Local First Saratoga North Edition 030223

Craft Fair at Brookside Museum –Vendors Wanted

BALLSTON SPA - The Saratoga County History Center is seeking vendors of handmade crafts, antiques, and farm products for the annual craft fair on Saturday, June 24, 2023 from 10 am to 3 pm. No mass produced or commercially manufactured products will be permitted. Spaces are available outdoors, with limited spaces available indoors. The fair is a rain-or-shine event.

The fair is very popular and annual. The History Center utilizes social media, posters, email blasts, press releases, and a website to promote this eagerly anticipated event.

Visit https://brooksidemuseum.org/events/2022craft-fair/ for more information, or contact Beth Silvestri at (518) 885-4000 or bsilvestri@brooksidemuseum.org.

The Saratoga County History Center is celebrating its 60th anniversary and is committed to explaining that a greater Saratoga starts by understanding its history. As part of this commitment, the History Center is installing an immersive exhibition on the history of Saratoga County that will open in spring 2023. In addition, the History Center’s multi-year, multi-platform initiative offers a variety of innovative, stimulating, and educational programs online and in-person across the country. Learn more about the Saratoga County History Center and program updates at www. brooksidemuseum.org or the Center on Facebook or Twitter @SaratogaCoHistory.

settlement for false claims

Attorney general: Residents at former Saratoga Center nursing home neglected

By WENDY LIBERATORE

BALLSTON SPA — The owners, operator and landlord of the now-shuttered Saratoga Center for Rehab and Skilled Nursing Care have agreed to pay back $7.16 million in false Medicaid claims in a settlement reached with the U.S. Department of Justice and the state attorney general’s office.

As part of the settlement, announced by Attorney General Letitia James and U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York Carla Freedman on Monday, the owners, operator and landlord have admitted to

prohibited from participating in Medicaid and Medicare for at least 10 years.

“We trust nursing homes to protect New Yorkers during their most vulnerable days, but the owners, unlicensed operator, and landlord of Saratoga Center repeatedly violated the law for their own benefit,” James said in a statement.

“Instead of providing the quality care and compassion that residents deserved, the owners of Saratoga Center deceived regulators and left residents to suffer deplorable conditions and neglect. I am grateful to U.S. Attorney Freedman and her team for their partnership in holding Saratoga Center accountable for putting New Yorkers in harm’s way. My office will continue to ensure nursing home residents are protected, and I encourage anyone who has witnessed alarming conditions, resident neglect, or abuse at a nursing home to contact my office.”

The 257-bed facility, which one resident’s daughter called “god-awful,” was described in a joint release from James and Freedman as “failing to provide medication to residents, lacked hot water and clean linens, and residents suffered falls, pressure sores, and other significant lapses in care.” It was also not licensed by the state Department of Health.

funds while providing substandard care.”

James and Freedman also said the owner, operator and landlord deceived the Department of Health when Saratoga Center applied for a license to operate the facility in 2014. At the time, the men said they were seeking loans to acquire the nursing home. In reality, James and Freedman said, the owners and the landlord were already in business together, and the landlord was funding the purchase of Saratoga Center. In 2017, the owners gave up control of the facility to the unlicensed operator and other associates, but did not report the change to the Department of Health.

That was the point, James and Freedman say, when the breakdown of care occurred, which they say also included a failure to remove trash and waste from the facility and otherwise subjecting the residents to unsanitary and unhealthy conditions.

wrongdoing, which included running an unlicensed operation and neglecting its residents.

The settlement names owners Alan “Ari” Schwartz and Jeffrey Vegh, operator Jack Jaffa and landlord Leon Melohn. As part of the agreement, Schwartz, Vegh and Jaffa are

“Nursing homes should protect the health and well-being of every resident,” Freedman said in a statement. “That did not happen at Saratoga Center. Instead, a business dispute between the operators and landlord led to dangerous conditions for residents and staff and caused the submission of false claims to Medicaid for worthless services. This case demonstrates that we will hold responsible people accountable when they pocket federal

Spa City rabbis earn Four Chaplains Award

By TERRY BROWN SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Husband and wife, Rabbis Jonathan Rubenstein and Linda Motzkin of Saratoga Springs, have been selected to receive the 58th Four Chaplains’ Remembrance and Brotherhood Award.

