The Saratoga Social Summer 2016 Magazine

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Letter from the Publisher

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t’s mid-June and minutes ago I returned home from the beautiful patio at Saratoga Robin and her family, before the recent arrival of baby number four National where we’ve just taken the contributor picture for this issue. It was the final photo shoot after months of work and preparation before going to print, and I can’t help but be struck by how much has changed in just a few short months. The Saratoga Social family continues to grow in more ways than one; on the home front, I’ve just given birth to my fourth child, a baby boy who is a mere ten days old, and two of my wonderful contributors, our photographer Megan and fashionista Yvonne, are both expecting their first child in the next few weeks. Traffic to The Saratoga Social website has hit new records and some fresh voices have joined us in this issue. I’m in awe of the talented, multifaceted group that just gathered for our photo. Together, we’ve assembled a magazine that celebrates so many of the reasons we love summer in Saratoga, from the parties and philanthropy, to the culture and style. We’ve dissected our personal favorite pastimes and tried to perfect the art of the porch party with our friends from Hamlet & Ghost, Schuyler Pond and Circular Manor. We’ve put together the ultimate event calendar and then taken a closer look at what all the philanthropic giving means in our city, spotlighting the passion of places like Saratoga Hospital’s Community Health Center, and Thoroughbred retirement sanctuary, Old Friends at Cabin Creek. And what would a summer in Saratoga be without SPAC? To celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, we went on social media and asked you to share your favorite "SPAC memory." We were so deluged with responses, we ran out of room to print them all! Lastly, we’ve put together a Summer Gala Guide that’s pure fun and dishes on prepping for the party season from head to toe. I’ve always thought that summertime in Saratoga represents the best of what might be in our city. Being able to write about it, and then share that writing with you, is an absolute pleasure.

Robin 4


Table of Contents

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Summer Musts

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Summer Calendar

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Fight the Fat

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Party Photos

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The Range Social

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Learning from a Legend

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Saratoga Community Health Center Lake Avenue Community Garden Project Lift Old Friends at Cabin Creek Summer Fashion

A New Generation on Henry Street

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Upstate Distilling Company

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Summer Treats & Sips

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Perfecting the Porch Party

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Living Socially

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Celebrating a Centennial

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Summers of Saratoga’s Past

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SPAC at 50

The Summer Gala Guide

About Our Cover Summer in Saratoga is unique. It’s a carefully crafted recipe, honed over the last 153 years, blending horse racing with socializing. This naturally implies cocktails with friends – whether in a box at the track, at a picnic table with a well-stocked cooler or on one of Saratoga's iconic porches. And odds are, while enjoying that libation, a small, jocular gentleman will be watching nearby. So, we put all of Saratoga’s summer signatures into a virtual cocktail shaker. Voilà! The "Jocktail" was born, hoisting cocktail classics in lieu of traditional lanterns. Keep an eye out for original A la Main "Jocktail" illustrations at Silverwood Gallery, and for TSS cover posters at local retailers.

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Our Contributors ThE SARATOGA SOCIAL MAGAzInE WOULD nOT BE POSSIBLE WIThOUT ThIS FABULOUS GROUP

Summer in Saratoga means we’ll be…

Robin Dalton

Chelsea Silver

FoUNDEr & PUBliSHEr

STYlE EDiTor

Writing, blogging, lunching and watching all the action from my porch on Caroline Street. Taking long walks with baby Tommy and eating, drinking, golfing, swimming at the Saratoga Golf & Polo Club.

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Working it in 'Toga and roughing it in Bolton. Chasing the kids in town and on the beach. And, if I'm lucky, getting a few precious moments to relax, play and sip a delicious Burke’s Lemonade on the patio at 15 Church.

Megan Mumford PHoTograPHEr

Besides the obvious walks downtown for ice cream with friends, we’ll spend a bunch of time outdoors, cuddling, and snapping lots of photos of our newest little family member—our sweet baby!


Photography by Megan Mumford

Our Contributors from left to right

Amber Osterhout crEaTivE DirEcTor

Escaping my quiet country surroundings for a little "city" life. Whether it's date night at 15 Church, family night at Harvest & Hearth, or drinks at Hamlet & Ghost, this town continues to inspire me. Saratoga Springs is the ideal blend of country and cosmopolitan.

Trina Lucas coPY EDiTor

Stomping divots at Saratoga Polo; picnicking at SPAC’s Family Nights; dining outside at Cantina or Boca Bistro; taking in sidewalk entertainers with a scoop from Kilwin’s or a swirl from Plum Dandy —wait, did I mention the benefits?

Samantha Bosshart Wendy Lawrence Lindsey Hammer Devanney Renée Johanna Taliana Trina Lucas Maureen Werther Jim Mastrianni Amber Osterhout

Robin Dalton Chelsea Silver Marcella Hammer Yvonne McEachron Alyssa McClenning Megan Druckman Megan Mumford Not pictured: Melissa Brumley

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The SARATOGA SIX Six cUrioUS QUESTioNS For Saratoga’S MoSt IntereStIng PeoPle From Alyssa J. McClenning

Congresswoman Elise Stefanik Harvard grad. The youngest woman ever elected to congress. a Glamour magazine spread. Those are just a few of the accomplishments of congresswoman Elise Stefanik, who humbly hails from a small business family in upstate New York. as the U.S. representative for part of Saratoga county, she brings tech savvy and a refreshingly tempered demeanor to the table. She also knows what she would put on the agenda if she ever brings her congressional peers to Saratoga Springs during their august recess.

Tell us about your earliest Saratoga memory. One of my first distinct memories of Saratoga is visiting the Saratoga Race Course with my parents and younger brother. As a family, we would pick one day each summer to go to the racetrack. I loved learning how to read the daily racing program and became fairly well-versed on who the star jockeys were. My $2 bets that I would ask my mom or dad to place were usually based on the jockey and the name of the horse. We always stood on the rail to watch the races and to be close to the horses. My second cherished childhood memory of Saratoga was seeing the New York City Ballet perform Coppélia at SPAC with my mom.

The Saratoga Social was created to highlight the work of our local nonprofits. Which organization is most important to you? The most meaningful nonprofits that I’ve been able to work with are the Upstate New York chapters of the National Honor Flight Network that organize trips for our WWII and Korean War veterans to travel to Washington, D.C., to visit the WWII Memorial, the Korean War Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery. I have participated in numerous send-offs from New York, as well as accompanied the veterans during their visit to the monuments. This is an absolutely incredible nonprofit honoring our greatest generation.

Which spot in town serves your favorite drink or dish? I love the historic Olde Bryan Inn, especially on chilly fall evenings! I also love the happy hour specials at Boca Bistro, which has an excellent tapas menu. My favorite dishes are the ham croquettes and the salted hot peppers.

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if you could bring several of your congressional colleagues to Saratoga this summer, what would be on your 48-hour agenda? I would highlight the importance of local small businesses, the arts and other economic engines of the region. I would pack the schedule with the following: coffee at Uncommon Grounds; Putnam Market for a quick lunch; a show or the ballet at SPAC; an afternoon at the racetrack; a stop by Saratoga Trunk, one of my favorite small businesses where I have shopped since high school; a tour of Fasig-Tipton; an ice cream sundae at Stewarts; the Saratoga County Fair; a visit with Jesse and his team at LookTV; and the historic Saratoga National Cemetery.

What’s the first app/website you open in the morning? I am an avid consumer of news at both the local and national level, which is critical for me to serve my constituents. Every morning, I read clips from local newspapers throughout the 12 counties I represent, including The Saratogian, The Post-Star, and the Albany Times Union. Additionally, I see clips from morning and evening local news stations. I subscribe to numerous morning e-newsletters on policy issues such as national defense, the economy, education, and healthcare. I also always read the entire WSJ Weekend. And, I open up Twitter, Instagram and Facebook on my iPhone each morning since we increasingly live in a 24/7 news environment.

“I consider Saratoga’s greatest hidden gem to be...” The Saratoga County Fair. Not necessarily a hidden gem, but such a fun event that I look forward to every summer. It is perfect for kids and families! Agriculture is such an important economic driver in our region and the fair is a great place to taste local products from our family farms.


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We aSked SoMe of our favorIte SaratogIanS What theIr abSolute MuSthaveS are to celebrate SuMMer In Style. here’S What they had to Say. robin Dalton, TSS publisher, mother of four and lover of summer

ROBIN’s

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Beach towels with Conde Nast covers on them, especially from The New Yorker A Wet Brush, critical for post-pool or ocean swims A classic, monogrammed canvas duffel like this one from Tuckernuck

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Lots of printed, preppy shorts like this pair from J. Crew The blood orange margarita from 15 Church Lululemon’s “Pleat to Street” skirt for golf or tennis And speaking of golf, “borrowing” my husband’s Ping Driver

A great pair of flip-flops—my Pradas have lasted for years

For buying guide, go to www.Thesaratogasocial.com/shop


We aSked SoMe of our favorIte SaratogIanS What theIr abSolute MuSthaveS are to celebrate SuMMer In Style. here’S What they had to Say. Erika Browne, banker, world traveler and all-around style star

ERIKA’s

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Ray Ban foldable polarized Wayfarers (I have tortoise but I may also get black). They fit in a clutch so when you are at an event and the sun goes down, you have room for them!

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Havaiana Slims! I wear them constantly. Rebecca Ray bags from The Pink Paddock—they are a cute carry-on, and work for beach or pool.

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Beats by Dre Studio Wireless Headphones, a Bose speaker system and the Jambox Vaseline Coconut Oil Lotion and Phace Bioactive moisturizer—it’s a primer and also has 46 SPF in it—both are year-round staples! BluePrint Green Juice Cleanse—grab it at Whole Foods.

It’s not summer without Lilly Pulitzer and I always love her printed, plastic wine glasses.

For buying guide, go to www.Thesaratogasocial.com/shop

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We aSked SoMe of our favorIte SaratogIanS What theIr abSolute MuSthaveS are to celebrate SuMMer In Style. here’S What they had to Say. chelsea Silver, TSS style editor and owner of Silverwood Home and gallery

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Espadrilles. With so many parties and summer events on the grass, stilettos can be a bummer. Wedge or no, espadrilles are a perennial must have that are comfy enough to get you through the whole day AND night. (Also great for stomping divots!) Little Black (Jersey) Dress. With just a quick shoe and accessory swap, I depend on my comfy, simple LBDs during the summer months to take me from day to night. Sometimes, a full change is impossible with so much going on. My faves? Susana Monaco’s styles (available at Violet’s) and Target’s.

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A long statement necklace—to add a little “charm” to my LBD. A good sun hat—tanning your face is a deal with the devil. I love a good panama hat, but when wrangling the kids, a baseball cap is where it’s at. And it won’t fly away or get crushed in the beach bag.

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Sunscreen—loving Sun Bum. Paraben-free and smells like delicious coconut without the high price of many organic sunscreens. Two thumbs up. Wake surfing. Never heard of it? Try it—you can thank me later. For the real skinny, Drew at Adirondack Marine is your man. Bronzer by Sonia Krushek Turkish Towel. Super cute and less bulky than terry counterparts, they make a great sarong or blanket too. (Check them out at Silverwood.) A good tote bag. Our massive Scout bag goes from boat to beach to pool seamlessly, since it can hold toys and all the gear. Added bonus? It can take a splash, spill or wet suit with no harm done. V-neck tees by J. Crew. The best for comfort and cut. And they come in so many colors!

For buying guide, go to www.Thesaratogasocial.com/shop


We aSked SoMe of our favorIte SaratogIanS What theIr abSolute MuSthaveS are to celebrate SuMMer In Style. here’S What they had to Say. Eric Snell, our go-to guy for style, SPac and all things summer

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Loafer socks. Going sockless in the summer has its... issues. No-show socks are essential! Technical polo shirt—perfect for casual Fridays, boating or the track. Henri Lloyd’s Fast-Dri Polo is the best fitting and most comfortable I've ever owned. Hobie Adventure Island trimaran. It’s a sailboat, a pedalpowered kayak and, with trampolines, a stable fishing platform. This boat does everything, and you can cartop it.

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Waterproof Bluetooth speakers for listening to music on the boat, at an outdoor BBQ or just about anywhere! Collapsible Rolling Cooler—super easy to transport and keep food and drinks cool for the track or a ballet/orchestra night at SPAC. The Dare Gose (Druthers). This local, light sour beer is perfect for summer sipping! Tent. It’s always nice to be able to get away for a night or two of camping in the Adirondacks.

Polarized imitation Wayfarers—a cost-effective solution for someone who consistently loses sunglasses!

For buying guide, go to www.Thesaratogasocial.com/shop

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We aSked SoMe of our favorIte SaratogIanS What theIr abSolute MuSthaveS are to celebrate SuMMer In Style. here’S What they had to Say. kate deloria, endlessly stylish Saratogian and queen of all things preppy

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Soludos slip-ons, throw them on with everything. Rae Feather monogrammed basket, the perfect summer bag Beach by Bobby Brown, smells so clean and fresh, just like the beach! Corn on the cob from BJ’s Farm

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Ray Ban Aviators...timeless summer classic Vineyard Vines cover-up, perfect after a dip in the pool Daniel Wellington watch, old school prep Linen shift dress from Sail to Sable, great for a summer party Homemade strawberry shortcake...all summer long!

For buying guide, go to www.Thesaratogasocial.com/shop


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fight the fat

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Dr. Jeffrey Ridha of Sanctuary Spa at Jeffrey Ridha, MD, PC, shares new ways to fight the fat this summer season. recently, there has been a lot of press about noninvasive treatments for fat removal and body contouring. Many claim to “melt” or “freeze” fat cells. Do any of these treatments work? One of the biggest pushes in cosmetic medicine over the last several years has been to develop technologies that can improve body contour and remove fat, without the downtime of a surgical procedure. In the past, most devices were relatively ineffective, but as technology has improved, several of the newest ones on the market have demonstrated results and gained FDA approval of noninvasive contouring. It is important to note that none of these are weight-loss procedures, and can not match the results of surgery, but can remove fat cells and improve contour, especially in problem areas that are difficult to change with diet and exercise alone.

What types of noninvasive fat removal devices are available? There are several on the market, using various technologies to break up fat cells for permanent removal. The technologies include radiofrequency (Vanquish), cryotherapy (CoolSculpt), and most recently, targeted laser treatment (SculpSure).

Do you offer any of these treatments? We are very excited to offer treatments with SculpSure from Cynosure, the world’s first FDA-cleared laser treatment for noninvasive fat removal. Sculpsure is a state-of-the-art, controlled light-based technology, ideal for patients looking to get rid of stubborn fat. It has several advantages over other devices on the market, and the initial results we’ve seen have been very impressive.

How does SculpSure work? SculpSure has four laser transducers, each about the size of a smartphone. The laser’s 1060 nm wavelength has a specific affinity for adipose tissue (fat) and is minimally absorbed by skin. The handpieces can be placed in a number of arrays, customized to a patient’s areas of concern, and each treatment is performed in just 25 minutes. Over time, the body naturally eliminates the disrupted fat cells, with results seen in as little as six weeks, and optimal results at 12 weeks.

can anyone have these treatments? Who evaluates potential patients and recommends a treatment plan? As with any cosmetic procedure, patient selection is critical. At Sanctuary, I personally evaluate every patient to ensure treatment is reasonable, and then review each of the options and alternatives, as well as manage expectations. While many patients are excellent candidates for SculpSure, a proper evaluation is necessary to determine appropriate treatment. As a plastic surgeon performing both noninvasive and invasive procedures, I am in a unique position to make comprehensive and sound recommendations based on each patient’s concerns and physical examination.

are people still turning to liposuction to slim down? When might something more invasive be the right option? Liposuction and excision procedures remain among the most popular surgical options performed nationwide, and have continued to increase in popularity. Liposuction, while invasive, remains the gold standard for patients who have moderate to good overall skin quality and desire a significant improvement in contour and excess fat removal. Excision procedures, like tummy tucks, are most appropriate for patients who have a combination of skin and soft tissue excess, with skin laxity. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon will help determine the best option for each individual.

