The Saratoga Social Magazine by The Saratoga Social

W I N T E R 2 0 1 5 H O L I D A Y E D I T IO N

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

LET

from the

T A B L E O F C O N TE N T S

TER

editor

very year I find myself equally focused on things both little and big over the holidays. As for things little, I adore hunting for the perfect gifts for friends and family, and revel in that moment when you can show someone how much they mean to you without saying a thing. It doesn’t require spending a lot, but can require some seriously committed searching, so we’ve put together an enormous, all local gift guide to make the search a little easier this year. As for things big, this is the season where incredible acts of gratitude and charity abound, especially in communities like ours. We will donate to food pantries, volunteer to serve Thanksgiving dinners, adopt a child for Christmas and give thanks for everything that brings so much happiness into our lives. This year our happiness came from meeting the kids of Saratoga Sponsor-A-Scholar whose determination to go to college is so strong, it prevails over day-to-day challenges they face that would stop most of us in our tracks. Happiness comes from the nurses in Saratoga Hospital’s Maternity Ward too, who support their patients in ways that can hardly be quantified as they welcome new lives into the world. And it is also through seemingly endless philanthropy as Saratogians continue to embrace traditions like the Flower and Fruit Mission’s Snowball, and adopt new efforts like getting Code Blue ready for a long winter. As I write this letter to you, I realize how little time has passed since The Saratoga Social was anything more than a idea, something a few items down on one of my many ‘to do’ lists. Just barely a year has passed since I sat in my kitchen asking my husband Matt if he liked the name I’d come up with and started figuring out how to build a website. The idea that I would be writing a letter from the publisher in the second issue of The Saratoga Social Magazine today would have prompted some major eye rolling and laughter. And yet here we are. I couldn’t be more thankful or proud!

Robin

About Our Cover When we think of the holidays in Saratoga, there is no more iconic an image to us than the Adirondack Trust Bank on the corner of Lake and Broadway. Capturing the excitement, color and celebration of the clock striking midnight outside of the bank felt like the perfect way to kick off our Holiday Magazine. (Check out page XX for the same clock circa XX). The cover was illustrated by a local artist, who prefers to be recognized as C.A.M. Happy Reading!

8 The Saratoga Six

50 Holiday Wine Pairings

10 Weekend Wardrobe Report Winter 12 Saratogian’s Essentials

Saratoga 52 AHospital Mission

56 Holiday Music Stylings

Fashion: Winter Looks 18 Insta from Six Saratoga Boutiques

Black Book: 58 Little NYE Edition

24 Nip and Tuck, Q&A

60 A Time for Giving

28 Evolution of an Artist

Mission 64 AthatFrosty Warms the Soul

32 Saratoga Style Star

68 All Local Gift Guide

34 Social Calendar

78 Party Photos

Saratoga 38 Spotlight: Sponsor-A-Scholar

Luxury Back: 84 Bringing The Algonquin

42 Hatties at Home

of 90 Winters Saratoga’s Past

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

our

Contributors Robin Dalton Founder & Publisher

Robin is the founder and publisher of The Saratoga Social magazine and website as well as the author of the weekly Saratoga Social column in The Saratogian newspaper. When she isn’t out covering an event or writing about her latest favorite local find, she can be found selling commercial real estate with her friends at Roohan Realty. She’s an avid runner and Ironman triathlete but her favorite place to be is at home on Caroline Street with her husband Matt and their three young children; John, Charlie and Alice.

Chelsea Silver STYLE EDITOR Chelsea is the Style Editor at The Saratoga Social and owns local store, Silverwood Home and Gallery. A lover of design, art, and writing, she is ecstatic to be at a place in her life where the lines between work and play are often blurry. Chelsea lives in Saratoga with her husband Josh,her two boys Bixby and Everett, and fuzzy Doodle, Bodhi. If she’s not behind the counter at Silverwood or working on the magazine, chances are she and the fam are at the lake or skiing at Gore.

Megan Mumford PHOTOGRAPHER Megan, a native to Saratoga Springs, has had the privilege of photographing world leaders, actors/actresses, community activists, business professionals, artists, musicians, families and friends locally and worldwide over the last 15 years. She is known for her intimate and authentic portraiture, highlighting the beautiful nature of people in all her work. From the Adirondacks to New York City to Boston, Megan is available for family portraiture and lifestyle shoots as well as weddings and events.

Amber Osterhout CREATIVE DIRECTOR Amber, a self admitted introvert, has always struggled to contain her creative side. With a background in biology and design, Amber tackles each project with both an analytical and creative perspective. A skill she developed during her six years working in the medical & biotech field, ten years as designer & director of creative services at Shannon-Rose Design and lifetime as an artist. Aside from running Obsessivision, Amber lives a quiet life in the country with her husband Michael and two young children; Lucas and Parker..

FROM LEFT Jenn Hennessy Nayeli Selkis TO RIGHT:

Amber Osterhout Samantha Bosshart Yvonne McEachron Robin Dalton Chelsea Silver Jim Mastrianni Trina Lucas Wendy Lawrence Not Pictured: Melissa Brumley & Alyssa J. McClenning

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

The Saratoga

Six Inquisitive Questions with Saratoga’s Most Interesting People by Alyssa J. McClenning

he epitome of class is how most people would describe 38-year old Alysa Arnold. a former postpartum doula, the busy wife and mom of two girls quietly invests time in our local community and surprises people when they discover she’s a winter mountaineer. We spent an afternoon walking around the Skidmore College campus with Alysa to get her take on Saratoga. Tell us about your earliest Saratoga memory. I grew up in nearby Niskayuna. My mom, sister and I would drive to Saratoga to go dress shopping. Birds of Paradise was our go-to boutique on Broadway.

The Saratoga Social was created to highlight the work of our local nonprofits. Which organization is most important to you? I love the Saratoga Regional YMCA. Every year the Y gives a little over $1 million dollars in scholarships for free swimming lessons, memberships and free childcare; the scholarship programs ensures our Y is a place for everybody in town. I recently served as the Co-Chair of the Executive Search Committee and we’re excited to welcome a new CEO, Sean Andrews, in December 2015.

After a hectic Saratoga summer, some people like to hunker down in the offseason. What do you do to stay active? Nothing beats long, cozy dinners with friends once the temperatures drop; however, spending time outside is still a priority for me. I’ve been hiking in the Adirondacks for two decades and recently have gotten into winter mountaineering (camping, hiking and climbing). This will be my second year serving as a volunteer instructor at the Adirondack Winter Mountaineering school. Mountains are an entirely different experience in the winter!

What’s the first app/website you open in the morning? Facebook

Fun Fact: One in three Saratogians belong to the Saratoga Regional YMCA

What do you consider Saratoga’s greatest hidden gem to be?

Which spot in town serves your favorite drink or dish?

The Skidmore Woods

9 Maple. Cosmopolitan with a side of heavily salted peanuts.

To read all the Saratoga Six Columns, go to TheSaratogaSocial.com 9

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

Weekend Wardrobe Report brought to you by layered.

What to wear this holiday season

It’s the holiday season let’s spice things up a bit! And no, I am not referring to a little extra nutmeg on your eggnog. I’m talking about those weekend outfits. The ones you need to put together for the fifth holiday party you are attending. I think this week is the dinner for your second cousin’s goddaughter {a bottle of red + some plaid ribbon will suffice.} We are going to rework your typical weekend wardrobe through the use of color, silhouettes, and layering. Let’s swap the black trouser for bold colored pants, trade in the basic sweater for a sweater dress, and opt for denim over tights. Follow me as I style three looks to take you into the weekend. Check out layered.’s blog for everyday looks and styling tips: layeredny.com Follow @layeredny

GOING BOLD

Swap the basic black trouser for bold colored pants. A wide leg pant in a bold color is all the rage this season. To pull this without looking like your crazy Aunt Milly {sorry Aunt Milly!} opt for a neutral top to pair with the pants. This will tone down the look and let the pants do all the talking. For this look, I upped the ‘bold factor’ with my outerwear choice. The orange plaid coat and the fuchsia pants fight for attention but inevitably meet in the middle, creating a harmonious look. If this pairing does not suit your taste throw on a basic black or gray driving coat and you are on your way. [Wide brim fedora: F21 | Plaid coat: Coach | Fringe Sweater: Frankie | Wide leg pant: BCBG Max Azria | Leather pointed-toe mules: Design Lab, Lord & Taylor | Cat-eye shades: Elizabeth & James]

BOXED OUT

Trade in the basic sweater for a sweater dress. Push aside the basic sweater and pencil skirt you were eyeing in your closet and look towards a sweater dress. It’s a simple piece that is extremely versatile. You can take it from casual to formal with a swap of the shoes. It can be styled with socks, tights, or even denim. For this look, I wanted an extra layering piece so I paired a black turtleneck underneath. For my shoe game, I went with a basic black ankle boot and gray trouser socks, allowing the sock to be exposed. A slightly exposed sock with an ankle boot or oxford adds that quirky yet stylish factor to one’s look. [Boxy sweater dress: COS | Black turtleneck: Cabi | Gray trouser socks: Gap | Leather ankle boots: Miista | Gold metal watch: Breil | Mini bucket bag: Le Petit Joueur | Cat-eye shades: Elizabeth & James]

DENIM LOVE

When wearing a dress, opt for denim over tights. What’s old is new, again. Let’s throw it back to the 90’s with the dress over jeans look. Aside from being on trend, this pairing offers the added benefit of keeping your legs warm {high five!} When wearing denim under a dress I prefer a flare or boot cut. It elongates the legs, which is much needed as the dress hits mid-thigh. For this look, I paired a white leather shift dress over dark flared denim. For my outerwear, I chose a fur coat to tie the look together and offer a slightly more formal feel. If you are looking for fur {faux or real} I urge you to go the consignment route. You can find gorgeous, high-quality pieces for a fraction of the cost. [Vintage fur coat: consignment find | Leather shift dress: T by Alexander Wang | Flared denim: Elizabeth & James | Clogs: Woodies, Jeffrey Campbell | Round shades: Karen Walker | Handbag in olive: One & Only]

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

The winters in Saratoga can seem endless, so we asked some of our favorite Saratogians what their ‘Must Haves’ were for surviving the cold.

Robin Dalton, Publisher & Founder of the Saratoga Social Magazine and Website, Mother of three.

Allison Meyers, impossibly stylish mother of three boys.

Robin’s

ALLY’s

Winter Musts

2 4

10 3

4 2 3

1 Canada Goose Down Jacket, an upstate New York Winter MUST HAVE 2 Even Winter can be sunny... channeling New Engand in Norton Point Sunglasses

3 Smythson of Bond Street 3 Drawer Jewellery Box for holiday baubles 4 Plaid flannel meets Manolo Blahnik? Be still my heart 5 I need my old school planner- classic Smythson of Bond Street Soho Agenda

6 In love with Chanel’s new Rouge Allure Gloss 7 Good music = Cure for the Winter blues.. Beats

1 Cross body bag. For keeping hands free to break an icy fall!

6 The Balvenie Doublewood. As in single malt scotch whiskey.

2 Wool throw blankets. Switching out my every day throws for

7 A great winter coat. Who cares what’s underneath when you

8 Sparkle without sequins hair comb 9 All Moms NEED 7 AM Enfant Stroller Gloves 10 Anything plaid.

winter wools brings major warmth to my cold leather furniture.

3 Oversized Turtleneck sweater. Pair it with leggings

8 Smart wool socks. Warm enough to wear while making a

4 Burts Bees Eucalyptus and Menthol Lip Balm.

9 Nivea Essentially Enriched. I’ve used this super rich

10 Faux fur vest. I’m loving the longer 70’s inspired designs

by Dre Headphones

Love this classic saddle bag that can be monogrammed.

and riding boots for a cute, quick and comfy outfit. I carry one in my purse and one in my ski jacket! Stylish Winter boots. Sorel is my go-to for boots that are functional AND fashionable.

Preferably next to the fireplace at the Wishing Well. have a fabulous coat?

snowmen and thin enough for under leather riding boots. body lotion every winter for 20 years!!! of the season.

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

The winters in Saratoga can seem endless, so we asked some of our favorite Saratogians what their ‘Must Haves’ were for surviving the cold.

Chelsea Silver, Saratoga Social Style Editor & Owner of Silverwood Home and Gallery.