Motzkin and Ruben-stein, who recently retired from Temple Sinai in Saratoga Springs after 36 years of joint leadership in the Capital Region’s religious community, will receive the award during a ceremony at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, March 5, at the First Reformed Church of Schenectady at 8 N. Church St., Schenectady.

The Albany Post 105 of the Jewish War Veterans’ award has been recognizing a local member or members of the community since 1966 in honor

I BUY HOUSES!! CASH!!

of the values and selfless service of the Four Chaplains who sacrificed their lives when the U.S. Army Transport Ship SS Dorchester was sunk in 1943 during World War II in the North Atlantic, said Richard Goldenberg, chairman of the award selection committee and adjutant of Post 105.

“The Four Chaplains Brotherhood Award exists to further the cause of “unity without uniformity” by encouraging goodwill and cooperation among all people,” Goldenberg said.

The nondenominational award honors people whose deeds symbolize the legacy of the Four Chaplains. The award commemorates the military chaplains who gave up their life vests and their lives so others could survive the sinking of the Dorchester after a

German sub torpedoed the vessel near the coast of Greenland in the North Atlantic. Of the 902 troops, seamen and civilians aboard the ship, only 230 survived.

Clark Poling, who ministered at the First Reformed Church in Schenectady, had enlisted in the Army after the outbreak of World War II. The first lieutenant was one the four chaplains. The other chaplains were 1st Lt. Alexander Goode, a Jewish rabbi; 1st Lt. George Fox, a Methodist minister; and 1st Lt. John Washington, a Catholic priest.

Over the years the Jewish War Veterans of the Capital District have recognized civic leaders, community organizers and issue advocates, educators, health care providers and clergy for their humanitarian efforts that

Wendy Stein, whose mother, Joyce Granger, died in the facility in 2019, spoke to the Times Union in 2019 about the deplorable conditions at the facility. She said her 89-year-old mother went unattended for hours, sitting in a wet diaper or in a filthy wheelchair that only had one footrest. Stein also said the floors were dirty, the fire alarm blared constantly and the faucet on the bathroom sink was broken the entire three months that her mother lived on the second floor.

“Everything — flooring, walls, walkways —

convey the spirit of the Four Chaplains, according to Goldenberg. Rubenstein and Motzkin had been co-rabbis at the temple since 1986, serving the Jewish community of Saratoga Srpings as their synagogue grew from 60 to 190 families. In addition to their duties at the synagogue, they served as chaplains in the community, Motzkin at Skid-more College and Ruben-stein at the Mt. McGregor Correctional Facility and Four Winds Hospital. Both were also on boards and commit-

tees of Saratoga Hospital, Saratoga Domestic Violence Services (now Wellsprings), Franklin Community Center, Saratoga NAACP, New York Interfaith Power and Light and Saratoga Hospital Ethics Committee.

Rubenstein led Temple Sinai’s Slice of Heaven project, a nonprofit bakery operated from the synagogue’s kitchen, which continues to produce baked goods to help those less fortunate.

Motzkin is among one of only 13 female scribes

Please see AWARD 6

PHOTOS BY WILL WALDRON / TIMES UNION

Temple Sinai husband and wife co-rabbis Jonathan Rubenstein and Linda Motzkin, just retired in Saratoga Springs. They are being honored with the 58th Four Chaplains’ Remembrance and Brotherhood Award.

2023 Ballston Spa Farmers’ Market Seeks Vendors and Volunteers

BALLSTON SPA - The 2023 Ballston Spa Farmers’ Market, sponsored by the Ballston Spa Business and Professional Association (BSBPA), will run from June 10 through September 23, 2022. The markets will be held on Thursdays from 3-6 pm and Saturdays from 9 am-1 pm in Wiswall Park on Front Street, in the heart of downtown Ballston Spa. The markets have been serving the local community since 2003. Our mission is to bring together local farms and food/craft producers with consumers and to promote locally created products. The market is now accepting vendors for the 2023 season. New and returning vendors can apply online at https://

Edwin M. Moseley

Faculty Research

Lecture at Skidmore CollegeThe Superhero Syndrome: Keep Your Eyes on the PRISE

SARATOGA - Presented by Paul Arciero

Professor of Health and Human Physiological Sciences

Thursday, March 9, 2023 - 5:30 p.m.