Jeffrey ridha, Md, facS, is a board-certified plastic surgeon and the owner/medical director of the Sanctuary Spa, located at 72 railroad Place in downtown Saratoga Springs. in addition to performing plastic surgery of the breast, body and face, his practice also specializes in minimally-invasive options such as laser treatments, botox and fillers. Dr. ridha serves as a national trainer for allergan, the makers of Botox and Juvederm, instructing other physicians in advanced injection techniques. To learn more, call (518)587-5219.

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Last June, The Saratoga Social and Saratoga National Golf Club partnered to introduce a new approach to the golf course: The Range Social. Our golfers had a blast! We caught up with Saratoga National’s Director of Instruction, Anders Mattson, to talk about tips, teaching and hitting the links at happy hour.

THE RANGE

Social Photography by Megan Mumford

When did you start playing golf? What do you enjoy about teaching? I began playing golf when I was about eight years old. The story goes that I was into baseball more than any other sport. My dad would hit fly balls to me, but found he could hit a golf ball farther, so I started shagging his golf shots with my mitt. I picked up the club shortly thereafter and it all began. I started playing more regularly when I was 12, and started competing when I was about 14. I was self-taught, without any formal instruction growing up. I think this has helped my game in some ways and also offers me a different perspective when it comes to coaching others. The best part about teaching is the process by which we evaluate a player and identify the best possible way to help him or her improve at golf. I am so happy to see players progress and learn new skills that make the game more enjoyable. I recently started to coach more juniors and they are incredibly rewarding to work with. Watching them grow up, not only on the golf course but in life, is a lot of fun. I hope I can instill some values through golf that will help them reach their goals.

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What exactly is a range Social? A range social is based on the idea that golf should be fun and non-intimidating. When we mix the social aspect with instruction, people feel comfortable trying the game without fear of failure. We held our first event last year and it was a great success.

What inspired the range Socials? It was a cold February day in the hitting bay. While Matt Dalton was hitting golf balls out into the snow, his wife Robin and I were brainstorming ways to collaborate on an event. We agreed an activity that brought instruction into a social environment sounded like a win-win. The golf course can be intimidating, so we thought that the practice facility would be a better place to introduce the game to some, and help others get more from their games. Add in some tasty cocktails and warm weather, and it sounded like a wonderful idea – especially on a February afternoon in Saratoga.

What's the best advice you'd give someone who was nervous about trying to play for the first time? Golf is a very challenging and variable sport. Even the best players in the world struggle to maintain their game at a high level. It is important to know that everyone hits bad shots, so there is no reason to be embarrassed. I highly recommend receiving proper guidance and instruction when first starting because your foundation in the game is so important. And then, the more you play, the better you will be. And the better you play, the more fun it is.

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at saratoga Natonal for an upcoming Range social, check the calendar at www.Thesaratogasocial.com


The SARATOGA SIX Who’s your favorite tour player? I think the young players are great for the game. Jordan Spieth, Rickie Fowler and Rory McIlroy are all positive individuals who demonstrate solid character when they play. It’s great to see the camaraderie on tour these days, as the players really seem to be having fun.

Where are your top three places to play when you wander outside Saratoga National? Glens Falls Country Club is my go-to course in the area. I love the golf course, and it is close to where I grew up, so it will always have sentimental value. And it’s just far enough away that you feel like you’re taking a mini-vacation when playing. In Saratoga, I enjoy a quick nine at the Saratoga Golf and Polo Club. It has a great feel and an incredible location in downtown Saratoga. Best course I’ve ever played is Cypress Point in California.

in your dream foursome, who are the other three players? I really enjoy playing golf with my buddies. It’s rarely competitive in nature, but always fun. I also love golfing with my wife. Having four, uninterrupted hours with her is rare these days, so I value that time immensely. I would also have liked to play with Tiger Woods in his prime, just to see the best at his best.

Best place for a drink after 18? We like to frequent The Local in Saratoga. It has the pub feel you sometimes seek after golf, and after an early round, it’s a nice spot for breakfast. The veranda at Prime is ideal to meet up with friends following 18 holes at Saratoga National.

What’s your best golf memory? Golf has been very good to me and has taken me to some incredible places. Perhaps the best memory is from this past April when I brought my dad to Augusta to watch the Masters. I had a student compete in the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals and we were able to stick around and watch a practice round as well. The whole experience was incredible, and to have my dad and wife there to see Augusta National made it that much better.

can you give us one great golf tip? I think it is very important to set realistic expectations on what you want from golf. Is it a chance to get away and enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise? Is it an avenue for socialization or business-related? Do you have aspirations to shoot a certain score or win a tournament? Or maybe it is just the idea of hitting a perfect golf shot that rewards you with the feeling of ultimate accomplishment. Regardless of what drives you to play, those goals need to be identified for you to get the most out of the game. Lucky for us, golf can provide all of those things, which makes it unique, and in my opinion superior, to any other sport.

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Learning from

A LEGEND

Written by renee talliana, Staccato barre & bodyworks

It was a dream come true to take a ballet class with David Otto, a past soloist of the New York City Ballet (NYCB). A dance lecturer at Skidmore College, Otto also offers ballet instruction in the Balanchine technique. He was one of the last dancers to be hand-selected by George Balanchine for the corps of NYCB in 1979. In anticipation of “ballet season” in Saratoga Springs, I asked Otto to explain the Balanchine technique and how it makes the New York City Ballet iconic. THE DIFFERENCEs: RussIAN vs. BALANCHINE TECHNIquE

George Balanchine, a world renowned choreographer, transformed ballet from a staged, heavy-footed procession into the light-as-air, luminous experience patrons enjoy at the NYCB today. Otto explains, “The way Balanchine choreographed ballets took partnering to a new level. He created inventive ways of lifting, carrying and supporting the female dancer.” “The difference between Russian-style ballet technique and Balanchine is in the tailoring of ballet for performance. For the patron, this difference can be seen largely in how the dancer carries (himself) across the stage,” says Otto. Top left: Jerome Robbins’ Glass Pieces (Otto is front right) Bottom left: Jewels “Emeralds”

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That is why I love to teach adults! Experience isn’t needed, just enthusiasm.” —David Otto, who offers adult classes at Staccato Barre & Bodyworks

HOw BALANCHINE TRANsFORmED BALLET IN AmERICA

George Balanchine trained dancers to move their weight into their toes. “Speed of execution, timing and a different musicality are all trademarks of a Balanchine ballet,” Otto continues. “He is also known for shifting the focus to the ballets themselves, rather than the stars who performed them.” The 2016 summer season, with 16 ballets by eight choreographers, marks a 50year partnership between the Saratoga Performing Arts Center and the New York City Ballet. It is fitting that opening night on Wednesday, July 20, will spotlight Balanchine’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, just as it did 50 years ago in 1966. Otto notes, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a classic story ballet done very well. A family favorite... (with) beautiful costumes and sets.” A PROFEssIONAL’s NOTEBOOK

Otto also offers his take on the other upcoming performances this season. Serenade (tchaikovsky/balanchine) – One of Balanchine’s first ballets in America, it is “Visually stunning, classical, powerful and emotional,” according to Otto. Fancy Free (bernstein/robbins) – A personal favorite of Otto’s. “Fun, inventive, amazing choreography,” he remarks. “(It is) one of my favorites to dance. I did the third and revered sailor dance.” Jewels (Balanchine) – Three distinct ballets blended into one evening with incredible music. It is Balanchine at his finest. Otto adds, “Such amazing use of large groups of people!”

In G Major by Jerome Robbins

Monumentum pro Gesualdo/Movements for Piano and Orchestra (Stravinsky/ Balanchine) – Quiet and reserved, this is religious and reverent, simple and clean. “I used to love dancing this ballet,” recalls Otto.

To contact David otto directly regarding private instruction or summer intensives, email dmotto@nycap.rr.com.

SPAC will host the New York City Ballet from July 20 through July 30. The 50th Anniversary Gala, showcasing 21st Century Choreographers, will take place on Saturday, July 23. For details, tickets and the planned program for each performance, visit SPAC.org. wANT TO TAKE A LEssON wITH DAvID OTTO?

The best way to experience ballet is first-hand. “That is why I love to teach adults! Experience isn’t needed, just enthusiasm,” states Otto, who offers adult classes at Staccato Barre & Bodyworks, 489 Broadway in Saratoga Springs. All levels of experience are welcome. Visit StaccatoBarre.com, or call (518)542-3955.

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Saratoga Community Health Center

Passion at Work

In September 2013, Saratoga Community Health Center opened its doors at 24 Hamilton Street. Owned by Saratoga Hospital, its mission is to provide quality, affordable healthcare to all people in the community who need it, regardless of income. Written by Maureen Werther Photography by Megan Mumford

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hree years later, the Saratoga Community Health Center is fulfilling that mission. The only facility of its kind in Saratoga County, the Center welcomes patients from all walks of life, whether they are insured or not. Services include primary care, dental care and behavioral healthcare.

The Center’s Director, Renee Rodriguez-Goodemote, MD, is board-certified in family medicine and a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians. Her approach is to “craft care around the needs of our patients,” and she notes that many of the Center’s best ideas and initiatives have come from its patients. “I feel blessed to be able to provide opportunity and access to people in the community,” states Rodriguez-Goodemote. She and her staff work closely with other community agencies such as the EOC, SOS, Catholic Charities and Saratoga Hospital’s ER, that educate patients about the Center’s existence, empowering them to obtain more than just sporadic, episodic care. However, lack of insurance or income are not prerequisites for acceptance as a patient at the Center.

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Rodriguez-Goodemote remarks that projects like their onsite food and pet pantry and their community garden arose from her team’s ability to identify and respond to the needs of the community. These efforts are just some of the small but significant ways the Center helps “create opportunities for wellness and open the door to new lifestyle choices through access to both healthcare and the tools for promoting better health.” Since its start, the Community Health Center has treated thousands of patients and the numbers continue to grow. In 2015, the Center had nearly 14,000 visits, and the staff continues to expand to accommodate the need, increasing from 13 employees in 2013, to 30 in 2016. They now have two primary care physicians, two psychiatrists and two dentists, with a third coming on board in July.

“We have many patients who moved to Saratoga from New York City or other urban communities and they like and appreciate the access to a healthcare facility in their neighborhood. People can walk here from their homes a few blocks away. This is the sort of healthcare environment they’ve been accustomed to, living in a big city, and they are thrilled to learn that we are here and available as their primary care physicians, dentists and psychiatrists.”

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Kathleen McNeice is the Center’s program manager. She and Rodriguez-Goodemote have been there since the doors opened. With a background in community outreach and cancer support services, McNeice always knew that she wanted to be involved in healthcare on a local level. When she learned of Saratoga Hospital’s plans to open the healthcare facility, she leapt at the opportunity to make a career change. “The Hospital understood the need to bring people on board who really believe in our mission,” comments McNeice. The entire staff shares RodriguezGoodemote’s and McNeice’s commitment to the community and is quick to volunteer additional time and energy to do things like preparing and serving Thanksgiving dinner for local residents who would otherwise go without. The team has also been instrumental in getting the food pantry up and running, and managing the small, but growing, vegetable garden located right on the property.


“We put vegetables from the garden in baskets with recipes for our patients to take with them,” explains McNeice. Last year, they received a donation of 36 dozen eggs from Thomas Poultry Farm. They also had a large crop of Swiss chard. So, the staff did a little research and found a great Swiss chard and egg recipe. “It’s this kind of above and beyond mentality that distinguishes our staff at the Center,” adds Rodriguez-Goodemote. In addition to a dedicated staff, RodriguezGoodemote praises the generosity of the community. The annual gala hosted by the Saratoga Hospital Foundation raised $500,000 in 2015, and hospital employees donate significantly through the annual capital campaign. The Community Health Center receives support from numerous foundations, community organizations and private donors too. McNeice is also grateful for a tremendous partnership with Sean O’Brien of O’Brien’s Pharmacy in Ballston Spa. “When patients need prescription medication, O’Brien’s has been terrific working with us. They give

us their lowest cost and we are able to purchase the prescriptions using funds from a grant the Center received specifically for this purpose.” O’Brien’s has even delivered prescriptions directly to the Center when patients are unable to get to Ballston Spa to pick them up. One of the main challenges the Center has dealt with in its three years of existence has been patient transportation. However, they never cancel an appointment or refuse to see someone because he or she is late. And recently, the Hospital Volunteer Guild donated a van to the Center. With the help of volunteer drivers, they can now transport patients to outside providers when additional medical treatment is necessary. In addition, the Center has partnered with the Latino advocacy arm of the EOC to provide translators who accompany patients to outside providers. Several of the Center staff are bilingual, which increases the comfort level for non-English speaking patients and enhances the patient experience. However, they are always

looking for more volunteers to serve as translators for patients who must see specialists for additional care. As the Center continues to grow, they also continue to expand the services they offer. Working with Saratoga’s Lyons Club, the Center is able to offer eye exams performed by three local ophthalmologists: Gregory Pinto, MD; Edward Davison, MD; and Jeffrey Paul, MD. In the future, the Center hopes to add hearing exams. Other future initiatives include working to create a CSA, a community shared agriculture. Rodriguez-Goodmote stresses the importance of access to healthy food as a vital component to overall health. She regularly gives patients “food prescriptions” for general education, and to teach those with conditions such as diabetes how to manage their disease and improve their wellness. The saratoga Community Health Center is open monday-Thursday, 7 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., and Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. To learn more, call (518) 886-5600 or visit saratogaCommunityHealthCenter.org.

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Lake Avenue Community Garden Jennifer Hennessy is a busy mom of eight-year old twins who is serious about her commitment to her community and to her children’s awareness of healthy food, sustainability and how they can use that knowledge to “pay it forward.” For that reason, when she was asked to take over as head of the Lake Avenue School’s garden club, she willingly accepted.

T

he club was started in 2007 by Carol Maxwell, who ran the program until her children went on to middle school. It was originally a combination food lab and garden club – part of an ongoing effort to educate kids about the process of growing and making food, as well as understanding what is actually in so much of the food they eat. As the club evolved, and the children were able to literally see and enjoy the fruits of their labors, they decided to donate a portion of their harvest to local organizations who could then distribute the fresh produce to families in need.

“Last year, we donated our extra produce to the Franklin Community Center,” says Hennessy. ”This year, we have partnered with Saratoga Community Health Center and we’ll be giving our overflow to them.”

Hennessy, who is also a member of Saratoga Hospital’s Gala Committee, met Kathleen McNeice, the Center’s program manager, during a planning meeting. “We started talking about the different initiatives and programs the Center offers its patients, and when Kathy told me about their health and nutritional program, I thought it would be a great place for us to donate our excess produce from the garden.”

Two weeks ago, when it was finally “safe” to start planting, McNeice brought over seedlings as a donation from the Saratoga Community Health Center for the kids and parents to plant in the school’s garden. The Lake Avenue garden complements the small garden the Center has created on its own property. “It’s funny,” remarks Hennessy. “Even though we’re only a mile apart, the soil is different. We had no luck with our carrots last year, but the Center’s garden had a great crop!”

The Center places produce from their own garden into baskets – along with healthy recipes – for their patients to take home with them. Now, with the help of the kids and parents at Lake Avenue School, there will be a lot more food and a lot more variety for those families. “There are so many families, right in our own community, who don’t always have access to fresh, healthy, nutritional food,” notes Hennessy. “And, this is a great opportunity for our kids to learn the importance of giving and sharing. After all, these are the future leaders and philanthropists of our community.”

