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Volume 8  •  Issue 46  •  November 22 – November 28, 2013

I n d e p e n d e n t

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

JFK: 50 Years - Like Yesterday by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Before 9/11 there was 11/22. And 50 years later, the passage of time dulls none of our memory of that day. We may forget what we had for breakfast this morning, but no one old enough who was asked where they were on that day replied “I don’t remember.” Despite the lack of mega-mass media, we learned of events rather rapidly. A neighbor, teacher, tolltaker told us to put on the radio, something had happened in Dallas and our President was slain. It didn’t matter where we were; it was a national, indeed worldwide

shared experience. We asked people at our farmers’ markets and the Wesley community, a cross-section of residents of our region, to share their stories about that signpost day. All live locally now, though most were in other places on November 22, 1963. I’ll bat leadoff. It is one of my oldest memories altogether. Second grade. P.S. 49, the pride of New York City public schools in Middle Village, Queens. Mrs. Broadhurst was our teacher, and she told us to be quiet because Principal Burson was going to make an announcement over the loudspeaker. This happened nearly every day, but in the morning – never See JFK pg. 12

The Birth of a Citizen’s Movement

Will It Pay To SAVE?

by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS — An overflowing cross-section of the community gathered on Monday evening,

November 18 at City Hall to learn about and make pledges to participate in activities to resist a casino inside the city and county limits. The meeting, organized by the See SAVE pg. 5

The overflow listens to Sara Boivin. Photo by Lawrence White.

Adopt-A-Family Provides Thanksgiving Feasts by Brian Cremo Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — For the better part of the last 20 years, the Saratoga County Opportunity Council and the community action group “Adopta-Family” have been helping local families, who don’t have the funds, purchase food for their Thanksgiving meal at a low price. With one meal costing $25, 750 families have signed up for the baskets that include cranberry sauce, gravy, stuffing mix, instant potatoes, apple sauce, corn, green beans, canned yams, a 5-pound bag of fresh

potatoes from a local farmer, a bag of fresh carrots, a bag of fresh apples and a $10 gift card to price chopper for a turkey, Tofurky or ham. Of that 750, Michele Riggi will

Featured Stories T A

See Story Going... pg.pg.2xx

Local Fights for Belt MMA Action Hits the Saratoga Springs City Center This Weekend. See Fights pg. 28

Inside TODAY Blotter 3 Obituaries 6 Business

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Gift Guide

16-18

Nutcracker Tea

24-25

Weekend Forecast FRIDAY

50|45 SATURDAY

52|23 SUNDAY See Thanksgiving pg. 7

30|19


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Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

66 Franklin Down Photos by Arthur Gonick

SARATOGA SPRINGS – After a long history including years of litigation, the historic Winnans-Crippen House, located at 66 Franklin Street was demolished. All that remained by Tuesday was the foundation, and by the time you read this, you won’t see that either. So we thought that we should chronicle the structure’s end.

Regardless as to how you felt about this issue, I am reminded of the bittersweet irony of this building’s demise so soon after Kyle York’s untimely death, for he was relentless in his fervor to see 66 Franklin down. It’s hard not to imagine him smirking somewhere. - Arthur Gonick


Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013 Donald E. Persons, 53, Atomic Project Road, Ballston Spa, was arrested on November 15 for third degree assault. Chad R. Dorrough, 31, Plum Poppey North, Malta, was arrested on November 15 and charged with DWI, BAC of .08 percent or higher, aggravated DWI, uninspected motor vehicle, failure to keep right and an improper right turn. Alex D. Landress, 25, 200th Avenue East, Booney Lake, Washington, was arrested on November 15 and charged with DWI, BAC more than .08 percent, failure to keep right and failure to signal. Jeremy D. Mattrazzo, 32, Pyramid Pines Estates, Saratoga Springs, was arrested on November 15 and charged with second degree criminal contempt, attempted third degree assault and seconddegree harassment. Jennifer R. Kelly, 30, of Lydius Street in Fort Edward, was arrested on November 14 and charged with petit larceny. William M. Montgomery, 47, of Barrett Street in Schenectady, was arrested on November 14 and charged with criminal possession of marijuana. Brett Disanto, 23, Powderhorn Way, Argyle, was arrested on November 14 and charged with third-degree burglary, a felony, and petit larceny. Geoffrey M. Pickering, 23, of Coleman Avenue, Hudson Falls, was arrested on

November 14 and charged with petit larceny. Daisy Jessice Ripley, 23, of Powderhorn Way in Argyle, was arrested on November 14 and charged with petit larceny. Kevin C. Loubier Dob, 23, Vanderbilt Terrace, Saratoga Springs, was arrested on November 14 and charged with petit larceny, fifth degree criminal possession of stolen property and third degree assault. Travis M. West Dob, 21, of Beech Street in Corinth, was arrested on November 14 and charged with DWI, BAC more than .08 percent, leaving the scene of a property damage accident, unlawfully driving across the sidewalk and unsafe lane change. Sarah A. Urbonowicz, 31, of Colebrook Road in Gansevoort, was arrested on November 16 and charged with DWI, BAC more than .08 percent and running a red light. Kevin A. McGinn, 28, of Van Antwerp Road in Schenectady, was arrested on November 16 and charged with DWI, BAC more than .08 percent, aggravated DWI, refusing a prescreen test and running a red light. Jeffrey E. Allen, 33, of Seward Street in Queensbury, was arrested on November 16 for fourth degree criminal mischief, intentionally damaging property and disorderly conduct.

BLOTTER Jon A. Ball, age 50 of County Route 43, Fort Ann, New York, was arrested on November 17 for third degree trespassing, a misdemeanor. Timothy J. Gethins, 23, of Stillwater, was arrested on November 16

for aggravated DWI, driving while intoxicated, BAC of more than .08 percent, operating a motor vehicle without a mandated interlock device, consuming alcohol in the motor vehicle and several other traffic violations.

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week in Review

Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

Officer Honored With DWI Recognition Award Mathiesen Wins Re-election

Locally Owned and Operated 5 Case Street, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866 Phone: (518) 581-2480 Fax: (518) 581-2487 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com Hours of Operation 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Friday Publisher/Editor Chad Beatty 581-2480 x 212 cbeatty@saratogapublishing.com General Manager Robin Mitchell 581-2480 x 208 rmitchell@saratogapublishing.com Advertising Chris Bushee 581-2480 x 201 cbushee@saratogapublishing.com Jim Daley 581-2480 x 209 jdaley@saratogapublishing.com Cindy Durfey 581-2480 x 204 cdurfey@saratogapublishing.com Art Department Frank Garguilo 581-2480 x 202 Production Director, Website fgarguilo@saratogapublishing.com Colleen Sweeney 581-2480 x 207 csweeney@saratogapublishing.com Jessica Kane 581-2480 x 215 Creative Director jkane@saratogapublishing.com Editorial Arthur Gonick 581-2480 x 214 Saratoga Springs, Malta and County News; 'Pulse' Editor art@saratogapublishing.com Brian Cremo 581-2480 x 206 Sports Editor, Obituaries, Briefs, Education brian@saratogapublishing.com Trina Lucas 538-1190 RSVP, Events and Benefits trina@saratogapublishing,com Calendar Cindy Durfey 581-2480 x 204 cdurfey@saratogapublishing.com Photographer Mark Bolles 490-1757 mbolles@photoandgraphic.com Distribution Kim Beatty 581-2480 x 205 kbeatty@saratogapublishing.com

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Springs Police Officer Mark Leffler was awarded a 2013 Recognition Award from the New York State STOP-DWI Foundation and Mothers Against Drunk Driving New York State. Officer Leffler was one of only 26 individuals and agencies selected to receive this award for 2013. He recently attended a driving while impaired by drugs training course and has already been involved in two investigations of individuals

suspected of driving while under the influence of drugs. He has made over 190 DWI arrests over the past three years including 75 arrests for DWI in 2012. “Even though Officer Leffler is required to help police the downtown area on the midnight shift and respond to other calls for service, he still manages to actively enforce the driving while intoxicated laws. His commitment to taking drunk drivers off the road has undoubtedly saved lives,” Chief of Police Greg Veitch said.

Commissioner Christian Mathiesen added, “This award is an honor for Officer Leffler. He is to be commended for his dedication to keeping the city safe from the danger posed by those who choose to drink and drive.” Officer Leffler received his award at the annual awards ceremony hosted by the New York State STOP-DWI Foundation and MADD-NY at Mallozzi’s Restaurant in Schenectady on Tuesday, November 12.

Mom Accepts Plea Deal in Stripper Case

MOREAU — The Gansevoort mother accused of hiring a stripper for her son’s 16th birthday party has agreed to a plea deal that will allow her to avoid jail time. Judy H. Viger, 34, was charged with five misdemeanor of endangering the welfare of a child after hiring exotic dancers for her son’s birthday party at Spare Time Family Fun Center in South Glens Falls on November 3, 2012. The plea deal Viger agreed to will result in all charges being dropped if she completes 50 hours of community service and avoids being arrested for six months.

S A R AT O G A S P R I N G S — Incumbent Public Safety Commissioner Christian Mathiesen, a Democrat, officially defended his seat after his opponent Richard Wirth, a Republican, conceded the race following the count of absentee ballots at the Board of Elections offices in Ballston Spa on Friday, November 15. Following Election Day, Mathiesen led by a total of 100 votes, but after absentee ballots were counted his lead was cut to 59 votes, which allowed him to secure victory over Wirth for the second time in two years. In 2011, Mathiesen defeated Wirth by a margin of 240 votes.

Saratoga County Receives $25K for Law Enforcement ALBANY — Governor Andrew Cuomo announced on Monday, November 18 that the state will provide more than $700,000 in grants to law enforcement agencies throughout the state to either purchase equipment or upgrade existing systems that allow them to video record interrogations. The Saratoga County District Attorney’s Office will receive $25,000 for Ballston Spa, Galway, South Glens Falls and Stillwater Police Departments, as well as the Saratoga County Sheriff ’s Office. District Attorneys’ Offices in 29 counties across the state will use the grants to purchase or upgrade equipment for 150 agencies, including police departments and sheriffs’ offices, bringing the number of agencies that will use the technology statewide to approximately 400. There are more than 500 police departments and sheriffs’ offices in New York. “With these grants, New York State is giving local law enforcement the resources they need to enhance the integrity, fairness and effectiveness of our criminal justice system,” Governor Cuomo said in a press release. “The practice of video recording interrogations helps prevent wrongful convictions and at the same time, protects investigators from false allegations. These grants will provide an important and recognized tool to law enforcement agencies that will help better protect our communities.” New York State has invested more than $3 million to allow law enforcement agencies to purchase and install video recording equipment since the first grants were awarded in 2006. The grants will be administered by the state Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS).


Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

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SAVE Meeting Draws Overflow Interest continued from page 1

SRO in the City Council Room. Photo by Dan Carpenter.

group Saratogians Against Vegasstyle Expansion (SAVE) brought such a large response from the citizenry that the city council chamber was not enough to hold them, necessitating an impromptu second simultaneous presentation in the hallway by Sara Boivin, one of SAVE’s organizers. Inside the council room, a tightly packed agenda brought about a wealth of information and the revelation as to SAVE’s action plans. SAVE organizers Colin Klepatar and Clem Marino described a multipronged approach which, in addition to an online petition, included neighborhood and event canvassing, media and political outreach. They asked each attendee to speak for a minute about their reasons for attending if they wished. The major subjects that were stated involved concerns about potential rising crime, the social costs of gambling and a general deterioration in the quality of life should Saratoga Springs or Saratoga County host a table-gaming casino facility. “We’re the ones to give voice to

the 20 percent,” said Klepatar, referring to the weight that community support, or lack thereof would count on a casino application. He also noted that there were no specific guidelines as to how that aspect could be gauged. Both Saratoga Springs and Saratoga County soundly defeated casino Proposition 1 in the recent November 5 election, though it passed statewide. In the Capital Region, Fulton, Montgomery, Rensselaer and Schoharie Counties passed Proposition 1. SAVE organizers asked each participant to sign their petition and to commit to at least one clear action to help spread the word. The organization’s website, www. savesaratoga.org, has a mission statement which reads in part: “(SAVE) seeks to preserve our thriving downtown, rarely seen in America today and recognized nationally; our world renowned performance art spaces; our thriving economy and our social and individual security and pride that generations of thoughtful and caring Saratogians have worked to build,

rebuild and preserve. “Casino gambling is a single-destination activity, which succeeds only by keeping its guests at the casino. Casinos are a drain on local businesses, directly competing with them by discounting their hotel rooms, entertainment, and amenities, drawing customers away from downtown Saratoga. The projected tax-revenue benefits are guesswork and when gambling revenues decline, it is the taxpayers who are burdened – with lower property values and higher rates of real estate foreclosures. Critical and already overburdened local services, such as police, fire, and hospital services, will become further stretched. “The social costs of full casino gambling are potentially significant as well. Gambling is a regressive tax, exacting its profits from those who are least able to absorb financial losses. This can result in spikes in poverty rates, unemployment rates, and crime. The projected benefits of full casino gambling have yet to be convincingly documented.

We are concerned that the promise of a windfall for host communities will not be realized, especially in light of plummeting revenues at casinos across the country. Meaningful guarantees and demonstrated longterm value are lacking. SAVE Saratoga contends that the revenues will never outweigh the costs and this is a risk our community will not take.” It is obvious based on last night’s attendance that these ideas have broad appeal. The SAVE organizers came ready with a plan. It

will be interesting to see whether we witnessed the beginnings of a new form of broad-based citizen action in Saratoga Springs.


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obituaries Anthony A. Deliberti

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Anthony A. Deliberti, 79, of Saratoga Springs and Hallandale, Florida, died peacefully on Saturday, November 9, after a long and courageous battle with cancer at Saratoga Hospital. Born on June 28, 1934 in Brooklyn, he was the son of the late William Deliberti and Francis Massa Deliberti. Anthony proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. Mr. Deliberti worked as a teacher, coach and thletic director for over 27 years in the Montgomery County, Maryland public school

system. He moved to the Saratoga Springs area in 1993. He was active as a volunteer with the American Red Cross and was also a member of the Knight of Columbus and the Kiwanis of both Saratoga Springs and Maryland. In Maryland, Tony started the Community Service Program. He was also very active in the rescue and relieve efforts at the 9/11 site in Manhattan. Survivors include two brothers, William Deliberti Jr. of Ozone Park and Frank Deliberti of Rosslyn, Pennyslvania and a sister Eleanor Grippaldi of Lynn Brook.

Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

Ethel Townsend Cecka

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Ethel Townsend Cecka, 95, passed away November 16 at her home in Saratoga Springs. Ethel (neé Lillian Ethel Townsend) was born August 12, 1918, in Lebanon, New Hampshire to Hugh Townsend and Marie Kuhre Townsend. She was a graduate of Lebanon High School and Northampton Commercial College. In 1945, she married Dr. Terry E. Lilly Jr., and

resided in Mission Hills, Kansas, until 1971 when the family moved to Exeter, California and then to Corona del Mar, California. After a divorce, she married William J. Cecka in 1983 and in 1995 she moved to Saratoga Springs. Ethel worked for the U.S. Interstate Commerce Commission and subsequently as an executive secretary at several professional corporations. She was also a homemaker. Ethel was a member of the Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church. Ethel is survived by her children, Donna B. Lilly (Gordon Mott) of Croton-on-Hudson and Queretaro, Mexico, and Reginald S. Lilly (Lyndell J. Falconer) of Saratoga Springs; and her grandchildren, Elizabeth M. Mott, Jordan L. Lilly and Owen H. Lilly. She is also survived by her second husband’s daughter, Marilyn Schultheis (Stephen) of Laguna Hills, California, as well as William’s five grandchildren, Brent, Matthew, Arianne, Grant and Lyndsey. She is predeceased by her son, Terry E. Lilly III, and husband, William J. Cecka.

Barbara Maria Ribley Templin

Thomas Pravda

STILLWATER — Thomas Pravda, 51, of Stillwater, passed away suddenly after a tragic accident in Saratoga Springs on November 10. He was born on October 11, 1962 to George and Gertraud

(Mangold) Pravda in Saratoga Springs. Thomas graduated from Saratoga High School and worked for many years at the family business Lakeside Market, making his well-known subs and pizza. He also was the owner and operator of Saratoga Masonry Cleaners for many years. Thomas was very instrumental in the early sub-divisions of the family properties. Thomas enjoyed riding his motorcycle, snowmobiling, horses, traveling, spending time with his family and friends and maintaining his large yard. He is survived by his daughter, Karleigh Daigneault (Justin); mother Gertraud Pravda; father George Pravda; grandson Mason Daigneault; uncle Frank Pravda; aunt Helen Pesch; and many cousins.

To view the full version of the obituaries vist the archive section of SaratogaTODAYonline.com It is the policy of Saratoga Today to publish Obituarires as a service to our readers.

Please send your obituaries to obits@saratogapublishing.com

GREENFIELD CENTER — Loving wife and mother, Barbara Maria Ribley Templin, 73, passed away on November 14, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was at home and surrounded by family members as she went to our Lord. Barbara was born September 11, 1940 in Albany. She was the daughter of Harry J. Ribley and Lillian Cheney Ribley. Barbara was the youngest of seven children. She was predeceased by her brothers Royal Ribley and Harry Ribley, and her sister Helen Traver. Barbara was a graduate of Saratoga Springs High School, Class of 1958. Barbara received her Bachelors of Science and her Masters of Science in Biology from the College of Saint Rose in Albany. After graduating with her bachelors, Barbara taught at Saint Mary’s Catholic High School in Hudson. In 1968, Barbara became a member of the Biology Department faculty at Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs. Barbara enjoyed 54 years of loving companionship with John L. Templin, Jr. They were married for the past 43 years. Barbara is survived by her husband John; her sons

John (Jay) Templin (and his wife Lara) of Charles City, Virginia, Joseph (and his wife Ambre) Templin of Ballston Spa, Kevin (and his wife Jennifer) Templin of Greenfield Center, and Christopher Templin, of East Chatham (and his wife Sara, who lovingly cared for Barbara throughout her battle). Barbara had two loving daughters who were with her and selflessly cared for her and emotionally supported Barbara through her battle with cancer until the end. Nan is married to LCDR Demian Gough, stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii and Danielle (Dani) is married to CDR Jason Orender, stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. Additionally, her niece Tammy Willis selflessly and lovingly cared for her throughout her fight with cancer. Her adored grandchildren include Gordon Templin, Daniel Templin, Liam Templin, Colin Templin, Noah Templin, Lucy Templin, Amelia Gough, Lillian Gough and John Francis Templin. Barbara is also survived by her brother Bruce Ribley of Averill Park and sisters Lillian Willis of Ganesvoort and Joan Borck of Loudenville.

Thomas Martin Fitzpatrick WILTON — Thomas Martin Fitzpatrick passed away Sunday, November 17, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Born on December 4, 1928 in Akron, Ohio, he was the son of the late Thomas F. and Mary (Karabin) Fitzpatrick and resided in Wilton from the age of 4. Tom enlisted in the Air Force at 17 and was discharged on December 7, 1948 with the rank of Sergeant. His last assignment was in the Adjutant General’s Section Headquarters in Colorado Springs. He received the World War II Victory Medal. Tom was a well-respected realtor/builder in the area for many years. He once built homes for three generations of one family. He enjoyed hunting, fishing,

snowmobiling, good humor and life in general. For over 50 years, Tom supported a little league baseball team and loved watching the children play ball. He was a member of the Saratoga-Wilton Elks and the Glens Falls and Saratoga Builders Association. Survivors include his wife Janet; his son, Thomas Michael; two stepsons Brian and Jonathan; and several cousins.


Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

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Thanksgiving Dinner Given from Adopt-A-Family

continued from page 1

be providing a Thanksgiving meal for over 25 families with her donation of $625. She has helped the action group for the last 10 years. “Her support is just amazing,” said Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council Community Service Director Lillian McCarthy. “We’re very grateful for her assistance with this. The program started back when Skidmore College initiated the idea

and reached out to the EOC to put the baskets together. Continuing the helpful tradition, one basket size varies depending on the size of the family. This holiday season, over 500 baskets are helping feed families in the two to four-person family range. “We are one of the largest food pantries in the county and being the community action agency for the county, we service low income

throughout,” McCarthy said. “It’s such a burden on a family, especially on a food budget, to add a holiday to it. We collect money from the community at large to adopt our families out and what we do is go around and purchase food, collect donations and do what we can to put baskets together, so when families come in they have everything they need to make a Thanksgiving meal for their family.” Although the time for signups in the full month of October has passed, there is still an opportunity to get baskets. Since moving to the new location in Ballston Spa, the EOC will now be distributing them from the Living Springs Community Church in Saratoga on Wednesday, the day before Thanksgiving, for “Last Chance Pickup.” “Anyone who didn’t have the opportunity to come in and sign up for a Thanksgiving basket or maybe didn’t need one in the month of October, but now finds themselves in the circumstance where they do need them, they can come in starting at 9 a.m. in the morning and we will distribute whatever baskets we

have left,” McCarthy said. McCarthy added that there are always some individuals who sign up, but do not end up picking up the baskets. For those who signed up in October and still need baskets, they can pick them up on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday at the church located at 59 Pine Road (corner of Washington Avenue and Pine Road). In addition, on Thanksgiving Day, individuals can go to the soup kitchen at the Presbyterian— New

England Congregational Church, 24 Circular Street, for a full meal provided by the Olde Bryan Inn. There is also the opportunity for meals to be delivered to homes on Thanksgiving Day by calling the main office at (518) 288-3206. If anyone wants to contribute to the EOC’s Thanksgiving tradition, donations are always welcome and very much appreciated. For more information visit www. saratogaeoc.org.


