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‘Selfie’

Volume 9 • Issue 5 • February 7 – February 13, 2013

Undefeated

Coach Mantia Reflects On Saints’ League Season

by Brian Cremo Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Head coach Ken Mantia and the Saratoga Central Catholic Saints have completed the first Western Athletic Conference undefeated regular season (14-0) since Fort Plain accomplished the feat in 2000.

Being on the coaching staff for the 1999 Spa Catholic team that went 20-1, losing to Mechanicville by two in the semifinals of sectionals, this is the first group Mantia has head coached to an undefeated league record in his six years at the Saints’ helm.

See Saints pg. 39

I n d e p e n d e n t

by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY

PARK CITY, UTAH — Sharon Liese, a Saratoga Springs native daughter and proud Blue Streak graduate received another accolade in an impressive film producing career as her short film “Selfie” made its debut on January 20 at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival.

The film itself is a result of collaboration with the Dove Corporation’s long-standing “real beauty” campaign and the Sundance Institute. Sharon’s partner on the film is Director Cynthia Wade.

“Selfie” was filmed at Monument Mountain High School in Great Barrington, Mass., where Ms. Wade has a residence.

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

Area Native Debuts Film At Sundance

Inside TODAY At left, screen print from “Selfie.”

Above, Sharon Liese (right) with production assistant Sam Hake at Sundance Film Festival.

Skidmore Entrepreneurs Match Student Talent Pool With Local Business Needs

Saints’ leading scorer Evan Pescetti.

Photo by SportsThroughTheLens.com

Helping kids achieve their dreams.

See pgs. 19-25

Open Canvas SARATOGA SPRINGS — Two Skidmore College students, juniors Ezra Levy and Marcella Jewell, began working on an idea together last September to create a platform that both students of

Saratoga Sponsor -a- Scholar

See Story pg. 12

See Selfie pg. 14

by Colette Linton Saratoga TODAY

Featured Stories

traditional creative fields and small businesses could approach to pair the skill sets of students with the needs of local companies.

Differing from the usual structure of an internship, the project-oriented approach invites both sides of See Open Canvas pg. 15

Blotter 3 Obituaries 6 Business 8,9 Education 12,13 Property Transactions 24,25 Movies 28

Weekend Forecast FRIDAY

21|0 SATURDAY

23|-2 SUNDAY

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Arm Of The Sea At St.Clements

SARATOGA SPRINGS – On Friday, January 31 the end of a oneweek residency by the Arm-of-theSea theater company at St. Clements Elementary school culminated in a performance by students in grades 3, 4, and 5.

During the residency, the company instructed the students in producing scenery, writing, playing instruments and acting.

Arm-of-the-Sea was founded in 1982 by Marlena Marallo and Patrick Wadden as an experimental hybrid performance group combining art, ecology and social action. They are headquartered in Saugerties, NY and tour throughout the United States. Arm-of-the-Sea’s appearance at St. Clements coincided with Catholic Schools Week.

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

Photos By MarkBolles.com

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013 Jeffrey M. Desio, 19, of Nelson Avenue in Saratoga Springs, was arrested January 27 and charged with unlawful possession of marijuana, improper headlights and criminal possession of a controlled substance.

Bradford C. Bayer, 17, of Van Dorn Street in Saratoga Springs, was arrested January 27 and charged with unlawful possession of marijuana, failure to signal a turn at least 100 feet from the turn and aggravated unlicensed operation of a vehicle.

Terry J. Snow, 44, of Maple Avenue in Saratoga Springs, was arrested January 28 and charged with third degree criminal mischief, third degree assault, strangulation, unlawful imprisonment and resisting arrest. Snow was arrested at 6:55 p.m. following a domestic investigation.

Benjamin T. Pearson, 23, of Acorn Drive in Glenville, was arrested January 28 and charged with unlawful possession of marijuana.

Brendan L. Hollenbeck, 22, of Bruce Street in Scotia, was arrested January 28 and charged with unlawful possession of marijuana, criminal possession of a controlled substance and improper equipment (mufflers/exhaust system).

Christopher S. Reavey, 24, of Arapaho Path in Saratoga Springs, was arrested January 29 and charged with criminal possession of a hypodermic instrument, criminally using drug paraphernalia and criminal possession of a controlled substance. Reavey was arrested on a warrant at 11:21 p.m. The charges stem from an incident on Weibel Avenue on December 14.

Brooke O. Ballo, 24, of Arapaho Path in Saratoga Springs, was arrested January 29 and charged with criminal possession of a hypodermic instrument. Ballo was arrested on a warrant at 11:06 p.m.

Lorraine D. Gay, 56, of Glen Avenue in Scotia was arrested January 29 and charged with petit larceny.

Gay was arrested on a warrant at 6:06 p.m.

Kurt Edward Zimmerman, 22, of Lake Shore Road in Shohola, Pennsylvania, was arrested January 29 and charged with

improper equipment (rear license plate light) and aggravated unlicensed operation of a vehicle.

Jamie L. Mayer, 26, of Lincoln Avenue in Saratoga Springs, was arrested January 29 and charged with DWI, failure to keep right, failure to obey a traffic control device and an improper right turn.

Adam L. Larkin, 31, of Fairmount Drive in Saratoga Springs, was arrested January 30 and charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a vehicle and following a motor vehicle too closely. Larkin was arrested at 9:20 a.m. following a property damage accident.

Michelle I. Damiano, 22, of Brookside Avenue in Amsterdam, was arrested January 30 and charged with third degree attempted assault. Damiano was arrested on a warrant at 9:12 a.m.

Cassie L. Cloutier, 25, of Walworth Street in Saratoga Springs, was arrested January 31 and charged with DWI, BAC more than .08 percent and failure to signal a turn.

Cynthia M. Waring, 29, of Glenwood Drive in Saratoga Springs, was arrested January 31 and charged with DWI, BAC more than .08 percent, driving at an unreasonable speed and an unsafe lane chanrge. Waring was arrested at 10:48 p.m. following a property damage accident.

Kristen D. Garner, 22, of Peggy Ann Lane in Queensbury, was arrested January 31 and charged with petit larceny.

Avery Q. Zullo, 16, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested January 31 and charged with unlawful possession of marijuana and criminal possession of a controlled substance.

Daniel P. Duncan, 25, of West Street in Mechanicville, was arrested January 31 and charged with DWI, BAC more than .08 percent, aggravated DWI and an unsafe lane change. Duncan was arrested at 4:42 am after being involved in a property damage accident.

Christopher R. Isaac, 30, of Old Gick Road in Saratoga Springs, was arrested January 31 and charged with driving the wrong way down a one way street, DWI, equipment failure and refusing a prescreen test.

BLOTTER Michael K. Barnes, 35, of Jefferson Terrace in Saratoga Springs, was arrested February 1 and charged with petit larceny. Barnes was arrested at 10:18 p.m. following a shoplifting complaint on South Broadway.

Cody S. Etzel, 28, of Church Street in Saratoga Springs, was arrested February 1 and charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a vehicle and vehicle entering a roadway. Etzel was arrested at 10:36 a.m. following a property damage accident.

David L. Wania, 27, of South Allen in Albany, was arrested February 1 and charged with BAC more than .08 percent, DWI, failure to keep right and aggravated DWI. Tara L. Beagle, 33, of Hillside Avenue in Saratoga Springs, was arrested February 1 and charged with DWI, BAC more than .08 percent, aggravated DWI, failure to keep right and speeding.

Phillip Andre Ortiz, 21, of 161st Street in Flushing, was arrested February 1 and charged with disorderly conduct.

Shannen R. Menia, 21, of Plank Road in Waterford, was arrested February 2 and charged with improper headlights and facilitating aggravated unlicensed operation of a vehicle.

Jill M. Harwood, 35, of Lariat Circle in Boca Raton, Florida, was arrested February 2 and charged with DWI and a BAC more than .08 percent.

Christopher E. Simmons, 18, of Saratoga Avenue in Ballston Spa, was arrested February 2 and charged with criminal possession of marijuana.

Olivia D. DeNooyer, 17, of Oakbrook Boulevard in Saratoga Springs, was arrested February 2 and charged with being ability impaired by drugs and unlawful possession of marijuana. Simmons and DeNooyer were arrested at 9:20 p.m.

Michele R. McKeever, 37, of County Highway 107 in Amsterdam, was arrested February 2 and charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a vehicle and failure to keep right.

Vincent J. Perniciaro, 22, of 109th Street in Troy, was arrested February 2 and charged with failure to stop at a stop sign and DWI.

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week in Review

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

SSFD Supports Operation State Senate Bill Sponsored To Add Local Casino Control Adopt A Soldier ALBANY- State Senators Liz Krueger (D-Manhattan) and Cecilia Tkaczyk (D-Duanesburg) introduced legislation aimed at “protecting the basic home rule rights of municipalities with respect to casino siting,” giving municipalities the final say over whether a casino development can move into their community.

Currently, the language in Proposition 1, which was passed statewide last Election Day, indicates that the appointed members of a new gaming commission will decide which

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In Front, Left to Right: Tom Hatlee Board of Directors/Operations Adopt a Soldier, U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Christopher Greene, Nicholas Colucci of the SSFD, Cliff Seguin/Chairman-Adopt a Soldier. Photo By MarkBolles.com

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Springs Firefighters held their Second Annual Veterans Day 5k on November 11. All money raised through this event goes to

NEW YORK – Moody’s Investors Service announced on Monday, February 3 that it had downgraded Saratoga County’s bond rating.

The county’s credit rating slipped one level from Aa1 to Aa2 – Moody’s third highest rating.

Moody’s also assigned the county’s debt a negative outlook, meaning it could further lower its credit rating in 12 to 24 months.

Ho Hum... Another Top Ten List For Saratoga Springs

SARATOGA SPRINGS – The website livability.com has support Operation Adopt a Solider. named Saratoga Springs as “Top 10 On Thursday, January 30 they pre- Winter City” in an updated post on sented a check to representatives Thursday, January 30. from Operation Adopt a Soldier, at The post read: “…winter brings Station 1, 60 Lake Avenue. a chance to relax, release and rejuvenate. Long celebrated for its abundant mineral springs, Saratoga Springs has become a hotspot for those seeking the springs’ “healing” powers.

“Speaking of healing, The change reflected Saratoga Saratoga Springs saw 13 percent job County’s diminishing surplus funds growth in the amusement and recdue to years of subsidizing operreation industry between 2005 and ating deficits at its Maplewood 2010, according to the Bureau of Manor nursing home, Moody’s Labor Statistics. That’s helped keep said. “The decrease in general fund the city’s economy stable during the reserves has been primarily driven recession. CNN Money magazine by aggressively budgeted revenue listed Saratoga Springs as one of the assumptions and expenditure prestop 100 Best Places to Live, citing sures associated with Maplewood,” the city’s low crime rate, walk able the report said.

Moody’s Downgrades County Bond Rating

communities get casinos. The state Gaming Commission was expected to name the selection committee in January but have yet to do so.

According to Proposition 1, three main aspects will be considered when the committee evaluates casino applications: economic activity (70 percent), local impact (20 percent) and work force enhancement (10 percent). Unlike other states’ gaming laws (such as in Massachusetts) a local veto over casino placement is not specified.

downtown, solid school system and cultural amenities.

“Both tourists and residents flock to downtown Saratoga Springs in winter to indulge in the royal treatment at one of more than two-dozen spas and salons.

The town is known for its eclectic boutiques and specialty shops, as well as its flavorful local cuisine.

The annual Chowderfest pits local restaurants against each other to claim the title of Saratoga’s Best Chowder.

“This is an outdoor lover’s paradise throughout the year, but winter seems to bring out the best in this naturally scenic city. Residents enjoy cross-country skiing at Saratoga Spa State Park, snowboarding down the Adirondacks or snowmobiling across one of the region’s many trails.”

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

Planning board

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City Of Saratoga Springs Planning Board Summary SARATOGA SPRINGS – Three items were on the agenda for the City of Saratoga Springs planning board meeting January 22.

West Avenue Residential Condominiums The first two items on the agenda for the planning board meeting held on January 21 included applications for a special use permit for residential use and a site plan review of the residential buildings at 426 West Avenue.

Both inquiries were previously approved in 2011 but had expired when the applicant failed to extend the approval. The planning board treated each item as a new application. The same project was approved with the exception of additional screening along the property line.

The site is a one acre lot with

a small unoccupied single family residential home and 16 condo units are planned at 29,000 square feet. The site was first presented to the planning board May 22, 2008 and was reaffirmed on December 7, 2011 for the 16 residential units however the project was halted.

The project was put on hold because of economic reasons.

As a result of this meeting, additional trees are required on the property line. The trees are required to be six to eight feet in height. The order was made in order to enhance the buffer area around the boundary. Also on the site is an additional structure in disrepair. The board asked that it be demolished 45 days from the planning board’s approval.

Weibel Avenue Property Owner Seeks Special Permit For Medical, Retail, Office Space

Rendering of 16-unit condominiums as provided in documents to Saratoga Springs planning board.

Malta Town Board

MALTA— At the monthly Malta Town Board meeting on Monday, February 3 a total of 12 new business items were approved unanimously by 5-0 votes.

Among those items were the appointment of a Route 9 South/ Route 67 Rezoning Committee, which would be charged with looking at the entire area in a comprehensive way to avoid individual “spot zoning” of parcels in this key gateway area to the GlobalFoundries plant.

Appointed to this committee were Bill Smith (who will chair), Shelley Norton, Craig Warner, Councilperson Tara Thomas, Chris Luhn, Joyce Soltis, Harry McDonough and Mike Allen.

Councilman John Hartzell made a

motion to allocate up to $2,000 for the printing and mailing of a survey of property owners in the affected area, but did not receive a second.

Councilperson Peter Klotz noted that he would prefer to see the survey designed first before allocating funds.

A late item added to the agenda set a public hearing of the Round Lake Corridor Project Eminent Domain Procedure for March 3 at 6:55 p.m. Supervisor Paul Sausville noted that about 13 parcels will be affected, none of them were over 1/4 acre. This eminent domain is to allow for the construction of two roundabouts on Round Lake Road west of Northway Exit 11.

- Arthur Gonick

Third on the agenda was at 75 Weibel Avenue. Property owner Tara Stone was seeking a special permit for a medical, retail and office space, but additional material was requested. The additional material was to be sent to the planning board’s engineer in order to review and determine the water and sanitary needs of the site.

The planning board requested that the document be sent with time for the engineer to review.

Afterward, Stone will reappear to

the board for review.

The next planning board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday,

February 12 at 7 p.m. The agenda for the next meeting will be published Friday.

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obituaries

David (Hahnski) Hahn SARATOGA SPRINGS — David (Hahnski) Hahn, 52, passed away Saturday, January 25.

Born in Ticonderoga on January 19, 1962, David worked for the State of New York Department of Transportation for 33 years. He was well known as a part-time bartender at many local establishments in Saratoga Springs (Aiko’s, Trotter’s, Clancy’s).

David was the son of the late Robert E. Hahn. He is survived

by his mother, Dorothy Hahn; brother, Robert (Mary Beth) Hahn; sisters, Audrey (Robert) Ball and Cristina (William) Connolly; a daughter, Emily; his faithful dog, Marley and several nieces and nephews.

Easy -going Dave was always fun-loving and had a joke.

David was loved by many in the community and will never be forgotten.

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

William C. Henry BALLSTON SPA — William C. Henry, 59, passed away on Tuesday, January 28 at Saratoga Hospital.

Bill was born in Chincoteague, Virginia on February 18, 1954. He graduated from Suffern High School and received a BS in Business/Marketing from the University of West Florida.

He was president of WCH Reality, Inc., Real Estate and Petroleum Services and Certified Commercial Investment Broker and Vice President of Marketing & Real Estate for Gas Land Petroleum.

Bill will be remembered for

too many things to list, but some of which were his generosity, dependability and dedication to whatever he touched, and especially the love that he held in his heart for his daughters. He lived his life with integrity, kindness and a spirit of adventure and will be greatly missed.

Survivors include the mother of his children, Kathy Henry; daughters, Kayla Marie and Karlee Rae; his mother, Joan C. Henry; brother, Robert J. (Susan) Henry; sister Elizabeth Ann (Randy) Trask; Aunt Marie Angrisani and many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and in-laws. He was predeceased by his father, G. Charles Henry, Jr.

Ethel Joyce Cooper SARATOGA SPRINGS— Miss Ethel Joyce Cooper, 75, a resident of Saratoga Bridges Ruggles Road Residence, passed away on Sunday, January 26.

She was born on August 4, 1938 to Mae (Gilbert) and Arthur Cooper. “Joyce,” as most people knew her by, lived with her family for many years in Waterford and then moved to the Wilton Developmental Center where she resided for 15 years. She lived within the Saratoga Bridges program for over 30 years. She attended day program at Wilton Day Habilitation.

Joyce was an avid shopper in her younger years. She enjoyed the fashions of the day and was always “dressed

to the nines.” She recently hosted a fashion show at her home.

Having a competitive spirit and always striving to do her best, especially at bowling and Bingo, Joyce was a charming woman who had a smile that could light up the room and warm your heart. She was an avid fan of Elvis and enjoyed the “I Love Lucy” series. Joyce loved to read and garden. She was a quiet but social lady who knew how to make people smile.

Survivors include her sister, Alice Cooper of Cohoes and her brothers, Gilbert Cooper of Rochester and John Cooper of Utica. She leaves behind nieces and nephews as well.

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

William J. Garland, Sr.

MECHANICVILLE — William J. Garland, Sr., 85, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, January 29 with his loving family by his side. Son of the late Emma and John Garland, Bill was born on January 15, 1929 and was a lifelong resident of Mechanicville.

He attended Mechanicville schools before enlisting in the U.S. Navy (Seabees) in 1946 and was stationed in the Aleutian Islands. After being honorably discharged, he was employed by the NYS Department of Transportation, Division of Canals, retiring in 1982 after 32 years of service.

