December 18 – December 23, 2015

LOCAL • INDEPENDENT • FREE Volume 10 • Issue 50 • December 18 – December 23, 2015

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400 Wilton Jobs... Maybe +

Featured Stories

See pg. 24-26

This is a rendering of the Dollar General Distribution Center in Bessemer, Alabama, a new facility opened a few years ago. It is typical of what modern Dollar General Distribution Centers look like. Graphic provided.

by Norra Reyes Saratoga TODAY WILTON — Dollar General is eyeing a parcel of land off of exit 16 of the Northway as a potential

location for a $92.4 million distribution center it intends to build somewhere in the Northeast.

According to Dan MacDonald, a spokesman for the company based in Goodlettsville, Tennessee,

Wreaths Across America

by Norra Reyes Saratoga TODAY

SCHUYLERVILLE — On an uncommonly warm Saturday, December 12, upwards of 600 people gathered in the beautiful weather to lay 2,700 holiday wreaths at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery.

The ceremony began at noon at the main flagpole, consisting of the National Anthem, Pledge of Allegiance, opening prayer, ceremonial wreath placing, recognizing all the military units and some fraternal organizations, and then See Story pg. 20

they are currently evaluating multiple locations. Although Dollar General is interested in this site, the large retail chain has not yet committed to building a distribution center in Wilton at this time.

Wilton Town Supervisor Art Johnson confirmed Dollar General has an option on the land, and they are through the zoning board, but are still in the See Story pg. 9

Claus for a Cause

SSHS Gymnastics off to 3-0 See pg. 44

Inside TODAY Blotter 5 Obituaries 6 Business 14-15 Education 18-19 Pulse 35-37 Sports 44-47

Weekend Forecast FRIDAY

43|28 SATURDAY

36|28 SUNDAY See Story pg. 36

39|29

2

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

Man on the Street Is there someone far away to whom you’d like to say ‘Happy Holidays’? Where are they?

Tom Simone, from Saratoga Springs “My daughter, Lyndsey. She’s in Hawaii right now as the Executive Chef for Roy Yamaguchi. We adopted her from Korea when she was four months old.

She’s a genius. She got straight A’s in school and learned to play the piano by first grade. She can play a song just by hearing it.”

Elizabeth Carbone, from Queensbury “My brother in Dubai. He’s a colonel in the Marine Corp and he’s training other Marines. He’ll be coming home in July.”

Tais Finale, from Saratoga Springs.

“I’d like to say happy holidays to my mom in Brazil. I love her and I wish I could be there for her wedding on Friday. I hope to see her next year.”

Bridget Pryal, from Saratoga Springs “My grandfather, my Grampie, in Archbald, Pennsylvania. I love him, he’s the best. I’ll see him when I get home on the 22nd.”

Max Annese with his mom, Maryellen, from Saratoga Springs “Happy holidays to cousins Matthew and Maria from Scarsdale and Connor and Ryan in Rochester.”

Glenda Lewis, from Glenville (right) “My two sons and four grandsons are in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

I’m going there to see them on Sunday.”

Bonnie Walmsley, from Saratoga Springs (middle right) “My mom. She’s 94 and lives in St. Augustine, Florida. I love you, mom, see you in the New Year.”

Peg Mackey, from Rexford (left) “My brother and his family in Florida. I’ll see them in February when we go to Disney.”

Priscilla Merry Noel, from Burnt Hills (middle left) “My brother from Indiana. We’re going to party together for New Years!”

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015 NEWS 3

100 Years of Marching: History of Saratoga’s Drum and Bugle Corp

by Rebecca Davis Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS – On Thursday, December 10 the last Brown Bag Lunch Series of the year at Saratoga Springs Public Library featured a presentation on the history of the Drum and Bugle Corps in Saratoga Springs. Jeff Perkins, a former member and director in the corps, gave the presentation on the 11 Drum and Bugle Corps that marched for Saratoga Springs in parades and special events from 1890 until 1985.

The H. Dutcher Community Room in the library was jam packed with former members of Drum and Bugle Corps throughout the area, as well as interested community members. After the hour long presentation, the series lasted another hour as audience members were eager to share their stories about their own experiences in Drum and Bugle Corps over the years. The atmosphere of camaraderie and nostalgia in the room made this presentation both interactive and touching to listen to.

Jeff Perkins, who gave the presentation, joined Drum and Bugle Corps in 1953, when he was

just 11 years old. It was originally called the Junior Saratoga Cadet Corp, but in 1954 changed its name to Saratoga Ambassadors.

Since then, Perkins has been a part of many Drum and Bugle Corps, including Vagabonds in Fort Edward, the Gloversville Fusiliers, and the Interstatesmen from Troy. “[Drum and Bugle Corps] reach kids that go unreached by other things. I was never an athlete, never a football player,” said Perkins. “But you become part of a unit of people that have the same goal, the same leadership and drive. That whole idea caught me and from then, it was all I wanted to do.”

Still passionate about the Corps, Perkins has an interesting story about how he got started with it. “My friend Mike, a real rugged kid, would walk by my house everyday going to rehearsal with his bugle case.

One day, he grabbed me by the wrist as I was playing outside and said, ‘I’m not letting go unless you come with me to rehearsal.’

So he took me to the third floor of City Hall where they rehearsed and gave me a horn.”

Avant Garde marches together. Photo provided.

Avant Garde at championships in Lynn, MA in 1985. Photo provided.

During one rehearsal, the director, whom the kids called “Ham,” noticed Perkins was constantly talking to one of his friends. After telling him to be quiet a few times, Ham came over and kicked Perkins in the seat of the pants.

“He said, ‘Perkins, you can go home and tell your mother or you can keep your mouth shut and march.’ From then on, I was really into it,” said Perkins, “Ham was in World War II. They expected it done, no excuses. It was a semi-military experience. I learned a work ethic I carried with me for the rest of my life. I brought that same work ethic to my own drum corps.”

Perkins took over his own Corps, Avant Garde, from 1975 until 1985. In that time, they traveled all over the country touring, winning six state championships in a row. In 1984, Saratoga’s Avant Garde was ranked the 15th Drum and Bugle Corp in the world.

Though Avant Garde ended in 1985, members from the original group came together over the last several years to form Avant

Garde Alumni Drumline. They are continuing the tradition of representing Saratoga Springs at events throughout the area.

Avant Garde recently celebrated their 40th anniversary with

a party at Vapor on November 7.

For more information about Avant Garde Alumni Drumline, visit their website at avantgardedrumline.org.

4

WEEK IN REVIEW

Missing Men

SARATOGA COUNTY – The news is not good for the families of the two men who went missing during Thanksgiving week: Frederick “Fritzie” Drumm, 68, of the Town of Saratoga; and Dr. Liam Walsh, 33, of Wasilla, Alaska, a native of Saratoga Springs.

Investigators are still working on Drumm’s case, but according to Chief Richard Castle of the Saratoga County Sheriff ’s Office, there are no credible leads at this point. “We are keeping in touch with the family and following up on any leads from the public,” said Castle.

Walsh was last seen heading out to ski in Hatcher Pass in the

Talkeetna Mountains of Alaska right before an avalanche. Ensuing searches were halted several times due to hazardous weather conditions, and he has now been presumed dead. The Walsh family, who reside in Wilton, is holding a Celebration of Life memorial on Sunday, December 20 at the National Museum of Dance in Saratoga Springs 12 to 4 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made in Liam Walsh’s name to the Hatcher Pass Avalanche Center at www.hatcherpassavalanchecenter.org, or the American Diabetes Association at www.diabetes.org.

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

Saratoga’s Latest Beauty SARATOGA SPRINGS – The Saratoga Springs Fire Department will soon welcome this $798,000 beauty, a 75-foot Aerial firetruck built by Sutphen Corporation of Columbus, Ohio.

This is the fourth Sutphen fire truck for the city of Saratoga Springs and is replacing a 1989 model. It has a 1,500 gallon per minute pump in a 500 gallon water tank.

Philip Vander Molen, president of Vander Molen Fire Apparatus Sales and Service in Dewitt, said that the body is made of stainless steel to combat the corrosion from the salt on the roads. It is designed to carry up to six firefighters.

“I intend to deliver it starting this Sunday and will be working to orient the crews throughout next week,” said Vander Molen. “Sutphen is honored to have the opportunity

to work with the Saratoga Springs fire department yet again and we look forward to serving the residents of Saratoga Springs through fire protection for decades to come.”

The truck was sold out of the Ballston Lake branch of Vander Molen Fire Apparatus Sales and Service. The Fire Chief will determine when it will officially go into service once the training is complete.

State Leaders: Guilty As Charged MANHATTAN — Former State Senator and Majority Leader Dean Skelos and his son, Adam Skelos, were found guilty Friday, December 11, on all eight counts of the corruption charges against them. The conviction, which followed closely on the heels of former Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver’s corruption

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conviction, automatically wrests the senate seat from Dean Skelos.

U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara, who brought both cases to trial, commented in a tweet: “How many prosecutions will it take before Albany gives the people of New York the honest government they deserve?”

