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LOCAL • INDEPENDENT • FREE Volume 11 • Issue 8 • February 26 – March 3, 2016

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com • (518) 581-2480

Patty LeRoy

50 Years of Fresh Air

by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY

Above: Ballston Spa’s Patty LeRoy has been a tireless advocate for The Fresh Air Fund for 50 years.

Right: 1967 - Daughter Charlene meets the LeRoy’s first guest, Marilyn at the Schenectady train station.

BALLSTON SPA — A lifetime of bringing joy to others, particularly those who do not have the simple pleasures we sometimes take for granted.

Patty LeRoy of Ballston Spa has been all about the giving; the selfless act of opening her heart, her house and inviting people to be part of her family, as a host family for The Fresh Air Fund for 50 years. She has been a tireless advocate during this time as well, recruiting countless other host families (she currently monitors about 75 as a Fund Representative in charge of the Clifton Park zone) in the region. And at 78 years young, she has absolutely See Story pg. 10

It Began in Saratoga, and Spread Across America #LeapofKindnessDay

by Eli King for Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA COUNTY — A Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce campaign calling for small acts of kindness on Monday, Feb. 29 is catching on across the country, with organizations in more than a dozen states echoing their support of #LeapofKindnessDay and mobilizing their communities to “pay it forward.”

“I have been thinking of this for over 20 years from when I first started my career as a chamber executive,” said Chamber President and #LeapofKindnessDay creator, Todd Shimkus. “The simple notion of how we might use an extra day to make our community better was something I thought about every time I realized we were in a Leap Year.”

According to Shimkus, social See Story pg. 9

Featured Stories Local Dog Wins at WestminsterSee pg. 12

Nacre Dance See pg. 28

Inside TODAY Blotter 5 Obituaries 6 Business 14-15 Summer Camps

20-21

Education 22-23 Pulse 27-29 Sports 35-29

Weekend Forecast FRIDAY

26|12 SATURDAY

41|29 SUNDAY

51|36

2

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

Man on the Street “If you had a time machine, where would you go and why?”

“I would travel into the mid-20th century, to the 60’s or 70’s. A lot of weird things happened back then.

Also, the cars were cooler. They had less variety, but more personality.”

- Victoria Cunningham, from Saratoga Springs “To the next millennial, in 2100. I’d like to see the cities, and check out the music scene. I’d also like to see virtual reality.” - Perrin Jones, from Saratoga Springs

“I’d like to go back to when the Globe Theatre burned down from the cannon blast during “Henry VIII.” But I’d be over at The Rose, so I would be okay!”- Carly Keen (left), from Albany “I’d go back to the Library of Alexandria to see all of the lost knowledge.”

- Megan Comins (right), from Schenectady

“I would go to Italy during the Renaissance to see the art and the people involved in creating it.” - Alex Nazarenko (right), from Saratoga Springs “To the day when World War II was declared over.” - Uilliam Murray, from Saratoga Springs

Ben and Kate Groshek, with their son Nathan, from Saratoga Springs “Into the future to see my son as a grown-up.”

“Into the future, where no man has gone before!” - A.J. Lusczz, from Ludlow, Massachusetts “I’d like to see the future in 20 years, to see how the technology has changed and if we have flying cars yet.” Ana Alves, from Ludlow, Massachusetts

“I’d fast forward to May, after I take the bar.” -Merav Shor, from Israel “1861 in New York City, at the beginning of the Civil War. I’ve always been fascinated with that time period.” - Dan Getman, from Westchester

Themba Shongwe “The 1960’s. I’m from Swaziland, and that is when our country got its independence.”

Alex Mercier, from Saratoga Springs “I’d go to the future to the day I get married, so I can see who I’m marrying someday.”

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

NEWS 3

Saratoga Home & Lifestyle Show Runs February 26-28, 2016, with free admission all weekend

Special Events ALL WEEKEND

Art Show, all weekend Saratoga Springs Police Department, child safety booth and identification cards Hourly prize drawings throughout the event

SATURDAY

New art show with 20 regional artisans joins more than 120 exhibitors, cooking demos, pet adoption

The Saratoga Home & Lifestyle Show, the Saratoga Springs Rotary Club’s largest annual fundraiser since 1973, will take place February 26-28, 2016, at the Saratoga Springs City Center. New this year, admission to the show is free of charge, courtesy of the Show’s major sponsor, The Adirondack Trust Company. The show will be open Friday, February 26, 5-9

Cooking demonstrations by Forno Bistro (Saturday at noon, 1:00, and 2:00 p.m.)

Pet adoption with H.O.P.E. (Saturday 3:30-6:30 p.m.)

SUNDAY p.m.; Saturday, February 27, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Sunday, February 28, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The event features 120 regional exhibitors showcasing a wide range of home improvement services, décor and furnishings, energy-saving products, outdoor living and landscaping, family recreation, and lifestyle products and services, as well as great prizes.

As a new dimension to the show in 2016, the Rotary Club has organized an arts and fine crafts show on the second floor of the City Center with artisans such as painters, photographers, wood crafters, sculptors, jewelers, botanical artists, and wine and spirits makers selling their work. Also on display will be artwork from Saratoga Springs High School students.

Local businesses are important supporters of

the event. The Adirondack Trust Company continues as the Show’s major sponsor. Other sponsors include Allerdice ACE Building Supply (door prizes), Phillips Home Solutions (major prize), Granite & Marble Works

Kids activities with Balloon Gal Jenny and JoJo’s Face Painting (Sunday, 12-3 p.m.)

(supporting sponsor), The Saratogian (advertising), Saratoga Today (magazine), and Edward Jones (exhibitor hospitality).

The Rotary Club expects to raise close to $100,000 from the event, with proceeds being distributed to community organizations, youth scholarships, and international humanitarian projects.

The Rotary booth on the main floor, next to booth A1, will have information about the club’s scholarship and charitable donation programs.

High school seniors attending

Saratoga Springs High School, Saratoga Catholic High School and the Waldorf School are eligible to apply for scholarships, with applications due by April 15th. The Rotary Club’s charitable giving programs include monthly contributions of under $5,000 to numerous non-profits as well as an annual major gift of $5,000 or more, with applications for major gifts due by April 1 this year.

More information at www. rotaryhomeshow.com.

4

WEEK IN REVIEW

New York State Mental Health and Substance Abuse Programs Granted Nearly $1 Million ALBANY — The New York State Office of Mental Health and Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services has been awarded a federal grant of $982,373. This grant will go towards the development of new mental health and substance use disorder programs titled Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics

(CCBHC). The goal of these programs is to enhance the mental health and substance abuse care experience for New Yorkers by making it more accessible for those in need while creating a stronger relationship between primary care and mental health care providers. Pilot CCBHC programs will be launched across

the state, creating systems between primary care, mental health care, and substance use disorder care providers by combining approaches to provide quality treatment to patients. This grant will enable the further growth of Medicaid reform and quality care access in New York State.

Three Albany Men Arrested for Fraud SARATOGA SPRINGS — Three men from Albany have been arrested for fraud after attempting to cash three forged checks exceeding $1,000 at Adirondack Trust in Saratoga Springs. Christopher E. Strickland, 40, John A. Voss, 39, and Allen D. Lowry, 40, all of Albany, attempted to cash three forged checks on Friday, February

12 and Saturday, February 13.

Voss and Lowry were successful in obtaining cash while Strickland was not. Voss and Lowry were charged with Grand Larceny in the fourth degree/Exceeds $1,000 (felony) and Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument in the second degree (felony). Strickland was also charged with Criminal

Possession of a Forged Instrument in the second degree (felony), as well as Attempted Grand Larceny in the fourth degree/Exceeds $1,000. Adirondack Trust’s dollar loss added up to around $4,000.

The forged checks were from valid local businesses that were unaware of the situation.

Chris Strickland

John Voss

Allen Lowry

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Obituaries, Business Briefs, Buzz

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aproulx@saratogapublishing.com

Galway Man Assaults Deputy Sheriff GALWAY — A man was charged with assault after attacking a deputy sheriff who was investigating a motor vehicle incident on State Route 29 in Galway on Friday, February 19. Heath J. Hall, 49, of Galway approached the scene of the incident and began to attack a person at the scene. Police attempted to

stop him before he became physical with a deputy officer while resisting arrest. Hall was charged with Harassment in the second degree, Disorderly Conduct, Resisting Arrest, and Assault in the second degree (class D Felony). The deputy harmed in the assault was treated at Saratoga Hospital and released.

Code Blue Opening Protocol Raised to 32 Degrees SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Code Blue Shelter of Saratoga Springs has officially changed its policies as of Tuesday, February 16. The shelter will now open at 32 degrees instead of 20 degrees as a result of an executive order from Governor Andrew Cuomo.

The United Way of the Greater Capital Region has launched a drive to raise a total of $32,000 in donations for Code Blue to be able to be open these extra days.

Those interested in donating to the shelter can visit www.unitedtoconquer.org to do so.

Investigator Capasso Retires from Saratoga County Sheriff’s Department BALLSTON SPA — Investigator Ricky L. Capasso has officially retired from the Saratoga County Sheriff ’s Office as of Thursday, February 18 after 36 years of exceptional service to the citizens of Saratoga County. Capasso began his service in November of 1979 as a Deputy Sheriff for the Saratoga County Sheriff ’s Department under Sheriff James D. Bowen. He then served as an officer in the K9 unit in the 1990s, before he was assigned to the family court division in 1994.

Capasso was then promoted to investigator in 1999, and has been there for 17 years.

As an investigator, Capasso has worked on several high profile cases over the years. He has served under both Sheriff James D. Bowen and Sheriff Michael H. Zurlo. While on duty, he has shown exemplary and reputable service. After retirement, he will continue his service as security staff for Saratoga Springs City School District.

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Arthur Gonick 581-2480 x 206 Sports Editor, Saratoga City+County News arthur@saratogapublishing.com

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Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

COURTS: Jeremy L. Jackson, 36, of Stillwater, pled on February 5 to the felony charge of driving while intoxicated. Sentencing is scheduled for March 23.

James W. Stenson, 28, of Kingston, was sentenced on February 8 to 1 1/3 – 4 years in prison, after pleading to the felony charge of disseminating indecent material to minors in the first degree.

Patience Patterson (a.k.a. Patience Dipasquale), 42, of Milton, pled on February 8 to the felony charge of grand larceny in the fourth degree. Sentencing is scheduled for April 4.

Christopher P. Haskell, 32, of Ballston Spa, was sentenced on February 9 to 1 ½ years in prison and 1 year postrelease supervision after pleading to the felony charge of attempted criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fifth degree.

David L. Sparks, 38, of Schenectady, pled on February 8 to the felony charge of attempted criminal sale of a controlled substance in the third degree. Sentencing is scheduled for June 20.

Brad S. Blair, 38, of Glens Falls, pled on February 9 to the felony charge of attempted criminal sale of a controlled substance in the third degree. Sentencing is scheduled for April 5.

Brandon K. Wilson, 22, of Round Lake, pled on February 10 to the felony charge of attempted robbery in the first degree. Sentencing is scheduled for April 20.

John F. Morgano, 69, of Cairo, was arraigned on February 10 on the charges of felony burglary in the second degree, and possession of burglar tools.

ARRESTS: Kenneth W. Cruger, 43, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on February 5 and charged with felony criminal mischief in the third degree, criminal mischief in the

fourth degree, criminal tampering in the third degree, and assault in the third degree (with intent to cause physical injury).

Justine A. Torres, 23, of Albany, was arrested on February 6 and charged with felony criminal mischief in the third degree.

Joseph L. Polidore, 42, of Johnstown, was arrested on February 6 and charged with criminal trespassing in the third degree.

Daniel P. Grady, 28, of Schenectady, and Ryan C. Grady, 30, of Schenectady, were arrested on February 6 and each charged with one count of disorderly conduct.

Christopher Paquette, 23, of Hastings on Hudson, was arrested on February 6 and charged with criminal mischief in the fourth degree.

Patrick F. McLoughlin, 24, of Niskayuna, was arrested on February 6 and charged with felony criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fifth degree, driving while intoxicated, unlawful possession of marihuana, and driving with a BAC more than .08 of 1%.

Randal S. Owen, 27, of Corinth, was arrested on February 7 and charged with failure to signal a turn, driving with no/an expired inspection certificate, driving while intoxicated, and refusing a pre-screen test.

Alan M. Abrams, 41, of Broadalbin, was arrested on February 7 and charged with driving while intoxicated, improper lane use, unlawful possession of marihuana, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the third degree, driving with a BAC more than .08 of 1%.

Penny A. Cronan, 60, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on February 7 and charged with criminally using drug paraphernalia in the second degree, possession of a controlled substance outside its original container, and two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree.

BLOTTER 5 Brittany M. Giello, 30, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on February 8 and charged with failure to signal a turn, and aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the third degree.

Jesse J. Smith, 36, of Queensbury, was arrested on February 8 and charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the third degree, and driving with no/an expired inspection certificate.

Jennifer L. Cook, 27, of Middle Grove, and Travis A. Hoyt, 23, of Middle Grove, were arrested on February 8 and each charged with one count of petit larceny.

Anthony R. Fiorey, 51, of Ballston Spa, was arrested on February 9 and charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the third degree, and an equipment violation.

Rezso C. Nagy, 52, of Clifton Park, was arrested on February 9 and charged with

aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the third degree, and driving at an unreasonable speed.

Khylan L. Hunt, 29, of Ballston Spa, was arrested on February 10 and charged with driving while intoxicated, failure to signal, criminal possession of marihuana in the fourth degree, improper lane use, and driving with a BAC more than .08 of 1%.

Craig N. Ross, 38, of Corinth, was arrested on February 10 and charged with aggravated harassment in the second degree.

Alexander Pegues, 57, of North Las Vegas, NV, was arrested on February 11 and charged with driving while intoxicated, failure to keep right, and driving at an unreasonable speed.

Jeffrey I. Baker, 25, of Mechanicville, was arrested on February 11 and charged with driving while intoxicated, driving with a BAC more than .08 of 1%, and three separate equipment violations.

Patrick F. Murphy, 28, of Stillwater, was arrested on February 11 and charged with failure to signal a turn, speeding in a posted zone, refusing a pre-screen test, and driving while intoxicated.

Robert H. Contompasis, 21, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on February 11 and charged with assault in the third degree (with intent to cause physical injury), obstruction of breathing or blood circulation, and endangering the welfare of a child.

Laurelle P. Ritter, 27, of Ballston Spa, was arrested on February 11 and charged with driving while intoxicated.

Eric K. Lussier, 38, of Queensbury, was arrested on February 12 and charged with driving with a BAC more than .08 of 1%, driving while intoxicated, and an equipment violation.

6 Doris (Plue) Spiezio MIDDLE FALLS, NY — Doris (Plue) Spiezio, 92, of Middle Falls took her final journey on Thursday evening, February 18, 2016 to meet her husband Harold P. Spiezio Sr. who passed in 2013.

Doris left from her home to take this final journey with her loving family by her side.

Born December 23, 1923 at Mary McClellan Hospital in Cambridge, NY she was the daughter of Edward and Bertha Plue of Schuylerville.

Doris became the wife of Harold P. Spiezio Sr. who was the love of her life on February 13, 1942 and they spent 71 wonderful years enjoying family, friends, and life until his passing. Doris was a full-time mother to her five children and only after they had all made lives of their own, she went to work for the Washington County Sheriff Department as a cook for the jail and a matron for several years.

She was a life member of the VFW Auxiliary and the Elks in Greenwich, and the Middle Falls Fire Department Auxiliary in Middle Falls.

Her passion in life was her husband, her five children and their families. She enjoyed a cup of coffee and the company of friends and neighbors. She would tell some truly funny stories about her family that would make you laugh until your belly hurt. Her door was always open to the young or old, she would always greet you with a smile and a piece of cake, pie, or even dinner. You never left her home hungry, or without a smile in your heart.

In addition to her parents and her husband, she was predeceased by her brother, Ralph Plue.

Survivors include her children, Philip (Skip) Spiezio, Harold (Nonie) Spiezio and his life companion Valarie, Linda (Tootie) Spiezio Fitch and her companion Mike, Dominick (Nick) Spiezio and his fiancé Patty, and Vincent (Vinnie) Spiezio and his fiancé Carrie; her sisterin-law, Patricia Ivanoff; 15 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, 6 great-great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service was held Tuesday, February 23, 2015 at Flynn Bros. Inc. Funeral Home, 80 Main St., Greenwich with Rev. Martin Fisher, officiating. Interment with her husband followed at the Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville.

Doris will be missed by all that knew her and the many hearts she touched in her 92 wonderful years of life. Her caring words of wisdom and her infectious smile will live on for eternity in our memories.

Special thanks to High Peaks Hospice RN Phil Peak, Nurse Patty, and to our beloved

OBITUARIES Daniel E. Thivierge SCHUYLERVILLE — Daniel E. Thivierge, 52, a life-long resident of Coveville Rd., passed away at his home on Wednesday, February 17, 2016 with the love and support of his family and friends.

Born December 29, 1963 in Saratoga Springs, he was the son of the late Daniel Fischer and

Elaine Thivierge.

Dan was employed by WSWHE BOCES in Saratoga Springs for 20 years where he was passionate about his work with teenagers. He was a member and past Master Mason of the Unity Lodge in Greenfield.

He enjoyed riding around on his 1973 Triumph Bonneville and restoring his Volkswagens. He was a man of many talents including woodworking, building canoes and Shaker furniture. One of his favorite pastimes was playing the guitar. He enjoyed spending time in the Adirondacks fishing, camping, hiking, and he especially loved spending time with his children and grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a daughter, Ariel Cassandra Thivierge.

Survivors include his children, Bambi Belon, Fawn Thivierge, and Cody Thivierge; his best friend Craig Wood; grandchildren, Gianna, Kasandra, Austin, Danyka, Ava-Lynn, Stella, Julian, and Aryel and many cousins and friends.

Friends may call from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, February 28, 2016 at Flynn Bros. Inc. Funeral Home, 13 Gates Ave. in Schuylerville, with a reception for family and friends following at the American Legion on Clancy St. in Schuylerville.

Memorials can be made in his memory to the Daniel Thivierge Benefit Fund, c/o Glens Falls National Bank, 73 Broad St., Schuylerville, NY 12871.

A celebration of Dan’s life will also be held July 30 and 31 at Mitchells Farm in Salem, NY. Online remembrances can be made at www.flynnbrosinc.com

Grace L. Altieri SARATOGA SPRINGS — Grace L. Altieri passed peacefully on February 17, 2016. She was born on November 26, 1927 to Lottie (King) and Bertram Van Denburgh, and was a lifelong resident of Saratoga Springs. In addition to her parents, Grace was predeceased by her husband, Victor S. Altieri, Sr. and daughter Charlotte. She

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016 is survived by sons Ralph (Judith), Victor (Marianne), Louis (Teresa Adinolfi), and Thomas (Jackie Hayes); granddaughters Lynn Altieri-Need, Melissa Altieri, and Jennifer Altieri; and five great-grandchildren. Grace is also survived by her sister and brother-in-law Rose and Roy Farrell, and several nieces and nephews.