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Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

November 14, 2013

Sonny Bonacio is saluted with a toast for his help in rebuilding The Saratoga Center for the Family’s home on 359 Ballston Avenue.

Molly Dw yer,

Denise Ja mes, John Brooks, Lydia She Walt Michaels, rembta, Jo e Reilly

Photos by MarkBolles.com

Franck John and Suzanne

Neil and Jane Golub

Cathy Geniti, Missy Pecora ,

Beth Lipson, Kelly Barry

Haban a Gates Cigar’s Car ly how it ’s done Medwin sh . ows St eve

Neal Estano and Marcie Fraser

Joseph DeFronzo delivers a selection of SMD Wines.

The Dream Team at Saratoga Center for the Family. (l-r) Jennifer Wormley, Cathy Geniti, Kelly Barry, Pam Harrington, Pat Covell, Leah Ferrone, John Kelly, Diane Parish, Denise DeMicco Atkinson, Deb Tomaso.


Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

NUtcracker 9


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BUSINESS

Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

Purdy’s Expands: Celebrates 50 Years by Adam T. Rossi Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Purdy’s Discount Wine and Liquor, located at 70 Congress Street Plaza, recently doubled in size to make room for a growing number of patrons and products at the popular liquor store. This is the second expansion the store has undergone. The store expanded to the space that was previously Scott’s Hallmark

Shop, allowing it to almost double in size from 6,000 square feet to 11,000 square feet. In addition to the added space, the expansion will allow the store to offer patrons more than 8,000 items. “It was getting very crowded in the store, so the expansion has allowed us to create more space for our customers and staff, bring in new items and offer lower prices,” owner Gail Purdy-Brophy said.

In addition to the expansion, Gail celebrated her 50th anniversary of operating the store with a grand re-opening on November 1 and 2. The event featured 120 new items, wine and liquor tastings, catered food and live music by local musician Lauren Kerr. “The event was a huge success,” Gail remarked. “I’d estimate that we had more than 1,000 patrons attend over the two days.” It all began in the fall of 1963, when Gail quit college and returned home to run her father’s liquor store after he became ill. While she’s been there ever since, the store has operated in a

number of locations throughout the city over the past 52 years, including Caroline Street for seven years and Broadway for 26 years before moving to Congress Plaza in 1997. While Gail has witnessed a number of changes in the industry since she first took over the business, one of the biggest has been how popular wine has become. “We have seen a tremendous growth in wine sales over the years,” she said. “When I first started in the business it only made up about 20 percent of total sales and today it has grown to around 70 percent.” Over the 50 years that Gail has

Photo by MarkBolles.com

operated the store, it has employed more than 200 full and part time employees, has generated millions of dollars in sales tax revenue for the city and county, and has supported more than 1,000 local charity events, she said. “We have always been a big supporter of shopping locally,” Gail added. “The store has been a staple in the community for more than 50 years and we support shopping locally to ensure other businesses have the same opportunity for success that we have had over the years.” For more information on Purdy’s Discount Wine and Liquor, visit www.purdyswines.com.


Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

Education

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Skidmore, NYSERDA Launch Clean Energy Program SARATOGA SPRINGS — Skidmore College is amongst a group of partners who have teamed up with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to develop a statewide program aimed to help business executives create new opportunities in clean energy business. Skidmore President Philip A. Glotzbach was part of Monday’s press conference that announced the program funding and details at Skidmore

College’s Tang Museum, along with NYSERDA President and CEO John B. Rhodes, Center for Economic Growth President and CEO Michael Tucker, and NYPA Chief of Staff and Director of Energy Policy Jill Anderson. The name of the new educational opportunity under NYSERDA’s Clean Tech Executive program is the New York Executive Clean Energy Leadership Institute. NYEXCEL is funded by $400,000 from NYSERDA.

What’s Happening In School This Week? November 22

November 26

Saratoga Springs City Saratoga Springs City School School District District Maple Drama Club Production, 7 p.m. None Odyssey of the Mind Club Meeting, Ballston Spa Central 8-9:10 a.m., Division Street School District Elementary School. Room 104 Elementary Parent/Teacher Ballston Spa Central Conference, Half Day for K-5 School District Schuylerville School Elementary Parent/Teacher District Conference, Half Day for K-5 Grandparents’ Breakfast: For families Schuylerville School of students whose last name begins District with M-Z Grandparents’ Breakfast: For November 27 families of students whose last Saratoga Springs City name begins with A-L School District Elementary School ParentNo School Teacher Conferences, Grades Ballston Spa Central K-5 dismissed at 11 a.m. School District PEP Harvest Fun Night, 6:30-8 p.m., No School Elementary School, Grades K-5 Schuylerville School District November 25 No School Saratoga Springs City November 28 School District Saratoga Springs City Geyser: Fundraiser Pick-up; School District Greenery Forms Due No School Ballston Spa Central Ballston Spa Central School District School District Elementary Parent/Teacher No School Conference, Half Day for K-5 Schuylerville School District Schuylerville School No School District None

Along with Brookhaven National Laboratory, the New York Battery and Energy Storage Consortium, the Pace Energy and Climate Center and the Syracuse Center of Excellence, Skidmore College will help look to develop content and oversee NY EXCEL. NY EXCEL will seek to show business owners, investors and entrepreneurs how to start and run successful energy-efficient and clean-energy companies and educate them on business investment opportunities in the cleantech sector. Set to start next August with a 30-hour classroom summer residency at Skidmore College, NY EXCEL attendees will also get the chance to tour the state’s most import clean-technology tools, such as wind farms, solar installations and manufacturers of clean-technology products. Participants are expected to make a business plan for a New York state clean-tech venture, which in turn would be presented to investors at a final workshop. Along with the type of prospective business a participant will be starting, there will also be a mentor assigned to every NY EXCEL entrepreneur. Professor Cathy Hill, who teaches business administration at Skidmore College, started the idea for the program. Hill, who is also involved with the New York Battery and Energy Storage Consortium, is expecting between 15 and 25 participants next year.


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Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

“Life as we know it was suspended.” - Betty McCanty

A Snapshot in Time — 1963: Fifty years ago, on November 22, 1963 The Beatles released their second album, With the Beatles, in the UK. This unfortunate timing did not go unnoticed by the people putting on the annual Beatlemore Skidmania 13 this weekend (see 11/15 Saratoga TODAY, page 25). Other things going on (and NOT going on like cell phones, internet or debit cards): • The Coca-Cola Company introduces its first diet drink, Tab on May 1. • A hot new movie Cleopatra was released June 12 but Tom Jones wins Best Picture. • On July 1, Saratoga Springs became identified as 12866 when Zip Codes made their debut. • “Da Bears” nosed out the NY Giants 14-10 for the NFL Championship at Wrigley Field—that is not a typo. Navy’s Roger Staubach wins the Heisman Trophy, Sandy Koufax mows down the Yankees twice as the Dodgers sweep, 4-0 and Chateaugay won The Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes (held at Aqueduct that year, BTW) but was ‘grave yarded’ in The Travers, finishing third to Crewman. • On TV, we saw the debuts of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom, The Fugitive, Petticoat Junction and The Outer Limits. On April 1, long-standing soap operas General Hospital and The Doctors both began long runs, but it was As the World Turns (transmitted live at the time) which got interrupted by Walter Cronkite of CBS News with the bulletin from Dallas. ATWT actually aired another scene before Cronkite pre-empted again, this time to begin marathon coverage that kept going for three days until JFK’s funeral procession and burial on November 25. • From the “no wonder we look back in this as a nostalgic, idyllic time department”: Three things we didn’t have: email, Facebook and texting. - Arthur Gonick


Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

Remembering JFK continued from page 1

in the afternoon. After the announcement, we were sent home early. It was my first experience with death of anyone close to me and for many in my age group, JFK was like our friend. It was a simpler time and we wanted to believe. His family was our family. On November 22, 1963 John Fitzgerald Kennedy was also the only President I ever knew. And he was gone. “I was in my final year as a Yale undergraduate in November 1963,” noted former Saratoga Springs mayor Kenneth Klotz. “The first word of the shooting of the President began circulating on campus in the early afternoon, about ten minutes before an advanced Russian class on my schedule.” “The teacher was a native, elderly and somewhat pedantic, who conducted the class in Russian. We told him excitedly, in Russian of course, that the President had been shot. He looked puzzled and uncertain, and said “Oh, is that so?” I don’t think he believed us, because he delivered his planned 50-minute lecture on early 19th century Russian literary history. Just as the class was finally over we heard the Branford chapel bell beginning to toll and realized with horror that the President was dead.” Klotz said. “I was on my honeymoon in the Poconos!” noted Bronx native Barbara Garrasi. “My husband John and I came back from lunch. I was in the bathroom while John had the TV on when the bulletin came through. He called out to me… we spent the entire afternoon inside, holding hands, glued to the TV and crying.” Our own Cindy Durfey remembers the great sadness. “I was in second grade in Loudonville. I remember coming home from school and my mom was watching television and crying. It was a very solemn time.” She said. “Shock!” said Phyllis Marks from White Plains. “The kids were in their early teens and so upset. We spent a lot of time trying to explain this, to help each other understand.” “I was in Albany,” said Alfred O’Brien. “I turned on the car radio and there it was…shock and disbelief.” Johnstown’s Carolyn McClain was at her art class at Russell Sage College. “I couldn’t believe what I had heard. Within

short order, the college was completely shut down.” “We were driving a truck of apples from our farm in Schaghticoke,” noted Leonard and Phyllis Borden. “At the Thruway stop the toll-booth employee asked if we had a radio and to put it on — something had happened to the President.” “I was in the Grand Union supermarket in Ballston Spa,” said Betty McCanty. “Someone turned off the music and the word spread like wildfire through the store.” “I left my cart in the aisle and went right home. Life as we know it was suspended,” Ms. McCanty said. “I knew that my four children (spread through grade 2 – 6) would be sent home from school and all I thought about is to be able to get there when they arrived.” “I was at work at the Library of Congress in Washington D.C. in the rare book room,” remembers Roger Trienens. “The Chief stood up and made an announcement that the President had been assassinated and the closed the library.” “It was a Friday; the beginning of a grim, depressing weekend.” Trienens said. “My husband was a Marine and it hit him so hard to hear the news,” said Esther Badgley, who was in Minerva at the time. Doris Lamont heard the news in the little town of Cochecton thanks to a relatively new innovation, the TV news bulletin. “I was lying down and settling into my favorite soap, As the World Turns when the bulletin came on. I remember being annoyed because they had already interrupted ATWT a few times that week because of a plane crash.” “After Cronkite, I turned to David Brinkley’s newscast on NBC. I remember how he was so upset that they had to take him off the air for a while.” Lamont said. “I was a substitute nurse at the A. L. Kellogg School in Treadwell,” said Joyce Hoven. “The teachers came out of an adjoining room and told me.” Saratoga Springs native Marion Poukish was working in a Pediatric office on Lake Avenue when she heard. “It was very emotionally upsetting to realize someone would want to kill our President.” “I remember our prayers were especially made for Jackie, Caroline and young John.” She said. 50 years. Like yesterday.

