back of the bus a lot longer if Rosa Parks took the attitude of “it is what it is.” I could go on for quite some time listing major things that are better today because someone didn’t settle for “it is what it is.”

But, you say, I haven’t come across anything so important.

Well, a can-do attitude can be important in everyday life. Let me give you an example. My brother lives in the Caribbean and works as a bartender. Due to the tourist industry, he doesn’t make a great deal of money in the summer. Living here in Saratoga Springs, where we are in the height of the tourist season in the summer, I suggested he come here to work for those months.

Now, let me preface this by saying I absolutely love my brother and he has many great traits.

However, his willingness to accept things as they are, at least in my eyes, is not one of them.

He did come to visit and he did put in several applications. That’s where it stopped. When I reminded him that each place likely received dozens of applications and he might want to follow up, he was resistant and actually said, “it is what it is.” So, while we had a nice visit, he stayed several weeks and went home without making the money he’d hoped to because, after all, “it is what it is.” Yes, he actually said this to me, as he was leaving and I said it was too bad he hadn’t been able to make money while here.

I’ve seen people not ask for something they need or want due

to the assumption that “it is what it is.” For example, no one gets a raise around here – “it is what it is.” Most recently, the one I hear most is- “it’s the bad economy it is what it is.” Instead of asking oneself, what can I do to make more money or manage the money I have, there is an attitude of apathy.

Now, don’t get me wrong.

Sometimes, at least for the moment, there’s not a lot one can do to change a situation and some situations either can’t be changed, or, more often, simply aren’t worth the effort. This is a personal decision. What might be important to me is not necessarily important to you. Perhaps, getting a job and making money wasn’t as important to my brother as I thought or as important as it would have been for me.

My challenge to you is to look at those things in life that you simply accept with “it is what it is.” You don’t like your job. Are you at least looking for another job or are you just settling with “it is what it is, at least I have one.” Your relationship is faltering. Are you doing something about it or taking the it-is-whatit-is attitude? You don’t like the

way the government is run. Do you vote? Do you stay informed?

Can you do more? Or, is it just what it is?

I, for one, don’t like to feel that powerless. I like to ask the tough

questions and explore what I can do about it - whatever the “it” is.

Then, and only then, can I decide if it’s worth the effort to make changes to simply accept that “it is what it is.”

SARATOGA

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

42

classified TODAY’s

M A R K E T P L A C E

Call (518) 581-2480 x 204

Publication day Friday

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Ad Copy Due Wednesday 12:00 p.m.

GARAGE SALE

Space Reservation Due Monday 5:00 p.m.

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MERCHANDISE

Ragtime Stuff for Sale.

4084 Route 9N. Month of August, Mon.-Wed. 10-? Antiques, collectibles, funky stuff, cast iron.

Check it out! Watch for signs.

CRAFT/GARAGE SALE VENDORS WANTED - The Saratoga-Wilton Elks Ladies Auxiliary is looking for market vendors for an indoor market to be held once a month at the Lodge, 1 Elks Lane, off Rte.9 Maple Avenue, Saratoga, on Sundays from 11 to 3:30 pm.

Admission is free and the cost for an 8 foot table space will be $15 each paid in advance. Doors will open to set up at 9:30 am. The next dates are June 24, September 23, October 28, and November 25, 2012.Come and enjoy; for an application or to answer any questions please call Linda at 289-5470 or Debbie at 885-6506. The money is used for our ongoing community donations.

LEGAL services

Privacy Hedge, Windbreak, Cedar Tree, Evergreen Mail Order $7.50, Delivery, Installation Other Species Available! Services Available in NY, NJ, & New England. CALL 1-800-889-8238 or 518-314-1446 discounttreefarm.com GYM EQUIPMENT Air Rower by Stamina - Exercise Rowing Machine. Brand new. Asking $150.00. Haier Air Conditioner, white, 5000 BTUs. $50.00.

Call 954-806-2365

PT/FT COUNTER HELP Press Assembly Persons Needed Year round. Apply 328 Washington St. Saratoga Springs or call 587-3047 Albany, NY Area Athletic Republic Training Franchise! Turnkey business includes: equipment, build-out, established customer base, protected territory. Perfect for sports medicine pros. Call 518-879-4002, Jack@AthleticRepublicCP.com

SERVICES

AIRLINES ARE HIRING –Train for hands on Aviation Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified -Job placement assistance.

CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-296-7093

PETS KITTENS - 2 beautiful, orange, male kittens. Born 3/13/12. Inseparable.

Very good with people, love to play indoors/outdoors. Good loving homes only. $20/ea. Call Walter. 518331-6173 (c) or 518-608-5084 (h).

Business Service Directory cleaning

Clean As A Whistle Professional Residential Cleaning From our shining customer service, to your sparkling clean home, you can count on Clean As A Whistle!

Reliable. Insured. Bonded 518-894-4476 Reach the most readers with Saratoga TODAY Classifieds! Call 5812480 TODAY!!

decorating ELEGANT INTERIORS Custom painting and wallpapering. Residential/ light commercial. Faux finishes. Custom Molding.

Free estimates fully insured/ ref. Evenings & weekend schedules avail.

When attention to detail matters. Greg Perreault (518)366-5743

handyman services Dry wall repair, Painting, Cleaning Services, Junk Removal, Dump runs, Clean Outs.

495-5539 or 421-5938

small engine repair Adirondack Equipment Repair Snowblowers, Chain Saws, Lawn Equipment. Pick up & Delivery 581-3809 87 Old Schuylerville Rd, Saratoga Springs, 12866

Tree Service Residential Tree Service Tree Removal & Cabeling Iron Horse Tree Service 518-677-5878

BEDROOM FURNITURE - 5 drawer dresser, solid maple, wood framed mirrors, night stands & lamps. Desk 5 drawer, glass top 24"W x 54" L x 29 1/2" H. Antique hand-painted serving trays. All mint cond. Call 383-3617 CANADA DRUG CENTER. Safe and affordable medications. Save up to 90% on your medication needs.

Call 1-888-432-1479 ($25.00 off your first prescription and free shipping)

AUCTIONS Real Estate Auctions, 151+/ - Acre Farm, Executive Home w/ Pool, Outbuildings, & Pasture, Divided, Hamptonville, NC, 8/7/12 at 11am, On Site, Also on 9/8 at 2pm, Executive Mountain Home w/ Guest House & Lake on 229+/ - Acres, Grayson County, VA, On Site, Iron Horse Auction Company, 800-9972248. NCAL3936. VAAL580. www.ironhorseauction.com OTSEGO COUNTY REAL PROPERTY TAX FORECLOSURE AUCTION. 50+/- Properties August 15 @ 11AM at Holiday Inn, Oneonta, NY. 800-243-0061 AAR & HAR, Inc. Brochure: www.NYSAuctions.com

SARATOGA

TODAY

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

AUTOMOTIVE 1998 Chevy Express 3500 Box truck • 84,136 miles • 6 brand new tires • Anti-lock brakes • Bucket seats with new seat covers • $5900 Call 587-4500 and ask for Stephen Towne DONATE A CAR- HELP HOMELESS PETS! Free Next-Day Towing. Tax Deductible. Non- Runners OK. Receive $1,000 Grocery Coupons.

Call National Animal Welfare Foundation 1-888-333-3848

FOR RENT WILTON McGregor Village Apts.

SUMMER SPECIAL - 1ST MONTH FREE 2 bdrm, 1 bath. Cats only.

(A/C avail) 518-886-8013 All 1st flr. units includes features for persons w/disabilities required by the Fair Housing Act. Now $775/month.

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE NEW PRICE OPEN SUN. 8/12, 1-3 PM

$337,500 12 SULTANA ST., SARATOGA SPRINGS Exceptional 3 bed, 2.5 bath Interlaken townhouse w/wrap around porch in a "Victorian" cul-de-sac setting. Beautiful hardwood floors. 1st fl Master bedroom & bath, 2nd fl loft area w/closet could be 4th bedroom. Finished basement with office, family room & half bath. Lovely private patio, with a short walk to pool, tennis courts, putting green &, Lake Lonely access. Minutes from Saratoga National Golf Course, racetrack & downtown.

Bonnie Weiler, Associate Broker 518-669-3450 bweiler@huntrealestate.com

REAL ESTATE Popular Fast Food FranchiseEstab. 5 years in Saratoga.