An avid Red Sox fan, Bill was also known and loved for his gift of candor. He was devoted to working with the young people in his community where he was involved with the Youth Center, the Mechanicville-Stillwater Little League and Pop

Warner Football programs. Bill was a member of the Mechanicville Stillwater Elks and Disabled American Veterans. Previously he was a member of the Mechanicville Fire Department, Knights of Columbus and Rotary Club. Bill was a faithful parishioner of All Saints on the Hudson parish, where he and his wife would attend mass every Sunday until he took ill. After retiring, he enjoyed playing golf, taking trips to the casinos and the Saratoga Race Course and spending some time in Florida.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Rosemary, and their three children, William (Theresa) Garland Jr., Kathleen (Glenn) Powers of Mechanicville, and Timothy (Christina) Garland of Ballston Spa. He was Poppy to seven beloved grandchildren, Maggie Powers, Kaylyn, Kara, and Devin Garland of Mechanicville and Sean, Jonathan and Patrick Garland of Ballston Spa. Bill is also survived by his sisters, Rosemary Delano of Rexford and Catherine Strubel of Mechanicville as well as many dear nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother Jack.

Ola Amanda (Rockwell) Turney PORTER CORNERS — Ola Amanda (Rockwell) Turney, 96, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 16. She had resided with her son and daughterin-law, Terry and Carol Turney, in Porter Corners, the last four years.

Born July 5, 1917, in Houlton, Maine, she was the daughter of the late Chipman Rockwell and Minnie Fanjoy. Ola was the wife of the late Arnold W. Turney. The couple enjoyed 52 years of marriage. She lived in Maine and Natick, Massachusetts, during her early years. After her marriage, they moved to Cooperstown, later settling in Middle Grove-Porter Corners communities where she resided for 58 years.

She dedicated her life to her family of six children, 15 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren (with another on the way) and three great-great grandchildren.

Ola was a caring person, always had a positive disposition, a generous spirit to family and her many close friends, and she was a joy to be with.

She loved all animals, especially cats. An excellent cook, Ola often prepared elaborate dinners for her family, always making it

look easy. Her mind was sharp right to the end. She was an avid reader, did the daily crossword puzzles and more often than not, completed them.

Ola was a lifelong member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church and practiced her religion faithfully throughout her life. She read the Holy Bible every day, always having a dog-eared copy nearby where she could easily pick it up for inspiration.

She did not have to tell those around her how to live a good life; she taught it by example.

In addition to her husband and parents, Ola was predeceased by her brother, Elmo Rockwell, sister June Benn, dear cousin Betty Loughman and grandson David Hendrie.

Survivors include Joyce Kelly of Goldsboro, North Carolina; Ann DeVivo (Sal) of Newark, Delaware; Judy Schmidt (Carter) of Greenfield Center; Louise Young (Clifford) of Porter Corners; Mary Hendrie of Ballston Spa; and Terry Turney(Carol) of Porter Corners; several nieces and nephews and many caring friends, all who will miss her dearly.

John (Wit) Patrick Riordan SARATOGA SPRINGS — John (Wit) Patrick Riordan, 76, passed away Tuesday, January 28 at Saratoga Hospital.

Born on August 28, 1937 in Saratoga Springs, he was the son of the late Patrick H. and Marie (Kyzr) Riordan. John was a graduate of St. Peter’s High School and worked for over 30 years as a plumber. He enjoyed NASCAR and bluegrass music.

John served during the Korean War in the New York State National Guard.

In addition to his parents, John was predeceased by his wife of 37 years, Wilma Jean Abeel King Riordan, who passed away on January 11, 2013.

Survivors include a stepson, Wayne King (Elsie) of Saratoga Springs and stepdaughter, Wendy Taylor (Don) of Greenfield Center; three grandchildren, Erin J. Gardner (Matt), Nicholas J. King and Afton Jo King; three great-grandchildren, Hailie and Wyatt Gardner and Antonio Payano.

Obituaries

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

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Shawn Michael Coombs SARATOGA SPRINGS — Shawn Michael Coombs, 30, passed away tragically on Friday, January 24 in San Diego, California.

Born on January 2, 1984 at Bellevue Hospital in Niskayuna, he is the son of Alan and Debi (Higgins) Coombs of Saratoga Springs. Shawn was a 2002 graduate of Saratoga Springs High School. He was a graphic design major and also attended

Adirondack Community College.

Shawn played many sports when he was younger, including football and Little League Baseball. He excelled in the use of computers from an early age and worked at Lazer Pix. Shawn has worked for the mortgage industry, as well as for Morgan RV Resorts as an associate and as a manager. He also started a graphic design

business at one time called Picture It. Shawn was a free spirit and played the guitar. Anyone who knew him would say he was well-liked, funny, loving and generous. Material items did not matter to him, as he was known to give his last dollar to someone in need.

Shawn was predeceased by his grandparents, Katherine Coombs, Cecil Coombs, Lawrence Higgins and Theresa Higgins Raffael; as well as his uncles, Floyd Keinath and Ricky James Higgins, and his beloved brother, Jason Floyd Coombs, who passed away on September 12, 2011 at the age of 25.

In addition to his parents, Shawn is survived by his sister, Jennifer Coombs of Ballston Spa; his brother, Ryan Coombs of Melbourne, Florida; his great uncle and aunt, Francis and Pauline Gagnon of Saratoga Springs; and several cousins. Shawn was also the proud father of his 5-year-old daughter Abigail, whom he loved with all his heart.

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

Alfred Robert Stiassney

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Alfred Robert Stiassney, 95, passed away peacefully in his home Sunday, February 2, surrounded by his loving family.

Alfred was born January 27, 1919 in New York City, son of the late Robert Stiassny and Alma (Utermoehl) Stiassny.

Alfred moved to Saratoga Springs as a young boy.

He married his first love, Marion (Roselle) Stiassney on December 1, 1940. Marion passed away May 23, 2002.

He worked at Skidmore College for 41 years, 19401981. He was union president and served on the SEIU Local 200 Executive Board. Al was a dedicated desk sergeant at the Saratoga Race Course for 39 summers. He was the president of the Saratoga County Dart League throughout the 1960s and 1970s, as well as a veteran of the Combat Engineers, U.S. Army.

Alfred was a member of Bethesda Episcopal Church.

Survivors include his three children; daughter, Barbara ( James ) Burke, son John ( Heather ) Stiassney and daughter Anne ( Patrick ) Ryan; 13 grandchildren, Cathleen (Paul) Medick, James (Erin) Burke, Patrick (Brenda) Burke, Christina (Mike) Pastore, Michael (Kate) Burke, Margaret (Ray) Rodriguez, John (Gina) Stiassney, Scott Stiassney, Bryan Stiassney, Matt (Colleen) Ryan, Kymberly (Charles) Amodio, Jennifer ( Philip) Furze, Thomas (Julie) DeMarco, as well as 28 great-grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter.

Alfred loved taking trips to Atlantic City, Myrtle Beach, Cape Cod and Florida.

Al’s favorite past times were betting the ponies at the clubhouse, rooting for the Mets and enjoying a nice cold beer. He will be missed by his entire family and his faithful dog, Bella.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, February 7 at Bethesda Episcopal Church, Washington Street, Saratoga Springs.

Burial with military honors will follow at 12:30 p.m. at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Road, Schuylerville.

Mabel “Mae” V. Fisher BALLSTON SPA — Mabel “Mae” V. Fisher, 92, of Maplewood Manor in the Village of Ballston Spa, passed away peacefully Monday, January 27 with her loving sons by her side.

Mae was born February 2, 1921 to the late Lewis M. French and Mabel (Whipple) French.

Prior to Mae’s residency at Maplewood Manor, she was a lifelong resident of Saratoga Springs. Along with her husband, Jerry, she ran the Saratoga Men’s Shop at the corner of Broadway and Caroline Street for many years. She loved the City of Saratoga Springs and enjoyed walking along Broadway and the city’s many other sidewalks. She also enjoyed cross-country skiing and had a love for horses and horseback riding, a love she passed on to her granddaughter, Kimberly. She loved her dogs Iris, TJ and Jake, and also loved giraffes.

In addition to her parents, Mae was predeceased by her husband, Jerry Fisher; son, Joseph E. Fuller, Jr.; brother, John French; and sister, Dodie Getter.

She is survived by her brothers, Lewis M. (Jane) French, Jr. of Greenfield Center and Robert (Kathy) French of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Survivors also include her sons, Robert Fuller of Greenfield Center and Jeffrey Fuller of Ballston Spa; daughter-in-law, Sandra Fuller of Saratoga Springs; granddaughter, Kimberly (Jeffrey) Hilliker of Porter Corners; grandson, Charles Fuller of Corinth; and great-grandson, Christopher P. Hilliker of Saratoga Springs.

The family wishes to thank the dedicated and caring staff of Maplewood Manor for caring for Mae since 2009.

Donations may be made in Mae’s memory to Maplewood Manor, Resident Activity Fund, 149 Ballston Avenue, Ballston Spa, NY 12020, or to the Saratoga County Animal Shelter, 6010 County Farm Road, Ballston Spa, NY 12020.

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BUSINESS

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

Saratoga Springs City Center Celebrates 30th Anniversary

SARATOGA SPRINGS - The Saratoga Springs City Center is excited to announce that 2014 marks the facility’s 30th Anniversary.

A look back to the day City

Center first opened its doors on August 2, 1984, shows that it hosted a meeting of the Society of Association Executives of Upstate New York. The highlight during the facility’s first month of

operation was a concert by Pete Seeger. It was at that time too that the facility began the work of “Bringing People Together”.

The City Center hosts 150 groups and organizations each

year and welcomes over 150,000 event attendees and convention guests annually. Over the last 30 years, the facility has been transformed for a multitude of events including national and international conferences, trade shows, conventions, weddings and civic functions, including proms, graduations and special local events.

The City Center will celebrate this milestone anniversary by hosting complimentary meetings for several local nonprofit organizations throughout the year. In addition, the City Center will partner with area establishments and agencies to

showcase special exhibits, presentations and local works of art.

The highlight of this anniversary will be a weekend celebration in September with an Open House of community and family events and activities.

To commemorate and illustrate the 30th Anniversary, Larry Ambrosino of Ambrosino Design, Inc., in Saratoga Springs, has created a special logo and tag line of “Bringing People Together” to honor this important anniversary year. The logo will be used by the City Center and its business partners and participating organizations to promote this anniversary year.

DEC’S Saratoga Tree Nursery Starts Annual Tree, Seedling Sale Program

Landowners Can Take Advantage of Low-Cost Native Plants; Available to Schools for Free SARATOGA SPRINGS More than 40 species of trees and shrubs are now available to all landowners and schools at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s (DEC) Saratoga Tree Nursery, DEC Commissioner Joe Martens announced earlier this week.

“The annual sale of trees and shrubs from our Saratoga Tree Nursery can provide homeowners and municipalities with enormous environmental benefits,” Commissioner Martens said. “In addition to the aesthetic beauty they add to local landscapes, planting trees and shrubs also improves air quality, provides wildlife with additional habitat, helps prevent soil erosion and supplies shade in the hot summer months.”

Public and Private Landowners The program provides lowcost, native planting materials from New York sources to encourage landowners to enhance

the state’s environment for future generations. The Saratoga Tree Nursery also offers a few nonnative species which can enhance wildlife plantings and assist with stream bank stabilization. For instance, toringo crabapple provides a winter food source for wild turkey, grouse and deer while streamco willow is used in many stabilization projects.

The 2014 Tree and Shrub brochure can be found on the DEC’s website. Seedlings are shipped from mid-April to mid-May.

Schools Schools across New York are eligible to receive free seedlings for spring planting through the DEC School Seedling Program which provides 50 tree seedlings or a mixed packet of 30 wildlife shrubs to any public or private school that would like to participate.

Teachers and students are encouraged to plan the project ahead of time by discussing the

value trees contribute to the environment and to determine the objectives of tree planting.

To participate in DEC’s School Seedling Program, schools can download an application from the website or contact the Saratoga Tree Nursery at 518-581-1439 and request a “School Seedlings” brochure.

Applications must be received at the nursery by March 31, 2014.

The Nursery in Saratoga Springs was created in 1911.

More than 1.6 billion seedlings have been produced to enhance and protect the New York’s environment.

To order seedlings by phone, contact the nursery on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at 518-587-1120. Mail orders are also accepted and can be sent to the NYSDEC Saratoga Tree Nursery, 2369 Route 50, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Orders may be placed through mid-May. Seedlings are shipped from mid-April to mid-May.

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

Taft-Sitler Promoted To Assistant Vice President of Saratoga National Bank SARATOGA SPRINGS – Saratoga National Bank and Trust Company has announced the promotion of Corporate Banking Officer Billie Marie Taft-Sitler to Assistant Vice President.

Taft-Sitler joined the bank in July 2010 as a Commercial Credit Analyst and has received several promotions, including having been named Corporate Banking Officer in 2013.

Taft-Sitler graduated Summa Cum Laude from Skidmore College in 2008 with a bachelor’s degree in Business and Economics. She is a recipient of the Bank’s Shining Star Award and a member of the bank’s High Performance Club.

Active in the community, Taft-Sitler served on the Transitional Service Association Board and is an equestrian volunteer for Special Olympics New York. She is also a 2010 graduate

of Leadership Saratoga.

Saratoga National Bank provides banking, investment, insurance and other financial services through seven Saratoga County locations. It is rated a five-star Superior institution by BauerFinancial.

BUSINESS 9

Racing City Chorus To Make Hearts Flutter On Valentine’s Day CLIFTON PARK - The nonprofit Saratoga-based barbershop singers of the Racing City Chorus are preparing for their annual Singing Valentines fundraiser.

They will be travelling around the Capital District region – Albany, Schenectady, Saratoga, Warren, Washington and Rensselaer counties – for Valentine’s Day weekend, Thursday, February 13 through Saturday, February 15, from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at offices, schools, restaurants, hospitals, nursing homes and almost any place you can imagine.

The singers are forming several groups of barbershop quartets in order to cover all the territory.

The purchase price includes a delivery of a long-stemmed red rose, a sampler of chocolates, a personalized Valentine card and the quartet sings two love songs. The singing Valentine’s Day gift starts at $49.95 and can be enhanced to a dozen roses, or a full pound of chocolates, or both for an extra fee.

Quartet members are (l to r) Dick Sears, Sam Taylor, “Guv” Wallace and Lou Fisher.

Terry Griffin of Lake Luzerne seated in front. Picture provided by Racing City Chorus.

Saratoga Sweets chocolates in Clifton Park and The Posie Peddler florist of Saratoga will be supporting Racing City Chorus.

For more information or to inquire about ordering a Singing Valentine, contact 518-306-4667.

Package details are located on the chorus’ website at www.racingcitychorus.org or inquiries can be

emailed to Valentines@racingcitychorus.org According to their website, Racing City Chorus is a men’s singing organization that currently has 50 singers whose main purpose is to get out and sing for their community through annual shows and community events in addition to Valentine’s Day.

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Valentines Day Guide

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

Valentines Day Guide

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Education

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

Seven Years, 54 Students Later, Saratoga Sponsor-A-Scholar Continues To Pull For Academic Potential

by Colette Linton Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS - In 2007, Jim LaVigne, principal of Gavin & LaVigne Inc., was describing a plan for an initiative that would prepare ten Saratoga High School sophomores, who were financially in need of assistance, each year by supplying additional support and direction to help them meet their goals and enter college. By the end of that meeting, LaVigne was one of the founding board members as well as volunteer executive director of Saratoga Sponsor-A-Scholar with 36 pledges of $10, 000 over five years to get the program running.

Seven years later, 54 students have been accepted into the SSAS program and 26 students have started a college career, an opportunity many nearly dismissed as an impossibility prior to the program.

Unlike scholarships and grants, SSAS begins during a student’s sophomore year in high school and works to reinforce a base of academic achievement during the next three years by providing resources to its participants through the help of volunteer mentors, academic tutors, the program’s board members and two of Saratoga High School’s guidance counselors.

“It’s a local cause,” LaVigne said. “It’s all Saratoga Springs kids. They come back, and they add to the fabric of the community. It is not a gift to these kids.

We expect them to fulfill the terms of their contract, attend the homework sessions, use tutors go on school trips be responsible, do volunteer work and just be good citizens.”

If students are accepted into the program, they sign a contract to meet specific requirements during the term of the program.

They are to meet with their mentor once a month, maintain their grades above 80 or attend tutoring, have a productive summer, behave in a manner consistent with the standards of SSAS, and attend mandatory weekly study skills programs. In return, SSAS dedicates $10,000 to “each scholar’s enrichment” - $4,000 during their last three years of high school for supplies, study skill seminars, tutoring, PSAT and SAT training and entrance fees, seminars on the college application and scholarship process, college visits and attendance to cultural events; and $1,500 is dedicated to each scholar for each year they successfully complete in college.

The nonprofit reaches out to the population of students each year that are financially in need

Saratoga Sponsor-A-Scholar 2013 Graduation.

and qualify for federally assisted/ free school lunch program.

Currently, 1,200 students in the Saratoga Springs school district are eligible for federal lunch assistance, and those that are in high school may loose sight and motivation to continue academics after graduation without outside support.

Within those 1,200 kids, there are those that are really bright, LaVigne said. “They have incentive, they have personality and everything that is needed to succeed, but they don’t have the same opportunities.”

The opportunities LaVigne referred to range from discussions with parents about the possibility of attending college to extracurricular activities that could be added to a college resume, trips to college campuses to gather a sense of the atmosphere, and paying for the fees associated with applying to college and aptitude exams.

A part of SSAS’ goal is to make up for the opportunities students might otherwise miss due to a lack of finances and or resources.

“What we promise those kids (SSAS participants) is that for the last three years of high school we give them the opportunities, and we give them the tools that the other kids have and we teach

them about how to get into college,” LaVigne said. “They just need that precipitating factor and Sponsor-A-Scholar is that.

We tell them, we show them, we convince them that they are able to do this and that they can go.

They can get out with a reasonable amount of debt and that they can have a much better life.”

High school junior and SSAS participant Davawn Hartz, whose interests are in acting and creative writing, said that without the SSAS program “I would definitely see myself as lost”.

“I’d still have the drive, but I’d be lost,” he said. “It shows you where to direct your hard work.”

The program is a continuous element in the lives of SSAS students as well as coordination between the nonprofit and the school. This relationship is aided by high school counselors, Brandy Crary and Matt Nelson, who help ensure that students are maintaining their grades, that the students stay focused and they help chart the route to college.

Mentors in the program are additional supports serving as adult role models that help students identify college resources.

