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Volume 6 • Issue 49 SaratogaPublishing.com
Budget Cuts Hit Home
DON’T LET
the Bed Bugs Bite
by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA COUNTY – With less than a week to go before the December 14 vote to finalize the $309.2 million Saratoga County 2012 Budget, the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors has put all options on the table as they look to close an $8.1 million gap between revenue and expenditures. One option being considered: reduce or eliminate funding for many outside agencies promoting tourism, which in themselves bring hundreds of thousands of dollars into the region.
• SEDC: - $130,000 • Saratoga Arts: - $7,500 • County Fair: - $18,000 • Brookside Museum: - $12,500 See Budget page 7
by Christina James Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS - A Stonequist Apartment resident claims the Saratoga Springs Housing Authority site is infested with bed bugs and that nothing is being done about it. The Saratoga Springs Housing Authority (SSHA) is a federally funded organization that is overseen by an executive director and a seven-member board
of commissioners, five of whom are appointed by the mayor and two who are residents of the housing authority. Aside from a recent visit by a code enforcement officer, little has been done to alleviate the residents’ discomfort. The reason for the delay in action? Local news reports point to a jurisdictional breakdown. Saratoga Springs City Mayor Scott Johnson said he was aware
An Early Christmas Gift Local Veteran Receives New Home in Time for Holidays by Michelle Read DeGarmo Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA – Having a place to call home is something many of us take for granted, but for one local family it’s a dream come true. Thanks to support from the first round of grants offered through the Saratoga County Manufactured Home Replacement Program, Suzanne, 39, and her 15-year-old
daughter are just days away from having a safe, warm place to call home. The program was piloted in 2011 through a partnership between the Saratoga County Rural Preservation Company (SCRPC) and the Town of Saratoga, combining grant monies from the Homes and Community Renewal, Community Development Block Grant and the Affordable Housing Corporation to
“We were shocked to find so many people living in unsafe conditions, and it’s a shame we don’t have adequate funding to help everyone in need.” A.C. Mazurek SCRPC Executive Director
See Bed Bugs page 8
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pgs 16-25 Obituaries pg 5 Business pgs 14-15 Gift Guide pgs 9-12 Pulse pgs 28-31
See County page 6
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Friday, December 9, 2011
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25th Annual Victorian Streetwalk! Downtown Saratoga Springs Thursday, December 1 Photos by MarkBolles.com
TODAY
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TODAY
Friday, December 9, 2011
Adam J. Weaver, 25, of 2249 Zweifel Rd., Waterville, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree grand larceny, a class-D felony. Weaver was arrested April 21, 2010, in Ballston and was sentenced to five years of probation and restitution. John P. Chalmers, 34, of 191 Fonda Rd., Waterford, was resentenced December 1 by Judge Jerry J. Scarano to 60 days in Saratoga County Jail and continued on probation. Chalmers was originally convicted May 12 of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony, for which he had been sentenced to five days in Saratoga County Jail, five years of probation and a fine. Henry J. Desnoyers, 40, of 337 3rd Ave., Troy, was charged with first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, a classE felony. Desnoyers was arrested August 1 in Waterford and was sentenced to one year in Saratoga County Jail. Harold Vanwormer, 52, of 83 Terrace Ct., Halfmoon, was charged with first-degree sexual abuse, a class-D felony. Vanwormer was arrested April 6 in Halfmoon for incidents that occurred from February 1March 30 and was sentenced to 10 years of probation. Nicholas J. Cassillo, 28, of 40 Church Ave., Ballston Spa, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony. Cassillo was arrested May 22 in Mechanicville and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing January 26. Robert C. Gerber, 49, of 232 Bloody Pond Rd., Lake George, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony. Gerber was arrested December 10, 2010, in Wilton and was sentenced to five years of probation and ignition interlock.
arrested February 7 for an incident that occurred February 6 in Ballston and was sentenced to time served and five years of probation. Sean Wilson, 23, of 98 Ash St., Saratoga Springs, pleaded guilty to a charge of fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property, a class-E felony. Wilson was arrested September 20 for an incident that occurred September 18 in Saratoga Springs and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing January 20. Shawn A. Zimmerman, 34, of 629 Sunny Lane, Ballston Spa, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-D felony. Zimmerman was arrested June 19 in Saratoga Springs and was sentenced to 60 days in Saratoga County Jail, five years of probation and ignition interlock device. Scott J. Salvadore Jr., 24, of 46 Dunn Rd., Stillwater, pleaded guilty to a charge of second-degree attempted criminal sale of a controlled substance, a class-C felony. Salvadore was arrested October 14 for an incident that occurred June 7 in Stillwater and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing January 30. Russell V. Lane, 51, of 1503 Albany St., Schenectady, pleaded guilty to a charge of second-degree identity theft, a class-E felony. Lane was arrested April 21 for an incident that occurred February 27 in Clifton Park and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing January 27. Christopher Cancilla, 42, of 223 Stowe Ave., Troy, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree burglary, a class-D felony. Cancilla was arrested July 27 for an incident that occurred June 30 in Stillwater and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing January 27.
Donald H. Law, 24, of 31 Lincoln Ave., Cohoes, pleaded guilty to a charge of fourth-degree grand larceny, a class-E felony. Law was arrested January 29 for an incident that
BLOTTER 3 occurred January 16 in Wilton and was sentenced to one and a half to three years in state prison.
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Jason S. Irwin, 39, of 25 Orchard St., Glens Falls, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-D felony. Irwin was arrested May 26 in Halfmoon and was sentenced to one and one third to four years in state prison.
Arthur Gonick
Shaun M. Hine, 22, of 315 Stone Church Rd., Milton, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree criminal mischief, a class-E felony. Hine was
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WEEK IN REVIEW
City Center Sign Lights Up Downtown
Photo by MarkBolles.com
The Saratoga Springs City Center unveiled its new digital sign on Broadway, putting the final touches on the center’s multimillon-dollar expansion project. The 8-foot by 5-foot sign will be used to welcome visitors into Saratoga Springs, as well as informing passers-by of upcoming events at the City Center. The roughly $66,000 was installed by Saratoga Sign Pros.
Wilton Town Board The Wilton Town Board convened for their regularly scheduled meeting Thursday, December 1, bidding farewell to outgoing councilmen Raymond O'Conor and Chuck Gerber while also studying plans for the town's future along the Exit 16Ballard Road corridor. The Wilton Exit 16 Linkage Study was shown to the board for the first time in its final draft form, detailing some of the ways Wilton can encourage development and growth along Ballard Road. The study recommends how to support revitalization and redevelopment of existing commercial and residential areas, improve street connectivity and reduce traffic conflicts, provide an opportunity for public gathering areas to create a sense of community, identity, and more. The Linkage Study committee will meet once more to amend its plan based on public and community input before it submits its final
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Friday, December 9, 2011 version to the board in February. The board also voted to postpone reappointing several town officials until the January meeting, at which point new representatives John Lant and Steve Streicher will join Supervisor Arthur Johnson, Councilman Robert Pulsifer and Councilman Robert Rice.
Broadway Buildings Bring $3 Million in Bids Two buildings located in downtown Saratoga Springs, 385 Broadway (which currently houses The Shoe Depot) and the old threestory theater at 322-328 Broadway, were auctioned off Friday, December 2, bringing in a combined total of $3 million. 385 Broadway was sold to Tom Newkirk, chairman and CEO of Saratoga National Golf Course for $2 million. 322-328 Broadway was sold to Scott Grodsky, the owner of Mama Mia's Pizza and Cafe in Saratoga
TODAY
Springs, for $1 million. The properties were put up for bid after former owner, Frank Panza, failed to be $350,000 in back taxes. Panza filed for personal bankruptcy earlier this year. The winning bidders will take official ownership of their respective buildings 30 days after the close of the auction.
Saratoga Council
Springs
City
A new parking deck on Woodlawn Avenue and a home for the "Tempered by Memory" World Trade Center memorial sculpture were the main orders of business Tuesday, December 6 at the Saratoga Springs City Council meeting. The Council voted unanimously to put the Woodlawn Avenue parking deck on the 2011 Capital Budget, for which the city would contribute $3.7 million in funds for the $4.7 million project. A committee created to find a home for the September 11 memorial recommended the steel sculpture be placed in High Rock Park.
Name Change for Hilton Restaurant The restaurant formerly known as the Union Grille in the Hilton Hotel at 534 Broadway has officially changed its name to The Springs, following a change in ownership earlier this year. The Springs is the third restaurant in three years to open at the site, following the closure of Chez Sophie in 2009 and the Union Grille in 2010. The Springs has operated under the name Union Grille until it received its liquor license earlier this week. The new restaurant will feature American-style cuisine, including salads, burgers and steak.
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TODAY Friday, December 9, 2011 Angeline Andreadakis Saratoga Springs, NY - Angeline Andreadakis passed away Thursday, December 1, 2011, at Wesley Healthcare Center. Born December 6, 1923, in McKeesport, PA, she was the daughter of the late Cesare and Michelina Scappetura. In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her brother, Natale Scappetura and her sister, Philomena Madonna. Survivors include her husband, Chris; daughters, Paula (Joseph) DeGasperis and Michele (Philip) Natale; granddaughters, Denise DeGasperis, Debra (William) Saburro and Dr. Kristen Natale; great-grandchildren, Joseph Sutter and Danielle Carrigan; and sib-
lings, Mary Cipicchio, and Domninic and Anthony Scappetura. A Mass of Christian Burial was held Monday, December 5, 2011. Burial will be at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Rd., Schuylerville. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Wesley Foundation, 131 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY, (518) 584-5373. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
Joseph Tarantino Jr. Saratoga Springs, NY - Joseph Tarantino Jr. died after a brief illness Monday, December 5, 2011. A lifelong resident of Saratoga Springs, Joe was born March 6, 1935, to the late Joseph Tarantino Sr. and Catherine Dominick. He is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen Tarantino; daughters, Sue Jeffreys and Joanne Tarantino; grandchildren, Andrew and Mia Jeffreys and Aspen Witt; and sister, Patricia Passaro. At Joe’s request there will be no public calling
hours or funeral services. A private service will take place at the convenience of the family. Donations may be made in Joseph’s name to Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Home, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY, (518) 584-5373. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
Robert J. Schallehn Porter Corners, NY - Robert J. Schallehn, 92, passed away Thursday, December 1, 2011. Born September 28, 1919, in Saratoga Springs, he was the son of the late Bernard and Mary Schallehn. In addition to his parents, Robert was predeceased by his loving wife, Mary Vaughan Schallehn; four brothers, Theodore, John, Eugene and Leonard Schallehn; and a sister, Bernice Kirkpatrick. Survivors include his children, William Schallehn and Sheri Schrade; grandchildren, Robert Schallehn,
Katie Fisher, Scott Schallehn, Amy Bacigalupo, Marcie SmithChurchill, Brian Schrade, and Jodi Schrade Prater; great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchild. A graveside service was held Tuesday, December 6, 2011. Memorial contributions may be made to Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866. Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Home, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY, (518) 584-5373. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
Margaret L. Kubish Saratoga Springs, NYMargaret L. Kubish, 92, died peacefully Friday, December 2, 2011. Born in Saratoga Springs August 23, 1919, she was the daughter of the late William Ebert Sr. and Marion Morehouse Ebert. She was predeceased by her husband, Joseph Kubish Jr. and brother, William Ebert Jr. Survivors include her sons, Joseph P. (Sandra) and Donald W. (Colleen) Kubish; grandchildren, Kimberly (Kenneth) Brock and Joseph P (Jillair) Kubish Jr.; great-grandchildren, Victoria Brock and Geoffrey
(Jessica) Yeager; and great-greatgrand children, Hannah and Kenly Yeager. Funeral services were held Tuesday, December 6, 2011, at the Tunison Funeral Home 105 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Burial will be in Maplewood Cemetery next to her husband, Joseph. Memorial donations can be made in Margaret’s memory to the Sprit of Life Christian Church, 757 Route 9, Wilton, NY 12831. Online remembrances may be made at www.tunisonfuneralhome.com.
OBITUARIES
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James "Jingles" Michael Natale Jr.
Saratoga Springs, NY –James "Jingles" Michael Natale Jr., 63, passed away Tuesday, November 29, 2011. Born on September 26, 1948, in Saratoga Springs, he was the son of the late James J. and Rosa Gagne Natale. He is survived by his daughters, Julie (Tom) Natale-Dwyer and Maria Natale; grandchildren, Morgan, Samuel and Lucy Dwyer; sisters, MaryLouise (Michael) Coleman, Teresa (David) Periman and Rose (Rich) Mercier; brother,
Anthony Natale; several nieces and nephews; former wife and mother of his two children, Nancy (John) Mahar; their son, Loren Mahar; longtime partner, Carolyna Godlewski; and lifelong friend, Ridge Quoi. Funeral services were held Saturday, December 3, 2011, at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, NY, (518) 584-5373. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
Anne Taylor Haldeman Saratoga Springs, NY- Anne Taylor Haldeman, 82, died Thursday, December 1, 2011. Born on January 3, 1929, in East Orange, NJ, she was the daughter of the late Sherman Haldeman and Gladys Taylor Haldeman. Survivors include her children, Ronald (Jennifer), Robert (Duncan) and Ranann Taylor and Roxanne (John Interrante) Taylor-
Yeager; son-in-law, Gary Yeager; and grandsons, Cody and Maxfield. A gathering in celebration of Anne's life was held Sunday, December 4, 2011 at the Tunison Funeral Home, 105 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866. Donations may be made in honor of her memory to the Wesley Foundation.
