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Volume 5 • Issue 47 SaratogaPublishing.com
Organic Growth "Tea" Time! ...at Hall of Springs In Malta by Yael Goldman Saratoga TODAY
When William Connolly was diagnosed with bladder cancer three years ago, his world was turned upside down – in a good way. For him and his wife Cristina, owners of Beauty Society Salon (located in the heart of Malta’s
Dunning Street District), the prognosis inspired a sort of “think local” campaign that’s quite versatile and increasingly vital in its application. Riding on the heels of this notion, the dynamic couple cited and unraveled a nationwide problem for which every salon and personal beauty cabinet is at the epicenter.
See A Sweeter Life? page 14
Feeding the Mind and Body Schuylerville Teachers Raise Thousands for Food Pantries by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY
Mark Bolles - Saratoga Today
SAFER food pantry in Schuylerville
More photos see Pulse page 24
It’s easy to forget here in the Saratoga region, an area so often associated with affluence and privilege, that there exists a great and ever-growing need for those who are less fortunate, struggling to make ends meet in our tumultuous economic climate. “More and more people are having a difficult time making ends meet,” Courtney Bissell, Coordinator of Development and Volunteers for the Franklin Community Center Food Pantry said. “All of our services have kind of been sky-
rocketing. We’re finding a lot more folks that might have been donors in years past are now the ones using the services themselves.” The stereotypes that have generally been associated with people who take advantage of services such as the ones offered at the Franklin Community Center Food Pantry are becoming less and less applicable, and across the board those who run such programs have found that there exists a much greater need from a much wider scope of the population than ever before. In response, organizations such as the
See Food Pantries page 13
Inside TODAY... Digital Storytelling pg 9 Victorian Streetwalk pgs 15 - 18 INSERTS: Official Guide to Festival of Trees Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Songsheet Spring Street Deli
10,000 copies distributed weekly • To Advertise Call • (518) 581-2480
SARATOGA
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
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Hours of operation 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-Friday Publisher/Editor Chad Beatty 581-2480 x 212 cbeatty@saratogapublishing.com
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Arthur Gonick 581-2480 x 206 Entertainment / Simply Saratoga Editor entertainment@saratogapublishing.com
Obits & Anne’s Corner Anne Proulx 581-2480 x 202 aproulx@saratogapublishing.com
Calendar & Briefs Kim Beatty 581-2480 x 215 kbeatty@saratogapublishing.com
Contributing Writers Marion E. Altieri thoroughbredwriter@yahoo.com
Meghan D. Lemery meghanlemery@yahoo.com
Suzanne Voigt sfmascv@nycap.rr.com
Jill Sweet jsweet@skidmore.edu
Kate Towne Sherwin sksherwin@hotmail.com
Kerry Mendez pyours@nycap.rr.com
Stuffing 320 Thanksgiving Day charity baskets by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY On Tuesday, November 23, Key Club students from the F. Donald Myers Education Center, part of the Washington-SaratogaWarren-Hamilton-Essex BOCES, and members of the Saratoga Springs Kiwanis Club took the time to fill 320 Thanksgiving Day food baskets for families in
need throughout the local community. The event was coordinated by F. Donald Myers' teacher Chef Maureen Clancy, in collaboration with Joe Lafeura from the Kiwanis Club.
TODAY
SARATOGA
TODAY
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Derrick L. Brockway, 20, of 1153 Fort Miller Rd., Greenwich, pleaded guilty to a charge of second-degree rape, a class-D felony. Brockway was arrested in Saratoga Springs on August 4 for an incident that occurred on July 28. He is scheduled to return to court for sentencing on January 13. Richard W. Gross, 54, of 1422 Saratoga Rd., Ballston Spa, pleaded guilty to a charge of attempted menacing of a police officer, a class-E felony. Gross was arrested in the Town of Ballston on September 7 for an incident that occurred on September 6. He will return to court for sentencing on January 13. Jodi T. Brooks, 27, of 1 Prospect St., Apt.3, Mechanicville, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree grand larceny, a class-D felony. Brooks was arrested in Stillwater on September 1 for an incident that occurred on May 9, and will return to court for sentencing on January 13. Jorge W. Suarez, 40, of 29 State St., Apt. 2, Saratoga Springs, appeared before Judge Jerry J. Scarano on November 18 for resentencing. Suarez was originally convicted of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony on October 22, 2009, for which he was sentenced to five days at the Saratoga County Jail and five years of probation. He was resentenced to have the conditions of his probation enlarged
to include drug treatment court and continued probation. Seth R. Ledger, 24, of 546 Rt. 32 Bacon Hill, Schuylerville, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony. Ledger was arrested in Northumberland on April 25, and has been sentenced to five days in the Saratoga County Jail, five years of probation and ignition interlock. Robert A. Pierpont, Jr., 26, of 1548 Dean Street, Niskayuna, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony. Pierpont was arrested on August 13 in Malta and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing on January 13. Nicholas J. Carroll, 21, homeless, Saratoga Springs, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree burglary, a class-D felony. Carroll was arrested on August 4 in Saratoga Springs. Carroll was also charged with fourth-degree grand larceny, a class-E felony. He was arrested in relation to the latter charge on July 26 for an incident that occurred on July 21. Carroll will return to court for sentencing for both charges on January 14. Deborah J. Hittinger-Brown, 43, of 127 East High St., Ballston
Spa, pleaded guilty to a charge of second-degree criminal possession of a forged instrument, a class-D felony. She was arrested on August 25 in Ballston Spa and will return to court for sentencing on January 14. Jerold C. Kelleher, 41, of 22 King Rd., Saratoga Springs, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree attempted criminal sale of a controlled substance, a class-C felony. Kelleher was arrested on April 21 in Saratoga Springs for incidents that occurred on April 19, 20, and 21. Kelleher has been sentenced to four years in State Prison and three years of post release supervision. James P. Kruzinski, 26, of 15 Natick St., Albany, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony. Kruzinski was arrested in Halfmoon on June 20. He is scheduled to return to court for sentencing on January 14. Christian T. Orologio, 22, of 209 Malta Ave., Ballston Spa, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony. Orologio was arrested in Ballston Spa on June 14. He has been sentenced to one year in the Saratoga County Jail with a condition of his discharge to include ignition interlock.
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Police & Courts Armando Ruiz, 33, of Middle Village, Queens, was charged with third-degree criminal possession of stolen property after police discovered $20,000 of stolen merchandise in his car. Ruiz was arrested in Saratoga Springs on November 21. Ruiz, who also went by the name Luis A. Torres Cotto, was found to have an outsanding warrent in Illinois in connection to a burglarly. He is being charged as a fugitive from justice. Ruiz is being held in lieu of $20,000 cash bail or $40,000 bond. Brent McCoffey, 19, of Karista Spring Dr., Saratoga Springs, was charged with unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, operating an unregistered motor vehicle on a high-
way, expired or nonexistent insurance and inspection, failure to stop at a stop sign, operating without safety belts, driving while intoxicated and aggravated driving while intoxicated. He was arrested on November 21 in Saratoga Springs. Ryan M. Danaher, 23, of Meyers Lane, Schuylerville, was charged with fourth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, a class-C felony; third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, a class-B felony; second-degree obstruction of governmental administration, resisting arrest and second-degree criminal use of drug paraphernalia, all misdemeanors; and disorderly conduct, a violation. He was arrested in Saratoga Springs on November 20.
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SARATOGA
OBITUARIES In memory George H. Palmateer & Sandra R. Palmateer
George H. Palmateer Sr., 8/31/1940-8/19/2008 Sandra R. Palmateer, 12/22/1941 -9/1/2008 Mom and Dad, I can’t believe its been over two years that you’ve been gone. I miss you guys so much. I miss our car rides, our talks on the phone, and most of all I miss you two. I wish I could pick up the phone one more time to call you and hear your voices one last time. I visit you guys often and talk to you all the time. I love you Mom and Dad, and I miss you. Happy Thanksgiving. Love, your daughter Sandy, Mike and your little darling’s RJ, & Brittany. Love ya.
Irene M. Duval Saratoga Springs – Irene M. Duval passed away Tuesday, November 16, 2010, at the Wesley Health Care Center in Saratoga Springs after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. She was 89. Born December 9, 1920, in Delhi, NY, she was the much loved only child of the late Lynn and Lyda (Miner) Aitken. Irene graduated from Hunter-Tannersville High School in Hunter, NY. She attended secretarial school in Albany and worked at Montgomery Ward in Albany for several years. Irene married Louis Peter Duval in 1946. They settled in Saratoga and enjoyed a long and happy marriage of more than 50 years. Irene spent her early married years raising and caring for family members. She had happy memories of the friends she made while working at Colamaria’s Restaurant on the West side of Saratoga. She also worked for many years at the Saratoga Raceway charting races. She was proud of her parents’ accomplishments as standard bred trainers and especially proud of her mother, Lyda, being named as the first Horsewoman of the Year. She frequently helped them as a groom. Irene worked for many years as a medical assistant for Dr. Grace Swanner, and later for Drs. Moore, Rockwell and Isenberg. She was also a licensed masseuse. An accomplished hunter, having won sharpshooter awards as a young woman, Irene also enjoyed trout fishing with family and friends. Irene’s passion, however, was participating in singing and performing barbershop harmony music with the Sweet Adelines. She was a member for more than thirty years and belonged to many differ-
ent choruses and quartets over the years. She and Lou traveled abroad and throughout the U.S. with the many friends they made in that organization. Irene had a wonderful sense of humor and enjoyed gatherings with friends for bowling, playing cards, singing, playing piano and spending time with her family. She cultivated many friends, through the racing industry and through singing, and held them as most precious. In addition to her parents, Irene is predeceased by her husband, Louis. Those who survive Irene include her two daughters, Linda Coon and her husband, William, and Patricia Duval and her husband, Monte Franke, all of Saratoga Springs; three grandchildren, David Coon, Jeffrey Coon and Sara Franke, and one great-grandchild Mia Coon, daughter of David Coon. Relatives and friends called on Sunday, November 21, 2010 at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes in Saratoga Springs. A graveside service for family and close friends was held on Monday at St. Peter’s Cemetery, West Ave., Saratoga Springs. The family would like to express their profound gratitude for the wonderful care Irene received over the last twelve years from the Evergreen Adult Day Care and Wesley Health Care. Memorials may be sent to the Wesley Foundation, 131 Lawrence St, Saratoga Springs NY 12866, and will be directed to the Evergreen Adult Day Care program. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneral home.com.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
TODAY
Frank J. Purner
Saratoga Springs – Frank J. Purner of Wilton, passed away on Wednesday November 17, 2010 surrounded by family at the Albany Medical Center. Born on November 2, 1928 in Hudson Falls, he was the son of the late Frank L. Purner and the late Delores (Jones) Purner. He was the husband of the late Joan B. Purner, whom he married on May 27, 1961. Frank graduated from La Salle Institute in 1947 and enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1948. He was stationed in Japan for several years and was with the Office of Special Investigations (OSI). He was honorably discharged in 1954. He started his career in banking in 1955 with the State Bank of Albany, and while working obtained his bachelor’s degree from Russell Sage College in 1964 and graduated
from the Stonier Graduate School of Banking at Rutgers University in 1982. He retired from what became Fleet Bank in 1988. Frank later took up real estate and worked up until his death for Roohan Realty. Frank loved flying. He had his pilot’s license, owned several planes early in life and was a past member of the Upper Fifteen Flying Club. He was active in the Elks, Rotary and Boys and Girls clubs. He and Joan
enjoyed camping and family trips in their motor home and the company of their Shelties. Survivors include two sons, Jay (Caroline) Purner of Rotterdam and Jeffrey (Nicole) Purner of Glens Falls; loving grandchildren include Alan, Adair, Hunter and Lily Purner and several nieces and nephews. Relative and friends called on Sunday, November 21 at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes in Saratoga Springs. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Monday at St. Joseph’s Church in Greenfield Center. Burial with military honors followed in the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Road, Schuylerville. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneral home.com.
Scott Edward Reside North Hollywood, CA – Scott Edward Reside, formerly of Saratoga Springs, quietly passed away November 16, 2010 after a courageous battle with cancer surrounded by loving family and friends. Born on October 17, 1971 in Schenectady, he is the son of Edward P. and Elaine L. Nelson Reside. Scott was a graduate of Saratoga Springs High School and Adirondack Community College. He honed his life-long love of television game shows into a successful career as a historian, creator and producer of one of the world’s largest television production compa-
nies. Scott was the producer of television game show Let’s Make a Deal, and was previously the Director of Game show Development for Fremantle Media. Scott was predeceased by his younger brother Shaun and his grandparents. In addition to his parents, Scott is survived by his brother Steven (Valerie) Reside of Greenfield Center; his sister Susan (Joshua) Rask of Ballston Spa; his partner John Ricci of North Hollywood, CA; a niece, three nephews, many aunts, uncles and cousins. Relatives and friends called on Monday, November 22, 2010 at the
William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes in Saratoga Springs. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Tuesday in St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church inBallston Spa. Burial followed at St. Peter’s Cemetery, West Ave., Saratoga Springs. The family kindly suggests memorial donations in Scott’s name to the American Cancer Society, 260 Osborne Road, Loudonville, NY 12211. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneral home.com.
Edward I. Marks Saratoga Springs – Edward I. Marks passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 21, 2010 at his home under the compassionate care of the Community Hospice and his family. He was 86. Mr. Marks was born on October 21, 1924 in New York City, son of Frederick G. and Ruth (Schwab) Marks. He attended Townsend Harris High School and City College of New York. He enlisted in the Army in 1942 and served with General Eisenhower’s headquarters in England and France as a corporal. He married Phyllis Freshman in February 1953. After the war, he attended Columbia University and began a forty-year career in the paper business. He was Vice President of
the Richard Bauer Paper Company until his retirement in 1995. When he retired, he moved to Saratoga Springs and became an active member of Temple Sinai, as well as a docent at the Saratoga Auto Museum. He was also an enthusiastic participant in the Academy for Life Long Learning, as well as an avid supporter of the Film Forum of Saratoga Springs.
Survivors include his loving wife of 57 years Phyllis, two children; Bennett (Anne) Marks of Carlisle, MA and Judy Marks of Saratoga Springs/Los Angeles, CA, and his grandsons Aaron Marks and Keinan Marks. A memorial service was held on Tuesday, November 23, 2010 at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes in Saratoga Springs. Memorials may be made in Edward’s honor to Temple Sinai, PO Box 1045, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 or to the Community Hospice of Saratoga County, 179 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. The family would like to thank Stacey, Marsha and Helen of The Community Hospice of Saratoga County.