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The club is open to children and their parents in grades K through 5, and each participating family signs up in advance to tend the garden for a week during summer and into the fall. The garden is approximately 20’ by 20’ in size, a substantial plot for growing a lot of fresh veggies. “This year’s crop includes squash, cucumbers, tomatoes, kale and arugula, along with a whole variety of fresh herbs.”

In a slightly new twist, the garden also has a section dedicated to butterflies. Plants that both attract and benefit the butterfly population, including milkweed, delphiniums and elderberries, provide a wonderful ecological addition to the garden project, teaching children about balancing the needs of people with the needs of nature.

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Looking for

more

Join the party with our 17,000+ social media followers!

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Benefiting Children, Families and the Comm u

nity

PROJECT LIFT Written by Maureen We

rther

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For the last thirty years, the team at Franklin Community Center has worked tirelessly, fulfilling its mission to provide services that improve the quality of life and foster a sense of neighborhood, community and family for all people. Project lift is one of the center’s several outreach programs and focuses on giving children the tools, role models and education necessary to guide them on a path toward a positive future. it is a free, after-school program for children in grades 1-5. Project lift’s original focus on alcohol, tobacco and drug abuse prevention and education has expanded over time. The program also helps children develop good communication skills and works with them to foster self-esteem, decision making, team building skills and emotional intelligence. “These are learned skills that many children may not get from the classroom or the family environment,” remarks Jaime Williams, associate director of franklin community center. She has been involved with Project lift since 2003.

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During that time, Williams and her colleagues at Franklin Community Center have worked to establish Project Lift programs in five of the six public elementary schools in Saratoga Springs and Greenfield. “We achieved our goal of doubling the scope of the program this past year,” states Williams, thanks in large part to the 2015 school budget, which allocated funding for the program. Project lift also relies heavily on support from local private and community foundations, and grants from state organizations like the office of alcohol and Substance abuse Services and the office of children and family Services. one of the new benefits of increased support from the school district will be the onsite presence of a family outreach educator at each of the five schools where Project lift operates. The outreach educators serve as liaisons between school and family. With an office right in the school, children and families will have better access to the outreach educator. Williams explains, “By offering this type of support, we help the students and families strengthen the bonds to their school.” children are referred to Project lift by the school district, with 20-25 kids entering the program each year, beginning in first grade. “The program builds upon itself as students progress through the fifth grade,” notes Williams.

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running from early october through June, the curriculum is evidence-based and approved by oaSaS. a typical after-school program begins with a social circle, followed by group activities that involve team building, developing communication skills, learning how to say “no,” and basics such as good hygiene and positive behavior. after a healthy snack and free time for play, the students join in a closing circle. This is a time for them to review the afternoon and talk about how they think it went and how they felt they did. It’s a great opportunity for the children to build their own self-esteem, while bolstering the confidence of another child in the group. Williams adds, “kids supporting kids is really a wonderful way for the program to end.” Project lift also hosts family functions throughout the year. The goal is to bring families into the schools, strengthening the bond between the two. Events include dinners, art shows and presentations by community members and local businesses on relevant topics. Williams notes, “the entire school community is invited to these events. Eat Smart NY has been one of the presenters, as well as a representative from a local bank who talked about important issues like credit checks and ratings. it was a great help to the families who attended and it’s an added benefit of their children’s participation in the program.”

another benefit for families with children enrolled in Project lift is access to the full menu of services offered by Franklin community center. They can receive additional support through advocacy and referrals, free clothing and food, summer camp scholarships, school supplies and holiday assistance, among other things. The school district will start including Project lift in its summer programming this year too, with classes and activities four days per week. Themes utilizing the same evidence-based curriculum will be incorporated into the students’ schedule. in addition, food and transportation will be provided for each child. “This is a huge help for families who may otherwise struggle to balance work and childcare during the summer recess. and, it will close the gap that kids lose during those nine weeks of summer,” explains Williams. Through the combined efforts of the school district and Project lift, children receive a quality education and develop social skills in a positive environment that enhances the bond between families and school. Project lift impacts a child’s life, helping him or her grow into a healthier, more productive member of the community. Come support Project Lift at their Annual Fundraiser, "Project Lift university," October 13, 6-9pm, at Longfellows.


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MAJESTIC KINGS of Written by Maureen Werther Photos courtesy of Connie Bush

Thoroughbred Racing Find Respite with Old Friends at Cabin Creek

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It’s called the sport of kings. But all too often, the majestic Thoroughbreds that thunder down the turf for the pleasure and profit of owners and fans alike are left at the end of their brief careers with no one to look out for or plan their future. Sadly, time and again, these animals are left with no future at all.

I

t seems only fitting then that Saratoga Springs, home to the oldest Thoroughbred racetrack in the country, should also be neighbor to Old Friends at Cabin Creek, a haven for retired racehorses.

Located on Sand Hill Road in the town of Greenfield, Old Friends is a sprawling, 40-acre ranch. Visitors enter by way of a long, gently curving entrance that opens up to a pastoral vista of paddocks, the stable and a small pond, with a lovely spraying fountain that dapples the water’s surface and adds to the sense of calm and tranquility.

The Peppers have done everything from clearing the land, to laying out the paddock areas and building the magnificent barn themselves, though it’s hard to call it a barn. The craftsmanship and obvious love that went into building it make it look more like something out of the movie Seabiscuit.

The Greenfield ranch is the first and only satellite of the original Old Friends at Cabin Creek based in Georgetown, Kentucky. It was the brainchild of Michael Blowen, a retired writer with the Boston Globe. Blowen’s love for the sport of horseracing was rivalled only by his love for the horses themselves, prompting him to create the safe haven in Kentucky for racers who had reached the end of their careers with nowhere to go. Four years ago, I visited Old Friends in Greenfield for the first time, and had the distinct pleasure of meeting its tenants and interviewing their stewards, JoAnn and Mark Pepper. At the time, Old Friends had been open for three years, with 13 horses in residence, ranging in age from three to 27. Two of them – Thunder Rumble and Will’s Way – were both Travers’ winners. Thunder Rumble was celebrating the 20th anniversary of his win, and Will’s Way had claimed the title in 1996.

Mark Pepper is a self-employed builder and excavator, and as he has done from the start, he comes home from his “real” job to spend a few more hours working on the newest paddock areas so the ranch can accommodate more horses. The goal is to provide a home for up to 16.

I recently returned to Old Friends at Cabin Creek to see how the residents were doing and what changes were afoot on the ranch. There are now 14 horses in residence; several of them are newer additions to the family, and each has traveled his own unique path before arriving at Old Friends to take up residence for his next phase of life. It is here, in this magical place, that they have come back to their origins, learning how to be horses, developing social skills that were not part of their training as racehorses and becoming part of a herd, part of a family that includes each other, as well as the people who love and care for them.

“My parents worked in the restaurant business, so I spent a lot of time at my grandparents’ home," reminisces JoAnn. "They loved going to the track and, of course, they took me along with them.”

Thunder Rumble has passed on, as have a few of the other original residents. Will’s Way is now holding sway as the senior stallion in residence, celebrating his own 20th anniversary Travers victory by lolling in his paddock and reveling in retirement contentment.

For the Peppers, Old Friends is the culmination of a lifelong dream. JoAnn in particular has imagined doing this ever since she was a young child going to the racetrack with her grandparents, and later working there as a groom.

“I figured out pretty early on that a lot of those horses weren’t going to end up at some comfortable riding stable somewhere once their racing careers were over,” she says with a bittersweet expression. “I grew up loving the sport of horseracing, and I still do,” she says. “I just want to see it do better by the horses. I don’t want it to end. I want it to be better. There are too many horses out there without a plan for a full life.”

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She goes on to explain that the average retirement age for a Thoroughbred is between five and seven years old, and they can live well into their 30s. “So, there isn’t a very organized plan for them,” she laments. But organization and love are in ample supply at Old Friends. The couple relies on a dedicated and devoted group of volunteers, without whom JoAnn and Mark would have their work cut out for them. When they first opened, however, this wasn’t the case. “When my husband and I started this place, we knew a lot about horses and how to take care of them,” says JoAnn. “But we didn’t know anything about running a nonprofit, and we went for two and a half years without volunteers. That was two and a half years for us without a day off!”

“Now, there are 35 volunteers who do everything from feeding the horses and mucking out the paddocks, to helping with fundraising and public relations. As the years went on, and they kept coming back, sometimes I’d wonder, ‘Why?’” You need only to watch the YouTube video on Old Friends’ Facebook page and hear what the volunteers say to understand exactly why they continue to return and why these horses are, in JoAnn’s words, “magical creatures who give back so much more than we could ever give them.” One gentleman, who has been volunteering at Old Friends for years, talks about his relationship with the horses and what it means to him. “When I look into their eyes, I see them so much differently than when I used to see them on the track…I know what they’re feeling...and I love that, because then I know I can give back to them what I feel in my heart…I’ve found my place, I guess.” JoAnn sums it up beautifully herself in the video. “I am so thankful for these volunteers. It has changed the way I look at people. Really, just to see how the love flows from them and how they open up to the horses…and how the horses respond to them. It’s one of the most beautiful things I’ve seen.”

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Another “lifer” at Old Friends, the photographer who supplied all the beautiful pictures here, remarks about what JoAnn means to the ranch and to the volunteers. “She does a yeoman’s work every day. She is passionate about the horses and they adore her. She is the glue that holds the farm together. She spends most of her life organizing the farm, fundraising, caretaking, finding volunteers and being ‘mom JoAnn’ to us all. She gets no monetary compensation for any of it. Every penny she gets goes back to the horses. The volunteers love her and the horses love her.” Of course, the ranch doesn’t run on love alone. JoAnn estimates that it costs approximately $100K a year for food, supplies and veterinary care. Some of those dollars come in the form of grant money that is provided through Kentucky, “our parent company” as JoAnn refers to the original Old Friends. One of the biggest grant sources is the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA). “They’ve done a great job of organizing donations, accrediting farms, and distributing money to accredited farms like ours,” she says. She hopes that more organizations like TAA continue to crop up. Another major piece of the fundraising pie comes from Old Friends’ annual benefit. This year’s event will be a cocktail party, held on Sunday evening, August 7, at The Lodge in Saratoga Springs. Last year’s fundraiser was very successful for the ranch. American Pharaoh had created quite the excitement in Saratoga and Old Friends was fortunate to have one of his halters as a live auction item. “That halter put us over the top,” says JoAnn. This year, they will be auctioning off a halter belonging to Uncle Mo, who is on track to become one of the greatest sires since Storm Cat. They will also present the annual “Old Friends” award to the evening’s special guest, Ramon Dominguez. “This will be our second year giving out the award,” notes JoAnn. Last year’s went to Funnycide owner Jack Knowlton of Sackatoga Stables. “Jack has such a love for the horses, and we want to continue this new tradition by awarding it to people who do so much for the sport, and for the horses,” she adds. I ended my second visit to Old Friends the same way I did in 2012—meeting and getting to know the residents. Each horse has his own story and is so special in his own right. Take Zippy


“I figured out pretty early on that a lot of those horses weren’t going to end up at some comfortable riding stable somewhere once their racing careers were over,” –JoAnn Pepper

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Chippy, for example. “Zippy is very famous,” says JoAnn. “A recent book written about him, The Legend of Zippy Chippy, was published by Random House and is now a bestseller.” She goes on to tell me that Zippy ran in 100 races with zero wins. “But everybody fell madly in love with him!” There’s even going to be a Zippy Chippy Day at Old Friends on the first Tuesday of this year’s meet, July 26, from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. The book’s author will be on hand to autograph copies of the book, and Zippy will have his portrait painted that day. Zippy and Leo, his neighbor in the nearby paddock, are becoming good friends. “That’s Zippy calling to Leo,” explains JoAnn, as we hear neighing in the background. “I think I’m going to put those two together. They really like each other.” We continue our visit, stopping by Be Bullish, the only grey horse on the property. “When he first arrived, he was so mean to the people and to the other horses,” recalls JoAnn. “Really, he was just scared. He’d never been with any other horses and this was all so new to him.” JoAnn put him with the only Quarter Horse on the property. “Quarter Horses are tough and they don’t take any crap,” she tells me. He kept Be Bullish in line and taught him the ropes in no time. JoAnn goes on to recall another tough customer, Thunder Rumble. “He was our first stallion here, and the moment he got off the truck, he proceeded to let me and all the other horses know that he was now in charge,” she remembers with a mixture of sadness and love. “He was just an amazing horse.”

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We finish our social calls on the rest of the horses and return to the stable. On a table inside is a memorial to Moonshadow Gold, who passed away May 25. I remember him from my first visit here, calling to mind his size and stature. I ask JoAnn to tell me about him. “He was our very first retiree on the ranch, and he was awesome. I remember him getting off the truck. He was so big and stocky, more like a big Quarter Horse. But he was a Thoroughbred through and through.” “He raced 89 times and earned nearly $340K during his career. But as time went on, he began to win less and less, finally coming in last at Mountaineer, and there was talk of getting rid of him. A woman paid $250 for him, then found out about us and sent him here. It was fate that brought him here. He was one of the lucky ones. They don’t all get that chance for a good future. But, he was here for seven years and was truly loved.” Moonshadow Gold became ill and passed away the same day. He died peacefully, surrounded by people who loved him and had given him life after Thoroughbred racing. Moonshadow Gold died at home, with his old friends at Cabin Creek. To learn more about volunteer opportunities with Old Friends at Cabin Creek, or to purchase tickets for the August 7th event, visit www.oldfriendscabincreek.com or contact JoAnn Pepper at (518) 698-2377. Old Friends is open to the public 12-3 p.m. every saturday during the fall, winter, and spring. During track season, the public is welcome from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and saturday. Private tours and special events may also be arranged by contacting the ranch directly.


summer FASHION

F r a e m shion m u S

W h at t o W e a r ? f r o M P o o l t o Pa r t y, a S t y l I S h S e a S o n aWa I t S .

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summer FASHION

g I r l S J u S t Wa n n a h av e S u n

g I r l S J u S t Wa n n a h av e S u n

Poolside 7 6

5

4

1 Not feeling the bikini these days? We are loving retro-inspired one-pieces as a more modest, but equally chic, alternative.

8 3

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A novel about the queen of fashion, this book is a perfect poolside read!

Shop the look 1 Topshop palm dress, $60 Nordstrom

2 Kate Spade gladiator sandle, $150 Saks Fifth Avenue

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3 "Girls Just Wanna Have Sun" straw tote, $48 Nordstrom 4 Floppy straw hat, $58 Banana Republic 5 Illesteva "Milan" sunglasses, $300 Encounter Boutique 6 Seafolly boy-leg one-piece, $148 Anthropologie 7 U-front bandeau and hipster, $54/$40 J. Crew 8 Mademoiselle Chanel by C.W. Gortner, $10 Amazon


lake haIr, don’t care

lake haIr, don’t care

Lakeside 4

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4 Best boat and beach sandals EVER… they have a bottle opener built into the soles!