Beatrice B. Clute Saratoga Springs, NY – Beatrice B. Clute, 86, passed away Sunday, December 4, 2011. Born on January 16, 1925, in Newfoundland, she was the daughter of the late Noah and Sarah Jane Oldford. In addition to her parents, Bea was predeceased by her husband, Edward T. Clute; her daughter, Sandra Clute-Wood; and her son-inlaw, David B. Wood. Survivors include her granddaughter, Jennifer Wood (Cody) Sturgeon; great-grandchildren, Taylor Wood, and Reegan and Garret Sturgeon; uncle, Everett Cole; brother-
in-law, Gerald Clute; and sister-in-law, Bernice Reynolds. A funeral service was held Wednesday, December 7, 2011, at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY, (518) 584-5373. Burial will be in the family plot at Greenridge Cemetery, Lincoln Ave., Saratoga Springs. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
John F. Geren Saratoga Springs, NY - John F. Geren, 101, passed away Sunday, November 27, 2011. Born August 1, 1910, in Valley Falls, NY, he was the son of the late Francis and Margaret Geren. In addition to his parents, John was predeceased by his wife, Jane A. Geren in 2000. Survivors include his children, Kathleen Ryan and John J. (Cheyney) Geren M.D.; grandchildren, Michael, James, Patrick and Jennifer Glover; and many great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. To view the full-text version of the obituaries printed on this page, visit www.SaratogaTodayNewspaper.com It is the policy of Saratoga TODAY to publish obituaries as a service to our readers. Please send your obituaries to Christina James at cjames@saratogapublishing.com.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held Tuesday, December 6, 2011, at St. Clement’s Church, 231 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs. Burial will be in the family plot at St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Cambridge, NY. Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Home, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY, (518) 584-5373. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
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TODAY
County Program Replaces Unsafe Mobile Homes continued from Page 1 help homeowners obtain safe housing. Prior to receiving assistance, Suzanne, a disabled veteran, was
living in a 30-year-old mobile home wrought with structural problems. “It needed a new roof, the floors were rotten and some windows didn’t work,” she explained. “It needed more repairs than I
could keep up with.” With no other options, she swallowed her pride and applied for assistance. “I was afraid to ask for help at first. I’ve always been self-sufficient, but I just couldn’t do it anymore,” she said. “When I found out we would be getting help, I cried. I just feel extremely blessed.” With her acceptance into the program, Suzanne received grant monies to replace her inadequate mobile home with a new Energy Star approved manufactured home. The program also covered the cost of demolition and the site work needed to bring the structure into compliance with building codes. “I’m so thankful,” she said. “There have been so many people that have received help through this program. I’m just one of them.” Together, the SCRPC and Town of Saratoga have completed 13 mobile home replacement projects since the program was initiated last year, and an additional four are in progress. Not everyone who
applied received assistance. Both SCRPC and the Town of Saratoga were surprised at the overwhelming response from county residents. The demand for assistance exceeded available funds within the first six months of the program. “This is clearly a pressing need throughout Saratoga County,” said SCRPC Executive Director, A.C. Mazurek. “We were shocked to find so many people living in unsafe conditions, and it’s a shame we don’t have adequate funding to help everyone in need of assistance.” Town of Saratoga Supervisor Tom Wood echoed this sentiment: “With help from SCRPC, we were able to provide safe, affordable housing for some of Saratoga County’s neediest residents,” he said. “The program has been incredibly successful, and we encourage other municipalities to reach out to us and learn from our experience.” The agency currently has a wait-
ing list of over 20 qualified applicants and plans to seek additional funds in 2012. Suzanne and her daughter are thrilled to be moving into a safe and accessible home just in time for Christmas. “The first thing to go up will be the tree and the nativity,” Suzanne said. “My daughter is so excited to move into her new room, she’s already planning where to put her furniture.” Suzanne said that seeing the excitement in her daughter’s eyes brings tears to her own: “It’s wonderful, absolutely wonderful,” she said. She wishes to thank SCRPC and the Town of Saratoga, and urges others to not be afraid to ask for help. “I am thankful to live in a community that wants everyone to be safe in their homes,” she said. “I thank God every time I pull in my driveway and see my new home. The program changed our lives.”
Casino Makes $125,000 Difference SARATOGA SPRINGS - Saratoga Casino and Raceway donated a total of $125,000 to 32 local organizations during its seventh annual Make a Difference Charity Event, held Tuesday, December 6. Nearly 170 people were in attendance as the casino presented donations to 32 local organizations. Since the charity event's inception in 2004, the casino has contributed $1,475,000 to area organizations. The following charities received donations this year: -Agricultural Stewardship Association -American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Capital Region Chapter -American Red Cross - Adirondack Saratoga Chapter's Local Disaster Relief Fund -Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region -Capital District Community Gardens Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Services of Saratoga County -Equine Advocates -Franklin Community Center, Inc. -Glynwood -Jake's Help From Heaven -Kelly's Angels, Inc. -Moreau Community Center -Nathan Littauer Foundation, Inc. -National Center for Missing and Exploited Children
Photo provided
Jamie Hartman, Saratoga Casino and Raceway's Executive Vice President and CEO, presents a donation to representatives from Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Services. -Rebuilding Together, Saratoga County, Inc. -Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Capital Region, Inc. -Saratoga Bridges -Saratoga Center for The Family -Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council, Inc. -Saratoga County Rural Preservation Company - Guardian House -Saratoga Hospital Foundation -Saratoga PLAN -Schoharie Recovery Inc. -Shelters of Saratoga
-The Wesley Foundation -To Life! -Saratoga Sponsor-A-Scholar -Saratoga Therapeutic Equestrian Program Schenectady Community Action Program -Schoharie County Community Action Program, Inc. -The Alcohol and Substance Abuse Prevention Council of Saratoga County -The Saratoga County Children's Committee, Inc
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Friday, December 9, 2011
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Budget Cuts Threaten Outside Agencies continued from Page 1 “It just happens that most of the outside agencies that we fund are related to tourism,” said Chairman of the Board of Supervisors Thomas Wood. “We’ve funded them in the past because we think they are important and that they do some real good for Saratoga County.” But this year with such a significant gap to close in the budget, “We’ve got to deal with reality. We can’t put our heads in the sand,” said Wood. One such agency facing a potential loss in funding is Saratoga Arts, which stands to lose all of its $7,500 in county support. That money is traditionally used to fund the fireworks display Saratoga Arts puts together for the New Year’s Eve First Night celebration. “Right now we’re trying to look for alternative support,” said Joel Reed, Saratoga Arts executive director. “We’re surely not going to be able to find a single sponsor who is going to be able to come up with that amount on such short notice. But hopefully we’ll be able to appeal to numerous potential sponsors and see if we can cobble things together.” Without county support, it’s possible that this year’s display will simply have to be scaled back. After all – less money means less fireworks. If Saratoga Arts takes money from its own pocket to cover the cost, less will be left for the organization to fund its programs for the rest of the year. Still, promised Reed, expect to see some type of display during one of the largest New Year’s Eve celebrations between New York City and Montreal.
“The fireworks will happen,” said Reed. “The question is, will we be able to find other support for it?” Reed and Saratoga Arts is currently seeking private and corporate sponsorships to help make up the funding gap left by the county cuts. Interested sponsors can contact Reed directly by email at JReed@saratoga-arts.org or by phone at (518) 584-4132. While Saratoga Arts is in jeopardy of loosing $7,500 in county funding, Brookside Museum, home of the Saratoga County Historical Society, stands to lose the entire $12,500 sum it received in 2011. “We were surprised to hear they cut us entirely from the budget,” said Brookside Museum’s Executive Director Joy Houle, who was notified only two days before the public meeting that the funds had been put on the chopping block. “We were surprised and a little scared, because taking that away entirely would have a very serious impact on what we do.” If funds are cut entirely, the museum would likely close for the month of January, laying off all of their employees for the duration (last year the museum also had to close for the month, but all their employees continued to work offsite). In light of these cuts, Brookside is also seeking additional support from private organizations and individuals. Visit http://www.brooksidemuseum.org and click on the “Support Us” tab to learn more. Other outside organizations facing potential and significant cuts include Saratoga Economic Development Corporation (SEDC), which will see funding cut from $330,000 in 2011 to $200,000 in 2012. SEDC has helped to create
and preserve thousands of jobs in Saratoga County. Saratoga County Fair is slated to lose all $18,000 in its county funding; the Hudson-Mohawk Urban Cultural Park could lose its entire sum of $8,000; and most other outside organizations and agencies previously funded by Saratoga County are expected to see at least a 10 percent cut. Along with cutting funding to outside agencies, a number of other options have been proposed as a way to close the roughly $8 million gap. “There are a number of things that have been proposed, including retirees not receiving payment from the county for Medicare Part B insurance,” said Wood. “There’s also an increase in property tax. We
have not made any decision on it, but that’s an option.” For Saratoga Springs Supervisor Joanne Yepsen, cutting the funding for outside organizations is a difficult, but necessary, step for the county government to pursue. “It’s always been a real priority for me to help cultural and non-profit organizations because they add not only quality of life value to these communities, but they’re picking up a lot of the services and programs that governments don’t offer,” said Yepsen, who indicated that she’d like to see at least partial funding restored for some of the programs. “But although I fully support some of these programs and services that they’re offering, we can’t afford it. Even though some of these are small in price range, it’s very
difficult now for the county to justify. If these agencies are not fully funded again, that will be because the supervisors have come to the conclusion that everybody has to share in the sacrifice.” Still, with time left to amend the budget before Wednesday’s final vote, Yepsen acknowledged that, informally, the board has agreed to restore at least partial funding to some of the agencies. Which agencies and how much, however, remains to be seen. “Everything is on the table,” said Supervisor Wood, as the chairman and the board continue to look for ways to close the budget gap. “We’re kind of trying to decide what the best option is for us and the county, but no decisions have been made yet.”
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Friday, December 9, 2011
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Bed Bugs Bite continued from Page 1 of a possible bug problem, but not who was responsible for resolving it. In a joint statement on bed bug control in the United States from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the chain of responsibility becomes even more unclear:
“An integrated approach to bed bug control involving federal, state, tribal and local public health professionals, together with pest management professionals, housing authorities and private citizens, will promote development and understanding of the best methods for managing and controlling bed bugs and preventing future infestations.” With so many individuals
involved, it’s hard to know where to begin. Until federal, state and local policy catches up with the problem, it is important to take measures to protect yourself. The CDC and EPA suggest public education as being a “critical effective strategy for reducing public health issues associated with the resurgence of bed bug populations.” It is time for community members to disregard preconceived notions and use the only truly successful tool left against the spread of bed bugs: knowledge. Keeping your home free of bed bugs is not an easy task, but knowing that potential infestation is a possibility for anyone- regardless of income level, social status or cleanliness- is critical to the prevention of bed bug infestation. Take Preventative Action -Maintain a Meticulous Household: change linens frequently, check pets for unwanted tagalongs, avoid wearing clothing in bed that has been outdoors. -Be a Bed Bug Conscious Traveler: check hotel linens for signs of bed bugs (usually small flecks of brown and red) and mattress seams for unwanted inhabitants. Bed bugs tend to stay around the seams of the mattress and their
flat, very small bodies can be easily missed, even by the most dedicated maid. -Think of Your Home as A Quarantine Zone: when returning home from a vacation, overnight stay at another person’s home, or a new place where you came in extended contact with any permeable fabric, wash and dry your clothes immediately. Bed bugs attach themselves to personal items and can be carried from an infested hotel right into your bedroom. Solid objects too large for the dryer, like suitcases, should be inspected thoroughly, and, if there is any doubt, subjected to high amounts of heat. Bed bugs can not withstand high temperatures and this is one of the most effective ways to eliminate them. If you are unlucky enough to already be one of the many people suffering with an infestation of bed bugs, don’t worry, there are things you can do. -Call a Professional: first, you will want to notify someone of the situation. If you live in an apartment, dorm or other group-living setting, this is especially important as early detection can prevent further spread of the infestation. -Prepare Your Home: even though your house is going to be subjected to any number of profes-
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sional eradication treatments, it is your responsibility to prepare your home. Wash all linens and fabric items and then dry them for a few hours. The longer you dry items, the better. Once these items have been ridded of bed bugs they should be placed into garbage bags so that re-infestation does not occur before the professional can arrive. -Cover Your Mattress: your mattress is the central hub for bed bug activity and it needs to be neutralized as soon as possible. It is important that you don’t throw it, or any other clothing or furniture item away. Infested items can be salvaged and throwing them away increases the likelihood that infestation will spread. Purchase a plastic, zip-up mattress cover for both your box spring and your mattress. The bed bugs can not get through this barrier and will die off after a year or so with no food source. -Follow Directions: ridding your home of bed bugs can be a costly, lengthy process, but following the instructions of a professional can save money and time. Complete the entire process thoroughly so that repeat treatments will not be necessary. For more information on bed bugs, visit the New York State Department of Health’s website www.health.ny.gov.
Saratoga County Deceased Veteran of the Month Joseph H. Hughes The Saratoga County Veterans Service Agency has named Joseph Hughes the December 2011 Deceased Veteran of the Month. Hughes will be honored Tuesday, December 20 during a public ceremony. The ceremony begins at 2:30 p.m. at 40 McMaster St., Ballston Spa, and is followed by a reception. Hughes was enlisted in the U.S. Army from 1943-1945 and he served in the Siege of Bastogne during the Battle of the Bulge in World War II. Hughes was awarded the European-African-Middle East Service Medal with one battle star. After leaving the Army, Hughes worked for International Paper Co. in Corinth and was a member of American Legion Post 533. He also served as the vice chair for the Saratoga County Democratic Party. Hughes is survived by his daughter, Barbara Pombrio and son, Howard.
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Friday, December 9, 2011
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Buy Local Gifts 4
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Over 700 oil paintings! Assorted subjects, styles & sizes to grace your walls. From $25 - $1000 Available at Crafters Gallery
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Shaker style.Amish made. Jewelry Armoire $399.95 Available at The Wood Carte Rt 9 Qsby 793-7655 woodcarte.com
427 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 583-2435 CraftersGallerySaratoga.com
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Saratoga Springs Holiday Ornaments Custom made for and exclusively available Impressions of Saratoga. From $8.99 to $14.99 Available at Impressions of Saratoga 368 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 587-0666 • www.impressionssaratoga.com
Saratoga Irish Tee Shirt Only $16.95 A Celtic Treasures original in green, declare your Saratoga Irish pride. Available at Celtic Treasures 456 Broadway Saratoga Springs 800-583-9452 www.celtictreasures.com
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Composting Made Easy! Electric automatic indoor composter. Made in the USA. Sale: $345 (was $399) Available at Green Conscience Home & Garden 33 Church St.. Saratoga Springs Mon-Sat 10am to 5pm, 306-5196
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Adirondack Candles made locally and available from votives to 24oz jar candles. $1.49 to $19.99 Available at Impressions of Saratoga 368 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 587-0666 • www.impressionssaratoga.com
Add a little sparkle to your holiday season! Dazzling mirrors starting at $99 Available at Saratoga Signature Interiors 82 Church Street, Saratoga Springs 581-0023 • www.saratogasignature.com
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Friday, December 9, 2011
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Holiday Gift Guide
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Friday, December 9, 2011
Holiday Gift Guide
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Friday, December 9, 2011
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Holiday Gift Guide
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Friday, December 9, 2011
HELPING HANDS 13
Letter to the Editor Editor, The horse slaughter ban has been lifted. As much as this evil saddens me, it is necessary. I would rather send an unwanted horse to heaven than sentence him to starving to death. The equine industry as a whole has suffered due to a number of forces. There are so many horses it has decreased the value of a good horse. People who make their living buying and selling riding horses have taken a tremendous hit. There is no market for riding horses. Another factor that needs to be taken into consideration is the feed industry. The costs to produce feed are rising and many farmers are going out of business. The ones who remain face constant problems. Mother Nature can wreak havoc on the production of feed, skyrocketing its price. The cost to maintain a horse is also a factor. Blacksmith costs can run up to several hundred dollars a month depending on the horse and vaccines, bedding and feed can all cost a great deal. Some of the people opposed to horse slaughter are also opposed to the professional rodeo associations and the use of bucking horses. Are
they aware that if these horses were not cared for by the stock contractors of the professional rodeo associations that they too would be unwanted? There would be thousands more horses across the country that would need homes or they too would be slaughtered. The big protest I hear a lot is: “Well, just use euthanasia. Put down all the unwanted horses like I would my cat or dog.” Many veterinarians will not put down a perfectly healthy animal. In 1998 when we put down my childhood pony StarDust who weighed a little over 400 lbs. it cost $280. Not to mention burial. In most places it is illegal to bury any animal, because it can contaminate local water sources. If you were to bury the body, who plans on paying first for the euthanasia, then for the equipment to dig a proper hole? Next, some will argue to cremate the horse’s remains. If anyone has ever had a dog or cat cremated they know how costly this is; it goes by size. How much do you think it will cost to cremate a 1,200 lb. horse? What it comes down to is slaughter was banned for five or so years and the number of unwanted horses grew. Now,
Love Puppies? This Volunteer Opportunity is for You! Guiding Eyes for the Blind (GEB) is a New York-based nonprofit guide dog school that grants autonomy to blind or visually impaired individuals by providing them with specially-trained service dogs. For over 50 years, it has been GEB’s mission to provide safe travel, freedom and dignity to those in need and they do so in the form of their incredible dogs. GEB is now looking for you to make one of the most meaningful and fulfilling commitments imaginable: become a puppy raiser. Dogs are not born guide dogs; the dedication, commitment and love of an entire team of individuals gradually shape the puppy into a contributing member of society and puppy raisers are the beginning of that process. They provide a home, teach good social skills and house manners, attend training classes and coordinate care with veterinary staff. They love and care for the puppy until he or she is ready to become a full-time guide dog. “Puppy raisers are truly the heart and soul of Guiding Eyes,” said Michelle Brier, marketing manger at GEB. While brining a puppy into your home may seem like a daunting task, the payoff is substantial. “There is a shared pride in changing someone's life so dramatically. One raiser commented that when she met the blind person who received her pup, she felt as though she gave him wings,” Brier said. With the incidence of blindness predicted to double by 2020, GEB needs support from volunteers now more than ever. They are currently hoping to recruit at least five new puppy raisers in the Capital Region. For more information about hosting a future guide dog or other ways you can help GEB, call (866) GEB-LABS or visit www.guidingeyes.org.
