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Volume 7 • Issue 34 saratogatodaynewspaper.com

World’s Best Ice Cream

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA COUNTY – Some of the world’s best ice cream can be found right here in the Capital Region, located just around the corner at your local Stewart’s Shop.

The employee and family owned local company took home top honors for their dark chocolate ice cream at the 2012 World Dairy Expo – the second time in three years the Stewart’s flavor was named as the world’s best.

Stewart’s own Half & Half coffee creamer was also honored at

See Stewart’s page 6

The Travers Legacy

by Hollis Palmer Saratoga TODAY When the Saratoga Race Track opened in 1863, one of the principal partners was William Travers, a wealthy New York financier. Like many wealthy sportsman of his time, Travers maintained a racing stable; however, during his lifetime Travers was known as much for his involvement with race tracks as for being the owner of successful Thoroughbreds; he was part owner

143rd Travers See Winner’s Circle pgs. 19-23

See Travers page 16

Photo provided

Inside TODAY...

$4.3 Million in Capital Improvements for 2013

Occupancy Tax pg 6

by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY

Business

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Mayor Scott Johnson made a presentation August 21 prior to the City Council’s regular meeting highlighting some of the plans for the $4.3 million 2013 capital budget, and held a hearing on the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP).

The 2013 budget is made up of 32

“[We] make it a point that we can identify with what the city needs while we realistically project how we’re going to pay for those things.”

Scott T. Johnson Mayor of Saratoga Springs

items ranked in order of priority.

Over $900,000 will be paid for through reserve water and sewer funds. The rest of the $3.36 million will be added to the city’s long-term debt, which currently stands at $39.64 million.

All 204 pages of the proposed Capital Budget Program are available online at

Home Made Theater pg 7 pg 9 Rossley Dedication pg 13 RSVP pgs 14-15 Raymond Waldron pg 37

See 2013 page 5

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

SARATOGA

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Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

TODAY

I scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream!

Photos provided by MarkBolles.com

Saratoga Race Course held its annual Ice Cream Eating Contest August 22, and taking home the top prize for the children’s catagory was 12-year-old Nicholas Demitraszek of Tribes Hill, New York (pictured at right), finishing his pint of Philly Vanilla in two minutes and 21 seconds.

Two other catagories also declared winners, with Thomas Marola (not pictured), 16, from Scotia-Glenville taking the teen catagory with a time of 50.9 seconds, and 43-yearold Mike Nagengast (not pictured) of Cohoes taking the adult catagory with a time of 48.9 seconds.

SARATOGA

TODAY

Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

Brian S. Munger, 48, of 11 First St., Gansevoort, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree attempted criminal sale of a controlled substance, a class-C felony. Munger was arrested February 21 in Northumberland for an incident that occurred November 1 and has been sentenced to two and a half years in New York State Prison and three years of post-release supervision.

James D. Stephens, 23, of 28 Lincoln Ave., Saratoga Springs, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree burglary, a class-D felony. Stephens was arrested April 3 in Wilton for an incident that occurred February 3 and has been sentenced to one and onethird to four years in New York State Prison and to make restitution in the amount of $15,500 plus surcharge.

Scott M. Forgett, 36, of 160 Lincoln Ave., Apt. 12C, Saratoga Springs, pleaded guilty to a charge of failing to register as a sex offender, a class-E felony.

Forgett was arrested February 16 in Saratoga Springs for an incident that occurred February 2 and has been sentenced to 60 days in Saratoga County Jail, concurrent with an Albany County violation of probation.

Eugene A. Bowling Jr., 31, of 829 Rock City Rd., Apt. 2, Milton, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree burglary, a class-D felony. Bowling was arrested October 14 in Wilton for an incident that occurred August 28, 2011, and has been sentenced to three to six years in New York State Prison and to make restitution in the amount of $4,902 plus surcharge.

Herbert P. Filkins, 43, of 11 Oak Lane, Gloversville, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree attempted criminal possession of a controlled substance, a class-C felony. Filkins was arrested January 20 in Malta and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing October 15.

Frank A. Scaglione Jr., 38, of 883 Route 4, Schuylerville, was resentenced August 16 by Judge Jerry J. Scarano to eight months in Saratoga County Jail, probation terminated, after admitting to a violation of probation.

Scaglione was originally convicted July 7, 2011, of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony, for which he had been sentenced to time served and five years of probation.

David M. Adams, 56, of 4 Holly’s Folly, Ballston Spa, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-D felony. Adams was arrested March 23 in Malta and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing October 11.

Donald R. Henderson, 44, of 26 Bensonhurst Ave., Saratoga Springs, pleaded guilty to charges of second-degree attempted criminal mischief, a

class-E felony, and driving while intoxicated, a misdemeanor.

Henderson was arrested March 9, 2011, in Malta. For the attempted criminal mischief charge, Henderson was sentenced to five years of probation to include mandatory use of an ignition interlock device. For the driving while intoxicated charge, he was sentenced to one year of conditional discharge and mandatory use of an ignition interlock device. As part of the disposition, Henderson was also sentenced in the town of Saratoga to one year in Saratoga County Jail for operating a motor vehicle without an ignition interlock device.

Jacob Schultz, 23, of 400 Ormsbee Rd., Porter Corners, pleaded guilty to a charge of possessing a sexual performance by a child, a class-E felony. Schultz was arrested February 15, 2011, in Greenfield for an incident that occurred January 13, 2011, and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing October 16.

BLOTTER

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WEEK IN REVIEW Route 50 Paving on Schedule

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BALLSTON SPA – If you were traveling along Route 50 between Saratoga Springs and Scotia, you may have noticed a little construction along with a bumpier ride the past few weeks. The roads beginning at the intersection of Route 50 and Route 67 were milled in anticipation of repaving and eventually widening the popular commuter route. The bulk of the work appears to be happening at night, with crews blocking off traffic in one direction for long stretches between Ballston Spa and Glenville.

“Route 50 is being repaved and is scheduled for widening with a left turn lane installation,” said Bill Reynolds, public information officer for the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT). “The left turn lane was scheduled to be installed before our contract was awarded. In the meantime, the remainder of this milled section is currently being repaved with expectations that paving will be completed by the end of this week.”

According to Reynolds, the lefthand turn lane is scheduled to be placed at the intersection of Meadowbrook Court and Route 50 and McCrea Hill just south of Mourningkill Drive.

The NYSDOT also has plans to pave Route 146 between Clifton Country Mall and Route 9 in the town of Halfmoon in Southern Saratoga

County, Balltown Road between the Rexford Bridge and Route 7 leading into Niskayuna and Route 9 North and Ballard Road off Exit 16 on the Northway.

Reynolds added that another stretch of Route 50 in Schenectady County requires “bridge approach slab work” to address settlement issues and expects this construction to be done by the end of the year.

Intoxicated Man Drives Wrong Way up Caroline Street Bar District, Crashes SARATOGA SPRINGS – Authorities say a drunk driver heading the wrong way up Caroline Street nearly hit patrons and police officers during the early morning hours of August 18, eventually crashing into two cars, one of them being an unmarked police cruiser. After the crash, police say 22-year-old Joel Torres, of East Main Street in Schenectady, took off running.

Torres faces 13 charges stemming from the incident, including the felony charge of first-degree reckless endangerment. Police say both they and other witnesses attempted to flag the driver down after he turned the wrong way up the first block of Caroline Street between Broadway and Putnam Avenue before they attempted to get out of harm’s way.

He also received violation charges of driving at an unreasonable speed, driving the wrong way down a one-

SARATOGA

Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

way street and failing to comply with a lawful order of police.

Torres also allegedly struck an unmarked police car, but kept driving until he eventually crashed into another car, sending debris flying through the window of the Putnam Market. The damages resulted in a felony second-degree criminal mischief charge as well as a misdemeanor reckless driving charge.

It was then, police say, Torres decided to flee the scene on foot. He was eventually apprehended near Long Alley after a brief struggle. This led to charges of resisting arrest and leaving the scene of a personal injury accident, both misdemeanor charges.

Torres initially claimed to be his brother, which garnered him a second-degree criminal impersonation charge, a misdemeanor. The driver then allegedly claimed he was injured in the accident, where was taken to the hospital. Once there, it was determined Torres was operating the vehicle while intoxicated and he was charged with DWI. Police then discovered that the car Torres had been driving was stolen and that Torres’ license had been suspended several times. He was charged with third-degree criminal possession of stolen property, a felony, and aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, a misdemeanor. Police also charged Torres with failing to wear his seat belt.

Torres was then remanded to

TODAY

Saratoga County Jail.

Attempted Robber Could Serve 15 Years BALLSTON SPA – A man faces up to 15 years in prison after coming clean about his attempt to rob a Burnt Hills Xtra Mart in May. Prosecutors say Clinton L. King of Route 50 in the town of Ballston pleaded guilty August 21 to firstdegree attempted robbery, a felony charge.

King admitted to walking into the Xtra Mart around 4:30 in the afternoon and put a knife to a female cashier’s throat. He demanded money and threatened to take the woman hostage.

The cashier was able to alert two men who were standing outside the convenience store as the knife began to leave marks on her neck. One of the men entered the store and approached King, who released the woman and made a break for the exit.

King was chased by the two men before he was finally taken down in a backyard about a half-mile from the store. He originally faced charges of kidnapping and robbery.

After his arrest it was revealed King is a “high-risk” level-3 sex offender after his conviction in 1997 for sexually assaulting a 9-year-old girl in Oregon.

King will be scheduled for sentencing October 16. He is currently in Saratoga County Jail.

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TODAY

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2013 CIP Budget continued from Page 1 www.saratoga-springs.org, by clicking on the link in the upper righthand corner that says “2013-2018 Proposed Capital Program.”

The CIP is developed by a committee that features representation from each of the city’s departments, which includes the mayor himself.

“Departments come to us with ‘wish lists’ if you will, as discussed by the committee, but things get moved around from one year to the next. But without this substantiation being brought forward by the departments, it’s exclude from consideration by the committee,” said the mayor.

Johnson continued, “We really tighten up the criteria used by the Capital Program committee over the last few years to make it a point that we can identify with what the city needs while we realistically project how we’re going to pay for those things.”

At the very top of the rankings is the $414,000 set aside for infrastructure renovations at the Saratoga Springs Police Department, followed by $100,000 for a storm sewer on Wedgewood Avenue and over $63,000 for infrastructure renovations for the Lake Avenue

Firehouse.

The most expensive item happened to be the one Mayor Johnson said the least about, as $600,000 will likely be used to purchase a parcel of land near Jefferson Street that he indicated could be used for a parking lot near the city’s Recreation Center. Ongoing negotiations with the property’s current owner, however, would prevent Johnson from saying much more about the development.

The city’s Public Works Department will receive roughly half of the 2013 budget, with $2.1 million to be used mostly on upgrading equipment such as dump trucks, plows and salt spreaders for the icy roads in the winter.

Public Works is expected to receive around $325,000 for renovations to the Canfield Casino and Spirit of Life statues located in Congress Park. The Saratoga Music Hall, also known as the third floor of City Hall, will have an air conditioning system installed for $129,000.

The mayor indicated that the “oppressive heat” in the music hall had prevented any acts from appearing there during the summer months.

The recently opened waterfront park along Saratoga Lake is expect-

City Council Recap for 8/21 SARATOGA SPRINGS – City Council met for the second time this month at their August 21 meeting and held three public hearings before Mayor Scott Johnson presented plans for the 2013 Capital Budget.

One of the biggest questions yet to be answered is what the city plans to do with the proceeds from the recent auction of tax-delinquent properties around Saratoga Springs. The city earned roughly half a million dollars earlier this year through the sale of 15 properties seized for unpaid tax bills.

The council voted to reject the low bid of $56,000 on property located at 382 Lake Avenue, where a single-family home currently sits on almost two acres near the Northway. The property’s value is currently assessed at $188,000. The bid came in $24,000 short of the minimum price set of $80,000 by the city’s Real Estate Committee.

The decision held particular significance for Public Safety Commissioner Christian Mathiesen, who is hoping to use the property as a storage area for the Public Safety Department.

The council also must decide what to do with two seized properties on Cherry and Division streets. The city seized 31 total properties in 2011 as they attempted to get tax-delinquent properties back into good standing in their tax rolls.

The city did not auction off the two properties of 26 Cherry Street and 195 Division Street. The Division Street location is an empty lot on the west side of the city and a worn down house sits on the Cherry Street parcel. The city’s Finance Commissioner Michele Madigan says the land could be an opportunity for the city to develop more affordable housing. Two of the plans involve working with Saratoga Builders Association and Habitat for Humanity to build affordable homes on the lots.

A vote on the matter was postponed to a later meeting, as other commissioners asked for more time to evaluate the proposal.

ing to receive $200,000, but that number could increase if the city receives the federal grant money it requested. The city applied for $400,000 in grants, but would be required to match that number should they receive the award. This would push the waterfront park to the third most expensive item on the list if grants are approved.

Several items concerning the city’s Parks and Recreation Department were included in the 2013 budget, with the most expensive being court resurfacing and the city’s East Side, Veteran’s and

Hathorn park’s tennis and basketball courts for $95,880 while the item with the highest priority is new water heaters at the Vernon Ice Rink for $36,960. Rehabilitation to the playground equipment at both East and West Side parks was included at $12,000.

At the hearing following the PowerPoint presentation from the mayor, two people addressed the council regarding the absence of funds for an ambulance station on the east side of Saratoga Lake. $200,000 was reportedly put aside last year for the project which never

came to fruition.

Representing the East Side Safety Committee, George Shulof spoke candidly with the council, stating that not enough was being done to meet the needs of his neighborhood and asked, “Do we have to bring you a dead body before you’ll do something?”

Two more hearings are expected to take place regarding the 2013 CIP, with one scheduled for August 28 at 1 p.m. during a special City Council session, and then again on September 4 at 6:50 p.m. prior to the council’s first September meeting.

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TODAY

Stewart’s Ice Cream

New Occupancy Tax Could Generate up to $100,000 for Saratoga County

continued from Page 1

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY

the Madison, Wisconsin-based international expo, named the third-best in the world.

“We make all of our ice cream and Half & Half with fresh and local milk at our dairy in Greenfield,” said Gary Dake, president of Stewart’s Shops. “It’s rewarding to have our partner’s hard work recognized.”

Each ice cream entry at the expo is judged on its flavor, body, texture, melting quality,

color and appearance.

The award-winning dark chocolate flavor can be found in a premium pint, and is one of the three flavors featured in the Chocolate Trifecta full-half gallon. To celebrate the recent awards, Stewart’s will be selling all premium pints for $2.29 the week of August 27.

Stewart’s will be presented with their awards October 2 at the World Dairy Expo in Madison.

SARATOGA COUNTY – Saratoga County supervisors voted to approve a new law Tuesday, August 21, that could generate as much as $100,000 annually in occupancy tax revenue for the county.

The new tax is primarily targeted at online travel companies, such as Expedia or Priceline.

Before the passage of the law, online travel companies could purchase rooms, often at a discounted rate, from a local hotelier. The company could then sell the same room at a slightly higher rate to the customer, while still only paying taxes based on the original, discounted rate to the county. Saratoga County officials voted to change the regulation, making it so that online travel companies would have to pay occupancy tax based on the final sale of the room, and not the discounted rate.

“Right now, we estimate [Saratoga County] stands to gain anywhere between $60,000 and $100,000 annually from the occupancy tax,” said Todd Garofano, president of the Saratoga

Convention and Tourism Bureau.

Garofano and the Tourism Bureau were in favor of the legislation’s passage.

In the week leading up to the vote, several lobbyists representing the online travel companies spoke out against the new tax, which they claimed would negatively affect a portion of small business owners here in Saratoga.

Garofano disagrees.

“They mentioned that it’s going to hurt the independent hotel operators, and that’s just totally false,” he said. “First, it costs those properties more to be on those [online] platforms in the first place. And two, when’s the last time we saw Expedia.com mention Saratoga in any of their ads? When’s the last time we saw William Shatner and the Priceline Negotiator mentioning Saratoga? They don’t. So we’re saying that money belongs back here,

where we can continue to properly market Saratoga as a destination.”

While Jeff Clark, president of the Saratoga Downtown Business Association, was hesitant to speculate on how the new law will affect local businesses, he did note some of the financial challenges currently facing the county.