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2 Crab and Cleek wooden boat tote, $50 Silverwood 3 Rag and Bone jean short, $195 Shopbop 4 Gingham TOMS, $55 5 Ray Ban round metal classic, $150 Ray Ban 6 Liberty print bikini top and bottom, $108 J. Crew

1 LG Sidewinder hat, $25 I Wear Local (Bolton Landing)

2 Patagonia "Wayfare" shorts and P6 logo tee, $59/$35 Mountain Man Outdoor Supply

3 Reef Draftsman flip-flop with bottle opener, $60 Happy Jack's (Bolton Landing)

4 Carrera "Hots" sunglasses, $139 Nordstrom 43


T H E Sa r aTo g a S o c i a l

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summer FASHION

d o n ’ t f o r g e t yo u r h at S , l a d I e S

d o n ’ t f o r g e t yo u r h at S , l a d I e S

Track Day 4 6 3 2 1 5

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6

Shop the look 1 Jackie O Dress by Black Halo, $375 Saks Fifth Avenue 2 ALDO "Mary’s" shoe, $80 Zappos 3 Fontaine pink crystal earrings, $450 Judith Ripka

4 Christine A. Moore Millinery hat, $475 Encounter Boutique 5 Wicker clutch, $118 Lilly Pulitzer 6 Mint halter ruffle dress, $138 Banana Republic

1 "Clarice" skirt by BBDakota, $70 Piper Boutique 2 Satin blouse, $25 H&M 3 Ted Baker "Lorno" shoe, $189 Lord and Taylor 4 Orange crossbody bag, $95 J.Crew (Bonus—you can monogram it!)

5 Hermes "Collier de Chien" cuff, $1,150 6 Fascinator, $52 e4hats.com (Get one locally at any of Saratoga’s awesome hat stores.)

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4


l o o k I n g da P P e r , g e n t S

l o o k I n g da P P e r , g e n t S

Track Day 3

Too hot for a suit? Opt for a more casual look. Swap out the jacket, tie, socks and Oxfords and simply wear a smart button down and a loafer with the pants. Add a preppy belt for good measure.

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7 5

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9 6 1

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Shop the look 1 Ludlow jacket and pants in chino or cotton, $358/$188 J. Crew 2 Button-down shirt by Thomas Pink, $185 3 Cole Haan "Willet Longwing" wing-tip shoes, $290 Zappos 4 Bits and caps tie by Alynn, $55 Silverwood 5 Horseshoe socks for good luck, $10.50 J.Crew Factory

6 Shinola Runwell stainless steel watch, $550 Saks Fifth Avenue (Get Shinola locally at N. Fox Jewelers.) 7 Walkaround Gingham Performance Classic Murray Shirt, $115 Vineyard Vines and Howland 8 Cole Haan Penny Loafers, $148 Nordstrom 9 Jockey silks needlepoint belt by Smathers and Branson, $165 The National

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summer FASHION

What haPPenS In 'toga, StayS In 'toga

What haPPenS In 'toga, StayS In 'toga

Out in 'Toga 4

3

2 5

5 2 1 3 4

1

Shop the look 1 Leith floral crossover romper, $69 Nordstrom

2 Mud Pie "Chelsea" initial cuff clutch, $24 Silverwood 3 Lilian Pave NL by Melinda Marie, $98 Silverwood 4 Wedges, $150 Micheal Kors 5 Colorblock cuff, $65 Mark and Graham

1 "Philomena" dress, $156 Susana Monaco (Get it locally at Violet's.)

2 "Breath of Fresh Air" crossbody bag, $258 Kate Spade (Get it locally at Lola Saratoga.)

3 "Meantobe" shoe, $79 Nine West 4 Hera tassel drops, $34 BaubleBar

5 Embellished floral clutch in vinyl, $198 J. Crew 46


givE cHariTaBlY aND carrY a Big PUrSE

givE cHariTaBlY aND carrY a Big PUrSE

Summer Gala This season it’s all about the statement necklace.

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5 2

4

3

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3 Get the look for less with Steve Madden’s Slithur sandal, $89.

Get the look for less locally at Violet’s with Sam Edelman’s “Aisha” shoe, $120.

Shop the look 1 Adelina shift dress, $238 Lilly Pulitzer

2 Louise et Cie double-drop earrings, $178 Nordstrom 3 Puzzle sandles by Sergio Rossi, $1,195 Shopbop

4 Rafe Azura Asymmetric Minaudiere, $795 Neiman Marcus

1 Jimmy Choo "Mindy" metallic heel, $1,150 Saks Fifth Avenue 2 Off-the-shoulder dress in cotton poplin, $118 J. Crew 3 Rebecca Minkoff "Love" crossbody bag, $295 Lola Saratoga 4 Anna Beck mini horn earrings, $120 Silverado 5 Bold, beaded strand necklace, $38 BaubleBar

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summer FASHION

P o P T H aT B U B B lY

P o P T H aT B U B B lY

Black Tie 6

2

5

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Shop the look 1 Halston "Heritage" white dress, $100 Rent the Runway (rental)

2 Crescent bib necklace, $395 Alexis Bittar 3 Massimo "Matteo" pump, $199 Zappos

4 Foldover feather fringed clutch, $128 Banana Republic 5 Metal hair elastic, $14 J. Crew 6 La Petite Robe "Black Angie" dress, $115 Rent the Runway (rental)

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1 Elizabeth and James bow back dress, $695 Shopbop 2 Jessica McClintock "Sloan" clutch, $55 Nordstrom

3 Suzanne Kalan "Fireworks" marquis ring, $4,200 Silverado 4 Michael Kors gold "Sienna" sandals, $135 Shopbop

5 Albion earrings with lemon citrine and diamonds, $2,750 David Yurman


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summer gala GuIde

MuleS / frInge / MIxed PrIntS / MIdI SkIrtS

Weekend Wardrobe Report SUMMER 2016 TRENDS StylISt/blogger yvonne Mceachron of layered. deSIgn. laYErEDNY.coM | @laYErEDNY

Flirty Feminine Sillouettes Ruffles, lace and pleats, oh my. Feminine silhouettes are having a moment this season. The romantic feel of soft color palettes and flowing fabrics offers an effortless look for your summer wardrobe. For a throwback to the '90s, rock a ruffled dress with a pair of chucks. THE OUTNET

Topshop

NET-A-PORTER

Off the Shoulder The off-the-shoulder style was all the rage last summer, and it hasn't lost any traction a year later. It is is available in both tops and dresses. I love this silhouette because it's flattering on all body types. Exposing the dĂŠcolletage and shoulders is a sophisticated way for a woman to show some skin.

The Pixie Market

The Pixie Market

The Pixie Market

The Neck Scarf The neck scarf or neckerchief is this season's alternative to jewelry. A thin neck scarf can transform any look for a different take on accessorizing. You can rock one on its lonesome, or double it up with two contrasting prints. If you like the layered effect, add a choker or a few necklaces around the scarf.

Topshop

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Bona Drag

Zara


P o P S o f c o l o r / n e u t r a l S / f l o r a l S / W I d e - l e g P r I n t e d t r o u S e r S / c h u n k y S a n d a l S / P l e at S

The Quintessential Maxi Dress The maxi dress never goes out of style. It is the quintessential summer dress. To play to the season, work in a few trending prints such as floral, stripes or paisley. For an edgier take on this look, mix the prints. You can do this with accessories or a layering piece like a cardigan or light jacket.

Bona Drag

Zara

Zara

The Comeback Culottes I could not be more excited about the comeback kid, the culottes. Culottes are the perfect hybrid for the season. They are neither a short nor a pant. They offer a loose-fitting silhouette that is breezy and comfortable in the summer heat. They can be styled with a boxy top for an oversized, relaxed feel, or with a fitted blouse to add structure. H&M

H&M

H&M

Summertime Suede

H&M H&M

H&M

Suede isn't limited to the colder months. Suede in the summer lends that '70s "too cool for school" vibe. If a suede, jacket is too heavy, look to a suede top, shorts or skirt. A suede, fringed skirt paired with a simple white tee and flat sandals has a casual West Coast feel written all over it.

A Statement Earring An oversized earring in an eye-catching geometric shape is the accessory of the season. You can wear them as a pair, or you can rock one solo. This trend is fun to play with and involves little investment. You can find a pair of large costume earrings at one of the many fast fashion retailers or a local consignment store.

Zara

Bona Drag Zara

Fresh Take on a Classic Your go-to summer shirt is a lightweight, oxford button-down. It's the classic white shirt with a twist. This wardrobe staple has been revisited and restructured for the season, featuring cowl necks, exaggerated sleeves, and belted midsections. Nothing beats a crisp, white cotton shirt to fight the summertime heat. NET-A-PORTER

Zara

NET-A-PORTER

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SUMMEr 2016

summer gala GuIde

Nail Polish Trends for Hot Summer Days and nights by Marcella & lIndSay haMMer, oWnerS of glItter naIl bar

Yellow From lemonade pastels to golden sunshine tones, yellow is THE nail color this summer. If you're worried it's a hard color to wear, pair yellow nails with whites, neutrals, chambray, and even metallics. Plus, yellow is a mood enhancer!

Glitter

White White is the new black when it comes to summertime nails. Whether you choose an opaque true white or a softer, more sheer shade, white nails make a statement. Whites work well on both hands and feet and transition from fancy to casual. White polish also makes a great canvas for glitter, studs, Swarovski crystals and other nail art.

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Throw it back to our ancient lady ancestors! They started using glitter for adornment in prehistoric times and a little sparkle is still just as trendy. Champagne glitters, which mix gold and silver, compliment any polish choice and look fresh as an ombre or all over glitter treatment. Or, take advantage of the summer sunlight and pick a super sparkly holographic glitter.


Almost Neons Springtime pastels will evolve into brights so bright they’re almost neon. Look for hot reds, hotter pinks, vibrant corals, and brilliant blues—colors that catch your eye from afar and dazzle up close.

Nudes Nude polishes are trending more than ever! Modernize your nude mani by choosing a shade that’s lighter or darker than your skin tone, or look for nudes with a hint of purple, blue or gray.

Multi-Tone Manis Ring finger accent nails are fabulous, so why not make the whole mani multi-tone? Keep it conservative by looking for colors in the same family, like periwinkles, blues and purples. Go bold by mixing in some metallics, nudes or brights.

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T H E Sa r aTo g a S o c i a l

SUMMEr 2016

summer gala GuIde

Accessories lola Saratoga oWner Megan druckMan’S PIckS For What’S trendIng In acceSSorIeS thIS SuMMer

A Choker "Ann" choker, $42 BaubleBar

A Tassel Earring Oscar De La Renta, $425 NET-A-PORTER

A Statement Earring Lola drop earrings, $34 Lola Saratoga

A Saddle Bag Kate Spade "Penelope" saddlebag, $328 Lola Saratoga

A Fringed Sandal Aquazurra, $785 Saks Fifth Avenue

The Updated Aviator Dior "So Real," $620 Barneys

A Great Water Bottle (one that beats the heat) Swell, $35 Lola Saratoga

A Colorful Hat Yosuzi, $395 Barneys

Bag Charms Lenora Dame, $69 Shopbop

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Make up gettIng glaM thIS SuMMer haS never been eaSIer WIth theSe ProductS and tIPS froM the MakeuP guruS at coMPlexIonS SPa.

For a glamorous look that will withstand the summer heat...

Start with a thin layer of complexi Tinted Makeup Primer. This product has the coverage of a foundation with the feel of a tinted moisturizer and will reduce the appearance of pores, fine lines and wrinkles. Using Complexions' contour kit to sculpt the cheekbones, apply a color two shades darker than your skin tone under the cheekbones and blend toward the ear. Apply the lightest color to the top of the cheekbone and under the browbone for a subtle highlight. After a touch of concealer and blush, it’s on to the eyes. A natural, smoky eye using the complexi Nude Palette will define the eyes and help them pop. No glam look is complete without false eyelashes, whether subtle, natural-looking ones, or some with over-the-top drama. To finish framing the eyes, use our Brow Balm to fill in any sparse areas for brows that wow! Fabulous color on the lips brightens the face and completes the look. Your last step is coola’s organic Makeup Setting Spray SPf 30, a weightless, matte, finishing mist that protects the most sensitive skin while keeping makeup looking fresh all day. Add a gorgeous fascinator and you’re ready for a day at the races!

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summer gala GuIde

Sanctuary Hair Salon owner Shannon Ramirez shows the summer’s best looks for hair, with style tips and products to help beat the heat and stay looking gorgeous.

Summer

‘Do

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Samantha’s Style PERFECT FOR: An easy style that will last all day. sTYLE TIP: For a fun faux-hawk style, start with multiple small hair bands. Taking small

sections, create pony tails or small buns down the center of your hair. Using bobby pins, pin pieces of your hair for a fun and flirty look. TO gET THE LOOK: Using the Cristalliste regimen adds the ease of extending your blowout for multiple days. Free of silicone, paraben and colourants, this line leaves hair weightless and clean while purifying roots and rebalancing the hair fibers. It smooths ends leaving hair polished and beautiful. It adds shine and movement and is great for those summer months when hair may get a bit oily. Baume Double Je is the perfect styling pomade to help smooth fly-away strands. It leaves hair manageable without adding stiffness.

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summer gala GuIde Taylor’s Style PERFECT FOR: Fighting a long day of heat and humidity. sTYLE TIP: Pack some product to go and maintain your look all day long. TO gET THE LOOK: Taylor started with the Discipline Keratine

Thermique, a creme-based, leave-in product that restores inner flexibility and smooths frizz and flyaways with humidity protection. Best part of this product? Continual use will result in 85% less breakage from your blow-dry. If you’re heading out for a long afternoon that will extend into the night, throw an Elixir Ultime Sérum Solide into your bag. This small jar packs a big punch in five different ways. It seals split ends, tames unruly strands, illuminates highlights, revives dry curls and regenerates hair overnight.

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Jenn’s Style PERFECT FOR: A long-lasting style that works with natural

curl but keeps frizz to the minimum. sTYLE TIP: Ready to curl your hair? Simply wrap each strand

around the barrel of your curling iron. (Always remember to curl away from your face!) TO gET THE LOOK: We washed and styled Jenn with the

Kerastase Discipline line, starting with Bain Fluidealiste shampoo that gently cleanses and nourishes the hair. The Discipline line diminishes frizz without adding weight. Also available in a sulfate-free formula, the Bain Fluidealiste is best for colored and sensitized hair. (We’re talking to you, blondie!) The Maskeratine deep conditioner is great for daily use to achieve soft supple hair, and to smooth ends and prevent hair damage from future styling. Finally, to prepare her hair to take on the damaging heat from the blow dryer and curling iron, the Discipline Fluidissime Anti-Frizz spray offers 72 hours of frizz control and up to 450 degrees of heat protection.

Maggie’s Style PERFECT FOR: This season is all about braids, braids, braids!

What’s so great about this trend is the ease of going from a long day of fun at the track to a night on the town. sTYLE TIP: Lightly pull out the ends of your braids to create a “plumped” braid, then use bobby pins to pin the ends up into it for a beautiful night style. TO gET THE LOOK: Maggie treats her hair with the Reflection

regimen. With two lines, one targeting dry, highlighted or sensitized colored hair, and another for normal colored hair, the products are packed with UV filters and anti-fading protection. They moisturize the hair and leave it shimmering with radiance. Before her blowout, Maggie primes her hair with the L’incroyable blowdry creme. With 450-degree heat protection and 96-hour extreme anti-frizz control, L’incroyable creme has unparalleled shape memory. What does that all mean? From straight to curly and back again, this miracle product has the power to change up your style without washing every time.

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2016

T H E Sa r aTo g a S o c i a l

SUMMEr 2016

Summer Calendar

15 FRIDAY, JuLY 15

wEDNEsDAY, JuLY 20

Light Up the Night

5th Annual Finest Fillies

Albany Medical Center Emergency Department

Jake’s Help From Heaven is changing things up for the fifth annual fundraiser. Some colts have now entered the race of local notables competing for the finish line at Vapor in the Saratoga Casino. Who to bet on? Colleen Carlson, trained by Mary Gavin? Michael Billok, trained by Todd Shimkus? With a field of nine, it’s anyone’s guess.