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NEXT DEADLINE: SIMPLY SARATOGA 12/11/2015

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

COURTS: Robert K. Kite, Jr., 26, of Albany, was sentenced on December 1 to 3 ½ years in prison and 2 ½ years post-release supervision after pleading to the felony charge of attempted criminal sale of a controlled substance in the third degree.

Richard W. Reagan, 54, of Clifton Park, was sentenced on December 1 to time served and 5 years probation after pleading to the felony charge of driving while intoxicated.

Victor A. Guilianelle, 47, of Mechanicville, was sentenced on December 1 to time served and 5 years probation after pleading to the felony charge of driving while intoxicated.

Michael J. Manney, Sr., 48, of Glens Falls, was sentenced on December 1 to 5 years probation after pleading to the felony charge of criminal possession of stolen property in the fourth degree.

Justin S. Roberts, 19, of Waterford, pled on December 1 to felony grand larceny in the third degree. Sentencing is scheduled for January 26, 2016.

Kimberly A. Allen, 47, of Albany, pled on December 1 to the felony charge of criminal possession of a forged instrument in the second degree.

Sentencing is scheduled for January 26, 2016.

Douglas A. Muller, 48, was sentenced on December 2 to time served and 5 years probation after pleading to the felony charge of driving while intoxicated.

Jordan R. Vanbuskirk, 24, of Saratoga Springs, pled on December 3 to the charges of felony criminal mischief in the third degree, and resisting arrest. Sentencing is scheduled for February 4, 2016.

Daniel K. Hahn, 32, of Fort Edward, was sentenced on December 3 to 3 ½ to 7 years in prison, after being found guilty of felony criminal possession of stolen property in the third degree.

Robin E. Kronk, 53, of Gloversville, pled on December 3 to the felony charge of attempted assault in the second degree.

Sentencing is scheduled for January 28, 2016.

Michael P. Mills, 29, of Cavendish, was sentenced on December 3 to 3 months in jail and 5 years probation after pleading to the felony charge of driving while intoxicated.

Thomas F. Penfold, 53, of Saratoga Springs, pled on December 4 to the felony charge of driving while intoxicated. Sentencing is scheduled for February 3, 2016.

ARRESTS: Timothy D. Smith, 57, of Penn Lairds, Virginia, was arrested on November 20 and charged with felony aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the first degree, driving while intoxicated, and unlawful use of mobile phone in a motor vehicle.

Alena DeMarco, 17, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on November 20 and charged with harassment in the second degree, unlawful

BLOTTER 5 possession of marihuana, and endangering the welfare of a child.

Kevin D. Keller, 25, of Ballston Spa, was arrested on November 21 and charged with unlawful possession of marihuana, and failure to stop at a stop sign.

Victoria L. Patterson, 32, of Ballston Spa, was arrested on November 21 and charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the third degree, and an equipment violation.

John A. Vrana, 54, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on November 22 and charged with felony assault in the second degree with a deadly weapon, and criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree.

Stephen E. Terry, 56, of Northport, was arrested on November 22 and charged with felony assault in the second degree (with intent to cause physical injury).

Donnell L. Smith, 44, of Schenectady, was arrested on November 24 and charged with felony criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, and menacing in the second degree.

26 and charged with felony driving with a BAC more than .08 of 1% with a prior, felony driving while intoxicated (second offense), and failure to signal a turn.

Victoria L. Sheldon, 27, of Schenectady, was arrested on November 24 and charged with criminal possession of stolen property in the fifth degree.

Stephanie M. Grzegorzyk, 23, of Mechanicville, was arrested on November 26 and charged with driving while intoxicated, refusing a pre-screen test, and unlawful possession of marihuana.

Trevor L. Quinn, 22, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on November 25 and charged with consumption of alcoholic beverages in a motor vehicle, driving at an unreasonable speed, driving while intoxicated, and making an unsafe lane change.

Roderick E. Greco, 23, of Greenfield Center, was arrested on November 25 and charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the third degree, and failure to obey a traffic control device.

Jeffrey W. Baker, 53, of Wilton, was arrested on November

Rosaria M. Nowhitney, 22, of Mayfield, was arrested on November 26 and charged with disorderly conduct.

Craig V. Anderson, 30, of Wilton, was arrested on November 26 and charged with harassment in the second degree, and disorderly conduct.

Elizabeth M. Guthrie, 31, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on November 26 and charged with unlawfully driving on or across the sidewalk, driving while intoxicated, and driving with a BAC more than .08 of 1%.

6 Thomas H. Clements SARATOGA SPRINGS — Thomas H. Clements, husband, father of five, and respected community leader, died on December 10, 2015, at the age of 90, surrounded by his family.

Tom’s parents emigrated from Belfast, Ireland in the early 1920s to farm in the Town of Avon, NY. He grew up with seven sisters, one brother and a kinship of farmhands and farm neighbors.

In 1942 he entered the School of Chemical Engineering at Cornell University. After one year he enlisted in the Army Aviation Cadet Program earning the rank of 2nd Lieutenant and became a B29 Navigator. He returned to Cornell in 1946 to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in economics. He was a loyal member of ATO fraternity, played in the Cornell band and met and fell in love with his wife, Jean Pirnie Clements.

He attended the Graduate School of Business at Syracuse University, was employed by NY Telephone and the accounting firm of Arthur Young and Company before relocating in 1951 to Saratoga Springs to begin the Clements Agency, now known as Clements Insurance Brokers, owned and operated by son, Bruce.

Tom was passionate about civic and community affairs.

He was one of the founding members of the Saratoga Springs Hotel Corporation that built the Holiday Inn and served as its board president in 1964. He was elected for five two-year terms as the Saratoga Springs City Supervisor and also served as Chairman of the County Board of Supervisors. He was instrumental in the creation of Maplewood Manor Infirmary, the County Sewer System and the expansions at the County Airport. He volunteered for the Saratoga County Agricultural Society (aka Saratoga County Fair) for more than 40 years and earned an emeritus Board Member status. He was honored with the naming of The Thomas H. Clements Family Center Pavilion at the fairgrounds.

For over 60 years Tom was a loyal member of the Saratoga Elks Club and the Oriental Shrine. He served as president of the Independent Insurance Agents Association of Saratoga Springs, Saratoga Springs Lions Club, Saratoga Springs Hotel Corporation, Saratoga Golf and Polo Club, Saratoga County Fair, Saratoga Springs Chamber of Commerce and was Chairman of the Capital District Transportation Authority, Capital District Regional Planning Commission, Presbyterian Church Board of Trustees, Saratoga County Board of Supervisors, Saratoga County Red Cross Chapter, State Bank of Albany and the NYS Public Transportation Safety Board, an appointment made by Gov. George Pataki.

He was predeceased by his wife of 60 years, Jean Pirnie Clements, his father Henry Sterling Clements, his mother Annie Nora Overend Clements, half-sister Anna Carrick and brother Harry S. Clements.

Survivors include his five children, Susan C. Gagnon (Glenn), Donald R. Clements (Jan Soran), Bruce H. Clements; Joyce C. Tarantino (Daniel), David A. Clements (Linda); nine grandchildren, Mark H. Gagnon (Ingrid), Aimee G. Soniat (Shelton), Kathryn Clements, Timothy H. Clements, Wil P. Tarantino, Caroline A. Tarantino, Jenny G. Tarantino, Lily K. Tarantino, Sarah J. Clements; three great-grandchildren, Amanda Gagnon, Olivia Soniat and R. Lucas Soniat; six sisters, Jeanne Shine, Pearl Hess, Nancy Rubacha, Libby Ferris, Alice Schoonmaker (Jack), Helen Hulburt and 22 nephews and nieces.

OBITUARIES Friends and relatives gathered to remember him on Thursday, Dec. 17, 2015 at the William J. Burke & Sons/ Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway in Saratoga Springs. All are invited to join with Tom’s family at a memorial service at 3 p.m. today, Friday, Dec. 18, 2015 at the Presbyterian-New England Congregational Church, 24 Circular St. in Saratoga Springs. A private family burial, with military honors, will be held at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville.

The family would be honored with donations made in Tom’s memory to the Saratoga County Fair, 162 Prospect St., Ballston Spa, NY 12020 or the Saratoga Springs Lions Club, P.O. Box 166, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com

James E. Dennick FT. LAUDERDALE, FL — James E. Dennick, 67, passed away in his home on December 6, 2015.

He was born in Albany on May 28, 1948 to the late Jacob and Claudine Law Dennick. James was a Marine Corps Veteran of the Vietnam War, who honorably served his country for nine years.

He loved spending time with his children and second family, the Coluccios, at their Sacandaga camp.

Survivors include his brother Dave Dennick of Rotondawest, FL; one daughter Jillian Dennick of Chesapeake, VA; one son Brian Dennick of Fort Lauderdale, FL; two grandchildren Malia and Thomas; his beloved Coluccio family and many other family and friends.

Relatives and friends gathered to remember him on Thursday, Dec. 17, 2015 at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway in Saratoga Springs. A prayer service followed; burial with military honors was held at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Rd. in Schuylerville.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made, in his memory, to the Disabled American Veterans Organization at www.dav.org.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com

Susan M. Ernst GANSEVOORT — Susan M. Ernst, passed away Thursday, December 10, 2015 at Saratoga Hospital. She was 77.

