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LO C A L

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I N D E P E N D E N T

Volume 10 • Issue 29 • July 24 – July 30, 2015

147 Racing Meet Kicks Off

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F R E E saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com • (518) 581-2480

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Featured Stories

Galas Galore

You Spoke. They Listened.

Market 32’s Fresh Angle on Grocery Shopping

by Norra Reyes Saratoga TODAY

Select Sotheby’s New Owner See pg. 12

Inside TODAY Blotter 5

WILTON — The new Market 32 held a soft opening the weekend of June 12 with little fanfare, preferring to watch and listen as customers tried out the new shopping experience. Much like the brand itself, the Golub Corporation is choosing “show” over “tell” with its new banner.

There is a quiet, light and airy feel to the uncluttered store floor, with a variety of color and displays that are both pleasing to the eye and conveniently placed. The packed layout of the old Price Chopper has given way to a brand that clearly aims to turn grocery trips from a chore to a refreshing daily or weekly exercise.

Chief Executive Officer and former President Jerry Golub noted that customer expectations have See Market 32 pg. 11

See pgs. 18-19

See pgs. 21-28

Obituaries 6 Education 10 Business 12-13 Winner’s Circle

21-28

Pulse 37-40 Sports 44-47

Weekend Forecast FRIDAY

77|53 SATURDAY

81|58 SUNDAY

81|62 Golub Corporation CEO Jerry Golub and President and COO Scott Grimmett developed the new Market 32 brand by listening.

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Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

Old Friends at Cabin Creek Gets Ready for Track Season Horses Receive Blessing This Weekend GREENFIELD CENTER — Old Friends at Cabin Creek, located at 483 Sand Hill Road, is bringing back the Navajo Horse Healing Project on Friday, July 24 at 11 a.m.

Harrison Jim Sr. and Gino Antonio are traditional practitioners of Navajo ceremonies and will give a blessing to the retired racehorses at Cabin Creek as well as the horses running at the Saratoga Racecourse this summer. This ceremony will encourage emotional and physical healing of the horses and will provide them with inner peace.

Those attending will also hear about Jim and Antonio’s culture and its sacred relationship with the horse.

Old Friends at Cabin Creek is a non-profit that is currently home to 14 retired thoroughbred racehorses. It is run solely by volunteers and donations,

Cabin Creek volunteers with a retiree.

the latter of which will be accepted at this event. JoAnn and Mark Pepper opened Cabin Creek in 2009 and since then it has been the home to many exceptional furry athletes.

There are currently year-round tours that take place every Saturday from noon to 3 p.m., with private tours available by appointment. Cabin Creek will also be holding their sixth annual cocktail party at Siro’s restaurant on Monday, August 6 from 6 to 10 p.m. There will be music, dinner, a cash bar and a live auction.

For the event on Friday, guests should arrive 15 minutes early. Lawn chairs are welcome. However, there will be no pictures or conversations allowed during the ceremony.

For more information please visit OldFriendsAtCabinCreek.com or call JoAnn Pepper at 518-689-2377.

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Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015 Photos by Sharon Castro

Connie Bush shows some love to an old friend.

Two retirees share breakfast together.

Getting some morning sun.

JoAnn Pepper poses with Be Bullish, a new arrival to the farm.

Barb Neiman taking care of one of the many horses at Cabin Creek.

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Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

Amy Stock, Co-founder of Sustainable Saratoga, Passes at 48 ALBANY — Amy Lynne Stock, age 48, formerly of Saratoga Springs, passed away tragically as the result of a car accident on Sunday, July, 19, 2015. She was born on October 11, 1966 in Gloversville, NY, beloved daughter of Arthur V. and Mary Ann Stock.

Amy was a graduate of the Class of 1984 from Gloversville High School. She received a BS in Biomedical Computing from Rochester Institute of Technology and a MA in Environmental Studies from The Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington.

She was currently working on her Doctorate at SUNY Albany. Amy was employed as an Adjunct Lecturer in Environmental Studies at SUNY Empire State College, as a Grant Writer for Capital Roots and as a Freelance Writer. While at Capital Roots she helped secure major grants from the Merck Family Foundation, Together Green issued by Toyota and her most recent grant from NYS Department of Health for Healthy Schools and Healthy Communities.

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GENERAL MANAGER Robin Mitchell 581-2480 x 208 rmitchell@saratogapublishing.com MARKETING DIRECTOR Chris Bushee 581-2480 x 201 cbushee@saratogapublishing.com PHOTOGRAPHER Mark Bolles 490-1757 mbolles@photoandgraphic.com

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Amy was extremely passionate about the environment and was cofounder of Sustainable Saratoga, along with the current mayor of Saratoga Springs, NY. She was also dedicated to the Foster Care Program of Albany County.

A comment from Sustainable Saratoga’s members said, “Amy was a powerhouse for good…she was also an articulate and energetic spokesperson for her neighborhood and for a number of environmental organizations. She combined a bright, focused intellect with a spirit of accomplishment on behalf of the environment and sustainable practices in the community and the capital region. Her influence will be felt for a long time. She will be sorely missed by the Sustainable Saratoga community.”

Amy was a kind and compassionate daughter, sister and friend. She had an adventurous spirit and loved to travel in the US and abroad. She had friends from Olympia, Washington to Portland, Maine and so many places in

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EDITORIAL Norra Reyes 581-2480 x 203 Newsroom Manager, Business and Education Editor, Saratoga City norra@saratogapublishing.com Arthur Gonick 581-2480 x 206 Sports Editor, Saratoga County arthur@saratogapublishing.com Rebecca Davis 581-2480 x 214 Malta, Pulse, Food, News rebecca@saratogapublishing.com

between. Her suitcase was always packed as she was constantly planning her next trip. An aspiring author, she recently completed her first novel and was looking forward to having it published. While living in Olympia, Amy embraced Buddhism and meditation and was on a perpetual journey of self-discovery. Amy will be so very deeply missed by her family and friends.

In addition to her parents, she is survived by Maureen Moore (Steven) of Glenville, Matthew Stock (Janice) of Woodbury, CT, Eileen Anania (James) of Cooperstown, Charles Stock (Pamela) of Allendale, NJ, Thomas Stock (Roberta) of Greenfield Center and Jennifer DiMaio (Gary) of Quakertown, PA. Amy had a special place in her heart for all of her nieces and nephews, Carter and Trevor Moore, Jane and Charlie Stock, Catherine, Victoria, James and Isabella Anania, Christopher and Brendan Stock, Roger (Renee Benfari) and Rodney Rathbun,

Zachary and Elizabeth DiMaio as well as great nephews Mason and Grant Rathbun. Amy is also survived by numerous cousins, aunts and uncles.

A memorial mass will be celebrated at 1 pm on Friday, July 24, 2015 at Holy Trinity Church, 207 Glebe St, Johnstown, NY. Visitation for family and friends will be from 11 am- 1 pm at the church prior to the mass.

Burial will be at St Patrick’s Cemetery, Johnstown immediately following the mass.

In lieu of flowers, contributions “In Memory of Amy Stock” may be made to Capital Roots, Community Garden Program, 594 River St, Troy, NY 12180.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Barter & Donnan

Funeral Home, 1 N. Melcher Street, Johnstown.

Condolences to the family may be made online by visiting our website at www.barterdonnan.com

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BLOTTER 5

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015 Brandon M. Lodge, 36, was arrested on July 11 and charged with two counts of criminal possession of a forged instrument in the second degree.

Richard D. Grice, 83, of Ballston Spa, was arrested on July 13 and charged with criminal trespass in the second degree.

Davis W. Appel, 58, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on July 13 and charged with assault in the third degree with intent to commit physical harm.

Morgan T. Petralia, 25, of Mechanicville, was arrested on July 14 and charged with use of a vehicle without an interlock device, unlawful possession of marijuana, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the third degree, driving while intoxicated (2nd offense), inoperative equipment (real license plate light), and failure to keep right.

Sekou J. Smith, 24, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on July 14 and charged with criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree, and menacing in the second degree.

Christopher R. Nichols, 23, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on July 15 and charged with assault in the third degree with intent to commit physical harm.

Elizabeth R. Roz, 20, of Schenectady, was arrested on July 16 and charged with two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, criminal possession of a hypodermic needle, and unlawful possession of marijuana.

Kyle T. McLaughlin, 24, of Ballston Spa, was arrested on July 16 and charged with criminally using drug paraphernalia in

the second degree, criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the third degree, and failure to stop at a stop sign.

Dana M. Amazon, 63, of Clifton Park, was arrested on July 17 and charged with speeding in a posted zone, driving while intoxicated, and failure to keep right.

Rajesh B. Khamankar, 50, of Coppell, TX, was arrested on July 17 and charged with driving the wrong way on a one-way street, driving while intoxicated, and driving with a BAC of greater than .08%.

Ray A. Taylor, 31, of Cohoes, was arrested on July 17 and charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the second degree, and criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree.

Randall C. Gerber, 27, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on July 17 and charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle (2nd offense), refusal of a chemical test, and use of a vehicle not equipped with an interlock device.

Doris A. Hayes, 76, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on July 17 and charged with criminal trespass.

Ty C. Thoeny, 36, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on July 18 and charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree.

Nathaniel W. Bailey, 21, of Latham, was arrested on July 18 and charged with violation of the open container law.

Brenden J. Matice, 28, of Fort Edward, was arrested on July

18 and charged with grand larceny in the third degree and offering a false instrument for filing in the first degree.

Karl H. Connor, 22, of Clifton Park, was arrested on July 19 and charged with an illegal U turn from the wrong lane, aggravated unlicensed operation on a motor vehicle (2nd offense), and refusal of a chemical test.

Shawn M. Handerhan, 21, of Stillwater, was arrested on July 19 and charged with driving while intoxicated, driving with a BAC greater than .08%, and aggravated driving while intoxicated.

Michael J. Cole, 30, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on July 19 and charged with felony grand larceny in the fourth degree in excess of $1,000.

Christine E. Smith, 49, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on July 20 and charged with felony aggravated driving while intoxicated, and driving while ability impaired by a combination of alcohol and drugs.

Joshua A. Patrick, 25, of Schuylerville, was arrested on July 20 and charged with unlawful possession of marijuana and inoperable equipment – rear license plate light.

Carmen D. Davis, 31, of Amsterdam, was arrested on July 20 and charged with aggravated unlicensed

operation of a motor vehicle in the second degree/ three or more offenses, and inoperable equipment – headlights.

Timothy D. Peck, 25, of Clifton Park, was arrested on July 21 and charged with two felony counts of criminal sale of marijuana in the third degree.

6 Victor R. Lucier SARATOGA SPRINGS — Victor R. Lucier passed away on July 11, 2015 just weeks after celebrating his 81st birthday with his beautiful wife Mary, his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. It was a perfectly fitting farewell for a man who cherished family above all things. Until the very end, his love was abundant, as was his playful joy for life. It is the memory of his mischievous smile and the echo of his contagious laughter that will long bring smiles to the faces of all who were blessed to know him.

Victor grew up in Laconia, NH, where he was born in 1934 to Maria (Cyr) and Valmore Lucier. He was the second youngest of eight siblings and knew the meaning of hard work.

An avid athlete and passionate Red Sox fan, Vic spent his teen years playing and working in and around sports, most significantly as a member of the Laconia High School golf team, a local golf caddy and a bowling alley manager. Time on the links paid off as well, when at the age of 18 he became one of New Hampshire’s top ranked amateur golfers. Vic’s passion for sports became secondary when in high school he met the love of his life, Mary Lou Goodine. The two were married in 1953, and enjoyed a 63-year romance. Together, they survived hardship and tragedy, while welcoming three children, six grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren into the world.

As a young man Victor worked at Scott & Williams as a machinist. He traveled for the company, setting up machinery throughout the southern U.S. In the early 1960’s, he took a job in the defense industry with Sanders Associates as a quality control supervisor, traveling internationally to among other places, Paris, France where he was proud to speak his first language. His ability to converse in French remained a source of joy for him until the end, despite losing so very much to Alzheimer’s.

Those who loved Victor will remember him through easy smiles and silly jokes shared. In those moments we will honor his spirit, in hopes of simply brightening someone’s day.

A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, August 25, 2015 at 11 a.m., at St. Clement’s Parish in Saratoga Springs. A committal service will be held on Thursday, August 27 at 11 a.m., at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Manchester, NH. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Victor’s name to: Saratoga Community Hospice, 179 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 or Alzheimer’s Association of Northeastern New York Chapter, 4 Pine West Plaza, Suite 405, Albany, NY 12205.

Elizabeth Sage Walton SARATOGA SPRINGS — Elizabeth Sage Walton passed away peacefully Wednesday, July 22, 2015 at Wesley Health Care Center.

Liz was born in Rochester, NY on May 27, 1922 to the late Harry and Erma Sage and grew up there, the middle daughter, with two sisters, the late Emily and Janet.

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OBITUARIES She attended Buffalo State Teachers’ College where she met her husband, Robert W. Walton, Jr. They wed in 1942 and following World War II settled in Saratoga Springs to raise a family and become active members of the community.

Once her children began school, Liz joined the work force as a part-time clerk at Division Street Elementary School and retired some 30 years later from the Greenfield Center School as a library aide.

In their retirement years Liz and Bob enjoyed touring the country in their RV, and after having spent several seasons as “snowbirds”, became year-round residents of Bradenton, Florida. The couple became active and well-loved volunteers at Manatee Memorial Hospital in Bradenton. In 2003 they returned permanently to Saratoga Springs to be close to family.

Liz cared for Bob who had suffered a debilitating stroke until his death in 2007. She was also predeceased by a grandson and her son-in-law. Survivors include her daughter, Deborah Walton Wyman of Concord, NH and her son Robert W. Walton, III of Saratoga Springs along with daughter-in-law Debra Poukish Walton; grandchildren Jessica Rhude, Jeremy Walton and Allison Wyman. Also surviving her are 3 great-grandchildren, Kylan and Camden Rhude and Jacelyn Walton and several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff at Wesley and the staff and many caring volunteers at Saratoga Hospice for the care they provided her in her final days.

There will be no calling hours or funeral service, but a memorial interment service will be held at Greenridge Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes of 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs (584-5373).

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

George O’Connell BALLSTON LAKE — George O’Connell passed away at his home on July 17, 2015, after a courageous sixteen month battle with Lewy Body Alzheimer’s Disease. Born on October 31, 1934 in Albany, George spent his last months searching for a way to help others suffering from this rare and most aggressive form of Alzheimer’s disease. He decided that he would donate his brain to Harvard for research in hopes of someday finding a cure.

George was in the US Army, stationed in Germany. He was also drafted by the NY Dodgers and also played football in his younger days. He was an Albany police officer and retired in 1991 from the CDTA as a Supervisor.

He is survived by his wife, Kathryn O’Connell, son Brian O’Connell, daughters Mary Mattice, Kathleen O’Connell, Kim Bova, step-son Nicolas Dittmar, stepdaughter Kristina Stark (Silas) and ten grandsons, three granddaughters, one step-grandson, and brothers Howard O’Connell and Bruce O’Connell.

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015 A celebration of George’s life was held at St. Peter’s Church in Saratoga Springs on Thursday, July 23, 2015. Arrangements are under the direction of Tunison Funeral Home, 105 Lake Avenue in Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

Eleanor M. Hastings WILTON — Eleanor M. Hastings of Hammond Lane, Wilton, NY died peacefully surrounded by her family on Monday July 13, 2015 at Saratoga Hospital. She was 95 years old.

Born on January 4, 1920 in Ballston Spa, she was the daughter of the late Hiram Hovey and Marion Lafortune.

Eleanor was married to Earl Hastings in 1942, he died on February 8, 1996. She worked for many years as a waitress at Walkers Deli on Lake Ave. and the Snack Bar at Saratoga Bowl for many years. Eleanor was known for her years of knitting for people in need in the Saratoga area. She knitted countless gloves and hats for many people throughout the years. Later in life she enjoyed going for rides with her children and also visiting casinos in the area. She also had a passion for strawberries. If there was anything with a strawberry on it Eleanor had to have it. She was knowingly referred to as “Strawberry Ellie.”

Mrs. Hastings is predeceased by her daughter Sheryl Hastings, by a granddaughter Paula Mott and her siblings Hiram and Jimmy Hovey and Nancy Osborn and Pauline Lafortune. Survivors include her three sons; David Hastings and his wife Nancy of Ballston Spa, Glenn and Mark Hastings of Wilton, a daughter, Bambi Mott and her husband Paul of Seminole, FL, eight grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.

Calling hours were held on Thursday, July 23 at the Tunison Funeral Home in Saratoga Springs. Funeral services followed with burial held at Greenridge Cemetery in Saratoga Springs with her husband Earl. Memorial donations can be to the charity of one’s choice.

Joan Johnson Gomez OCEANSIDE, NY — Joan Johnson Gomez, formerly of Saratoga Springs, passed away Tuesday, July 7, 2015. She was 79.

Joan dedicated a lifetime to her chosen profession, where she served as a Director of Nursing and taught nursing in the New York and Long Island areas. She had great faith and was actively involved with St. Anthony’s parish in Oceanside, serving as a Eucharistic Minister and was also a board member of the St. Vincent De Paul Society, visiting and assisting many area shut-ins.

She was the loving wife of the late Victor Gomez, Sr., and is also predeceased by her parents, J. Moylan and Marion (Elliott) Johnson and one sister, Marion Johnson Mochon.

The mother of Victor (Angela) Gomez, Jr., Diana (David) Younkin, Steven (Melissa) Gomez and Kathryn (Christopher) Sanacore, she will be greatly missed by eleven grandchildren; her brother, Matthew (Earline) Johnson of Saratoga Springs and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Services and her funeral Liturgy were conducted July 10, 2015 in Oceanside.

Memorials may be made in her name to L.I. Cares Inc., Harry Chapin Food Bank, 10 Davids Drive, Hauppauge, NY 11788.

Amy Stock, Co-founder of Sustainable Saratoga See pg. 4

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

Thank you, Commissioners Dear Editor: I am writing this letter in response to public criticisms leveled against our four Saratoga City Council Commissioners who sent a letter to the State Comptroller and Attorney General requesting a conclusion to their Collamer Lot sale investigation. All of the requested documentation was sent to the State in February with the understanding that the results would be forthcoming by June. It is now July and we haven’t heard a word from our State. Our four Commissioners: Mathiesen, Madigan, Scirocco and Franck are truly acting in the best interests of Saratoga’s citizens, as they continuously do, by requesting a timely resolution or dismissal of the State probe.

The underlying lawsuit brought by three former City officials is, in my opinion, an expensive political sham.

If someone knows all of the facts surrounding the proposed Collamer lot sale and the purchase of land east of the Northway, for a much-needed third Fire/EMS Station, then they know that there was a properly executed action by our City Council.

Instead, we continuously see incorrect sales price amounts in the paper (S250, 000) and egregious misleading and inaccurate criticisms of our Commissioners. For instance, one seldom hears that on the night that the $1.1 million offer was made for the Collamer lot it did not meet the RFP requirement of providing, for sale, a lot east of the Northway that could be purchased for a Fire/EMS Station. Likewise one doesn’t hear or read that the offer came with the caveat that every single detailed contingency of the contract offer had to be met by the City or the offer would be withdrawn. Since when do applicants tell the City or the Planning Board what they must conform to

for an applicant? The even higher appraised value for the Collamer lot, that the applicant referred to, was not based on standard methods of land value appraisals, but rather on a higher proposed income stream value that the applicant said he was planning on. Finally, it is never mentioned that Mr. Aronson’s property, east of the Northway had been on the market for between $600,000 and $700,000 well above the much lower negotiated, compromised proposed sale price to the City of $200,000.