“The county is in fairly dire straits,” said Clark. “They used up a lot of their reserves, in part to help with the Maplewood Manor [nursing home] situation. So I sympathize with them there.”

A recent study published August 19 found the county-run nursing home “unsustainable,” calling for either a 20 percent tax raise or 35 percent layoff rate – although neither solution was recommended in the report. The county is currently trying to decide how best to move forward with the facility.

Wilton Planning Director Moves to County Position WILTON – Director of Planning and Engineering Keith Manz will step down from his Wilton post at the end of the month to become Saratoga County’s public works commissioner. “[I’m] looking forward to starting Friday, August 31, and learning all the people, processes, protocol and procedures, which will take a number of months as there are over 200 employees,” said Manz. “I have a lot of private sector ideas I would like to integrate into the department once I understand the innerworkings really well.”

Having held the position since its creation in 1992, Manz has led Wilton

through significant changes, including considerable population growth, and ever-growing business and residential districts.

“He will be sorely missed at the town level,” said Wilton Town Board Supervisor Art Johnson. “Wilton is one of the fastest growing towns in the county, well the state actually, and it was good to have someone with Keith’s knowledge, experience and vision to help us through that period of growth.”

With a bachelor’s degree in civil and environmental engineering from Cornell, Manz was professionally licensed as an engineer in 1985 and worked in the private sector for over a decade before his becoming the planning director in Wilton.

“Keith was employed with the town for 20 years,” said Johnson. “I worked with him in different capacities throughout that entire period, and I relied heavily on Keith; he did a variety of things.”

As of right now, no permanent replacement for Manz has been made.

“We have an interim Town Engineer in Ryan K. Riper, P.E., who is also vying for the permanent spot,” said Manz. “He will either be selected, or train whoever the town selects.”

Manz moves to the county to replace Joe Ritchey, the former public works commissioner who retired after nearly 30 years of service.

“I think he will be a great replacement for Joe Ritchey,” said Johnson. “It’s good for the county to the detriment of the town, but we will get through it.”

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TODAY

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Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

A Little Theater on a Big Mission

by Christina James Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS - On Saturday, September 9, community members will be given the chance to go beyond themselves and become a part of something bigger.

Home Made Theater, Saratoga Spa State Park’s resident theater company, is inviting the public to attend a special open house, taking place at the Spa Little Theater from 1-3 p.m., and in doing so, help further their mission of change through attendance or by volunteering.

The 28-year-old nonprofit theater company, known locally as simply “HMT,” is doing its part to directly involve the community in the production of drama, in the hopes that the shared experience will lead to bigger and broader community changes, and they want you to join them.

“In our digital society today, there are fewer and fewer opportunities to gather together in a meaningful way

to explore our shared human condition,” said Christine MacLellan, HMT’s volunteer coordinator.

“Theater provides communities a way to explore issues with others, together in the same room. In this setting, a synergy builds that can provide the opportunity for personal change that in turn leads to social change on a community and then national level.”

Having a staff of only four paid employees, HMT functions almost entirely on volunteers from the community; volunteers who do everything from take tickets, to play Hamlet.

“In order to keep up our standards, we need volunteers who are reliable,” said MacLellan. “An actor can’t just decide one evening that since he is ‘only a volunteer’ he doesn't feel like going on and performing his leading role that night.

What many don't understand is that everyone who volunteers is just as vital and important, if not as visible.”

HMT’s vast network of volunteers includes MacLellan herself, who is pulling double duty this October as both their volunteer coordinator and the stage manager of the theater’s upcoming show, “9 to 5: The Musical.”

“Ninety percent of what happens around the theater is done by volunteers,” said MacLellan. “The payoff for that hard work and commitment is knowing that without you, that great piece of theater would not have happened. And you get to hang around with some really great people and have fun while you work.”

HMT is hoping that the September open house will get their mission out into the heart of the community, and even inspire some eager new thespians to get involved, whether that be behind-the-scenes or out in the audience.

“We are constantly looking for creative ways to reach out to people in the community,” said MacLellan.

“We love our audiences and are always trying to bring in more peo-

ple. This holds true for volunteers as well, so we try to make getting involved as easy as possible. If you are willing to give us the time, we will teach you what you need to know.”

People interested in what HMT does and how to get involved can learn more about the theater, grab some refreshments, and pick up information during the September 9 open house, or they can visit their website at www.homemadetheater.org.

“HMT is a community theater with a professional edge,” said MacLellan. “And we cannot do what we do without the support of the community.”

HMT is located in the Spa Little Theater at 19 Roosevelt Drive in Saratoga Spa State Park. For more

information or to purchase tickets to an upcoming show, call the theater’s office at (518) 587-4427.

Home Made Theater’s 201213 season opens in October and continues through May. The season includes: “9 TO 5: The Musical,” with music and lyrics

by Dolly Parton and book by Patricia Resnick; L. Frank Baum’s “The Wizard of Oz,” dramatized by Elizabeth Fuller Chapman; David Sedaris’ “The Santaland Diaries”; “The 39 Steps,” adapted by Patrick Barlow from the work of John Buchan; and Alfred Hitchcock; and Ken Ludwig’s “Leading Ladies.”

The first show of the season, “9 to5: The Musical,” starts Octover 12.

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SARATOGA

FOOD

Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

TODAY

Sea Trout with Creamy Sautéed Vegetables A Successful Summer Bounty Experiment

Once in a while a delightful culinary surprise results from unplanned but necessary experimentation in the kitchen. This recipe grew from one of those occasions.

It started last Saturday when Pura Vida Fisheries, a vendor at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market, ran out of my preferred choice, bluefish, and my plans for grilled lemon-treated fish with sweet corn evaporated. Sea trout made an excellent substitution, and I started thinking about a

sauté instead of grilling, and succotash to go with it, using the fresh corn along with lima beans.

However, lima beans are not a household item for us nor are they available at the market right now. But there was a wonderful abundance of garden fresh vegetables to choose from, and a combination of sweet peppers, fresh corn, candysweet onions and zucchini demanded to be enjoyed.

With a bit of daring, I sautéed these vegetables with a dash of hot pepper, then added chicken stock and local Battenkill Valley Creamery halfand-half to make a new variant of succotash. The result was divine. Combining pan-seared fish over these creamed vegetables created a light succulent meal that tantalized the senses with sweet, hot, crispy and creamy all at once.

The dish was a success and definitely worth

sharing. Enjoy summer’s bounty!

Ingredients marked * are available at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market. Visit their website at www.saratogafarmersmarket.org.

Ingredients – Fish 3-4 fillets of fresh sea trout * 3 tsp. paprika Salt and black pepper to taste 2-3 tbsp. vegetable oil Ingredients – Creamed Vegetables 2 tbsp. butter ½ candy sweet onion, diced * 1 sweet green pepper, diced * ½ sweet red pepper, diced * 1 fresh ear of corn, kernels cut from the cob * 1 small zucchini sliced * ¼ tsp. dried hot red pepper or 1 small hot red

pepper diced * (Use less or more depending on desired hotness level.)

Chicken stock or water, about half a cup (make your own chicken stock from “stewing chickens” offered at the market.) ½ cup Battenkill Valley Creamery half-and-half * Directions – Fish 1. In a large nonstick skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

2. Sprinkle paprika, salt and pepper over the flesh side of the fish.

3. Place the fillets flesh side down in the pan and cook until browned, 3 to 4 minutes. Turn the fish and cook until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, another 2 minutes.

Turn off the skillet and set aside until the vegetables are ready.

4. Remove the fish from the skillet and serve

over creamed vegetables.

Directions – Creamed Vegetables 1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the onion and cook until glistening, about 3 minutes.

3. Add sweet pepper dices and continue to sauté another 4-5 minutes.

4. Stir in corn kernels. After 2 minutes add sliced zucchini and keep sautéing for 3 minutes. Stir in red pepper.

5. Pour in about a half cup of chicken stock or water, and continue stirring. Bring to a simmer and cook until the zucchini is tender.

6. Turn to low; add the half-and-half and stir until sauce has thickened slightly.

7. Add salt and pepper to taste.

8. Immediately plate veggies; put sautéed fish on top; serve and enjoy.

Butter Up!

John Reardon Compliments to the Chef

Hello, my foodie friends.

This week we are taking a page out of our youth by putting butter back on the table where it is nice and soft. When I was a boy, there were some food items that always seemed to be in the middle of the kitchen table. They included: a bowl of sugar, salt and pepper shakers and the butter dish. Well, what I didn’t know at the time was that the butter was actually UHT (ultra high temperature pasteurized), but no one got sick.

Now we have something at Compliments to the Chef that helps bring back the good old days and it’s called the Butter Keeper! So, by insulating,

protecting and cooling butter, you can maintain it at a perfect spreading consistency. Water is used to provide an airtight seal protecting the flavor and freshness. For best results, the Butter Keeper should be stored away from direct heat or sunlight and the water replaced every three days.

Instructions: 1. Place softened butter into the lid / holder.

(Holds up to ½ cup or one stick) 2. Pour cold water into the base of the crock.

3. Place the lid / holder upside down back into the crock.

My friends, your butter will stay fresh, soft, and sweet for up to 30 days without refrigeration! Just remember to change your water!

My brothers and I spent many a day trying to sneak an almost-clean finger into the butter and maybe the sugar too! Of course, my sisters usually saw us and ratted us out!

And so my Foodie Friends, remember that “Life happens in the kitchen.”

Take care, John and Paula

SARATOGA

TODAY

BUSINESS

Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

9

Limoncello Ristorante Marries Great Food and Atmosphere with Great People

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS Limoncello Ristorante became a fast local favorite when it burst onto the Saratoga scene in 1998. Manned by the husband and wife team, Giancarlo and Nancy Balestra, the couple relocated Limoncello to its new location at 1 Ballston Avenue in 2008, where the duo are serving up their famous authentic Italian cuisine for their seventh track season in Saratoga.

“I couldn’t have had a better partner in life and in business,” said Giancarlo of his wife. He adds, “Happy wife, happy life.”

And happy diners, too. Mixing Giancarlo’s native Roman sensibilities with Nancy’s own native New Jersey background (“[where] some of the best Italian restaurants in the United States are located,” she said), the two have perfected the menu at Limoncello to reflect not only their personal lives and experiences, but the tastes and preferences of their customers as well.

“I’ve been asking him to try making one of my favorite dishes – chicken Parmesan, for years,” said Nancy. “He does an amazing chicken Parmesan.”

This year, Giancarlo agreed to add it to the menu. And so far, “it’s become one of our best-selling dishes.”

Giancarlo and Nancy are both actively involved in the Limoncello kitchen, which features fresh, farmto-table ingredients all from local farmsteads. With many of the fresh herbs grown right on-site – including mint leaves used in Nancy’s famous Limoncello mojitos, the Balestras estimate almost 90 percent of the menu is vegetarian or seafood-based.

Still, there’s plenty of variety to be had at Limoncello, and each dish is given special attention to make

sure diners are always satisfied.

“I always enjoy the end result, the last touch on [a dish],” said Giancarlo, who often interacts with his guests after their meal has arrived. “For me, my first priority is happiness, and that comes from doing it right. It’s beautiful when people come for a wonderful evening and leave happy. We don’t even care how much money we make in the night – for us, it’s all about how those people left feeling.”

Special for the upcoming Travers weekend, Limoncello will feature six or seven specials for guests to try. One worth considering is the lobster ravioli.

“That’s one of our signature dishes,” said Nancy. “It’s homemade ravioli filled with lobster, covered with a pink sauce with chunks of fresh shrimp and scallops.”

Along with their exquisite Italian cuisine, Limoncello boasts a warm and friendly atmosphere, something that has attracted repeat customers

photo provided

Enjoy Limoncello’s exquisite cuisine in their warm and inviting interior, or venture outside to enjoy the evening air on their expansive patio.

year after year and helped to foster an air of warmth and familiarity.

“We love the locals that we get regularly and the people who come in for the track that visit us every year,” said Nancy. “You get to build up nice relationships with people.”

“We wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for that feeling,” added Giancarlo.

“That feeling of community, of being with good people – it makes it all worth it.”

And for fans of the restaurant – stay tuned.

“We have something new in the works for Saratoga,” Giancarlo hinted.

Limoncello is open weekdays 4 – 10 p.m. and weekends from 4 – 11 p.m. To learn more about Limoncello Ristorante, visit their website at www.limoncelloristorante.com, or to make a reservation, call (518) 580-8700.

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Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

Back to School

TODAY

education briefs Helping Students in Kenya Prepare for the New School Year As students across the Capital Region and New York State prepare for a new school year, so do their counterparts in Ewaso, Kenya.

Loisaba Community Conservation Foundation, Inc. (LCCF) will host a harambee, a Kenyan community gathering, September 7, from 6-9 p.m., at Village Pizzeria, 2727 Route 29 in Middle Grove. The cost to attend is a donation of $35 per person and allows LCCF to provide a backpack filled with basic school supplies to one of the 484 primary school students, as well as critically needed medical supplies for the health clinic serving 19,000 impoverished Laikipiak Masaai and Samburu tribes people. All donations are tax deductible and go directly toward much needed services.

The event will feature wine, beer and hot and cold tapas.

Loisaba Community Conservation Foundation, Inc. (LCCF) is dedicated to providing meaningful improvement in the quality of the lives of the residents of Laikipia through education, supplying

health resources, water resource management and assistance in livestock management practices.

To RSVP, or for additional information, call (518) 738-0074 or email angie@loisabaccf.org.

HVCC Offers Online Courses to High School Students this Fall The College in the High School Program at Hudson Valley Community College will offer online courses for the first time this fall to junior and senior high school students attending any New York State high school.

Online courses begin August 27, prior to traditional College in the High School courses which start on September 4, and will end on December 14. The business, social science and language subjects will be taught entirely online

by Hudson Valley faculty. Many of these courses are intended to supplement those which may have been eliminated from high schools due to budget cuts, or may be courses that students have not been able to fit into their required high school curriculum.

Tuition is at the reduced rate of $50 per credit hour, one third the cost of regular tuition. Full-tuition scholarships are available to stu-

dents who qualify for the federal Free and Reduced Lunch program.

Additional information and a downloadable registration form can be found on the CIHS website at www.hvcc.edu/highschool /online. Interested students also may call (518) 629-8164.

Preschool Hosts Open House and Sign-Ups Abundant Life Preschool, located at the intersection of Hutchins Road and Route 50 South, midway between Ballston Spa and Saratoga Springs, is hosting an open house Tuesday, August 28, from 7-8 p.m. Limited openings are available on a first-come, first-served basis for the fall 2012 – 2013 school year.

The preschool specializes in building foundational learning skills for 3 and 4-year-olds with a strong emphasis on Christian principles.

Call (518) 885-5456 or (518) 584-9410 for additional information.

New Before and After Care Program Saratoga Independent School (SIS) will be offering a new Before and After Care Program from 7-8:40 a.m., and 3:05-5:30

p.m. each school day. This program is also open to students enrolled in Saratoga Independent School and from other schools as well.

For students from other schools: Buses will pick students up at the SIS location in the morning and bring them to their school. For those enrolled in the afternoon program, their school bus would drop them off at the facility, where parents/guardians can pick them up until 5:30 p.m. The new program will have a homework/study component, free-play indoors or outdoors (weather permitting), games, and arts and crafts activities. Students are encouraged to bring a morning snack and/or afternoon snack.

SSHS Student Orientation August 30 An orientation program for incoming ninth graders and all new high school students and their parents/guardians will be held at the Saratoga Springs High School auditorium Thursday, August 30 at 6 p.m.

The program will provide students and parents/guardians with an opportunity to meet several of the high school staff including administrators, department heads and guidance counselors. The program will include a brief presentation sharing different insights about the high school experience.

Included in the formal program will be a guided tour of the high school facilities for students and a town hall style question and answer period for parents/guardians. Afterward, all will be invited to the cafeteria where information booths will be set up featuring clubs and activities, interscholastic sports and the Guidance department.

Representatives from the high school PTSO will have a table set up with information about their organization and will gladly sign up anyone who wishes to join.

SUNY Adirondack New Student Tours to be held August 28 and 30 SUNY Adirondack will host tours for new students Tuesday, August 28, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Thursday, August 30, from 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Tours will depart every hour

from the student center at the Queensbury campus. Students will have the opportunity to take a tour of campus, obtain information on campus resources, talk with other SUNY Adirondack students, get student IDs taken and purchase books.