Natalie Sillery, Saratoga Fashion Icon and Owner of Saratoga Trunk.

CHELSEA’s

NATALIE’s

Winter Musts

2 3

3 1

1 Shearling Boots. There is just no comparison for warmth. I love

5 The Louis Vuitton Neverfull with monogram. Yes, they are a bit

2 There is also nothing like cashmere on a cold day. The cashmere

6 The dark grey faux leather pants from 7 for All Mankind. They

my Ugg “Adirondack” boots for snowy or wet days and my black Emu wedges (from the Saratoga Saddlery) for a touch of style. hoodies at J. Crew are a closet staple now. I wear them until they virtually beg for mercy. You can even add a little monogram, which I love.

look like real leather but feel like leggings. Enough said.

3 Rossignol skis...because if you can’t beat it, join it. Playing in the snow makes winter so much more bearable.

Jack Daniels on the rocks. It isn’t fancy but it warms the soul on a cold winter night. (It also has magical, cold-fighting powers...a nip before a good night’s sleep has always done wonders when I feel the pre-cold aches come on.)

4 The hand cream by Menges & Curtis Apothecary on Broadway.

8 I love a good spike. These dainty Melinda Maria earrings with pave

It is just the best, always has been.

ubiquitous, but they truly do seem “never full”. Plus, the monogram makes this classic unique.

1 My favorite Prosecco from Saratoga Wine and Spirits 2 GAS Bijoux is our top line of jewelry at SARATOGA TRUNK, I wear it all the time and it makes a great gift!

4 All my THEIA dresses/gowns- come to our THEIA trunk show this November to see the latest styles

5 Any of Christine A. Moore’s Fedoras, I love them all!

3 I’m reading “The Heart of Stone’ by Cheryl Blaydon;

“Waiting on God” by Charles F. Stanley and ‘Letters to Heaven’ by Eileen Doyon...ask to order at Northshire Bookstore

detail add just enough sparkle and edge to combat those dark winter days.

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

The winters in Saratoga can seem endless, so we asked some of our favorite Saratogians what their ‘Must Haves’ were for surviving the cold.

Amber Ousterhout, Saratoga Social Creative Director and owner of branding company, Obsessivision.

Blake Crocitto, Newlywed Owner of McGregor Links Country Club.

AMBER’s

BLAKE’s

Winter Musts 5

Winter Musts 2

3 8

6 9 5

4 1 Holiday parties are the perfect excuse to buy a new pair

6 When the snow starts flying, our family stays indoors quite a bit.

2 Upstate NY winters can be brutal. More reason to dress in layers.

7 I have two prerequisites when it comes to finding the perfect winter

3 My hands tend to take a beating when cold weather sets

8 My father taught me about the powerful immune benefits of garlic.

2 Chunky knit socks 3 Nothing better than putting these on after a long day

He ate a clove with every meal and was rarely sick..

at the office slippers

9 Last year I discovered the oil cleansing method and my skin has

4 With so many great trails in the area (McGregor Links being the best) it’s a great winter workout.

of fabulous earrings Gold is my go to metal.

I fell in love with leg warmers after purchasing for my daughter.. in. My daily regiment always involves a generous amount of The Remedy Tin hand salve. All natural and made locally.

4 When you live at the gateway to the Adirondacks, it takes a pretty heavy blanket to keep warm. You can’t beat wool!

5 When the winter jacket comes off, I reach for my oversized aztec cardigan sweater. I call it my in-house jacket.

And since I’m a designer, I use winter as an excuse to redecorate. boot. They must be warm and waterproof.

never felt better! Bye bye harsh cleansers.

10 This non-coffee drinker jumped for joy when the Saratoga Tea & Honey shop opened. Not only do they offer a wide variety of teas, but a great honey selection, as well. Local honey keeps allergies at bay.

1 A shoe thats rugged and still looks good with both a pair of jeans or a pair of chinos (the more you wear them the better they look) : Clarks Dessert Boots

5 Forget the Pumpkin Spice Latte coffee creamer it has nothing

6 Versatility is key to those frigid upstate winter days- I can wear it with a blazer or a sweatshirt.

7 Who wants to go outside when its 15 below? My wife and I like to binge watch a few series every winter. This year...Sons of Anarchy!

8 Can’t let those winter lbs. sneak up on you. Paired with my

Specialized Sirrus Pro Carbon both from Blue Sky Bicycles.

9 Brooklyn needs to be winterized too, he’s my 5 year old English Bulldog...his must haves are from The Natural Dog Company.

on the International Delight White Chocolate Raspberry

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

by Chelsea Silver

fashion

Winter Looks from

SARATOGA BOUTIQUES

We hit the streets of downtown Saratoga to create an editorial fashion snapshot of some of our favorite local boutiques and what theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re offering this season. Cozy knits, leather, and plaids seem to rule this fall and winter and our friends and contributors that happily modeled for us fell so in love with the looks they wore that many couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t resist purchasing the looks for themselves!

Enc o u n t e r

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

Saratoga Social

Winter 2015

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

LIFESTYLES

V IO L ET â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

Saratoga Social

Winter 2015

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

S A R A TOG A S A DD L ER Y

SPOKEN

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

Saratoga Social

Y OI C K S

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

Winter 2015

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

Now for some

upli ing news! Dr. David Tauber of DeLuca Plastic Surgery covers everything we want to know from nip to tuck.

Get rid of cellulite with no bleeding and no bruising with a new device called Cellfina, recently approved by the FDA? Are we going to be switching over to thong bikinis this winter break or is this too good to be true? Beneath the skin, there are bands of firm tissue that span between the skin and the underlying muscle. Between these bands are pockets of fat. The dimpled appearance of cellulite is created as the fat bulges between these bands and the tone of the skin loosens and thins, making the bulging more visible. This occurs as we gain fat, as the bands stiffen and shrink over time or as the overall tone of the skin worsens.

The treatment for cellulite focuses on correcting these causes by removing the fat, cutting the bands and tightening the skin. Traditionally, this was achieved through operations such as liposuction, which uses a cannula to remove fat and break up the bands; subcision, which uses a small knife slid under the surface of the skin to cut the bands; and thigh and buttock lifts, which removes excess skin, improving the tone. Cellfina is a form of semi-automated subcision. It differentiates itself by using a smaller knife than is traditionally used in subcision. This allows a smaller access incision. Patients have post-op experiences, results and complications that are similar to traditional subcision. Most experience some bruising and swelling, and complications can include contour irregularities and changes in the way the skin lies over the underling tissue such that additional folds or areas of concern may rarely develop.

Cellfina is marketed for patients with small isolated areas of cellulite. Patients with more diffuse disease would likely benefit from a combination of more invasive procedures to achieve their goals.

We’ve heard rumblings of a new trend where you can increase your breast size for 24 hours, basically trying out a differnt cup size for a special event or occasion. Are instabreasts the next big thing? The use of saline or other solutions to temporarily increase the size of the breasts is not a trend that we are seeing. Although injection of saline into the breast would be a relatively benign procedure in an otherwise

healthy person, saline alone would only give a very temporary increase in breast size (less than 24hrs). This may be an appropriate way to give a sense of how an augmented breast would look or to give breasts a little extra volume for a special event. The cost can be significantly less than an implant-based augmentation and the procedure has little recovery time or risk of complications. For the right person in the right situation, the cost may be worth it. In our practice, we use silicone sizers that slip into a sizing bra to give patients an accurate idea of what implants will look like on them. In addition, we offer digital simulations that allow patients to see their own breasts augmented, either nude or with clothing. The injection of solutions other than plain saline into the breast should be approached with caution – especially when those substances are unknown and cannot be evaluated for safety or long-term concerns.

The two tells of a person’s age are always their hands and decollatage. What can you do to take corrective action in these areas? The number one way to help our skin age gracefully is to protect it from the sun. The sun’s harmful rays accelerate skin aging by breaking down elastic fibers and thinning the skin. Although the face is the main area of concern for sun damage, other areas also experience similar changes with chronic sun exposure, including the decollage (chest skin between the breasts) and the hands. Both of these are often forgotten during the morning sunscreen routine. Prevention is critical because it is difficult to correct sun damage once it has occurred.

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

If damage has already occurred, various modalities can help, however. Surface imperfections such as pigment irregularities, sun spots and redness can be improved with topical treatments such as tretinoin and hydroqinone. Skin resurfacing using lasers or peels can help to tighten up the fine lines and wrinkles by removing the surface layers of the skin and allowing new tighter skin, to heal in its place. Changes seen in the hand are due to a combination of sun damage and a loss of soft tissue (fat). These changes combine to leave hands wrinkly and veins more prominent. Fillers can be used in this area to help improve the contour and mask the prominent veins that are the hallmarks of

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

volume loss and aging. I inject Juvéderm (hyaluronic acid) fillers in the hand using a blunt cannula technique. This allows correction with minimal bruising and swelling.

I want to have my breasts done but may have another child. Should I wait?

breast surgery may prevent that. This is less of a concern with simple sub-muscular implant placement and more of a concern after breast lifts or reductions. Also, changes that occur with pregnancy and breastfeeding and will alter the breasts in unpredictable ways. Patients may require an additional surgery to bring the breasts back to their pre-pregnancy look.

The timing of breast surgery depends on many factors including cost, desire to breastfeed and the extent of the proposed surgery. Everyone’s situation is different. In general, if you wish to breastfeed again,

ADVERTISEMENT Dr. Tauber of Deluca Plastic Surgery Dr. Tauber is a Harvard-trained cosmetic plastic surgeon specializing in the natural augmentation and aesthetic sculpting of the face and body. He combines his knowledge and experience with a detail-focused artistic eye to create custom, natural looking results for his patients. His practice focuses on the enhancement of the human body through the subtle use of implants and soft tissue camouflage.

Through intensive study and thousands of operative hours he has developed expertise in: • Facelifts, neck lifts, and forehead lifts • Natural looking breast augmentation • Fat grafting to the face, breast, and body • Rhinoplasty • Custom cheek, jaw, and chin implants

Prior to joining DeLuca Plastic Surgery, Dr. Tauber completed the Plastic Surgery Residency at Albany Medical College, one of the most historic in the country. In Albany, he mentored under past presidents of the American Society of Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Society. Following residency, Dr. Tauber was chosen as a Fellow in Aesthetic Craniofacial Surgery at the Harvard-Massachusetts General Hospital. At Harvard, he learned cutting edge techniques in plastic surgery while operating with world-renowned surgeons at MGH, Boston Children’s Hospital and The Boston Center for Plastic Surgery. Academically, he has been published multiple times and has had several papers presented at regional and national meetings. Most recently he served as an editor of “Clinical Diagnosis in Plastic Surgery,” a reference atlas focusing on current topics in plastic surgery. In his spare time, David enjoys spending quality time with his family and friends and staying active with soccer, snowboarding, and most of all, traveling.

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

Margaret Valentine THE evolution of an artist

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

n a warm August night, Margaret Valentine took the stage at The Parting Glass around 9pm with singer-songwriters Matt Warren and Brice Long to a standing-room only crowd. It was a jam-packed Traver’s weekend and Margaret was singing to her home crowd for a benefit concert hosted by ESPN Radio called ‘Nashville comes to the Races”. Over the next two hours the audience hung on to every word Margaret sang, soaking up her original songs and applauding wildly for the upstate New York girl who’s turned country.

How do you approach songwriting?

We had to know more about this local talent and were lucky enough to sit down with her and talk about how she got started in the business, some of her big breaks and what her plans are next.

I would also always rather hear a crack in someone’s voice, a hiccup, whatever, if they are sitting up there, spilling their guts and telling an honest story.

When did you start singing? I started singing around 20. I wanted to be an actress. I did one play with homemade theater and I got one of the lead parts. At that point, I actually wanted to be an actress. Shortly thereafter I became friends with the Dwyer Sisters and I think I really started singing for the first time because of them. I would be at their concerts and start hearing all the harmonies in their songs, before I could hear the melodies. They were so great, they would bring me up on stage and I think the first song I sung from stage was Linda Ronstadt’s ‘Poor, Poor Pitiful Me’. Shortly after that, I heard Tori Amos’ ‘Little Earthquakes’ and I was just so in love with that record, I picked up my pen and started writing.  That was when I realized what my goal was and still is today, to write and publish my own songs.