They are also paired together to try and be a compliment to the students’ skills and interests in addition to encouraging students to meet challenges and grow.

“They don’t take away the obstacles,” Hartz said. “They get you through them.”

Mentors, like the board members, are volunteers that do many tasks that are unlimited in scope in order to strengthen the students’ relationship with the community and broaden their prospects for higher education. One such relationship is between senior Becky Tibbets and her mentor, Nedra Stimpfle.

The two were paired together two and a half years ago, and they both remarked on the changes that have taken place regarding Tibbets’ outlook on college as an affordable, obtainable opportunity.

“It’s hard to imagine my life without Sponsor-A-Scholar,” Tibbets said. “It has changed my life so much. I wouldn’t say that I was naive, but I wouldn’t put together what it took to get into college: how much tests cost. It is a lot less stressful.”

“She was very shy,” Stimpfle said “What the program does is create more possibility in different areas for that (personal development) to happen. She is more confident.”

“Yes, definitely,” Tibbits said in response to Stimpfle’s observation. “Back then, I was so scared.”

The chance to have a relationship with another adult is important for the students because it is a common part of many experiences that take place in the community as well as in terms of guiding students to opportunities, Stimpfle said. “And for many of these students, it’s not in their picture at all.”

SSAS is currently looking for mentors for next year as well as individuals interested in being future board members. The program will also host its annual event “Bowling For Scholars” in May. For more information, visit saratogasponsorascholar.org.

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

Tweens Invited To Build ‘Largest Blanket Fort Area Has Ever Seen’ SCHUYLERVILLE - Area students between the ages of eight and 12 years old are invited to participate in Project: Blanket Fort. Students will build the largest fort, made of blankets, the area has ever seen on Saturday, February 22, 3:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Admission to this event is one old-patterned bed sheet and a joke written on a piece of paper. Tween Leaders have been selected to help direct this undertaking. A kitchen area is planned in the blanket fort

where all participants will take part in preparing hot dogs. Other snacks and beverages will be provided as well.

There will also be games and prizes followed by popcorn and jokes. The event will be hosted at the Youth Center in Fort Hardy Park in Schuylerville.

For the latest event details, visit the Schuylerville Youth Program’s facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/greaterschuylervilleyouthprogram.

Education

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Ballston Spa Hosts Regional Robotics Competition BALLSTON SPA – Ballston Spa High School’s FIRST Robotics Team 3044 is hosting a regional FIRST LEGO League (FLL) 2014 Qualifying Tournament on February 8 at the Ballston Spa High School.

The district’s seven FLL teams will compete with over 20 teams from schools throughout the region. This year’s challenge requires students to design

a LEGO robot that can be programmed to operate independently on the competition table and accomplish several weatherrelated tasks.

The tournament is funded

by Hudson Valley FLL, Dutchess Community College and the donations of corporate sponsors including the GlobalFoundriesMalta Foundation. The event starts at 9:25 a.m. and ends at 2:45

p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

Tournament winners will qualify to compete at the Hudson Valley FLL Championship Tournament at Duchess Community College on February 22. Additional information is available at http://www.sunydutchess.edu/legoleague/ or contact Ballston Spa High School by calling 518-884-7150.

Saratoga County Fair To Award Ten $1,000 Scholarships To High School Seniors, College Students BALLSTON SPA - The Saratoga County Fair announced earlier this week that ten $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to current New York State high school seniors and also students enrolled in college. The New York State Association of Agricultural Fairs and the New York State Showpeople’s Association sponsor the scholarships.

The qualifying students must be active in the Saratoga County Fair or with the New York State Showpeople’s Association. All applicants from Saratoga County must submit their applications through the Saratoga County Fair or the NYSSA no later than Friday, April 11, 2014.

Information is available at the Saratoga County Fair office,

162 Prospect Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020, through Cornell Cooperative Extension of Saratoga County and at local high school offices. Applications must be printed and completed from the website at www.nyfairs.org.

For more information, contact the Saratoga County Fair office at 885-9701.

Tractor Supply Company Announces Second Annual National FFA Scholarship Program

Schuylerville Youth Center Seeking Volunteer Junior Mentors SCHUYLERVILLE – The Schuylerville Youth Center is seeking Volunteer Junior Mentors to work with its tween program.

Some of the volunteer positions may grow into summer jobs.

All volunteers will be required to complete a training course which is tentatively scheduled for March.

Students who participate in the program would be able to

include the experience on their education vitae as having mentored younger children.

For more information, contact the Youth Center at 518-695-6100 and leave your contact information and the best time for a return call.

The Youth Center also has a facebook page for this event at www. facebook.com/greaterschuylervilleyouthprogram.com

Youth Center At Fort Hardy Park Open Wednesdays, Saturdays SCHUYLERVILLE – The Greater Schuylerville Youth Program at the Youth Center in Fort Hardy Park is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 3:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Most Saturdays from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. there will be five styles of scooter board races complete with prize ribbons. Participants are

encouraged to form teams of two as some competitions require pairs.

The Greater Schuylerville Youth Program provides social, recreational and educational activities on a year-round basis. For up to the minute information, visit www. facebook.com/greaterschuylervilleyouthprogram.com.

BRENTWOOD, Tenn.

– Following a successful initial campaign in 2013, Tractor Supply Company has announced the second annual Growing Scholars program in partnership with the National FFA Foundation.

The Growing Scholars program will be supported nationally by each of the more than 1,245 Tractor Supply and Del’s Feed & Farm Supply stores February 14-23, which includes National FFA Week.

Tractor Supply customers can donate $1 or more at store registers during the checkout process to support local FFA chapters and their members. Ninety percent of funds raised through Tractor Supply’s Growing Scholars program will be utilized to fund scholarships for FFA members. The remaining ten percent of donations will benefit state FFA organizations.

Last year, Tractor Supply customers donated $362,324, resulting in 284 scholarships awarded to FFA members in their pursuit of a college degree. Saratoga’s Tractor Supply is located at 79 Weibel Avenue.

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Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

‘Selfie’ Takes Sundance By Storm continued from page 1

The story line centers on female students (and often their mothers) discussing their issues with particular features that make them unique. They overcome selfesteem issues by participating in a project which involves taking self-portraits (“selfies”) with their camera phones and displaying them at an exhibit where guests are invited to comment.

The process of “putting yourself out there” with this form of expression is a modern social media phenomenon and the Dove campaign for Real Beauty has a stated goal of “widening the definition of beauty.”

In this connection, the subjects of “Selfie,” by being strong and brave enough to photograph and display those personal aspects that heretofore were a major source of anxiety, turn them into sources of empowerment and reinforcement.

The phenomenon of social media is shown to be a powerful tool to help broaden what we consider beautiful, allowing the “unique” to supplant the stereotypes and in the process enabling us all to: “Imagine a World Where Beauty is a Source of Confidence, Not Anxiety” - Source: dove.us/socialmission/campaign-for-realbeauty.aspx All in eight minutes and three seconds!

It is hard to imagine any young person, male or female, or their parents for that matter, not being positively affected by the messages of “Selfie.”

Sharon and Cynthia’s film treatment was chosen for underwriting by Dove and the Sundance Institute from over 60 filmmakers who submitted applications.

After graduating high school, where she worked on her first film, entitled “Autumn,” Sharon acquired a communication arts degree at SUNY New Paltz and served as an intern at WMHT, where she got some “front of the camera” experience as an on-air host.

She has several career highlights as a producer prior to “Selfie” and has previously collaborated with Cynthia Wade on several indie film projects, including “Wrestling the

Monster,” has produced in several capacities (field and casting producer, for instance) for several projects on networks such as Oprah Winfrey Network, MTV and Lifetime.

Perhaps Sharon’s previously best-known project was as executive producer of reality-documentary “High School Confidential,” which ran for two seasons on the WE Network. The premiere of this show attracted 1.3 million viewers, a tremendous number for a smaller cable network. It was featured on Tyra Banks’ talk show and garnered a “Best Producer” award for Sharon from indie TV bible CableFAX Magazine in 2008.

To be sure, there’s plenty of creativity and “glam” in Sharon’s life as a multimedia producer, yet she makes it clear to those who aspire to something similar: be prepared to work.

“I’d love to spend all my time on the creative side of things,” she said, “but at least 50 percent of my work is what I would call ‘development,’ at various crucial times it’s a lot higher than that. Between negotiating, fund-raising, planning and gaining that elusive “access” my workday is not dissimilar from a lot of business people outside of Hollywood.”

But as a result of that hard work, Sharon and Cynthia have reached the point where they get to choose what projects they will develop and pitch, and their bonafides make it a pretty safe bet that the right people will be inclined to ‘take a meeting’ with them and hear what they have to say.

While some details had to remain a secret for now, Sharon indicated that she was working on two new projects: a series pilot in the crime/documentary genre, as well as another film, but “about a completely different subject” than “Selfie.”

Also in her future: frequent visits to her hometown.

“I never miss a summer here,” Sharon says. “I’m blessed to have a home, family and great friends who are still in this area.”

To join the millions of viewers who have enjoyed “Selfie” worldwide, visit: http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=BFkm1Hg4dTI#aid=PxsVU20HNA

From top, students and parents from Monument Mountain High School display “selfies” and receive positive comments. Director Cynthia Wade and Producer Sharon Liese at Sundance Film Festival. At right, Screenshots from “Selfie.” Bottom, Sharon Liese received Best Producer designation from CableFAX Magazine in 2008.

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

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Open Canvas Links Skidmore With Local Businesses continued from page 1

the transaction to the digital easel, draw up a concise plan detailing the desired outcome, resulting with each party walking away with a piece of finished work in a short time frame.

“It’s that kind of ‘short burst’ experience where you make a lot of connections, get a lot of work done, and you have something to show for it,” Levy, a student of business and art administration, or “creative entrepreneurship”, said. “It is hard for students to graduate with all the skill sets they have learned in the classroom and not having applied them.”

The short-term projects allow students to accumulate multiple works to add to their portfolios during their time as college students as opposed to a semester-long internship whose parameters may not be as clearly defined as a project through Open Canvas.

Still in its beginning phases, but wholly operational and successful, Open Canvas had 40 students sign up during its first week of operation.

It is currently fostering about 25 projects with numerous projects that have already been completed by students with area businesses.

Students join the Open Canvas community by uploading their profile to its website. On the other end, businesses, students, organizations and nonprofits seeking student participation and or creativity request a “college creative”, an online profile outlining the intended project. Levy and Jewell follow up with the college creative form by further developing the project idea one-on-one with its originator. Then, behind the scenes, they undertake the matchmaking process, pairing students with a well-defined project proposal.

Eventually, Levy and Jewell plan for the project to operate without having to manually pair a company’s project proposal with a student’s application. Students would then be able to apply to projects through Open Canvas’ Web application, allowing for Levy and Jewell to focus more of their efforts on developing the business with the intention of expanding their service to include students outside the traditional creative fields. As of now, the focus has been facilitating opportunities for students and filling a need for local businesses.

“What we see as being more beneficial to a student right now is working for the small businesses locally where you can actually make a difference and have something to show for it,” Levy said. “I know for me personally, I’ve worked with a lot of small businesses and nonprofits. I could not have learned

Open Campus Founder Ezra Levy (right) and Chief Operating Officer Marcella Jewell working on the website of their business venture. Photos by Morgan Gruer (Skidmore College Class of 2016).

anything if I did not have that on-theground experience. In a small organization you really get a chance to talk to everyone, and do real things. And that sounds vague and ambiguous, but it should because there are all kinds of stuff to be done and all kinds of stuff that they can trust a student to do.”

Political science and computer science student Jewell is the chief operating officer managing the website design and Web applications for Open Canvas. She said that the project appeals to students on two levels: one being the experience they gain while working on a project in a professional setting; and, two, is that the short-term projects Open Canvas facilitates are more compatible with student schedules.

“One of the reasons this is so attractive to students is because of the short-term burst of experience or project work that is really compatible with their lifestyle,” she said. “Because I can have a really busy couple of weeks and a few weeks where I’m not as busy, I want to fill that time with the project that I find.”

“We really do believe that Open Canvas will foster relationships and business partnerships that go beyond that initial short-term project, but the connection needs to be made before you can do anything, and we are making that connection for students,” she said.

Freshman Nick Konrad, currently undeclared in his studies, is considering committing to a business and studio art major with a concentration in graphic design. He brought with him high school experience making posters for plays and personal projects on his laptop, but after completing three projects through Open Canvas with Greenhouse Salads, Saratoga

Shakespeare Company and SkidmoreSaratoga Consulting Partnership, he has gained real-world experience in a field he may pursue as a career without disrupting his class schedule.

“My favorite part of doing Open Canvas projects is getting to work with actual people to create something that would benefit them,” Konrad said.

“My skills help the business and in turn the experience helps me develop my abilities.”

“What’s great about Open Canvas is that it makes the initial connection for you, but it’s up to you to really go out there and make it work. You are responsible with contacting the business and are held accountable for your actions-in that way it’s very real world.

Without Open Canvas I honestly wouldn’t even know where to start looking for projects like this,” he said.

Barbara Opitz, executive director of Saratoga Shakespeare Company,

contacted Open Canvas with a project to create a poster and bookmarks for the nonprofit. It was a project that otherwise would have been costly for the company and required additional assistance from their major supporters. However, through Open Canvas, Opitz met with two Skidmore College students willing to work on the project for a chance to exercise their expertise.

The project was finished in about a week and a half, during which the students were able to relay design ideas directly to Opitz for comment. The relationship that Open Canvas provided both parties was one of flexibility and direct communication between participants without the added supervisory work on the part of businesses that is associated with internships.

“It was a really good connection,” she said. “The students are very talented. They are also very knowledgeable in terms of the technology and how to do things and they were very quick about responding to me in terms of doing the work. And I felt that this was a unique way to provide an opportunity for the students and also to help us as a nonprofit because we have a very limited budget. And I will use them again in the future.”

Explore for yourself at www.projectopencanvas.com.

16 Adirondack Christian Fellowship 8 Mountain Ledge, Wilton 587-0623; acfsaratoga.com Services: Sunday 8 a.m. & 10 a.m.

Adirondack Friends Meeting 27 Saratoga Ave., S. Glens Falls 793-3755; AdirondackFM@ nycap.rr.com; www.adirondackfriendsmeeting.org Regina Baird Haag, pastoral minister Services: 10:30 a.m.

Sunday The Alliance Church 257 Rowland St., Ballston Spa 885-6524 Services: Morn. Worship 10:30 a.m.

Assembly of God Faith Chapel 6 Burgoyne St., Schuylerville 695-6069 Rev. Jason Proctor Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m.

Assembly of God Saratoga 118 Woodlawn Ave., Saratoga Springs 584-6081 Services: Sunday Worship 10 a.m., coffee served at 9:45 a.m.

Bacon Hill Reformed Church 560 Route 32N, Bacon Hill 695-3074 Rev. Janet Vincent Services: Worship service 10 a.m.

Sunday School 10 a.m.

All are welcome.

Handicapped accessible.

Baha’i Community of Saratoga Springs 584-9679; 692-7694; usbnc.org.

RELIGION Ballston Center Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church 58 Charlton Road, Ballston Spa 885-7312; ballstoncenterarpchurch. org Services: Sunday Worship Service, 10:30 a.m.

Ballston Spa United Methodist Church 101 Milton Ave., Ballston Spa 885-6886 Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Congregation Shaara Tfille 84 Weibel Avenue, Saratoga Springs 584-2370; saratogasynagogue.org Services: Saturday 9:30 a.m., Monday & Thursday 7:30 a.m., third Friday each month 7:30 p.m.

Handicapped Accessible Corinth Free Methodist Church 20 Hamilton Ave., Corinth 654-9255; 792-0271 Services: Sunday at 10 a.m.

Bethesda Episcopal Church

Corinth United Methodist Church

41 Washington St., Saratoga Springs 584-5980 Services: Sunday 6:30, 8 & 10 a.m.

243 Main Street, Corinth 654-2521 cfumc@cnyconnect.net Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Church of Christ at Clifton Park 7 Old Route 146, Clifton Park 371-6611; cliftonparkchurchofchrist. com Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Christ Community Reformed Church 1010 Route 146, Clifton Park 371-7654; ccrc-cpny.org.

Services: Sundays 10 a.m.

Christ Episcopal Church

Cornerstone Community Church 516 Park Ave., Mechanicville 664-5204 Pastor Frank Galerie mycornerstonechurch.org Services: Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

Corpus Christi Roman Catholic Community 2001 Route 9, Round Lake 877-8506, ccorpusc@nycap. rr.com Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 8:30 & 10:30 a.m.; Weekday Masses: MondayFriday 9 a.m.

Eastern Orthodox— Christ the Savior

Routes 50 & 67, Ballston Spa 885-1031 Services: Sunday 8 & 10 a.m.

349 Eastline Road, Ballston Spa 786-3100; xcsavior@yahoo.com.

Services: Sunday: 9:30 a.m.

Christian Restoration Ministries

First Baptist Church of Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Senior Center 5 Williams St., Saratoga Springs 796-4323 Pastor Pat Roach Services: Sunday 10 a.m.; 6:30 p.m.

45 Washington St., Saratoga Springs 584-6301 Services: Sunday: 11 a.m.

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013 First Baptist Church of Ballston Spa 202 Milton Ave., Ballston Spa 885-8361; bspabaptist.org Services: 10:30 a.m. worship 9 a.m. Sunday School (all ages) First Presbyterian Church of Ballston Spa 22 West High St., Ballston Spa 885-5583 Services: Sunday at 10 a.m.

Full Gospel Tabernacle 207 Redmond Road, Gansevoort 793-2739 Services: Sunday 10 a.m.; Bible Study: Thursday 6:30 p.m.

Galway United Methodist Church 2056 East Street (at intersection of Route 147), Galway 882-6520 www.galway-unitedmethodist-church.com Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m.

(9 a.m. in July and August) Grace Brethren Church 137 W. Milton Rd., Ballston Spa 587-0649 Rev. Dan Pierce Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Handicapped accessible.

Greater Grace Community Church Pastor David Moore 899-7777; thechurch@ggccmalta.org Services: Wednesday 7:30 p.m. Good Times Restaurant, Lake Rd. 2nd floor; Friday 7:30 p.m. Saratoga Chapel, Eastline & Lake Rds; Sunday 10 a.m. Glenville Senior Center, 32 Worden Rd.