Born on October 10, 1938 in Thompson, Town of Greenwich, NY, she was the daughter of the late Roger G. Sherman and Geraldine Clement Sherman Boyer.

Susan worked as a housekeeper at the St. John Neumann Residence for many years. She loved sewing, crafting and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Susan was predeceased by her husband of 53 years, William R. Ernst Sr. Survivors include her children, Peggy Sue (Jeff) Bush of Gilbert, AZ, William R. (Marina) Ernst, Jr. of Moreau, Elizabeth Pritchard of Saratoga Springs, Melissa (Forrest) Green of Gansevoort, Michael (Corrine) Ernst of Arcadia, FL; brother Roger E. (Florence) Sherman of Schuylerville; sister Doris (Allen) Simonik of Greenfield Center;

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015 grandchildren, Jeffrey Melander, Cierra Broadway, Joshua Garcia, Brandon Bush, Sarah Pritchard, Max Ernst, Evan Ernst, Owen Ernst and Alex Ernst; great-granddaughter Malayah Smith as well as several nieces and nephews.

There were no calling hours.

A graveside service was held on Wednesday, December 16, 2015 at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Rd. in Schuylerville.

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.

Paul G. Miles GANSEVOORT — Paul G. Miles, age 66, passed away Thursday evening, Dec. 10, 2015, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Paul is survived by his wife Lillian; his children Jennifer Grey (Brian McKenzie), Rebecca Fignar (Chris), Paul Miles (Rick CaceresRodriguez) and Bill Wincowski (Jill Oliver); mother Dorothy Rusin; brothers James Miles (Lola), Wayne Miles (Ina) and David Miles (Sharon); grandchildren Katelynn Jewett, Hunter Grey, Jenna McKenzie, Coleman Fignar and Ella Fignar; great-granddaughter Chelsea White and many other extended family.

Paul is predeceased by his brother Gary Miles (Jerri).

Paul will be remembered for his genuine love of life.

Many of his passions included spending time with family and friends, music, and history. When he wasn’t on the golf course, he spent many days volunteering at the Saratoga National Battlefield, particularly at the Neilson house where he loved to share his knowledge with visitors. He was involved in Scouting for many years in various capacities. He served as a Project Manager for the NYS Department of Health for 37 years. Music was a huge part of his life and he would often be seen supporting his local favorites and attending bluegrass festivals with his beloved wife Lil. Family and friends will never forget his witty sense of humor and his one-liners. His goal in life was to keep people laughing all the way to the end.

The family would like to express gratitude to all the staff at Saratoga Hospital, the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Saratoga Community Hospice and the many friends who provided kindness and support. The family would like to give special appreciation to Gary Picher for providing spiritual guidance.

Services will be private at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Paul’s memory to Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com

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Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

OBITUARIES 7

Margaret Joyce Tuller

Dr. Elizabeth Ely Fuller

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Margaret Joyce Tuller, of West Avenue, passed away gracefully and into the arms of her beloved Lord December 11, 2015. She was 75 years young and she was loved.

Peggy, as she was known, was one of five kids born in Niskayuna, NY to parents Helen and Earl Smith, and she lived her entire life in upstate New York. Peggy went back to school later in life and received her high school diploma, not only for herself, but also as an example for her family to persevere and never give up. Her motto always was and always will be “hang in there.”

She retired from Saratoga County Maplewood Manor in 2005 where she worked as a dietary aide, a job she took incredible pride in. Peggy never lost her faith. She always believed there was a meaning and a reason for everything.

It was during her hardest times that her belief in the Holy Spirit was the strongest.

Margaret is predeceased by her mother and father as well as her older sister Doris. She is also predeceased by her oldest son, John O. Tuller of Minnesota and her grandson Joshua of Ballston Spa. Surviving family include her daughter, Margaret Lawrence of Saratoga Springs; her son Daniel and his wife Alicia Tuller of Porter Corners; her brother Earl Jr; two sisters, Beverly and Helen; seven grandchildren, who she adored, 4 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

A wake in honor of her life was held at the William J. Burke and Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Home, 628 North Broadway in Saratoga Springs on Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2015. She will have eternal rest in Memory Gardens Cemetery in Colonie, NY. Online remembrances may be made at burkefuneralhome.com.

BALLSTON SPA – At mid-day on Thursday, December 10, 2015, Dr. Elizabeth Ely Fuller passed away peacefully. Ely was a teacher, writer, naturalist, therapist, adventurer and so much more to her family and friends. She had her 72nd birthday a month earlier and recently had a pleasant Thanksgiving in the care of many friends and family at The Wesley Community in Saratoga Springs, New York.

It is fitting that Ely Fuller died on International Human Rights Day, December 10, as she was always aware and outspoken of the suffering and less fortunate in the world. Ely was always thinking and was knowledgeable about many subjects, as evidenced by the work for her doctorate of philosophy. She wrote her dissertation on John Milton, a British poet, whose birthday coincidentally was on December 9, one day earlier than Ely’s death. Their close timing of life and death is related to their similar ways of thinking, as captured in a quotation from Milton: “Gratitude bestows reverence, allowing us to encounter everyday epiphanies, those transcendent moments of awe that change forever how we experience life and the world.”

Ely was so full of gratitude to all who helped and knew her, just as she was alert and always ready for the next transcendent moment in her life. Even as a teenager in the 1950s, her friends remember her as full of vigor and awareness; she was named best camper of the year at Camp Onaway on Newfound Lake near Bristol, New Hampshire.

After successfully finishing her junior and high school years at Garrison Forest School in Owings Mills, Maryland, Ely earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in 1966 at Sarah Lawrence College in Bronxville, New York. Following college, she studied at the Université de Poitier in Poitier, France, and subsequently entered the doctorate program in English Literature at the Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York City. Here under the guidance of Professor Allen Mandelbaum, she completed her dissertation and was awarded her PhD in the 1970s. Still available commercially, the dissertation is based upon Milton’s poem, “Paradise Lost” and is entitled: Milton’s Kinesthetic Vision in Paradise Lost, published by Bucknell University Press in 1983.

Ely was always a teacher. For several years in the 1980s she was an Assistant Professor teaching English Literature at Babson College in Babson Park near Wellesley, Massachusetts. In the 1990s she became a therapist in the Boston area, practicing and teaching principles and techniques to diverse groups of therapists.

In 2002 Ely moved to Ballston Spa and spent over a dozen happy years in the Saratoga Springs area. She was a person with many interests and pursued them all, including traveling with her friends in North America, collecting rocks and crystals, keeping several pets and breeding parrots, hiking, snow-shoeing, and kayaking in Lake George.

Ely Fuller’s relatives and their spouses who survive her include her brother Frank Lanneau Fuller and his wife Sarah Fuller of Berkeley, California. Her first cousin, Joe Spofford and his wife Marie Spofford live in Milton, New York, and their daughter, Lisa Spofford is in Saratoga Springs. Ely has numerous cousins throughout the United States who survive her.

Ely was a congregant at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Saratoga Springs. Members of the congregation, her cousin’s family, and her good friend Bob Ballad of Scotia have been her constant companions and faithful supporters. Ely has requested that if people would like to make donations in her name, they should be sent to:

Jennie M. Baldwin MECHANICVILLE – Jennie M. Baldwin passed away Friday, December 11, 2015 at the Saratoga Center for Rehab and Skilled Nursing Care in Ballston Spa. She was 88.

Born on May 26, 1927 in Mechanicville, she was the daughter of the late Anthony and Mary Mastropietro Veltri. Jennie worked for many years as a seamstress at Richley’s in Troy and was a lifelong communicant of All Saints on the Hudson Church (Assumption/St. Paul).

In addition to her parents, Jennie was predeceased by her husband, Stanley M. Baldwin.

Jennie is survived by her daughter, Pam Dyer and her husband William J. III; three grandsons, William J. Dyer IV, Christopher M. Dyer, Matthew J. Dyer and his wife Dana C.; four great-grandchildren, Travis, Kelsey, Dalton and Rece Dyer; one sister, Julia Couser and her cousin Anthony Iacobelli.

Reception of the Body and Wake was held Tuesday, December 15, 2015 in All Saints on the Hudson Church South (St. Paul’s), 121 North Main St. in Mechanicville. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated in the Church by the Rev. Thomas Morrette.

Burial followed in the family plot at St. Paul’s Cemetery in Mechanicville.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to The Food Pantry, c/o MACSC, 6 South Main Street, Mechanicville, NY 12118.

Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing and Cunniff Funeral Homes of 628 North Broadway in Saratoga Springs.

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

• American Federation of Aviculture, http://www.afabirds.org, or, http://www.afabirds.org/donation.shtml • Nature Conservancy, http://www.nature.org, or, https://support.nature.org/site/Donation2?10420. donation=form1&df_id=10420&intc=nature.tnav.membership.list • World Parrot Trust, http://www.parrots.org, or, http:// www.parrots.org/donate A funeral service will take place on Saturday, January 9, 2016 at 3 p.m. at William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing and Cunniff Funeral Home, 628 North Broadway in Saratoga Springs.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com

Christine Swartzbaugh SARATOGA SPRINGS – Christine (Black) Swartzbaugh passed away at age 63 in Saratoga Hospital following a courageous battle with MS. Born May 1952 in Schenectady, she was the third child of Chauncey “Al” Black and Phyllis Black. The family moved to the Glenville area in 1958 where Christine attended school, graduating Burnt Hills Ballston Lake HS in 1970. During that time she was an active member of First United Methodist Church in Schenectady.