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TODAY
OBITUARIES
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Barbara (Woodcock) Moses
In memory Scott Bushey Scott Bushey, 10/5/1976-11/29/2008 Scott, I can’t believe it’s been two years since you went into the arms of the Lord. Not a day goes by that me your Dad doesn’t think of you. We miss you dearly, Scott. You were a very special person and a great dad, son and brother to all. We all miss the crazy little things you used to do. RIP Scott. Scott, not a day goes by that I don’t think of you. Wishing you were here to call and say hi, and to say, “I love you my son,” one last time. We miss you dearly, but God had other plans for you on the day He called you home and left us all here in tears. I try to be strong and go on, but it’s hard when I think of you being gone from me. All I can do is cry a flow of tears. I can’t believe it’s been two years. Scott, if I could say one more word to you it would be, “I love you, my son.” Miss you Scott. Love, Dad
Rosemary Bruchac Smith Middle Grove – Rosemary Bruchac Smith passed away on Saturday, November 20, 2010 at the Wesley Health Care Center with her family at her side. She was 83. Born on August 9, 1927 in East Norwalk, CT, she was a daughter of the late Joseph and Pauline (Hrdlicka) Bruchac Sr. She grew up in Greenfield Center where she lived and resided the remainder of her life. She attended and graduated from Saratoga Springs High School. Throughout her life, Rosemary thought of others before she thought of herself. From her family to her friends, she prided herself in lending a hand in her gentle, unassuming and unimposing way—always there, always with food, always with love. The most important life priority for Rosemary was the love of her family. It was quite simple for her – family was the root of her existence, the reason for her being, the purpose of her life and the joy and pride that filled her heart. Rosemary worked at the Railroad Place Price Chopper for over 25 years and still has many dear friends from her time there. She was a member of the Sokol Lodge #265 for 65 years, the Catholic Daughters of the
Americas in Corinth (then Saratoga Springs – Court McLaughlin #422) for over 50 years, and additionally as a member of the Greenfield Women’s Auxiliary of Greenfield Fire House #1. Rosemary played a noteworthy role at St. Joseph’s Church for many years. As a parishioner from childhood to a founding member of the Ladies Guild, Rosemary dedicated so much of her time and energy to supporting the parishioners, events, fundraisers and truly living her strong Catholic faith. She is survived by her husband of 64 years, James A. Smith Jr., her two children and their families; Kathy (Smith) and Terry Ryfa and their daughter, Carlee and Jim and Paula Smith and their daughter, Amelia. In addition to her parents she is
predeceased by her sister and brothers; Margaret, Joseph, Albert and Milton Bruchac. Relatives and friends called on Monday, November 22, 2010 and on Tuesday, November 23, 2010 at St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church in Greenfield Center. Funeral services followed on Tuesday at the church. Burial followed immediately at St. Peter’s Cemetery, West Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Arrangements were under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes of Saratoga Springs. Memorials in Rosemary’s honor may be made to the Catholic Daughters of the Americas or the Knights of Columbus Saratoga Council #246, 50 Pine Road at Washington Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. To Rosemary, my wife, our mother, our grandmother, our friend…we thank you for always being there for us with love and open arms. You led your life as a true example of goodness, generosity and love, and will continue to provide us with a guiding path to follow until we meet you again.
Donald A. Duffney Ballston Spa - Donald A. Duffney, 61, of Ballston Spa, passed away, Friday, November 19, 2010. Born in Saratoga Springs, May 4, 1949, he was the son of the late Francis and Gertrude Duffney. He served in the U.S. Army. Don worked for NYS and was a local carpenter for many years. He volunteered
for his church and many local organizations; he was always there to lend a hand. He enjoyed salmon fishing. Donald is survived by his longtime companion, Shirley Ballard, his children, Donald Duffney, Felicia McCloskey and Leona Pedalty; brothers and sisters, Nancy Carleton, Sharon Wood, Amber Duffney, Gwen DeLaurie, Brad Duffney, Elliot Duffney and
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Joe Duffney; and 7 grandchildren. Funeral services with full military honors will be held at 1 pm, Monday, November 29, at the Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Road, in the Town of Saratoga. Memorial contributions may be made to Community Hospice of Albany, 295 Valley View Blvd, Rensselaer, NY 12144.
Saratoga Springs – Barbara (Woodcock) Moses passed away Friday, November 19, 2010 at Wesley Health Care Center. She was 87. Born on August 6, 1923 in Saratoga Springs, she was the daughter of the late Thurlow and Alma (Sisler) Woodcock Sr. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her loving husband of 58 years, Alfred F Moses Sr., one son Alfred F Moses Jr., two sisters, Joan Parker and Patricia Stiles and three brothers Thurlow Jr., Kenneth and Allyn Woodcock Sr. Barbara was quite the homemaker. She enjoyed knitting, crocheting, quilting and gardening. She was also known for her canning and baking. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star for over 50 years, and a devoted wife and loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Barbara and her husband Al taught Sunday school at the Methodist Church on Washington Street for many years. They not only were wonderful parents, but also were not afraid of hard work and made many sacrifices for their family to have a good life. She and her husband also enjoyed vacations in Maine and family ski trips. She was also known for a large cookie jar the grandchildren loved to raid. Survivors include her daughter, Gail (Thomas) Remington of
Saratoga Springs; one son, Ronald P (Brenda) Moses of Schuylerville; seven grandchildren, Alfred F Moses III, Kimberly Kovalski, Michelle Julian-Bell, R. Michael Julian, Colleen Feulner, Kimberly McCray, Angie Parker; several great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins; and also her sister-in-law, Dorothy Woodcock. Relatives and friends called on Monday, November 22, 2010 at the church located at 624 North Broadway, adjacent to William J Burke & Sons/Bussing and Cunniff Funeral Home. A service of The St. John’s Chapter 613 was also conducted. Funeral services were conducted on Tuesday at the Burke/Bussing Funeral Home in Saratoga Springs. Burial followed in the family plot at Greenridge Cemetery off of Lincoln Avenue. The Family would like to express their sincere thanks to the staff of Wesley Health Care Center for all the compassion, love and care they gave Barbara during her stay. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Wesley Foundation Neil Roberts Staff Enrichment Fund. 131 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneral home.com
Rev. David L. Watterworth Saratoga Springs – Rev. David L. Watterworth passed away Thursday, November 11, 2010 at Wesley Health Care Center. He was 90. Born on February 15, 1920 in Carmen, Manitoba, Canada, he was the son of the late Maitland and Mary (Pierce) Watterworth. He became a naturalized US citizen in 1941 and married Pearl Mae Fitzsimmons in September of the same year. Pearl passed away in 2000. Rev. David was Pastor of the Aspen Hill Christian Church in Aspen Hill, Maryland and Interim Pastor of Mt. Storm Presbyterian Church in Mt. Storm, West Virginia. He also was a teacher in the public schools in both
Maryland and West Virginia, retiring in 1985. Survivors include his two sons, David R. Watterworth of Easton, NY and Jon R. Watterworth of Bellbrook, OH, as well as four grandchildren. A memorial celebration took place on Monday, November 22, 2010 at Woodlawn Commons in Saratoga Springs. Arrangements were under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes of Saratoga Springs. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneral home.com.
In memory Adelbert Winchell To my loving husband, Adelbert Winchell, who passed away almost two years ago. I want you to know that I love you dearly and miss you so much. I think of you all the time and ask God why He had to take you from me, but He had his reason. On the day He called you home, I just want to say I love you, and Happy Thanksgiving. Love, your wife, Patricia Winchell.
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WEEK IN REVIEW
Locals win YMCA memberships! The winners of the Riggi’s Annual Pumpkin Contest are Brianna Kuon, Randall Jump, Shelley Laviana, Kate Grey and Barb Hrig. Each winner received a Saratoga Regional YMCA family membership which was provided by the Riggi Family.
SGF student death The South Glens Falls School District is mourning the death of eighth-grader Jamie Threw, who passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 16 at Albany Medical Center. The Oliver W. Winch Middle School student is the sixth loss in the past year.
Spring Run trail complete Saratoga Springs officials celebrated the grand opening of the Spring Run Trail on Thursday, November 18. The two-mile pedestrian and bike trail took approximately seven months to complete and was funded by a $1.6 million American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grant. Starting at the corner of East and Excelsior Avenues in downtown Saratoga Springs, the new paved trail runs through High Rock Park to Warren Street, where the path continues on a portion of the railroad bed from a Victorian era line that operated between downtown Saratoga Springs and Saratoga Lake, and through the Spring Run wetlands and Bog Meadow Brook. Future plans include an extension of the trail to Northway Exit 15 and Congress Park, to provide safe access
for pedestrians traveling between Wilton and downtown Saratoga Springs.
ESDC has also allocated $75,000 to Stillwater to complete a study for the water source project.
County votes to add three P/T DMV clerks
73 County workers to retire by 2011
On Friday, November 19, Saratoga County Supervisors voted to add three part-time employees to the Department of Motor Vehicles. The department, which County Clerk Kathy Marchione said is understaffed, has a $2 million budget and brings in business worth $3 million, indicating $1 million in revenues. Officials argued that the county can boost revenues with the help of additional staff. The county will evaluate the effectiveness of the positions in September, and if the move proves unsuccessful in generating money they will be eliminated in 2012.
A handful of Saratoga County officials are taking advantage of an incentive plan and have announced their retirement. In total, more than 70 County employees will be stepping down from their posts before the end of December. David Wickerham, County Administrator who announced his retirement last week, is among the seven department heads who will be leaving, including: Dale Angstadt, Mental Health Director; Janet Glenn, Public Health Director; Carol Holley, Real Property Tax Service Director; John Murray, auditor; Barbara Plummer, Clerk of the County Board; and Mark Rider, County Attorney. Approximately 66 other employees will be leaving as well.
GlobalFoundries Update The Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) directed $8.4 million to the town of Stillwater on Thursday, November 18 to complete the construction of Cold Springs Road, which connects to the site of GlobalFoundries on the Luther Forest Technology Campus. Luther Forest Technology Campus Economic Development Corporation was previously in charge of allocating funds; the infrastructure project is one of the three outstanding items deemed critical for the timely opening of GlobalFoundries that led to the State corporation's decision to "take over" responsibility. Two more projects remain: a secondary water line and natural gas lines are needed to supply the microchip plant. The
Ballston passes 2011 Town budget The Town of Ballston approved its 2011 budget at $6.03 million, with no general tax or highway tax. The budget reflects an increase over last year's dollar amount, as increased healthcare and retirement costs called for officials to extract approximately $300,000 from the Town's reserves.
Saratoga passes 2011 Town budget The Town of Saratoga recently passed its 2011 budget at approximately $2.54 million. Although the budget reflects a nearly $20,000 increase over 2010, town residents
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Wednesday, November 24, 2010
will actually experience a decrease in their property tax rate by 1.5 cents per assessed $1,000. Saratoga realized savings in garbage services and interest paid on the town hall. Town employees will be given a two percent cost-of-living raise.
State workers receive layoff letters Close to 900 state workers will be laid off by December 31 as part of Governor David Paterson's plan to eliminate $250 million from the state's budget and address New York's current $1 billion (plus) deficit. The 898 people slated for layoffs were recently sent letters advising them of their rights under civil service law and individual union contracts. However, the final layoffs won't be determined and sent out until December 10, at least 20 days before the layoffs go into effect as required under union contracts. In certain cases, the initial letter alerts employees of their option to "bump" a fellow union worker with less seniority and gives them enough time to make their decision before the layoffs are made official.
Wilton Water and Sewer authority accepts online bill pay Residents within the Town of Wilton's Water and Sewer district now have the option to pay their bill online, with the option to make onetime payments or set up re-occurring payments instantly deducted from a credit card or bank account. Those interested in signing up should log on to www.waterpayments.townofwilton.com. Be prepared with a copy of your bill, an email address and method of payment.
East Side Rec concession stand demolished Saratoga American Little League's East Side Rec. concession stand was torn down on Saturday morning, November 20. According to the League website, Saratoga Springs City School District determined at the end of last season that the structure was not up to code and would need to be demolished. A new concession stand will be built on the property, which is owned by the State Education Department and was previously marinated by the City, commanding a large fundraising effort to cover the cost of new construction. The League has approval from the school district and the state to begin building in 2010 for a reopening prior to the next season in April 2011. The tentative project includes a handful of other improvements, such as field reorganization for the major and
TODAY
minor diamonds, a common fence to ensure safety, "better bleacher positioning," and each field would be regarded with new grass to "replace the fields now laden with holes and weeds."
City plants first peace pole Saratoga Springs' first peace pole was raised in High Rock Park on Sunday morning, November 21. The seven-foot pole was planted next to the Peace Tree. Nancy Weber was responsible for bringing the symbol of peace to High Rock Park; she raised money by collecting and returning recyclables. Employees from the City's Department of Public Works raised the pole on Sunday without any charge to Weber.
DBA switches to gift cards The Downtown Business Association (DBA) announced its new gift card program starting Monday, November 22, replacing the paper certificates that have been in use for the past 20 years. The paper gift certificates have no expiration date, and will continue to be accepted at over 200 Downtown Business Association member businesses. The new Gift Cards are available in increments of $5 with a minimum value of $10 and a maximum value of $750. They can be purchased at the Adirondack Trust Co. and all of its branches. The cards are currently redeemable at over 120 participating Downtown Business Association member businesses. A list of participating merchants is issued with the card when purchased and is also online at www.saratogadowntown.com under the gift card link. The old, paper gift certificates will no longer be available for purchase. Unlike the paper gift certificates, there is an expiration date on the Gift Cards. If your card does expire, you can call a toll free number and a new card will be issued. For more information about the Gift Card Program, call Matthew D'Abate at Adirondack Trust Insurance at (518) 584-5300.
Saratoga Schools race to the top The Saratoga Springs City School District was awarded $174,500 in federal money for the National Race to the Top educational reform initiative. The money will be used to provide teachers of all grade levels training for curriculum and student assessments, while a portion will also be used for hiring substitute teachers to relieve the educators while they are enrolled. Race to the Top outlines new standards and methods for evaluating individual teachers using their students’ assessments.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
SARATOGA
TODAY
Holiday Gift Guide
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SARATOGA
BUSINESS
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
TODAY
Sixth Annual Saratoga Restaurant Week Begins December 3 - Dozens of Saratoga Restaurants to feature special prix-fixe menus by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY About the time that your Thanksgiving feast has been fully digested, more than three dozen top restaurants in Saratoga County will serve up a flavorful extravaganza – the sixth annual Saratoga Restaurant Week which begins on Friday, December 3 and continues through Thursday, December 9. This seven-day celebration of culinary creativity and craft is presented by the Saratoga Convention & Tourism Bureau, in conjunction with restaurant owners and operators in Saratoga County. Saratoga Restaurant Week allows dining patrons an opportunity to enjoy an appetizer or salad, a dinner entrée, and a dessert from a pre-set menu. Participating restaurants will offer meal selections priced at $18.19 plus tax and tip, representing the date that Saratoga was “officially” established by the County. There is also an opportunity to enjoy lunch specials for $9.09 plus tax and tip at select restaurants. For additional details about Saratoga Restaurant Week, menus,
and an updated list of all participating restaurants, visit www.discoversaratoga.org/restaurantweek or call the Saratoga Convention and Tourism Bureau at (518) 584-1531.