many of the people that took a blind eye want to do something and the ones who have been doing something can only do so much. Regardless, if the United States bans slaughter again, horses will still be shipped to Mexico and Canada to be slaughtered. It’s going to be done. At least
with slaughterhouses in the United States, regulations can be made to make the last days of these horses’ lives as humane as possible. I say to the people of this community that unless they are willing to financially contribute to the care of unwanted horses
(willing to adopt, sponsor or find a home to tend to these horses until their time is up), they have no right to be opposed to a solution regardless of how evil it may be. Cheers, Casey Michelle Coyle
Upcoming Blood Drives American Legion Post 574 Town of Clifton Park
Curtis Lumber
72 Pearl St., Hudson Falls Tuesday, December 13, from noon-5:45 p.m.
Curtis Lumber Co., 885 Rt. 67, Ballston Spa Thursday, December 15, from 9 a.m.-2:45 p.m. *Receive a coupon for 6 FREE WINGS at Buffalo Wild Wings
Town Hall, 1 Town Hall Plaza, Clifton Park Wednesday, December 14, from noon-5:45 p.m. *Receive a coupon for 6 FREE WINGS at Buffalo Wild Wings
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BUSINESS
DBA Gift Cards Available by Yael Goldman Saratoga TODAY
SARATOGA SPRINGS - Support you local economy this holiday season by giving your loved one, coworker, friend or neighbor a Downtown Business Association (DBA) Gift Card. "It's the ultimate local holiday gift," said Susan Farnsworth, DBA director of promotion and marketing. "You can do anything with it; it's great." More than 130 local businesses, all of them DBA members, are participating in the program. Unlike generic gift cards, the Saratoga DBA gift card can only be redeemed at participating businesses in Saratoga Springs, which keeps all of the profits in the community. Cards can be purchased at any Adirondack Trust Company branch, and are available in $5 increments ($10 minimum, $750 maximum). To view the list of participating merchants, visit the DBA website: www.saratogadowntown.com. The DBA introduced the gift cards last year, replacing the paper certificates that had been used for 20 years. The card is simple and easy to use. Transactions are processed within 72 hours, and you can check the balance on your card at anytime. Simply call the 1-800 number on the back of the card or log on to www.svcards.com and enter the first 10 digits on your card. Cards are not reloadable and will expire, however, they can be re-issued for a fee. The DBA gift card makes local gift-giving easy and rewarding. You can even purchase a card from out of the area to give to a family member or friend in Saratoga Springs - just mail a check and self-addressed envelope to Susan Farnsworth (c/o the Saratoga DBA, 105 East Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866) and she will purchase the card and mail it back to you. "It's good old-fashioned service," she said. So far this year, the DBA has sold $132,000 in gift cards. The association expects to bring in an additional $60-80,000 in December. All of the revenue stays in the local economy. "Supporting small business and shopping local is so critically important now," Farnsworth said. "It allows us to have things like the beautiful Victorian Streetwalk." For more information about the Saratoga DBA gift card program, visit www.saratogadowntown.com.
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Supplies for a Good Life by Yael Goldman Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS - Next Summer, a seasonal home goods and lifestyle boutique that started in Bolton Landing, is now open yearround in Saratoga Springs. Kathy and Matthew Slaughter, the mother-son business team behind Next Summer, recently expanded their well-known business with a new location at 516 Broadway. The Slaughters opened their doors at the end of October, signing a four-month lease, which Matthew said they are likely to extend. The store is stocked with "supplies for a good life" - glassware, cooking utensils, table settings, bedding, gifts and some clothing. Every item is unique, expertly crafted and functional. There's something to fit every style. "When we first started, I was very modern and she was very traditional, but we've really come together," Matthew said. "Next Summer is the combination of our two aesthetics." Next Summer is a unique concept, centered on the mission of making excellent and innovative design available at affordable prices. Matthew, a lawyer-turned entrepreneur, first confronted the idea in 2007, when he was facing a professional crossroads. "I had been practicing law, and hated what I was doing," he said. "People always say life is too short, well life is too long to do something you don't like." So he sat down with his family and they brainstormed. With the help of his sister and mother, who is now his business partner, Matthew purchased a commercial property at 4955 Lake Shore Drive in the heart of Bolton Landing, leasing the storefront and opening Next Summer, a small boutique with "supplies for the lake house life," in the back. "The lake house life is all about spending time with family and friends in a relaxed environment, and we
MarkBolles.com • Saratoga TODAY
Matthew and Kathy Slaughter started carrying products that fit that description," he said. "It really took off." Next Summer immediately became a part of the vacationing experience in Bolton and it wasn't long before the boutique took over the front space. After four successful summers, the Slaughters were ready to apply their concept through all seasons, and what better place to do it than Saratoga Springs? "No one visits Bolton Landing once and the same applies to Saratoga," Matthew said. The Broadway store is filled with "supplies for a good life," which is not much different from the lake house life. Next Summer Saratoga offers smart, innovative and functional pieces that "make it easier to spend time with family," Matthew said. For example, the Slaughters carry Liberty Puzzles, wood-carved puzzles with intricate cut-outs that relate to the image they make up. The puzzles are beautiful, expertly-crafted and enjoyable. Similarly, Next Summer showcases a selection of Joseph Joseph cooking utensils, which are part of the Museum of Modern Art Collection. The line includes serrated spatulas and a cutting board that moves with its user. The sides bend upward when you lift it off the counter, making it easy to transfer whatever you're cutting into a frying pan or serving dish. "It just makes it easy," Matthew said.
Both the puzzles and cooking utensils are aesthetically pleasing and functional, and for the Slaughters that's key. "Our [products] need to be useful. We don't carry tchotchkes; we just like things to have a purpose," he said. Uniqueness is another criterion - the Slaughters want their pieces to spark curiosity, to be conversation-starters. Their pine-needle baskets are a great example. The baskets are handmade with real pine needles, and they have a delightful scent. "You can see the beauty of the workmanship," he explained. "It's interesting; it might lead to a discussion." To name a few more items, the bright storefront boasts an assortment of artful glassware, handmade candles and indoor-outdoor fireplaces, which use bio ethanol fuel and don't give off smoke. As a partner store with Dash & Albert, a rug-maker based in Massachusetts, Next Summer also offers a colorful selection of durable rugs, along with pillows and unique bedding that are included in the mix. The Slaughters plan on expanding their bedding line, and are awaiting a shipment of high-quality down comforters made by a manufacturer who will refill the product after years of use. Lastly, Next Summer carries a modest supply of clothing, including luxury robes, cashmere sweaters and a handful of Vineyard Vines pieces. The Slaughters are always looking for new products to carry in their store, and often get the best suggestions from their customers. All-in-all, the name itself is very optimistic: Next Summer is about looking forward, and celebrating the good things in life like spending time with friends and family. It's apparent that this local boutique brings something new and unique to Broadway, and perhaps the hope that the Slaughters will choose to stick around. For more information, visit www.suppliesforagoodlife.com or call (518) 886- 8212.
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Local Business Briefs
Law Firm Welcomes New Employee SARATOGA SPRINGS - Brian Lee Law Firm, PLLC, located at 138 Church Street, announces the addition of Tianta C. Youngblood as an associate attorney. In her position, Youngblood will focus on representing persons injured in auto, truck and motorcycle accidents. She is a member of the New York State Bar Association and the Capital District Black and Hispanic Bar Association. Youngblood received her J.D. from Thomas M. Cooley Law School in Lansing, Michigan, in 2010 and a B.A. in history from the University of Delaware in 2002. She is a lifelong resident of Saratoga Springs.
Greenfield DBA Announces 2012 Board GREENFIELD - The Greenfield Community and Business Association (GCBA), now in its fourth year of operation, is pleased to announce its new Board of Directors: -President Nathan "Butch" Duffney of Butch Duffney Timber Harvesting -Vice President John Bokus, resident member -Secretary Dominique Rowland, resident member -Treasurer, Michelle Hovanecz of
Ballston Spa National Bank -Michael Hosier of MWH Design -Melissa Cartier of RealtyUSA -Joseph Grono of Type Techniques -Paul Van Arnum of Van Arnum's Greenhouse -Jeff Shinaman, vice president of membership and marketing for the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce - Stephen Rowland, resident member The mission of the GCBA is to raise awareness of local businesses, service groups and agriculture, while promoting community spirit in the Town of Greenfield. All community members and business owners are welcome to join or attend monthly meetings held the second Monday of each month. For more information, visit www.TheGCBA.org.
Espey Unveils New Power Supply Technology SARATOGA SPRINGS - Espey Mfg. and Electronics Corp. (NYSEAmex: ESP) announced December 5 that it has developed a new power supply system for U.S. Navy ships that support aircrafts. The power supplier, called Aircraft and Avionics Maintenance Power Supply (AAMPS) system for onboard Aircraft Support Maritime vessels, uses the latest technology to provide AC and DC power with remote operability. The system offers significant advantages over the traditional options based on outdated military specifications. Espey specializes in the development, design, and production of specialized military and industrial power supplies and electronic equipment. All of the company's manufacturing
and testing is performed in Saratoga Springs, at its 150,000 square-foot facility located at 233 Ballston Ave.
Adirondack Trust Named Top Local Lender SARATOGA SPRINGS - The Small Business Association (SBA) has named The Adirondack Trust Company the top Small Community Bank Lender in the Capital Region for the 11th consecutive year. "We are proud that we have been recognized for the 11th straight year but more so in that we are able to help small businesses, right here in our local market," said Charles V. Wait, bank president and CEO. The Saratoga Springs-based bank was the most active lender in the Capital Region for fiscal year 2011, having approved 30 loans worth $3.2 million to area startup and existing small businesses. Over the past year, Adirondack Trust has experienced a 20 percent increase in demand for SBA loans from its business customers and an 88 percent increase in dollar volume.
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"This type of lending goes right to the heart of building a community: providing access to capital for small businesses that are the lifeblood of any community," said Stephen von Schenk, the bank's executive vice president. "We are so proud to have received this award and our commitment to our community will continue for many years." The SBA Capital District Region
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covers the following counties: Albany, Clinton, Columbia, Essex, Greene, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Warren, and Washington. For more information about the Adirondack Trust Company, visit www.adirondacktrust.com. For more information about The Small Business Association's awards program, visit www.sba.gov.
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Table of Contents • Holiday Decorating Made Easy pg 17 • Homemade Holiday Decorations pg 18 • Warren Street Square Provides Luxury Living in Glens Falls pg 19 • Real Estate Spotlight: The Elms at Saratoga pgs 20-21 • Build Your Dream Kitchen With Chestwood pg 23 • Property Transactions pg 24 • A Gardener’s Christmas pg 25
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Decorative Lights Spark Holiday Spirit by Barbara Cook Saratoga TODAY Holiday lighting is as individual as the person doing it, with displays that range from simple to extravagant, classic to glamorous. Some prefer to do it themselves, while others hire professionals to install their outdoor holiday décor. Dominic Refino of D & R Landscaping in Malta said his company uses all LED lights unless the customer requests another type. The bulbs range from three to eight inches, and are ordered for the specific customer's design. Refino said LED lights come with a warranty of three or four years, depending on the company. T.R. Pennell of Allerdice said one advantage to using LED lights is that they use a lot less energy. "The pricing is a little more expensive, but in the long-run the payback is better," he said. Pennell did mention, however, that some people prefer the olderstyle lights because they like the traditional color. One of those people is Rich Morris of Toadflax Nursery in South Glens Falls. "We love simplicity," he said. "We like the mini-lights in a champagne color, which is just the right
touch for the holidays." Toadflax used mini-lights on the home of Michael Phinney, principal of Phinney Design Group, a Saratoga-based architectural and interior design firm. This is the first year Phinney and his wife, Marci, have really decorated their home for the holidays because in the past they traveled. "This Christmas the whole family's coming here for the first time so we thought it would be neat to do something special," Phinney explained. The Phinneys are just finishing a remodeling project that involved extensive landscaping, which was done by Toadflax. Their home incorporates green architecture, including passive solar, so it has large southfacing windows on the front to draw in winter sun and deep overhangs for summer shade. The classic twinkle lights and greenery complement their home's architecture. "Whenever you go with lighting or landscape," said Morris, "you're really looking at the home and saying, 'OK, what's the architecture telling us?' Tie the home to its surroundings with the landscaping, and decorate that." Regarding the Phinney home, he said, "It's not over-the-top décor, it's Christmas done well and a nice,
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Exterior decor can be subtle. classic look." For the do-it-yourselfer, one local source for supplies is Allerdice Ace Hardware. "We sell all the products you need to do it," said Pennell. "We have lights, extension cords, timers and fasteners for gutters." Refino said lighting can be installed using a staple gun as long as the installer is careful not to staple through the wires. For bushes, netting lights are ideal" "It just looks a lot better and does a good job on that," Refino said. Morris suggested that people look around their yards for something unique and beautiful. He said everything that was used at the Phinney home was something that could be found in their landscaping, including white pine and Alaskan Cypress. "There is nothing better than Alaskan Cypress for making a swag," he said. "It has these long evergreen branches that drape elegantly." It can be planted as part of the landscaping and used each year for holiday decorating. For those who don't mind hunting for natural decorations, Morris suggested using winter berries, which he said grow in area swamps. "All you have to do is get your waders on and go out and grab some berries." Some people prefer more colorful, showy holiday decorations, perhaps incorporating characters or animation. Refino said his company orders all kinds of displays, from plastic figures to inflatables to framed units like those used in commercial decorating. "We ordered a fire truck for somebody last year," he said. "It was about $400 for a small one but it was really nice the way it lit up." Refino said when he orders lights or a display for someone they become the client's property. He said if someone didn't want to store the lights or display they could rent them from a
holiday decorating company, which would charge for using them for the season, taking them down and storing them, and then would resell them the next year. Sometimes lighting installation involves heights that are greater than those easily reached by ladder. Lifts can be rented from several area companies; two that Refino likes are Allerdice Rent-All and United Rental, because they are reliable and on time. Pennell said at Allerdice Rent-All, they have towable lifts that cost in the range of $150 a day, and there are larger ones that require delivery, which cost about $250-$280 a day plus delivery. He said they no longer rent cranes because of insurance and OSHA laws. Exterior decorating doesn't have to be expensive or large-scale. "A lot of times people just need to go out and grab some pine and evergreen and put it in a pot," said Morris. "Add accent pieces like holly or lights, or a nice, classic bow. It makes a world of difference." Like interior design and fashion, there are trends in holiday decorating. One is the color of accents like ribbons and bows. Morris said silver and gold tend to go into and out of style, and a new color he's seen a lot is lime green. "It can have a great holiday look to it." He also likes traditional Christmas reds and greens. "Like anything else, what's in fashion changes, but you can always count on classic red and green to pop a winter look." Phinney likes his greenery and twinkle lights, which barely show in the daylight. "When it gets dark it's great, it has a lot more punch." He and Marci are enjoying their first year of decorating their home. "It's nice," he said. "It's getting us in the spirit."