“I remember our prayers were especially made for Jackie, Caroline and young John.”

“The kids were in their early teens and so upset. We spent a lot of time trying to explain this, to help each other understand.” - Phyllis Marks

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- Marion Poukish


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food

Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

Quincy Farm: New Owners of Historic Farmland

SARATOGA SPRINGS — One of the newest vegetable farms selling produce at Saratoga Farmers’ Market is Quincy Farm, which raises certified naturally-grown vegetables with no synthetic fertilizers or pesticides on 40 acres of prime farmland in the town of Easton in Washington County. The farm has 1,500 feet of Hudson River frontage, looks across the river to the Saratoga Battlefield and has a significant history dating back a few centuries, with ownership mostly by successive generations of the Wright family. Originally pursuing careers in New York City, farmers Luke Deikis (formerly an electrician in the television industry) and his wife Cara Fraver (previously with the non-profit Just Food, which focuses on farm-toconsumer distribution) purchased the farm in the spring of 2011 after several years of apprenticing for other

growers. The couple is quick to note the tremendous help they received in making the purchase from the Open Space Institute and the Agricultural Stewardship Association, which holds an agricultural easement on the property, ensuring it will remain farmland forever. In just a few years, Quincy Farm has grown enough to sell at several different farmers’ markets in the region and offer three CSA (farm subscription) drop-off points in Warren and Saratoga counties. The farm produces a wide range of vegetables, including sweet potatoes, root vegetables and winter squash that store well through the winter. In the warmer months, the farm’s golden tomatoes, summer squash and baby salad mixes are customer favorites. One of the more unusual vegetables the farm grew this past season was pea shoots, which are the clipped young shoots of the pea plant. They have a distinctive fresh sugar snap pea flavor— an offering that proved so popular that Quincy Farm will continue to produce them right through the winter. The farm’s website at www.

quincyfarm.net has a full crop of information about everything from farming practices to the farmland’s earliest owners. Asked about their passion to sell directly to the community through their CSA and market booth, Deikis and Fraver note, “We love it when someone comes back and says, ‘I bought this or that last week because you insisted it was the best, and it was and I want more!’ That and the farmerjoy of growing really good cover crops that result in your soil getting healthier and stronger, yielding produce that’s even more tasty and nutritious each season...that’s what keeps us going.” At the winter market at the Lincoln Baths, Quincy Farm has been outside for a few weeks, but will soon be located midway to the back of the building on the first floor. Luke Deikis is happy to share preparation ideas for the items he sells, including his favorite recipe for mashed potatoes with celeriac. “What’s important here whether you make a lot or just a little, is to maintain the proportions of roughly 2/3 potatoes and 1/3 celeriac,” notes Deikis. “The celeriac just doesn’t have enough starch to mash well on its own.”

Favorite Meal

by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY

Hello my Foodie Friends! Hey, Johnny or Aubrey’s Dad or Mr. Paula (these are my names now), what is your favorite meal to cook? I get asked this everyday and my answer is boring because I think of the best meal I ever made. It was about 17 years ago and we had just moved here from Connecticut. Paula had been away for about two weeks because of her job and it was the first time that we had been apart for that long. The kids were missing her and so was I. Paula is the organizer and an overall wonder woman so being without her was a challenge. I tried to think of meal I could cook for her that would be delicious but more important remind her of the closeness of her family. Of course, I made a thanksgiving dinner in July. I called the greatest chef alive (my mom) to help me with every detail. My mom was not feeling too well and she said I made her day! She stayed on the phone with me the whole way. You know the phone with the 25-foot extension cord so I could walk everywhere and get tangled up in? She was excited to lend a hand and help me surprise my wife. She calmly talked me through every part of the

meal the way she would have done it. She was missing us and wanted to come here from Connecticut to see our new house in person but had to wait until she felt better. My Mom even recruited my older sister to help with dessert. Remember when you have three people at once talking on the phone? The two of them even managed to tell me I was screwing it up a few times! They were in another state how did they know? I know that a Turkey dinner is not Chicken ala vodka or Pheasant under glass but it was perfect for a weary wife and mom who missed her family. Mom and big sister were so helpful that the end result was that Paula was blown away. Johnny and Aubrey helped too; they untangled the phone cord which as you know had to be done about once a week. We lost my mom two months later but I have a fond memory of her laughing and contributing. Remember my friends, it’s not always the sexy named meals that are the best it’s as Mom used to say “It’s the little things that matter John” and that’s why: “Life happens in the kitchen.” Take care, John and Paula

Farmer Luke Deikis, sporting a warm winter hat, talks with a customer at Quincy Farm’s stand at Saratoga Farmers’ Market.

At Quincy Farm’s display at the market, beets sit next to “wide-eyed” celeriac, one of the more mysterious market vegetables and featured in this week’s recipe.

Mashed Potatoes and Celeriac Celeriac is one of the oddest looking vegetables at the market, but lends a delicious celery-like flavor to soups, stews and vegetable combinations, like this recipe for mashed potatoes. To trim celeriac, slice away the outer rough surface of the root, to reveal a crisp creamy-colored interior.

Ingredients

4 cups peeled, cut white potatoes 2 cups peeled, cut celeriac Milk or cream Butter (optional) Salt and pepper * These items are available at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market

Directions •Boil potatoes and celeriac until fork tender. •Drain cooking liquid (or reserve, if you like to use it for the mash) and then add milk or cream (or other liquid), butter, and salt and pepper in desired proportions as you mash the cooked vegetables.


Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

NEWS

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Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013


Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

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Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013


Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

fun and games

Puzzles Across 1 Michael who plays Alfred in many Batman movies 6 Mess maker 10 Remote 13 Lightweight synthetic 14 Nothing, in Nicaragua 15 Scheme in which three of four lines rhyme 16 First two reindeer named in Rudolph’s song 19 Jai __ 20 Fury 21 Baseball legend Mickey 22 It has a trunk but no wheels 24 Layered cookie 25 Use a mouse to move a file between folders, say 30 Queue between Q and U 33 Charged, infantry-style 34 The Beatles’ “Abbey __” 35 Administer, as justice, with “out” 36 Eden exile 37 Thorax organs 38 Thor’s father 39 Book part 40 Former Atlanta arena 41 Lopsided 42 Make a typo 43 List of behavioral recommendations 45 Cry of dismay 47 Ten-speed unit 48 Prisoner 50 “How can __ sure?” 51 Ring of light 55 2003 prequel subtitled “When Harry Met Lloyd” 58 Many Keats poems 59 Stunt rider Knievel 60 Sprinkles or drizzles 61 Was in first 62 “Don’t touch that __!” 63 Supplement Down 1 Sonata ending 2 Inland Asian sea 3 “Casablanca” heroine 4 Diamond gem

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See puzzle solutions on page 29

Level: 1

2

3

4

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

11/18/13

© 2013 The Mepham Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency. All rights reserved.

See puzzle solution on page 29 5 Santa Barbara-to-Las Vegas dir. 6 Marching band percussion instruments 7 Freeway division 8 Unusual 9 Snits 10 Accounted for, as during calculations 11 36-Across’ second son 12 Steak request 15 Diarist Frank 17 Nothing, in Nice 18 50-and-over org. 23 Critter before or after pack 25 Fall in folds 26 Plane tracker 27 Made “talent” from “latent,” e.g. 28 Prima __

29 1980 De Niro film about a boxer 31 Clown heightener 32 Camp shelters 35 British heavy metal band with the album “Ace of Spades” 37 Not as tight as before 41 Cavity filler’s org. 43 Census gathering 44 Regard 46 Research sites 48 Revered entertainer 49 Naked 50 Inventor’s spark 52 Bone-dry 53 Gave for a while 54 Roughly 56 506, in old Rome 57 Bikini top

Writing the Right Word by Dave Dowling Accuracy in word choice is a key to effective communication. This quick weekly tip will help you filter the confusion in some of our daily word choices. Rational, Rationale Rational, an adjective, means having or exercising the ability to reason. Is it rational to believe that life exists on other planets?

Rationale, a noun, refers to an explanation or basic reason. We do not understand the rationale for selling the business.

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


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LOCAL BRIEFS to sign in, each afternoon. For more information call (518) 584-9455.