Christine received her Associate Degree from Rochester Institute of Technology in 1971 and then left school to pursue her passion for horseback riding. She attended the world famous Porlock Vale Riding School in Exmoor, England, earning her Associate Instructor certificate from the British Horse Society. She married Alan Swartzbaugh of York, PA and their son Jason was born in 1976. In 1980 Christine returned to the Schenectady area where she trained horses and taught dressage at various stables, eventually residing in Greenfield Center at Blue Moon Acres with her lifelong friend Lisa Giordano. Horsewoman and instructor extraordinaire, she dedicated her life to horses. Chris taught with purity true to the classical dressage method. She exemplified discipline and taught her students to become better riders for their equine partners. With the welfare of the horse in mind, Chris made her students strive to become better human beings. She will continue to live on, helping horses through the students she generously graced with her wisdom.

Christine was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at age 40.

Progression of the disease eventually forced her from the saddle to the wheelchair, where she continued to teach into her mid-50s. She also earned a Bachelor of Arts (with Honors) and pursued her lifelong interests in painting and writing. During Christine’s final months, Saratoga Hospital became her new home and the staff became her extended family. The care and love she received at the Hospital was beyond measure. She died peacefully on December 9, 2015.

Christine is survived by her two brothers, Philip and Stephen Black, her former husband Alan Swartzbaugh, her son Jason and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents and older brother Kenneth. Calling hours will be held today, Friday, December 18 at Tunison Funeral Home, 105 Lake Ave. in Saratoga Springs from 5 to 7 p.m. including a memorial service at 6 p.m. Following the service, friends and relatives are invited to a buffet reception at the home of Jim and Cindy Black Oplinger located at 3 Campion Lane in Saratoga Springs.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Online condolences may be left at TunisonFuneralHome.com

8

NEWS

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

New Parkinson’s Outpatient Services at Wesley Funding for Staff Training and Certification from Anonymous Donor SARATOGA SPRINGS – The Wesley Community announced Wednesday, December 16, five therapists from its Outpatient Therapy program have completed training and received certification in both LSVT Big and LSVT Loud methodologies through funding from an anonymous donor. The certification allows the Wesley Community Outpatient Therapy program to provide new services to those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

“We are grateful to our anonymous donor for funding the training needed to achieve these certifications and allowing The Wesley Community to better serve those who need specialized therapy as a result of having Parkinson’s disease,” said J. Brian Nealon, CEO of The Wesley Community.

LSVT certification programs, run by LSVT Global in Tucson, Arizona, are designed to train rehabilitation therapists

in an evidence-based treatment approach for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. The LSVT Big program helps Parkinson’s patients avoid inactivity, move more easily, improve balance, and increase torso rotation through a series of specialized movements, while the LSVT Loud program focuses on improvements in speech clarity and volume, increased facial expression, and improved vocalization.

Both programs are available

to current and prospective patients in addition to the wide range of services offered at The Wesley Community’s Outpatient Therapy program, including Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Aquatic Therapy, Orthopedics, Pediatric Therapy Services and CORE evaluations.

To learn more, contact 518-6911451 or visit www.thewesleycommunity.org.

The Wesley Community is a 36-acre, not-for-profit agency in

Saratoga Springs, which serves the needs of the elderly, as well as active seniors, adults and pediatrics. Sponsored by United Methodist Health and Housing, Inc., The Wesley Community’s unique continuum of care community provides independent and enriched living for seniors, subsidized independent senior housing, adult day services, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care, as well as outpatient therapies available for people of all ages.

Saratoga Hospital Hopes to Own, Not Rent SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Springs City Council heard a presentation from Saratoga Hospital at Tuesday night’s City Council meeting regarding the hospital’s proposal to amend its PUD (Planned Unit Development) for a proposed project on Morgan Street. This first step of a longer approval process asks the City Council to vote to amend the zoning and make the 8.5 acres part of the Saratoga

Hospital PUD before the hospital can build a building there.

The project’s development team, including Saratoga Hospital attorney Matthew J. Jones, of The Jones Firm, Attorneys at Law at 68 West Avenue, gave a 25 minute presentation that explained the building proposal. In an effort to consolidate physicians and patients in one space in close proximity to the Hospital, and to provide better efficiency and better patient care, the Hospital

is proposing to construct a new medical office building on Morgan Street for its physician employees and their staffs.

The Saratoga Hospital is the only hospital in Saratoga County. Its continued growth has caused it to exceed the space of many of its current leased locations. The Hospital currently spends $750,000 on 10 leased locations in the area.

“We believe the public hearing last evening was constructive and we appreciate the legitimate questions and concerns raised by the nine neighbors who spoke to the Council,” Jones said.

The proposed building would be constructed on Morgan Street roughly 200 yards North of the Hospital’s main location at 211 Church Street. The Saratoga

Hospital has been operating at 211 Church Street since 1911.

The medical office building is proposed to be approximately 75,000 square feet spread evenly over three floors and will sit on 8.5 acres of land to be acquired by the Hospital should the Saratoga Springs City Council vote to amend the current zoning of the property.

Specialties to be housed in the building may include oncology, general surgery, bariatric surgery, urology, pulmonology, nephrology, cardiology and general family practice.

A number of questions were posed by the public and some from the Council, so Mayor Joanne Yepsen requested the development team to respond to those inquires in writing and

provide a broader “Frequently Asked Questions” document that would be published on the City’s website.

According to Jones, the team expects to provide responses to the questions, including the FAQs, back to the City Council during the week of December 28 in order that the Council be prepared to discuss it at its next regular meeting scheduled for January 5. As yet, there is no timetable set by the Council for a vote on the PUD Amendment.

Since it filed its application in August, the hospital has been working cooperatively with area neighbors to address concerns over building height, lighting, storm water management and traffic. Revisions made to the original plan have addressed the concerns of many (but not all) who contacted the Hospital regarding the project.

“We continue to be encouraged by the dialog we are having with the majority of neighbors,” said Jones, “and we have every confidence the City Council will give our proposal a full and fair hearing.”

Saratoga Hospital employs more than 1800 full-time equivalent employees, or about 2,200 individuals at nine locations throughout the Capital Region, and pays out approximately $123 million in annual salaries and income, and another $30 million in benefits. For more information about the Hospital, visit www.saratogahospital.org.

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

NEWS 9

400+ Jobs: Dollar General Eyeing Wilton Public Encouraged to Bring Welcome Signs Continued from front page.

very preliminary stages of the planning board process.

“It’s very exciting, the thought of all those jobs and the addition to the tax base,” said Johnson. “A lot of the jobs are not automated, as some people might think. There’s a lot of manual labor involved and they need a lot of people. Salaries will likely average between $35,00$45,000 a year, and there will be upper level management positions, too. This will give people who may not have a professional license or young people a chance to make a decent income. I look forward to working with them.”

MacDonald said the company has much to consider when exploring a location for the 934,000-square-foot distribution center, such as availability of workforce, the business climate, roads with easy access to an interstate system, and infrastructure.

“We’re still early in the site selection process,” said MacDonald. “We need a new distribution center to support our growth. We just opened one

in Janesville, Wisconsin with over 500 jobs. We’ll have more than 400 jobs in this new project somewhere in the Northeast.

We opened 730 stores this year, and plan on 900 new stores in 2016. We’ve had pretty successful growth over the last five years.

We’re looking for a site that fits in our footprint for growth in the Northeast. It’s an exciting time.”

Johnson said they are also looking for $11.26 million in sales and property tax incentives from the Saratoga County Industrial Development Agency. There will be a public hearing on January 11 at 8 a.m. at the Wilton Town Hall regarding the requested tax incentives.

“They want a 10-year PILOT,” said Johnson, “a payment in lieu of taxes. The company is doing its due diligence. They know there’s no sewer, water, or gas on that side of the Northway; that all three utilities will have to be extended from the other side.”

Given the unknown competition from locations in other states, Johnson thinks the best thing the public can do to help bring these jobs here is to show

This aerial rendering of Dollar General’s new location in Janesville, Wisconsin is similar to the location the company intends to build in the Northeast. Graphic provided.

First Night Saratoga is coming—Stay Tuned!

SARATOGA SPRINGS – The night before 2016 begins marks 20 years of First Night in Saratoga Springs. Saratoga’s First Night is one of the oldest and largest first night celebrations in the country, and with $15 admission, one of the most affordable and accessible as well.

First Night Saratoga is a great way to ring in the New Year close to home and in a family-friendly, safe environment. On Thursday, December 31, over 15,000 people will gather in downtown Saratoga Springs for over 70 performance art acts in over 30 venues. Between music, comedy, magic and theater, revelers will have plenty of options for how to spend their New Year’s Eve.