A parent question and answer session will take place at 2 p.m. on each day for any parent /guardian /spouse who is interested in attending.

Due to current construction of the college’s new student housing project, attendees are asked to use the north entrance of campus (the second entrance on Bay Road).

There will be a tour guide to greet student and parents. Students should bring a copy of their fall schedule and a photo ID. For further information on this program, call SUNY Adirondack Coordinator of Student Life Heather Charpentier at (518) 7432251 or email charpentierh@sunyacc.edu.

SUNY Empire State College Wins Five Inaugural Innovative Instructional Technology Grants Empire State College was awarded funding for five proposals submitted to the SUNY Innovative Instructional Technology Grants Program and collaborated with the University at Albany on another winning proposal.

Through these projects, college faculty and staff will be developing, implementing and disseminating innovations in technology to improve instruction and working with SUNY partners to build “systemness” across SUNY. In addition, the college’s Center for Distance Learning Dean Tom Mackey, Professor Michele Forte and Ellen Murphy joined University at Albany's Trudi Jacobson to develop a UAlbany sponsored proposal that also has been approved for funding.

Of the 117 proposals submitted, 48 were selected to receive awards across three different funding tiers. These awards will foster study and development of educational gaming tools, e-textbooks, online classes, e-portfolios for lifelong learning and more.

SARATOGA

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Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

Back to School

Technology Use and Your Child’s Eyes

Chad Vaughn Classrooms around the country are becoming increasingly hightech, and teachers are incorporating 3D imaging, digital devices and the latest computer applications into their daily curriculum. While these devices can greatly enhance learning, they also enhance the demands of the visual system and increase the importance of proper eye and vision care.

Prolonged use of these technologies can cause eye strain, headaches, fatigue, burning or tired eyes, loss of focus, blurred vision, double vision or head and neck pain. This condition has been called by the American Optometric Association (AOA), computer vision syndrome (CVS). CVS occurs when eye or vision problems related to near work are experienced during or related to using digital devices.

Students can help avoid CVS by practicing the 20-20-20 rule. At least every 20 minutes, take a 20second break and view something 20 feet away. Studies show that people need to rest their eyes to keep them moist and comfortable.

Plus, staring off into the distance helps the eyes from locking into a

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close-up position, which causes blur or fluctuation in vision far away. The AOA further recommends that students take a 15minute break for every two hours spent on computers or other digital devices.

Many of these issues can be further held in check with good ergonomics and yearly, comprehensive eye exams by an optometrist who not only checks nearsightedness and farsightedness, but also checks binocular vision and the focusing abilities of the patient. As is true with most things, the earlier a vision problem is detected and treated, the more likely treatment will be successful.

It is important to keep in mind that a school vision screening, while helpful, is not a substitute for a comprehensive eye examination.

Screenings vary in scope and are not designed to detect many visual problems that can significantly

impact tasks like reading where more than clarity of vision is needed. This is especially true in today’s increasingly high-tech classrooms, where the use of laptops, tablets and other digital devices are used throughout the day.

So as the first day of school is quickly approaching, and most parents are busily making their way through their to-do lists, shopping for school clothes, making appointments for immunizations and physicals, and taking trips to the store for pencils, pens, paper and all the other “must-haves” for the classroom, it is important that they ask themselves: is a visit to the optometrist on my list?

Chad A. Vaughn is an optometrist at Vaughn Vision, located at 170 South Broadway in Saratoga Springs.

To schedule your child’s back-toschool appointment, call (518) 306-5290.

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Community Corner

The Fourth Annual Remembrance Day to Take Place September 9

The fourth annual Remembrance Day ceremony will be held in Congress Park at the War Memorial on Sunday, September 9, at 10 a.m.

Mayor Scott T. Johnson, will open the program with a welcoming address. Color Guard representatives from the Korean War Veterans of America Chapter 60, Marine Memorial Detachment #2 and city police and fire departments will be in attendance to render honors to our flag.

Andrew Davis, director of the Saratoga County Veterans Service Agency, an Army Ranger, Staff Sergeant, combat veteran of Afghan/Iraq Wars and Bronze Star recipient, will be the main speaker.

During the program, three wreaths will be placed at the Global War on Terror plaque monument, the first honoring the 3,000 innocent souls who perished on that fateful day and in memory of our troops who made the supreme sacrifice in the ensuing wars on terror.

The second wreath will be presented in memory of the 343 courageous firemen who perished on that day in service to their community.

The third wreath will honor the 60 valiant police personnel and other first responders who died in service to their community.

Attendees should bring lawn chairs for seating.

SARATOGA

Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

TODAY

Rachel Biernik wins A.L.L. Poster Contest Rachel Biernik’s poster design has been chosen to advertise the Academy for Lifelong Learning’s (A.L.L.) 20th anniversary this academic year. Rachel was a student in Ms. Way’s Shenendehowa High School graphic design class, which worked on the project last spring. The academy is presently accepting registrations for the fall term.

Brochures are available at local libraries, at the A.L.L. office, 111 West Ave., Saratoga Springs and on the academy’s From left to right: A.L.L. committee member Barbara McGrath, A.L.L. Executive Director Jo-Ellen Unger, Rachel, committee memwebsite at www.esc.edu/ALL.

ber Ann Gawler and teacher Sallie Way

Helping Local Kids Comes in First for Drivers at Saratoga Harness Track For the fourth year in a row, drivers from the Harness Track at Saratoga Casino and Raceway (SCR) have chosen Franklin Community Center (FCC) as the recipient of their generosity, donating their driver’s fees for an entire day to the center and proving that giving back to the local community is just as important as the race to the finish line.

On August 21, FCC’s Project Lift benefited from this year’s donation of $6,000. That donation consists of the $3,000 in driver’s fees which are voluntarily given up by the drivers and then matched by SCR. Raceway officials say the drivers are so passionate about the cause, that they are the ones who spearhead the annual effort to make this donation happen.

The Saratoga Casino and Raceway relationship with Franklin Community Center has been flourishing for the past eight years. As one of the agency’s biggest donors throughout the year, FCC says it means even more receiving from a business whose entire staff stands behind their mission.

the

Tooth fairy club

Take a look at this week’s new club members

Ben

Jessye

Liam The tooth fairy club is sponsored by:

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

SARATOGA

TODAY

13

Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

Schuyler Park Pavilion Dedicated to Ryan Rossley

Saratoga Waterfront Park Opened to Public SARATOGA SPRINGS - A new waterfront park along Saratoga Lake was opened to the public Wednesday, August 22, alowing visitors to use the site for picnicking, non-motorized boat launches, fishing and enjoying the view.

“We thought it was high time to do what we could now do, with a limited budget, to finally make the waterfront park usable to those who are paying for it,” said Saratoga Springs Mayor Scott Johnson. “While future improv-

photos by Deborah Neary

SCHUYLERVILLE Friends and family members of Ryan Patrick Rossley gathered at Schuyler Park Sunday, August 19, to honor the late Saratoga Springs grad with a new pavilion baring his name.

Rossley, a former lacrosse player who graduated from Saratoga Springs in 2001,

was killed following a hit-andrun incident on Caroline Street in 2010.

Family members gathered at the park to witness the naming ceremony on a warm and sunny afternoon. The name plate bares Rossley’s name, along with the words “laugh, learn, live, play and love.”

ments will surely enhance the entire experience, let’s enjoy some of this treasure now.”

The park is located off of Crescent Avenue near Cassidy Drive.

The plan for a waterfront park, originally drafted in 2008, called for three phases of construction.

Depending on when the funds become availble, the city has expressed an interest in further developing the property to allow for swimming, the construction of a pier and more.

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Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

Cooks in the Kitchen Another Monday brought another benefit for the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund on August 20. Ready for some horseplay after a week of racing, jockeys headed to The Stadium Café for the 2nd Annual Taste of Saratoga. Restaurant owner Chris Harmon greeted attendees while her husband, Dave, best known for his racing photography, put down the camera to supervise the activities of their celebrity crew.

In the kitchen, sporting their own personalized jackets, the chefs were busy chopping, dicing, wrapping and mixing. David Cohen was engrossed in preparations for his sesame tuna, and Ramon Dominguez busily crafted Vietnamese spring rolls from scratch as Rajiv Maragh added tang to his pineapple meatballs. Shaun Bridgmohan and Simon Husbands raced to cook up Kingfish.

Out on the floor, emcee Joe Calderone entertained, keeping the crowd engaged and drawing

periodic raffle winners to encourage more ticket sales. Morris Todd and his wife, Joanne, congratulated the lucky lady who won his massage session at Foley Chiropractic. Others walked away with gift certificates to partnering restaurants. Calderone also highlighted some of the fun silent auction items, motivating people to bid higher on Harmon’s framed racing photos, including one of I’ll Have Another winning the Preakness; Giants, Patriots and Yankees tickets; a stay at the Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort; and a commemorative chef’s jacket autographed by the jockeys of Saratoga. Spotted perusing the auction were Chip and Sue DuBois, Sarah and Ron Ireland, Tony Millan, Andrea Krylowicz, Susan Jordan, Heather Kesting, Jamie Kennedy and Reid James.

Behind the bar, John Velazquez poured wine and tapped beer for patrons like Dave Merriman, Aaron Perkins, Brian Miller, Amanda Hatch, Trudi Dauphinais, Laraine Michaelides, Ellen Johnston and Natalie Avella. Most in demand, however, were Velazquez’s signature raspberry lemondrop martinis. His wife, Leona, commented that they

had adapted the recipe from one enjoyed at a favorite restaurant, with John adding special touches to make it his. Sharon Dominguez lifted a glass to toast the recipe, as did Deborah Iuliano and Chuck Martin.

Back in the kitchen, it seemed there could be too many cooks, or maybe it was just too many reporters. The competitors withstood the heat, putting finishing touches on their respective dishes after feedback from helpful tasters. When the big moment arrived, the special judges took their places. Ready to cast their votes were Sysco’s Mike Kiernan, John Ireland from Panza’s 28 Tables, Druthers’ Sean Comiskey, James Demers of Prime at Saratoga National and John LaPosta from Maestro’s at the Van Dam. After much fanfare, light-hearted critiques and plenty of laughter, the winner of the coveted jockey chef boot was declared to be David Cohen, whose sesame tuna with wasabi sauce also took the People’s Choice award, determined by a judging panel of the event’s first 25 attendees. Seen applauding the winning chef were Robin Carlson, Reed Hatkoff, Michele Southern, Dan Domeroski, Ryan Jordan, Jen Merriman, Joann Grande and Kent Desormeaux with his son, Jacob, and friend Joe Monroe.

The Taste of Saratoga surpassed its first year in both attendance and income, with well over $10,000 anticipated for the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund. PDJF is a collaborative effort of industry leaders, including race tracks, jockeys, trainers and horsemen (and women) who share the vision of providing financial assistance to a group of athletes who have given so much to the sport. The organization is committed to working with industry and medical research groups to improve the safety of both the human and equine athlete.

Alexis Doyle, Debora Freihofer, Donna O’Higgins, Ivy White, Louise Straney, Kristen Dwyer and Robin Kappler.

Fun shopping led to lunch when NYRA’s director of community relations, Joanne K. Adams, encouraged everyone to be seated for the brief program. Adams, a cancer survivor, co-chaired the event with Debbie Finley, Tania Luzzi and Catalina Miller. ESPN reporter Jeannine Edwards, a former exercise rider, jockey apprentice and trainer, welcomed the crowd, thanking sponsors, underwriters and benefactors for their generous support of the day. Edwards spoke about the reason for the pink and the cause that bonded each person present, breast cancer research. She also noted that Fabulous Fillies Day provided an ideal opportunity to recognize the remarkable women in Thoroughbred racing. In her pale pink suit, honoree Virginia Kraft Payson, a renowned owner/breeder and a pioneer woman sports journalist, took the stage to extend personal

appreciation to NYRA, those present and all who have played a role in the sport.

This year’s luncheon was a special tribute to BCRF founder and chairman, Evelyn H. Lauder.

Lauder died from ovarian cancer-related complications in November 2011. Her own experience with early-stage breast cancer 25 years ago inspired her to co-create the pink ribbon, now synonymous with the cause, and in 1993 she founded The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

To date, BCRF has raised over $350 million and funds 186 dedicated scientists across the United States, Canada, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and Australia, all advancing detection, prevention and treatment. Currently, more that 90 cents of every dollar donated is supporting breast cancer research and awareness programs.

Photos by Deborah Neary for MarkBolles.com

Trina Lucas

Pretty in Pink The Saratoga Race Course was blushing last Friday, August 17, as NYRA hosted their annual Fabulous Fillies Day, a celebration of women and the glamour they bring to the track. Fans wearing pink pushed through the turnstiles on a contrasting red carpet, entering with free admission.

Many of them then donated those saved dollars to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, whose volunteers accepted contributions at the entrances in exchange for a pink bracelet of support.

Pink touches were everywhere, from the blanket of carnations under Sea Hero in the paddock, to the linen napkins on the clubhouse porch. But the most vibrant bursts were found inside the At the Rail Pavilion. The space was draped in bright pink fabric with matching sheer bows adorning every chair, at tables dressed with vibrant fuchsia and fire poppies. The Sizzling Hot Pink Saratoga Hat Luncheon was coordinated by

Left to Right; Stadium Café owner Chris Harmon greets attendees with Jen Merriman and Joann Grande; Rajiv Maragh feeds Shaun Bridgmohan; winner David Cohen reviews his recipe and ingredients an all-star committee brimming with year-round supporters like Fran Dingeman, Cindy Hollowood and Cindy Munter, and summer patrons including Tracy Pletcher and Sheryl Schwartz. The broad appeal of the cause was reflected in the nine women serving as honorary chairs: Theresa Behrendt, Julie Bonacio, Jane Golub, Jayne Carr Keyes, Maureen Lewi, Suzie O’Cain, Michele Riggi, Patty Riggi and Margie Rotchford.

Attendees in every possible shade of pink sipped complimentary wine courtesy of Zed, Farrier Wines and Foley Family Wines, and shopped the Fabulous Fillies Boutique. Marianne Bezjian demonstrated the perfect drape of her scarves, while Nancy Smith and Phyllis Bynum chatted with Nancy Matt, trying on chapeaus from Encounter. Styles from Nina McClemore, RuLu New York and St. John complemented the colorful accessories. Appropriately, The Pink Paddock, a Lilly Pulitzer Via Shop, had a large display popping with the color of the day. Tim

Rodriguez and Joseph Saucier stopped by to admire the paisley ties. Owner Kimberly Burton sold handbags, totes and picnic ware, as her husband, Steve Snyder, extolled the efficiency of the pink Lilly koozie holding his cold beer and the practicality of their citronella-infused cause bracelets (both goodies for luncheon guests).

Seen with a rosy glow under her fascinator was milliner Cat Stevens, and Neil Golub’s solid pink tie perfectly matched his wife’s dress. Others pretty in pink were Sylvia Kravis Phillips, Nancy DiCresce, Donna Brothers, Kristina Lane, Lynne Silver, Mary Martin and Alyssa Paulsen, Miss Illinois Ambassador 2012. Enjoying a motherdaughter day were Laura and Elinor Wolf, with friend Jackie Molloy, committee member Janice Smeallie with daughters Ellie and Catherine, and the Pletcher’s. (The noted trainer’s wife was joined by their daughter, Hannah, and his mom, Jerrie, visiting from Texas.) Also spotted among the boutique and auction tables were Lisa Moser,

TODAY

Photos by MarkBolles.com

From Left to Right: Honorary chair Jane Golub with her husband, Neil; Kimberly Burton and Steve Snyder of The Pink Paddock; Hannah, Jerrie and Tracy Pletcher; Mistress of Ceremonies Jeannine Edwards, ESPN; honoree Virginia Kraft Payson with her husband, David Cole

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Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

A Hand Up Honorary chairs Aldis Loreno and Dee Sarno welcomed over 200 guests for One Fine Day on Tuesday, August 21. The Shelters of Saratoga summer benefit was held at the exquisite Union Gables amid the inn’s historic parlors and gardens.

The blooming bushes and trees in the B&B’s patio and side-yard were natural décor, and with elegant food stations, crisp white linens and an eclectic collection of flower-filled teapot centerpieces, the scene was set for a classic tea party.