2010 Restaurant Week Participating Restaurants (as of November 24): $9.09 Lunch and $18.19 Dinner (plus tax and tip) Circus Cafe 392 Broadway (518) 583-1106 Gaffney's Restaurant 16 Caroline St. (518) 587-7359 Grey Gelding Bistro and Bar 432 Broadway (518) 584-0957 Jacob & Anthony's American Grille 38 High Rock Avenue (518) 871-1600 Karavalli Regional Cuisine of India 47 Caroline Street (518) 580-1144 Lillian's Restaurant 408 Broadway (518) 587-7766
Local Pub and Teahouse 142 Grand Avenue (518) 587-7256 Maestro's Restaurant 371 Broadway (518) 580-0312 Max London's Restaurant and Bar 466 Broadway (518) 587-3535 Pacific Grill 63 Putnam Street (518) 583-0008 Phila Fusion 54 Phila Street (518) 226-0400 Putnam's at Gideon Putnam Resort 24 Gideon Putnam Road (518) 226-4719 Ravenous 21 Phila Street (518) 581-0560 Scallions Restaurant 44 Lake Avenue (518) 584-0192 Sushi Thai Garden Restaurant 44 Phila Street (518) 580-0900 Wheatfields Bistro and Wine Bar 54 Crossing Blvd # 7, Clifton Park
(518) 383-4444 Wheatfields Restaurant and Bar 440 Broadway (518) 587-0534
$18.19 Dinner only (plus tax and tip) Bookmaker's at the Holiday Inn 232 Broadway (518) 584-4550 Brindisi's Restaurant and Bar 390 Broadway (518) 587-6262 Cantina 430 Broadway (518) 587-5577 Chianti Il Ristorante 18 Division Street (518) 580-0025 Dine 26 Henry Street (518) 587-9463 End Zone Sports Pub Saratoga Strike Zone 32 Ballston Avenue (518) 584-6460 Forno Bistro 541 Broadway (518) 581-2401 Fortunes at Saratoga Gaming and Raceway 342 Jefferson Street (518) 584-2110 Hattie's Restaurant 45 Phila Street (518) 584-4790 Horseshoe Inn Bar and Grill 1 Gridley Avenue (518) 587-4909 Irish Times Pub and Restaurant 14 Phila Street (518) 583-0003 Limoncello Ristorante 1 Ballston Avenue (518) 580-8700
Longfellows Restaurant 500 Union Avenue (518) 587-0108 Mexican Connection 41 Nelson Avenue (518) 584-4466 Mouzon House 1 York Street (518) 226-0014 Olde Bryan Inn 123 Maple Avenue (518) 587-2990 One Caroline Street Bistro 1 Caroline Street (518) 587-2026 Pasta Pane 18 Park Avenue, Clifton Park (518) 371-5762 Prime at Saratoga National Golf Club 458 Union Avenue (518) 583-4653 Primo's at the Inn at Saratoga 231 Broadway (518) 583-1890 Sabina's Wood Fired Restaurant 237 Union Avenue (518) 583-3333 Sperry's 30 fi Caroline Street (518) 584-9618 Springwater Inn 139 Union Avenue (518) 584-5051 Tiznow Restaurant 84 Henry Street (518) 226-0655 Wishing Well Restaurant 745 Saratoga Road (518) 584-7640
SARATOGA
TODAY
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
EDUCATION
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Digital Storytelling: the future of narrative by Yael Goldman Saratoga TODAY Through the evolution of technology comes modernization in even the most traditional, seemingly unchangeable human conventions, like storytelling. Centuries ago, narratology shifted from spoken to written histories and it was groundbreaking. These days, things are a bit more complex. People are using social media networks and handheld technologies to explore and share their personal histories and communicate across the web. Every day, ordinary people become digital authors without realizing it. Digital storytelling is the future of narrativization; it involves mixing media, overlapping audio with visual to make "a short movie, typically with a strong emotional component." The result is an interactive performance that follows a linear plot structure (beginning, middle, end). This new approach to an age-old tradition has great educational implications; it can be used in the classroom as a learning tool, and as a marketing tool in the business
world. Its applications are growing. "Suddenly the narrative has new avenues," said Phylse Banner, who teaches a Digital Storytelling course at SUNY Empire State College. Banner, a local woman with an incredible interest in the power of social media and technology, developed the course with the school's original instructor Hillary McClellan, who wanted to create a more robust curriculum. McClellan passed away earlier this year, but Banner is continuing her legacy by expanding the digital storytelling program. She teaches her students to take advantage of a variety of userfriendly programs to represent their narrative visually. Her students take virtual field trips and work on collaborative projects; they're forced to think both creatively and critically about what it means to tell a story. It seems like many authors prefer "mini multi-media performances," because digital stories can effectively convey a message without the ambiguities of imprecise language. However, without the ability to hide behind figurative language and incapable reader's misinterpretation in a written work, digital storytellers
must choose their mediums wisely and analyze their creation to make sure their message is getting across. And a good portion of Banner's curriculum focuses on exactly that. For each digital story submitted, Banner's students must also turn in an accompanying explicative/reflective essay indicating their intended audience and clarifying their message. Banner then assesses each project by how it "reads" against its instruction guide. According to Banner, digital storytelling truly requires a mastery of narrative, which is why similar courses are integrated into English departments and creative writing programs across the academic community. However, the concept isn't limited to undergraduate learning environments; it's also become popular in the adult learning community. So much so that Banner is teaching an eight-week course within the Academy for Lifelong Learning in April 2011. Jo Van Aken, who is a master instructor for the New York State Education Department, greatly benefited from taking Banner's course, even at his professional level.
"I do a lot of traveling on behalf of the country, and the techniques and tools that I learned in her course have taught me to become a better public speaker," he said. "If you want your audience to have a truly enlightening experience, you have to know which video and voice clips to use and how to put it all together." As such a valuable communication tool for students, business people and, of course, creative authors, Banner sees the value in making the course available to those who aren't able to enroll in a full-fledged course. She believes the next step is
to hold a weekend workshop in Saratoga Springs and further introduce the concept to the larger community. "Everyone has a different way to tell a story," Banner said. "When you're using engaging media to engage an audience, the applications are limitless." For more information about SUNY ESC's digital storytelling program, visit www.esc.edu. Banner also recommends visiting the Center for Digital Storytelling website: www. storycenter.org.
Thanksgiving at Geyser Rd.
First grade students of Geyser Road Elementary School celebrated Thanksgiving on Friday November 19 with a musical presentation for the parents and feast provided by the parents. (Photo by Mark Bolles)
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EDUCATION
Schuylerville senior submits project to Intel
Schuylerville High School senior, Issey Kobori-Hotchkiss recently submitted his research paper for Independent Science Research to the Intel Science Competition. Issey is in the third year of the University in the High School Program research class, run through SUNY Albany. The program allows students to come up with an original scientific idea and then work with a SUNY mentor to bring it to fruition. Issey’s research was titled “Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors and their effects on the HaCaT cell lines via scattering wound healing.” His study examines ways to slow tumor progression in cancerous cells. Issey, along with his fellow classmates enrolled in the program, will earn 12 college credits through SUNY.
BSPA Robotics Team hosts LEGO League Exhibition The Ballston Spa High School Robotics Team hosted an exhibition for the district's six F.I.R.S.T. LEGO League robotics teams on Monday, November 22, in the Wood Road Elementary School cafe. Student teams from the Milton Terrace North, Wood Road, and Malta Avenue Elementary Schools, as well as two teams from the Ballston Spa Middle School participated in the exhibition. The teams have been working on the 2010 Body Forward Challenge, which forces them to explore the cut-
ting-edge world of Biomedical Engineering to discover innovative ways to repair injuries, overcome genetic predispositions, and maximize the body's potential, with the intended purpose of leading healthier lives. Teams build and program an autonomous robot using LEGO Mindstorms technology to score points in 2.5-minute matches on a themed playing field. The students also have to explore an actual problem that today's scientists and engineers are trying to solve, develop an innovative solution to that problem (either by creating something that doesn't exist or building upon something that does), and share their findings. The district continues to receive corporate sponsorships for the Ballston Spa High School F.I.R.S.T. Robotics Team as well as the LEGO League teams in the elementary schools. This year's sponsors include the Ballston Spa National Bank, CSArch, Guyson Corporation, TCT Federal Credit Union, Gilbane Building Company and Specialty Silicone Products. Please contact Ballston Spa's Coordinator of Development Courtney Lamport at clamport@bscsd.org or call (518) 884-7195 x1369 for additional information on sponsorship opportunities. The High School Robotics Team also collected non-perishable food items at the event to donate to the local food pantry.
SARATOGA
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
TODAY
Classroom Corner
More than 6,000 professional educators from around the country attended the conference, which offered speakers, workshops, the latest educational procedures, school visits, action labs and opportunities to network with others committed to the education of young adolescents.
BSPA student experiments selected for spaceflight Students from Ballston Spa researched, designed and proposed over 70 complete applications for submission to the Student Spaceflight Experiment Program (SSEP) for a chance to have their experiment launched on the space shuttle flight in February. A seven-member SSEP Local Review Team, including consulting engineers as well as representatives from GlobalFoundries chose the top proposals. The final three experiments will be submitted to the National Center for Earth and Space Science Education (NCESSE) for review. A national review team will then select one of the three experiments to be included on the final flight of the Space Shuttle Endeavour on February 27, 2011. Top proposals included two from the High School entitled "The Effect
of Gravity on Bacterial Reproduction" and "Effect of Penicillin in Microgravity" and one from Milton Terrace South Elementary School called "The Development of Minnow Fish Eggs in Space." Two alternates were also identified including High School proposals focusing on "Yeast Reproduction Rate in Zero Gravity" and "The Effect of Microgravity on the Ability of Antibiotics Against E. Coli Bacteria." Ballston Spa is one of sixteen communities nationwide that are participating in the Student Spaceflight Experiments Program (SSEP) launched by the National Center for Earth and Space Science Education and NanoRacks LLC. The program is a national Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education initiative that provides middle and high school classes the ability to propose experiments to fly on the Space Shuttle Endeavour on February 27, 2011. For more information, visit the SSEP Community Profiles page at http://ssep.ncesse.org/ communities/community-directory/, http://ssep.ncesse.org/ or by contacting Diane Irwin, K-12 Science Coordinator, at dirwin@bscsd.org, or (518) 884-7150, ext. 2317.
BACC Teen Club's upcoming meeting The Ballston Area Community Center's ROCK Teen Club (Relationships Outreach Community Kids) will hold its next meeting on
Thursday, December 16 at 7 pm at the Community Center, located at 20 Malta Ave in Ballston Spa. Refreshments will be served. The ROCK Club is a wonderful way for youth ages 12 to 18 to develop leadership skills and meet other teens in their community. Teens work within the BACC and the community to learn about fundraising and to build leadership and communication skills. For more information, contact Mike at (518) 885-3261, ext. 617 or by email at baccteens@nycap.rr.com
Galway Teachers attend conference Three eighth grade teachers from Galway Central School, Denise Kalinkewicz, Elaine Vandenburgh and Brenda Peconie, attended and presented a workshop at the 37th annual National Middle School Association Conference, from November 3 through 6 in Baltimore, Maryland. Presenting the workshop, "Rock Around the Clock - The Fun Fifties," the trio shared their ideas on how to excite and motivate middle school students in a cross-curricular, handson, student-centered weeklong unit of study based on the 1950s and each discipline. Participants received lesson plans that addressed each curriculum and the standards for learning in English language arts, social studies, and Spanish. Their activities utilize multiple intelligence levels and offer opportunities to differentiate instruction.
SARATOGA
TODAY
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
11
“It’s the most wonderful, stressful, anxietyprovoking, pressure-filled time of the year” -Learning to Stop the Madness and IN-JOY the Season!
Meghan D. Lemery LCSW-R As I strolled down Broadway the first weekend of November I was immediately bombarded with windows filled with twinkling lights and Christmas Trees. I felt my heart pound and heard the nagging voice in my head, “NOOOOOOOO it’s too soon!!!!!” I’m all for decking the halls but we had barely skipped passed Halloween and BOOM the town was dolled up in Festivus mode a full month before Thanksgiving. Whatever happened to the day after Thanksgiving symbolizing the start of the season? I so did not get the early Holiday Season memo. A few days later my mom and I were in a major department store shopping for matching “Snuggies” when I suddenly found myself surrounded by pink, blue and green sparkly Christmas trees and a giant Santa Claus Hummel-like figurine with big eyes and a round belly. As I stood in the center of this premature Winter Wonderland I started to sweat and feel woozy. My ears started ringing and it seemed as if Jolly Old St. Nick was staring at me and whispering with his creepy eyes…. “I’m backkkkkkkk…” I slowly backed away from “notso-jolly ole’ Saint Nick” and beelined it for the nearest exit. When I made it to the safe house and began practicing my self-soothing techniques, I began to ponder my reaction. Why was I having such a traumatic reaction to the start of the holiday season? What was I so worried about? Why was I dreading the sound of Nat King Cole’s smooth velvety voice? I decided to take to the streets and do some market research. The question I posed was this, “Finish this sentence….When I heard the first Christmas song or saw the first decorations for the Holiday Season, I immediately felt...” Here are the answers you gave: Nauseous Stressed Anxious Pressure
“Verklempt” Impossible expectations Too soon! Too Early! NOT YET! Not enough money, time or energy for this!!! What happened to the candy corn? It’s happening TOO FAST! Overwhelmed! The majority of people polled had an immediate negative response to the first cue of the holiday season. I couldn’t help but make the comparison to Pavlov’s dogs… we see the first sign of the holiday season and we drool with anxiety and panic feeling the pressure take over our hearts and minds. WE MUST STOP THE MADNESS! Having had my own Pavlovian experience and hearing the same stories of others, I have decided that I will, no matter what it takes, ENJOY this holiday season. I will, so help me GAWD live IN-JOY! Joy is defined as: 1) A very glad feeling Synonyms - happiness, delight, gladness, rapture, satisfaction 2) The exhibition of joy Synonyms - gaiety, jubilation, rejoicing, cheerfulness, merriment, glee, gleefulness, mirth, mirthfulness, revelry, hilarity, hilariousness, blitheness, frolic, playfulness, heartiness, geniality, good humor, sprightliness, merrymaking, joviality, sportiveness, jocularity, jollity, jocundity, levity, exulting, joyfulness, joyousness, elation, friskiness, animation, liveliness, high spirits, good spirits, transport, vivacity, celebration; see also laughter. Antonyms: weeping, mourning, and complaining. What if, this holiday season, you traded the pressure, mourning and weeping for good humor, laughter, celebration and cheerfulness? Instead of going to the store with dread and pressure trying to find the perfect gift, what if you took a few moments to be In-Joy? Think about these questions: what brings you JOY? What makes you feel lighthearted? Happy? Playful? Stop the madness and pressure to please every family member and make the perfect Turkey dinner. Take a deep breath, relax and make a CHOICE to be IN-JOY. Resist the temptation to fill your mind with thoughts of dread, pressure
and chaos. Make this season a season of Joy, Love and Peace simply by changing your mindset. Focus on the memories or traditions of the season that bring you a sense of joy and peace. While the majority of people I polled had a negative reaction to the first cue of the season, I did receive some joyful responses: “A smile came to my face knowing my home will be filled with decorations, music, laughter and love. I LOVE IT!” “I felt warm and happy.” “Excited for time with my family
and loved ones.” “Peppermint mocha - yum!” “Excited to re-live the childhood excitement of Christmas through my children and teach my five year-old the value of the non-materialistic side of the season.” “I felt like a 10-year-old little girl, getting ready to go to a Nutcracker rehearsal. It’s the way I spent MANY years in the months approaching the holidays...love it! “Hungry for gingerbread!” Let’s take a moment to clear our minds and hearts and focus on the joy of the season. Let this season be full
of love and the gift of giving and receiving. Sometimes all it takes to change our mindset is a little effort and a choice to replace the negative with the positive. It is my wish that these next few weeks you will live IN-JOY and be filled with love, peace and enthusiasm! Happy Holidays to you and yours! Ms. Lemery is a psychotherapist practicing in Queensbury and Saratoga Springs. Please email topics of interest to: meghan lemery@yahoo.com.
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SARATOGA
RELIGION
Places of Worship Please contact Robin Mitchell for any copy changes: 581-2480 x 208 rmitchell@saratogapublishing.com
Adirondack Christian Fellowship 8 Mountain Ledge, Wilton Contact: (518) 587-0623; www.acfsaratoga.com Services: Sunday 8AM & 10 AM
The Alliance Church 257 Rowland St., Ballston Spa Contact: 885-6524. Services: Morning worship 10:30
Assembly of God Faith Chapel Rev. Jason Proctor 6 Burgoyne St., Schuylerville Contact: 695-6069 Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m.