Gannett AuditoriumPalamountain Hall

Learn more about the lecture:

“Do as I say, not as I do. For many years, this was the life of world-renowned nutrition and exercise physiology scientist, Dr. Paul Arciero. Suffering from debilitating panic attacks and herniated discs in his back and

www.ballston.org/category/farmers-market. The market bylaws are posted on the application page.

“We are also looking for community volunteers to help on market days,” says Farmers’ Market Chairperson, Nora Osuchowski.

“It’s a great way to get to know and support the vendors and get in some early bird market shopping in.” Most importantly, volunteer help will assure that the Ballston Spa Farmers’ Market will continue to be a presence in the village. Please contact nora@ballston.org to find out more. Updates on what is new at the market throughout the season can be found on the Ballston Spa Farmers’ Market Facebook page and at ballston.org.

The Ballston Spa Business and Professional Association, established in 1983, is a non-profit organization committed to making the Village of Ballston Spa a great place

unable to travel to present his research to a global audience, he was suffering from the Superhero Syndrome, saving everyone else…but himself. Watch as he overcomes his reality of losing loved ones and “never being smart enough” along his journey, to him discovering a method to help others AND himself live with more optimal health and performance. Today he calls this scientific fountain of youth the PRISE life.”

Diabetes Classes

BALLSTON SPADining with Diabetes, a program for people with diabetes or prediabetes and their family members, is being offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension Saratoga County.

Thursdays, March 9, 16, 23, 30 at 1 pm at 50 West High Street, Ballston Spa,

to live, work and visit. To learn more, visit at www.ballston.org.

Historian Tea Talks at Brookside Museum

BALLSTON SPA - The Saratoga County History Center will host a monthly series of informal Historian Tea Talks, presented by historians from around the county, beginning in February. Tea and cookies will be served, and the talks will take place in the Long Room at Brookside Museum.

March 21, 3pm – The Mott’s Apple Empire. Lynda Bryan, Halfmoon Town Historian

April 18, 3pm – Hall’s Brookside Dairy, Greenfield Center: “Nothing remains but an empty field and fond memories.” John Greenwood

Visitors will also have the opportunity to glimpse at improvements being

NY. Fee: $20, financial assistance available upon request. To register call 518-885-8995. Presented by Diane Whitten, MS, Nutrition Educator. Participants will learn how to fit carbohydrates into a healthy menu, effectively use food labels, plan menus, and adopt other healthy habits to help manage diabetes through healthy eating. Recipe ideas, demonstrations and samples provided. For program details email Diane at dwhitten@ cornell.edu.

Fish Creek

Rod & Gun Club

Fish Fry Friday

Eat-In or Take Out

SCHUYLERVILLE -

The Fish Creek Rod and Gun Club Friday night Fish Fry will be back for 2023. Fish Fry will

made behind the scenes of the 230-year-old building as the History Center prepares the exciting new immersive exhibit on Saratoga County, opening in Spring 2023.

Registration is not necessary but is appreciated. A donation of $5 per registration is recommended to support the programs of Saratoga County History Center. Please visit www. brooksidemuseum.org for more information.

Saratoga – Wilton

Elks Lodge 161

Hosts a Chicken Parmigiana for Curbside Pick Up

SARATOGA/WILTON - Wednesday, March 8, 2023 - 4:30-6:00pm

Call Monday and Tuesday Between 10am-Noon To Place An Order - 518584-2585

Chicken Parmigiana, Penne Pasta, Tossed Salad,

start January 13 and run through April 7th We will be serving from 4:00pthm till 7:00pm. Various menu items are available From fried fish to chicken nuggets with French fries, Cole slaw and chowder also available. 518-695-3917

Saratoga Irish Family Festival

SARATOGA - The Saratoga Ancient Order of Hibernians will hold the Saratoga Irish Family Festival from 1 to 6:30 pm on Sat. March 11th at the Saratoga -Wilton Elks, 1 Elk Lane.(Rte 9 North from Rte 50) The event will feature music,dancing, and raffles .Admission is a $10 donation at the door, children under 12 are free. Light fare will be available for an additional price. For information visit wwwsaratogaaoh.com/.

Garlic Toast Dinner For 2 $30.00 (CASH ONLY)

The Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church

Hosts a Corned Beef Dinner

SARATOGA - 175 5th

Avenue • Saturday, March 11 from 4:306:00pm. Cost: Free will donation. Come join us!