Early on, Josey Kakaty and Connie Boff chatted with Michele Riggi, while Joe Kakaty checked out the array of silent auction items, filling in his name to get the bids rolling. On the lawn, the tent buzzed with greetings between friends like Tamara Valentine and Mary Zlotnick, as well as Jane Sanzen and Beth Becker. Missy Nigro, Darcy

Picchi and Sheila Greene caught up nearby, while Supervisor Joanne Dittes Yepsen greeted fellow honorary committee members Judy Harrigan and Laura Chodos, with Carrie Woerner and Nan Guslander.

In contrast to the heat that has weighed on so many events this season, the weather was delightful. Properly attired ladies and gentlemen sipped wine from Crush & Cask or a cup of Divinitea. Seen enjoying the scones and sandwiches provided by Maestro’s at the Van Dam were Finance Commissioner Michele Madigan, Anne McMahon, Susan Patterson, Linda Haner and Lynn Bradley. Champagne raspberry push-pops, lemon ice and mini ice cream sandwiches added refreshing sweetness while The Garland Nelson Ensemble entertained, beckoning to those strolling Union Avenue on the track’s dark day.

In recognition of the Travers Festival, SOS embraced Saratoga’s ‘health, history and horses,’

Photos by Deborah Neary for MarkBolles.com

Left: Kate Calbone and Mary Lou Wheeler; Top Right: Joe Kakaty, Paul Weil, Stephen Towne and Peter Whitten; Bottom Right: Sally Green, Joy Heyman and Edna Heyman

RSVP

Spotlight

Travers is considered the midsummer derby, but with Labor Day just a week away, it feels like the season is fleeting. Make the most of these final racing days at events that prove the best may have been saved for last. Some don’t even require an RSVP! On Friday, August 24, lift a pint at the 14th annual Battle of the Brews presented by the American Red Cross Adirondack Saratoga Chapter and DeCrescente Distributing. Tucked behind the main grandstand of the Saratoga Race Course, the event taps at noon as the region’s finest craft brews go head-to-head in competition for which reigns supreme. A $30 per person admission covers the beer sampling, light food, and a commemorative beer glass. To learn more, visit www.nyra.com.

Also celebrating its 14th year on Friday, the Travers Wine

Tasting will take place at the National Museum of Racing.

Hosted by Senior Services of Albany and presented by Time Warner Cable, the party features a premier tasting of 200 fine wines and beer from around the globe, supported by Crush & Cask and DeCrescente Distributing, and complemented with some of the Capital Region’s finest cuisine. Susanna Lia serves as honorary chair of this event, which also includes an incredible auction highlighted by escapes to Atlantis Paradise Island, Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Steamboat Springs, Colorado, all benefiting the vital Meals on Wheels program. For details, visit www.seniorservicesofalbany.com.

For a last-minute way to partake in Saturday’s festivities, join Saratoga Bridges’ annual Travers Day at the Races. Held in the Carousel Restaurant at the Saratoga Race Course, the event is sponsored

by DIAGEO, whose own Paul Robbins will be in attendance to toast guests with complimentary cocktails. Reserved seating and a

inviting attendees to sample Young Living Essential Oils on the porch, tour Union Gables with Hollis Palmer and hear from Allan Carter, historian for the National Museum of Racing. Several also embodied Saratoga’s style, in hats and garden party dresses. Seated at tables under the tent were Sandi Kearns, Kathleen Parker, Karin Noob, Barbara Miller, Karen Brown, Beverly Valentine, Sally Florence and Maggie McNichols. Meaghan and Lisa Barss joined Christine Macarelli and Judith Aratoli Tully, who not only looked fabulous in her marabou chapeau, but also created the beautiful artwork on the event invitation.

Others spotted were Don and Judy McCormack, Kim VanderHeide, Amelia Costello, Kate Calbone, Terry Lee, Dr. Joy Lucas, Tammy Loya, Jason and Martha MacGregor, Mary Lou Wheeler and SOS Executive Director Peter Whitten.

During the brief program, Garland Nelson called attention to the nonprofit’s mantra, “We don’t give a hand-out. We give a hand up.” As Nelson pointed out, “At any given time, any one of us could be thrown into a situation where our lives are destabilized.” That is why Shelters of Saratoga exists.

Board president Stephen Towne emphasized this, expressing appreciation to the many event sponsors and supporters who not only made the event possible, but more significantly, make it possible for SOS to assist those in need with a clean and comfortable place to stay, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Shelters of Saratoga offers the only respite for homeless men and women in the three-county region. More than 380 different individuals were served through the emergency shelter in 2011, not to mention countless more who benefitted from the organization’s counseling and support services.

One fine day, no one will be homeless in Saratoga, Warren or Washington counties. Until then, Shelters of Saratoga continues to be an invaluable community resource. luncheon buffet make it easy to enjoy all of the racing that afternoon. A limited number of reservations are still available. Visit www.saratogabridges.org or call (518) 587-0723, ext. 1242.

Shifting equine attentions to the other side of town, the Saratoga Polo Association showcases the Ylvisaker Memorial Cup Tournament on Friday, August 24, and Sunday the 26th. Whether sipping champagne in the clubhouse or picnicking on the tailgate, attendees can toast fashionable spectators, stomp divots between chukkers and witness an exciting world-class sport.

The fun continues on Friday, August 31, with the SPA Anniversary Cup Tournament. As the season winds down, the evening will feature a classic car cruise-in sponsored by Roli’s Auto Muscle Cars and an after-match celebration with live music from Party of Three.

Clubhouse guests will also enjoy the launch of a new American whiskey.

For match details and times, visit www.saratogapolo.com.

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

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Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

TODAY

Travers Cottage on Travers Weekend A House with a History of Colorful Characters

Photo Provided

continued from Page 1 of a horse track on Coney Island and owned part of Jerome Park.

In 1864, Travers’ prize horse was named Kentucky. As owner and supporter of the race track, he established a stakes race named after him, which, coincidently, was won by his prize horse. It is ironic that the first winner of a Saratoga’s greatest stakes race was named for a state that would rival it forever after for dominance in Thoroughbred horse racing.

Born to an upper-middle class family in Baltimore, Travers attended a private secondary school in New York City. After a stint at

West Point, he graduated from Columbia College. His first job was as a clerk in a factory in New Jersey. He then returned to Baltimore, where he joined a friend in a merchandising concern. While in Baltimore, he married Maria Louisa Johnson, the daughter of a United States senator and one of the belles of the city. They would have nine children.

In 1853, when Travers was in his mid-30s, he had lost all the money he had made from the merchandising concern. He moved to New York City where he went into banking and the stock market. Within a few years he had paid back all his creditors from his Baltimore ven-

ture. Although suffering some setbacks, the world of finance proved to be his calling; by the time he died in 1887 he was worth over $3,000,000.

During this time of conspicuous leisure, one of the ways the rich measured their success was by the number of clubs to which they belonged, and, equally important, the clubs’ prestige. A popular financier, Travers belonged to over 20 social clubs. For several years he was the president of the New York Athletic Club and a member of the New York Racket Club, two of the most significant clubs of their time.

In 1886, while Travers was the president of the New York Athletic

Club, there was a rebellion among the members, and a rival slate of officers was put forward. The bizarre twist is that both slates had Travers named for president. The contest was between those aspiring to hold lesser offices. Travers was so popular that he received 685 out of 688 votes.

In his later years Travers became an avid yachtsman, owning a winning ship named Fanny. His love of sailing resulted in his owning a second summer place in Newport which had its own ballroom and hosted President Arthur.

Unfortunately, Travers had diabetes. His health failing in October of 1886, his doctors suggested that

he go to Bermuda rather than face a winter in the northeast. While he was in Bermuda, The New York Times described Travers as “the pride of Wall Street, the joy of Newport, patron of athletics, priest of all storytellers, rare good fellow and champion stutterer.” He died in Bermuda in March 1887. His widow, Maria Louise, died in 1893 after suffering the loss of two of her three sons in the intervening period.

After the Travers, the house at 601 Broadway was the home of Louis Janvrin, the manager of the United States Hotel. For 14 years Janvrin, Gates, and Perry operated the most exclusive of the three

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TODAY

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Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

This is the final installment 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

Photo by Hollis Palmer

great hotels in Saratoga. In 1891, while only 52, Janvrin suffered a disabling stroke. He died the next year. The Janvrin family stayed in the house for two years following Louis’ death.

The house was next occupied by James Pardue, who operated a successful china shop in what is now the Algonquin building (it was called the Pardue at the time.)

Pardue made his fortune off the yearly seasonal guests and by skipping the middlemen and buying his merchandise directly from dealers in China and Japan.

The next owner, James Houghton, originally of Corinth, was a true Horatio Alger story. The oldest of seven children, Houghton was 13 when his father died. To save his mother money, he moved to his aunt’s farm. He would credit his good health and strong stature to his work on the farm as an adolescent. Because of his family situation, he did not enter high school until he was 16, graduating at 20.

Never attending college, he read for the law in Rochester. Moving to Saratoga County, he became a county judge and later was appointed by Teddy Roosevelt to the

Supreme Court and still later to the Court of Appeals. In the winter of 1913, looking fit as ever, he went to Boston to have surgery in a hospital where his son practiced. He survived the surgery only to succumb to pneumonia.

Interesting side notes on Travers and his family: • You can judge a man by the company he keeps; Travers was the executor for John Morrissey’s estate.

• Seven months after he died, Travers’ oldest son, John, was declared insane with no hope for recovery. Thirty-seven, unmarried and worth over $318,000, John died the following February, less than a year after his father.

Travers’ son Reverdy died in 1892 at the age of 29. Money may not cure all evils.

• Noted for his sense of humor, Travers’ quips were often quoted in the various newspapers. One time he was looking out his window and noticed a lawyer walking by. He turned to his friend saying, “Look there is ___ with his hands in his own pockets.”

• Having a serious speech impediment (he stuttered) Travers

Photo by Hollis Palmer

often picked on himself. After he moved to New York City he ran into an old acquaintance from Baltimore. His friend remarked, “William your stutter seems much worse since you moved.”

Travers responded, “B-b-b-bigger c-c-c-city.”

• During World War I, Houghton’s daughter, Elizabeth Don, along with another young woman from Saratoga, purchased a Ford ambulance which they donated to the Red Cross to transport wounded soldiers. Before they were allowed to go to France to serve as the drivers they had to prove they could dismantle and reassemble the ambulance themselves – they passed.

Hollis Palmer’s books are available at Crafters’ Gallery and the Saratoga History Museum.

This is the last house in the “Historic Homes of Saratoga” series. If you would you like to nominate a house (including your own) built before 1920 to be considered for a future series, contact Hollis Palmer at derbytours@yahoo.com with the information, or contact the Saratoga TODAY offices.

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OBITUARIES Genny will be missed by all of her survivors, most especially her mother, Gertrude Mickenzi; brother, Richard P. Miglucci; sisters, Victoria Harrington, Nancy Draper and Diane Nutting; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Services were held Wednesday, August 22, 2012.

Henry A. Jones Sr. Ballston Spa, NY Henry A. Jones Sr. passed away Wednesday, August 15, 2012. He was 78.

Born March 31, 1934, he was the son of the late William J. Jones Sr., Izabell Fitzgerald and Wilfred H. Austin Sr. (stepfather).

In addition to his wife and parents, Henry was predeceased by his brothers, William J. Jones Jr. (Sonny), Wilfred H. Austin Jr. and Wesley N. Austin.

Survivors include children, Michael (Patsy) Mumblo, Mark (Dale) Mumblo, Steven F. Jones Sr. and Linda

Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

TODAY

Dominic Zappone

Geneieveve “Genny” Mickenzi Saratoga Springs, NY – Geneieveve “Genny” Mickenzi entered into eternal rest Monday, August 13, 2012.

Genny was born May 8, 1949, to Gertrude (Miglucci) and the late Dominick Mickenzi.

In addition to her father, she is predeceased by many other family members who she cherished and loved during her lifetime.

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(Robert) Pratt, James F. Jones (partner William Holland), Henry A. Jones Jr., Melissa S. (Steven) MacDonald, and Steven F. (Korina) Jones Jr.; his siblings, Marlene Ruth Berry, Donald G. (Pat) Austin, Richard (Paula) Austin and Lynn D. Kilbary; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

There will be a graveside service at 11 a.m. Saturday, August 25, 2012, at the North Milton Cemetery, Rt. 29, Milton.

Dominic Zappone, 59, of Ballston Spa and Wilton, passed away Monday, August 13, 2012.

Born June 2, 1953, in Italy, he was the son of the late Anthony and Luisa Zappone.

He completed many heroic missions for the U.S. Army, and, after his discharge, continued his fight on behalf of freedom and dignity as a civilian.

Dominic is survived by his brother, Anthony Zappone, and his wife, Lorrie, of Kansas, and their children, Anna and Joseph; his

aunt, Filomena Spensieri and her children, Tony Spensieri and Mary Grace Nardoia, and her husband, John; his aunt and uncle, Antonio and Giovannina Zappone; his cousin, Barbara Zappone; and many cousins and a wide group of friends. He is also survived and will be deeply missed by his companion for more than a decade, Helen Edelman, and her children, Morgan and Taber Ward and Jacob and Jonah Glover.

A memorial service will be held at noon Friday, August 24, 2012, at Armer Funeral Home Inc., 39 E. High St., Ballston Spa.

Mary A. Natale Saratoga Springs, NY Mary A. Natale passed away Saturday, August 18, 2012.

Mary was born in Shelburne, Vt. September 21, 1916, to William and Ada (Salls) Farrell.

She was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Frank Natale; daughter, Rosemarie Boucher; two brothers, James and Francis Farrell; and two sisters, Marge Arpei and Kaye Grolley.

Mary will be greatly missed by her survivors, sons, Anthony (Joanne) Natale and Bill (Sandy) Natale; sister-in-law, Josephine

Natale; her seven grandchildren, Michelle Hill, Lisa (Jerome) Walls, Sheri Loftis, Mary Natale, Renee' (Richard) Ferguson, Becky (Joel) Rosenberger and Laura Natale; 12 great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 9:30 a.m.

Friday, August 24, 2012 at St. Clement’s Church, 231 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs.

Jack E. Larmour Saratoga Springs, NY – Jack E. Larmour passed away Monday, August 20, 2012. He was 88.

Born April 20, 1924, in Schenectady, NY, he was the son of the late Larry and Anna Gardenier Larmour.

He served his country from 1943 to 1946 as a Sgt. in the Air Force. He was part of the 835th Bomb Squad during World War II. On Oct. 19, 1946, Jack married the former

Louise Marucci and they spent 55 years together until her passing in 2001.

Survivors include his step-son, Richard (Anne) Clemente; grandchildren, Cathleen Clemente, Christine (David) Stack and Gina Clemente; great-grandsons, George and John Stack and Vincent Parisi; and niece, Dianne (George) Will.

Burial with military honors will be private at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville, NY.

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.

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Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

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

The Travers at Saratoga Race Course

Brendan O’Meara At last, the 143rd running of the $1 million Travers Stakes has arrived. Run at 1 ¼ miles—or 10 furlongs—the Travers attracts the nation’s best 3-year-old horses. The best of who’s left, anyway.

Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner I’ll Have Another was retired the day before the Belmont Stakes.

Union Rags, the Belmont Stakes winner, was retired. Bodemeister, the electric runner up to I’ll Have Another in the Derby and Preakness was retired this past Tuesday.

Paynter, winner of the Haskell, is out with a fever.

That said, a field of 11 sophomores are set to run Saturday’s race.

The favorite is currently Jim Dandy winner Alpha. He won the 1 1/8th mile Jim Dandy by going to the lead before drawing away. The question will be whether he can do the same in the Travers with the extra dis-

tance. He won’t be the only speedy horse in the race either.

Breeders’ Cup Juvenile winner Hansen, and, most recently, fourthplace finisher in the $750,000 West Virginia Derby would have been gunning for the lead. The Tapit colt has an injured front left and will be forced to skip.

Despite the defection, there are still 11 horses expected to contest for the Travers.

Trainer Kiaran McLaughlin will saddle the morning-line favorite in Alpha (Post 6, 5-2). With Hansen out of the race, a sure-fire speed ball will no longer be there to pressure Alpha.

“I’m very happy with our draw,” McLaughlin said. When asked about Hansen’s impact by virtue of his absence, McLaughlin felt he might inherit the lead.