How did you learn to play the the guitar and piano? I can’t site read and I actually learned about 6 months ago what the strings on my guitar are! (laughing). I have a good ear, I went to the piano first and for some reason could hear my way around. I’ve

also been very blessed to be surrounded by some incredible talented musicians who have happened to like what I do, writing wise, so they have sort of helped me along from where I begin and end as a writer to arrange songs and help me grow.

Sometimes you wake up and I have the whole thing in my head.. the big sound, the melody, the instrumentation. I keep a notebook with me I will jot down everything and anything. On a perfect day though, I’ll be sitting at home and will start playing the piano and come up with a melody and then the lyrics will just roll. In my twenties I was fronting a band with a bunch of guys… I was ripping out these angry chick songs. But I think as you get older it gets expressed differently.

What were your first experiences like in the business? So the owner of a club here in Saratoga that no longer exists, called Northern Lights, gave me plumb opening spots. I was opening for some really cool acts like Joan Osbourne. That caught the attention of a reviewer, David Malachowski at the Times Union. He went on to become Shania Twains band leader and guitar player when Shania first broke onto the scene. So David had seen me play and gave me a great write up and at the time, he had to put together a band for Shania who wasn’t in town at the time. They were going to run through all the songs for a week and then hit the talk show circuit so orignally were going to do it without a vocalist but ran into trouble. So David said “wait a minute, I think I know someone…” and so for a week, I sang that album with ‘Any Man of Mine’ on it back to front to sideways. On the last day she came in with her husband and I got to meet her and thought she was lovely.

Can you describe this second phase of your career? I have a bigger fear at this point in my life of wasting opportunities than I do anything else. Not everyone is going to like my music and that’s fine, I will just go on to the next guy, the next opportunity until I get where I need to be. But you won’t ever accomplish anything if you aren’t down in Nashville, seeing as many people as you can see and driving your own bus. I feel so lucky to be in a position now to have a second chance to revive my song writing career and travel to Nashville and have a partner who is so supportive. I think if I told John (John Angelos) tomorrow I want to become an astronaut, he’d say “ok, well let’s go start looking at astronaut schools, you can totally do this!”

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

Sometimes I wake up and have the whole thing in my head.. the big sound, the melody, the instrumentation.

an extensive collection of hats sweaters scarves & outerwear

Margaret Valentine

life styles b ro a d way saratoga springs new york 12866

436

lifestylesofsaratoga.com 32

518.584.4665

Host a holiday cooking party that your friends and co-workers will savor!

Art and cooking classes are a great gift for the creative and culinary passionate children and adults in your life.

www.SerendipityArtsStudio.com

Congress Plaza behind CVS â&#x20AC;˘ 26D Congress Street Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 â&#x20AC;˘ 518 886-9553 email: SerendipityArtsStudio@gmail.com 33

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

e i g r a M ord f h c t o R IN K Y L B A N O HI S A F SO

Do you have a style icon? I don’t really have one. I get inspired by other things, like the street style in the city and riding on the subway. Or definitely when I am traveling. Two years ago my children and I traveled extensively, as part of a trip we were taking to help the work done by Medical Missions for Children. Everyplace I went, to Vienna, Salzburg & St Petersburg, I would take in the people on the street and bring home pieces that remind me of my time there. I swear though, even in Price Chopper here in Saratoga I could get inspired! Probably the last person I saw who I thought wow, I liker style was Rooney Mara. But I get inspired by regular people in all different places and clothes.

What are your favorite local boutiques?

A style star in her own right, this Saratoga risk taker dishes on her passion for fashion and philanthropy. How would you describe your style? Funky, ecletic and fun. One of the best ways to describe it is when I first moved here, I was at St Clement’s to drop off my kids. My friend Jenny looked at me and said, ‘Marg... you don’t really get dressed. You put together a costume!’ And that is exactly what I like to do, she made me so happy saying that. It is a creative outlet for me and I like to have fun with it.

Who are your go-to designers? I like to wear a lot of emerging designers, people who are young and hip and new. The big labels aren’t always my thing, for example I loved wearing this dress from Samantha Sung from Encounter Boutique for the Flower and Fruit luncheon in May, it just felt like me.

I love all of the shopping we have downtown and ADORE Beth Harr and Encounter Boutique. She really understands my style and shops with me in mind and I always love what she puts together.

Are there any non-profits or philanthropies you feel especially passionate about? I have been raising money for Medical Missions for Children for several years now. They just do work with some of the neediest children and in one hour, fixing a child’s cleft palate changes their lives forever. Danny Snyder grew up here in Saratoga and I found out about it through him. This April, I am so thrilled to be hosting a Charity Gala for MMFC in New York City, called ‘Miniskirts in Paris’. It will honor worldrenowned Fashion Designer Vicky Tiel and to have an event that celebrates incredible fashion as well as raises money for MMFC is just a dream! I also really enjoy supporting Saratoga Hospital and Albany Med which are such incredible resources right here in our backyard. And last but certainly not least, I feel very connected to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and their annual luncheon here every August. Years back when it was a smaller crowd, I co-chaired with Joanne Adams and to see it sell out today just makes me feel so good, that I got to play a little a part in their success. I can think of at least ten friends of mine who have had to hear a breast cancer diagnosis and just think it is a worthy and impactful cause to support.

For more information on the Medical Missions for Children Benefit on April 29th, please call (508)-697-5821.

ORANGE SEQUIN DRESS: SACHIN & BABI FLOWER DRESS: SAMANTHA SUNG WHITE DRESS LILLY PULITZER, HAT KOKIN

2015

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

W FA L L -

E INT

SOCIAL CALENDAR YOUR GUIDE TO ALL THAT’S HAPPENinG IN SARATOGA THIS WINTER

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

NOV E M BER

N OVEMBER

The Saratoga Social’s Holiday Magazine Release Party at Northshire Bookstore 7-9 PM

Gateway House of Peace 2nd Annual Thanksgiving Gala at Longfellows Restaurant 6-9 PM

Saratoga Senior Center 60th Anniversary Gala at the Canfield Casino 6-11 PM

Toast to Health and Happiness, to Benefit Double H Ranch’s Adaptive Winter Sports Program, Davidson Bros Brewery 5:30-8:30 PM

D EC E M B E R

DECE M BER

D ECEMBER

Eat at Cantina Restaurant and 50% of Lunch and Dinner Proceeds Donated to Local Charity Jake’s Help from Heaven

For more information and to buy tickets for any of the events listed here, go to thesaratogasocial.com/event-calendar

21 30 1

NOVEMBER

NOV- DEC

DECEMBER

The Saratoga Springs Preseravation Foundation’s Open House at the Algonquin Building ALL DAY

Theia Trunk Show with Designer Don O’Neill Featuring their Spring 2016 Collection at the Lodge 7-9 PM

Saratoga Festival of Trees Preview Reception at the Saratoga City Cente

Saratoga Festival of Trees to Benefit Catholic Charities, Saratoga City Center

Victorian Streetwalk & Tree Lighting Ceremony, Various Locations

6-8 PM

ALL DAY

5-10 PM

NOV E MBER

ALL DAY

DEC E MBER

DECE MB E R

DECEMBER

J A N UA RY

JAN UARY

The Saratoga Springs History Museum’s Holiday Gala at The Canfield Casino

The Flower And Fruit Mission of Sartatoga’s Winter Ball at The Canfield Casino

The 20th Anniversary of First Night Saratoga, Various Locations

Hattie’s Annual Mardi Gras Celebration to Benefit SPAC at The Canfield Casino

16Th Annual Double H Ranch Tuscan Dinner at Glen Sanders Mansion

6:30-11 PM

6:30-11:30 PM

6 PM - Midnight

6-10 PM

A Purple Tie Affair, to Benefit the Leukemia and Lymophoma Society The National Museum of Dance

7-11 PM

5:30-9:30 PM 37

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

Saratoga

It is so nice to have people in my life who are stable and supportive and really are just here for you. Hannah Sage

SPONSOR SCHOLAR

t is a Monday afternoon and inside a room in the library at Saratoga Springs High School, a group of about 30 students is gathered listening to Saratogian Jim LaVigne talk about college visits. There are empty pizza boxes in a pile in the middle of the room and no one is moving so much as a muscle as Jim describes the experience of taking other students who have sat in that room to see the Skidmore campus for the first time. Jim’s recollections are paramount to these students as they work to achieve their dream, something neither their parents or in some cases, any relative has done before them to go to college. If you haven’t heard of Saratoga SponsorA-Scholar, it’s time to get to know some of Saratoga’s youngest and brightest rising stars. They are kids who have managed to survive every day in the midst of some of life’s most fundamental challenges, and

not only that, they are pushing themselves to entirely new levels of success. Students are nominated for the SSAS program in 9th Grade, based on financial need, coupled with having shown a passionate commitment to their education. The program begins the next year and plays a critical role over the next three years and into college, providing them with two of the things they need most—financial assistance and support.

just to send in an application. There was no way he could have applied he said; at that price, it would be impossible. But instead of walking away, Jamie was able to turn to SSAS and quickly access the money he needed to apply to school. This January, Jamie will graduate from RIT. This is just one example of the countless hurdles needing to be overcome by SSAS participants, while they also deal with very challenging home lives.

The financial assistance provides relief for the scholars in many areas. In particular, it helps with the unanticipated costs associated with getting to college, an enxpense that sometimes takes many of the scholars by surprise. Scholar Jamie Perez talks about his experience applying to colleges and how thorough he’d been about his selection, researching 25 schools, before narrowing it down to ten. But with everything he’d worked so hard for on the line, he describes being totally unaware of the $50-$75 filing fee required by each

To help them cope, SSAS is also there with mentors, coming in the form of mentors and tutors, as well as support staff at the high school. Weekly homework sessions and access to tutors keep the academics at the forefront as they make their way to senior year. The relationships that they form with their mentors mean they always have someone there, ready to listen, encourage and help.

College has always been in the back of my mind and something that I knew I wanted. But I didn’t really start working toward that goal until SSAS was presented to me.

In short, the small, dedicated group of individuals who founded SSAS seven years ago has been able to create something that will continue on, they hope, for generations. We had an opportunity to sit down with Co-Founder Jim LaVigne and talk about the experience of creating SSAS and the impact of the program in Saratoga. We also got to meet several of the students and ask them about their hopes for the future and what being in this unique program means to them.

Jonah Beer

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

MEET the SCHOLARS

I am trying to go above and beyond now and do everything I can.

SARATOGA SPRINGS HIGH SCHOOL

Jaime Perez

JAIME PEREZ Senior Rochester Institute of Technology Major: Management and Finance, with a minor in international business

to take advantage of it. I always thought I would have to figure it all out on my own, but now I have this whole, big supportive community around me. They’ve given me financial support but also the inside track about getting into college and all this information I never would have had. In terms of what I want to study in college, I love History and English but things dealing with psychology and belief systems are really interesting to me.

Moved to Saratoga Springs in 2005 from Mexico City.

You too can support students in Saratoga Sponsor-A-Scholar! To make a donation, learn more about becoming a mentor and for news on the upcoming Derby Party, please visit SaratogaSponsorAScholar.org.

Where did the idea for SSAS come from? The idea originally was brought to me and Saratoga Springs eight years ago by Lew and Pat Titterton who had experience with Capital Region Sponsor-A-Scholar, serving Albany, Troy and Schenectady students. We organized a public introduction of the concept at Saratoga National Golf Club. We were fortunate that over 40 community and business leaders attended and listened to both our proposal and students who had benefitted from the Capital Region SponsorA-Scholar program. At the end of that meeting, we had 28 pledges of $10,000 each, over a five-year period, that paid for our first 28 student’s seven-year participation in the program. We were equally fortunate to have Skidmore College, the Saratoga Springs city school district and Saratoga Mentoring become our partners in marshalling the resources required to 4 0 make the program effective.

SSAS accepts donations year-round through pledges and various opportunities to sponsor an individual student. There are also mentoring opportunities for adults who wish to become involved in the life of one of the program’s high school students as a role model, coach and friend. Mentors can expect to have a relationship with their scholar for at least four years, and are a critical part of the program and the student’s success. Additionally, SSAS is pleased to announce the addition of its new major annual fundraising event, a Kentucky Derby Party to be held on May 7, 2016, at The Lodge. The upscale event will include live music, a sumptuous dinner, plenty of cocktails and a betting window for the Derby.