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Holiday Decorating Made Easy: Nine Tips for Celebrating in Style and with Ease by Kathryn Weber Tribune Media Services The holidays are a wonderful, magical time. But creating all that magic can be draining and time consuming. Adopting at least a few of these tips will carve precious time off your to-do list so you can spend more time enjoying the holidays than working to make them shine. 1. Get a good indoor ladder. A 4foot fiberglass ladder is indispensable around the house. It’s lightweight and can handle more weight than an aluminum ladder. Most indoor decorations only go a foot or two beyond your reach, so why haul in a 6 or 8foot ladder when a small, lightweight model will do? 2. Limit your decorating colors and pick a theme. It goes without saying that decorating is faster, easier and has a more finished look if you stick to just a few elements. This makes shopping easier, too. 3. Donate holiday decorations now. Are your existing decorations a bad fit with your chosen theme? Donate them to charity. As you sort through those bins and bags of holiday finery, keep a box at hand for items you no longer want. Many charities like to receive holiday decorations when shoppers are looking for them. You’ll clean up, get a tax
deduction, and help the community all at the same time. 4. Decorate where you want. If your decorations are limited because you don’t want to make large holes in the wall, try Monkey Hooks Monkey Mates. These hangers feature large plastic hooks that make securing wreaths and garlands a snap. Using the hangers, you can place decorations almost anywhere, leaving only tiny holes. (http://tinyurl.com/monkeymates 5. Prepare the pantry in advance. It’s disappointing when baked goods flop at the holidays because ingredients are out-of-date. Before you start baking, toss out old baking powder, baking soda, tired spices and yeast, and stock up on fresh replacements. Your goodies will taste better, and perhaps more importantly, you’ll have what you need without having to race out to the store at the last minute. 6. Employ touch technology. Christmas trees lights and other illuminated decorations are often a chore to plug in and unplug, but with this technology, you can switch them on with the touch of a finger. Better still, the long thin cord allows you to discreetly place a decoration where it’s most convenient for you. Some touch systems have 3-light settings, allowing you to control the light intensity. Check out Amazon.com or
search online under Christmas ornament light switch. 7. Buy quality greenery and lights. The two things that look bad and wear out fastest are cheap greenery and lights. Investing in good quality greenery means it will last longer, look better, and the lights won’t need replacement so often. 8. Create wonderful smells. It takes mere seconds to light a candle. Quality candles from Archipelago (archipelago-usa.com) and Tyler are highly fragranced and that full scent creates a wonderful holiday mood. 9. Hire out. If you have too much to do, hire out holiday errands like cleaning, wrapping and decorating. A housekeeping service like Molly Maid can spiff up the house while you bake or wrap. Or hire helpers for odd jobs through services like Task Rabbit or Zaarly (taskrabbit.com, Zaarly.com). For more information, contact Kathryn Weber through her website, www.redlotusletter.com.(c) 2011 Kathryn Weber. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
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Home Homemade Holiday Decorations by Chris Liberty and
Shelly Walker for Saratoga TODAY Holiday decorations are fun and easy to make. Here are a few suggestions from the staff at East Elm Interiors, an interior design and home staging firm located in Glens Falls: Decorate With an AdirondackThemed Centerpiece To create a rustic Adirondack centerpiece, take a twig or birch basket filled with floral foam and insert items collected from nature such as pine branches, pine cones, leaves, gourds, rosemary sprigs, pomegranates, pears, and you can even add faux berry sprigs. To add bits of sparkle to the arrangement, add holiday glue glitter onto any of the items for a charming rustic centerpiece.
Charm Your Guests With This Christmas Creation: To make an inexpensive and festive Christmas arrangement, start with any container you have on hand that is of appropriate size for your space. Fill the container with floral foam and insert a dowel into the base foam. The dowel will support a larger round piece of foam that will form the top of the arrangement. Glue the pine cones and acorns keeping each tight to one another. Insert sprigs of holly and even pomegranates. Keep in mind the scale of each item and use similar sized items for a more uniform arrangement with the acorns and holly as accents. Spray paint the piece either silver, gold, white or an accent color taken from your room's dĂŠcor for an elegant yet inexpensive do-it-yourself arrangement for any
place in your home. Turn Wreath-Making into an Outdoor Adventure Bundle up the kids and head into the woods to gather pine boughs for a welcoming wreath on your front door. We recommend balsam fir boughs and once you have enough branches (approximately 5-6 should make for a full swag), lay the branches on top of one another while slightly fanning out at the bottom. Tie the branches together approximately 5 inches from the top with thin wire making a loop to hang it from later. Spray paint twigs gold and attach to swag with wire. Add a large decorative bow, ornaments or any other decorative feature you would like. Trade Traditional Cloths for Runners Instead of using the traditional and typical tablecloths, try using table runners. Don't put them down the middle of the table. Run them the opposite way, across the table to encompass the two parallel place settings. Personalize Your Dining Experience For your Christmas place cards this year, take a clear glass ornament and paint your guest's name on it. For a more festive ornament, get creative
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by painting holiday scenes, a scroll pattern or even snowflakes and glitter. You are only limited to your imagination! Decorate Your Tree, Plus a Few More! Instead of just one tree in your house, why not have a few different ones? They don't all have to be 7 feet tall, even small ones in different areas will liven up an otherwise unused space. Make it fun by using all of your own childhood ornaments on Photos provided by East Elm Interiors one tree and newer orna- Use spray paint and ribbon to dress up a ments on a different tree. balsam bough. Let the kids have their own tree as well. They can use ornaments that they already have and fill in any left over space with some paper ornaments that they can make. Make it special, make it fun! It doesn't have to be expensive to look great. Bring the Outdoors Inside Use your outdoor urns to make new arrangements inside. Fill them with poinsettias, pine boughs, acorns and even topiaries that you can reuse in the spring. Don't be skimpy! Fill them with all of the things you love. Add Color to Your Gold accents make this table setting pop. Spread ivory and white in your place settings, Instead of using the traditional reds tablecloths, chargers and napkins to and greens, use accent colors from add a different, yet classic touch to your rooms to bring in the holidays. your table. Use silver and gold to add some For more information, or to reach sparkle with silky pillows and luxuri- East Elm Interiors, call (518) 793ous throws, even tiebacks on your 0515. Visit www.eastelminteriors.com window treatments. Combine cream, for more fun tips!
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Warren Street Square Provides Luxury Living in Glens Falls by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY GLENS FALLS - When Suzanne and Peter Hoffman of Glen Street Associates purchased the building on the corner of Warren and Jay streets in the heart of downtown Glens Falls, the developers knew they had something special on their hands. The building at Warren Street Square, which was originally built and operated as a premier carriage manufacturing company in 1856, still retained much of its old charm and character. After a year of construction and rehab at the site, the Hoffmans are now hoping to fill a niche in Glens Falls, providing luxury apartment living at their renovated mixed-use property. "We felt there was a real need, a void that we could fill for highend luxury apartments right in the heart of downtown," said coowner Suzanne Hoffman. "The building has a lot of history," she explained, a sense of history the developer has tried to maintain while updating it with "modern conveniences such as an elevator, fitness room, brand new energy efficient central air and gas heat,
stainless steel appliances and granite countertops." Along with all the modern conveniences tenants have come to expect with luxury living, much of the building's appeal comes from the original materials still found in the structure's design. "It's a post and beam structure," said Hoffman, "so you have the massive post and beam timbers in the apartments. We also have exposed brick walls and the original hardwood floors. It has that Tribeca, [Manhattan] look to it, that industrial rehab feel." Because Warren Street Square is an older structure, no two apartment layouts are exactly alike. For Hoffman, having an apartment unique from the neighboring unit was important when designing the spaces. "One might have exposed brick in the kitchen and the living room, one might have the brick just in the kitchen. A few of them have exposed stone walls in the apartment," she explained. "We went with four different colors of granite in the kitchens, three different kinds of cabinets, and each apartment has its own unique stained leaded glass film in the kitchen." Along with high ceilings
supported by massive timber beams, the apartments also feature large windows, 10-12 feet high, allowing for plenty of natural light to filter into the space. Each apartment is supplied with a set of fabric blinds, providing a bit of extra insulation and a soft, warm glow as light filters through. A total of 27 residential units can be found at Warren Street Square, including five studio apartments, four one-bedroom units and 18 two-bedroom layouts. Prices range from $700 - $1,395 a month, with water, 24 hour maintenance, snow and trash removal included. No pets are currently allowed on-site. With the residential section finished and ready for renters, Hoffman is looking for commercial tenants in the other wing of the building. Like the residential side, commercial renters will enjoy the original post and beam structure, original hardwood floors, lots of windows and an elevator all in the heart of downtown Glens Falls. "What we would love to see is some kind of bistro on Warren Street Square, or a wine bar or a little eatery. I think it would really
photo provided
Warren Street Square mixes the old with the new, featuring luxury apartments with exposed brick walls, original hardwood floors and high ceilings with timber posts and beams. complement what we have here," said Hoffman. "We only want things that are going to complement the residential, something that's going to create a good synergy and foster a stronger sense of community." Just 15 minutes from Lake George and downtown Saratoga Springs, minutes from the world class Hyde Museum and Charles R. Wood Theater, Warren Street Square provides tenants with a
mixture of the old and the new, providing affordable luxury living in a great little city. "Glens Falls is a city that's on the uptick," said Hoffman. "It's really a great little city with great local shops, little eateries, and a great feel." To learn more about Warren Street Square, visit www.WarrenStreetSquare.com, or call Suzanne Hoffman at (518) 321-1051.
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$339,900
SARATOGA SPRINGS 118 WASHINGTON ST Beautiful West Side Victorian. There is nothing to do but move in. House has been completely redone. New windows, kitchen, baths, floors and a to die for finished basement that has a family room w/built in's, gas FP and office. Fully applianced kitchen,first floor laundry and full bath. First floor bedroom or office, second floor has master with double closets and full bath. Second bedroom also has full bath. Great back deck and patio area too. Rear yard private and fully fenced.
Bruce W Dedon 518-640-4313 bdedon@cbpp.com
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On Elm Street, You Really Can Have it All Distinctive Urban Living in Saratoga: Priced at $879,900 • • • • •
2,763 sq. ft. 4 bedrooms 3.5 baths 2-car garage Corner lot
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by Yael Goldman Saratoga TODAY The Elms is a true Saratoga neighborhood, and that’s just how BCI Construction Inc. intended it to be. With history-inspired architecture, lit sidewalks and access to it all, the benefit of living at The Elms is as much about distinction and elegance as it is about “location, location, location.” This four-bedroom, 3.5-bath 2,763-square foot model home is in walking distance to Broadway, grocery stores, restaurants, the race course and Saratoga Spa State Park. It’s just a short drive from the Northway and less than a half-hour from Lake George and Albany. The Elm Street model home, with its natural stone foundation, was the 2010 Showcase Winner for Best Interior Floor Plan, Kitchen and Exterior Design in the Executive Homes category. With exceptional craftsmanship and magnificent interior finishes, this west side home has all the finest fixings. From hickory hardwood flooring, to custom molding and tile to upgraded cabinetry, countertops, wallpaper and lighting this Elm Street house compliments historic Saratoga Springs style and celebrates a contemporary urban lifestyle. An open plan on the first floor begins with a welcoming foyer that leads to a dramatic dining room with high ceilings and large windows that swallow the sunlight. Next you’ll find a large galley kitchen with top-of-theline granite counters, custom cabinetry, Sub Zero Wolf appliances, a banquet seating area, and butler’s pantry fitted with a wine cooler. A laundry room and mudroom with adjacent powder room are on opposite ends of the kitchen. Finally, a spacious great room offers the perfect
Photos provided environment for entertaining guests and relaxing by the fire. On the second floor, a well-lit hallway leads to the master suite, where Venetian plaster walls, his and hers walk-in closets with custom cabinetry, and a luxurious bathroom with an air tub and shower draw you in. Three cozy bedrooms, one with a cathedral ceiling, and a bright bath-
room fill the rest of the second level. Throughout this Elm Street home, the marriage of traditional and contemporary is exquisite and artistic. Whether you choose to purchase the property fully furnished (at an additional cost) or plan on dressing it up yourself, The Elms model will certainly provide the urban Saratoga Springs lifestyle you crave.
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About the Builder: BCI Construction Inc. is an Albany-based contractor known for quality and innovation. The Elms model was the 2010 Showcase Winner for Best Interior Floor Plan, Kitchen and Exterior Design in the Executive Homes category.
About this House: Living Spaces: Dramatic formal dining room Bright great room with gas fireplace Details: Hickory wood flooring Custom trim throughout Upgraded lighting with dimmer switches 10-foot first floor ceilings with 8-foot interior doors Cement fiberboard siding Real stone on foundation Custom tile in all baths and mudroom Amenities: Emtek hardware Audio in six locations, including outdoor patio Surround sound Gas fireplace Large master suite with spa-like master bath Paved driveway and courtyard
The Kitchen: Large galley kitchen Upgraded cabinetry and granite Banquet seating area Sub Zero Wolf appliances Butler’s pantry with wine refrigerator
Outdoor Spaces: Paved courtyard Corner lot
Neighborhood: The Elms Streetlamps and sidewalks
School District: Saratoga Springs City School District
Commute: By Car: located just off the Northway, in between Exits 13N and 14, The Elms is 15 minutes from the Luther Forest Technology Campus, and 30 minutes from Albany and General Electric in Schenectady. On Foot: Just a short walk from Broadway, Price Chopper, Saratoga Race Course and the Rec. Center, everything is within minutes from The Elms at Saratoga.
Speak With a Realtor TODAY: Contact Natalie Amsler with BCI Construction Inc. at (518) 3662495 or namsler@theelmsatsaratoga.com. Visit www.thelemsatsaratoga.com for more information and photos.