I could continue with additional factual details, and speculative probable underlying opposition shenanigans, but suffice it to say that it is my opinion that the four Commissioners, that I have mentioned, continuously govern our City in a responsible, non-political, bipartisan manner, with only the best of direction actions for our City.

The frequent criticisms of the three of them in particular, are I think, personal and political rubbish. All four of these Commissioners have been enthusiastically endorsed for reelection by their respective political parties, as well as the non-partisan Saratoga Independence Party.

I say, instead of attacking them, thank them!

Don H. Snyder

Saratoga Springs

Prezioso Matter Closed?

New York State law requires that counties like Saratoga have a community services board to govern the local mental health center. The CSB members who are appointed by the county government must be professionals in the mental health field.

The law explicitly requires that the CSB have the authority to hire and fire the director. The purpose of the law is to shield mental health centers from political interference from county government.

Subsequent to the county hiring Dr. Michael Prezioso as Mental Health Director all three psychiatrists left the mental health center along with other professionals as a result of its mismanagement.

Saratoga Springs Supervisor, Michael Vietch who is chairman of the board of supervisors along with Spencer Hellwig, the county administrator, told area media that it was the CSB that hired Prezioso.

Unfortunately for them, the chairman of the CSB, in a letter to Hellwig, asserted that the CSB did not hire Prezioso but simply vetted the candidates for the job at the county’s request and ranked the four selections. Prezioso was the fourth out of four.

On July 14, Supervisor Veitch issued a statement in which he asserted that the county had the

right to hire Prezioso because they pay his salary (the money comes from the state) and because historically they have hired the director.

Veitch simply ignored the statute as though it did not exist.

Veitch also claims that the county did a thorough investigation of the accusation of mismanagement. The rigorousness of the investigation is undermined by two items in Vietch’s statement: 1. He refers to the history of Prezioso’s sexual harassment as “alleged” and asserts that the county was satisfied with Prezioso’s explanation. The NYS Office of Mental Health initiated an official inquiry into Prezioso’s actions at the Capital

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District Psychiatric Center and formally found him culpable and awarded financial damages to the woman he harassed.

2. The statement claims that the psychiatrists left for better jobs. Dr. Jack Dobbs, one of the psychiatrists, told the Times Union, “The county’s absolute indifference to people’s welfare and morale made me hate working for them,” Dodd said. “Nothing changed, despite serious concerns.”

The county now considers the matter closed. We have many families in our county who desperately need mental health services. The cynicism and the indifference to the law as expressed in Matt Veitch’s statement is a very sad commentary on our county government.

John Kaufmann

Saratoga Springs

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NEWS

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

NYRA and Solar Top City Council Meeting

by Norra Reyes Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Tuesday night’s Saratoga Springs City Council meeting included a unanimous call from council members to NYRA for more involvement in track decisions that could impact City services such as traffic flow, public safety, and other services.

“I supported it, but NYRA is in a position where they are getting approvals through the state,” said Mayor Joanne Yepsen. “Although not required to get local approval, they are working closely with my

office. I spoke at the public hearing in favor of their expansion as long as they go through our land use processes and maintain the City’s historic charm. I meet with Chris Kay regularly and that’s how the free admission day came about.

It’s been working out really well. I indicated my concern about cancelling the open house, and was able to gain free admission for all.

That’s the kind of thing that can happen with a good strong partnership with NYRA. We need to continue to work closely with them, which I have been doing all along, so I feel that the resolution

Rendering of what the proposed land would look like after the solar installation.

affirms what is already happening in my office.”

The Council also announced there will be a public hearing at 6:55 p.m. on August 4 regarding a proposed City ordinance to limit noise levels on the south side of Fifth Avenue from 56th Street to 130th Street. The purpose is to protect horses and riders on the Oklahoma training track. When people are renovating their houses and using nail guns and other equipment and machines, it spooks the horses, and there have been injuries with thrown riders.

Commissioner of Finance Michele Madigan announced that the Spa Solar Park Development is progressing well and on schedule. The City went before the City Planning Board for an Advisory Opinion on June 24 and July 8. It has received a Favorable Advisory Opinion by a unanimous vote.

The City of Saratoga Springs awarded a bid to SunEdison on May 21, 2013 to work with the City to convert the City’s capped Weibel Avenue Landfill into a solar energy production site.

“From January 2015 through May 2015, we worked with SunEdision, the City Engineer, and the Planning Department on the conceptual design, that is, where the panels would go,” said Madigan. “This took some time to develop, but safety is of course the first consideration.

Great care has been taken to be respectful of the surrounding area as well as possible future plans or opportunities.”

The meeting ended after the completion of routine City business.

NYRA’s Host City Digs Deep for Water, Safety, and a Box SARATOGA SPRINGS — For nearly 150 years, the New York Racing Association (NYRA) donated a “Mayor’s Box” at Saratoga Race Course to its host, the City of Saratoga Springs. About four years ago, during Mayor Scott Johnson’s tenure, Governor Andrew Cuomo decided the City must pay for the box or go without.

“We were certainly surprised,” said Johnson. “NYRA was in the

red then, but since the inception of the track the City and NYRA have always worked together to advance its mutual interest in racing season. The box at the track encourages the presence of the City at the track, which is both for City use and NYRA’s benefit. It’s not for personal use for the Mayor and City Council; it’s more in recognition of the good and meaningful relationship between the City and track.”

Current Mayor Joanne Yepsen agrees. “Saratoga Springs provides an important amount of resources that are vital to a safe and successful racing season,” she said. “It makes sense that the City have a regular presence at the track.”

At Tuesday’s City Council meeting, questions were raised about how exactly to do that, given that the cost of the box is more than half what the City pays its mayors. In Mayor Johnson’s time, the City Council pooled its resources, eventually deciding to split the cost out of their personal pockets three ways.

Mayor Yepsen decided to use campaign funds to pay for the box.

“I had to muster up funds to preserve the more than 140 year history of the Mayor’s Box,” she said, “and luckily I preserved it for another year and last year, too. I cleared it with the State Board of Elections, and it is not only perfectly legal to use campaign funds for this purpose, but it is a part of my job as a representative of Saratoga Springs to be public and recognized at the most economicdriven engine of this season. It had to be done, but I agree, we do need a better situation and I’m looking for the commissioners to help come up with a long-term solution.”

“My issue with the box is a precedent-setting thing,” said City Finance Commissioner Michele Madigan. “If we start to allow campaign funds to purchase the box, it becomes a campaign box rather than a City box. We need to come to terms with this as a council.

We never had this discussion. I do think it’s important that the City be represented. We provide services like water, sewer, and public safety and now NYRA is in the black – we do a lot to make sure this City is ready for the season, so absolutely the track should have a presence from the host city.”

“While it may be legal to use campaign funds,” said Johnson, “I question the ethics of using the box this way since both NYRA and the governor have prohibited campaign and political fundraising there, around the time they stopped giving the city a complimentary box. Donors expect campaign funds to be used for election or reelection. The City can’t use public monies to purchase the box, so it comes down to paying out of pocket individually or not.”

The City attorney came up with some ideas during Tuesday’s City Council meeting, but Madigan says it’ll be an ongoing discussion.

“I agree it’s not appropriate for the Mayor to shoulder the $8,000 cost,” she said. “The Mayor absolutely should be present for the Centennial Day and other events.

It’s a tradition we wouldn’t want to lose. We give a lot of the box tickets gratis to charity events for silent auctions, too. We’ve always done something for the public benefit with those seats historically.”

NEWS 9

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

McElhiney Named Director of Visitor’s Center

by Norra Reyes Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Heather McElhiney has been selected as the new director of the Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center.

“Heather has been with us for seven years,” said Todd Garofano, president of the Saratoga Convention and Tourism Bureau.

“We feel a personal touch is an important piece of a visitors’ center, and she will bring that along with her expertise in hospitality and tourism. We’re very happy to have her in this new role.”

McElhiney joins one full-time and two part-time staff at the center, remaining a Bureau employee while the others on her team transitioned from City to Bureau employees.

“We felt we could lend our expertise to the Center, bringing

it to the next level, and save the City some money,” said Garofano, “plus give the Bureau some added exposure. We’ll build upon what’s already there, expand the programs, and market to a farther reach. The first stop for visitors coming into town should create a great first impression.”

The Heritage Area Visitor Center had been run by the City of Saratoga Springs, but under an agreement finalized June 2, the dayto-day operations are now managed by the Convention and Tourism Bureau while ownership and maintenance remains with the City.

“I have been working with the Convention and Tourism Bureau to create a long-term tourism and visitor center plan for about a year, which the City Council approved last month,” said Saratoga Springs Mayor Joanne Yepsen. “This new

partnership has tremendous amount of potential to create a tourism and visitors’ hub and portal for Saratoga Springs. It’s extremely appropriate because of the work they do already, so it’s going to allow our Center to flourish with new programs and services.”

Changes have already been made evident with the Center, including an upgraded website and free Wi-Fi offerings both inside and outside the building located on Broadway across from Congress Park. The Bureau is in process of developing a phone app, and they are starting a capital campaign soon to replace exhibits and bring them up to date, as well as improve aesthetics and technology.

There are 46 volunteers at the Center, and a couple weeks ago the Bureau held a meet-and-greet and training for them. “Forty of

them were able to attend,” said Garofano. “There was so much enthusiasm and excitement – this was the first time in a long time they had all been in the same room together, which was very nice.”

Bruce Goodale, who has been a volunteer at the Center for eight years, agrees.

“There’s a lot of positive change here and I think the new leadership is strong with a lot of new ideas,” he said.

“The feedback I’m hearing Heather McElhiney is the new director of the from other volunteers is pos- Heritage Area Visitor Center. Photo provided. itive, a real morale booster.”

Summer hours have been weddings, receptions, and business extended and the walking tour use such as seminars and workseason will now run until the end shops in the building’s conference of September. Some of the capi- room. For more information about tal improvements will make the the tour and other programs, visit building more attractive for small saratogaspringsvisitorcenter.com.

10

EDUCATION

Queensbury Senior Develops Free Mobile App

Karl Swanson, a senior at Queensbury High School, recently developed a mobile app to help students keep track of their daily reading activity over the summer. Photo provided by Queensbury Union Free School District Communication Office.

QUEENSBURY — Students at Queensbury Elementary School can go paperless if they want to keep track of their reading this summer.

During his class period at Queensbury High School’s Innovation Lab this past spring, upcoming senior Karl Swanson created an Android app that allows parents or guardians of Queensbury Elementary students to keep track of how much time their children have spent reading. Called “QES Reading Log,” the free app is available in the Google Play store.

“I really wanted to apply my computer programming knowledge in a way that would help my community and my school district,” Swanson, 17, said.

Swanson programmed the app to log students’ daily reading activity. With one username per family, the app can even keep track of several siblings. That information is then delivered to another program, also created by Swanson.

“That program adds up all of the minutes and puts them in a progress bar so that parents and the school district can see how many minutes the students - and the school as a whole - have read,” Swanson said.

The app goes hand-in-hand with the elementary school’s summer reading incentive program, called “Dive into Reading.” The program challenges students entering grades K-3 in September to collaboratively read 500,000 minutes during the summer months.

Administrators say each elementary student can help reach this school-wide goal simply by reading 15 minutes daily between June 22 and Sept. 8. If the school meets its goal, students will celebrate their success with an outdoor water activity day during the first week of school.

“When I heard about the summer reading program and how a reading log would complement it, I knew Karl was one of the few people

who could handle the job,” said Ben Grieco, innovation teacher.

The app, which launched at the end of June, has 219 users so far and took Swanson nearly three months to develop. The tech-savvy teen is already planning more programming projects to pursue in Grieco’s lab come fall.

“He’s trying to get me to buy some stuff so he can program virtual reality software! There’s only one Karl,” Mr. Grieco said, laughing. “It’s all about students finding their niche and this sort of thing is right up his alley. It was a great learning experience for him.”

“I’m happy I was able to do it,” Swanson added. Swanson says he hopes to study computer networking, security, and/or programming at the university level after graduation next June.

Apple devices and those looking to access the reading log on a computer can visit www.reading. queensburyschool.org to access the reading log.

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

Education Briefs SSCSD’s Dalton Receives Art Schock Award

Wolpert Selected as Assistant Principal at SSHS

SARATOGA SPRINGS — On July 14, Cheryl Dalton, the Saratoga Springs City School District Director of Transportation, received the Art Schock Award from the New York Association for Pupil Transportation (NYAPT). The award, given to a director who has demonstrated outstanding service and dedication to student transportation, is the highest honor that NYAPT bestows.

Dalton has worked for the Saratoga Springs City School District since 2006 and in the transportation industry for over 25 years. She has earned many certifications, including that of 19-A Examiner, School Bus Driver Instructor, and NYAPT Certified Director of Pupil Transportation.

At the 2012 NYAPT conference she was presented with a President’s Award for service as chairperson of the state bus radeo. In addition, Dalton has served as a Chapter president for the Capital Area Chapter of NYAPT. “Cheryl Dalton is an advocate for the children who ride our buses each day. She helps to shape policy and purchasing practices as well as ensures a high level of safety through the training of drivers and students. Cheryl recognizes the incredible responsibility parents entrust her and the members of her department with each day, the safety of their children. For this and many other reasons, I believe Cheryl Dalton was greatly deserving of recognition by being selected as a recipient of the Art Schock Award,” said Michael Piccirillo, superintendent of schools.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Kevin Wolpert, a teacher at Saratoga Springs High School, has been recommended for appointment as the assistant principal at Saratoga Springs High School.

The appointment is effective July 10, pending approval by the Saratoga Springs Board of Education at the July 23 school board meeting.

“Kevin Wolpert is the consummate professional who always has the best interest of students in mind. As a highly successful mathematics teacher and department dead in our district, he has consistently demonstrated a dedication to his students, colleagues and the community. Kevin will make significant positive contributions to the high school and district,” said Michael Piccirillo, superintendent of schools.

Mr. Wolpert began his professional career in 1999 as a teacher at Clarkstown Central School in New City, N.Y. Since 2002, he has been a mathematics teacher in the Saratoga Springs City School District. He has also served as the mathematics department head.

Mr. Wolpert earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics/economics from Colgate University in 1998, a master’s degree in mathematics education from Columbia University in 1999, and a school district administrator certification from Massachusettes College of Liberal Arts in 2006. He holds a permanent certificate from New York State as a school district administrator and as a mathematics teacher.

NEWS 11

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

Market 32: A Lesson in Listening Well Photos by MarkBolles.com

Continued from front page changed over the years and the Price Chopper brand did not reflect the preferences of today’s consumers. “We must meet the needs of Baby Boomers, Gen-X-ers, and Millennials,” he said. “They know what they want in a store, and are the best resource. We’ve pulled in a greater amount of data and research, beginning with a shift to online feedback, compared to focus groups or phone surveys.”

“We listened,” said Chief Operating Officer and newly appointed President Scott Grimmett. “They asked for convenience and ease for a quicker shopping experience for both dinner tonight trips and longer shopping trips. Customers are demanding more convenience, experience, education, and healthier options such as gluten-free, organic, and locally-sourced. We tested ideas in the Market Bistro, combined it with customer feedback and research into the new Market 32 brand.”

The new brand is a culmination of customer requests and feedback, almost as if it were created by the customers themselves. The Market Bistro store opened in Latham in April of 2014.

“That was a learning laboratory for us,” said Golub. “Our giant leap into the future. We took the best of what’s come through the Market Bistro and incorporated it into the new Market 32 brand.”

For example, the Bistro’s popular smoked meats, lobster rolls, and make your own salad bar are among the findings at Market 32. There are signature products in each department, as well, offering conventional items reflecting a little bit of everything and products like salmon in the fish department, with knowledge and expertise in the offerings.

“We can be an authority on our signature products,” said Golub, “better than anyone else.”

For example, there are now craft beers from all across the Capital Region, and local brewers come in to hold tastings. Market 32 also offers a growling station, where customers can purchase local brews hand-poured by knowledgeable staff using a counter pressure bottle filler. Market32 employee Marcus Harnichar, who has professional wine experience and has been brewing beer with his father since he was 8 years old, is happy to help customers choose among the many local varieties to their taste.

Signature products in bread, fish, meat and other departments reflect a great level of authority and expertise in the offerings as well as staff knowledge.

Market 32 offers a greater variety of fresh, organic, and locally-sourced produce than its previous brand.

“We also configure the taps to fill bottles under pressure so the integrity of the product is maintained,” he said.

Additionally, customers will notice in the new brand a softer floor and lighter carts with better wheels to make for a quieter and easier shopping experience. The product placement is more intuitive as well, with greeting cards placed by the floral department, and readyto-eat products and other items for the daily shopper positioned near entrances for quick shopping trips.

Long aisles are gone, replaced with items grouped on both sides now.

More local produce and products are a big part of the brand, as well as recipe and product knowledge among the Market 32 teammates. Training has additional focus on helping staff understand how to relate, serve and problem-solve. They

are developing more expertise in their areas, and iPads are being put into the hands of teammates so they can more readily answer questions.

In the next couple weeks, customers will have increased technological self-service, too. There are interactive kiosks placed throughout the store where customers can find out everything from electronic coupons and recipes to the location of a specific item in the store.

Health and wellness is such an important part of the new Market 32 that the store does not sell cigarettes. Hardware and oil and similar items have also been pulled from the floor to make room for increased options in healthy and locally-sourced foods. Customers asked for more privacy in the pharmacy area, so it has been pulled off from the sales floor and encased for quiet and privacy, and there is a

drive-through access. The company took it a step further and will be providing nurse practitioners in a Quick Care Clinic for flu shots and various urgent care needs.

Asked about his promotion to president, Grimmett said, “Most of it came as a result of bringing to life the Market 32 brand, which was a big challenge,” said Grimmett. “I am the first nonfamily member to hold the title, and I couldn’t be more honored in the trust they’ve given me.”

Market 32 will continue to evolve in response to customer

feedback on initial stores as it rolls out replacing all Price Chopper stores over the next eight to ten years, with the intention of each iteration being better than last, as if the customers designed the shopping experience themselves.

“When we first announced the change, everyone wanted to know what was different,” said Golub.

“There’s no one big thing. It’s about a lot of little things being different, with many subtleties that make the overall customer experience so much better.”

12

BUSINESS

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

Select Sotheby’s Passes the Baton Dan Collins Acquires Full Ownership

by Norra Reyes Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Select Sotheby’s International Realty, founded in 2007, announced Friday July 17 that Daniel Collins has bought out his partner John A. Burke, Jr.’s shares to acquire sole ownership of the real estate franchise. It was announced internally Thursday July 23. Burke is remaining with the firm as a full-time broker.

“My true skill set and passion is in the development phase of new companies. Select Sotheby’s International Realty has reached a point of maturity, and I am excited to hand over the company to Dan, who specializes in making mature companies thrive,” Burke said.

Burke is looking forward to expanding his broker role to better

service his sales clients, and real estate will remain a strong passion for him. He is committed to providing a level of service that is consistent with the Sotheby’s International Realty brand, and by stepping down as President/CEO, he can focus more of his energy on doing so.