Loyal following. Sales $672K. Motivated owner. Only $105K. CBAI (518) 459-9070

REAL ESTATE

CLASSIFIED

43

44

SARATOGA

SPORTS

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

TODAY

Headline Community Sports Bulletin Northern Titans Baseball Wins New York State AABC 15U Super Regional

Photo Provided

Top Row (from left to right): Andy Marotta, Mike Angelini, Shane Winkle, Jimmy Bennett, Matt Koebbeman, Coach Kevin Sheremeta, Coach MIke Hubbs. Front Row: Justin Decker, Ian Hauser, Grant Touhey, Tim Fitzgerald, Joe Canty, Brady Fallon, Brandon Gwinner.

MOUNT VERNON - The Northern Titans defeated the Brooklyn Bonnies 10-0 to win the AABC 15U Super Regional. The Northern Titans took advantage of some early Brooklyn miscues and with a balanced attack of pitching, defense and hitting they were able to win the tournament. Brady Fallon pitched a shutout for the Titans, keeping the Brooklyn squad off-balance with excellent off-speed pitches. Brady gave up two hits in five innings for the victory. The game was called following the fifth inning in keeping with the tournament’s eight-run mercy rule.

The Northern Titans scored three runs in the first inning. Ian Hauser led off with a hit by pitch, followed by a Jordan Bernacet walk. Grant Touhey and Timmy Fitzgerald each singled home a run. The other run was scored on a pair of infield errors from the Bonnies. The Titans added two more runs in the third, which started on back-to-back doubles from Jordan Bernacet and Justin Decker.

Decker moved to third on a single from Touhey before he scored on a fielder’s choice by Fitzgerald. The Titans would

Saratoga Springs High School Announces Blue Streak Hall of Fame Class of 2012 The Saratoga Springs Athletic Department is pleased to announce that the following individuals have been selected to the class of 2012 Blue Streak Athletic Hall of Fame: Erin Porter Bembry, Amy Thelen DiPreta, Bernard "Benny" Fasulo, Ernest "Sonny" Gooden, Stephen Jones, Erinn (Dennis) Kolligian, Kevin Mulligan, Matthew Robbens, Patricia Sutton, Hutch Tibbetts, Marge Tibbetts and Jenny Whalen The Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place at Saratoga Springs High School in Saratoga Springs, New York on Friday, September 14, 2012, at 4:30 p.m. Congratulations to all the inductees from the staff at Saratoga TODAY!

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

Puzzle Solutions from pg. 22

put the game away in the bottom half of the fourth inning. Jimmy Bennett led off the fourth with a single to left field, which preceded walks to Brandon Gwinner and Ian Hauser which set the table.

The Brooklyn catcher overthrew a pickoff play to first base which allowed two runs to score, and then Grant Touhey singled home another run to give the Titans a 10-0 lead, as the team was on their way as the Super Regional tournament champions. Brady Fallon’s pitching stymied the Brooklyn offensive attack each inning. The Bonnies reached second base twice in the game but a runner never advanced past third base all afternoon.

The Northern Titans had defeated the Bonnies earlier in the tournament by a score of 10-4 to advance to the championship game. The Titans started the tournament with a win over the Connecticut-based Overlook Black Sox by a score of 10-2 and beating New Jersey’s Saddle Brook team 8-0.

The Northern Titans reached the Super Regional by winning the 15U AABC NYS Championship held in South Colonie in late July. The Titans team is currently comprised of players from Saratoga, Ballston Spa and the Schenectady area. The team is coached by Ballston Spa varsity coaches Kevin Sheremeta and Michael Hubbs. The Titans play in the ENYTB local league and finished their season with a record of 29-9.

Miss Saratoga Softball Announces Fall Ball, Looking for Volunteer Coaches Saratoga Miss Softball is seeking girls between the ages of 8-17 to join their Fall Ball league. There is no residency requirement. Fall Ball is a competitive softball league consisting of both travel players and recreational players alike. The Fall Ball season consists of eight games played on four consecutive Sundays. There are two games played on each Sunday. Games will be scheduled at various locations throughout the Capital Region.

Game dates are: September 9, 16, 23 and 30.

Registration cost is $45 per player and ends August 15, 2012.

Miss Saratoga Softball is also currently looking for volunteer coaches.

For more information, visit www.saratogamiss.org.

SARATOGA

TODAY

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

SPORTS

45

Be Proud of Who You Are, And How You Got There

Damian Fantauzzi If you know anything about the Bible, it states that “pride” is one of the seven deadly sins of mankind.