Baha’i Community of Saratoga Springs Contact: 584-9679; 692-7694; www.usbnc.org.
Ballston Center Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church 58 Charlton Road, Ballston Spa Contact: 885-7312; www.ballstoncenter arpchurch.org Services: Sunday Worship service, 10:30am.
Ballston Spa United Methodist Church 101 Milton Ave. Contact: 885-6886. Services: Sunday 10:00 a.m.
Bethesda Episcopal Church 41 Washington St., Saratoga Springs Contact: 584-5980. Services: Sunday, 6:30, 8, 10 a.m.
Church of Christ at Clifton Park 7 Old Route 146, Clifton Park Contact: 371-6611, www.cliftonparkchurch ofchrist.com Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.
Christ Community Reformed Church 1010 Route 146, Clifton Park Contact: 371-7654; www.ccrc-cpny.org. Services: Sundays 9:15 & 11 a.m.
Christ Episcopal Church Corner of Routes 50 and 67, Ballston Spa Contact: 885-1031. Services: Sunday 8, 10 a.m.
Congregation Shaara Tfille 84 Weibel Avenue, Saratoga Springs Contact: 584-2370. Services: Saturday 9:00 a.m.; 3rd Friday 7:30 pm. Handicapped Accessible
Corinth Free Methodist Church 8 Mountain Ledge, Wilton Contact: (518) 587-0623; www.acfsaratoga.com Services: Sunday 8AM & 10 AM
Corinth United Methodist Church 243 Main Street, Corinth Contact: 654-2521; cfumc@cnyconnect.net Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.
Eastern Orthodox Christ the Savior 349 Eastline Road, Ballston Spa Contact: 786-3100; xcsavior@yahoo.com. Services: Sunday: 9:15 a.m.
First Baptist Church 45 Washington St., Saratoga Springs Contact: 584-6301. Services: Sunday: 11:00 a.m.
First Baptist Church of Ballston Spa 202 Milton Ave. (Rt. 50), Ballston Spa Contact: 885-8361; www.fbcballstonspa.org Services: 10:15 a.m.
First Presbyterian Church of Ballston Spa 22 West High Street Ballston Spa, NY Contact: 885-5583 Services: Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Grace Brethren Church Rev. Dan Pierce 137 W. Milton Road, Ballston Spa Contact: 587- 0649 Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Handicapped accessible.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010 Living Waters Church of God 4330 State Rt. 50, Saratoga Springs Contact: 587-0484; www.livingwaterscog.us Services: Sundays 10 a.m.
Malta Presbyterian Church Dunning Street, Malta Contact: 899-5992. Services: Sunday 10 a.m.
Malta Ridge United Methodist Church 729 Malta Avenue Ext., Malta Contact: 581-0210. Services: Sunday 10 a.m.
Middle Grove United Methodist Church Pastor Bonnie Bates 429 Middle Grove Rd., Middle Grove Contact: 518-581-2973 Services: Sunday 9:00 a.m. Handicapped accessible
New Horizon Church 150 Perry Road, Saratoga Springs Contact: 587-0711. Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m.
NorthStar Church Shenendehowa High School, West Auditorium, Clifton Park Contact: 371-2811; www.northstarchurch.com. Services: Sunday: 10 a.m.
Old Saratoga Reformed Church 48 Pearl St., Schuylerville Contact: www.oldsaratoga-reformedchurch.org Services: Sunday at 10:30am. Handicapped accessable.
Greater Grace Community Church
PresbyterianNE Congregational Church
Pastor David Moore 43 Round Lake Rd. Ballston Lake (Malta Mall) Contact: 899-7777; www.ggcc-malta.org Services: Sunday 10 a.m.
24 Circular St., Saratoga Springs Contact: 584-6091; www.pnecc.org Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m.
Highway Tabernacle Church 90 River Road, Mechanicville Contact: 664- 4442. Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.
Hope Church 206 Greenfield Avenue, Ballston Spa Contact: 885-7442. Services: Sunday 10 a.m.
Jonesville United Methodist 963 Main St., Clifton Park Contact: 877-7332. Services: Sunday 8:30 a.m. & 10:30 a..m. Sunday School 9:30 a.m.
Living Springs Community Church 59 Pine Road, Saratoga Springs Contact: 584- 9112. Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.
Quaker Springs United Methodist Church Pastor Jim Knapp 466 Route 32 South, Quaker Springs Contact: 695-3101; www.qsumc.com Services: Sundays 9 a.m. Handicapped accessible.
River of Hope Fellowship 100 Saratoga Village Blvd. Malta Commons, Suite 3 Malta, NY 12020 Contact: 881-1505; www.riverofhopefellowship.com Services: Sunday 10:00 a.m.
Roman Catholic Church of St. Peter 241 Broadway, Saratoga Springs Contact: 584-2375. Services: Eucharistic Celebrations: Saturday 5 p.m.; Sunday 7:30, 9 and 11 a.m.
St. Clement’s Roman Catholic Church 231 Lake Avenue,
Saratoga Springs Contact: 584-6122. Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 8, 9:30, 11:15 a.m. and 5 p.m.
St. George's Episcopal Church 912 Route 146, Clifton Park Contact: 371-6351; stgeorge@csdsl.net Services: Saturday at 4:30pm, Sunday at 8 & 9:30am
St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church 3159 Route 9N, Greenfield Center Contact: (518) 893-7680; sjoegctr@nycap.rr.com; www.rcda.org/churches/ St.JosephsChurch Services: Saturday 4:00 p.m.; Sunday 10:30 a.m. Handicapped accessible.
St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church 771 Route 29, Rock City Falls Contact: (518) 893-7680; sjoegctr@nycap.rr.com; www.rcda.org/churches/ St.JosephsChurch Services: Sunday Mass 8:30 a.m.
St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church 149 Lake Avenue, Saratoga Springs Contact: 584-0904. Services: Saturday evening at 5 p.m. with Holy Communion. Sundays at 8:30 and 11 a.m. with Holy Communion.
St. Peter Lutheran Church 2776 Route 9, Malta Contact: 583-4153 Services: Sunday mornings 8:30 and 10:30.
St. Thomas of Canterbury 242 Grooms Road, Halfmoon Contact: st-thomas-ofcanterbury.org Service: Sunday at 10am
Saratoga Abundant Life Church 2325 Route 50 South, Saratoga Springs Contact: 885-5456; www.saratogaabundantlife.org Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m.
Saratoga Chabad 130 Circular St., Saratoga Springs Contact: 526-0773; saratora@aol.com www.saratogachabad.com
Saratoga Friends Meeting (Quaker) Corner of Routes 32 and 71, Quaker Springs Contact: 587-7477; 399-5013. Services: Sunday 10 a.m.
Saratoga Independent Church New Location: Knights of Colombus Pine Rd., Saratoga Springs
TODAY
Contact: 306-4652; Edgeministry1@yahoo.com. Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m. Food Pantry Tuesday 9-11 @ KoC
Saratoga United Methodist Church Henning Road at Fifth Avenue, Saratoga Springs Contact: 584-3720; www.saratogaumc.com. Services: Sunday 9 and 10:45 a.m. Handicapped accessible.
Shenendehowa United Methodist 971 Route 146, Clifton Park Contact: 371-7964. Services: Sunday 7:45, 9 and 10:45 a.m.; Acts II Contempory 10:45 a.m.
Simpson United Methodist Church Rock City Road, Rock City Falls Contact: 885-4794. Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m.
Soul Saving Station for Every Nation Christ Crusaders of America 62 Henry Street, Saratoga Springs Contact: 584-3122 Services: Sunday 10am & 6:30 pm
Temple Sinai 509 Broadway, Saratoga Springs Contact: 584-8730. Services: Friday 8 p.m. Handicapped accessible
Trinity United Methodist Church Rev. Gail Falsetti-Pastor 155 Ballard Rd., Gansevoort Contact: 584-9107; www.tumcwilton.com Service: Sunday 10:00 a.m.
Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Saratoga Springs 624 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs Contact: 584-1555; www.saratoga-uu.org Services: 10 am Religious education and nursery care at the 10 am service each Sunday
Unity Church in Albany 21 King Avenue, Albany Contact: (518) 453-3603: Services: Sunday, 9 am and 11 am
West Charlton United Presbyterian Church Rev. Thomas Gregg, Pastor 1331 Sacandaga Rd., West Charlton Contact: 882-9874; www.westcharltonupc.org Services: Sunday 10:30
Wilton Baptist Church 755 Saratoga Rd, Wilton Contact: 518-583-2736; wiltonbaptist@gmail.com; www.wiltonbaptistchurch.com Services: Sunday Service 11 a.m.
SARATOGA
TODAY
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
13
Food pantries recieve helping hand continued from Page 1
Photo Provided
Rossley presents checks to food pantries Schuylerville Area Food and Emergency Relief (SAFER) have seen a huge increase in demand for their assistance. “The Schuylerville food pantry helps working families,” said Maureen Cronin Rossley, a founding member of Teachers Feed Minds and Bodies. “A lot of these people come because they don’t get paid until Monday and they need the food for the weekend. A lot of people now coming to the food pantry…are people that just can’t make their paychecks stretch right now.” SAFER not only provides struggling families with meals for themselves and their loved ones, but also helps out with items such as gas cards so people can fill their cars to get back and forth to work, and even provides some assistance with high heating and electric bills in the winter. While previously SAFER typically assisted as many as 25 families on average, this season the organization is seeing 40 different families in need of their services. An increase in demand requires an
increase in resources, and so Rossley’s Teachers Feed Minds and Bodies organization pushed forward to provide SAFER and St. Therese Chapel Food Pantry in Gansevoort with the funds to stay on top. “For the first time I sent out 65 letters to the Schuylerville teacher retirees, and they came in like gangbusters and sent in something like nine-hundred and some dollars in checks,” Rossley said. “Three teachers in the elementary school collected there for me. I went to the school board, we put a finger on the administration – pretty much everybody that could help.” After all was said and done, Teachers Feed Minds and Bodies was able to raise $2,420 for local food pantries, with $1,425 earmarked for the SAFER food bank and $995 donated to St. Therese’s food pantry. “We’re really excited about the level of generosity we’ve seen,” Rossley said. Rossley, a retired teacher herself who taught for 36 years in the Schuylerville School District, indicated that “As teachers, we have always supplemented students’ snacks, lunches, school supplies, field trips and holiday gift-giving…but this represents a bigger need. We’re really pleased, because this really helps local kids and their families.” While SAFER offers emergency assistance up to six times a year for community members, there of course still exists more traditional organizations that provide assistance on a regular basis for people in need. Andrea Bello, Special Projects Coordinator for the Moreau Community Center, indicated that
Religious Services
their food pantry has seen a record turnout during this year’s holiday season. “Yesterday [November 22] was our Thanksgiving Holiday Caring pickup, and that is a program that’s based from our food pantry. We had over 200 people – 207 to be exact, take advantage of that program. It’s the highest number I’ve seen in the six years that I’ve been here,” Bello said. The Moreau Community Center’s Food pantry is open Monday through Friday, 9:30 to 11:30 am, and 12:30 to 2:30 pm. Those who live in the South Glens Falls School District have access to the pantry once a month, as long as they provide a valid photo ID and a current piece of mail. To contact Moreau for their services, or to provide donations or volunteer your time, the pantry can be reached at (518) 792-6007. The SAFER food pantry is open from 9 am through 12 pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday each week, providing assistance to those residing in the Schuylerville School District. To take advantage of SAFER’s services, or to donate your time, food, and/or money, please call (518) 260-4779. The Franklin Community Center’s Food Pantry is open Monday through Friday from 8 am until 4 pm. All are welcome, regardless of income eligibility or geographic location, to access their services. The center can be reached by phone at (518) 5879826, or online at www.franklincommunitycenter.org to inquire about their services or to assist with donations and/or your time.
Down Sizing Sale: Estate-like sale in Saratoga Springs Victorian neighborhood. Extensive, tasteful collection of clothing and accessories, home furnishings and furniture. Percentage of proceeds to benefit Saratoga Center for the Family. Time/date: 10 am to 3 pm, Fri., Nov. 26, Sat., Nov. 27 and Sun., Nov 28. Location: 181 Phila St, Saratoga. (Also Dec. 3, 4, 5, & Dec. 10, 11, & 12.) No Earlybirds please.
Local food pantries The First Baptist Church of Ballston Spa 202 Milton Avenue, Ballston Spa (518) 885-8361 Christ Episcopal Church 15 West High Street, Ballston Spa (518) 885-9455 United Methodist Church 101 Milton Avenue, Ballston Spa (518) 885-6886 EOC Food Pantry 40 New Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 587-3158 EOC Soup Kitchen 24 Circular Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 581-8233
Salvation Army 27 Woodlawn Avenue, Saratoga Springs (518) 584-1640 Franklin Community Center 10 Franklin Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 587-9826 Moreau Community Center 144 Main Street, South Glens Falls (518) 792-6007 Saint Theresa Chapel 1 Wilton Gansevoort Road, Gansevoort (518) 587-3180 Schuylerville Food Pantry 12 Spring Street, Schuylerville (518) 260-4779
SARATOGA
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
14
A Sweeter Life in Malta? continued from Page 1 Here’s how it happened: Throughout their nearly 30 years in the business, William and Cristina dyed, shampooed and treated hair using all of the top professional products and dyes that make a salon experience so luxurious, and apparently toxic. After reading labels, looking up ingredients, and researching the effects of common chemical ingredients such as parabens, PPD and sulfates, the Connollys became certain that William’s malignant tumor was there for a reason. “Hair coloring gave me cancer,” William said. “It’s an industry-wide problem, and hair dressers know about it but they choose to stick with these products because they are less expensive, sometimes because they have to.” Parabens (preservatives used in shampoos, moisturizers, even food) mimic estrogen. And although low doses of the widely used chemical have been found in breast cancer tumors, no “casual link” has certified
parabens as a cancering agent. Most permanent hair colors contain a substance called PPD (Paraphenylenediamine), which boasts a causal link to a variety of cancers. But until the chemical becomes an EPA classified carcinogen, producers are not required to print a toxicity warning on their labels. Sulfate (Sodium laureth sulfate) is the chemical compound responsible for lather and foam; it’s found in shampoos, soaps and cleaning products. And, although the substance isn’t specifically linked to cancer, the Connollys grew uncomfortable with its application simply because it’s an arguably harsh chemical. “Mechanics use sulfates to clean up grease,” Cristina explained, instilling imagery of the thick, gunky, tar-like substance. “They clean their floors with it. Do you really want to put that in your hair?” They quickly realized that providing their customers with a healthy and safe service meant using only organic products.