‘Freedom From Painful Emotions’ Suitable for both beginners and experienced meditators, classes include guided meditations, teaching and discussion with Buddhist teacher Evelyn Williams. Classes are self-contained; drop in any week. Everyone is welcome for a $10 fee. Classes run through December 12 from 7–8:30 p.m., except Thanksgiving. Classes are located on the second floor of 79 Beekman St. above the bicycle shop. Gavin Park Pickleball Indoor Pickleball has begun at Gavin Park and runs from now until April. Players of any experience level can participate on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:15 –11:15 a.m. Three to six courts will be available each session. Participants may bring their own equipment or may use the park’s. Players must register, in person, at the Gavin Park Office, 10 Lewis Drive, Wilton. Doors open at 9 a.m. No regular commitment is required. Cost per person, per day, is $3. For more information call (518) 584-9455. Winter Activities Brochure Available The Town of Malta Department of Parks, Recreation and Human Services Winter Activities Brochure is available online at www.malta-town.org and at the Malta Community Center. Registration is underway for winter classes and programs. Classes, new sports programs and special events are scheduled to begin in December. Call the Malta Community Center at (518) 899-4411 for more information. Seeking Tax Assistance Volunteers TaxAide is seeking volunteers for the coming tax season. TaxAide volunteers answer questions and prepare and file returns for low to moderate income taxpayers and seniors from February 1 to April 15 at various sites in Saratoga County. No experience is required. For further information, visit www.aarp. org/taxaide or call (518) 373-1076. Gavin Park Open Gym Open gym for basketball at Gavin Park has begun, running weekdays from 3–5 p.m. for all ages. Open gym can accommodate up to 20 players and operates on a first come, first served basis. There is no charge for participation. Children ages 10 and under must have an adult with them at all times. All participants are required

Get Fit With Taylor’s Heroes The non-profit Taylor’s Heroes, is currently looking for applicants ages 8-18 who are looking to get fit. If selected, applicants join a free threemonth program that includes weekly group personal training, the ability to try new sports activities of their choosing and the chance to learn valuable nutrition information from experts in the community. For more information go to taylorsheroes.org or cal (518) 894-1658. ‘Charcoal!’ Through December 15 there will be an Invitational exhibition of two and three-dimensional works in charcoal by 12 contemporary artists at the Schick Art Gallery, Saisselin Art Building (Skidmore College). Hours will be Monday through Thursday (10 a.m.–6 p.m.), Friday (10 a.m. –4 p.m.), Saturday and Sunday (noon to 4 p.m.) It will be closed on academic holidays. For more information call (518) 580-5049. Saratoga Recreation Winter Registration The Winter Registration at Saratoga Recreation is open and offering Youth Basketball League, Jr. Sluggers, Introduction to Ice Skating, Box Lacrosse, Golf World Clinic and a 3v3 tournament. For more information call (518) 587–3550, ext. 2300. ‘Muscle Shoals’ Coming to Film Forum “Muscle Shoals” will show at the Saratoga Film Forum on November 29 at 7:30 p.m. and December 1 at 3 p.m. Directed by Greg Camalier, the PG rated documentary focuses on the Muscle Shaols Sound Studio and Rick Hall, who who overcame crushing poverty and staggering tragedies to bring black and white musicians together in Alabama’s cauldron of racial hostility to create music for the generations. Shirt Factory Holiday Shopping Events The Shirt Factory Arts and Healing Center announced its schedule of holiday shopping events, starting with Thanksgiving weekend and the 12th Annual Open House November 29 to December 1 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day). Thursday, December 12 from 5-8 p.m. is Ladies’ Night, as 10 select shops in downtown Glens Falls will be open late with special sales. The December Open House wil be December 14-15, Friends and Family Night will be December 20 and the Last Minute Dash will be December 21 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information call (518)

907-4478 or visit www.shirtfactorygf. com. The Shirt Factory is located at the corner of Lawrence Street and Cooper Street in Glens Falls. 14th Annual Craft Fair The Schuylerville United Methodist Church is hosting its 14th Annual Craft Fair, Saturday, November 30 from 9 a.m.–3 p.m. at the American Legion Post 278 located on Clancy Street in Schuylerville. Lunch will be served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Many crafts, baked goods, including Thanksgiving pies, and silent auction will be included. Pizza and Wing Night The Victory Mills Fire Department, 23 Pine St., is hosting a pizza and wing night on November 30 from 2–7 p.m. Cheese pizza is $11 and with the works is $18. Toppings are $2 each (sausage, pepperoni, peppers, onions, mushrooms and extra cheese). One dozen wings (plain, mild, hot, extra hot, sweet baby BBQ and garlic parm) with celery, carrots and blue cheese is $8, extra blue cheese $0.75. Place your order at (518) 695-6623 after 2 p.m. Metaphysical Book Discussion Group The New Thought New York Center for Spiritual Living is hosting a discussion of the book “The Art of Being, 101 Ways to Practice Purpose in Your Life” by Dennis Merritt Jones on Sunday, December 1 at 6 p.m. at Woodlawn Commons, 156 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs. For more information visit www. newthoughtnewyork.org or call (518) 423-3569. New Life Fellowship Helping Others New Life Fellowship in Saratoga Springs will be collecting gently used winter gear and toys to be given free of charge to those in need within our area. Coats, boots, gloves, hats, mittens and snow pants are all needed, plus toys that can be used for Christmas presents. They can be brought to New Life Fellowship, 51 Old Gick Road, Saratoga Springs on December 2 and 4 from 9:30 a.m.– 3:30 p.m. and Thursday, December 5 from 9:30 a.m.–7 p.m. Call (518) 580-1810 for more information. Round Lake Festival of Trees and Cookie Walk The Round Lake Festival of Trees and Cookie Walk will be held in early December at the Round Lake Municipal Building, 49 Burlington Ave. Donations benefit the Round Lake Historical Society. Tickets are on sale at the Village Office. A $5 donation is asked for at the door for the following dates: December 4, 6:30–8 p.m., December 6, 5:30–9 p.m.; December 7, 4–8 p.m.; December 8, 11

Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013 a.m.–3 p.m. For more information call (518) 899-2800. A Celebration in Four Parts The 57th annual show produced by the Racing City Chorus, the Saratoga Springs Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society, will be December 7, starting at 7 p.m. at the Saratoga Knights of Columbus Hall on 50 Pine Road. The Racing City Chorus, its quartets and guest quartets Dented Fenders and One Track Mind will be featured in a cabaret setting. Tickets are $15 and children under 13 are free. For more information visit www. RacingCityChorus.org or call (518) 371-0062. American Legion Breakfast With Santa American Legion Auxiliary Unit 234 is hosting Breakfast With Santa Claus on Saturday, December 14 from 8:30–11 a.m. at 23 Pleasant Street in Ballston Spa. Enjoy breakfast and bring your cameras for pictures with Santa. Festival of Trees For the fourth consecutive year, the Schuylerville Community Theater will host the Festival of Trees and Craft Fair in the Saratoga Town Hall on the corner of Routes 29 and 4. On December 6 there will be the traditional lighting of the Memory Trees on the front lawn of the Town Hall 4. The decorated trees and crafts will be offered for sale on December 7 from 10–4 p.m. and December 8 from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. The annual parade down Schuylerville’s main street featuring the arrival of St Nicholas on his white horse will follow beginning at 4:15 p.m. Admission is free. Celebration of St. Nicholas Holiday Sale New and gently used Christmas items will be available, including decorations and collectables at the Old Saratoga Reformed Church at Corner Pearl and Burgoyne Street from 8 a.m.–2 p.m. on December 7. There will also be a basket raffle, a bake sale and much more at bargain prices. For more information call the church office (518) 695-3479, 9 a.m. to noon, Monday–Friday. Christmas Music Festival The Old Saratoga Reformed Church is featuring area choirs, a combined choir under the direction of Christopher Tucker, other local musicians, an orchestra and audience carol singing on December 8. Refreshments will follow the concert. The event is handicapped accessible. For more information call (518) 695-3260.

Audition Call for Community Dancers Nacre Dance company is seeing dance extras (ages 14 through adult /male or female) with prior or current dance experience to join Nacre members in an upcoming performance on March 1 and 2 at the SPA Little Theater in Saratoga Springs. Auditions will be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, December 11 at Myers Dance Center, located at 153 Regent Street in Saratoga Springs. For more information about the audition, rehearsals and performances contact Artistic Director, Beth Fecteau, at Beth@ Nacredance.com or phone (518) 435-0510. FCFNY Bootcamp FCFNY Bootcamp is offering a free one hour Fitness Bootcamp Class on Saturday, November 30 from 8–9 a.m. The event is open to everyone and will be held at the Martial Arts Studio, 175 Ballston Ave in Saratoga. Arrive 10–15 minutes prior to the start of the class. Space is limited, so call (518) 955-6924 to reserve your spot. Breakfast Buffet Saratoga-Wilton Elks will host a breakfast buffet from 8:30 – 11 a.m. on December 1. Fruit cocktail, French toast, pancakes, potatoes, breakfast sausage and ham, corned beef hash, scrambled eggs, eggs benedict, juice, coffee and tea will be provided. Donation requested: Adults $8, Seniors/Military (ID required) $7. Children 5 – 12 $6, Under 5 free, take-outs $8.For more information call (518) 584-2585. Italian Dinner Saratoga-Wilton Elks will host an Italian dinner on December 11 from 4:30 - 7 p.m. Italian Wedding soup, chicken riggis, meatballs marinara, sausage and peppers, spaghetti with marinara sauce, fettuccine alfredo, antipasto salad, garlic bread, dessert, coffee and tea will all be provided for a requested donation of: adults $10, seniors and military (active or retired w/ID) $9, children 5-12 $6, all take-out $10. A cash bar will also be available. For more information call (518) 584-2585. Christmas Cookie Sale Christ the Savior Orthodox Church in Ballston Lake will host a Christmas cookie sale from 11 a.m.–4 p.m. on December 14 and December 15 from 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Select from an assortment of home baked Christmas cookies, made with love by the ladies of the church: $10 per container, tied with a ribbon, ready for gift giving, or to take home and enjoy. For more information call (518) 885-4681.

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


Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013 Breakfast with Santa Clifton Park Center, Food Court, Clifton Park, 8 – 10 a.m. Help us welcome Santa for the Holiday Season. Join 99.5 The River, for music, fun and games, and a free breakfast for the kids. Seating is limited so please call the mall office to register at (518) 371-7010 ext. 103.

Family Friendly Event

Friday, November 22 Coats for CAPTAIN CAPTAIN, 5 Municipal Plaza, Clifton Park, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. CAPTAIN Youth and Family Services has partnered with Southern Saratoga YMCA in hosting COATS for CAPTAIN’s third annual coat drive to help struggling families in Saratoga County. There are coats available from newborn to adult sizes in both female and male colors and styles. Call (518) 371–1185 for more information.

Remade in America Opening Reception Saratoga Automobile Museum, Saratoga Spa State Park, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Featuring a 13-car exhibition honoring those automotive enthusiasts who put their heart and soul into restoring a rusted old hulk, converting an abandoned antique into a technically advanced hot rod or cutting a car in half, as Latham’s Paul Hoffman did, and making it into something entirely different. Advance tickets, $15, at the door, $20. For more information, visit www.SaratogaAutoMuseum.org.