Burke also noted that he is at a point in his life where he wants to spend more time with his family, especially his children. With only a few years before they are off to college, he wants to be sure he can attend all of their school and life events, having as much of a presence as possible.

Burke founded the company with three other partners in 2007 and started out with no agents and no listings. The next year, the bottom fell out of the market, and against all odds, Burke was able to

Dan Collins, left, and John Burke seal the deal on their new roles in Select Sotheby’s International Realty. Photo by MarkBolles.com

weather the storm against bigger, more established competitors.

“No one wanted to buy or sell,” said Burke. “Banks didn’t want to lend. My competitors had reserves built up over the years, but I had to self-fund. It took a lot of patience and guts to work through it, and here we are, continuing to grow in recruiting efforts, client base, and quality transactions, which will continue to grow under Dan’s leadership.”

As of July 2015, the company has 56 agents and over 480 active listings. In 2014, the total sales volume was over $110 million.

“I feel great about this. There are lots of great local brokers around here,” said Collins, “but our marketing is superior on the list side, offering exceptional photos and materials, plus great negotiations on the best deals on behalf of our clients. I like to think we’re a marketing firm that happens to deal in real estate. We’ve been successful in every price category. From $200,000 to $12 million in private residential, and some commercial, from the Catskills to the Canadian border and as far out as Buffalo. John deserves a lot of credit for building the company to the success it is today, including building an amazing team of staff and agents who are making it happen every day.”

Both men believe in great people and this shared value is at

the foundation of their individual and joint success. Moreover, “he believed in my vision,” said Burke.

“He seemed a natural fit when we joined up in partnership at the end of December 2012.”

Collins, a former owner of D.A. Collins, a full service construction group headquartered in Upstate New York, bought in initially as an investor and ended up finding his own passion. “As time went on,” he said, “I spent more time working the business and found I love the opportunities presented in the real estate market. The team is like a great family. We all have to get up and go to work every day. It’s great to love doing it. It’s a vision that John started and we’re all following through.”

Collins is excited to make some positive changes for the company, including building a more agent-centric business with a focus on training and development. “We want to create an environment where the agents won’t be competing with the brokers for sales,” Collins said. “We’re going to be personally working with each agent to help them be more successful, which is mutually beneficial for the company.

I have also decided to promote Andrea Demoracski to Director of Operations. Her primary role will be overseeing the agent support

team, and improving the overall agent experience by stream-lining and developing processes to make things run more efficiently.”

Current Vice President, Joanne DiMarco, will continue her role of growing the company revenue, with agent recruiting, training, development and day-to-day management support for the agents.

“I am most proud of the people in our organization,” said Burke.

“All I did was have an idea, put it in motion, and picked the right people. They took it from there, and I couldn’t be more proud than to stand next to them as a broker myself.”

On Thursday, the company held an announcement meeting and celebration for its staff, agents and clients. Featured guests included Fran Santangelo, Senior Vice President of Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, LLC, and Robert Byrne, Vice President of Affiliates Services Northeast for Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, LLC. Select Sotheby’s International Realty has offices in Saratoga Springs, Lake George and Lake Placid, NY, representing extraordinary properties from the Hudson Valley/Catskill region north to the Canadian Border and West to the Buffalo/Niagara Region. For more information, call 518-580-8500 or visit SelectSothebysRealty.com.

BUSINESS BRIEFS 13

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

American Pharoah Rally on ESPN

want American Pharoah to come back to Saratoga this summer!

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/ events/1677539732480175/.

Croquet on the Green

Triple Crown Winner American Pharoah

SARATOGA SPRINGS — On Saturday July 25, the Saratoga Race Course will serve as the backdrop for the final installment of ESPN’s “SportsCenter on the Road” summer series from 9 a.m. to noon. ESPN will broadcast this program live from inside the clubhouse gates in front of the grassy area in front of the paddock. The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce and NYRA welcome fans to gather to replicated a College Game Day environment as they demonstrate their #Pharoahtoga spirit from 9 to 10:30 a.m.

The first 50 fans to arrive at 8:30 a.m. will receive Pharoah headwear; all others are welcome to bring your own Pharoah gear as well as to create homemade signs to show Saratoga’s passion and support to bring the first Triple Crown winner in 37 years to the Spa this summer. And, of course, everyone should bring their voices to chant: “WE WANT PHAROAH!” Impressions of Saratoga has American Pharoah shirts and hats on sale now. Wear an American Pharoah hat, shirt, or put on your own big hat or jockey costume. This is an opportunity to show ESPN’s national audience how much we

SARATOGA SPRINGS — AIM Services, Inc., is hosting its 2nd Annual “Croquet on the Green” on August 4, the second Dark Tuesday of Saratoga racing season, beginning at 3:30 p.m. at the AIM administrative offices located at 4227 Route 50, Saratoga Springs. Guests are invited to participate in the amateur Croquet tournament and enjoy the sun at the garden party, complete with a bourbon tasting, cigar rolling, music, raffles, and hors d’oeuvres.

To purchase tickets, visit aimservicesinc.org or call (518) 587-3208.

SIS Admissions Info Sessions SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Independent School invites parents of preschool and kindergarten-aged children to visit its campus for an information session and tour with Felice Karlitz, Director of School. Come for coffee and learn why our award-winning Pre-Kindergarten program and Kindergarten provide children with a love of learning and a foundation for academic and personal success.

Information sessions will be held at 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. on the following dates: PreKindergarten sessions: July 29, August 5, August 11, and August 18. Kindergarten sessions: July 30, August 6, August 13, and August 20. For more information and to RSVP, call (518) 583-0841.

Women in Business Breakfast at the Track SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Women in Business Group is hosting its annual breakfast event

on Wednesday August 5 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. at the Saratoga Race Course. If you are a female Chamber member or employee of a member firm, join us for great networking while enjoying breakfast just a few feet from the race course. Cost is $25 cash, payable the morning of the event.

Parking is $10, but refunded if you leave before 10 a.m. RSVP

by Monday, August 3 at noon to assure seating. Key4Women is the 2015 Women’s Business Group sponsor.

Saratoga Young Professionals Day at the Track SARATOGA SPRINGS — Back by popular demand, the Saratoga Young Professionals Network will partner with the Tech Valley Young Professionals Network to bring you a fun, networking packed, day at the track Monday August 31 from 11:30 a.m. to track closing time. Event is $50, which includes: access to the Rail Side Pavilion, admission into the track, food, program, tax and gratuity. To ensure that you receive your tickets in time, please make your reservation by Wednesday, August 26. Thank you to The Adirondack Trust Company for sponsoring the 2015 Saratoga Young Professionals Network. *Please note - Mixer passes cannot be applied to this event.

Payment must be received to reserve your reservation.

Equitas Realty Expands to Glens Falls SARATOGA SPRINGS — In less than a year since transforming from a franchise office into an independent brokerage, Equitas Realty has chosen the Glens Falls market for its second location.

The brokerage and its agents have been serving the Glens

Falls market since 2008 out of its Saratoga Springs office. The new location reflects the brokerage’s recognition of the exciting renaissance and growth of the Glens Falls market.

Since opening the brokerage in Saratoga Springs in 2008, with over $53 million in 2014 sales, it is the largest woman-owned real estate company in the area.

Its current roster of 40 independent Realtors serve clients from Albany to Lake George.

The new office is located in the Rogers Building across from the Crandall Library Park at the intersection of Bay and Maple.

The office will be open for business in mid-August. For more information, contact Justin White at (518) 584-9990.

Keep an eye out on Lifestyles’ website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for its whereabouts.

Champlain Canalway Trail Bike Tour

Mobile Boutique Offers Style and Philanthropy SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga women’s clothing boutique Lifestyles of Saratoga is hitting the road this summer in a 1964 Shasta full of goodies which reflect those in its brick and mortar store located on the corner of Caroline and Broadway in downtown Saratoga Springs.

While Saratoga is coming up on its 100th birthday, Lifestyles is celebrating 25 years of doing business as a beacon of women’s fashion in Saratoga. In honor of a quarter century of business, Lifestyles’ one-of-a-kind pop-up shop will be traveling to different charity driven events around town like the Double H Ranch and Hospital Gala. A portion of the sales generated at these events will be donated back to the charity or not-for-profit organization being supported at that event. Each event will be personally selected by owner Heidi West to insure that the partnership will be beneficial to both parties.

FORT EDWARD — On Sunday, August 9, enjoy a bicycle tour along portions of the Champlain Canalway Trail corridor and Feeder Canal Trail between Fort Edward and Fort Ann, via Glens Falls. This tour will take bicyclists on a journey that will highlight the regions vast natural, historical, cultural and recreational resources, while illustrating the committee’s work to complete the trail between Waterford and Whitehall.

Learn about the local involvement in regional and national conflicts, such as the French and Indian War and the American Revolution, while exploring canal and industrial history along the emerging trail and its connectors.

For more information, including cost and registration, visit www.HudsonCrossingPark.org/ cctbiketour/.

14 BALLSTON 72 McLean St., $195,000.

Edward and Molly Stammel sold property to Joshua and Mackenzie Frederick.

Lot 2 Randall Rd., $90,000.

Jay and Robin Gawrys sold property to Richard and Diane Postulka.

344 Goode St., $210,000. Tyler Oliver and Ashley Hwaszcz sold property to Wayne Gaudette, Jr.

CHARLTON 951 Charlton Rd., $277,000.

Joanne Carhart sold property to Kyle and Darbi Ray.

CORINTH 112 Hunt Lake Rd., $260,000.

Harold Jacklin sold property to Cosmo and Karen Vetrone.

7 Winslow Rd., $110,874. Mark Lecuyer sold property to Bank of New York Mellon as Trustee.

GREENFIELD 1062 North Creek Rd., $197,500.

Chad Beck sold property to Samuel Livsey and Amy Hoyt.

171 Squashville Rd., $128,877. JP Morgan Chase Bank NA sold property to Renee Law.

PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS 73 S. Greenfield Rd., $52,500.

Casey Cornell sold property to Christopher and Erin Mallory.

227 Middle Grove Rd., $12,000.

Michael and Gabrielle Shearer sold property to Shawne and Vanessa Perkins.

125 S. Greenfield Rd., $228,500.

Victoria Stephens sold property to Maurice and Laura St. Louis.

1216 Route 9N, $300,000. Susan and James McGrath and Lea Tarleton sold property to Donald Johnson.

MALTA 23 Lake Ridge Dr., $401,000.

Kevin and Deborah Purstell sold property to Robert and Ann Alexander.

370 & 368 NYS Route 67, $2,425,000. Rt 67 Holdings LLC sold property to Kings Isle Apartments of Stillwater LLC. Lot 15 Maiden Ct., $368,708. John Luke Development Co. LLC sold property to Eric Nalewajek.

170 Thimbleberry Rd., $168,000.

Amy Gentile sold property to Jane and David Bangert.

4 Surrey Dr., $350,000. William and Tonya Savalis sold property to Felix and Avital Levitov.

348 Brownell Rd., $210,000.

Cathy Clampett (by Exec) sold property to George and Veronica Heard.

242 Thimbleberry Rd., $145,000.

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation sold property to Sarah and Kevin Kelly.

1150 Woodfield Blvd., $343,000.

Alan Yingling and Doreen Laduca sold property to Patrick and Miranda Eldridge.

MILTON 76 Knollwood Hollow Terrace, $210,000. John and Donna Bienkowski sold property to Ann Dreyfus.

558 Sherman Rd., $50,900.

Nicole and Kenneth Rush, Jr. sold property to Thomas and Kim Eisler.

7 Legend Lane, $245,615.

Charles Fricano sold property to Andrew Kitzmann and Elizabeth Greiner.

26 Wood Thrush Court, $269,900. Luigi Stocchetti sold property to Scott and Kimberly Dellis.

1000 Route 29, $1,150,000.

Joseph Parisi sold property to David Mandel.

765 Revolutionary Dr., $305,000.

Alexander Ciota and Keli Scott sold property to John Crotty and Kathleen Bubnack.

Heisler Rd./Rock City Rd., $139,500. Frederick and Barbara Heisler sold property to Eric and Danica Andersen.

33 White Rd., $314,000. Katz Excavating and Construction LLC sold property to Zachary and Courtney Schwan.

MOREAU 261 Old Saratoga Rd., $525,000.

Real and Edith Mackenzie sold property to Robert and Dana Rohne.

113 Nott Rd., $245,000. Nancy Walsh sold property to David Dort and Laura Lindboom-Dort.

2 Congdon Rd., $217,900.

Arthur Almy sold property to Ginger Williams.

NORTHUMBERLAND Lot 64 Brampton Lane, $55,000.

C and S Construction LTD sold property to Holley Hahn.

389 Beaver St., $200,000. Andrew Stine (by agent) sold property to Joseph Calamari.

SARATOGA 3 Ruggles Rd., $567,500. Joseph Walsh and Marian Wait-Walsh sold property to Mitchell and Linda Amado.

43 Burgoyne St., $160,000. David Lavigne sold property to Shawn and Lindsay Smith.

SARATOGA SPRINGS 10 Empire Ave., $345,000. Wade Fisher and Jessica Tannenbaum sold property to Kevin Prowse.

7 Maria Lane, $497,457.

McKenzie Estates of Saratoga Springs sold property to Edward and Lucy Yocum.

7 Lakewood Dr., $325,000. Kevin Sprague sold property to Janis and Christy Beck.

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015 1 Teldridge Dr., $389,385.

Tra Tom Development Inc. sold property to Peter and Francoise Settle.

3 Old Schuylerville Rd., $155,000. Nicolas Marrano (by Exec) sold property to Rachel and Gerald Eddy.

15 Park Alley North, $940,000.

Kenneth and Clover Schwartz sold property to Thomas and Renee West.

187 East Ave., $420,000. Mary Ellen and William Moseman, Sr., sold property to Amy Komarinetz.

3 Daggs Lane, $438,000. Darren and Christine Miller sold property to Clover Schwartz.

STILLWATER 23 Lake Ridge Dr., $401,000.

Kevin and Deborah Purstell sold property to Ann and Robert Alexander, Jr. Lot 55 Yorktown Lane, $45,000.

Carpenter Properties LLC sold property to Laurie Rocque.

7 Revere Lane, $282,500. Kevin and Kimberly Manion sold property to Lewis and Joan Wilkinson.

42 Horseshoe Dr., $420,000.

Patricia Iacovelli sold property to Joseph Hinkhouse.

19 Battery Blvd., $250,000.

Todd and Melissa Smolen sold property to Nicholas and Michelle Pisciotta.

7 Doggetts Coat Place, $470,000. Paul and Theresa Aspland sold property to David and Riham Larussa.

473-475 County Route 76, $242,500. Andrew and Lisa Luskin sold property to John and Harry Mulhall.

23 Thomas St., $357,000. Selma Nemer sold property to Timothy and Patricia Farrell.

7 Walnut St., $226,500. William Perry, Jr. sold property to Zachary and Kimberly Demars.

111 Regent St., $770,000. Steven and Sheila McIntyre sold property to Daniel Kelley and Susan Merjos.

42 Lakepointe Way, $374,714.

Mason Street LLC sold property to Patricia and Edward Currado.

2 Emerald Lane, $320,000. Linda Loeffler sold property to Jason and Sara Krahnke.

8 Persimmon Place, $185,000.

Joseph Street Saratoga LLC sold property to SBDT Ventures LLC.

WILTON 11 Rolling Green Dr., $85,000.

Goodhue Wilton Properties, Inc. sold property to Alison and Frederick Lewis, Jr. 27 Cobble Hill Dr., $277,000.

Patrick and Deborah Fee sold property to Karen and Paul Kelly.

9 Tawny Terrace, $325,000. Joseph and Holli Paquette sold property to Mark and Jina Demeo.

269 Jones Rd., $159,800. John and Mary Butterfield sold property to Fay Stokes.

20 Glenburnie Dr., $329,000.

Michael and Jennifer Wormley sold property to Lucas Kasper.

15

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

D k c a d n o ir d A

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17

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

From the Publisher’s Desk . . .

Fast Food Flim Flam

by Chad Beatty Saratoga TODAY

On Wednesday, July 22, three labor board members, appointed

by Governor Cuomo, decided it is a good idea to nearly double the minimum wage paid to fast food workers in New York State, but only to some of them.

Great idea, geniuses.

I am so bewildered with this decision that I am not even sure where to begin.

First, how do you isolate a wage increase to a specific industry, with specific benchmarks within the industry? If you haven’t heard, the increase only

applies to pay-in-advance eateries with at least 30 or more units nationally. The wages apply to workers who: cook, clean, serve customers, do deliveries or routine maintenance.

So if you mop the floors at National Burger, you are all set.

But if you are the night supervisor working to get ahead at Sal’s Pizzeria, you are out of luck.

However, if you are an 18-yearold high school dropout, you hit the jackpot. You just got yourself a $31k a year job working the fryer!

Does this make any sense? Of course not. But this isn’t how it will work anyway. Positions will be eliminated, stores will close and menu prices will increase substantially. If you thought service at the drive-thru was bad before, wait until the staff is slashed and overworked. Don’t expect the side of fries you ordered with your meal!

The economic ripple effects of this decision are mind-boggling. But I wouldn’t expect bureaucrats in Albany to understand that. After all, it isn’t their

Saratoga TODAY Sponsors Night at Polo Photos by Deborah Neary

GREENFIELD CENTER — Saratoga TODAY sponsored Sunday night’s polo game at the Saratoga Polo Association. As people gathered on the sidelines of Whitney Field, the sky opened and unleashed a downpour. Though the night was cut short by thunder, lightning and tornado warning notifications, those attending still had a good time before the storm.

Co-Owner of Saratoga Polo, Mike Bucci with Bill Dake.

Sallie Davis, John Metz and Debi Gilmore.

The Dango family.

Mary, Carol, Ian and John keeping their umbrellas handy.

Allan Edstrom entertains onlookers with his escape artist skills.

money or their business that may fail. They sit at their cushy desks with lifetime benefits, compliments of our tax dollars.

I am trying to figure out how they came up with a 72 percent increase ($8.75 to $15). I think I have two realistic theories; either they threw darts at a calendar; or, more likely, one of them said to the other “close your eyes and think of a number from 10-20.”

What sane person thinks fast food workers should make more than our combat soldiers; our daycare workers; our special needs care providers; our certified nursing assistants; or any of the hundred thousand college graduates who are starting their careers at a lower rate?

The only logical assumption I can make is these people aren’t sane. Either that or they have absolutely zero financial acumen or real world experience.

Hopefully, acting Labor Commissioner Mario Muslino will stop this when it reaches his desk, or at least make it a sensible increase. But I am not holding my breath. This is New York State after all.

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Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

Sold Out White Party Breaks Record SARATOGA SPAS — Sold out for the second year in a row, the annual Saratoga Bridges “White Party” Gala raised a record amount of $131,329 Saturday, July 18. Co-chairs Patty Riggi and Robin Dalton welcomed over 650 guests to Fasig Tipton in Ballston Spa. The live auction, hosted by Sonny Bonacio and Saratoga TODAY’s own Chad Beatty, raised nearly $42,000 alone.

An additional $13,829 was raised by the silent auction and raffle.