A First Night Saratoga button, which allows admission into all of the great events, are $15 per button, and can be purchased online at firstnightsaratoga2016. bpt.me, or by visiting regional Price Chopper Supermarkets, Stewarts Shops, Saratoga Arts, or at other partner businesses and organizations. For more information about where to purchase your First Night button, visit Saratogaarts.org/firstnight/buttons.

First Night Saratoga is a GE Kids in Free event. One child aged 12 and under will be admitted free with each paying adult.

See next week’s edition of Saratoga TODAY on December 24 for more information about First Night Saratoga.

up at the meetings in support of the project.

“This is a new-coming business that is not familiar with New York,” he said, “and the fact that a town is receptive to a project can make a world of difference.

The planning board meetings are monthly as they move through

the different phases of approval, and the public is always welcome.”

Dollar General currently has 12 operational distribution centers in Alabama, California, Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Virginia. Two distribution centers

are currently under construction in Texas and Wisconsin.

For more information on Dollar General, how it serves communities with value and convenience, its commitment to literacy and education and more, visit www.dollargeneral.com.

10

NEWS

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

Saratoga Casino & Raceway to Add Morton’s The Steakhouse SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Casino and Raceway today announced that the nationally acclaimed Morton’s The Steakhouse will operate the feature restaurant inside the casino’s $40 million hotel expansion. Both the hotel and Morton’s The Steakhouse are on track to open for the summer of 2016. An additional national restaurant partner will be named in the coming weeks.

Morton’s The Steakhouse first opened in 1978 and has since grown nationally and received hundreds of national awards and accolades. Its menu features top USDA prime-aged beef, fresh seafood and hand-picked produce.

“We are proud to be able to offer our guests The Best Steak Anywhere® right here in Saratoga Springs,” said Tom Wiedmayer, General Manager of Saratoga Casino and Raceway. “Morton’s The Steakhouse shares our core goal of providing unique and special experiences to each and every one of our guests and we couldn’t imagine a more perfect fit for our property or our community.”

The 6,500 square foot restaurant will seat 160 guests, including a private dining space for parties of up to 32. The lobby bar at Morton’s The Steakhouse will seat an additional 60 guests.

The Steakhouse will be the only site in the area, with the closest

locations more than 150 miles away in White Plains and Boston.

Gift cards are on sale now and can be purchased at mortons.com/ gift-cards/.

Said Tim Whitlock, Sr. Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Morton’s The Steakhouse. “Saratoga Springs is one of the top travel destinations in the country and we couldn’t be more excited to bring Morton’s to such a special and distinctive community.”

The 4-star quality hotel will feature 117 rooms, including 13 luxury suites with amenities ranging from a fireplace, 900 square feet of space, to large bay windows overlooking the casino’s

Tom Wiedmayer, General Manager of Saratoga Casino and Raceway, announces the coming Morton’s The Steakhouse. Photo by Sharon Castro.

harness track.

Reservations for rooms beginning June 17, 2016 will be able to be made online by visiting www.saratogacasino.com starting Friday, December 18.

Casino rendering. Graphic provided.

Future hotel lobby. Photo by Sharon Castro.

Private event space inside the hotel is also currently available for reservations. For more information, contact Colleen Carlson at 518-581-5750, or CCarlson@ SaratogaGaming.com.

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

11

12

NEWS

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

Will Less Be Moore? New Proposal Responds to Neighborhood Density Concerns

by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS – “We’re in the people pleasing business.”

So stated Attorney Michael J. Toohey, representing Bonacio Construction, in announcing a second proposal to develop the Moore Hall property, at the Saratoga Springs Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) meeting on Monday, December 14.

The dramatic announcement came as a pleasant surprise to most, if not all, of those in attendance. Residents of the surrounding neighborhood had organized intense opposition to the first proposal – which would have converted the existing building to 53 micro-apartments. The applicants requested that the first proposal be tabled and requested to present the detailed aspects of the new proposal at a January 2016 ZBA meeting.

Principal and Vice President C. Michael Ingersoll of the LA Group, was forthcoming, however, with the broad details of the second proposal, which he and President/Owner Sonny Bonacio of Bonacio Construction said was directly responsive to the nearby neighborhood resident’s concerns, which included density, parking and safety.

A major change in the second proposal is to demolish, rather than convert Moore Hall

– a decaying former dormitory that was part of the old Skidmore College campus. A previous variance in 2006 had allowed up to 18 residential units on the parcel.

Bonacio noted that this number would not work because of the current market forces. If it were to stay at 18, that would necessitate building units that sold for over $900,000. Those units are averaging 1,947 days on the market, and Bonacio said that if 18 more were built, the inventory of housing at that level would take about 12.9 years to be sold.

Instead, the second proposal detailed construction of 28 units, which would enable the sale price to be just under $700,000 ($699,418), which Bonacio said would make it more attractive and easier to sell to potential buyers. This increased number of units would still require a variance, although not as large as the first proposal’s request to increase it to 53.

The first proposal had requested a second variance on parking, from 1.5 spaces per unit to 1. Under the new proposal, 52 parking places, the bulk of which are anticipated to be underground, will be provided. Since that will provide 1.8 spaces per unit, a second variance will not need to be requested.

The applicants noted that their new proposal was similar in many ways, in terms of

Under a new proposal, Moore Hall, AKA The Pink Palace, will be demolished and replaced with 28 housing units. Photo by Deborah Neary

visual components such as setbacks for instance, to a plan that had received approval in 2008.

At Monday’s meeting, they presented preliminary drawings that showed a comparison of their new proposed development to the one from 2008.

A new application will be filed, and detailed plans need to be developed. The project will still have to go through a site plan review and receive approval from the Design Review Commission.

However, it was obvious from comments, from both ZBA

members and members of the public who spoke, that this latest proposal was extremely more palatable. Many thanked the applicants for their work in coming forward with something that it was hoped would be acceptable to everyone. “This is just what the neighborhood wanted,” one said. Another wondered if it was appropriate to sing “Kumbaya.”

So, residents came to Monday’s meeting prepared for more conflict, and came away with at least the beginning of a happy ending to the saga of the Pink Palace. Call it an early holiday gift, with an O. Henry surprise thrown in for good measure.

County Encourages Organ Donation

WILTON— The statistics don’t lie: New York State ranks 51st out of 52 States and territories in the United States for donor registry enrollment; an estimated 600 New Yorkers die each year waiting for an organ transplant that did not arrive in time; more than 10,000 New Yorkers are waiting for an organ transplant, representing the third highest need in the nation.

On Tuesday, December 15, The Saratoga County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution urging County residents to fill out their organ donation cards at the DMV or the Board of Elections. The following afternoon at the Wilton branch of the Department of Motor Vehicles, members of the board and County Clerk Craig Hayner joined The New York State Association of Counties and The New York Alliance for Donation and other concerned organizations for a conference to encourage residents to join the organ donation registry.

L to R: Aisha Tator, NY Alliance for Donation, Inc.; Deb Gara, a Saratoga County resident, organ donor family member and transplant volunteer; Cathi Duncan, Director, Saratoga County Department of Public Health; Kevin Tollisen, Chairman, Saratoga County Public Health Committee; Matthew Veitch, Chairman of the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors; Stephen Acquario, Executive Director, New York State Association of Counties; Craig Hayner, Saratoga County Clerk; Michael Thibault, Executive Director, Center for Donation and Transplant; and Charles Foehser II, Saratoga Deputy County Clerk. Photo by Francesco D’Amico.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR 13

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

Over the Top

I am an active skeet shooter.

I raise and train English Setters to hunt grouse and woodcock. I do not support the SAFE Act, which I consider ill conceived.

Having said that, I think that Chad Beatty’s editorial [“From the Publisher’s Desk,” page 9 of the December 11 issue] was a bit over the top.

As Mr. Beatty feels the need to be armed at all times, I was struck by his apparent fear of life on the streets in Saratoga Springs. I guess those of us who go about without side arms are either oblivious to the danger or are extremely brave.

He also feels competent to intercede with his handgun in the event he observes a situation that merits it. He assures us that he “has our backs.”

Even with the best and most extensive training, being able to act in a case involving deadly

force properly is highly problematic as many of the recent news stories demonstrate. On just a practical level, how would law enforcement officers arriving at a shooting scene be expected to distinguish the innocent, armed, good Samaritan from the criminal? For that matter, how would another innocent, armed, good Samaritan know who was the criminal and who was the other good Samaritan?

I am a big fan of Saratoga TODAY. I appreciate Mr. Beatty’s candor and I fully defend his rights to publish his opinion pieces. Gun violence is a “deadly” serious issue. I have no solutions but editorials like Mr. Beatty’s that prompt discussion of the issues are to be commended.

John Kaufmann Saratoga Springs

John, I appreciate the feedback. God forbid a scenario like this ever unfolds, but if it does, the police will be able to distinguish me from the criminal because I look like a really nice guy.

Chad Beatty Publisher

Lights on for Life, Drive Sober Campaign

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Prevention Council is partnering with the Saratoga Springs Police Department for “Lights on for Life,” a national campaign designed to focus attention on the issue of impaired driving, because traffic fatalities involving alcohol or drug-impaired drivers increase significantly during this time of year. In previous years, the nation has averaged 25 drunk-driving related fatalities per day.