Skidmore College Theater: Back County Crimes Bernhard Theater, Main Stage, Skidmore College, 8 p.m. The Skidmore Theater Department’s fall production of Back County Crimes by Lanie Robertson, directed by David Demke. November 22-24, all shows at 8 p.m. except Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. $12 general admission, $8 students and senior citizens For more information call (518) 580-5439.

Beatlemore Skidmania Arthur Zankel Music Center, Ladd Concert Hall, Skidmore College, 8 p.m. November 23 at 2 p.m., $8 adults, $5 senior citizens, $3 for students and children, For ticket information call (518)-580-5321 or go to www.skidmore.edu/Zankel

Saturday, November 23

Free 1 Hour Fitness Bootcamp Martial Arts Studio, 175 Ballston Ave (Rte. 50), Saratoga, 8 – 9 a.m. The Bootcamp is suitable for adults of all ages and will offer a mix of cardio and resistance training. There is no charge for participation however all participants will be required to sign a waiver. Please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to the start of the class. Space is limited so please call (518) 955-6924 to reserve your spot.

Tang Museum Family Saturday Tang Museum, Skidmore College, 2 – 3:30 p.m. Suitable for children ages five and up with their adult companions. The program includes a brief tour of a current Tang exhibition, followed by a hands-on art activity. It’s free and open to the public. Reservations are strongly suggested. For reservations and information call (518) 580-8080.

Meet the Artist Saratoga Film Forum, 320 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 7:30 p.m. Multi Media Performance and Discussion. Kyle deCamp’s “Urban Renewal” which has appeared at the Fisher Center of Performing Arts at Bard College, the Theatre de la City Internationale in Paris, and the Baryshnikov Arts Center, offers a meditation on perception, public policy, and the buildings we live in, from the perspective of a child. For more information, visit saratogafilmforum.org.

DanceFlurry Saratoga Contradance First Baptist Church, 45 Washington St. Saratoga Springs, 8 – 11 p.m. Lessons for beginners will be at 7:30 p.m. Calling will be by Melanie Axel-Lute with music by George Wilson and Selma Kaplan. All group dances are taught and newcomers welcome. There’s no need to bring your own partner. Wear sneakers or other soft-soled shoes only, please. Adults are $10, students and seniors are $7 and children under 15 are $6. For more information call (518) 8990105 or visit www.danceflurry.org.

Sunday, November 24 Breakfast Buffet The Sons of Italian American War Vets Post 35, 245 Grand Ave.,

calendar

Saratoga Springs, 8 – 11 a.m. Made to order omelets, sausage, biscuits, gravy, bacon, sausage, ham hash, fruit, juice, Danish and more. Adults $8, Seniors $7, Kids under 5 free.

(518) 435-4571 or visit www. afterthefire.org.

Wednesday, November 27

Upcoming Town Meetings

Photos with Saratoga Santa

Storybook Lady

Town of Ballston:

Spa City Farmers Market at Lincoln Baths, Saratoga Springs, noon – 3 p.m. This is a great family-friendly market that takes place each Sunday from 10 — 3 p.m..

Celebrate Chanukah Congregation Shaara Tfille, 84 Weibel Ave., Saratoga Springs, 11 a.m. Open to the entire community, the event will begin with a dairy luncheon including latkes and other festive foods. Puppeteer Anna Sobel and her Talking Hands Theatre will perform The Mystery of Hanukkah Harry. The cost is $12 per person for 13 years and older and free for children under 13. For more information call (518) 584-2370.

South Glens Falls Holiday Parade Route 9, South Glens Falls, 1 p.m. The Annual South Glens Falls Holiday Parade will take place on the Sunday before Thanksgiving, November 24, 2013. This year’s theme is “Winter Wonderland!”

ECHO Thanksgiving Service and Dinner Simpson United Methodist Church, 1089 Rock City Road, Rock City Falls, 4 p.m. The Ecumenical Community Helping Others Annual Thanksgiving Service and Dinner. There is no charge, though all donations of money, canned goods, and other nonperishable food items will benefit the ECHO Food Pantry. Bring a dish and come meet, dine, and enjoy fellowship with your neighbors and community, and help provide food for those in need in your area. For more information call (518) 885-9316.

Monday, November 25 Skidmore Big Band Arthur Zankel Music Center, Ladd Concert Hall, Skidmore College, 8 p.m. For more information call (518) -580-5321 or go to www.skidmore. edu/Zankel

Tuesday, November 26 After The Fire Meeting Eagle Matt Lee Fire House, Ballston Spa, 7 p.m. New members are always needed and are welcome to attend a meeting. For additional information leave a message at

World Awareness Children’s Museum, 11 a.m. Listen to the “Storybook Lady” tell tales of adventure and discovery in Latin America, plus a featured craft. For more information call (518) 793 2773.

Canadian Pacific Holiday Train Saratoga Amtrak Station, West Ave., Saratoga Springs, 8:45 p.m. The Canadian Pacific Holiday “Train of Lights” will be making a stop once again to help benefit the Saratoga County EOC emergency food programs. Entertainment by The Claytones, Willy Porter and Tracey Brown. Help make a difference in your community by bringing a cash or food donation. For more information call (518) 288-3206.

Thursday, November 28 12th Annual Turkey Trot Downtown Saratoga Springs, City Hall, 8:30 a.m. Each year, on Thanksgiving morning, thousands of runners (and walkers) congregate in Saratoga Springs to race in the annual 5K Turkey Trot race, which benefits the Christopher Dailey Foundation. Cost is $25 to register. For more information call (518) 581-1328.

Annual Pre-Stuffed Workout Saratoga Core Fitness, 68 West Ave. in Saratoga Springs, 10 a.m. Saratoga Core Fitness’ Annual Thanksgiving morning pre-stuffed workout. Run for one hour. Cost is $10 with all proceeds donated to the Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Services. Sign up in the studio or call (518) 583-FITT (3488) or email vicki@saratogacorefitness.com.

Ballston Town Hall 323 Charlton Road (518) 885-8502 www.townofballstonny.org 11/27: Planning Board, 7:30 p.m. Village of Ballston Spa: 66 Front Street (518) 885-5711 www.ballstonspany.org 11/25: Board of Trustees, 7:30 p.m. Town of Greenfield: 7 Wilton Road (518) 893-7432 www.townofgreenfield.com 11/26: Planning Board, 7 p.m. Town of Malta: 2540 Route 9 (518) 899-2818 www.malta-town.org 12/02: Town Board, 7 p.m. Town of Milton: 503 Geyser Road (518) 885-9220 www.townofmiltonny.org 11/28: Zoning Board, 7 p.m. City of Saratoga Springs: 474 Broadway (518) 587-3550 www.saratoga-springs.org 12/03: City Council, 7 p.m. 12/11: Planning Board, 7 p.m. 12/16: Zoning Board, 7 p.m. Town of Saratoga: 12 Spring Street, Schuylerville (518) 695-3644 www.townofsaratoga.com 11/27: Planning Board, 7:30 p.m. Village of Schuylerville: 35 Spring Street (518) 695-3881 www.villageofschuylerville.org 12/11: Board of Trustees, 7 p.m. Town of Stillwater: 881 N. Hudson Avenue Stillwater, NY 12170 (518) 664-6148 www.stillwaterny.org 11/25: Zoning Board, 7:30 p.m. Town of Wilton:

Blood Drives November 22, noon-5 p.m. Keller Williams 38 High Rock Ave November 22, 1 p.m.-6 p.m. Malta Sunrise Rotary 2449 Rt. 9, Malta

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22 Traver Road (518) 587-1939 www.townofwilton.com 11/28: Zoning Board, 6:30 p.m. 12/05: Town Board, 7 p.m. Saratoga County Board of Supervisors: 40 McMaster St, #1 Ballston Spa, NY 12020 (518) 885-2240 www.saratogacountyny.gov

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


PULSE

22

Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

week of 11/22-11/27 friday, 11/22:

saturday, 11/23:

Joe Barna Quartet, 9 pm

Chuck Kelsey, 8 pm

@ 9 Maple Avenue - 583.2582

7 Minutes left, 9 pm @ Bailey’s - 583.6060

@ The Rusty Nail - 371.9875

@ Bentley’s - 899.4300

Bad Chaperones, 9 pm

Jim Gaudet + The Railroad Boys, 10 pm

@ The Mill - 899.5253

Headwall, 10 pm

@ Caroline St. Pub- 583.9400

Steve Candlen Band, 8:30 pm

Jeanne O’Connor + The New Standard, 8 pm

3 To Get Ready/Street Talk, 10:30 pm

tuesday, 11/26:

Grand Central Station, x pm

Rich Ortiz, 10 pm

Kevin McKrell + Friends, 9 pm @ The Parting Glass - 583.1916

@ Primelive Ultra Lounge - 583.4563

Jeff Brisbin, 7 pm

Enter the Haggis, 9 pm

@ Maestros - 580.0312

Dan Sherwin, 8:30 pm

wednesday, 11/27:

@ Putnam Den - 584.8066

@ The Rusty Nail - 371.9875

Pat Decker, 6 pm

@ The Saratoga Winery - 584.9463

The Refrigerators, 8 pm @ Vapor - 792.8282

saturday, 11/23: John Savage Quartet, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Avenue - 583.2582

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@ Caroline St. Pub - 583.9400

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@ Primelive Ultra Lounge - 583.4563

sunday, 11/24:

@ Irish Times - 583.0003

Wheels For Wishes benefiting

Dan Sherwin, 6:30 pm

Rick Bolton, Sheri Nolan and Arlin Greene, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s - 583.7359

DONATE YOUR CAR

DJ Darik, 9 pm

The Schmooze, 9 pm @ Caffè Lena - 583.0022

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@ Ravenswood - 371.8771

Full Circle, 9 pm @ Bailey’s - 583.6060

Spoiler, 9 pm @ Bentley’s - 899.4300

Master Cylinders, 10 pm @ Caroline St. Pub- 583.9400

High Peaks Trio, 8 pm @Bailey’s - 583-6060

Acoustic Blues Jam, 7 pm @ Caffè Lena - 583.0022

The Blackouts, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s - 583.7359

Spoiler, 8 pm @ The Mill - 899.5253

Masters of Nostalgia, 9 pm @ One Carloine - 587.2026

Spoiler, 8 pm @ The Mill - 899.5253

Eastbound Jesus/ N+S Dakotas, 9 pm @ Putnam Den - 584.8066

Celtic Session, 7 pm

Driftwood, 8 pm

@ The Parting Glass - 583.1916

@ Caffè Lena - 583.0022

Dee Jay Element and DVDJ Dread, 9 pm

Noveau Jazz Beat, 10 pm

@ Vapor - 792.8282

@ Circus Cafe- 583.1106

Tim Wechgelaer Trio, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s - 583.7359

Radio Junkies, 9 pm @ Irish Times - 583.0003

Frank Wakefield, 8 pm @ The Parting Glass - 583.1916

JEff Walton, 7 pm @ Maestros - 580.0312

Funk Evolution, 10:30 pm @JP Bruno’s - 745.1180

Dj Vinyl Tap, 9 pm @ Irish Times - 583.0003


Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

Mandolin Master

by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS – What makes this occasion special is not that Mr. Frank Wakefield is releasing his new CD – but that he is doing it for the first time here, in his adopted hometown, and bringing up some band mates from Maryland and Virginia to seal the deal. The CD is entitled Frank Wakefield, Taylor Baker & Friends and shows off the merry, mischievous mandolin master at his instrumental finest. But you know come

Saturday, it wouldn’t be a Frank Wakefield show without some crack vocals and repartee. “Oh, we’ll be singin’,” says the pride of Emory Gap, TN, “we don’t want them to throw us out or nothing.” Joining Frank are Taylor Baker (mandolin, vocals), Brendan Ernst (guitar, banjo and vocals), Tom Mindte (mandolin, guitar and vocals) and Nick Barr (acoustic bass). I asked Frank what he wanted to be when he grew up and he said “be just like me.” That’s pretty much why you should go.