Saratoga National Golf Club

16 sATuRDAY, JuLY 16

The White Party Guests will head to a new location this year as The White Party moves just outside of town to the clubhouse and tented grounds of the Saratoga Polo Association. With complimentary cocktails, catering by the Old Daley Inn and music by Gravity, Saratoga Bridges’ annual benefit still promises to be a spectacular celebration. Honorary Chairs Connie and Tom D’Ambra, and event chairs Patty Riggi and Robin Dalton, supported by a dedicated committee, have secured 14 live auction items to entice bidders, including a ten-course tasting menu, with wine, for 10 guests, presented in the winner’s home by Chef Brian Bowden. Other temptations include a Pavilion Grand luxury package, New Dimensions landscape design, “Beer for a Year” from Druthers, and original artwork by Saratoga Bridges’ own Creative Endeavors artists. A hint of Horseman Playing Polo can be seen in The White Party invitation as designer Christianne Smith blended the art with the iconic Lady Godiva image to reflect the new party venue.

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20

For reservations, and to browse the online auction, visit SaratogaBridges.org.

To keep them all on a fair track, JHFH founder Heather Straughter will spin a wheel labeled with the contenders’ names, randomly helping each advance one furlong. Host Tom Durkin will call the race, but the real winner is already clear. It’s JHFH – all proceeds from the $10 bets will support the organization. to review the full field, place bets and learn more, visit JakesHelpFromHeaven.org.

21 THuRsDAY, JuLY 21

23rd Annual Siro’s Cup The Center for Disability Services Siro’s Restaurant

23 sATuRDAY, JuLY 23

Golden Anniversary Gala New York City Ballet Saratoga Performing Arts Center Ballroom Gala Hall of Springs

Summer Soirée: 1966 SPAC Lawn

26 TuEsDAY, JuLY 26

Polo by Twilight The Palamountain Cup Set at the scenic Saratoga Polo field, the 37th annual benefit for the Joseph C. and Anne T. Palamountain Scholarship Fund of Skidmore College will kick off with a live match. Attendees will also enjoy cocktails, silent and live auctions, and a gourmet dinner prepared by Skidmore’s renowned dining services. All funds support the special scholarship fund created to honor the college’s fourth president and his wife for their 22 years of leadership and service to the college community. They were an extraordinary couple, deeply missed on and off campus. for reservations, visit Skidmore.edu/ Palamountainbenefit, or call the Skidmore college office of donor relations at (518)580-5671.


YOuR guIDE TO THE sEAsON’s PARTIEs AND EvENTs suPPORTINg sARATOgA’s ExTRAORDINARY NONPROFITs

29 FRIDAY, JuLY 29

2 TuEsDAY, AugusT 2

15th Annual Awards Dinner & Charity Auction

3rd Annual Croquet on the Green

Equine Advocates will mark its 20th birthday at this year’s gala. Chaired by Judy Harrigan and Jack Knowlton, the celebration at Canfield Casino will honor Jonathan Sheppard with the “Ellen & Herbert Moelis Safe Home Equine Protection Award.” “Special Animal Saviors” Steve and Lisa Caporizzo are also to be recognized.

AIM Services

The evening includes silent and live auctions, headlined by a package for this year’s Breeder’s Cup at Santa Anita Park. Cocktails and dinner will lead to dancing with Body & Soul, featuring a special tribute to Prince. Proceeds benefit equine advocates horse rescue, sanctuary and humane education programs. For more information, call (518)392-0175.

1 mONDAY, AugusT 1

6th Annual RIDERS UP Jockey Karaoke Night The Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund Vapor at Saratoga Casino Hotel

AIM Lawn Route 50, Saratoga Springs

3 wEDNEsDAY, AugusT 3

The 34th Annual Summer Gala One of the largest events of the season, the Saratoga Hospital Summer Gala will “Set Sail” on the polo meadow at Saratoga Casino Hotel. This year’s festivities, chaired by first mates Stephanie Collins and Jennifer Perry, with generous support from Honorary Chairs Marylou Whitney and John Hendrickson, will again benefit the Saratoga Community Health Center. While fun décor, special event cocktails and divine food stations from Chef Shawn Nash enhance the gala, the highlight is always the live auction, conducted by Fasig-Tipton auctioneers. This year is no exception! Fitting the theme, one of the showcase items is a seaside-inspired children’s playhouse, masterly crafted by Robert Courtney Enterprises, designed by The Phinney Design Group, and decorated by Silverwood Home and Gallery.

Also certain to raise bidding excitement is an elegant cocktail reception for 50 at the new Salt & Char. Donated by Toby and Cara Mildé and Salt & Char Restaurants, the package includes an open bar, hot and cold hors d’oeuvres and live music in the restaurant’s private room. reservations may be made online at SaratogaHospital.org, or by phone, (518)583-8340.

4 THuRsDAY, AugusT 4

Fashionable Fillies Luncheon The Jockey Club Safety Net Foundation Saratoga National Golf Club

THuRsDAY, AugusT 4

The Race for Choice Planned Parenthood Canfield Casino

7 suNDAY, AugusT 7

7th Annual After the Race Party Old Friends at Cabin Creek The Lodge

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2016

T H E Sa r aTo g a S o c i a l

SUMMEr 2016

Summer Calendar

9 TuEsDAY, AugusT 9

Visión – A Look at Life Behind the Scenes Saratoga EOC Latino Community Advocacy Program At the Rail Pavilion Saratoga Race Course

11 THuRsDAY, AugusT 11

The Sizzling Hot Pink Saratoga Hat Luncheon Breast Cancer Research Foundation At the Rail Pavilion Saratoga Race Course

13 sATuRDAY, AugusT 13

The Dancing Athlete Gala This year’s National Museum of Dance Gala will spotlight the sport, from a perfect brisé on stage, to a chassé that returns a tennis serve, to the fanciful footwork often witnessed in the end zone. Calling attention to the graceful, athletic strength and endurance of great dancers, Gregory Hines and Patricia Wilde will be inducted into the Mr. and Mrs. Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney Hall of Fame. Then, the evening swings into a festive celebration, perhaps the most elegant of the summer galas. Cocktails will flow, with delicious hors d’oeuvres passed to enjoy. Dramatic

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décor always transforms the museum and school, beckoning friends to the exquisite, seated dinner prepared by Mazzone Hospitality. And of course, there will be dancing – lots of dancing. To learn more, visit DanceMuseum.org.

15 mONDAY, AugusT 15

Winners Circle Affaire Saratoga WarHorse Hall of Springs

23 TuEsDAY, AugusT 23

One Fine Day Shelters of Saratoga has found a new home for its annual garden party. The event, part of Travers Week festivities in town, will move out Union Avenue to the grounds of Saratoga National Golf Club. Honorary Co-Chairs Charlie and Mary Lou Wheeler invite guests to enjoy an afternoon of seasonal fare by Prime and the music of Mama and the Stops, while bidding on an array of silent auction items and shopping the Lifestyles of Saratoga “pop-up” boutique. It will truly be One Fine Day! For reservations and sponsorship opportunities, visit SheltersofSaratoga.org.

25 THuRsDAY, AugusT 25

18th Annual Saratoga Fashion Show Ronald McDonald House Charities At the Rail Pavilion Saratoga Race Course

25 THuRsDAY, AugusT 25

The Travers Celebration Gala Saratoga National Golf Club

THuRsDAY, AugusT 25

Health, History & Horses Gala Ladies of Charity Longfellows

26 FRIDAY, AugusT 26

Taste of Travers Celebration Adult & Senior Center of Saratoga National Museum of Dance


YOuR guIDE TO THE sEAsON’s PARTIEs AND EvENTs suPPORTINg sARATOgA’s ExTRAORDINARY NONPROFITs

1 THuRsDAY, sEPTEmBER 1

St. Jude Gala St. Jude Children’s Hospital Hall of Springs

9 FRIDAY, sEPTEmBER 9

The Incredible Teddy Foundation Fundraiser Late summer nights are often the most beautiful. Save the date to enjoy this one at Saratoga National Golf Club for an incredibly worthy cause. The Lodico Family founded The Incredible Teddy Foundation in 2010 after their son, Teddy, was born with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH), a condition characterized by the underdevelopment of the diaphragm in utero. Since its inception, their annual fundraiser and auction have grown in size and spirit, no doubt because of the sweet little boy who inspires everyone he meets to support this cause. Last year’s event raised $20,000! To learn more about the foundation, cDH and the September benefit, visit incredibleTeddyFoundation.org, or like the foundation on Facebook.

9-11 FRI-suN, sEPTEmBER 9-11

Saratoga Wine & Food Festival and Concours D’Elegance Saratoga Performing Arts Center

15 THuRsDAY, sEPTEmBER 15

Feast of the Fields Saratoga PLAN

SAVED FOR PINK PADDOCK AD

Saratoga National Golf Club

18 suNDAY, sEPTEmBER 18

7th Annual Henry Street Harvest Festival Gateway House of Peace

29 THuRsDAY, sEPTEmBER 29

TRASK Art Show & Sale Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation Canfield Casino

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T H E Sa r aTo g a S o c i a l

SUMMEr 2016

Hattie’s Mardi Gras Soirée 15th Annual

JANuARY 16, 2016

Canfield Casino To Benefit

Saratoga Performing Arts Center

HOSTed BY

Beth Alexander PHOTOGRAPHeR

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Megan Mumford


A Black & Gold Winter Ball FeBRuARY 27, 2015

Hall of Springs To Benefit

Saratoga Performing Arts Center

HOSTed BY

The SPAC Junior Committee PHOTOGRAPHeR

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Eric Jenks/Awasos Entertainment

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YMCA Annual Campaign Party MARCH 10, 2016

Prime at Saratoga National To Benefit

YMCA’s Scholarship Fund

CHAIRPeRSONS

Alysa Arnold & Jennifer Perry PHOTOGRAPHeR

Megan Mumford

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66


May Day Spring Fling 26th Annual

MAY 4, 2016

Canfield Casino To Benefit

Saratoga Economic Opportunity Council

PHOTOGRAPHeR

Megan Mumford

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SUMMEr 2016

And They’re Off! Derby Day Party 1st Annual

MAY 7, 2016

The Lodge To Benefit

Saratoga Sponsor-A-Scholar

HOSTed BY

Robin Dalton PHOTOGRAPHeR

Eric Jenks/Awasos Entertainment

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Shaken & Stirred Celebrity Bartender Party MAY 19, 2016

Prime at Saratoga National To Benefit

Universal Preservation Hall

HOSTed BY

Teddy Foster & Brendan Flanigan PHOTOGRAPHeR

Lisa Miller/Studio Di Luce

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SUMMEr 2016

Cantina’s Cocktails for a Cause MAY 25, 2016

Cantina Restaurant To Benefit Pediatric Emergency Services at Saratoga Hospital

HOSTed BY

Jeff & Heath Ames PHOTOGRAPHeR

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Megan Mumford


l a i c o S a g o t a Sar Playlist The

compiled by Jim Mastrianni

THoSE SUMMEr NigHTS

JUlY BarBEQUE

aUgUST cocktaIl Party

Seriously, a warm winter and a chilly spring? Here’s hoping for some hot summer nights.

July barbeques are all about getting together with friends and family, firing up the grill and celebrating this great nation. And beer, can’t forget the beer.

Having some friends over for drinks on the porch? Put on this playlist to set the mood.

sONgs IN PLAYLIsT

sONgs IN PLAYLIsT

sONgs IN PLAYLIsT

• “america” - Simon & Garfunkel

• The Four Seasons, op.8, No. 1, “Spring”: I. allegro - Vivaldi

• “Summer nights” Grease Soundtrack • “Walking on Sunshine” Katrina and the Waves • “Summer breeze” - Seals and Crofts • “Sailing” - Christopher Cross • “lovely day” - Bill Withers • “Summer in the city” The Lovin’ Spoonful • “Summertime” DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince • “Saturday In the Park” - Chicago • “the boys of Summer” Don Henley

• “ventura highway” - America • “afternoon delight” Starland Vocal Band • “firework” - Katy Perry • “kids in america” - Kim Wilde

• “the girl from Ipanema” Stan Getz, Astrud and João Gilberto • “take five” - Dave Brubeck • “camptown races” - Dave Brubeck

• “american girl” - Tom Petty

• “the In crowd” The Ramsey Lewis Trio

• “Party in the uSa” Miley Cyrus

• “devil May care” - Diana Krall

• “Party rock anthem” LFMAO • “r.o.c.k in the uSa” John Mellencamp • “all Summer long” - Kid Rock

• “Wild horses” - The Sundays • “horse With no name” - America • “tequila” - The Champs • “black horse and the cherry tree” KT Tunstall

• “here comes the Sun” - The Beatles

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New Generation Photography by Megan Mumford

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on Henry Street Over the past five years, a little stretch of Henry Street has seen unprecedented growth, spurred by a group of young entrepreneurs ready to prove that success doesn’t require a Broadway address. We sat down with the owners of Saratoga Botanicals, Henry Street Taproom and Saratoga Paint & Sip Studio to talk about taking a chance on their offthe-beaten-path location and what their vision is for the future of Henry Street. 73


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FRANEsA & BILL PYLE

sONJA & RYAN mCFADDEN

Saratoga Botanicals

Henry Street Taproom

I was born and raised in Washington State. I came out here to go to college in Rhode Island, found my way into Saratoga Springs for a job in 2000, met my husband, and the rest is history. I love Saratoga Springs, especially for the waters, the healing. For me, that was a big factor in opening my business. This is a great environment for healing. My background is in healthcare administration, though; I worked in the corporate environment and was CEO of a healthcare facility for many years. This healing modality work was something I did on the side.

ryan: Most recently we’re from Philadelphia. Sonja and I had been living down there for about eight years before coming here. I was working as an attorney and Sonja was a teacher. We always wanted to open a craft beer bar. It became a hobby that we thought we should build ourselves, so we wrote business plans in our free time, but we weren’t really sure if it was ever going to happen. It was more of a hobby that we became very serious about as time went on.

As a place, Henry Street is so vibrant. The Taproom had just opened, and Paint & Sip before that, and I saw the freshness of this street. I could envision what we could do here, so I launched Saratoga Botanicals in October 2013. I had been working up to the idea of opening a spa and knew what I wanted: it had to be organic and offer my own products, which I’d already been making for 12 years. Every single service we offer is a part of what I went through to bring myself to a point of healing, to evolve and enlighten myself. We offer everything from massage to facials, and acupuncture to medical and nutritional consultations. It’s pretty vast. At first, I thought the space was so small, I didn’t know what we could do. But within a year, we expanded by three rooms and now have a full service spa with bathrooms, showers, a sauna – we’ve doubled in size from 1,000-square feet to 2,100. We also make everything here, which is exactly what I envisioned, with our lab in the back, and offer about 200 different products for sale.

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Sonja: We started taking classes about beer and then going up to New York to study cheese at Murray’s. ryan: We would go to beer bars and drive back to Philly. Then we started looking around Saratoga because Sonja went to school near here and liked the area. We had been looking for about a year when this space opened up. We really liked it. We were actually looking for something that was off the beaten path. Sonja: That was a key component for us. At the time, Henry Street really was off the beaten path and everybody told us it was so far away from Broadway that we couldn’t open a viable business here. They said people wouldn’t walk that far. ryan: It was pretty much a unanimous opinion that it would not work for us on this street. Sonja: We were both a little nervous, but we loved this space and the energy in here. And the first night we opened the doors almost 3½ years ago, people started coming. We haven’t looked back.


CATHERINE & mARK HOvER

Saratoga Paint & Sip Studio

Q&A What has it been like to open a business off Broadway? ryan: We got busy pretty quickly. I feel like a lot of the people who started to come in here off the bat were people who lived close by, in the neighborhood behind us. Almost immediately, we developed a following that didn’t want to walk up Caroline to Broadway. Obviously, it’s grown since then, but a lot of people still don’t know where we are, which I think is funny. catherine: Other parts of town are still not aware of Henry Street. I think we do have a nice, local following of people that live on the east side of town. Sonja: I think being off of Broadway helps. I think locals don’t necessarily want to go to Broadway because it’s inundated with tourists. Another unexpected part of having a business here is that winters are our busiest time. We take a dip in the summer.