Greenfield Center Baptist Church 30 Wilton Rd., Greenfield Center 893-7429 Services: Sunday School for all ages - 9:45 a.m.

Church Service - 11 a.m.

Prayer Meeting Wednesday 6:30 p.m.

Highway Tabernacle Church 90 River Rd., Mechanicville 664-4442 Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

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

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

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

Living Waters Church of God 4330 State Rt. 50, Saratoga Springs 587-0484; livingwaterscog.us Services: Sundays 10 a.m.

Malta Presbyterian Church Dunning Street, Malta 899-5992 Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Malta Ridge United Methodist Church 729 Malta Ave., Ext., Malta 581-0210 Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013 Middle Grove United Methodist Church 581-2973 Pastor Bonnie Bates Services: Sunday 9 a.m.

Handicapped accessible New Horizon Church 150 Perry Road, Saratoga Springs 587-0711 Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m.

New Life Fellowship 51 Old Gick Rd., ­­ Saratoga Springs 580-1810; newlifeinsaratoga.org.

Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Childcare is available at all services.

NorthStar Church Shenendehowa High School West Auditorium, Clifton Park 371-2811; northstarchurch.com Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Old Saratoga Reformed Church 48 Pearl St., Schuylerville oldsaratogareformedchurch.org Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Handicapped accessible.

Old Stone Church (American Baptist) 159 Stone Church Rd., Ballston Spa 583-1002 Services: Sunday 9 a.m.; Adult Sunday School 9 a.m.; Service 10:30 a.m.

Coffee and Fellowship in Living Stone Hall; Wednesday: Noon potluck luncheon; 1 p.m. choir rehearsal; 2 p.m.

Bible Study Group Our Lady of Grace Roman Catholic Church 73 Midline Road, Ballston Lake 399-5713 Services: Saturday 5 p.m.

Sunday 8:15 & 10:15 a.m.

Handicapped accessible.

Presbyterian-NE Congregational Church 24 Circular St., Saratoga Springs 584-6091; pnecchurch.org Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m.

Quaker Springs United Methodist Church 466 Route 32 South, Quaker Springs 695-3101; qsumc.com Pastor Al Johnson Services: Sunday 9 a.m.

Handicapped accessible.

River of Hope Fellowship 100 Saratoga Village Blvd.

Malta Cmns., Ste. 3 881-1505; riverofhopefellowship.com Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Roman Catholic Church of St. Peter 241 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 584-2375 Services: Eucharistic Celebrations: Saturday 5 p.m.; Sunday 7:30, 9 and 11 a.m.

St. Clement’s Roman Catholic Church 231 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs, 584-6122 Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 8, 9:30, 11:15 a.m. and 5 p.m., 1 p.m. Spanish Service St. George’s Episcopal Church 912 Route 146, Clifton Park 371-6351; stgeorge@csdsl.net Services: Saturday 4:30 p.m.; Sunday 8 & 9:30 a.m.

St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church 3159 Route 9N, Greenfield Center 893-7680; sjoegctr@nycap.rr.com; www.stjosephschurchgreenfieldcenter.org Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Handicapped accessible

RELIGION St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church 167 Milton Ave., Ballston Spa 885-7411; stmarysbsta.org Services: Saturday 4 p.m., Sunday 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., Noon.

Handicapped accessible St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church 771 Route 29, a Rock City Falls 893-7680; sjoegctr@nycap.rr.com Services: Sunday 8:30 am.

Handicapped accessible.

St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church 149 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs 584-0904 Services: Saturday 5 p.m. with Holy Communion. Sundays 8:30 & 11 a.m. with Holy Communion.

St. Peter Lutheran Church 2776 Route 9, Malta 583-4153 Services: Sunday 8:30 & 10:30 a.m.

Sunday School at 9:15 a.m.

St. Thomas of Canterbury 242 Grooms Rd., Halfmoon st-thomas-of-canterbury. org Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Saratoga Abundant Life Church 2325 Route 50 South, Saratoga Springs 885-5456; saratogaabundantlife.org Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m.

Saratoga Chabad 130 Circular St., Saratoga Springs 526-0773; saratora@aol.com; saratogachabad.com

Saratoga Friends Meeting (Quaker) Rts. 32 and 71, Quaker Springs 587-7477; 399-5013 Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Saratoga United Methodist Church Henning Road, Saratoga Springs 584-3720; saratogaumc.com.

Services: Sunday 9 & 10:45 a.m.

Handicapped accessible.

Saratoga Seventh-Day Adventist Church 399 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs 882-9384; saratogasda.org Services: Sabbath School: 10 a.m. Worship Service: 11:30 a.m.

Shenendehowa United Methodist 971 Route 146, Clifton Park 371-7964 Services: Sunday 9 & 10:30 a.m.

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

Soul Saving Station for Every Nation Christ Crusaders of America 62 Henry St., Saratoga Springs 584-3122 Services: Sunday 10 a.m. & 6:30 p.m.

Temple Sinai 509 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 584-8730 www.saratogasinai.org Shabbat Services: Friday 6 p.m.

Preceded by 5:30 p.m. Oneg.

Handicapped Accessible.

17

Terra Nova Church 45 Washington St., Saratoga Springs 833-0504; terranovachurch.org saratogaquestions@ terranovachurch.org Services: Sunday 5:30 p.m.

Childcare: 6 months–4 years and expanding Handicapped accessible.

The Salvation Army/ Worship, Service & Community Center 27 Woodlawn Ave., Saratoga Springs 584-1640; Mail-P.O. Box 652 Captain Aaron A. Boone, Sr.; Captain Amber S. Boone Commanding Officers/Ministers Services: Sunday School 10 a.m.; Praise & Worship 11 a.m.

Trinity United Methodist Church 155 Ballard Rd., Gansevoort 584-9107; tumcwilton.com Rev. Patti Molik-Pastor Services: Sunday 9&11 a.m.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Saratoga Springs 624 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs 584-1555; uusaratoga.org Services, Nursery Care, and Religious Education: Sundays 10 a.m.; Youth Group: Sundays 11:30 a.m.

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

West Charlton United Presbyterian Church 1331 Sacandaga Rd., West Charlton 882-9874 westcharltonupc.org Rev. Thomas Gregg, Pastor Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Wilton Baptist Church 755 Saratoga Rd., Wilton 583-2736; wiltonbaptist@ gmail.com; wiltonbaptistchurch.com; Services: Sunday Service 11 a.m.

18

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

Saratoga Springs City Council

by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS – The Saratoga Springs City Council meeting on Tuesday, February 4 had a shorter public comment period than in previous meetings. While some commenters ventured opinions on both sides on the expanded gaming issue, the numbers were far less than recent meetings.

This was good, as the regular agenda was robust with three interesting, well-prepared presentations about various topics that are important to the city.

Only one of these presentations could be regarded as time sensitive, however (the Bog Meadow water infrastructure project had a vote scheduled to amend the capital budget to fund it later in the evening) and it might be a wise move on the part of those who schedule these things to limit the number of presentations per meeting when possible to avoid information overload. However, all three were chockfull of information.

Regarding Bog Meadow, a well system that eventually could be built out to four wells was proposed to elevate the safe daily yield of water to well above what is needed on peak demand days, while diversifying the sources for city water. During the public comment on this topic, which followed the presentation, some took issue with the contention that this diversified scenario would actually achieve the goal of keeping the supply at adequate levels should an emergency arise with one of the major water sources (for instance, at Loughberry Lake), the council voted by a 5-0 roll call vote to amend the capital budget and fund the project.

The next presentation was a traffic study on Broadway, presented by the firm of Greenman Pedersen, Inc.,

where a total of nine intersections from Grove to Congress Street along and near Broadway were examined (see photo at right) to gauge the impact of options such as timing sequences, turn arrows (with or without an extra left turn lane), eliminating left turns altogether and accommodations for increased dedicated pedestrian crossing time with an eye towards each options’ impact on traffic flow. The entire report is available online at saratoga-springs.org. Note well that it is over 200 pages. The options led to questions and discussions by many council members. No action was taken at this time, but the council appeared to be leaning towards some of the more moderate options such as time adjustments and sequencing.

The third presentation was by members of the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation regarding the Spirit of Life Statue and Trask Memorial renovations in Congress Park. Dedicated on June 26, 1915 on the same day as the city’s incorporation, it is hoped that all renovations will be completed in time for the city’s centennial. Executive Director Samantha Bosshart led the presentation, which was supplemented by comprehensive reports by Martha Lyons on the site’s history and landscaping, and Dan Wilson on the masonry restoration and other related topics.

The complete reports and other data about the project can be accessed at spiritofliferestoration.org.

Mayor Yepsen presented a proclamation to Father Dominic Ingemie in honor of his retirement from St. Peters church and his support for Code Blue. She also had a moment of silence for the passing of city resident Robert Pascuilo, who was active in many ways to make the city a better place to live.

Reporter’s View

Council: Times Up

by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY

“Fritter and waste the hours in an off-hand way…”

- Pink Floyd, “Time”

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Our review of the proceedings of the Saratoga Springs City Council meeting on Tuesday, February 4 must include something about what occurred later in the night, after the meeting room was all but abandoned except for a hardcore group of stalwarts, perhaps about six people, including myself.

I was hoping it would not be necessary to revisit the issue of ponderous, self-serving time wasting on behalf of council members with a new year and a new administration. In truth, I believe Mayor Joanne Yepsen is making a valiant effort to keep the meetings moving along as quickly as possible.

Having experienced being at the tail end of many council meetings, she certainly has tried to keep the pace brisk while coping with longer than usual public comment periods since taking office due to the divisive casino issue.

It’s important for everyone to make a commitment to making meetings more brisk, not because as a reporter I want to get out earlier (although that wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world) but because as an active citizen and voter, I would like more citizens to take an active interest in what is, after all, the people’s business.

However, nobody in their right mind will elect to sit through overly lengthy meetings, agendas padded with ponderous items that have no purpose and no respect for fellow council

members’ and the audience’s time.

Case in point: as we approached 10:30 p.m., fully 2.5 hours into a long meeting, we finally arrived at the Public Safety agenda, which had these items: • Four discussion items. None of which had a vote attached to it.

• One motion to set a public hearing.

• One announcement.

In truth, only one of the four ‘discussion’ items was a discussion in the classic sense, for none of the council members had any response (except in some cases to inspect the ceiling) to anything Commissioner of Public Safety Chris Mathiesen had to say, except for an item regarding eleventh hour appointments by former Mayor Johnson.

Otherwise, library silence.

The first ‘discussion’ item was perhaps the biggest time waster.

Commissioner Mathiesen actually thought it was a good use of public time to read into the record a two-week old reader’s view he had written, and which had already been published in the media, on his opinion on the casino issue.

Regardless of what you think of the merits of his opinion on the subject (you can search it out yourself if you like – it appears to advocate unilaterally changing the thrust of the language of a proposition that has passed statewide in this reporter’s opinion and therefore has zero shot of happening), the point is why he needed to take up everyone’s time in the first place with this.

Other commissioners have written reader’s views; some for us, some for other publications. When was the last time someone read it into the record? If it must be part of the record (a dubious point), why not just hand it in to the person taking minutes and

move on?

This was followed closely by two other ‘no-discussion’ items, both pet subjects for the commissioner; one on the subject of bar-closing hours and a noise ordinance. Commissioner Mathiesen saw fit to say that he was planning to introduce motions on each at some undefined time in the future. Again, at this late hour are future motion forecasts really a good use of public time?

In fact, why are pure ‘discussion’ items, without a vote attached, even on the agenda? Last time I looked, council members were allowed to talk to each other before meetings. This is why other meetings, including Saratoga County’s Board of Supervisors and many other municipalities are able to get their business done in a fraction of the time it takes this council to do so.

Finally, Commissioner Mathiesen made an announcement about his next public safety forum, over a month from now. If you missed this announcement because your eyes had glazed over by this point, no need to worry. He promised to repeat this announcement again at the next couple of council meetings.

Oh, goody!

While we are singling someone out here, I want to make it clear that Commissioner Mathiesen is by no means the only one on the council who engages in this kind of thing – just the latest and perhaps most illustrative example.

I do promise to point this kind of time wasting by any of our elected officials in the future, as I believe it is discourteous to the county supervisors who sometimes have to wait over three hours to give their reports, to fellow council members and most importantly, to the public at large.

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

19

A Special Supplement to Saratoga TODAY • Pages 19-25

Annual Home Show By Saratoga Rotary Raises Funds for Community

Wine Tasting, Cooking Demonstrations, Day for Kids Among Features This Year

by Deborah Miles Czech Miles Ahead Communications For Saratoga TODAY The Saratoga Home & Lifestyle Show, an annual community event organized by the Saratoga Springs Rotary Club, will take place February 28 to March 2 at the Saratoga Springs City Center.

The show will feature approximately 120 exhibitors throughout the first floor of the Saratoga Springs City Center with a wide range of home improvement, outdoor living and landscaping, family recreation and lifestyle products and services, as well as great prizes.

The Rotary Club expects to raise close to $100,000 from the event, with proceeds being distributed to community organizations, youth scholarships and international humanitarian projects. Since the original show was held in 1973 at the Saratoga Armory, the show has made the significant financial gifts of the Rotary Club possible.

“The continued support the Saratoga Home & Lifestyle Show

has received from our exhibitors, sponsors and attendees enables our club to be a generous contributor to a wide variety of local community projects and activities,” said this year’s Club President Maria Heise.

Several local businesses have stepped forward to sponsor the show, helping the Rotary Club to further its charitable activities and donations. The Adirondack Trust Company is the show’s major sponsor. Other sponsors include Allerdice Ace Building Supply (door prizes), Champion Window (grand prize), Granite & Marble Works (supporting sponsor), The Saratogian (advertising sponsor), Saratoga Today (magazine sponsor) and BuyLocalDeals.com (digital media sponsor).

Special Show Features

Friday: Wine Tasting

From 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Friday, the Saratoga Winery will be offering complimentary tastings of several of its hand-crafted varieties including Chardonnay, Saratoga White, Cabernet Franc

and Steeplechase. In addition, wine by the glass will be available for purchase, as well as wine by the bottle to take as a souvenir.

Ristorante, and Forno Bistro.)

Demonstrations will be held at noon, 1 p.m. and 2 p.m.

Saturday:

Cooking Demonstrations Show attendees can learn some of the secrets of making simple, straight-forward Italian food during a cooking demonstration by Executive Chef James Frese of Pasta Pane Rustic Italian Bistro in Clifton Park. (Pasta Pane is part of the DZ Restaurants family, which includes Boca Bistro, Chianti

Sunday: Kids Day

On Sunday, children under age 17 will be admitted to the show for free. For special entertainment, JoJo’s Face Painting and Balloon Gal Jenny will engage kids with their special creations between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Also, the Saratoga Springs Police Department’s child safety and fingerprinting table will be present on Sunday (and throughout the entire weekend).

Show Hours, Admission, and Discounts The Home Show hours at the City Center will be Friday, February 28 from 5-9 p.m.; Saturday, March 1 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Sunday, March 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $6 for adults, $1 for kids 5-12, under 5 free. Anyone with a Buy Local rewards card will receive $2 off admission. A discount coupon for $1 off adult admission is available on the website.

More information at: www.RotaryHomeShow.com.

20

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

Don’t Let Valentine’s Day Get Your Goat skin of a dead goat…just something else to not like about February.

Anyway, Roman tradition led them to believe that this grisly ritual would assure them fertility and easy child birth.

St. Valentine, the Renegade Priest

by Peter Bowden Saratoga TODAY At last it is finally February, the only month that is 28 days long. By the time we’re halfway through it, it’s almost over. About all February has to offer is Valentine’s Day. So, how did this romantic holiday come about? It turns out that “romantic” is an appropriate term since Valentine’s Day appears to have originated from an ancient Roman fertility rite.

Lupercalia The Roman holiday, Lupercalia, was celebrated on February 15 to honor the founders of Rome and to purify the women of Rome. This was accomplished as the priests of Lupercalia struck the women (gently, I hope) with the skin of a freshly slain goat called a “februa.”

How amusing that my least favorite month of winter is named after the

Another tradition of this Roman holiday was the pairing of young boys and girls for the duration of the festivities. Later, as Rome was in its decline, the emperor, Claudius the Cruel, banned all marriages and engagements in an attempt to keep his legions at full strength. An early Christian priest named Valentine defied the emperor and continued to perform marriages in secret. Valentine was imprisoned for this transgression and died (or was executed according to other accounts) on February 14 in 270 A.D. As Christianity spread, the original pagan fertility flavor of the day was replaced with a celebration of romantic love with the now Saint Valentine functioning as the patron saint of love.

Learning all this about Valentine’s Day didn’t increase its appeal as far as I’m concerned, and I’ve decided that I much prefer our modern customs of exchanging cards and flowers with our loved ones to celebrate our affection for one another. As I’ve said before, and you can quote me, I’m pretty sure that my wife would prefer flowers over a flogging with a dead goat.

Red Roses Say, “I Love You” Naturally, roses are high on the list of preferred gifts for Valentine’s Day. Traditionally these roses are cut, bundled together with baby’s breath (now where did that name come from?) and presented to the object of our affection.

spring. We have one that will be starting its fifth growing season this spring. One of the reasons these little beauties are so hardy is that they are not grafted roses.

Grafted roses have the stem of one type of rose that’s not hardy grafted to the roots of another type that is hardy. If the stems die over winter, the shoots that emerge from below the graft will not have the same flowers as the grafted canes.

Miniature roses aren’t grafted. This means that even if the stems are killed over winter, the roots will send up new growth that will produce flowers in abundance when summer rolls around. Remember that miniature roses that are sold on Valentine’s day have been grown in greenhouses to produce flow-

How About a Living Alternative?

In the past, I’ve presented such roses. These days however, I’m blessed with a wife who is as enamoured with flower gardening as I am. So, rather than giving my one true love cut roses that only last a week or so, I prefer to give her a gift that reflects the everlasting nature of my affection— a flowering miniature rose bush!

Enjoy Now and Plant in Late May I know that I’m not the only one who prefers to give miniature rose bushes since they are now widely available at garden centers during Valentine’s week. Many who receive one as a gift fail to realize that miniature roses, as delicate as they appear, are winter hardy.