Charlton Freehold Church Spring Festival

CHARLTON - Saturday, May 6, 10am-3pm at Charlton Freehold, 768 Charlton Rd. Charlton NY. Come see what local Crafters and Vendors will be offering for your purchase pleasure. For more info or to apply: office@ charltonfreehold.org or call 518-399-4831.

Homes for Orphaned Pets Exist (H.O.P.E.)

Pet Adoption Center to See

Available Cats

WILTON - HOPE Pet Adoption Center is open Monday - Saturday, 11 amto 6 pm, at the Wilton Mall in Saratoga (near HomeGoods).

Come meet our available kitties; spend time with them and see their personalities! Our large room-sized enclosures make it a relaxing experience for all. Who knowsyou may just find your new best friend! Our website to preview the available cats:: Hopeanimalrescue.org

Contact information: 518-450-7013 HOPE2994@outlook.com

Wilton Mall at Saratoga, 3065 Route 50, D-1 Box 68 Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

Crafters Wanted in Richfield Springs

CAPITAL DISTRICT - Applications are currently being accepted for two popular craft events in Richfield Springs--the 42nd Annual Friendship Craft Festival to be held on Saturday, June 10 in Spring Park and the 3rd Annual Fall Craft Fair scheduled for Saturday, October 7 at the Cullen Pumpkin, 587 Cullen Road. Both events are sponsored by the Church Of Christ Uniting in Richfield Springs. For information and an application for both events go to www.rschurchofchristuniting.com or call Carla at 315-858-1451.

haul. That may amount to you changing careers in the weeks to come. Do your research before you put in notice.

SAGITTARIUS –Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, stay focused and disciplined this week, especially as it pertains to a diet. You can maintain your commitment, especially with others cheering you on.

CAPRICORN –Dec 22/Jan 20

much done outdoors, but you can certainly stay busy inside the house with any projects you have been putting off.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

This is a great opportunity for getting rid of any clutter that has been holding you back, Cancer. Start sorting through the garage or cleaning out a desk at work.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, do not worry about the small stuff that you feel could be holding you back. If you step away from the situation, you may find that everything is working out.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, there are plenty of opportunities open to you, but you may not realize they are so close by. A friend may need to guide your way on this for the time being.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

You may be feeling bad about something you did in the past, Libra, and now you want to make amends. It’s the little changes you implement that will make a difference.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, you may be ready to give your life an over-

Spring Gardening Programs and more at the Scott T. Johnson Recreation Center

SARATOGA - The Saratoga Springs Recreation Department is pleased to announce a variety of Enrichment classes in partnership with BeTa Community Programs this spring. One night and 6 week sessions will be available. Prepare for spring gardening with classes led by Robin Ambrosino, Master Gardener, grower, forager, arranger, and lifelong plant enthusiast. Classes will include Landscaping with Flowers 101, Make a Succulent Planter, Create a Fairy House and Celebrating Spring Wreath Workshops. The first, Landscaping with Flowers 101 kicked off Thursday, February 9th.

Capricorn, rewards will not come without hard work and dedication. Now is the time to stick with the plan and keep moving forward. Save days off for later.

AQUARIUS –Jan 21/Feb 18

Do not go up against managers or superiors this week, Aquarius. Doing so likely won’t go in your favor. Just keep out of the spotlight for a little while longer.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

You may be building the blocks of a major life project, Pisces. Use all of the resources at your disposal in the days to come.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

MARCH 5

Madison Beer, Singer (24)

MARCH 6

Shaquille O’Neal, Performer (51)

MARCH 7

Bryan Cranston, Actor (67)

MARCH 8

Freddie Prinze, Jr., Actor (47)

MARCH 9

Oscar Isaac, Actor (44)

MARCH 10

Carrie Underwood, Singer (40)

MARCH 11

Thora Birch, Actress (41)

In addition to gardening, bee keeping and Spanish Language and Culture programs will also be offered. Visit SaratogaRec.com/Enrichment for details and registration. Questions? Please email recreservations@saratoga-springs.org or call 518-587-3550 ext 2300.

Ballston Area

Seniors

Monthly Dance

BALLSTON SPA - On Saturday, March 11, 2023 at 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm. The dance will be at the Milton Community Center 310 Northline Rd. Ballston Spa, NY 12020 The dance is open to the public and ample free parking. There will be an entrance fee of $ 5.00. Snack and refreshment will be provided.