Mazzone Hospitality Catering provided a wonderful buffet while DIAGEO and Ketel One Vodka generously supplied cocktails. Vibrant décor by Fine Affairs; beautiful floral arrangements donated by The Posie Peddler; entertainment from Saving Atlantis; and a cigar roller from James and Sons Tobacconists all made the night one to remember. Saratoga Bridges’ Creative Endeavors artists, Shannon, Erica, Adam and David, showcased and donated their original collage, “Pink Burst,” which was sold at auction for $1,500 to Julie Bonacio.

Photos by MarkBolles.com

Judith and Douglas Smith, Christianne Smith and Bill Potts.

Sara Mannix, Valerie James, Jane Stine, Jennifer Manz, Annemarie Mitchell.

White Party co-chairs Patty Riggi and Robin Dalton with Saratoga Bridges Development and Foundation Director Heather Varney (center).

Featured artist Shannon Meers.

Sonny Bonacio doubles his donation of construction service, raising $20,000 for Saratoga Bridges.

Dave, Pamela, Tyler and Kendall DeMarco.

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

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A Night in Tuscany Raises $80k for ACS SARATOGA SPRINGS — The American Cancer Society’s annual gala, “A Night in Tuscany,” took place last Thursday, July 16 at 6 p.m. This night benefits ACS’s HopeClub, which provides free supportive services for those suffering from cancer and their families.

The co-chairs for the event were Jamie Tario and Megan Boggs Esq. The evening featured a Tuscan-themed dinner by Mazzone Catering, regional wine pairing, live entertainment and silent and live auctions. The Pillar of Hope Award was presented to Chrissy Cavotta and Brian Cody from Fly 92.3.

Kathy McMahon-Paulus and Dick Lalibert.

Photos by Francesco D’Amico

Gala honorees Chrissy Cavotta & Brian Cody from Fly 92.3 “Fly Morning Rush” team.

Karen and Steve Miller ride Cold Fire Media’s Social Animal Vespa.

Event auctioneer Martin Seely with Sue Thorne.

Samantha Parker & Diana Garcia- Kelly.

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Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

Seventh Annual Joe Gerrity Jr. Memorial Pace Headlines $500,000 Night

Tom Durkin

by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Casino and Raceway (SCR) is set to welcome some of America’s finest standardbred performers, with lifetime earnings totaling over $8 million dollars, during the running of the seventh annual Joe Gerrity Jr. Memorial Free for All (FFA) Pace on Saturday, July 25. The first post time is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. that evening. This year’s memorial pace boasts a $260,000 purse, and over $500,000 in total purses throughout the course of the evening, including seven races in which 3-year old New York bred pacing colts will compete in their division of the New York Sire Stakes (see page 47).

The quality of the Gerrity field is evidenced by the fact that for the last two consecutive years, the track record has been broken in this race. Last year’s record-setter (at 1:48.4), Dancin Yankee, with $1.2 million in lifetime earnings, is back to defend his title from PP 2.

“We are very excited to have such a balanced field going to post in this

year¹s edition of our marquee race, Dancin Yankee figures to be a slight favorite to repeat as champion,” said Race Secretary Peter Iovino.

He will, by no means, have it easy. Entered in the race are five other pacers who have cracked the $1 million earnings mark. “There are horses with trainers that have won prestigious races such as The Hambletonian. You really can make a case for most, if not all of the entrants,” Iovino said. “Along with the New York Site Stakes and a few quality handicap races, it should be a great night of fun and excitement.”

“This is the marquee night of our summer racing season,” noted SCR’s Director of Racing Operations John Matarazzo. “It’s also an opportunity to give back to our fans.”

To that end, the evening will kick off with the singing of the National Anthem by Saratoga Springs High School student, Alexandra Koshigarian. New York Racing Association announcing legend Tom Durkin will be on hand to sign autographs and meet with guests by the Winner’s Circle from

7 to 9 p.m. An autographed commemorative photo of Mr. Durkin will be given away to the first 500 race fans. Mr. Sam Grossman, AKA “Sam The Bugler” will also be present and interacting with guests in attendance, in between calling all the pacers and trotters to the post throughout the evening race card.

“Along with several of the top standardbred pacers in the Northeast, we’re pleased to welcome two of Saratoga’s most prominent racing personalities to the 2015 Gerrity Night,” said Matarazzo.

Racing fans in attendance will also receive a coupon for a free commemorative 2015 ‘Gerrity Night’ t-shirt with the purchase of a $2 race program, while supplies last. Additionally, free Stewart’s Ice Cream cones will be given out to the first 500 guests in attendance starting at 6:30. The Agriculture & New York State Horse Breeding Development Fund sponsors this giveaway.

The Memorial was created in 2009 as a pacing series honoring the memory of Joe Gerrity, Jr. and his many contributions. “He oversaw

Sam the Bugler

Dancin Yankee looks to repeat. Photo by Melissa Simer.

our transition to a full-service entertainment facility,” Matarazzo said.

A highly respected leader, inspiration and an icon for the horse racing industry, he was a breeder of horses in Loudonville, a licensed harness driver and became Chairman of the Board of Saratoga Harness Racing, Inc. (now Saratoga

Casino and Raceway) on April 1, 1987. Mr. Gerrity later oversaw the installation of video gaming machines, funding the project in part himself. He also served as a Director for the Harness Horse Breeders of New York State for 20 years, and also acted as Treasurer for much of that time. Mr. Gerrity passed away in October of 2005.

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

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WINNER’S CIRCLE Saratoga TODAY Newspaper’s Guide to the 2015 Racing Season at the Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York

Palace Malice Attempts to Avenge at Spa

by Brendan O’Meara for Saratoga TODAY For just one week, perhaps it’s time to take the NYRA logo down from the dartboard if you’re feeling nickel and dimed and remember that for a short time, if you’re a horse player and fan of horse racing and, presumably you are, the horse racing product itself is about as good as this country has to offer.

Sure, there are some thankless maiden races that have fattened up the cards in recent years, maybe a few extra turf sprints garnishing your otherwise dirty oval, but as Saratoga prepares to take center stage it feels, in some small way, refreshing.

And feeling the feathered dirt of Saratoga’s training surfaces is Palace Malice, the five-year-old horse who won the 2013 Belmont Stakes and the 2014 Met Mile. In 2014, he was, for a time, a Horse of the Year candidate.

Then he finished sixth in the Whitney as the heavy .65-1 favorite and we didn’t see him again for the rest of the year.

In fact, we were told he was most likely done and would never race again.

Following the Whitney, Palace Malice developed a deep bone bruise in his left hind leg

and it threatened his chances at running as a five-year-old. There was little incentive for him to return after winning the Met Mile and five of six races in 2014, but there was hope for redeeming that sixth-place finish in the Whitney if he was given a few more chances.

“This situation causes us to address retiring Palace Malice, although Dr. Larry Bramlage’s prognosis states that the horse should race to his true potential as a 5-yearold, after sufficient time for healing this problem,” Cot Campbell, president of Dogwood Stables, told USA Today in a 2014 story.

Campbell spoke with the breeding operations (Three Chimneys owns half the horse and takes on full ownership upon the horse’s retirement) and after some deliberation, Brett Favre-ed the horse for a five-year-old season.

“We’ll start off slowly,” Campbell said in the Daily Racing Form. “We’re going to ease him into it. This horse gets himself ready quickly. … The idea is to get him fit in an easy, gradual manner.”

Palace Malice wasn’t supposed to lose, not this early anyway. On May 10, 2015, in a five-horse field, Palice Malace made his five-yearold debut in the ungraded, six-furlong Diablo Stakes at Belmont Park.

He finished third.

“It was what we were expecting,” Pletcher said in the BloodHorse after the Diablo Stakes.

Hopefully he bet on the winner, Stallwalkin’ Dude.

“He got outfooted early and seemed to close pretty well. He galloped out well,” Pletcher said, “so hopefully we got what we needed out of him. We knew it wasn’t ideal coming in, but the options we had were limited. Hopefully it moves him forward.”

It’s been over two months since Palace Malice has been on

the racetrack, but he has been in light training.

He returned to the Oklahoma Training Track for Pletcher and drilled a leisurely four furlongs in 49.45 seconds.

Pletcher told the Daily Racing Form that the reasons Palace Malice has missed time was due to “foot issues and other stuff.”

“Foot issues” is somewhat clear. That could be a bruise or a torn quarter, among other things.

“Other stuff ” sounds like NHL coach talk and is vague even for Pletcher. It could be that he cared little for elaborating.

Maybe Palace Malice dealt with infections, the flu, teenage angst,

who knows? There’s probably no cause for concern. Pletcher is one of the best handlers of horses in the business and it’s going to take all of his powers to bring Palace Malice back to the winner’s circle.

In fact, one of Pletcher’s best training moves took place in 2013 with this very horse. With blinkers on, Palace Malice set a blistering pace in the Kentucky Derby and predictably faded to finish 12th.

Five weeks later, Pletcher freshened up the son of Curlin, took off the blinkers and watched as Palace Malice relaxed and then defeated Oxbow and Orb to win the Belmont Stakes. He earned

that rare distinction of winning around two full turns at Belmont Park. It was his finest accomplishment as a three-year-old.

Whatever issues Palace Malice is working through, you can bet Pletcher has it under wraps and under control. Any further setback will likely mean the end of his illustrious racing career.

No one wants to see that just yet, but it appears the end is close for this champion and his hurrah, last or otherwise, could be at the Spa. Brendan O’Meara is the author of Six Weeks in Saratoga: How ThreeYear-Old Filly Rachel Alexandra Beat the Boys and Became Horse of the Year, now out in paperback.

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Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

Give Kids a Leg-up on Life with Horses “Horses change lives. They give our young people confidence and self-esteem.

They provide peace and tranquility to troubled souls. They give us hope!”

— Toni Robinson

by Marilyn Lane for Saratoga TODAY There’s a natural affinity between horses and children and we should all work to create opportunities for kids or anyone who needs a leg-up in life to interact with these noble animals.

I grew up on a farm in the Rogue River Valley of southern Oregon and every summer my nieces and nephews traveled from Los Angeles to visit. They were older than me—the children of brothers and sisters more than 20 years my senior and they were city kids through and through but still I was expected to take them on trail rides and provide other horsebased adventures. I always expected

something catastrophic would happen because there wasn’t a mistake in the book these surfer types didn’t make around horses. Amazingly, we went through all those summers and except for maybe a nip here and there or toes stepped on, nothing much else happened. Of course the falling off part didn’t count. I always felt the entertainment was my reward for having to saddle the horses for them.

It’s been more than half a century since my parents sold the farm and sometimes decades past without seeing those blonde relatives. But whenever I do, the first thing anyone of them says is, “I still remember grandpa’s farm and the horses,” and wistfully they’ll add, “I wish my kids could have had that experience.”

The secret is to give young people exposure to horses early before their trust has become eroded.

In today’s world most parents are overly cautious about allowing kids to be kids. Horses haven’t taken up

that bad habit and if grown-ups can just stay out of the way and allow kids and horses to interact naturally there seldom is a problem. Of course, interacting naturally is a lot different than going to a riding stable where an already tacked-up horse is presented to a young rider and the only goal becomes riding technique.

I feel sorry for kids who don’t know what it is to go to the field and catch your horse, lead him away from the herd, groom and bond with him before you ever think about throwing a leg over his back.

Some schools of natural horsemanship actually teach you to promise your horse that you will become their leader and keep them safe before you remove them from their familiar surroundings and buddies.

There is so much we can learn from horses and right now we have six weeks where we can do just that. I don’t suppose Victor Espinoza will let you take his place on American Pharoah or that Todd Pletcher, Bill Mott

Ana Dallas in the midst of a happy day at a workshop for ACTT Naturally.

Photo by Michael Bartlett.

or Chad Brown will turn one of their star performers out in a field to see if you can catch them but there are plenty of places for you to get closer to horses and learn to understand them and/or yourself a lot better. And don’t forget to bring the kids.

You’re reading this article, so you’re either a Saratoga native or visiting here, so why don’t you take a look to see how many of the

Dr. Kris Dallas and Ana with Cover Girl as Albany Winner Traffic Chief looks on.

Photo by Michael Bartlett.

horses you won and lost money on in past years are paying big dividends to people today.

We have Saratoga-based notfor-profit organizations with missions that not only provide for horses after their racing careers have ended, but to actually serve this community and benefit humanity in general.

At the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF), off the track Thoroughbreds are

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

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Veteran Trevor English with ACTT Naturally’s Budder.

Shianne Johnson and TRF adoptee, Maestro at Long Shadows Farm.

literally giving prisoners second chances through the TRF ‘Second Chances’ Program at nine prisons across the country. Inmates learn life skills while they care for the horses and complete a vocational training program. Many go on to work with horses and some as farriers and veterinary assistants. This organization has been providing safe retirement, rehabilitation, retraining and adoption for Thoroughbreds since 1983 and is presently working on an initiative to offer equine assisted learning (EAL) and therapy (EAP) in the Capital District. The Thoroughbreds they use will have been schooled in

EAL at the Wallkill Prison. They are all Thoroughbreds and several had memorable race records. Visit trfinc.org to learn more.

At ACTT Naturally (acttnaturally.org) former racehorses are trained for other careers and during the process they participate in equine-assisted learning workshops to help people overcome obstacles in their lives and/or to learn better leadership skills. One of their key volunteers is 16-yearold Shianne Johnson, a skilled equestrian but she’s pretty handy with a muck fork, or driving the Kubota to deliver hay and grain to the 16 horses at ACTT Naturally’s

165-acre Long Shadows Farm too.

Saratoga WarHorse (saratogawarhorse.com) has been bettering the lives of our returning veterans since November of 2011 and last year opened a satellite location in Aiken, SC. When the organization began, horse people thought the notion that horses could heal veterans was a crazy idea and non-horse people just thought we were just crazy. One need only to ask the veterans who have participated in Saratoga WarHorse programs to learn what former racehorses, warriors in their own right, have done to center their lives.

In any event, one thing is certain. Horses are good for

humanity of all ages and that has been true throughout the ages and no place demonstrates their beauty and strengths any better than our own Saratoga Springs.

So as the season kicks off, you can try to select a winning horse to bet on, or you can bet on a sure thing by supporting these locally based charities that truly reflect Saratoga’s storied image of Health-History-Horses.

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Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

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Well in Hand!

The Hunt & Fish Club at Siro’s is Ready for a Big Debut Season Photos by MarkBolles.com

by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY “People love the luxury here. Our job is to build upon a treasured concept.”

So stated Ben O’Sullivan, executive chef of the Hunt & Fish Club; a restaurant that has taken the discerning foodie community in New York City by storm since it opened at the beginning of this year.

O’Sullivan is leading a core group that will be establishing something extra-special this race season – at a place that has always been special.

Behold: The Hunt & Fish Club at Siro’s. The best meets the best adjacent to the Saratoga Racecourse, at a place where winners have always met. By the time you read this, it’s the surest of sure bets that they’ll be ready to dazzle and delight diners. “I see our role as establishing a brand that is faithful to the restaurant’s glorious heritage, while putting our own stamp on things,” O’Sullivan said.

And so, while you will still see several familiar items on the menu, such as the colossal 7-10 pound lobsters that are a Siro’s tradition, expect to see some incredible upgrades. For one thing, the restaurant will feature miyazaki beef. Originating from a region south of Kobe in Japan, O’Sullivan noted that this Wagyu beef is rated A5 – the highest grade of prime beef available. All the beef served at Siro’s this summer will be dry-aged for maximum flavor.

Executive Chef Ben O’Sullivan, The Hunt & Fish Club at Siro’s

Some of the Hunt & Fish Club’s most popular dishes, including its signature Burnt Lemon Chicken, will be on the Siro’s menu. O’Sullivan mentioned that the menu will not be the same every time you visit, however. “I expect that we’ll have changes in response to what are the best available products over the course of the next seven weeks – I’m

Tuna Tartare on a bed of avocado mousse with caramelized pineapple and crispy potato “hay”

a big believer in local sourcing and I’m looking forward to seeing what fish, mushrooms and other items are available to put on the menu.

We are also discussing the idea of a special Tuesday ‘locals’ menu, where we can get a chance to really get creative.” He said.

O’Sullivan, a Napa Valley area native, sports an impressive

24 ounce dry-aged bone-in grilled ribeye

background prior to taking the reins at The Hunt & Fish Club. He apprenticed for legendary Chef Todd Humphries on the West Coast (“…he would have us all forage for mushrooms with him,” O’Sullivan noted with a smile), with stops at leading restaurants in Toronto and Nantucket on his way to New York City, where, among other places,

he worked at the prestigious ABC Kitchen under multiple-Michelin star chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten.

His training was evident in the quiet, confident and firm manner that he led his staff in preparing the dishes for this piece that make it evident that those visiting Siro’s this summer are in for a singular treat.

It may come as a surprise to some that the kitchen staff at Siro’s manages to perform all this excellence with a rather small staff of six. Three were brought up by O’Sullivan from The Hunt & Fish Club, including his Sous Chef Jim and two line cooks.

Another surprise is that this will be O’Sullivan’s first summer in Saratoga Springs. His impressions so far? “I love the ambiance.

It reminds me of St. Helena in California, which has a seasonal wine culture.”

Some of the things outside the restaurant he looks forward to include “…a long bike ride. I’m looking forward to seeing the lakes in this region. I can’t wait to visit the Farmers’ market here, as well as some of the other restaurants that I’ve heard so much about.”

“But mostly, I’m looking forward to just absorbing the racetrack atmosphere here. It’s going to be exciting to experience,” he said.

And it’s another sure bet that O’Sullivan and his team will make your Hunt & Fish Club at Siro’s dining experience as world-class as the race meet next door.

A Hunt & Fish Club Favorite: Burnt Lemon Chicken with crispy lemon potatoes

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

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Hats Off Weekend THE LINEUP FRIDAY, JULY 24 The Legato Blues Band Location: Adirondack Trust Company on Broadway Performances: 7 to 8 p.m., 8:15 to 9:30 p.m., 10 to 11 p.m.

Kings English Location: Ben & Jerry’s Performances: 7 to 8:30 p.m. and 9:30 to 11 p.m.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Hats Off Weekend culminates with The New York Racing Association’s 24th annual Hat Contest on Sunday, July 26 at the Saratoga Race Course. Registration begins at noon under the Saratoga grandstand and the contest will take place after the second, third and fourth races. The extravagant hat tradition at the track has been around for decades and this contest celebrates that custom with the craziest hats you could imagine. There are three categories: Kreative Kids (for those 18 and under), Fashionably Saratoga and Uniquely Saratoga. This year, Saratoga TODAY is honored to be one of the judges for the contest.

Erin Harkes Location: Caroline Street Performances: 7 to 7:45 p.m., 8 to 8:45 p.m., 9 to 9:45 p.m., 10 to 10:45 p.m.

Foldin Money Location: Division Street Performances: 7 to 8 p.m., 8:15 to 9:30 p.m., 10 to 11 p.m.

FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, JULY 24-25 Racing City Chorus Location: Jos. A. Bank and Saratoga Cracker Performances: 7 to 7:45 p.m., 8 to 8:45 p.m., 9 to 9:45 p.m., 10 to 10:45 p.m.

SATURDAY, JULY 25 Fenimore Blues Location: Adirondack Trust Company on Broadway Performances: 7 to 8 p.m., 8:15 to 9:30 p.m., 10 to 11 p.m.

Steve Candlen Location: Ben & Jerry’s Performances: 7 to 8:30 p.m. and 9:30 to 11 p.m.