Early in her life, Grace was dedicated to the Association for Retarded Children, which evolved into Saratoga Bridges. For several years, she participated in numerous events for special needs children, and had a love and zest for all children. She welcomed her children’s friends as if they were part of the family, and was often referred to as mom by many. Grace volunteered for several charitable causes and walked neighborhoods seeking donations. She cherished being a five gallon blood donor.

Grace was employed at Van Raalte, followed by Thompson’s laundry for many years. From there, she went on to work for the Saratoga Springs School System for over 30 years, retiring in 1999.

Her family extends a special thank-you to the staff of Wesley Health Care Center – Hathorn 2 for the love and compassion many showed to Grace.

Relatives and friends gathered to remember her on Monday, February 22, 2016 at the William J. Burke & Sons/ Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway in Saratoga Springs. A funeral home service was conducted on Tuesday, February 23, 2016 by the Rev. Thomas H. Chevalier. Burial followed at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Rd., Schuylerville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Saratoga Bridges NYSARC Saratoga Co. Chapter, 16 Saratoga Bridges Blvd, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 or Northeastern NY Alzheimer’s Association, Pine West Plaza, Building 4 Suite 405, Washington Ave. Ext., Albany, NY 12205 or a charity of your choice.

The joy of her presence and humor will be missed by all.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com

James Coyne King SARATOGA SPRINGS — James Coyne King, of Dover, MA, died Saturday, February 13, 2016 at the age of 67. He was born on May 14, 1948 in Saratoga Springs to his beloved parents Gerard E. and Catherine S. King. James received his A.B. (1970), J.D. (1973) and LL.M. (1978) from Georgetown University. Undaunted and driven by intellectual pursuits that never ceased to capture his mind or spirit, James practiced law as an Attorney in the Office of Chief Counsel at the IRS, served as a Trial Attorney in the Antitrust Division of the U.S. Department of Justice, was Special Assistant to the U.S. Attorneys for the Districts

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016 of Colorado and Massachusetts, founded the Boston-based law firm, Murphy & King in 1980 and was a candidate for the Democratic nomination to run for the U.S. Senate in 2012. He escaped on weekends to Martha’s Vineyard for over 30 years, and enjoyed sharing time at the beach and engaging in witty dinner table banter with friends and family alike. Whether he was shucking oysters, introducing new species of amphibians to the West Tisbury habitat or challenging family to a spirited game of Scrabble, he epitomized a Vineyarder. He also loved his hometown of Saratoga Springs, its mineral water and baths, thoroughbred racing at the Saratoga Race Course, and his family’s storied history. His kindness and private generosity will endure in the hearts of those he encountered for generations to come.

Survivors include his wife, Deborah W. King, his son, Christopher M. King (and wife Colleen), step-daughter, Elizabeth A. Paglia (and husband David), step-son, Jonathan T. Stoker, his two grandsons, Graham F. King and William W. King, his step-granddaughter, Vivian G. Paglia, his three older brothers, Robert G. King (and wife Edith), Gerard E. King, Jr. (and wife Catherine) and Charles M. King (and wife Linda), 12 nieces/nephews and 35 grand-nieces/nephews. He was predeceased by his best friend, Scout.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Friday, February 19, 2016 in St. Clement’s Church, 231 Lake Ave. in Saratoga Springs. Burial followed in the family plot in St. Peter’s Cemetery, West Ave. in Saratoga Springs In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his name to the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals-Angell Animal Medical Center (https:// www.mspca.org/) or The Riecken Foundation (https:// riecken.org/).

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Joseph Venuti SARATOGA SPRINGS — Joseph William Venuti, 70 years of age, passed away peacefully at Wesley Health Care Center in Saratoga Springs on Friday, February 19, 2016.

Born in Boston, MA on April 26, 1945, he was the son of the late Joseph and Rosemary (Fiore) Venuti. Joe graduated from Franklin Institute with an Associate’s degree. He then earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Hartford in CT followed by a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy. Joe served in the Army Reserves for six years.

Joe started his engineering career working for the Hartford Electric Light Company in CT. He spent the majority of his career working for General Electric Company in Schenectady and Arcadia, CA. He took a hiatus from the corporate world to teach Engineering at SUNY Alfred in Alfred, NY for a couple of years before returning to General Electric in Schenectady. He retired from the Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory.

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OBITUARIES 7 In his younger days, Joe played both hockey and football and enjoyed following his favorite Boston teams, the Patriots and the Boston Bruins. He was also a big fan of the Red Sox. Joe enjoyed all forms of outdoor activities including crosscountry skiing and snowshoeing. He particularly loved horseback riding and, at one point in his life, was the proud owner of a small country farm where he raised quarter horses. His very favorite activity of all was the time he spent with his son Josh who was the center of his life. They spent many happy hours playing various games such as chess or simply chatting about life and enjoying each other’s company.

In addition to his parents, Joe was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Maurice and Angela Stasis Fiore Jr. of Boston, MA. Survivors include his beloved son, Joshua Venuti of Scotia, NY and his former wife and forever friend, Marilyn Venuti of Ballston Spa, as well as his extended family in Florida which includes his stepmom Hazel Venuti, his brother Neil Venuti and sisters Joy Bowdre (Steve) and Pam Geronimo (Ralph) as well as many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his brotherin-law Jeff Wood and sister-in-law Dawn Wood and nephew Zachary Wood, all of Scotia, NY. Josh and Marilyn would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the caring and supportive staff at Wesley Health Care Center. They cared for Joe and looked after family needs for many years in a patient and respectful manner.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Multiple Sclerosis Society via www.nationalmssociety.org/donate or mail to: National MS Society, PO Box 4527, New York, NY 10163.

Relatives and friends may call from 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 9, 2016 at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway in Saratoga Springs. A funeral home service will follow at 2 p.m.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com

Robert Parkhurst Sr. SARATOGA SPRINGS — Robert Carl Parkhurst Sr. of Saratoga Springs passed away Thursday, February 18, 2016. He was 82 years old.

Born January 23, 1934 in Gansevoort, NY, he was the son of William and Adelaide (Bracken) Parkhurst.

Robert served in the Army as a radio technician. He was stationed at Fort Dix, NJ for six years, served overseas in Ireland helping with the Hungarians refugees at camp Kilmer.

On October 5, 1957 he married Beverly Jeanne White and they had a fun-filled life together.

He worked at the Van Raalte Mill in Saratoga Springs for 32 years. Through the years he was also employed by Perry’s Taxi, The Great Bay Clam Co., and Palmetto Fruit Co., retiring in 2000.

His favorite pastimes include collecting NASCAR memorabilia, and going to garage sales.

Survived by his four children, Robert Parkhurst Jr. of Saratoga Springs, William (Nicole) Parkhurst of Rock City Falls, Timothy Parkhurst and Shannon Cline of Tulsa, OK, and Kimberly (Kevin) Staalesen of Wilton, grandchildren Kaitlyn Staalesen of Wilton, Dominik, Zackery, Beverly, and William Parkhurst of Rock City Falls and Michael Parkhurst of Corinth, niece Sandra (Russell) Miller of Ballston Spa., and several nieces and nephews.

Robert is predeceased by his wife Beverly, brother William (Clara) and sister Gertrude Collins (Irvin).

His family would like to extend an extra thanks to the

nursing staff at Saratoga Hospital for taking great care of him during such a difficult time.

A funeral service was held on Tuesday, February 23, 2016 at Compassionate Funeral Care, 402 Maple Ave. (Rt. 9 and Marion Ave.), Saratoga Springs.

Interment with military honors was held on Wednesday, February 24, 2016 at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville, NY 12871.

Memorial donations can be sent to Alzheimer’s Association at www.aiz.org in honor of Robert C. Parkhurst.

If you wish to express your online condolences or view the Obituary, please visit our website at www.compassionatefuneralcare.com

Thaddeus Ruchalski ALBANY — Thaddeus (Ted) Ruchalski, 96, died peacefully early Saturday morning, February 20, 2016 at the Stratton VA Medical Center.

Born at home in Schenectady on March 29, 1919, he was the youngest child of Bronislaw and Rosalia Ruchalski. He lived most of his nearly 97 years in Rotterdam, NY. Ted had a lifelong passion for hunting, fishing and camping. In the 1950s, he built a travel trailer of his own design. He was humble, hard-working, and a dedicated and devoted family man.

He proudly served in the 94th Infantry Division of the US Army during World War II. He earned a Bronze Star for his service at the Battle of the Bulge. After his retirement from the US Post Office in Schenectady, he traveled extensively throughout the US, attending 94th Infantry Division Association reunions with his wife, Kay. He remained an active member of the Association for over 25 years.

He was a founding and lifelong member of Holy Name of Jesus Polish National Catholic Church in Schenectady.

He is survived by his son, Thaddeus D. Ruchalski (Kathy) of Lawrenceville, GA; his daughter, Pamela C. Funiciello (Tom) of Saratoga Springs; his grandchildren, Alex A. Funiciello and Danielle K. Funiciello; his sister-in-law, Emily Ruchalski of Scotia; six nieces and four nephews.

Ted was predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Mary Katherine Ruchalski, his sister, Marie Kowalski, and his brothers, Stanley and Ferdinand Ruchalski.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Wednesday, February 24, 2016, at Holy Name of Jesus National Catholic Church, 1040 Pearl St., in Schenectady. Family and friends gathered at the church before Mass to share memories and condolences.

Burial with military honors took place at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery on Duell Road, Schuylerville.

Those who wish to make a memorial contribution are asked to give to Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866, whose support extended the time and quality of life Ted spent at home with family, or to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV.org) in gratitude for the help they have given to veterans returning disabled from combat for over 90 years.

Arrangements are under the direction of William J. Burke & Sons Funeral Homes of 628 N. Broadway in Saratoga Springs.

Online remembrances may be made at burkefuneralhome.com

8

OP - ED

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

THE PAUSE BUTTON Clarity in a World of Information Overload and Extremes

by Norra Reyes Saratoga TODAY From the time we wake up to the time we shut off the lights, we are bombarded by news and information in every area of our lives.

It is beeping at us from our desktop, the phone in our pocket, the car radio and even the flat screen in the local convenience store.

How does one sift through the deluge of information and make sense of the topics that matter?

We are introducing the “Pause Button”, a new column to help you digest all that data, look

at why it’s relevant and what it really means right here in our corner of the world. We will explore both sides of every topic in simple, clear and concise thoughts.

The Pause Button will reveal the story behind the headlines in Saratoga County and its many communities. For example, what’s really behind the dollar signs at the pump? How is the Affordable Care Act impacting local businesses?

What does a Regent do on the Board of Regents, and can you do anything about it? What exactly is a flat tax? How realistic is affordable workforce housing in Saratoga?

Any question you have about local, state or national news, we’ll try to answer it here. Curiosities you might have about crime, health, or technology, we’ll find an expert and write about it. Want to know a little more about the history of your hometown – why Broadway is so broad or what are the different ways people interpret “city in the country?” Let’s look at it. This is your place to ask “what the heck” and “why” as often as you like.

The Pause Button will look at the issue, how much it costs, who has to pay for it, who’s for it, who’s

Saratoga Springs Democrats Announce Endorsements

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Springs Democratic Committee has endorsed four candidates who will vie this fall to represent the city in the U.S. House and New York State Legislature.

Winning the Committee’s endorsement, from left to right, are: Assemblymember Carrie Woerner, 113th District; Chad Putman, seeking election to state Senate, 49th District; Shaun Francis, seeking election to state Senate, 43rd District; and Congressman Paul Tonko, NY-20 (not pictured).

Saratoga Springs spans two state Senate districts with Republican incumbents. Four Election Districts

(7, 19, 20 and 21) in the city’s northwest corner lie in the 49th, while the

remaining 21 districts in the city belong to the 43rd.

Letter To the Editor Questioning Who’s the Defender, and Who’s the Powerful It is of no small concern to me that so many local development projects have been hampered or blocked recently.

Frankly, my concern is not about the worthiness of the projects themselves but for the fundamental motivation (and success) of the opposition. Certainly there are legitimate concerns and reasonable objections on both sides of every proposal, but the recent successes of selfproclaimed defenders of “the

people” belies a fundamental turn to an old ideology where many of the “powerless” see themselves as heroes in their opposition to and success against the “powerful.”

What is frightening for me is the realization that the definition of “powerful” in Saratoga Springs includes such entities as the Hospital and the City Center. My point is that the Hospital and City Center are not “powerful” in the sense that they are out to dominate “the

people.” However, this is how they have been portrayed. The “powerful” are those who have been successful getting others to think about the Hospital or the City Center in such negative terms and shows that those who have successfully manipulated that view should be the real concern.

John Safford Saratoga Springs

against it, what might be some unintended consequences, and why it’s worth your attention.

After 10 years serving the community, Saratoga TODAY is proud of how far we’ve come, but we know there’s always room for improvement.

This column is just one of several ways you’ll see us doing our best to meet the needs of our readers. We’ll also be holding focus groups, putting out surveys, and seeking input from social media and letters to the editor.

Have a topic idea for this column or a question about something you heard in the news? Let us know and we’ll try to answer it here.

To submit an idea for The Pause Button, please email Norra@SaratogaPublishing.com.

Reader feedback is welcome through letters to the editor and comments on Facebook.com/ SaratogaTODAYnewspaper and www.SaratogaTODAYnewspaper. com.

Sources will remain confidential. The ideas presented in this column are for information and discussion purposes only and do not necessarily reflect the views of Saratoga TODAY.

Election 2016

What’s a Caucus?

Imagine showing up on Primary Day to a local school or hall and instead of voting, you stick around talking, arguing, shouting, listening, thinking, and talking some more with all of your neighbors about the various candidates.

That’s what they do in Iowa; much like it was in the days of our country’s founding fathers when politics was more about community gatherings to discuss important issues of the day. After discussions are done and you feel you’ve reached a decision, you will then cast a private ballot (if you are a Republican) or divide into groups and count noses (if Democrat). Not enough noses for a candidate? Those folks then have to pick another group to join, and the nose counting goes on until there’s a viable candidate. (There’s accommodations for active military and others who cannot be there in person).

But you’re not done yet. On Caucus Day, you’ll also be choosing the delegates to represent your state at the national conventions (and vote for the winning candidates), and you’ll be conducting any other party business.

Super Tuesday Each state holds its own primary on a date set by state law. Iowa’s primary date happens first, New Hampshire’s is second, and so on. Each state also has a certain number of delegates allowed to represent them at the national conventions to vote on their behalf for a Presidential Candidate.

Some state primaries happen at the same time, and Super Tuesday is the date when 12 states and one territory hold their primary on the same day, and the total number of delegates to be won for a candidate is the biggest number of delegates on a single day throughout primary season. That’s what makes it Super Tuesday, and this year, it’s on March 1.

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

NEWS 9

Chamber’s Kindness Campaign Crosses Country Continued from front page.

media was the deciding factor getting the Leap of Kindness Day campaign off the ground after two decades on the shelf. “Sharing is caring” takes new meaning in 2016, where things like viral YouTube videos, hashtags, Facebook groups, and tagging have enabled the idea to have an exponential effect on communities across the country. Add to that the fact that the Chamber deliberately left their name off all campaign marketing materials, an act of kindness in itself.

“We did not want our Chamber or Saratoga listed so that we could pay it forward and treat it as an open source concept for others to share and act on in their communities,” explained Shimkus.

That’s how #LeapofKindnessDay made it 204 miles away to Rhode

Island, where the Ocean Community Chamber of Commerce has already promoted the idea on live TV and to their over 18,000 Facebook followers.

“I emailed the Saratoga Chamber and asked their permission to replicate the program in Rhode Island,” said Chamber Executive Director, Lisa Konicki, who read about the campaign online. “They quickly agreed and shared their marketing materials. Once we launched our own announcement, I immediately reached out to several colleagues in New England and shared the information with them.” As a result, chambers in Connecticut and Vermont came on board.

“I love [the concept of] pay it forward,” said Marji Graf, CEO of the Okemo Valley Chamber of Commerce in Vermont. “A little something makes a huge impact on

people. If people keep paying it forward, think how great this is going to be.” Having no previous connection to Saratoga Springs, the Okemo Chamber has now become a partner in the campaign for good - their efforts will benefit local food banks, thrift stores, and nursing homes.

Here in Saratoga Springs, projects by over 40 businesses are listed on the Chamber’s website ranging from food drives to pet supplies, flower deliveries, events, meal deliveries and more. The Adirondack Trust Company, for example, is delivering flowers to residents of two area nursing homes and hosting a food drive in all of their branches.

“We felt that this was a great opportunity to continue our mission of giving back to our community,” said CEO Rob Ward. “For us, visiting seniors at the Wesley Community

Center and Saratoga Nursing Home and brightening up their day with a flower is a very uplifting experience.

Helping local food pantries and animal shelters with donations to their inventory is also rewarding as every little bit really adds up.”

In Ballston Spa, acts of kindness have already doubled at the Saratoga Center for Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing. Dan Barner, a member of the Ballston Spa Business and Professional Association, volunteered the association to help secure some items needed by the 250+ patient facility. Saratoga Rehabilitation decided to “pay it forward” to local fire companies and EMTs on Leap Day. Mari Jordan, a licensed massage therapist at Excelsior Therapeutics in Ballston Spa, volunteered to give free massages to the center’s caregivers every Monday in March. Jordan

heard about #LeapofKindnessDay on Facebook and had no knowledge of the rehabilitation center’s own pledge of kindness, made just hours before she unknowingly returned the favor.

For more information on Leap of Kindness Day, ideas for businesses and individuals, or to pledge an act of kindness, visit www.saratoga.org/leapofkindnessday or visit the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce Facebook page. If you are participating, please share act of kindness posts and photos using the #LeapofKindnessDay hashtag, which has 87,000 mentions and counting. An interactive version of this map is available online to show the movement as more Chambers join the campaign. No act of kindness is too small; see what happens when you “pay it forward” at www.bit.ly/leapofkindnessday.

10

NEWS

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

Patty LeRoy Continued from front page.

50 Years of Fresh Air

no intention of slowing down. “I love what I am doing, why would I stop?” she said.

For all these reasons, all the lives she has touched and made better, and more, Patty was surprised at the annual meeting of the Fresh Air Fund earlier this month (February 4-7) with a surprise celebration at a banquet in her honor in front of 300 people at New York City’s Marriott Marquis Hotel, in which she was commemorated as the first volunteer to reach the 50-year milestone in The Fresh Air Fund’s long and storied history.