Dance to the music of the Old Time Country Band.For more information or inclement weather call 518-430-7029

Charlton Freehold Church Rummage Sale and Chowder Fest

CHARLTON - Saturday, March 18, 10am-2pm at Charlton Freehold Church, 768 Charlton Rd., Charlton NY. Rummage Sale: Clean out your garage or attic and rent a table and space for $15. For info call 518-399-2873 / email: office@charltonfreehhold.org Chowder

Fest: There is nothing like a hot cup of chowder to warm you on a cold day. Stop and take home delicious chowder prepared in our own kitchen - there will be a variety of chowders from which to choose.

Friendly Sons of St. Patrick 71st Annual St. Patrick’s Day Dinner

SARATOGA - The Saratoga Springs chapter of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with their 71st annual dinner on March 17th, 2023, at the Holiday Inn on Broadway in Saratoga Springs, New York. The group is a fraternal organization that meets once each year on St. Patrick’s Day to honor the patron saint of Ireland and to raise money for local Catholic charitable organizations. The 2023 officers for the dinner are

President Steve Sherwin, Vice President Mike D’Arcy, Treasurer Ryan Dennis, Secretary Patrick Fleming and Past President and Keeper of the Shillelagh Mark Phillips. Many cities throughout the country have chapters of the society, including Albany and Troy. One of

New York State

Approved Defensive

Driving Class

SARATOGA - On Saturday March 11th, 2023 from 9 AM to 3 PM there will be a New York State approved Defensive Driving Class. Save 10% on your base auto insurance for the next three years & receive up to 4 points off your driving record according to New York State Department of Motor Vehicle guidelines.

Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church

175 Fifth Avenue, Saratoga Springs New York 12866

Fee: $35.00 per person. Bring a friend fee is $30 each

Portion of fee goes to Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church.

Registration is required and can be made by calling Ray Frankoski @518-286-3788

AS we are social distancing, a mask is required if you are not vaccinated. Class size is limit.

Al-anon Meetings

SARATOGA - Alanon meeting to support those living with an alcoholic, grew up with alcoholism etc… please join us at our weekly meeting:

Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church

175 5th Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

Every Tuesday: 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Christ’s Cupboard

Food Pantry

BALLSTON SPA -

Christ’s Cupboard Food Pantry, located at the First Baptist Church of Ballston Spa, 202 Milton Ave, has expanded our service hours. We are now open every Tuesday morning from 9-11am and every Thursday afternoon from 4:30-6:00pm.

the first chapters of the society was founded in post-revolutionary war New York City by Irish~ American Daniel McCormick. The purpose of the society was to help impoverished and displaced immigrants who had arrived in New York in the wake of the British evacuation.

The first meeting of the New York City chapter was held in 1784 at Cape’s Tavern.

The Philadelphia Friendly Sons of St. Patrick is believed to be the first chapter of the society, and was founded in 1771.

Bunny Breakfast at the Rock City Falls Fire Station

ROCK CITY FALLSBunny Breakfast on April 2nd from 8am-11am We will have a homemade breakfast, Free photos with the Easter Bunny At Rock City Fire Station 1119 Rock City Rd, Rock City Falls NY.

Malta Spotlighter’s Theatre Troupe

Announces

Auditions for ‘The Lady Pirates of Captain Bree’ MALTA - produced by special arrangement with Pioneer Drama Services; directed by Elyse Young.

Auditions are by appointment only- Sunday March 26 and Monday March 27. ‘The Lady Pirates of Captain Bree’, a swashbuckling musical comedy set in the late 1800s aboard the merchant ship “Kayla May”, will be performed Saturday June 17 and Sunday June 18 on the Malta Community Center Stage. Over 26 speaking and/or

singing solo roles are available for kids, teens and adults. An additional 10-12 ensemble roles will also be cast. Contact: Elyse Young, Artistic Director, theater@malta-town.com or (518) 899-4411 x305 for an audition appointment or additional information.