The Hot Club of Saratoga Springs Location: Caroline Street Performances: 7 to 7:45 p.m., 8 to 8:45 p.m., 9 to 9:45 p.m., 10 to 10:45 p.m.

Rick Rourke and Lost Wages Location: Division Street Performances: 7 to 8 p.m., 8:15 to 9:30 p.m., 10 to 11 p.m.

2013 Kreative Kids first place winner Frank Potter.

Photo by Adam Coglianese, NYRA.

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News & Notes SportsCenter Visits Saratoga Springs for Opening Weekend of Racing BRISTOL, CONN — ESPN’s SportsCenter will originate from Saratoga Springs, on Saturday, July 25 for Hats Off to Saratoga, the festival celebrating opening weekend at the Saratoga Race Course.

Sara Walsh will anchor from the paddock area (9 a.m.-noon ET on ESPN) as horses return

to their stalls following their morning workouts, and many of the expected 25,000 fans begin to gather for afternoon racing.

Joining her in Saratoga will be reporters Jeannine Edwards and Kenny Mayne.

Highlights of Saturday’s SportsCenter from Saratoga Springs:

— An on set appearance by seventime Eclipse Award-winning trainer Todd Pletcher

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— Interviews and scene-setting shots from around the historic track — An appearance by Saratoga celebrity Sam the Bugler, known for his world-famous ‘Call to the Post’ — A piece by Kenny Mayne on surviving the stormy 2008 Travers Stakes at Saratoga — A piece by Jeannine Edwards on the quirkiness of Saratoga where, among other things, horses have the right of way while crossing main thoroughfares en route to the track — A piece on the history of the track by Joe Tessitore, who told ESPN.com: “Having grown up in the area, spending so many August days at the track, I have always been intrigued by Saratoga’s past. From every seam of its wooden slats, Saratoga racetrack is full of character.”

“Saratoga is my favorite of all tracks,” said Edwards, who began her equine career at ‘The Spa’ as a 16-year old hot walker. “That first summer I worked for LeRoy Jolley who at the time trained Genuine Risk (filly who had just won the KY Derby) and Jaklin Klugman (third in the Derby).

Jaklin Klugman was owned by Jack Klugman, and he came to the barn every morning. It was a great time to be in the Jolley barn.

I thought: ‘This is just the neatest thing ever!’”

Opening weekend at the Spa to Feature New Attractions and Returning Favorites for 2015 Season SARATOGA SPRINGS — Racing fans will be greeted by a series of exciting new attractions, perennial favorite events and worldclass thoroughbred racing when they return to Saratoga Race Course for the 147th racing season at the Spa. The 2015 season will get underway with gates opening at 11 a.m. on Friday, July 24. First race post time is 1 p.m.

Grandstand admission is $5 and clubhouse admission is $8.

The official unveiling of several new attractions for the 2015 season – including the allnew Saratoga Walk of Fame, will highlight opening Day. The covered structure, which features the

traditional Saratoga turrets and is located adjacent to the Carousel, will house a number of commemorative plaques honoring industry leaders, including owners, trainers and jockeys, who have made an indelible mark on thoroughbred racing at historic Saratoga Race Course.

The Saratoga Walk of Fame is the culmination of a new tradition, which began in 2013, to recognize the greats of the game with an emblematic Saratoga red jacket and a commemorative plaque on the eve of the Travers, Saratoga’s signature race and the nation’s oldest major stakes race for three-year-olds. The new attraction will provide a permanent home for the plaques - and their narratives - where guests can learn about the honorees’ contributions to racing at Saratoga. The Saratoga Walk of Fame will be open to the public daily throughout the 2015 meet.

Fans will also for the first time be invited to enjoy Saratoga’s newest hospitality area at the sports bar in the lower Carousel.

Located within close proximity to the trackside apron, the lower Carousel includes five dozen tables available for daily reservation and a new sports bar which features an extensive craft beer selection, popular food vendors, and 40 flat-screen televisions showing both racing and other sporting events.

Table reservations for the sports bar in the lower Carousel and for approximately 100 picnic tables that have been added for daily reservation in the backyard can be made online at Ticketmaster.com or by calling the NYRA Box Office at 844-NYRA-TIX. Reserved seating inventory is limited and subject to availability. The number of tables in the backyard available on a first-come, first-served basis has not changed: 850 free tables are available — a 70 percent increase since 2011.

The newly revitalized lower Carousel will also be the home to the third new attraction for the 2015 season – the Tom Durkin Replay Center, which honors one of the most renowned announcers in the history of the racing industry. Guests will have the opportunity to view and hear 24 classic calls by former announcer Tom Durkin, who retired in 2014 at the conclusion of the Saratoga meet after serving as the indelible voice of the New York Racing Association for 24 years. The Tom Durkin Replay Center will be

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

open to the public daily throughout the 2015 meet.

Additionally, Opening Day will welcome the return of the popular Taste NY: Craft Beer tasting at Saratoga, which allows track patrons the opportunity to sample numerous craft beers produced exclusively by New York State breweries. Featured breweries on Opening Day include Spa staples Olde Saratoga Brewing Company and Druthers Brewing Company. The tasting will be held each Friday from noon to 5 p.m. in the Saratoga Pavilion.

Sampling fee applies.

On Friday and Saturday evenings, racing fans will be invited downtown to celebrate the return of the thoroughbreds during the annual Hats Off to Saratoga Festival in Saratoga Springs from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Opening weekend will continue with Fashion Saturdays on July 25 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Saratoga Pavilion. Prizes for the best-dressed man and woman will be awarded each Saturday afternoon, including participation in a trophy presentation for the Fashion Saturday race.

Participating shops on opening weekend include Hat Sational

by DEI, Lifestyles of Saratoga, Rumors Salon and Spa and menswear from The National.

Sunday of opening weekend at Saratoga Race Course will feature a millinery theme with the return of the 24th annual Hat Contest. The Spa tradition, which has become a staple of opening weekend, will welcome guests to don their most fashionable and creative hats and parade in front of judges for the chance to win a variety of Saratoga Race Course prizes. Participants are invited to compete in three distinct categories: Uniquely Saratoga, Fashionably Saratoga, and Kreative Kids. Registration for the Hat Contest will begin at noon under the Saratoga grandstand. The competition will take place after the second, third and fourth races on the track apron.

Guests will be invited to the Saratoga Pavilion on Sunday to browse and shop a lively on-track market featuring products made exclusively in New York State during Taste NY: Food & Artisans.

The weekly market, held from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., will feature nearly 20 vendors offering food and artisan products such as jams, honey, baked goods and handcrafted soap, amongst other items.

Fans will also have the opportunity to take home the first

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

premium giveaway of the 2015 season: a free Saratoga baseball cap, with paid admission, while supplies last.

The extended opening weekend will conclude with the return of the newly expanded and enhanced Berkshire Bank Family Mondays, presented

by Mister Softee, on July 27 in the Saratoga Pavilion from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The weekly family festival will enable families and children to experience and enjoy a wide array of fun activities against the backdrop of historic Saratoga Race Course, including the opportunity to pet a retired thoroughbred.

Opening weekend will also feature its traditional lineup of world-class thoroughbred racing, highlighted by the first Grade 1 of the meet – the $500,000 Diana for fillies and mares on the turf on Saturday.

The day’s card will also include the $150,000 Sanford for 2-year-olds. The action will continue on Sunday with the Grade 1, $300,000 Coaching Club American Oaks, a 1 1/8-mile race for 3-year-old fillies.

For more information about Saratoga Race Course, call (518) 584-6200 or log onto www.nyra. com/Saratoga.

WINNER’S Equine Advocates to Honor Legendary Cartoonist Peb and Eclipse Awardwinning Writer Bill Heller at Saratoga Awards Dinner Heller and Hall of Fame Jockey Jose Santos to Speak at Northshire Bookstore as Prelude to Gala SARATOGA SPRINGS — Equine Advocates Fourteenth Annual Awards Dinner & Charity Auction will be held on Thursday, July 30 at the historic Canfield Casino in the heart of Saratoga Springs. Legendary equine cartoonist, Peb and Eclipse Award-winning turf writer and author, Bill Heller will join the roster of individuals who have been honored by Equine Advocates since 2002 for their outstanding contributions in the area of equine protection.

Peb (Pierre Bellocq) is being honored for using his art and creativity over the years for bringing much-needed attention for the need to ensure humane treatment of equine athletes bred for racing.

Now 88, Peb became famous as the Staff Cartoonist for the Daily Racing Form, a position he held for more than five decades. He came to the United States from his native France in 1954 at the invitation of then Laurel Race Course owner,

27 CIRCLE

John D. Shapiro who commissioned him to create the logo and artwork for the inaugural running of the Washington, D.C. International at Laurel. Exhibitions of Peb’s work have been held in the United States and France, including at the famed Wildenstein Gallery in New York City and the National Museum of Racing in Saratoga Springs.

Bill Heller, author of 25 books and countless articles is being awarded a special equine protection award for writing After the Finish Line – The Race to End Horse Slaughter in America and for founding The Ferdinand Fee in New York, one of the earliest programs of its kind instituted to help protect race horses from slaughter and abuse.

In celebration of this event and as a special treat for racing fans prior to the start of the 2015 Saratoga race meet, Bill Heller will join retired Hall of Fame Jockey, Jose Santos for an entertaining talk and book signing on Wednesday, July 22 at 7 p.m. at the Northshire Bookstore (424 Broadway) in downtown Saratoga Springs. Heller wrote three biographies about famous jockeys, including Above it All – The Turbulent Life of Jose Santos that will be available at the book signing.

Equine Advocates Annual Awards Dinner & Charity Auction is

well known for its exciting and often unusual live auction items and this year’s gala is no exception. Here is a preview of some of the amazing items and trips that will be up for bid: — A One-of-a Kind Fiberglass Horse painted by Peb featuring some of his hilarious cartoons — VIP Set Visit for two to “The Good Wife,” starring Julianna Margulies — “Sleeping Beauty,” Peb’s original work of American Pharaoh’s awakening of the Triple Crown — Kentucky Derby Experience for Four: Seats for the 2016 KY Derby and KY Oaks in the exclusive Team Valor Box - three nights at the world-renowned Brown Hotel in Louisville — Rare and out-of-print art by Peb, including the limited edition of “Secretariat and Riva Ridge,” a box set of caricatures and sketches commissioned by Penny Chenery. Only 100 of these sets were published in 1973 — Whitney Stakes/Horseplayers Weekend for Two with Jack Knowlton of Funny Cide fame and Kevin Cox, better known as “The Brooklyn Cowboy”

— “Saratoga Colors,” an original oil painting by famed equine impressionist artist, Peter Williams — La Dolce Maserati Experience for Eight – Experience the thrill and power of driving Maseratis in the Adirondacks at the peak of fall foliage season; enjoy Italian delicacies and thrilling excursion in an elegant Art Deco vintage rail car — Authentic Funny Cide memorabilia, including a halter and horseshoe and other items commemorating the 2003 Kentucky Derby & Preakness winner and New York Bred champion — An exclusive Meet and Greet with Kelly Ripa, special mementos from the show and VIP seats to Live with Kelly and Michael The evening will include cocktails, a sit-down gourmet dinner

by Mazzone Hospitality, the award presentations, exciting silent and live auctions and dancing to the music of the sensational New York Players. General tickets are $250 per person. Seats at front tier tables are $500 per person. For more information, call (518) 392-0175.

28 WINNER’S

CIRCLE

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

Handicapping The Trainer’s Intent

by Tom Amello for Saratoga TODAY One hallmark of the annual meeting at Saratoga Race Course has been the number of trainers and owners who “ship” horses to Saratoga from venues around the country.

Incentives to do so are great. First, purse money at this meet is greater than most, if not all others. Second, prestige for winning at our premier meeting is unparalleled, especially in juvenile and stakes races.

But times have changed for shipin outfits. The Condition Book, a list of all races that might be run on any particular day of the meet and identifying which horses are eligible to run in those races, remains the trainer’s bible. However, in the days of the 24-day meet, shippers often found but one opportunity to run, requiring careful study of the Book to find the best spot. As the meet expanded to

its current 40-day configuration, outof-town connections found increased opportunities and options to run multiple times. The option for two or even three runs altered preparation and intent. In earlier times, ship-in trainers focused preparation in races prior to the meet. Today, these same trainers might use an early race as preparation for a more suitable spot later in the meet.

Additionally, with purse monies on the NYRA circuit enhanced through video slot revenue, more and more trainers from other circuits around the country have regularly obtained stalls and raced horses at New York’s Belmont spring meet.

While several lesser-known, even obscure, trainers will arrive to test the waters at the Spa, many are already known to regular Saratoga race goers.

Part of a handicapper’s skill set is identifying trainer intent. Why has this trainer, with the acquiescence of his/her bill-paying owner, entered this particular horse in this particular race? Fundamental to that question is the understanding that, for various reasons, all horses in all races are not necessarily in today for the win today.

That might sound larcenous, but it’s not. Horses, especially off long layoffs, often need a race to gain conditioning and fitness. Horses are sometimes entered to race but not at their best distance, or on their best surface. Given that ship-in

connections very much want to win a race at Saratoga, estimating to what degree a horse fits today’s spot in the context of its most recent race record identifies trainer intent.

And, a horse’s most recent race record and form, whether racing on the NYRA circuit or out of town, might be “dirtied” up or hidden.

Remember, Saratoga has a reputation as the “Graveyard of Favorites.”

Handicappers can expect to see shippers last raced at Aqueduct (long layoffs), Arlington Park (mostly turf), Churchill Downs, Delaware Park, Del Mar, Finger Lakes (dirt), Gulfstream Park, Monmouth Park, Parx Racing, Woodbine, and a few other lesser known tracks. Decades ago the norm was to downgrade horses last raced at Belmont Park early in the meet in favor of shippers. Over recent meets, horses last raced in New York’s have dominated shippers. Trainers from Churchill Downs, for example, once won more than their fair share of starts but struggled to win races at Saratoga in both 2013 and 2014.

When asked about ship-in and lesser known trainers recruited by the NYRA racing office for this meeting, Senior Vice President of Racing Operations Martin Panza offered the following names: Mark Casse, Joe Sharp, Brian Lynch, Keith Desormeaux and W. Brett Calhoun.

Mark Casse is 1/13 over the last three meets but trains several stakes

caliber horses including recent winner of Belmont Park’s Just A Game Stakes, Tepin. Casse races at Woodbine and is currently winning at 17% with 45% of his runners finishing in-the-money.

Joe Sharp went out on his own after years as an assistant on the Louisiana circuit. He has a string stabled in New York. As of June 25 Sharp has 6 wins from 29 starts at NYRA (21%). His record with firsttime starters is 9-2-3-1. Sharp is just that, and a budding star.

Brian Lynch is a Woodbinebased trainer who has performed well at Saratoga in the past, winning turf stakes under top rider John Velazquez. He started 11 horses over the last three meets, 3/10 over turf with 7/10 finishing in-the-money.

His stock is usually well meant.

Keith Desormeaux has not started a horse at Saratoga in the last three meets. He trains the very good but unlucky three-year old Texas Red, who gave a good accounting at Belmont in his return from injury and is pointed for the Jim Dandy at Saratoga.

W. Brett Calhoun is another from the Louisiana and Mid-West Circuits.

He started but 9 horses with one win over the last three meets. Dirt sprints are his strong suit; he wins 22% in Maiden Special Weight company and 24% with two-year olds.

The major percentage of races at Saratoga will be won by New

York-based trainers and horses last raced at both Belmont Park or after a race over the track, last raced at Saratoga. Identifying and understanding trainer intent, local or shipper, is essential for a successful day at Saratoga Race Course.

Tom Amello began his Thoroughbred education over 50 years ago, learning the game from his father and uncle, two old-time New York punters who never met a favorite they could like! In 1984, Tom created his own database of New York trainers & horses that became the foundation for his Saratoga selection sheet, Trackfacts, which debuted at the 1989 Spa meet and continues to be available at Saratoga Race Course. In 1992, Trackfacts the OTB television show debuted. Trackfacts Live covered New York and national racing. In addition, Tom has conducted numerous handicapping seminars and workshops, including participation in “Count Down to…” programs at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame and the annual NYRA Open House at Saratoga Race Course. In 2013, Tom published Playing the Odds Board: Gateway to the Game ™, a guide that makes racing and betting easier to understand and more fun for those new to Thoroughbred racing. Tom is a member of the National Turf Writers and Broadcasters. Contact Tom at trkfacts@nycp.rr.ocm.

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

29

30

LOCAL BRIEFS

The Extraordinary Journey – Adventure Camp 2015 The Saratoga Abundant Life Adventure Camp is a vacation bible school for youth entering Kindergarten through sixth grade.

This camp, located at 2325 Route 50, Saratoga Springs, runs for five days starting August 3 and continuing through August 7, from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Event highlights include: opening large group gatherings including dynamic worship, creative object lessons, and lots of laughter; age-appropriate smaller group lessons with an emphasis on experiencing truth and applying it to real life; crafts, games, and sports; refreshments; closing large group gatherings featuring an interactive puppet show; closing day celebration. The registration deadline is July 25. Late fees on registering after July 25th are $10 per child. No registrations once camp has started. For more information visit www.SALChurch.org or call the office at (518) 885-5456.

History, Legends, Lore and More Guided Walking Tour A 90 Minute Walking Tour concentrates on historic Congress Park and the colorful characters that helped make Saratoga what it is. This guided tour of legends and lore will walk you through history while sipping the famous mineral waters and strolling through the Victorian Congress Park. Tours take place in July and August, each Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Tours will take place rain or shine and leave from the Saratoga Heritage Area Visitor Center located at 297 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866. $5.00 per person, children under 12 are free. For more information, contact the Saratoga Heritage Area Visitor Center (518) 587-3241, http://www. saratogaspringsvisitorcenter.com/.

Volunteers Needed Are you 55 and over looking for a volunteer opportunity? Saratoga County Retired and Senior

Volunteer program is looking to recruit kitchen volunteers to assist with serving meals and clean up for the Senior Nutrition Program. Days are flexible with your schedules Monday-Friday.

Hours are between 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. the meal site is located at the Adult and Senior Center of Saratoga at 5 Williams St. in Saratoga Spring. For more information and details, please call Janet Haskell (518) 884-4110.

upcoming school year throughout Saratoga County. Volunteers would go in for about a half hour once a week. Orientation and support will be provided. This is a very rewarding opportunity to participate in. RSVP volunteers are men and women age 55 and older who use their lifetime skills to provide a great range of services to community organizations. If you are interested please contact Janet Haskell at (518) 884-4110.

Veteran Volunteers Needed

Operation Adopt a Soldier, Inc. Fundraiser

The Saratoga National Cemetery Honor Guard Association provides military burial ceremonies for all branches of service at the Saratoga National Cemetery. We are always looking for veterans to join us, no matter what branch you served in (male or female); you must have been honorably discharged. You can choose which day of the week (Monday-Friday) that you want to volunteer. For information go to our website www.snchga. com or contact Mark Brockway at brockway18@hvwisp.net , phone (518) 260-9933 or contact the Cemetery Administration Office 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville, NY 12871, Phone (518)-581-9128.