“I would think so,” McLaughlin said. “I’m sorry Hansen is out. Bad news items are never fun. It does help us on the front end. Now we’ll be close if not on the lead.”

Ramon Dominguez has the mount.

On the contrary, trainer Gary Contessa, who saddles 30-1 long shot Speightscity, has something to say about that.

“We’re a long shot,” he said, whose horse will break from Post 1.

“We’re going to the lead. Hansen is

not in here.”

Speightscity comes into the Travers after a layoff when he “wrenched his knee,” according to Contessa in the Grade 3 Withers on February 4. In that race he finished second behind Alpha. Speightscity schooled in the paddock during the post draw and Contessa played showman as he snatched a microphone beside emcee Andy Serling.

Alpha in the Jim Dandy

“The biggest question is: is he fit enough?

I’m not sure. He’s won [going] two turns on this track. He schools quite often. When he was a 2-yearold, he blew his mind [in the paddock].”

Since he hasn’t had a race in over six months, Contessa breezed him a mile on the 17th and 13th at the

Oklahoma Training Track. Both workouts went in 1:39 and 1:40 respectively. Most trainers only breeze their horses at four and five furlongs.

Atigun, trained by Ken McPeek, breaks from Post 7 and is at 12-1.

Photo by Adam Mooshian

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The odds confuse McPeek as he has defeated, at the very least, Street Life (5-1) in the Belmont Stakes. His most recent effort was a sixth-place finish in the Jim Dandy on an offtrack.

“The Belmont Stakes was a really good race at 1 ½ miles,” McPeek said of the third-place finish. “He needs pace and I’ll give [jockey] Mike Smith a test run. I thought he should have been closer in his last race. He’s doing fine physically.”

McPeek enters a new shooter in Golden Ticket. At 20-1, Golden Ticket is the second longest shot on the board. He’s been turning in blistering works and McPeek noted his irritation about races he entered that the horse in didn’t fill. The Travers spot is ambitious, but Golden Ticket is ready.

“He’s a fast horse,” said McPeek.

Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

“He ran well in the Tampa Bay Derby. The horse is sitting on a tilt.

He’s set down every breeze. He’s hitting on all cylinders. You only get one chance at these things, so we’re going to pull away.”

Ian Wilkes is attempting to be the first trainer in over 50 years to win the Whitney Handicap and the Travers. He saddles Neck ’n Neck at odds of 9-2. In his last race, he finished second to Alpha in the Jim Dandy.

“I’d like to see a dry track,” Wilkes said. “The horse is doing everything right. I couldn’t be happier with how he’s coming in.”

Mark Casse’s son and assistant trainer, Norman Casse, will saddle Stealcase who was third in the Grade 1 Haskell Invitational to Paynter. It was Paynter’s absence from the Travers that gave Stealcase’s con-

nections confidence.

In the Haskell, Stealcase didn’t break particularly sharp and was shuffled farther back than he would have liked. Breaking from Post 4, he’ll need to be starting sharp to get in the mix early.

“We worked him twice over the main track and we couldn’t be happier,” Casse said. “We decided to run in the Travers when Paynter was out.

We’re excited to see him to 1 ¼ miles. We’re happy with the post position. Hopefully he’ll break better and we’ll see him forwardly placed.”

Stealcase (15-1) worked six furlongs in 1:12 on August 13 and five furlongs in 1:00 on the 19th.

The rest of the field for Saturday’s Travers is Street Life (Post 5, 5-1), Liaison (Post 9, 8-1), Nonios (Post 10, 4-1) and Fast Falcon (Post 11, 20-1).

A brief look at the King’s Bishop

Trinniberg

Photo Provided by NYRA.com

While the Travers is the biggest draw to Saturday’s card, there are several other graded stakes to watch.

The Grade 1 King’s Bishop is always a great showcase for 3-yearold sprinters. Trinniberg and Currency Swap - division leaders will be there, but it is Hall of Fame trainer Jonathan Sheppard’s Ever So Lucky that is making the most noise.

Third in his last race in the $100,000 Curlin Stakes, Ever So Lucky turns back to seven furlongs but bumps up to a Grade 1.

“I think we’re going to give it a shot,” Sheppard said. “We just like Saratoga; we like to run here. It’s a good distance for him. We wouldn’t ship up here for this, but he’s been here since the Curlin, and he likes it up here. We realize we’re in the deep water.”

Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

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Hoofing Through the Backstretch “

who sees things grow from the “Hebeginning will have the best view of them.

-Aristotle

Marilyn Lane Is racing so complicated that we need to study Aristotle’s philosophy in order to glean pleasure from it? No, not really, but without some understanding of how race horses are raised and developed, we are less likely to appreciate the full spectacle the sport offers.

Horses granted stalls at the Saratoga Race Meet are either made-stars or the equivalent of prep school graduates. To observe them going through their morning routines is a special experience and one I’d encourage everyone to participate in.

NYRA (New York Racing Association) has been conducting backstretch tours for decades.

Every morning just outside the Nelson Avenue gates, you’ll find trams parked and waiting. To most people’s amazement, the backstretch tours are free.

Few other race tracks are so accommodating. For anyone who is not licensed to go onto the backstretch, these tours provide a way to observe the pastoral but complex functions of morning training.

When the tram reaches the backstretch, a specified guide delivers a quick tutorial about safety and pro-

tocol. From there, participants move right into an up-close observation of a horse and explanations about his equipment. Buddy’s been at this job for eight seasons; he’s there six days a week and welcomes every tour. His owner, Lisa Donadio, brings the

QuarterHorse/Thoroughbred/Paint mix from her Connecticut farm for the entire racing season. He’s truly a model horse and Donadio says he loves his job.

Buddy’s bright chestnut coat is easy to spot. He’s a patient sort, and, like a lot of horses, enjoys

Lisa Donadio stands by Buddy the horse.

photo by Barry A. Bornstein

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NYRA Tram Backstretch Tour

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photo by Barry A. Bornstein

Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

interacting with people. Donadio looks forward to this summer activity and each fall returns to Connecticut where she is a specialeducation teacher. Buddy’s other jobs include best friend, trail riding, and workout partner. I asked Donadio the most frequently asked question she gets and she instantly replied, “Most of the people ask: How did you get THIS JOB?” After leaving Donadio and Buddy, groups of approximately 25 people unobtrusively stroll through the barn area, never too close to the horses or interfering with the work at hand. A trainer’s barn is a private area and you’d no more step

up to a stall without permission than to walk into someone’s office and open a drawer.

After watching horses come and go to the track, get their baths and bandages, the tours are led near the track to watch horses jog, gallop, work or school in the starting gates.

The last stop is a briefing from Gus Rodriguez, a key member of the starting gate crew.

When I mentioned to a friend of mine that I was writing about the tours, she told me about her own experience . “I came to Saratoga by myself, I didn’t know anyone but I wanted to learn more about the racing here. Breakfast at the track and listening to Mary Ryan was the first step. I saw the tours advertised in my racing program and went on several of them in those first years up here.”

She compared the experience to a scavenger hunt, one clue leading to another. She found the booty all right, and now participates in a Saratoga-based racing syndicate.

This same friend is also an ardent

Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

fan of opera and travels far and wide to see special performances.

She’s often mentioned that her two passions parallel each other more than one might expect. Her explanation is, “They both require engagement on a lot of different levels and for this precise reason they are interests best-suited for mature audiences.”

Opera is made up of drama, music, literature, history, costuming, landscape, acting, architecture and theater. That’s a lot of balls to hold in the air. Racing has an entirely different set of components but it too is a complicated tapestry.

Curiosity of the sport is a beginning, but to stay hooked you need to weave everything together.

Learning what happens during training hours is a good start.

The Saratoga Race Course tours are a cost-free and effective way to gain exposure to this fascinating world of the backstretch. A crew of NYRA workers led by June Shaw conduct these informative tours.

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Shaw has been at the job for more than 20 years. Engage her in conversation, and you’ll soon learn she’s immensely happy with her job. A jovial crew reflects her enthusiasm.

The tours move in and out like clockwork. Shaw told me how, “The guides call me the hook because I’m forever pulling them in to load the trams for the return shuttle.” The horses and all the interesting activities tend to captivate people and the tour guides get excited to share even more of the wonderment with their audiences.

It becomes something akin to curtain calls at a musical performance.

There are guides of all ages and their backgrounds vary vastly.

They all seem to share a reverence for the outside, and a fascination for the horses, the people and the sport of racing. They are allowed to customize their tours so long as they follow the safety rules and stay in the designated areas. Like everything, there is a little theater

photos by Barry A. Bornstein

Top: Tour Guide Ben Shaw; Bottom: Shaw stands by as the next tour group gathers.

involved.

I sought out what looked like the youngest guide. In only a week, Ben Shimkus will trade in his bright logo shirt and head off to SUNY Cortland University to begin his college career. It made me smile when I learned he was a theater major. His charismatic style is what first attracted me to learn more about these tours.

Shimkus started with NYRA on the frontside in the guest services department, but soon his curious nature caused him to gravitate closer to the horses. He told me, “I’m allergic to horses but attracted to everything about them. In his second year as a guide, Shimkus said the most frequently asked question is, “How often do they race?”

These guides handle their groups in a style reminiscent of crowd control at a PGA tournament. They are cautious and alert and always quick to provide space for personnel and the horses. You can see that they are prepared in the event someone suddenly hollers, “fore.”

Next I spoke with Bill Marotta, a Verizon employee for 32 years and a backstretch tour guide for 16 seasons. He told me, “I was 11 years old when my father first took me to the track; we lived in Brooklyn and went to Aqueduct and Belmont quite a few times.”

It was a joy to hear Marotta express his passion for racing. “I love the game and took one of these tours on my first visit to Saratoga.”

He and his family moved here in ’96, and when the season opened, Marotta found himself applying to

circle be a tour guide. Surprised to find out NYRA paid a stipend for this service, he told them, “You don’t have to pay me, I just really want to do this.”

Marotta spends his vacations in Saratoga. He says, “Why would anyone want to go elsewhere when this great spectacle happens right in your own backyard?” He quickly dismisses the shock some people express when they learn he takes his kids to the track. I just tell them, “Look, I’ve been coming to the races since I was 11 and I think I turned out alright.”

He continued to say, “I am forever fascinated by how much goes on every day on the backside. People

23 from all around the world have come on these tours and they are amazed that something so wonderful can be free.”

The odds of making a fan out of someone in a day at the races are slim, but give them a glimpse of what happens on the backside and they leave with hundreds of reasons to want to see more of this game.

The more everyone learns about these noble animals and this engaging sport, the more inclined they’ll be to preserve the great racing we have in Saratoga.

Kudos to the tour guides for all the great work they do.

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CALENDAR

living

24 - Aug 30 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 21 - September 27 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 24 Haunted History Ghostwalks Starbucks, 351 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 90-minute walking tour of downtown Saratoga Springs that touch-

es on its history, mystery, architecture and parapsychology. Tours leave at 7 p.m. from Starbucks. For more information, call (518) 5844132.

Guided Early Morning History Hikes Saratoga Battlefield From 9 - 11 a.m. tours guided by National Park Service volunteers Dick Farrell and Ray Palmer. For more information, call (518) 6702980.

Mineral Springs Tour Saratoga Spa State Park Participants will taste the mineral springs, hear about their medicinal qualities, learn about their geology, and discover the history behind names like State Seal and Hayes. Registration is required. Fee is $3 per person. Call (518) 5842000, ext. 150 to register.

Saturday, August 25 Tang Museum Family Saturdays

SARATOGA

Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

Summer Stroll- Down in the Valley: Explore The Gut SW corner of Phila & Henry St., Saratoga Springs This was home to many workingclass family businesses and important contributions for Saratoga’s Jewish community for many years.

Tours are rain or shine, allow 90 minutes. For more information, call (518) 587-5030.

Monday, August 27 BSEF 14th Annual Golf Tournament Pioneer Hills Golf Course, Milton 10:30 p.m. registration time, lunch at 11 a.m. and a noon shotgun start time at the Pioneer Hills Golf Course. Registration is $75 for an individual and $400 for a four-person team. For more information, call (518) 884-7195.

2013 Trip to Italy Slide Show Presentation

Travers Stakes

Clifton Park- Halfmoon Public Library, Clifton Park The Friends of the Clifton ParkHalfmoon Library will present a free slide show and informational presentation to introduce an Italy’s Treasure trip. The trip will depart on April 5 and return on April 16, 2013. For more information, call (518) 505-1303.

Saratoga Race Course One of racing’s oldest stakes. Gates open at 7 a.m. Post time is 11:35 a.m. For more information, call (518) 584-6200.

Tuesday, August 28

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, call (518) 580-8080.

Spa Park Garden Tour Saratoga Spa State Park Caretakers of the gardens, Dan and Joan, will be there to answer your gardening questions. The rain date will be August 26. For more information, call (518) 584-2000, ext.

150.

Sunday, August 26 Run for the Horses 5K and Kids Fun Run Orenda Pavilion, Saratoga Spa State Park To benefit the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation. USATF certified with mile markers and water on course. Trophies and medals to top three male/female finishers overall and by decade. $25 preregistration, $30 day-of registration, $5 suggested donation for Kids Fun Run. For more information, call (518) 226-0028.

Tang Museum: Public Tour of Dance/Draw Tang Museum, Skidmore College, 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs 1 p.m. at the Tang Museum. Free and open to the public. For more information, call (518) 580-8080.

Preschool Hosts Open House and Sign Ups Hutchins Road and Route 50 South, Abundant Life Preschool, Saratoga Springs The preschool specializes in building foundational learning skills for 3 and 4-year-olds with a strong emphasis on Christian principles.

For more information, call (518) 885-5456 or (518) 584-9410.

Free Concerts In Congress Park Congress Park, Saratoga Springs 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. For more information, call (518) 587-3241.

Wednesday, August 29 Magic & Ice Cream Party Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry Street End of the Summer Reading Program and ice cream party celebration with magician Scott Jameson as he presents classic magic tricks and juggling routines with a fresh new look, choreographed to a broad selection of music styles. For more information, call (518) 584-7860, ext. 3.

LiveWell ADK / Weight Loss Seminar 12 Haviland Road, Queensbury LiveWell ADK is a new program designed to incorporate a variety of fun and healthy ideas. The goal is to encourage and promote a happy, healthy lifestyle for folks who live here in the heart of the beautiful Adirondacks. For more information, call (518) 793-5555.

Porch Chat Series: “Shrady & Shrady” Grant Cottage, Mount McGregor, Wilton Steve Trimm will focus on Dr. George Shrady, one of Grant's team of physicians, and his son, Henry, a self-taught sculptor who created the most beautiful and powerful statue of Grant in the nation. For more information, call (518) 584-4353.

Saratoga Regional YMCA Job Fair Saratoga Springs YMCA, 290 West Avenue The Saratoga Regional YMCA will be hosting a job fair at the Saratoga Springs Branch from 3:30 - 6:30 p.m. For more information, call (518) 583-9622, ext. 127.

Thursday, August 30 Steak Night VFW Post 420, 190 Excelsior Ave., Saratoga Springs Grilled Steak dinner will consist of rib steak, baked potato, corn on the cob, and salad. Come enjoy our air conditioned hall. For more information, call (518) 884-1235.

Upcoming Events

TODAY

Saratoga Springs Youth Orchestra Open Auditions The Saratoga Springs Youth Orchestra has openings for a few advanced string musicians (Violin/Viola/Cello) ages 13 - 25, and is hosting open auditions at the Waldorf High School at 1 p.m.

For more information, call (229) 224-5672.

Eagle Mills Big Squeeze Weekend First cider pressing of the season.

Free admission to Mill Tour and pressing demonstrations on Saturday and Sunday at 11 a.m., 1 and 2 p.m. Fresh cider for sale. For more information, call (518) 8838700.

Saratoga Final Stretch Music festival including R&B, bluegrass, cajun, folk, jazz, barbershop, rock, electric violin and more. For more information, call (518) 5878635.

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

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

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

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

Saturday, September 1

Send Sendyour yourcalendar calendaritems itemsto toEric Emily Havens Fowleratatehavens@saratogapublishing.com efowler@saratogapublishing.combefore before55p.m. pm on onMonday Mondayfor forFriday Fridaypublication. publication.

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Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

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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.