PULSE Frank Wakefield and Friends CD Release Party Saturday, November 23 at 8 p.m. The Parting Glass 40-42 Lake Avenue (518) 583-1916

Admission: $15

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PULSE

24

Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

November 17, 2013

Adelyn

Photos by MarkBolles.com

Congratulations to The Albany Academies, celebrating its 200th Anniversary. From left, Bramble Buran, Wendy Muhlfelder, Alixandra Rutnik, Alexandra Shannon and Ann Wendth.

Annabel, Lillian and Isabel Hannah, Lilah, Ava and Arden Marie flank ballerina Acadia


Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

PULSE

Charlie and Beth Alexander

D. Taylor with Lilliana and Taylor

Ava, Hannah and Abby

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Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

New Wilton Fire Trucks In Service Take a look at this week’s newest club members!

Darien

The Wilton Fire Department has two new Pierce Manufacturing model Arrow XT fire trucks that were put into service last Tuesday, November 12. Fire Chief Scott Bracket expects the small, more maneuverable models, with a 45 degree cramp angle, to help get up and down the Northway easier in heavy traffic. The more durable models have a PTO-driven hydraulic system, an all metal interior, an extreme tilt cab for easy inspection and maintenance and a hard-wired electrical system that provides more reliability.

Graham

Lyala

Cannon Returns to Saratoga Battlefield

Samantha

Olivia

Tooth Fairy Club is sponsored by:

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

An original Revolutionary War era 6-lb cannon was unveiled in a celebratory event at Saratoga Battlefield on Friday, November 15. The cannon was captured during the 1777 Battles of Saratoga, likely used in the War of 1812 and then moved to various places on the east coast over the last 200 years, before being returned to the Saratoga Battlefield. The event featured cannon and musket firings, chronicles of its role in the battles as well as its fateful journey over the last 200 years.


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Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

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28

SPORTS

Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

Incognito: Without Revealing One’s Identity

by Damian Fantauzzi for Saratoga TODAY Webster’s Dictionary definition of the word “incognito” is: without revealing one’s identity. So much for Webster! The Miami Dolphins’ Richie Incognito has redefined the meaning and has brought the insidious definition of “bullying” to an indefinite level. I find it hard to comprehend how a 6-foot-3-inch, 320-pound offensive guard can harass a 6-foot-5-inch, 312pound offensive tackle. Is there something wrong with this picture? Incognito, with his 4 million dollar yearly salary, has been suspended by the Dolphins for the alleged

harassment of teammate Jonathan Martin ($607,466 a year). Representatives of the NFL Players Association stated the following: “Richie Incognito filed a noninjury grievance against his employer, the Miami Dolphins, pursuant to his rights under the Collective Bargaining Agreement. The grievance challenges his conduct, which was alleged to have occurred while he was with the club.” In the grievance, Incognito wants to get back to the team and back to work. He’s losing $235,294.12 a week with his suspension. Meanwhile, Jonathan Martin, who is basically AWOL from the Dolphins, plans to speak, along with his lawyer, with his team’s representatives. It appears to me that the scenario of bullying has nothing to do with size. Incognito recalls being made fun of because of his size and weight as a third grader. The insults consisted of name calling by his fellow classmates. Some of his schoolmates called him insulting names like “lardass” and “whale.” He recalled his decision to fight back, punching one of his tormenters in the face. He claims that he was not proud of what he did, as a kid, and said

he remembers being scared. In the world of sports, it is assumed that someone with a mammoth stature is immune to psychological attacks. One assumption made by people, who are looking in from the outside, is that an athlete able to withstand physical force should have no problem handling emotional discomfort. We really don’t know the whole story behind what went on between the two linemen, but we do know that both seem troubled. It also appears that the NFL has a faltered support system for the players and obviously the league has some work to do. Consider what has happened with players dealing with multiple problems, like the recent tragedy and example of Javon Belcher’s (Kansas City Chiefs) suicide on December 1, 2012. He shot himself after murdering his girlfriend. There are many expected requirements for players that come from the fans and are taken for granted. The most prevalent is being thick-skinned and having the personality of a gladiator. Being superior in strength doesn’t make these humungous linemen less vulnerable to verbal abuse or racial name calling. They are as human as

the next person! When internal verbal abuse happens within the team, it can be more hurtful, and of course, disrespectful. As a team player, what Incognito did was cross the line—just like that third grader who called him a “whale.” Critics are saying that this is football and these athletes are being paid a lot of money to go out and beat on each other. One reporter, whose name I don’t recall, said these guys are expected to “man up” and know there will be some razzing in the locker room. The life of pro football can be painful in many ways. Here’s an interesting note: Incognito was on the Indianapolis Colts’ do-not-draft list because of his character. His profile showed that he had many demons throughout his life. It sounds like this guy needed, and still does need, some emotional support. His issues with anger have been dragged from his childhood into adulthood. As a teacher, I became very aware of the childhood experiences that left some psychological scarring on some of my students. Their memories were painful and not forgotten. The Dolphins have had other players with problems, who were

a catchweight matchup that lasted two rounds. On that same day, Belcarris lost to Jacob Smith in a three-round unanimous decision. Although Polcare wasn’t able to fully see Belcarris on that day, while waiting in the “backstage more or less,” he has since scouted his opponent and feels he knows his game plan. In one of the fights Polcare watched, in Kingston a couple weeks ago, Belcarris knocked his opponent out in four seconds with a head kick. “I’ve pretty much seen what I need to see on him,” Polcare said. “He’s basically a kick boxer. He’s going to want to keep standing. He’s a strong kid, but he can’t really wrestle and his ground game is kind of suspect too, so I’m looking to taking him into the pool where he can’t swim.” Aside from taking Belcarris from his comfortable upright position and making him play on his back, Polcare’s other gameplan is to go into the fight with an underdog mindset for that extra motivation. Being affiliated with Spa City Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu on and off for the last five years, Polcare has since upgraded his skills from a more two-dimensional style to a complete fighter. Adding onto his jiu-jitsu training

and wrestling background, Polcare now has a workout regimen with Saratoga Boxing’s Tyrone Jackson, making him more comfortable in the standup position and with his hands. Although he boxed in 2009, training with Jackson for the last few months three to four times a week, has made him that much more confident. But his roots will always be in the sport he started when he was a kid—wrestling “I think wrestling is the most important instrument of mixed martial arts,” Polcare said. “It can dictate where the fight goes. [Belcarris] may be more comfortable in the cage, but that’s not going to help him stop takedowns. Wrestling is always going to be my biggest strength. That’s my bread and butter.” The three-time Section II finalist wrestled at Saratoga Springs High School from 19982001, totaling 116 wins. “I’ve wrestled since I was 6 years old,” Polcare said. “I’m going on 30 now, so I’ve competed a ton. It’s just kind of a different stage and being able to throw punches. Even through high school I had a real aggressive style. If I was allowed to throw punches in wrestling, I would have. It’s just a less

restricting form of wrestling.” That aggressive style was in part culminated by the competitive household he grew up in with his twin brother, Brendan, and his younger brother, Brad, who will be at the fight along with his parents and girlfriend of three years, Melissa Gilligan. “We had a very, very competitive household growing up, so I have to compete,” Polcare said. “If I’m not trying to compete or challenging myself or setting goals physically—I don’t want to be one of those guys sitting around having a pint after work. I’d rather go to the gym, lift weights, go spar or go wrestle, and the window that I have to compete is getting smaller by the day, so I want to take advantage while I can still do it.” Also, when he trains he often thinks of his grandfather, who passed away when he was in 10th grade and loved to watch him and his brothers compete. “Every single morning I get up I know I’m getting better and better,” Polcare said. “I’m embracing the grind and it’s just making me sharper mentally and physically. It’s just making me a better person…I’m gonna smash this kid on Saturday and see how it goes.

dealing with the life of pro football, and the franchise had the same inability and resources to aid them with their emotional issues. This problem has become a prevalent scenario in the pro game and it’s not just Miami’s lack of attention. Signing these kids to multimillion dollar contracts, giving them the opportunity of new wealth, can be a big part of the multitude of changes in an individual’s life. “Living the dream” may have a psychological impact on these athletes and with that sometimes there comes the feeling of superiority. Not mainly from the gladiator-type sport of football, but maybe it’s the sudden wealth and fame? There is so much more to this that we don’t know and with all the money that these NFL franchises have, the least they could do is understand what effect fame can have on the athletes they hired. The fans must remember that there is a person inside of the football helmet and that they are as human as we are. It’s time for these billion dollar franchises to humanize their approach of drafting future star athletes. They need to prepare and treat their investments for a new way of life.