Can you describe the impact working with the Scholars has had on you? Anyone who knows me knows I am not a touchy-feely person, but this program is really heartwarming. I remember taking our first 10 students on a day long tour of Skidmore College and seeing the wonder in their faces as they toured what is one of our country’s most beautiful campuses. One student asked the annual cost and you could see their wonder turn to dismay as they immediately thought this was a dream they would never realize. Skidmore then brought in ten EOP students from the Capital Region, some of whom were former Capital Region Sponsor-AScholar students, to tell their stories to the SSAS students.

One by one, each told our students how heor she was able to approach graduation with manageable or no debt and one by one, our SSAS students raised their heads and engaged in a conversation of hope. They went from dismay to joy. I had to get up and leave the room.

Where do you see SSAS ten years from now? 100% of the high school graduates in our first five graduating classes were accepted into colleges. I want that to be 100% of our first 15 classes ten years from now. My dream is that our community recognizes the importance of continuing this program and that in the next decade we can permanently endow the program by raising $2 million. The interest alone from a $2 million endowment will allow ten new students to be accepted into the program each year in perpetuity.

When I got into the program I thought it would help my chances of finishing high school. But they started taking us to the college campuses and having these meetings with us about applying and I just started to think maybe I can do something better. I am trying to go above and beyond now and do everything I can. My brother and sister are also in the program. My sister is 15 and she is in high school and we are just pushing her so she also has the chance to go wherever she wants to go. When I was applying to schools I was looking at like 25 different colleges, which I then narrowed down to about ten. I didn’t even know at the time though that just sending in the application, each required paying a $50 or $75 fee. I woudn’t have been able to cover that cost were it not for SSAS. I ended up picking between RIT and Skidmore. I had no idea that these people who I met in my first year of SSAS would still be with me, helping me and guiding me as I go into my last semester of college.

JONAH BEER 11th Grade Saratoga Springs High School GPA: 87.32% College has always been in the back of my mind and something that I knew I wanted. But I didn’t really start working toward that goal until SSAS was presented to me. My home sitaution isn’t really set up to get me to college, so I could kind of get good grades even though I was cruising though, not really trying. But then this opportunity came my way, and I just thought this is too important, I need

HANNAH SAGE 12th Grade Saratoga Springs High School GPA: 96.14% My sister is a year older than me and she is in SSAS and I wanted to do the program becasue, well, I REALLY, REALLY want to go to colllege. And I work really hard and my grades are really good, but in my family, I don’t know. The conditions are just not optimal for going to college, so an opportunity like this? It was like YES. My sister is in Skidmore now, but all my other siblings dropped out of high school and got their GED. I think it is so nice that there are people out there who want to help people who are in our situation. I am committed to working hard and being successful and then hopefully I will be in a position to help and give back in the same way. I also just always expected to do everything on my own, so it is great to have people here who can give me guidance. Everything about the college admissions process is intimidating and I just don’t have parents who are around to help me figure out what my AP course load should be, or know anything about the process. I am thinking about mechanical engineering, so I am looking at Syracuse or RPI. If someone had the opportunity to do this and didn’t? Wow, you wouldn’t know what you are missing out on! It is so nice to have people in my life who are stable and supportive and really are just here for you.

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

Hatties at HOME J Jasper and Beth Alexander show us how Thanksgiving is really done!

asper and Beth Alexander are no strangers to a good bird, and on Thanksgiving, we all know it’s all about the bird. Owners of famous Hattie’s Restaurant in Saratoga and Hattie’s Chicken Shack in Wilton, they know a thing or two about chicken and down-home, American cooking, which is why we immediately thought of them when we asked ourselves, “whose Thanksgiving would we most want to crash?”.

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

he spread they prepared for us did not disappoint. The smells when you entered their (beautiful) home were intoxicating. The table- gorgeous and unpretentious, just how this harvest holiday should be. The turkey… well, only the pictures (and your own taste buds) can do that justice. There are almost no words for how delectable it looked and tasted (ok, if we were going to try, perfectly crispy skin with the most juicy turkey meat we’ve ever had). Beth’s tips for a top-notch turkey? “Always get a fresh turkey. It tastes better than a frozen one. We always get ours from Misty Knolls Farms.” Also, it’s all about the brine. They recommend brining for two to three days, but definitely no less than two.

PHOTO CREDIT

Amber Osterhout

The sides were equally amazing. The colors, textures, and aromas made for a perfect Thanksgiving feast. Some were Beth’s own recipes (which she has so graciously shared with us here) and the other sides are all available from Hattie’s through their catering services, if cooking just isn’t your thing. Our favorite, if we had to choose one? The caramelized shallot and Brussels sprouts hash with bacon is unreal. And lucky for you, you can try it for yourself using Beth’s recipe. We definitely recommend adding the bacon… I mean, when in doubt, bacon- right?

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

The Decor In this food-loving family, the table is often front and center, so they know how to set it right! For Thanksgiving, they set it formal enough to feel special but kept it from feeling too fussy. After all, Thanksgiving should be comfortable and easy- the focus should be on the food and family, and not whether you’re using the right fork. Beth’s silver and Spode china elevates the decor, while the baby pumpkins and sparkly “disco turkey”, as she calls it, add layers of whimsy and nature that layer the look for a richer overall aesthetic. Likewise, the eclectic crystal candlesticks and glassware on her sideboard (a combination of Tiffany and flea market finds), mixed with natural fall sprays, gourds, and pumpkins, twinkle in all the right places while still reminding us of the earthy, autumn nature of the holiday.

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

The Recipes

Caramelized Shallots and Brussels Sprouts

COURT E S Y O F H AT T I E S

Turkey Stock

Italian Sausage Stuffing

Makes 10 cups

Makes 8 (side dish) servings

INGREDIENTS

• 3 pounds turkey wings (about 3 large wings)

• 1 (3/4- to 1-pound) round Italian loaf, cut into 1-inch cubes (8 cups)

• 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh cranberries

• 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) butter, divided

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

• 1 cup sugar

• 1/2 pound shallots, thinly sliced

• 1 medium onion, chopped (about 2 cups)

• 2 pounds sweet Italian sausage, casings removed, divided

• 1 cup water

• Coarse kosher salt

• 1 medium carrot, chopped (about 1/2 cup)

• 1 stick unsalted butter, cut into pieces

• 2 1/4 teaspoons finely grated orange peel

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 1 medium stalk celery with leaves, chopped (about 1/2 cup)

• 3 medium onions, chopped

• 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt

• 4 teaspoons sugar

• 6 sprigs fresh parsley

• 4 large celery ribs, chopped

• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom seeds, lightly crushed, from 1

• Thick cut bacon cubed (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, crumbled

• 5 garlic cloves, minced

• Green cardamom pods

• 1/4 teaspoon whole black peppercorns

• 4 large eggs, lightly beaten

• 1 vanilla bean

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 dried bay leaf

• 3/4 cup heavy cream, divided

• 1 cup water

Equipment: Large flameproof roasting pan

• 1/2 cup turkey giblet stock or reduced-sodium chicken broth

Melt 3 tablespoons butter in medium skillet over medium heat. Add shallots; sprinkle with coarse kosher salt and pepper. Sauté until soft and golden, about 10 minutes. Add vinegar and sugar. Stir until brown and glazed, about 3 minutes. Halve brussels sprouts. Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sprouts; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Sauté until brown at edges, 6 minutes. Add 1 cup water and 3 tablespoons butter. Sauté until most of water evaporates and sprouts are tender but still bright green, 3 minutes. Add shallots; season with salt and pepper.

PREPARATION:

Makes 8 to 10 servings

• 1 1/2 pounds brussels sprouts, trimmed

PREPARATION:

I always add bacon to the dish and cook brussel sprouts in a little of the bacon grease.

Bring Hattie’s home for the Holidays! Thanksgiving Sides Available from Hattie’s Candied Yams Sheldon Farms Mashed Potatoes Green Beans Collard Beans Biscuits Cornbread Whole Pies: Pecan Pie Sweet Potato Pie 48

The Recipes

COURT E S Y O F H AT T I E S

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

Please email llona@hattiesrestaurant.com for inquiries and pricing.

Position rack in top third of oven and

preheat to 450°F. Using heavy cleaver, chop wings into 2-inch pieces. (See Test-Kitchen Tips, below.) Spread wings in roasting pan and roast, turning with tongs after 20 minutes, until deeply browned, about 45 minutes. Meanwhile, in 6-quart stock pot over moderate heat, heat oil until hot but not smoking. Add onion, carrot, and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft, about 10 minutes. Add wings and any pan juices and reduce heat to low. Straddle roasting pan across 2 burners on high heat and cook until browned bits are sizzling, about 1 minute. Add 2 cups cold water and bring to boil, scraping up browned bits with flat wooden spatula or spoon. Pour liquid into pot and add enough cold water to cover ingredients by 1 inch, about 14 cups. Raise heat to high and bring to boil, skimming foam from surface. Add parsley, thyme, peppercorns, and bay leaf. Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, 3 hours, adding water as needed to keep wings covered. Pour stock through fine-mesh sieve into large bowl, discarding solids. If using immediately, let stand until yellow fat rises to surface, 1 to 2 minutes, then skim off and discard fat. If not using immediately, place bowl in larger bowl of iced water. Let stand, changing ice water as it warms, until stock is tepid, at least 30 minutes. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, then scrape off and discard fat. (Stock can be made ahead and refrigerated in airtight container up to 2 days or frozen up to 6 months. Reheat in saucepan over low heat before using for stuffing and turkey.)

• 1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (2 ounces) • 1/2 cup coarsely chopped flat-leaf parsley Equipment: A 4-qt shallow ceramic or glass baking dish (14 by 10 by 2 3/4 inches) PREPARATION:

Preheat oven to 350°F with rack in middle.

Cardamom and Vanilla Bean Cranberry Sauce

PREPARATION: Bring all ingredients to boil in heavy medium saucepan, stirring often. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until most of cranberries burst, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes. Add cardamom. Split vanilla bean lengthwise in half; scrape seeds into cranberry mixture and add bean. Transfer sauce to medium bowl. Cool, cover, and refrigerate cranberry sauce.

Do Ahead: Basic Cranberry Sauce can be prepared 1 week ahead. Keep refrigerated.

Generously butter baking dish. Put bread in 2 shallow baking pans and bake, switching position of pans halfway through baking, until just dried out, about 10 minutes.

Turkey Brining Method

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, then cook half of sausage, stirring and breaking it into small pieces, until golden brown, about 6 minutes. Transfer with a slotted spoon to a large bowl. Brown remaining sausage in remaining tablespoon oil, transferring to bowl.

INGREDIENTS

Tools and Materials:

• 7 quarts (28 cups) water

5-gallon brining container (tub, stockpot, or bucket)

Pour off fat from skillet and wipe clean. Heat butter over medium heat until foam subsides, then cook onions, celery, garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper, stirring occasionally, until golden, 12 to 15 minutes. Add vegetables and bread to sausage. Whisk together eggs, 1/2 cup cream, turkey stock, cheese, and parsley, then stir into stuffing and cool completely, about 30 minutes. Reserve 5 cups stuffing to stuff turkey and spoon remainder into baking dish, then drizzle with remaining 1/4 cup cream. Cover stuffing and chill. About 1 hour before stuffed turkey is finished roasting, bring dish of stuffing to room temperature. When turkey is done, increase oven temperature to 425°F and bake stuffing, covered tightly with foil, until hot throughout, about 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake until top is golden and crisp, about 15 minutes more.

Makes enough brine for one 18- to 20-pound turkey

• 1 1/2 cups coarse salt • Orange peels from 4 oranges • 6 bay leaves • 2 tablespoons whole coriander seeds

Large brining or oven-roasting bag Refrigerator (or a cooler with ice)

• 1 tablespoon dried juniper berries • 2 tablespoons whole black peppercorns • 1 tablespoon fennel seeds • 1 teaspoon black or brown mustard seeds • 1 fresh whole turkey (18 to 20 pounds) • 1 bottle dry Riesling • 2 medium onions, thinly sliced • 6 garlic cloves, crushed • 1 bunch fresh thyme • 1 bunch fresh rosemary PREPARATION: 48 hours before roasting turkey, bring 1 quart water, the salt, bay leaves, and spices to a simmer, stirring until salt has dissolved. Let cool for 5 minutes.