The Wilton Food Pantry’s 9th Empty Bowls Fundraiser

WILTON - This event will take place on Sunday, April 2, 2023 from 1-4 pm at the Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge on Route 9. The event is a simple chili lunch with live music and a silent auction. Guests choose a beautiful bowl, handcrafted by Skidmore College Ceramic Arts students. The bowl is filled with chili or soup and bread. Guests bid on silent auction items from local businesses while listening to the music of John Kribs and his bluegrass ensemble, Adrenaline Pumpkin. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Advance tickets can be purchased at www. wiltonfoodpantry.org. For dessert, enjoy $1 ice cream sundaes featuring Sundaes Best hot fudge toppings. Join us for a fun afternoon of good food and good music for a good cause.

Knights of Columbus Lenten Fish Fry

SARATOGA - Knights of Columbus Council #246 will once again be hosting Fish Fry Friday each Friday throughout Lent, 2/24 through 4/7, 5:00-7:00 pm. However, the event will resume with advance call-in of orders on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays between the hours of 12:00 noon and 3:00, beginning on Wednesday, 2/22. The

Gateway House of Peace Announces the Opening of Gateway House Thrift Shop

BALLSTON SPA - 408 Geyser Road, Ballston Spa, NY 518-306-4333

Donations Wanted

We gratefully accept the following items in good condition:

Household items, Jewelry, Home decorations, Clean Toys, Small furniture, Lamps, Clean Kitchenware, Antiques/Collectables, Cook Books, Pictures/Art Work Holiday items, Small Appliances, Purses

We do not accept: TV’s, Computers, Books, Upholstered Furniture, Children’s Car Seats, Entertainment Centers, Large appliances, Mattresses, Medical Supplies, Hutches/ Armoires, Suitcases

1. Starting March 1st 2023 Donation can be drop off, Tuesday – Saturday 11am-3pm.

2. Please do not leave donations at any entrance.

3. Premises are under video surveillance 24/7.

4.Please call 518-306-4333 for more information.

ALL PROCEEDS GO TO SUPPORT GATEWAY

HOUSE OF PEACE Gateway House of Peace s a donor driven End of life home that cares for local residents and families during loved one’s final days at no charge to the family.

menu will include Fried or Baked Haddock ($15) or Fried Clam Strips ($12), each with French Fries, Cole Slaw, Tartar Sauce, and Cocktail Sauce; Macaroni and Cheese ($5); New England Clam Chowder (pint - $7/quart - $13); Single Order o French Fries ($3); and Dessert ($2 - when available). Call 518-584-8547 to place your order or for more information. A set number of orders will be scheduled for pickup at 5:00 and at intervals of every 15 minutes thereafter until sold out, so make sure to schedule early. As always, thank you for your support and helping us to continue our good works in the community.

50 Pine Road, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866 518-584-8547

The Saratoga Springs Retired Teachers Assoc.

Monthly Luncheon

Meeting

SARATOGA - The Saratoga Springs Retired Teachers Association will be holding their monthly luncheon meeting on Monday, March 6 at noon at The Holiday Inn, in the Win Room, 232 Broadway, Saratoga Springs. All retired K-12 teachers, BOCES teachers, and Teaching Assistants are welcome. For further information, call 518-584-1192.

Ballston Area

Seniors New Schedule for the Month of March

BALLSTON SPA - 1st Thursday—Gathering Day—Bring a lunch, play games, cards and Bingo

will be at 10:00 am $ 1.00 a card, money in—money out, we will stop for lunch, continue to play bingo if there are more games to be played.

2nd Thursday—General meeting—bring your lunch, speaker, special events and after the meeting bingo.

3rd Thursday—Board meeting, all members are encouraged to attend. Pizza, Bingo will be at 10:00 am

4th Thursday—General Meeting—Pot luck luncheon, bingo after the meeting.

5th Thursday of a month with 5 Thursdays in it will game day, pizza and Bingo will be at 10:00 am

The Catholic Daughters of the Americas (CDA) will hold Monthly Meeting

SARATOGA - The Catholic Daughters of the Americas (CDA), Court McLaughlin #422, will hold its monthly meeting on Tuesday, March 7th, at the Knights of Columbus, 50 Pine Road, Saratoga Springs. Members gather at 5:45PM for recitation of the Rosary, followed by refreshments until 6:30PM when the meeting will begin. CDA is one of the oldest and largest organizations of Catholic women in the Americas. Please join us. Any questions? Contact our Regent Lucille Koch by phone or text at 516-319-4577.