The Fresh Air Fund has been serving children since 1877.

Each summer, it strives to provide thousands of New York City children with unforgettable experiences that will unlock their limitless potential. Guest children are placed starting at age 7 to 12, and often will stay with a family until age 18. “Most families get to enjoy that long term connection. And they are in your lives forever,” Patty noted.

The summer experiences they enjoy by being a part of Patty’s or another host family’s life for a week or two are made up of regular activities that most of us

Guest child Krystie and her mom, grandmother and great-grandmother are all part of Patty’s ‘family’. Krystie will be back for her sixth year.

would regard as routine. Yet, they expose a child to a quality of life that can make all the difference.

Consider that many of these guest children come from gritty inner-city environments. Many have never ridden a bike; played barefoot in the grass; or sat around a campfire. But through the efforts of Patty and The Fresh Air Fund, these children are taken away from the sirens and people screaming – they actually hear crickets at night for the first time, and that is a priceless, horizonbroadening experience that can be nothing short of miraculous – it changes lives, pure and simple.

Patty and daughter Tricia, also a Fresh Air Fund volunteer: “My mom is PASSIONATE in everything she does. She is my hero!” Photo by Susan Castro.

Patti with Jerry: now in his 40s, he came to Patty’s family at age five and kept visiting for 11 years

To be sure, there is an economic commitment in all this.

Host families are volunteers and are not compensated. And yet, Patty has always regarded this as simple as “…adding a hot dog to the grill,” she said. “These children are not looking for anything more than what you might regularly do with your family. What’s more important is the size of your heart, not your wallet.”

A small, 100-word newspaper item started this all in motion.

In 1966, Patty read in the Ballston Journal about the Ballston Spa’s Rotary Club’s plans to participate, for the 14th year, in what at the time was the “90th year of The New York Herald Tribune Fresh Air Fund” that summer. Through that small article, a life’s labor of

Photo by Sharon Castro

love was set in motion. With ripple effects onto countless lives, that continues to this day.

Her daughter Tricia, herself a long-time Fresh Air volunteer, said it best. “My mom is PASSIONATE in everything she does! I love her dearly and am inspired by her daily! She is my hero!” To commemorate her 50th anniversary, her family has set the goal of recruiting 50 new Fresh Air Fund families in the region.

Make that 49 – she’s my hero too.

To learn more about becoming a host family, contact Patty LeRoy at 518-885-9505. For more information about the Fresh Air Fund and its programs, visit www.

FreshAir.org

NEWS 11

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

DBA’s Pellegrini Breathes Saratoga Springs

by Norra Reyes Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — On a cool, slushy grey Wednesday morning on Broadway, I met Tonya Pellegrini for coffee to talk about her new role as director of promotions and marketing for the Saratoga Downtown Business Association (DBA). With her ready smile and abundance of energy wrapped in professional warmth, it was easy to see she has the exact kind of approachability needed in such a position.

“It was funny, I saw it [the job announcement] online and read through the description and thought this would be a perfect fit,” said Pellegrini, “one, because it’s a very extroverted position, like me – you’re out and about, you’re social, out in front of people, and two, it’s supporting a town that I love so much.” She laughed and added, “I grew up here and I feel like this town and I actually grew up together. In the 80’s, Saratoga and I, we were both going through this ‘where am I going’ phase, and now we’ve both arrived at a really awesome place.”

And I could see it in her face, this inborn sense of Saratoga Springs that is as natural to her as breathing.

It was from that perspective that she told me the job was all about “we.”

“We, me, the City, the downtown

business community... this job isn’t about me at all, it’s about all of us, together, making a thriving community,” she said. “I am so grateful and feel very fortunate to have been chosen for this position. I couldn’t be happier; I know I’m right where I should be, doing my part for the greater community.”

Tonya Pellegrini Lawrence, the owner of Pellegrini Events, has been planning, managing, and executing local and national events over the past 13 years. Her impressive repertoire includes: weddings, philanthropic galas, corporate occasions, nonfor-profits events, and U.S. Military meetings.

Pellegrini started in early January, working with Susan Farnsworth who formerly held the position. “That was fantastic,” said Pellegrini. “We met so I could get inside her head and see what she did for 20 years, and how she did it. I’m still in contact with her. I messaged her yesterday. It was really important to me to meet with her before she left for Israel.”

Specifically, Pellegrini will be working with DBA members to not only market and promote them through traditional, social media and other outlets, but to bring about overall closer cooperation to secure concerted action on their part in the improvement of business and civic

White Set to Take Her Bow SARATOGA SPRINGS — Marcia J. White, President and Executive Director of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC), announced Friday, February 19, that she will step down at the end of 2016, the conclusion of SPAC’s 50th Anniversary Season and her 12th summer season at SPAC. White assumed the position of President and Executive Director of SPAC in March 2005. She ushered in a new era characterized by

a strengthened financial picture, historic capital improvements, a robust educational focus, and artistic excellence.

“It’s about celebrating people,” White said, “and it doesn’t start with the performance.

SPAC belongs to everyone who buys a ticket here. You can wish a resident company to be here, but unless you support it, it won’t be. It’s keeping it here Continued on page 14.

Marcia White is heading into her final season at SPAC. FILE PHOTO 9-24-13

by MarkBolles.com.

affairs, as well.

She explained it like this, “When businesses are a part of the DBA, they get this business-to-business network that’s supporting each other. Instead of just standing alone, you’re standing together, and that’s a huge part of being a part of this organization. We’ll be promoting businesses through events like the Victorian Street Walk and bringing community members into the area using such events as a draw, helping businesses thrive year round.”

Recently, the DBA has partnered with The New York Racing Association (NYRA) on the season passes to the track. The passes, both clubhouse and grandstand, now include a 10 percent discount from participating DBA members. NYRA’s Saratoga Season Perks Program gives the passes a longer shelf life, too – the discount is good from June 1 this year through March 1, 2017. NYRA will also now carry the DBA maps at all of their “May I Help You” booths around the track and the box office where season passes are picked up.

Pellegrini said, “We have a member-to-member discount card, but this is for the general public. It’s a great deal, it’s a really great deal for diners and shoppers, and it will help

The Saratoga Springs Downtown Business Association selected Tonya Pellegrini Lawrence as director of promotions and marketing. Photo by MarkBolles.com.

bring more people downtown.”

Pellegrini is a 1994 graduate of Russell Sage College in Troy, where she studied theatre and literature.

She has passion for the arts and is actively involved in her community.

Along with coaching, she is also a board member of The Creative Place International, and the founder of the kLaVoy5k, a community event that raises awareness for Donate Life.

She and her husband, Mark Lawrence, have been together since 1999 and have one child, their daughter Olivia who is in the 10th grade at Saratoga Central Catholic School.

Lawrence is a director of development for Gwynn, a software company

based out of Irving, Texas. Both Pellegrini and Lawrence also coach track and field at Spa Catholic.

Pellegrini said she is making a concerted effort to meet all the members of the DBA. “It takes time to get into every single business,” she said, “but I’m looking forward to getting in to say hello personally to everyone.”

The Saratoga Springs DBA member mixer/meetings are held eight times a year hosted by members. The next meeting is March 16 at Universal Preservation Hall. For more information, contact Pellegrini at tonya@saratogadowntown.com or Maddy Zanetti at mzanetti@impressionssaratoga.com.

12

NEWS

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

Holster’s Victory Lap

by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY GREENWICH — We haven’t seen this kind of mania about anyone since Sawyer Fredericks and American Pharoah – and deservedly so! In case you’ve been hibernating, meet Holster – a six-year-old Australian Shepherd whose home is at the High Goal Farm in Greenwich – a dogtraining facility owned by Wendy and Dave Cerilli. On Saturday, February 13, Holster and Wendy made their debut at the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show at NYC’s Madison Square

Garden and came away with the masters’ agility title, the top agility award in the competition.

Upon Holster’s return to Greenwich, we dispatched Sharon Castro, our great photographer (and lover of all things canine) to capture these images of a champion on his home turf where it all began… Congrats to Wendy and Dave, and of course, Holster! If you wish more information about how your pooch can be trained like a champion, visit HighGoalFarm.com or email agilitytraining@yahoo.com

Photos by Sharon Castro

A Champion and His Posse at High Goal Farm! From left: Clip, Jockey, Trigger, Badger, Holster, Bounty (held by co-owner Wendy Cerilli), Colt, Burdock, Pico, Orso, Breyer, and Gusto

Every dog at High Goal is trained to be a Champion!

Holster has fans… and they send flowers!

Holster struts his stuff at High Goal Farm

The High Goal Champions: Dave and Wendy Cerilli with Holster

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

BALLSTON SPA 78 Beacon St., $261,718.

Traditional Builders LTD sold property to Frederick and Karen White.

CORINTH

PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS

Susan Hitchcock and Michael Bright sold property to Michael and Karen Bright.

1 Wake Robin Rd., $166,000.

Sean and Aimee Parker sold property to Jillian Lyons.

213 Maple St., $84,000. Robert Patrenets, Sr. sold property to Lazy River Ranch.

7 Woodfield Ct., $355,595.

Michaels Group LLC sold property to Edwin and Linda Belles.

8 Hill Ave., $134,000. Eugene and Arlene Joubert sold property to Arthur Whipple, Jr.

22 Hills Rd., $148,001.

Secretary of Veterans Affairs sold property to Mark Hausmann.

GALWAY 1031 Perth Rd., $355,000.

David and Marsha Boelio sold property to Thomas and Gretchen Jewell.

3047 Birchton Rd., $295,000.

Thomas Pray sold property to Erica Wardell.

GREENFIELD 333 & 335 Brigham Rd., $10,000. Florence Ross and Jamie Defoe (Co Trustees) sold property to Joshua and Meghan Dennison.

29 Barney Rd., $25,000. Ruby and George Bishop, Jr. sold property to Justin Bombard and Heather Burch.

33 Barney Rd., $25,000. Ruby and George Bishop sold property to Justin Bombard and Heather Burch.

4436 Route 9N, $271,000.

Matthew and Sarah Shaw sold property to Wesley and Merideth Schrader.

MALTA 1010 Laural Lane, $215,000.

Jonathan and Donna Laparl sold property to Marian Tomaso.

1 Phillip Dr., $52,000. Michael Traylor and Erin O’Connor sold property to Erin O’Connor.

19 Wake Robin Rd., $90,000.

Secretary of the US Department of Housing and Urban Development sold property to Dominick Pugh.

9 Woodfield Ct., $349,635.

Michaels Group LLC sold property to Da Song and Guanxiong Zhang.

1027 Raymond Rd., $87,000.

1 Bellflower Rd., $192,500. US Bank Trust (by Atty) sold property to Robert Petta.

19 Washington Ave., $134,000.

Joseph Shafts, Sr. (by Co Execs) sold property to Timothy Shafts.

130 Ruhle Rd., North, $352,000.

Raymond Patterson sold property to Eric and Angela Mohr.

98 Arrowwood Place, $189,900.

Kasey Cram, Jr. sold property to Heather Coffey.

55 Admirals Way, $457,815.

Malta Land Company LLC sold property to Andrew and Jenna Dumke.

MILTON 3 Maple Ave., $158,000.

Carolyn Kaufmann sold property to Janice Baird and Patricia Fonda.

555 Sherman Rd., $100,000.

Edmund Currier (by Atty) sold property to Antonio Ballestero.

529 Acland Blvd., $225,000.

John and Debra Daniele sold property to Matthew Richardson.

NORTHUMBERLAND 13 Marchant Rd., $102,500.

Fannie Mae (by Atty) sold property to Gabryshak Construction Inc. 47 Leonard St., $111,300.

Donald Sexton (by Admin) sold property to Jeremy and Dana Parzych.

4 Leonard St., $109,500. Arlene Raymond sold property to Dawn Morgan.

18 Schuyler Way, $235,000.

Christopher and Kathryn Lail sold property to Ryan Phelan.

SARATOGA SPRINGS 79 Beekman St., $285,000. Tri Laughing LLC sold property to 79 Beekman LLC. 14 Springwood Dr., $334,000.

Ashley Testa-Long sold property to Yvette Cortes and Eric Schneider.

148 Woodlawn Ave., $590,000. Cindy Lunsford and Kenneth Hoskins sold property to Anthony Stellato, Jr. 30 Horseshoe Dr.. $438,000.

Kevin and Michele Madigan sold property to William and Mary McCarthy.

5 Iris Dr., $865,000. Jeremy and Jennifer Eager sold property to Nicholas Kondo.

8 Persimmon Place,

$625,295. SBDT Ventures LLC sold property to Peter and Heather Von Allmen.

20 Leonard St., $117,000.

Fannie Mae (by Atty) sold property to Kaitlin Leary.

23 Patricia Lane, $265,000.

Christine Lewis sold property to Julia Ingersoll and Jesse Marco.

247 Maple Ave., $147,440.

Susan Alexander sold property to Henry Fabre.

STILLWATER 18 Native Dancer Lane, $293,000. Raymond and Cindy DeVoe sold property to Lincoln and Sheena Johnson.

7 Major Dickinson Ave., $19,000. Fannie Mae (by

13 Atty) sold property to McKean Zaremski.

WILTON 10 Peabody Place, $306,000.

Susan and Richard Rowland, Jr. sold property to Matthew and Bridget Farry.

14 Fenimore Place, $395,000.

Peter and Heather Von Allmen sold property to Sean Smith.

23 Saw Mill Court, $449,307.

Smith Bridge LLC sold property to Peter and Megan Walsh.

4 Hammond Dr., $191,000.

Marabeth Pennell sold property to Christopher Iwinski and Jessica LeachIwinski.

14 Continued from page 11.

for all the next generations.”

By underscoring SPAC’s cultural and economic contributions to the region, White was able to broaden SPAC’s base of support within the business and philanthropic communities, solidifying its finances and replacing years of fiscal deficits with 11 consecutive operating budget surpluses.

“I think, quite frankly, the situation doesn’t change, it’s how you find a solution to help resolve it,” said White. “The fact that we have been able to break even for 11 years shows the strength in our ability to do that, creating longstanding partnerships, building a younger audience, providing innovate programming, such as multimedia. Pixar Night was wonderful, when kids were here in p.j.’s on blankets seeing film clips and seeing the musicians, and then they get it, that the music is important to the production of the film.”

Key achievements of White’s leadership include: establishment of a new summer residency with the celebrated Chamber Music Society

BUSINESS of Lincoln Center; expansion of SPAC’s dance season to include tours by renowned international ballet companies including Russia’s iconic Bolshoi Ballet and the National Ballet of China; and expansion of SPAC’s dance season to include modern dance by top companies such as The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

“And for us to be the site for Farm Aid 2013 was huge,” added White. “They select one venue throughout the U.S. each year, plus given it’s the number one industry in New York State, we were thrilled.

It’s such a well known and respected event.”

When asked about her plans after the season, White said, “Like I always say, I don’t know where I’m going, but I know who’s leading me.

Retirement is not part of my vocabulary. I have 4 daughters and 9 grandchildren, so I have a feeling I’m not going to have a lot of down time.”

The Board has retained the nonprofit executive search firm of Phillips Oppenheim to assist in the search for a new Executive Director and President.

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

(Not So) Easy Come – Easy Go First-GIG Moves HQ to Saratoga, Palio Heads Out

by Norra Reyes Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS – First-GIG. com, LLC, has recently completed moving its operations from Madison, Wisconsin to Saratoga Springs as part of its partnership agreement that began in October of 2012 with First Fairfield Associates at 48 Union Avenue. Conversely, advertising agency Palio at 260 Broadway will complete the move of its headquarters out of Saratoga Springs to New York City in June.

While the well-established Palio’s operations of more than $30 million a year seeks growth elsewhere, the newer First-GIG.com sees a wealth of opportunity in Saratoga Springs.

Founder and co-owner Albert Marco began the business in 2009 in Madison with an initial focus on newly graduated college students.

The job match services company now operates two career-placement services: 1stGig.com, which focuses on jobs for college graduates, and VetsBridge.com, which specializes in the employment of returning veterans. Since 2009, the candidate pool has grown to around 12,000 and employers to about 400. The service is free of charge to veterans and students.

“The service operates in all 48 states,” said Marco. “The system is built to be international, and we do have companies who participate from Canada and talent from a number of countries across the globe, but primarily it’s United States.”

Marco felt the decision to consolidate in Saratoga Springs made good business sense, given the Capital Region’s increasing development in IT incubator activities; the resources that First Fairfield offers; the easy access to New York City, Boston, and Washington, D.C.; and a

solid base of colleges and universities offering widely varied academics and graduates.

“I think there are a lot of great resources and opportunities in the Saratoga area,” said Marco. “Other businesses looking for a good base from which to operate would do well to consider it. The downtown really has a hometown feel with small shops and restaurants, and it’s a lot more than what I consider to be a tourist attraction. It’s a good place to move employees.”

Although Marco is not relocating himself, everyone else is now in place, and he anticipates the company needing staff eventually in marketing, social media, business development, direct sales, and IT as well.

Marco, who holds a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin– Madison, has over 25 years of experience in corporate human resource management, executive consulting, and recruiting. He founded the Trovato Group, LLC, a national executive search and consulting firm specializing in the real estate industry, in 1998.

1stGig.com has developed proprietary algorithms for its search programs that make it easier and faster for potential employees and employers to find each other. Unlike many of the job search engines online, 1stGig. com and VetsBridge.com take candidate and employer work-life quality into account. A candidate who prefers a solitary, permanent workspace would not be matched with an employer offering 75 percent travel, for example.

“It’s a unique alternative to traditional recruiting and job seeking. It really makes both sides of the recruiting equation much more efficient,” said Marco. “When I first tried to explain it to people, they would liken it to a dating website, but there’s no

First-GIG, LLC founder and co-owner Albert Marco. Photo provided.

artificial intelligence to the matching.

The algorithms match exactly what the candidates and employers ask for.”

Laura C. Manning, the Chief Financial Officer of First-GIG.com and the Chief Operating Officer at First Fairfield Associates said they found a great match in both companies. “We’re looking for ventures to get into, and we like investments that have some kind of social responsibility,” she said. “When we saw Al’s business, we thought – why not do this for veterans as well? And it worked.”

VetsBridge.com specializes in matching military experience and skills with jobs at companies and employers worldwide that are committed to hiring returning veterans.

“There are so many resources provided to veterans that have no employment outcome,” said Marco.

“There’s a plethora of training development and job coaching, but in the end seldom results in job opportunities. VetBridge.com focuses on one outcome, addressing the issue of translation of military skills to civilian positions.”