Cristina, who used organics but not solely, began researching organic dyes and product lines to use and sell in their salon and was shocked to find that nearly every natural or “certified organic” treatment made in the United States included a similar cocktail of chemicals. “It was impossible to find anything truly organic,” she said. The problem is that local beauty products don’t exist. They are purchased by Industry giants like Proctor and Gamble that distribute countless product lines internationally and buy out the smaller businesses, many of which are organically driven. “When a corporation buys a company, they cheapen the product because it’s less expensive to produce in larger quantities when you’re using cheap products,” William said, using Clorox’s acquisition of Burt’s Bees as an example. Determined for change, Cristina began making her own, honestly organic products to use in the salon and sell to other businesses. Her products, named La Vida Dulce, are all-natural, vegan and handcrafted. This new, “sweeter” line is chemical-free and will remain so. Cristina is the small, local operation; she won’t cheapen her product with dangerous chemicals because she uses it in the Beauty Society Salon – on customers that have been coming to the Connollys for years. They’ve turned the salon into an essentially toxic-free, safety zone
and it’s all green. The Connolly’s even encourage their customers to recycle by giving a discount when they bring in empty product containers, which is possible simply because they run a small, local business. Caught within Malta’s mission to become the epicenter of high-tech industry and, essentially, “think big,” the Connollys are finding their business and their neighborss businesses sinking between the cracks. With plans to attract new commerce with a modernized downtown, Malta’s formerly quaint business district may soon be divided into three separate sections: “Town Center,” which includes Price Chopper Plaza, Just Meats and the new Ellsworth Commons (a large residential and retail development); the two “Gateways,” one in the North which runs from Cramer Road to Bayberry Drive, and the second from the south, which extends from Hemphill Place to Knabner Road; and, lastly, “Four Corner Village,” which includes businesses along Route 67 and in the Dunning Street District. The vision for Malta’s new downtown is a contentious issue – a tugof-war between the forces of economic growth and the needs of a small town community and its businesses. The Connolly’s Dunning Street District salon, located just a mile down the road from the Luther Forest Technology Campus in an old farmhouse, is considered a historic property and was recently rezoned from a more than 50-foot maximum height for structures to allow only 24 feet. According to William, the historic designation restricts their rights over everything from aesthetics to construction, making it nearly impossible to enhance or rebuild. “The zoning is so arbitrary,” Cristina said with skepticism. She explained that the historic district was originally where Price Chopper and Dunkin’ Donuts are, but that it was rezoned – and she presumes it was done to accommodate
TODAY
big businesses. William and Cristina are working on a petition to abolish the historic district, because they claim it’s negatively impacting small, local business. So far they have over 200 signatures. “We’re trying to establish commerce here, and it’s the ideal place. We’re just down the road from GloablFoundries; it’s walkable, and it should be the community hub,” William said. “There is no incentive for local business; they just keep bowing to big developers.” As the Connollys responded to an industry’s overall “failure to provide safe products and services” by going back to the basics – thinking small and local – they are fearful that Malta, a town historically known for its community charm and commerce, will work against them in its growth. The nation’s move away from localized operations to large corporations that can afford to sell their products for less has provably hurt small businesses, and William is convinced it has had an impact on the country’s overall health: “I was in line at Hannaford buying organic groceries a few weeks ago and the gentleman behind me made a condescending comment about how much extra money I was spending for organic, so I asked him: ‘do you know how much cancer costs?’” While there might be two sides to the Malta growth story, the Connolly’s argument embraces a human scale. “We won’t die rich owning our business, but at least we care about our customers,” William said, quoting Ghandi: “We need to think back to humans before profit.” Just like they learned not to trust a company’s “certified organic label,” Cristina and William say they are on the path to losing faith in their community’s motive and plan of action for growth. “You still have to turn it over and look at the ingredients,” Cristina said.
Wednesday November 24, 2010
SARATOGA
TODAY
24th
Annual Victorian Streetwalk Photos by Terri-Lynn Pellegri
See page 16 and 17 for Map and Schedule!
Photo by Mark Bolles
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in Downtown Saratoga Springs Thursday, December 2, 2010
Wednesday November 24, 2010
SARATOGA
16
TODAY
24th
Annual Victorian Streetwalk
Victorian Streetwalk Itinerary and Entertainment Schedule 2010 All times are approximate and subject to change. Reminder: Broadway will be closed to traffic from 5 pm to 10 pm. 1. Olde Bryan Inn (123 Maple Ave.) 6:00-8:30 Rich Ortiz 2. City Center (522 B’way) 5:45 - 6:45, 7:30 - 8:30 Saratoga Abundant Life Church 6:00 - 10:00 Festival of Trees 3. Nikita Indoor Outdoor (508 B’way) 7:00 - 9:00 Karlinda Caldicott-Harp 4. In the Street ( B’way) 6:00 - 10:00 Ice Sculptures
5. Temple Sinai (509 B’way) 6:00 - 9:00 Soup (for sale) Slice of Heaven baked goods, Hanukkah gift shop open, Crafts (for sale) 6. Saratoga Arms (497 B’way) 7:00 Sonneteers 7:30 Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Select High School Choir 8:10 Bandersnatchers 7. Just Plain Good (490 B’way) 6:00 - 8:30 Alan Edstrum Magic 8. City Hall Steps (474 B’way) 6:00 - 9:00 Saint Paul's Lutheran Church Singing and Hot Chocolate 9. Post Office (475 B’way) 5:00 - 9:00 Special Postal Cancellations
5:00 - 9:00 Adirondack Mountain Club 6:00 - 7:00 Father Christmas 6:30 - 9:30 Whippersnappers Outside: Saratoga Hot Dog Co. 6:00 - 10:00 Toyota "Toys for Tots" Drive 10. Adirondack Trust Co. (473 B’way) 6:00 - 6:35 Skidmore Dynamics 7:00 - 7:30 Racing City Chorus 7:45 - 8:15 Racing City Chorus 8:30 - 9:00 Racing City Chorus Outside: 7:00 Schwa Capella Singers 7:45 - 9:30 Octavo Singers 11. G. Willikers (461 B’way) 6:30 - 8:30 Mr. & Mrs. Bill 6:30 - 8:30 Puddles the Clown Face Painting 12. Fallon Wellness Pharmacy of Saratoga ( 427 B’way) 6:30 - 8:30 Betsey & the ByeGons 13. Celtic Treasures (456 B’way) 6:30 - 9:30 John Cromie, Tommy Wadsworth & friends, Irish Whistles & Songs 14. Downstreet Marketplace
Wednesday November 24, 2010 (454 B’way, Inside lower level) 6:30 - 7:30 River Valley Chorus 8:00 - 10:00 Rick Bolton & the Dwyer Sisters 15. Soave Faire (449 B’way) 7:30 Bandersnatchers 8:15 - 9:00 Norma Colasessano 9:00 Sax-O-Claus 16. Rockabella (441 B’way) 7:30 Skidmore Dynamics 9:00 Skidmore Accents 17. Dawgdom (441A B’way) 7:00 - 9:00 Jim Lestrange & Lise Winne 18. Putnam Market (435 B’way, Outside:) 6:00 - 10:00 Santa Cottage with Santa & Mrs. Claus 19. Crafters Gallery (427 B’way) 6:00 - 10:00 Pigster H. Wigglesworth 6:00 - 10:00 Live Reindeer 5:00 - 10:00 Star 101.3 Live Remote 20. Plum Dandy Yogurt (419 B'way) 7:00 - 9:00 Maryleigh & the Fauves 21. The Wine Bar (417 B’way) 7:00 - 9:00 Kat Spina 22. Lifestyles (436 B’way) 7:00 - 7:45 & 9:00 John Kribs & Orion Kribs 23. Gaffney's 9:00 - 1:00 The Blackouts 24. Children's Museum
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TODAY (69 Caroline Street) Saratoga City Ballet Nutcracker Characters 6:30 - 6:40 10 minute performance from Nutcracker 7:00 - 7:10 10 minute performance from Nutcracker 7:30 - 7:40 10 minute performance from Nutcracker 25. Upper Caroline Street 6:15 - 7:00 Norma Colasessano, Accordion 26. Lillian's (408 B’way) Outside: 6:00 - 10:00 Saratoga Chrysler Jeep Dodge 7:00 Sax-O-Claus (in the street) 27. Saratoga Salsa & Spice (398 B’way) 7:00 - 9:00 Michelle Lewis 28. Circus Café (392 B’way) 7:00 - 10:00 Tim Wechgelaer, Victorian Fiddle 29. MINE 6:30 - 9:30 - Holiday Jazz Ensemble & free finger foods,
cocoa & cider 30. Borders (395 B’way) 6:00 - 7:00 Drastic Measures 7:00 - 7:30 Waldorf School Acapella Chorus 8:00 - 9:00 RPI Rensselyrics 31. Saratoga Children's Shoe Depot (385 B’way) 6:00 - 8:00 Mother Goose Face Painting 32. Impressions (368 B’way) 7:00 - 9:00 Lyl Harper Reggae Music Outside: 8:00 Skidmore Accents 33. Top of Phila Street 7:00 - 8:00 Father Christmas 8:00 - 8:45 John & Orion Kribs, Gwen Tracy 34. Ben & Jerry's (corner of Putnam and Phila) 7:00-9:00 Dan Garcia & Katie Dwyer 35. Dine Restaurant (26 Henry Street) 5:30 on: Special Wine Dinner (reservations required)
36. Candy Company (5 Washington Street, outside) 6:00 - 10:00 Old Fashioned Hot Roasted Chestnuts 37. First Baptist Church (45 Washington Street) 12:00 - 9:00 2nd Greener Days Holiday Bazaar: Craft/Bake/White Elephant Sale/Childrens Area 38. The Gap (341 B’way) 6:30 - 8:30 Tequila Mockingbirds 39. Eddie Bauer (340 B’way) 8:00 - 9:00 Father Christmas 7:00 - 9:00 Pokingbrook Morris Dancers 8:30 Sonneteers 40. Saratoga Arts Center (320 B’way) Winter Solstice Art Exhibit 6:00 - 10:00 Gingerbread House Display 7:00 - 9:00 Ed Stander, glass player 41. Saratoga Springs History
Open Early on Black Friday
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Museum in the Canfield Casino 6:00 - 9:00 Open 42. Visitor Center (Congress & Broadway) 6:00 - 9:00 Northland Newfoundland Club (Live Newfoundland Dogs) 7:00-9:00 Sonny & Perley Trio 43. NBT Bank (295 B’way) 7:30 - 8:30 Choir of St. Peter 44. In the Street (Broadway): Strolling: Candy Company Toy Soldier, Greenwich Trash Can Drummers 45. Free Trolley Rides Putnam Street: tour North Broadway & Back 46. Saratoga Springs Train Station (West Ave.) 6:00 - 7:00 "One Voice"
Wednesday November 24, 2010
SARATOGA
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TODAY
24th
Annual Victorian Streetwalk
Thursday night, December 2, marks the twenty-fourth Annual Victorian Streetwalk in downtown Saratoga Springs from 6 to 10 pm. Broadway will close once again from 5 to 10 pm from the Route 50 arterial to just north of Washington Street. The Victorian Streetwalk is the Downtown Business Association’s way of saying “thank you” to all our customers for supporting our beautiful downtown throughout the year. Everyone is invited to join the fun with caroling and Victorian costumes and enjoy an old fashioned “Christmas as it used to be” street party and celebration of the holiday season. Most businesses will be open until 10 pm and will hold open houses and serve delicious, free
refreshments to their guests, friends and customers. CDTA, a festival Gold Sponsor, is running free shuttle buses every 20 minutes from the Saratoga Springs Railroad Station on the west side and the Oklahoma track (just off Exit 14 of I-87) and the Weibel Avenue Skating Rink parking lots on the east side of Saratoga Springs to downtown and back from 4:30 until 10:30. Special thanks to NYRA, the City of Saratoga Springs and CDTA for allowing the use of their parking areas for satellite parking. With over 40 entertainment sites, there is something for everyone. New this year are Maryleigh & the Fauves, and Betsy and the ByeGons playing music, Alan Edstrom performing magic, Norma
Colasessano on the accordion, a Holiday Jazz Ensemble plus free finger foods, cocoa & cider at MINE, and Puddles the Clown. Returning for a second year are Tequila Mockingbirds; Lyl Harper, “The Ice Man,” Karlinda Caldicot on harp and the First Baptist Church presents the 2nd Annual Greener Days Holiday Bazaar, featuring a White Elephant Sale, Holiday Café with hot beverages & baked treats, Beggar’s Banquet and a Children’s Area with games and Make & Take projects for a small fee. Returning favorites include The Abundant Life Church, The Whippersnappers; Tim Wechgelaer Victorian Fiddle; Rich Ortiz; Skidmore A Cappella singing groups; Father Christmas; Santa Sax; John & Orion Kribs and more. You will also find Santa and Mrs. Claus in the Santa cottage, live reindeer, saxophone solos, Irish whistles, Christmas carols, hammered dulcimer, harp and gospel. There are free trolley rides beginning on Putnam Street that will swing up to North Broadway and back for visi-
tors to see the mansions. The History Museum in the Canfield Casino in Congress Park will be open during the Festival. The “Festival of Trees” sponsored by Catholic Charities is at the City Center, 522 Broadway. The Festival features trees, wreaths and swags, all sponsored and decorated by local businesses. All proceeds go to Catholic Charities. The Toyota “Toys for Tots” truck will be in front of the Post Office accepting toys for children that would otherwise not have presents. Santa and Mrs. Claus visit with children in the beautiful, hand made and detailed Santa Cottage that is set up in front of Putnam Market (just across from Caroline Street) for the Christmas Holidays. They hand out candy canes while making each visit a very special time for every child. Children can also visit Santa’s live reindeer located next to the Santa cottage. Other animals include the Northland Newfoundland Dog Club at the Visitor Center. Special Victorian Streetwalk postal cancellations are available at
the Broadway Post Office from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Limited edition commemorative posters may be purchased for $5 each. Bring your stamped Christmas card envelopes, get them canceled with the special Victorian Streetwalk cancellation (free) and you have a month to mail them. The Saratoga Springs Downtown Business Association brings this event to you. Generous support for the Victorian Streetwalk was received from the Gold Sponsors Glens Falls Hospital and Saratoga Springs Special Assessment District; Gold Transportation Sponsor CDTA, our Silver Sponsors Saratoga Chrysler Jeep Dodge, Saratoga Hair Transplant Center & The Ayco Company, L.P.; supporting sponsors are The City Center, Courtyard by Marriott and the Saratoga Federal Credit Union along with other downtown businesses. This event is free and open to the public. Attendees at the Victorian Streetwalk are encouraged to look for maps with updated entertainment locations and times in downtown member businesses.
SARATOGA
TODAY
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Letter to the Editor
Hope. And dreams.
There is no shame in dreaming There is only hope A guiding light And sometimes disappointment There is no darkness in desire Only the longing to fill something lost It is what we place our desire in That shapes our heart and soul There is no sin in trying So long as we are aspiring And desiring some positive end Not trying is like dying You might as well be dead So dream and desire Try hard and be true Live life and don't fear dying And believe in all you do. There is no shame in dreaming For not to dream Is to waste one's life And not reach for hope beyond the fire… To replenish broken lands It is not childish to wish To channel all hopes into a single thought And have faith that it could happen It is not wrong to laugh or cry To refuse to die and carry on And never give up the future win And lose everything you ever had Yet be stubborn enough to re-begin There is no dishonor in falling Only in lying there to die No fault in being helpless So long as one thinks of the sky Looking up with dying eyes No matter what Fate shall arise There is no shame in dreaming. -Daniel Lee Wilt
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Turkey Talk, Black Friday & Sister Wives
To ponder on Thanksgiving… After long reflection and consideration, I came to the realization of the two aspects of my life for which I am most thankful:
The following piece, which was penned by me years ago as part of a much larger work, reminds me of their significance and importance. And of their power. No matter how good or bad one's situation becomes. Time and again, perseverance prevails.