Submerge turkey in brine in large bucket. Refrigerate. Pat turkey dry before roasting.

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

W e R e c o mm e n d . . . showing up with the GermainRodan Pear-de-Pear Liquor. This no-joke aged liquor shows as a very high-end brandy with pear essence. For the host, welcome your guests with a splash of the Germain-Rodin in sparkling wine, and revel in self-satisfaction when they say, “mmm, what is that deliciousness?” If you’re the guest, wrap it as a hostess gift and comment how beautifully it is served neat with apple pie.

Owner of

Saratoga Wine Spirits Ah, the joy of Thanksgiving, the succulent food, the warm company of family and friends, and finally, no judgment for popping the cork by, say, early afternoon. Thanksgiving is a proverbial lay-up in the wine world in that we, to a large degree of certainty, know what’s going to be on the table. Whether you’re a host or a guest, here are a couple of ideas that will help liven up the day. Have a happy and safe holiday season. Cheers!

On the wine side, we love the Waterbrook Melange served as your house white. Waterbrook miraculously pulls off an absolutely crazy white blend: Pinot Gris, Chard, Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Viognier and Albarino. You can thank us later because everyone likes this wine, and it happens to have just the right fruit and acidity to perfectly complement your Thanksgiving cuisine.

Wine and spirits are a wonderful holiday gift as they are truly meant to be shared. So unless you know the recipient to be a die-hard Cali Cab lover or buttery-Chardor-bust type, take the opportunity to get a little creative. Finding an exceptional bottle of wine for a good price is like finding a needle in a haystack. Luckily, most hands-on wine stores have a few really good needles, you just have to ask. We found a gorgeous Gigondas by Domain du Cayron. This Southern Rhone blend is magic in a bottle at about $35. This really drinks like a bottle twice the price!

The other way to go is to pick a nice spirit. With so many quality products on the market, we like to gift a product with a cool story, like Blantons Bourbon. Blantons boasts itself as the first single-barrel bourbon in the world. The giftee may also appreciate that the horse and jockey is one of a set of eight collectible stoppers depicting a Thoroughbred in full stride. Pretty cool. Gifts are to the holidays as sparkling wine is to New Year’s Eve... always there, and some are better than others. There’s no better time to get the good stuff, perhaps you like a more masculine, yeasty champagne like Bollinger or a feminine, citrusy one such as Nicholas Feuillatte? We like Louis Roederer’s Brut Premier which is right in the middle. With sophistication and elegance and clean flavor, this little brother to Chrystal is sure to please for under $50.

If the size of your party, or thirst, forces you to depart from the Champagne region, worry not. There are many sparkling wines made on our side of the pond. Tattinger’s Domaine Carneros is a delicious, well-made brut sparkling out of Napa for under $30. Finally, if you’re popping bubbly for the masses, look for a nice entry level Cava. Ours is the Segura Viudas for around $10.

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

by ROBIN DALTON

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

flower fruit

A S a r at o g a H o s p i ta L M ISSION

The Saratoga Hospital’s Flower and Fruit Mission will be holding its annual Snow Ball on Saturday, December 5 this year. In support of Women’s Health Services at Saratoga Hospital, I wanted to share my own experience in their Maternity Ward as well as an interview with Doris, who has been a nurse at Saratoga Hospital for over 8 years. Robin: I have been a frequent visitor in Saratoga Hospital’s Maternity Ward, having delivered all three of my children there, now almost 3, 4 and 5 . Childbirth was certainly something that despite my best efforts, I couldn’t plan for, and there were about a million little things that took me by surprise. One was how much of a role the nurses at the hospital would play in how I experienced my children’s delivery and the joyous, unpredictable transition into parenthood. Beyond the physical care, I had no idea about the amount of

emotional support I would look to them for and what a great comfort they would be to me as I welcomed John, Charlie and Alice into the world. This was particularly true during the birth of my daughter, Alice, who was born after an easy pregnancy, early in the morning, almost three years ago. I was thrilled to finally have a little girl and everything seemed as it should for a brief time. After getting settled back into my room, I learned her breathing was very labored

and then minutes later, that her lungs were full of fluid. A team from Albany Medical Center was already en route and I had five minutes with my little girl before she would leave for the NICU. I had no choice but to stay behind in Saratoga, alone, while I recovered from my C-section. The next four days were the toughest of my life, as the uncertainty of having an ill child is relentless and too terrifying to put into words. But whenever I reflect on that time, one of the things I remember the most was the compassion I felt around me. Every nurse in the labor and delivery ward somehow knew exactly how to support me and take care of my needs, when all I could think about was what was supposed to happen and didn’t. Fortunately, our story had a happy ending and as we are about to celebrate our healthy, happy little girl’s third birthday, sharing our experience and supporting the maternity ward has never felt so important. Unbeknownst to some, the maternity ward is supported by one specific volunteer group at Saratoga Hospital, The Flower and Fruit Mission. The history of the Flower and Fruit Mission dates back to 1904 when they were formed with the sole purpose of raising money for Women’s Health Services.

They have two major annual events, one of which is the winter dinner dance. Over the years, the Mission’s work has paid for everything from continuing education for nurses, to purchasing a computerized birthing simulator and so much more. To better understand the impact of the Flower and Fruit Mission’s contributions to patient care, I sat down to chat with Doris, who has been a nurse at Saratoga Hospital for 8 years.

Why did you become a labor and delivery nurse? I knew going through nursing school that OB was what I wanted to do. I couldn’t get enough when we were doing our rotations. I’ve been at Saratoga Hospital going on 8 years now and I love it. Everybody here is kind of like family; if something happens to one of us, we all feel it like it’s part of us.

When did you first hear about the Flower and Fruit Mission? I knew about the Flower and Fruit Mission the minute I started working here; they do so much for our unit. They recently purchased all of the reclining chairs that you see in each room, for our new dads to sleep in, and also supply the bags of baby shampoos and soaps that every new mom gets. The Mission makes our continuing education possible and has even purchased training equipment for us. They do so much and everything they do leads back to why we are here, to help our patients.

What is the day to day experience of working in labor and delivery like? I make sure I connect with my patients and really try to become part of them while they

are here. Walking from one room and into the next, you experience all different types of people and personalities, but providing the same level of care across the board is what is the most important thing.

Childbirth is so full of emotion. How does that affect how you do your job? We notice that patients come in with a lot of worry and anxiety and that is one of the biggest challenges. You have to let the patient know that you are 110% going to support them and take care of them. Just last week I had a patient whose anxiety level was really high. I walked into the room and said ‘OK, we are doing X, Y and Z and I will be right next to you, I am not leaving your side. She was going to the OR to have her baby and I just kept telling her, “I am not leaving, I will be right here until I let go of your hand and your

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

I have experienced that loss myself. I had a daughter I lost at 22 weeks. So I can relate and tell them I understand; I know you don’t think there is going to be an end to this pain, but you need to go on and keep living and you will get through this. husband takes it.” And she had total trust in me, that I would take care of her, and it just gave her the confidence she needed. The hardest part is the emotions though, this job is the best of the best and the worst of the worst. Three of us were able to attend a bereavement program and when I talk about emotion and the worst of the worst, that’s it. Those moms need all the support they can get from us. I don’t leave the room, I stay right beside them and do everything I can to help.

And “the best of the best?” My niece delivered here on January 9, when she was only 26 weeks pregnant. She didn’t even think she was in labor, she thought she was getting a stomach flu. She got here and the baby came within minutes and didn’t even weigh 2 lbs. The teamwork here is really incredible and they responded to everything all the while knowing it was my niece and part of my family. The baby

came through it and today is thriving and healthy and will be having her birthday in a few months. That represents the best of the best to me, it is why we do what we do.

Have you ever considered a different area of nursing? The nurses here are special people and coaching women through childbirth is almost like a high we live off of. I could never leave labor and delivery. I became a grandmother this year and got to be with my daughter-in-law and daughter when they delivered last Spring. After my son’s baby was born, he called me to tell me how much respect he had for what I did everyday and how amazed he was by it all. I was right next to his wife, holding her hand and coaching her every step of the way and pulled my son into it as well, to make sure he was part of the birth. He couldn’t believe it was what I do every day. So when my

daughter was deciding on whether or not she wanted me in her delivery room, my son said “You’re not going to want anyone but her there”. I just tell them that this is my calling, it’s why I love what I do.

There have been so many great additions to the Maternity Ward here like the tub and water birthing room. Are there any other changes ahead? We are so excited about what is going to be happening here. In January, we have six midwives who will be joining us, who will be employed by the hospital, and we are so excited about the new opportunity it will bring to our patients. There will always be a midwife on the unit, around the clock, and we can’t wait to start offering that service to our patients.

This article was adapted from it’s original version, published online December 2014.

To make a reservation for the Flower and Fruit Mission’s Snow Ball on December 5, call (518) 584-4770 or visit www.flowerandfruitsnowball.eventbrite.com

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

y r r e M

Eat Drink and be THANKSGIVING TUNES

Eat, Drink and Be Merry

Christmas Music that Doesn’t Suck

A time to laugh, a time to dance, a time to embrace and a time to cook...it’s Thanksgiving... blast this playlist to inspire while you’re knee deep in the kitchen prepping the big meal. Eat, drink and be merry.

Christmas time is here and I’m already tired of the music heard in the store, on the elevator, on the radio, frankly everywhere. So, I respectfully submit to you a playlist of Christmas music that doesn’t suck. Pour a glass of wine, wrap those presents and get lost in sound.

Songs in Playlist

NEW YEAR’S TUNES

Brand New Day It’s a new year, a new day, a new beginning. Time to be bold, time to be wiser, if only this headache would go away. Here’s your playlist to celebrate the promise of the new year.

Songs in Playlist

• Turn! Turn! Turn! - The Byrds

• Linus and Lucy - Vince Guaraldi Trio

• You Gotta Be - Des’ree

• Red, Red Wine - UB40

• I Saw Three Ships - Sting

• Black Coffee in Bed - Squeeze

• Peel Me a Grape - Diana Krall

• 2000 Miles - The Pretenders

• Good Vibrations - The Beach Boys

• Tupelo Honey/Angel - Cassandra Wilson

• My Favorite Things - John Coltrane

• Here Comes the Sun - The Beatles

• Church - Lyle Lovett

• This Christmas - Donny Hathaway

• Heroes - David Bowie

• Thanksgiving Theme - Vince Guaraldi Trio

• Back Door Santa - Clarence Carter

• Thank You - Dido

• You’re a Mean One Mr. Grinch Thurl Ravenscroft

• Dog Days are Over Florence + The Machine

• Our House - Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young

• Brand New Day - Sting

• Back in the High Life Again Steve Winwood

• River - Joni Mitchell • Christmas Wrapping - The Waitresses

• You Make My Dreams Daryl Hall & John Oates

• Ho Hey - The Lumineers

• Jesus is Just Alright - The Doobie Brothers

• Beautiful Day - U2

• This Must Be the Place - Talking Heads

• Christmas Time is Here Vince Guaraldi Trio

• Champagne Supernova - Oasis

• Tripping Billies - Dave Matthews Band • We Are Family - Sister Sledge

CHRISTMAS TUNES

Holiday Music Stylings by Jim Mastrianni

• Get Lucky - Get Lucky

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

A Fine Affair at Home

Hosting Tips from event planner Wendy Lawrence of A Fine Affair

You don’t need to get stressed when hosting a holiday party at your home. It’s easy to turn your house into a winter wonderland if you get a little creative with these ideas from our lead designer and owner, Michael Panza.

egin your planning by starting with a theme. It’s as easy as choosing a color or as elaborate as a destination themed holiday party. You don’t have to turn your entire house into Paris or New Orleans….just pick an area that will serve as the main focal point, like your dining room table for example, and appoint it with themed décor. If you decide to go with a color, choose one and add touches of it throughout the house. Below is a beautiful Red Themed table. If you don’t have it in your budget to purchase you can DIY the Red stars by checking out this site: www.homemade-gifts-made-easy. com/paper-star-lantern.html Now, just carry the color throughout the house. Purchase a few red holiday pillows and a red plaid throw for your living room. Accent your bar area with one or two accessories. We love these hand-painted and etched glass ice bucket and shaker in tartan. Highlight your dining room table with these hemstitch red napkins and red pillar candle stands (on sale now!!!) We found all of these great selections at the local Pier 1 in Wilton. Lighting your house is one of the most important aspects of the evening. You want to choose dim lighting to create ambiance. Turn off all the lights where the party will take place and replace them with soft lighting, utilizing lots of candles to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Glass cylinders and votives with real candles are a perfect pair. But if you’re worried about open flame in your house you can always switch to LED candles. Christmas lights add a beautiful warm glow to the house. If you don’t put up a tree think about using them in a different area of your home. You can find these items at most arts and crafts stores in the area (think Michael’s or A.C. Moore)