I’m originally from New Orleans and came up here in April 2011 to be with my (then) fiancé. He had relocated to the area for his job. As soon as I moved into town, I looked for a paint and sip establishment because they’re so much fun back home. Since there wasn’t one, I started plugging away to figure out how I could open a place. I did think about the whole franchise route, but opted against that because I don’t like people telling me how to spend my money. I decided to take a risk and do it on my own. At the time, the space I am in now had been vacant for a year. Long story short, in April 2012, we opened Saratoga Paint & Sip on Henry Street, and eighteen months later, we opened a studio in Latham. Henry Street was a slam-dunk for us. At the time, there really wasn’t much that was new on the street. Everyone said the same thing, “A paint studio and a bar? There’s no way that will work out.” On top of that, I look like I’m twelve years old. I remember going into City Hall trying to sort out how to apply for a liquor license, and they had to ask how old I was.

Mark your calendar... for the next big event on Henry Street, the 7th annual Henry Street Harvest Festival on Sunday, September 18, to benefit the gateway house of Peace. For more information, visit The Saratoga Social event calendar www.TheSaratogaSocial.com

franesa: It took us about a year to gain good exposure. I think because we are so different. We also get slower in the summer. Parking is a challenge, so we created a spa shuttle. It’s a complimentary service offering pick-up from two miles of the city. We pick people up from hotels and from their houses. Even if they’re coming from out of the area, they can park outside of town and we’ll get them.

it seems like you have a great rapport with customers and very loyal followings. Has it always been that way? ryan: It’s funny, we were worried if people would be accepting when we got here because we weren’t from Saratoga. It was a real concern whether they were going to like “outsiders” coming in. But everyone was overwhelmingly welcoming. We couldn’t get over how nice people were to us. Sonja: We still can’t believe how ingrained we feel in the community after only being here for four years. We lived in Philadelphia for eight and didn’t feel nearly as much a part of the community there. In Saratoga, we just felt embraced. ryan: It’s a nice, small-town, communal feel here. When you walk up the street you see 15 people you know before you even get to the next block. Sonja: There’s no staying under the radar in Saratoga. I definitely think that people like to celebrate independent small businesses here. When you see someone, especially someone younger, take that leap of faith and open a business, the community really supports you.

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New Generation on Henry Street

Q&A catherine: Saratoga is driven by small businesses. We don’t have a Wal-Mart or any big box stores downtown. Instead, it’s this great environment of local entrepreneurism. franesa: Saratoga Botanicals is competing with a very saturated spa market in Saratoga. We had to be very fresh and create something that was totally unique, not at all like any of the other spas. It took about a year before we were fully embraced and had solid traffic coming in. We had to put our vision out there and show what we wanted for people. I feel like now, going into our third year, we are being recognized. We were just voted “Best Spa” in Capital Region Living magazine. We were competing with two other very heavy hitters, so to come up in the ranking was really awesome. People feel like family now for us. That is part of our client culture, so they don’t come into a very sterile, rigid spa environment. I feel like that’s how we differ, but it did take a little while to prove we aren’t like other spas in the area.

You came together and formed a Henry Street association to help bring more traffic to the street. How did that come to be? Sonja: We piggy-backed off of the Henry Street Harvest Festival, which is something that Simplicity Hair Salon started for the Gateway House of Peace. That’s the main event. Then we launched the bike party last year and had a great turnout. It was a lot of work, though I think the first event is always that way, and as time goes on, it becomes a staple. franesa: I feel like people took notice of the change in the street after the bike party. We had interesting attendees there and I think the take-away was that we are a younger, hipper group trying to do things a little differently. I know we are going to continue to redefine events and keep it fresh. ryan: We have a nice little chunk of street for events. The city doesn’t need to give us a hard time about closing up, it’s easy, it’s close to town, and if people don’t want to walk around after, it’s a nice location for that. On top of it, we have like-minded businesses. catherine: We all have complementary businesses, but we are also like-minded individuals. We want to come together and expand our businesses and think outside of the box. That goes a long way.

How would you like to see Henry Street evolve? catherine: Ideally, we would love to be closed to traffic and become a pedestrian-only street.

Sonja: I’d say that most of the time, we are in our businesses. We are all very approachable too. Not that Saratoga is snobby, but it certainly has that kind of air to it sometimes. I think all of these things collectively, being off Broadway, always present, not extremely expensive to frequent...all of those things make us easier for people to visit more often. franesa: Our street incorporates the full gamut of customers. We welcome people just for who they are. I feel like, in each of our businesses, we celebrate everyone, from all walks of life. ryan: We have a very eclectic clientele. People ask what our demographic is and I don’t know. It’s not one subset of people. It’s really very varied – our regulars are 22-52 years old. And they all get along with each other too, which is nice.

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franesa: Parking on both sides would be great. Make the street one-way and park on both sides of the street. It’s always nice when we have the street blocked off for the Harvest Festival or something. The night before, there are no rules. We can park whenever and wherever. The Henry Street Bike Party tries to make the street more bike-friendly. ryan: Yes, we’d love to make the street permanently bike-friendly, with the installation of bike racks and a bike lane. Sonja: I think encouraging more bike and pedestrian traffic would really help bring even more life to this side of town, with more forward-thinking individuals.


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UPSTATE DISTILLING CO. interview with owner ryen van Hall Photography by Megan Mumford

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When we heard the old Serotta factory on Geyser Road had been purchased by Saratogian Ryen Van Hall, we couldn’t wait to learn what his plans were for the nearly 4-acre property and 12,000-square-foot manufacturing facility. His goal to open the first new distillery in Saratoga Springs since Prohibition intrigued us. We needed to know more, so we stopped by 41 Geyser Road to talk with Ryen about booze, distilling and getting his whiskey in your glass. How did this all start? Take me back to the very beginning. People started opening distilleries around here about ten years ago. Every time i visited one, i learned a little bit more and got a little more interested. Everybody i talked to was having such a great time at the job. They were just enjoying everything they were doing, and they were proud too. i grew up with my father in a scrap-yard, learning how to run a small business, but we didn’t have a product. I didn’t have anything to put my name on.

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How important is it to you to be distilling in Saratoga? I came back to Saratoga because I was born and raised here, and I wanted to make a product with Saratoga’s name on it. I’m proud of this city and want what I make to reflect that. When The Albany Distilling Company launched, I saw them filling a need and setting a standard for the quality that would be produced in the Capital Region. Then, Springbrook Hollow Farm opened in Glens Falls. I realized it was only a matter of time before someone began distilling in between. And sure enough, Yankee Distillers started in Clifton Park. That was too close to home. I knew that if I didn’t open a distillery in Saratoga now, someone else would. Selfishly, I wanted the title of the first new distillery in Saratoga Springs since Prohibition. There have been some attempts, and they used to run alcohol through Saratoga during Prohibition. In the city of Saratoga Springs, however, I am the first person, who actually owns a still and produces the alcohol, to start a distillery in almost 100 years.

You mentioned all of the ingredients also come from New York State? All the grains – the wheat, the rye and the corn – are organic, all ground in mills right in New York State. And I really wanted to use Saratoga’s water, right out of the ground and distilled. I have this cheesy tagline, “Come to Saratoga Springs and if our famous waters don’t heal you, maybe our spirits will.”

How did you learn the actual distilling process? I committed to myself that as the first, I had to set the standard. I wanted to make a product that was better than anything I knew I could make at the time. You can hire consultants, masters, to come work with you. I searched to find someone who had never been around here. I had a good friend, who I was also helping to open a distillery in Martha’s Vineyard, my buddy Jeff. He traveled a lot for work and he came back with this bottle of vodka from Vancouver. It was the best vodka I’d ever had. It had a flavor to it without having flavor. It had an essence. It was a real, premium vodka. When he

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poured it into the glass warm, I told Jeff I don’t drink warm vodka, to which he said, “Just drink it.” It went down like water. I could drink it all day. So I emailed the owner, Laurent Lafuente. He’s FrenchCanadian. We started going back and forth, talking about what I wanted, and I flew him out here a few weeks ago. He showed us how to make an authentic, great product. We went from start to finish, working through our growing pains. Half the things didn’t work when he was here. We didn’t have direct access to the spring water, so we were filling up buckets of water from the spring. We were trying to figure out how to cook the mash initially. A good friend let us use his brewing system because we didn’t have access to ours yet, so we were trucking the mash from Mechanicville in a tank in the back of my truck. We had to make five runs because it couldn’t handle the weight of thousands of pounds of mash. We got here and fermented in our tanks, and on the last two days, we started distillation. Because it was kind of hob-jobbed together, everything was breaking. I spent most of my time keeping the boiler from failing, but we managed to make a really nice whiskey.

When will full production start? Well, we are figuring out what we did wrong so we can launch production in the next few weeks. We’ll be making about 50-55 gallons a week of spirits and barreling when we’re in full production, and then we’ll make our own vodka as well.


What spirits will you be producing?

What are your plans for distribution?

The primary distilling grains for whiskey are usually wheat, rye, corn and barley. We use flour, which is a unique concept, instead of malted grain. It helps provide a different flavor and defines our brand. But we couldn’t find a barley that was milled to flour, so we’re using only three grains – organic wheat, organic rye and organic corn. We start from flour, and that will, in the end, make five products.

In distilling, for the first year or two, you have dead time while you’re waiting for fermentation. Since there’s a long turnaround for profit in this business, people self-distribute to save money in the beginning. For me, that’s the most exciting part. I can’t wait to go into Hamlet & Ghost, one of my favorite bars, order a really dry vodka martini and hand Seamus a bottle of my Blinders Vodka to use. I want to visit Andrew at the Henry Street Taproom for one of my nightcap Manhattans, made with Turning Point Whiskey. Or have another of Saratoga’s bartenders craft an Old Fashioned out of Birch Label Bourbon.

We will have a barrel-strength rye whiskey and cast-strength rye whiskey, straight from a single barrel. It will be a long-aged product, very premium, really spicy. It will be for a true whiskey drinker, someone who likes it strong. Then we’re going to do Turning Point whiskey, which will be a blend, primarily rye and corn with a little bit of wheat. That will be a whiskey for the people. If you like bourbon or you like rye, but you don’t like one in particular, this will be a nice whiskey for the masses, but a very distinct blend. We’re also creating a bourbon of mostly corn, with a special ingredient to sweeten it. We’re using birch syrup instead of maple syrup or honey, so it will have an Adirondack feel. Finally, we’re going to make vodka. Because we’re a whiskey distillery and vodka is commonly made with a single grain, we’re going to distill two of our whiskey grains, wheat and rye, together for a pure, premium vodka. It will be very smooth to drink, but there will be an essence of spice because of the rye. That unique flavor will allow it to stand on its own if you drink it very cold. So it will be a whiskey man’s vodka.

Distributing is going to be fun. We are going to stay in the Saratoga area for the first year. Then, I’ll start expanding to Albany. I have family in New York City and Boston, and a lot of friends on the Cape, so I have very good connections out there to start selling my products. We’ll be able to expand into select cities. Once we get too busy, doing double production with nonstop bottling, and we don’t have time to manage the distribution ourselves, we will look for a national distributor. Locally, DeCrescente has already been helpful as I’ve gotten started. I’ve actually been able to use their brewery system to make mash. With as little as 30-minutes notice, Carmine let me into his space when I called him.

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Will you offer tastings here? Our license allows us to bring people in and offer tours. For a small fee, you can come in, grab a tasting glass and have a 30-minute tour. We’ll explain the process, and then you’ll be able to taste the products we make at the bar. Tastings will be small, but because of ever-changing legislation, we’re now allowed to make full cocktails too, so you can buy a drink crafted with our products, and others made in New York State with the same license. I get along well with other distilleries in the area. Albany Distilling has helped with our start up, and I learned a lot from Springbrook Hollow. Since I have these relationships, I can buy Springbrook’s gin for example, a product we won’t make, at a wholesale price. It goes on the shelf, and I can make you a gin cocktail. This building also houses a brewery, so there’s synergy with that tenant, letting us offer beer and host group events. And I can buy New York wine from the vineyards to serve. I can buy anything made with a farm license in New York State wholesale, and then sell it retail.

Will you have food? We’re not going to have food, but during the summer, on those popular days when Dave Matthews is in town, when Zach Brown performs, when Mumford and Sons is in concert, we are going to have an open event. People will be able to stop in for a tour. We’ll have drink specials and Airstream Catering will be in the parking lot. Friends helping me with this operation also own Lake Local and food trucks, so we have options without having to build a kitchen ourselves. You’ll be able to come to Upstate Distilling, enjoy a drink or two, have some great food and then hop over to SPAC, practically right across the street.

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beat the heat

What happens when you introduce summer cocktails to your favorite childhood treat, the popsicle? Delicious, wonderful things. Read on for a tasty way to cool down and buzz on this summer.

A L L R EC I P E s R Eq u I R E A P O P s I C L E m O L D A N D s E Rv E 6

White Sangria Popsicles

Punch of Pinot Popsicles

INgREDIENTs

INgREDIENTs

• 1 cup white wine • 3 tbsp Grand Marnier

• 1 cup assorted berries (we used strawberries, blueberries and rasberries)

• 2/3 cup favorite fruit juice

• ½ bottle fruity red wine

• ¼ cup club soda

• ½ cup Sprite or 7 Up

• 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice

• ½ cup orange juice

• 1 1/3 cups diced mixed fruit

• ½ shot brandy

DIRECTIONs

DIRECTIONs

Whisk the liquids together in a large bowl. Slice up the fruit and put equal amounts in each popsicle mold. Pour the liquid into the molds and freeze for about two hours, or until frozen enough to insert popsicle sticks. Allow to freeze at least another six hours.

Puree berries in a blender. To get fancy, push the mixture through a sieve to remove the seeds. Then, in a mixing bowl, whisk berry puree with the other ingredients. Pour into popsicle molds; freeze at least eight hours.

Sangria on a stick

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For anyone who likes wine


Chocolate Banana Cream Pops A chocolate popsicle, all grown up INgREDIENTs

• 2 cups vanilla yogurt • 1 banana • 4 oz vodka • 4 oz Kahlua • 4 oz Bailey’s Irish Cream • Grated chocolate (optional) DIRECTIONs

Mix all ingredients, except chocolate, in blender or food processor until smooth. If desired, sprinkle chocolate inside molds. Pour blended mixture into molds and freeze for about two hours. Insert sticks. Freeze for at least six hours.

The Classic Orange Pop Basically, a classic screwdriver INgREDIENTs

• 3 cups orange juice (fresh squeezed if time allows) • 3 oz orange-flavored vodka • ½ orange, cut into pretty little segments DIRECTIONs

Mix together the orange juice and vodka. Drop equal amounts of orange segments in each mold before filling them up with the vodka/orange juice mixture. Freeze for about two hours. Insert sticks. Freeze for at least six more hours.

Watermelon Margarita Pops A seriously frozen margarita INgREDIENTs

• 4 cups chopped seedless watermelon • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice • 3 tbsp superfine granulated sugar • ¼ cup water • ¼ cup tequila DIRECTIONs

Puree all ingredients in a blender until smooth. Push mixture through a sieve, then pour right into popsicle molds. Freeze for about two hours. Insert sticks. Freeze for at least six more hours.

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Summer Sips

From

Hats & Sparkling to Bandanas & Sangria When done properly, at any level, there are few events that rival the charm, fun and resounding excitement of a summer porch party in Saratoga Springs. Whether taking off to the track, SPAC or downtown, or simply gathering friends for the evening, this town offers a scene with the variety and versatility of no other place on earth. Saratoga Wine & Spirits searches for the coolest wines on the market, regardless of cost, but always with an eye on value. Here are a few unique, warm-weather winners that can work as a hostess gift, or quench the thirst of masses.