This means that they can be planted permanently in the garden in a very sunny spot and will endure our harsh winters, returning each

ers for the holiday. You’ll need to keep it growing on a sunny windowsill until its nice and warm (early June) before transplanting it into your garden. The miniature rose will likely lose some of its leaves after the flowers fade while it’s indoors. Don’t overreact by over-watering when this happens. Just keep plucking off the spent flowers and any yellowing leaves and wait until planting time. Once the mini rose adjusts to its new sunny location in your garden, it will bloom again and come back year after year to remind your sweetheart of just how thoughtful and romantic you really are. Thanks for the read.

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

21

Chowderfest: Thank You Chefs And Servers Photos By Andrzej Pilarczyk

22

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

… And Here’s To The 2014 Winners!

Photos by Rachel Jensen.

People’s Choice — Merry Monk

Most Chowder Served — Druthers

Best Non-Downtown - Fifty South

Best On Broadway — Stadium Cafe

Best under 1,000 served — Panza’s Restaurant

Best Newcomer — Thirsty Owl

SARATOGA SPRINGS – After 30,000 people downed 130,000 portions from 86 vendors on a picture perfect (for February 1) afternoon, the votes are in: Chowderfest 2014 Winners: Dog Chow Down — Milton Manor Pet Spa & Resort Best On Broadway — Stadium Cafe BestOffBroadway—OldeBryanInn Best Newcomer — Thirsty Owl Most Chowder Served — Druthers People’s Choice — Merry Monk Best Chowder-Themed Dessert — Bettie’s Cakes Best Non-Downtown - Fifty South Best under 1,000 served — Panza’s Restaurant

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

23

Mid-Winter Treats from Saratoga Farmers’ Market

Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Lincoln Baths 65 South Broadway Saratoga State Park www.saratogafarmersmarket.org SARATOGA SPRINGS— February brings special occasions, holidays and vacations for many people: Valentine’s Day, Presidents’ Day and school vacation week. Why not make plans for a special meal with friends and family?

The Saratoga Farmers’ Market has a wide selection, including fresh ingredients if you like to cook, or ready-to-eat food if you want to minimize your time in the kitchen but still dine on delicious, locally produced specialties.

With more than three-dozen vendors at the Saturday winter

market each week, one finds everything from pickles to peanut butter to pork, from cookies to cucumbers to cod.

This weekend at the market, Mary Pratt of Elihu Farm will have fresh racks of lamb. “This is not hard for the home cook to prepare, despite it being a dish that restaurants often serve,” notes Pratt.

“The American Lamb Board (www. americanlamb.com) has a terrific collection of recipes and other educational materials.”

Pratt explains, “Rack of lamb is more than a summertime grilling treat. In serving rack of lamb, restaurants usually go through a time-consuming ‘Frenching’ process, to trim the meat off the top part of the bone. It’s all about presentation, but you lose a lot of good meat. For those who like to nibble on the bones, I suggest they skip Frenching. It’s a matter of individual preference.”

“This weekend, we’ll have a bunch of fresh racks available.

While some experts recommend two racks for four people, depending on size, I’d say one rack could

serve four people, with two chops per person. If someone prefers a larger portion, then count on two servings per rack, for a rack that’s around two pounds,” notes Pratt.

Pratt and her husband, Bob, maintain a busy schedule on their farm during lambing season. “We have at least 45 ewes that are due, and two have already had twins,” Pratt commented.

Nearby to Pratt’s firstfloor location at the market are many other vendors of vegetables, fruit, dairy, and other types of meat, including free-range chicken, pastured pork and grass-fed beef. All farms and vendors are happy to offer presentation and recipe tips.

Upstairs on the market’s second floor, baked goods and prepared foods provide ample selections to round out a meal.

For example, this weekend Marcie Place, owner of The Chocolate Spoon, will offer Raspberry Linzer Cookies (the layer cookie with jam in the middle, often with a pretty cut-out in the top layer, revealing the filling).

Some of the products available at Saratoga Farmers’ Market every Saturday in the winter include vegetables and eggs from Kilpatrick Family Farm, honey and candles from Ballston Lake Apiaries, and many types of apples from Saratoga Apple.

“I make these with raspberry jam from Kokinda Farm, another vendor at the market,” notes Place.

“I also use market eggs, carrots, apples, herbs and spices in my cookies.”

“I like to help my customers find new flavor combinations they enjoy, such as Lavender Vanilla Shortbreads dipped in white chocolate,” Place comments.

“This weekend I’ll be sampling Mini Hazelnut Hearts. And of course, I’ll have lots of chocolate favorites, like the Ultimate Double Chocolate Cookies with Walnuts and Caramel-Filled Mexican Chocolate Cookies. These are all pre-packaged so they’ll stay fresh, whether you want them for a lunchbox in the middle of the week, or for Valentine’s Day.”

24

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

Property Transactions BALLSTON SPA

92 Connolly Rd., $155,000.

Harold and Anne Delamater and Alfred Windheim (by Exec) sold property to Michael and Susan Palma.

1007 Route 50, $132,000.

Rodney Girard sold property to Leif and Heidi Backus.

27 Sycamore St., $319,152.

Heritage Builders Group LLC sold property to Jason and Gina Buswsell.

4 Gartner Dr., $245,500.

Kevin and Emma Callahan sold property to Jayson Cote.

6 Euclid Ave., $292,000.

LPC Properties LLC sold property to Sean Devine.

1 Matchwood Lane, $300,488. Heritage Builders Group LLC sold property to Timothy and Pamela Phillippe.

435 Garrett Rd., $200,000.

Kenneth L. Legere and Mary Jane Curtis sold property to Vincent, Nancy and Stephanie Monaco.

erty to Joseph Pultorak.

Barbara Lookretis sold property to James Trian.

3 Matchwood Lane, $280,585. Heritage Builders Group LLC sold property to Jamie and Susan Casline.

162 Thimbleberry Rd., $175,000. Rebecca and David Bellard sold property to Sarah Schellinger.

8 Rothbury Place, $495,000.

Brian Strohl and Kimberly Salerno sold property to Gregory and Luz Dickman.

5 Basswood Ct., $302,000.

Joseph and Khalen Gloeckner sold property to Michael and Brooke Trotta.

MALTA 274 Thimbleberry Rd., $140,000. Karen Knapp sold property to Jean Tanis.

326 Brownell Rd., $195,000.

Patrick and Fulani Williams sold property to National Transfer Services LLC and WHR Group Inc. (by Nominee).

326 Brownell Rd., $190,700.

National Transfer Services LLC and WHR Group Inc. (by Nominee) sold property to Brandon Hunsdon.

32 Lupine Dr., $235,000. David Cassidy sold property to Nancy Burke.

26 Forestbrook Dr., $329,710.

Heritage Builders Group LLC sold property to Diana and Gerald Stulc.

9 Curry Ave., $87,000. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development sold property to Jonathan Feerer.

145 Ballston Ave., $139,000.

Karen Stefanic sold prop-

47 Meadow Rue Place, $255,400. Daniel and

5 Thimbleberry Rd., $132,000. Kathleen Conrad sold property to Brandon Craig.

3 Thimbleberry Rd., $167,525. Keith and Michele Phillips sold property to Arthur and Lynn Hoffman.

5 Ames Ave., $183,000. Rick and Ken Shannep sold property to Anthony Elam.

erty to Darcy Shontz.

227 Grand Ave., $475,000.

Linda Kraus sold property to Eric Ucci and Christina Carton.

133 Jefferson St., $240,000.

Dennis Dalton sold property to Laura and Glen Zampino.

38 High Rock Ave., Unit 4D, $969,061. High Rock Condominiums LLC sold property to Thomas and Julie Furey.

242 Grand Ave., $425,949.

McPadden Builders LLC, Takahashi Nobuyuki.

32 Waterbury St., $600,000.

Hugh Dunseath sold property to Patrick and Judy Donovan.

1 Summot Park, $232,000.

Dhiraj and Lopa Darjee sold property to John and Patricia Murphy.

283 Jefferson St., $97,500. Edward Hausman (by Exec) sold property to William and Deborah Usas.

197 Malta Ave. Ext. $248,100.

Eloise Parker sold property to Audrey Taylor.

11 Park Alley North $949,000. Lenise Dolen sold property to Peter and Colleen Dorsman.

9 Sultana St. Rear, $395,000.

Edward and Rachel Petrou sold property to Edward and Ina Stanco.

55 Birch St., $380,000. George O’Donnell sold property to Jeanne Whiteside.

10 Woodland Court, $187,000. Heather Franke, Sean and Hillary MacFarland sold prop-

31 Spa Dr., $154,900. Catina Mouchlis sold property to Garofalo Family Trust.

6 Regatta View Dr., $400,000.

Vincent and Janet Jameson sold property to Peter and Tara Sanchez.

10 Prospect Ave., $124,000.

Keith Moran sold property to Kerianne Marin and Brian Brader.

97 Lawrence St., $220,000.

Phyllis Arden Cook (Ind and as Trustee) sold property to Benjamin and Heather McGuire.

217 Washington St., $254,500. Larry Ogden sold property to Jennifer Krygowski.

30 Whistler Court, Unit 414, $415,000. Stephen and Bette Klopacz sold property to Richard White.

Lot 81 Coronado Way, $345,165. John Luke Development Co. LLC sold property to David and Anne Miers.

21 Lexington Rd., $334,000.

Peter and Tara Sanchez sold property to Shay Yasharzade.

43 Jaipur Lane, $200,000.

Ralph Kelton sold property to Richard Morrow.

238 Grand Ave., $416,332.

McPadden Builders LLC sold property to Shawn and Bryna May.

40 Trottingham Rd., $198,500. Michael and Kathleen Olszewski sold property to Joseph Capobianco and Melissa Buyce.

SARATOGA SPRINGS

17 Friar Tuck Way, $232,000.

Craig and Sharon Morris sold property to Christopher and Margaret Noel.

25 Cassidy Dr., $320,000.

Sean Lander sold property to Steven and Marsha Dolinsky.

37 Clark St., Unit 4, Ronald Smith sold property to Alexander Michaels.

287 Jefferson St., Unit 7 Rear, $277,250. Anthony Pazmino sold property to Michael York.

155 Ash St., $455,000. Carl and Dawn Spain sold property to National Transfer Services LLC. 155 Ash St., $469,906. National Transfer Service LLC sold property to Semir and Mahira Tanovic.

61 Newton Ave., $530,500.

Gadus and Sons Enterprises LLC sold property to Merlyn and Anita Sampels Revocable Trust.

75 Railroad Place Rear, $310,000. GC Strategies LLC sold property to Saratoga Springs Property MGT LLC. 8 Glenwood Dr., $186,000.

James Stodgell, Lynne Grogan (Co-Trustees) sold property to Dennis and Lauren Polvere.

8 McAllister Dr., $235,000.

Janet Bennett, Diane Lang, Cecelia Hughes Life Estate and Earl Huges Life Estate sold property to Ann Marie Patricia.

43 Waterview Dr., $353,000.

Deborah Gradener (Ind. And as Atty) and Herbert Gradner (by Atty) sold property to Keith and Rita Lashway.

123 Van Dam St. $235,000.

Richard and Jeanette Robischon sold property to Scott Averill and Mary O’Donnell (Co-Trustees).

10 Central Ave., $384,376.

DeGraff Bloom Custom Builders sold property to Matthew and Frieda Miller.

5 VanDorn St., $243,174.

Kimberly Hamby sold property to Zachary Novick.

35 Vermont St., $240,000.

Tara Clark sold property to Zachary Manz.

97 Division St., $279,500. TG Real Estate Investments LLC sold property to Rachel Biggar.

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

95 Catherine St., $235,000.

Jeffrey and Sandra Cross sold property to Sandra David Williams.

39 Tom Sawyer Dr., $50,000.

William and Judy Morris sold property to McPadden Builders LLC.

63 Belmont Lane, $180,000.

Karin Hardy (as Trustee) sold property to Richard Harrington.

39 Tom Sawyer Dr., $237,000. McPadden Builders LLC sold property to Daniel and Emily O’Connor.

7 Dublin Square Lane, $262,000. Michael Selkis sold property to Charles Bentley and Colleen Morgan.

25 Knollwood Dr., $235,000.

Paul Keller (by Exec) sold property to Steven and Deborah Seguin.

38 High Rock Ave., Unit 3A., $714,554. High Rock Condominiums LLC sold property to Andrew Zastrow.

17 Waverly Place, $370,669. Tra Tom Development Inc. sold property to Ryan Smalley and Laura Carroll.

South Broadway, $2,310,000.

Saratoga Prime Properties LLC sold property to Turf Saratoga South LLC.

2 Dakota Dr., $235,000.

James and Maureen Taylor (by Ref ) sold property to Federal Home Loan Mortgage.

54 Phila St., Unit 302, $782,000. 54 Phila Street Development Co. LLC sold property to David and Jennifer Woodward.

15 Church St., $375,000.

Thomas Burke sold property to 15 Church Street of Saratoga LLC. 48 Eureka Ave., $195,000.

Excelsior Park LLC sold property to Bruce Coffin.

104 Brook Road, $365,000.

Matthew Yonkin and Rachel Alderman sold property to Beverly Tracy and Christopher Ermides.

26 Friar Tuck Way, $285,000.

Jonathan Hakim and Elizabeth Leyden sold property to Damian and Jennifer Redman.

WILTON

98 Cobbler Hill Dr., $368,000. Jeffrey and Terri Taylor sold property to National Transfer Services LLC. 98 Cobbler Hill Dr., $368,000. National Transfer Services LLC sold property to Paul and Barbara Wersten.

4265 Rt. 50, $247,900. Luther Waldron sold property to Jeffrey and Jamie Pietrosanto.

845 Route 9, $50,000. Frederick and Nikki Bollman sold property to Yi Wang.

31 Burnham Rd., $334,900.

North Manor Development LLC sold property to Neil and Sally Hodgeson.

167 Traver Rd., $377,326.

Mary Hollner sold property to Federal National Mortgage Association.

17 Timbira Dr., $359,000.

Nicholas and Kim Volpe sold property to RAC Closing Services LLC. 17 Timbira Dr., $359,000.

RAC Closing Services LLC sold property to Kyle and Amanda Parkes.

654 Route 9, $1,500,000.

Cannone Ventures Inc. sold property to Eclipse Rentals LLC. 22 Sweetbriar, $420,325.

Charles Mutti (by Exec) sold property to Daryl and Lisa Glass.

56 Gailor Rd., $215,000.

Richard Lindstead sold property to Altamont Park Apts. Inc. 5 Ryanwood Ct. $222,000.

John and Sandra Natale sold property to Dylan and Tara Clark.

8 Plum Ct., $282,000. Kevin and Kelly Keefe sold property to William McMordie.

2 Plum Ct., $300,000. Paul and Barbara Westen sold property to John Pecora.

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LOCAL BRIEFS second Thursday in February and April from 8–10 a.m. at Saratoga Bridges. Reservations can be made directly through the Chamber at www.saratoga.org.

‘I Love You... & Chocolate Too!’ On Friday, February 14, from 6–8 p.m., the Greater Schuylerville Youth Program will present “I Love You … & Chocolate Too!” The event will feature a chocolate dessert sampler bar. While admission is free, there is a $10 donation suggested per family.

There will be door prizes, a heartful backdrop for family photos, some love inspired games, and surprises.

Join the event on Valentine’s Day as area families celebrate the holiday of love with chocolate at the Youth Center in Fort Hardy Park. RSVP

by February 7 by calling (518) 6956100 and leaving a message that includes your family name, phone number and how many people will be in your party, as space is limited.

For up-to-the-minute information check out the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ greaterschuylervilleyouthprogram Skidmore Softball Clinics to Start In February Skidmore College is hosting two girls softball clinics on the following dates in February. On Sunday, February 16: All Skills Clinic for Grades 3-8, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., cost is $60 per player (includes a T-shirt). On Sunday, February 23: Hitting and Defense Clinic for Grades 9-12, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. cost is $100 per player (includes a T-shirt). Both clinics will take place at Skidmore College in the Williamson Sports Center. Contact head softball coach Hannah Shalett for more information by emailing hshalett@skidmore.edu or calling (518) 580-5394.

Saratoga County Chamber Workshop The Saratoga County Chamber will host a three part workshop with Ray Patterson of the Stakeholders, Inc. to provide additional information to nonprofits about recruiting, training, supporting evaluating and celebrating their volunteers.

This training series is in addition to the many workshops, seminars and collaborative meetings regularly held for area nonprofit management staff and will be brought to the Chamber members free of charge. The sessions will be held on the

Mangino Buick GMC Showcases Brand New Facility The Ballston Spa Business & Professional Association will be sponsoring its monthly Networking Breakfast on Tuesday, February 18 from 7:30-8:30 a.m. at Mangino Buick GMC, 1484 Route 50 in Ballston Spa. Catering is by Basil’s Creative Catering. Cost for the breakfast is $5 with advance reservation or $10 that morning, both payable at the door.

Schuylerville Blanket Fort!

On February 22 from 3:30–6:30 p.m., area tweens (ages 8–12) are invited to participate in building and using the largest Blanket Fort the area has ever seen. Admission to this event is one old patterned bed sheet and a joke written on a piece of paper. A kitchen area is planned in the Blanket Fort where all participants will take part in preparing hot dogs and taties. Bug Juice and Jello will also be provided. Then there will be games and prizes followed by popcorn and jokes. Your child may wish to bring a flash light. Please join us at the Youth Center in Fort Hardy Park in Schuylerville for this fun event. For the latest details on our events visit our fb page: https://www.facebook.com/ greaterschuylervilleyouthprogram.

Rexford Chicken and Biscuit Dinner The Shenendehowa Rotary Club and Giffy’s BBQ are hosting their annual Chicken and Biscuit dinner to benefit CAPTAIN Youth and Family Services on Saturday, February 22 from 4–6 p.m. The dinner will take place at the Vischer Ferry Fire Station in Rexford. This event is open to the entire community. Tickets are on sale at Giffy’s BBQ, CAPTAIN’s Treasures, CAPTAIN Youth and Family Services main office—5 Municipal Plaza and from any rotary member. The cost of tickets are $10 for an adult, $8 seniors and $6 child (10 and under).