First-GIG, LLC is sponsoring an overview of the job market for veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces and the ins-and-outs of hiring veterans will be the focus of a symposium on Thursday, March 3, 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at The Gideon Putnam in Saratoga Springs.

The event will be of special interest to businesses, human resource professionals, and veterans’ service agencies seeking to increase job opportunities for veterans. The discussion will include information on the benefits and resources available to businesses that hire veterans.

This activity has been submitted to the HR Certification Institute and the Society for Human Resource Management for general credit. The cost of attendance is $40 and includes breakfast. Participants must register at http://www.vetsbridgesymposium. com. For more information, contact Beth Moeller at Interactive Media Consulting, LLC, who is organizing the symposium, at 518-587-5107 or info@vetsbridgesymposium.com.

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

Paulina Grinnell Promoted to Relationship Manager at Ballston Spa National Bank

BALLSTON SPA — Paulina Grinnell has been promoted to relationship manager at Ballston Spa National Bank according to Chris Dowd, president and CEO. Ms. Grinnell will be responsible for providing financial solutions to customers and for maintaining the daily operations of the bank’s Malta branch office.

Ms. Grinnell joined BSNB in 2015 as a personal banker, and has more than five years of experience in the banking industry. Prior to joining BSNB, she was an assistant branch manager at another local financial institution. Ms. Grinnell earned her bachelor of arts in legal studies with a concentration in economic administration from University of Nicolaus Copernicus in Torun, Poland.

Symposium on Veterans’ Employment SARATOGA SPRINGS — On Thursday, March 3, VetsBridge

will be hosting speakers and panel discussions to examine the job market for veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces and the ins-and-outs of hiring veterans, including the resources available to businesses that employ veterans. The Symposium on Veterans’ Employment will be held at the Gideon Putnam from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. Cost is $40 including breakfast. This activity has been submitted to the HR Certification Institute and the Society for Human Resource Management for general credit. Registration required at http://www.vetsbridgesymposium.com. For more information, call 518-587-5107.

BUSINESS BRIEFS 15 management team and will contribute to strategic planning efforts. He will continue to develop new lending relationships, oversee lending decisions and manage the Bank’s team of lenders. Ratsep joined Saratoga National in 2015 with 20 years of banking and credit administration experience in the Capital Region.

Saratoga County Fair.

Her duties will include the NYSAAF College Scholarship program for those Fairs, as well as coordinating annual meetings of the District Fairs.

Drindak Named President-elect

Wesley Names New Director of Nursing

Ratsep Promoted to Senior Vice President

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga National Bank and Trust Company has promoted Senior Loan Officer and Corporate Banking Manager Thomas Ratsep to Senior Vice President. The promotion was approved in January by the Board of Arrow Financial Corporation, Saratoga National’s parent company.

As a Senior Vice President, Ratsep joins the senior

Glens Falls Hospital Announces CPR Challenge

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Wesley Community announced this week that Kimberly Garso has been promoted to Director of Nursing. In her new role, Garso will provide oversight and management of more than 400 clinical and support staff in patient care activities at Wesley Health Care Center.

Garso served for the past three years as the Assistant Director of Nursing at Wesley Health Care Center. Prior to joining The Wesley Community, Garso spent 27 years at Saratoga County Maplewood Manor, where she served in various capacities including Head Nurse, MDS Coordinator, Nursing Supervisor, and Director of Nursing.

GLENS FALLS — Would you know what to do if someone next to you collapsed? Knowing CPR could be the difference between life and death.

GFH is offering a public awareness and education initiative entitled, “At Any Moment: The Glens Falls Hospital Community CPR Challenge.” Five free CPR classes are scheduled beginning March 2. Reservations can be made by contacting Heidi Sullivan at 518-926-5901 or hsullivan@glensfallshosp.org.

Rowland Appointed District 2 Director BALLSTON SPA — Lauren A. Rowland, a long-time volunteer, supporter and employee of the Saratoga County Fair, has been appointed the District 2 Director for the New York State Association of Agricultural Fairs for 2016-2017. This district encompasses the Altamont Fair, Greene County Youth Fair, Fonda Fair, Washington County Fair, Schaghticoke Fair, and the

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Desiree Drindak, SUNY Empire State College’s interim director of the award-winning Office of Veteran and Military Education, has been appointed president-elect for the New York State Advisory Council on Military Education.

Drindak was appointed president-elect in the fall of 2015 and she begins her term of office as president in the fall of 2016.

Drindak will serve for one year as president-elect, one year as president and one year as immediate past president.

The New York State Advisory Council is affiliated with the Council of College and Military Educators, a national organization with individual state affiliations committed to addressing military education issues within their respective states.

16

FOOD

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

Winter warmth and adventure at the Saratoga Farmers Markets

Saturdays, 9 to 1 Lincoln Baths, 65 So. Broadway Saratoga Spa State Park

by Pattie Garrett for Saratoga TODAY It’s a bone-chilling cold Saturday and all I want to do is stay warm at home. Fighting the urge to drink another cup of coffee, I head out to the Saratoga Farmers’ Market. After all, it also is market day and I know that what awaits at the Lincoln Baths will be gorgeous vegetables, friendly farmers, delicious foods, and more.

I am a retired nutritionist who writes a food blog, My Saratoga Kitchen Table, featuring regional foods. I get my inspiration on Saturdays: I discover new foods, what’s in season, and learn how to prepare unfamiliar items. I’m not afraid to ask a silly question, such as “Just what is this? and What do I do with it?” I know the answers will open up new adventures.

Vegetables need to be photographed for the blog. Some are more photogenic than others. They call out, “Look at me. I’m gorgeous. Take my picture.” But others, like celeriac, need a little love, too. They need a recipe to reveal their inner beauty and I am happy to comply.

Recipes should be doable, not too challenging and allow the vegetable’s flavor to be the star. I focus on recipes that are nutritious (most of the time) and include a little nutritional information. I don’t write the

FARM STAND VEGETABLE SOUP Ingredients

Directions

* Ingredients can be found at the market

1. Using kitchen twine, tie together parsley sprigs, thyme, and bay leaf.

2. Melt butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add leeks, carrots, celery, and wine. Cook, stirring occasionally, until liquid has evaporated and celery is softened, about 10 minutes.

3. Add water, broth, barley, herb bundle, and garlic. Increase heat to high and bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, partially covered for 25 minutes.

4. Add potatoes, turnips and cabbage.

Return to simmer and cook until barley, potatoes, turnip and cabbage are tender, 18 to 20 minutes.

5. Remove pan from heat and remove herb bundle. Stir in peas, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve and top with Lemon-Thyme Butter.

NOTES Lemon Thyme Butter: Combine in bowl: 6 Tablespoons unsalted softened butter, 1 Tablespoon minced fresh thyme, ¾ teaspoon finely grated lemon zest plus ¼ teaspoon juice.

Adapted from Cook’s Illustrated

recipes for the blog, there are so many good ones out there. I search out the gems and give them a try. My Taste Tester is Tommy, also known as The Husband. If a dish can pass his review, it is a winner. Tommy holds reflectors, and offers unsolicited advice. I think I wrote that in our wedding vows or at least that is what I told him.

I love visiting farmers on their farms, listening to their philosophies on farming, how they got to be farmers, and why local food is important. Farmers are proud and have a strong sense of responsibility for providing nutritious safe food for all of us. They care that food from their farm is grown using sustainable, environmentally sound practices. That alone makes them my heroes.

Next time you visit the market, try something new: honey, cheese, maple syrup, wine, or another ingredient. Pick up a piece of handmade pottery for your recipe and flowers for the table. Enjoy the adventure as much as I do.

If spending your day inside, bring out the coloring book and make Farm Stand Vegetable Soup.

This hearty soup is perfect for a lazy day and ingredients are found at the Farmers’ Market.

Serves: 8 • 8 sprigs of fresh parsley plus 3 Tablespoons chopped * • 4 sprigs of fresh thyme * • 1 bay leaf • 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter •1½ pounds leeks, white and light green parts, sliced ½ in. thick and washed thoroughly * •2 carrots, peeled and cut into ½ inch pieces * • 2 celery rib, cut into ¼ inch pieces • 1/3 cup dry white wine * • 6 cups water • 4 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth (may be made with market products *) • ½ cup pearl barley • 1 garlic clove, peeled and smashed * • 1½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into ½ inch pieces * • 1 turnip, peeled and cut into ¾ inch pieces * • 1½ cups chopped green cabbage • 1 cup frozen peas • 1 teaspoon lemon juice * • Salt and pepper

Optional: Add crispy bacon or seasoned croutons NUTRITION INFORMATION Calories: 216 Fat: 4 g Saturated fat: 2 g Carbohydrates: 39 g Sodium: 85 mg Fiber: 4 g Protein: 7 g Cholesterol: 8 mg

FOOD 17

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

Steamy Situations

by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY Hello my foodie friends! The town I was born in is famous for steaming everything from vegetables to cheeseburgers! If you have not heard about this secret to healthy cooking then please read on.

“Accentuate the natural flavor of foods. Retain nutrients and vitamins while cooking with less fat or oil.” – Helen Chen • Handmade of 100 percent natural bamboo • Ideal for vegetables, seafood, meats and fruits • Perfect for cooking, reheating and serving your favorite dim sum

• Strong and durable • Recipes and instructions included • Tightly constructed and woven to trap steam for quick and efficient cooking • Bamboo absorbs condensation so no water will drip back onto the food • Steaming preserves minerals and vitamins in foods • Healthy, low-fat cooking method Our natural bamboo steamer is handmade and securely assembled with bamboo pegs and bamboo lacing. Unlike wood, bamboo is a grass, so it’s a renewable and sustainable resource.

How steamers work: A bamboo steamer is designed to sit over another pot containing boiling water (specially designed steaming rings, make it easy to steam on 11” or 13” diameter stockpots). As the water boils, the steam enters the steamer through the open slats in the bottom and is contained in the steamer by the lid. The bamboo steamer absorbs any condensation, keeping water from dripping back onto the food.

When heated, it forms a hot container and, with the cover in place, can keep food warm for up to half

an hour. The bamboo steamer is also an attractive serving piece and may be brought right to the table. Foods that are steamed require little or no added oils or fats, and they retain vitamins and minerals and cook quickly and evenly.

Tips for steaming the Asian way: When steaming dry foods such as breads and dim sum, line the bottom of the steamer tier with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking. 9.5” parchment rounds do the job easily. However, for foods that are seasoned such as seafood, meats and tofu, steam them in a heat-proof shallow dish (such as a Pyrex pie plate) to catch the flavorful and nutritious juices. The dish should be about 1 inch smaller than the diameter of the steamer and the food should not touch the inside of the lid to allow steam to circulate freely around the food for even cooking. The added benefit of using a dish is that the bamboo steamer stays clean. Use specially designed Plate Retriever Tongs for added safety.

Caring for Your Bamboo Steamer: Before using your steamer for the first time, rinse the bamboo steamer and lid with cold water. After each use, wash steamer with hot water and a brush, if necessary. Do not use soaps or detergents — bamboo may absorb fragrance and impart unwanted flavors to foods.

Allow steamer to thoroughly air dry before storing in a wellventilated place.

Fish Fridays

Steaming food is delicious and if you ever get a chance to have a real steamed cheeseburger with steamed cheddar cheese and sometimes the bun steamed you will never go back to fried. Some people even put a big old slice of fresh onion on it. Don’t wear your onion goggles over the steamer because your vision will become blurred. Remember my Foodie Friends; “Life Happens in your Kitchen!”

Take Care, John and Paula

Lenten Specials through March 25th

18

FOOD

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

Wilton Market 32 to Host Homegrown Market Day Local Food Producers Will Offer Information and Product Samples SARATOGA SPRINGS — Market 32 by Price Chopper, located at 3045 Route 50 in Saratoga Springs, will be hosting a Homegrown Market Day on Saturday, February 27 from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm. More than a dozen of the store’s many local and regional suppliers will be on hand to chat with customers about what makes their products special and to offer free samples.

“We are deeply committed to sourcing locally grown, produced and manufactured product as a way of satisfying local tastes, ensuring farm-to-table freshness, and stimulating the local economy,” said Mona Golub, the chain’s vice president of public relations and consumer services. “And we appreciate the

opportunity to reduce our fuel usage and emissions, given the shorter distance that fresh product must travel.”

Price Chopper, a homegrown supermarket chain that has operated in the Northeast since 1932, has long emphasized the importance of supporting local growers and producers in the communities where it operates stores.

Market 32 carries on the tradition.

“Saratoga Chips has been a proud local partner with Price Chopper since 2009,” said Jim Schneider, president and managing partner of Saratoga Chips. “As one of many of Price Chopper/Market 32’s local suppliers, we are delighted to support their efforts in celebrating Homegrown Market Day.”

Featured Partners

Availability

Saratoga Chips – chips (Saratoga, NY)

10 am – 1 pm

Adirondack Maple Farms – maple syrup (Fonda, NY)

10 am – 2 pm

Barkeater Chocolates – chocolate (North Creek, NY)

11 am – 2 pm

Casa Visco – pasta sauce (Schenectady, NY)

11 am – 2 pm

Gatherers Granola – granola (Schenectady, NY)

11 am – 2 pm

Mastroianni Bread – bread (Schenectady, NY)

11 am – 2 pm

Nettle Meadow Cheese – cheese (Warrensburg, NY)

11 am – 2 pm

Pede Brothers – pasta (Schenectady, NY)

11 am – 2 pm

Larry’s Southwestern Sauces – cooking sauce (Slingerlands, NY)

12 pm – 4 pm

Saratoga Gluten Free Goods – gluten free snacks (Saratoga, NY)

1 pm – 4 pm

Mapleland Farms – maple syrup (Salem, NY)

2 pm – 5 pm

Olde Saratoga Brewing Co.– beer (Saratoga, NY)

2 pm – 5 pm

Saratoga Peanut Butter – peanut butter (Saratoga, NY)

2 pm – 5 pm

Sugar Oak Farms – maple syrup (Ballston Spa, NY)

2 pm – 5 pm

Tiashoke Farm of Cabot Creamery– cheese (Buskirk, NY)

2 pm – 5 pm

Vermont Hydroponic Produce – tomatoes (Florence, VT)

2 pm – 5 pm

About The Golub Corporation: Based in Schenectady, NY, the Golub Corporation owns and operates 136 Price Chopper and Market 32 grocery stores in New York, Vermont, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and New Hampshire.

The American owned, family-managed company prides itself on longstanding traditions of innovative food merchandising, leadership in community service, and cooperative employee relations. Golub’s 22,000 teammates collectively own more than 47 percent of the company’s privately held stock, making it one of the nation’s largest privately held corporations that is predominantly employeeowned. For additional information, visit www.pricechopper.com

19 Adirondack Christian Fellowship 8 Mountain Ledge, Wilton 587-0623 | acfsaratoga.com Services: Sunday 8 a.m. & 10 a.m.

Adirondack Friends Meeting 27 Saratoga Ave, South Glens Falls 793-3755 | adirondackfriendsmeeting.org Regina Baird Haag, Pastor Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Assembly of God Faith Chapel 6 Burgoyne St, Schuylerville 695-6069 | Rev. Jason Proctor Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m.

Assembly of God Saratoga 118 Woodlawn Ave, Saratoga Springs 584-6081 | Services: Sunday Worship 10 a.m.

Bacon Hill Reformed Church* 560 Route 32N, Bacon Hill | 695-3074 Rev. Janet Vincent | Services: Worship service 10 a.m.; Sunday School 10 a.m.

Baha’i Community of Saratoga Springs 584-9679; 692-7694 | usbnc.org Ballston Center Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church 58 Charlton Road, Ballston Spa | 885-7312 ballstoncenterarpchurch.org Services: Sunday Worship, 10:30 a.m.

Ballston Spa United Methodist Church 101 Milton Ave, Ballston Spa 885-6886 | Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Bethesda Episcopal Church 41 Washington St, Saratoga Springs 584-5980 | Services: Sunday 8 & 10 a.m.

Calvary Capital District 17 Low Street, Ballston Spa | Pastor Andrew Holt Services: Sunday 10 am | calvarycd.com Church of Christ at Clifton Park 7 Old Route 146, Clifton Park 371-6611 | cliftonparkchurchofchrist.com Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Christ Community Reformed Church 1010 Route 146, Clifton Park | 371-7654 ccrc-cpny.org | Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Christ Episcopal Church Routes 50 & 67, Ballston Spa | 885-1031 Services: Sunday 8 & 10 a.m.

Christian Restoration Ministries Saratoga Senior Center 5 Williams St, Saratoga Springs 796-4323 | Pastor Pat Roach Services: Sunday 10 a.m.; 6:30 p.m.

Christian Science Church 107 Circular St, Saratoga Springs 584-0221 | Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Community Alliance Church 257 Rowland St, Ballston Spa 885-6524 | Services: Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

Congregation Shaara Tfille* 84 Weibel Avenue, Saratoga Springs 584-2370 | saratogasynagogue.org Services: Saturday 10 a.m.

Corinth Free Methodist Church 20 Hamilton Ave, Corinth 654-9255; 792-0271 Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Corinth United Methodist Church 243 Main Street, Corinth 654-2521 | cfumc@cnyconnect.net Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Cornerstone Community Church 516 Park Ave., Mechanicville | 664-5204 mycornerstonechurch.org | Pastor Frank Galerie Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Corpus Christi Roman Catholic Community 2001 Route 9, Round Lake 877-8506 | ccorpusc@nycap.rr.com Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 8:30 & 10:30 a.m.; Eastern Orthodox — Christ the Savior

RELIGION 349 Eastline Road, Ballston Spa 786-3100 | xcsavior@yahoo.com.

Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m.

First Baptist Church of Saratoga Springs 45 Washington St, Saratoga Springs 584-6301 | Services: Sunday 11 a.m.

First Baptist Church of Ballston Spa 202 Milton Ave, Ballston Spa 885-8361 | bspabaptist.org Services: 10:30 a.m. worship, 9 a.m. Sunday School (all ages) First Presbyterian Church of Ballston Spa 22 West High St, Ballston Spa 885-5583 | Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Full Gospel Tabernacle 207 Redmond Road, Gansevoort 793-2739 | Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Galway United Methodist Church 2056 East St, Galway | 882-6520 galway-united-methodist-church.com Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m.

(9 a.m. in July and August) Grace Fellowship Saratoga 165 High Rock Ave, Saratoga | 691-0301 saratoga.gracefellowship.com Pastor: Mike Adams Services: Sundays 9 & 11 a.m.

Grace Brethren Church* 137 W. Milton Road, Ballston Spa 587-0649 | Rev. Dan Pierce Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Greater Grace Community Church Pastor David Moore | 899-7777 thechurch@ggccmalta.org Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Greenfield Center Baptist Church 30 Wilton Road, Greenfield Center | 893-7429 Services: Sunday School for all ages - 9:45 a.m.; Church Service - 11 a.m.