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We Recommend... let’s start with a favorite “new-to-us” label, Scarpetta. Three porch party picks come from this vineyard in Friuli, one of the lesserknown regions in italy. Business partners Bobby Stuckey, Master Sommelier, and chef lachlan Mackinnon Patterson met while working for thomas keller at the french laundry and are now owners of Frasca Food and Wine in boulder. the pair visited friuli and Scarpetta was born. Scarpetta Pinot Grigio is a full-blown crowd pleaser, and anyone who is bored by the palate-cleansing, watered-down version should give this baby a whirl. It’s fantastic and complex, with beautiful fruit and a little minerality that would remind you of a Sauvignon Blanc. Porch party note: deliciously special under $15. Next up is Scarpetta’s Friulano Bianco, a blend of Friuli, Colli and Orientali. These new varietals do not disappoint. SWS currently carries the 2012 – this wine can take the age, which is appropriate for its $25 price point. Tasting notes include green almond, peach and apricot, with brisk acidity. Porch party note: a red-drinker’s white. Barbera is a fabulous summer red grape. Scarpetta’s Barbera del Monferrato DOC is a balanced, medium-bodied red with crushed berries and a hint of earth, low tannins and bright acidity. This profile works beautifully with pizza, pastas, beef and pork. Porch party note: a $20 red that’s super yummy and goes with everything!

now, let’s turn down the SWS aisle to the budget-friendly picks that constantly sell by the case, for parties and the at-home summer stash. It isn’t easy to narrow the field, but here are a red and a white that can stand on their own, leaving friends grateful for your good taste, or work beautifully in a Sangria recipe. Rey Santo is a lovely, light-bodied white that is anything but light in flavor. This wine is a prime example of dirt making a difference. This classic Rueda (the region) blend of Verdejo-Viura (the grapes) rocks it out! Grown in soil comprised primarily of small stone, lined by clay and further by limestone, it boasts its mineral heritage, and will become an obsession for under $9 per bottle, or $90 per case. Porch party note: turn this one into your favorite Sangria, or mix with peach puree and sparkling for a punch that packs a punch. Rounding things out is a wonderful, medium-to-full-bodied red wine, also from Spain. Laya is a special blend of Garnacha and Monastrell, which would normally be on the fruity side, but Laya sees four months in French oak. That time adds an exquisite richness and complexity, to the extent that when tasted, rarely, if ever, will someone identify it as a wine under $9. Porch party note: great BBQ wine or Sangria starter.

Saratoga Wine & Spirits wishes everyone a safe and happy summer in this town like no other… cheers!

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The SARATOGA SIX Six cUrioUS QUESTioNS For Saratoga’S MoSt IntereStIng PeoPle From Alyssa J. McClenning

Elliott Masie Many know him as a learning guru, but elliott Masie is equal parts horseman and broadway enthusiast. Though he works on a global scale as head of The MaSiE center, a think tank focused on how organizations can support learning and knowledge within the workforce, he passionately calls Saratoga Springs home.

Tell us about your earliest Saratoga memory. I came to SPAC for my first concert, The Doors, in the summer of 1968. I was amazed to find this incredible community, loaded with great entertainment. Saratoga gave me a sense of musical culture, sitting way, way back on the lawn.

The Saratoga Social was created to highlight the work of our local nonprofits. Which organization is most important to you? BEAT, supporting the backstretch workers at the track. They are proud, hard working and vital members of our community, and key to the world of horse racing. MASIE Stable has horses in Saratoga, and the health and wellness of the backstretch workers are so important.

Which spot in town serves your favorite drink or dish? Uncommon Grounds serves an “everything” bagel, toasted twice, with plain cream cheese on the side.

Saratoga Springs is all about horse racing in the summer. as a Thoroughbred owner yourself, what do you most enjoy about your animals? and what is your favorite part of the Saratoga race course experience? Thoroughbred horses are regal, fragile, powerful, agile and responsive. I visit our horses almost every morning from May to October, around 6:30 a.m. as they are exercised and groomed. The Saratoga Race Course experience brings together tens of thousands of fans (and about-to-become fans) from every slice of life. The fans embrace and absorb the energy of the horses and races.

What’s the first app/website you open in the morning? My schedule app, to see how I will mix my three worlds: learning research, horses and Broadway production.

“I consider Saratoga’s greatest hidden gem to be...” Saratoga is a town filled with people who choose to be here. Probably 98% of the population is living here by passionate, active choice. In other communities, it is far lower. Saratoga is a place where people say “Yes!” to being in this zip code.

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Perfecting The

PORCH PARTY Photography by Megan Mumford

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s spring turns into summer and the weather warms, nothing beckons quite like the iconic porches of Saratoga. We spend our nights relaxing out front, watching people as they leave the track and head downtown, and more often than not, friends stop by to join us for a little “porch time” together. While half-finished bottles of wine and whatever bits of cheese are in the fridge will suffice for these impromptu gatherings, we wanted to do it up right and throw one perfect party, worthy of a grand Saratoga porch. Like that found at the corner of Caroline and Circular Streets, wrapped around Circular Manor, a stunning Victorian bed and breakfast owned by Dieter and Michele Funiciello. Since the Funiciello’s were kind enough to let us take over their ample porch for a day, we pulled out all the stops to have the soirée we’ve dreamt of all winter. Our friend Amanda Crames, owner of Schuyler Pond at Scallions, styled the porch from top to bottom. She shares her design tips here. And what’s a party without great food and drink? Hamlet & Ghost owners Brendan Dillon and Dennis Kiingati came to our rescue with incredible libations, delicious appetizers and, most importantly, their recipes, so you too can have a porch party befitting summer in Saratoga.

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Perfect The Style Amanda Crames, owner of Schuyler Pond at Scallions, created a charming, vibrant setting for our porch party at Circular Manor Bed & Breakfast. Here are some tips to help reproduce the look and ambiance of this enchanted Saratoga porch.

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tart with color, and go bold. It’s summer after all! Crames chose Willow Herb (a happy chartreuse) and Plum Shade (purple with a touch of grey) to create a fresh, invigorating backdrop for the bright flowers, accessories and festivities. Touches of white and periwinkle made the space pop; velvets and silks lent a luxurious feel.

Bring the inside, out. Crames loves pulling some indoor furniture outside, especially on large Victorian porches, like Circular Manor’s, built in 1903. So out came the purple, velvet, shabby chic wing chair from the Funiciello’s living room, adding a touch of decadence and welcome comfort. For Circular Manor guests, this is the chair everyone wants to sit in!

Use fresh, “deconstructed” flowers. Choose whatever is seasonal and fragrant, if possible, from the grocery, florist, farmer’s market or yard. Then arrange with gusto, rather than with any specific plan in mind. Crames used lilacs from her trees, boxes of pansies, roses and lacy greens from local groceries, and boxwood branches from the grounds around the inn. Leftover rose stems adorned the ice bucket; broken stems and buds were popped into goblets. Relaxed flower-arranging lends itself to the breezy, unfussy atmosphere ideal for a porch party. Blend high and low décor to live in the mix. Weathered metal chairs painted chartreuse shined brightly next to the swanky velvet wing chair. Lush blue and green milk glass goblets and bowls were stars atop a drop cloth and burlap table cover. Old buckets and boxes housed wine bottles, more flowers, utensils, whimsical napkins, lemons and limes. Circular Manor’s grand period porch just soaked up the fun and freedom of bright colors, mixed up décor and thoroughly modern guests. Don’t forget the horses, of course. It wouldn’t be Saratoga without a splash of equine. And in this case, more than a splash! Photographer Lisa Miller’s fabulous, large-scale Foal Project images graced the porch walls, lending impact and imagery sure to resonate with local passersby and guests alike. schuyler Pond at scallions is located at 44 Lake Avenue, next to scallion’s Restaurant. Milk glass goblets and bowls in lush green and blue shades were refreshing even before the wine was poured.

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Luminous mercury glass votive holders in blues, greens and whites capture the light and are heavy enough to stay put on the porch.

Porch-perfect melamine cups in vintage patterns and bright summery colors

Outdoor rugs – plastic, washable, fun and in a variety of vibrant colors and patterns 93


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Perfect The Food & Drink ABOUT HAMLET & GHOST Hamlet & Ghost, a contemporary craft cocktail bar built on a colorful past, is located at 24 Caroline Street. They blend one part speakeasy, two parts modern cocktail bar and a dash of ambiance to put guests at ease, delight with flavors, and deliver an understated, relaxing experience.

Hamlet & Ghost Owners Dennis Kiingati and Brendan Dillon

The Recipes coUrTESY oF HaMlET & gHoST

SriracHa liME PoPcorN (Seasoning Blend) Enough for popcorn made from 1/3 cup kernels, serving 2 people

INgREDIENTs

INgREDIENTs

• 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey • 2 tbsp sriracha

• 1 oz pineapple juice • 1 oz vodka

• 1 tbsp melted butter • zest of one lime

• ¾ oz Campari • ½ oz lime

• few shakes of salt PREPARATION:

THE FlaMiNgo rooM

Preheat oven to 350 F°.

Make the seasoning blend first, using the microwave or low heat on the stove to combine everything well. Then pop the corn by itself. Once popped, toss it with seasoning blend while everything is still warm. Adjust the seasonings to suit your tastebuds and the quantity of popcorn.

• 2 dashes of Pernod • 1 bar spoon simple syrup PREPARATION: Shake ingredients with ice and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with an orange peel.

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The Recipes coUrTESY oF HaMlET & gHoST

PiNEaPPlE roSEMarY SoDa INgREDIENTs

• 2 oz fresh pineapple juice • ½ oz fresh lemon juice • ¾ oz rosemary simple syrup • 2½ oz soda water PREPARATION:

SWeet & SMoky caSheWS INgREDIENTs

• 2 cups unsalted cashews • ½ tsp chili powder • 1 tsp sweet smoked paprika • 2 tsp honey • 1 tbsp lime juice

For Rosemary Simple Syrup Combine 2 cups white sugar with 1 cup water in a small sauce pot. Bring to a simmer and add 3 sprigs of rosemary. Remove from heat and allow to come to room temperature. Remove rosemary sprigs. For Soda In a small shaker, combine all ingredients except soda water, and shake with ice until well chilled. Strain into a tall glass and add soda water. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and sprig of fresh rosemary.

• 1 tsp olive oil • 1 tsp salt PREPARATION:

Preheat oven to 350 F°.

Place all ingredients in a bowl and toss to mix. If you like the nuts spicy, you can add hot chili flakes also. Put parchment on a baking sheet. Spread the cashews and bake, stirring halfway through, for a total of 20 minutes or until golden. Allow nuts to cool before eating or storing in airtight container.

clovEr clUB INgREDIENTs

• 2 oz gin • ¾ oz lemon juice • ¾ oz simple syrup • 5 fresh raspberries • 1 egg white PREPARATION: Combine ingredients in a shaker, and shake once without any ice. Add one large piece of ice (rinsed and cleaned yogurt cups make a nice size cube) and shake hard until well chilled. Strain into a coupe. (A margarita glass or wine glass will also work.)

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The Recipes coUrTESY oF HaMlET & gHoST

PiMENTo cHEESE This is a staple in the South. Serve on crackers, bread crisps, celery and more.

INgREDIENTs

• 3 large pimento peppers (or a 12 oz jar of whole pimentos) • 4 oz cream cheese, at room temperature • ½ cup mayonnaise • ½ tsp hot sauce • ½ tsp salt • ¼ tsp sugar • 1/8 tsp smoked paprika • Freshly ground pepper • 1 pound grated sharp cheddar cheese

MariNaTED ToMaTo TarTiNE mARINATED CHERRY TOmATOEs

• 4 cups halved cherry tomatoes • ¼ cup vegetable oil • 3 tbsp cider vinegar • 1 tsp dried parsley

PREPARATION: Roast the peppers over a low flame until skin blisters on all sides. Place in bowl and cover with plastic for a few minutes, while hot. Skin should then slip off easily. Use a paring knife where needed to remove blackened skin. Seed and dice. (Or, if using jarred peppers, drain, seed and chop.)

Use a wooden spoon to mash the cream cheese in a bowl until soft. Add other ingredients, except peppers, and stir well until blended. Carefully fold in the peppers. Place in serving dish and chill.

• 1 tsp dried basil • 1 tsp dried oregano • ½ tsp salt • 1 ½ tsp white sugar • Peasant bread, sliced • ½ cup ricotta cheese • Salt and pepper • Aged balsamic • Fruity olive oil • Pea shoots (available at Four Seasons Natural Food Store) PREPARATION: Make marinated cherry tomatoes by combining all ingredients noted and setting aside. Grill a slice of peasant bread lightly drizzled with olive oil. Spread with good quality ricotta cheese, lightly seasoned with salt and pepper. Spread ½ cup of marinated tomatoes over ricotta. Drizzle with olive oil and aged balsamic, and loosely spread pea shoots across the top.

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Perfect The Look PHOTOGRAPHS BY LISA MILLER

The mare had just given birth to her foal and the connection between mother and baby was palpable to everyone present. Witnessing it, photographer Lisa Miller knew she had just been a part of something very special.

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n 2009, Lisa Miller, a writer and professional photographer, was asked by a friend to record the moment when her Thoroughbred mare gave birth to its foal. Intrigued, Lisa decided to give it a try. When the time came, after being on call and waiting for several hours in a cold barn in the middle of the night, Lisa finally captured the entire event with her camera, and in the process, was transformed by it. “I remember walking away from that stable, saying to myself, ‘You just witnessed something very special.’ It was as if I was hit by a lightning bolt and I knew that this was bigger than myself.” A few months later, Lisa got an opportunity to photograph another birth and she jumped at the chance. Watching that magical connection once again reinforced what she felt during the first, and she knew she was being given the chance to share something extraordinary with the rest of the world. For Lisa, it’s very important for people to understand that the moment of connection between a mother and her foal is identical to the moment when a horse approaches a human being. They know intrinsically that that person is damaged in some way and they respond to that place of hurt and pain in the individual. It is as if, just by being present in that moment, a bond is forged between the person and the horse. After that second foaling, Lisa began to think seriously about how she could use her transformative experience to help others. “It was really serendipitous, the way information kept crossing my path,” says Lisa. “I started hearing different stories about how horses were able to have such a positive and therapeutic impact on people who have been broken by life in one way or another...veterans suffering from PTSD, children who were born with disabilities, people struggling with cancer or other life-threatening illnesses...these individuals were benefiting just from being with these magnificent animals.”

With the assistance of local attorney Jim Towne, Lisa established a Donor Advised Fund through The Adirondack Trust Company Community Fund. Proceeds from the sales of her photography, as well as her recently published book, The Foal Project: Babies of Waldorf Farm, are used to help qualified 501(c)3 equine-assisted therapy centers across the country. To date, more than $50,000 has been distributed. Lisa continues her work with the Foal Project, using her photography and writing to document the healing effects these wondrous creatures have on the lives of so many.

Lisa knew what she had to do. She would make it her mission to capture those precious moments, and use the proceeds from sales of her photography to help equineassisted therapy centers continue their work of putting horses and people together. A few months later, Lisa had the good fortune of meeting Dr. Jerry Bilinski, a veterinarian and owner of Waldorf Farms in North Chatham. “All I had were two photographs and an idea,” she recalls. Lisa explained her idea to Dr. Bilinski. “And, just like that, he said to me, ‘Ok, you’re in.’ He gave me carte blanche to photograph all of the births at his farm.” Six years later, Lisa’s Foal Project has gained national attention and recognition, with her remarkable photographs on display in the famous Cross Gate Gallery in Lexington, Kentucky; the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame in Aiken, South Carolina; the Niche Gallery here in Saratoga; and of course, on the porch of the lovely Circular Manor Bed & Breakfast.