Polcare’s Title Plan:’ Take Opponent Where He Can’t Swim’ by Brian Cremo for Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Born and raised in Saratoga Springs, Brandon Polcare has either wrestled or fought competitively since he was 6 years old. Polcare, 30, will step into the cage to collide with Andre “The Finisher” Belcarris in Saturday’s Kaged Kombat Championship for rights to the Bantamweight Title. At 5-foot-7-inches and 135 pounds, Polcare hasn’t fought in actual competition in over a year— since November 10, 2012. His Kaged Kombat scheduled bout on April 20 of this year against Jahloni Kum was cancelled. In addition to the difficulty of finding people in the same weight class, Polcare’s busy sales schedule in the spring and summer at New Country Toyota attributed to the gap between fights. “It’s not something I wanted to half-heartedly get into,” Polcare said. “MMA is a sport where your heart has to be fully into it.” Compared to Polcare’s one career fight, Belcarris has 11 (7-3). In that first and only fight, Polcare took down Tony Bonanno in

Photo by MarkBolles.com

Maybe one title defense before I go pro and then I can look back and say I accomplished what I wanted to accomplish. Then I’ll hang up the gloves and I’ll just be a working man like the rest of the world.” Tickets are still available for the Kaged Kombat Fighting Championships at the Saratoga Springs City Center. The event starts Saturday at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m.


Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

SPORTS

Community Sports Bulletin 12 Blue Streaks Earn Empire Division Honors Photos by SportsThroughTheLens.com

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Six members of the Saratoga Springs football team made the Section II Class AA Empire Division First Team, led by Offensive Player of the Year Jake Eglintine and Defensive Player of the Year Nick Stiansen. In all, 12 Blue Streaks were named to either the first team, second team or honorable mention. Eglintine quarterbacked one of the top rushing teams in Section II this season, while running for 814 yards himself for 11 touchdowns (17 overall). Stiansen, who is also a leader in the classroom, was the backbone of the Blue Streaks defense that held opponents to under 13 points per game in the final three regular season games to help clinch a No. 2 seed in the playoffs. Standout sophomore running back Dakota Harvey earned first team accolades. Harvey rushed for 993 total yards and nine touchdowns in 2013. Ballston Spa’s Kiernan Mack (Senior DB) also made first team, while teammates Jake Toomey (Senior OL), Will Oates (Senior DL) and Chris Stedery (Junior DL) earned second team honors. Offensive Player of the Year: Senior Quarterback Jake Eglintine Defensive Player of the Year: Senior Linebacker Nick Stiansen First Team: RB · Dakota Harvey · SO OL · Griffin Clancy · JR DL · Ben Place · SR DL · Trevor Hallaran · SR Second Team: RB · Jordan Wilcox · SR OL · Jack Graver · SR LB · Hal Hagan · SR DB · Mark Barbaro · SR Honorable Mention: OL · Austin Degener · JR K/P · Matt Redcross · SR

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

Offensive Player of the Year, Jake Eglintine.

First Team All-Empire Division, Dakota Harvey

Bottino Helps Shen Take Class A Title

CLIFTON PARK — Shenendehowa field hockey claimed the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Class A championship for the first time, after senior Anna Bottino converted on her one-on-one opportunity in the third overtime against Sachem East. Sunday’s Class A final at Cicero-North Syracuse High School was tied 2-2 after regulation and two 10-minute overtimes. After the game went into a shootout, Bottino was the last shooter of five. Sachem East goalkeeper Desteny Holder deflected the initial try, but Bottino followed through off the rebound with a game-winning shot to the left corner of the cage for the 3-2 title win. The Plainsmen trailed 2-0 after the first half against the two-time defending Class A champions and Katie Trombetta, who will continue her field hockey career at the University of Michigan. Shenendehowa (20-2) scored seven minutes into the second on a penalty corner when Molly Hagen converted on a setup from Bottino. Rachel Picchi later found the back of the cage to tie the game in regulation before the two teams entered two sudden death overtimes in a sevenon-seven format. After neither team scored, the game had to be settled by selecting five shooters apiece to take the ball at the 25-yard line to go oneon-one with the opposing goalie with 10 seconds to score. Shenendehowa junior goalie Melissa Nealon turned back all five shots she faced to help set up Bottino’s game winner. Shenendehowa becomes the second NYSPHSAA Class A champion to ever come from Section II (Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake, 1987).

Puzzle solutions from pg. 19

29


30

SPORTS

Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

Blue Streaks Look to Replace Firepower, by Brian Cremo Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Seven months after capping a dominating postseason with a state title, the Blue Streaks of 2012-13 have taken the ice, ready to defend it. Truly realizing what last year’s team accomplished is something that might not set in until December 6—the unveiling of the championship banner at the home opener against Section I Mamaroneck—said Saratoga Springs head coach Dave Torres. “It’s the buzz of the school already,” said Torres, who has been in recent contact with members of the Blue Streaks 1999 state champion team. “The hockey fans in Saratoga are second to none. We’ve been all over the state and we have the best fans in the state as far as I’m concerned. To unveil that banner is going to mean a lot. We have rings and they mean a lot. Like I tell the kids, ‘You can never take away a state championship.’” With the loss of a senior class that included New York state player of the year Tyler Bullard, Section II goalie of the year Dakota Smith and the

Flynn brothers (Matt and Ryan), who cruised through the playoffs with 15 goals and 30 points between them, the Blue Streaks have their work cut out for them. “Losing that senior class leaves big shoes to fill,” Torres said. “Dakota Smith was one of the top goalies in the state and Brendon Wormley was a top defenseman in the state. The whole line of Tyler [Bullard], Devin Smith and Nick Winters, who carried us all year, that was great senior leadership and it’s going to be tough to fill. That’s why it’s so hard to repeat as champions year in and year out when you lose that kind of talent.” For the Blue Streaks to put themselves in position for the program’s third state title, they will need players like Drew Patterson, Elliot Hungerford, JT Rafferty, Devin Coffey and Matt Klingbeil to take the reins offensively. “[Drew Patterson]’s a great player,” Torres said. “Toward the end of last year he skated with the Flynn’s, which he gained valuable experience from. He’s a great hockey player and he has so much talent and ability that I’m looking forward to watching

Sophomore forward Elliott Hungerford (26) fights for the puck with CBA’s Chris O’Keefe in Wednesday’s Scrimmage at the Saratoga Springs Ice Rink. Photo by MarkBolles.com

him play this year.” In total, the Blue Streaks return 15 players from last season, which includes some who have two years of state-play experience, as Torres and his staff cut the team down to a 25-man roster last week. “These kids are hungry,” Torres said. “They know there’s a target on their back, which I always preach. Our biggest critics are ourselves. We just want

to do the best we can and represent Saratoga hockey like we are the state champions. They know what it takes. It’s a lot of hard work and determination and they’re gearing for it.” The roster includes four goalkeepers who are vying for the starting job: returning seniors Zack Jones and Ryan Paton, and sophomores Tom Fornabia and Danny Hobbs. Of the four, who all saw time

Wednesday night in the team’s first scrimmage against CBA at the Weibel Ave rink, Jones has the most varsity experience. He played 37 minutes in three games between the posts last season. Last postseason, Dakota Smith and the Blue Streaks defense held opponents to four shutouts, as Saratoga Springs outscored opponents 27-3 in six games, including the 5-0 title clincher against McQuaid Jesuit

Saratoga TODAY'S Star Athletes Recognizing This Week’s Standout Performers Nick Kossor

Jason Morris Judo Center • 60 kg Burnt Hills graduate Nick Kossor added more hardware to his trophy case after he captured a gold medal at the Samoa World Cup in Apia, Samoa. By winning his first World Cup gold, and third overall, the Jason Morris Judo Center member is now ranked No. 24 in the world. Before posting a 3-0 record in Samoa at 60kg, Kossor was No. 35. Kossor, 27, opened his 3-0 day by defeating Kevin De Silva (AUS) and Shang Lin Chua (AUS). Kossor dominated in the final by knocking Kin Ting Yu (Hong Kong) to the mat with an inner leg throw and catching him in an arm bar at the three-minute mark for the title. His teammate, Brad Bolen, 24, also claimed gold at the event. “2013 has been a year of learning and growth,” Kossor said. “I’ve learned more about competing and myself in this year alone than I have my whole career.”

Meredith Farley

Wooster • Senior • Goal Keeper Saratoga Springs native Meredith Farley earned Division III All-Great Lakes Region First Team and All-North Coast Athletic Conference First Team accolades for her performance in front of the cage for The College of Wooster’s (Ohio) field hockey team. The senior goalie is a first-time allregion pick who produced a .771 save percentage and averaged 2.33 goals against in 2013, as the Fighting Scots posted a 7-7 conference record before falling in the NCAC tournament semifinals to DePauw. Farley made 12 saves in her final game. Overall, Farley started 18 of the team’s 19 overall games, in which she made 138 saves and posted two shutouts. Farley, who played field hockey at Saratoga Springs High School, will be commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corp upon graduation.

Photo courtesy of Wooster Athletics.


Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

SPORTS

Defend NY State Title

at Memorial Auditorium. Since getting that taste of championship-winning experience in Utica, this year’s senior captains—Klingbeil, Patterson and defenseman Nick Conchieri—and the rest of the team haven’t wasted any time. Torres noticed his guys individually working harder in the weight room this offseason “They knew they needed to get stronger physically,” Torres said. “Mentally, that comes with time.” In his third season as head coach, Torres has not yet missed the Frozen Four, as he has helped keep alive the program’s current streak of four straight Section II titles and four straight regional championships. The Blue Streaks will look to continue the winning tradition in the regular season opener against Guilderland/

Mohonasen, December 3 at Union at 7:30 p.m. “I think we’re ready to go,” Torres said. “I think we’re ready to see what we’ve got. We’re young in the season, but the kids are hungry. They’re ready to hit somebody else besides their own teammates.” Up next, the Streaks are set to scrimmage three teams this Saturday at Union College. They will play last year’s Section II tournament runnerup Shenendehowa at 5:35 p.m., Bethlehem at 6:55 p.m. and Burnt Hills/Ballston Spa at 8:15 p.m. before the regular season games begin and the path to defending a title is officially underway. “We’re not pompous about it,” Torres said. “We know we’re the champs, but we go about our business like every other year and know we’re only as good as

our last game or just as bad as our last game. I’m sure people want to take down the defending state champs, but we’re also looking forward to the opportunity ahead of us, defending it and bringing it back to Saratoga.”

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Volume 8  •  Issue 46

FREE

Week of November 22 – November 28, 2013

SPORTS Defending Champs Return to Ice

See Empire Division All-Stars pg. 29

See Local MMA Fighter Looking For Title pg. 28

See Hockey pg. 30 Coming off the program’s first state title since 1999, the new-look Blue Streaks are back for more in 2013-14. The team had its first scrimmage at home Wednesday night against CBA. Photo by MarkBolles.com


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