Highway Tabernacle Church 90 River Road, Mechanicville | 664-4442 Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Hope Church 206 Greenfield Ave, Ballston Spa 885-7442 | Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Jonesville United Methodist 963 Main St, Clifton Park 877-7332 | Services: Sunday 8:30 & 10:30 a.m.

Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Living Springs Community Church 59 Pine Road, Saratoga Springs 584-9112 | Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Living Waters Church of God 4330 State Rt. 50, Saratoga Springs 587-0484 | livingwaterscog.us Services: Sundays 10 a.m.

Malta Presbyterian Church Dunning Street, Malta 899-5992 | Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Malta Ridge United Methodist Church 729 Malta Ave. Ext, Malta 581-0210 | Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Middle Grove United Methodist Church* 581-2973 | Pastor Bonnie Bates Services: Sunday 9 a.m.

Mt. Olivet Baptist Church Corner of Jefferson St. & Crescent St. Saratoga Springs | 584-9441 Rev. Dr. Victor L. Collier, Pastor New Horizon Church 150 Perry Road, Saratoga Springs 587-0711 | Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m.

New Life Fellowship 51 Old Gick Road, ­­Saratoga Springs 580-1810 | newlifeinsaratoga.org.

Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

NorthStar Church

Gowana Middle School, Clifton Park 371-2811 | northstarchurch.com Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m. & 11:15 a.m.

Old Saratoga Reformed Church* 48 Pearl St., Schuylerville oldsaratogareformedchurch.org Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Old Stone Church (American Baptist) 159 Stone Church Road, Ballston Spa 583-1002 | Services: Sunday 9 a.m.; Adult Sunday School 9 a.m.; Service 10:30 a.m.

Our Lady of Grace Roman Catholic Church* 73 Midline Road, Ballston Lake 399-5713 | Services: Saturday 5 p.m.

Sunday 8:15 & 10:15 a.m.

Presbyterian-NE Congregational Church 24 Circular St, Saratoga Springs 584-6091 | pnecchurch.org Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m.

Quaker Springs United Methodist Church* 466 Route 32 South, Quaker Springs 695-3101 | qsumc.com Pastor Al Johnson Services: Sunday 9 a.m.

River of Hope Fellowship 100 Saratoga Village Blvd, Malta Cmns, Ste. 3 | 881-1505 riverofhopefellowship.com Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Roman Catholic Church of St. Peter 241 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 584-2375 | Services: Saturday 5 p.m.; Sunday 7:30, 9 and 11 a.m.

St. Clement’s Roman Catholic Church 231 Lake Ave, Saratoga Springs 584-6122 | Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 8, 9:30, 11:15 a.m. and 5 p.m., 1 p.m. Spanish Service St. George’s Episcopal Church 912 Route 146, Clifton Park 371-6351 | stgeorge@csdsl.net Services: Saturday 4:30 p.m.; Sunday 8 & 9:30 a.m.

St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church* 3159 Route 9N, Greenfield Center 893-7680 stjosephschurchgreenfieldcenter.org Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 10:30 a.m.

St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church* 167 Milton Ave, Ballston Spa 885-7411 | stmarysbsta.org Services: Saturday 4 p.m., Sunday 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., Noon.

St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church* 771 Route 29, Rock City Falls 893-7680 | sjoegctr@nycap.rr.com Services: Sunday 8:30 am.

St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church 149 Lake Ave, Saratoga Springs 584-0904 | Services: Saturday 5 p.m.; Sundays 8:30 & 11 a.m.

St. Peter Lutheran Church 2776 Route 9, Malta | 583-4153 Services: Sunday 8:30 & 10:30 a.m.; Sunday School at 9:15 a.m.

St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church 1 Grove Street, Schuylerville 695-3918 | Rev. Donna J. Arnold Services: Sunday 8 & 9 a.m.

St. Thomas of Canterbury 242 Grooms Road, Halfmoon st-thomas-of-canterbury.org Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Saratoga Abundant Life Church 2325 Route 50 South, Saratoga Springs 885-5456 | SALChurch.org Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m.

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016 Saratoga Chabad 130 Circular St, Saratoga Springs 526-0773 | saratogachabad.com Saratoga Friends Meeting (Quaker) Rts. 32 and 71, Quaker Springs 587-7477; 399-5013 Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Saratoga United Methodist Church* Henning Road, Saratoga Springs 584-3720 | saratogaumc.com Services: Sunday 9 & 10:45 a.m.

Saratoga Seventh-Day Adventist Church 399 Union Ave, Saratoga Springs 882-9384 | saratogasda.org Services: Sabbath School: 10 a.m. Worship Service: 11:30 a.m.

Schuylerville United Methodist Church* 51 Church St, Schuylerville 695-3101 | sumethodist.org Services: Worship at 11am Shenendehowa United Methodist 971 Route 146, Clifton Park 371-7964 Services: Sunday 9 & 10:30 a.m.

Simpson United Methodist Church Rock City Road, Rock City Falls 885-4794 Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m.

Soul Saving Station for Every Nation Christ Crusaders of America 62 Henry St, Saratoga Springs 584-3122 Services: Sunday 10 a.m. & 6:30 p.m.

Stillwater United Church (Presbyterian U.S.A.) 747 Hudson Avenue, Stillwater | 664-7984 stillwaterunitedchurch.org Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Temple Sinai* 509 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 584-8730 | saratogasinai.org Shabbat Services: Friday 6 p.m. or 8p.m. (rotating schedule) Saturdays: 10:30a.m.

Terra Nova Church* 45 Washington St, Saratoga Springs 833-0504 | terranovachurch.org Services: Sunday 5:30 p.m.

The Salvation Army/ Worship, Service & Community Center 27 Woodlawn Ave, Saratoga Springs 584-1640 Services: Sunday School 10 a.m.; Praise & Worship 11 a.m.

Trinity United Methodist Church 155 Ballard Road, Gansevoort 584-9107 | tumcwilton.com Rev Keith Mann Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Saratoga Springs 624 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs 584-1555 | uusaratoga.org Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Unity Church in Albany 21 King Ave., Albany 453-3603 Services: Sunday 9 a.m. & 11 a.m.

West Charlton United Presbyterian Church 1331 Sacandaga Road, West Charlton 882-9874 | westcharltonupc.org Rev. Thomas Gregg, Pastor Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Wilton Baptist Church 755 Saratoga Road, Wilton 583-2736 wiltonbaptistchurch.com Services: Sunday 11 a.m.

* — Handicap Accessible

20

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

21

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

SARATOGA INDEPENDENT SCHOOL

THIS WEEK’S

SPOTLIGHT

Saratoga Independent School - Summer Camp 2016 Weekly theme-based enrichment program for children ages 3 to 8 years old. Come IMAGINE, DISCOVER, and EXPLORE with us this summer!

459 Lake Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Phone: (518) 583-0841 Website: www.siskids.org Program Dates: July 5 to August 19 Program Hours: • Half-day program - 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

• Full-day program – 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Before Care available starting at 8:30 a.m.

Whether exploring the past or designing the future, the summer enrichment experience at Saratoga Independent School is sure to engage and excite children ages 3 to 8 years old. Our morning program themes change from week to week with topics for all interests. Campers will spend time with a variety of teachers, including physical education and art teachers, alongside theme-based exploration. If a half day isn’t quite enough, stick around for the afternoon. We are offering a less structured afternoon with water play, board games, and opportunities for personal expression.

Our staff is fully committed to providing a nurturing, respectful, and exciting summer for your child.

To Advertise in the Summer Camp Guide

Call (518) 581-2480

Make this a summer to remember at Saratoga Independent School!

Week 1 – July 5- 8 (Tuesday - Friday) Holiday a Day Every day is a party this week!

Come celebrate with us as we start our summer off with a bang.

Halloween, New Year’s and birthday traditions will come alive, complete with balloons and cupcakes for all.

Week 2 – July 11 - 15 Kitchen Chemistry Who doesn’t love mixing concoctions in their kitchen? This week the children will learn the science behind how ice cream is made, the effects of salt in water for cooking, as well as some time tested ooey gooey, get your hands slimy, fun.

Week 3 – July 18 - 22 Dino Discovery Let’s see what we can find in our own backyard Dino dig. Children will excavate bones, create a time line of dinosaur history, and discuss varying theories leading to the extinction of the terrible lizards.

Week 4 – July 25-29 Virtual Travel Join us as we sing our way around the continents, plot map coordinates and practice cardinal directions. As we travel, we will explore the cultures and wonders that

make our world spectacular.

Week 5 – August 1-5 Ocean Life Dive to the bottom of the ocean, stopping along the way to investigate the many unique creatures of the seas. Classify fish and mammals and vertebrate and invertebrate, determining the features of each as we go. This will be an exciting week, and that’s no fish story!

Week 6 – August 8-12 Simple Machines In an age of technology, it is hard to imagine how simple machines were used to accomplish so much.

Using simple machines, the children will build, create, and construct their own buildings and learn how to identify simple machines in our daily life.

Week 7 – August 15-19 Performing Arts Whether the children put on a play, paint scenery, create a comic or design costumes, this week is sure to allow children an opportunity to let the creative juices flow. Working as teams, the children will decide on a way to express the meaning of summer as they see it. This should be a week to remember.

22

EDUCATION

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

Third Graders Take to the Farm

by Norra Reyes Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Thirdgraders at the Waldorf School of Saratoga experienced life on the farm first-hand earlier this month on the school’s annual trip to Hawthorne Valley Farm, 280 acres in the town of Harlemville in Columbia County. “Our school went with the Mountain Laurel Waldorf School from New Paltz,” said third-grade teacher Michael O’Donnell. “We divided the 18 students into groups of six and they rotated through activities, such as going to the creamery, getting the milk, learning to make butter and yogurt and more.”

The students learned all the aspects of work on a farm, including animal care. “They must be fed morning noon and night,” said O’Donnell. “They took care of horses, pigs, sheep, caring for the hens and collecting eggs, all of it. A belief amongst Waldorf educators is

BALLSTON SPA — Worldrenowned electric violinist Mark Wood and his Electrify Your Strings program worked with over 650 students in grades 6 through 12 from the bands, choirs and orchestras from Ballston Spa High School and Middle School and Stillwater CSD Music Department during two days of rehearsals that ended with a final, culminating concert performance on Wednesday evening, February 24 held in the Ballston Spa High School gymnasium with a live feed into the auditorium.

The Electrify B-Spa Music Concert spectacular performances

that the nine year old is interested in developing self-directed activity, working with their hands, so this is the age for learning to spin wool and how to turn it into yarn.”

The students made their own lunch and dinner, chopping vegetables from the garden at the farm, making bread, making desserts like molasses cookies, even a curry squash soup.

“As I went around the different groups, I saw so much enthusiasm for everything,” said O’Donnell.

“They’d split logs for firewood, and the girls were swinging the axes with gusto, excited about how much wood they had made. There was that sense of accomplishment, like making a soup that everyone wanted to eat and take seconds and thirds. The practical activity will resonate with them for a long time.”

Music Electrifies B-Spa included a combined 6th and 7th Grade Band, Chorus and Orchestra that performed “All Together Now” and “Born to be Wild”. The 8th and 9th grade Chorus, Band and Orchestras performed “Live and Let Die”, “Any Way You Want It”, and “Stairway to Heaven”. The 10th through 12th grade students in each performing group played “Carry on My Wayward Son”, “Knock On Wood” and a Mark Wood original, “Inferno”. The finale included all 650+ students.

During the preceding workshops, the string students had the opportunity to work with Wood,

who is the creator of the Viper, an electric violin, and is a performer who has toured with the TransSiberian Orchestra.

The chorus students worked with Laura Kaye, a vocalist who has performed with James Brown and Aretha Franklin, among others. The band students worked with Javier Stuppard, who is a trombonist who teaches at Huston-Tillotson College and has a doctorate in trombone performance from UT Austin, and performs in jazz bands, orchestras and salsa groups in Austin. Proceeds from the concert ticket sales are to benefit music education.

Electrify B-Spa visiting musicians Mark Wood, Laura Kaye and Javier Stuppard with the Ballston Spa High School 10th-12th Grade Chorus. Photo by Stuart Williams, Ballston Spa Central School District.

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

Adirondack Sports Summer Expo

EDUCATION BRIEFS

23

$1,000 Scholarships to be Awarded

BALLSTON SPA — The Saratoga County Fair announced that ten scholarships in the amount of one thousand dollars each will be awarded to current New York State high school seniors and students enrolled in college. These scholarships are sponsored by the New York State Association of Agricultural

Fairs and the New York State Showpeoples’ Association.

To qualify, candidates from Saratoga County must be active at the Saratoga County Fair, and submit their application through the Fair Office no later that Friday, April 8. Further information is available at the Saratoga County Fair, 162

Prospect Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020, through Cornell Cooperative Extension of Saratoga County, and from local high school offices.

Application forms are available at www.nyfairs.org. For more information, please contact the Saratoga County Fair office at 518-885-9701.

Oak Hill Launches Capital Campaign with Clydesdales

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The 11th annual Adirondack Sports Summer Expo is set to run Saturday, March 5 and Sunday, March 6 at the Saratoga Springs City Center, featuring 30 new exhibitors and the popular 20 x 32-foot pool.

On-water demos will take place all weekend in the pool, with kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding and scuba diving. A variety of seminars and clinics will be led by contributing writers, certified trainers, accomplished athletes and health professionals.

Seminars will include running, hiking, biking, triathlon, injury

prevention, and yoga.

Most major outdoor sports and recreation clubs in the area will be represented, as well as many summer travel destinations. The show will have $10,000 in prizes and giveaways for products, services, races, events, destinations and lodging.

Admission is $5 for the weekend, and ages 18 and under are free. Hours are Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For an exhibitor list, seminar and pool schedules, parking map, or to exhibit at the show, visit AdkSports.com or call 518-877-8788.

AWRA Partners with SSHS Student Council

Act With Respect Always recently partnered with the Saratoga Springs Student Council to raise money for the Unified Sports Program. Saratoga Springs High School seniors (left to right) Lydia Pleasants, Reese Arthur, Bill Barber, Kate Dennett, and Tom Conboy asked everyone entering the recent Saratoga - Shen basketball game to sign the AWRA banner and pledge to make a difference every day. For more information, visit www.ActWithRespectAlways.com.

SCOTIA — Oak Hill School, a therapeutic day school, will have majestic Clydesdale horses at the initial launch of the school’s capital campaign, taking place in Albany. The school has received approval from the New York State Education Department to increase enrollment for students with significant behavior problems. Located in Scotia, the school currently serves students from eight counties throughout the Capital Region and surrounding area.

Serving additional students will require building a new wing. The estimated cost of this project is $500,000, which would include classrooms space and therapeutic

counseling rooms.

Oak Hill School is partnering with Express Employment Professionals to launch the capital campaign at the company’s Grand Opening at 501 New Karner Road in Albany on March 17 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The award-winning Express Clydesdales will be providing free wagon rides to attendees, and grand opening visitors will be given the opportunity to donate to the school. Of a rare black and white color, the Express Clydesdales stand 17-18 hands high and weigh over 2,000 pounds each. Their shoes are the size of dinner plates and weigh over three pounds each.

They are the reigning National

8-Horse Hitch and National 6-Horse Hitch Champions.

Learn more about the Express Clydesdales by watching this short video: https://youtu. be/-Gs1LO6k_6I. Express Employment Professionals has also teamed up with Saratoga National Bank and Cork and Bottle Wine and Spirits to help raise money for Oak Hill School. Saratoga National Bank will be accepting all donations for Oak Hill School and Cork and Bottle Wine and Spirits will donate 10 percent of their proceeds on March 17 to Oak Hill School.

Find out more about Oak Hill School and ways to support it by visiting www.oakhill.org/ dnn6/SupportUs.aspx.

24

LOCAL BRIEFS

Saratoga Springs Retired Teachers Association Meeting The Saratoga Springs Retired Teachers Association will meet on Monday, March 7, at noon at Longfellows Restaurant, 500 Union Avenue, Route 9P), Saratoga Springs. Membership is open to retired educators who taught in or now live in Saratoga County. For membership information, call 587-5356.

Monthly Meeting The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 234 will be held on Monday, March 7 at 7 p.m. at the American Legion Post 234 at 23 Pleasant St., Ballston Spa. Call for Local Folk or Irish Musicians and Dancers Come audition for an opportunity to showcase your talent during “Café MaltaIrish Style”, an intimate coffee house at the Malta Community Center on Saturday evening, March 12. We are looking for talented musicians, vocalists, small acoustic bands, storytellers and/or dancers. Our show is right before St. Patrick’s Day, so Irish tunes would be fun, but not mandatory. Auditions are by appointment only. Contact Elyse Young, Artistic Director, at (518) 899-4411 x 305 or theater@ malta-town.org for more details or to schedule an audition. We are also looking for 3-4 talented teen or young adult singing waiters.

Lenten Sung Prayer An evening of Lenten Sung Prayer in Thanksgiving for and Celebrating the Life of Sister Carolyn Krebs, OP, to be held at St. Clements Roman Catholic Church, Saturday, March 19 at 6 p.m. Jeff and Brenda Vredenburg, former Directors of Liturgical Music at St. Clements will direct the program. We hope you will join us for this spiritual time together reflecting on Sr. Carolyn’s life, with an eye toward Holy Week and the Passion,

Death and Resurrection of Jesus. There will be a “Free Will” offering collected. All proceeds will be donated to “Sister Carolyn Krebs, OP Memorial Scholarship Fund.” The Sister Carolyn Krebs, OP Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to a graduating high school senior from the greater Saratoga area who has been accepted into a College or University with a chosen major in Music, Voice or Instrument; Music Education or Music Therapy.

Saratoga Hospital’s Free Running Screening A free stride assessment clinic for runners of all skill levels will be held at the YMCA, West Avenue Branch, Saratoga Springs, on March 19 at 9 a.m. to Noon. We will assess strength, flexibility and stride of runners, as well as provide information on which running shoes are right for you.

To register, please call (518)5802450.

Women’s History Month Presentation In recognition of Women’s History Month, Saratoga National Historical Park will offer a free program, “In Their Own Words: Women in the Revolution,” on Saturday, March 19 from 2 to 3 p.m. at the park visitor center. Saratoga National Historical Park is located between Rt. 4 and Rt. 32 in the Town of Stillwater. Join artist and Colonial period educator Jennifer Richard-Morrow to explore the lives of women who lived during the American Revolutionary War through their stories, excerpted from letters and diary entries.

