saratoga living 2019 'I Do!' Issue

*{who’s gonna win the kentucky derby? we know...}

JANUARY/ FEBRUARY 2019

T HE CIT Y. THE CU LT U R E. T H E LIFE.

DESTINATION: SARATOGA THE VENUE THE CAKE THE BAND THE RING

We Found The Dress!

By Rosie Case

Dream Honeymoon In Puerto Rico

By Marco Medrano

The Greatest (Saratoga) Love Story Ever Told

“I Do!”

By Natalie Moore

Bonita Baerjee, M.D. and her husband, Alex, at Saratoga National.

saratogaliving.com

{sl special report}

THE BOYS OF MECHANICVILLE: An EPIC TALE

By Tony Case

“Wedded bliss!

We couldn’t have been happier!”

Meet SPAC’s ‘Secret weapon’ By richard PÉrEz-Feria

‘The marvelous’ Michael ZEGEN, Skidmore Grad Let’s Go to Churchill Downs!

Hottest Ice Bars

& yes,

Chowderfest Haikus

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inside january | february 2019

“I Do!” 36 Double Duty 2019 BY

N ATA L I E M OO R E M AT T R A M OS

P H OTOG R AP H Y BY

42 Destination: Saratoga J O N A H BAYL I S S HE AT H E R B OHM -TA L L M A N

BY

PHOTO G R AP H Y BY

46 Piece By Piece BY

N ATA L I E M O OR E

THE DAY

56 THE STORY BY NATAL IE M O O R E 60 THE OFFICIANT BY W IL L L EVIT H 64 THE SCENE BY NATAL IE M O O R E 66 THE OBSTACLE BY J EF F D ING L ER 70 THE GROOM BY W IL L L EVIT H 73 THE DRESS BY R OS IE CAS E 74 THE ALTERNATIVE BY SARAH M IDANI 76 THE HONEYMOON BY M AR CO M ED RANO

78 Je T’aime ∂ 80 The Boys Of Mechanicville

STORY AN D P H OTOG R AP H Y BY

here comes the sun Timothy and Jeremiah Tyrrell share “The Scene” from their Saratoga wedding on page 64.

P H OTO GR A P H Y BY

OPTI M U M E XPOS U R E PH OTOGR A PH Y

K AT E DOYL E H OO P E R

TO N Y CA S E KYL E A DA M S

BY DO R I F I TZ PAT R I C K

BY

P H OTOG R AP H Y BY P OR TR AITS

90 Love Shack B EV E R LY T R ACY P H OTOG R AP H Y BY TJ T R ACY BY

Weddings At The Adelphi Hotel & Beyond...

For more information about in house or off premise weddings, contact our Director of Events, Connie Slocum at Connie@TheAdelphiHotel.com or (518) 678 - 6000 TheAdelphiHotel.com | 365 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 | (518) 678 - 6000 Photo courtosey of Tracey Buyce

inside

MORE CHOICE. MORE SAVINGS. MORE VALUE.

january | february 2019

8 Digital 12 MVP 14 From The Editor

the front

94 7 Questions For NBA Coaching Great George Karl {exclusive} BY BRI EN BO U Y E A I L LUSTRATI ON BY

JO H N DALY

96 David Hill Paints A Picture BY

JEFF DING L ER

100 We Know The Winner!

BY

WILL LEVITH

102 It’s Accelerate Vs. History For ‘Horse Of The Year’ BY

#1 VOLUME FORD DEALER IN UPSTATE NY FOR THE 2ND YEAR IN A ROW*

28

FORD EXPLORER

FORD EDGE

Whitney Houston

32 Canvas: Lauren Childs

FORD F-150

the back 104 Calendar 106 Luxe: Spa Mirbeau 108 Beautiful Design 110 Horse Travel: Louisville 114 Food: Prime At Saratoga National 114 Drink: Cantina 118 Saratoga After Dark 127 Play: Crossword Puzzle + Mad Libs

JAY HOVDEY, DAILY RACING FORM

the end 128 *Saratogian Of The Month: Chris Shiley

108

(100) SUSIE RAISHER; (28) THE SAGAMORE RESORT; (108) BEVERLY TRACY

100

17 Saratoga By The Numbers 17 #lovewhereyoulive 18 Saratoga Goes Hollywood: SNL 20 Skidmore Stars: Michael Zegen 22 Power Player: Wilame Piteri 24 Horse Tip 25 ’Toga Dogs On Insta 25 This Month In History 26 Rhyme Time 26 Hmm...

27 Today’s Special 28 Trend City: Ice Bars 30 Retrospac:

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digital

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t’s 2019 and we’re excited here at saratoga living!

Besides our epic, reimagined magazine, we’ll be bringing you another powerful year of digital content at saratogaliving.com—and we have more than a few new tricks up our sleeve.

Managed by FENIMORE ASSET MANAGEMENT

• Go to saratogaliving.com for relevant, impactful stories and features about Saratoga Springs and the Capital Region. Look out for exclusive interviews with top musicians, comedians, chefs and much, much more

Retirement planning

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Securities offered through Fenimore Securities, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC and advisory services offered through Fenimore Asset Management, Inc.

Richard Pérez-Feria EDITOR IN CHIEF

ON THE COVER Bonita Banerjee, M.D. and her husband, Alex, photographed

by Matt Ramos. Shot at Saratoga National Golf Course in Saratoga Springs.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

MANAGING EDITOR

SENIOR EDITOR

SENIOR WRITER

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EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

EDITORS AT LARGE

Kathleen Gates Will Levith Natalie Moore Anne Newgarden Jeff Dingler Linda Gates Marco Medrano Abby Tegnelia Beverly Tracy Bill Henning Hakan Akyuz Dori Fitzpatrick Alex Cappelletti, Christy Ciota Linnea Harris, Natalie Jacobs Hannah Kotler, Mike Park Conor Pochna, Simone Teague Greg Calejo, Susan Gates, James Long

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Karen Bjornland, Brien Bouyea, Tony Case, Colin Cowie, Kyan Douglas Kate Doyle Hooper, Teresa A. Genaro, Cornelia Guest, Simon Murray Octavio Roca, Kevin Sessums, Zachary Weiss WRITERS

Jonah Bayliss, Rosie Case, Rebecca Hardiman, Jacqueline Kuron Jordan Levin, Sandy MacDonald, Joe Mastrianni, Maria McBride Bucciferro Sarah Midani, Katie Navarra, Mario Quirce, William Roach Mitch Rustad, Michael Slezak, Joe “Woody” Wood

EXPERIENCE THE BRAND NEW

ARTISTS / PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kyle Adams, Meaghan Aldridge, Fahnon Bennett, Dave Bigler, Gabriella Boschetti Tracey Buyce, Lauren Childs, David Cowles, Francesco D’Amico, John Daly Katie Dobies, Billy Francis LeRoux, Anna Murray, Ian Parker, Terri-Lynn Pellegri Susie Raisher, Matt Ramos, Robert Risko, Myrna Suárez, TJ Tracy

saratoga living is published six times a year by Saratoga Living LLC. Subscriptions: Domestic, $19.95 per year; Canadian, $24.95 per year (non-refundable). Application to mail at periodicals’ postage rate is pending at Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to saratoga living 422 Broadway, Suite 203 Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

Becky Kendall PUBLISHER

PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR

Volume 21, No. 1, January/February 2019 Copyright © 2019 Saratoga Living LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without written permission from Saratoga Living LLC. All editorial queries should be directed to editorial@saratogaliving.com; or sent to 422 Broadway, Suite 203, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. saratoga living assumes no responsibility for unsolicited submissions.

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FINANCE DIRECTOR SUBSCRIPTIONS MANAGER

⁄ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2019

DIGITAL ACCOUNT MANAGER

MARKETING CONSULTANTS

Chelsea Moore Steve Bouchard Pamela Grandin Rachael Rieck Kathie González AMPLIFY Partners, New York City

Saratoga Living LLC Anthony Ianniello

Featuring an entirely new design and atmosphere, Putnam Place is downtown Saratoga’s premier upscale bar and event space. Whether its presenting international touring bands on our state-of-the-art stage, or catering and hosting your next private event, Putnam Place has the staff, size, and style to make it unforgettable. sta

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TONY CASE WRITER, “THE BOYS OF MECHANICVILLE”

As a Saratoga Springs-based writer whose work has been featured in Variety, Adweek and Ad Age, I’ve written extensively about media, marketing and culture. In this issue of saratoga living, I write about Mechanicville’s most famous sons, a fraternity of gentlemen who’ve made major financial and civic contributions to the Capital Region. Having grown up in a small town in the South, I found the people and surroundings of Mechanicville familiar territory. I believe all small towns are basically alike, no matter where they are.

Every town has its old-timers, eccentrics and gossips; and yet, every town also has something undeniably unique about it. Mechanicville has a rich, proud heritage that most definitely has had a lasting influence on the people who are from there. Such is the case with these remarkable powerhouse buddies.

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www.complexions.com

from the editor

The

marriage

havana heaven Manuel and Addy PĂŠrez-Feria recently celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary and still clearly exude that transcendent, palpable happiness you can only have when you find your true soul mate; (opposite) on their wedding day in Cuba in 1961.

View our diamond engagement rings online and in-store or schedule a design consultation with Evan deJonghe to begin creating the perfect ring.

Not coincidentally, my parents’ ridiculously blissful journey, I believe, is the reason that the very concept of marriage has always been a bit opaque for me to fully embrace. Now, to be clear, the reception after the ceremony?

Oh, yeah; I’m all in—I do love a messy party! But the tedious, ritualistic, archaic submission the actual ceremony accentuates has always struck me as so not for me. Not even a little. But being the gregarious, outgoing fellow I purport to be, who’s been genuinely blessed with literally hundreds of dear friends in my well-traveled life, I’ve found myself invited to countless weddings over my post-college years. I’ve witnessed, with varying degrees of laughter and tears, as my friends have embarked on their next adventure with their beloveds in myriad settings, including elopements in Vegas, extravagant nuptials in Sydney, beach affairs in Cabo and, yes, City Halls in San Francisco, Miami and New York City. I’ve been present for so much

Custom diamond engagement ring in 14k rose gold showcasing a 1.0ct emerald cut diamond

love that when I’m in a darkened movie theater watching the likes of Julia Roberts or Jennifer Lopez in their latest romantic opus, I realize that I do believe in love and in happy endings. Luckily and, in some ways unbelievably, I, too, have found my happily ever after. Gratitude doesn’t begin dJoriginals.com to cover my good fortune.

My brother, clearly a late bloomer, after a deJonghe Original Jewelr y • 470 Broadway, Saratoga Springs • 518-587- 6422816'& $'56 +0 816'& $'56 +0 lifetime of searching, finally met his better Š 2018

>ÂŤÂˆĂŒ>Â? ÂˆĂƒĂŒĂ€ÂˆVĂŒ ÂˆĂ› 816'& $'56 +0

>ÂŤÂˆĂŒ>Â? ÂˆĂƒĂŒĂ€ÂˆVĂŒ ÂˆĂ›ÂˆÂ˜} half a few years ago and is now engaged /Â…i ->Ă€>ĂŒÂœ}ˆ>˜

>ÂŤÂˆĂŒ>Â? ÂˆĂƒĂŒĂ€ÂˆVĂŒ ÂˆĂ›ÂˆÂ˜} /Â…i ->Ă€>ĂŒÂœ}ˆ>˜ to be married for the first time. I can’t ->Ă€>ĂŒÂœ}> /Âœ`>Ăž /Â…i ->Ă€>ĂŒÂœ}ˆ>˜ ->Ă€>ĂŒÂœ}> /Âœ`>Ăž tell you how excited all of us are for the ->Ă€>ĂŒÂœ}> /Âœ`>Ăž 816'& $'56 +0 jubilant couple (she’s easily the very best Saratoga’s

>ÂŤÂˆĂŒ>Â? ÂˆĂƒĂŒĂ€ÂˆVĂŒ ÂˆĂ›ÂˆÂ˜} 816'& $'56 +0 thing that has ever happened to him). And 816'& $'56 +0 /Â…i ->Ă€>ĂŒÂœ}ˆ>˜

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If the day ever comes that I agree to actually get married, I’ll do it with the knowledge that, when it comes to a forever love, I had the best role models of them all. So, with that, I say “thank youâ€? to these wonderful, silly, caring people, Manuel and Addy PĂŠrez-Feria, for showing me—and everyone they %NCUU 'XGPVU 5EJGFWNG r /GGV 1WT +PUVTWEVQTU r $W[ %NCUUGU love—what marriage can and should be. f ;1)#/#0&#.+ %1/ 5KIP WR HQT 'OCKN 7RFCVGU r ;QIC 6GCEJGT 6TCKPKPI 2TQITCO %NCUU 'XGPVU 5EJGFWNG r /GGV 1WT +PUVTWEVQTU r $W[ %NC Love is in the air, people. Can you feel %NCUU 'XGPVU 5EJGFWNG r /GGV 1WT +PUVTWEVQTU r $W[ %NCUUGU f ;1)#/#0&#.+ %1/ f ;1)#/#0&#.+ %1/ r ;QIC 6GCEJGT 6TCKPKPI 2TQITC 5KIP WR HQT 'OCKN 7RFCVGU %NCUU 'XGPVU 5EJGFWNG r r/GGV 1WT +PUVTWEVQTU r $W[ %NCUUGU ;QIC 6GCEJGT 6TCKPKPI 2TQITCO 5KIP WR HQT 'OCKN 7RFCVGU *Ă€ÂœĂ•`Â?Ăž ĂƒiĂ€Ă›ÂˆÂ˜} ÂœĂ•Ă€ VÂœÂ“Â“Ă•Â˜ÂˆĂŒĂž vÂœĂ€ [GCTU it? Something borrowed, indeed. f ;1)#/#0&#.+ %1/

Saratoga’s Saratoga’s Saratoga’s

Best Yoga Studio Best Yoga Studio Best Yoga Studio

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LĂž ÂœvviĂ€ÂˆÂ˜} ĂžÂœ}> VÂ?>ĂƒĂƒiĂƒ FC[U C YGGM 5KIP WR FC[U C [GCT

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VAROĂš

s I write this, on my mother’s birthday no less (she’s 84 and fabulous, thanks for asking), I feel compelled to look up at the wall behind me in my home office to once again take in a striking, black-and-white photograph of my parents’ wedding day in Cuba watching over me. The beautifully framed, magazine-coverworthy image is stunning— they look like Rock Hudson and Doris Day in Havana— and it reflects the unabashed joy their four children have aspired to find in a partner for themselves. Manuel and Addy PÊrezFeria recently celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary and still clearly exude that transcendent, palpable happiness you can only have when you find your true soul mate. Mom and Dad are quite the example of what a great marriage and romantic partnership can really look like. And how.

Bridal Collection

->vi] Â˜Ă•Ă€ĂŒĂ•Ă€ÂˆÂ˜} iÂ˜Ă›ÂˆĂ€ÂœÂ˜Â“iÂ˜ĂŒ ĂœÂˆĂŒÂ… > YKFG XCTKGV[ QH ENCUUGU ĂŒÂœ “iiĂŒ >Â?Â? ˜ii`Ăƒ

the front #lovewhereyoulive

saratoga by the numbers “I Do!”

40

The cost, in dollars, to get married at Saratoga Springs City Hall

36,967

The average cost, in dollars, of a wedding in Saratoga Springs

25,764

The average cost, in dollars, of a wedding in the US

513

The number of marriage licenses issued in Saratoga Springs in 2018

74,534

The number of marriage licenses issued in Clark County (Las Vegas) in 2018

95

The cost per person, in dollars, for a wedding reception at the Saratoga Hall of Springs

May 19, 2018 9:12pm Saratoga Golf & Polo Club

1280

The cost per person, in dollars, for a wedding at Oceana Restaurant in Manhattan

2250

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The average cost, in dollars, of a wedding dress at Lily Saratoga

388,088

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The cost of Dutchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton’s wedding dress

T

Showstopper!

he Accents play at the Wesley Gala in Saratoga Springs while donors drink, mingle and dance well into the night. I was at the gala for saratoga living, on an assignment that took me from the chauffeured crowd of the Saratoga Golf & Polo Club straight to the sticky-floor bars of Caroline Street.

I was looking for a classic shot of elegant entertainment, and The Accent’s vocalist Stephanie Robinson delivered with charisma and grace.

–KYLE ADAMS, PHOTOGRAPHER

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WE’RE SO RE ADY TO SHOW Y O U W H AT W E ’ V E G O T !

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ABOVE & BEYOND It’s a philosophy of service.

It’s a foundation of trust.

It’s going the extra mile.

fake news A silly 2018 SNL skit, starring cast member Cecily Strong and guest host Jonah Hill, featured a fictional Albany news station.

saratoga goes hollywood

Live From The Capital Region…

It’s Saturday Night Live!

It’s a commitment to being your best.

It’s a ripple effect for good.

It works in life.

It works in banking.

F U N N Y SKI TS H I T C LO S E TO H O M E O N N B C ’S I C O NIC S H OW.

BY N ATA LI E M O O R E

O saratoga living saratoga living

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THE LUXURY ISSUE

ARIANA ROCKEFELLER

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THE RACES!

AUGUST 2018

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“I DO!” THE WEDDING ISSUE

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everywhere anywhere

n November 3, 2018, Saturday Night Live (SNL) aired a skit about KCR News Albany, an imaginary, dysfunctional local news channel based in the Capital City, which starred SNL cast members Leslie Jones, Kenan Thompson, Cecily Strong and guest host Jonah Hill.

Inexplicably, the video has since been taken down from the SNL website (NBC did not respond to saratoga living’s request for comment about why this occurred). But it got us thinking: Have there been any other SNL skits set in the Capital Region?

We found one: a 2012 skit in the form of a political ad about fictitious Mayoral Candidate Glenda Okones (portrayed by Kristen Wiig), who’s running in the town of “Glen Falls.” Whether SNL intended to take a dig at the very real “Glens Falls,” just 25 minutes north of Saratoga, remains up for serious debate.

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#SLNY

518.584.7500 © 2018 Adirondack Trust Company

marvel comic Actor Michael Zegen is a big part of what has made The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel such an awards season darling.

skidmore stars

The Marvelous Mr. Maisel LOOK, IT’S MICHAEL ZEGEN, SKIDMORE GRAD! n BY WILL LEVITH

W

hen my wife and I first discovered the gloriousness that is Amazon Studios’ The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel when it premiered two years ago, we binge-watched the entire first season faster than any other show in the history of our streaming ways. It was that good. And Hollywood awards voters have since wholeheartedly agreed with us, awarding the show with a staggering eight Emmys and three Golden Globes, including back-to-back Best Actress wins for Rachel Brosnahan, who plays the titular Mrs. Maisel. Now with its second season currently streaming, the show is poised to take awards season by storm again, and one of the main reasons is a tour-de-force performance by actor Michael Zegen, who plays Maisel’s down-on-his-luck husband, Joel.

It turns out that the actor has an impressive pedigree: Zegen, who’s also appeared in HBO’s multiple Emmy/Golden Globe-winning gangster drama, Boardwalk Empire, and the Golden Globe-nominated film Frances Ha, graduated from Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs.

Talk about a winning Thoroughbred.

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Have beautiful 19th 19th century centurymuseum museum Have your your shower shower or wedding in a beautiful located Troy at Street. located in in the the heart heart of of Victorian Victorian downtown downtown Troy at 57 57 Second Second Street.

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industrial metropolis of São Paulo, Brazil.