Scent-scaping your home for a holiday party is the least expensive thing you can do and will help set the mood. Choose simple smells of the season; cinnamon, evergreen, fresh baked cookies, clove or rosemary are all excellent choices. Try this easy recipe! Put a few spices—such as cinnamon, allspice, clove, vanilla, and nutmeg—in a pot of water about half full. Let it simmer, then turn it to low, and enjoy the delicious smell that permeates your house. It’s a great trick for making your home smell like there’s something tasty baking in the oven without the added (but totally necessary) holiday calories. Unless you have the luxury of having a staff, you want to have as much of the food preparation done before your event. You don’t want to have to work at your own party! Have menu selections staged and preready to warm up before your guests arrive. We love checking out the FoodNetwork, Bon Appetite or Food & Wine for menu ideas. Michael always puts together a simple charcuterie for his guests. You can head to Roma’s Deli or Fresh Market for amazing selections. Or head to the Farmer’s Market for fresh produce such as Butternut Squash, make a delicious soup ahead of your party and offer your guests soup shooters. It’s not always as easy as it sounds but if you stay organized and a head of the game you’ll be able to enjoy your guests! The last piece of the party puzzle is selecting the appropriate music. You want the music that you play to not be distracting but you also don’t want it be “elevator music”. Pick something that your guests will mix and mingle too. Put together a playlist that includes some contemporary dance music and some classic Sinatra along with your favorite holiday songs. Don’t forget that the party starts at the front door so be sure to make your entrance festive with luminaries, Christmas lights and continue your music outside with a bluetooth speaker hidden near your front door! We love the Bose or Beats by Dre speaker but if you’re on a budget (and who isn’t during this time of the year) try the iHome Bluetooth speaker. You can purchase that on Amazon or at Target in Wilton.

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

LITTLE

The Black Book Party

Outfit Dress

The Black Tie Party

First Night

Caroline Street

Don’t Forget

NE W YEARS E V E P LANNER Everything you’ll need to know to fully embrace New Years Eve in Saratoga Springs!

Drink

A driver

Mrs London’s hot chocolate

Shearling

Rag & Bone Jeans

Small Talk

Next Morning

Cristal -vsClicquot

Brunch at Sweet Mimi’s

Volunteering next year

Workout

Your old NYE’s spent on Caroline Street

Your ID

On Couch At Home

PJ’s

The ball drop

Splurge on Veuve

NEIGHBORHOOD

Whatever isn’t at the dry cleaner

The babysitter. she wants to go out too

The neighbor’s signature drink

N/A

Binge watch Narcos

Your first night 5K time 59

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

Sometimes, the best gift doesn’t come wrapped in a box, tied with a bow. It won’t be on sale this Black Friday, and can’t be found at any of the shops in town. For many Saratogians, the best gift they will receive is time. The time donated by a volunteer who wants to make a difference, whether for an hour at the holidays, a day each month, or weekly throughout the year.

A TIME Giving by KATRINA LUCAS

he countless events The Saratoga Social covers affirm this is a generous community, blessed by many with hearts of gold and pockets of the same. But money alone can’t keep a shelter running through the frigid night, or shovel a senior’s sidewalk, or serve a warm meal with a smile. Even the fundraisers themselves can’t happen without people donating time. This holiday season, add “volunteer” to the to-do list. Help the kids make ornaments to decorate a tree for Catholic Charities. Instead of a gathering with friends, rally the gang to sort items for Franklin Community Center’s free holiday store. Start New Year’s Eve as a couple working together at First Night. If it doesn’t fit into December, don’t worry. 2016 is a Leap Year, offering everyone

an extra day to make a difference. Here are just a few ways to pay forward the invaluable gift of time.

kitchen coverage to serving food, setting up/cleaning up, monitoring the donation room, and being a companion. Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older, and are provided with a reference handbook and training. To sign up online, visit www.codebluesaratoga.org.

Community Connections Adult & Senior Center of Saratoga 5 Williams Street, Saratoga Springs Contact: Kris Wurl seniorcentervolunteer@gmail.com (518) 584-1621

Established by the Adult & Senior Center of Saratoga, Community Connections trains volunteers to provide assistance to seniors in Saratoga County. Their mission is to help seniors age in place and maintain an independent lifestyle by providing assistance when needed. Services include home visits, respite support, household chores, transportation, shopping and errands, and telephone check-ins. Volunteers are matched based on their own schedules, abilities and preferences. As little as one free hour could change a senior’s life! Learn more at www.saratogaseniorcenter.org.

Festival of Trees Catholic Charities of Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties 142 Regent Street, Saratoga Springs

Code Blue Saratoga The Salvation Army Building 27 Woodlawn Avenue, Saratoga Springs Contact: Cheryl Ann Murphy-Parant Code Blue Saratoga Director cmurphyparant@sheltersofsaratoga.org

Code Blue Saratoga is a low demand emergency homeless shelter operating when the temperature is predicted to be 20 degrees or below and/or 12+ inches of snow are forecast. Under these conditions, Code Blue Saratoga opens at 7 p.m. and closes at 8:30 a.m. Volunteers are needed to staff the shelter throughout the night in 3½ hour shifts. Positions range from front door and

Contact: Sister Charla Commins ccommins@catholicharitiessww.org (518) 576-5800

The 20th Annual Festival of Trees will be held December 2-6, 2015, at the Saratoga Springs City Center. With several special events, including the Preview Reception, Family Day Breakfast and Sundaes with Santa, the Festival is a joyful way for all ages to kick off the holiday season. The main attraction is a wonderland of more than 250 delightfully decorated trees, wreaths and centerpieces all donated and designed by community sponsors.

The Festival of Trees relies entirely on the work of volunteers. Hundreds of people donate thousands of hours of time every year to build a beautiful event that benefits a beautiful cause. Be part of something magical this holiday season! Whether volunteering for a few hours or a few days, there is a task for everyone: donate holiday décor, goods or materials; entertain attendees through music or dressed as a holiday character; decorate a tree; help with onsite logistics; or assist in managing one of the countless activities. Discover all of the opportunities at www.saratigafestivaloftrees.com.

First Night Saratoga Saratoga Arts 320 Broadway, Saratoga Springs Contact: Kate Morse, Membership and Volunteer Coordinator kmorse@saratoga-arts.org (518) 584-4132 (ext. 201)

For 20 years, First Night Saratoga has been the go-to event for families ringing in the New Year. This year’s celebration promised to be the most spectacular to date! The evening will kick off with 1,500 people running in the First Night 5K and close with the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) 50th Anniversary First Night Fireworks. First Night Saratoga would not be possible without the help of an army of volunteers. In 2014 alone, approximately 260 men and women helped oversee performance venues, answer questions and ensure that over 10,000 revelers rang in the New Year in a fun and safe manner. Volunteers are being recruited to serve as Area Managers, Site Captains and Site Hosts. Attendance at a one-hour training session is required for these positions. (All sessions are held in December.) In appreciation, Saratoga Arts provides volunteers with a complimentary First Night Saratoga admission button and a commemorative poster. Area Managers and Site Captains also receive a membership to Saratoga Arts.

Franklin Community Center, Inc. 10 Franklin Street, Saratoga Springs Contact: Jaime Williams, Associate Director jaime@franklincommunitycenter.org (518) 587-9826

Franklin Community Center is a non-profit human service agency that has provided basic necessities and services to less fortunate individuals and families in Saratoga Springs for 30 years. Serving more than 6,000 people annually, Franklin Community Center provides efficient and effective services to promote healthy lifestyles and positive changes, always pledging to “send people out the door with whatever they came in looking for.” And they often count on volunteers to help do just that! This holiday season, there is an immediate need to cover the weekly, Tuesday morning (8:50 a.m.-1:15 p.m.) shift at the Center’s Free Store. But one-time volunteer opportunities are also available. The Holiday Assistance Program needs sorters and organizers, as well as many hands to help with the Center’s holiday shopping day. For more information, visit www.franklincommunitycenter.org.

Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council, Inc. (EOC) 39 Bath Street | Ballston Spa Contact: Kristi Fox, Volunteer Coordinator k_fox@saratogaeoc.org (518) 288-3206, ext. 111

The Saratoga County EOC seeks volunteers year-round to help in the Food Pantry, stocking shelves, filling food orders, carrying orders to cars, cleaning the pantry and rotating stock on the shelves. The EOC takes pride in offering a variety of staples, including dairy, meat, personal care items and even pet food. Their food pantry volunteers help EOC provide a hand up for every customer.

Interested? Review the job descriptions and volunteer handbook at www.saratoga-arts. org/firstnight/volunteers.

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

Shifts vary from two hours to a full day. The Food Pantry is open Monday, 12:30 p.m.-5 p.m.; Tuesday, 9 a.m.- 12 Noon; Wednesday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; and Friday, 12:30 p.m.-4 p.m.

Saratoga Hospital Volunteer Guild 211 Church Street, Saratoga Springs Contact: Betsy St. Pierre estpierre@saratogacare.org

The Saratoga Hospital Volunteer Guild was founded in 1948 by 14 women whose intent was to establish a service organization that would assist with “any project” to “help the Hospital in the community.” Today’s Guild boasts more than 300 volunteers, men and women who donate more than 50,000 hours of service each year, operating the hospital gift shop, assisting at blood drives, coordinating the “Lights of Love” holiday memorial and more. Volunteer recruitment is year-round for the Guild and there are countless opportunities to help. Visit www.saratogacare.org/aboutus/volunteers to complete a volunteer application.

Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation 112 Spring Street, Suite 203, Saratoga Springs Contact: Nicole Babie, Membership & Programs Coordinator ntotaro@saratogapreservation.org (518) 587-5030

The Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation is always looking for help to meet their mission, promoting preservation and enhancement of the architectural, cultural and landscaped heritage of Saratoga Springs. Volunteer opportunities include administrative tasks such as filing and mailing preparation, and logistical support of special events and programs. The Foundation also welcomes new volunteers to serve on event, membership, and advocacy committees.

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park 80 Scout Road, Gansevoort Contact: Margo Olson info@wiltonpreserve.org

Volunteers are needed to staff the cross country ski and snowshoe rental cabin at Camp Saratoga this January and February. The small, heated cabin located at Parking Lot #1 is open weekends to offer trail maps and equipment rentals. The more volunteers available, the longer the cabin can remain open throughout the season! The Wildlife Preserve is also recruiting volunteers to help with the annual Moonlight Ski and Snowshoe event on January 23, 2016. Afternoon shifts set up the luminaries lining the trails, while evening positions include trail monitors and traffic control. Indoor opportunities are also available to facilitate snowshoe rentals, manage the bake sale and serve hot cocoa.

up three kettles on Washington Street in the city center, and more than 150,000 Christmas dinners were provided for the needy thanks to kettle collections in the United States that year. Four years later, in 1901, kettle contributions in New York City provided the funds for the first great Christmas dinner in Madison Square Garden, an event that continued for many years. Today, families receive grocery vouchers to buy and prepare their own dinners. But the homeless are still welcomed into hundreds of Salvation Army centers to share the joy of Christmas, complete with a hot dinner. Be part of a 124-year old tradition this holiday season. Ring the bell, sing a carol and share the generosity of the red kettle! Sign up at www.empire.salvationarmy.org/ EmpireNY/volunteer.

A Christmas Tradition In 1891, Captain Joseph McFee committed to provide 1,000 of San Francisco’s poorest with Christmas dinner. The problem was that he had no money to purchase the necessary food. Remembering “Simpson’s Pot,” a large stew pot into which passersby placed coins to help the poor, Captain McFee requested permission to place a similar pot at the Oakland ferry landing. A simple sign across the top urged people to “Keep the Pot Boiling,” and almost instantly, it was filled with the money needed to fund his promise. By Christmas 1895, the kettle was being used by roughly 30 Salvation Army corps along the West Coast. The idea spread when transferred Army officer William McIntyre chose to make the kettle the basis of his 1897 Christmas collection in Boston. His fellow officers were reluctant to cooperate for fear of being ridiculed.