From Scratch Club Academy Classes at Brookside Brookside, home of the Saratoga County Historical Society, is very excited to announce that the From Scratch Club Academy will be offering a variety of classes on food preparation and preservation.

The class Home Dairy 101 will be held Tuesday, August 28 from 6:30 9 p.m. Have you ever wanted to make your own yogurt or mozzarella, ricotta or paneer cheese? This fun class will show you the basics of home dairy processing. For more information, visit www.brooksidemuseum.org.

Nacre Dance Company Holds Audition for Upcoming Season of Dance Nacre will be auditioning dancers (ages 18 and up) for the upcoming 2012 - 2013 season. Interested applicants can choose from two audition dates offered Sunday, August 26, from 1 - 3 p.m. at the Albany Dance and Fitness located at 1197 Central Avenue in Albany or August 29, from 7 - 9 p.m. at Myers Dance Center at 153 Regent Street in Saratoga Springs. For more information on Nacre, call (518) 4350510.

10 Cent Paperback Sale The Book Bag Shop will conduct a one-day 10 cent paperback sale Tuesday, August 28 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. in the Community Room of the Saratoga Springs Public Library.

Items in the Book Bag Shop will be 20 percent off from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

The Book Bag Shop is a project of the Friends of the Saratoga Springs Public Library. Funds raised are used to enhance library services. For more information, call (518) 5847860.

Vendors, Crafters and Artisans Needed for Town Center The GCBA is currently looking for vendors, crafters and artisian's for Town Center on Saturday, September 8, from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Contact Dominique Rowland at (518) 368-7803 or Kayla Davis at (518) 858 - 1706.

Delegan Pond Exploration Open Hours Visit Delegan Pond at Camp Saratoga to explore the pond with dip nets on Wednesday, August 29 from 10 a.m.-noon. During open hours there isn't a formal program, but a Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park intern will be present to help you and answer any questions you may have. To pre-register, call (518) 450-0321.

4th Annual Saratoga Stroll for Epilepsy The Epilepsy Foundation of Northeastern New York’s 4th Annual Saratoga Stroll for Epilepsy will be held on Sunday, September 9, at the Saratoga Spa State Park at the Columbia Pavilion. Over the past three years the event attracted 1,650 “strollers” and raised $180,000. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Donate, register and fundraise online at www.epilepsyfoundation.org/efneny.

Waterford Roundup

Tugboat

Usually held the weekend after Labor Day, the festival has grown steadily and attracts approximately 25,000 people to this sleepy canal town in the heart of upstate New York’s Capital Region. In addition to tours of the vessels and other displays, there is an ample supply of music, food, children’s activities, vendors, boat rides, fireworks and family fun. For more information, visit www.tugboatroundup.com.

New Consortium Seeks to Improve Care Saratoga Hospital and Saratoga County Office for the Aging are among 16 regional health care organizations that have teamed up to help Medicare patients get better faster after they are discharged from the hospital. The organizations have joined forces to form the Northeastern New York community-based Care Transitions Program (CCTP) and have qualified for a federal grant for pilot programs that

seek to make health care safer, more reliable and less costly.

ACE Presents Under the Lights 4 Car Show On August 25, ACE will be presenting the Under the Lights 4 car show at Derby Park in Hudson Falls. All makes, models and years are welcome. Registration fee is $10 and spectator donation is $3. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Amanda House and Saint Joseph House of Grace. For more information, call (518) 638-6239.

CAPTAIN Youth and Family Services Needs Your Help The Southern Saratoga YMCA and CAPTAIN Youth and Family Services are partnering for a cause and need your energy and creativity.

Informational meeting at the Southern Saratoga YMCA on September 7 at 3:30 or 6 p.m. or Saturday, September 8 at 11 a.m. for pizza and details. For more information, call (518) 371-1185.

39th Annual Antique and Classic Boat Rendezvous This Antique and Classic Boat Society-sanctioned event, planned and run by the Adirondack Chapter of the ACBS, is free to the public.

Land displays and tents set up by boating-related vendors will provide added interest to a pleasant shoreside stroll. Visitors can vote for their favorite boat by picking up a ballot at either the Ship's Store or the show registration table, and are encouraged to do so.

1st Annual Saratoga Water Garden Tour Chip’s Landscaping will be hosting a unique self-guided Saratoga County Water Garden Tour on September 9. With the intent of making the event beneficial to a local nonprofit organization, 100 percent of all ticket sales will benefit the Brookside Museum, home of the Saratoga County Historical Museum in Ballston Spa. The After Tour Barbeque is located one mile from the final water garden site.

Tickets are $10 a person, kids under the age of 12 are free. This is a rain or shine event. For more information, call (518) 885-4000.

Inaugural “Steeplechase Festival at Saratoga” Launches Website, Offers Online Ticket Sales The inaugural Steeplechase Festival at Saratoga has launched its website. The exciting online desti-

nation offers the opportunity to purchase tickets in advance for this extraordinary event at historic Saratoga Race Course on Saturday, September 15. The latest news about the Steeplechase Festival at Saratoga and the ticketing capability can be accessed at www.steeplechasefestivalatsaratoga.org.

Young Living Super Sunday Be sure to attend this great, highenergy event to connect with other members in your area and introduce new people to Young Living. Event takes place at the Saratoga Hilton Hotel Travers Room, 534 Broadway. Company and product introduction is from 1-2:15 p.m. and business training is 2:30-4 p.m. For more information, call (518) 8796360.

Retired Teachers’ Meeting The Saratoga Springs Retired Teachers Association will meet on Monday, September 10, at noon, at Longfellows Restaurant, 500 Union Avenue (Route 9P), Saratoga Springs. Membership is open to retired educators who taught and/or live in Saratoga County. For membership information, call 587-5356.

Back to School Cut-A-Thon Nuance, A Boutique Salon is hosting a cut-a-thon to benefit The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society on Monday, August 27, from 3 - 7 p.m. $20 donation. $1 per minute chair massages provided by Mary’s Healing Hands Massage. Nuance is located at 1383 Vischer Ferry Rd., Halfmoon.

Leadership Saratoga Currently Accepting Project Proposals Leadership Saratoga, a program of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, is currently accepting project proposals from area nonprofit organizations. Each year, members of the class are asked to work on a project that will make a lasting difference in the community.

Interested organizations should submit their one-page proposal to program director, Kathleen Fyfe, kfyfe@saratoga.org. Proposals are due by Friday, August 31.

Organizations that submit will be asked to schedule a 30-minute interview with the project review committee on Wednesday, September 5.

Any questions about the projects or the Leadership Saratoga program should also be sent to Kathleen Fyfe, 28 Clinton Street, Saratoga Springs, (518) 584-3255.

upcoming town meetings Town of Ballston: Ballston Town Hall 323 Charlton Road 885-8502 www.townofballstonny.org 8/28: Town Board, 7:30 p.m.

8/29 Planning Board, 7:30 p.m.

Village of Ballston Spa: 66 Front Street 885-5711 www.ballstonspany.org 8/27: Village Board, 7:30 p.m.

Town of Greenfield: 7 Wilton Road 893-7432 www.townofgreenfield.com 8/28: Planning Board, 7 p.m.

Town of Malta: 2540 Route 9 899-2818 www.malta-town.org 8/27 Town Board, 6:30 p.m.

Town of Milton: 503 Geyser Road 885-9220 www.townofmiltonny.org City of Saratoga Springs: 474 Broadway 587-3550 www.saratoga-springs.org 8/28 City Council, 1 p.m.

8/28 Recreation Commission, 6:30 p.m.

Town of Saratoga: 12 Spring Street, Schuylerville 695-3644 www.townofsaratoga.com Village of Schuylerville: 35 Spring Street 695-3881 www.villageofschuylerville.org Town of Stillwater: 66 East St., Riverside Mechanicville, NY 12118 www.stillwaterny.org 8/27: Zoning Board, 7:30 p.m.

Town of Wilton: 22 Traver Road 587-1939 www.townofwilton.com 8/23: Zoning Board, 7 p.m.

Saratoga County Board of Supervisors 40 McMaster St., # 1 Ballston Spa, NY 12020-1985 (518) 885-2240 www.saratogacountyny.gov

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

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Local Gigs Week of 8.24-8.30:

Send listings to entertainment@saratogapublishing.com

Friday, 8.24:

•Frank Chase, 7 pm

•Terry Gordon Quintet, 9 pm

•Big Shot (Billy Joel Tribute), 7:30 pm,

@ 9 maple avenue - 587.7759

•Steven L. Smith Band, 9 pm @ bailey’s - 583.6060

•Bill Staines, 8 pm @ caffè lena - 583.0022

•Philip the Meat Box, 9 pm @ dango’s - 587.2022

•Erin Harkes Band, 9 pm @ gaffney’s - 587.7359

•Neversink, 9 pm @ irish times - 583.0003

•Town Pants, 9 pm @ the parting glass - 583.1916

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

•Maryleigh & The Fauves, 9 pm @ putnam den - 584.8066

•Big Shot (Billy Joel Tribute), 6:30 pm @ siro’s - 584.4030

•New York Players, 8 pm @ vapor - 581.5772

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

•Travers Celebration, 7 pm @ vapor - 581.5772

Sunday, 8.26: •Everest Rising, 7 pm @ caffè lena - 583.0022

•Dirt Cheap, 8 pm @ dango’s - 587.2022

•Delta Moon, 8 pm @ gaffney’s - 587.7359

•Jeff Brisbin, 6 pm @ irish times - 583.0003

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

•Philip the Meat Box, 6:45 pm @ siro’s - 584.4030

Thursday, 8.30: •Justin Joyner, 8 pm @ bailey’s - 583.6060

Saturday, 8.25:

•Four Down, 8 pm

•Keith Pray's Soul Jazz Revival, 9 pm

•Garland Nelsen w/Soul Session, 8 pm

@ 9 maple avenue - 587.7759

•E Town Express, 9 pm @ bailey’s - 583.6060

•Mary Fahl, 8 pm @ caffè lena - 583.0022

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

•Virgil Cain, 9 pm @ gaffney’s - 587.7359

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

•Hair of the Dog, 8 pm @ the parting glass - 583.1916

•Earl Davis w/ Peg & Bill Delaney, 7:30 pm @ panza’s - 584.6882

•Gianni Russo, 6:30 pm @ primelive ultra lounge - 583.4563

•Eastbound Jesus, 9 pm @ putnam den - 584.8066

@ dango’s - 587.2022 @ gaffney’s - 587.7359

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

•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

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SPAC’s Battle of the Bands Looking for Last-Minute Entries SARATOGA SPRINGS – It’s time for local bands put up or shut up. The Battle of the Bands at the Spa Little theater is fast approaching, with auditions due August 30 and the competition beginning September 21.

Come Friday, September 21 at 6 p.m., 10 of the region’s best bands will compete before a live audience and a panel of celebrity judges at the Spa Little Theater for the Saratoga Performing Art Center’s (SPAC) third annual Battle of the Bands, one of the Capital Region’s most popular music challenges. SPAC is inviting interested bands to submit YouTube video auditions and the online entry form by Thursday, August 30 at www.spac.org/battlesignup/. The winning band will receive a prize package valued at over $4,000.

“The Capital Region has an abundance of talented musicians

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

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

Eastbound Jesus won last year’s compeition, while Vesper took home top honors in 2010.

Details regarding the 2012 competition are as follows: • Contestants must submit a YouTube audition video and online entry form at www.spac.org by 11:59 p.m.

Thursday, August 30.

• Friday, August 31 at 5 p.m. through Monday, September 3 at 11:59 p.m., the public will have the opportunity to view the audi-

tion videos at www.spac.org and vote for their favorite band. The other nine finalists will be chosen by a SPAC selection committee.

Ten finalists will be announced Tuesday, September 4.

• On September 21, 10 finalists will have 10 minutes to perform for a live audience and a panel of celebrity judges at the Spa Little Theater. The event is run “American-Idol” style, with three celebrity judges rating the performance of each band following their time slot.

• Bands will be evaluated and a winner chosen based on a formula that weights audience response at 60 percent and judges’ evaluations at 40 percent.

The prize package for the winning band includes 25 hours of studio time at The Recording Company, over $800 in custom T-shirts and stickers by Saratoga Statement and – for both the win-

ner and the runner-up - the opportunity to book a show at Putnam Den. “For the artists, Battle of the Bands represents an opportunity to stand on the same stage where music legends have performed.

We are looking forward to seeing who will fill those shoes," said White.

The deadline for bands to apply at www.spac.org/battlesignup/ is August 30.

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Haunted Homes of Saratoga Springs

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS - After a one-year hiatus, the Haunted History Ghost Walks of Saratoga Springs tours are back. The 90-minute walking tour of downtown Saratoga Springs and some of its more famous - and perhaps haunted - buildings, leaves at 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays in August from Starbucks at 351 Broadway. In September, tours leave from Starbucks every Saturday, beginning 7 p.m.; in October, tours depart from the Saratoga Arts Center at 320 Broadway Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children between the ages of 7 – 11.

The Haunted History Ghost Walk takes participants along a winding and twisted path, highlighting downtown’s most infamous haunts. Based on the research and works of author and supernatural historian, Mason

Winfield, the walks combine historical fact with parapsychological mystery, adding new intrigue to some of Saratoga’s best-known and sometimes most overlooked city landmarks.

“One of the things I like to do before we start the tour is ask everyone if they’ve ever seen any ghosts,” said Gloria Ottavio, a tour guide for the event. “While very few people have actually ever seen one, almost everyone has a ghost story or two they can share.”

Ottavio and crew have more than just a couple of stories – during the course of the tour over 10 different locations are visited, each with their own unsettling tale of strange poltergeists or apparitions. Take, for example, the famed Casino in Congress Park.

“The front of the Casino was founded by a character named John Morrissey, a bare-knuckle fighter [and congressman] from the early 1900s,” Ottavio told her group of 20

or so adults and children along the tour. “Supposedly in one of his fights, he was duking it out with another guy and he fell into a coal stove. His back fell into the coals and his skin began to steam and burn, and that’s how he got his nickname: Old Smoke.”

Morrissey opened his casino only to the rich and famous, before dying at the age of 47 in the Adelphi Hotel, still located on Broadway. The neat thing about the Casino, Ottavio said, is the building’s second floor, where many artifacts from old homes around Saratoga have been gathered.

“There are stories of the old roulette wheel spinning by itself when no one else is around,” Ottavio said. “And there was an episode where an off-duty Saratoga policeman was working as a security guard when he heard a noise on the second floor. He went up with two [battery powered] flashlights in the middle of the night, and as he was going up there, both flashlights died. So he began feeling his way back down the staircase, and as soon as he got down to the first floor, the flashlights start working again.”

Rumors abound that Old Smoke, John Morrissey himself, can also be seen walking the Casino on occasion.

But the staff tells visitors not to worry – Old Smoke is mostly harmless.

Mostly.

Then there are the lesser-known

landmarks, such as the old Skidmore dorms along Spring Street.

“Supposedly back in 1966, there was a young co-ed here who lived on the second floor of the apartment.

She was sitting at her desk studying when she thought she saw an apparition.” As Ottavio gives us the background on this particular site, somebody who currently lives on the second floor of the building shuts his window, causing one tour member to let out a small shriek. This is a historical ghost tour, and not one which features costumed ghouls jumping out in the night for a cheap scare. But still, sometimes the unexpected happens when dealing with the spirit world.

“She asked her roommates to have a little session with an Ouija Board,” Ottavio continued. When the girls asked what had happened in their dorm room, the board spelled out this message: “I was killed in this room.

He strangled me and put my body into the closet where he bricked it up behind the wall.”

Several years later, Ottavio told the group, the girl became curious, and so she went to the police station to investigate any unsolved mysteries on Spring Street.

“And sure enough there was. In one of the rooms they did find bones packed behind a closet wall,” Ottavio said, “Possibly related to the mob or the underworld, back when there was

The haunted interior of the Canfield Casino.

TODAY

a lot of that type of activity with the casino in the early 1900’s.”

The tour continued from there, visiting homes like the Savage House (where some members of the tour thought they saw a light turn on in the vacant house), Hattie’s Café, Lyrical Ballad Bookstore, Caffé Lena’s, the Arcade and more. To tell the story behind each building would only spoil the tour, which is well worth taking for believers and non-believers alike, especially those who are history buffs or interested in Saratoga Springs’ storied past.

Gary Kelly, who came to the area from Pittsburg to visit his son, admitted he isn’t one of the believers.