I don't really Name know if it's a sin to be proud column of our nation's Olympic athletes and if it is, then I have committed one of the seven deadly sins.

So far, the Olympians have earned what seems to be a record number of medals, especially gold medals. There are some landmarks that some of these talented athletes have established. Michael Phelps having won 18 gold medals and finishing with a cumulative total of 22 for his career as a swimmer is a record that could last for many years in Olympic competition.

The newest generation of Olympians, like the women’s' gymnastics team and young ladies such as 16-year-old Gabby Douglas, who won the gold medal in the individual all-around gymnastics competition. Also, a new shining star was discovered in Missy Franklin, 17, who has won at least three gold medals in women's swimming. I could go on and on with the names of these stars who have won medals so far during the 2012 Olympics in London, but I feel I must address the whole concept of what it means to us about being proud of something accomplished by athletes, or even in life in general.

Most of us have been involved in some sort of athletic endeavor during our life-

times. Do we have the right to say we were proud of what we did or the athletic accomplishments of our children?

Sometimes it can be a little disconcerting to hear people talk about how good they were as a player, a coach or even a story of what a great star their child was.

Hey, I understand the feeling of pride that parents have about their children (I'm one of those and now that we have a granddaughter, don't wind me up she's 10-months-old and can't wait to teach her how to shoot a jump shot or hit a tennis ball, if she so desires).

Being a proud parent and grandparent comes easily for me, but tooting my own horn does

“Being a proud parent and grandparent comes easily for me, but tooting my own horn does not!”

not! I'm uncomfortable when I'm introduced by people as a wellknown high school basketball coach or tennis coach. I would never introduce myself as such to anyone at any time. If people I have just met don't know my history, that's fine. Because in so many words; they probably won't care. I am who I am and I don't need any accolades of my past in introductions of me. I might be sort-of-known to some people and maybe even a big fish in a little pond, but to others, I'm only a guy they just met.

I had a stable upbringing by my mom and dad with two great sisters. Please don't misunderstand what I'm saying: I have pride in my life long achievements, many of which are unrelated to sports. I feel I have been a very lucky man, who married a fantastic

woman, who makes me proud.

She is a retired teacher who is on the road quite often, volunteering to help kids in Uganda with an organization called "The Giving Circle.” She gave birth to two of the most beautiful people I know, who are now accomplished professionals, which is a gift I will always cherish. I also have pride in how I turned my life into something that some of my former teachers would climb from the grave to see if it’s true. I beat a physical handicap, with my speech, which haunted me during my first 20 years of life. I managed to develop some athletic skills that helped me finance a college degree. All of this is personal; do I have pride about my feats? Yes! Do I wear it on my sleeve? No! Right now I'm sharing information about myself to demonstrate a point. I have always believed in the saying that has followed me throughout my life and has guided me in my process, "Let your game do the talking,” or in other words: don't tell me, show me.

Forgive me, but I am a bit out of character. I don't like to talk about my personal accomplishments. I'm letting my game do the talking and now as a writer, without using other people's experiences to prove my point; I'm using parts of my life experience as an example. These days I’m considered a writer which only happened about two years ago when Daniel Schechtman, the former sports editor at Saratoga TODAY who has move into a managing editor's position, called me to see if I would be interested in writing a sports column. Like President Obama said in a recent speech relating to the world of entrepreneurs in business, they could not have done what they did without the help of others who became part of the process in their success. There are always people who helped make things possible for others.

In athletics, it might be a coach, a fellow teammate or a parent, and pride is a shared experience for

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all who are involved along the way.

Michael Phelps will never have to tell people that he has won the most medals in the history of the Olympic Games. Babe Ruth never had to say that he hit 714 homeruns in his career as a professional baseball player. Phelps and Ruth both have/had pride in what they did during their respective athletic careers and the majority of people will not need to be reminded about their achievements. If you haven't had an athletic story, that's okay, it's not a big deal. I'm sure there are accomplishments in your own life's venture that each of us can

feel successful about no matter what the scale, where pride can fill you with selfesteem. Maybe you have had good grades in school or a great family life, maybe you just built a deck, finished a great book or completed an oil painting - anything that would make you feel the satisfaction of achievement. No home runs are needed. Just feel good about your accomplishments, because someone will eventually say that you should be proud of what you did, and more importantly, it's self-fulfilling!