SUNY Financial Aid Day at SUNY Adirondack SUNY Adirondack will host a SUNY Financial Aid Day on Saturday, February 22, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Scoville Learning Center on the Bay Road campus. Students can register

for the Financial Aid Day online at www.suny.edu/studentevents or by phone at 1-800-342-3811.

Representatives from SUNY Adirondack’s Admissions Office will also be available from 9–11 a.m. to answer any questions on the admissions process. For more information on this event call the SUNY Adirondack Financial Aid Office at (518) 743-2223.

Informative Presentation on Dementia “Everything You Wanted to Know About Caring For an Individual with Dementia,” presented by Erica Salamida, will be February 26 from 4–5:15 p.m. in the Civalier Conference Room at the Wesley Community. Call Trudi Cholewinski for more information on the Alzheimer’s Association event at (518) 691-1517.

Win Your Wedding Contest If you have a romantic, quirky, funny, or unique wedding proposal story, the National Museum of Dance wants to hear from you. Submit your proposal story in 250 words or less along with a photo, or a twominute video (using a YouTube or Vimeo link) for a chance to win your wedding. All submissions must be received by February 28. The story with the most likes on the Dance Museum’s Wedding Facebook page on March 20 will win a wedding package valued at over $15,000 from some of the capital region’s best wedding vendors. The winning couple will be announced March 21.

Contact info@dancemuseum.org or (518) 584-2225, ext. 3001 for more information or to submit your story.

Johnstown PTSA Spring Craft Fair The Johnstown High School PTSA Spring Craft Fair will be Saturday, March 8 from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. The event is free at the Johnstown High School, 1 Sir Bills Circle, Johnstown. In lieu of admission, there will be collections for nonperishable food donations that will go to NOAH’s food pantry.

For more information visit www. johnstownschools.org.

Annual Spring Craft Sale Sponsored by BPOE No. 223—Elk’s Auxiliary of Route 40 in Greenwich the annual Spring Craft Sale will be Saturday, March 8 from 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Crafters wanted, $30 per space, call for application. For more information call Donna at (518) 692-2347 or email cccdb@ verizon.net. You can also call Amber at (518)587-8224. Only 40 spaces available.

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013 Veteran Hiring Conference The Saratoga County’s Veterans Employment Task Force will hold its first Veteran Hiring Conference on March 12 from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. at 113 West Ave., Saratoga Springs. Each employer will be able to interview up to 10 candidates specifically matched for available opportunities.

This is a free event. For more information contact lsaccia@ saratogacountyny.gov or (518) 884-4170.

Acoustic Performers Sought Looking for talented soloists, duos or small acoustic bands to perform in this year’s Café Malta on Saturday, March 22.

Only three to four acts will be selected and each group will perform a 15-20 minute set. Also seeking specialty acts including comedians and/or dancers to perform on an intimate stage at the Malta Community Center, 1 Bayberry Drive, Malta. Auditions are by appointment only. Contact Elyse Young, Artistic Director at (518) 899-4411, ext. 305 or email theater@malta-town.org for more details or an audition appointment.

A Night Remembering Sinatra Dinner Show The Clifton Park Elks Ladies Auxiliary presents “A Night Remembering the Music of ‘The Chairman of the Board,’” a dinner show featuring the music of Sinatra performed

by Chris Jason. The event will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, April 11 at the Clifton Park Elks Lodge, 695 MacElroy Road in Ballston Lake. Dinner is a choice of Sirloin Steak or Crab Stuffed Haddock. Tickets are $35 per person. Seating is limited, only pre-paid reservations accepted.

Reservations and payment must be received by April 4. To reserve tickets, send a check payable to Clifton Park Elks Ladies’ Auxiliary, P.O. Box 872, Clifton Park, NY 12065. For additional information, contact Johanna Mrochko at (518) 371-1451.

Malta Spring Activities Brochure Available The Town of Malta’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Human Services Spring Activities Brochure is now available on at www. maltaparksrec.com. Create your new household account today so you can register for your favorite activities with no convenience fees. Classes, new sports programs and special events are scheduled to begin in March. Call the Malta Community Center at (518) 8994411 for more information.

Saratoga County Office for the Aging The Saratoga County Office for the Aging is in urgent need of volunteers to help deliver meals to homebound seniors in the City of Saratoga Springs. This program helps many seniors remain independent in their own homes. Nutritious meals are prepared, packed and ready for transport. Delivery takes between 30 minutes and one hour. Call Billie Jo or Denise at The Office for the Aging at (518) 363-4020 or (518) 8844100 for more information.

Gavin Park Pickleball Indoor Pickleball at Gavin Park runs from now until April. Players of any experience level can participate on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:15 a.m.–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.

Youth Center Seeking Junior Mentors The Youth Center is seeking Volunteer Junior Mentors (grades nine through 12) to work with the tween program. Some of these volunteer positions may grow into summer jobs. All volunteers will be required to complete a training course that is currently under development. Training is tentatively planned to begin in March. Contact the Youth Center at (518) 695-6100 and leave your contact information and the best time to call you.

Looking For Volunteers CAPTAIN’s Homework Help Program, at Cheryl’s Lodge in Halfmoon, is in need of volunteers who enjoy working with youth. Volunteers help students with their homework, reading or simple craft projects.

Orientation is provided.

Volunteers are needed on Mondays–Thursdays from 2:40– 3:45 p.m. to work with children from kindergarten through grade 5, from 4-5:30 p.m. with middle school students and from 5:30–6:30 p.m. for grades 9–12.

Call Mary at CAPTAIN, (518) 371-1185, for more information.

Volunteer applications can be downloaded from the CAPTAIN website at captaincares.org.

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

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013 (518) 581-7550 or visit http://www. saratogastryders.org/local-races/ upcoming-races/

Pilates Benefits the Film Forum

Family Friendly Event

Friday, February 7 Exhibit: The Women Who Work Here Brookside Museum, 6 Charlton St., Ballston Spa, 5 p.m. The Exhibit Focuses on women in Saratoga County history, highlighting the creations of the museum’s female staff and volunteers. The museum will host an opening reception from 5–7 p.m., free and open to the public.

Light refreshments will be served.

For more information, please visit www.brooksidemuseum.org or call (518) 885-4000.

Potluck and Movie Night 2 Imperial Lane, Charlton, 5:15 p.m.

New Thought New York Center for Spiritual Living is hosting a potluck and movie night featuring the film, “People v. The State of Illusion.”

For more information visit www. newthoughtnewyork.org or call (518) 423-3569.

Literary Event: Dept. of Speculation by Jenny Offill Northshire Bookstore, 424 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 7 p.m.

A reading, discussion and signing with rising literary star Jenny Offill, author of Dept. of Speculation. For more information call (518) 6824200 or www.northshire.com.

Saturday, February 8 GI Joe Day–Celebrating 50 Years of an American Icon New York State Military Museum, 61 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs, 10 a.m.– 4 p.m. To celebrate GI Joe’s 50th anniversary, GI Joe enthusiasts will display their collections throughout the day. For more information call (518) 581-5100.

Camp Saratoga 8k Snowshoe Race Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park, 80 Scout Road, Gansevoort, 10:30 a.m.

Camp Saratoga is a qualifier for the United States National Snowshoe Championship. This is part of the 2014 Dion Snowshoe Series. For more information or to register, please contact Laura or Jeff Clark at laura@saratogastryders.org, call

Reform Pilates, 18 Division Street, suite 203, 10 a.m. Appropriate for all levels of experience, including beginners. There is no charge for the class, but 100 percent of donations accepted at the door will benefit the Saratoga Film Forum. Wear comfortable clothing and socks, bring a yoga mat, if possible, and arrive 15 minutes prior to class. For more information, call (518) 8711315, or visit reformyourbody.com.

Annual Sweetheart Dance Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge, 1 Elk Lane, Saratoga Springs, 6 p.m.– Midnight This year’s Valentine raffles will benefit the new CODE BLUE shelter initiative. DJ Dave from Dancin’ Time Entertainment will be our evenings’ enjoyment. Cocktail hour (with a specialty drink surprise) is 6–7 p.m., dinner 7–9 p.m. and lots of dancing from 9–midnight. $30 per person. Seating is limited. For more information call Penny at (518) 587-7597.

Literary Event: Debut Novel ‘The Visionist’

by Rachel Urquhart Northshire Bookstore, 424 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 7 p.m.

Rachel Urquhart’s work has been published in The New Yorker, Tin House, Elle, the New York Times, Vogue, and Spy, among other publications, and she is the author of three Chic Simple lifestyle books.

For more information call (518) 6824200 or www.northshire.com.

Film: The Last Detail Spring Street Gallery, 110 Spring St., Saratoga Springs, 7:30 p.m. Rated R. For more information on this film and other films showing this week visit www.saratogafilmforum.org.

Sunday, February 9 Fish Creek Rod and Gun Club Monthly Breakfast Fish Creek Rod and Gun Club, Route 32 south of the village of Victory, 8–11 a.m. The breakfasts will continue on the second Sunday of each month all year. Cost: Adult $6; Child $3.

Kids Afternoon Out Saratoga Central Catholic, 247 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 1–4 p.m. Hosted by the Saratoga Central Catholic Athletic Booster Club. Open to children aged 6-13 includes age appropriate activities

calendar such as open gym, board games, movie with popcorn, Valentine’s Day crafts. Athletic booster club parents will be there to supervise while the Saints student-athletes will interact with the kids through play, crafts, and games. The cost is $10 per child (which includes drink and snack).

Monday, February 10 Preschool Story/Music Prorgram Saratoga Springs Public Library, Crawshaw Story Room, 10:15 – 10:45 a.m.

Children ages 42 months to 5 years will have fun with musical instruments, songs and stories led by the children’s librarian. For more information or other events visit www.sspl.org.

.22-Caliber Rifle Competition

Under 5 Free; Takeouts $10; Cash Bar Available. For more information call (518) 584-2585.

Saratoga Relay for Life Social Maple Avenue Fire House, 613 Maple Ave., Route 9, Saratoga Springs, 6 p.m. BBQ dinner and dessert. The “Give Cancer the Boot” program will include information on participating in the Saratoga Relay for Life to be held June 7-8 at the East Side Recreation Field. There will also be information on to participate in and raise donations to give to the American Cancer Society. RSVP to Nicole at (518) 857-0161 or Sheila at (518) 365-2164. More information is available at ww.relayforlife.org/ saratogaspringsny.

Thursday, February 13 The Longfellows Interfaith Prayer Meeting

The Fish Creek Rod and Gun Club, Route 32 south of the village of Victory, 7 p.m. Will continue rifle competition Tuesday February 18 and 25. Everyone is welcome.

Bring your own .22-caliber rifle and ammunition. For additional information contact: Tim at (518) 728-7098.

Courtyard of Longfellows Restaurant 500 Union Ave. Saratoga Springs, 7:30 a.m. The Guest Spiritual Leader/ Speaker will discuss the “Power of Prayer.” Sign-in and continental breakfast begins at 7:15 a.m. There are no charges or donations. All are welcome. For more information call (518) 587-9104.

Wednesday, February 12

Cancer Support Group

Academy for Lifelong Learning (A.L.L.) Storytellers SUNY Empire State College room 126 (the Rotunda), 2 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs, noon to 1 p.m. Free and open to the public - presenter Betty Cassidy: Live and Learn.

Program canceled if Saratoga Springs Public Schools are closed due to inclement weather. www.esc.edu/all, (518) 587-2100, ext. 2415.

Scooter Board Racing Schuylerville Youth Center, Fort Hardy Park, 3:30–8:30 p.m.

Open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 3:30–8:30 p.m. Most Saturdays from 5:30–8:30 p.m. there will be five styles of Scooter Board Races complete with prize ribbons. Bring a buddy as some racing requires teams of two. For more information please visit us www.facebook.com/ greaterschuylervilleyouthprogram.

Roast Beef and Chicken Dinner Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs, 4:30–7 p.m.

Donation Requested: Adults $10; Seniors and Military (Active/Retired with ID Card) $9; Children 5–12 $6;

One Big Roof, 58 Henry St., Saratoga Springs, Noon Pierre Zimmerman has been working with people who have cancer for the last 12 years, leading support groups, mindfulness based stress reduction programs and spiritual retreats.. Donations welcome. RSVP to Pierre at (518) 450-162. For other events at One Big Roof visit www. oneroofsaratoga.com.

Annual Ham Dinner Stillwater United Presbyterian Church, 747 Hudson Ave., Stillwater, 5–6:30 p.m. Cost: $10 for Adults, $5 for Children 5-10 years of age, Under 5 years Free. To reserve tickets, call 664-7984 or purchase at door.

Take-outs available. Handicapped accessible. Church is located across from the Post Office.

Performance and Poetry with Ensemble ACJW Northshire Bookstore, 424 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 7 p.m.

The musicians of The Academy— a program of Carnegie Hall, The Julliard School, and the Weil Music Institute will join forces with Skidmore musicians and poets for an evening of accompanied verse.

This event is sponsored by Skidmore College. www.Northshire.com.

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Upcoming Town Meetings Town of Ballston: Ballston Town Hall 323 Charlton Road (518) 885-8502 www.townofballstonny.org 2/11: Town Board, 7:30 p.m.

Village of Ballston Spa: 66 Front Street (518) 885-5711 www.ballstonspany.org 2/10: Board of Trustees, 7:30 p.m.

Town of Greenfield: 7 Wilton Road (518) 893-7432 www.townofgreenfield.com 2/11: Planning Board, 7 p.m.

Town of Malta: 2540 Route 9 (518) 899-2818 www.malta-town.org 2/18: Panning Board, 6:30 p.m.

Town of Milton: 503 Geyser Road (518) 885-9220 www.townofmiltonny.org 2/12: Planning Board, 7 p.m.

2/19: Town Board, 7 p.m.

City of Saratoga Springs: 474 Broadway (518) 587-3550 www.saratoga-springs.org 2/12: Planning Board, 7 p.m.

Town of Saratoga: 12 Spring Street, Schuylerville (518) 695-3644 www.townofsaratoga.com 2/10: Town Board, 7 p.m.

Village of Schuylerville: 35 Spring Street (518) 695-3881 www.villageofschuylerville.org 2/12: Board of Trustees, 7 p.m.

Town of Stillwater: 881 N. Hudson Avenue Stillwater, NY 12170 (518) 664-6148 www.stillwaterny.org 2/17: Planning Board, 7 p.m.

2/18: Board of Trustees, 7 p.m.

2/20: Town Board, 7 p.m.

Town of Wilton: 22 Traver Road (518) 587-1939 www.townofwilton.com 2/19: Planning Board, 6:30 p.m.

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

Blood Drives February 10, noon - 6 p.m.

990 Rt. 67, Ballston Spa February 12, noon - 6 p.m.

49 Henry St., Saratoga Springs

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

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Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

week of 2/7-2/13 friday, 2/7:

saturday, 2/8:

Terry Gordon Quartet, 9 pm

Forthlin Road, 9 pm

Jeff Brisbin, 7 pm

George Giroux, 6:30 pm

@ 9 Maple Avenue - 583.2582 @ Maestros - 580.0312

@ Primelive Ultra Lounge - 583.4563

Toga Boys, 9 pm

@ The Rusty Nail - 371.9875

@ Bentley’s - 899.4300

Beatles 50th Tribute, 8 pm Pigeons Playing Ping Pong Putnam Den, Friday

@ The Parting Glass - 583.1916

@ Caffè Lena - 583.0022

Acoustic Circus, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s - 587.7359

Megan, 8:30 pm @ Irish Times - 583.0003

Radio Junkies, 5:30 pm Saving Atlantis, 10:30 pm @ JP Bruno’s - 745.1180

Karaoke, 9 pm

sunday, 2/9: Jacob Moon, 7 pm @ Caffè Lena - 583.0022

Live Jazz Brunch, 10 am @ Primelive Ultra Lounge - 583.4563

monday, 2/10: Bobby Dick, 6:30 pm @ Brook Tavern - 871.1473

Grand Central Station, 9 pm

Chris Carey/Tim Wechgelaer, 7 pm

@ The Mill - 899.5253

@ One Caroline - 587.2026

The Shames, 9 pm

tuesday, 2/11:

@ The Parting Glass - 583.1916

George Giroux, 6:30 pm @ Primelive Ultra Lounge - 583.4563

Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, 9 pm @ Putnam Den - 584.8066

Sugar Pill, 8 pm @ Ravenswood - 371.8771

Collette + The Mudcats, 8:30 pm @ The Rusty Nail - 371.9875

High Peaks Trio, 6 pm

Rich Ortiz, 10 pm

@ Caroline St. Pub - 583.9400

Jeff Brisbin, 7 pm @ Maestros - 580.0312

Open Mic Night w/Rick Bolton, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s - 587.7359

wednesday, 2/12: Open Mic, 7 pm @ Cafe Lena’ - 583.0022

@ The Saratoga Winery - 584.9463

Jeff Walton, 7 pm

The Refrigerators, 8 pm

Masters Of Nostalgia, 9 pm

@ Vapor - 792.8282

saturday, 2/8: Keith Pray’s Soul Jazz Revival, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Avenue - 583.2582

Mike LaPoint, 9 pm @ Bailey’s - 583.6060

Dj Motion, 9 pm @ Bentley’s - 899.4300

Bad Chaperones, 10 pm @ Caroline St. Pub - 583.9400

Melissa Greener/Greg Trooper, 8 pm @ Caffè Lena - 583.0022

Jazz Night, 10 pm @ Circus Cafe’ - 583.1106

Bolton, Nolan and Greene, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s - 587.7359

The Heaters, 8 pm @Ravenswood - 371.8771

@ Maestros - 580.0312

@ One Caroline - 587.2026

Particle w/John Wayne + The Pain, 9 pm @ Irish Times - 583.0003

Celtic Session, 7 pm @ The Parting Glass - 583.1916

thursday, 2/13: Al Bruno, 8 pm

@ Seven Horse Pub - 581.0777

Open Mic, 8 pm @ Circus Cafe’ - 583.1106

Jeff Brisbin, 7 pm @ Crown Grill - 583.1105

Erin Harkes Duo, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s - 587.7359

Jeff Walton, 6 pm @ Horseshoe Inn - 587.4909

Steve Candlen, 7 pm @ Maestros - 580.0312

Rich Ortiz, 6:30 pm

@ Primelive Ultra Lounge - 583.4563

Scott Garling, 9 pm

The Hollows + Bear Grass, 9 pm

Roots Collider + Solaris w/Bad Manners DNBC, 8 pm

Celtic Session, 7 pm

@ The Mill - 899.5253

@ Putnam Den - 584.8066

@ Putnam Den - 584.8066

@ The Parting Glass - 583.1916

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

Fab!