Malta Ridge UMC

Free Lunch

MALTA - The Malta Ridge United Methodist Church will hold a Free Lunch on Saturday,

March 11, 2023 at the Church located at 729 Malta Avenue Extension, in Malta Ridge. A soup and sandwich lunch will be served at no charge from 11:30am to 1:30pm. All are welcome. For additional information or directions please call the Church at 518-581-0210.

The Ballston Area Seniors Will Hold their Monthly Pickin’ Session

BALLSTON SPAWednesday, March 8, 2023 at the Milton Community Center, 310 Northline Rd. Ballston Spa, NY

Open to the Public, Free Admission & ample free parking.

Doors open 6:00 pm, Jam runs at 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm

All acoustic musicians who enjoy playing country/western, folk, gospel & bluegrass are welcome to participate.

If you don’t play, become part of the audience and enjoy the music. Bring a snack to share. Beverages provided. Call 518-885-4229 with questions.

Soup ‘n Chili SaleSt. Andrew’s Church

SCOTIA - St. Andrew’s Church in Scotia is getting ready for our annual SOUP SALE! This year, we are combining SOUP and CHILI into one event.

St. Andrew’s Church, 50 Sacandaga Rd. ScotiaSaturday, March 11, 11-2 Save the hour your losing tomorrow for Daylight Savings, by not cooking today! $5 /pint.

Siding Materials to Consider for Your Home

Exterior renovations consistently top the list of projects that offer maximum return on investment, according to Remodeling magazine’s annual “Cost vs. Value Report.”

Siding replacement is a popular exterior renovation and one that can completely transform the look of a home.

Siding comes in a variety of materials, and homeowners can explore the pros, cons and affordability of each to make the most informed decision when replacing their existing siding. Factors to consider apart from price include durability, maintenance and aesthetics.

Vinyl Vinyl siding is one the most popular siding materials in North America. That popularity is perhaps due to the relatively low cost of vinyl siding replacement, which Forbes Home estimates is between $6,150 and $15,900 to install for a 2,000-square-foot home. A wide array of color options as well as weatherproof protection makes vinyl siding worthy of consideration.

PVC, which is what vinyl siding is comprised of, also is quite fire-resistant. Potential pitfalls of vinyl are that it can fade more quickly than other siding materials and is sensitive to excess UV exposure.

Engineered

Engineered materials cost more than vinyl but are considered very durable. They can be advantageous in damp climates or ones where insects are problematic. LP SmartSide™ is a type of engineered hardwood that is very durable, so much so that a 50-year warranty often is offered for the product, according to First American Roofing & Siding. This material can be painted if homeowners desire a change of color down the line. This siding costs around $2.50 to $4.50 per square foot for siding and all trim accessories with an additional installation cost of $5.50 to $12.00 per square foot. The product is made of wooden strands that have been coated with wax for moisture resistance. A special zinc-based solution is added to protect against rot and insect infestation.

A similar product, HardiePlank™, is engineered from a blend of cement, wood fibers, fine sand, and water. It is similar in price point to the SmartSide and offers resistance to rot and insects. HardiePlank also can be repainted.

Engineered products can be more expensive to install and generally are not DIY renovations, which may deter homeowners working on tight budgets.

Wood siding

Wood is one of the oldest siding materials. It can be stained or painted and comes in a variety of styles, from boards to shingles. It’s a popular choice in historical homes or ones with classic, architectural details.

It’s important to note that wood is a combustible material that can be susceptible to water and insect damage. It also needs to be maintained continuously to look its best. This makes wood siding a true commitment on the part of homeowners. The cost is midrange between vinyl and engineered sidings.

Metal

Those interested in one of the most energy efficient options in siding can look no further than metal siding. Metal isn’t just for roofing. According to Colonial Contracting, Inc., metal siding creates a uniquely modern appearance and comes in a variety of styles that complement homes.

Unlike fiber, wood or vinyl products, metal siding reflects the sun’s rays and keeps interior temperatures cooler in the summer, a boon in hot climates but maybe not the most insulating option for cold climates. One potential pitfall is the possibility of rust, which would make metal siding a less ideal choice for those who live near the ocean. The cost of metal siding is comparable to other siding products, at around $10 per square foot.

These are a few of the siding options homeowners can investigate if they’re revamping the exteriors of their homes.