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SPORTS

SARATOGA

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

Saratoga Wilton Soccer Club Announces Fall Soccer Academy WILTON - The Saratoga Wilton Soccer Club (SWSC) is pleased to announce the creation of a new Under-8 and Under-10 Soccer Academy Program for the 2012 and 2013 seasons. The program is designed for soccer players who are looking to advance their skills and training beyond what is provided by recreational soccer.

Boys with a strong interest in improving their soccer skills alongside other committed players, in a challenging yet fun environment, to prepare for playing soccer at higher levels will get the most from this program.

The Academy will feature weekly training sessions with

Photo Provided

Above: A member of the SWSC in action.

Matt Jones, the head coach, and Stephen Hogan, the assistant head coach of the College of St. Rose Men’s soccer team and play competitive games against other area soccer clubs.

The SWSC Academy focuses on the technical skill development of each player by utilizing drills, exercises, and games that will help each player build a quality first touch, close control, confidence and soccer awareness. The Academy utilizes a progressive systematic approach to player development by utilizing the most effective youth training techniques, many of which are used by pro club youth academies throughout the world.

Practices will be on Thursday nights beginning September 6 and ending October 25. The cost is $90 per player and includes a SWSC shirt. Those interested in continuing this soccer program into the winter and spring will have an opportunity to do so by registering for those academies later in the 2012 and 2013 seasons.

To register, please contact Peter MacDonald (pmacdona@skidmore.edu.)

TODAY

What’s going on at the Saratoga National Historical Park?

National Park Service Presents Hudson River Archeological Findings National Park Service archeologists conducting underwater surveys of the Hudson River in early August will be presenting general information about underwater archeology techniques and equipment at a “discovery tent” on Saturday August 11 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Cardboard Boat Race at Fort Hardy Beach on Route 29 in Schuylerville.

The team will also present preliminary findings in a public meeting on Monday, August 13 at 7 p.m. in the American Legion on Clancy Street in Schuylerville.

The underwater surveys will take place in the Hudson River between Schuylerville and Saratoga National Historical Park in Stillwater. The archeology team will be using a spectrum of non-invasive surveying techniques, including side-scan sonar, magnetometry and sub-bottom profiling to assemble valuable data.

Findings from the surveys will provide important resources in evaluating Saratoga National Historical Park’s archeological resources from the late 17th century to the late 18th century, protecting historic materials and sites in and along the Hudson River, and studying the shoreline for the eventual establishment of a public-accessible park boat landing.

For more information about these studies, please contact Chris Martin at (518) 670-2950 or by email at chris_martin@nps.gov.

Summer Bicycle Tours at Saratoga National Historical Park

If you’re looking to get outside a bit more, why not come down for a series of free, early-evening, rangerguided five-mile bike tours of Saratoga Battlefield.

Join the fun during two summer Wednesday evenings, both August 15 and 29, from 6 – 8 p.m.

The tours are aimed at any visitors

interested in scenic views of the historic grounds, accompanied by knowledgeable staff and volunteer guides with unique stories of the park.

Come on out for fresh air, wonderful scenery, great stories, light exercise, like-minded people.

Guided Early Morning History Hikes at Saratoga Battlefield A series of free, early morning history hikes looking at general history and lesser-known stories of the world-changing Battles of Saratoga, guided by National Park Service Volunteers Dick Farrell and Ray Palmer. Hikes will be offered from 9 – 11 a.m. August 10 – September 19 will cover the first Battle of Saratoga, with August 24 – October 7 covering the second Battle of Saratoga.

Anyone interested in learning some exciting stories about the American Revolution and the Battles of Saratoga, all while enjoying walks up to two miles over sometimes uneven ground.

The guided hikes will take place at Saratoga Battlefield, part of Saratoga National Historical Park, located between U.S. Route 4 and State Route 32 in Stillwater.

For more information about this or other events, please call the visitor center at 518-664-9821 ext. 1777 or check their website at www.nps.gov/sara or their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/saratoganhp

SARATOGA

TODAY

Week of August 10 - August 16, 2012

Adirondack Dreams

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One Fine Day page 13

Local Gigs page 10

pulse

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Week of August 10 August 16, 2012

Vol. 7 • Issue 32 • FREE • Saratoga TODAY

SPAC

The

Finer Side

of

See page 12 for upcoming orchestra events at SPAC

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