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Ballston Spa Pianist Cole Broderick To Perform In Free Events Honoring The Beatles BALLSTON SPA – Cole Broderick was a high school senior in Albany in February 1964 when – like millions of other American teens – he was mesmerized and inspired by the first performance of The Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show.

Half a century later, the noted jazz pianist is looking forward to being part of a NY Living Legacy Project sponsored by the Egg Performing Arts Center that will commemorate and celebrate the 50th anniversary of the historic arrival of The Fab Four in The Empire State.

Broderick, who devoted nearly two years of his life to painstakingly interpreting some of the group’s most popular songs for his eighth CD titled A Solo Piano Tribute to The Beatles, will perform in eight Capital Region libraries leading up to a landmark event at The Egg at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, February 14.

Songs to be performed by Broderick at the “All You Need Is Love” Valentine’s Day concert will be A Hard Day’s Night, All My Lovin’, Can’t Buy Me Love, Eight Days A Week, I Saw Her Standing There and Penny Lane.

Also on the bill at The Egg show will be high-energy performances by the Nutophians, the guitar trio of Rick Bedrosian, Tom Rainer and Brad Jarvis and violinist/vocalist Sara Milonovich with guitarist Scott Petito.

Although concert at Albany’s Egg is free, tickets must be secured through the box office in advance with seating on a firstcome, first served basis.

In addition to his performance at The Egg, Broderick will open and close a series of free NY Living Legacy multimedia lectures titled “She Loves You – The Beatles & New York” to be led by ethnomusicologist, Beatles scholar and Skidmore College Professor Gordon Thompson.

“It’s an honor and a thrill to be preparing for these

She Loves YouThe Beatles and New York schedule She Loves You – The Beatles & New York, a series of eight multi-media lectures led by ethnomusicologist, Beatles scholar and Skidmore College Professor Gordon Thompson will take place throughout the Capital Region. Each free library program in the series will open and close with solo piano performances of Beatles’ compositions performed by pianist Cole Broderick.

Local Performances: Sunday, February 9, 2 p.m.

Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library Tuesday, February 11, 7:30 p.m.

Saratoga Springs Public Library Wednesday, February 12, 7 p.m.

Crandall Public Library, Glens Falls Cole Then /Cole Now (credit : Sean Flynn for ‘Now’ Photo)

performances,” said Broderick.

“Being a classically trained jazz pianist, my renditions naturally include improvisations. You’ll never hear me play the same song exactly the same twice.”

Broderick, who is also in demand for performances that showcase selections from The Great American Songbook and his four-part Seasons of Saratoga creation that garnered a Critic’s Choice from Billboard, plans to release a CD with additional Beatles tunes in 2015.

“Their songs were all so great and their music lends itself to interpretation and improvisation – the two things I’m most passionate about,” said Broderick. “I’m eager to dig into songs like Strawberry Fields Forever that there wasn’t time to explore a few years ago when I was working on my first solo piano tribute to The Beatles.”

To learn more, call (518) 885-3214, email cbroder1@ nycap.rr.com or visit www.colebroderick.com.

PULSE

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Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

Flurry Of Activity 27th Annual Flurry Festival Storms Into Town Next Weekend

Photo by MarkBolles.com

SARATOGA SPRINGS – The 27th Flurry festival is on President’s Weekend and runs from February

14 to 16 throughout downtown Saratoga Springs. Festival headquarters is centered at the Saratoga

Springs City Center and Saratoga Hilton Hotel, with more performances and workshops scheduled at Saratoga Music Hall, Caffé Lena, and The Parting Glass Pub. The Flurry is well known as the best winter weekend for dancers and music lovers of all ages, featuring more than 400 performers, five venues and over 250 events.

Events this year will include a huge lineup of programs for families with young children, many new programs for teens and ‘all ages’ programming. This includes international music and dance events, non-stop swing and contra dancing, jamming and music instruction and storytelling.

Young children will be busy with easy family dances, traditional square dancing, international family dancing, a kids jug band jam,

community barn dances, improvisational modern dance, funny songs and sing-alongs, story telling and much more.

Teens will have their very own contra dance and improvisational modern dance classes, a teen talent showcase, teen jam session, World dance for teens, Sing-along Songs from Summer Camp, Spanish style hip-hop dancing and many more activities specially lined up for teens and young adults.

Festival goers of all ages will enjoy a major lineup of international music and dance experiences, featuring events like an African Jive Dancapalooza, Cajun dance parties, Regional Greek Folk dances, Irish singing, yodeling, Yiddish square dancing, Scandinavian dance party, as well as many more international dance, music and singing sessions.

Traditional Flurry Festival activities such as non-stop contra and swing dancing will go all weekend long, including a Lindy Boot Camp, and a Lindy Bomb Ball later the same day, Contra dancing for all levels of ability, waltzes, squares, and even romantic couple dances featured on Friday for Valentines Day. This year will also feature two techno contra dance parties, one late at night, and one during the day.

Even if you have two left feet and can’t bust a move to save your life, there is more than enough to keep you busy at the Flurry.

The weekend has more than 20 live concerts programmed, from African American gospel and freedom songs with Kim and Reggie Harris, to vintage blues with Annie & the Hedonists, Flamenco Music and Dance with Tania Asili. In addition, there are over 30 music instruction workshops from beginning harmonica to body percussion, hillbilly blues banjo playing and steel pan drum. Plus 20 singing sessions including songs from the Underground Railroad, sea shantys and drinking songs and round singing.

Vendors will be on hand with beautiful and fun dance wear, including dance shoes, and a variety of food options will be available, including options for vegan, vegetarian and gluten free attendees.

Tickets are available at the door all weekend long. They are available as full weekend passes or day passes with special discounts for students, children and seniors.

To see a full schedule of events and purchase your tickets, visit flurryfestival.org

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

PULSE

Sculptor/Painter Leonard To Presents Skidmore’s Raab Lecture

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Leonard Urso will deliver the Rosanne Brody Raab Visiting Artist Lecture at Skidmore College at 6 p.m. Tuesday, February 11, in Filene Recital Hall. Admission is free and open to the public.

Currently the Ann Mulligan Distinguished Professor in the School for American Crafts at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), Urso is known for creating large- and small-scale sculptures and paintings.

He began studying art at an

early age and earned both bachelors and masters of fine arts degrees at the State University of New York at New Paltz. He began his career as a designer and silversmith for Oneida Limited Silversmiths.

Said Urso, “Acknowledging the full history of human existence has helped to shape my vision as a contemporary person. My role as an artist is to capture human activity as it takes place in the moment, intimately revealing humanity’s most intrinsic qualities. This artwork of mine should bear witness to the stories of

our lives and at the same time reflect the depth of our past. Though personal, these stories are not about me, they are shared experiences that reflect our collective self.”

Urso’s art has been exhibited nationally and internationally and is represented in such collections as the Gyeongnam Art Museum South Korea, the Art Institute of Chicago, Shanghai University of China, Kanazawa University of Japan, Bucknell University, Colgate University and RIT and The Washington Post.

Employee Talent Spotlighted

BALLSTON SPA— Brookside, home to the Saratoga County Historical Society announces that a new exhibit, titled “The Women Who Work Here,” will open on Friday, February 7 at 5 p.m.

This exhibit will kick off a year focusing on women in Saratoga County history, highlighting the creations of the museum’s female staff and volunteers. Items on display will include paintings, photography, fabric art, costumes and a variety of other creations.

“We are very excited to be featuring the creations of the women who work here,” said Joy Houle, Brookside’s Executive Director. “It’s a great way to re-open the museum after closing for January and an exciting way to kick off this year’s women-based theme.”

The museum will host an opening reception on Friday, February 7 from 5 to 7 p.m. The reception is free and open to the public and light refreshments will be served.

“The Women Who Work Here” will remain on display through February 27. The Saratoga County Historical Society at Brookside is a non-profit organization located at 6 Charlton Street in Ballston Spa that inspires community memory by telling the story of Saratoga County through engaging exhibits and interactive programs. For

more information, visit brooksidemuseum.org or call (518) 885-4000.

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Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

VFW Post 358 To Host ‘Salute To Literacy’ BALLSTON SPA — Members of VFW Post No. 358 and its Auxiliaries will join forces from 1-6 p.m. on Sunday, February 23 to co-host a “Salute to Literacy” fundraiser.

All proceeds from the spaghetti dinner and Silent Auction at 63 East North Street will be donated to the Maurice “Christopher” Morley Literacy Fund, which is administered by the Ballston Spa

Central School District.

Named in honor of a World War II veteran who carved a lifetime of legacy of caring and sharing as the village’s resident history consultant, old-fashioned wooden toymaker and school crossing guard, the Morley Literacy Fund provides annual awards for elementary students who have demonstrated exceptional fortitude and perseverance on the Road to Reading.

Take a look at this week’s newest club members!

Billy Tooth Fairy Club is sponsored by:

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

VFW Post 358 Commander Earl “Doc” Manning and his wife Pamela, a longtime Ladies’ Auxiliary member, said at the time of Morley’s passing at age 89 in 2011 that he had the distinction of being the post’s oldest active member, rarely missing a membership meeting or a patriotic ceremony or parade.

After battling bullies who teased him about his dyslexia in the 1920s and 1930s, Morley dropped out of Ballston Spa High School to serve with the U.S. Marines, earning more than a dozen stars and medals for his courage and loyalty to the nation.

It wasn’t until decades later that Morley donned a cap and gown to receive a special Operation Recognition diploma from BSHS. Much knowledge was acquired during Morley’s adult years through library books and lectures, while lessons were taught by him in the form of oral histories and heritage demonstrations he presented at Brookside Museum, the Saratoga County Fair and other settings. Morley assisted with the research of several regional history books by a diverse group of authors. He also contributed a monthly history column to Ballston Spa Life.

The literacy award that bears his name was established with the aid of the Rotary Club of Ballston Spa in 2008—a year after the organization dedicated to “Service Above Self”

VFW Post No. 358 member Maurice “Christopher” Morley in 2008, holding a WWII medal stand and a photo of himself that was taken in 1945. Photos courtesy of Ann Hauprich.

honored him as its Citizen of the Year.

Morley also made headlines in 2007 as Grand Marshall of the Village of Ballston Spa’s Bicentennial Parade.

A donation of $10 per spaghetti dinner will be accepted at the door of VFW Post 358 on February 23. Those wishing to donate gift baskets, gift certificates or other Silent Auction items in advance of the event, which will also include a 50-50 raffle, are asked to contact Pamela Manning at (518) 8855949, Karen Shea at (518) 4879327 or Terri Bryant at (518) 885-6418.

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

fun and games

Puzzles

Across 1 NetZero and AOL 5 Winter precipitation 9 “Poison” plant 14 NBAer O’Neal 15 Classic film character whose last word was “Rosebud” 16 “The Devil Wears __” 17 Linus’ trademark in “Peanuts” comics 20 Bone: Pref.

21 U-shaped river bend 22 USN rank 23 NYC dance troupe 25 Daunting duty 27 1959 Hudson/Day film 33 Emulated Michael Phelps 36 School subj. with a lab 37 Link with 38 Stable newborns 39 Chatter 40 Mistaken 42 Wine, on le menu 43 Increasing in vol., musically 45 __ firma 46 Decline 47 Rope material 48 Song publisher’s output 50 Othello’s confidant 52 Barnyard clucker 53 Former Texas governor Richards 55 Church keyboard 59 Say 63 Waistline concern 66 Without a break 67 “Not a problem” 68 Sky bear 69 Fizzy fountain drinks 70 Lowly laborer 71 CPR pros Down 1 “That __ last week!”

2 Females 3 War-ending agreement 4 Rat on the gang 5 Hit the slopes 6 Belg.-based peacekeeping gp.

7 Black stone 8 Jack who played Sgt. Joe Friday

33

See puzzle solutions on page 37

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

2/3/14

© 2014 The Mepham Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency. All rights reserved.

See puzzle solution on page 37 9 Breed, as salmon 10 Keats’ Grecian vase 11 Disturbs the status quo 12 Port in Yemen 13 Litter box users 18 Like some high-tech machines 19 Search (for) 24 Bed with a mate 26 GI show gp.

27 TV show about a consultant thought to have ESP 28 “As if __!”

29 Having similar opinions 30 Canines and molars 31 “But only God can make __”: Kilmer 32 “The Maltese Falcon” actor Peter 34 Suspect’s story

35 “Hardball” airer 38 Case of false incrimination 41 Surg. branch 44 Restful retreat 48 Achy 49 False 51 Olympians’ dreams 53 “Famous” cookie guy 54 Chile boy 56 Surprised sound 57 Fluish feeling 58 Wolfe of detective fiction 60 Time in office 61 Sunrise direction 62 Nutritional stds.

64 Forensic ID 65 D.C. bigwig

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.

Degenerate, Deteriorate Degenerate is a decline in quality or virtue.

His latest CD shows a degenerate pattern of poor production.

Deteriorate is a weakening or the wearing away of something.

The building has weakened and is beginning to deteriorate.

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.

34 It’s where NEED to be.

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Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

SPORTS

35

Burnt Hills/Ballston Spa Hockey Hitting Its Stride

by Brian Cremo for Saratoga TODAY

BURNT HILLS/BALLSTON SPA— When head coach Jim Buffoline saw his team in the standings with a 1-5 record he knew he had to make some changes.

Moving Ian Speck from forward to defense and letting some of the younger players see more ice time has paid dividends for Burnt Hills/Ballston Spa, who have gone 8-3 since the rough start.

“There’s no one thing,” said Buffoline, whose team is riding a three-game winning streak. “It’s a total team effort and we’ve been working real hard in practice. We have a lot of young kids on our team and they’ve been buying into our defensive and offensive system.

The young guys are playing some big minutes.”

Making the change with Speck may have been the biggest move at all, said Buffoline of the talented junior.

“That was a huge move for us,” Buffoline said. “After the sixth game of the season, we were 1-5 and we just weren’t scoring enough goals. He’s probably our best all-around player on the team. He has a really high hockey IQ. That was the time when we started playing our younger players (a couple sophomores, four ninth graders and one eighth

grader, Sam Swingruber) a little bit more and since then everything has kind of clicked and it’s really been a total team effort from all of our guys.”

Amidst the current streak, BH/ BS has taken down Niskayuna/ Schenectady, 5-1, Glens Falls/ Hudson Falls, 1-0, and Bethlehem, 3-1.

Since beating Christian Brothers Academy, 2-1, on January 7, BH/BS is 7-2 in their last nine games.

A key to that has been goalie Austin Clark. In each of the last five wins, Clark has given up zero goals or one goal, helping drop his goals against average to 2.53 on the season, to go along with 342 saves.

“Austin Clark has just been on fire lately,” Buffoline said.

Knowing he has a team that needs to grind out a lot of goals, Buffoline harped on the importance of how his team didn’t crumble early, buying into the philosophy and sticking with it.

“Stay with it,” Buffoline said.

“Stay positive. Believe in our philosophy and our system and it will prove out in the end that we do have a lot of talent on this team. I think when we had a lot of young guys coming from youth hockey, they didn’t have a lot of knowledge of different system work that we try to implement and sometimes our systems are somewhat

complicated for the younger guys.

Once they get it, it really seems to click for them.”

Offensively, junior Trey Swingruber is leading BH/BS with six goals and nine assists, while junior Aaron Thorpe also has six goals.

The team is currently on what has been a 13-day break from games. The next matchup for Buffoline and his crew is next Friday at home against Shaker/Colonie on Valentine’s Day. “It’s too bad,” Buffoline said. “I wish we were playing this weekend because we’re on a roll right now.

The last thing you want to do it take a weekend off.”

The Shaker/Colonie game should be crucial to the Section II playoff picture, as teams are looking to solidify their seed.

Heading into Thursday night, Shenendehowa sits atop the league with an 8-0-1 record, while Saratoga is currently the No. 2 seed at 6-1-3 (stats updated as of press time Thursday afternoon before the Shen and Saratoga game that was rescheduled from Wednesday to last night).

Burnt Hills/Ballston Spa (6-5) and Shaker/Colonie (5-4) are vying for a No. 3 seed in the league and Buffoline expects a battle on February 14.

“What we’re shooting for is to finalize in the top four,” Buffoline

Ian Speck. Photo by MarkBolles.com

said. “That has always been our goal this year so we get home ice advantage in the sectionals. If we finish in the top four, we get to avoid Shen and Saratoga until the finals, so that’s what we’re hoping for.”

Niskayuna/Schenectady is following closely at 5-4 heading into tonight’s game against Queensbury.

BH/BS’s most recent loss was a 4-0 shutout against La Salle (No. 3 in the conference at 9-4) , who Shaker/

Colonie defeated on January 17, 4-3, at the Albany County Hockey Training Facility.

After the Shaker/Colonie game, BH/BS plays their Senior Night game against CBA at home at the Schenectady County Recreational Facility to end the season.

The Section II playoffs will begin the following week with the Section II quarterfinals starting Wednesday, February 19.

JMJC Athletes Prep For Paris

GLENVILLE — The Glenvillebased Jason Morris Judo Center (JMJC) held its 13th in-house tournament, JMJC Open 13, Saturday, February 2.

Over 75 athletes from five states were on hand at the JMJC to gain experience and have some fun at the developmental event. It also served as a nice warmup for JMJC’s Brad Bolen, 25, and Burnt Hills graduate Nick Kossor, 28, for the Paris Grand Slam that they will compete in this upcoming weekend.

Burnt Hills graduate Hannah Martin, 25, will also being heading to Paris.

This event is designed to get all levels of athletes a lot of matches to practice their skills in a relaxed nopressure environment. The JMJC holds four to five each year along with their major yearly event, the Morris Cup.

Nick Kossor (left) throws his opponent to the mat. Photo by Lou DiGesare/realjudo.net

36

SPORTS

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

Thoroughbreds Finding Defensive Chemistry

by Brian Cremo Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — On the weekend of January 24, Skidmore men’s basketball dropped back-to-back road games at Hobart College and RIT, dropping the Thoroughbreds’ record to 9-7.