“I’m just much more of a practical type of thinker,” Kelly said. “If it’s not something that’s physically and scientifically probable, I kind of don’t believe it. My wife though –” Cindy Kelly, Gary’s wife, chimed in. “I just think that there are things out there that we really don’t know.

Things that we really can’t explain.

You never know; that’s how I feel about it.”

Real or not, ghost stories have proven themselves to be a powerful and fascinating force in our collective consciousness, a manifestation of man’s dark obsession with the strange and unknown. And for that reason alone, all those curious should take care not to miss the Haunted History Ghost Walk from August through October.

For more information on the ghost walks or to find out more information on Mason Winfield and his works, visit his website at www.masonwinfield.com.

photo by MarkBolles.com

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Skidmore’s Tang Museum Off to the Races SARATOGA SPRINGS - The Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery at Skidmore College is heading off to the races Monday, August 27, for a day of community outreach.

Monday’s event at the Saratoga Race Course will culminate in a race celebrating the Tang’s role as a cultural resource for the region.

Throughout the day, Tang staff will be available at the track’s community-outreach booth to provide information on the museum’s exhibitions and programs, and to

invite the public to take advantage of all the facility has to offer. The museum draws some 40,000 visitors annually, ranging from local students who visit through school programs to museum-goers from around the world.

The Tang is known for its crossdisciplinary approach that pushes beyond the boundaries of a traditional museum. It has become a national model as a teaching museum, and involves faculty and students in the creation of shows and in the use of museum resources for

teaching and learning within a liberal arts framework.

“The Tang Museum has developed a dedicated audience of regular visitors," said John Weber, the museum's director. “What distinguishes us nationally is our identity as a teaching museum, which works creatively with artists, with Skidmore faculty, students, teachers, parents and kids to explore ideas through objects and exhibitions.”

The highlight of the day is the special race named in honor of the Tang Museum. Following the race,

Final Stretch Music Festival to Celebrate Last Week of Racing SARATOGA SPRINGS The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce’s Final Stretch Music Festival says farewell to Thoroughbreds on the last weekend of the racing season, Saturday and Sunday nights, September 1 - 2, 2012.

The festival welcomes seven musical acts performing along Broadway to close out the season, from Ellsworth Jones Place (by the City Center) to Ben & Jerry’s at the corner of Phila and Putnam.

Performances will be held from 7 – 11 p.m.

The music includes good time oldies with the GTOs Saturday and move to the groove with The Resonators Sunday at Ellsworth Jones Place.

The award-winning blues artist Chris O’Leary Band can be found Saturday at the Collamer parking lot, followed by a performance from George Fletcher’s Foldin’ Money on Sunday.

Solid Smoke - A Tribute to Soul Train, will perform both Saturday and Sunday at the post office.

The Adirondack Trust Company drive-through will play host to Low & Lonesome on Saturday, followed by 2 Broads with Alotta Sound on Sunday.

The Super 8 Six break out their classic and contemporary rock sound both evenings along Caroline Street, while

Elizabeth Woodbury Kasius plays original world music with jazz roots on Division Street on Saturday and Sunday.

Ben & Jerry’s on Phila Street will host Latin, funk-infused gypsy jazz guitar both nights of the festival.

The Final Stretch Festival is a wonderful family event and a great way to spend the evenings of the Labor Day weekend.

However, pet owners are encour-

aged to leave the four-legged critters at home for the festival.

For more information, visit www.saratoga.org/visitors/final -stretch-music-festival.asp.

The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce at (518) 584-3255 or the Final Stretch Festival Coordinator, Susan Farnsworth, at (518) 587-8635.

members of the museum’s staff will be invited into the winner’s circle to present the trophy.

Among the many summer activities at the Tang is the popular “Upbeat on the Roof” performance series, which features regional musical talent representing a wide range of styles. The rooftop shows, open to the public and free of charge, take place every Friday at 7 p.m., June through August.

This weekend, August 24, check out the Deja Voodoo Boys, a New Orleans-derived swing band. The

series ends next Friday, August 31, with an acoustic soul performance

by Bryan Thomas.

During the summer, the Tang also offers public tours of its exhibitions; artist’s talks and presentations; and Family Saturdays, in which young children and accompanying adults create original artwork based on the museum’s shows.

For more information, visit www.skidmore.edu/tang or call (518) 580-8080.

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Three Nights of Rock with Toby Kieth, Posion, Def Leppard, Chicago and the Doobie Brothers

photo by MarkBolles.com

Toby Keith at SPAC Sunday, August 19. photo by MarkBolles.com

Posion guitarist C.C. DeVille and singer Bret Michaels performed Monday, August 20, as the opening act for Def Leppard.

photo by Deborah Neary

Pat Simmons of the Doobie Brothers performed Tuesday, August 21 to close out the tripleheader at SPAC.

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Doobie Brothers, Chicago Turn Back the Clock at SPAC

photo by Deborah Neary for MarkBolles.com

Chicago at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center

by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS – Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) rolled back the clock August 21 and welcomed 70s rock acts Chicago and The Doobie Brothers to the stage. The two bands have toured all summer in support of one another, switching between opening and closing the show every few nights.

Chicago, who as their name suggests, hails from Illinois. They’re popularly known as the “rock and roll band with horns,” and scored hit singles with “Saturday in the Park” and “If You Leave Me Now.” As a child of the late 80s, my first encounter with Chicago was someone pointing out that the opening guitar riff from Green Day’s “Brain Stew” was lifted from the song “25 or 6 to 4.” Also, my mom really likes Chicago.

As is the case with many bands that have been able to stay together for the long haul (not to mention being a group with so many members), there has been quite a bit of turnover in the band’s roster through the years, though four core members still remain with the group.

Trombonist James Pankow, trumpet player Lee Loughnane, generalwoodwind-player Walter Parazaider and keyboardist and guitar player Robert Lamm all remain from the band’s inception in 1970. Providing further continuity, bassist Jason Scheff has been with the band 25 years, drummer Tris Imboden for 20 years, and guitarist and vocalist Keith Howland a solid 15 years himself.

They can even boast that they’re one of the few major rock acts from their era to never officially disband or even take an extended hiatus.

The horn section, still mostly comprised of original members, perhaps

gets a bit more of the focus than they would have in their heyday, as they were front and center next to the more tradition rock instrumentalists and singers. Chicago played with the energy of a much younger band, and worked up quite a sweat on the relatively cool night in Saratoga. I couldn’t help but notice that Loughnane was wearing a matching green pinky ring and digital watch, which is awesome.

The Doobie Brothers on the other hand, were touring with a version that does not include singer Michael McDonald, who I believe is still doing really cheesy versions of Motown standards to be sold exclusively at Wal-Mart. Despite McDonald’s absence, the band was great, and I was honestly surprised with how many Doobie Brothers songs I recognized and liked.

One thing that particularly bothered me (and perhaps I’m just being picky) was that McDonald’s replacement, Tom Johnston, despite playing a fantastic show, kept referring to the audience at SPAC as “New York” instead of “Saratoga.” Perhaps this was just in reference to the fact that when guitarist Patrick Simmons sang their song “Black Water,” the line was changed to “New York Moon, won’t you keep on shining on me?” to a huge pop from the amphitheatre crowd.

Unlike the other concerts I’ve been to this season, the audience was most-

ly comprised of fans of the band who listened to them in their earlier days.

Most people I talked to were impressed with how both bands sounded, and even more surprised by Chicago’s energy on stage.

In fact, August 20-22 saw three shows that more or less represented the last 40 or so years of music in three nights. August 20 was this century’s preferred country music mega star Toby Keith’s show at SPAC, which has become an annual occurrence each summer in Saratoga.

Poison and reality show star front man Bret Michaels invaded SPAC August 21 alongside hair metal brethren Def Leppard in a nod to the 80s.

Next up for SPAC is the September 1 Rockstar Energy Drink QRuption Festival, which is headlined by con-

temporary rock acts Shinedown, Godsmack and Staind.

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Enjoy a Night of Cabaret After Travers Day is Done

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY

Brian Cassier

photo provided

SARATOGA SPRINGS Looking to enjoy a night out on the town after the Travers Day excitement is through? Look no further than the Spa Little Theater, set to host a night of cabaret with Wesla Whitfield August 24, 25 and 26.

“There hasn’t been a show on Travers Night for years [at the Spa Little Theater],” said Brian Cassier, who helped organize and also performs in the cabaret series.

“We decided, if people don’t want to go bar-hopping after the races, they can come by and listen to the Peggy Lee Songbook.”

Whitfield will be performing numbers written and made famous

by Peggy Lee, who is best known for her rendition of the song, “Fever.” Lee also wrote dozens of her own songs during her career, including the soundtrack for the Disney movie, “Lady and the Tramp.”

The Travers Night show on August 25 will include a postshow meet-and-greet with the artists, champagne and light refreshments.

August 24 and 25 performances begin at 8 p.m.; Sunday’s show begins at 2:15 p.m.

To learn more or to purchase your tickets, visit www.spac.org.

photo provided

Wesla Whitfield will perform numbers from the Peggy Lee Songbook August 24-26 at the Spa Little Theater

SARATOGA

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PUZZLES PUZZLES PUZZLES

Sudoku

Crossword

See puzzle solution on page 36

Scrabblegram

See puzzle solution on page 36

ACROSS 1 Where a canary sings 6 Loser’s catchphrase 11 Blackjack variable 14 Last Olds model 15 Living proof 16 Test to the max 17 Trendy ski slope?

19 Front-end protector 20 Assumed name 21 Diamond offense 23 Skelton’s Kadiddlehopper 25 Tried to hit 26 Monogrammed neckwear?

31 Levi’s alternative 32 Mini successors 33 Henhouse 37 Scout’s honor 39 Pub. with more than 100 Pulitzers 40 Serengeti heavyweight 41 Nonproductive 42 More than strange 44 Watch face display, briefly 45 Red, blue and green food colors?

49 Lesser partner 52 Southern cuisine staple 53 Trucker’s view 56 “Same old, same old” 60 Airport 100+ miles NW of PIT 61 Indicators of royal contentment?

63 Tease 64 GI’s home 65 Ready and then some 66 Mud bath site?

67 Itty-bitty 68 Impedes DOWN 1 Literary nickname 2 The Phoenix of the NCAA’s Southern Conference 3 Forfeited wheels 4 Exercise unit 5 Pilgrimage destination 6 “Wait, Wait ... Don’t Tell Me!” airer 7 Relative of mine 8 Yes-or-no decision method 9 Original home of the Poor Clares 10 Raise canines?

Movie Review

The Campaign

Are you unhappy with the current state of American political discourse? Do you want an improvement or would you settle for any change that came along? If so, you might enjoy this latest offering from Will Ferrell.

Cam Brady (played by Ferrell) is a four-term congressman who was about to run for a fifth term unopposed when, after dialing the wrong number, he leaves an explicit message for a woman other than his wife. The family who received the message released it to the press and, almost immediately, Brady’s polling numbers began to decline. Elsewhere, wealthy businessmen Glen and Wade Motch (played by John Lithgow and Dan Aykroyd) were looking to increase profits by moving their Chinese factory to Brady’s district while leaving the conditions (toxic work environment and low wages) the same. That way, the Motch brothers (Lithgow and Aykroyd) would save on shipping. When Glen and Wade saw the difficulties Brady was experiencing, they decided to support the son of a powerful Republican. Once he was told, Marty Huggins (played by Zach Galifianakis) agreed, filled out the proper forms and entered the race. To increase Marty’s chances of winning, his campaign manager, Tim Wattley (played by Dylan McDermott), gave Marty, his family and his home a complete makeover. And so began the slew of scandalous photos, unfounded accusations, and embarrassing misstatements we’ve come

At The Movies With Trey Roohan

Gasoline Alley

33

Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

He who will not economize will have to agonize.

Confucius

Words to know: munificent: adj., Very liberal in giving or bestowing; lavish; as a munificent benefactor.

See puzzle solutions on page 36

11 Ready to swing 12 Sarkozy’s wife __ Bruni 13 Put on a pedestal 18 Low life?

22 “The Garden of Earthly Delights” artist 24 Teen Spirit deodorant brand 26 Kyrgyzstan border range 27 Bawdy 28 Series of rings 29 Played around (with) 30 Letter-shaped shoe fastener 34 Like some garage floors 35 Almost never, maybe 36 Pea jackets 38 Amber, for one

40 Caroling consequences 43 Pressing needs?

46 Twisting force 47 Stimulate 48 First stage of grief 49 Serious players 50 Like Mount Rushmore at night 51 High-maintenance 54 Many ages 55 Dict. entries 57 Food fought over in old ads 58 “Man, it’s hot!”

59 Red gp.

62 Rejection

to expect from a contemporary election.

Now, I have liked some of Will Ferrell’s other films. The most recent example is “Stranger Than Fiction” where he played a solitary IRS agent who begins to hear the voice of an omnipotent narrator detailing the events of his life. As for Galifianakis, I like him as a comedian, but I find him lacking as an actor. The supporting cast, Lithgow, Murray, McDermott and Brian Cox who I neglected to mention, are talented and I am a big fan of all of them. Still, I didn’t enjoy this film. Ferrell and Galifianakis played characters that, while funny, were not very interesting. Aykroyd and Lithgow playing characters obviously inspired by the Koch brothers are less amusing, but more interesting.

There are better political comedies available on DVD. Watch one of those instead. (6.2/10) For comments and questions, contact me at movies@roohanrealty.com.

Broom Hilda

Animal Crackers

SARATOGA

Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

34

classified TODAY’s

M A R K E T P L A C E

Call (518) 581-2480 x 204

Publication day Friday

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Ad Copy Due Wednesday 12:00 p.m.

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SERVICES

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

HELP WANTED

Saratoga Cleaners FT/PT Counter Help, Assembly/Presser. Year Round. Apply 228 Washington St. Saratoga Springs. or Call 587-3047

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

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

CLASS A DRIVERS: SIGN ON BONUS Paid Holidays, Vacation, & More.

Weekly Pay. Direct Deposit. REGIONAL with Home Time. 2 Years T/T EXP. 800-524-5051 www.gomcilvaine.com

MERCHANDISE

MERCHANDISE

FOR SALE STOVE: 30" FRIGIDAIRE, ELEC, BEIGE, GLASS TOP, IMMACULATE, PIGTAIL INC., LARGE OVEN. $250. [ SARATOGA ] CALL 583-3408 or 5842276

SERVICES

Space Reservation Due Monday 5:00 p.m.

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)

MERCHANDISE

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 ANTIQUE Hand Painted Trays, $50/ea.

Wood framed mirrors - $75/ea. 1930's Wildwood Cherry Breakfront, 7 drawer, 3 glass drawers, 72. 1/2" x4 3 3/4". $800.

Antique desk, glass top, 24" (w) x 54" (l) x 29 1/2" (h) $175. All in mint condition.

Call 383-3617

MERCHANDISE

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@

classified saratoga publishing

.com

it’s where you need to be.

GARAGE SALE 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.

Garage Sale: Aug 31, Sept. 1st &2nd, 8am-2pm 1049 Laural Lane Ballston Spa, girls clothing all seasons newborn-size 6, toys, household items, and so much more.

1 DAY MOVING SALE SAT. 9-3 14 Sidney Hill Rd.., Saratoga Springs.

Canoe; children's XCountry skiis, boots, helmets; outdoor equipment; handyman specials; computers; electronics; household items; lots of toys, books & more!

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

CRAFT/GARAGE SALE VENDORS WANTED The Saratoga-Wilton Elks Ladies Auxiliary is looking for market vendors for their 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 is $15 each paid in advance. Doors will open to set up at 9:30 am. The dates are September 23, October 28, November 11, 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.

SARATOGA

TODAY

Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

AUTOMOTIVE

FOR RENT

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

REAL ESTATE BUILDING LOTS - 2 Residential waterfront lots. Mariaville Lake.

Public Sewer. Commute to Albany/Saratoga. Call for details 518-372-5251 or 518-669-3543.

REAL ESTATE

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

ADOPT: A happily married couple seeks to aopt. We'll provide your baby with love, laughter, education, security. Wonderful extended family nearby. EXPENSES PAID. www.annieandnickadopt.info 888-964-4269

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.

OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND. Best selection of affordable rentals. Full/ partial weeks. Call for FREE brochure.

Open daily. Holiday Real Estate.