How did events around these women affect them? What did they find important to document in their daily lives? How did they deal with life’s challenges? Join us for a nice cup of tea and find out. Event snow date: Sunday, March 26. For more information call (518) 670-2985, check our website at www.nps.gov/sara or follow us on Facebook and Twitter @SaratogaNHP. 27th Annual Palm Sunday Polka Benefit Polka Country Musicians of Jewett City, CT will be providing music for your dancing and listening pleasure on March

20 at the Saratoga Knights of Columbus Hall located at 50 Pine Rd., Saratoga Springs from 1 – 5 p.m. A cash kitchen and bar, raffles, and prizes. Cost is $25 per couple, $13 per person or $15 at the door. For reservations call Steve or Cathy Coblish by March 10, (518) 899-3061 or mail checks payable to Steve Coblish, 4-B Harwich Manor, Ballston Lake, NY 12019.

Auditions for “Groovy!”

Malta Spotlighter’s Theatre Troupe is holding auditions Sunday, March 20 and Monday, March 21, for the musical comedy tribute to the 1960s, ‘GROOVY!’ Elyse Young, Artistic Director, is seeking dozens of teens and adults for a variety of speaking, singing and dancing roles.

There are also parts for a small group of children, ages 8+. Performances are June 11 and 12 at the Malta Community Center. Audition appointments are necessary.

For more details or to schedule an appointment, contact Elyse at (518) 899-4411 x305 or theater@malta-town.org.

Babysitting Course at Gavin Park Adirondack Health and Safety will once again be presenting a child and babysitting course at Gavin Park. This course is open to girls and boys, ages 10 and up.

Participants will learn the basics of CABS (Child and Babysitting Safety), along with CPR and first aid. The course runs from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 2.

Pre-registration and bag lunch is required. Cost for Wilton Residents is $60, Saratoga Springs School District Residents is $65, and all others $70. Questions may be answered by calling the park office at (518) 584-9455.

Dance +26 The Dance Alliance of the Capital Region is proud to co-sponsor Dance +26 with The National Museum of Dance’s School of the Arts on Sunday, April 3, 2016 from 11 a.m. - 5:15 p.m.

The theme will be “Dancing through Time” and all classes will be inspired by a member of the National Museum of Dance Hall of Fame. Three levels of classes: children 8-11, open ages 12 -

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016 adult, and intermediate/advanced 12 - adult. Registration and more information will be available soon at www.dancealliance.org.

Thrift Shop Easter Merchandise Sale Second Hand Rose Thrift Shop, 116 Broad St., Schuylerville is having a 10 percent off of Easter Merchandise Sale. St Patrick’s Day merchandise is also available. The Shop also offers household goods, books, children’s toys, clothes and shoes for men, women and children. Volunteers are needed and appreciated. The Shop is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Our proceeds after expenses are given back to community service organizations. For more information, please call Second Hand Rose Thrift Shop at (518) 695-4640.

Spring Activities Brochure Available The Town of Malta’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Human Services Spring Activities Brochure is now available online at www.maltaparksrec. com. It is available at the Malta Community Center and registration has begun for spring classes and programs. New classes, sports programs and special events are scheduled to begin in March. Please call the Malta Community Center at (518) 899-4411 for more information.

Burnt Hills Oratorio Society - Call for Singers If you love to sing, come join The Burnt Hills Oratorio Society, which rehearses Tuesday nights , 7 p.m. at the Burnt Hills/Ballston Lake High School choral room.

BHOS is a friendly group that welcomes all singers, without audition. The choir will perform Vivaldi’s Gloria and highlights of Handel’s Messiah, at the time of year originally intended by its composer. The upcoming concert is scheduled for Sunday, May 15, 3 p.m. at the Zankel Music Center at Skidmore. Founded in 1970,

BHOS proudly presents two major concerts annually that feature local soloists and orchestral players. The members represent all age groups and vocations. Here is your opportunity to sing with an orchestra, blend voices, and enjoy community in a way that is often lacking in today’s culture. New singers accepted through the end of February. Membership is $55 plus the cost of music. For more information, go to www. bhos.us, find us on Facebook, or just show up at a rehearsal.

Trees need Short-Term Volunteers Who Want Long-Term Impact Sustainable Saratoga’s Urban Forestry Project needs volunteers to help plan and organize its third annual Tree Toga planting day on April 30. Find new purpose during the winter doldrums by volunteering part-time and help leave a legacy of great trees for future generations of Saratogians. Contact us at trees@sustainablesaratoga.org.

Volunteer coordinating team. Well organized person(s) with good people skills needed to respond to volunteer emails, track the growing list of planting volunteers, and send occasional group emails.

Time commitment: between now and April 30 (but mostly during March and April).

Requires regular log-ins.

Basic knowledge of Excel a plus, but not required.

Real estate team. Since Sustainable Saratoga owns no real estate, we need people to help find planting locations and to recruit tree hosts for the April 30 planting. Two types of people would be good at this. People who like to explore the city to expand our list of possible planting locations. Second, social people who like to network, to reach out to offer trees to friends, neighbors, and residents who live at desirable planting locations. You may be good at both parts of the job. Time commitment: very flexible hours between now and April 30.

Send your local briefs to calendar@saratogapublishing.com two weeks prior to the event.

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016 Schuylerville Public Library Winter Gala

Family Friendly Event

Friday, February 26 Fish Fry Fridays Fish Creek Rod and Gun Club, Route 32 south of the village of Victory, 4:30 – 7 p.m.

Menu: fried fish, fried clams, fried chicken tenders, popcorn shrimp, or buffalo shrimp. Also clam chowder by the bowl or by the quart.

Beverages: soda, water, coffee, beer.

Eat in at our club house or to call ahead for take-out (518) 695-3917.

Everyone welcome.

Concert: Robert Glasper Trio Arthur Zankel Music Center, Skidmore Campus, 8 p.m. $8 adults, $5 senior Citizens and Skidmore community, free for students and children. For more information call (518) 580-5321 or go to www.skidmore.edu/zankel.

Saturday, February 27 Benefit Pasta Dinner American Legion, 34 West Ave., Saratoga Springs, 4 – 7 p.m.

Harold Thomas, a single father of three boys suffered a massive heart attack on December 14. Harold remains in the hospital and will have a long road ahead of him to recover.

Sadly, Harold has incurred a massive amount of medical and household bills. We are holding this fundraiser to help alleviate some of his financial burden. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for kids ages 3 – 12. Menu: Pasta, meatballs, salad, garlic bread, dessert, beverage. Cash bar and take-out will be available. There will be 50/50 drawings and lots of raffles. Advance tickets are available at the American Legion or at the door. Donations can be mailed directly to: Harold Thomas, PO Box 3250, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. See our Facebook events page for updates. https://www.facebook. com/events/1646297102298862/ For more information, email haroldthomasbenefit@gmail.com.

Christ the King, 575 Burton Rd. Greenwich, 6 p.m.

Join us for an evening of music, food, and basket raffle. Secrets and Spies Gala tickets are $35 per person and can be purchased at the Schuylerville Library. Raffle tickets are 1 ticket for $1 or 15 tickets for $10; drawing will be held the night of the gala, but you do not need to be present to win. Need something to wear? Schuylerville Community Theater has graciously opened their closets to us – select the perfect dress and pair it against a sharp tux. For more information please contact the Library at (518) 695-6641.

Concert: Quatuor Danel Arthur Zankel Music Center, Skidmore Campus, 8 p.m. $8 adults, $5 senior Citizens and Skidmore community, free for students and children. For more information call (518) 580-5321 or go to www.skidmore.edu/zankel.

Sunday, February 28 Breakfast Buffet Sons’ of ITAM Post #35, 247 Grand Ave., Saratoga Springs, 8 – 11 a.m.

We have made to order omelets.

Cost is $8 for adults, $7 for Senior Citizens and children under 5 are free. For more information call (518) 584-1841.

Dharma Meditation One Big Roof, Center for Mindful Practices, located in the Saratoga Health & Wellness Bldg. (across from Maple Ave. Middle School) 9 - 10:15 a.m.

This is a group meeting for meditation followed up by a short discussion. All contemplative traditions are honored. Visit www. oneroofsaratoga.com or call Pierre at (413) 992-7012.

Indoor Craft and Garage Sale Saratoga-Wilton Elks Club, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs, 11 a.m. -3 p.m.

Admission is free. Over 40 vendors; great parking , bargains galore, lunch, books, household items, sports equipment, hand-made items, clothing, jewelry, party vendors, pet supplies and just about anything you can imagine may be found here. New

CALENDAR 25 vendors are signing up every month.

Rain or shine. A fun activity for the entire family enjoys. Come browse, visit, eat, or just get out of the house with a friend. All proceeds go to our local charities. Tables are $15 for an 8 ft. table; call (518) 289-5470 for information.

Consciousness-Raising Book Discussion Woodlawn Commons, 156 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, 6 p.m.

Albany-Saratoga Spiritual Adventures is hosting a spiritual book discussion. All are welcome whether or not they’ve read the book. This month’s book is Discover the Power Within You by Eric Butterworth. For more information, visit www.newthoughtnewyork.org or call (518) 423-3569.

Monday, February 29 Fix It – Healthcare at the Tipping Point Saratoga Springs Library, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

This new 55-minute film, looks in depth at how our dysfunctional and inefficient healthcare system damages our economy, suffocates our businesses, discourages physicians, and negatively affects the nation’s health while it remains unaffordable for a third of our citizens. Discussion of the film will be facilitated by Dr. David Ray, Chair, Capital District Chapter Physicians for a National Health Program, and member, Capital District Alliance for Universal Healthcare. The League of Women Voters of NYS and the NYS Nurses Association advocate for New York Health. If the library is closed on account of weather, it will be shown on Tuesday, March 1. www. lwvsaratoga.org

Tuesday, March 1 Birthright Shower Knights of Columbus Hall, 50 Pine Road, Saratoga Springs, 6 p.m.

Come join the Catholic Daughters of the Americas for their Birthright Shower. Members of Court McLaughlin #422 will be bringing items to donate such as diapers, formula, baby clothes, etc. A representative from Birthright will be at the meeting to collect donated items and money that has been raised during the year. New members are always welcome. All meetings take place at the Knights

of Columbus Hall. Members gather at 6 p.m. for refreshments and social time and the meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. For any questions or further information contact Regent Aileen Thomas at (518) 583-2905. www. catholicdaughters.org.

Wednesday, March 2 2016 Winter Storytellers Series SUNY Empire State College, 2 Union Avenue, Room 126, Saratoga Springs, Noon - 1 p.m.

MaryNell Morgan: W.E.B. Du Bois: The Souls of Black Folk Sorrow Songs. This is the last presentation in this year’s storytellers series.

Sponsored by Prestwick Chase at Saratoga. Free and open to the public. Postponed if Saratoga Springs city schools are closed. For more information, call the Academy at (518) 587-2100 ext. 2415, www. esc.edu/all.

Guided Mindful Meditation Saratoga Springs Public Library, Susman Room, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.

Take a break from the daily grind and clear your mind with guided Mindful Meditation led by professionals from One Roof Holistic Health Center. Sessions are free and open to the public, and will be held on the first and third Wednesday of each month. Everyone is welcome.

For more information, call (518) 584-7860 ext. 205.

Poetry Reading by Rodney Parrot Caffè Lena, 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, 7 p.m.

An open reading will follow. Doors open for sign-ups at 7pm and the readings will start at 7:30. The host for the event will be Carol Graser and the cost is $5. For more information, visit www.caffelena.org.

Thursday, March 3 Korean War Veterans’ Association Meeting VFW Building, Veterans’ Way, Saratoga Springs, 1:30 p.m.

All veterans who served in Korea at any time, spouses, widows and friends are invited to attend. For further information or an application to join the organization, please contact Commander Roger Calkins at (518) 584-3037.

Local Town Websites Town of Ballston: Ballston Town Hall 323 Charlton Road (518) 885-8502 www.townofballstonny.org Village of Ballston Spa: 66 Front Street (518) 885-5711 www.ballstonspany.org Town of Greenfield: 7 Wilton Road (518) 893-7432 www.townofgreenfield.com Town of Malta: 2540 Route 9 (518) 899-2818 www.malta-town.org Town of Milton: 503 Geyser Road (518) 885-9220 www.townofmiltonny.org City of Saratoga Springs: 474 Broadway (518) 587-3550 www.saratoga-springs.org Town of Saratoga: 12 Spring Street, Schuylerville (518) 695-3644 www.townofsaratoga.com Village of Schuylerville: 35 Spring Street (518) 695-3881 www.villageofschuylerville.org Town of Stillwater: 881 N. Hudson Avenue Stillwater, NY 12170 (518) 664-6148 www.stillwaterny.org Town of Wilton: 22 Traver Road (518) 587-1939 www.townofwilton.com Saratoga County Board of Supervisors: 40 McMaster St, #1 Ballston Spa, NY 12020 (518) 885-2240 www.saratogacountyny.gov

Send your calendar events to calendar@saratogapublishing.com two weeks prior to the event.

26

Alpine Sports Donates over $1K to Childhood Cancer

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

It’s a Girl!

SARATOGA SPRINGS — A baby girl, Ivey Louise Herring, was born on February 8 at Saratoga Hospital to Kristen Jenks and Robert Herring, Jr. of Ballston Spa. Ivey Louise weighed 6 pounds and was 19 inches long.

She joins big brother Kendrick Herring. Her maternal grandparents are Mary Fabiani and DeWitt Jenks; her paternal grandparents are Louise and Robert Herring, Sr. Congratulations!!

Oak Hill Launches Capital Campaign with Clydesdales

In honor of Leap of Kindness Day on February 29, Alpine Sport Shop donated over $1,000 to St. Baldrick's Foundation.

Customers who participated received a travel mug as a gift. Uncommon Grounds filled their mugs with delicious coffee, and handed them a warm bagel – their treat – as an additional kindness. From left to right, skiers Jack Hay, Alex Norton, Cathy Hay, and Mark Hays. Photo by Terri-Lynn Pellegri.

BSNB Recognizes Employees and Donates $5k

BALLSTON SPA – Ballston Spa National Bank recently recognized 10 employees with Community Support Awards and donated $5,000 to area charitable organizations in appreciation of employee volunteer efforts.

Through the bank’s Volunteers in Action program, bank employees are encouraged to volunteer their time. These

efforts resulted in more than 9,000 volunteer hours during the 12 months preceding the award designations. The top 10 award recipients were honored for their exemplary contributions to the organizations and communities they served. The recipients are: Beth Chase, Karen Dowen, Matthew Hosek, James Ireland, Melissa Jennings, Colleen Pickett,

Brenda Reilly, Christine Rowland, Laura Siracuse and Cathy Young.

In appreciation of employee volunteer efforts, BSNB is awarding $1,000 to each of the following organizations: AIM Services; Franklin Community Center; Leatherstocking Honor Flight; Saratoga Therapeutic Equestrian Program; and The Center for Hope.

Free Film and Discussion on Healthcare SARATOGA SPRINGS — The League of Women Voters of Saratoga County and the New York State Nurses Association are hosting a free showing of the film, Fix It: Healthcare at the Tipping Point at the Saratoga Springs Public Library at 49 Henry Street on Monday, February 29. There will be two showings, one at 3 p.m. and the second at 7 p.m.

According to an announcement about the showing, this new 55-minute film is made from a business perspective. It looks in depth at dysfunction and inefficiency in the healthcare system, including impact on the economy, businesses, physicians, and the nation's health while it remains unaffordable for a third of the citizenry.

A discussion of the film will follow, facilitated by Dr. David Ray, Chair, Capital District Chapter, Physicians for a National Health Program, and member, Capital District Alliance for Universal Healthcare. If the library is closed on account of weather, it will be shown on Tuesday, March 1. For more information, visit www. lwvsaratoga.org.

SCOTIA — Oak Hill School, a therapeutic day school, will have majestic Clydesdale horses at the initial launch of the school’s capital campaign, taking place in Albany.

The school currently serves students from eight counties throughout the Capital

Region and surrounding area, and they need a new wing. See more about the campaign on p. 23 of this issue or find out more about Oak Hill School and ways to support it by visiting www.oakhill.org/dnn6/ SupportUs.aspx.

27 PULSE YMCA Hosts Party to Benefit Scholarships Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Regional YMCA (SRYMCA) is preparing for their 8th Annual Campaign Party, which will benefit their 2016 Scholarship Campaign, Mission 443. This year’s event will be held on March 11 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Prime at Saratoga National Golf Club. The Garland Nelson Ensemble will be returning to entertain and MC for the evening.

“We are thrilled to have Garland again, as he always brings the party with him!” said Susan Rhoades, SRYMCA Development Director. “Between the music, the food, the amazing silent actions items, and the mystery wine pull,

this is sure to be our biggest and best year yet.”

SRYMCA’s Scholarship Campaign ensures that children, teens and families are not turned away from the YMCA because of cost. In 2015, SRYMCA raised $249,000 for its Scholarship Campaign, and $55,000 of that was raised at the 7th Annual Campaign Party last year.

“Our Scholarship Campaign allows us to provide memberships and access to programs to those who may be going through hard times and not able to afford it on their own,” said Katie Menz, Marketing Director at SRYMCA. “We realize the importance of

health and wellness, and how that can be a turning point for those who may just be down on their luck or experiencing hard ships such as medical issues, housing issues, loss of job, etc. It’s our way of giving back to the community, and the money we raise helps supplement these scholarships.”

This year, the Scholarship Campaign is called Mission 443, and represents the goal of the 443 scholarships SRYMCA hopes to provide in 2016, which equals roughly $250,000.

“The funds raised make it possible to give hundreds of locals the YMCA experience they may not otherwise

Skidmore Presents “The Last Days of Judas Iscariot” SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Skidmore College Department of Theater will be presenting the play “The Last Days of Judas Iscariot” from Thursday, March 3 until Wednesday March 9. All shows will be at 8 p.m., except Sunday’s show, which will be a 2 p.m. matinee. “The Last Days of Judas Iscariot,” written by Stephen Adly Guirgis, is directed by Skidmore seniors Hannah Baker and Theo Saroglou.

The play follows the journey of Judas Iscariot, Jesus’s disciple notorious for his betrayal, and what happens to him after his death. Taking place in a courtroom in Purgatory, it explores what would happen if Judas was put on trial for his betrayal to Jesus, including testimonies from witnesses such as Sigmund Freud, Mother Teresa, and Satan. A perfect blend of comedy and drama, “The Last Days of Judas Iscariot” digs into our natural human tendency to question our own selfworth and overall “goodness” and, ultimately, attempts to define the line between good and evil.

Tickets to the show are $12 general admission and $8 for students and seniors. For more information, or to purchase tickets, contact the box office at 518580-5439, boxoffice@skidmore. edu, or by going online to skidmore.edu/theater.

get,” said Kelly Armer, Chief Operations Officer at SRYMCA. “Children have the chance to make friends and go to summer camp, teens are provided with a safe place to hang out, families come together to become healthier, and seniors reconnect to the community while building strength.”