OPINION
Chad Beatty PUBLISHER
T
his Thanksgiving is an extra exciting holiday at our house. Why, you ask? Well, despite the fact that I am 43 years old, this will be the first year we actually celebrate the holiday at home. Prior years have been spent logging far too many hours on the Mass Turnpike or the Garden State Parkway traveling to see our families. My wife hails from a quaint little area on the shoreline of Connecticut, while I am fondly called a Jersey Boy. I am not sure how some people mean it, but they always place special emphasis when they say “Oh, that explains a lot, he is a ‘Jersey Boy.’” Well despite what you think, I am happy to say that New Jersey is not all factories and, no, I don’t know Snooki. Back to Thanksgiving… For the special and historic occasion we have chosen a 10-12 pound turkey complete with all the fixings. By the time some of you read this editorial, the day will have already come and gone. Hopefully it will have gone smoothly, we didn’t burn the bird, and the desserts were delicious. I had a great plan of trying to fry it, but that idea was shot down before I finished my sentence. Oh well, there is a little bit of country in this Jersey boy. And what better way to work off the holiday pounds than Black
Friday, the unofficial start to the holiday shopping season! I am happy to say that I have been up and down Broadway and crisscrossed the side streets throughout our towns and there are some fantastic deals out there. I know a number of the stores have plans to open early on Black Friday and if I were you I would take advantage of it. The variety of unique items our local shops have to offer are second-to-none. Just remember, you don’t have to hit the mall to find a great deal or a good gift, and the best part is, you are supporting our economy. These are folks who work hard to make ends meet and deliver superior customer service. I always make it a point to get as many gifts as possible from the locally-owned stores and I have never regretted it. So being a time to give thanks, one of the things I am thankful for this Thanksgiving is for my ONE wife. Have any of you ever seen the TV show Sister Wives? I stopped on the channel the other night and checked it out. For those of you who aren’t familiar with it, it is a show about a polygamist family with 1 husband, 3 wives and countless children. My original thoughts were “That is a great idea, what a clever guy”. However, while I cherish all of the little issues that pop up during the rollercoaster that is life, one wife is enough for me, and I am fairly sure that one husband is enough for her. The other day I lovingly offered to help get dinner ready for my wife before she got home. I placed the meal which she had prepared earlier in the oven, set the table and got milks poured. Well, apparently you have to take the Saran Wrap off the dish before it goes in the oven. I have since learned that the melting point of Saran Wrap is between 220 and 275 degrees Fahrenheit. Oh well, my wife and I have come to know and love each other’s idiosyncrasies and often
know what the other will do or say before they do. I have to give the husband on the television show credit though; he really seemed like a good guy and truly cares about each of his three (soon to be four) wives. However, I can safely check that off the list; Polygamy…NOT for me. Well, to wrap up this Thanksgiving piece, I want to once again acknowledge that I am thankful for so much in my life - from family and friends to health and happiness. I have been blessed with so much and have a staff that is second to none. I am also very thank-
ful for a l l of you, o u r loyal readers and hard working advertisers. Your kind words, commitment to our products and overall friendship keep us going. Have a great Thanksgiving and don’t forget to remember what you are thankful for this holiday season.
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CALENDAR
living Nov.
24 - Dec. 2 events
Wednesday, November 24
Saratoga Springs Public Library closes at 5 pm today. It will re-open at 9 am on Friday. K of C Bingo The Knights of Columbus, Pine Road, Saratoga Community bingo each Wednesday at 7 pm. Doors open at 5 pm. Refreshments will be available. Call (518) 584-8547 for more information.
Thursday, November 25 Happy Thanksgiving! Saratoga Turkey Trot Saratoga Springs City Hall At 8:30 am. Don’t miss the Annual Turkey Trot 5k run / walk to benefit The Christopher Dailey Foundation.
“Henderson Pizza” every Friday night from 5 to 8 pm. Call (518) 692-2061 to place your order. Pick up or eat in. Public is invited.
Holiday Gift Workshop Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St. From 10 am to noon. Rather than spending your “Black Friday” at the mall, why not make your gifts at the Museum? We’ll have supplies out in the Creation Station for you to make holiday gifts for friends and family. Free with paid admission.
Elks of Greenwich Henderson Pizza Night
Monday, November 29 Community Bingo
Saturday, November 27 Saratoga Springs Holiday Craft Fair From 10 am to 4:30 pm at the City Center. This well attended fair, with more than 100 crafters, benefits Saratoga Center for the Family. Admission is $2.
Saratoga Farmers’ Market Division St. School, 220 Division St., Saratoga Springs From 9 am to 1 pm. For more information, call (518) 6388530.
Saratoga Contradance First Baptist Church, 45 Washington St., Saratoga Springs From 8 to 11 pm, with lessons for beginners at 7:30. All dances taught, newcomers welcome. No need to bring your own partner. Wear sneakers or other soft-soled shoes only, please. Adults $10, students $7, children under 15, $6. For more information, call (518) 885-4430 or visit www.danceflurry.org.
Sunday, November 28 Victorian Tea
Friday, November 26
er Community Room.
Saratoga Wilton Elks, 1 Elks Lane, Rte 9, Saratoga Springs Join the Ladies Auxiliary from 1 to 4 pm for this festive day with light fare and desserts, craft tables and more. $10 donation at the door.
Hubbard Hall Opera Theater Presents Selections from La Boheme Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St. At 2 pm. Selections from Puccini’s opera, “La Boheme” in concert and semi-staged, with accompaniment by pianist Michael Clement. In the Dutch-
Saratoga-Wilton Elks Club, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga. An evening of fun for old and young, every Monday evening at 7 pm. Doors open at 4 pm. Refreshments will be available. (518) 584-2585
English Spoken Here beginner class Saratoga Springs Public Library 49 Henry St. A class for adults from other countries to improve their spoken English. Held from 9:30 to 11:30 am. Free and open to the public. Register with Literacy NENY at (518) 583-1232.
Tuesday, November 30 Tuesday for Tots Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St. This is a special time for our littlest visitors. Join us anytime between 10:00 am and noon for play dough, crafts, games and friends!
Wednesday, December 1 Downtown Saratoga Tree Lighting Join the annual event at 7 pm. Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive by horse and carriage to visit with the children. Free hot chocolate and cookies to keep you warm!
Thursday, December 2 Victorian Streetwalk From 6 to 10 pm. Broadway will close from 5 to 10 pm from the Route 50 arterial to just north of Washington Street. Everyone is invited to join the fun with caroling and Victorian costumes, and enjoy an old fashioned “Christmas as it used to be” street party and celebration of the holiday season. With
SARATOGA
Wednesday, November 24, 2010 47 entertainment sites, there is something for everyone. See the full schedule for details at www.saratogadowntown.com.
West African Drumming Recital Skidmore College, Arthur Zankel Music Center At 7 pm. Students of Yacub Addy’s West African Drumming classes join him for a selection of Chanian poly-rhythms using hand and stick drumming, bells and shakers. Free admission. For more information, call (518) 580-5321.
Friday, December 3 Candlelight House Tour This tour benefits Saratoga Preservation. Among others, the tour includes the Batcheller Mansion and Madame Jumel House. A reception at the Saratoga Golf and Polo Club follows with a silent auction. Tour tickets are $40 for members, $50 for non-members; Tour and Reception tickets are $75 for members and $85 for nonmembers. Contact Becky Codner at (518) 587-5030 or email rcodner@saratogapreservation.org.
Upcoming The Malta Ballet Company presents The Nutcracker Performances to be held at The Egg on Friday, December 3 at 10:30 am and 12:15 pm, and Saturday, December 4 at 2:30 and 7:30 pm. Saturday’s performances feature Rebecca Krohn and Amar Ramasar from the NYC Ballet Company. For ticket information, please call The Egg Box Office at (518) 4731845 or The Malta Ballet Company at (518) 899-6664.
Ballston Spa Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting December 3 If you haven’t already done so, make “strolling the Village” a hometown holiday tradition, starting with the Ballston Spa Holiday Parade at 6:30 p.m.
TODAY
Holiday floats, musicians and carolers, animals, fire trucks and more. Santa himself officially lights the village Christmas Tree at Wiswall Park at approximately 7:45 pm. Shops and restaurants will be open throughout the evening with music, refreshments, demonstrations and displays as part of a special holiday-themed version of First Friday.
BarkFest Sloppy Kisses announces their annual “Bark-fest with Santa” on December 5 from 9 to 11 am at Clifton Park Center. Each dog that is pre-registered for the event and in attendance will receive a doggie goodie bag. The registration fee is $5.00 per dog. Proceeds will benefit the Hudson & Mohawk River Humane Society. To register, stop by either Sloppy Kisses location (493 Broadway, Saratoga Springs or Clifton Park Center). The deadline to register for the event is December 2. There will be no day of the event registration/admittance.
Battlefield Open House Ring in the holiday season with live guitar music, book-signings, free refreshments and unique holiday gift ideas in the bookstore at Saratoga National Historical Park’s Holiday Open House on Sunday, December 5 from 1 to 4 pm. Saratoga Battlefield is located on Route 32 and 4 in Stillwater, NY. For more information about program and events at Saratoga National Historical Park, please call (518) 664-9821 ext. 224 or visit our website at www.nps.gov/sara.
Holiday Bazaar & Fashion Show Saratoga Hilton, 534 Broadway The Junior League of Schenectady & Saratoga Counties sponsors this event on December 4 and 5 from 9 am to 5 pm. Admission is $5. Complimentary tastings and spa services throughout the weekend, with a fashion show by Saratoga Trunk on Saturday at 1:30 pm.
Send your calendar items to Kim Beatty at kbeatty@saratogapublishing.com before 5 pm on Monday for Friday publication.
SARATOGA
TODAY
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
local briefs Parents without Partners Holiday Dinner & Dance Meet other single parents at our holiday dinner & dance on December 4 at The Edison Club in Rexford. Singles and couples are invited to attend the dinner and dance ($30) from 6 to 11 pm, or the dance only ($10) from 8:30 to 11 pm. Cash bar. For more information, please call (518) 348-2062 or reservation form online at www.meetup.com/ PWP796. RSVP by November 28.
Saratoga Springs History Museum Wine Raffle The Saratoga Spring History Museum is holding a wine raffle, with tickets at $10 each and the drawing on December 10, at the Holiday Gala in The Canfield Casino. Tickets are on sale in the Museum gift shop, or call (518) 584-6920. The raffle giveaway is a wine refrigerator/ chiller, four cases of wine from the Seneca wine trail and local businesses and $70 worth of Cabot cheese, a $700 value. Proceeds from the fundraiser support the museum’s operations and programs. For more information, please visit http://www.saratogahistory.org/
Holiday Toy and Clothing Drive Galway Wine and Spirits is collecting donations of new clothing and toys for children ages newborn to 18. The gifts will be distributed to children in the Galway school district that are in need. We ask that the gift NOT be wrapped. Wrapping paper, tape and boxes also needed. For every item donated, the donor’s name will be entered in a drawing for a basket of cheer. Donations appreciated by December 6. For more information, please call Marybeth Lucia (518) 882-1358.
at The Waldorf School Early Childhood Center, Lake Avenue, Saratoga Springs. The dates of the sale will be December 4 from 10 am to 3 pm, December 5 from noon to 3 pm, and December 16 from 3 to 6 pm. The Firefly Store features natural, handmade, old fashioned toys.
21 Baker, Baker’s Wife, Cinderella, Cinderella’s Father, Cinderella’s Mother/Granny, Cinderella’s Stepmother, Florinda, Lucinda, Jack, Jack’s Mother, Little Red Riding hood, Milky White, Mysterious Man, Narrator, Rapunzel, Cinderella’s Prince, Rapunzel’s Prince, Steward, Witch, Wolf
Lights of Love Lights of Love, a Saratoga Hospital tradition, is an event in which a loved one or friend can be remembered. Memorializing or honoring someone special, celebrating a new birth, or passing on a “thinking of you” message are all reasons to add lights to the tree. By making a donation of $5.00 or more, one light on a holiday tree will be designated for the honoree. The tree will be located at the main entrance of the hospital and will be up during the holiday season. For more information, please call (518) 5838447.
Saratoga High School Concerts On December 1, 8 and 15, hear the students of Saratoga High School perform. On Dec. 1 hear the Concert Band, Freshman Chorus and Concert Orchestra. On Dec. 8 hear the Symphonic Orchestra, Mixed Chorus and Percussion, and on Dec. 15 hear the Chamber Orchestra, Choraliers and Symphonic Band. All concerts begin at 7:30 pm.
Waldorf School Tour Please join us on Wednesday, December 1 from 8:15-9:15 am for a tour of The Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs and see how the curriculum keeps children engaged in learning! We are located at 62 York Avenue, Saratoga Springs. For more information, please call the admissions office at (518) 587-2224 or email admissions@saratogawaldorf.org.
Festival of Trees The 15th Annual Saratoga Festival of Trees kicks-off this holiday season on Wednesday, December 1 and will run through Sunday, December 5. The festival will be held at the Saratoga Springs City Center. The Festival kicks-off with one of Saratoga’s premier holiday events, the Preview Reception, where guests receive first peek and opportunity to purchase decorated trees and other holiday delights, while taking in the sights and sounds of the festival. The Saratoga Festival of Trees is an annual fundraiser benefiting Catholic Charities of Saratoga, Warren and Washington counties. For more information on The Saratoga Festival of Trees, visit saratogafestival oftrees.com or call (518) 587-5000.
Caregiver Support Group on November 30 Evergreen Adult Day Services, 357 Milton Avenue, Ballston Spa, an affiliation of The Wesley Community in Saratoga Springs, hosts a Caregiver Support Group the last Tuesday of each month from 3 to 4 pm. This group is designed for caregivers, families and friends of people with dementia. For more information or to register, please contact Trudi Cholewinski, at (518) 691-1516.
Warming Victims of Domestic Violence Inside and Out The Loving Hands in All Seasons Quilt Guild of Florida, NY has sewn love, care, and comfort into quilts for the victims of domestic violence in Saratoga County. Members quilt for pleasure and to help support local charities. This year the Loving Hands Guild contacted domestic violence agencies to provide over 70 handmade quilts for victims and their children. Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Services of Saratoga County (DVRC) will distribute 15 of these quilts to women and children in its shelter and to families accessing counseling, legal advocacy and other support services from the agency. Through their zeal for quilting, the Loving Hands in All Seasons Guild not only provides direct assistance to families exiting abuse through these simple, but meaningful quilts, but also increases awareness of domestic violence and services to help victims. Imagine being wrapped up in a new, handmade, warm quilt sewn just for you. This comfort means a world of difference to victims of domestic violence. DVRC of Saratoga County provides services to over 1,000 clients annually, including: emergency shelter, crisis intervention, legal advocacy, comprehensive case management, counseling, support groups and specialized youth services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. All services are confidential and free of charge. The 24 hour Domestic Violence hotline can be reached at (518) 584-8188.
HELPING HANDS Organization
Gilda's Club Capital Region New York How to Help
Retired teachers meeting The Saratoga Springs Retired Teachers Association will hold its monthly meeting at 12 noon on December 6 at Longfellow’s Restaurant, 500 Union Avenue in Saratoga Springs. The group is open to retired educators who taught in and/or live in Saratoga County. For new member information and luncheon reservations, call (518) 587-5356.