At the age of just 17, with an old truck that his father had given him, Piteri opened his own trucking and transportation company called Osasco Express. Within two years, his trucking company was the biggest in Downtown São Paulo, delivering up to 40,000 parcels a month. As well as he was doing, though, Piteri had his sights set on much bigger things—a lot farther away. “I have friends here in the Northeast,” he says. “One year, I visited some of them in Rhode Island, and I liked it a lot. They told me that this country was amazing and full of opportunities.”

THE BRAZILIAN BUSINESS WIZ HAS TURNED SOL ENTERPRISES INTO A BURGEONING BEHEMOTH SERVING SEVEN STATES.

“I started my career as a cleaner on Ballston Avenue, and I fell in love with Saratoga Springs on the first day.”

Wilame Piteri, Saratoga’s King Of Clean

BY J E F F DI N GLE R ph oto g r aph y by K AT IE D O B IES

O mr. clean Piteri’s Sol Enterprises has more than 300 employees and services large and small companies, including Price Chopper’s Market 32.

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⁄ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2019

K, OK…I’m a neat freak.

Growing up, I was the kid more interested in reorganizing a cluttered bookshelf or an overstuffed toy chest than getting dirty playing football. Even as an adult, I’m a bit fanatical about regularly making my bed, cleaning my room and scrubbing my bathroom (I even color code my wardrobe).

Wilame Piteri understands where I’m coming from. He’s the President and Founder of Sol Enterprises, a professional cleaning service based in Saratoga Springs that has clients in seven states across the Northeast.

“Quality is really important in this business,” says Piteri. “If it isn’t clean, then we didn’t do our job right.” Sol Enterprises provides a full-spectrum of janitorial services, including high-speed floor burnishing and waxing, restroom sanitation and replenishment, window cleaning and secure trash removal.

Piteri grew up in the sprawling,

Leaving Osasco Express in the hands of his brother, Piteri moved to the US in December 2002 with just $300 in his pocket and no real business plan. But he did have some friends in Saratoga.

“I started my career as a cleaner on Ballston Avenue, and I fell in love with Saratoga Springs on the first day,” says Piteri. Within six months, he’d opened his first business in the Spa City, WW Cleaning. Though no longer in business, WW Cleaning gave Piteri the experience to found Sol Enterprises in 2012. Skip ahead seven years, and Sol now has more than 300 employees, and services large and small companies alike (including Price Chopper’s Market 32), as well as households from New York to Maine and all states in between.

As for what makes Sol Enterprises outshine the competition, Piteri tells me that the company has its own brand of wax, finishers and cleaners, and even makes some of its own equipment, such as the company’s grout cleaner. “This allows us to keep the price low and the quality high,” he says. Sounds like my neat freak self may just have to finally let go and give these talented professionals a try.

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horse tip

Derby Bound

D E C E M B E R 1 5 , 201 8 | SAR ATOGA S P R I N G S

T H E R U N F O R T H E RO S ES MAY GO T H R O U GH N E W YO RK .

BY B R I E N B O U YE A

T

he New York road to the Kentucky Derby kicked off on New Year’s Day when Mind Control won the Jerome Stakes at Aqueduct Racetrack in Queens, NY. The Jerome is the first of four Empire Statebased races that award qualifying points for the 2019 Run for the Roses. The Withers Stakes (February a beautiful mind 2), Gotham Stakes (above) Mind Control (March 9) and winning the 2018 Wood Memorial Hopeful Stakes at (April 6)—all historic Saratoga contested at Race Course.

Aqueduct—give Derby hopefuls an early chance to prove they belong in the starting gate at Churchill Downs on May 4. Mind Control won the Hopeful Stakes at Saratoga in 2018.

Will he make the cut? Stay tuned.

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Saratoga Spa Park, Landmark

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hough it was first established in 1909, Saratoga Spa State Park officially became a National Historic Landmark on February 27, 1987. National Historic Landmarks are places that hold national significance and illustrate US heritage, and the park earned the designation for its role in the history of conservation, recreation and the medicinal quality of Saratoga's water, as well as its buildings’ design. The National Park Service recognizes 1835-1935 as the park’s period of greatest significance.

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rhyme time

We asked our social media followers to submit haikus about one of Saratoga’s most anticipated events: Chowderfest. Here are our top picks.

1st Prize:

Chowder cheer is here Grab a friend and grab a beer The best time of year – SARAH RODGERS, Burlington

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

It’s freezing outside My hands are terribly numb Chowder’s amazing!

–JONAH BAYLISS, Saratoga Springs

A chill in the air As chowder warms every hand In town having fun –KAITLYN CASA, Cedar Grove, NJ

The closest of friends Chase rich chowder with cold beer Somehow it warms them –JULIA COLASANTI, Chicago

This Chef Loves Marino’s

hmm...

Albany Goes Super, Super, Super Size

WE ASKED HARVEY’S CHEF WHAT HIS GO-TO PIZZA JOINT IS.

WA LM A RT ’S LA R GE ST SU P E R C E N T ER IN AMERICA I S R I GH T H E R E . n BY N ATA LI E M O O RE

PHOTOG RAPHY BY

A

lbany may not have the lowest property taxes in the State of New York or be the hottest tourist destination in the Capital Region (see: Saratoga Springs). But when it comes to big-box stores of record-breaking sizes, the Capital City takes the cake. Retail giant Walmart unveiled the country’s largest Supercenter—and its largest outside of China—in Crossgates Commons in Albany in 2008, when the company merged an existing, regular-sized Walmart with a vacant Sam’s Club location. Now, the 260,000-squarefoot, two-story retail shopping sanctuary serves patrons aplenty—and even has its own escalator for customers’ shopping carts. So what if Albany isn’t another Saratoga?

Its Walmart Supercenter crushes ours.

F RANC ES C O D’AMIC O

MATT H. WADE

Chowderfest Haikus!

marino’s goes deep A sausage, pepper and onion pizza from Marino’s on the corner of West Circular and Union Streets.

“My pick would be Marino’s. When I first made my way out to Saratoga Springs and got the job at Harvey’s as Sous Chef, the Chef at the time and I went there a week before we opened to discuss what to expect for the summer and what our focuses were. It’s great pizza, and it also kicked off my career in Saratoga.

It’s a cool place and my go-to.”

–ADAM HUMPHREY HEAD CHEF HARVEY’S RESTAURANT & BAR

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Saratoga’s Ski Shop... is so much more!

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the

Improve your home’s efficiency this winter with Marvin Windows.

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Sooo Cool

IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR: ICE BARS!

BY KAREN BJORNLAND

(February 8-9)

I

Another ice bar that gets the temperature right for me is the Prime Polar Ice Bar at Saratoga National, which is inside a heated tent and has a number of other perks, such as a cigar station. “A guy is there rolling cigars for the gentlemen,” says Marketing Manager Devin Sherin. (I’m sure he’ll do it for the ladies, too.) Prime’s ice bar also cranks the fun up to an 11, with ice versions of cornhole and ladder ball. And because everything goes down under a tent, the ice bar even has its own live band and DJ, with ample room to dance. Oh, and did I mention the made-of-ice selfie station?

Perfect for your Ice-stagram page.

don’t know about you, but in order for me to actually enjoy a cocktail outdoors in the winter, I need to be warm—really warm. Here are a few of my top picks for best (and warmest) ice bar in the Capital Region.

THE SAGAMORE RESORT, GLACIER ICE BAR & LOUNGE

(January 25-26 and February 1-3)

your unique edding now.tastes and personality to eed from wedding receptions, room atogahilton.com

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The Sagamore’s Glacier Ice Bar & Lounge checks off all the boxes for me: You can get a well-made cocktail there, and it has a firepit and lush, faux fur on its frosty bar stools to warm your soul (and backside).

That, and it’s got the most romantic view of them all, which can be imbibed from The Saratoga Hilton provides the only full-service the Sagamore’s terrace, overlooking wedding experience, on Broadway, in the heart frozen Lake George and the snowy of downtown Saratoga Springs. Our dedicated The Saratoga Hilton provides only full-service on wedding professionals workthe with you to bring wedding experience, Adirondack Mountains. The resort’s been Broadway, in the heart of personality downtown Saratoga wedding your unique tastes and to life. Springs. Our dedicateddoing the ice bar thing since 2014 and has We accommodate youryou every needyour fromunique wedding professionals work with to bring tastes and personality had antooriginal design every year. “We receptions, room reservations, menu planning life.

We accommodate your every need from wedding receptions, room have our own master carver,” says resort and decor, tomenu create your unforgettable reservations, planning and decor, to day. create your unforgettable day. spokesperson Jennifer Forte Cuomo. “He can make almost anything out of ice.” ©2017 Hilton Worldwide now.

Start planning your dream wedding Call 518 693 1004 or visit saratogahilton.com ©2017 Hilton Worldwide

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have an ice day Bellini’s giant ice luge; (top) the Sagamore’s ice bar features faux fur stool-warmers; (opposite) Prime’s Polar Ice Bar features a frozen version of cornhole.

(January 30-3 1)

For those of you who want to check all of those boxes and do a little good, too, Bellini’s Italian Eatery’s Ice Bar in Latham is the place for you. Bellini’s does an annual benefit for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and in the past four years, has raised more than $31,000 with its Fire & Ice Cocktail Party and Ice Bar Ladies Night.

399 Clinton Street, Saratoga Springs, NY • 518.584.6290

a l p i n e s p o rt s h o p . c o m

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didn’t she almost have it all?

The late Whitney Houston shot one of her many No.1 singles’ music videos at SPAC.

retrospac

When Whitney Blew Us Away H O U STO N ’S SPAC P ERF O RMANC E WE N T LI V E O N M T V— IT WAS EPIC.

BY WI LL LE V I T H

MTV

E

very week or so when I was growing up in Saratoga Springs, we’d pile into the family car and drive to Schenectady to visit my grandparents. One of my favorite parts of visiting them? Enjoying the “free” cable access in their sun room before dinner. There, I’d catch up on all the MTV I’d been missing out on at my cable-less home. And I gather, during one of those regular binges, I caught the video for Whitney Houston’s single, “Didn’t We Almost Have It All,” the second from her multiplatinum-selling 1987 album, Whitney.

I also probably didn’t notice that the video, a live number, had been filmed at Saratoga Performing Arts Center. (Feel free to drop that knowledge at your next Saratoga cocktail party.) Pop culture trivia slays ’em every time. And Whitney slayed at SPAC!

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canvas

Lauren Childs’ Wedding Wonders T H E SA R ATO GA-B ASE D GR A P H I C DE SI GN E R I LLU ST R AT E S T H E B I G DAY B E AU T I F U LLY.

BY N ATA LI E M O O R E

getting hitched Graphic designer Lauren Childs is incorporating horse drawings her mom made into her own wedding invitations for her Saratoga nuptials this summer.

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⁄ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2019

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esigning wedding invitations isn’t Lauren Childs’ day job. Most of the Saratoga Springs-based graphic designer’s work is in the advertising field: Her clients include Coca-Cola, FIFA’s World Cup and the American Cancer Society.

But along with her strategic marketing skills, Childs also has a knack for calligraphy.

And doodling. (Maybe you saw her elegant drawing of Downtown Saratoga’s Adirondack Trust Company branch in saratoga living’s 2018 Holiday Issue.) So Childs started designing invitations for her friends who’d gotten engaged. “I knew their style and personality more than someone they’d never met,” she says.

But recently, she tackled an altogether different (and decidedly more difficult) challenge. It’s now Childs who’s engaged, and, sure enough, she’s been on the case, crafting her own wedding invitations. “I literally did it the day after I got engaged,” she says.

“I was like, ‘Yes, finally: my own wedding!’” She opted for a simple, horsethemed design—she’s getting married in Saratoga right smack-dab in the middle of track season— and incorporated horse drawings by her mom based on photographs taken at Saratoga Race Course. “I’d say it’s harder to make my own invitations, because

write or dye (clockwise from top left) Designer Lauren Childs; invitations Childs designed for a friend; Childs prints her invitations at PaperDolls of Saratoga; a hand-lettered table card; the save-the-date for Childs’ own wedding.

I’ve seen so many designs,” she says. “And since I designed them myself, I keep making changes.”

You can see more of Childs’ work on Instagram at @lechilds or on her website, laurenchildscreative.com.

Maybe you’ll even get to see her final wedding invitation design. If she ever stops perfecting it, that is.

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E V E RYON E LOV E S A LOV E STORY AND W E WA N T TO M A K E S U RE YOU H AV E E V E RY TH I N G YOU N E E D TO K NOW TO P ULL OFF YOU R P E RFE C T SA R ATOG A WE DDI NG— R A I N , S N OW OR S H I NE .

2019

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couple goals Bonita Banerjee, M.D. and her husband, Alex, at Saratoga National Golf Course, the venue for the second ceremony of their jam-packed wedding day.

DOUBLE

DUTY

I

One Bride.

Two Weddings.

One Perfect Day.

BY NATALIE MOORE

’ve been to three weddings in my life: one when I was ten, one that served pudding instead of dinner and one that was my grandfather’s (weird, I know). All were within an hour and a half of my house, and none were in Saratoga Springs. So when the saratoga living team decided to name Saratoga one of the world’s greatest destination wedding locations and needed some amazing wedding stories to support that claim, I had to call for backup.

Enter Tonya Pellegrini-Lawrence: Downtown Business Association powerhouse, eventplanner extraordinaire and one of the coolest women I’ve met in Saratoga (who, by the way, has one of the greatest stories of how she met her husband I’ve ever heard—ask her about it).

Tonya came into our offices with fantastical hindu accord Bonita and Alex in tales of weddings gone wrong, weddings gone traditional Hindu wedding attire at so, so right and one destination wedding so amazing, it made me want their morning ceremony at the National to literally get up and propose to my boyfriend right then and there.

Museum of Dance in Saratoga.

(Luckily, I know that he doesn’t actually read any of the stories I write, so he won’t see this little tidbit.) The couple was Bonita Banerjee and her husband to be, Alex, and instead of traveling to Saratoga from Washington, DC to have one unforgettable wedding ceremony, they decided to have two—a Hindu ceremony in the morning at the National Museum of Dance and a traditional, Western-style, whitedress wedding in the afternoon at Saratoga National Golf Club. And to top it all off, Bonita, whose parents live in Scotia, was coming up to the Capital Region just a week after Tonya told me her wedding story and bringing with her 1600 unbelievable wedding photos, shot by the talented Guilderland-based photographer Matt Ramos.

The photos that follow give a behind-the-scenes look at that unforgettable, totally exhausting, totally worth-it day.

Sure, I may not have actually been there in person, but this wedding totally trumps the three I’ve been to. By far.

P H OTO G R A P H Y

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36 saratoga living

⁄ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2019

BY

M AT T

R A M O S

TE X T BY B ONI TA B ANE R J E E , M. D.

(top left) Most of these fine gentlemen traveled across the country to be by Alex’s side. (top right) This was the moment when my dad just wouldn’t stop talking during his speech.

This surprised zero people who knew him! Although I was mortified, the guests later said they really enjoyed it. That’s my dad—always the character.

(left) Alex had his custom wedding suit made by his friends at Clements and Church in Oxford, UK. On it, we found many fun, embroidered surprises. (right) There’s my mom and dad! My mom had been battling some serious health issues the past two years, but she gathered her strength for the wedding and was able to walk by herself!

Better yet, her health has continued to improve, and she’s doing so much better!

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⁄ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2019

(clockwise from top left) Lemon cake with raspberry and mocha filling for the guests, carrot cake for us.

Bright pink set against navy blue was the color theme of our traditional American wedding.

We couldn’t have been happier with the flower bouquets.

It was a magical evening at Saratoga National Golf Course with amazing entertainment from Silver Arrow Band.

We wanted the evening wedding to be elegant and romantic. Samantha Nass made it all happen with her gorgeous flowers and decor, which included these ginormous, beautiful candelabras.

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(top left) The term for “aunt” in Bengali is masi, and growing up, I used it to refer to any one of my mom’s girlfriends from Bengal. Here, two of my masis are helping me get ready for the Hindu ceremony by applying special wedding makeup. (top right) One Hindu/Bengali wedding tradition is the bride’s grand entrance. I was carried in by my cousin, brother-in-law and two of my best friends on a wooden stool called a piri with my face covered with lotus leaves.

(A bride isn’t supposed to see the groom until she meets him up at the altar, which is called a mandap.)

Once we got up to the mandap, we had to circle around the groom seven times. Luckily, they didn’t drop me!

(left) Mala is the term for a flower garland worn in Hindu weddings. It represents happiness, excitement and beauty, all tied together on one string that symbolizes the marital union. Alex and I exchanged these malas as part of our ceremony. (right) Every Indian wedding incorporates some kind or amount of gold. Growing up, I remember seeing my mom with these gorgeous pieces that looked like they belonged in a museum and she’d say, “This is for your wedding day!” Then she’d roll her eyes when I’d proceed to tell her that “I’m not really a gold person.” But it was pretty awesome finally wearing them on our wedding day. (opposite) Typically, the night before her wedding, an Indian bride and her girlfriends have Mehndi, or henna, applied to their hands, which symbolizes prosperity and good luck. The designs end up looking amazing, and your hands are stained a black/deep-red color for weeks. I opted out for two reasons. One was because, as an emergency room doctor, I wasn’t sure how my patients would feel about something that looked like blood on my hands. The second reason? I’m the least patient person I know, and these designs would’ve required me to sit still for hours. So…you can never have too much gold!

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Our wedding day

went down a little differently than most—mainly because we had absolutely no idea where it was going to take place. (Yes, you read that right.) Surrounded by my father, two brothers and a pair of best friends, I descended the elevator at The Saratoga Hilton adorned in a custom-fit, velvet Robert Graham blazer that I’d splurged on for the big day. I was feeling good. Scratch that, great. This was it. I was getting hitched. My wedding party and I clinked our glasses and said “Cheers!” and the chauffeur closed the door to our limousine. We were officially on our way to my wedding, destination unknown. ⁄

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DESTINATION:

SARATOGA WHEN A PRO BAS EBALL PL AYER A N D H IS BRIDE-TO - BE CO ULDN’T FIND T HE TIM E F O R T H E BIG DAY, M O M - IN- L AW TO O K OV ER. GO O D C A LL.

BY JONAH BAYLISS PHOTOGRAPHY BY

H E AT H E R B O H M -TA L L M A N

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a total experience.

D

ue to the unpredictability of my career as a professional baseball player, my bride-to-be, Austin, and I had been through several iterations of a wedding plan, none of which ever came to fruition. From a mountainscape country wedding to Vegas nuptials, it seemed that every idea we put into action was met with some form of fortuitous roadblock. Defeated and deflated, we threw in the proverbial towel. That is, until the unofficial patron saint of happy weddings—a.k.a. my mother-in-law—showed up.

It was almost as if, in an instant, Austin’s mom miraculously transformed from mother-in-law into fairy godmother. “Fear not,” Deb said. “Allow me to accept the burden of your trials and deliver you a splendid wedding that will remain in family lore for decades to come.” She was the brains behind it all.

The limo pulled up, and there we were at the picturesque Canfield Casino, made even more so by the light December snow falling. Austin walked down the aisle to the soft tones of electric guitar played by her high school friend. It was more than either of us had ever imagined. It was perfect.

So perfect, in fact, that we now live in Saratoga.

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B

esides being a horse racing mecca and major center for the arts, Saratoga Springs annually plays host to countless weddings planned both by residents and visitors, such as Austin and me, at the time. And weddings spell big business for the city and its many local venues, restaurants and stores; so says costofwedding.com, the average couple spends some $40,000 on their Saratoga nuptials, with that number skyrocketing as high as $150,000 or more, depending on the number of guests in attendance. San Diego residents Michael and Sarah Cooper count themselves among the lucky ones who’ve had their dream “destination wedding” in Saratoga. Native Saratogians, the couple made the trek back East for obvious reasons. “We both loved Saratoga and missed the unique personality the town holds,” says Sarah. “From lunch at Druthers to coffee at Uncommon Grounds and shopping at Silverwood, our friends and family fell in love with Saratoga as much as we did.” Guests gathered at The Lodge at Saratoga Casino Hotel from all over the world—places as far-off as Ireland and Sweden.