Prevention Council STOPDWI Outreach Coordinator, Tonya Coulter reminds us that, sadly, “For thousands of families across the nation, the

December holidays bring a somber reminder of the loved ones lost to an impaired driver.”

From now until December 21, the “Lights on for Life, Drive Sober” message will be displayed on Lake Avenue. SSPD’s Sergeant Andrew Prestigiacomo notes, “The actions of just one driver can impact many others.

If you drink, please don’t drink and drive. A ticket, crash, or even an arrest this holiday weekend would surely put a damper on holiday plans.”

Best wishes from all of us at the Saratoga Springs Police Department for a safe and happy holiday season!

Corrupt Politicians Get State Pension Today, we saw the conviction of former Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos on felony corruption charges. Corruption of this magnitude has plagued Albany for decades. The citizens of New York deserve leadership which is transparent and honest, and that is not what Skelos and Sheldon Silver represented.

Unfortunately, Skelos will still be eligible for a taxpayer-funded pension despite his

felony convictions and overtly tarnished record. This is shameful, and our constituents deserve better accountability and ethical standards from Albany. The state is currently paying out roughly $531,000 per year to corrupt state officials. I have fought for legislation that would ban taxpayerfunded pensions for corrupt public officials, but it has been ignored time and time again by Assembly Democrats. One more

day should not go by where New Yorkers’ money funds dirty politics. I am once again calling on Assembly Democrats to pass my pension forfeiture legislation immediately and start the process of stripping pensions from corrupt lawmakers.

Dan Stec Assemblyman (R,C,I-Queensbury)

Our Country Needs a Draft I have said it before and I say it again – this country of ours needs a draft. We have to train our young men and women to be able to protect themselves and to protect our United States of America in case we ever have to go to war.

In fact, we are getting closer to something that is not too good.

Hopefully we will be ok, but like the Boy Scouts, let’s be prepared.

If nothing else, it is good training for young people, and it will give them a better chance of coming back home if something should happen.

It’s time to let the rest of the world know we want peace for

and in our country and we are willing to fight for it, if we have to.

It will be good to train our young peole and put some pride back in our United States of America.

We are a great nation. Let’s keep it that way.

Sid Gordon Saratoga Springs

A Warm “a ca-CELEBRATION!” Thank You “Love all, Serve all” was the quotation on the wall of the Hard Rock Café in Las Vegas, Nevada when Saratoga Soundtrack Chorus won Fourth-Place Division A at the Harmony Classic event at the Sweet Adelines International Competition held in October of this year. On December 7, Saratoga Soundtrack put this quote into action with their fundraiser, a ca-CELEBRATION! to benefit Code Blue Saratoga. This

event raised $551 in cash and checks, and 14 pop-up totes of winter gear were donated.

We would like to thank the following groups for making this event possible: the Knights of Columbus for their help preparing the venue; 28 guest singers for their commitment; Take 2 for their donation of time and talent; Staples in Wilton for their donation of 5 cases of bottled water; the singing sisters

of Saratoga Soundtrack Chorus for refreshments; our director Nancy Faddedgon for her vision; our coordinator Sue Pidgeon; and most importantly, our audience for supporting this endeavor by “packing the house” and providing for those in need in our community.

Margaret E. McIntyre, PR Chair And the Saratoga Soundtrack Chorus

14

BUSINESS

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

The Lather Bar Brews Up a New Take on Clean Photos by MarkBolles.com

by Norra Reyes Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS – The scent near the Post Office on Broadway has become delightful, but it’s not until you open the Lather Bar’s doors at 487 Broadway that you realize how heavenly it is to be surrounded by smells of flowerbeds and far-away places.

The new Lather Bar Soap Company is nothing like the cookie-cutter bath chain stores.

There will be familiar scents such as lavender and tea tree, but the owner, Marisa Fitch, wife of Jason Fitch of King’s Tavern and the Saratoga City Tavern, has a talent for mixing and matching the ingredients of her hand-made soaps that could rival the finest chef. She’ll use Saratoga spring water and other local products such as honey and olive oil. Some of her best-selling soap bars?

Made with local beers.

The owner of Lake Placid Pub and Brewery approached Fitch, wanting his beer to be made into a soap that he could sell. “It’s like, flying off the shelves up there,” said Fitch. “It’s incredible.”

So Fitch started reaching out to other breweries. She now makes beer and wine soaps for Davidson Brothers Brewing Company in Glens Falls, Olde Saratoga Brewing Company, Druthers Brewing Company in Saratoga, Shmaltz Brewing Company in Clifton Park, and The Saratoga Winery.

Before you think people enjoy smelling like they stumbled out of a pub rather than a shower, the alcohol is burned off in the soap-making process, and you’re left with amino acids, vitamin B, and some say anti-aging properties along with a natural, countryfresh scent that she sometimes enhances with a touch of lemon or other ingredient.

“They’re not just gag gifts,” she laughed. “There are real benefits to it. I have one customer who says I’ve spoiled her – she can’t shave with anything else but the beer bars.”

The Lather Bar’s products include dozens of scents appealing to men, as well as a Cinderfella line of beard oil, which smoothes split ends on any head of hair.

Fitch never imagined owning a soap shop. Her husband

gave her a book one day with recipes for making her own lip balm (which she also sells at the Lather Bar) and on a whim she tried the soap recipes. Within six months, she went from terrible batches to good ones to the kind of soap that stops people in their tracks to ask where she got it. Fitch began with a stock of 30 bars, and before she knew it, she was selling thousands, making them herself with some very welcome help from her husband.

“I’m a very crafty person, and I just knew that this would be a really cool niche that fits in perfectly here,” said Fitch.

“There are all these cool little shops in Saratoga, like Saratoga Tea and Honey and The Olive Oil Company, that give so much

character to the city. Opening a little soap shop that offers soap making classes ties in well here.”

The soap classes Fitch offers are held on Wednesday and Friday evenings from 6 to 8 p.m. and run $40 per person.

Guests are given their choice of colors, scents, and exfoliants like salt. The classroom is as cheery and colorful as the owner, who also provides private classes by appointment.

Whether you are looking for holiday gifts or just to replenish your bath, this new little shop on Broadway that provides local ingredients in a fresh way certainly has something for everyone. Just follow your nose. For more information, visit www.latherbar.com.

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

PEP Named 2015 Innovative Company SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Patient Experience Project (PEP), a full-service, patient-centric communications firm based in Saratoga Springs, has been nationally recognized as one of the most innovative companies in the healthcare industry for its gamechanging approach to marketing and communications through patient and caregiver engagement.

The PEP was selected as one of the most innovative companies of the year in 2015 by “PM360”, a print and online publication serving pharmaceutical and medical device professionals. The PEP and other selected companies are featured in a special December “Innovations Issue” of “PM360.”

“Being named among the most innovative companies in our industry is a great honor,” PEP President Dan Bobear said. “The distinction is a testament to the talented team of experts we have and our commitment to make healthcare better by keeping the patient at the center of it all.”

BUSINESS BRIEFS 15

The Patient Experience Project’s approach to marketing and communications ensures that patients and caregivers have a seat at the table and a voice in the process in order to co-create authentic content that delivers a best-in-class, patient-focused experience.

Learn more about the Patient Experience Project at www.the‐pep.com.

one-day-only event will be tickets to SPAC’s 10 “Holiday Collection” programs; Live Nation concert tickets; SPAC gift certificates; SPAC memberships; seat plaques; and “$50 for 50” donation opportunities.

Complimentary hot chocolate will be provided to all customers. The Hall of Springs Box Office is located at 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Leon’s is Moving

Saratoga Hospital: Leader in Equality

BALLSTON SPA — Leon’s Mexican Restaurant will be closing its doors on Crescent Street in Saratoga Springs and will reopen them in January on Doubleday Avenue in Ballston Spa. The popular venue will be serving its specialty cuisine until right before Christmas.

SPAC Box Office OneDay Opening SARATOGA SPRINGS — On Saturday, December 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., SPAC’s Hall of Springs Box Office will be open for business. Available for sale at this

SARATOGA SPRINGS — For the third year in a row, Saratoga Hospital has been recognized as a “Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality” by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation, the educational arm of the country’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization.

The honor is given to facilities that meet LGBT-inclusive benchmarks that are part of the HRC Foundation’s Healthcare Equality Index, a unique survey that encourages equal care for LGBT Americans by evaluating inclusive policies and

practices related to LGBT patients, visitors and employees.

Saratoga Hospital earned top marks in meeting non-discrimination and training criteria that demonstrate the hospital’s commitment to equitable, inclusive care for LGBT patients, and their families, who can face significant challenges in securing the quality healthcare and respect they deserve.

For more information about the Healthcare Equality Index, or to download a free copy of the report, visit www. hrc.org/hei. For more information about Saratoga Hospital, visit www.saratogahospital.org.

Party Palace Opens in Wilton Mall WILTON — The Wilton Mall has welcomed a new store dedicated to childhood fun. The Party Palace, which also has a location at Aviation Mall, offers a wide range of bounce houses, arcade games and a new playground.

John Myers, owner of the Wilton and Aviation Party Palace

stores and E1 Rentals, has been in the entertainment business for more then 20 years. Party Palace has been voted “best birthday parties” from Best of the North Country two years in a row.