GIVE A LITTLE IMAGINATION THIS HOLIDAY SEASON. Automoblox 4 Blue Orange Games 4 Brio 4 Bruder Corolle 4 Douglas 4 Djeco 4 Go ¨tz Dolls 4 Green Toys Gund 4 Haba 4 Harrisville Designs 4 Hape 4 Jellycat Kathe Kruse 4 Manhattan Toy 4 Melissa & Doug 4 Miyim Plan 4 Playmobil 4 Ravensburger 4 Schleich Spicebox 4 Squishables and so much more!

Undaunted, McIntyre, his wife and sister set

461 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, New York 518.587.2143 www.gwillikerstoys.com

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

I love this program! My children would never had been able to participate in skiing or snowboarding without Double H.

A frosty mission that warms the soul

Parent of twin boys with Visual Impairments

by ROBIN DALTON

C Inspiring Joy & Possibilities for Over 20 Years

harles R. Wood and the actor Paul Newman founded Double H Ranch in Lake Luzerne, New York in 1992. It began with a summer camp program the following year to serve children with life threatening illnesses. Over 20 years later it has grown into a year-round facility for children with serious health issues and their family members. Double H was formerly The Hidden Valley Ranch, a yearround retreat and dude ranch. It was built in 1939 and operated until the late the 1980â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. It was a popular place to learn to ski, with a small chairlift and 100 vertical feet of trails. When Charley Wood purchased the property in 1992, he was inspired by the possibilities of a program for children with the small hill and chairlift on site. He reached out to experts in the ski industry, and the Double H Adaptive Winter Sports program was born in 1998. We had the pleasure of chatting with Jacqueline Royael, Director of Operations at Double H, about some of the magic being made on the mountain.

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

T h e Sk i i e r s : Most of the kids we serve in AWS program are from our local area, but we do offer five residential weekends throughout the season for those living at a further distance to come and join in the fun of winter in the ADK’s as a family. A majority of our winter population are children who live in the Northeast.

I am always amazed at the dedication and selflessness of all the instructors who give of their time, week after week, in order to help these kids experience the adventure of skiing. They are awesome!! Parent of girl with Spinal Bifida

s it the first time on skis for most of the kids?

How important are the volunteer instructors to the success of the program?

Yes, for most of the children we serve it is their first time on skis and in many cases the first time they have felt the accomplishment of participating in a winter sport. Due to their diagnoses, many have never had the opportunity to ski and snowboard on a public mountain. However, given the level of training and expertise of our instructors and advancements in adaptive equipment, we can safely help a child learn the thrill of snow sports!

Our winter program is run solely through the support of our volunteers. Without their commitment, experience and compassion we could not do the work we do. Each child receives an individual lesson with 1-2 instructors, who attend 24 hours of training prior to the season on the diagnoses we serve and the adaptive equipment we use. Last year we had over 220 volunteers who gave over 40,000 hours of volunteer service. It is an incredible group of people, who give so much of themselves to help others.

What kind of reactions do you see from them on that first run down the mountain?

How does the Adaptive Winter Sports Program fit into the bigger mission of the Ranch?

I think sometimes it is more about the smile on their faces and new feeling of confidence that you notice most when a child finishes her first run, than the words they say. I am always touched by the reaction of the parents as they watch their child come down the hill doing something that they never thought would be possible. With tears in their eyes, a simple hug and am “I’m so proud of you” makes a tremendous difference.

Our winter program is one of the four programs Double H offers in our yearround program, along with our Summer Camp, Family Programs, and Hospital Outreach program. It operates under the same mission to provide programs to children living with serious illnesses and their families. The secondary mission of the Adaptive Winter Sports is to provide a unique opportunity, free of charge, to experience the thrill of outdoor winter activities for children with life threatening or chronic illnesses and their families. Our goal is for them to learn a new skill.

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

What are the ways in which people can help support the Adaptive Winter Sports Program?

Show us what you’ve got.

The support of our community is what makes our programs possible. To help bring the magic of winter to a child, people can get involved in many ways!

Tuscan Dinner at Glen Sander’s/Davidson’s event.

16th ANNUAL

TUSCAN

Sponsor a child to ski for the winter for $600.

DINNER

Donate to help purchase adaptive equipment.

1 6 A N N UA L th

double H Ranch

TUSCAN

Be a volunteer instructor for the season.

DINNER

please consider p lease con sider a a

Benefiting the Double H Ranch

sponsorshi p sponsorship

Adaptive Winter Sports Program

1 6 th A N N UA L

January 27, 2016 • 5:30pm - 9:30pm Glen Sanders Mansion • Scotia, ny

TUSCAN

DINNER

Chairpersons: Georgia & Jay Horner

PLEAS E DONAT E AN AU CTION ITEM

PLEASE DONATE

Benefits of Donating an auction item: Tax Contribution Receipt • Specially Created Signage for Your Item A Warm Heart for Helping the Children and Families of the Double H Ranch

Popular Items to donate: • • • • • •

Vacation Getaways Books Electronics Themed Gift Baskets Autographed Sports Items Spa Treatments

AN AUCTION ITEM

Auction Response

• Jewelry • Tickets to Social, Cultural, or Athletic Events • Hotel and Time-Share Stays • Professional Equipment and Services • Original Artwork

1 6 th A N N UA L • Gift Certificates to Local and National Stores • Exclusive and Unique Items are Always Appreciated!

TUSCAN

DINNER

Kindly fill out the form below by October 25, 2015 and return it to: Double H Ranch • Attn: Robin DeMattos • 97 Hidden Valley Road, Lake Luzerne, NY 12846 or call (518) 696-5921 ext 228.

Nicholas always has a great time at the HH. He loves coming up for ski lessons and the parties. He gets excited at Christmas time because he knows it almost time to ski. As parents, we enjoy coming up to visit and have learned a lot networking with other parents about programs that are available for our child. Donor Name: _________________________________________

Contact Person: _________________________________________

Address: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ City: ____________________________________________________ Daytime (or Cell) Phone: _________________________________

State: ____________

Zip: ________________________

Email: _______________________________________________

My item(s) is as follows: Description: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________

Value: $ ___________________________

Please create a gift certificate for me Restrictions (ie: expiration date, blackout date, etc.): ______________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Gift certificate attached

The Double H Ranch is a 501 (c) (3) organization. All contributions are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law.

Parent of a boy on the Autism Spectrum

It’s a special time in your life. Strut your stuff. We make it all about you. We encourage you to ask questions, and guide you in making the decisions that work best for you. Throughout the process, we will support you and your wishes in every way that we can. Midwives typically spend more time with patients during prenatal visits, and women who choose midwives are less likely to have cesarean-section births or induced labor. If you are looking for a personalized approach to your care, contact us at 518-363-8815.

2911 Route 9, Building 1, Ballston Spa saratogahospital.org

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

ALL LOCAL

Wifey

Hubby

E LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE TLOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL HE T H GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL R R FO FO GIFT GUIDE

7 2

5 1

Comfy for her but still brings the “va va voom”.

6 4

The softest sweats we’ve ever felt!

1 Yoicks: Barbour John shirt

2 The National: Smather’s and Branson “12866”/ jockey keychain

3 Silverwood: Pendleton socks

2 4 Mountain Man: Sorel boots 5 N. Fox: Shinola watch (splurge) 6 The National: Ugg sweats 7 The Alpine Shop: Hestra gloves

1 Torso: Never Say Never Sweetie Soft

5 Saddlery: Leather, fur, shearling,

2 Silverado: Suzanne Kalan rings (splurge)

6 The Alpine Shop: ANYTHING by

bra by Cosabella

and down coat by Parajumpers (splurge)

3 Encounter: Line Earnest sweater and

Mitchie’s! (hat shown)

Illesteva sunglasses

7 Saratoga Trunk: Gas Bijoux earrings

4 Lola Accessory Boutique: Rebecca Minkoff bag

8 Silverwood: Pom Pom scarf

FT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE 70

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

Kiddos

Teen

E LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE TLOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL HE T H GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL R R FO FO

Their staff picks are awesome and so helpful when choosing gifts!

6 3

4 4 1

Since he won’t wear a coat, even when it’s 10 degrees outside, trick him with an ultra-warm hoodie!

1 3 2

1 1

1 G Wilikers: G.Wilikers: Tegu magnetic

blocks, Automoblox, Educo Shake n’ Match shape sorter, Hape play salad set

2 Lex & Cleo: Maileg Mouse

3 Northshire: Books for baby, pre-k, and tween

4 The Bundle Store: Hank and Jojo socks

1 Alpine Sports Shop: Smith goggles and Burton snowboard

2 The Mountain Man: Patagonia

5 Alex and Ani: Bangles 6 Mango Tree Imports: Bag and necklace

hoodie or fleece

3 Silverwood: Bird Dog Bay keychain 4 Piper: Coat

FT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE 72

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

Teacher

& Nana

P PO LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE P LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL H E GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL T O R P FO FOR 1 Heavenscent Floral Art: Terrarium

2 Silverwood:

Paddywax relish candle

3 Soave Faire:

School Supplies

4 Savory Pantry:

The tags say “thanks for helping me grow”- how cute is that?!

Sarabeth’s hot chocolate

5 Mrs. Londons: Macaroons

5 6

Hostess

3 E LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL T H GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL R FO 1 Savory Pantry: Over the river and through the woods…if you’re visiting, bring breakfast so Grandma won’t have to cook for every meal

1 Paperdolls: Adult Coloring Book 2 Northshire: Geraldine Brooks, The Secret Chord

3 Savory Pantry: Breakfast Basket 5 Lifestyles: Michael Stars sweater 6 The National: Filson vest

1 7 Northshire: Crosley Cruiser portable turntable

8 Saratoga Wine and Spirits: A nice bottle of booze

9 The Mountain Man: Ugg slippers

Whiskey sour mix, aromatic french butcher salt

2 Silverwood:

Mudpie cheese board, towels and ornaments

3 Saratoga Olive Oil:

Olive oil

4 Saratoga Sweets: Peppermint Pig

5 Saratoga

Wine and Spirits: Bottle of Wine or Bubbly

4 Hang one of these cute plaid ornaments from a bottle of wine instead of a spending money on a fancy gift bag. A gift to enjoy now and one to enjoy always.

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE

THE

OR M ’S

Still looking for that perfect present? Try one of these out of the ordinary ideas.

Shop Our Gift Guide Alex and Ani 327 Broadway (518) 871-1638 Baby Bumps 229 Washington Street (518)583-0524 Encounter 482 Broadway (518) 450-1450

Glitter Nail Bar

Seredipity Arts Studio

Glitter Nail Bar 517 Broadway (518) 888-2943

(518) 888-2943

(518) 886-9553

G Willikers 461 Broadway (518) 587-2143

For the Spa lover….Get Glittered. Step it up with a gift certificate to an out of the ordinary nail salon, where you can sip some bubbly and be treated to some serious nail art while getting your mani and pedi. This makes a great gift for a group of friends or anyone who needs a little pampering.

For the food lover, why not surprise them with a class at Serendipity Art Studio? In addition to some spectacular art classes, this studio offers some incredible cooking classes from teachers like the owner of the Bread Basket who will teach you the art of mastering the perfect cinnamon roll, to other offerings that will have you mastering basic knife cuts to various ethnic cuisines.

Baby Bumps (518) 583-0524 Do you know someone who is expecting? Whether it’s your sister or your best friend, treat them to a package of elective 3d/4d ultrasound from Baby Bumps. Have a gender reveal or just check in on the little baby to be in this gorgeous, comfortable environment that feels more like a relaxation room in a swanky spa than a doctor’s office.

The Wishing Well (518) 584-7640

Saratoga National for NYE 518-306-2330 Give the gift of celebration this year and treat friends or family to a fabulous New Years Party. For lovebirds looking for an intimate evening, treat them to the New Year’s Eve dinner at The Wishing Well and they’ll start off their 2016 with a toast to you. Or if you think they’ll be looking to kick up their heels a bit, how about two tickets to the New Year’s Eve Bash at Saratoga National? They’ll dance away the evening to DJ Trumastr and watch the ball drop in style.