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LIvINg sOCIALLY

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ucked behind the large Victorian mansions on Clinton Street lies a sweet row of houses that make Carriage House Lane. The street (almost as cute as its moniker) is far away enough that there is little traffic and noise, but still offers all the convenience of being in downtown Saratoga. It simply doesn’t get much better than that, which is exactly what Drew West thought when he bought the three-acre vacant parcel at the end of the lane. With the help of John Witt, West built his dream house.

Checking in Carriage

Situated down a long, stately driveway, the beautiful home is at once New England colonial, and reminiscent of an old English carriage house with its stonefaced, attached garage. No detail was spared in this new build featured in last fall’s Showcase of Homes. Wainscoting, custom built-ins, gorgeous trim work… the countless upgrades show. The main floor’s layout suits modern living, with practical open space for life and gatherings, an office and a spacious master suite. There is no formal living or dining room. The screened porch features a stone, wood-fired pizza oven, one of West’s favorite things in the home, and the lovely veranda off the living room provides an outdoor sitting area with views of the gorgeous lap pool. Needless to say, this house was built for entertaining, both indoors and out.

The homeowner, Drew West

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With the help of Mandy’s Spring Nursery, West was able to make his dream English courtyard come true.


on House Lane Written by chelsea Silver Photographs by randall Perry

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The open-concept living room is perfect for entertaining and for quiet nights in. The space opens out to the equally inviting veranda, complete with its own TV and lounge furniture. The equine art was a Silverwood Home & Gallery find.

West’s mother, Renee, and Ed DeRocker helped with the interior design, but West himself was pretty hands-on with the décor. This young, soon-not-to-be bachelor knows what he likes and has a confident eye for design. Serendipitously, Aspen Witt (the builder’s daughter), was a project manager on the home, and now, she and West are engaged. Given the fact that they built a new relationship while building a new house on a very tight schedule, the pair is aptly set for a new chapter in life. Cheers to them, and to a lifetime of joy in the home truly built on love!

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Concord Pools did the gorgeous pool that can be controlled from a remote inside. Cover retracted? No problem. Mood lighting at night? Done without even stepping outside.

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The metallic paint and wood paneling in the study are modern and classic at the same time. The leather chairs, cowhide rug and American flag painting on tile (by Tom Myott) are the ultimate blend of all-American, sophisticated and masculine styles. The result? Office perfection.


The Saratoga Six Questions on Building Your Dream Home What’s your favorite paint color/ brand? Where did you use it? Benjamin Moore, HC-144 Palladian Blue, in the junior master.

Biggest splurge in the house? West’s favorite splurge in the house? His gourmet pizza oven in the screened porch off the kitchen.

The pizza oven.

best deal/steal on home décor? My vintage cowhide rug from Front Street Home Design Center.

Favorite place to hang? It’s a toss-up between the kitchen and the veranda. I love food, so maybe the kitchen.

You also love to entertain. Pick three living people you’d have over for pizza. Tiger Woods, Warren Buffet and Tom Brady.

if these walls could talk, what would they say? Thanks for making this happen. We love it here!

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Saratoga Real Estate Sampler Luxury on Lake Lonely

10 Campion Lane, Saratoga Springs Paradise! Experience stunning, breathtaking sunrises and sunsets at this beautifully maintained, waterfront, custom John Witt home. Privately situated on Lake Lonely with views of the 15th green at Saratoga National, this home boasts custom features, a home office, gym, wine cellar, in-law quarters, sunroom, gorgeous pool and landscaped grounds. This will no doubt make a lovely family estate for years to come. Minutes to downtown and all Saratoga has to offer! offered at $2,995,000 • listing agent: Julie bonacio/Julie & co

Custom Ranch on Large Lot

35 Kaydeross Avenue West, Saratoga Springs This wonderful custom ranch, minutes from everything, is a must see! Beautiful hardwood floors and a great floor plan await. A wall of windows lets the sun bathe the house from all directions. Uniquely set back off the road, paths behind the house lead all the way to the Hemlock Trails and Preserve. This could be your dream home, conveniently located near Saratoga State Park and close to downtown. offered at $475,000 • listing agent: lars huus-Skladzinski/Julie & co

Affordable Downtown Cottage 116 East Harrison Street, Saratoga Springs

New pricing! Property was listed as a two-family and is back on market as a single family home, as it would convert with ease. It offers the BEST location and a large lot in downtown Saratoga Springs. offered at $275,000 • listing agent: conner roohan/roohan realty

The Pastoral Show-Stopper 149 Fitch Road, Saratoga Springs Here is a country estate located on one of the most beautiful roads in all of Saratoga County! This elegant, Federal-style brick home, with six bedrooms and 4.5 baths, features a fabulous staircase, fireplaces, wood floors, butler's pantry, high ceilings, sunroom, built-ins and a wonderful patio. The property includes 208 acres, a 6-stall horse barn, paddock/ pastures, a charming three-bedroom guest house and in-ground pool, with water frontage on and views of Fish Creek. Perfect for a small horse farm. Possible to subdivide. offered at $2,750,000 • listing agent: amy Sutton/roohan realty

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A Small Sampling of Saratoga’s Most Eligible Properties

The Entertainer’s Dream

16 Liz Ann Drive, Saratoga Springs A spectacular home on a quiet cul-de-sac, just minutes from downtown Saratoga, offers an open floor plan with multiple levels. The first-floor master suite includes a sitting room, two-sided fireplace, airy bedroom and two walk-in closets! Another bedroom or office, with an adjacent bath, is also on the first floor. The upstairs features three additional bedrooms and two baths. A lower-level theater showcases a built-in bar, huge rec room and great storage space. Step outside to a professionally landscaped backyard oasis with several patio sitting areas, outdoor fireplace and heated pool. offered at $784,500 • listing agent: charlene Wood/town & country Properties

Modern Living in the City 322 Nelson Avenue, Saratoga Springs

Great location! Walk to town, the farmers’ market or the track from this incredible, custom, fully renovated, five-bedroom, 4.5-bath, stone and stucco home by award-winning builder Bonacio Construction. Features include a gourmet kitchen with Sub Zero and Wolf appliances, all new baths, a bluestone patio, six-foot privacy-fenced yard, attached 2+ car garage, yoga room, three living rooms, all new Pella windows and doors and a security system. Modern interior design finishes including a sliding barn wood door, reclaimed wood flooring throughout and rustic lighting. Contemporary, yet so comfortable. offered at $1,275,000 • listing agent: katherine nemer/Julie & co

Live, Work and Play! 727 Rt. 29, Saratoga Springs

Here is the ultimate home retreat with history, authentic charm and modern amenities. This 1849 Greek Revival overlooking Vermont’s Green Mountains has been lovingly updated in gracious style. It highlights restored floors, moldings and priceless views, plus central air, new windows and electric. The outbuildings, pool, pond and gardens create a unique environment for a “live-work-play” lifestyle. Truly the perfect place to call home, entertain friends or house a business. Only five minutes from downtown Saratoga! offered at $785,000 • listing agents: Janet besheer and helen Mastrion/equitas realty

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The Laying of the Cornerstone J u N E 1 0, 1 9 1 6

While there are many landmarks in Saratoga Springs, there is only one that embodies strength, stability and security –The Adirondack Trust Company at the prominent corner of Broadway and Church Street. This summer marks the centennial of the building’s cornerstone, laid on June 10, 1916. The Adirondack Trust Company was formed by fifteen business men in 1901, with initial capital stock of $100,000. The bank officially opened January 2, 1902, in leased space in the Westcott Building, a three-story brick structure that occupied the site where the bank stands today. The vault, valued at $15,000, was installed in April of that year. Its arrival was quite the sight as it required temporary tracks to be placed on Church Street so it could be delivered.

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The Adirondack Trust Company

CELEBRATES A CENTENNIAL Written by Samantha Bosshart

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Vault delivery, 1902

Westcott 1 1 0 Building, Pre 1916

Board of Director’s chair


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y the end of 1915, the bank had reached deposits in the significant sum of $3,000,000. The Saratogian reported that the Board of Directors, in recognition of this milestone and the magnificent support of the community, determined it would erect a building that “should surpass anything in the city in beauty and substantial character.” No bank funds were to be used for its construction, so the Adirondack Landlord, a stock company, was formed by four members of the executive committee. The new corporation purchased the Westcott Building for $25,000 in February 1916. Nine architects were considered for the project, and later that month, directors of the bank approved the design by Alfred Hopkins, a native Saratogian who had an architectural firm in New York City. The bank immediately started demolition and temporarily moved across the street to a vacant storefront at 462 Broadway. Each night, the cash was carried back to the original site and the vault that remained there. It was ultimately incorporated into the new building.

Alfred Hopkins’ design was heavily influenced by Greek architecture. The white marble façade features engaged pilasters with laurel wreaths above, representing victory, power and glory. The inset carved panels were described by Hopkins himself to be “Roman garland, signifying abundance, with the winged hourglass below, as a warning to those who may not value the possibilities that lie in the speeding moment and the departing day.” The crowning ornament of the primary façade is a large shield with a stag’s head, signifying the name Adirondack, flanked on each side by horns of plenty and the American eagle. The Adirondack theme is carried throughout the building, with particular attention to the stag, considered a noble animal of the region and a symbol of strength. The bronze front doors depict a mountain scene with stags in the foreground. The interior features chandeliers with stag heads, zodiac signs, and clusters of Adirondack acorns representative of the storing of wealth. The original directors’ hand-carved wooden chairs have The Adirondack Trust Company logo at the center with acorns. Each interior wall highlights relevant proverbs in gold Roman lettering: “Saving is a greater art than earning;” “A penny saved is a pound earned;” “Diligence is the parent of fortune;” “The first years of a man must make provision for the last;” and “Frugality is the mother of all virtues.” Below the clock on the west wall is the dedication, “To all who love honesty, industry and thrift, this building is dedicated.” There is little doubt that these sayings have contributed to The Adirondack Trust Company’s success. “It is a remarkable thought that The Adirondack Trust Company is performing exactly the same service, as a privately owned bank, in the same location, for over 100 years as the founders intended,” states Charles Wait.

Rendering, 1916 Building completed, 1917

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The bank has been fortunate to have the loyal support of the community since its founding, but Wait recognizes that “loyalty goes both ways.” This is readily evident by the bank’s long-standing generosity, giving back to the community over and over again. Thank you to The Adirondack Trust Company for not only gracing downtown Saratoga Springs with a beautiful landmark, but also for gracing this city with continued support. Samantha Bosshart is the Executive Director of the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation. Founded in 1977, the 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 about the history and architecture of Saratoga Springs, attend one of our upcoming Summer Sunday Strolls. To learn more about our programs or to become a member, please visit www.saratogapreservation.org.

The Adirondack Trust Company Bronze doors, 1917

THE ADIRONDACK TRUST COMPANY THEN & NOW

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SAR AT O G AP R E S E RVAT I O N. O R G


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Summers of

SARATOGA’S PAST

In the spirit of our cover, some summer scenes from Congress Park, courtesy of the Saratoga Springs History Museum and Bolster Collection

1 1 77th 6 Monument Dedication, 1875

fish Pond, 1880’s


The Spirit of life, 1915

carlotta Myers taking a hot air balloon ride in congress Park circa 1885

Hillside Bandstand, 1912

Two gentlemen in congress Park, 1890

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congress Park, 1855 Indian encampment, 1890’s the Indian encampment was located on the flat above the canfield casino right in the park. it was set up by Native americans as a tourist attraction where they sold goods and novelties during the summers.

congress Park concert, 1915

congress Spring with grand Union Hotel in background, 1915

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SPAC

50

“Bruce Springsteen – The Seeger Sessions for Hurricane Katrina” –Sarah Boivin

“Sting” –Carly Connors

To celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, we asked our readers to share their favorite concert or memory from SPAC.

“Bruce Springsteen” –Lisa Vitiello

“The Grateful Dead in 1984 and 1985”

“1987, Tina Turner with my mom!”

–Peter Zorich

–Wendy Lawrence

“Peter Gabriel… just incredible” –Shelby Schneider

“Coldplay” –Megan Lyons

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“Going to the SPAC lawn for the NYC Ballet with all the kids. We take a big picnic and make a night out of it. I have been doing it since I was a kid myself.” –Traci Jersen

“David Bowie” –Kevin Cushing

“Elton John. How’s that for a throwback?” –Mara King

“DMB, Grateful Dead, Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty, David Bowie, Phil Collins... and the list goes on!” –Tamara Valentine

“The Police” –Melissa Brumley

“I just saw the Dixie Chicksamazings-and they did a tribute to Prince which was very heartfelt. The Police rocked, and seeing BB King with my dad, to name a few.”

“The Eagles – hands down winners!” –Amy Sutton

“NKOTB! Circa 1994!” –Alice Corey

–Sarah Stacey

“Grateful Dead in 1984 and 1985!” –Michele Madigan

“Yo-Yo Ma”

“Meatloaf” –Jennifer Ricupero

–Jeannette Liebers

“Harry Connick, Jr. played for almost three hours non-stop in the early ‘90s; told the audience that we would have to pull him off the stage to stop!” –Cindy Hollowood

sPAC CELEBRATEs 50 YEARs OF mEmORIEs

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“The Moulin Rouge Ballet Gala Lawn Party! I was really impressed with all of the effort that people put in to support the residency of the New York City Ballet and how much fun it was! It inspired me to get involved with the Junior Committee.” –Erika Browne

“Annie Lenox and Sting”

“Dave Matthews, of course. Farm Aid was great as well. Bon Jovi was pretty good, and I saw a sweet NKOTB once, back in the day ...” –Joanna Rockwood

“Coldplay” –Samantha Kercull

–Michele Funiciello

“The Who in 1971… through the smoke.” –Jim LaVigne

“The Police, with Elvis Costello as an opening act!” –Michelle Mebert

“Tom Petty” –Mary Gavin

“My sisters and I loved, loved the Scottish boy band, The Bay City Rollers. Our mother, a single mom, saved and scraped together enough money to buy all three of us, plus herself, third row pit seats to see them! My mother, being Scottish, had a family tartan. She let us cut a square piece off of it to bring to the concert at SPAC. I remember vividly throwing the tartan up on stage; it landed at the feet of band member, Woody. The tartan sat at his feet for awhile as they performed and all the girls in the audience squealed at every note they belted out.Woody then bent over, picked up the square piece of our family tartan, wiped his sweaty face with it and tossed it back to us. My sisters and I screamed like all young girls who adore their boy band. We swore we would never wash it, it hung in the room we shared for years. It was one of my best childhood memories.” -Tonya Pellegrini Lawrence

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“Tina Turner in the ‘80s... best rendition of Proud Mary’ ever!” –Tamie Ehinger

“Being backstage with Dave Matthews at Farm Aid. He hugged me and then told me“Final why heperformance loves SPAC. Or at the with Journey concert when they played Wendy Whelan. Serious” ‘Don’t Stop Believin’ as the Shane Williams-Ness encore. The crowd was electric, confetti was falling and 30,000 people were singing together.”

“Going to the Elton John concert in September 2011, with my best friend and both our moms. It was pouring rain on the lawn and we sang and danced the night away to the timeless tunes of Elton.” –Stephanie Cash Hogan

“Tina Turner!” –Christel MacLean

–Melissa Zieker

“I second Tina Turner!” –Kristie Roohan

“Eagles, Grateful Dead ‘84 and ‘85, Talking Heads, Santana, Jackson Browne, Tom Petty...” –Beth Alexander

“Nine Inch Nails... and no, I’m not kidding! Trent Reznor put on a hell of a show.” –Chelsea Silver

“Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers opening up for the one and only Queen Latifah. Life changing.” –John Lefner

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$3.95

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