The Party Palace offers walkins and passes for hourly, daily, weekly, or monthly. Plans are in place for opening a game room in the food court of Wilton Mall.

Call John Myers at 518-421-8048 or visit www.itsmypartypalace. com for more information.

Correction On page 16 of our November 25 issue, we incorrectly identified the window artist in the photograph as Hamlet and Ghost owner Brendan Dillon. It was actually the talented Michael Conlin from Rise And Shine Company doing the sign painting. Conlin can be reached at www.riseandshineco. com. For more information about the Hamlet and Ghost, visit www. hamletandghost.com.

16 BALLSTON SPA 28 McLean St., $145,000.

Matthew and Patricia Dailey and John and Irene Safford sold property to Conor and Vanessa Shea.

143 West High St., $263,000.

William and Lorraine Canty sold property to Andrew and Kori Scram.

3 Riley Lane, $15,000. Darren and Holly Fitzgerald sold property to Marc Gambaro and Cynthia Quade.

52 Sycamore St., $350,000.

Heritage Builders Group LLC sold property to Mir Ali. 6 Sycamore St., $339,929.

Heritage Builders Group LLC sold property to Harry and Cheryl Collegian.

GREENFIELD 107 Brigham Rd., $517,019.

Cartier Construction Co. LLC sold property to Hiram and Kara Pritchard.

4 Moss Creek Rd., $435,000.

Samuel and Judith Stephens sold property to Richard and Laila Vincent.

PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS 571 Northend Rd., $100,000.

Gerald and Geraldine Ferris sold property to David Younkin, Jr. and Diana Gomez.

215 Bockes Rd., $85,000.

Secretary of Housing and Urban Development sold property to Deborah Spackmann.

MALTA North Cariole St., Vettura Ct., Landau Blvd., Chaise St., S. Cariole St., $3,418,000.

Lecmor Multifamily LLC sold property to Grandeville at Park Place LLC. 18 Willis Way, $455,000. Peggy Lance sold property to James and Renee Irvin.

33 Thimbleberry Rd., $176,000.

Elizabeth Devizzio sold property to Todd and Peggy Lance.

15 Hills Rd., $251,000. Paul Gauvin and Janine WolfGauvin sold property to Cartus Financial Corporation.

15 Hills Rd., $251,000. Cartus Financial Corporation sold property to Jason and Tiffany

Schermerhorn.

52 Wake Robin Rd., $157,500.

146 Middle Ave. LLC sold property to Sarah and Michael Maiolo.

13 Hillman Loop, $368,395.

Farone Amedore LLC sold property to Michael and Sanning Pingitore.

45 Glade Mallow Rd., $180,000.

Carlos and Ellen Ares sold property to Frank McCann.

298 Arrow Wood Place, $139,500. Scott and Beverly Stowell sold property to John Buckley Jr. and Melissa Filarecki.

53 Manning Cove Rd., $1,225,000. James and Colleen Tully sold property to Joseph Schwartz and Susan Kessler-Schwartz.

11 Vettura Ct. $279,900.

DeGraff Bloom Custom Builders Inc. sold property to Bruce Lennard.

18 Shore Ave., $260,000. Joseph and Anthony DiDonna sold property to Sarah Murray.

1 Admirals Way, $595,000.

Malta Land Company sold property to Kevin and Anne Halpin.

MILTON 4 Lancaster Place, $182,500.

Christine Nawrath sold property to Carmen Glenn.

596 Grand Ave., $343,260.

Legacy Custom Homes LLC sold property to Christina

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

Papadopoulos and Victor Dimaria.

28 River Rock Dr., $452,502.

Rock City Road Development Co. LLC sold property to James McMahon.

20 Liberty Dr., $317,000.

Richard and Laila Vincent sold property to Jerry and Elaine Webb.

15 Florence Dr., $144,329.

Earl Ebert (by Admin) sold property to Kathleen Velett.

796 Schuyler Way, $255,000.

Steven Shaw and Elizabeth Misa sold property to Danyel Antoine-Mevissen and Lynne Young.

16 Palmer St., $52,500. Jane Valentin sold property to Richard Crandall and Jill Vallee.

956 MacArthur Dr., $370,000.

Thomas Edgette and Lynne Lawler-Edgette sold property to Michael and Deanna Palombo.

MOREAU 202 Reservoir Rd., $197,400.

James Greenwood sold property to Nicholas and Megan Quinn.

40 Baker Ave., $134,000. Mary Lou Munger sold property to David and Marsha Karnes.

3 Garnet Mine Ct., $750,000.

Jeffrey Attanasio sold property to Robert Breault and Aubrey Guri.

5 Elmwood Dr., $174,000. John Caivano and Rose Coffey sold property to John Klicki and Kimberly Cassidy.

20 Prince William Ct., $227,082.Cerrone Construction LLC sold property to Michael Hartshorne and Susan Ientile.

26 Baker Ave., $8,000.

Catherine Jenkins sold property to Carrie Delsignore.

51 Barrington Dr., $291,000.

Julia Balducci sold property to Bruce and Kelly Caskey.

SARATOGA 6 Corrine Ct., $553,654.

Saratoga Builders LLC sold property to Jean Harvey and Blandine Johnson.

SARATOGA SPRINGS 70 Railroad Place Unit 608, $12,000. Franklin Square Condominiums LLC sold property to Jeffrey Ridha.

17 Pamela Lane, $487,083.

Blitman Saratoga LLC sold property to Sohan Mehta and Geeta Mehta.

172 Kaydeross Park Rd., $382,000. Naomi Scheuer (by Agent) sold property to Cathleen Marino.

264 Excelsior Ave., $1,575,000.

Excelsior Park LLC sold property to Saratoga Excelsior Apartments LLC. 18 Division St., Unit 507, $394,625. Mary and Paul Guarnier, Jr. (as Exec and Trustee) sold property to Brendan Penney.

5 Michael Dr., $219,000.

Eugene and Hilarie Beach sold property to Feryaz Ocakli and Yelena BibermanOcakli.

WILTON 85 Claire Pass, $386,500.

Robert and Mary Woods sold property to John Romano.

12 Bennington Loop, $545,000.

Alfred and Bernadette Nastasi sold property to Kimberly Pieratt.

37 Cherry Tree Lane, $300,000.

William and Joan Mahoney sold property to Steven and Jeanne Theiss.

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

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EDUCATION

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

Skidmore Cares: A Decade of Helping Neighbors SARATOGA SPRINGS — The 10th anniversary celebration of Skidmore Cares—the annual campus-wide initiative to help neighbors in need—was a milestone moment in terms of generosity and good cheer.

A decade ago, Skidmore Cares was launched as part of the annual open house for the Skidmore community hosted by President Philip Glotzbach and Marie Glotzbach at their North Broadway home. The program encourages Skidmore faculty

and staff to donate items such as food, school supplies, personalcare items, and cash for Saratoga agencies that serve people in need. The donations are distributed among 10 area organizations including the Salvation Army, Franklin Community Center, Mary’s Haven, Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council, Wellspring, Shelters of Saratoga, Corinth Central School District, Latino Advocacy Program, the Saratoga Springs City School District PATHS Program,

and—new this year—Saratoga Center for the Family.

At the December 4 open house, Skidmore faculty and staff donated 2,218 food items, 1,017 school supplies, and 950 personalcare items. The items were delivered around the community on December 7. Over 10 years, the Skidmore community has provided an eye-popping 14,718 food items, 9,017 school supplies, 1,500 personal-care items, and $68,891.

Cash donations come from vendors and the popular

Skidmore students Ondrej Krajnak ’16 (left), Jack McDonald ’17, Sam Bloom ’17, and Anthony Bird ’17 with Bonnie Potter at Shelters of Saratoga. Photo provided.

Beatlemore Skidmania concerts.

Student clubs that contribute to Skidmore Cares include BenefAction and the Student Athlete Advisory Council.

Marie Glotzbach said, “The power of this community is remarkable. It was wonderful to visit with so many Skidmore people during the open house and to thank them personally for their support of Skidmore Cares. Phil and I are most grateful for the generosity of our colleagues, who have helped make the 10th year of

Skidmore Cares a success.”

President Glotzbach concluded, “Skidmore College has existed in Saratoga Springs for its entire history and has always tried to be a good neighbor to the city, which we value deeply. We see Skidmore Cares as a way of contributing in a direct and concrete way, during this special time of year, to help those citizens who are most in need. We are pleased to be able to make a positive difference in our community.”

Anthony Bird ’17 with a box full of items donated by Skidmore to the community. Photo provided.

Students Visit Memorial

Ride Captain Joe Spodnick of the Patriot Guard Riders takes a teaching moment at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery with students of Schuylerville Middle School who placed homemade wreaths on the unclaimed remains of some Veterans on Saturday, December 12 as part of the Wreaths Across America Program. Photo by Francesco D’Amico.

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

Ballston Spa Students Raise $6,600 BALLSTON SPA – Students throughout the district completed their annual penny collection, or harvest, this past fall and will present their grants to community groups at a ceremony in the spring. Each of the six schools in the district collected pennies, and other cash donations, as part of the district’s service learning initiative that teaches youth to give back to their local community. Currently, students at all six schools have formed Roundtables where they work as a group to learn what the community’s needs are, discuss issues and select recipients of the funds collected in their respective schools.