Whether couples hail from down the road or somewhere more exotic, they’re drawn to Saratoga because of its charm and vivacity. I’m so glad we got married here—and calling it home now is icing on the (wedding) cake.

THE ONLY DOWNTOWN HOTEL THAT DELIVERS A TOTAL WEDDING EXPERIENCE CREATED JUST FOR YOU!

At Pavilion Grand Hotel, we understand the complexity of creating the perfect intimate wedding experience. We’ve designed a hotel that meets the needs of the most discerning brides. With our Penthouse Suite you can enjoy sweeping views of the city or snuggle up to the firepit as your special event winds down. For the bridal party, we offer unique hair, makeup and spa experiences through Make Me Fabulous. Specialty breakfast offerings are also available in suite from Blue Peacock Bistro and Fish at 30 Lake offers the finest selection of appetizers, entrees and desserts. Pavilion Grand delivers a personalized and complete experience that is truly... like no other.

30 LAKE AVENUE, SARATOGA SPRINGS, N Y 12866 • (518) 583-2727 WWW.PAVILIONGRANDHOTEL.COM

Photo Credits: Rob Spring Photography. Inc. & Bigler Photos and Film

wedding curveball When MLB pitcher, Jonah Bayliss, and his bride-to-be, caterer Austin Turner, stepped into the limo on their wedding day, they had no idea it would take them to the historic Canfield Casino.

cake my wife, please Austin Bayliss’ wedding cakes are not only beautiful, they’re delicious; (opposite) celebrated wedding photographer Dori Fitzpatrick snapped this shot of Chris Lepkowski and Sue Sardinia on their New Year’s Eve wedding day at Saratoga Lake Golf Club.

PIECE BY PIECE We know how overwhelming preparing for the big day can be. sl does a bit of the heavy lifting for you with this comprehensive guide to all things Saratoga weddings.

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Hall Of Springs

Excelsior Avenue can accommodate up to 532 wedding guests and is ideal for lodging out-of-town guests.

covered terrace patio overlooking its 18-hole golf course.

The Gideon Putnam Another historic Saratoga staple, The Gideon Putnam offers more than 12,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space in the heart of the beautiful Saratoga Spa State Park.

Saratoga Race Course is a true horse-lover’s dream wedding venue.

With this year’s development of the track’s 1863 Club, couples will get access to yet another uxury location for their special day in Saratoga.

Hall of Springs

The Adelphi Hotel

Located on the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) grounds in the Saratoga Spa State Park, the Hall of Springs can seat up to 500 guests, making it one of the largest wedding venues in the area.

The crown jewel of Downtown Saratoga, the beautifully renovated, historic Adelphi Hotel is the perfect blend of sophistication, luxury and history.

Saratoga Race Course

Longfellows Longfellows, a wedding destination nestled between Saratoga Lake and the city of Saratoga, features a 50room, boutique-style hotel; a charming tavern with three wood-burning fireplaces; a wedding banquet room; and the courtyard, a rustic enclosed space between two barns.

entire historic mansion, with staff, breakfast every morning and full use of the beautiful grounds.

VENUES Anne’s Washington Inn Anne’s Washing ton Inn, set on a hill just outside Downtown Saratoga Springs, is the perfect place for an intimate wedding: If you rent it out, you and your family and friends are the only guests at the inn at that time.

Batcheller Mansion Inn Like Anne’s Washington Inn, when you have a wedding at this Victorian era gem located on Circular Street, you can rent out all nine rooms, which gives you exclusive access to the

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Canfield Casino The Canfield Casino, once an iconic gambling destination for Saratoga’s most prominent visitors, transports guests back in time to the city’s Golden Age. Embrace the history of the Spa City right in the heart of its contemporary Downtown area.

Courtyard By Marriott Saratoga Springs & Excelsior Springs Event Center With 8277 total square feet of event space, the Courtyard Marriott on

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Pavilion Grand Hotel The Pavilion Grand Hotel is a balanced blend of outstanding accommodations, exceptional guest services, ideal location and amenities, including the Make Me Fabulous Salon And Spa, Fish At 30 Lake restaurant and a rooftop event space overlooking Downtown Saratoga.

Saratoga National Golf Club One of the most scenic properties in Saratoga, Saratoga National Golf Club is the whole package: elegant and ornate interiors and a beautiful

(Hall of Springs) BIGLER WEDDINGS

The Adelphi Hotel

Yet another gorgeous wedding venue in the Saratoga Spa State Park, the National Museum of Dance offers three unique locations for your big day: the elegant Foyer, the airy Southeast Gallery and the openair, private courtyard.

(The Inn At Five Points) DAWN HONSKY; (Danielle’s Bridal Boutique) SUSAN BLACKBURN

National Museum of Dance

The Inn At Five Points Danielle’s Bridal Boutique

The Inn At Five Points A perfect option for an intimate wedding, The Inn At Five Points can host 25 guests for an indoor wedding or 50 for an outdoor affair. You can also rent out all seven guest rooms, and all catering is provided onsite, with fresh, farm-to-table ingredients.

The Lodge Beautiful cedar walls, oak and pecan floors and beautiful landscaping help make a wedding at The Lodge— Saratoga Casino Hotel’s luxe event space—the perfectly elegant and intimate atmosphere.

DRESSES Danielle’s Bridal Boutique A family-run business for more than 25 years, Danielle’s Bridal Boutique on Route 50, just past the Wilton Mall, is your one-stop shop for all your formal wear needs, including, obviously, wedding gowns!

Lily Saratoga A charming and elegant boutique housed on the first floor of a historic yellow Victorian, Lily Saratoga has

a family of consultants ready to work one-on-one with each bride to understand her, her sense of style and how she wants to look (and feel!) on her wedding day.

Something Bleu Bridal The Something Bleu Bridal team believes finding your wedding dress should be almost as magical as marrying the love of your life. The second-floor atelier on Woodlawn Avenue boasts “romantic, fairy-tale dresses” for “brides of all styles and price points.”

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Mr. Formal Wear

Old Daley Custom Catering

With two convenient locations in Clifton Park and Saratoga, Mr. Formal Wear is a family-run business that offers suits of all styles for sale, and tuxe rentals aplenty. But as an added bonus, Mr. Formal Wear goes the extra mile to work with (and fit) your out-oftown groomsmen.

Old Daley is a full-service custom catering company servicing the Capital Region and beyond. (It has “preferred” status at Saratoga venues such as Canfield Casino and the National Museum of Dance.) The Old Daley team takes pride in approaching weddings with the same care and concern it has for its own family.

BANDS Funk Evolution Winner of weddingwire.com’s 2017 Couples’ Choice Awards, Funk Evolution is an octet that combines pop, rock, gospel, soul and R&B into its unique, funky sound.

Mazzone Hospitality

Soul Session Led by local celebrity and “soulist” Garland Nelson, Soul Session is a high-energy ensemble that performs multigenre soul music and makes the audience the center of attention through call-and-response numbers and danceable tunes.

Old Daley Custom Catering

CATERERS Mazzone Hospitality

TUXEDOS

Jos. A. Bank

La Sartoria of Saratoga Specializing in Italian luxury suits, La Sartoria of Saratoga, located on Broadway, offers tuxedo sales and rentals as well as Italian- and custom-made suits. Its on-site tailor also offers free alterations.

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The Jos. A. Bank location on Broadway in Downtown Saratoga is one of more than 500 stores nationwide. With a full selection of men’s tailored and casual clothing, including tuxedos available for purchase or rent, it’s a wedding go-to for a groom-to-be and his welldressed groomsmen.

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The Airstream Catering Co. Offering a quirky yet sophisticated take on wedding catering, The Airstream Catering Co.’s mobile kitchen—housed in, yes, an Airstream travel trailer—offers an endless variety of customizable options, from classic American comfort food and contemporary Mexican to farm-to-table favorites.

(La Sartoria) ALEX CAPPELLETTI

La Sartoria of Saratoga

With more than three decades of catering experience, Mazzone Hospitality goes everywhere and does everything. The Mazzone experience includes stress-free planning with personalized menus, skilled event managers and bridal attendants, an in-house design department, custom wedding cakes and more.

(Mazzone Hospitality) ROB SPRING PHOTOGRAPHY; (Funk Evolution) HITLIN PHOTOGRAPHY INC

New York Players Self-proclaimed New York dance party experts, the New York Players, based in Albany, are an entertainment powerhouse, performing everything and anything, from jazz and rock to disco and Motown.

CAKES Austin Bayliss Cakes Servicing Upstate New York and The Berkshires, Owner Austin Bayliss creates unique and customized wedding cakes that take a couple’s vision and turn it into something both beautiful and delicious.

Cake By Alissa Alissa Woods of Cake By Alissa takes pride in baking cakes that actually taste

Funk Evolution

as good as they look by using quality ingredients. Her commercial kitchen is located in the village of Schuylerville, and she bakes all her cakes to order.

Dolce & Biscotti The Dolce & Biscotti team believes, next to the bride, the wedding cake is the star of the reception. The fine Italian bakery, located in Clifton Park, offers complimentary consultations— with tastings, of course—so you know you’ll be getting (and eating!) the absolute best.

Dolce & Biscotti

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Caroline Street for a night of drinking, dancing and bar-hopping.

Complexions Spa For Beauty & Wellness/Osteria Danny/ Hamlet & Ghost Relax with your friends at a Complexions spa day, have an unforgettable Italian dinner at Osteria Danny and take the party to Hamlet & Ghost for its signature cocktails.

Saratoga Race Course/SPAC Concert The ultimate Saratoga Springs bachelor or bachelorette party: Spend a day at the races and night at a Live Nation concert at SPAC.

Olde Bryan Inn

Olde Bryan Inn Have your rehearsal dinner at this historic, 18th-century staple, located on Maple Avenue just outside of Downtown Saratoga. With a cozy, warm atmosphere—the restaurant has multiple fireplaces—the Olde Bryan Inn has its own in-house event planner to help plan your big pre-wedding night.

BACHELOR/ BACHELORETTE PARTIES Saratoga National Golf Club/ Saratoga Casino Hotel/Caroline Street Play 18 holes at Saratoga National Golf Club, try your luck at the Saratoga Casino Hotel and then head to

Craft beer, cocktails and a full menu of appetizers, entrees and desserts made from scratch await at the popular Saratoga spot, located on Henry Street.

Tonya Pellegrini-Lawrence has been planning, managing and executing local and national events for the past 15 years, and in that time, has gained a reputation for her passion, creativity and grace. Her weddings are legendary.

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Complexions Spa For Beauty & Wellness

Tracey Buyce Photography

Colin Cowie Lifestyle

Pellegrini Events

The Blue Hen By David Burke

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WEDDING PLANNERS World-renowned event and wedding planner Colin Cowie set up an outpost in Saratoga last year, and has been bringing his highly stylized, formal events to the Spa City ever since.

Henry Street Taproom

An elegant rehearsal dinner option located inside The Adelphi Hotel, The Blue Hen offers a variety of private dining experiences—its menu is the brainchild of celebrity chef David Burke—from intimate moments to sparkling celebrations.

Colin Cowie Lifestyle

Christine A. Wheat Special Events Firm, LLC Based in Ballston Spa, with offices in New York City and Newport, RI,

(Olde Bryan Inn) LOGAN HICKS; (Pellegrini Events) MATT RAMOS PHOTOGRAPHY

REHEARSAL DINNER VENUES

Christine A. Wheat Special Events Firm, LLC is a full-service event-planning, coordination and consulting firm that’s dedicated to providing clients with personalized, boutique services with the expertise of a national firm.

JEWELERS n. Fox Jewelers n. Fox Jewelers, which has been located on Broadway in Downtown Saratoga since 1977, is known for its diverse selection of quality jewelry and the expertise of its employees, who are always on-hand to help you pick out the perfect ring.

deJonghe Original Jewelry Another Saratoga mainstay, Downtown Saratoga’s deJonghe Original Jewelry has been offering custom jewelry since Dennis and Peggy deJonghe opened the store on Caroline Street in 1982.

Since then, deJonghe’s original designs have garnered worldwide recognition for their beauty, quality and elegant lines.

Frank Adams Jewelers Frank Adams Jewelers in Albany’s Stuyvesant Plaza is one of the Capital Region’s oldest jewelers, having served the community since 1922. Frank Adams offers some of the world’s foremost bridal ring designers and has an unmatched personalized selection of engagement rings and wedding bands.

PHOTOGRAPHERS Dave Bigler Photos & Films Dave Bigler Photos and Films provides an artistic approach to both creative cinematic film and stunning photography. The Bigler team has a customized hands-on approach to deliver exceptional service with upbeat, fun energy.

Tracey Buyce Photography On your wedding day, Tracey Buyce will not only be your photographer, but also a part of your family. To her, wedding photography isn’t just about couples posing for hours of photos, it’s about them getting to enjoy one of the most important days of their lives.

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RINGS DESIGNED BY MARK PATTERSON

Dehn’s Flowers & Gifts

Elario Photography Inc. is a fatherson team whose style, reputation and reliability set them apart from the area’s other wedding photographers.

The Elarios not only cover weddings and events in Albany, Saratoga and Lake George, but also have done work in New York City, Boston and other locations outside the Capital Region.

Matt and his team work hard to shoot in a way that’s diverse, creative, fun and compelling.

Samantha Nass Floral Design Samantha Nass Floral Design is a Saratoga-based, European-style, full-service floral design studio dedicated to creating fabulous floral and event designs.

Dori Fitzpatrick is a family, wedding and magazine photographer based in Saratoga. She loves shooting outdoors, making use of natural light and capturing real moments.

Schrade’s Posie Peddler

Matt Ramos Photography

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Dehn’s Flowers & Gifts Dehn’s has been servicing the Saratoga area and surrounding region with its quality flower arrangements for more than 120 years. Dehn’s offers a wide selection of bridal bouquets, wedding ceremony flowers and centerpieces.

Dori Fitzpatrick Photography

Matt Ramos’ ultimate goal is to give his clients incredible and cherished images, as well as an experience unlike any other. Based in Guilderland,

FLORISTS

Samantha Nass Floral Design

The Posie Peddler team knows that every bride has a unique style and budget and works closely with her to ensure that her big day is stunning and stress free.

(Samantha Nass) BARBARAH PERTTULA; (Dehn's) CHELSEA BOS PHOTOGRAPHY

Elario Photography Inc.

f'

FRANK ADAMS JEWELERS SINCE 1922 STUYVESANT PLAZA, ALBANY,NY

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FRANKADAMS.COM

“I Do!” 2019

THE DAY

“I Do!”

2019

THE DAY

“I DO!” TIME IS UPON US. SETTLE IN FOR THE FUNNY ANECDOTES A N D I N C R E D I B L E TA L E S F R O M S T E L L A R S A R AT O G A C O U P L E S A N D HOW THEY PULLED OFF THEIR BIG D AY . W E H AV E A L L T H E F E E L S .

T H E

THE

THE

THE

STORY

THE

STORY OFFICIANT SCENE OBSTACLE T H E

GROOM

T H E

DRESS

THE

How Robert met Geraldine more than seven decades ago, is such an epic, unbelievable tale, that it’s easy to see why we think it’s Saratoga’s greatest love story ever told. Curious yet?

TH E

ALTERNATIVE HONEYMOON

B Y N ATA L I E M O O R E love & war A joyous Bob and Gerry Belisario on their wedding day in Albany in 1946.

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“I Do!” 2019

THE DAY

W

hen I show up to Robert and Geraldine Belisario’s Wilton home, sopping wet after a GPS-induced misadventure to the wrong apartment complex, Geraldine, who goes by Gerry, answers the door. “Are you the girl who called me?” she asks. Why yes, I am, and she invites me into her small, carpeted living room, decorated with a miniature jukebox, tiny Christmas tree on a side table and a collection of Christmas cards. Gerry’s husband, Bob, in his bright red suspenders, sits in a corner chair.

When I explain how I’d heard about their too-good-to-be-true love story, Bob chuckles: “She doesn’t love me; she puts up with me!”

If that’s the case, Gerry has put up with him for 72 years—more, if you count the time they were together before getting married. She’ll be 92 in February, and he’ll be 94 in April.

But 72 years of marriage isn’t the only way the couple’s love story earned saratoga living’s designation as “The Greatest (Saratoga) Love Story Ever Told.”

“It was 1942, the war was on, and I was in the service,” Bob begins. (He’s telling the story, notes Gerry, because he has a better memory.) Gerry was still in high school in Schenectady, so she wasn’t old enough to be a part of the war effort yet. But she and her girlfriend wanted to pitch in in some way, so they decided to write letters to soldiers. They contacted a woman who knew quite a few from the area, and she gave Gerry Bob’s name, since she couldn't pronounce it. (Belisario, that is—not Bob.) At the time of Gerry’s first letter, Bob, an Albany native, was in transit from a US Navy hospital in California to one in Panama, where he ended up receiving the missive. He responded, and the two quickly began a regular correspondence. They mostly wrote about what was going on in each other’s lives—Gerry, about what was happening on the home front—and what the future had in store for them. It turned out that they were both avid roller skaters (“at different rinks, of course”), so they connected on a more personal level too.

As time went on, the letters took on a new flavor. “I thought, ‘This guy seems to be very romantic, but holy jeez, he doesn’t even know what I look like!’” Gerry interjects. “And then she

sent me a photo of her in a sweater—” Bob starts. “I’m going to hit you over the head!” Gerry says pointedly.

In November 1943, Bob was granted a 30-day leave and returned home to Albany. The two pen pals immediately connected in person and spent almost every day together thereafter. Sometimes they’d go out to eat; other times they’d park by the train tracks and watch the trains go by. It was during that month—if Bob’s memory serves him right—that he gave her a ring. Over the next two-and-a-half years, Bob only made it home one more time, before returning to the US for good in March 1946. On May 25 of that year, he and Gerry were married at Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church in Albany.

Bob remained in the service for two more years following the couple’s wedding, and he and his wife would eventually have five children, eleven grandchildren and, they think, nine great-grandchildren. (“I’ve lost count,” Gerry says.) Gerry’s a Civil War buff, so she and her husband have been to many of the war’s historic sites, including the exact spot in Virginia where Bob’s great-great-grandfather was wounded during the war.

When I ask what the key to staying together for 72 years is, Gerry says she wouldn’t even try to give advice to other couples.

“It’s a crapshoot,” she says. But Bob gives the answer a shot: “The secret to marriage is individuals talking to each other,” he says. “You have to talk things out. No marriage is 100 percent happy.” That said, he tells me that he and Gerry don’t really argue anymore. “There’s no sense in arguing,” he says. “I can’t win.”

“Oh, my heart bleeds for you,” Gerry replies, sarcastically.

“She lets me think I’m the boss,” he retorts.

“You are the boss…but only because I let you be,” she says.

Full disclosure: I’m a sucker for a good love story. Twilight? Made me swear off boys who aren’t vampires. Titanic? A 22-year-old Leo. Dear John? Cried through it all. Twice. But talking with Bob and Gerry is different. If a film were to be made about them, it wouldn’t be a mushy-gushy romance based on a book written by Nicholas Sparks. It would be the story of two people who met in a pretty amazing way, were attracted

love, american style Bob and Gerry Belisario on their 70th wedding anniversary in 2016; (opposite) the couple met because Gerry started writing Bob letters while he was in the Navy during World War II.

“I thought, this guy seems to be very romantic, but holy jeez, he doesn’t even know what I look like!”