Elderly Nutrition Program The Saratoga County Office of the Aging Elderly Nutrition Program is currently distributing the Farmers’ Markets Coupons to those who qualify. Coupons can be picked up at the Office for the Aging at 152 West High Street in Ballston Spa from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday. Coupons will also be available at the Office for the Aging information events throughout the county at various meal sites.

For more information call (518) 884-4100.

Discovery Box Program Volunteers This mentoring program is designed to help young children improve their reading and understand of what they have read.

A Discovery Box is a decorated theme box that includes related books and language and art activities. Using the box, volunteers will work individually with a child, foster a love of books, help raise comprehension levels, and share the enjoyment of reading. We are looking for volunteers for the

On Saturday, August 1, Operation Adopt A Soldier, Inc. is having a Golf Tournament Fundraiser at the Airway Meadows Golf Club, 262 Brownville Road, Gansevoort.

Registration is $100 per golfer; check-in at 12:30 p.m. OAAS is an all-volunteer, 501(c)(3) charitable organization whose mission is to send care packages to deployed soldiers and help veterans here at home. Registration includes 18 holes of golf with cart and Boars Head picnic of meat/cheese platter, hot dogs, burgers, salads, dessert and coffee. There will be prizes, 50/50 drawing, basket raffles, and silent auction. Call Tim at (518) 791-5270 to register or email: operationadoptasoldier2003@ yahoo.com.

Old Friends at Cabin Creek 6th Annual Cocktail Party Old Friends at Cabin Creek & Rosie Napravnik invite you to spend a beautiful night out in Saratoga Springs as we present Jack Knowlton with our “Old Friends” award. Jack is being recognized for his contributions to racing and his support of Old Friends and dignified retirement for all racehorses.

The party will be held at Siro’s located at 168 Lincoln Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY. August 3, 2015 from 6 – 10 p.m. Music, hors d’oeuvres, dinner, cash bar, live auction. Tickets are $100 per person and can be purchased in advance at: www. oldfriendsatcabincreek.com

EOC 8TH Annual Visión Visión - a look at life behind the scenes is one of the highlights of the Saratoga racing season, highlighting stirring artwork, fabulous food, a premier setting, and the

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015 opportunity to celebrate the many individuals who help make Saratoga special. As the principle fundraiser for the Saratoga County EOC’s Latino Community Advocacy Program, the event will feature an opening reception for new photos to EOC’s black and white photography project “Estamos Aquí” (We are Here). Estamos Aquí is a curated exhibit and ongoing project of the Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council, Inc. in which Latino immigrants document their everyday lives and present their own photographs in order to share their experiences of living and working in the Saratoga Springs area. Through this inspiring photo collective, a unique insight is provided into the lives of those who contribute so meaningfully to our community.

The 8th annual Visión - a look at life behind the scenes will take place on at the famous Saratoga Race Course in The Rail on Tuesday, August 4, 2015 from 5:30 p.m. 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $60. Advance reservations are currently being accepted, though seating is limited. Please contact Kristi Fox (SCEOC) at 518-2883206 ext. 111 or email at k.fox@ saratogaeoc.org for reservations.

Tickets are for sale online at http:// www.brownpapertickets.com/ event/1673284.

Annual Cardboard Boat Races The race will be held on Saturday, August 8, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. (rain date August 9) at Fort Hardy Beach, Route 29, Schuylerville. New this year, Firefighters Challenge Race. Hudson Crossing Park presents a family fun day that’s free for spectators, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Best photos opportunities are from noon – 2 p.m. On-site registration and construction for competitors is open from 8 – 11:30 a.m. More information, rules, online pre-registration discounts, and cardboard boat building links are available at www.hudsoncrossingpark. org. This event is sponsored in part by the Erie Canal Way National Heritage Corridor, NYS Canal Corporation, Schuylerville Chamber of Commerce, GE and Stewarts Holiday Match.

Self Defense and Safety Education for Women Old Friends at Cabin Creek is offering our community a very special workshop designed to give

women the skills they need in all phases of life and to be Fearless when confronted with challenges. On August 11, 2015, 9:00 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Self Defense and Safety Education for women will be presented by Lady Sensei of New York, Motivational speaker, Martial Arts Expert (Please note this is a physical workshop so wear comfortable clothing and footwear). Also, “I am Fearlessly Me” presented by Christina Beauchemin, Life Coach and facilitator, Laurie Bonser of Changing Times Financial Health, Wellness and Fitness, a farm tour, Saratoga Winery Wine Tasting, Jewelry, Massages, and Skin Care.

Cost is $25 per person. Advance tickets can be purchased via PayPal at www.oldfriendsatcabincreek.com as well the day of the event.

Annual Benefit Tournament for Code Blue of Saratoga Springs Airway Meadows will be holding the annual benefit tournament on Saturday, August 15, 2015 with check-in at 11:30 a.m. The format is an 18 hole, 4-player scramble. Afterwards there will be a BBQ picnic during the awards announcements. There will be prizes for low gross/low net teams and other on course competitions.

In addition, there will be a raffle drawing, silent auction and a live auction. Cost is $89 per player and deadline for entry is August 9th.

Hole sponsor signs are also available for $60 each. Call Airway Meadows Golf Club at (518) 792-4144 for more information or visit our website www.airwaymeadowsgolf.com.

9th Annual Clifton Park Elks Car, Truck and Bike Show On Saturday, August 22, the Clifton Park Elks Lodge # 2466 will hold its 9th Annual Car Show. The Lodge is located at 695 MacElroy Road, Ballston Lake, NY. All years and makes of cars, trucks and motorcycles are welcome. We have over 50 awards to registered vehicles. Fun, Music, 50/50 Raffles, and Great Food. Come see the contestant vehicles. Registration starts at 9 a.m. until noon and awards around 3:30 p.m. Contestant registration is $10; spectators are free.

Rain date is Sunday, August 30. For Information call John Harrington @ 518-322-1551 or Mike Bendetti @ 495-0240 or visit the website: http:// www.elks.org/SharedElksOrg/lodges/ files/2466_Carshowflyer2015.pdf

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

CALENDAR 31

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

Family Friendly Event

Friday, July 24 Jack in the Beanstalk Arts Building, 320 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 10:30 a.m.

Wild Apple Puppetry is presenting puppet shows monthly in Saratoga Springs.

Admission is $3 (cash only). For more information, visit www. wildapplepuppetry.com.

The Navajo Horse Healing Project at Old Friends at Cabin Creek Old Friends at Cabin Creek, 483 Sand Hill Rd., Greenfield Center, 11 a.m.

We are pleased to welcome The Navajo Horse Healing Project for the blessing of our retired horses and to pray for the safety and protection of all the racehorses running at the Saratoga track this season. Please join us at our farm for the blessing. It is respectfully requested that there are no pictures taken or conversation during the ceremony. For more information visit, www. oldfriendsatcabincreek.com.

Skidmore Chamber Music Institute: Final Student Performance Arthur Zankel Music Center, Ladd Hall, Skidmore Campus, 5 p.m.

Featuring Decoda and institute participants. Free and open to the public. Additional performance at 1 p.m. on Saturday, July 25. For more information call (518) 580-5546

Saturday, July 25 19th Annual Silks & Satins 5k Run Registration on the corner of East Ave & George St, Saratoga Springs, 8 – 10 a.m.

The 19th Annual Silks & Satins 5K Run to benefit Special Olympics New York takes runners on a tour of beautiful

Saratoga Springs. This fast, flat course begins with a breathtaking view of the thoroughbreds as they start their morning warmup. Register the day of the race to earn goodies and support a great community organization!

Registration begins at 6 a.m.

For more information and to register for the race, visit https:// www.silksandsatins5k.com// RaceManagement/register.php

Saratoga Stories: Magic and Loss Northshire Bookstore, 424 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 7 p.m.

Fifteen stories, dozens of images and an exclusive timeline of Saratoga Springs and the Saratoga Performing Arts Center are woven together to tell the story of an extraordinary American city. The first printing of the book, published June 16, sold out, and a second, updated edition is currently available.

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the book on the night of the event will go to support Saratoga Code Blue, an emergency shelter serving homeless people in Saratoga Springs. For more information, visit Northshire Bookstore at www.northshire.com.

Sunday, July 26 Dharma Meditation with Pierre Zimmerman One Big Roof, Center for Mindful Practices, 538 Maple Ave., Saratoga Health & Wellness Building, Saratoga Springs, 9-10:15 a.m.

Weekly meditation followed by short discussion. All contemplative traditions honored.

By donation. For more information call (413) 992-7012 or visit www. oneroofsaratoga.com.

Summer Stroll: Historic Fifth & Madison Avenues Northeast Corner of Nelson & Fifth Avenues, Saratoga Springs, 10:30 a.m. – Noon Join Jason Scott to learn about these grand residential streets lined with elegant Victorian and Craftsman houses.

Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation Tours are rain or shine. Allow 90 minutes.

Requires walking & standing and covers varied terrain. Preregistration preferred.

Summer Concert Series Congress Park, War Memorial, 7 – 8:30 p.m.

The Saratoga Convention and Tourism Bureau will be presenting the Visitor Center free summer concert series in Congress Park in July and August. This week enjoy music by Sonny & Perley - wellloved American & International songbook standards. For more information call (518) 581-3241 or visit www.discoversaratoga.org.

Monday, July 27 Hay, Oats & Spaghetti Bravo! 3246 S. Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 6 – 10:30 p.m.

Hosted by Mama Mia’s owners Giuseppe and Lauren Grisio at their newest location: Bravo! (formerly Jack Dillon’s) is a Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation fundraiser.

Buffet served from 6 – 9 p.m., cost is $75.00. For more information, call (518) 226-0028

Tuesday, July 28 24th Summer in Saratoga Craft Show Congress Park, Saratoga Springs, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. up to 40 vendors with 100’s of crafted items. Takes place rain or shine every Tuesday during racing season.

Summer of Service Open House Saratoga National Cemetery, Public Information Center, 200 Duell Rd., Schuylerville, 10 a.m. – noon.

The Saratoga National Cemetery Honor Guard Association would like to invite you to the Summer of Service Open House being put on by the Saratoga National Cemetery. All are welcome to attend: For information call (518) 581-9128.

Wednesday, July 29 Make a Marble Run Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St., Saratoga Springs, 2 – 3 p.m.

Building a marble run with friends and family facilitates the growth of social and communication skills and is a good introduction to STEM. Little hands will also develop strength and coordination, and fine motor skills while using problem-solving skills that encourage their natural

curiosity about the world. For ages 5 and up with a parent or caregiver. Please register by calling the children’s room at ext 305. Presented by the Capital District Child Care Council.

Local Town Websites

Saratoga Shakespeare : “Love’s Labours Lost”

Town of Ballston:

Congress Park, Saratoga Springs, 6 p.m.

This playful and funny production reimagines Shakespeare’s classic comedy in Ragtime era Saratoga. With a bevy of comedic characters, and the sights and sounds of summer jazz as a backdrop, our King and friends find that, perhaps, the study of the opposite sex is in fact the highest of all academic endeavors.

Malta Summer Concert Series: Seth and the Moody Melix Malta Community Center, 1 Bayberry Drive, Malta, 6 p.m.

The Malta Summer Concert Series takes place Wednesday nights at 6:00pm through August 19.

These free, fun family concerts are provided by the Town of Malta Parks & Recreation Department, and are made possible by grant funding from the GlobalFoundries - Town of Malta Foundation, Inc. Concerts will take place on the front lawn of the Malta Community Center, or inside the center if inclement weather occurs.

Bring a picnic, blanket, and/or lawn chairs! Free admission.

Thursday, July 30 Wildflower Walk Saratoga Spa State Park, 2 – 3 p.m.

Enjoy a relaxing walk around the park while learning about the medicinal qualities, legends, and folklores surrounding the wildflowers that grow here. All ages welcome. This is a free program, but registration is required. Please call (518) 5842000 Ext. 150 to register

Free Concerts in the Park Wiswall Park, Front St., Ballston Spa, 6 – 8 p.m.

The concert series, which is known for its diverse line-up of musicians, has a little bit of everything from swing to country to indie rock to a Beatles tribute band. The concerts run for 10 weeks. This week’s concert features The Jump Daddies.

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.

32

FUN AND GAMES Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

Puzzles

Across 1 Plenty 6 Cologne scent 10 “Now it makes sense!”

14 2011 Cricket World Cup winner 15 Actress Gray of “Buck Rogers in the 25th Century” 16 Stores in rows 17 Film with the song “Maniac” 19 Formally proper 20 Philippine tongue 21 Gillette Mach3 predecessor 23 Uintah and Ouray Reservation residents 24 Film in which Garbo said, “I want to be alone” 29 Annoyances 31 Spanish demonstrative 32 __ Coast 33 Golfer nicknamed “The Big Easy” 35 Winter coat 37 Buck Rogers portrayer __ Gerard 38 Private club ritual, and a hint to this puzzle’s circles 43 Lines of praise 44 One on a penny 45 Scarfed down 46 Like a new candle 48 Showed the way 50 Treats, as an icy road 54 “Unsafe at Any Speed” author 57 Real card 58 Desert formation 59 Like monastic life 61 Non-PC purchase 63 “That’s news to me!”

66 Actress Tushingham 67 Slimming option, for short 68 __ position 69 Biz bigwig 70 Twirled 71 Easy paces Down 1 Elate 2 Airing in the wee hours 3 Words of wisdom 4 Earthquake, perhaps 5 Satirist Mort 6 Thin, on the Thames

See puzzle solutions on page 46

See puzzle solution on page 46 7 Coffee holder 8 [that’s what it said] 9 Massage 10 “Whose Line Is It Anyway” technique 11 1777 battle site 12 Yalie 13 Street of nightmares 18 Husky, for one 22 Yearns 25 Embarrassed 26 It may follow eleven 27 Actor Estrada 28 Lovett of country 30 Spade and Hammer 34 Subway map dot: Abbr.

36 Cavity filler’s org.

38 Fermented, as milk

39 Novelist Ferber 40 Pen pal?

41 Island dance 42 More nourishing 47 Medicinal syrup 49 Precise 51 Didn’t come clean with 52 Clawed 53 Advances a base, in a way 55 Gets precisely 56 Appear in print 60 Piano on a piano?

61 Sore feeling 62 Socialize 64 With it 65 “The Simpsons” shopkeeper

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: Decry, Descry Decry means to openly condemn or ridicule something.

The faculty has a right to decry the cuts in the budget.

Descry means to see or catch sight of, often from a distance.

Some nights you can actually descry the blue whales out at sea.

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

RELIGION 33

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015 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.

The Alliance Church 257 Rowland St, Ballston Spa 885-6524 | Services: Morning Worship 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.

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.

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 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 10:30 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.

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.

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. Robert Kersten Services: Sunday 11 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.

Saratoga Chabad 130 Circular St, Saratoga Springs 526-0773 | saratogachabad.com

* — Handicap Accessible

34

FOOD

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

Sneaking in the Veggies Saturdays, 9 to 1 Wednesdays, 3 to 6 High Rock Park We’ve heard it before…

Americans just aren’t getting enough vegetables these days.

Rich in vitamins, antioxidants, nutrients, and fiber, it’s hard to understand how so many can resist. But the facts tell us that less than 30% – that’s seven out of every ten Americans – are failing to meet the recommended vegetable servings per day. The good news is, by making a few simple changes you will see that increasing your family’s daily veggie intake can be much easier than you once thought.

Struggling with a picky eater?

This is a case when it’s okay to be

sneaky in the kitchen. With our 15 simple tips, you will avoid meal time battles, and increase the nutritional value of your family’s dishes! You’ll be able to stop worrying about what your child is eating, and start focusing on enjoying meals together in a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s a win-win!

To make it even easier, you can find fresh vegetables in all shapes, sizes, and colors at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market, including familiar favorites, heirloom varieties, and brand-new cultivars; every Wednesday and Saturday. Everything is grown and harvested (often times that same morning!) by talented and hard-working local farmers who are also excellent resources for preparation and recipes. Be sure to pick their brains when you come to the Market to stock up.

In the meantime, these great tips will get you started -- Here’s to good health and more veggies at your table!

15 SIMPLE WAYS TO SNEAK MORE VEGETABLES INTO YOUR DAY 1. Add peppers, tomatoes, mushrooms or onions to your eggs in the morning.

2. Blend greens like spinach with a smoothie that contains blueberries (the dark color with mask the green of the spinach).

3. Add pureed cooked cauliflower, winter squash, or red peppers to macaroni and cheese.

4. Incorporate grated zucchini, chopped mushrooms, and/or carrots into turkey burgers, meatloaf, and meatballs 5. Use vegetables instead of pasta. Try spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles.

6. Puree veggies like onions, carrots or pumpkin and add it to marinara or pizza sauce.

Iced Zucchini Cookies Yield: 4 dozen

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients * Ingredients can be found at the market 1 cup (2 sticks) of butter; softened 1 cup sugar ½ cup brown sugar 2 eggs* 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 cups zucchini; grated* 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon salt

7. Layer veggies like spinach in lasagna, or mix broccoli with manicotti when you make stuffed shells.

1 cup milk chocolate chips (optional- but highly recommended!)

8. Try replacing a bread serving and make your sandwiches wrapped inside leafy greens such as Bibb lettuce, romaine, red lettuce, or cabbage.

Frosting Ingredients: ¼ cup (½ stick) butter

9. Add shredded zucchini or summer squash to casseroles.

2-3 cups powdered sugar

10. Steam and mash cauliflower to mix into mashed potatoes.

11. Add finely chopped onions or shredded carrots to salmon or crab cakes.

12. Puree vegetables and make a bisque like butternut squash soup.

13. Pureed vegetables can also be added to creamy soups like clam chowder.

14. Recreate the chip. Try making chips with kale, mustard greens, or collard greens.

15. Vegetables can also be a delicious, healthy addition to desserts. Add them to breads, cakes, biscuits, pies, or even cookies; like this recipe for yummy Iced Zucchini Cookies. Enjoy!

2 tablespoons milk* ½ teaspoon vanilla

Total Time: 30 minutes

Directions Preheat oven to 350 ºF. In a bowl, beat together butter, sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla; mix well. Then add zucchini; and mix.

Add flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt to wet ingredients and combine until thoroughly incorporated. Fold in chocolate chips if using.

Drop dough by tablespoonfuls onto large baking sheets (these cookies spread a lot, so be sure to leave a good amount of space between them).

Bake for 12-18 minutes, until golden brown. Let cool.

Mix frosting ingredients together and scoop into a large (piping or Ziploc) bag. Snip the corner, drizzle frosting over cooled cookies and let harden.

TIP: These cookies freeze well once the frosting hardens!

FOOD 35

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

Skidmore Chefs Win First Prize

Butter Up! cooling butter, you can maintain it at a perfect spreading consistency. Water is used to provide an airtight seal protecting the flavor and freshness. For best results the Butter Keeper should be stored away from direct heat or sunlight and the water replaced every three days.

by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY Hello my Foodie Friends!

This week we are taking a page out of our youth by putting butter back on the table where it is nice and soft. When I was a boy there were some food items that seemed to be always in the middle of the kitchen table. They were a bowl of sugar, salt and pepper shaker and the butter dish. Well at the time I did not know that the butter was UHT (ultra high temperature pasteurized) but no one got sick. Now we have something at compliments to the chef that helps bring back the good old days and it’s called the Butter Keeper!