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Build Your Dream Kitchen With Chestwood by Yael Goldman Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS - Dan Snyder, a third generation Spa City resident, never imagined he would open a business just blocks away from where he and his six siblings grew up, let alone name it after his parents' house, "Chestwood." But he did. On November 1, Dan and his wife Jill celebrated the grand opening of the Chestwood Kitchens remodeling showroom at 112 Congress, just a few blocks from that old Victorian on Grand Avenue. The space is on the second floor, above West Side Stadium. They own the building. For the 1985 Saratoga Springs High School grad, opening a permanent space is as much a testament to his 20 successful years in the industry as it is a mark of new things to come. Dan first launched his business in 1993 as Chestwood Remodeling Company and has since honed in on his specialty. Now, Dan and Jill are working together to turn those many years of experience doing everything from building additions to plumbing and electrical work, into a focus on remodeling and designing dream kitchens. Every customer is different, but Dan said many of them have been waiting years to remodel their kitchen and Chestwood is honored to create the space they've longed for. "Most homeowners that inherited their kitchen [from the previous owners] aren't happy with it," Dan said. Together, Dan and Jill offer kitchen renovation solutions for projects large and small; for any budget and every style. The Chestwood Kitchens showroom is designed to be a one-stop shop, a place where customers can pick out their cabinetry, flooring, countertops, lighting, hardware - all the accoutrements - and also design their kitchen and visualize its implementation. For the Snyders, providing a wide selection of products and services under one roof is the easiest and most cost-effective way to give homeowners exactly what they're looking for. As Jill put it, "The possibilities are endless." The Snyders are involved in the
entire process, from design to installation (Jill is in charge of aesthetics and Dan does the handy work), and Chestwood offers a wide variety of materials to choose from. For cabinetry, Chestwood works with three wood lines, all of them made in the United States: Shiloh Cabinetry, which is a higher-end custom product; Signature Cabinetry; and then 6 Square Cabinets, a more affordable option. Chestwood also offers a wide selection of countertop surfaces including Wilsonart, tile and Corian solid surface. Although they don't feature granite samples in their showroom, the Snyders have established close relationships with local granite dealers and can coordinate anything. Jill also helps customers pick out lighting, hardware, fixtures, flooring - everything they need to design their dream kitchen and bring it to life. "My job is to get a feel for their tastes, show the options and help narrow it down," Jill said, explaining that every customer and project is different. "It depends on their house and it depends on their style." Once the scope of work is laid out and the materials have been selected, Jill uses a computer program to create a 3-D diagram of the kitchen, implementing all of the colors, textures and details, to provide a realistic vision of how the kitchen will look. This tool makes it easy to play around with different ideas and make adjustments before the work begins, so the customer can move forward with complete confidence. With 20 years of varied remodeling experience, Dan handles all aspects of every project, including the plumbing and electrical work, and even restores antique fixtures. He has extensive knowledge of the industry, and is well-equipped to build a kitchen that not only meets his customers' needs but exceeds their expectations. "People come to us for that knowledge and I like working with them. It's very rewarding," Dan said. Dan is excited about a handful of new trends and products that make a top-quality kitchen available to homeowners with a limited budget. He said improved materials like linoleum flooring and laminate countertops are much nicer than they used to be. "You can now do an under-mount sink with a laminate top," Dan said,
sharing his excitement about the new alternative to drop-in sinks. "Before, you could only do that with granite." He said that under-mount sinks have become especially popular since the technology became available. "It gives it a more finished look and makes cleaning very easy," he said. Dan also pointed to open layout concepts and hardwood flooring as growing kitchen trends. From the cutting edge to the traditional, the team at Chestwood Kitchens has everything you need to transform your kitchen into a space you can enjoy and be proud of. And according to Jill, that's the most important part of the business. "People spend a lot of time in the kitchen; it's the heart of their home," Jill said. "I love my kitchen, I absolutely love it, and it's rewarding to be able to give someone that - to give them what they want, and see how much they enjoy it." For more information about Chestwood Kitchens, call (518) 5873788,email Chestwood@verizon.net or visit www.chestwood.net.
Photos by MarkBolles.com • Saratoga TODAY
Jill and Dan Snyder are celebrating the grand opening of their remodeling showroom in Saratoga Springs.
Chestwood Kitchens offers design and remodeling services for any project and budget.
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Saratoga County Property Transactions Ballston 448 Robert Dr., $255,900: Claudia and Albert Mark Hauser sold property to Christopher and Megan Geroux. 1 Lancaster Ct., $333,505: Traditional Builders Ltd. sold property to Matthew and Elizabeth Farrigan. 830 Route 67, $80,000: Mary Duell, James Carson and Carl Carson Jr. sold property to IM Landscape Associates LLC. 838 Route 67, $190,000: James Carson and Mary Duell Irrevocable Trust sold property to
IM Landscape Associates LLC.
Co. sold property to Richard Menshausen.
Greenfield 108-110 Sand Hill Rd., $180,000: Monica and Amanda Oliviere sold property to James Mayer. 2 Greenfield Manor Rd., $307,000: Roger Morin and Josee Girard sold property to Dominick and Jenna Laboda.
Malta 10 Vettura Ct., $313,511.68: Mark Lee LLC sold property to Cheryl Savini. 145 Old Post Rd., $65,000: Michael Kopcza Jr. sold property to Philip and Cheryl Bell.
Nicholas and Jennifer Connelly. 48 Ralph St., $17,375: Saratoga County and Susan Sokalski sold property to Buell Avenue Properties. 16 Lancaster Place, $151,863.33: Andrew MacDonald sold property to T and B Associates.
389 Middle Grove Rd., $130,000: Saratoga National Bank and Trust
127 Arrowwood Place, $159,000: Michael Hegel sold property to Dianne Mincher and Karen Lodato. 106 Longkill Rd., $650,000: James Mooney, Barbara Deuel and Walter Mooney III sold property to Alan Brown. 39 Washington Ave., $179,931.16: Peter Sipperly and Linda Isabella sold property to Wells Fargo Bank.
Milton 2 Chantal Ct., $262,200: Larry and Sandra Girard sold property to
1 David Lane, $239,000: William and Shelley Smith Brahler sold property to Jonathan and Renay Dippert.
Stillwater Saratoga
389 Middle Grove Rd., $111,688: William Strickland Jr., Jason Throneburg and Sarah Coburn sold property to Saratoga National Bank and Trust Co.
45 Greenfield Ave., Unit 12, $462,600: Margaret and Michael Roohan sold property to Letizia and Michele Tagliafierro.
28 Pearl St., $190,000: Joanne Carlow sold property to Patrick Szurek.
444 Hudson Ave., $115,000: Donald Ardziewicz sold property to Daniel Bessette and Marlena Gorniak.
111 Green St., $120,000: Antonio Mariotti sold property to F and S Subway Enterprises LLC.
10 Cambridge Ct., $282,000: Chin Penn Chan sold property to Wayne and Karen Pensiero.
Saratoga Springs
Wilton
30 Central Ave., $359,506: DeGraff Bloom Custom Builders Inc. sold property to David and Jennifer Rose.
940 Route 9, $269,000: Michael and Nicolle Alonzo sold property to Joanne and Evan Corson Hume.
12 Maxwell Dr., $268,000: Cartus Financial Corp. sold property to Gary and Kathy Hall Grigalus.
31 Apple Tree Lane, $320,000: Alfred Concemi sold property to Gregory Taylor and Christina Gray.
12 Maxwell Dr., $278,500: Sara Seymour sold property to Cartus Financial Corp.
39 Hopeful Lane, $195,000: Raymond Schul sold property to Tanja Wancewicz.
43 Ferndell Spring Dr., $177,000: Melissa Vanderwood and Melissa Jackson sold property to Megan Wilson.
1 Laurie Lane, $240,000: Harrison and Kathie Winne sold property to Boni Connors.
Your Home A Gardener’s Christmas SARATOGA
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Friday, December 9, 2011
by Sharie FitzGibbon Saratoga TODAY The holidays can be very stressful for gardeners. Our usual stress relief, gardening, is over for the season and most of us (well, me, anyway) are starting to chew on the woodwork. We start getting grumpy and irritable as soon as the sun starts setting early and, yes, we do actually need to reorganize the whole house and, no, you won’t get hurt if you get out of the way fast enough. Add the pressure of holiday gift-giving and party planning to dirt withdrawal and you have a gardener in need of an intervention. Here are some gift ideas for the stressed out gardener in your life: ‘Twas the night before Christmas and all through the garden Not a darn thing was happening (begging your pardon.) The bulbs were all planted, the shrubs all were trimmed Nothing remained for the gardener’s whim. The gifts for her spouse neatly were wrapped A book and some music had seemed quite apt. With no garden work to brighten her day, She said “Goodnight!” and quit the Christmas fray. But what of said spouse who still had no clue What to get his gardener? He knew not what to do. So there he sat, alone with his quandary, Disconsolately folding the laundry. When out on the deck there arose such a clatter He threw down the socks to see what was the matter. And there he stood, a man we all know Dressed in white fur and red velvet and snow. “My good man,” Santa exclaimed, “Whatever is wrong? It’s the day before Christmas; why is your face so long?” “It’s my wife, Santa, sir, I’ve found her no gift. Come morning, I’m afraid she’s going to be miffed.” “That’s a serious problem,” Santa agreed. “But we can solve this dilemma, guaranteed. You merely must tell me what is her passion And the answer will come to us in a timely fashion.” “Her passion is plants, in all shapes and sizes Flowers and shrubs and trees that win prizes. I’ve no idea what to get this mad gardening wench!” “Why, nothing could be better than a new potting bench!” With this exclamation, Santa shook out his bag And out flew a table with hardly a snag. “It’s large and quite roomy and has many shelves. It’s also very sturdy – it was made by my elves!” “What an idea, Santa! It’s just what she needs! She’ll be so excited to start some new seeds!” “And,” Santa said, “until seed season is nigh You can keep her busy with this pair of bonsai! “They’re just the thing for gardeners who itch For lovely green things about which to . . . complain. Why, Mrs. Claus herself, who finds winter grim, Relaxes most blissfully while giving the ficus a trim.” “Now, here are a few things, just to round it all out; A new pair of knee pads, a watering can with a spout Waterproof gloves and a pair of bright boots Will put a happy smile on the face of your patoots! “One last thing, now, and then I’m away A gift card to a plant nursery will finish the day!” Out the door he sprang, in his brilliant red suit Leaving a grateful husband to wrap all the loot. He was heard to exclaim, as the sled hit his bum “Merry Christmas to all and to all a green thumb!”
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EDUCATION Saratoga Reads Recommends 40 Titles for Young Readers
photo by MarkBolles.com • Saratoga TODAY
Abby Cleason reads from “Expressions of Respect,” a collaborative work written by local students, during the Saratoga Reads book fair at Barnes & Noble.
by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS Saratoga Reads, the Skidmore College/Saratoga based not-forprofit organization designed to encourage locals to engage in conversations and activities based on reading a single book, held its annual book fair Sunday, December 4 in Saratoga’s Barnes & Noble. Dozens of students and their family members attended the fundraising event, which included live entertainment from the Saratoga Springs High School Fiddle Club, story time with children’s librarian
Leslie Nover, and readings by local students from their collected work, “Expressions of Respect.” The fair also announced Saratoga Reads’ book of choice for this year: “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks,” by Rebecca Skloot. “Sitting down and reading, or wrestling with the written word is something that’s very important for verbal development. It’s a great habit to start early,” said Bob Kimmerle of Saratoga Reads. “I think in many ways we need to push back against the onslaught of pure electronic entertainment, such as TV or video games.” Saratoga Reads also announced a
junior discussion companion book, “Phineas Gage: A Gruesome but True Story About Brain Science” by John Fleischman. Students grades 4-6 are invited to join the Junior Discussion Group early next year to discuss the written work. To register for the Junior Discussion Group, please email kids@saratogareads.org with the student’s name, teacher’s name, grade and school by January 17. To view the complete list of recommended titles from Saratoga Reads, visit www.saratogareads.org/juniorbooks.cfm.
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South Glens Falls Receives Environmental Education Grant SOUTH GLENS FALLS - The South Glens Falls Central School District was awarded a $2,250 environmental education grant from SCA Tissue, becoming only one of 12 schools across the region to receive the funding. This is the fourth year running that South Glens Falls has received the grant money. “Our grant program helps continue our legacy of responsibility by inspiring students to be environmental stewards of the next generation,” said Don Lewis, president of SCA Tissue North America. “Teaching them to understand the importance and principles of sustainability will [serve them] as adults.” South Glens Falls High School teachers Colleen Hagadorn, Susan Moore-Palumbo and Marcy Ballard will use the grant
money to hold the school’s fourth annual EarthFest later this spring. Run by environmentally conscious student volunteers, the festival will include the use of solar cookers to create multi-cultural dishes, a seedling giveaway, a recycled jewelry workshop, facts and tips on how to be environmentally friendly, and a student-designed wind turbine demonstration. EarthFest will also include an electronic recycling component for community members living in and around South Glens Falls, helping residents to discard their unwanted electronic equipment in a safe, secure and environmentally-friendly way. Mark your calender - the event will take place Friday, May 18, 2012.
Maple Avenue Middle School Contributes $1,000 to Empty Stocking Project SARATOGA SPRINGS Students and staff at Maple Avenue Middle School have contributed $1,000 to Saratoga County's Empty Stocking Project. Over 140 eighth grade students (the students make up what is known as Team 8H) sold Entertainment Books as a way to raise money for their trip to New York City, where they will visit the World Trade Center Memorial and Museum. Of the funds raised by the
students, $500 was contributed to the Empty Stocking Project. Teachers and staff contributed an additional $500 by selling pizza, coffee and snacks through the Canteen group. “We try to teach the kids about giving back and being a positive force in their community,” said middle school teacher Rick Fleming. “They were all very excited to be helping an organization like the Empty Stocking Project.”
photo provided
Team 8H and the Canteen at the Maple Avenue Middle School contributed $1,000 to the Empty Stocking Project, which provides holiday gifts to over 1,000 children in Saratoga County. Left to right are teachers Rick Fleming, Cora Chase, Sue Saxton and Trisha Phillips; Danette Bishop from the Empty Stocking Project; student Reese Arthur; teachers Amy Moore and Jess Waltzer; and student Naomi Stokes.
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FOOD
Friday, December 9, 2011
New Column!
Gadget of the Week! Hello, my name is John Reardon and I am the owner of Compliments to the Chef, a gourmet kitchen store located at 488 Broadway in Saratoga Springs, and I have been a Food Safety Instructor/Proctor for 15 years. I will be writing to you once a week talking about a favorite subject for most of us…food! This week I will begin where every good chef should, with food safety. When you have your car repaired, house built, teeth checked, you want it done correctly and safely, John Reardon Compliments to the Chef the same thing applies when you cook for your children, grandparents or even yourself. So this week I will introduce one of the tools of a safe cook: the thermometer. Thermometers: The thermometer may be the single most important tool to protect food. The most common thermometers are the bimetallic stemmed thermometer, the thermocouple, the thermistor and the increasingly popular infrared thermometer. There are other types as mentioned by the National Restaurant Association Education Foundation's International Food Safety Council, but I will focus on the most popular, the bimetallic stemmed thermometer. Bimetallic Stemmed Thermometers This common, versatile thermometer is often capable of measuring temperatures from 0°F to 220°F (-18°C to 104°C). It typically has the following features: • An adjustable calibration nut to keep it accurate • Easy-to-read, numbered temperature markings • A dimple to mark the end of the sensing area (that begins at the tip) • Accuracy to +/- 2°F (1°C) If you would like to know more, stop in and see me. We'll share a cup of coffee and talk about food safety. Take Care! -John
Maple Ave. French Students Enjoy Crepes at Ravenous
Photo provided
Above: Lauren Wickizer and Francesco D’Amico, the husband-and-wife team who own Ravenous creperie in Saratoga Springs, prepare crepes for Derek Raushi and Conan Madigan, right, seventh-graders in Samantha Decker’s French class at the Maple Avenue Middle School. Students in all of Ms. Decker’s seventh-grade classes enjoyed the special treat on December 5 as part of a unit on French food and culture. Below: Seventh-graders Emily Fischer, left and Marisso Vero enjoy chocolate crepes.