1-800-638-2102.

Online reservations: www.holidayoc.com

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE

LEGAL

LEGAL

35

REAL ESTATE

INTERLAKEN TOWN HOUSE OPEN SUN. 8/25, 1-3 PM

$337,500 12 SULTANA ST., SARATOGA SPRINGS

ADOPTION

ADOPT: A wonderful life awaits your baby! We'll provide warmth, security, devoted extended family, opportunities and endless love. Expenses Paid.

Anne & Marc 1-877-977-5411. www.anneandmarcadopt.com.

CLASSIFIED

WWW.196CHESTNUTRIDGE.COM $649,900 QUEENSBURY

You must see to appreciate!

4 bed, 2.5 bath, a true gourmet kitchen First floor Master, lower level walkout with kitchen.

An ADDITIONAL 4000+ square feet available for your expansion plans & 10+ car garage. 15 Minutes to Saratoga.

Bethe Reynolds Keller Williams Luxury Homes www.BetheReynolds.com 518-222-3097

36

SPORTS

SARATOGA

Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

TODAY

Headline Community Sports Bulletin Local High School Sports to Hit the Airwaves as WMML-AM Adds High School Football “Game of the Week” GLENS FALLS - Radio station Fox Sports Radio WMML Saturday 9/1 Shaker @ Queensbury, 1:30 p.m.

1230-AM, owned and operated locally by the QueensburySaturday 9/8 Cobleskill-Richmondville @ Hudson Falls, 1:30 p.m. based Adirondack Broadcasting, will broadcast a Saturday 9/15 Bishop Gibbons @ Warrensburg, 1:30 p.m. local high school football game every week during the Saturday 9/22 Johnstown @ Glens Falls, 1:30 p.m.

2012 season.

Saturday 9/29 Salem @ Fort Edward, 1:30 p.m.

“We’ve added a number of high profile professional propFriday 10/5 Whitehall @ Lake George, 7:00 p.m. erties in the least six months such as the Buffalo Bills and Friday 10/12 Amsterdam @ South Glens Falls, 7:00 p.m. the New York Mets,” said Adirondack Broadcasting Saturday 10/20 - Playoff Game - TBA General Manager Mike Thompson. “This could be our most significant addition. High school football is part of the bedrock of our community and we are looking forward to showcasing some of the finest young athletes in the area.”

WMML-AM will broadcast seven regular season games plus selected local playoff games this fall.

John Lawrence will handle the play-by-play duties with the color commentary provided by Rick Harrington.

The first high school football broadcast will feature the Queensbury Spartans as they face Latham’s Shaker High School on Saturday, September 1 at 1:30 p.m.

Junior NBA At Wilton’s Gavin Park is Now Open For 2012 Registration WILTON - Gavin Park’s highly successful youth basketball league is gearing up for another great season of Junior NBA action. This recreational program is open to both boys and girls in grades 2-10. All skill levels, including beginners, are welcome and everyone receives equal playing time.

The league is divided into four groups: grades two and three, grades four and five, grades six and seven, and grades eight through 10. Placement is based upon the grade the child is in for the 2012-2013 school year.

Placement dates are scheduled for October 1-4. Games and practice times are NOT determined until October 5. Once the child is assigned to a coach, the team is scheduled for one practice per week, on the same night and time, for one hour.

Assigned practice times run from 5-8:30 p.m. and practices will begin the week of October 15. Games are scheduled to begin November 3 and all games will take place on Saturdays, between 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., at Gavin Park.

Registration for Wilton residents is now underway and non-resident registration begins September 10. The deadline to register is September 28. The cost is $115 for Wilton residents, $155 for residents of Saratoga Springs School District and $165 for all others, which includes a full uniform.

Gavin Park is located at 10 Lewis Drive in the town of Wilton.

Don’t wait; register online at www.townofwilton.com or in person at the park office. If you have any questions, contact the town of Wilton’s Parks and Recreation office at (518) 584-9455.

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

Puzzle Solutions from pg. 33

Saints and Streaks Hosting Free Volleyball Event at Saratoga Springs High School SARATOGA SPRINGS – Announcing the third annual Hats Off Volleyball Tournament at Saratoga Springs High School.

Taking place Saturday, September 8, Saints and Streaks are hosting the free event which will see teams from Troy, Greenville, Guilderland, Mechanicville, Niskayuna and more coming to take on Saratoga and Saratoga Central Catholic. In all, 12 teams will play on three courts until a winner is crowned.

Come celebrate the start of the indoor varsity volleyball season with bumping, setting and spiking all day long! First game gets underway at 9 a.m. sharp, and continues all day. Concessions will be available for purchase as well.

For more information, contact Maria Izzo at (518) 587-7070, ext. 104.

Zumba at Gavin Park WILTON - Ditch the workout and come join the Zumba craze down at Gavin Park. Registration is currently ongoing and ends September 4. Classes are designed for participants ages 15 and up.

Two sessions are available: Mondays beginning September 10 and running through October 22, from 5:45-6:45 p.m.

Wednesdays beginning September 5 and running through October 10, from 6-7 p.m.

You can register online at www.townofwilton.com, in person at the Wilton Parks & Recreation Department or at the Gavin Park office, weekdays from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Saratoga Lacrosse Holding Fall Program SARATOGA SPRINGS - Registration is now open to both boys and girls in grades 3-8 for Saratoga Lacrosse’s fall practice program. This program is open to beginning and experienced players alike and will focus on skills and drills.

The season begins September 9 and continues through October 21, held every Sunday from noon - 1:30 p.m. located at the Saratoga PBA recreation fields. Full equipment is required to attend the program. The cost is $60 per player. You must also be a U.S. Lacrosse member. If not, there is an additional one-time $25 fee to sign up.

Registration can be done online at www.saratogalax.org. For more information, send an email to info@saratogalax.org.

SARATOGA

TODAY

Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

SPORTS

37

Remembering Raymond Waldron, a mentor and friend

Damian Fantauzzi How do you thank someone who has passed away; someone who was a person of convictions and could communicate to people the truth about themselves, a Name supporter and friend who couldcolumn keep a fine line between leadership and friendship? It's a very difficult divide for many in administrative positions to be able to have such a camaraderie with the people who work for them and still demonstrate the professionalism as a figurehead. The man who set the bar with practicing this philosophy in the Saratoga Springs City School District was the former Athletic Director, the late Raymond Waldron who passed away on Friday, August 17, after a 17year battle with prostate cancer.

Ray was the mentor for many of us who had the good fortune to work under him as coaches.

There were times he would be upset with us and times we would be upset with him, but never did he ever hold it over any of our heads. Usually the results became a lesson for all involved, and most of the time situations were worked out. Mr. Waldron had a way to make his point understood and he had developed an art form in his method of communication.

When walking away from a meeting with Ray, there was a good chance that there were no questions of remaining discontent.

I could call many former coaching colleagues of mine at Saratoga Springs High School to get their perspectives and different experiences that they had with our former boss, but I'd rather give you my personal experience with "The Bear,” as he was fondly called. I started

teaching at Saratoga in the fall of 1972. I was hired as an art teacher, and there was a common thread between Mr. Waldron and me because we are from the same town, Mechanicville. He not only knew my family, but my history as a basketball player and coach.

During my first day, at the teachers’ orientation, Coach Waldron came up to me and told me that I was the new cross-country running coach. Of course, I was caught off guard, but my only response was “When can I start?” It was only about three weeks later when Coach Waldron called me into his office to inform me that the boys' JV basketball job was open and he wanted me to take the position. So,

“I say it's time to name the football field on West Avenue and there is no one better to name it after than Mr. Waldron.”

of course I did! During my first three years in the district, I eventually became the varsity boys’ basketball coach, as well as crosscountry coach in the fall and track and field during the spring. There was an obvious feeling of confidence that "Ramey" (a Mechanicville nickname for Ray) had in my ability as a coach and especially basketball.

Everybody knew Ray Waldron; he was a pillar in the Saratoga community. He was instrumental in the creation of the local Pop Warner Football program, a 53year member of the Elks Club and a past Exalted Ruler of the club (1975). He directed and helped with the Punt, Pass and Kick program as well as the Elks’ Hoop Shoot. He was a member of the Biddy Basketball committee for the city. During his time as a physical education teacher, Ray was the head football coach, the track and field coach as well as baseball, wrestling and even bowling coach; all before his assignment as Director of Athletics. Before going to Ithaca College to earn his degree

in physical education, he was in the U.S. Army as an infantryman with the 25th Infantry and during the Korean War; he fought in the Battle of Pork Chop Hill. There were also many more programs and organizations that Coach Waldron was connected to. His wife of more than 50 years, Carol, is a retired school nurse from Saratoga Schools and was always by his side during their battle with prostate cancer. They have six children: Kathy, Joe, Brian, Raymond, William and Meghan and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Ray came from a family of 10 children from Mechanicville, though three of them died before their brother. What a history for the former Exalted Ruler of the Elks Club to leave a legacy that is second-to-none in the Saratoga Springs community. He will always be remembered and respected for his service and positive influence on others.

I say it's time to name the football field on West Avenue and there is no one better to name it after than Mr. Waldron. Raymond A. Waldron Memorial Field has a nice ring to it, and it's a label of honor for the service to the Saratoga Springs City School District. After all he did and for being the longest reigning Athletic Director in the district's history!

Under Mr. Waldron's tutelage, there are many locally known coaches who have no one to thank but Ray. He seemed to always hit home with his advice and in retrospect, one could feel that he was supportive in any critique with the naturalness of sincerity of a father figure. There isn't a coach or former coach who doesn't have a story that could be shared about the former AD. I can remember in 1979 when I was coaching the boys, we played the number-one seed Albany High, in the Class AA Sectional quarterfinals.

With seven seconds left on the clock, we had the ball and were only down by one point. During our timeout we set up a play and I told everyone that when the shot goes up that I expected all five to crash the boards. Well, we missed from the outside and the littlest player on the floor; point guard Nate Lewis (5-foot-8inch) got the rebound between two six-foot-six-inch

UPDATES & SCHEDULES

Albany players and banked it in with only one second left. As I turned and looked at the referee's call, to see if it counted, Ray was the first one to grab me and hug me. In 1983, we played Shenendehowa who was 19-0 coming into the last game of the regular season. We went into overtime against them and I told the six-foot-three-inch Joey Ruggles, who could really jump, to get the jump ball against the six-footsevcn-inch center from Shen. He did. Our plan was to stall for the whole overtime (there was no shot clock back then) and with the aid of point guard Tommy Murphy and shooting guard Ty Stacey, we held the ball for 2:49. With 11 seconds remaining, we called a timeout we scored off of a set offense with

four seconds left to upset the only unbeaten team in the Albany area. The crowd went nuts, but more importantly I can remember that there was Ray who was so excited as he ran up to me and ajust hugged my breath away. He loved his Blue Streaks. You could say the color of his blood was blue. He was a true leader, and one who would always backup his coaches; one who would give it to you straight during tougher times. I really appreciate what his legacy has done for the Saratoga Springs School District, and, more than anything, how he mentored me and my fellow coaches. It was never about him; we were all in this together. Rest in peace, my friend.

SPORTS

38 Hero Rush Race Sets New York Ablaze Come September Firefighter-Themed Obstacle Race Challenges Community to Get Out, Get Active and Have Fun!

BALLSTON SPA - Next month, upstate New York will be overtaken by smoke and sirens, laughing children, hundreds of runners in tutus, tiaras and super hero capes, and firefighters from across the state as Hero Rush rolls into town.

The firefighter-themed obstacle race and experience lights up Ellms Family Farm in Saratoga County on September 8, and there’s still time to sign up. Runners and spectators can find all the details and register at www.herorush.com/NY and save 15 percent with promo code RushNY at checkout.

“Hero Rush is a new take on the adventure races and mud runs that have become popular over the last few years,” said co-founder Dave J. Iannone. “At this event, runners tackle a 5K course studded with 1720 creative obstacles that simulate the emergencies firefighters face in real life.”

“Instead of military-style obstacles and mud pits,” Iannone said, “our runners climb ladders, crawl through windows, navigate a smoky maze and climb through debris in a hoarder’s basement – and there’s a few surprises, too.”

“The Saratoga event will showcase the farm’s diverse landscape, from tree farms and pumpkin patch-

es to trail runs through the woods,” Iannone said. “Our heroes will face a real challenge when they tackle the mixed terrain of the Ellms Family Farm.”

In the center of it all, the Inferno Midway features food and drink, two kid’s courses, apparel and merchandise tents, music and more. The Burnt Hills Fire Department will be on the scene to exhibit emergency apparatus, answer participants' questions and discuss firefighting.

MacBoston 18 Truck, an organization that works to keep the memory of fallen firefighters alive, will display an antique ladder truck. Other local departments are invited to come out and participate, as well.

Hero Rush also provides an opportunity to give back to the firefighting community by supporting the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, which honors the nation’s fallen firefighters and works to reduce line-of-duty deaths.

The foundation receives a $20 donation for each runner in the “343 Wave” honoring the firefighters killed in the World Trade Center on 9/11.

“We’ve worked very hard to create an event where runners are challenged by creative obstacles, where young adults can come out and party, where families can enjoy the day together, and where everyone can gain a greater appreciation of what firefighters do for their community,” Iannone said.

Judging by feedback from participants at the inaugural Hero Rush in Maryland, they have succeeded.

“I have been running obstacle course races for about four years, over six different kinds,” said Michelle Collins of Severna Park, Md. “This one by far surpasses the others.”

SARATOGA

Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

TODAY

Adirondack Phantoms Announce Schedule for 2012-2013 Season

by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY GLENS FALLS – The Adirondack Phantoms have announced their schedule for their final season here in upstate New York, and it includes 33 home games played on Friday, Saturday, Sunday.

The season gets underway at the Glens Falls Civic Center against the Portland Pilots on October 13 at 7 p.m. The minor league affiliate to the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers spend the majority of their opening month on the road, only playing twice in their own building before Halloween, as the Buffalo Sabres-affiliated Rochester Americans visit October 27.

November opens up with a pair of home contests against the Syracuse Crunch November 2 and the pesky in-state rivals the Albany Devils making their first trip north on November 3.

From November 21December 1, the Phantoms start a six-game home stand starting with a visit from the Bridgeport Sound Tigers and ending with a visit from the Albany Devils.

The night after Thanksgiving – known throughout the shopping world as Black Friday – brings the defending 2011 Calder Cup champion Norfolk Admirals to town for the team’s first meeting of the season.

Albany Devils and the Phantoms square off 12 times this season, including a trip to Atlantic City January 20 to play in the home rink of the Devils’ NHL affiliate, New Jersey.

Albany and Adirondack will play each other four times in a

span of nine days from January 18-26 including two games in Glens Falls, one in Albany and the Atlantic City road trip.

The annual New Year’s Eve game will be played Monday, December 31, at 3 p.m. The last opponents for 2012 are the Bridgeport Sound Tigers.

The Connecticut Whale, minor league affiliates of the increasingly popular New York Rangers, make their first visit to Glens Falls on January 5 for the first home game of 2013.

The Phantoms will play their own home-away-from-home game February 22 in Philadelphia against the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. The Phantoms had previously played in Philadelphia until 2009.

The month of March has the Phantoms on the road for 10 of 15 games, including a road trip of

seven-in-a-row, with stops in Albany, Portland, Binghamton and Hershey, two in Norfolk and concluding in Hartford.

The month of April brings the Phantoms home for seven out of nine games, hopefully in time for a run at the Calder Cup Playoffs, including five-in-a-row from April 12-20.

Meanwhile, the Phantoms still plan to relocate to Allentown, Pennsylvania, after the 2012-13 season. Their website, www.phantomsarena.com boasts a large banner reading “PROFESSIONAL HOCKEY COMING SOON,” and has already begun taking requests for season tickets. The team remains active or at the very least vocal in courting a possible replacement franchise to bring hockey back to Glens Falls. There has been no word on whether any teams have expressed interest.

SARATOGA

Week of August 24 - August 30, 2012

Adirondack Dreams

TODAY

39

Ghost Tours page 28

Local Gigs page 26

pulse

40

Week of August 24 August 30, 2012

Vol. 7 • Issue 34 • FREE • Saratoga TODAY

Photo by MarkBolles.com

Photo by Deborah Neary

See page 30

Photo by Deborah Neary

Photo by MarkBolles.com