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to each other and then figured out how to make the next three quarters of a century work. It’d be part drama, part romantic comedy, part boring documentary, because that’s what marriage is: long stretches of time when, to quote Bob, you’re just putting up with each other, sprinkled with the

moments love stories are made of. So to amend my previous statement—Bob and Gerry’s story isn’t the greatest love story ever told. It’s the greatest real love story ever told. And if, 72 years from now, I’m half as happy as the two of them, I’ll count my story as pretty great too.

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“I Do!” 2019

THE DAY

T H E

OFFICIANT Saratogian Michael Oswalt has a way of being at the right place at the right time for all his friends—at the altar.

BY

WILL

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PHOTOGRAPH BY

PJN PHOTOGRAPHY

altar boy Michael Oswalt (center) officiating his friends Jason and Janelle Brown’s wedding in Saratoga County.

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“I Do!” 2019

THE DAY Universal Life Church, and they’ve got an online ordination course that I used and became certified through,” says Oswalt. “Almost every state allows someone with that type of online certification to lead a wedding.” The entire process took about five minutes to complete.

By no means did Oswalt spend mere minutes preparing to marry his friends, though. In fact, it was just the opposite; he pored over information about the couples and had them answer interview questions, so he could better structure the ceremony and include personal touches in it. (He admits that he was “terrified” doing that first wedding—and had an “aha!” moment during the walk-through, when he realized he was in charge of the better part of the ceremony.) “I thought a lot about the function of weddings,” says Oswalt. “They’re a cool hybrid; two people are making a very public commitment to each other to become a public union going forward. That’s why we do them in front of family and friends. But ultimately, they’re an incredibly private choice; a lot of personal, one-on-one decision-making goes into the choice to get married, and I essentially saw my role as the officiant being a bridge between those two worlds.”

Oswalt ended up organizing a completely different ceremony

for each of his friends based on their wishes. For example, the Buccis requested a bit more of a “religious tone” for their ceremony than the Rosenfeld-McGaugheys, and Oswalt obliged, helping the couple brainstorm ideas that would add a more traditional flavor to it. One concept that made the final cut? A “sand ceremony,” where the mothers of the bride and groom each poured a vase of colored sand together into a

“A lot of personal, one-on-one decision-making goes into the choice to get married, and I essentially saw my role as the officiant being a bridge between those two worlds.”

M

y wife and I were married by a Catholic priest in a Unitarian church—but not before a stressful couple of months trying to track down an officiant who’d agree to marry us.

Who knew that, in 2011, it would still be so difficult to find someone willing to marry two people of different faiths? Saratogian Jason Brown and his then-fiancée, Janelle, had it a lot easier than we did. That’s because one of Brown’s best friends, Michael Oswalt, happened to be a licensed officiant and happily accepted the gig of marrying his friends. “Mike had known me for a lifetime, and he’d known Janelle, at that point, for six years,” says Brown. “Having someone who knew both of us for that long was a huge advantage. He really listened to what we wanted and followed that closely.”

The Browns’ 2014 wedding wasn’t Oswalt’s first crack at officiating a wedding. He’d previously overseen the “I do’s” of two of his other best friends, both of whom were native Saratogians: Jake Rosenfeld in 2009 and Todd Bucci in 2011.

(Full disclosure: I’m childhood friends with Oswalt and all three grooms.) “I’ve got a degree in theology from Duke University,

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but I wasn’t actually ordained, so I didn’t have the power to run a wedding ceremony,” says Oswalt of his life before officiating that first wedding. He did assume at some point that a friend might ask him to officiate his or her wedding, given his background, but he wasn’t actively pursuing the role. And then Rosenfeld came calling.

From the beginning, Rosenfeld tells me, he’d known he wanted his friend to marry him and his future wife, Erin McGaughey. “It was a challenge to think of a way to entice him to agree to the role,” says Rosenfeld.

But he didn’t have to argue his case for too long—and Oswalt had all the makings of a legit officiant. “Mike has a side of his life that’s very spiritual, and at the time, he was really active in his church, so he fit a role that, frankly, a lot of our friends and family members did not,” says Rosenfeld. “The harder-to-putinto-words part of it was that he struck us as a performer and someone who would really entertain and engage the crowd, and do so in a really meaningful way.”

So what, exactly, did Oswalt have to do to become an ordained officiant? “There’s an online outfit called the

KATI GREANEY PHOTOGRAPHY

friend indeed Oswalt’s first wedding as an officiant, marrying friends Jake Rosenfeld and Erin McGaughey; (inset) Oswalt researched and wrote his own ceremonies based on his friends’ input.

single vase. Oswalt even customized the length of each service, the amount of friend/family involvement and the type of language used during the vows for each couple.

Now that I’m thinking back on my own wedding, it would’ve been a lot more convenient (and maybe a little less stressful) to have a family friend marry us—maybe even Mike. But in reality, I wouldn’t have changed a thing about our big day. It came together just as we planned it.

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Where Memories Begin...

“I Do!” 2019

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hese days, weddings are as much about the photos as they are the ceremony.

OK, OK. Maybe that’s not entirely true, but I know for sure that on my wedding day, my dark blue-clad bridesmaids and I will be taking photos at my family friends’ blueberry farm before anyone says “I do.” Saratogians Jeremiah and Timothy Tyrrell know what I’m talking about; their Saratoga-tastic wedding whisked them from T H E their aunt and uncle’s condo at the High Rock, to Saratoga National Golf Club, to the dance floors of Caroline Street, but not without a stop for a good, old-fashioned photoshoot on Broadway.

On that day last June, Mother Nature was on their side, blessing them with clear skies and 70-degree temperatures, as their 20-person wedding party strolled Downtown. They stopped at The Washington Timothy and Jeremiah (saratoga living’s HQ) and got some shots from the Tyrrell made their wedding scenic rooftop (why haven’t I been up there yet?), then day a Downtown Saratoga promenaded across Broadway, just as The Beatles did extravaganza—with across Abbey Road on the cover of their iconic 1969 a Beatles twist. album. “We walked down the aisle to a harpist playing “Here Comes The Sun,” Jeremiah says. “We both

BY NATALI E M O O R E grew up listening to The Beatles with our parents and PHOTOGRAPHY BY thought the Abbey Road photo (see page 4) would be OPTIMUM EXPOSURE a fun and subtle way to connect parts of our day.”

PHOTOGRAPHY Though they reside here now, Timothy and Jeremiah got married in Saratoga while they were living abroad in Zurich. “We always found ourselves visiting Saratoga, whether it was for dinner or even a weekend vacation,” Jeremiah says. “And now we live Downtown with many reminders of our wedding day that are always bringing us back to the best day of our lives,” Jeremiah says. And as if crossing Broadway wasn’t enough of a daily reminder of their big day, Timothy and Jeremiah will always have their gorgeous wedding photos, too.

SCENE

broadway smash Best Man Brendan Tyrrell, Groomsman Conor Chrisom, Jeremiah, Timothy, Groomsman Michael Mitchell and Groomsman Jake Liguori on the roof of The Washington on Broadway; (opposite) Jeremiah's and Timothy’s entire 20-person wedding party took a stroll Downtown on their big day.

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OBSTACLE

efore I wrote for saratoga carriage. Emily had every aspect of the living, I made my living as a day meticulously planned out—that is, professional guitarist. I taught except for the weather forecast. “It’s lessons, performed at parties Upstate New York, so you can’t predict and worked my fair share of the weather,” she says, laughing. “The Emily Eldridge Korn’s dream weddings. I’ve played them all: day we did the rehearsal, it couldn’t wedding almost became a nightmare. indoor and outdoor weddings, have been a more beautiful day.”

But that’s when the fun really began. at a little wedding chapel, a big Come her wedding day, the tides lakeside resort and even (once) had turned considerably. “It was just

BY JEFF DINGLER in a botanical garden. Fortunately, a torrential downpour,” says Emily.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY I’ve never performed at a wedding Imagine shipping guests in their finest H E AT H E R B O H M -TA L L M A N disrupted to the point where I needed across the Hudson, then uphill in a to use my guitar as an umbrella. Emily carriage, with the heavens raining Eldridge Korn, who got married just outside of Saratoga down. And, well, also doing that with the bride-to-be in an Springs in 2014, didn’t have the same kind of luck. all-white dress. Yikes. But Emily’s wedding party pulled off a Raised in Kentucky but having spent her summers in Ballston minor miracle, with her Maid of Honor holding an umbrella Spa with her grandmother, Emily was a regular in our neck over her the entire time, and her bridesmaids hovering of the woods. “We’d go up to the racetrack in Saratoga and around her, keeping her dress from touching the ground. loved it,” she says. She met her future husband, Steven, while “Getting down the slope onto the barge and getting off again attending college in New York City, and the couple dated for was definitely the most difficult part,” says Emily. “I’m sure that seven years before getting engaged. Soon after, Emily began all eight of my bridesmaids were pitching in at that point.” brainstorming the ideal location for a country wedding. “I just Incredibly, though, despite the inclement weather and wanted a traditional, Upstate New York, fall wedding,” says transportation obstacles—not to mention a horse breaking loose Emily, who decided on mid-September for the event. from its stall and running around covered in mud—Emily walked She eventually landed on that perfect spot in Northumberland, down the aisle in a spotless white dress. Sure, the weather made NY, one that had a family connection, making it even more it chillier than expected, and the ceremony had to be moved at special. Her father’s cousin, George Story, owns a small island the last minute into the reception tent, but Emily says somehow on the Hudson River near Schuylerville called Thompson that made it even more of an intimate affair. “The tent company Island, where he raises harness racing horses. (Story’s horses pumped in hot air for us, so, really, it was nice and cozy,” she compete regularly at Saratoga’s harness track.) Talk about a says. And the rain wasn’t so bad after all. “I think the disaster of it romantic setting: “Half of the island is wooded, and there are being so rainy made it more romantic, because it kept everyone waterfalls, as well as a cabin, two barns with horses and beautiful in the tent together, dancing and drinking and eating.” gardens,” says Emily. The ceremony was to be held entirely Now, if I ever find myself performing at a wedding and it outdoors, with guests ferried over to the island on a barge starts pouring, I’ll remember Emily’s aplomb—and hope that there’s a cozy tent nearby. and then transported uphill to the ceremony by horse-drawn

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the rain event Emily Eldridge Korn making her way to her wedding ceremony amidst a torrential downpour; (opposite) Emily’s wedding was moved at the last minute into the reception tent—which made the party more intimate, she says.

“I Do!” 2019

THE DAY

“Getting down the slope onto the barge and getting off again was definitely the most difficult part. I’m sure that all eight of my bridesmaids were pitching in at that point.”

bridal shower Bride Emily Eldridge Korn, flanked by her bridesmaids, on the barge that shuttled guests to and from her HudsonRiver-island nuptials.

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“I Do!” 2019

THE DAY

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eddings are controlled chaos— only driven that home with reality TV and planning them is not a oneshows such as Say Yes To The Dress, person job. Soon after asking Bridezillas and The Bachelorette— my then-girlfriend, Laura, to don’t fool yourself; The Bachelor marry me, I remember us isn’t really about the groom. And, of springing into fevered action, course, bride magazines abound (not brainstorming a daunting so much for grooms). list of responsibilities for our I’d like to argue that weddings and impending nuptials, all the the planning involved in them are, while working two full-time jobs in “the more often than not, a 50-50 affair. And city that never sleeps.” It helped that I have proof. “We were collaborative Laura’s an organizational wizard—and with everything,” says native Saratogian I follow orders really well.

Mark Oswalt, a Lieutenant Commander It goes without saying that we had a in the US Navy (and childhood friend of lot to accomplish before July 16, 2011. mine), who tied the knot with his wife, T H E We tracked everything on a Google Jillian, down in Pensacola, FL, where spreadsheet, which, looking back at he was stationed at the time. “That’s it, seemed like a tall task. There were how our relationship has always been: individual tabs for “Guests,” “Budget,” All the decisions are made together,” “To-dos,” “Schedule,” “Priests” (yep) Oswalt says. With minimal help from and “Music.” Laura and I divided and their families—mostly because of conquered on some duties, but most distance and timing issues—the Whoever said weddings were of it was done via a unified front. We Oswalts brought their unforgettable all bride, all the time? tasted wedding cakes and appetizers day to fruition together. (I was there, together (we decided on food stations and it was a one-of-a-kind day.)

It’s the groom’s day too, isn't it? rather than a formal sit-down dinner); Gabriel Boyers, another native

BY WILL LEVITH visited multiple venues and eventually Saratogian and childhood friend, PHOTOGRAPHY BY landed on an event space dating back concurs. Boyers married his husband LOVE IS WILD to the 19th century in Barneveld, NY; at the pre-renovation Adelphi Hotel in PHOTOGRAPHY and chose both a classical trio to get Saratoga and says that the weddingus down the aisle and a cover band planning process was pretty equal. “I for the reception. (I even pulled off a do sense that—as was the case with cover song on my acoustic guitar before the band got going.) ours—there’s a significant shared involvement in most gay We needed to find and hire a wedding photographer and weddings,” he tells me. “My husband, Drew, and I planned party bus operator to shuttle our guests from their hotels to the most of it entirely together, and really enjoyed the process.” venue, and design and print save-the-dates and invitations. As And what about the next generation? A groom who’s for the wedding itself, Laura and I wanted the ceremony to be experiencing the madness of the pre-wedding rush, Matty equal parts Catholic and Jewish, so we divvied up readings Shu of Vinny’s Barber Shop of Saratoga, puts it this way: and readers, acquired a unity candle and a special glass for “My fiancée told me her dream wedding was at The Inn at me to crush underfoot at the end of the ceremony, found a Erlowest in Lake George, so that’s where we went to look willing officiant and booked a nondenominational church. It and will be getting married,” he says. “I don’t eat cake but love was a long road between that first day of organizing and “You cannoli, and my fiancée asked them to accommodate us with may kiss the bride,” but it all worked out. a cannoli cake for the wedding, which they’re doing.” In other Why am I sharing this with you? It’s not lost on me that in words, their wedding planning process—and ours and Mark’s this day and age, the stereotypical, pie-in-the-sky wedding and Gabe’s—was all about compromise. A word of advice to is all bride, all the time. Grooms sort of take a backseat, all of you grooms-to-be: The ability to compromise comes in handy later. Trust me. because, as is assumed, it’s “her day.” And pop culture has

navy sealed Jillian and Mark Oswalt on their wedding day in Pensacola, FL, where Mark was stationed at the time; (inset) Mark and Jillian getting the royal treatment from Mark’s US Navy buddies.

GROOM

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“I Do!” 2019

THE DAY THE

DRESS

Vera Wang does it again: Have you seen this gown? Who needs white when you have Wang champagne couture?

INEZ & VINOODH/VERA WANG GROUP

W runway bride Vera Wang’s stunning Tatiana gown is the indisputable standout of the season.

BY ROSIE CASE

hen I got married nearly 13 years ago, nothing mattered to me more than finding the perfect dress. Never mind the venue, the flowers, the food—I was singularly focused on leaving no bridal boutique unturned to uncover a gown that represented who I was at that time.

Skipping a headpiece entirely, I ultimately settled on a soft white, curve-hugging strapless sheath, with draping on the bodice and an explosion of ruffles down the short train. Paired with turquoise Zuni needlepoint chandelier earrings, I felt both totally myself and very much a traditional bride.

If I were getting married in 2019, however, I’d beat a blazing path in the direction of Vera Wang.

The designer, who’s reigned over bridal couture for the past two-plus decades, continues to recreate the very medium she turned on its ear when she hung out a shingle in 1990. Unimpressed with the dresses on offer when she was set to marry her ex-husband, Arthur Becker, she designed her own elaborate gown and commissioned a dressmaker to create it. Since then, countless celebrities from Alicia Keys to Chelsea Clinton to brides-to-be around the globe have flocked to her doors for a chance to experience the singular femininity and glamour only Wang can conjure.

For the 2019 me, Wang’s Tatiana gown is the indisputable standout of the season. From the nude tone to the deep neckline, slit skirt and long, split sleeves, all the way up to the armor detail at the shoulder, this garment feels not only fresh and unique, but entirely relevant to our times. This is a dress for a modern-day warrior. For a generation fed up with silence, abuse and inequality. This one’s not for the blushing bride, but an individual who has vision and a clear sense of self—not to mention excellent taste.

I wasn’t quite there 13 years ago, but then again, neither was the world around me.

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s a Syrian American, I’m by the presence of their grown T HE familiar with what many children, who served as their Syrians joke is the traditional witnesses. Afterward, the couple Arab wedding mantra: celebrated with a photoshoot in “Go big or go home.” Last Congress Park and an intimate November, I was lucky to dinner gathering in their hotel attend a beautiful Palestinian suite, complete with cake and wedding reception that lived champagne (served in customSometimes, the best answer to up to this expectation, with made champagne flutes). They’re a forever commitment is also the easiest. its delicious halal buffet, catchy planning on renewing their vows Arabic tunes that got everybody in the future, in the same way.

BY SARAH MIDANI (except my dad, despite his It turns out that Reverend Burke PHOTOGRAPHY BY friends’ best efforts) out on the has also officiated at a rock star SUSAN BL ACKBURN dancefloor and a performance elopement (yes, there is such a by a group of professional dabke thing). When Susan Gabrels and dancers, who did a traditional her husband Reeves, who’s a Arab dance and invited the guitarist in the British rock band event’s bravest attendees to jump The Cure and was David Bowie’s in (I watched from the sidelines). guitarist for more than a decade, On the drive home, I listened to chose to get married in Burke’s my parents reminisce about their front room, they’d already been own wedding, which was far from together for 12 years. Their traditional: They had an intimate elopement took place on January religious ceremony with their 28, 2018, and was an equally siblings’ families as witnesses, personal and family-oriented followed by a secular multicultural event, with Susan’s daughter, reception where, legend has son-in-law and brother serving it, my American mother got as witnesses (Saratoga is an my Syrian father to dance the important place in Susan’s family “Electric Slide” for the first time. history, because her relatives lived The way I see it, a couple’s wedding should reflect their own in nearby Stillwater for three generations before relocating personal wishes for their own special day. Reverend Joy Burke, to Troy, where she and Reeves now reside). “It felt like we an interfaith minister based in Saratoga Springs, agrees, having were going somewhere special but close to home,” Susan officiated around 1000 personalized weddings (she even offers says. Eloping also eased the burden of scheduling a wedding the front room of her house—a former church—as an elegant amidst their busy social schedules and work obligations— venue for couples wanting an intimate, classy elopement and eliminated the logistical nightmare of having friends ceremony). Anne and Michael Payette, who live about an hour and relatives travel from all over the world to attend their west of Saratoga in Montgomery County, eloped on February impending nuptials. (Susan affectionately calls their elopement 27, 2016, and chose Reverend Burke’s home as their venue a “manageable, meaningful minimum.”) To complement their because of its “close to home” feel. “It wasn’t the first marriage small ceremony, the Gabrelses traveled to New York City, for either of us, and we strongly felt that it was important to Georgia, South Carolina and as far off as England throughout focus on the meaning of the day, between the two of us, rather 2018 to celebrate with different groups of friends. Their first postthan the distraction of having a larger wedding,” Anne says. “We wedding celebration was an English High Tea at The Adelphi wanted to experience the moment in our way, in our time and Hotel, complete with traditional sandwiches, desserts and be able to focus on each other first and foremost.” True to their champagne. I can’t think of anything more British, rock ’n’ roll or Saratoga. Manageable, meaningful minimum indeed. vision, the Payettes’ wedding was made even more special

ALTERNATIVE

oh happy day Anne and Michael Payette chose to elope to Saratoga Springs from Montgomery County “to focus on the meaning of the day, rather than the distraction of having a larger wedding,” Anne says; (opposite) the couple was married in the front of Reverend Joy Burke's house, which used to be a church.