Head coach Joe Burke had the team over for dinner at his house.

“We came together as a group,” Burke said. “We looked each other in the eye and figured it out. We knew how talented we could be.”

The emphasis of their conversations was strictly on the defensive end, specifically how hard everyone had to work, while also understanding the technical aspect of their defense—knowing what everybody is responsible for.

“From a technical standpoint, we’re getting better,” Burke said. “I think our energy is very good and I never doubt how hard the guys play.

I think we’ve played hard all year, but I think we’re getting smarter and more technical with how we’re doing it. You have to be technical and understand what everyone is doing on the floor. I think we’re starting to understand, as a unit, how we’re supposed to operate.”

Between the team dinner and the following matchup against St. Lawrence, the team had “unbelievable practices” as “things started clicking.”

Including the 69-66 home win over St. Lawrence, the Thoroughbreds are riding a four game winning streak into this weekend. In the last three games, Skidmore has held opponents to 49 points or less.

“We have a lot of talented players and a couple of these guys had a lot of experience as freshman, so I treat them like they’re juniors and seniors just because of their playing experience,” said Burke, who expects his young team to be even more successful in years to come.

“There’s certain things that they still don’t get and I think that it’s taken us a little bit of time to really, really hammer home the importance of how good we can be defensively. We’ve taken steps in the right direction, but really never got to the point where I was satisfied.

These guys, the light is starting to go on and they’re realizing we can be really good if we guard on the floor because we’re very explosive offensively.”

Burke’s established system at Skidmore is backed up by two

Liberty League titles in his first two and Kovacevic are juniors.

“We have guys on every spot years as head coach in 2011 and 2012. That system is backed up by on the floor who can score,” Burke said. “Our job is to find out who has defense and sharing the ball.

“It’s how we play,” Burke said. the hot hand and how we’re scor“If you look historically in what ing specifically that night—underwe’ve done here in this program in standing that we can always go my four years, it has been that way somewhere else if we need it.”

Bringing back all that talent in for all four. I still think the most important thing you can do in bas- the starting five next year goes along with Burke’s high-aiming goals, ketball is share the ball.”

As far as Burke is concerned, which include an NCAA Division the more weapons he has in his III National Championship.

“When I recruited every one arsenal to create balance, the more his team should share the ball and of these guys, the goal was to win be that much harder to guard. Five a national championship,” Burke Thoroughbreds are currently aver- said. “We’ve won league championships around here; we’ve been to aging double digit scoring.

Sophomore Erik “Flip” Sanders the NCAA tournament. I think we is leading the way with 16 points a have structure and the program to game to go along with a team-high win large and what I mean by that 4.7 rebounds and 1.5 steals per is to win a national championship.

That’s our ultimate goal. Will we get contest.

“Flip is a really nice addition there or not this year? I don’t know.

Do I think we’re capafor us,” Burke said. “He’s ble? Absolutely. still figuring out how we play. He’s getting in the mix with guys that have been here longer than him, so he’s still blending in, especially on the defensive end. But I think, offensively, his talent and ability to get to the rim and finish above the rim, it’s hard for people to cover. He takes good shots, to his credit. He knows his strengths. It’s attacking the rim when he has the opportunity and shooting the open three and that’s what he works at.”

Premier Liberty League point guard A l d i n Me dunj anin is averaging 14.9 points per game, w h i l e Ta n n e r Brooks ( 1 2 . 8 PPG), Conner Merril Sophomore forward Erik Sanders.

(12.2 Photo by SportsThroughTheLens.com PPG) a n d Perun Kovacevic (11.6 PPG) round out the double-figure scorers.

Except for Merril, who was Burke’s first recruit at Skidmore, and Kovacevic, the other three starters are all sophomores. Merril

We’re in this thing to win big. We just know what we’re striving for.”

Helping Burke’s high expectations is his bench.

“The thing that may not be seen the most is the energy and enthusiasm we get from our bench,” Burke said. “We don’t need scoring from them. When you have five guys who start the game and are all capable of scoring, you don’t need that from the bench. What you need from your bench is energy, knowing what your concepts are and how you go about your business. I think our bench has been great. I’ve called on different guys every night and, in some capacity, somebody new has stepped up and made some big plays defensively and maybe a key bucket here and there. Our bench is very underrated. They’re an

intelligent group and they bring unbelievable energy.”

As Burke and the Thoroughbreds look to continue playing their best basketball in February, they embark on four straight road games.

Road-tripping to Canton to play St. Lawrence February 11, they remain on the road the ensuing weekend against Vassar and Bard College, before a final road game at Union.

“These guys haven’t been fazed by whether we’re playing at home or on the road,” Burke said.

“I think it’s more about them. We made the season more about us because we know we have to ability to go on the road and win. We just have to be dialed in on what we’re doing. I feel like, if we execute, we’re capable of playing, if not beating, anybody in the country.”

After the road games, Skidmore will host RIT at the Williamson Sports Center, February 22 to end the regular season.

“When I recruited every one of these guys, the goal was to win a national championship.”

-Joe Burke, Skidmore Men’s Basketball Head Coach

SPORTS

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

Community Sports Bulletin Saints Look To Rebound From Heartbreaker

Saratoga Relay For Life to Be February 12 SARATOGA SPRINGS — The American Cancer Society’s Saratoga Relay For Life is looking to give cancer the boot Wednesday, February 12.

Everyone is invited to the Ample Avenue Firehouse on Route 9 at 6 p.m. for the celebration to kick-off the 2014 year— Fighting back against cancer.

There will be a BBQ and dessert available as well. RSVP with

Nicole or Sheila by calling (518) 365-2164.

Thoroughbreds Extend Winning Streak

Maurice White (23). Photo By SportsThroughThe Lens.com

LOUDONVILLE — Siena Saints men’s basketball and head coach Jimmy Patsos look to recover from a tough Quinnipiac loss when they go up against St. Peter’s today.

In the Saints’ most recent loss, Quinnipiac took 65 free throws, making 47 of them, as

six Siena players fouled out and a late lead was blown before faltering in overtime. Giving up the 65 free throw attempts tied a Division I record.

The Saints (6-6 MAAC, 10-13) were eyeing a four-game winning streak when they held a three-point lead with just over

30 seconds left in the game before giving up a three-point play that tied the game at 85 apiece.

It was also the first time the Saints gave up 100 points since 2009 against Niagara.

Siena is set to tip off against St. Peter’s in Jersey City, New Jersey at 7 p.m.

Blue Streaks Dive Into Win Over Gloversville SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Springs’ swimming and diving team won a non-league meet over Gloversville, 95-85, Tuesday.

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

Trey Wall won the 50 freestyle and 100 breaststroke for the Blue Streaks, while Alex Danielson took the 100 freestyle and 100 backstroke.

Sam Mastrianni had personal bests in the 100 freestyle and 200 freestyle for the Streaks, taking third place in the 100 and second place in the 200 and qualifying for sectionals.

Puzzle solutions from pg. 33

The Thoroughbred’s Amber Holgate lines up a jumper. Photo by SportsThroughTheLens.com

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Skidmore women’s basketball is riding a three-game winning after taking down Clarkson in Liberty League action Tuesday night at the Williamson Sports Center.

The Thoroughbreds (4-7 Liberty, 9-11 overall) were led by Molly McLaughlin and

Jordyn Wartts’ 16 points each, while Lindsey Davis added 14 of her own.

Skidmore gets a break heading into this weekend before picking back up on the road against St. Lawrence.

Tuesday will be the first of a four-game stretch on the road.

37

38

SPORTS

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

Seattle Came To Play

by Damian Fantauzzi for Saratoga TODAY Unfortunately, The Super Bowl wasn’t much of a game to watch. It was expected to be closer and more competitive.

But, for us Broncos fans, it might have been a possible disastrous career end of one of the NFL’s greatest quarterbacks.

Yes, I am a Peyton Manning fan. He represents the meaning of a class act. He’s graciously humble and demonstrates, to me, the true meaning of leadership. But, this game was all about an exhibition and impact of outstanding defense and how it can control a game of such high caliber. The Seahawks lived up to the media coverage of what was expected from their preventative game.

If there is such a thing as a flawless game, in any sporting event, the

Seahawks were very darn close to that achievement.

Seattle had zero turnovers.

Denver lost two fumbles and two interceptions—one resulted as a touchdown by the Seahawks’ linebacker and Super Bowl MVP, Malcolm Smith. Seattle’s Russell Wilson was excellent in his Super Bowl debut as quarterback and I was surprised that he was not awarded MVP. My article, of last week, I predicted a Bronco’s win. All I have to say is, “Ouch!”

Seriously, I thought the experience of Peyton Manning and his seasoned teammates would have that in their corner. On paper it was plausible.

Football is a game of emotions and the Seahawks proved that their readiness to play, along with the inspiration of head coach Pete Carroll, was the spark that could have ignited an eruption from the dormant volcano of Mt. Rainer, outside the city of Seattle.

Let me talk about the coach, a little.

Pete Carroll is one of the few professional football coaches who have won a collegiate championship (two) and the Super Bowl.

Coach Carroll has been around the gridiron most of his life/coaching career. He started coaching football at the collegiate level, 1973-1983, as an assistant, and did all the things

they say you need to do before becoming a head coach at the college level.

From 1984-1999 he was an NFL coach, and after a few years as an assistant he was able to get two head coaching jobs, the Jets and the Patriots. During his early tenure as an NFL head coach, his record was just above the mediocre mark. In 1999, he was given the opportunity to move into the collegiate level, when he signed a five year contract with the University of Southern California (USC).

All after an ugly departure with New England and the scrutiny from the L.A. press about his history in the NFL. But, as the USC Trojans’ head man from 2000-2009, he took a dying football program and brought it into national prowess with an astounding 67-7 record, during his tenure. He obviously proved his critics wrong with his success.

In 2010, before an NCAA violations investigation, Pete Carroll left behind his $4 million a year salary at USC, and signed a five year $33 million contract with Seattle.

For Carroll and his Seahawks, they have fulfilled a dream, but it’s also possible the dream isn’t over.

The average age of Seattle is 26.3, with quarterback Russell Wilson being only 25 years old.

Seattle is a team with the whole package: a great defense (the best

in the entire league) and an offense that has a quarterback with the ability to throw, run and orchestrate.

The coach is a focused man of conviction, who has the ability to motivate his young team, as if they were still playing for their respective college teams. Carroll can make the necessary adjustments for his followers to be competitive with any team in pro football.

One reporter called Carroll the Pied Piper. The coach has paid his dues to be where he is and has earned his kudos by leading the young Seattle Seahawks to be crowned as the National Champions of Super Bowl XLVlll— nice work and congratulations.

A final note of interest: Will the NFL’s five-time MVP, Peyton

Manning, retire? Denver was ranked the No. 1 offensive team in the NFL’s regular season.

I guess someone forgot to tell that to the Seahawks’ defense.

And to think about the gamble the Denver Broncos’ front office took when they acquired Manning, with his history of neck surgeries.

If Manning comes back next year and hoists a Lombardi Trophy, what happened in the 2014 Super Bowl will be forgotten.

I don’t think he’ll retire because he doesn’t want to go out this way.

After all, he is the greatest regular season quarterback in NFL history and to his credit, the last chapter of his biography and legacy, has not yet been completed.

He will return…I hope.

Saratoga TODAY's Star Athletes Jeremy Mendrick

Photo by SportsThroughTheLens.com

Ballston Spa • Senior • Guard The Scotties season - leading scorer helped catapult Ballston Spa over Burnt Hills in a Suburban Council league game, Tuesday night, 67-60.

Mendrick sunk four three pointers en route to team-high 28 points. Averaging 15.3 points on the season, the game marked the third time the senior has reached the 25-point mark.

The dynamic point guard helped the Scotties get out to an early 21-10 lead heading into the second quarter—a lead Ballston Spa never relinquished, as they improve their record to 8-6 in the Suburban and 10-6 overall.

The Scotties host Shaker tonight at 7 p.m. before ending the regular season at home against Saratoga Springs, Tuesday.

The last time Ballston Spa played Shaker, the Scotties missed the chance for a statement victory in a tight 73-71 loss on January 10.

Jordyn Wartts

Skidmore • Senior • Guard Jordyn Wartts had 16 points, nine rebounds, four assists and two steals in Tuesday’s victory over Clarkson, as the Thoroughbreds improved to 4-7 in the Liberty League and 9-11 overall.

Helping the Thoroughbreds win their third straight game, Wartts led the way in the difference maker —free throws.

Wartts was 10-for-11 from the charity stripe, while her team as a whole shot 25-29.

Wartts is 10th in the Liberty League with 14.1 points per contest and ninth in the league in assists per game (2.9). Rarely taken off the floor, she is third in the league in minutes played per game with 46.5 minutes on average.

The 5-foot-8-inch guard is also averaging seven rebounds per game—good for 14th in the Liberty League.

Photo by SportsThroughTheLens.com

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013

NEWS

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Saints’ Unselfishness Key To Unbeaten Season continued from page 1

Q. Coach Mantia, if you could describe this team in one word, what would it be?

A. Relentless Q. How are they relentless?

A. We keep the pressure on them the entire game. Even if we get behind, we’re never out of it because we tend to come up with a steal and wear teams down. We can beat you in many ways: in transition or offensive rebounding or good ball movement. So I think that’s really our strength is we keep coming the whole game.

Q. What would you say has been the most surprising thing this year?

A. The thing that has made me the happiest is the ball movement. I knew we had seniors and the capability to play unselfishly, but we’ve moved the ball as well as any team has moved it here in several years.

Q. What does this team have to do to remain successful as they head into sectionals against the Lake George’s, Hoosick Falls’ and Hoosic Valley’s, if it comes to that?

A. I told the kids Monday, it’s

kind of like looking at the Super Bowl. Defense wins championship.

Well, Denver played defense. They held [Marshawn] Lynch down, but you have to play elite defense. You have to force turnovers. You have to dictate the tempo of the game with your defense, get deflections and hold teams to one shot. If we do that and really contest all shots, the offense will take care of itself.

But we cannot have an off game on the defensive end.

Q. Where would you rank both the on and off-the-court chemistry of this group compared to other teams you have had in the past?

A. We always have great kids here, but as far as unselfishness, this team would be at the top. It’s almost to the point where you need to get on guys to shoot the ball because they may be overpassing, but that’s a great problem to have. If you find yourself being frustrated because your kids are too unselfish, feel lucky because that happens once every 10 years.

deflection, the assists and free throws at the end—I think would be [Luke] Spicer. Luke’s been outstanding the whole season and it’s kind of funny because he’s the one guy who could have two points and dominate the game. That’s a rare talent.

Q. A big key this season has been the bench, right?

Q. As a coach, is it safe to say this is a fun group?

Q. As far as your preseason expectations, was going undefeated anything you envisioned?

A. Oh yeah. It’s been very

enjoyable. I know there are great things we could potentially accomplish, but it’s already been a tremendous season that we can always look back on. We’d love to do more things, but what these guys accomplished and the unselfish way in which they did it…everyone chipped in. Everyone contributed, so it’s been a very rewarding season.

Jake VanPatten.

Photo by SportsThrough TheLens.com

A. No. I had

no

thought of that.

When w wee h a d o u r l e a g u e meeting, really the sense was that Canjo, Fort Plain, us and St. Johnsville were almost a flip of the coin—any of us could win it. There was absolutely no chance we thought we could go undefeated, but we thought we could compete for a title if we were unselfish and defended. Because of all the unselfishness, we overachieved what we thought was possible.

Q. If there was one guy who you had to choose as the glue who holds this team together, who would it be?

A. It’s funny because Evan [Pescetti] and Keegan [Murphy] are tremendous kings of the unorthodox play. They can post up, make rrunners unn in inthe lane, do spin moves.

Michael [Naughton] and Brian [Hall], every game they bring tremendous defense, they play tough, they can score points for us. They give us that consistency every game, but the guy who is kind of the glue— seems to come up with a

no problem doing that, but he’s playing unselfishly when he comes in. This is a kid who will be AllLeague next year and he’s totally embraced his role. Jake VanPatten and JR Hmura, they just pound people in practice and make them better and work hard. When they come in the game I know we are going to get tremendous defense and these kids understand their role is to defend and rebound.

When you have that consistency, it really completes the team.

Q. Are there any coaches you draw inspiration from or try to emulate?

A.

[Ryan] Czarnecki— this is a kid who would start for 99 percent of teams in the area and he’s totally embraced his role. I give him full freedom. I want him to run the lane and look for his shot. He has

A. Early in my career

it was Coach [Jim] Zullo at Shenendehowa. If you don’t defend for him, you just wouldn’t play… tremendous coach who believed in ball movement. Coach [Mike] Beson, who gave me a shot at Shenendehowa, also taught team play, defense and enthusiasm. I was lucky enough to get the opportunity to coach with Coach [John] Catone

here at Spa Catholic. He totally believed in the up-tempo game.

You don’t give up any of the court.

You pressure full court. You wear the other team down. You take the fight to them. You don’t back down no matter how good the other team is. Coach Catone really influenced me seeing that you really can win a game on the defensive end by forcing turnovers and getting into your transition. I was also lucky enough to play here for coach [Bob] King. If you did not defend for Coach King, you didn’t play, and you had to play unselfishly. They all had kind of the same mindset. I’ve been coaching for 25 years now and that’s just how I look at basketball because of who I’ve coached under.

Q. When you look back at this season, what would you like to say you accomplished?

A. The main thing we wanted to accomplish was to do something memorable in honor of Coach Beson. We felt some pressure in the first tournament and I felt we just took it out on the teams we played.

A lot of the kids have Coach Beson’s name written inside their sneakers.

And I felt the pressure. To go on and win a league championship and go undefeated, that’s what the season has been about. For them to accomplish that, it makes the season memorable no matter what happens the rest of the way.

Q. If you have three dinner guests, all-time, who do you sit down with?

A. Peyton Manning, Larry

Bird and my wife [Mary Beth].

Tonight at 7 p.m., the Saints play Duanesburg at Fulton Montgomery Community College in the first of two WAC crossover games. Aside from Duanesburg, the tournament also includes the Southern Division’s Mekeel Christian Academy, as the Saints warm up before the Section II Class C tournament begins.

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SPORTS

Week of February 7 – February 13, 2013