Firefly Store Sale Please join us for our Holiday Sale
Auditions Saratoga Children’s Theatre is holding Auditions for “Into The Woods, Jr.” This production is for students in 6 through 12th grades. Auditions will be held by appointment on Friday December 3 at St. Peter’s School Auditorium. Please email Erika Hebert at erikahebert@gmail.com for your appointment. If cast in a role, a fee of $195 is due at the first rehearsal. The performance will be held on January 21 and January 22, 2011 at 7 pm each night. The roles available include:
The mission of Gilda's Club Capital Region New York is to create a welcoming community of free support for everyone living with cancer men, women, teens and children - along with their families and friends. Our innovative program is an essential complement to medical care, providing networking and support groups, workshops, education, and social activities.
upcoming town meetings Town of Ballston: Ballston Town Hall 323 Charlton Road 885-8502 www.townofballstonny.org 11/24: Planning Board agenda meeting, 7 pm 11/24: Planning Board meeting, 7:30 pm 11/30: Town Board meeting, 7:30 pm Village of Ballston Spa: 66 Front Street 885-5711 www.ballstonspany.org 11/24: Zoning Board of Appeals meeting, 7:30 pm Town of Greenfield: 7 Wilton Road 893-7432 www.townofgreenfield.com 11/30: Planning Board meeting, 7 pm Town of Malta: 2540 Route 9 899-2818 www.malta-town.org 11/29: Town Board workshop, 6:30 pm Town of Milton: 503 Geyser Road 885-9220 www.townofmiltonny.org City of Saratoga Springs: 474 Broadway 587-3550 www.saratoga-springs.org Town of Saratoga: 12 Spring Street, Schuylerville 695-3644 www.townofsaratoga.com Village of Schuylerville: 35 Spring Street 695-3881 www.villageofschuylerville.org 11/29: Dissolution Study Committee meeting, 7 pm
Mission Whatever your skill, we can use you. Volunteer tasks available are office work, volunteering on a committee, helping with member workshops and outside clean up and maintenance among other things. If you aren't able to volunteer your time, we are always in need of monetary donations and we keep a wish list for items needed at our clubhouse. We genuinely appreciate every donation made.
Town of Stillwater: 66 East St., Riverside Mechanicville, NY 12118 www.stillwaterny.org 11/24: Zoning Board meeting, 7:30 pm
Contact We are located at One Penny Lane, Latham. We can be reached by phone at (518) 782-9833, email: info@gccrny.org and our website is gccrny.org.
Send your local briefs to Kim Beatty at kbeatty@saratogapublishing.com before Monday at 5 pm for Friday publication
Town of Wilton: 22 Traver Road 587-1939 www.townofwilton.com 11/24: Zoning Board meeting, 7 pm
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SARATOGA
PULSE
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Blood, Sweat and Tears Coming to Ballston Spa High School
TODAY
Local Gigs
Photo Provided On Tuesday, February 15, 2011 the famous band Blood, Sweat and Tears will be coming to the Ballston Spa High School to perform at a benefit concert in support of the arts in the Ballston Spa Central School District. The concert will begin at 7 pm and feature the band performing their famous hits such as “Spinning Wheel” and “You’ve Made Me So Very Happy.” Superintendent of Schools and talented tenor saxophonist Dr. Joseph P. Dragone and members of the Ballston Spa High School Jazz Ensemble will also join the band on some of the musical selections. This benefit concert is sponsored by the district’s Partnership for Innovation in Education Fund with all proceeds being used to provide future artist in residence programs where artists work in the schools to share their knowledge and expertise with students. For ticket information contact Peg Brady, K-12 Humanities Coordinator at pbrady@bscsd.org or visit www.bscsd.org/webpages/BSARTS.
Send listings to entertainment@ saratogapublishing.com
SARATOGA
TODAY
PULSE
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
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Malta Ballet Company will perform with NYC Ballet Stars! -“The Nutcracker” at the Egg continues tradition For the sixteenth year, in a wonderful custom that celebrates the beginning of the Holiday season, the Malta Ballet Company (a not-for-profit organization dedicated to educating young children and adults in the arts) will take the stage of The Egg for performances of “The Nutcracker” on Friday, December 3 (at 10:30 am and 12:15 pm) and Saturday, December 4 (at 2:30 and 7:30 pm). “The Nutcracker” is a timeless magical classic that has been loved by all ages for generations. The Malta Ballet Company’s young performers will delight and dazzle you with a wide array of talents and bright, grandiose costumes. At Saturday’s performances, another tradition is renewed: once again, special guests from the New York City Ballet Company (NYCB) will dance
along with the young performers, which always elevates this presentation to something much more than you would expect from a traditional local Nutcracker performance. NYCB’s Rebecca Krohn Photo Provided Photo Provided will charm you as the Amar Ramasar Rebecca Krohn Sugar Plum Fairy, and observe the great George izations are encouraged to you’ll be spellbound as Balanchine’s original reserve their places as soon as Amar Ramasar dances as variations of the graceful possible by calling The Malta her Cavalier. Photo by Susan Blackburn Photography Sugar Plum Fairy and Ballet Company at (518) 899“The Nutcracker” perMalta Ballet Company her Cavalier, as per- 6664. formers include gymnasts formed by Ms. Krohn The prices for the Saturday, who magically come alive lights will fly. As you enter the and Mr. Ramasar. December 4 performances at as dolls, rats and soldiers who tap land of sweets, you will see delicaAs always, there will be a spe- 2:30 and 7:30 pm with the spedance with spectacular sounds. cies from around the world come cial appearance by Santa and his cial NYC Ballet Guests are Joseph the Magician will mystify alive to excite and entertain. reindeer. Adults $31.50, Senior Citizens you with his magic, and you will Traditional dances of Spain, There is a special school rate of $26.50, Children 11 and younger watch the Silberhaus’s tree grow Russia, the Netherlands, China and $9.50 per seat for schools, organi- $16.50 before your very eyes. The Choir Arabia will be performed, as well zations and the general public for Tickets for the Saturday show sings joyous songs of the holiday as the Malta Ballet Company’s the performances on Friday, are now on sale at both The Egg season. You will witness ballerinas exclusive dances from Scotland, December 3 at 10:30 am and 12:15 box office (518) 473-1845 so elegant they will entice Ireland, Poland, Hungary and Italy. pm. These presentations sell out (www.theegg.org) and The Malta snowflakes to fall from the sky, This is also an opportunity to very quickly, so schools and organ- Ballet Company (518) 899-6664. and angels with wings and candle
“Here’s the Situation: Saratoga native collaborates on new humor book with “Jersey Shore” star. -Book signing scheduled for December 3 Saratoga resident and native Chris Millis has acquired a lot of credits and awards as a novelist, screenwriter, producer and cartoonist – but it is possible that you haven’t heard of him... yet. However, his latest comic cooffering is very likely to change that. Earlier this month Penguin Book Publishing released “Here’s the Situation,” a tongue-in-cheek “how to” parody book that lam-
poons the hard-partying lifestyle and unique colloquial speech sported by Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino – one of the leading characters on the MTV’s “Jersey Shore” – the network’s highest-ever rated show with over 5 million viewers to each new episode (for better or worse.) In the book, co-written and illustrated by Mr. Millis, the reader is informed about all the nuances involved in “Creeping on Chicks, Avoiding Grenades, and Getting in Your GTL” (which, for the novice to the show are the three tenets to a successful Jersey Shore lifestyle: Gym, Tanning and Laundry) in satirical mock-serious fashion. Celebrity critics have adopted the same tone in their reviews. On his HBO “Real time…” show, Bill Maher commented: "New rule: you can't publish a book if the only people interested in reading it don't know how to read.” But apparently this does not
worry Chris too much as he will be celebrating the release with a special book signing of this and his earlier works at the Regent Street Arts Center (downstairs), 153 Regent Street in Saratoga Springs from 5 to 9 pm on Friday, December 3. Part of the reason may be that in addition to co-authoring the book, he is also the illustrator. So if reading isn’t your thing… This is the latest in a series of intriguing offerings from Mr. Millis. He collaborates with John McPherson on “Closer to Home” the popular one-panel daily comic strip syndicated to over 700 newspapers throughout the world. His illustrated books include “An American Bestiary,” by the late senator and former presidential candidate Eugene McCarthy, and the children's book “A Clam Named Sam,” by New England author and conservationist Lee DeVitt. Also, Chris has collaborated with film and “Chappelle’s Show” star Charlie Murphy on his book “The Making of a Stand-Up Guy” (Simon & Schuster, 2009); his prize-win-
ning novel “Small Apartments” (for which he also wrote the screenplay) is set to begin filming next year, and he is currently working with comedian Rob Schneider on his memoir chronicling 25 years in entertainment. - Arthur Gonick
Photo by Mandy Jo Dennis
Chris Millis
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SARATOGA
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
TODAY
Nutcracker Tea Photos by Mark Bolles
On
Sunday, November 21 at The Hall of Springs, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center’s (SPAC) Action Council hosted nearly 800 children and their guests. They were treated to the Northeast Ballet Company performing classic scenes from Tchaikovsky’s fairy tale ballet The Nutcracker. After three consecutive years of selling out the popular program, a second tea was added this year. The event was sponsored by the Emma Willard School and proceeds will go to benefit SPAC’s arts education programs.
SARATOGA
TODAY
FOOD
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
25
MOM’S ICE CREAM PUMPKIN PIE A family favorite shared was famous for getting the best recipes from her girlfriends and then making them better! I suspect this is one of these. Regardless, it’s a great way to present pumpkin pie in a new dimension and if you like pumpkin pie and you like ice cream, you will love this!
Suzanne Voigt
Ingredients
Farmers’Market I have been writing this column for close to five years and each Thanksgiving I have shared bits and pieces of my family’s table. But I have not shared, until now, my mother’s much revered Thanksgiving dessert - her icecream pumpkin pie. This pie was everyone’s favorite and made even more special because she only served it at Thanksgiving. I have never seen it made or served anywhere else and I have no idea if it was my mother’s creation - but I doubt it. My mom
1 1/2 pints of butter pecan or vanilla ice cream (Note: Battenkill Creamery ice cream is divine with this recipe) 1 nine-inch pie plate 1 cup of cooked pumpkin (Of course fresh is best, but canned will do in a pinch) 1 cup sugar 1 tsp cinnamon 1/4 tsp ginger 1/4 tsp nutmeg 1/4 tsp salt 1 cup heavy cream, whipped (again, Battenkill Creamery cream is awesome)
Directions 1. Line the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie pan with ice cream, smoothing the ice cream with the tip of a spoon to make an even, generous coating. Put coated pie pan in the freezer. This will make the “crust” of your pie. 2. Combine pumpkin, sugar and
spices in a sauce pan and cook the mixture over medium-low heat for three minutes. Mixture should be heated through, but not boiling. 3. Allow mixture to cool. 4. Fold in 1 cup whipped heavy cream into the pumpkin mixture. 5. Pour filling into the frozen ice cream shell and freeze the whole pie until firm.
Note: take out 10 about minutes before serving so it melts a bit—it’s easier to cut and tastes really yummy slightly thawed. If there is any pie left (which I doubt), just refreeze. Saratoga Farmers’ Market will be open this Saturday, as usual; 9 am to 1 pm at the Division Street Elementary School.
Hattie’s “Throws Down” its new Wilton Location
Photos by Mark Bolles
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SARATOGA
PETS
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
TODAY
What to do if you lose your pet Jill Sweet WHISKERS AND TALES Years ago I had a funny spayed female Beagle named Boo. She was a character and a good buddy when I was going through a difficult time. My only complaint about Boo was her insatiable appetite for food. If it was slightly rotten food, from Boo's perspective, it was all the better. She somehow knew when the garbage went out in our neighborhood and she would slip out of the yard and go scrounging in the garbage. One Thanksgiving, Boo pulled an entire turkey carcass from the trash
and apparently ate every last bone. I found her on the back porch lying on her back with a huge tummy. The veterinarian said I should wait and see if she got sick. Amazingly, Boo digested the whole thing without even a belch. I was lucky that Boo did not get a splintered bone struck in her intestines. I was also lucky that when Boo found a way out of our yard she always came back in one piece. After many fence repairs and keeping an eye on her every trash day, I finally was able to have peace of mind regarding Boo. Dogs and indoor cats do manage to get away at times, even when the owner has taken all precautions to avoid the loss of a pet. It is important to know what to do should your beloved pet take off. WHAT TO DO IF YOU LOSE
YOUR PET? If your dog gets out of your backyard or if your indoor cat slips out a door left ajar, there are things you can do to better your chances of reuniting with them. Even if you have an outdoor cat that fails to return home one day, there are things you can do to optimize the likelihood of retrieving them. Always keep your pet identified. This can be done in many ways; some are more or less expensive than other, but whatever method you choose, be sure that if someone finds your lost pet they can contact you. Forms of pet identification include a current dog license tag, vaccination tags, personal identification tags or a microchip tag. These are all ways for your pet to be identified. Since ID tags can come off and get lost in the brush, another way to identify your
pet is with a personalized collar. These collars can be stitched with your dog's name and your phone number. These collars are available through pet supply and hunting catalogs. Keep available a current photo, especially one that shows any distinguishing markings. Contact all animal control officers, animal shelters, and veterinarians in the area. Place a lost pet ad in the local newspapers and scan the found ads daily. Many local papers will run 3 to 7 days of lost and found pet ads for free. Place fliers in as many locations as possible and offer a reward. Notify your neighbors. If the animal is microchipped, notify the organization where it is registered. Be sure that you keep up on
your annual fees for the microchip. Call the shelters in your area and check shelter web sites under "strays." WHAT TO DO IF YOU FIND A LOST PET? Contact animal control for the town in which the animal was found. If unable to contact an animal control officer call a shelter or local law enforcement. Place a free ad in several papers with a description of the animal plus when and where it was found. REMEMBER: NEUTERED AND SPAYED PETS ARE LESS LIKELY TO ROAM For more information on animal control and a listing of animal control officers in the county go to the Saratoga County Animal Shelter web site www.saratogacountyny.gov.
Animals Available
at the Saratoga County Animal Shelter for adoption. For More Information Call (518) 885-4113.
Noah is an adult male boxer.
Midnight is a 2 year-old spayed female. Her owner could not keep her. She is good with children and other animals
Rufus is an 8 month-old male who was brought to us as a stray. Rufus is litter-trained.
Abraham is an adult male neutered German Shorthair pointer.
Baton is a 5 year-old neutered male shepherd mix who was a rescue from Hurricane Katrina. He is housebroken and good with cats.
Coca is a 2 year-old female lab mix. She is housebroken and was brought in because her owner could no longer care for her. Coca is very scared and probably would do best as an only child.
SARATOGA
TODAY
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Words to know: cynosure: n, someone or something that serves as the focus of attention and admiration.
Sudoku
PUZZLES PUZZLES PUZZLES
27 “If people only knew how hard I work to gain my mastery, it wouldn't seem so wonderful at all.”