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“I Do!” 2019

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fter you’re done with the perfect “I do’s” and the last of the beer cans have come untied from the back of the rented Bentley, you need to say “I don’t” to the everyday, clichéd, destination beach honeymoon and say “Yes, please” to the wonder that is Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve resort that’s a 40-minute drive from San Juan, Puerto Rico’s picturesque capital city. If you want everything you could hope for (and who doesn’t want that?) in a beach vacation, Dorado Beach is the perfect honeymoon spot for you.

Let’s count the ways: Muay Thai stretching massage in a treehouse spa? Yep. A Natura Bisse age rewind facial extraordinaire, administered in an all-glass pavilion dropped into a curated and protected tropical sanctuary? Uh-huh.

Windsurfing, biking, kayaking or a Tournaments Player Club round of golf? Definitely. And any other fantastical whim on your must-do list can be arranged with a mere press of a button. I mean, “perfection” is the word that comes to mind.

Where to begin our T H E honeymoon?

How about sipping a handmade cocktail and squishing some pinkwhite sand between our toes? I know, right? Dorado Beach is a dream fulfilled, largely because its overseer of distinction, The Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is six-star The sublime Dorado Beach, in mindset, and the resort was a Ritz-Carlton Reserve resort, inhabited by one of the members is so luxurious, so over-the-top perfect, of the legendary Rockefeller that you’ll never want to come home. family—after all, they wrote the We promise. book on finery. But this crown

BY MARCO MEDRANO jewel of Puerto Rico has always had one goal: formal, world-class hospitality served up in the most relaxed way. It’s so special, so necessary even, that you’ll thank me for a lifetime for recommending this corner of the planet.

Once you peruse the hotel’s amazing, over-the-top amenities, onsite estate excursions and aquatic thrills, you’ll quickly find that you may be tempted from your planned relaxation by the resort’s many sporty, thrill-seeking, Arnold-Palmer-meetsSerena-Williams, meets-Jacques-Cousteau offerings. I spent the five most glorious days of my life at Dorado Beach, and I’m simply still not over it. Such a perfect (there’s that word again) vacation spot. And, remember, Puerto Rico is a US destination, but every single aspect of it is otherworldy. The nature reserve paradise found If you is a marvel to behold, the jaw-dropping private beaches have want everything you could underwater stone walls…I mean, everywhere you look, you hope for (and who doesn’t just whisper to yourself, “Wow.” want that?) in a beach From the moment your driver pulls up to the imposing, vacation, Dorado Beach in gated entrance, your honeymoon game is on! You will be Puerto Rico is the perfect honeymoon spot for you. coming back to Dorado Beach. That, I can guarantee.

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CREDIT

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HONEYMOON

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z

K A T E AROUND THE

WORLD

Je T’aime What’s more romantic than a Paris wedding? story and photography by

K AT E D O Y L E H O O P E R

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CREDIT

CREDIT

french kiss “I’d consider selling my soul to attend a wedding, just one, in Paris,” says writer Kate Doyle Hooper.

love all things wedding—the pre-wedding celebrations, the ceremony, the clothes, the look on the couple’s faces, the decor, the cake… the works. At this time of year, when save-the-date season starts to ramp up, I tend to brace for requests for the pleasure of my company at a fast-approaching ceremony in the Everglades in August or on top of Mt. Washington in February (“But it’s where we met!”). Don’t get me wrong. For my dear ones, I’ll gladly put on hip waders, snowshoes or whatever the event requires. But I’d consider selling my soul to attend a wedding, just once, in a spectacular destination I’d be happy to travel to, wedding or not, preferably in season. Saratoga is, of course, near the top of my list, but if I had to choose one other place on Earth, it would be Paris.

The City of Love, of Light and Instagramworthy everything, long before there was ever an Instagram.

In April, the city blossoms and blooms.

May is green and glorious, while June, September and October have their own seasonal charms and far fewer tourists to photobomb your wedding photos. In November, you get big, fluffy clouds that add painterly drama and romantic melancholy, and by December, the town sparkles and twinkles with the glow of ancient buildings cloaked in amber, red, white, blue, purple and green holiday lights.

All things considered, there’s never an unstunning time of year to marry in Paris. The romance, the drama, the beauty at every turn—it’s all there, every second of every day. So should I start looking into flights?

Just picture the two of you, on a beautiful [insert season] morning. You, in a chic little off-white Dior number, ready to sashay down the aisle; your

très belle Paris is picturesque any time of year. All things considered, there’s never an un-stunning time of year to marry in Paris.

partner-to-be, equally resplendent in Vuitton, waiting up front. Your intimate inner circle is lining the pews of a cozy chapel in the Marais, or perhaps it’s something a bit grander, such as the 13th-century, stained-glass-walled Sainte-Chapelle, as rainbow-colored beams of light wash over the assembled (though you’ll probably need the OK from President Macron first). Afterward, it’s off to an intimate celebratory dinner inside Le Grand Véfour, an 18th-century jewel box, toasting with a bubbly rosé and cutting into an elegant one- or twotiered gâteau de mariage.

Thinking larger scale? Then perhaps something more royal will do, such as the 17th-century, Sun-King-inspired Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, a minipalace with formal gardens, fountains, regal vistas galore and, yes, even a moat. And if you really want to make an entrance, there is, fortunately, a helipad. How can you say “non?”

If I can convince just one newlywedto-be that Paris is the only international destination to put on her short list, I’ll RSVP “yes” right now and get her that $500 candy dish that’s been lingering on her wedding registry. So, are you ready to commit to the City of Love?

OK, then let’s do this wedding-in-Paris thing now—actually, any day is fine.

And save the post-wedding bash for the Saratoga summer, s’il vous plaît.

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sl special report

Boys Mechanicville

THE

OF

THE REMARKABLE STORY OF FIVE FRIENDS FROM THE SAME SMALL TOWN WHO WENT ON TO CONQUER THEIR RESPECTIVE WORLDS. EPIC DOESN’T BEGIN TO COVER IT.

By Tony Case photography by Kyle Adams + portraits by Dori Fitzpatrick all exclusively for saratoga living

band of brothers Mechanicville is technically a city, if a small one. In fact, it’s one of just two cities, along with Saratoga, in the county, and boasts a population of approximately 5000, packed into less than one square mile; (opposite, from left) C.J. DeCrescente, Dave DeVoe, Tony Ianniello, Chad Brown and Dan Pickett are five Mechanicville natives, who’ve become captains of their industries and remain friends.

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here’s definitely something philanthropists, is with Tony Ianniello, an attorney whose firm, about Mechanicville.

Ianniello Anderson P.C., has offices across Saratoga County I must admit, even as a and beyond. (Ianniello is the Chair of saratoga living.) resident of Saratoga Springs, I Like so many former residents of Mechanicville, Ianniello’s didn’t know a whole lot about is an immigrant’s story, his forebears having arrived from Italy it until I was assigned a story in the early part of the 20th century, back when Mechanicville about it. Scratch that—I knew was a boomtown and a destination for folks with a dream, approximately nothing about seeking a new life for themselves and their families, and Mechanicville. To me, it was a willing to work long, hard hours to make their American Dream geographic location: situated a reality. Ianniello’s father ran a barbershop and his mother in southern Saratoga County, east of the Northway and worked as a seamstress. “None of our folks came over on the suburban sprawl of Clifton Park, and one of a string of the Mayflower, and none of us belonged to the country club,” towns—including Schuylerville and Stillwater—along Route 4, the dapper Ianniello tells me one December afternoon, in heading north from Troy and hugging the banks of the Hudson his suite of offices in Clifton Park. How ironic, I tell him, since River (and that was all thanks to Google Maps). he could probably own his own country club these days.

By the time I actually paid a proper visit to Mechanicville, He seems almost embarrassed by the suggestion. “We’re I’d uncovered a few more morsels about the town—the not unique,” he insists. “There have been many, many very first being that it’s actually not a town, but technically a successful people who came from Mechanicville.” city, if a small one. In fact, it’s one of just two cities, along In one sense, Ianniello is dead on; though incredibly with Saratoga, in the county, and boasts a population of successful in his own right, he’s not the only Mechanicville approximately 5000, packed into less native of note. Enter his quartet of locally than one square mile. (It claims to be famous friends, each of whom grew up If you take the time the smallest city, area-wise, in the in the small city and has put together entire state.) I’d also discovered that an enviable résumé. These include to learn more about Mechanicville—while considerably less Chad Brown, the award-winning Mechanicville, you'll bustling now than a few generations and record-breaking Thoroughbred discover that it has a rich ago, when manufacturing fueled the horse trainer; C.J. DeCrescente, and important history; local economy—was once home to President of Mechanicville-based and it’s a place of deep an important railroad hub, as well DeCrescente Distributing; Dan Pickett, roots, civic-mindedness as several consequential factories, Chairman, CEO and Cofounder of local including the Westvaco Paper Mill, technology giant nfrastructure; and and boundless pride which at one time was one of the Dave DeVoe, former CFO of the global among its residents. largest paper producers in the country. media colossus News Corp. Aside from Mechanicville’s contributions and their professional achievements, the attributes have always been outsized. If you take the time friends, all of whom have maintained close ties to Saratoga to learn more about the city, you’ll discover that it has a rich and the Capital Region, are extremely active in any number of and important history; and it’s a place of deep roots, civiclocal institutions and philanthropies. It’s at fundraisers and the mindedness and boundless pride among its residents, which like, in fact, that Ianniello says he most often gets to see his include numerous long-established families, many of whom friends from the old neighborhood. Then, of course, there’s are Italian. That would explain the Italian Fraternal Hall, also summers at Saratoga Race Course (page 80). which stands across a parking lot from the bocce courts, and Over a series of conversations in the weeks leading up to the names of the many mom-and-pop stores of yesteryear Christmas 2018, these captains of industry would weave for me (Alonzo’s, Perrotta’s, DeVito’s), which would eventually give a remarkable, nostalgic tale of accomplished individuals and way to chains such as CVS, Cumberland Farms and Family families who share a history grounded in idyllic, small-town life, Dollar. (Although other locally owned businesses, such as formed in a place and time that hardly seems to exist anymore Costanzo’s Lounge & Restaurant, remain institutions there.) except in one of Sherwood Anderson’s stories or the reruns Mechanicville also happens to be the provenance of of some ’50s TV show. Travel to Mechanicville, and you’ll a tightly knit, extraordinarily accomplished fraternity of find so many of the hallmarks of Anywhere USA. Imposing gentlemen whose names have become synonymous with church steeple? Check. Bucolic streets lined with white picket Saratoga, the Capital Region and beyond. Let’s call them “The fences? Check. A corner bar serving $2 drafts, where every Boys of Mechanicville.” A good place to begin the story of this television set is tuned to the New York Giants? Check. A diner band of brothers, who would go on from their Mechanicville where a fresh pot of coffee is always on, everybody seems roots to become A-list businessmen, entrepreneurs and to know everybody and a chatty waitress dishes more than

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he tells me. “Looking at America today, that’s lacking. It traces back to what our core values are. Nobody’s perfect—but you learn as you go in life. Those were the common values of our community, from household to household.”

Dan Pickett concurs: “Mechanicville o what is it, exactly, that is a town on the Hudson River where makes Mechanicville so you had a lot of immigrant families, and incredibly special?

I think there’s always been a strong Chad Brown—who, at 40, work ethic because of that. I think is what you might call the “kid” of the people valued family, working hard, group—describes his hometown this loyalty. It’s a small city, so people were way: “It was the type of place where close. The school, back when we grew everyone looked after each other— up, was a good school, with good football games on Friday night, great teachers and mentors, and I think that teachers who taught us values, an oldhelped get things rolling for us guys.” school Italian community that always Pickett has been on a roll from the stuck together, like one big family. I beginning, actually. After graduating was lucky to grow up there.” Brown, from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute a superstar in the world of horse (RPI) in Troy, he went on to become racing, who now lives in Saratoga, first a major player in the tech and private discovered his love for the sport during equity worlds, and one of the Capital childhood trips to Saratoga Raceway, Region’s foremost philanthropists. The the local harness track. In high school, Pickett Family Foundation, founded he got a job there, working under in 2001, supports numerous charities, trainer Paul Kelley. Even after heading including the American Cancer off to Cornell University, Brown Society, St. Jude’s Children’s Research would return to Saratoga during the Hospital, St. Peter’s Health Partners summers to work at Saratoga Race and Saratoga Hospital. Pickett has Course under trainer Claude R. served on the boards of a number of “Shug” McGaughey III. Fast-forward institutions and nonprofits, including to today, and Brown has swapped Albany Medical Center and the local boys to men Dan Pickett, now harness for Thoroughbred racing, and chapter of Gilda’s Club, named for Chairman, CEO and Cofounder of tech now boasts upwards of 1200 career the late Saturday Night Live star Gilda firm nfrastructure, celebrating after a wins, including his first Triple Crown Radner. He’s also on the board of winning hit on the 1980 Mechanicville race in the 2017 Preakness Stakes trustees for his alma mater, RPI. All-Star team; (top) C.J. DeCrescente, with Cloud Computing. He won Pickett says that he’s not only who went on to become President the National Thoroughbred Racing known and stayed in touch with this of the Mechanicville-based Association’s (NTRA’s) Eclipse Award group of four friends and their families DeCrescente Distributing. for Outstanding Trainer in 2016 and his entire life, but he’s also been able 2017—years in which he was ranked to seek them out for professional No. 1 in North America in terms of total earnings. (He finished advice and guidance throughout the years. “When I’ve out 2018 with a reported $27.3 million, making for career needed help with something, all those guys have been there earnings totaling $148.3 million.) and have helped me in some way, shape or form over the Brown says it’s not surprising that so many successful people years,” says Pickett. For example, friend Dave DeVoe—whom, have come out of Mechanicville, crediting not just his own mom he points out, rose to the upper ranks of the media world as and dad and his mentors all those years ago, but also the rockone of Rupert Murdoch’s right-hand men—offered invaluable solid community as a whole—which includes the teachers and counsel when Pickett was putting together a merger between coaches he had going back to first grade—with providing the nfrastructure and tech company Zones, a deal that created a foundation that would lead to his phenomenal run. “They taught $1.5 billion global company with operations from New York you that you work hard, you don’t cut corners, you keep your to New Delhi. (Pickett’s company, which he founded with his word—if you say you’re going to do something, then you do it,” father and brother in the basement of the family’s liquor store

just the daily lunch special? Check, please—but not until I’ve heard one more irresistible piece of gossip. (In Mechanicville, that place is Bubbles Restaurant, which also serves the best hard ice cream around.)

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friday night lights Bubbles restaurant is a popular hub in Mechanicville; (top) the Mechanicville Raiders in their locker room during a Friday night football game.

in Mechanicville, is now a Zones subsidiary.) “Here he was, the CFO of one of the biggest media companies in the world, but he’s also generous with other people, a mentor. He didn’t run away from his roots—he feels a responsibility to help people achieve the same success he did.” To that same point, C.J. DeCrescente’s family, in 1990, financed nfrastructure’s first office building, according to Pickett. Likewise, he says, Tony Ianniello has offered sage legal advice. “When you look back, there are all these little moments in time, and each one was just sort of a stone on a scale that ended up tipping in a certain direction, where you ended up creating something that’s so big and so special that you can’t even believe it happened,” says Pickett. “It’s all the result of a lot of hard work over a sustained period of time, with a lot of hard-working people.” And of his friends? “I’m proud of those guys. I’m proud of what they’ve accomplished, and probably more so of how hard they worked to get there.”

Getting there was certainly not a walk in the park. C.J. DeCrescente points out that he and his four friends all came from relatively humble beginnings: “My family lived in a twobedroom apartment, where we shared one bathroom. We lived there until my father bought his first house in the ’80s. We were

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summer sparks Fireworks spark over a home in Mechanicville’s suburbs in July.

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he says. When I spoke to DeCrescente, he was headed off working pretty hard for what we had back then—but we always to meet up with family members and employees for their knew we were being supported locally. We started to become annual Christmastime tour of area facilities for the sick and an important little part of Mechanicville as far as employment.” elderly, including Saratoga Bridges in Wilton. They dress up in (DeCrescente Distributing’s 70th anniversary was the subject costumes (C.J. was The Grinch), sing carols and spend quality of a story in the 2018 Holiday issue of saratoga living.) time visiting with those who could use a little holiday cheer, Times weren’t always so prosperous, though. There were culminating in a big gathering at C.J.’s house in Clifton Park. days when DeCrescente’s mother would have him hold But it can’t just be hard work, right? I ask Tony Ianniello checks, because there weren’t enough funds to cover them. if, maybe, there’s something in Mechanicville’s water. He “You don’t forget that kind of stuff,” he says. “I try to instill the pauses for a minute and says: “I’d say strong families—we all same in my kids—you want them to have an understanding of came from strong family backgrounds.” He then reels off the how things used to be.” Oh, how things have changed for the biographies of his friends like a man talking about his own company, and for DeCrescente himself, who’s on the boards brothers. “C.J. is the third-generation of a distribution company, of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC), the Alzheimer’s and he’s taken it very far, as his father did from his grandfather.

Association’s regional chapter and the David Ortiz Children’s Dan Pickett’s parents were both from Mechanicville—his father Fund, among others. He’s also Chairman of the New York State was a star athlete who played all sports. A lot of us played Police Signal 30 Benefit Fund, which helps support the families sports.” (Basketball and baseball were Ianniello’s games, from of officers killed or injured in the line of duty. “If you’d asked Little League through high school.) He continues: “Dan went to me 40 years ago if we’d ever be able to do some of the things RPI and is the youngest member of the Board of Directors in we’ve been able to do philanthropically, I would’ve said, ‘Jeez, I the history of RPI. I went to Union College, Dave went to SUNY don’t know—we can barely make payroll,’ you know? It’s a trip.”

Plattsburgh, Chad went to Cornell—so we were all educated Even when it comes to the many charities he supports, Upstate.” Because of those ties, Ianniello DeCrescente is mindful that hard work is never strayed too far from his friends. After the key to success. He urges his senior train drain Mechanicville earning his BA from Union, he went on to get leadership to give not just money but time was once a bustling train town, with commuter trains an MS/MBA from Northeastern University to worthy causes. “Checks are great, but moving people across the before returning to the area to complete there’s no better way of giving back than by state and the rail yards his JD from Albany Law School. He’s been actually getting involved in the organization,” providing hundreds of jobs to city residents. Now, the trains are best known for making locals late to appointments.

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in private practice since 1970, with of time, we’ve arrived at where we a concentration in real estate law. are now, which is like an oasis in the (While he’s built a reputation as one of middle of the desert. Most of Upstate the area’s most prominent attorneys, New York is challenging, but the Ianniello reveals that he didn’t always Capital Region has, I think, a robust want to go into law—he originally business environment.” Much of that wanted to be an investment banker.) he credits to Glens Falls native Joe Today, Ianniello Anderson employs 16 Bruno, the longtime Republican leader lawyers and a support staff of 50, has of the New York State Senate, as well 5 offices in New York and Florida, and as local investment by companies is licensed in several states. such as GLOBALFOUNDRIES and Aside from his day job, Ianniello the establishment of the Colleges of is, like his successful friends, Nanoscale Science and Engineering heavily involved in the arts and local on the campus of SUNY Polytechnic philanthropies, serving on the boards Institute in Albany. of SPAC, Universal Preservation Hall and the Saratoga Automobile Museum o what of Mechanicville (of which he is a former Chairman), and and its future? Its proximity he’s closely involved with organizations to the state capital, access such as Opera Saratoga, the National to big-time employers and Museum of Dance and Saratoga Arts. enviable location on the Hudson “My greatest passion is supporting the continue to benefit the city greatly. arts for young people,” says Ianniello.