For more information about Mission 443 and to purchase tickets for the 8th Annual Scholarship Campaign Party, visit srymca.org. If you are interested in donating or sponsoring the cause, contact Susan Rhoades at 518-583-9622 or susan.rhoades@srymca.org.

SRYMCA Group Fitness Instructor and Livestrong Coach, Nicole Griffiths (top), with members of the YMCA at last year’s Annual Campaign Party.

Photo provided by Saratoga Regional YMCA.

Throwback photo: Willie Nelson and Pete Seeger performing in Farm Aid 2013 at SPAC, one of the events SPAC President and Executive Director Marcia White said she was most proud of during her tenure. White is retiring at the end of this upcoming 50th anniversary SPAC season. FILE PHOTO 9-24-13 by MarkBolles.com.

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28

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

“Nacre in Concert:” a Collaboration of Creativity

by Rebecca Davis Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — On Saturday, March 5, Nacre Dance Company is opening their 2015-2016 season with the premiere performance of “Nacre in Concert.” This show will combine several artistic mediums, including live music, dance, and poetry, and will contain brand new dances from featured choreographers, as well as a new piece

by Nacre Artistic Director, Beth Fecteau, in collaboration with musicians Ria Curley and Chuck Lamb.

Beth Fectau’s piece, “Seasons,” was inspired by various props, all related to a specific season. Fecteau first discovered KnockerBalls, which resemble clear hamster balls that the dancers wear and perform in, and realized they looked like snow globes.

This sparked the idea to create a modern dance piece that incorporated these seasonal props, and would take audiences on a journey through the seasons. Fecteau then reached out to celebrated R&B/pop singer and songwriter Ria Curley and jazz pianist and composer Chuck Lamb to create original music for “Seasons.”

“I really want audiences to feel a connection between the dancers, and also with our

collaboration,” said Fecteau. “I also want them to see [Curley and Lamb’s] music through our bodies, and how we’re taking our bodies and interpreting their music.”

What makes “Seasons” so unique is that Curley and Lamb will be performing their music live as the dancers perform to it. According to Fecteau, the live music component is new for some of the dancers. “Live music is very different than dancing to taped music, so for them, it’s a learning experience.”

“A really neat part of this for me is to be able to see the music realized in form,” said Lamb, who specializes in the ability to improvise musically. “It becomes a visual medium, and that relationship is beautiful. This is the most choreographed work I’ve done the music for, and to have that music transform into this visual piece, is amazing.”

Fecteau gave Curley and Lamb a lot of creative freedom

with “Seasons,” and according to Curley, the music and choreography came together quite seamlessly, with very few edits along the way.

“In terms of the original composing, [Beth] would give us a feel for each season, like autumn for example, and would give us various adjectives to describe it, such as ‘swirling’ or ‘falling,’ and we would have that to start with.

All of a sudden, it would come together musically based off that,” noted Curley. “I have a dance background, not modern dance, but I did jazz, tap, and some ballet. I studied it for many years, so it’s fun for me also from that perspective, and it helps with composing music that can be danced to.”

Lamb also agreed that the collaboration with Fecteau came together with ease.

“It was so natural. There was a flow between us; we were always

Kailey McCrudden (Pictured above, Top left), winner of Nacre’s “So You Think You Can Choreograph” competition, will be presenting a dance piece at “Nacre in Concert.” Photos

by Emily Guinan.

Continued on page 29.

Julia Kool, who will be dancing in “Seasons” by Beth Fecteau. Photo by John Seymour.

Celebrated R&B and pop singer/songwriter Ria Curley, who helped compose music for Fecteau’s “Seasons.” Photo provided.

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

29 PULSE

SCT Rated “Superior” at Disney Performance Festival

by Rebecca Davis Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Last week, Saratoga Children’s Theatre (SCT) attended The National Performing Arts Festival at Disney World in Orlando, Florida. This festival brings together top performance groups from across the country to compete, and also to hone their skills and learn more about the performance arts through workshops and other fun activities.

SCT’s cast of “Seussical the Musical” attended the festival and performed a 20-minute excerpt from the show in front of a panel of judges and other competing groups. Overall, SCT achieved the rating of “Superior,” which is the highest rating possible in Continued from page 28.

on the same page. We both wanted to make sure the other was happy, and we played off each other’s ideas a lot. It was just a blast.”

“Seasons,” which begins with spring and ends with winter, takes audiences through each season of the year, with each season having its own mood and theme. Spring and summer are presented as romantic and flirtatious, with the music upbeat, while autumn and winter are more serious and pensive. Each season incorporates Fecteau’s inspirational props, including diving caps in summer, the snow globe KnockerBalls in winter, and vivid ponchos for spring that resemble dewy flowers.

Julia Kool, who is dancing in “Seasons,” has been a student of Fecteau’s since she was nine, and is very excited to be a part of this piece.

“If you have good direction, you have a good experience, and I always have a good experience, so I must have good direction. Beth’s choreography is also really fun to do. They’re easy on your body and they look really nice.” Kool adds with a smile, “She makes me look good.”

While Fecteau’s piece will be the grand finale of “Nacre in Concert,” the show commences with a poetry reading from local poet Marilyn McCabe, who will introduce each piece in the show.

Following the reading will be outstanding dance performances and

the competition. Cast members Sam Miller, Colin Gioia, Olivia Ralbovsky and Margo Moran won Individual Achievement Awards for their roles in “Seussical.”

Judges provided the SCT cast with valuable feedback and praise regarding their performance.

Judges complemented the developed characters and commented to the cast, “Regardless of where you were, in chorus or lead, you were believable. It’s the perfect blend of acting, singing and dancing. Love your heart.”

“We had a blast on this trip,” said Leigh Berenis, Associate Executive Director at SCT, who was admired by the judges for her interpretation and creativity as director. “Many of our students have never been to Disney

before, so watching the veterans walk them through the parks was amazing. [We] saw our cast really come together and take advantage of this once in a lifetime opportunity.”

SCT is currently preparing for their summer camps, with online registration already open.

They are also holding auditions at the Saratoga Senior Center on March 5 at 5 p.m. for the performance of “Meet Me in St. Louis” and on March 6 at 2 p.m. for “Shrek Jr. the Musical.” Both shows will premiere in May. For more information about Saratoga Children’s Theatre, or to sign up for auditions or summer camp, visit saratogachildrenstheatre.org.

choreography from the participants of Nacre’s “So You Think You Can Choreograph” competition. The winner of the competition, Kailey McCrudden, along with finalists Brett Cox and Christian Serrano, will each be presenting unique choreographed pieces of their own. The theme for “Nacre in Concert” is “atmosphere,” which pertains to each piece being performed, including “Seasons.”

For example, Brett Cox has created a dance performance titled, “Fellow Travelers,” which

will incorporate the theme of “atmosphere” through the exploration of the universe and space, using inspiration from the late astronomer, Karl Sagan.

“After my experience with Nacre during the ‘So You Think You Can Choreograph’ competition, I have continued to create dance material and keep in touch with the phenomenal members of Nacre in the hopes of a future collaboration with this outstanding group,” said Cox. “I was thrilled to have the opportunity to work with the staff of Nacre Dance

The cast of “Seussical the Musical” wowed the judges at The National Performing Arts Festival at Disney World. Photo provided.

again and return to New York for this wonderful showcase.”

With a variety of artistic mediums and performers to enjoy and discover, “Nacre in Concert” is guaranteed to be a night to remember for anyone who attends.

“We hope it’s a gift,” said Curley. “People can take an hour of their day and just sit there and feel something, whether it’s joy or curiosity or sadness. I think in

all of the arts, the goal is to have people feel something, whatever they’re going to feel, and to have the time and space to feel it.”

“Nacre in Concert” will be presented Saturday, March 5 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 6 at 2:30 p.m. at the Spa Little Theater in Saratoga State Park.

Tickets are $20, $15 for students and seniors. For tickets or more information, call 518-817-3833 or visit nacredance.com.

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Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

week of 2/26-3/3 Bad Chaperones will be performing at Caroline St. Pub on Saturday, February 27 at 9 p.m.

Bad Chaperones will also be performing at The Saratoga Pond Hockey Tournament at Spa State Park on February 27 starting at 3 p.m. For more information about Bad Chaperones, visit their website at thebadchaperones.wordpress.com or their Facebook page, facebook.com/badchaperones.

Promo photo by Dave Mercier.

friday, 2/26: Sugar Pill, 9 pm @ Bentley’s — 899.4300 Christine Ohlman + Rebel Montez, 8 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022 Chris Carey, 7 pm @ Carson’s Woodside Tavern — 584.9791 Jukebox Night, 9 pm @ Caroline St. Pub — 583.9400 Phil Drum, 7 pm @ Crown Grill — 583.1105 The Shames, 4 pm @ End Zone Sports Pub — 584.6460 Rich Clements Band, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 The Schmooze, 10 pm @ Harvey’s — 583.0003 New York Players, 8 pm @ Nanola — 587.1300 Dave Fisk Quartet, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Avenue — 583.2582 Chuck D’Aloia, 6 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Ubuntu, 9 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Dan Sherwin, 5:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Audiostars’ 70s Disco Party, 8 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Angels on the Fourth/ Asa Morris + the Mess, 8:30 pm @ Putnam Den — 584.8066 John Eisenhart, 9 pm @ The Mill — 899.5253 Fenimore Blues, 7 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916 John Hill, 8:30 pm @ The Rusty Nail — 371.9875 N + S Dakotas, 6 pm @ The Saratoga Winery — 584.9463 Shiri Zorn, 6:30 pm @ Thirsty Owl — 587.9694 Big Sky Country, 8 pm @ Vapor — 581.5775

saturday, 2/27: Vivid, 9 pm @ Bentley’s — 899.4300 Kevin McKrell with Kirk, Melick + McKrell, 8 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022 Franklin Micare Duo, 7 pm @ Carson’s Woodside Tavern — 584.9791 Bad Chaperones, 9 pm @ Caroline St. Pub — 583.9400 Rich Ortiz, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 Motion Blur, 10 pm @ Harvey’s — 583.0003 Refrigerators + Audiostars, 8 pm @ Nanola — 587.1300 Jon LeRoy Group, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Avenue — 583.2582 Graham Tichy Trio, 9 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Er Go Blu, 5:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Cabinet w/ Banshee Tree, 9 pm @ Putnam Den — 584.8066 On Your Mark, 9 pm

@ The Mill — 899.5253 Hair of the Dog, 8 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916 Karaoke, 9:30 pm @ The Rusty Nail — 371.9875 Jeff Walton, 3 pm @ The Saratoga Winery — 584.9463 Steve Candlen, 6:30 pm @ Thirsty Owl — 587.9694 Kip Chapman, 9 pm @ Vapor — 581.5775 Rob Aronstein, 7 pm @ Wishing Well — 584.7640

sunday, 2/28: Dylan Perrillo Orchestra, 7 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022 Olivia Quillio, 6 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Live Jazz Brunch, 10 am @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Pat Decker, 3 pm @ The Saratoga Winery — 584.9463

monday, 2/29: Alan Payette, 6:30 pm @ Brook Tavern — 871.1473

tuesday, 3/1: Rich Ortiz, 9 pm @ Caroline St. Pub — 583.9400 Open Mic with Rick Bolton, 8 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359

wednesday, 3/2: Poetry Open Mic, 7 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022 Masters of Nostalgia, 8:30 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Open Mic, 9 pm @ Putnam Den — 584.8066 Celtic Session, 7 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916 Karaoke, 9 pm @ The Rusty Nail — 371.9875

thursday, 3/3: Marcus Ruggiero, 7 pm @ Bailey’s — 583.6060 Open Mic, 7 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022 Open Mic, 10 pm @ Circus Café — 583.1106 Megan Houde, 8 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 The Deadbeats, 8 pm @ Nanola — 587.1300 Chris Carey + Mike O’Donnell, 8 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Rich Ortiz, 5:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Knot Dead, 9:30 pm @ Putnam Den — 584.8066 Celtic Session, 7 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916

32 It’s where NEED to be.

YOU

Publication Day: Friday

Ad Copy Due: Wednesday, noon

Space Reservation Due: Monday, 5 p.m.

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

CLASSIFIED MARKETPLACE

classified@saratogapublishing.com

Call (518) 581-2480 x204 JEWELRY APPRAISAL

EXPERT JEWELRY, GEM & DIAMOND APPRAISALSA+ ASSOCIATES GEM LABGraduate Gemologist Diane Burke provides unbiased, confidential, appraisals of all types. Brokerage services.

(518)438-1511 www.aplusappraisals.info

AUTO DONATIONS Donate your car to Wheels For Wishes, benefiting Make-A-Wish.

We offer free towing and your donation is 100% tax deductible.

Call 518-650-1110 Today!

AUTO FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

2011 Toyota Sienna, $3500 down and take over payments.

White, 90,000 miles, mint condition. Rides excellent. Call 518-321-7269.

WANTED TO BUY WANT CASH FOR EXTRA DIABETIC TEST STRIPS? I Pay Top Dollar Since 2005! 1 Day Fast Payment Guaranteed Up To $60 Per Box! Free Shipping. www.

Cashnowoffer.com or 888-2105233. Get Extra $10: Use Offer Code: Cashnow!

LENDER ORDERED SALE! CATSKILL MOUNTAINS/ COOPERSTOWN LAKES REGION! 5 to 30 Acre Tracts from $19,900 Woods, streams, views! Gíteed buildable! Owner terms! Call 888-905-8847

ARTICLES FOR SALE 3 Brand New Flatscreen TVs, 55”, 50”, and 40”. Never opened. UHD 4K. High quality picture. $700, $400, and $300.

518-321-7269.

MISCELLANEOUS SAWMILLS from only $4397.00MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill- Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship! FREE Info/DVD: www.

NorwoodSawmills.com 1-800-578-1363 Ext.300N

DIVORCE DIVORCE $349 - Uncontested divorce papers prepared. Only one signature required. Poor person Application included if applicable. Separation agreements. Custody and support petitions. - 518-274-0380

VACATION RENTALS OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND. Best selection of affordable rentals. Full/partial weeks. Call for FREE brochure. Open daily.

Holiday Resort Services.

1-800-638-2102. Online reservations: www.holidayoc.com

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

INSTRUCTION

FOR RENT

33

HELP WANTED

ROOMMATE WANTED Share furnished 2 bdrm House in Saratoga, own bathroom, w/d, cable, $600/mo. Incl. all. No pets.

518-321-7269.

TECHNICAL Applied Materials, Inc. is accepting resumes for the following position in Malta, NY: Customer Engineer (NYITO): Responsible for performing preventative maintenance on complex semiconductor manufacturing equipment and assisting on-site customer engineers in basic engineering duties. Position may include travel to various unanticipated locations. Please mail resumes with reference number to Applied Materials, Inc., 3225 Oakmead Village Drive, M/S 1212, Santa Clara, CA 95054. No phone calls please.

Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship. EOE. www.appliedmaterials.com

34

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

Puzzles ACROSS 1 “Invisible Cities” author Calvino 6 “I ran away from you once. I can’t do it again” speaker 10 Ford Field player 14 Surgery acronym 15 It’s a gas 16 “Snow White” character flaw 17 Forgeries that are easy to spot?

20 By way of 21 French pronoun 22 Habituate 23 Dude in the CIA? 28 Essen’s valley 29 Spotted 30 Slug relative 33 Roll 34 Word after clip or pop 37 Trivial blunder?

42 Colorado native 43 “About his head he wears the winner’s __”: “The Two Noble Kinsmen” 44 Guanaco cousin 45 Beantown athlete 47 Peek follower 49 Pancake cook in pinstripes?

54 Some Highlanders 56 U.N. workers’ agcy.

57 Roasting time in Toulon?

58 “My fireplace is defective!”?

63 “Footloose” co-star Singer 64 Word after “funny” that clarifies its meaning 65 1995 Stallone title role 66 City NNE of Boston 67 Senate Republican leader before Frist 68 Sources of wisdom DOWN 1 Affectionate text 2 It’s often just inches 3 Syrian leader 4 Full deck Nero wasn’t playing with?

5 Gave a thumbs-up 6 Like some soccer games 7 Pope before Benedict III 8 Plant 9 Taylor of fashion 10 Pressure 11 Finish, as a tat

See puzzle solutions on page 38

See puzzle solution on page 38 12 Finished 13 Where to see MMM 18 “Toy Story” character who draws 19 County on the Firth of Forth 24 Composer Satie 25 Gag __ 26 Isaac’s eldest 27 Team whose logo involves a “wishbone C” 30 Mustangs’ sch.

31 Trivial objection 32 One-spot 33 Pan for Yan 34 Recipe words 35 Mojito ingredient 36 Not yet determined, in skeds 38 It’s surrounded by white 39 Game ender

40 Morlock prey 41 Bomb 45 He served between Warren and Herbert 46 Bay State motto starter 47 Like most rafts 48 Rorschach image 49 Ache 50 “__ Men Out”: baseball scandal film 51 Pequod co-owner 52 Chopin’s “Winter Wind,” e.g.

53 Orchestra group 54 Fish feature 55 “Hi, sailor!”

59 Vezina Trophy org.

60 Lao Tzu principle 61 Some pop-ups 62 Brother

Writing the Right Word by Dave Dowling

Accuracy in word choice is a key to effective communication. In your daily writing and speaking, try to make sure you use the right word in the right place with the right spelling. By doing so, its effect will affect your communication in a positive way. This quick weekly tip will help you filter the confusion in some of our daily word choices.

This Week: Ophthalmologist, Optician, Optometrist An ophthalmologist is an M.D. who specializes in treating eye diseases. An optician makes and sells glasses and other optical equipment. An optometrist examines one’s vision and prescribes eye glasses.

Dave Dowling is the author of The Wrong Word Dictionary and The Dictionary of Worthless Words. Both books are available from many book retailers, and signed copies can be obtained by contacting Dave at davedowling59@yahoo.com

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

SPORTS 35

Bound For States!