Crossword
See puzzle solution on page 29
Scrabblegram
See puzzle solution on page 29
ACROSS 1 Lots of plots 6 Blue 10 Memo abbr. 14 Lewis’s partner 15 “Mona __ Smile”: 2003 film 16 Actress Perlman 17 Song involving body parts 19 One of several on some wedding cakes 20 View 21 English Channel port 22 Particular 23 Staff addition 24 Business 25 Driveshaft component 31 McQueen or Martin 32 “The Bridge on the River __”: 1957 Best Picture 33 “Rather not!” 34 Quote 35 __ light: moviemaker’s tool 37 Hardy’s “obscure” stonemason 38 Husband of Fatima 39 Mottled 40 “Gymnopédies” composer 41 Gulped-down Mexican cocktail 45 “For __ us a child is born” 46 Spoonbill’s kin 47 Leave the cockpit suddenly 49 Fawlty Towers, for one 51 Tabloid craft, briefly 54 Sports page info, e.g. 55 Marker 57 Quibbles 58 Like some hygiene 59 Lasso feature 60 Sheltered, on a ship 61 Hereditary unit 62 Ladies’ men DOWN 1 Dull pain 2 Be overly sweet 3 Golfer’s need, at times 4 Poetic preposition 5 Execute a high jump? 6 “Lethal Weapon” costar
Top Video Rentals 1. Grown Ups 2. The Last Airbender 3. Toy Story 3 4. Predators 5. Disney's A Christmas Carol
Raising Hector
Michelangelo Italian painter and sculptor
See puzzle solutions on page29
7 Valley girl word 8 Microsoft customer 9 Kentucky Derby time 10 Maestro Toscanini 11 “Now!” 12 Pro shop bagful 13 __ a soul 18 Small opening 22 Island country since 1970 23 Swarm’s home 24 Standard 25 Functional 26 Avoiding off-topic posting, say 27 Path to ruin, with “the” 28 Dazzle 29 Low point 30 You, in a classic E.B. Browning poem 31 Sing like Satchmo 35 Metric weight, for short 36 Grazing field
Broom Hilda 6. Jonah Hex 7. Get Him to the Greek 8. The Karate Kid 9. Robin Hood 10. How to Train Your Dragon
Animal Crackers
37 Jazz sessions 39 Aniston’s ex 40 Like the Cheshire Cat 42 Remove from its box 43 Chicken __ 44 Help to perpetrate 47 “Show Boat” author Ferber 48 Synonym for the ends of 17-, 25-, 41- and 55-Across 49 __ and now 50 “The Good Earth” heroine 51 Shortly following 52 Suffix with slug 53 Breakfast tip components, usually 55 Brit’s pea-souper 56 “Lenore” poet
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SARATOGA
CLASSIFIED
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
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MERCHANDISE
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REAL ESTATE
$179,000
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GANSEVOORT 4639 ROUTE 50
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$234,000
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AUTOMOTIVE
Well kept Home in nice neighborhood! Wood floors on first level, lg kitchen, open floor plan with high windows. 3 Full baths! Finished basement with family room. Plenty of storage in crawl space. Fenced in yard with covered side porch. Large driveway with extra parking. Don't miss this one! Wendy Gilligan (518) 860-3109
$399,900
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BALLSTON SPA 163 STONE CHURCH RD
LEGAL
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TODAY
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cleaning
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
decorating ELEGANT INTERIORS Custom painting and wallpapering. Residential/ light commercial. Faux finishes. Custom Molding. Free estimates fully insured/ ref. Evenings & weekend schedules avail. When attention to detail matters. Greg Perreault (518)366-5743
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for rent WILTON McGregor Village Apts. Fall Special...Now $695/month, Plus First months rent FREE 2 bdrm, 1 bath $750. Cats only. (A/C avail) 518-886-8013 All 1st flr. units includes features for persons w/disabilities required by the Fair Housing Act.
SARATOGA
TODAY
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
SPORTS
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Polar Plunge raises $78,000 for Special Olympic Athletes by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY On Saturday, November 20, over 300 participants and hundreds of spectators gathered at Shepard Park beach at Lake George for the fourth annual Lake George Polar Plunge for Special Olympics New York. The event, which raises money for Special Olympic athletes to compete, brought together a colorful cast of characters on a day whose temperatures hovered in the mid-forties, including a group of rainbow-colored-tutu-wearing fairies, Luigi from the Super Mario Brothers videogames, a trio dressed head to toe in red, green and yellow spandex body suits, and a surprising number of pasty middle-aged men sporting afro wigs and form-fitting Speedos. Last year, the Polar Plunge was able to collect approximately $43,000 for Special Olympic athletes. This year the figure came close to doubling, with a whopping $78,000 collected by the time of the plunge.
Taking part in their third Polar Plunge as a group was the Saratoga Women's Rugby team, who were in high spirits during the moments leading up to the plunge. "The men's team was supposed to be here too," said Katie, in her second year at the plunge with the Women's Rugby team, "but they're at the championship game down in Manhattan." A convenient excuse - especially with water temperatures reading a cool 48 degrees for the day. "It's kind of exhilarating when you first get in there. You get a nice adrenaline rush," said Marybeth from the rugby team, who was in her third year at the plunge. "I'm hoping to fully submerge - my own personal goal." Debbie Gallacchi, whose baseball cap had a three-dimensional fish sprouting out the front and back, mingled amongst the crowd during the morning's warm-up celebration, which included music, vendors, and a spirited Zumba dancing exercise. "At first this was a dare," said Gallacchi, who participated in the
Daniel Schechtman • Saratoga Today
Plungers warm-up with a bit of Zumba dancing at Shepard Park Beach
puzzle solutions from pg. 27
Polar Plunge for her first time, "but then it turned into a bit of fun. I'm not nervous, I'm excited. It's not even cold out here!" That is, until the wind kicked up. But despite a clouded morning, by the time the town's clock tower struck twelve, the wind had died down, the sun had finally broken through for good and an encouraging roar from the crowd as participants followed the Special Olympics torch to the beach had raised even the greenest plunger's confidence. Hundreds ran without hesitation into the lake's waters, waving their hands in the air and screaming with excitement (or perhaps, just a hint of shock). A group representing the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity from RPI in Troy broke out a football and began passing it back and forth in the water. The Saratoga Women's Rugby team, after an initial run in and out of the water, found their second wind and doubled back for another helping. "I'm feeling great!" shouted Danielle, a first time plunger with the rugby team. "It really isn't so bad," she said, indicating she would definitely be back come next year's plunge. Participants lingered in and out of the water for the next twenty minutes or so, with spectators standing at the ready with warm towels and clothing for the brave plungers. "How cold was the water?" asked a spectator as one of the plungers exited the water. "It took your breath away," she responded enthusiastically, rushing towards the embrace of her warm towel. If spirits were high before the actual plunge, nearly everyone seemed to be soaring once their dip in and out of the frigid water was complete. This reporter, for one, can't remember the last time he heard someone shout, "I can't feel my legs!" with such unbridled enthusiasm.
Daniel Schechtman • Saratoga Today
Some last longer than others in the 48 degree water
A Proud Coach
Damian Fantauzzi Just a few days ago, two of my former players who are now Division III college basketball coaches, directed their teams into a head-to-head competition against one another. Kristen Dart and Sarah Lombard are the head coaches at Albany College of Pharmacy and Bard College, respectively. Kristen and Sarah are basketball junkies, and when they were kids they were always working to improve their game. But there is more to these two women than just basketball. Both have great leadership skills, and were captains during their junior and senior years of high school. For me, it was like having assistant coaches on the floor, thanks to their knowledge and savvy of the
game. The two of them are great role models for the younger girls who aspire to be basketball players. Sarah and Kristen are proof that hard work pays off, and they are still working at their game! The attitude, dedication and focus of these two is outstanding. Kristen was named Coach of the Year last year during her rookie season at ACPHS. Sarah, a former Channel 13 All Star, was named Player of the Year while at SUNY Oswego. Together they know the true meaning of the cliché, "to eat, sleep and drink basketball." Their respective families fostered a similar affection toward the sport. Sarah's dad, Steve, is the high school principal and girls' varsity basketball coach at Spa Catholic. Ben, who is one of Sarah's two brothers, is an assistant coach at SUNY New Paltz. Kristen's dad, Warren, a teacher in the middle school, is now also one of the girls' varsity basketball coaches at Saratoga Springs High School. Both fathers are AAU coaches, and have been doing so for many years. Following in their families' footsteps, Sarah and Kristen were also involved with AAU, as players and as coaches. And their moms, Sue Dart and Nancy Lombard, have always showed strong support for the girls. I am very proud and excited for Kristen and Sarah, and I am willing to bet that they will both move on in their careers as college basketball coaches. And by the way… Albany Pharmacy won!
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SARATOGA
SPORTS
Elks Lodge Honors Slade and Shapiro by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY On November 6, the SaratogaWilton Elks Lodge #161 took a moment to recognize and honor Samantha Shapiro and Carley Slade, two youngsters who played a very important role in the lodge's annual Soccer ShootOut competition. Shapiro, who competed in the 8-9 age bracket, and Slade, who competed in the 12-13 age bracket, were both part of the eight original winners from Lodge #161 who advanced through the local competition. Together, the two girls progressed through the district, regional and New York State finals, both taking home
first place for each competition in their division. After both advancing to the final stage, the Eastern Regional Championship in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Slade was awarded fourth place for her admirable performance. Shapiro continued to put on a stellar show in New Hampshire and finished in first place, where she was recognized as the national champion of girls in the 8-9 age bracket. Robert Lounsbury, Exalted Ruler of Lodge #161, presented both competitors with plaques in recognition of their great success in the Elks National Soccer Shoot-Out program, and thanked them for honorably representing both the lodge and New York State.
Photo provided
From left to right: Robert Lounsbury, Carley Slade, Michael Bloss, Samantha Shapiro and Bob Lindahl of the Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge #161
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
TODAY
Racing at the BACC by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY Mike Laudicina has one simple philosophy as the Youth Director for the Ballston Area Community Center (BACC): "Come up with 100 ideas, and if one of them sticks, you're doing good." In his two years as the Youth Director for the BACC (and 18 years of experience as the Youth Director for the YMCA), Laudicina has made it his personal mission to provide quality, diverse, exciting and engaging programs at the BACC, transforming the center's former image from being exclusively a childcare center into something much, much greater. As part of this effort, Laudicina, along with staff member James Walker, have announced their latest program, "Racing at the BACC." Scheduled to resume on December 10, the winter-long program will run every Friday from 7 to 9 pm, offering radio controlled car enthusiasts and new-comers alike a chance to race their cars in the center's gymnasium. "We've been looking for more and more ideas to bring a group of kids together here. There's usually a drop off in the number of kids we get here in the winter," James Walker, a staff member at the BACC said. To combat the typically lower numbers in the winter, Walker proposed his "Racing at the BACC" idea to Laudicina. "Not only is this for kids that aren't already into [radio controlled cars,] but it's also for the people who are already into them. When winter rolls around, you don't really have the chance to play with them much. We had a big opportunity with the gym here on Friday nights, so I talked to Mike about it and he said, well, let's give it a shot," Walker said. On November 19, the BACC hosted its first night of "Racing at the BACC," with approximately 30 people present for the event. Among those in attendance was Ron Hull, owner of Hullacious Hobbies in Ballston Spa, who graciously donated several of his cars to kids without
Mark Bolles • Saratoga Today
Anthony Lyon shows off his car at the BACC them to try out at the center. "I've been into [radio controlled cars] for about 22 years, which is a long time," said Hull, whose hobby shop supplies radio controlled cars, trucks, boats, helicopters, parts and services, among other merchandise. Hullacious Hobbies has been open for approximately one year. "It's great to help these kids see what's out there as far as cars go," Hull continued. "It's not just the RadioShacks or the Walmarts . There are hobby grade cars that they can see, [and even customize.] And it's really important to give kids somewhere to go and something to do during the winter," he said. For two hours, a series of cars zipped from one end of the gym to the other, reaching speeds of 40 to 60 miles per hour. A stunt ramp made up of blue padding was arranged on the far end of the gym for some of the faster cars to try out a few tricks.
"It's pretty cool," said Joey Lyon, who came to the event with his sister, Margaret, and brother, Anthony. "I really like how fast they go," Joey said. "I got my car at Myrtle Beach," his brother, Anthony, said as he drove his sleek, black radio controlled car around the gym. "If I had a faster one, I'd want to try and jump it off the ramp." Currently, the BACC is looking for sponsors to help pay for the costs associated with using the gym. "We don't want to charge people to come here to use the space. But to cover the costs, we're looking for a couple of sponsors," Laudicina said. "We'd put a banner up with [the sponsor's] name on it, different sized banners for different amounts, and it will be up here for a year, not just during the racing." To contact the BACC about sponsoring the event, please contact Mike Laudicina at (518) 885-3261, or by email at baccteens@nycap.rr.com. For more information on Hullacious Hobbies, Ron Hull can be reached at (518) 695-7817, or by email at hulladoah@yahoo.com. "Racing at the BACC" resumes on December 10 at 7 pm, located at 20 Malta Avenue in Ballston Spa at the BACC.
SARATOGA
TODAY
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
SPORTS
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Adirondack Phantoms team up with Salvation Army for holiday season by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY The Adirondack Phantoms have joined forces with the Greater Glens Falls Salvation Army this holiday season in an effort to provide a boost to several of the Salvation Army's annual donation drives. The Phantoms have already begun to collect items for the Winter Coat Drive, Holiday Food Donation Drive and the Angel Bear Toy Drive. "We did a couple of things with the Salvation Army last year that were done kind of on the fly, and we didn't really put that much publicity behind it," Mike Thompson, the Vice President of the Adirondack Phantoms said. Thompson indicated that last year's drive suffered, simply from a shortage of time, mostly due to the Phantom's late start in moving up to the Glens Falls area. "But this year we got ahead of the
game, and I sat down with Major David Dean [from the Salvation Army] a couple of weeks ago to try and figure out what needs we can fulfill, what the Phantoms can do for the community this holiday season," Thompson said. Despite the lack of publicity for last year's event, the Phantoms were able to collect over 200 coats for the Salvation Army's coat drive. This year the team is once again looking to the community for gently used adult winter coats (the Salvation Army is typically stocked with children's coats) for their Winter Coat Drive. Those who can spare the garments are asked to bring them by the Phantoms' administrative office in the Glens Falls Civic Center. Those who do will be offered a free ticket to the November 26 Phantoms' home game. The coats are scheduled to be delivered to the Salvation Army by team players and their mascot,
Phlex, on November 30 at 2 pm. As for the Holiday Food Drive, "that's begun as well. We're already getting people bringing food in," Thompson said. "There's never an end to the need, so we're just going to collect as much as we can, and hopefully we can help some folks have a nice holiday dinner." Interested parties are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to the Phantoms' office, or to the Civic Center box office on game nights. Thompson suggested food items that are appropriate for the holidays, such as boxed stuffing, would also be welcomed. In appreciation of the donation, the Phantoms are offering free tickets of the donor's choice to either the December 15 or December 17 Phantoms' games. "It is awesome that the Adirondack Phantoms have partnered with the Greater Glens Falls Salvation Army this holiday season,"
Major David Dean, the Greater Glens Falls Salvation Army Corps Commanding Officer said in a written statement. "The efforts of the team, management and fans will go a long way in helping us serve the anticipated 4,500 individuals over both the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. We look forward to working with them on these community focused holiday drives." Lastly, the Phantoms are asking community members to consider donating a new, packaged toy to the Angel Bear Toy Drive. The previous year, in partnership with a different organization, the Phantoms collected over 300 toys. "But of course, we want to exceed that number this year," Thompson said. Donors are directed to bring their toy donations to either the Phantoms'
office or to t h e C i v i c Center box office, where once again they will be offered a free ticket to their choice of either a December 15 or December 17 Phantoms' game. "We've been here for about a year and a half now, and we're really starting to see the effects of the general economy on a lot of folks," Thompson said. "We want to do everything we can to alleviate some of that stress and brighten everybody's holiday season, because now is the time, more than any other during the year, to do everything we can‌to make the holidays that much more enjoyable."
Polar Plunge page 29
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sports
Phantoms & Salvation Wednesday, Army
November 24, 2010 page 31
Vol. 5 • Issue 47 • FREE • Saratoga TODAY