So, by insulating, protecting and

Skidmore chefs show off their awards. Photo Provided.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — College food isn’t known for being the best but Skidmore College is changing that reputation. This past June, chefs from Skidmore’s Dining Services won the gold medal at the 21st annual Tastes of the World Chef Culinary Competition held at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

This first place prize, won

by Eric DesRosiers, Stephen Fields, Ben Niese and Paul Karlson, is the third time Skidmore has won a gold medal for their food since 2014.

Endorsed by the American Culinery Federation, this event included culinary professionals from 21 colleges and universities, including Harvard, Penn State and UC Berkeley.

Award-winning courses. Photo Provided.

The Crown Grill Hosts Dark Tuesday Mixology Meet-Up SARATOGA SPRINGS — Every Tuesday during track season from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. The Crown Grill will be hosting a “Mixology Meet-up” at the bar. Learn how to expertly create a specialty libation featuring cocktails from classic to craft. Kicking off Tuesday, July 28 will be the signature Triple Crown cocktail (Prosecco, Aperol, Blood Orange Liqueur and Fresh Pressed Orange Juice). Featured cocktail

cost is just $5. Appetizers are buy one get one half off until 7 p.m.

Must be 21 and over.

The Crown Grill is also offering their summer menu featuring favorites like: grilled rack of lamb, filet mignon, oven roasted sea bass, homemade strawberry shortcake, crème brulee and more.

Weekly entertainment includes live Jazz every Friday at 7 p.m. and the legendary Al Bruno every

Sunday at 9 p.m. through racing season. The Crown Grill is located at 390 Broadway in Saratoga Springs. Open 7 days, serving dinner from 4pm. A casual lunch is available on Saturday and Sunday.

Patio dining, private Library dining room and catering are also available. For more information or to make a reservation, please call 518.583.1105 or visit their website at www.crowngrillsaratoga.com.

Instructions: 1. Place softened butter into the lid / holder. Holds up to ½ cup (1 stick) 2. Pour cold water into the base of the crock.

3. Place the lid / holder upside down back into the crock.

My friends, your butter will stay fresh, soft, and sweet for up to 30 days without refrigeration! Just remember to change your water!

My brothers and I spent many a day trying to sneak an almost-clean finger into the butter and maybe the sugar too! Of course, my sisters usually saw us and ratted us out!

And so my Foodie Friends, please remember that “Life Happens In The Kitchen”.

Take care, John and Paula

36

The

Tooth Fairy Club

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

Take a look at this week’s newest club members!

Tooth Fairy Club is sponsored by:

Nicole M. Byrne, D.M.D Pediatric Dentistry

659 Saratoga Road, Gansevoort, New York 12831 (518) 226-6010

William

Allison

Keegan

Morgan

Cantina Fun Run Raises $60,000

Local Sailor Named 2015 Navy Times Sailor of the Year

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The eighth annual Cantina Kids Fun Run, presented by Boston Futures Group, raised over $60,000 this year, with 768 registrants and over 100 volunteers taking part in the event.

Pictured here are, from left to right, Amy Raimo, Executive Director, Foundation and Vice President, Community Engagement, Saratoga Hospital; Heath Ames, Owner, Cantina Restaurant; Ann Marie Cross, MS, RN, NEA-BC, Administrative Director, Emergency and Urgent Care Services, Saratoga Hospital; Kathy McNeice, Business Manager, Saratoga Community Health Center; Renee RodriguezGoodemote, MD, Medical Director, Saratoga Community Health Center Saratoga Hospital Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Saratoga Hospital, Saratoga County’s leading

healthcare provider. As such, the foundation secures, manages, and distributes charitable gifts to support the mission of Saratoga Hospital and its affiliates. Over the

Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Sara Freeman from Ballston Spa was honored this week in Washington, DC as the 2015 Navy Times Sailor of the Year. A story about Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Freeman will appear in the most recent print issue of Navy Times and on Navy Times.com. The award was presented Tuesday, July 21 on Capitol Hill. Congratulations and thank you for your service!

years, the Foundation has raised more than $40 million for Saratoga Hospital programs and facilities, all of which benefit the people of the Saratoga region.

Happy 100th Anniversary to the Knights of Columbus!

Knights of Columbus 4th Degree Assembly #745 recently celebrated its 100th anniversary. The members gathered for a group photo at their June 22, 2015 meeting. Instituted in 1915, the Assembly’s primary principle is patriotism. Members provide services and donations to veterans and other patriotic causes throughout the Saratoga and Capital District areas. Photo by Terri-Lynn Pellegri.

Live music from Roger Wyatt’s film, “LIFE ON THE RUN” The creative team of Roger Wyatt and Letitia Splain Dayer will present a live musical performance from their upcoming Indie feature, “Life on the Run,” as part of the closing reception on July 30 for their art exhibit currently on display at the Coffee Planet Café, “Shards of Memory: Reflections and Glances from the Trail.” Wyatt is the director and Dayer is the producer of “Life on the Run.” The live performance will feature original compositions in two sets, one at 5

p.m. and another at 6 p.m. written and performed by local musician, Matthew G. The closing reception will be on Thursday, July 30, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Coffee Planet Cafe, located in downtown Ballston Spa at 100 Milton Avenue. “Shards of Memory” is an exhibit of images – with an accompanying book - by area artists, Letitia Splain Dayer and Roger B. Wyatt. The exhibition runs for the whole month of July. The reception is free and open to the public.

Letitia Splain Dayer is an expressive arts painter who describes her style of working as jazz painting, an intuitive process of creating images and the accompanying poetry. She is also the founder of the Barn at Bassett House (BBH), a community art space located 15 minutes east of Saratoga, on the shores of the Hudson River in Greenwich, NY. Filmmaker and digital artist, Roger Wyatt, conjures up images of the extraordinary found within the ordinary.

37 PULSE

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

Painter Shares her Talents with Saratoga continuously drawing them until she got it just right. Her love of horses is obvious through her work as is her fascination with painting still-life objects. She began painting still-life fruit and vegetables after working in conjunction with a restaurant that was promoting “farm to table” eating.

“Still-life forces you to see 3D shapes and flatten them out. This took a while for me to grasp actually. Once you see a still-life as a series of shapes, it becomes much easier to give them form and mass visually,” Broussard explained.

Besides still-life and equestrian, Broussard also likes to paint landscapes and architecture. On her weeklong visit to Saratoga, she plans on painting some of the local landmarks and scenery in the area.

“I’m really looking forward to coming to Saratoga. Just getting to know the area and soaking up the atmosphere. I guess I’ll be the quintessential tourist with a camera,” Broussard joked. “There are gorgeous mansions, beautiful parks, like Congress Park. It’s such a picturesque town.”

In regards to advice for aspiring artists, Broussard said, “Find an

“Sunday Afternoon.” Photo Provided.

by Rebecca Davis Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Artist Janet Broussard is traveling from her home in Texas to the Spa Fine Art Gallery on Broadway in Saratoga Springs for an artist reception and a live painting demo on Saturday, July 25. This is the perfect opportunity to learn about the artistic process and what goes on in the artist’s head as she works.

Beginning in the afternoon and going until the evening, visitors to the Gallery can watch Broussard finish several paintings and also ask her questions. Broussard acknowledges that “as an artist, it can be hard to explain your work,” so this demo allows viewers to see

Broussard in action and how she creatively develops a painting into a finished product.

Keeping in line with her impressionist style, Broussard focusses on light and shadow as well as emphasizing surface texture and line-quality.

Broussard paints every day and her usual method is to apply the paint thickly, often letting it dry before she breaks up lines with the end of her paintbrush to give each painting a sense of “movement and energy.”

“Sometimes while working on a painting it’s like a good book, you can’t put it down,” Broussard said.

“When I’m done with a painting I feel a sense of accomplishment and pride.”

Broussard discovered in grade school that she wanted to be an artist and always had a passion for horses,

See Movie Listings pg. 47

Broussard’s “Deconstructed Orange Juice.” Photo Provided.

artist you like and copy their work.

See how they mix and apply paint and really try to understand their process. If you do that, it’s almost like studying with them.”

Janet Broussard’s reception and live demo are free and open to

the public. From 6 to 9 p.m. there will be champagne and refreshments served. Broussard’s artwork will also be on display and available for purchase. For more information, please call 518-587-2411 or email Spafineart@aol.com.

PULSE

38

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

Miss Saratoga Pageant 2015 Charms County Fair SARATOGA SPRINGS — Young local ladies showed off their poise, confidence and great fashion sense at the Saratoga County Fair Pageant on Tuesday, July 21.

Categories ranged from Baby Miss, for girls between 12 and 23 months, all the way up to Fair Queen for 17 to 21 year olds. This year’s Fair Queen winner was Meagan Brownell, who received a cash prize, crown and sash. She will represent the fair for the rest of the week and for the year in the community.

Photos by Francesco D’Amico

Young Miss contestants.

Miss Saratoga County Fair Queen contestants.

Baby Miss winner Madilyn Kristel with Kelly Phillips (left) and Haley Curtiss (right).

Meagan Brownell, Miss Saratoga County Fair Queen2015.

Miss Sweetheart winner Eliza Perkins with mom Casey Perkins.

39 PULSE

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

3D Technology Comes to Grant Cottage

by Rebecca Davis Saratoga TODAY WILTON — This week, 3D scans were taken to make exact three dimensional measurements of Grant Cottage. Grant Cottage is currently applying for historic landmark status with the National Parks Department and the measurements taken will be a part of the application.

Dr. Michael “Bodhi” Rogers Ph.D., a professor of physics at Ithaca College, was accompanied by Scott Stull Ph.D. from SUNY Cortland and several students as he scanned the cottage with a Leical C-10 3D laser scanner. They recently scanned Lincoln Cottage in Washington, D.C. using the same technology.

This scanner works by sending out a pulsing laser that can take up to 50,000 readings per second.

However, technology is moving fast. Though the 3D scanner used

at Grant Cottage is only three years old, there are already new scanners out that can take up to a million readings every second.

The 3D scanning process involves three steps. First, a context scan is taken in low resolution that can scan 360 degrees around and 270 degrees in an arc above the scanner. Then, photos are taken to ensure the scan is finished as close to the real color of Grant Cottage as possible. Lastly, a high resolution scan is done that takes measurements of the building every five millimeters. This process is done eight times and each time the scanner is moved to a new location around the cottage.

President of Grant Cottage, Tim Welch, has hopes that this scanning will benefit Grant Cottage in many ways.

“Technically if Grant Cottage ever burned down, we would have measurements for an exact replica to

be made,” Welch says. “I’m also hoping to turn the 3D scans into a virtual tour we may have on our website.”

Furthermore, 3D scans would be useful in making any necessary repairs to the cottage. They could also be used to make a physical model for historical preservation.

This Saturday, July 25 marks the 130th anniversary of Ulysses S. Grant’s passing. To commemorate this event, there will be music and re-enactors that will recreate Grant’s family circle on the porch of Grant Cottage to share stories and memories of his life.

Grant Cottage will also be showing clips of D.W Griffith’s film “A Birth of a Nation” on July 31, beginning at dusk. This film was selected to spark a discussion about the racial violence in the film, violence Grant fought against during his lifetime.

For more information please visit GrantCottage.org or call 518-584-4353.

Shaking Up Shakespeare: Adirondack Shakespeare’s Fresh Approach

Doug Durlacher as Sir John Falstaff in “The Merry Wives of Windsor.” Photo Provided.

by Rebecca Davis Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Adirondack Shakespeare Company will be performing two of the Bard’s comedies at the National Museum of Dance as part of their summer festival season.

“The Merry Wives of Windsor” will be performed on Sunday, July 26 and “As You Like It” will be performed on Sunday, August 2. Both shows will start at 3 p.m.

The mission of the Adirondack Shakespeare Company is to produce exceptional plays without the added distractions of gaudy costumes and over-the-top sets. The focus is on the words of the play

itself and how the actors decide to convey the story to the audience.

“My favorite part about doing these plays is the genuine connection you build with the audience,” said Tara Bradway, artistic director at the company. “The simple props and costumes allow the audience’s imagination to take hold. Nothing gets in the way so they can enjoy the beauty of the language. We make our plays accessible and easily understood.”

Though you may see a wooden dowel instead of a sword, the Adirondack Shakespeare Company shows what really matters: the heart of the story.

The actors also get a lot of creative freedom with their characters

and how they present them. Katie Fanning, who is playing Rosalind in “As You Like It” is excited about the possibilities for these plays.

“The best thing is that in the whole range of characters, you can explore who you are and who you want to be on stage,” said Fanning. “It’s a dream as an actor, to be free to make your own choices. It’s like a playground and every performance is different.”

Without strict directions, the independence of the actors allows them to play with the script. What is impressive is that the actors have two months to prepare on their own after casting but only 15 hours of rehearsal together before the show goes on.

“We have a professional cast that is so talented at what they do,” said Bradway. “They deliver these plays exquisitely.”

Tickets to these shows are $20 for adults, $17 for students, seniors and veterans, and free for children 12 and under. Those who arrive early to the plays will get to see a 15 minute long live musical performance from the actors. Actors choose the songs based on their characters and the play itself. There will also be musical performances during intermission. The National Museum of Dance is located at 99 S. Broadway in Saratoga Springs.

For more information please visit adkshakes.org.

Students using the 3D laser scanner in front of Grant Cottage.

Photo by Sharon Castro.

PULSE

40

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

week of 7/24-7/30 friday, 7/24:

Radio Junkies, 10 pm @ Caroline St. Pub — 583.9400

George Giroux + Er Go Blu, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563

Christian Defrancqueville, 4 pm @ Almost Saratoga Pub — 587.0048

Karaoke, 10 pm @ Circus Café — 583.1106

Dirt Cheap, 6 pm @ Siro’s (Main Stage) — 584.4030

Tim Ortiz, 8 pm @ Bailey’s — 583.6060

Virgil Cain, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359

Paul Ferguson, 9 pm @ Bentley’s — 899.4300

Alicia Bautista, 6 pm @ Gideon Putnam — 584.3000

tuesday, 7/28:

Seth Glier, 8 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022

Cryin’ Out Loud, 6 pm @ Horseshoe Inn — 587.4909

Duo, 7 pm @ Carney’s Tavern — 952.7177

Pop City, 10:30 pm @ JP Bruno’s — 745.1180

Black Abbey Duo, 7 pm @ Carson’s Woodside Tavern — 584.9791

One Night Stand, 9 pm @ Nanola — 587.1300

Tailspin, 10 pm @ Caroline St. Pub — 583.9400

Keith Pray Quartet, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Avenue — 583.2582

Jeanne O’Connor Jazz Trio, 7 pm @ Crown Grill — 583.1105

Matt McCabe + Gary Blodgett, 6 pm @ Olde Bryan Inn — 587.2990

Rick Bolton + Jeff Walton, 5 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359

Muscatello, Zorn + Zucchini, 9 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026

Acoustic Circus, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359

Chris Dollard + The Lustre Kings, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563

Steve Candlen, 6 pm @ Gideon Putnam — 584.3000

Pink Talking Fish, 9:30 pm @ Putnam Den — 584.8066

Ubuntu, 9 pm @ Harvey’s — 583.0003

Master Cylinders, 6 pm @ Siro’s (Main Stage) — 584.4030

Audiostars, 6 pm @ Horseshoe Inn — 587.4909

On Your Mark, 7 pm @ The Mill — 899.5253

Matt McCabe + Gary Blodgett, 8 pm @ Jacob + Anthony’s — 871.1600

Commander Cody, 8 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916

Don Hoffman, 6 pm @ Nanola — 587.1300

Forthlin Road, 9:30 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916

JJ + The Impacts, 9 pm @ Nanola — 587.1300

Karaoke, 9:30 pm @ The Rusty Nail — 371.9875

Hot Club of Saratoga, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Avenue — 583.2582

Rich Clements Band, 3 pm @ The Saratoga Winery — 584.9463

Jeanine Ouderkirk Quartet, 8:30 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026

DJ Wolverine and DVDJ Dread, 9 pm @ Vapor — 581.5775

Nancy Kamen + Er Go Blu, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563

Roger Held, 7 pm @ Wishing Well — 584.7640

Ryan Montbleau Band / Lyle Brewer Trio, 9:30 pm @ Putnam Den — 584.8066

sunday, 7/26:

Up All Night, 8 pm @ Ravenswood — 371.8771 New York Players, 6 pm @ Siro’s (Main Stage) — 584.4030 The Accents, 7 pm @ The Mill — 899.5253 Forthlin Road, 9 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916 Sean Lyons, 8:30 pm @ The Rusty Nail — 371.9875 Rich Ortiz, 6 pm @ The Saratoga Winery — 584.9463 Grand Central Station, 8 pm @ Vapor — 581.5775 Christine Spero, 7 pm @ Wishing Well — 584.7640

saturday, 7/25: Karaoke, 9 pm @ Almost Saratoga Pub — 587.0048 North + South Dakotas, 8 pm @ Bailey’s — 583.6060 David Wilcox, 7 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022 Ubuntu, 9 pm @ Peabody’s — 886.8673 Take 2, 8 pm @ Carney’s Tavern — 952.7177 Just Nate, 7 pm @ Carson’s Woodside Tavern — 584.9791

Joel Brown + David Maswick, 7 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022 Al Bruno, 9 pm @ Crown Grill — 583.1105 Sirsy, 8 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 Rich Ortiz, 6 pm @ Horseshoe Inn — 587.4909 Black Abbey Duo, noon @ Harvey’s — 583.0003 Funk Evolution, 8 pm @ Nanola — 587.1300 Phil Drum, 6 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Andy Iorio + Dan Sherwin, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Dirt Cheap, 6 pm @ Siro’s (Main Stage) — 584.4030 The Refrigerators, 3 pm @ The Mill — 899.5253 Black Abbey, 8 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916

monday, 7/27: Erin Harkes, 8 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 Jeff Walton, 6 pm @ Horseshoe Inn — 587.4909 Tia Brazda, 7:30 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026

Rich Ortiz, 10 pm @ Caroline St. Pub — 583.9400 Two Step Tuesdays, 8 pm @ Crown Grill — 583.1105 Open Mic with Rick Bolton, 8 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 Chris Dollard + Melissa Marshall, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Mark Pratt, 5:30 pm @ Three Vines Bistro — 306.5881

wednesday, 7/29: Toga Boys, 8 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 Big Medicine, 6 pm @ Horseshoe Inn — 587.4909 Masters of Nostalgia, 8:30 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Franklin Micare, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Watch Dog, 6 pm @ Siro’s (Main Stage) — 584.4030 Celtic Session, 7 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916 Karaoke, 9 pm @ The Rusty Nail — 371.9875

thursday, 7/30: Soul Session, 8 pm @ Bailey’s — 583.6060 The Jump Daddies, 6 pm @ Ballston Spa — Wiswall Pk. — Open Mic, 7 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022 Matty Finn, 6 pm @ Carney’s Tavern — 952.7177 Toga Boys, 10 pm @ Caroline St. Pub — 583.9400 Open Mic, 10 pm @ Circus Café — 583.1106 Skippy + the Pistons, 8 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 TS Ensemble, 6 pm @ Horseshoe Inn — 587.4909 Jeff Walton, 6 pm @ Inn at Saratoga — 583.1890 Hot Club of Saratoga, 7 pm @ Mouzon House — 226.0014 Matt McCabe + Gary Blodgett, 6 pm @ Old Bryan Inn — 587.2990 Rich Ortiz, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Summer Pop Off, 9 pm @ Putnam Den — 584.8066 Al Bruno, 8 pm @ Seven Horse Pub — 581.0777 Grand Central Station, 6 pm @ Siro’s (Main Stage) — 584.4030 Scott Garling, 7 pm @ The Mill — 899.5253 Celtic Session, 7 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916 Mark Pratt, 5:30 pm @ Three Vines Bistro — 306.5881

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

41

42 It’s where NEED to be.

YOU

Publication Day: Friday

Ad Copy Due: Wednesday, noon

Space Reservation Due: Monday, 5 p.m.