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Viva Las Empanadas! Suzanne Voigt Farmers’Market When I was an exchange student in Spain, my host family was quite poor and meat was a delicacy served sparingly. Paella was only served once at our house, on my final night. Chicken was roasted on every other Sunday with even the feet eaten. I never saw beef that year and fish, cheese and vegetables were our mainstays. I hardly noticed the lack of meat, as my Spanish mother Carmen was a master at cooking and making the most of her fresh ingredients. In the beginning she tried a wide variety of simple tasty dishes trying to find my favorite treat. It wasn’t long before we discovered my love for Spanish pastries called empanadas. Served as a light meal (la cena) at 10 p.m., empanadas are a small half circle dough patty filled with a variety of ingredients. Some days she would fill them with fish. Other days it was vegetables, cheese, fruit- or whatever else might have been left over from a previous meal. No matter what igredients she used, the empanadas were always delicious. While I am not sure I am as good at making them as my Carmen, I have gotten another generation, my family, hooked on eating these feelgood finger foods. To make these small bites mouth-wateringly good, the freshest ingredients are imperative. Here are a couple of my family’s favorites, but you can make them your own by creating your own special innards. They are a tasty creative way to use leftovers. Viva las empanadas! HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN EMPANADAS: - Make the dough from a pie crust recipe of choice or the one provided below. - Roll to 1/8 in thick and cut the dough using a 3-5 inch circular cookie cutter. A two pie crust recipe should make around 36 circular cuts. - Make the filling and place a generous tablespoon on each cutout. - Roll over 1/2 of each dough cutout onto itself and crimp edges closed - Bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes or until golden. You can also deep fry them (the true Spanish way). BASIC PIE CRUST Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour 1 Tbs. sugar 1/4 tsp. salt 8 Tbs. (1 stick) cold unsalted butter cut into 1/4-inch cubes 3 Tbs. very cold water Directions: Stir flour, sugar and salt together in large bowl. Cut butter into flour mixture until the tex-
ture resembles coarse cornmeal. Add water and mix with fork just until dough pulls together. Immediately transfer dough to lightly floured flat surface. Roll into a ball and flatten into a disk. Using rolling pin, roll dough into circle at least 12 inches in diameter and 1/8 inch thick. Dust rolling pin and top of dough with flour as needed. FILLING Empanadas de Pescado (fish filling) Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked fish 1/2 chopped onion hot pepper to taste 1 chopped small tomato tbsp of chopped cilantro Directions: Sauté onion, pepper, tomato and cilantro in olive oil until tomato juices are evaporated adding fish at end. Tablespoon mixture onto dough cuts, roll over and seal by curling with fingers. Bake (brush with whisked egg) or fry (in corn oil). Hortilizas Empanadas (vegetable filling) Ingredients: 1 chopped onion 1 large garlic clove (minced) Mushrooms, spinach (or any other chopped vegetable available)
1/4 cup chicken stock or vegetable stock 1/2 cup mixture of equal portions of tomato sauce and tomato paste 1/2 tsp oregano, paprika, and hot pepper as desired 1/2 cup shredded fresh (goat) cheese of choice 2 eggs, whisked Directions: Sauté onion, garlic and mushrooms in vegetable oil. Add spinach and stock, boil and then stir in tomato sauce mixture and spices. Cook until vegetables are al dente and spinach has withered. Tablespoon mixture onto dough cuts, sprinkle with cheese and roll over and seal by curling edges with fingers. Brush with whisked egg and bake on greased cookie sheet. Note: Empanadas can be fully cooked, then cooled and even frozen for later use- just thaw and reheat.
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SARATOGA
PULSE
Rick Bolton and the Dwyer Sisters. Friday 12.9 Gaffney's
Friday, December 9, 2011
TODAY
Local Gigs
The Play Doughs Thurs 12.15 Prime Live Ultra Lounge Photo by Rich Krissel
Send listings to entertainment@ saratogapublishing.com
SARATOGA
TODAY
Friday, December 9, 2011
Super Saturday at Saratoga Clay Arts Center! - Holiday Open House and Reception for New Exhibition SCHUYLERVILLE - There’s been a lot of excitement in the artistic community about the new Saratoga Clay Arts Center, which was founded last year at 167 Hayes Road in Schuylerville, by Jill Fishon-Kovachick. The Saratoga Clay Arts Center is dedicated to the creation, education and promotion of clay arts by providing resources (such as studio space and workshops) to bring
together local and national ceramic artists with enthusiasts about the medium. In rapid fashion, the Saratoga Clay Arts Center has grown to host a number of talented artists in their studios, and the Schacht Gallery, located within the center, is receiving proposals for what will be a full slate of exhibits in 2012-13. This Saturday, December 10, is shaping up to be a great opportunity to visit the Saratoga
Trumpet Sensation Chris Botti to Headline at Freihofer’s Saratoga Jazz Festival’s 35th Anniversary SARATOGA SPRINGS – In the first of an ongoing series of a weekly online announcements, dubbed “The Building of a Season,” about artists or programs that will be part of its 2012 summer lineup, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) announced on Thursday, December 8, that trumpet superstar Chris Botti, the music world’s best-selling instrumentalist, will be among the headliners at the 35th Anniversary Freihofer’s Saratoga Jazz Festival. he festival will take place on June 30 – July 1, 2012, at SPAC. Botti, whose music spans jazz, pop, classical and rock, is a multi-platinum selling artist known for his brilliant performances and high-profile collaborations with many of music’s biggest names, including Sting, Andrea Bocelli, Yo-Yo Ma, Joshua Bell and Aerosmith's Steven Tyler. Hitting the road for more than 250 days per year, Chris Botti and his band have performed with many of the finest symphonies and at some of the world's most prestigious venues, including performances at the World Series and Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. Botti will perform on Saturday, June 30. “The Building of a Season” is an integrated digital feature at www.spac.org which contains a wide variety of information about SPAC’s 2012 artists and programming, including streamed videos, YouTube interviews, photo galleries, media articles and reviews.
Clay Arts Center, as there are a variety of interesting events scheduled. From 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., the center’s resident artists will host their first annual holiday show and resident artist sale. This show and sale will feature works of over 20 of the area's top ceramic artists. Each artist will showcase their original work inside their studio spaces, with a wide variety of work, including bowls, cups, pitchers, teapots and sculpture, available for purchase. Holiday cookies and refreshments will be served. Following the sale is a reception in the Schacht Gallery from 5-7 p.m. for the opening of the clay arts center’s member exhibition. This exhibition will feature selections from 21 of the center’s member artists. The exhibition will be at the Schacht Gallery through January 27, 2012. The Schacht Gallery is open daily from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. For more information about Saturday’s activities, visit www.saratogaclayarts.org. - Arthur Gonick
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Book Signing and Reading by Marion Alteri SARATOGA SPRINGS – Impressions of Saratoga, 368 Broadway will host a special event this Friday, December 9, from 6-8 p.m. They will present wellknown equine writer and blogger Marion Alteri, in a book signing and reading of her first children’s book, “Claude the Clumsy Clydesdale.” This book uses tales of horses to teach life lessons that are suitable for all members of the family. Marion will autograph and personalize her book for attendees beginning at 6 p.m., and will be reading from “Claude” at 7 p.m. For more information, contact Marianne Barker at (518) 587-6666 or mbarker@impressionssaratoga.com.
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YOU COULD BE THE ONE FOR “NONE” - Home Made Theater to Hold Auditions for“And Then There Were None” SARATOGA SPRINGS - Home Made Theater (HMT) will hold open auditions for their February production, Agatha Christie’s “And Then There Were None.” The production will be directed by HMT’s Dianne O’Neill Filer. These auditions will be held at the Spa Little Theater in Saratoga Spa State Park on Sunday, December 11, from 6-8 p.m. and Monday, December 12, from 6-7:30 p.m. The cast consists of 11 roles (eight men and three women.) Agatha Christie is the grand mistress of the “whodunit.” In “And Then There Were None,” one of her most highly-regarded mysteries, Ms. Christie creates fascinating, interesting, infuriating and intriguing characters, and then bumps them off, one by one, all according to the rules of an old nursery rhyme. But – who actually did it? The only possible answer seems impossible. Cast members will keep the audience guessing until the startling finale. Production dates are on weekends, February 10 – 26, 2012. Rehearsals begin January 3. No appointments are necessary for an audition, but you are requested to bring a current photo, which cannot be returned. For character descriptions and other information about the audition, contact HMT at (518) 587-4427, or visit www.homemadetheather.org.
SARATOGA
Friday, December 9, 2011
TODAY
Pianist and Composer Taylor Eigsti to Perform at Skidmore SARATOGA SPRINGS - Skidmore College’s department of music will welcome New York-based pianist Taylor Eigsti in concert at 8 p.m. on Friday, December 9, in the Arthur Zankel Music Center. Eigsti started playing piano at the age of 4, inspired by his sister Shannon, a jazz and rock pianist. Becoming a bandleader at age 12, Eigsti was quickly labeled a prodigy and released four early albums before signing with Concord Records, where he has released three additional and highly-acclaimed albums. Eigsti has been recognized worldwide for his innovative, intense improvisation and his unique electrifying rhythmic touch. During the past year, his concerts have also included the integration of electronic effects with acoustic grand piano, which received rave reviews at venues such as the Hollywood Bowl and the Montreal Jazz Festival. Eigsti was nominated for two Grammy
Awards as well as being in his own BET network TV special. Eigsti has led numerous master classes for 15 years at music workshops, camps and colleges such as University of California at Berkeley and the Berklee College of Music, in addition to Skidmore, and many others. Recently, Eigsti released a new recording titled “Daylight at Midnight.” This recording features rising star singer-songwriter Becca Stevens, Harish Raghavan on bass and Eric Harland on drums. In a departure from p r e v i o u s albums, this project integrates the influence of lyricallydriven acoustic rock music with covers of songs by Coldplay,
Feist, MuteMath, Imogen Heap, Nick Drake, Elliot Smith, as well as original songs. Admission to the Taylor Eigsti performance is $12 general admission, $7 for seniors and $5 for students. The Zankel Music Center is wheelchair accessible and offers listening devices for the hearing impaired. For more information, visit www.skidmore.edu/zankel or call (518) 580-8381.
Photo by Devin DeHaven Taylor Eigsti
Cabaret Tribute to Peggy Lee Part Of “Live from the Algonquin at SPAC” SARATOGA SPRINGS - In an online announcement as part of its “Building of a Season” series about artists or programs that will be part of its 2012 summer lineup, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) announced on
Thursday, December 8, that a celebration of the life and music of iconic American jazz and pop singer Peggy Lee will be a feature of the “Live from the Algonquin at SPAC” cabaret series in 2012.
Celebrated cabaret singer Wesla Whitfield, accompanied by Mike Greensill, will pay tribute to the storied American singer and songwriter with a program featuring many of Lee’s biggest hits. These shows will be performed at the Spa Little Theater on: • Friday, August 24, at 8 p.m. • Sunday, August 26, at 2:15 p.m. “With her platinum cool and inimitable whisper, Peggy Lee sold twenty million records, made more money than Mickey Mantle, and presided over music's greatest generation alongside pals Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby...” - From “Fever: The Life and Music of Miss Peggy Lee” by Peter Richmond (2007) “The Building of a Season” is an integrated digital feature at www.spac.org which contains a wide variety of information about SPAC’s 2012 artists and programming, including streamed videos, YouTube interviews, photo galleries, media articles and reviews.
SARATOGA
TODAY
Friday, December 9, 2011
LARAC’s Holiday Shop Sparkles! GLENS FALLS – The Lower Adirondack Regional Arts Council’s (LARAC) Lapham Gallery has been transformed into a holiday gift shop. Original handcrafted gift items from many regional fine artists and craftspeople are showcased throughout the gallery. Special discount shopping nights are on Thursdays, December 15 and 22, from 4 – 8 p.m. In addition to discounts, there are artist demonstrations, live music, book signings and refreshments on these evenings. LARAC’s Lapham Gallery is located inside City Park in downtown Glens Falls. 2011 holiday shop hours are Tuesday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information, call (518) 798-1144, ext.2, or visit www.larac.org.
163 Artists Participating at Saratoga Arts’ Members’ Exhibition - On Display through First Night SARATOGA SPRINGS - Each year during the holiday season, Saratoga Arts recognizes its member artists by showcasing their work in an annual “members’ exhibition.” Only one submission per artist is permitted, which encourages a wide variety of media, styles and subjects. This year’s exhibit includes a spectacular roster, with 163 participating artists from across the region. Their originals include watercolor, oil, acrylic and pastel paintings, collage, ceramics, mixed media, sculpture, drawings and photographs. This exhibition is free and open to the public at the Arts Center Gallery, 320 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, now through the end of 2011. Regular gallery hours are Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Saturday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. The gallery will also be open late on the evening of First Night Saratoga, Saturday, December 31, from 5 p.m. - 11 p.m. The Arts Center’s gallery shop also has a wide selection of members’ fine art and crafts. The mission of Saratoga Arts is to cultivate, nourish and sustain the arts in all its forms and to ensure the arts are accessible for all. For more information about the members’ exhibition, contact Elizabeth Dubben at (518) 5844132, or edubben@saratoga-arts.org.
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SARATOGA
Community Corner
Myers Education Center Horticulture Students Win “Most Creative” at Festival of Trees The horticulture class from the F. Donald Myers Education Center won first place for “the most creative floor tree” in this year’s Saratoga Festival of Trees. The “Sowing the Seeds of Agricultural Education” tree, created by Doug Fleischut/Ron Frisbee’s students, was decked with pine cones and seed packets and wrapped in grapevine. All the trees at the festival, including the one decorated by the WSWHE BOCES team, were sold to benefit Catholic Charities of Saratoga, Warren and Washington counties.
Friday, December 9, 2011
American Legion TV Raffle
TODAY
the
Tooth fairy club
On November 5, Fire Chief Kevin Riehl was presented with his brand-new TV from American Legion Auxiliary Unit 234. Riehl won the television in the legion’s TV raffle.
Take a look at this week’s new club members
Right to Left: Fundraiser chairperson Pam Burns, TV winner Kevin Riehl and Lorraine Tiffault.
The Saratoga Convention and Tourism Bureau’s 27th Annual Reception The Saratoga Convention and Tourism Bureau’s Annual Thanksgiving and Hometown Ambassador Reception was held on Wednesday, November 16 at Longfellows. This year, the bureau honored eight Hometown Ambassadors who helped bring conventions to Saratoga County: Maryanne Macica, Leadership, Liability and Crisis Prevention Conference; Tim Christensen, Project Management Institute Upstate New York Chapter; Nick Laicona, Capital District of New York Association of the U.S. Army; Brandon DeWall, The Early Ford V-8 Club of America; Dr. Bill Sarchino, American College of Lower Extremities Surgeons; Maureen LaBelle, St. Clement’s Horse Show; Lacey Williams, U.S. Power Squadrons; and Jack Hanifan, Sports Club of America.
The morning and evening horticulture classes and their prize-winning tree.
Saratoga Sponsor-AScholar (SSAS) students and their mentors baked more than 225 holiday cookies for residents of the Wesley Health Care Center in S a r a t o g a Springs on December 4. Pictured from left, making and decorating the cookies, are SSAS students Natara Mount, Chandler Hickenbottom and Victor Perez. At right is Chandler’s mentor, Linda Wilkes. SSAS helps economically disadvantaged students at Saratoga Springs High School graduate from high school and attend college.
Local Businessman Completes 2011 Saratoga County Executive Institute James Griffith, assistant general manager of the Hyatt Place Hotel in Malta completed the Fall 2011 Saratoga County Executive Institute (SCEI). The SCEI gives participants a unique opportunity to develop relationships with other key business, civic and cultural leaders in addition to exposing them to some of the area’s finest companies, institutions and hallmarks of tourism.
Dylan
Ella
Kathryn The tooth fairy club is sponsored by:
659 Saratoga Rd. Gansevoort, NY 12831 (518) 226-6010
SARATOGA
TODAY
Friday, December 9, 2011
L A C LO briefs
Salvation Army Needs Your Help
The Salvation Army is looking for community member to adopt area children this holiday season. Gifts can be dropped off at 27 Woodlawn Ave., Saratoga Springs, or at the customer service desk at the Wilton Wal-Mart. Every present helps!