The Role of Nature in Home Design in the Years Ahead

Outdoor living spaces were prioritized during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, when public gatherings were greatly limited and individuals were urged to stay home as much as possible. Such demands have had a ripple effect on various industries, including home design. According to a survey conducted by the New Home Trends Institute in collaboration with Pro Builder, 58 percent of the more than 300 residential architects, designers and design-minded builders who participated said connection to the outdoors/nature will be an important influence on their design choices in the years to come. In addition, 45 percent of respondents indicated increased attention will be afforded to outdoor entertaining spaces.

So what might the outdoor spaces of homes built in the not-so-distant future look like? Respondents to the survey anticipated a growing demand for various built-in outdoor features, including:

• Firepits or fireplaces

• Outdoor kitchens

• Gazebos or pergolas

• Pools • Spas or hot tubs

Though trends and consumer demands are ever-shifting, architects and designers are anticipating that future homeowners will want more developed outdoor living spaces and greater access to nature, which is something current homeowners can keep in mind when renovating their properties.

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was shabby, dirty, dingy and in a state of disrepair,” Stein said just after her mother died.

The facility was once owned and run by Saratoga County. Then called Maplewood Manor, the county sold the facility in February 2015 to Saratoga Center for Care LLC. In June 2019, the nursing home and rehab center was placed on the “Special Focus Facility” watchlist by the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for providing care that “has consistently demonstrated failure to maintain compliance, as well as a history of facility practices that have resulted in harm to residents.”

It closed for good in 2021.

Under the settlements, the owners, unlicensed operator and landlord will collectively pay $7,168,000 to Medicaid, of which $4,300,800 will go directly to New York. The remaining $2,867,200 will be paid to the federal government.

James’ office encourages anyone with information or concerns about nursing home conditions to file a confidential complaint online or call the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit hotline at 833-249-8499.

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in the world and initiated the Community Torah Project, a long-term process of making a Torah scroll, which has involved more than 4,000 participants in the United States and internationally. The two combined their work in a project known as Bread and Torah in 2004, and continue to share their passions with interactive educational programs around the world.

The couple have been educators and ambassadors of goodwill to 15 states and Washington, D.C., and to Jewish communities in Mexico, Argentina, Chile, South Africa, New Zealand, Hungary and Poland.

“The rabbis are worthy of being co-recipients of the Four Chaplains Remembrance and Brotherhood Award that imparts the principles of selfless service to humanity without regard to race, creed, ethnicity, or religious beliefs,” Goldenberg said.

Reservations for the ceremony may be made by contacting Goldenberg at rgoldenb@nycap.rr.com or 518-727-7314.

Looking for Unique Vendors & ArtisansBallston

Area Senior Citizens Are

Up for their Annual Bazaar

Gearing

BALLSTON SPA - Saturday, October 7, 2023 at the Milton Community Center - 310 Northline Road Ballston Spa, NY 12020

What is your specialty? Pickles & relishes, jams & jellies, or any handmade crafts are appreciated and welcome. We are looking for you to join us.

Vendors of all kinds will be accepted on first come bases, for indoor spaces, until closing date October 2, 2023.

Indoor spaces-- 8’W x 7’D are $30.00 indoor only are (first come, first serve basis and electrical outlets indoor are limited).

Outdoor spaces-- 12’W x 10’D are $25.00

To receive an Exhibit Contract and the Hold Harmless agreement and pay to reserve your space.

Please contact Sue Heimburg with your Name & mailing address or e-mail sheim381@aol.com 0r call Sue @518-885-8037 / text message

BThe 4,700-square-foot Tudor-style home was built in 1981 and sits on an acre of land. uilt in 1981, the exterior of this week’s house reflects the medieval motif that distinguishes a Tudorstyle home — pitched roof, halftimbering, stucco and decorative masonry. The interior, however, embraces an updated, modern design starting with the home’s grand foyer that is especially striking with travertine flooring and a sweeping staircase that leads to a lofty second-level landing. From there, the 4,700-squarefoot house just keeps going to include 15 rooms — five bedrooms and four full bathrooms and two half-baths — a bright, white kitchen and a sunroom with vaulted ceiling and hot tub. Tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac, the

home sits on an acre of woodsy land and also features an in-ground saltwater pool.

List price: $949,900. Taxes: $17,550. For more information contact Frances Callahan, associate broker with Staged Nest Real Estate, at 518-265-9295 or fcallahan@stagednest.com.

Anthony M. Gucciardo

Licensed

518-331-3785