SPORTS Kate Della Ratta

Kelsey Jackowitz

Julia Van Horne

Abby Zabielski

Carmen Cusick

Sophie Hrebenach

Courtney Kirshe

Laura Eberlein

When you’re this good, you get a back page even if there is no back page. Presenting: From the 15 consecutive-time Section 2 Champion Saratoga Springs Gymnastics Squad – the nine representatives who will be going to the State Tournament this Saturday, February 27, at 10 a.m. at Shaker H.S. From L to R, Back Row - Courtney Kirshe, Julia Van Horne, Kelsey Jackowitz, Middle Row - Kate Della Ratta, Carmen Cusick, Laura Eberlein, Front Row - Sophie Hrebenach, Abby Zabielski, Emily Fischer. Congratulations and good luck to all these fine young athletes! Photos by Mark Bolles.com

Emily Fischer

36

SPORTS

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

Planting Roots on Ice

Coach Rick Cobello Remembers the Beginnings of Saratoga Hockey’s Great Tradition

by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Note: The local sports community has hockey fever - spurred on by another great season from Saratoga High School’s talented squad (see related item – page 39), an appearance at the Section 2 Finals on Thursday, February 25, with a chance to repeat as section champions – and perhaps go much further into the State Tournament. Due to press times, we are unable to print the results

of Thursday night’s Section 2 Championship game between Saratoga and Tri-Falls. Win or lose (and I think they have won – you’ll know by the time you read this), we thought you might like to read something that speaks to the great tradition that Saratoga Hockey enjoys, a tradition established 40 years ago.

Saratoga Hockey’s first Coach, Rick Cobello, as well as many players and supporters established the first chapters of that tradition in large part. He shared the memorabilia you see

Back in the day… and Today!

The Coaching Bible: “The book that carried us through my nine years...All the plays we used are here, with specific uses for the type of players we had each year,” Coach Rick said.

on this page, as well as reminiscences of those early halcyon days of getting the team established. He also has started a Facebook group – Saratoga Springs High School Hockey History – that he is inviting everyone, particularly former

players and followers of that early era to join. “This is an era that should not be forgotten,” Coach Rick said, “They were tough days, but so worthwhile.”

He noted with some sadness that he was spurred on in

part by the loss of alumni players from that era (including Steve Meinhart, John David Covell, Mark Leroux, and John Eddy Continued on page 37.

The First Varsity Squad – 1975-76. Coach Rick is at left “We started out as a club team in ’74. I was the first Chair of Section 2 hockey. In 1977, we were the champions of the Capital District High School Hockey League.”

The 1978 team. “Another great year. What people should notice is that the barn we played in had a hole in the fence… that’s where we shoveled the snow and ice out in the pre-Zamboni days… the snow blowing in though, made for a competitive advantage.”

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

Planting Roots on Ice Continued from page 36.

– who was the Captain of the original club team that began in 1974, as well as the original Varsity Squad of 1975-76. Eddy passed away around the Christmas holiday of that year), but also to give former and current players and boosters a focal point to remember and learn.

The early teams had some notable successes and highlight moments, including the championship of the CDHSHL (Capital District High School Hockey League) in 1977. Coach Rick was equally proud of the fact that “I had the opportunity to coach five sets of brothers in 4 years.”

One notable supporter was Ned Harkness, a hockey legend who won NCAA Championships at both RPI and Cornell, coached at Union, and was the first General Manager of the Adirondack Red Wings, among many other accomplishments. In addition to supporting Saratoga hockey by appearing at award banquets and other events, Harkness, according to Coach Rick “…wanted to grow hockey in the area... I am sure he thought he needed more fans in the Civic Center. I met Ned through a mutual friend and he wanted to help us in Saratoga Springs. Ned and I believed a high school game before the AHL game was a great way to grow the sport. Saratoga played the first high school hockey game (against Albany Academy on December 19, 1980) in the Civic Center... Remember, we used to play in a barn in Saratoga so this was luxury... We even had heat in the locker room! Our first game in the center and the first win (5-2) by a high school team in the Civic Center…

It was an honor to play there. We played about half of our games in the Center as our second home site.”

The group’s page is full of unique and interesting tidbits like these, as well as photos, vintage newspaper articles and the like. It is well worth exploring for local hockey fans, regardless of age.

Coach Cobello welcomes your contributions and memories.

When asked about the current team, Coach Rick Cobello had nothing but praise. “They’re doing great; it goes back to having a strong youth program as a base. And strong coaching from Dave Torres. He was a goalie like me – which provides a good foundation for coaching as it’s the only

position where you see the entire game,” he said with a smile.

The current Blue Streak hockey squad “…doesn’t quit. They are very balanced, there’s not much difference between their three lines.

No matter who is on the ice at the time, they are very disciplined, and stick to their plan.” He said.

Coach Rick Cobello was scheduled to talk to the team before Thursday’s Section 2 Final.

It’s one of the many ways the team reinforces its tradition, a tradition of excellence that began with a dedicated group and a vision of a bright future. And Coach Rick Cobello is inviting you to join him as a keeper of the flame.

To join the Facebook group ‘Saratoga Springs High School History’, visit www.facebook.com/ groups/965715813470898/

SPORTS 37

A Tradition of Greatness Continues Saratoga Springs Hockey was once again represented well among the 2015-16 AllStars – with forward senior Elliott Hungerford named Player of the Year, and three of his teammates named to the All-Section 2 Team: 2015-16 Player of the Year: #9 - Elliott Hungerford, FWD, Saratoga All-Section 2 Team: #24 - Jake Fauler, FWD, Saratoga #25 - Josh Dagle, FWD, Saratoga #5 - Tino Benamati, FWD, Burnt Hills/Ballston Spa #20 - Brendan Coffey, DEF, Saratoga #9 - Ned Engelbride, DEF, Bethlehem #31 - James Blanchfield, GOAL, Niskayuna 1st Team: #44 - Geordan Buffoline, FWD,

Elliott Hungerford (9) - CDHSHL Player of the Year. Photo by Francesco D’Amico

Burnt Hills/Ballston Spa #5 - Hayden Haldane, FWD, Shenendehowa #21 - Mike Lemieux, FWD, Bethlehem #4 - Sam Swingruber, DEF, Burnt Hills/Ballston Spa #14 - Sean Mesick, DEF, CBA #31 - Tom Fornabia, GOAL, Saratoga 2nd Team: #25 - Jared Thomas, FWD, Tri-Falls

#17 - Thomas Liebold, FWD, Bethlehem #2 - Jonathan Luse, FWD, Saratoga #24 - Zachary Turnbull, DEF, Shaker/Colonie #17 - Tom Relyea, DEF, Shenendehowa #31 - Matt Chieco, GOAL, Shenendehowa - Source: Capital District High School Hockey League, 2/14/16

38

SPORTS

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

COMMUNITY SPORTS BULLETIN Bus Trip to New York Auto Show on March 30 Join the Saratoga Automobile Museum on Wednesday March 30, for a bus trip to NYC for the NY International Auto Show, held at the Jacob Javits Convention Center. Transportation provided

by Upstate Transportation of Saratoga.

Museum members - $75.00 Non-members -$85.00 Price includes transportation and admission to the NY International Auto Show. Bus departs Saratoga Automobile Museum promptly at 7a.m., arrives at the Jacob Javits Center around 10 a.m., and will depart Jacob Javits Center at 4 p.m., and arrive back at the Saratoga Automobile Museum at 8:30 p.m. Please arrive to the Saratoga Automobile Museum by 6:45 a.m. on 3/30 to sign in and receive your tickets to the show. Driver gratuity included in ticket price. For more information, contact seth.warden@saratogaautomuseum.org

Babysitting and Safety Course at Gavin Park Adirondack Health & Safety will once again be presenting a child and babysitting course at Gavin Park. This course is open to girls and boys, ages 10 and up.

Participants will learn the basics of CABS (Child and Babysitting Safety), along with CPR and first aid. The course runs from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Saturday,

April 2. Pre-registration and bag lunch is required. Cost for Wilton Residents is $60, Saratoga Springs School District Residents is $65, and all others are $70. Questions may be answered by calling the park office at 518-584-9455.

Sign Up For 2nd Annual Blue Needs You 8K Run On March 26, 2016 join our great community of runners in the second annual Blue Needs You 8K Run. This family friendly event features an 8K Run, Kids Fun Run, and Cheer Squad- A $10 donation gets you a race day Cheer Squad tee. All proceeds benefit the Saratoga Springs Code Blue Shelter.

When you “Run for Blue” you are ensuring a safe, warm shelter, kind hand and hot meals for individuals in the Saratoga region who may otherwise remain unsheltered during periods of hazardous winter weather.

The early bird registration fee to run is $30 until March 11. To register or for more information, visit www.codeblueneedsyou.org/ wordpress/

Coaches Workshop for Capital Region Soccer To prepare for the spring season, the 6th Annual Capital District Youth Soccer League (CDYSL) Coaches Workshop will take place on Saturday, March 19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Sand Creek Middle School, 329 Sand Creek Road in Albany. Coaching

clinics and meetings plus referee clinics are highlights. It’s open to all coaches, referees plus administrators and it is mandatory that a coach or representative from each CDYSL team attend. The CDYSL Coaches Workshop provides a one-day venue for coaches and club administrators to combine attendance at the mandatory coaches meetings with clinics and workshops that enhance player, team and club development.

For more info, phone the CDYSL office at 518-435-2325.

TRF Launches 2016 Hay Drive with an iPad Contest The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation officially launches its annual TRF Hay Drive this week. Started in 2008, the annual TRF Hay Drive campaign is essential to help the TRF meet its annual hay costs of more than $200,000. This year, the theme is “Hay! It’s what’s for breakfast, lunch and dinner.” TRF launched its online peer-to-peer fundraising platform that allows supporters to create their own TRF Hay Drive fundraising page and start their own fundraising team. The person who raises the most money for the Hay Drive before April 15 will receive a new iPad 4 Mini.

Also, for every Hay Drive donation of $100 or more, donors will receive a free TRF tote bag and for $50 or more, a TRF baseball cap.

To learn more and make a donation, please visit: http://

Puzzle solutions from pg. 34 Send your sports stories or briefs to Arthur Gonick, Sports Editor at arthur@saratoga publishing.com

www.trfinc.org/haydrive/ To join the personal fundraising challenge and have a chance to win the iPad mini, go to TRF’s peer-topeer fundraising platform: http:// tinyurl.com/trfhaydrive

at the Malta Community Center.

There are a limited number of spots per division so sign up early.

And don’t forget to register for our league-subsidized player clinics!

Malta Spring Activities Brochure Available

Registration Now Open for ‘Explore More’ Ice Skating Program

The Town of Malta’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Human Services Spring Activities Brochure is now available online at www.maltaparksrec.com. It is available at the Malta Community Center, and registration has begun for spring classes and programs. New classes, sports programs and special events are scheduled to begin in March. Please call the Malta Community Center at 518-8994411 for more information.

This program is designed to introduce skaters to the fundamental skills in figure skating, hockey and speed skating. This is a co-sponsored program with the Saratoga Springs Figure Skating, Saratoga Youth Hockey and the Saratoga Winter Club. Sign up at the Saratoga Springs Recreation Center, 15 Vanderbilt Avenue, or call 518-587-3550 x2300, email recreservations@saratoga-springs. org or visit www.SaratogaRec.com for more information.

Sign Up For Round Lake Baseball

Pickleball at Gavin Park

The Round Lake/Malta Youth Baseball League is now accepting registrations for Recreational Spring Baseball. The league is dedicated to providing recreational co-ed baseball to all youth in our community at the same low fees as last year regardless of experience, residency, or school district.

Divisions start at T-Ball (ages 4-5), and go up to Division 10U. Please visit our NEW website at Leagues. bluesombrero.com/roundlakebaseball for online registration and you can email questions to roundlakebaseball@gmail.com.

Applications can also be found

Pickleball is traditionally played on a badminton-sized court with special paddles, made of wood or high-tech aerospace materials. The ball used is similar to a wiffle ball, but slightly smaller. The lower net and wiffle ball allow the game to be accessible to people of all ages and abilities, while still allowing more competitive players to test their mettle.

Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays through April, 9:1511:15 a.m.

Fee: $3 per day (exact cash please).

Week of February 26 – March 3, 2016

SPORTS 39

Saratoga Girls Basketball: Bright History, Bright Future

by Damian Fantauzzi for Saratoga TODAY The Saratoga Girls varsity basketball team had a successful season this year. I would like to congratulate Coach Robin Chudy and her staff on their accomplishments, and especially the girls, a young team with a bright future on the horizon. Coach Chudy mentioned that they won a sectional game for the first time in quite a while.

Here’s a little history about the post season play of girls basketball at Saratoga over the past 15 years: In 2001 and 2002, they made it to the final four of AA Sectional play; in 2008 they won a first round game at Schenectady, and in 2010 the Lady Streaks defeated Bishop Maginn, also in the first round, both years losing in the quarter finals.

Before that, in 1998 I was enticed to coach the girls after my retirement from the boys program. I saw a game in 1998 when the Saratoga girls were playing archrival, Shenendehowa. Saratoga lost that game by 40 plus points. I thought that coaching the girls would be a great challenge for me as a basketball coach, especially after 27 years of coaching the boys. The Shen girls always had the reputation of winning lopsided contests throughout the league. The Lady Plainsmen were at a much higher level than any other team in the Suburban Council, especially with their infamous full court pressure defense.

In 1999, the girls coaching position opened and I had already retired from the boys program. I felt a need for a new challenge as a basketball coach. Given the position, I

knew it was important for me to get other people involved in this program, people who could help the girls with their game and plant the seeds for success. I asked Rich Johns to assist me, he was so good with kids and knew the game, and we had a long history of coaching together. I went after Steve Lombard, the current principal at Saratoga Catholic Central.

Steve had an extensive basketball background and I thought we could use his help at any level. Coach Annie Testa, now Ann Sweeney, was a student teaching at that time at Saratoga and she asked me if she could get involved. We took her into the program through the suggestion of Sue Hoffman, her supervising teacher, and saw her as a good role model for the girls. In addition, there were tenured coaches, Michael Carney the JV coach, Frank Smith was the freshman coach (later the freshman position was vacated by Coach Smith and the late Brenda Adams took the job) and Warren Dart who was the modified coach.

We had the good fortune of having one of the most influential parents, a workhorse, John Irving, who was already involved with the program.

John had organized the travel program for Saratoga’s younger girls, with the help of Dave Wickerham. John and I became good friends, and I was able to get him involved with much more than the travel team. We teamed up to develop a viable booster club, with the help of long time Blue Streak supporter Clayton Chubb and his late wife Barb. John Irving, Rich Johns and I reinstated a somewhat defunct preexisting girls summer basketball programeventually it became the leader in the area. We added to the off-season a scholastic indoor summer basketball league with two Saratoga teams and teams from Ballston Spa, Burnt Hills, Salem, Schuylerville, Hoosic Valley, Stillwater, Saratoga Catholic, Mechanicville and Lake George. Also, for the Saratoga’s girls we had two one-week sessions of basketball camps.

With the help of Robert Stulmaker, Director of

Athletics, I requested new, gender appropriate uniforms to replace all of the antiquated hand-me-down from the boys.

I had a somewhat unintentional subtle challenge after a discussion with a coach who was in the program. He said that a couple of problems existed for the Saratoga girls, they couldn’t shoot from the outside, or play man to man defense. This became a personal challenge and I had to prove him wrong. I was confident we could teach those skills to anyone willing to work.

Also, in my first meet-the-players night I made a promise to the Saratoga parents and the girls, that before I retired we will defeat Shenendehowa. In the SSHS girls basketball history, never did the Lady Streaks defeat the Plainsmen.

In our first year we were able to win 7 games. We won an opening season invitational tournament at Cohoes by upsetting Shaker, a Suburban Council rival. The excitement was building. This gave me a belief that our off-season program would eventually evolve into paying dividends for girls hoop.

After 13 total wins in the initial 2-year period, we actually became contenders in one of the most prolific girls’ basketball leagues in New York State. The 2000-2001 season was the beginning of a Blue Streak rebirth of competitive girls basketball, the Lady Blue Streaks were no longer the doormat of the Suburban Council. Our regular season record was 14 wins and 6 losses. In the 2001 sectionals, we were a number 6 seed in our AA bracket. We won our first round game by 8 points against number 4 seed Amsterdam. We moved on to play the number 1 seed, tournament favorite, our archrival, Shenendehowa. Shen, league champs, with only one loss, defeated us twice during the regular season. This was a game to remember. We broke the curse - the Lady Streaks upset Shen by 18 points, we literally ate up that notoriously infamous full-court press. We went off to the Final Four at Hudson Valley, due to a slow start, we lost by 11 to the number 2 seed in the semifinals to Catholic Central of Troy. Our

Photo by MarkBolles.com

season ended with a more than respectable 16 and 7 record, in addition, one of our girls was an AA All-Star Sectional Team pick.

The following year, with an identical regular season record of 14 and 6, we again traveled to Amsterdam, and both schools had the same seeding from the previous year. This time we pulled off another upset over the Rams, winning by 3 points.

We had a steal in the last 7 seconds while up by one, and made 2 foul shots to ice the win with just 2 seconds on the clock. On to Bethlehem for the quarterfinals, the Suburban Council Gold Division Champions, a team that narrowly beat us during the regular season.

The Eagles had a 6’5” center, committed to Holy Cross, the league’s top scorer and rebounder, so we knew we had our work cut out for us. We did it again, with an upset win by 9 points. A few days later we fell to top ranked Colonie, a number one seed, by 12 in the semifinal of our second consecutive Final Four. Shenendehowa earned the AA Championship in 2002 by defeating Colonie.

We mirrored our previous year’s record of 16 and 7, and again had a girl named as a Sectional All-Star.

In the time period between 2002 and 2006 the girls varsity program went .500 or better in almost every season, as well as having two other wins over Shenendehowa. Mike Hall took the varsity position in 2006, stepping up from coaching the freshmen team, and along with Rich Johns as his assistant they kept things going. I volunteered to coach and help Annie Testa, who became the new freshmen coach. Hall and Johns led the program to a first round 2008

AA Sectionals victory by upsetting Schenectady High School.

After 2 years at the helm Coach Hall, had to leave because of family commitments. In the 2008-09 season Coach Johns took the head coaching position, having Coach Testa as his paid assistant and me as his volunteer assistant. In the 2010 sectional play Saratoga was up against Big Ten Runner Up, Bishop Maginn, and won with an upset. Also, during the 2008-09 season we brought in the late Mike Nolan, as a volunteer assistant coach, he was a very successful retired basketball coach from South Glens Falls and was a big help. Rich Johns decided to retire at the end of the 2010 school year, and as things go, it wasn’t going to be the same for me so I decided not to coach any longer.

A note: Coach Nolan passed away in January of 2010 from complications from lung cancer, a sad moment for us all.

That’s a summary of how Saratoga Springs High School Girls’ Basketball succeeded historically over the past couple decades, especially during the post-season sectional play. How it grew from obscurity into a competitive program, with contributions from many people and especially the girls from those teams. I have always believed in the necessity and the importance of an off-season program - this was a philosophical approach I started with the boys in 1974-75 with summer leagues and camps. These programs were springboards for Saratoga High School Basketball, and it was the girls and boys who were willing to put time into their game that made this the real story!