AT&T Employees can Benefit the Girl Scouts AT&T is offering a special matching gifts initiative just for AT&T employees to kick-off the 100th anniversary of Girl Scouts in 2012. If employees make a gift to a local Girl Scout council like Girl Scouts of Northeastern New York, or to Girl Scouts USA, between now and December 31, 2011, AT&T will match their gifts dollar for dollar up to $500,000. For more information, call Girl Scouts of Northeastern New York at (518) 563-1560 or email Give2GirlScouts@gsneny.org.
Saratoga County Office for the Aging Meals This month, The Saratoga County Office for the Aging Nutrition Program is offering two special meals, Wednesday, December 21 and Friday, December 30. Meals are served at noon at the following locations: · Town of Ballston – Town Office Building · Ballston Spa – Double Day Woods · Greenfield – Community Center · Malta – Community Center · Saratoga – Senior Center · Schuylerville – Town Office Building Reservations are required – please sign up at least 24 hours in advance. Suggested donation is $2 for age 60 and over. For those under 60 there is a $3 fee. For more information call the Office for the Aging at (518) 884-4100.
The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce Annual Holiday Mixer Gideon Putnam Resort and Spa, 24 Gideon Putnam Rd., Saratoga Springs The annual holiday mixer will be held Thursday, December 15 from 5-7 p.m. This is the most popular chamber mixer of the year. The cost is $5 with reservations and $10 after the reservation deadline. Reservation deadline is 5 p.m. Tuesday, December 13. To register for this event or for more
information, visit www.saratoga.org or call (518) 584-3255.
Hedgemen Photography Exhibit Wesley Center, 131 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs Ballston Spa resident Kathy Hedgeman's photos will be on exhibit at the Wesley Gallery throughout the month of December. The Gallery is open from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. and is open to the public.
Golf Vendors Needed Golf vendors are needed for the third annual Malta Spring Golf Show to be held Saturday, March 3, 2012, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Interested golf vendors should take advantage of this unique marketing and promotional opportunity. Contact the Malta Community Center at (518) 899-4411 ext 301, for more information. Applications are due by January 1 for publication in the Spring Brochure.
Saratoga Springs Senior Center Events 5 Williams St., Saratoga Springs • The Annual Board Meeting will be held Tuesday, December 20 at 1 p.m. Members are invited to attend. • Another “Party of Gold” event will be held Wednesday, December 14 from 2-5 p.m. Turn your unwanted jewelry into Christmas cash! For details on how the program works, visit www.partyofgold.com. • The box office hit “The Help” will be shown Wednesday, December 14 at 3 p.m. $2 for members, $4 for non-members. Please sign up in advance. Snacks provided. • Care Improvement Plus will present “Eating Healthy for the Holidays” Thursday, December 22, from 10:30 a.m.-noon.
Annual Christmas Tree Sale Curtis Lumber, Route 67, Ballston Spa The Ballston Spa Rotary Club is selling Christmas trees daily from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. The club is also selling the “Rotarian Flavors of the World Cookbook.” This cookbook will make a great gift, and support the Rotary’s worldwide effort to eradicate polio.
St. Clement’s Annual Christmas Tree and Wreath Sale 231 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs Fresh cut balsam fir trees and wreaths from Vermont are sold on the school's front lawn from 9 a.m.6 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays, and from 5:30 – 8 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays until December 18. Trees are $45 each and wreaths are $2430.All funds raised go directly to St. Clement’s School.
Stuffed Chicken Product Recall Berk Lombardo, a Brooklyn-
based establishment, is recalling approximately 1,080 pounds of stuffed chicken products because of misbranding and undeclared ingredients, including known allergens. The products may contain any of the following combinations of undeclared ingredients: eggs, milk, monosodium glutamate (MSG) or soy, which are not noted on the label. The products subject to recall include the following items all bearing “P-19034” inside the USDA inspection mark: Chicken Breast Stuffed Broccoli & Cheese; Chicken Breast with Rib Meat Cordon Bleu Breaded; and Stuffed Chicken Breast Kiev. Consumers with questions about the recall should contact the company’s senior management, Paul or Greg Lombardo, at (718) 782-1477.
affected states and the number of flood claims filed, extensions for POL form deadlines in New York State are being extended to 120-150 days. For dates of loss between August 12 and August 26, 2011, the policyholder has 120 days from the date of loss to file the POL. For dates of loss between August 26 and September 4, 2011, (Hurricane Irene), the policyholder has 150 days from the date of loss to file the POL. For dates of loss between September 5 and September 22, 2011, (Tropical Storm Lee), the policyholder has 120 days from the date of loss to file the POL. Policyholders with questions or concerns about their flood insurance claim should contact their insurance agent.
JCPenney Grant Funds High School’s New Club
Heritage Area Visitor Center Winter Hours
A $6,500 grant from JCPenney is helping to fund Saratoga Springs High School’s new robotics club, which is offering students “real world” engineering experiences. With JCPenney’s financial assistance, students in the Saratoga FIRST Robotics Club will construct and program a robot that will compete with the creations of other high school teams in this year’s FIRST Robotics competition. For more information about the club, visit www.usfirst.org/roboticsprograms.
Visitor Center, 297 Broadway, Saratoga Springs Effective immediately, the hours of operation at the visitor center are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. The center is closed on Sundays.
The National Museum of Dance Closed for Winter The museum is now closed for the winter and will reopen to the public on March 20, 2012.
The Old Saratoga Seniors Annual Christmas Party Longfellows, 500 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs Join the Old Saratoga Seniors for their Christmas party, Wednesday, December 14, at noon. Questions may be directed to Dot Leone: (518) 695-3578.
Holiday Shoppe Brookside Museum, 6 Charlton St., Ballston Spa Brookside Museum's annual Holiday Shoppe is open MondaySaturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sunday noon-4 p.m. For more information, visit www.brooksidemuseum.org or call (518) 885-4000.
Flood Insurance Filing Extension National Flood Insurance policyholders have been given an extension to file the Proof of Loss (POL) form with the insurance company handling their claim. National Flood Insurance Program policy requirements usually state that a POL form be filed within 60 days of the event that caused the damage. Because of the magnitude of
Olde Flax Mill Annual Marketplace 88 Broad St., Schuylerville The annual marketplace is the ideal place to find unique, affordable, one-of-a-kind gifts and fresh local evergreen wreaths. Come shop and watch the skilled artisans work their fine crafts throughout December. The marketplace is open Saturdays from 10 a.m.-4 pm. and Sundays from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For more information, call (518) 695-5534.
First Night Saratoga Needs Volunteers First Night Saratoga is seeking volunteers to serve as hosts and hostesses in one of over 35 performance venues, for a chosen 3hour shift between the hours of 611:40 p.m. All volunteers receive a free First Night Saratoga admission button, a First Night poster and a gourmet snack provided by The Deli Warehouse in Albany. The button will allow volunteers to enjoy First Night entertainment venues during the hours when they’re not on their shift. New volunteers are required to attend one of two hour-long training sessions, either Wednesday, December 14, or Monday, December 19, both at 6 p.m. at Saratoga Arts, 320 Broadway, Saratoga Springs. If you would like to volunteer, or to sign up for a training sessions, call Maria Panayotou at (518) 4961327. Prior volunteers are also encouraged to sign up, and will not have to attend a training session.
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upcoming town meetings Town of Ballston: Ballston Town Hall 323 Charlton Road 885-8502 • townofballstonny.org 12/14: Planning Board, 7 p.m. Village of Ballston Spa: 66 Front Street 885-5711 • ballstonspany.org 12/12: Board of Trustees, 7:30 p.m. 12/14: Planning Board, 7:30 p.m. Town of Greenfield: 7 Wilton Road 893-7432 • townofgreenfield.com 12/13: Planning Board, 7 p.m. Town of Malta: 2540 Route 9 899-2818 • malta-town.org Town of Milton: 503 Geyser Road 885-9220 • townofmiltonny.org 12/14: Planning Board, 7 p.m. City of Saratoga Springs: 474 Broadway 587-3550 • saratoga-springs.org 12/14: Design Review Commission, 7 p.m. Town of Saratoga: 12 Spring Street, Schuylerville 695-3644 • townofsaratoga.com 12/12: Town Board, 7 p.m. Village of Schuylerville: 35 Spring Street • 695-3881 villageofschuylerville.org 12/14: Board of Trustees, 7 p.m. Town of Stillwater: 66 East St., Riverside Mechanicville • stillwaterny.org 12/15: Town Board, 7 p.m. Town of Wilton: 22 Traver Road 587-1939 • townofwilton.com Saratoga County Board of Supervisors: 40 McMaster St., #1 Ballston Spa • 855-2240 saratogacountyny.gov 12/12: Building & Grounds, 3 p.m. 12/12: Economic Development, 3:30 p.m. 12/12: Public Health, 4 p.m. 12/13: Criminal Justice, 2 p.m. 12/13: Public Safety, 3 p.m. 12/13: Social Programs, 3:30 p.m. 12/13: Public Works, 4 p.m. 12/14: Trails Committee, 3 p.m. 12/14: Law & Finance, 4 p.m. 12/14: Special Board meeting, 4:45 p.m.
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CALENDAR
living
toward helping military families.
Bead Class
Dec.
9 - Dec. 16 events Friday, December 9 c Holiday Gala at the Lake House Canfield Casino, Congress Park, Saratoga Springs The Saratoga Springs History Museum hosts its annual holiday fundraiser from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tickets are $75 at the door.
Brookside Museum, 6 Charlton St., Ballston Spa This class, for children age 8-12, will take place at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Children can make a beaded keychain or a pair of earrings. Fee is $12 per child and includes instruction and materials. Preregistration is suggested but not required. For more information, visit brooksidemuseum.org or call (518) 885-4000.
Holiday Feast The Saratoga Winery, 462 Rte. 29W, Saratoga Springs From 7-10 p.m. enjoy an evening of wine and food pairing featuring handcrafted wines and locally-sourced products. Tickets are $30 and include full menu. Call (518) 584-WINE to reserve your tickets today! Visit www.thesaratogawinery.com for full menu and more details.
Academy for Lifelong Learning (A.L.L.) Book Fair
Author Marion Alteri Reading Impressions of Saratoga, 368 Broadway, Saratoga Springs Marion Alteri, author of the newly-released children’s book “Claude the Clumsy Clydesdale,” will be available to meet from 6-8 p.m.
Saturday, December 10 c Roast Pork Dinner with Santa Trinity United Methodist Church, 155 Ballard Rd., Wilton From 3:30-6:30 p.m. enjoy mashed potatoes, vegetables, applesauce, rolls, desserts and Santa! Cost is by donation and takeouts will be available. Call (518) 584-9107 for more information.
c Lottery Christmas Tree Raffle Police Benevolent Association, Weibel Ave., Saratoga Springs Operation Adopt A Soldier will be raffling off a 6' Christmas tree with over $1000 in scratch-off lottery tickets on it! The raffle begins at 1 p.m. and all proceeds go
Barnes & Noble, Wilton To build their scholarship fund and support A.L.L. programs, academy members are holding a book fair from 9 a.m.-10 p.m. featuring entertainment and expert advice on your purchases. Barnes & Noble will contribute a percentage of every sale. For more information, visit www.esc.edu/ALL or call (518) 587-2100, ext. 2415.
Sunday, December 11 c Santa Claus Visits Auto Museum Saratoga Automobile Museum, 110 Avenue of the Pines Santa Claus will meet with boys and girls while museum technicians work on his sleigh in SAM’s Garage from 1-4 p.m. Admission is free, with the first 100 children receiving a keychain. All children will receive a souvenir gift bag and information on upcoming museum events, with refreshments provided for everyone. For more information, visit www.saratogaautomuseum.org.
SARATOGA
Friday, December 9, 2011
The Saratoga Chamber Players 25th Anniversary
Justice Stephen Breyer Broadcast
Skidmore Campus, Zankel Hall, Saratoga Springs At 2 p.m. the Saratoga Chamber Players will celebrate their 25th anniversary with a reunion of five musicians originally brought together 40 years ago. These five musicians will reprise a luscious string quintet for the performance. A meet-the-musicians reception will follow the concert. Tickets are $18 adults, $15 seniors, and free to Skidmore students with college I.D. or to children accompanied by an adult. For more information, visit www.saratogachamberplayers.org or call (518) 5841427.
JCC, 84 Weibel Ave., Saratoga Springs Congregation Shaara Tfille/The Jewish Community Center of Saratoga Springs present the “Live from NY’s 92nd Street Y” broadcast featuring Stephen Breyer, associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court at 7:30 p.m.
c Santa Claus Visit 5 Star Property Management, 2639 Route 9, Malta Visit with jolly ol’ Santa Claus from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Make sure to bring your camera!
All-You-Can-EatBreakfast
Monday, December 12 Thorofan Meeting Turf Club, 139 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs The monthly meeting of Thorofan, an organization of horse racing fans, will be held at 6 p.m. The guest speaker is Don Lucarelli and the public is welcome to attend.
Wednesday, December 14 Roast Pork Dinner
Saratoga Springs VFW Post #420, 190 Excelsior Ave. Come and help yourself to a complete breakfast from 8-11 a.m. Adults, $6; seniors/veterans/children 5-12, $5; children under 5 eat free.
1 Elks Lane, Route 9, Saratoga Springs Let the Saratoga-Wilton Elks serve you a delicious dinner from 4:307 p.m. Adults, $9; seniors/military with ID, $8; children 5-12, $5; and under 5 eat free. Takeout $10.
Greek Popular and Folk Dance Workshop
c SBA Holiday Mixer
Bloom Studio, 153 Regent St., Saratoga Springs The directors of Fotia Greek Dancers present a dance workshop introducing folk dances from varied geographic regions and from popular and urban traditions from 2-4 p.m. Beginners and experienced dancers are welcome. $10 admission with discounts for students and seniors. For more information, contact Adriana Gómez Piccolo at SaratogaGreekDance@gmail.com or at (518) 583 4645.
Meet Author Richard Crossley Wild Birds Unlimited, 3084 Rte. 50, Saratoga Springs Acclaimed author Richard Crossley will meet with fans and sign copies of his new bird book “The Crossley ID Guide: Eastern Birds” from 1-3 p.m.
Saratoga National, 458 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs From 6-9 p.m., the festive Saratoga Builders Association (SBA) Holiday Mixer will feature live music, a great buffet, an open bar a raffle and more! Members, $40; Non-Members, $45. Prospective members are always welcome. Contact Barry Potoker at (518) 366-0946 or bpotoker@saratogabuilders.org for reservations.
Friday, December 16 All-You-Can-Eat Dinner 13 Oak St., Saratoga Springs The Principessa Elena Society will have its monthly fundraising allyou-can-eat dinner from 5-7 p.m. Seniors $8, adults $9, children 512 $5, takeouts $10. For information, call (518) 584-4163.
TODAY
c Augustine Classical Academy Christmas Program Arts Center on the Hudson, 2 South Main St., Mechanicville Augustine Classical Academy presents Lux Venit, the school's annual Christmas program, at 7 p.m. The program celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ through choral selections, instrumental ensembles and poetry recitations. The concert is free and open to the public. For more information, visit the school's website www.augustineca.org or call (518) 541-2089.
c Riverfront Studios’ Annual Holiday Open House 96 Broad St., Schuylerville From 6-8 p.m., come enjoy an evening of art and holiday spirit! Riverfront Studios will be closing its doors December 31.