Heavenscent (518) 577-1108 Lex and Cleo 454 Broadway 518-587-0809 Lifestyles 436 Broadway (518) 584-4665 Mango Tree Imports 454 Broadway (518) 584-2646 MountainMan Outdoor Supply (518) 584-3500 Mrs. Londons 464 Broadway (518) 581-8100 N. Fox 404 Broadway (518) 587-7777 Northshire Bookstore 424 Broadway (518) 682-4200 Paper Dolls 438 Broadway (518) 583-4084 Piper 441 Broadway (518) 557-8809 Saratoga Olive Oil 484 Broadway (518) 450-1308 Saratoga National 458 Union Avenue (518) 583.4653 Saratoga Saddlery 506 Broadway (518) 580-4522 Saratoga Sweets 5 Washington Street (518) 580-0499 Saratoga Trunk 493 Broadway (518) 584-3543 Saratoga Wine and Spirits 556 Maple Avenue (518) 871-1302 Seredipity Arts Studio Congress Plaza (518) 886-9553 Silverado 446 Broadway, (518) 584-1044 Silverwood 398 Broadway (518) 583-3600 Soave Affaire 449 Broadway (518) 587-8448 The Alpine Shop 399 Clinton Street (518) 584-6290 The Bundle Store 1789 US Rt 9 (518) 557-8809 The National 385 Broadway (518) 886-8822 The Savory Pantry 486 Broadway (518) 450-1130 The Wishing Well 745 Saratoga Road (518) 584-7640 Torso 55 Front Street (518) 886-8878 Yoicks 74 Beekman Street (518)-584-2679

FT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE LOCAL GIFT GUIDE 76

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

Saratoga Hospital Annual Summer Gala

The

Saratoga WarHorse Foundation

33rd ANNUAL

WINNERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CIRCLE AFFAIRE

AU G U ST 5 , 2 0 15

AUGUST 2 4 , 2 0 1 5

Polo Meadow

The National Museum of Racing

to benefit

Saratoga Hospital

Honorary Chairpersons

Marylou Whitney and John Hendrickson

Todd and Tracy Pletcher

PHOTO CREDIT

MASTER OF CEREMONIES

Megan Mumford

Tom Durkin

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

The

Saratoga Fashion Show

5Th Annual Fundraiser

AU G U ST 2 7, 2 0 15

S ep tember 1 1 , 2 0 1 5

Saratoga Race Course to benefit

Ronald McDonald House Charities

Incredible Teddy Foundation Saratoga National hosted by

Phil and Andi Lodico

Honorary Chairpersons

Heather and Gerard Wise HOSTED BY

Natalie Siller

PHOTO CREDIT

Lisa Miller and Studio Di Luce

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

Feast of the Fields

Touched by an Angel

Se ptember 17, 2 0 15

OCTOBE R 2 2 , 2 0 1 5

Saratoga National

National Museum of Dance

to benefit

to support

Saratoga P.L.A.N.

Community Hospice

PHOTO CREDIT

Megan Mumford

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

Algonquin

by SAMANTHA BOSSHART

Bringing Luxury Back

L ong before the current boom of constructing condos and apartment buildings in Saratoga Springs, people resided in single-family homes or boarding houses. Boarding houses were largely for the working class or poor. There were no luxury apartment buildings until the late 19th century. The Collamer Building, located next to City Hall, was the first luxury apartment building to be constructed in Saratoga Springs in 1882-1883.

decade later the second modern luxury apartment building was constructed, the Pardue Building – today known as the Algonquin, at 510 Broadway. The Algonquin is considered one of Saratoga Springs’ most significant and striking, original late Victorian buildings. James H. Pardue hired noted local architect S. Gifford Slocum to design what Kettlewell describes as “the most elaborate work of architectural art visible in Saratoga Springs.” The massive, five-story, brick Romanesque Revival style building is richly detailed with geometric patterns, arched openings and polygonal domes. However, the most stunning surprise can only be seen from

the interior – the large atrium at the center of the building. Every floor has a balcony that wraps around the atrium to allow natural light into each of the surrounding apartments. Pardue was known for his china, crockery and glassware shop, China Hall, located at 452-452 Broadway. For a period of time, he resided in the Collamer Building, which may have served as the inspiration to construct his own luxury apartment building with ground-floor retail. By 1895, Pardue both lived and worked in the southern-most portion of his building. This might explain why this portion of the building has the most ornate woodwork, wainscoting, built-ins and fireplaces. A variety of tenants resided in the building shortly after it was built: a dentist, manager, superintendent of Union Electric Railroad, clerk of the American

Hotel and many others. Early retail tenants included Saratoga Victoria Spring Co., Saratoga Furniture, Leonard Music & Publishing Co., and L. F. Miller, a manufacturer, wholesale and retail dealer in carriages, harnesses, trunks and bags. By 1899, the building was renamed the Algonquin and Pardue was no longer the owner. Over time, the apartments were sub-divided into 44 units and their luxury was lost. In 2013, Aronson closed the residential portion of the building to restore the apartments to more closely reflect the original design and to meet current life safety codes. Original fireplaces remain, historic woodwork was retained, and perhaps most importantly, an insensitively added elevator was relocated to allow the atrium to be experienced as it was originally built. Upon completion this year, the Algonquin will feature 28 one-, two- and three-bedroom

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

apartments with open living spaces, hardwood floors, and private balconies; a 24/7 fitness center; assigned off-street parking; and 24-hour video surveillance. Rents range from $1,800 to $4,950. The Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation is thrilled to host an open house of the Algonquin on Saturday, November 21, in partnership with the owner, Ben Aronson. From 1 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5 p.m., the public can tour the recently renovated building. Afterward, a special reception will be held with light refreshments and presentations by local architectural historian James Kettlewell and Albert Rex of MacRostie Historic Advisors, the historic tax credit consultant of the project.

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

The Foundation hopes you will take advantage of the exciting opportunity to see the restoration of this fantastic building at the open house on Saturday, November 21. The event is generously sponsored by The Saratoga Social and MacRostie Historic Advisors. Tickets are $7 for SSPF members / $10 non-members. Tickets for the special reception are $30 for SSPF members / $35 non-members. Reservations are encouraged since space is limited. All proceeds benefit the Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s preservation efforts and restoration projects, like the recent Spirit of Life and Spencer Trask Memorial. For more information and to purchase tickets online, please go to www.saratogapreservation.org, or call (518) 587-5030. Please contact Roohan Realty for more rental information (518) 587-4500.

Founded in 1977, the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation is a private, not-for-profit organization that promotes preservation and enhancement of the architectural, cultural and landscaped heritage of Saratoga Springs.

To learn more or to join, please visit www.saratogapreservation.org. 86

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

THE

WISHING WELL Since 1936 “CLASSIC ELEGANCE” in the foothills of the Adirondacks a few miles north of Saratoga Springs 745 Saratoga Road, Wilton, NY 518.584.7640 wishingwellrestaurant.com

L -W L A F

E NT

SNAPSHOT

LOCAL FAVORITE IN A HISTORIC SARATOGA NEIGHBORHOOD

139 UNION AVENUE SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY 518.871.1473 THEBROOKTAVERN.COM

A Small Sampling of Saratoga’s Most Eligible Properties

The Classic Carriage House

The Victorian Charmer

Completely remodeled, stunning carriage house in one of Saratoga's most desired neighborhoods. Practically new interior from top to bottom with the exterior charm and history of an authentic Saratoga carriage house- the best of both worlds! Gorgeous detail and modern, open layout with great windows and light. Master bedroom suite, central air, and walkable to downtown and Skidmore. A truly unique home that is turn key.

Gracious Victorian in the heart of the historic East Side of Saratoga Springs. The beautiful exterior has porches and a deck overlooking the backyard, and a gently flowing floor plan makes it perfect for entertaining. Inside, the elegant living room with working fireplace leads to an updated kitchen, family room and lovely dining room. There 4 bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths in main living space, and the master bedroom has an enormous walk-in closet and a nearby full bath. The third floor studio- style apartment has an additional bedroom and a full bath, and could be converted into a master suite.

55 Bryan Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

Offered at $695,000. Listed by Town & Country Properties.

147 Spring St. Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

Offered at $829,000. Listed by Select Sotheby’s International Realty.

G The Stone Stunner

100 Southard Rd. Saratoga, NY 12866

LOCAL FAVORITE IN A HISTORIC SARATOGA NEIGHBORHOOD

139 UNION AVENUE SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY 518.871.1473 THEBROOKTAVERN.COM

This stone English cottage was Witt Construction's 1996 Showcase of Homes entry. The charming home features three bedrooms, 3.5 baths, a fabulous stone fireplace, wood floors, cathedral ceilings, a first floor and second floor bedroom suite plus full living quarters in the walkout lower level. A peaceful and private 3.6 acre lot just minutes from Saratoga Springs. Offered at $525,000. Listed by Roohan Realty.

The Historic Heartthrob

108 Circular St. Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 They say location is everything, well this classic desirable Circular Street Mansion has location and more. It boast charm and old school elegance and comes with a rich history that dates back to the Civil War. A beautiful awardwinning porch leads you into a beautiful home filled with original woodwork, hardwood floors, floor to ceiling windows, a back screen porch for afternoon tea and dinners, beautiful gardens and more. Offered at $985,000. Listed by Select Sotheby’s International Realty.

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

Winters of

Saratoga’s Past

There is no place like Saratoga Springs and as we attend parties all over town, celebrating the holiday season and ringing in the new year, what better time to recognize our city’s past.

ere it not for the efforts of many committed Saratogians who came before us, this dynamic and vibrant community would not exist as we know it today. The following are scenes from Winters of Saratoga’s past, generously provided to us from the History Museum’s Bolster Collection. Show your support for the Saratoga Springs History Museum by attending their Annual Gala on Friday, December 4th from 6:30-11pm at the Canfield Casino. For ticket information go to SaratogaHistory.org or call (518) 584-6920.

5 6

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

in g n i R THE

NEW YEAR

A CO H T I W

AI T K C

• Dark Rum (Kraken)

• 1.5 oz jalapeno infused blanco tequila

• Apple cider

• 2 dashes orange bitters

• Ginger liqueur (Barrows)

• ½ oz Vermont maple syrup

• Cardamom Bitters

• Shake and serve in a rocks glass, one big ice cube

• Mix up and drink the morning after

Wake and Baked Apple

Served in a goblet

Jolly Pumpkin Weizen Bam Beer

From Cantina

From the Henry Street Taproom

• In a heavy mixing glass filled with ice combine three ounces of Whistle Pig Rye

P HOTO CREDITS

1 Blizzard of 1888. This storm dropped over 40" of snow in Saratoga Springs and across the Northeast

2 Saratoga Tobaggon Club at the Glen Mitchell Slide. This 3 Downtown Broadway after a Snowstorm in 1948 Broadway circa 1890 in front of the United States Hotel.

5 Children riding in a horse drawn sleigh on North Broadway, circa 1900

6 Looking down the Glen Mitchell tobbaggon slide cirtca 1890

• 1.5 oz casamigos reposado tequila • Muddled mint • 1 oz fresh squeezed lemon

• 1 ounce Italian sweet Vermouth

was located where Maple Ave school is now. Circa 1900

4 Saratoga Fire Department horse drawn apparatus on

OLD ACQUAINTANCE

WHISTLE PIG MANHATTAN From the Wishing Well

• A dash of Angostura orange bitters • Stir. Strain into a proper cocktail glass, garnish with a generous orange twist

• ½ oz Stirrings pomengranate liquor

THE BALL DROP

• Dash of cayenne pepper • Serve in pint glass

From Cantina

7 Broadway, in front of the United States Hotel at the

Division Street intersection. The Worden Hotel can be seen on the left, this is where the Downtowner stands. 1949

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a L .CO M

Hattie's Mardi Gras January 16th 2016 6pm-10pm Canfield Casino Complimentary Signature Cocktail~Cash Bar~Great Food Provided by Hattie's Restaurant Silent Auction~ Entertainment by Garland Neslon and Souls Session Benefitting Saratoga Performing Arts Center in Honor of Their 50th Anniversary of bringing the arts to our community

Reservations $100 per person

Contact Tracy Strann 518.584.9330 ext 116 | M. 425.516.5872 tstrann@spac.org Don't miss the best party of the New Year!

T H E Sa r ato g a S o c i a l W I N T E R 2 0 1 5

$3.95