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

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MORTGAGES

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1-800-382-HOME(4663)

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

43 HELP WANTED

Saratoga TODAY is seeking local freelance writers experienced in nonfiction news articles for occasional assignments covering sports, local government, business and general news. If interested, please send resume and writing samples to Norra Reyes at norra@ saratogapublishing.com.

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44

SPORTS

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

Thoroughbred Fishing

by Tim Blodgett for Saratoga TODAY If someone were to conduct a word association survey, it would go something like this…

Q: “Saratoga?”

A: “Horse racing.”

Q: “Horse racing?”

A: “Saratoga.”

Yeah, I know horse racing is two words but you get the picture.

Formerly the “August place to be” and now the “Summer place to be,” Saratoga Springs has parleyed 152 years of racing tradition into the 147th meet at the Saratoga Race Course. Not a bad feat considering it all began just a month after the Civil War Battle of Gettysburg.

The intervening years and international popularity have welded the Saratoga and horse racing brands together forever. I think horses are fine beasts and humankind is better off having domesticated them thousands of years ago. That being said, I wouldn’t own one if you gave it to me for free! They cost more to run than a bass boat and you need a lot more space to store one.

I’d like to re-brand Saratoga so that fishing is what pops into your mind when the word “Saratoga” is spoken. That’s a tall order so I have a compromise that I think will work.

Q: “Saratoga?”

A: “Thoroughbred fishing!”

Again, two words – but it kinda rolls off the tongue in an easy way and incorporates that other thing Saratoga is famous for. We’ve been blessed with an abundance of excellent fishing holes just a short drive from where the horses run in circles. If you need a break from the pari-mutuel windows, the crowd or the traffic head down the road a piece and don’t forget your fishing pole. I’ve written about fishing in Saratoga Lake quite a bit lately

because it’s a great fishery but I want to mention a few other places to try.

Lake Lonely is a hidden gem in Saratoga County’s fishing crown.

It’s just outside the city limits nestled between Interstate 87, Route 9P and Crescent Avenue. The access to Lake Lonely is on Crescent Ave. at Lake Lonely Boat Livery. The boat livery has been in continuous operation for the better part of a hundred years and was originally known as Ramsdill’s Boat Livery, named after the family that established the business. I got my start in the tackle business there in 1991 and stayed until 2006. My friend, Bill Parry has been there since offering rowboat rentals, launching, shore fishing and the bait and tackle you need to catch fish there.

Lake Lonely is loaded with largemouth bass, panfish and big northern pike. The lake is only about a mile long so it is perfectly suited to fishermen skippering smaller boats.

Weeds are abundant so prepare to do a little bushwhacking. Texas and wacky rigged worms, jig ‘n pigs and frogs drive bass crazy there or hang a large shiner under a bobber for pike. A trusty worm and bobber rig will fill your stringer with tasty panfish. Call (518) 587-1721 and ask for Bill for more information.

Round Lake is, well, round. It’s a “Kettle bowl” lake that formed at the end of the ice age when a big chunk of ice got stuck there and melted creating the lake with its bowl shaped contour. Located about 20 minutes south on Rt. 9 in the village of – you guessed it – Round Lake, it has a shiny new public boat launch and a healthy population of bass. An overabundance of panfish prompted the stocking of tiger muskies to help curb their numbers.

If you’re lucky enough to tangle with one of those beasts, you won’t soon forget it! A small lake perfectly suited for small boats, Round Lake offers anglers a great chance to catch a real wall hanger. Fish it the same way you would Saratoga Lake or Lake Lonely and make sure you throw a big flashy spinnerbait to catch the attention of the tigers lurking below.

Ballston Lake, in the town of the same name, is another great fishing spot with a new boat launch and a public fishing dock with handicap access. Vaguely dumbbell shaped, the lake offers a shallow weedy basin that largemouth bass prefer, a deep narrow passage with steep ledges

and a smaller basin with a gravel bottom that Smallmouth bass make home. I’m long overdue for a trip there and am eager to test my skill as a fisherman against the fish that reside there. I’ve never fished for the crappie that live in Ballston Lake and according to anglers I’ve talked to, I’m missing out. The public fishing dock is located on Outlet Rd. and has ample parking for visitors. You can also put in canoes, kayaks and rowboats at the outlet.

If moving water is more your style and trout is more to your liking, you don’t have to travel far.

Geyser Brook runs through the heart of the Spa State Park and is annually stocked with Brown and Rainbow trout. Easy access, picnic areas and the unique geography of the gorge it runs through make it a popular destination, especially if you have young anglers in need of alternate distractions and room to run. Even if you don’t catch fish, you will enjoy the sights and relax in a great environment.

The Kaydeross Creek is where I spent an enormous amount of time in my youth. I lived on its banks on the south edge of Saratoga Springs where it flows warm and slow. I learned how to twitch a rapala for smallmouth bass and find crayfish for bait there. I caught my first northern pike in the Kaydeross on a red and white Hula Popper and I still have a picture of it. If you want trout, you will have to fish quite a way upstream from my old stomping grounds starting in Ballston Spa. The Kaydeross is a stocked trout stream with a lot of holdovers and natural breeding in the upper section. It is open year round and has a great many access points. The best way to find these accesses is to get a county road map and drive the roads that follow along the creek’s winding path. DEC and town access points are numerous and if you’re willing to wade or walk the bank, you can find honey holes that the less adventurous

miss. The Kaydeross is a public fishing stream but you need to be respectful of the property owners along the banks. Worms and spinners worked through the pools and riffles will find fish eager to bite. Savvy fly fishermen hit the water in the late afternoon to take advantage of insect hatches that draw the more experienced trout out of their daytime hideouts.

I could talk about the Hudson River but I’ll leave that for another time. Trust me, it’s a great place to fish. Wherever your fishing adventure leads, carry out what you carry in and take an extra bag to gather what the less conscientious leave behind. One last thing to remember: HAVE FUN! Tim Blodgett, owner of Saratoga Tackle & Archery, can be reached at (518) 584-3952.

His store is located on Route 9P, Saratoga Lake next to the state boat launch. For further information, visit Saratogatackle.com or find Saratoga Tackle on Facebook.

Polo Legend Sunny Hale Returns to Saratoga Polo July 24 and 26

Sunny Hale at the Queens Cup, Thailand. Photo Provided.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — There are very few sports in the world where both men and women battle it out on the field, but polo in the modern era, and specifically in Saratoga, it happens at almost every match. In fact, Saratoga Polo has been at the forefront of championing women’s polo for almost a decade with the Veuve Clicquot Women’s Challenge every year.

This year, Saratoga Polo welcomes back Sunny Hale, the highest rated women’s polo player in history to The Veuve Clicquot Women’s Challenge alongside some of the top women polo players on July 24 and July 26, at 5:30pm, with the gates opening at 4pm, to bring more excitement to Whitney Field.

Sunny Hale is now an acclaimed author, penning the book “Let’s Talk Polo” to her already storied career.

Besides being the founder of the American Polo Horse Association, she is currently the highest rated woman polo player in America.

For tickets or more information, visit SaratogaPolo.com or call (518) 584-8108.

SPORTS 45

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

Given The Opportunity

by Damian Fantauzzi for Saratoga TODAY I’ve always felt that every person on this planet is given gifts at birth.

Whether it be from the arts, athletics, academics, so on and so forth.

But the question for mankind is: “What will you do with your gifts?”

This is the “stuff ” that evolves from our DNA and many people don’t recognize that they have special talents, and never pursue the dreams of their natural abilities.

This is life, and sometimes people shy away from this gifted encryption, and make what they’re presently doing, work! As irony would have it, these gifts will pop up arbitrarily and you will be given an opportunity to take another leap of temptation into using those innate gifts. Recognizing

spontaneity for what it is allows you to begin a process.

Are you using that creative thread now during the present time of your life? Creativity has no limits in whatever you’re doing.

Looking at something and seeing it in a new and original way is the first step in being creative. It is not always the arts, or sports, but whatever you bring into your life.

By asking yourself the question of being creative, you allow your self to open up to opportunity.

If you can’t stick to a single project it’s usually because your mind is so active that you are looking to move on to the next thing and not focusing on the process of current interest. Taking the initial step of generating as many ideas as

you can about what you want to do is a place to start focusing on your projected outcome. This is all part of the creative process. As profound as this sounds, it is the true nature of most creative beings.

My profoundness easily relates to my life, and I bet I’m not alone. Let me try to explain my point. Since I was in junior high, I had this passion for the game of basketball. I really can’t explain why that deep need to explore the game and learn to play was my obsession. My love for the game became my passion. Why do we develop passions? What’s in our nature that gives us a love for something, like a sport, or even a person?

How do you describe an emotion we call love? Love’s the end product of which there are variations and

degrees, never the less, a continuing process of passion for whatever, or whoever it might be.

When I finished my last year of college basketball, I sort of thought I was finished with the game that had had a profound effect on my life. A game that gave a young boy a chance: An opportunity to be successful at something and the focus to achieve. I was a kid with a speech handicap until 20 when it was surgically corrected. I was a youngster that took a lot of grief from those who got pleasure from teasing me and make fun of my physical handicap. But this isn’t about what I went through as a kid; it’s about how a game became such an integral part of my makeup, my DNA. I’m retired now, and recently I was honored by the Upstate New York/Capital District Basketball Hall of Fame, as a recent inductee.

I totally appreciate that honor, and I know there are those who were happy for me and thought I deserved this accolade, and there are those who don’t feel I deserve the honor. That’s the way it goes in the world of sports, and life, people either like you, or they don’t, with very little gray area.

That’s okay, because everyone is entitled to their opinion. It gave me opportunity to review where the sport was the journey, the destination, and the accomplishment.

Silks & Satins 5K Run Over 1,000 runners expected to participate!

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Coinciding with opening weekend of the track, the Silks & Satins Jeff Clark Memorial 5K Run to benefit Special Olympics New York will be on Saturday, July 25. Over 1,000

runners are expected to participate, ranging from children to some of the most elite runners in the northeast.

This fast, flat course winds through the beautiful tree-lined streets of Saratoga Springs, beginning at the

intersection of East Avenue and George Street with a breathtaking view of the thoroughbreds as they start their morning warm-up.

The 19th year of Silks & Satins introduces a redesigned course which continues the tradition of fast and flat. The start will be at Fasig Tipton on East Avenue with the finish at the side entrance on George Street. All event activities will be held in the adjoining Thoroughbred Feeds parking lot.

Day-of registrations will also be accepted at the race between 6 and 7:30 a.m. There will be t-shirts and goodie bags. Visit silksandsatins5k.com for course, venue and parking arrangements.

In retrospect I know what the game has meant to me and it’s not about my ego, it’s about my passion for a game that guided me throughout most of my life. The game has had a defining quality of my character and how it has become a signature of my personality. My success as a player and coach has come through a love for basketball. I was able to carry that love for what the game had done for me to my players, and even as a classroom teacher.

The game guided me through bad times, kept me out of trouble, got me involved with so many good people, and had given me a chance to use my “creative DNA.” Understand this, I don’t think I was born with a basketball passion, but I do believe it became part of my DNA structure as I evolved as a young boy. I think “creative DNA” is forever being written into our character as part of the creative gene that we all have been gifted with from birth.

46

SPORTS

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

COMMUNITY SPORTS BULLETIN Golf Tournament Raises $119,500 Saratoga Wilton Soccer for C. R. Wood Cancer Center Club to offer Free Clinics

Among the participants in the 7th annual Cindy & Skeets Glens Falls Hospital Cancer Day Golf Tournament were (from left): Jack Bieniek, Tom Hoy, Stuart Ginsburg and the honorable Tom Mercure, retired state Supreme Court Justice.

A record-setting $119,500 was raised for The C. R. Wood Cancer Center at Glens Falls Hospital at the 7th annual Cindy & Skeets Glens Falls Hospital Cancer Day Golf Tournament, held July 10 at the Glens Falls Country Club.

More than 200 golfers and 130 sponsors and donors supported the tournament, which has raised nearly $700,000 for support programs for cancer patients and family members since its inception in 2009. Major sponsorship for this year’s tournament was provided by Stuart Ginsburg and Glens Falls National Bank & Trust Co.

“The response to this tournament says everything about the importance of The C. R. Wood Cancer Center to our regional community,” said Glens Falls Hospital Vice President of Development Cindy Sherwood. “Everyone knows someone who has confronted cancer and been helped by the Cancer Center’s incredible team.”

The tournament honors the memories of the late Cindy Ginsburg and Ralph “Skeets” Woodbury, two longtime and beloved members of the regional community who lived with cancer for many years and supported the Cancer Center in many ways.

The Saratoga Wilton Soccer Club is pleased to offer free summer soccer clinics on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. at Gavin Park this summer. The clinics are designed for soccer players who are looking for advanced skills training in a fun and encouraging environment. The clinics utilize drills, exercises, and games that will help each player build a quality first touch, close control, confidence and soccer awareness. The clinics utilize a progressive systematic approach to player development by utilizing the most effective youth training techniques. The clinics are led

by SWSC nationally licensed coaches Miguel Hoyos, who played professionally in Columbia and New York, and Joe Powers, who played at Siena and is the Ballston Spa JV Coach, and Juan Garzon, a former player and coach at St. Rose.

To register, email your son or daughter’s name and age to swscsoccer@gmail.com The Saratoga Wilton Soccer Club is a nonprofit organization in its 34th year of existence dedicated to promoting youth soccer. For more information, see http://saratogayouthsoccer.com/

Baseball Pitching Clinic From July 27 through 30, an all-levels pitching skill development clinic will be held at Milton Park in Ballston Spa. The clinic includes technique, accuracy, fastball speed and other pitching help. Ages 7 through 9 go from 1 to 2 p.m.; ages 8 through 12 go from 2 to 3 p.m.; ages 10-14 go from 3 to 4 p.m. Cost is $50 per player per four, one-hour time slot, with a maximum of six per session. Contact Tony Devizzio at 518-932-1525 for more information.

Saratoga Youth Wrestling Camp Among the participants in the 7th annual Cindy & Skeets Glens Falls Hospital Cancer Day Golf Tournament were (from left): Dave DeMarco, Jack Murphy, Tom Murphy and Mike Niles.

Send your sports stories or briefs to Arthur Gonick, Sports Editor at arthur@saratoga publishing.com

Puzzle solutions from pg. 32

From July 28 through August 27, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon, will be a Saratoga Youth Wrestling Camp for city school district students ages 5 through 14. Camp will be held at Maple Avenue Middle School. Cost is $75 per person, or $125 per pair. For more information, please contact coach Brendan Polcare at 518-858-1693 or email Polcareb192@strose.edu.

SPORTS 47

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

Local Horses Well-represented at NY Sire Stakes

by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — While a major focal point of Saratoga Casino and Raceway’s (SCR) card on Saturday, July 25 will be the seventh annual Joe Gerrity Jr. Memorial Pace (see page 20), race fans should make a point to arrive early and stay late. That will afford fans the opportunity to view several races in the New York State Sire Stakes series, which is worth a trip unto itself.

Seven other races on Saturday’s card will feature New York bred 3-year old pacing colts, one of several divisions of the Sire Stakes. Each division competes and (hopefully) accumulates points based on performances at the state’s pari-mutuel harness tracks. The top finishers in each division compete in one of two final “Night of Champions,” which features a total of eight $225,000 championship finals for the New York Sire Stakes, with total purses of $1.8 million, in September (see side box). There are two races on Saturday’s card (4 and 9), which are in the major division – with purses in excess of $80,000 at stake.

“These are extremely balanced fields,” noted SCR’s Racing Secretary Peter Iovino, “particularly the ninth race – which is why I made it part of the Pick 4 series.”

The New York Sire Stakes began in 1961. According to Betty Holt, executive director of the Harness Horse Breeders of New York State, “the Sire Stakes was designed with the goal of protecting agricultural programs and green space. Horse breeding is an extremely important agricultural industry in New York State.” And this is not a program for only the elite of New York standardbreds. Not only will the top earning horses participate in the purses, Saturday’s card features five other Sire Stakes races in what is called the “Excelsior” series, affording opportunities for late-blooming two and three-year olds to compete against other harness horses of similar abilities. The purses for these races are above average for these horses—Division “A” has three races on Saturday’s card for a $15,000 purse; Division “B” has two for $6,500.

Our local area is well represented among the leaderboard in the various divisions of the 2015 New York Sire States, in which the

top eight will compete in a “Night of Champions” race: — Currently in first place in the 2-year old pacing colt division is Skip Jive, who is trained by Gansevoort’s Paul Kelley. Kelley and owner W. Springtime Stable of Johnstown have entered Penji Hanover in Saturday’s ninth race.

— Also, Bettorhaveanother is currently first in the current standings for 3-year old pacing fillies. She belongs to Kellogg Racing Stable of Queensbury and Janie Martin (Fort Ann) and is trained by Wilton’s Jackie Rousse.

— 2-year old trotting colt Andrew Goldstein is trained by Stillwater’s Kim Crawford and is currently in third place in that division.

— Royal Deceptor scores in seventh place current among 3-year old trotting colts. Trained by Gansevoort’s Mickey McGivern, Royal Deceptor is owned by two Saratoga Springs residents (Charles Foster and Michael James) as well as Micheal Sentiwany of Rensselaer. They are probably looking forward to August 19, when this division competes at Saratoga.

SCR Director of Racing Operations Paul Matarazzo said that he regarded Saturday’s 3-year old pacing colt division, as “the best division of the Sire Stakes, a key part of what should be the best racing card of the year.” With all the festivities surrounding the evening, all with free admission and parking, it appears to be the formula for a winning Saturday night.

Skip Jive. Photo by Steve Roth.

Bettorhaveanother. Photo by fotowon.

Upcoming 2015 NY Sire Stakes Races At Saratoga Casino and Raceway DATE Saturday, July 25

DIVISION 3-year Old Colt Pace

Wednesday, August 19

3-year Old Colt Trot

Wednesday, September 2

2-year Old Colt Trot

Thursday, September 17

2-year Old Colt Pace

Finals for all divisions will take place at Yonkers Raceway’s “Night of Champions.”

2 and 3-year old fillies will race on Saturday, September 12, and 2 and 3-year old colts on Saturday, September 26.

Volume 10 • Issue 29

See Miss Saratoga Pageant pg. 38

FREE

Week of July 24 – July 30, 2015

PULSE

See Painter Shares Her Talents pg. 37

American Girl Night 2015 at SPAC

Photos by MarkBolles.com

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Last week, the annual American Girl Night took place at SPAC before a performance from the New York City Ballet. Young girls and their families celebrated the evening with their American Girl dolls as they enjoyed music, free photo booths, crafts and tea party treats provided by Price Chopper Supermarkets.

Libby and Charlotte happily pose with their American Girl dolls.

Ella, Emma, Kathleen, Olivia, Addison show off their dolls.

Haley and Rachela enjoy the evening together.