Neighborhood institutions such “We have a lot of plans to make as the Arts Center on the Hudson, Saratoga really a national destination located in the stunningly renovated for the arts.” This May, Ianniello will be Gothic building that used to house honored for his contributions to the St. Luke’s Church, have breathed fight against cancer with the Beacon new life into the community. Wellfriend zone Chad Brown (left) shares of Hope Award at the American established Mechanicville traditions, a laugh with friend C.J. DeCrescente at Cancer Society’s annual Gala of Hope some of them more than a century the Saratoga Race Course last summer; at the Hall of Springs. old, are still alive, such as the annual (top) Dan Pickett (left) received advice As is fitting for someone so closely Feast of the Assumption Parade every from friend Dave DeVoe about a merger associated with the Auto Museum, August. And yet, there continues to he would eventually complete.

Ianniello has loved cars as far back as be so much obvious opportunity here. he can remember, and as an adult has You see it as you walk these streets, gone on to become somewhat of a collector—though he’s in the old buildings that could use a little TLC and vacant quick to correct me that a true collector is one who deals storefronts—a familiar site, sadly, in so many small cities that have fallen victim to the Walmarts and Amazons of the world. in vintage models, while most of his are on the newer side.

I don’t know about you, but I’m hoping for a Mechanicville When I ask him to share with me all the wheels he owns, he renaissance. Might the city become the next Troy or Hudson— obliges (in case you’re interested, he’s got two Ferraris, three ripe for a new wave of émigrés, the next generation of Porsches, a McLaren and a Bentley). Today, Ianniello makes visionaries in the form of restaurateurs, shopkeepers, artisans his home overlooking Lake Lonely, just east of Downtown and artists? Like all the other boys from Mechanicville, Pickett Saratoga and 14 miles due north, give or take, of Mechanicville. still roots for his hometown: “Given the opportunity, and with It was never really a question that, even as he achieved the right local leadership and the right master plan for the such an impressive education and started building his career, town, there’s definitely potential there. Like anything, it’ll take Ianniello would stay close to home. He wanted to be near his a few very committed people to engage other committed parents as they advanced in years (they’re now deceased, people to increasingly do things to make the city special, so as are both his brothers), as well as his five nephews, with that when you look back five or ten years from now you’ll be whom he remains close. Echoing his friend C.J. DeCrescente, amazed at what they got done.”

Ianniello points out that it wasn’t always easy creating a So, yes, I think a renaissance is in order, and if history is any business from the ground up in this part of the world. “The guide, these boys of Mechanicville will be rooting for their business climate when I started was, I’d say, in the doldrums. hometown. No question about it.

It wasn’t a very robust environment, and over a long period

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Training Day THE BOYS OF MECHANICVILLE TAKE THE RACETRACK BY STORM.

By Joe Mastrianni Photography by

Dori Fitzpatrick

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n August 31, 2018, the day before Chad Brown became the winningest horse trainer in Saratoga Race Course history, he was enjoying a different kind of day at the races. The guest list included powerhouse friends and Mechanicville natives Tony Ianniello, Partner at Ianniello Anderson, P.C. (and Chair of saratoga living); C.J. DeCrescente, President of DeCrescente Distributing Company; Dan Pickett, CEO and Cofounder of tech firm nfrastructure; and Dave DeVoe, the former CFO of News Corp, all of whom met Brown at 7am sharp for a tour of his Thoroughbred stables in a part of the racetrack few fans ever get to see. And I was there, a fly on the wall, along with saratoga living Senior Photographer Dori Fitzpatrick, to capture this rare meeting of minds.

The group met at Barn 52, adjacent to the Oklahoma Training Track, across Union Avenue from the main track.

The barn is the center of Brown’s operations and where the private tour began. Chad led us on a muddy walk around the grounds, and we caught groomers prepping and washing his horses, including the four who would run under his name later that day. We also met a twoyear-old filly named Feedback, who’d won her first race by eight lengths at Saratoga earlier in the month.

Next, we were shuttled over to the main track by golf cart, joining the other trainers and owners watching their horses jog, gallop and breeze by. With the haze of the morning lifting, we stood at the rail, admiring the view of the Grandstand as Brown coordinated which horses, in pairs, he wanted to see work, to assess his options for future races.

After a full morning of touring, which included a peek inside Brown’s offices (its walls lined with photos from all of his winning races), we ended up at the Grandstand, where Brown graciously offered his box seats to us for the day. The very next day, from those same seats, Brown would watch his two-year-old colt Spirit Animal cross the finish line first in the sixth race, setting the new singleseason record for wins with 41 at Saratoga (he’d finish the card with two more wins). It was quite a day.

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horsin’ around Mechanicville natives Tony Ianniello, C.J. DeCrescente, Dan Pickett and Dave DeVoe met up with Thoroughbred trainer Chad Brown for a morning at Saratoga Race Course this past summer.

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LOVE SHACK h Falling in love at first sight with your (Saratoga) home is real.

Just ask our new Design Editor.

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CREDIT

homebody “There’s nothing like coming home,” says interior designer and saratoga living Design Editor Beverly Tracy. “I’ve always loved traveling, but nothing compares to the feeling of getting back to my room, my bed, my stuff.”

CREDIT

B Y B E V E R LY T R A C Y TJ T R AC Y E X C L U S I V E LY F O R saratoga living PHOTOGRAPHY BY

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recall quite vividly the moment I fell madly in love with my house. It was a cool, fall afternoon, and as I turned into the driveway, the tall, proud farmhouse appeared from behind rows of evergreens. Although I’d seen the house beforehand, it felt like I was experiencing it for the first time. I walked up the worn slate path to the front door, my heart beating a bit faster in anticipation, and upon entering it, I was immediately struck with that feeling. This was it. As my heart began to slow to its normal pace, I turned to my realtor and whispered, “I’m buying this house.” (I realize now that you’re not supposed to say that.) As I walked through each somehow familiar room, I saw visions of my young sons reading, playing board games, eating breakfast…I had a plan for each space; it was love at first sight. I was home.

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There’s nothing like coming home. I’ve always loved traveling, but nothing compares to the feeling of getting back to my room, my bed, my stuff. Like your favorite pair of jeans, or that old, perfectly worn sweater, home is cozy and comfortable; it’s the perfect mate, except when it’s messy or the refrigerator’s empty; and it provides an unfaltering love.

This house was no exception.

Built in 1850, my home had been the farmhouse of Oscar Granger, proprietor of Mount Pleasant Glass Factory, which made bottles for the medicinal waters of Saratoga Springs.

The house went on to become a bed and breakfast, and then returned to the hands of a single family. Steeped in history, it had lots of stories to tell. And then it was my turn.

Knowing that the house wouldn’t work for my family without a mudroom, putting one in was the first order of business following closing. I gave up the back porch for a fully enclosed space with a functional, floor-to-ceiling wall of cubbies, an adjoining wall of double coat-hooks and an oversized

whiteboard for keeping track of schedules (or attempting to do so). I needed a workhorse, and I got one. Sprayed white, with a designated spot for each family member, a stained beadboard ceiling and the original farmhouse floor, the mudroom became everything I needed it to be, and then some.

What happened next brought my dream kitchen to life (yes, every interior designer has a dream kitchen). After removing four layers of linoleum flooring, the original farmhouse wood floor was revealed and painted pale gray. Another fresh coat of navy paint applied to the base cabinets preserved a bit of history in the house, above which I added a wall of marble subway tile (very Saratoga). Open barnwood shelves supported by polished brackets replaced upper cabinets, and a thick slab of black soapstone replaced old and peeling Formica. An oversized sink with a shiny, modern faucet, new stainless-steel appliances and a big reclaimed wood farm table (which replaced the island; every farmhouse needs a farm table!) made my new kitchen shine.

home free “While I no longer feel the heartpounding excitement that struck me the first time I saw my beautiful farmhouse, it has been replaced with the best feeling in the world: the peaceful calm of coming home,” says Tracy.

However, the master bathroom was my favorite part of the renovation. I removed the original clawfoot tub (not so easy), pedestal sink and faux-slate linoleum floor (super easy). A quick demolition recessed the shower into my walkin closet (a perfect excuse to clear out old clothing), and fresh, new white subway tile and marble adorned the walls and new, oversized shower floor. Other musts? A shiny, white vanity, large custom mirror, beautiful dressing table and linen stool.

To complete my dreamy renovation, I took down a wall on the first floor to reveal original columns; repurposed the old side porch into a TV room and an incredible (and enormous!) pantry; gutted and renovated each of the other bathrooms; and painted each room by hand. And while I no longer feel the heart-pounding excitement that struck me those first few times I saw my beautiful farmhouse, it has been replaced with the best feeling in the world: the peaceful calm of coming home.

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7 Questions For NBA Coaching Great

GEORGE KARL The career 1000 game-winner looks back at his turn in the Capital Region as the Head Coach of the Albany Patroons.

BY BRIEN BOUYEA JOHN DALY saratoga living

i l l u s t r at i o n b y

T e x c l u s i v e ly f o r

sl exclusive

hroughout the 1980s and early ’90s, the Albany Patroons of the Continental Basketball Association (CBA) ruled the Capital Region sports landscape. The Pats won CBA championships in 1984 and 1988 and helped launch the National Basketball Association (NBA) careers of numerous players. But it was through the head coaching profession that the legacy of the Patroons is best remembered. Two heavyweights stand out in the crowd: Phil Jackson, who went on to win a staggering 11 NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers; and George Karl, who joined an elite group of NBA coaches in 2010, when he won his 1000th game.

I never saw a Patroons game that Jackson coached, but I vividly remember attending games coached by Karl, first inside the historic Washington Avenue Armory and then at the Knickerbocker Arena (now, the Times Union Center). Karl, who coached the Pats during their 1988-89 and 1990-91 seasons, finished his first season in Albany 36-18, and his second, a historic 50-6, with an undefeated 28-0 home record. And Karl’s Patroons squads were stacked with talent: They featured future NBA players such as Vincent Askew and Mario Elie.

Last September, a documentary entitled The Minor League Mecca, which follows the history of the Patroons and features numerous interviews with its former players and coaches, premiered at the Palace Theatre. Not surprisingly, Karl was in attendance. “It really captured the flavor of that time period and what it was like to be around Minor League Basketball,” Karl told me of the film. “I loved coaching in Albany.” Now based in the Denver area, Karl is currently out of coaching—at least for the moment. I caught up with him about the documentary, his time in the Capital Region and his incredible coaching career.

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1.

You’d coached in the NBA before coming to Albany. Was it difficult to coach in the Minors after being in the Majors?

I didn’t look at it as a step back.

Returning to the CBA and coaching in Albany was a great thing for my career. We had a lot of success and it opened some doors for the future.

I tried to instill that in the players we had. Everyone wants to be in the NBA, but the path isn’t easy for everyone.

The Minor Leagues are tough. The pay is terrible, you have long bus rides, you aren’t exactly staying in top hotels on the road. It’s about opportunity, and what you do with it. We had a lot of hungry guys who recognized it as opportunity and made the most of it.

2. The 1990-91 Patroons team went

50-6 and undefeated at home. Did you guys feel unbeatable that season?

We were very confident. There was plenty of talent. The biggest reason we had success was there weren’t any ego problems. We played as a unit.

Basketball allows for individuals to stand out, but all the best teams work within a framework. That team had that, and that’s why we were so successful.

3. You’ve been NBA Coach of the Year (2013), have 1175 career wins in the league and my guess is you’ll be a shoo-in for the Hall of Fame. What would being inducted into the Hall of Fame mean to you?

If it happens, it happens. I’d be tremendously proud. It’s not something I ever aspired to, but I would be truly appreciative if it ever comes to be.

4. You caught a good amount of backlash for your thoughts on some players, executives and the NBA in your 2017 book, Furious George: My Forty Years Surviving NBA Divas, Clueless GMs, And Poor Shot Selection. Were you surprised with the criticism you received, or was your intention to stir things up?

I was somewhat surprised. A lot of the

stories I told were about experiences that had happened years and sometimes decades before. People change. Perspectives change. I wanted it to be fun, like a relaxed conversation a couple of hoops fans would have while having a few beers at the bar. A lot of people told me they enjoyed it.

But not everyone did.

5. Your son, Coby, is now a coach in the NBA G League.

Having Minor League coaching experience yourself, have you given him much advice about coaching at that level?

Coby really knows the game and how to relate to people. He’s got so much working for him in those areas.

I’m really proud of him, obviously, but I don’t try to offer up much in the way of advice unless he asks me for it.

“Everyone wants to be in the NBA, but the path isn’t easy for everyone.

It’s about opportunity, and what you do with it.”

6. Would you consider another NBA job if you were offered one?

You never want to say “never.”

7. What are your thoughts on the legacy of the Albany Patroons, especially the coaches who came before you?

I’ve always said that there is a lot to be learned in the Minors. A lot of the people who came through there used it as an experience to build on. It’s remarkable, though, that so many successful guys came through Albany at one time or another. Quite remarkable, really.

furious george The fiery George Karl is part of an elite group of NBA head coaches, having won more than 1000 games in his career.

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CREDIT

BY JEFF DINGLER photography by

where there’s a hill Painter David Hill at work; (left) Hill with rapper/ musician Wyclef Jean and the portrait that Hill did of Jean for Putnam Place’s new Wall of Fame.

CREDIT

INSIDE THE SARATOGA-BASED ARTIST’S SURPRISING WORLD.

(Wyclef Jean) TAO HARRIS

DAVID HILL, NATURAL TALENT

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the forest for the trees One of Hill’s most recent creations using copper and oil paints.

second nature One of Hill’s nature studies using oil paints.

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grew up in Alabama surrounded by nature. Hunting little green lizards and june bugs by day, watching lightning bugs gather and listening to tree frogs at night—it felt like paradise. It’s one of the reasons I feel so at home here in Saratoga Springs, where, close to the Adirondacks and Lake George, there’s no shortage of ways to go out and commune with nature.

Saratoga-based painter David Hill had a similar experience growing up, albeit not in Alabama like I did. Rather, he was raised on St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands, surrounded by the warm, turquoise waters of the Caribbean. “I paint mostly natural themes, but always with a unique twist,” says Hill, who still frequently incorporates water into his paintings. “I had a nice childhood of just being on the beach every day.”

After high school, Hill decided to travel, studying art in Florida, Italy and Hawaii. In his mid-20s, he landed at the Art Institute of Boston (part of Lesley University), where he found a creative way to support himself during his college years. “When I was in art school, I’d already had some success,” he says.

“So sometimes I was literally taking homework and selling it at galleries.”

After earning his bachelor’s degree, Hill returned to St. Thomas, where, in 2005, he opened his first gallery, which

he owned and managed for six years.

Back on the island, he met his future wife, Emily, who’d grown up in Saratoga.

“She’d moved down after school and just thought she was going to be there for six months,” says Hill. She ended up staying for more than a decade.

After having a couple of kids, Hill and his wife moved to Saratoga to be closer to Emily’s family. “I knew Saratoga and I liked it,” he says. “When I went to school in Boston, I’d often come in the summertime and visit Lake George or go to the track.” After years of exhibiting his work at Sorelle Gallery (which moved from Saratoga to New Canaan, CT) and other spaces in the Capital Region, Hill opened his own studio, right above Wheatfields Restaurant & Bar in Downtown Saratoga, in September 2015. At the same time, he also opened a spot to sell his artwork, the David Hill Gallery, located at the Saratoga

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panda express Two of the illustrations from the children’s book, Birds Can Fly, Why Can’t I?, that Hill illustrated and cowrote.

Marketplace on Broadway. Since then, Hill has branched out in surprising ways.

He cowrote and illustrated a children’s book, Birds Can Fly, Why Can’t I?, with Saratoga author Vicki Addesso Dodd.

The book won an Independent Publisher Book Awards Gold Medal.

Hill says he’s currently working on another children’s book, in addition to creating a Wall of Fame at Putnam Place, featuring paintings of famous musicians who’ve performed at the venue (the wall includes a signed portrait of Grammywinning artist Wyclef Jean). As for his painting, Hill has returned to his roots, doing nature studies and landscapes, but with a new twist: He’s making art using metals, such as copper and white gold, in addition to paint. “It just shines through in a unique way,” Hill says.

“It’s different and it’s something that I stumbled across here in Saratoga.”

In a way, we all know exactly how Hill feels. There is something special about living in the Spa City that inspires such creativity—case in point, David Hill.

sl predicts...

WE KNOW THE WINNER!

❶ BRIEN BOUYEA, COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR, NATIONAL MUSEUM OF RACING AND HALL OF FAME

He’s only had one start, but I like a horse named Coliseum.

He’s a son of Tapit, owned by Godolphin Racing and trained

by Bob Baffert. There’s been a lot of buzz on this horse from the morning clockers in California.

That’s my shot in the dark.

Umm...maybe.

Our experts choose who will take the Kentucky Derby crown on May 4.

❹ JOE “WOODY” WOOD, OWNER AND MASTER BARBER, WOODY’S BARBER SHOP (AND AMATEUR HANDICAPPER)

Roadster, trained by Bob Baffert and ridden by jockey Mike Smith, who came back from throat surgery to improve drastically, has a legitimate shot to make a strong run at winning the Kentucky Derby.

BY WILL LEVITH

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY

❷

ADAM COGLIANESE

TERESA GENARO, PUBLISHER, BROOKLYNBACKSTRETCH.COM

While the Grade 2 Remsen Stakes at Aqueduct Racetrack in Queens, NY, is seldom considered a key race on the road to The Kentucky Derby, the race got a boost when the 2017 winner, Catholic Boy, went on to win multiple Grade 1 races, including the Travers Stakes. So 2018’s Remsen winner, Maximus Mischief, is my early Derby pick.

ix months into my tenure at the Daily Racing Form (DRF), I found myself caught up in the frenzy of a potential Triple Crown. It was May 2012, and it had been 34 years since Affirmed had completed the near-impossible feat of winning The Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes all in the same year (1978). DRF’s handicappers were high on I’ll Have Another, who had three wins in five starts dating back to 2011, with jockey Mario Gutierrez at the reins, including the coveted Grade 1 Santa Anita Derby the previous month. I’ll Have Another ended up capturing The Derby in dramatic fashion, beating out favorite Bodemeister in the final seconds of the race. I remember my heart racing, watching it on the big screen at the office.

I’ll Have Another followed that up with a win in the Preakness, but unfortunately, was scratched from the Belmont, putting an end to his chances at history.

I’d be remiss not to mention that saratoga living came close to predicting the 2018 Kentucky Derby winner with our early pick, Good Magic, who came in second in the race. So, if your New Year’s resolution is to be a better bettor—or simply have a few more greenbacks available for your Saratoga Race Course campaign this summer—I’d suggest listening to our panel of experts. Who knows? Maybe we’ll punch your winning ticket a little early this year. Or not.

❸ BYRON KING, KENTUCKY HANDICAPPER, DAILY RACING FORM

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CREDIT

CREDIT

Bob Baffert has already trained five Kentucky Derby winners, two of which, American Pharoah and Justify, won the Triple Crown. One horse that Baffert trains that may have the most potential is Improbable, who was an unbeaten three-for-three in 2018. His upside is immense.

big trouble Maximus Mischief (right) winning the 2018 Remsen Stakes at Aqueduct.

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riding high Jockey Joel Rosario atop Accelerate at the 2018 Breeders’ Cup; (opposite) jockey Mike Smith and Triple Crown winner Justify at the 2018 Belmont Stakes.