Thursday-Sunday c Melodies of Christmas Proctors, 432 State St., Schenectady The 32nd annual holiday extravaganza Melodies of Christmas features the Empire State Orchestra & Youth Choral December 15-18. Featured performers this year include The McKrells, the Orlando School of Dance and much more! Tickets are $25 for Saturday and Sunday, and $15 for Thursday and Friday. For more information or to purchase tickets online, visit http://www.proctors.org/events/ melodies.
Upcoming c Kindergarten and 1st Grade Movie Matinee Wilton Volunteer Firehouse, 270 Ballard Rd., Wilton Dorothy Nolan Girl Scout Troop 3688 is holding a movie matinee of “Santa Buddies” Saturday, December 17, from 1-4 p.m. The cost is $5 per person and includes movie admission, girl-lead crafts and games, popcorn and hot chocolate. Bring a pillow to sit on. Registration and payment is required by December 9. Contact leader Melinda Lowe at (518) 2654994 for more information.
Send your calendar items to Christina James at cjames@saratogapublishing.com before 5 p.m. on Monday for Friday publication.
SARATOGA
TODAY
Friday, December 9, 2011
PUZZLES PUZZLES PUZZLES
Sudoku
Crossword
See puzzle solution on page 37
Scrabblegram
Movie Review
See puzzle solution on page 37
Tower Heist
ACROSS 1 Goya subject 5 Party guy, perhaps 9 Brought down 14 “El __ brujo”: de Falla work 15 Prefix with foil 16 Adversary 17 Correspondence between philistines? 19 Analogy symbol 20 Rescinds 21 Poetic time reference 23 Social conclusion 24 Chromosome component 25 Telecommuting congressional aides? 28 Barely got, with “out” 30 Fin. neighbor 31 Off-rd. vehicle 32 Charge 33 Currency on which Marconi appeared 34 Explore 38 Grand Central waitstaff? 41 Record holder 42 Fleming and others 43 Ex-NBAer Unseld 44 India neighbor, to the IOC 45 The Tupolev Tu-144, e.g. 46 Like Magellan, often 47 Drum major’s concern during a parade through narrow streets? 51 Dada co-founder 52 Ring cheer 53 Like Beethoven’s Sonata Op. 109 54 Count Almaviva’s valet, in opera 57 Bobby __ 59 Single-cut and rat-tail? 62 Fall breaker 63 Behan’s land 64 Sister of Rachel 65 Refuges 66 Like core courses: Abbr. 67 First name in humor
You work all your life in the service industry with the hopes of a comfortable retirement 25 or so years down the road. Meanwhile, the money in your paycheck earmarked for your pension has evaporated into thin air. While this might be enough to make anyone snap, imagine being at the beck and call of the man responsible for bankrupting, not only your retirement fund, but that of all your co-workers. The Tower is home to the most expensive real estate in New York City. But the real draw of The Tower is not the location or the amenities in any of the individual apartments, but the staff which is on duty 24/7. The penthouse apartment is occupied by The Tower’s wealthiest resident Arthur Shaw (played by Alan Alda) who is the CEO of a high-return investment group. When his fund is exposed to law enforcement and in the press as a Ponzi scheme, it falls to building manager Josh Kovacs (played by Ben Stiller) to inform the staff of The Tower that he’d invested their pensions with Shaw and that said pensions are most likely lost. And during all this, Shaw (Alda) is under house arrest in The Tower. But when a doorman just shy of his retirement becomes despondent and attempts suicide, Kovacs resolves to find the rainy day fund that FBI Agent Claire Denham (Tea Leoni) assures him Shaw is hiding. All in the hopes of retrieving what’s rightfully theirs Kovacs, Charlie Gibbs (Casey Affleck), the building concierge and Josh’s brother-in-law, and Mr. Fitzhugh (played by Matthew Broderick), a former Merrill Lynch employee who was evicted from The Tower after losing his job, savings, and marriage, join forces and begin devising a strategy for the caper. But knowing they’re in over their heads, Josh enlists Slide (played by Eddie Murphy), a thief and Kovacs’ neighbor who he once went to school with. I’ve never been a big fan of Ben Stiller and while I have great appreciation for Eddie Murphy’s early work (the Beverly Hills Cop series, Coming to America and even The Distinguished Gentleman) I’ve long-believed his best years as anything but a voice actor were behind him. That said, I enjoyed this film a great deal and anxiously await the home video release. (6.8/10) For questions or comments, email me at movies@roohanrealty.com .
At The Movies With Trey Roohan
Gasoline Alley
35 To have respect for ourselves guides our morals; and to have a deference for others governs our manners. Lawrence Sterne
Words to know: expatriate: v. To leave one’s home to reside in another country. See puzzle solutions on page 37
DOWN 1 Builders of the Tikal temples 2 “God is not __ ...”: Numbers 3 Baler maker 4 In the area 5 Big wholesale club 6 1773 jetsam 7 NFL’s Cardinals, on scoreboards 8 Artificial being of Jewish folklore 9 Molecules that respond to stimuli 10 “Wheel of Fortune” purchase 11 Woody Allen film 12 Ham it up 13 Physics class units 18 Rock-__: jukebox brand 22 Oxalic acid, e.g. 25 Wedding ring? 26 Teacher of spoken language to the deaf 27 Tel __
Broom Hilda
Animal Crackers
28 Immature newts 29 Balance beam? 30 Back-row bowling target 33 Balls of energy 35 Where many columns are found 36 One with a trunk 37 Greek peak 39 Fix up 40 Window part 46 Varicolored pattern 47 Milk flavorer since 1928 48 Hello, to some Americans 49 Link 50 Put off 51 River island 54 Ward (off) 55 Staples purchase 56 Workplace inspection org. 58 Juillet is part of it 60 Glower inducer 61 Matter state: Abbr.
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Friday, December 9, 2011
REAL ESTATE
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SARATOGA
SPORTS Community Sports Bulletin
TODAY
Friday, December 9, 2011
Skidmore Diver Selected for Liberty League Award SARATOGA SPRINGS - Skidmore College senior diver Doug Pilawa was named Co-Diver of the Week after his performance at the Liberty League Championship. Pilawa also earned Co-Diver of the Year honors on Saturday after winning the 3-meter and finishing second in the 1-meter dive. He shared photo provided both the yearly and weekly honors with Ian Drillinger of Union. Doug Pilawa Pilawa has received the weekly award six times this season. The Thoroughbred men will return to action on January 14 at RPI for the Kumpf Invitational.
ARES VII Promises Great Action for Fight Fans December 16 ALBANY - It may be outside of Saratoga County, but fight fans looking for high action and great boxing just before the holiday season have a lot of reasons to trek 45 minutes down the Northway to the Empire State Plaza for this one. ARES promotions has put together an absolutely fantastic night of boxing Friday, December 16, bringing the area’s best talent together under the bright lights. Returning to the ring are local legends Shawn and Shannon Miller - the first time both brothers will fight during the same event. Shannon Miller makes his return to the ring for the first time since donating over half of his liver to his uncle, who is battling cancer. Miller is donating his purse from the fight to his Knock Out Liver Disease Foundation, which helps individuals and their families fight against liver disease. Also making their way into the ring are local undefeated favorites Javier Martinez and Ray Velez, who will put their records on the line as they face off against one another. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Doors open at 6 p.m., with the first bout scheduled for 7 p.m. Tickets are available by calling the ARES box office at (518) 527-2331.
Send your sports stories and briefs to Daniel Schechtman, Sports Editor at sports@saratoga publishing.com
puzzle solutions from pg. 35
37
Girls’ Basketball Schedule
Boys’ Basketball Schedule
Ballston Spa
Ballston Spa
12/06: at Shaker, 20-57 L 12/09: vs. Niskayuna, 7 p.m. 12/13: at Shenendehowa, 7 p.m.
12/06: vs. Shaker, 57-72 L 12/13: vs. Shenendehowa, 7 p.m. 12/16: at Columbia, 7 p.m.
Burnt Hills
Burnt Hills
12/06: at Saratoga Springs, 47-57 L 12/16: vs. Bethlehem, 7 p.m.
12/06: vs. Saratoga Springs, 57-52 W 12/16: at Bethlehem, 7 p.m. 12/20: vs. Columbia, 7 p.m.
Saratoga Springs
Saratoga Springs
12/06: vs. Burnt Hills, 57-47 W 12/09: vs. Shenendehowa, 7 p.m. 12/13: at Shaker, 7 p.m.
12/06: at Burnt Hills, 52-57 L 12/09: at Shenendehowa, 7 p.m. 12/13: vs. Shaker, 7 p.m.
Schuylerville
Schuylerville
12/07: vs. Hudson Falls, 51-59 L 12/09: at Hoosick Falls, 7:30 p.m. 12/16: at Greenwich, 6 p.m.
11/29: at Cohoes, 52-54 L 12/09: vs. Hoosick Falls, 7:30 p.m. 12/16: at Greenwich, 6 p.m.
South Glens Falls
South Glens Falls
12/03: at Peru, 39-32 W 12/13: at Glens Falls, 7 p.m. 12/29: vs. Indian River, 7:30 p.m.
12/12: vs. Glens Falls, 7:30 p.m. 12/15: vs. Scotia, 7 p.m. 12/19: vs. Queensbury, 7 p.m.
Learn to Skate in January SARATOGA SPRINGS - The Saratoga Springs Figure Skating Club will be holding its Learn to Skate Program beginning in early January, each Sunday from 3:45-5:45 p.m. The program will run for 10 weeks from January 8 - March 11, 2012. Each class will consists of a half hour group lesson and a half hour of practice time. The cost for the 10-week session is $125. For further information, please visit www.saratogaspringsfsc.info or contact Lisa Dunay at lisa.dunay@gmail.com.
Pop Warner’s Super “Bowl” Extravaganza SARATOGA SPRINGS - The Saratoga Strike Zone is teaming up with Saratoga Pop Warner to put on their first annual Super "Bowl" extravaganza. The event will take place on Super Bowl Sunday, February 5, 2012. Expect bowling, prizes and family fun for everyone, with proceeds to benefit Saratoga Pop Warner. For more information, please contact Alicia Murphy at luchauna1_@yahoo.com, or Stephanie DiGiuseppe at luvmyboyz18@aol.com, or call (518) 496-6619.
38
SARATOGA
SPORTS
Friday, December 9, 2011
Build From the Bottom Up
Damian Fantauzzi I've been coaching basketball for 40 years and I am now, along with Tom Coons, assisting Steve Lombard with the girls' varsity basketball team at Saratoga Catholic. Over the years Tom was at Skidmore with the men's and women's programs, and before that he was at Saratoga High School coaching the boys' varsity team, where in 1987 they were Sectional AA Champions and made it to the final four in the state tournament. Experience is what we have at Spa Catholic because Steve Lombard, who is also the principal at the school, has 30-plus successful years coaching basketball. Both Tom and I are volunteers and enjoy working alongside coach Lombard. I feel the girls are pretty lucky to have three coaches with 100 years of combined experience. We have a lot to give, and in turn the girls are all ears and working hard to get better - a great group of young ladies. My focus here isn't about what we're doing, but rather about what needs to be done for kids who want to play sports and what they need to
do to become better players. I feel that there needs to be more emphasis on the teaching of fundamentals to the young athletes and future "stars" in our local schools. They should attend more off-season camps and clinics in the summer to help them learn the skills of the sports they like! When I first came to Saratoga and became the boys' varsity basketball coach, I had a plan to start the first summer basketball league and camp in the city. Things fell into place when the city and county youth commissions sponsored a program that lasted for about six years. These clinics were held in the gym of the City of Saratoga Springs Armory (now the Military Museum), with competitions over a six-week period and corresponding instructional camps for two weeks. To give you an idea of how long I've been around, Athletic Director Lambert participated in the summer basketball programs of the mid 1970s, back when he was in sixth or seventh grade. A few years later the city became the sole sponsor of the summer basketball leagues and camps, which grew into more opportunities as other sports began holding their own clinics. During those years we averaged around 100 participants each summer, and it was fun for the kids and productive. I also worked at coach Bobby Knight's camps at Storm King School, outside of West Point where he was the head coach, and later at Indiana University, and these camps became my source of reference. But a camp or clinic isn't always
the answer! It depends, of course, on the quality of the camp. I worked at other major university basketball camps in years past, and I found some to be nothing but a moneymaker for the head coach and his staff. I'm not against making money, but kids and their parents should get what they pay for - instruction. With all of the camps and clinics I have been to as an instructor, coach Knight's has been, by far, the best. Therefore, I fashioned all of the camps and clinics that I ran off Knight's format. One example of what I feel needs to be taught is the necessary skills and mechanics of shooting a basketball. Makes sense, right? I see so many young kids with very poor shooting mechanics and sometimes, not enough is done to help them improve and develop what is the most essential skill in the sport. Going to special skills clinics that teach specific aspects of a sport is not a bad idea, where they can learn the "art" of shooting and the related offensive moves. There are now more opportunities for kids to get help with the fundamentals of the sport they love than ever before. I recommend sending your child to some of these local camps that will encourage them to want to be part of a sport. They will understand more about the sport and learn what they need to know and what they need to work on. These coaches are focused on developing the individual camper to learn and improve, and it will benefit them as they continue in the sport. Usually the cost of these camps is very affordable and worth the investment. Sending kids to camps or clinics helps them to learn the very basics, to build their skills from the bottom up. For new players and instructors at camps: keep it simple and functional; take one step at a time. Don't overwhelm the players! Looking for a good resource? Use Google to search from soup to nuts, or from shooting a basketball to hitting a baseball. It's all there!
TODAY
Burnt Hills Downs Saratoga in Suburban North Matchup by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY BURNT HILLS - A late fourth quarter surge brought the Saratoga Springs boys’ varsity basketball team within two points of the lead Tuesday night, but it was as close as the Streaks would come to victory, falling to Burnt Hills by a 57-52 margin. The biggest challenge for the Streaks proved to be Burnt Hill's senior point guard Jayson Sullivan, who nabbed 10 steals (along with six assists and three points) to stop Saratoga from ever finding their offensive groove. Poor shooting from the free-throw line also plagued the Streaks, who shot 7 for 13 from the gimme-line, missing several late attempts as time ticked away. After a close first quarter left Burnt Hills up 14-13, a series of back and forth runs led to a chaotic second. Burnt Hills opened the action with five unanswered points, until Saratoga's Nick Smith and Erik Tallman surged to score eight
unanswered points themselves. But it was Burnt Hills who would have the final say in the matter, closing the half with an 8 point run to bring their lead up to 26 against 21. Leading 44-34 at the start of the fourth, Burnt Hills saw their lead cut down to two after Saratoga rallied to make it a 4850 game. But a pair of key free throws and late baskets secured the win for the Spartans, who allowed only two more baskets for the Streaks. Leading the Spartans to victory was the game's high scorer, Austin Nydeggar, who netted 21 points for Burnt Hills. Nydeggar was joined by teammate Robert Knightes, who sank 17 points for the Spartans. Eric Dillon, fresh off the Section II Championship football team, chipped in with 7. Saratoga's Erik Tallman led the Streaks with 18 points, with teammate John Rach putting up 13 of his own. Taylor Mickle grabbed 7, with Chris Byno and Nick Smith pitching in with 6 apiece.
photo by MarkBolles.com
Burnt Hills smothers Saratoga en route to a 57-52 victory.
ARES VII Fight Night page 37
40
sports
Liberty League Diver page 37 Friday, December 9, 2011
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