OPINION

It’s Accelerate Vs. History For ‘Horse Of The Year’ DRF columnist Jay Hovdey digs into the 2019 Eclipse Awards’ most controversial category.

BY JAY HOVDEY

A

That’s all well and good, but winning the Triple Crown, as Justify did to conclude a career of six starts and six wins, carries with it an almost bulletproof validation.

Triple Crown winners—no matter how fast they run or who they face—immediately find themselves in a club so exclusive that anything else happening in the year of their accomplishment tends to quietly melt away.

Does anyone readily recall that in 1937, Seabiscuit won 11 of 15 starts at 10 different tracks, carried 130 pounds to victory 3 times and led the nation in earnings? Nope, not really, because War Admiral won the Triple Crown and was Horse of the Year.

Armed did everything you could ask of an older Thoroughbred in 1946 when he ran 18 times, won 11 races and finished out of the money only once in a campaign that marched from late January to mid-September. Horse of the Year Assault lost 7 of 15 starts, but 3 of his victories made up the Triple Crown, so that was that. And even though his post-Triple Crown form was pockmarked by a disqualification in the Travers Stakes and a slipped saddle in the Jockey Club Gold Cup, Affirmed was hailed as 1978 Horse of the Year in the face of Seattle Slew, who beat Affirmed twice, and Exceller, winner of six Grade 1 races on turf and dirt.

So good luck to Accelerate. It’s a steep hill to climb.

EDITOR’S NOTE: At press time, the Eclipse award for “Horse Of The Year” still hadn’t been announced. But given Hovdey’s

argument for both horses, saratoga living felt that his opinion was worth reading—and arguing about!—for posterity.

(A longer version of this column originally appeared in the Daily Racing Form).

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CREDIT

t the 2019 Eclipse Awards, it’s going to be Justify vs. Accelerate for Horse of the Year honors. One side of the argument? Justify should win because, since 1936, all Triple Crown winners have won Horse of the Year.

On the other side? Accelerate should be Horse of the Year because, since 1950, no older horse with a similarly stellar record has ever not been Horse of the Year.

Eclipse Awards ballots have gone out to about 270 voters, and they’ll have their toughest task sorting out the ultimate honor since the great Rachel AlexandraZenyatta debate of 2009, and before that, the War of the Worlds in 1984 between John Henry and Slew O’ Gold. In each of those elections, there were some very fine people on both sides. Neither choice, however, was colored by the specter of a Triple Crown winner. The Triple Crown, goes the common wisdom, trumps all other considerations.

Accelerate’s challenge to the norm is based on a 2018 record of six wins in seven starts. His six victories included the Santa Anita Handicap, Gold Cup at Santa Anita, Pacific Classic and Breeders’ Cup Classic, all at a mile and a quarter on dirt. His narrow loss in the nine-furlong Oaklawn Handicap was to City Of Light, who ended his season with a powerful win in the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile.

CREDIT MIKE LIZZI; (opposite) JLVSCIRK

DAILY RACING FORM

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the back Calendar ⁄

on some of their most memorable encounters with other celebrities. As just a sampler, early in his career, Martin got to meet Elvis Presley, and Short, prefame, bungled a drink order for Frank Sinatra. Martin and Short will also be joined onstage by Grammy Awardwinning bluegrass band the Steep Canyon Rangers and acclaimed pianist from the Jimmy Kimmel Live! band, Jeff Babko.

Powerful Voices THIS IS ON E CAN’ T-MI SS SH OW, SARATO GA !

FEBRUARY 12-13

Ladysmith Black Mambazo at Caffè Lena

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hen I was a kid, my older brother and I shared a rather eclectic mix of cassette tapes. There was INXS’ Kick, which we found on the side of the road (no case) near Saratoga 5 Points Market & Deli in Saratoga Springs; Genesis’ Invisible Touch, which featured the title track that our neighborhood band tried (and failed) to cover; and the Top Gun soundtrack, which my brother and I used to play “fighter pilot” to when the Cheap Trick song “Mighty Wings” came

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BY WI LL LE V I T H

on. There were also albums by The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Beach Boys and Huey Lewis And The News.

One of the tapes that I listened to constantly on my Sony Walkman—and which always seemed to surprise me in some new way every time I put it on— was Paul Simon’s Graceland, which my brother and I must’ve acquired in the late ’80s. (It was released in 1986, and subsequently won Album of the Year at the Grammys.) Graceland was not only a breath of fresh air on the charts, but also helped herald in a new era in pop music—that which was mixed with sounds from around the planet (i.e., “world music”). Sure, Simon had been doing it since his Simon & Garfunkel

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days (see: “El Cóndor Pasa”), but it became de rigueur in the ’80s: The Police had experimented with foreign-tinged pop on Synchronicity in ’83; and in ’86, Peter Gabriel released his single “Your Eyes,” featuring Senegalese singer Youssou N’Dour. Simon’s special sauce on Graceland? Unquestionably, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, a South African vocal group that created otherworldly soundscapes atop Simon’s überliterate melodies and lyrics.

What made the pairing that much more special was that, at the time of the album’s recording, South Africa was still in the grips of apartheid (government-sanctioned racial segregation), which greatly limited what the members of Ladysmith Black Mambazo could legally accomplish with Simon in the studio (restrictions, such as curfews, made it difficult for them to record late into the night). So the fact that Simon recorded with and ended up touring with black South African musicians at the time was not only a sonic statement but a powerful political one. It was my first exposure to protest music on a grand scale.

Ladysmith Black Mambazo, which has since won five of its own Grammys and recorded with legends such as Stevie Wonder and Dolly Parton, will be bringing its unmistakable harmonies to Caffè Lena on February 12-13, for two sure-to-sell-out performances. While the group’s key songwriter, Joseph Shabalala, who helped pen songs on Graceland, has retired from the group, his sons have been helming Ladysmith Black Mambazo since 2008 (they’ve also been part of the group for more than a quarter century). When in life do you ever get two chances to get something right? Don’t miss this one, Saratoga—it's going to be special.

(John) KEVIN MAZUR/GETTY IMAGES FOR ROCKET ENTERTAINMENT; (Grande) DISNEY CHANNEL/IMAGE GROUP LA/FLICKR; (Martin and Short) MARK SELIGER; (Chowderfest) SARATOGA WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

joyful noise South Africa’s Ladysmith Black Mambazo, who have won multiple Grammy awards, return to wow Saratoga in February.

FEBRUARY 2

21st Annual Saratoga Chowderfest The best way to warm up on a bone-chillingly cold winter day? With a cup of chowder at the 21st Annual Saratoga Chowderfest on Saturday, February 2, from 11am4pm, that’s how. This year’s Chowderfest will offer up scrumptious (and creative) chowders from more than 80 vendors and restaurants across Saratoga County. No ticket is necessary—you just need $1 for every 3-ounce sample cup you’d like to try.

Participants can also vote on their favorite chowder at discoversaratoga.com/vote, or they can cast paper ballots at the Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center or the gallery at the Saratoga Springs City Center (voting ends at 5pm on the day of Chowderfest and will be tallied in seven separate award categories).

Be sure to attend the awards ceremony at 6:30pm at the Heritage Area Visitor Center to see if one of your favorites won big.

soup’s on! It’s almost here! Chowderfest returns to Downtown Saratoga Springs on February 2.

FEBRUARY 17

Steve Martin and Martin Short: ‘Now You See Them, Soon You Won’t’ Tour Comedy legends Steve Martin and Martin Short are bringing their “Now You See Them, Soon You Won’t” tour to Proctors on Sunday, February 17, at 8pm. This show of all-new material will feature live musical sketches, conversations about the two comedians’ indelible careers in show business and recollections

Steve Martin and Martin Short

MARCH 18

Ariana Grande’s ‘Sweetener’ World Tour

With her impossibly catchy songs and powerful voice, Ariana Grande has emerged as one of the most successful performers in pop music today. At the age of 25, the singer of the smash “thank u, next” has already released three platinum-selling albums that have garnered 6 Grammy Award nominations and MARCH 1 spawned 8 hits in Elton John’s the Top 10 on the ‘Farewell Billboard Hot 100.

Yellow Last summer saw Brick the release of Road’ Tour Grande’s highly Rock & Roll anticipated Hall of Famer fourth studio Elton John will album, Sweetener, be coming to which debuted at Elton John the Times Union No.1 on the Billboard Center on Friday, March 200 album chart. The album 1, as part of his “Farewell features a number of hit Yellow Brick Road” Tour. songs such as “No Tears The piano man known for Left To Cry,” “Breathin” and hit songs such as “Rocket “God Is A Woman.” Expect Man,” “Candle In The Wind” to hear these and more as and “Tiny Dancer,” has Grande’s “Sweetener” World been recording and touring Tour officially kicks off at for more than 50 years and the Times Union Center on has earned a staggering Monday, March 18. You read 34 Grammy nominations, that correctly: Capital Region with five wins. That, and fans get the first chance in he’s sold more than 300 the world to see what all that million records worldwide. buzz has been about.

As expected, John’s final – JEF F DIN GLER tour will be a truly mammoth undertaking, comprising 300 shows across 5 continents, stretching from September 2018 to sometime in 2021.

Don’t miss this once-in-alifetime opportunity to say goodbye to one of the rock world’s most influential musicians.

Ariana Grande

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the back Luxe ⁄

Spa Mirbeau Does It Right

ranch hands Spa Mirbeau is the closest thing to the famed Canyon Ranch spa and resort you’re going to get north of Manhattan.

HAV E YOU BEEN TO ALBANY’ S S U BLIM E RELAXATION H Q?

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eed a quick escape from all of Saratoga’s fabulousness? For those of us who crave a firstrate spa and wellness experience, look no further than Albany.

In just over a half-hour you could be wrapped in a fluffy robe, lost in a world-class spa facility. How nice does that sound?

Since I’ve been fortunate enough to travel around the planet and experienced some of its very best spas, I’m pretty jaded about spas and even more snarky about peoples’ idea of what a “real spa” is. Labeled a “day spa,” Spa Mirbeau confesses to being more of a “day resort,” and I couldn’t agree more. Even by my judgy standards, this spa’s impressive entrance; large, well-appointed locker room; and

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make up the power lunch fabric of this well-designed changing areas, with bustling Upsate New York destination. relaxtion pavilions and firepits, plus With some 14 treatment rooms, with generous refreshments and hydrators, fireplaces and private sound systems, immediately had me convinced: Spa and herbal-infused steam rooms and Mirbeau is crazy legit. The rooms saunas, you’ll know Spa Mirbeau housing the massaging-mani/pedi doesn’t take the term stations sealed the deal. “treatment” lightly. That This spa is modern, IF YOU’RE TIRED, seriousness of purpose super-clean, elegant…

OVERWHELMED, has also inspired a and even man-friendly!

STRESSED OR JUST coveted signature bodyWant more surprising product line. All of their truth bombs? Spa Mirbeau SORE FROM WINTER is the closest thing to the SPORTS, SPA MIRBEAU facials are executed in expertly designed steps, famed Canyon Ranch spa HAS A LUXE CURE FOR with specific serums, and resort you’re going WHATEVER AILS YOU. masks and gentle to get north of Manhattan. devices designed to This top-notch retreat is not just a state-of-the-art, 17,000achieve maximum effect. Consider the square-foot facility, it’s also the de facto Premier Cru Facial, utilizing Caudalie’s wellness club near our state capital’s tri-patented active ingredients; or the government offices, serving the upscale Intraceutical Advanced Lift Facial, with heavyweights and social patrons who your choice of an Antioxidant, Vitamin A,

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TPG ARCHITECTURE

BY M A R CO MEDRANO

Vitamin C+3 or Collagen waterfront dining booster treatments, which Top the day off by having a infuses into your dermal steam and delish spa lunch layers for fast, noticeable, or dinner at Le Bistro & red-carpet-worthy results.

Wine Bar on Spa Mirbeau’s Offering brands such as Aqua Terrace level.

Caudalie and Intraceutical, the spa’s La Boutique is the ideal place to get guidance for some new skincare products to help prolong your youthful glow at home. If you’re tired, overwhelmed, stressed or sore from winter sports, the spa has a cure for whatever ails you; the massage menu is thorough and magical. Here are my top three massage recommendations (very indulgent, I realize): the Monet’s Favorite Fragrance Massage (aromatherapy), Deep Tissue and Himalayan Salt Stone Massage.

You could extend the pampering by arranging for a quasi-staycation in an Albany hotel and make a whole wellness intervention weekend of it. Or just get a mani-pedi, secure a complimentary day pass and make use of the enormous exercise facility. Then, top the day off by having a steam and delish spa lunch or dinner at Le Bistro & Wine Bar on Spa Mirbeau’s Aqua Terrace level. Better still? Stay in your robe or jump into the resort’s jetted, mini, hot massage pool—and invite a friend to have a drink, share some small plates or full-on cuisine and dessert right there in the water!

I strongly recommend that you take the spa’s virtual tour on its website. All the possibilities for a satisfying day of “you time” will become crystal clear. Not to be underestimated, Spa Mirbeau’s brand is based on fine hospitality, with a fully sanctioned hotel resort experience available now in Skaneateles (in the Finger Lakes) and coming this fall to Rhinebeck, NY—and I must say, it’s looking nothing short of spectacular.

Get on board, my fellow Saratogians, and namaste your cares away. Spa Mirbeau is a world class facility right here in your own backyard. You don’t find that every day, now, do you?

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Design the back Beautiful ⁄

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s all of my clients know, a house becomes a home when it’s filled with personal items—special, meaningful pieces that have you written all over them. I can often be found digging through the pantry for just such things: vases from my grandma, old boxes of china and crystal that have been tucked away for safe-keeping. I’ve even been known to frame my sons’ artwork. Living with beautiful things—things that you love and that bring you joy—is how you create a home. So dust off those old wedding gifts and actually use them! Odds are, they’ll make you think of that old friend or family member who gave them to you.

Inner Beauty In 2019 THE E AS I EST DECORATI NG TI PS F R O M O U R N E W DE SI GN E DI TO R .

STORY AND PH OTOGRAP H Y BY B E V E R LY T R ACY

pillow talk A new coat of light taupe white paint and fresh flowers make houses feel classic and timeless, yet new for 2019; (opposite) luxe cashmere pillows and chunky wool throws provide just the right texture and decor for any room.

The warm memories those objects will bring you and your home will embrace you like a giant hug.

I get asked questions about interior design trends all the time—so I’ve decided to start answering them here in the pages of saratoga living! Have any questions about design burning a hole in your pocket? Email editorial@ saratogaliving.com.

What are some quick, easy ways that I can update my house for 2019?

MARTHA BURKE SARATOGA SPRINGS

It’s easy to update your house for the new year! FOllow these five simple steps: 1. A fresh coat of paint will ring in the new year with

a bang if it’s a strong, rich hue. I’m loving deep greens, classic navy blue and even black.

2. Out with the old pillows and in with the new, brighter ones. Color, color, color! Carefully selected and placed, jewel-toned

pillows will bring your sofa into 2019.

3. All I wanted for Christmas was…a piece of acrylic furniture. Yes, this cool, clear material will bring a new look to any room.

4. Flowers are a great way of updating your home.

Find some wall space for floral wallpaper, track down a flower-printed pillow or purchase a piece of modern art with a floral subject. And don’t stop there; a weekly, fresh bouquet of flowers in your home will keep rooms bright all year.

5. Soft and luxurious is going to be the big winner in 2019. Sumptuous rich velvets, thick wool rugs and dreamy throws will get your house ready for a truly stylish new year!

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Travel the back Horse ⁄

Louisville, Or Bust!

louisville slugger The Brown Hotel’s ultra elegant lobby bar.

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BROWN HOTEL

W E U N PAC K I T A LL F O R YO U : WH ERE TO STAY, E AT A N D E N J OY YO U R DOWN T I M E B E F O R E DE R BY DAY.

BY WI LL LE V I T H

ou’d think that WHERE TO STAY someone, Look, you could crash on a who grew friend-of-a-friend’s couch, up in a horse like I did—or do it the racing town right way. In other words, (Saratoga make like the high-roller Springs) that you are and enjoy and put in two years of the lap of luxury. Ask any service at the Horseplayer’s Louisvillian where the upper Bible (Daily Racing Form) echelon stays in town, would’ve been to the and they’ll direct you to Kentucky Derby by now. the historic Brown Hotel at Sadly, that’s not the case. In 335 West Broadway, which fact, I’ve never even been has been serving patrons to Churchill Downs, the for nearly a century. As an historic racetrack where added bonus, the hotel is The Run For The Roses has taken place I R EMEMBER HAVI NG every year since 1875.

Z ER O EX P ECTATI ONS I have been to ABOUT LOUI S VI L L E Louisville though, the city where it all GOI NG I N—AND L EAVI NG goes down. I spent COMP L ETELY WON OVER . a whirlwind 24 hours there with three close friends while on a road trip well known for its classic through the South several “Hot Brown” sandwich, years ago. I remember which has been on its menu having zero expectations since 1926. (I visited the about the city going in—and hotel to experience the leaving completely won dish for myself.) If you’re over. What a wonderful wondering what all the place! I could’ve spent a commotion’s about, the Hot month there, maybe longer.

Brown is an open-faced As luck would have it, I turkey sandwich, served have a really good memory on thick Texas toast and for what I was able to topped with four rashers accomplish in the short of bacon, all doused in a time I was in the city—and Mornay sauce (basically, I still have a “spy” on the melted cheese). If there’s inside, who offered tons of a “no vacancy” sign wonderful options for the illuminated at the Brown, try city during its lead-up to the The Seelbach Hilton Derby, which this year takes (my spy’s top choice), place on May 4. For those Marriott’s Aloft Louisville worried about booking Downtown (on Whiskey advanced reservations Row), Inn At Woodhaven and such, my mole also (listed on the National mentioned that everything Register of Historic Places) kicks into high gear on April or Charred Oaks Inn (in 20, two Saturdays before nearby Versailles, KY). There the Derby. So there’s ample are countless other options. time to book, book, book.

You will not be left out.

brown’s crown The Brown Hotel is where Derby-bound high-rollers stay in Louisville; (inset) the classic “Hot Brown” sandwich, in all its glory.

WHERE TO EAT It should be pretty obvious, following that Hot Brown description, that Louisville’s a food-lover’s paradise.

For the discerning culinary

traveler, I’d suggest Jack Fry’s, which opened in 1933 and does a high-end spin on classic Southern comfort foods (try the Jack’s Burger and do a bourbon flight at the bar). My spy tells me that Lilly’s Bistro, a locally owned farm-to-table restaurant in the Highlands neighborhood of Louisville, is also a gem. Chef

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floats like a butterfly The Muhammad Ali Center is a nonprofit museum and cultural center housing all things “The Greatest.”

WHAT TO DO Just like Saratoga, Louisville isn’t just a one-horse town. There’s a lot to do to keep yourself occupied before the Derby. For your sports-fanatic travel companion, The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory (i.e., where Major League

Baseball bats are made) is a must-see, as is the Muhammad Ali Center, a nonprofit museum and cultural center located right on the river in Downtown Louisville that houses all things “The Greatest.” For the outdoorsy type, you’ll want to spend time in

EXPECT THE BEST

© Rob Spring

© Rob Spring

© Dave Bigler

HALL OF SPRINGS

© Rob Spring

CANFIELD CASINO

© Viscosi

WEDDINGS IN SARATOGA SPRINGS

© Hitlin

© Rob Spring

© Dave Bigler

© Rob Spring

© YTK

© Rob Spring

© Rob Spring

© Hitlin

I have just one word for you: “bourbon.” I promise Louisville will make you

© Rob Spring

WHAT TO DRINK

Waterfront Park and take a stroll over the Big Four Bridge, which connects Louisville to Jeffersonville, IN, over the Ohio River.

And museum fanatics can hit up the Speed Art Museum on the campus of the University of Louisville (nearby Churchill Downs), or just get right to the point of their visit at the Kentucky Derby Museum (adjacent to the fabled racetrack).

After your two-week primer prior to Derby Day, you’ll be well acclimated with Louisville. And just remember: Saratoga’s racing season begins a little more than 11 weeks after that. So there’ll be a chance to do it all over again, soon, in America’s other truly great horse town. Can’t wait!

center of attention The Muhammad Ali Center at night.

© Rob Spring

Kathy Cary is a bit of a local celebrity, and she serves up mouthwatering dishes such as Preacher Ham Beignets.

The restaurant’s bar has an off-the-charts bourbon collection, too. And finally, if you’re in the mood for an old-fashioned, Kentucky-style lunch, look no further than Buck’s Restaurant & Bar, a local staple for more than 25 years (try its delicious spin on the Hot Brown).

into a whiskey aficionado.

The city’s world-renowned for its confluence of distilleries, many of which are conveniently located on The Kentucky Bourbon Trail (kybourbontrail.com). Each distillery has affordable tours (make sure you have a designated driver) and provides fun for members of the family 21 and older.

You’ll recognize names on the trail such as Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark, but I’d suggest shooting for off-the-map spots like Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery in Frankfort, KY, which produces the ultra-rare and expensive Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve whiskey. (Pappy made an appearance at Jack Fry’s in this bourbon lover’s flight.)

MUHAMMAD ALI CENTER

Travel the back Horse ⁄

the back Food ⁄

Chef Jason Saunders Goes Prime Time With ‘Cozy’ Bite THE EXECUTIVE CHEF AT PRIME AT SARATOGA NATIONAL PLATES THE FIRST ENTRY FOR THE ULTIMATE ‘SARATOGA BITE.’ P H OTO GR A P H Y BY T E R R I -LYN N P E LL EG RI EXECUTIVE CHEF:

Jason Saunders RESTAURANT:

Prime at Saratoga National SARATOGA BITE:

Maple Chipotle Honey Mustard-Glazed Pork Fritter

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hen deciding how to create my “Saratoga Bite,” I went the cozy, comfortappetizer route.

I wanted to create a small-plate dish that’s easy to share or keep all to yourself. These fritters aren’t on our menu but are something we can create with the mise en place* we have in the kitchen. Next time you’re at Prime at Saratoga National, ask your server for the “Saratoga Bite” featured in saratoga living.

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Maple Chipotle Honey MustardGlazed Pork Fritter (MAKES 12 FRITTERS) INGREDIENTS

2/3 c. Milk 1 c. Cornmeal 1 Tbsp. Butter 1 Egg 1 tsp. Old Bay seasoning ¼ tsp. Salt 3 Tbsp. Sugar 8 oz. Braised pork ¼ c. Maple chipotle honey mustard, divided 2 Tbsp. Coleslaw 1½ c. Frying oil

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INSTRUCTIONS

Heat milk until it starts to simmer.

Mix cornmeal, butter, egg, Old Bay, salt and sugar together, and whisk in warm milk until incorporated.

Add braised pork to milk. Remove pork and form into 1-oz. disks. Deep (or pan) fry the disks until golden brown.

Toss disks with half of honey mustard.

Place disks in bowl and drizzle with remaining honey mustard. Top with coleslaw and serve. *As any Top Chef or Food Network aficionado surely knows, this is a French phrase referring to the process by which foods are prepared and organized prior to cooking.

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the back Drink ⁄

Cantina Doubles Down On Its ‘Next Great Saratoga Cocktail’ Entry

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ith mezcal and tequila having such a hot year last year and poised to continue their streak into 2019, I wanted to create a cocktail that was both a hat-tip to the future of the liquor industry and an homage to Saratoga Springs’ (gambling) past and present.

Hence, the cocktail including both tequila and mezcal—and the gambling reference in its name. (Plus, Cantina’s bar is all about agave!) The result is a subtly smoky, sweet, tart and refreshing cocktail.

DOWN TOWN SA R ATO GA’S GO -TO M E XI CA N SP OT OF F E R S U P A T E Q U I LA-T I N GE D C O C KTA I L, SU R E TO A DD SOM E ZI N G TO T H E N E W YE A R .

Which Board Would You Prefer? Because Life is Too Short to Iron!

The Double Down INGREDIENTS

Nick Aquino BAR:

Cantina

3/4 oz. Mezcal Unión 3/4 oz. Casamigos Reposado tequila 3/4 oz. Luxardo Maraschino liqueur 3/4 oz. Grapefruit juice 3/4 oz. Fresh-squeezed lime juice 1/4 oz. Organic agave syrup 1 Bar spoonful of Luxardo cherry juice Lime wheel Maraschino cherry

COCKTAIL:

The Double Down

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INSTRUCTIONS

Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker, add ice and shake vigorously. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with lime wheel and Maraschino cherry.

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winning tune Former winner of The Voice, Sawyer Fredericks, performing at Saratoga Springs City Center.

Runners in the 23rd Annual Saratoga Arts First Night 5K

Brian DeAngelo of the Ryan Leddick Trio

photography by KATIE DOBI ES

CREDIT

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Logan Spaleta

(from left) Victor Motta, John Seneta, Chris Ristau and Bill O'Brien of Forthlin Road

First Night, Best Night BRINGING IN ANOTHER NEW YEAR, SARATOGA STYLE.

(from left) Mike McLean, John Guay, Crick Diefendorf and John Haggerty of Big Fez & the Surfmatics

Friends watching Forthlin Road perform at The Parting Glass

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i m a g e by Hiltin P hotograp hy

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(from left) Tom Roohan, Brian Straughter

Snow Ball’s Chance

Don’t Miss An Issue of

John Lefner, Jennifer Lefner

Jo Young, Gary Young

BY NATAL IE MO O RE

ast December, generous Saratogians gathered for the annual Snow Ball, which raises funds for The Flower and Fruit Mission, an organization that equips and maintains the maternity unit of Saratoga Hospital. Held this year at the Canfield Casino, the ball welcomed guests dressed in black-tie attire, who were treated to a sit-down dinner, memorable decor and live music by The Accents. “Since the beginning of The Flower and Fruit Mission in 1904, we’ve had 13 members who have dedicated more than half a century of service,” says mission President Susan Halstead. “We’ve raised more than $1.5 million, which has gone towards purchasing medical equipment, including a birthing simulator and nurses’ educational grants.” First held as a dance in 1911, The Snow Ball is one of Saratoga Springs’ oldest benefits, and through the work of Halstead and her team, will surely continue to be for years to come.

Jeff Altamari, Bart Altamari

Christopher Grosso, Kristin Grosso

(from left) Linda Toohey, Kate Calbone, Candace Wait, Susan Dake

(from left) Meredith Woolford, Cathy Boden

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SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Lake Ridge Restaurant

Gaffney’s

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longtime Saratoga Springs staple, Gaffney’s is a local favorite for casual American dining and bar fare. Its Caroline Street location in the heart of Downtown Saratoga Springs solidifies its status as a go-to spot for late-night dining, drinking and dancing. Patrons can enjoy regular DJ and live music performances, as well as half-priced beers on Tuesdays beginning at 4pm.

In addition to the burgers, wings, nachos and specials available on its dinner and late-night menus, Gaffney’s offers its Belvedere Brunch from 9am-3pm on weekends, featuring eggs, sandwiches, pancakes, waffles and other griddle confections.

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onveniently located about 15 minutes south of Downtown Saratoga in Round Lake, Bob McKenna and Chef Scott Ringwood’s Lake Ridge Restaurant has been a local favorite for casual fine dining for 17 years of greatness. Lake Ridge specializes in New American cuisine, which it shows off on lunch menus, featuring award-winning soups, sandwiches, salads, burgers and more, and dinner menus, highlighted by Herb Crusted Swordfish, Duck Breast and Filet Mignon. McKenna says Lake Ridge Restaurant, which operates under the slogan “simply the best and voted the best,” is proud of its “consistent greatness,” as it has been winning awards for more than a decade, including Best Chef in the Saratoga Today Best of 2018 awards.

16 CAROLINE STREET, SARATOGA SPRINGS 518.587.7359

35 BURLINGTON AVENUE, ROUND LAKE 518.899.6000

Mama Mia’s Pizza & Cafe

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ust outside Downtown Saratoga Springs, Mama Mia’s Pizza & Cafe, a family-run Italian restaurant, is situated in the Ballston Avenue Price Chopper Plaza. Mama Mia’s takes pride in the diverse range of Italian comfort foods that it serves, such as calzones, Italian meatballs, hero sandwiches, pasta dishes and hand-tossed woodfired pizzas, as well as vegetarian and gluten-free entrée options. While the restaurant has a relaxed, cozy vibe for dining in, Mama Mia’s also provides full-service catering, from food and tent set-up, to large trays of delicious food, for any event or holiday. Take-out is also a popular option for many of Mama Mia’s loyal customers, and for every $100 in gift cards you buy, you’ll receive a $20 bonus card.

The Inn At Erlowest

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he Inn At Erlowest, a Queen Anne-style stone castle on the western shore of southern Lake George, isn’t just a private residence turned award-winning luxury, tensuite hotel—it’s also a fine dining, farm-to-table restaurant destination for guests and the public alike. The inn serves an à la carte dinner menu in its dining room as well as a lighter fare menu of cocktails and appetizers at its Library Bar. Weekly specials made with seasonal foods ensure that each visit is a unique dining experience. Guests at the inn are also treated to a farm-fresh breakfast the morning after their stay. Check theinnaterlowest.com for seasonal dining hours and more information.

3178 LAKE SHORE DRIVE, LAKE GEORGE 518.668.592

185 BALLSTON AVE, SARATOGA SPRINGS 518.583.7783

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SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Prime At Saratoga National

Max London’s

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n its cozy yet sophisticated nook on Broadway, Max London’s sits beside its sister shop, Mrs. London’s Bakery, a local favorite known for its delicious pastries and baked goods. Max London’s uses locally sourced ingredients, including fresh-squeezed fruit juices in its cocktails and house-made mozzarella cheese, making it an appealing choice for those looking to support local farmers.

The menu contains several enticing items among its many culinary offerings, such as the “Devils on Horseback” appetizer (medjool dates stuffed with blue cheese and marcona almonds, accompanied by applewood smoked bacon and smoky maple syrup), and there’s a separate (delicious) menu for weekend brunch.

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ocated on Union Avenue near Lake Lonely and Saratoga Lake’s north shore, and headed up by Angelo Mazzone, Prime at Saratoga National is one of Saratoga’s top upscale steakhouses. The restaurant, open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, as well as for jazz brunch on Sundays (think omelettes, pastas and carving stations), offers indoor and al fresco dining, overlooking the 18th hole of the beautiful Saratoga National golf course.

Besides regular daily seatings, Prime is also the perfect setting for weddings, anniversary parties, corporate events and galas, such as UPH’s annual Shaken & Stirred Celebrity Bartender Party, Red, White and Blue: American Cancer Society Party, NYS Laborers Golf Outing: Make-a-Wish Foundation and Teresian House Gala.

466 BROADWAY, SARATOGA SPRINGS 518.587.0505

458 UNION AVE, SARATOGA SPRINGS 518.583.4653

Flatbread Social

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ew from the owners of Henry Street Taproom is Flatbread Social, a wood-fired pizza, craft beer and cocktails joint, located right next to the Taproom on Henry Street. Flatbread Social officially opened its doors on December 31, 2018, and has since been serving starters, salads and pizzas in an inviting and, yes, social, atmosphere (you can even play shuffleboard with friends there after you eat). Flatbread offerings include “The Only Kind Of Pizza There Is,” topped with local sausage, garlic mushrooms, fire-roasted tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella, the “Kick In Your Pants Pie,” which features pickled banana peppers, spicy chorizo, fire-roasted tomato sauce and mozzarella, and a tiramisu dessert pizza.

Saratoga Stadium

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rom its Broadway locale, Saratoga Stadium is arguably the city’s finest sports bar, providing televised coverage of a range of top sporting events. Saratoga Stadium offers patrons a casual atmosphere, with a menu full of all the traditional favorites—burgers, nachos and wings—as well as an all-you-can-eat fried shrimp special available on Friday evenings from 6-9pm. Saratoga Stadium also offers a diverse range of seasonal drinks (such as spiced apple punch), wines by the glass and by the bottle and house-made sangria. To finish things off, the dessert menu displays some tempting treats: fried dough and the “Junior’s Giant Cheesecake for 2.”

389 BROADWAY, SARATOGA SPRINGS 518.226.4437

84 HENRY ST, SARATOGA SPRINGS 518.886.1198

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SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

BY N ATA L I E M O O R E ACROSS:

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Osteria Danny

un by Chef Danny Petrosino and his wife, Patti, Osteria Danny specializes in American-Italian cuisine with an emphasis on simplicity and creative development. As such, the menu is updated frequently to encompass new culinary concepts and locally sourced ingredients when they’re available. Although the menu is continuously evolving, original recipes remain a pivotal influence in the dishes that Osteria Danny produces. For example, the online sample menu advertises a simple

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dish titled “Shrimp the way my father liked,” which is accompanied by lemon risotto, butter garlic and “a bunch of other stuff.” Osteria Danny also offers a variety of wines to complete a true Italian meal, including Zenato Amarone and J. Christopher Pinot Noir. The restaurant is located at 26 Henry Street, within walking distance of Broadway, and has ample off-street parking on Putnam Street. It’s currently open Tuesday through Sunday at 5pm, and will be open seven days a week beginning June 1.

26 HENRY ST, SARATOGA SPRINGS 518.423.7022

1. Wrap tightly 5. Every one 9. Significant other, slangily 12. Smell 13. 2015 J. Lo flick ____ & Eve 14. Measure of land 16. Notoriously sad 1950s movie featuring a dog 18. Spill result 19. Oracles 20. Word that precedes the first word in 16-, 25-, 45- and 62-across in a famous wedding rhyme 22. Type of wrestling 24. Saratoga’s is 43.083° N (abbr.)

25. Eli Manning, for one 32. Crossword clue abbr. meaning alternative spelling 35. Home Depot competitor 36. Soccer player Hamm and actress Farrow 37. Beat with a whip 39. Spanish (feminine) form of “a” or “one” 40. Cosby’s late daughter 41. “____ potato…”

42. Put up, as a statue 44. Paving substance 45. Uncertain postponement of something inevitable 49. Wonderment 50. Moisture-absorbing mineral 52. Politician 58. “Leave without me” 61. Logical, as an argument 62. Ingredient and recipe meal kit company 64. Golden Rule word 65. ____-bodied 66. Like a supervillain 67. Thor, to Odin

68. Reason to shop 69. Turn down

DOWN: 1. Halloween exclamations 2. Leave one’s car running in park 3. Points where pathways intersect 4. Rehearsal of a performance 5. Twelfth letter of the alphabet 6. Hurts 7. Female pharaoh, to friends 8. Hurt 9. When to “Rub-ADub-Dub” 10. Nutritious berry 11. Andrews of Fox Sports 15. Span. to ____ dictionary 17. Edward’s mom in Twilight 18. Male deer 21. Social club founded in 1868, for short 23. Symbol of Athena 26. “____ A Mean One, Mr. Grinch” 27. Had 28. Respond to a situation 29. “____ No Sunshine” 30. Neil Armstrong’s agency, briefly 31. Pre-1917 Russian ruler 32. Life-threatening heart rhythm common on Grey’s Anatomy, for short 33. In addition 34. Lion’s complaint 38. Whirling motion 42. Female sheep 43. ____ for tat 46. Was in debt 47. Late poet Angelou 48. Skipped the fancy wedding 51. Rounded line 52. Law & Order: ____ 53. Gets some color 54. Member of a choir

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ANSWERS ON saratogaliving.com

MAD LIBS: WEDDING VOWS Getting married soon? Trying to write your vows and striking out? Fear not! saratoga living has you covered with this Mad Libs: Wedding Vow Edition. Choose one word for each of the 11 parts of speech below, then plug the words into the “wedding vows” at the bottom of the page.

1. Future spouse’s name:___________ 2. Adjective: ____________________ 3. Personality trait: _______________ 4. Plural noun: ___________________ 5. Adjective: ____________________

6. Verb: ________________________ 7. Adjective: ____________________ 8. Adjective: ____________________ 9. Verb: ________________________ 10. Number: _____________________

My dearest ______ (1), From the day I met you, I knew you were ______(2). You blew me away with your______(3) and love for ______(4), and every day since then, I’ve tried to be every bit as ______(5) as you. You’ve taught me how to ______(6), and for that, I am forever ______(7).

You make me feel more ______(8) than I ever have before, and I can’t wait to ______(9) the rest of my life with you. Here’s to the next ______(10) years together!

I Thee Wed

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The things you take away each time you encounter Chris Shiley are the internal twin engines that fuel him: an indefatigable work ethic (the overwhelmingly packed SPAC summer season is relentless in its demands) and the deep, empathetic humanity he exudes so effortlessly. To know Chris Shiley is to love the guy. And he plays trumpet. What’s not to like?

I caught up with the super talented, 31-year-old Saratoga Springs resident to ask him a few burning questions.

Not entirely reluctantly, he obliged.

star ascending Chris Shiley comes to SPAC as a classically trained trumpeter: he performed professionally for more than a decade.

SPAC’s ‘Secret Weapon’ CHRIS SH ILEY NEVER TOOTS H I S OWN H O R N .

BY RICH ARD PÉREZ-F E R I A

A

P HOTOGRAP HY BY

KATIE DOBIES

s his surname suggests, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center’s (SPAC’s) Senior Director of Artistic Planning, Chris Shiley, is equal parts shy and sly—a winning combination to be sure. When SPAC President and CEO, Elizabeth Sobol, asked me to join her for dinner at Salt & Char so I could meet “our latest secret weapon,” I wasn’t quite sure what to make of the affable, handsome, young dude smiling up at me as I arrived. He certainly didn’t come across as some sort of superhero in his comfy khakis, but

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EXC LUSIV E LY F O R

saratoga living

over the course of the evening, his just-this-side-of-acidic, biting sense of humor crept in and I loved it, as I consider blunt humor a genuine asset and legit sign of intelligence. In short, Chris Shiley and I became fast friends.

SPAC’s “programming guy” (as I refer to him), comes to it as a classically trained trumpeter—he performed for more than a decade as Principal Trumpet in the Baltimore Chamber Orchestra—before moving on to serve as Director of Operations for Yellow Barn Music Festival and, as well as, Festival Director for Classical Movements’ Prague Summer Nights Young Artist Music Festival. Enter, SPAC.

⁄ JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2019

Chris, when did you first realize you had real musical ability?

I don’t know the answer, actually; music was always a part of my life growing up. Both my parents are classically trained musicians. I started on the piano as far back as I can remember (though don’t ask me to play it for you now), and there are even some photos of me rocking out to Bach in my high chair, so I think music always resonated with me, but the real passion for it came later on.

What’s been the biggest surprise about your first year at SPAC? It’s a good surprise...the diversity and intensity of the schedule. It amazes me how many events happen at SPAC and how completely different they all are from one another. I remember one moment this summer when I was standing outside of the Spa Little Theater after an incredible concert with the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and I faintly heard in the distance the sound of heavy metal guitar from the show happening in the amphitheater at the same time, and I thought, only at SPAC do you get to have world-class chamber music and epic heavy metal in the same night, at the same place.

Saratoga is perfect because…

The Reserve Manhattan at Hamlet & Ghost—obviously. [Laughs]

T H E H E A RT O F S A R ATO G A S P R I N G S 466 BROADWAY

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