This year, students will give over $6,600 in grant funding to local charities, bringing the eightyear total to over $73,000. After interviewing local charities during the coming months, the students will present their grants to groups at a ceremony on May 17, 2016 in the Ballston Spa High School auditorium at 6:15 p.m.

District partner SEFCU is the new sponsor of the program and also offered to process the coins in early December. For more information, please visit the individual school websites or contact the BSCSD Office of District Advancement at 518-884-7195 ext. 1369.

Ft. Edward Students “Act With Respect Always”

Rich Johns recently visited Fort Edward Middle School and High School with an “Act With Respect Always” (AWRA) presentation. Here he is with the AntiBullying Club from the Middle School. AWRA donated shirts for all members and advisers letting them know how much their efforts were appreciated. More information is available at www.actwithrespectalways.com. Photo provided.

Galway School Honors Fallen Vets GALWAY — Galway Central School District took part in the Wreaths Across America Program, which places wreaths on veterans’ graves and war memorials throughout the nation each year. The school held a ceremony on Saturday, December 12 at noon, placing a wreath on the war memorial outside of the school.

Parent University: Kids and Stress

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Parent University will be presenting “Alleviating Stress and Creating Peaceful Environments” on January 14 from 6:30 to

7:30 p.m. at the Lake Avenue Elementary School Library (on the third floor).

In today’s world, children have been bombarded with news regarding terrorism, war and violence. Some children have witnessed these acts of aggression first hand while others live in fear of “what might happen.”

Join Nancy T. Cupolo of Children First to discuss how to create peaceful environments for children both at home and at school. This program will explore the signs of stress exhibited by children as well as the causes of everyday stress.

Parents, guardians, staff and community members are invited to attend this event brought to you by Parent University.

EDUCATION BRIEFS

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20

NEWS

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

Remembering our Fallen at Christmas Continued from front page.

closing remarks. All of the branches of the military were represented and participated in the services.

The Cemetery provided a Civil Air Patrol color guard with 21-gun salute and the playing of taps.

There was a special wreath presentation at several of the graves, including for the nine who were killed in action in Iraq and Afghanistan, the grave of the unknown Civil War soldier, and the graves of three

Medal of Honor recipients. The presentation was given by the Patriot Guard Riders and representatives of the Marine Corps League, as well as Gold Star families when possible.

Students from Schuylerville Middle School participated, placing homemade wreaths on the unclaimed remains of some Veterans.

“One of our ride captains, Joe Spodnick, has developed a nice relationship with those kids over the years,” said Bill Schaaf, Assistant State Captain

of the Patriot Guard Riders.

“Part of what this program is, it’s teaching about the history, about honor and respect.

Joe took a teaching moment with the kids, and I think they enjoyed it.”

The Patriot Guard Riders of New York organize the annual event to remember fallen soldiers in concert with Wreaths Across America, the organization that trucks thousands of wreaths from Maine all across the country to ceremonies happening at noon local time on the same day in cemeteries nationwide. The event began locally 7 years ago; when 7 donated wreaths were placed on soldiers’ graves.

The Patriot Guard Riders hope to one day place a wreath on all 13,000 graves at Saratoga National Cemetery. To that end, they have arranged with Wreaths Across America to receive one free wreath for every two wreaths purchased.

To obtain the “buy two, get one free” deal, donors must purchase a wreath through the Wreaths Across America website and enter the code “NY0057”. To learn more about the program, visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org.

Photos by Francesco D’Amico.

Greg Cambel and his daughter Annabelle lay a wreath on her grandfather James Cambel’s grave.

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

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Season’s Greetings

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

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Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

Season’s Greetings

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THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

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Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

y a d i l o H

e d i u G t f i G

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

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Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

y a d i l o H

e d i u G t f i G

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

NorthStar Church

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trinity United Methodist Church 155 Ballard Road, Gansevoort 584-9107 | tumcwilton.com Rev. 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.

* — Handicap Accessible

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

NEWS 29

Round Lake United Methodist Church Come celebrate Christmas Eve Candle Light Service at Round Lake United Methodist Church Thursday, December 24 at 5:30 pm. 34 George Ave, Round Lake

Old Saratoga Reformed Church

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at Old Saratoga Reformed Church Schuylerville Everyone is invited to attend Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at Old Saratoga Reformed Church on Thursday, December 24, at 8:00 PM. The church is located at the corner of Pearl

and Burgoyne Streets in Schuylerville. The service will include the Lighting of the Christ Candle, and the reading of the Christmas Story from the scriptures. Music will be provided by the

Chancel Choir, accompanied by organist Barbara Elcox, and directed by Christopher Tucker, Minister of Music. The Christmas Message will be delivered by Pastor Joyce deVelder, and there will be the traditional lighting of candles during the singing of “Silent Night.” The church sanctuary is accessible to people with disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs. For more information, call 695-3479.

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FOOD

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

The 2015 Farmers’ Market Gift-Giving Guide

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

by Jeremy Riccardi for Saratoga TODAY Looking for that perfect gift for someone special? The Saratoga Farmers’ Market 2015 Gift-Giving Guide features several one-of-a-kind market gifts that will bring holiday cheer to everyone on your list.

The market showcases a variety of beautiful and unique artisan gifts. Suds ‘n’ Stuff offers soaps made from the mineral waters of Saratoga’s Old Red Spring that come in a variety of fun novelty shapes. Blind Buck Farm has yarns made from farm-raised animals and non-toxic dyes that are

Photo by Eric Jenks.

pre-made into hats and DIY kits for the knitting lovers in your life.

Feathered Antler features an array of hand-made bohemian gifts from jewelry and scarves to handpainted mugs that can be customized for anyone on your list. For a one-of-a-kind gift visit Balet Flowers & Design and check out their handcrafted pottery, holiday arrangements and fresh-cut greens.

For the “foodies” on your list, give the gift of scrumptious edibles. Saratoga Crackers offers family-made crackers prepared with all-natural ingredients. They are currently showcasing Chocolate Peppermint crackers for the holiday season that will make a great addition to your holiday gift bags.

Puckers Gourmet features “superior pickled delectables” made with the finest gourmet ingredients that make these pickles a delicious and healthy stocking stuffer.

For a sticky-sweet treat, check out the holiday peanut butters available at Saratoga Peanut Butter Co. in an assortment of pre-wrapped variety gift packs.

For the garden enthusiasts

in your life visit, The Mariaville Mushroom Men and pick up a grow-your-own shitake log for homegrown mushrooms that yield a harvest within two weeks.

The market is also the place to go for the animal lovers on your list. Kokinda Farms features Catnip Pillows and Something’s Brewing offers “Beastly Bites,” homemade dog-treats.

Specialty wine and spirits make a great gift for the beverage aficionados in your life.

Northern Cross Vineyards makes a great addition to the holiday table with wine made from homegrown grapes in Easton, N.Y. Springbrook Farms and Distillery features a variety of organic and GMO-free spirits from moonshines to their award-winning vodkas and gin.

Stop by the Market Saturday from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. for your holiday shopping needs and don’t forget to visit our other vendors that offer a variety of locally grown and handmade products that will make your holiday gathering a fun-filled and locally loved tradition in the years to come.

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

FOOD 31

The Christmas Eve Feast

by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY Hello, my Foodie Friends!

Our most relished Christmas treasures come with the decorations, the scents of pine, the sounds of music and jingles, and for many, what happens in the kitchen! As I reflect on the Christmas traditions of mine and Paula’s Italian families, the Christmas Eve Feast cannot be overlooked. Coming together to celebrate the holidays becomes a time of giving. It is a time to be with your family and show your gratitude and appreciation of what you have. Cultures all over the world celebrate holiday seasons. One of the most unique and food centric celebratory meals during the Christmas season is the Italian Christmas Eve Feast of the Seven Fishes.

The Christmas Eve Feast is often referred to as La Vigilia or the vigil – the period before midnight when Christians believe the son of God was born.

In meeting my wife over several decades ago, our first Christmas Eve together was spent at her parents’ home celebrating the Feast of Seven Fishes with all of the fish dishes presented that evening. I watched with a calm expression as my wife ate and relished the marinated fresh anchovies as part of the antipasto. Jumbo shrimp, baked clams, and fried calamari were also part of the first course, which I loved! Next, an array of dishes began to come out of the kitchen. These included: the seafood salad, which is a combination of crab, shrimp, calamari, and lobster with celery, olive, and parsley in citronette, the Baccala salad with salted cod tossed with sweet cherry peppers, capers, and olives in a lemon dressing, and then the octopus salad, also

known as Inslata di Polipi. This is where I stopped and stared at the cut up octopus tentacles sitting in front of me. No matter how good I was told it tasted, I just could not bring those tentacles to my lips!!

The next course included fried Baccala and the incredible Linguini (or spaghetti) ai Fruitti di Mare’ which is the heart of the meal. It includes pasta with clams, mussels, calamari, scallops, shrimp, and lobster in a light tomato sauce.

Here is the recipe:

Spaghetti/ Linguini ai Frutti di Mare

Serves 4 people Fish: 10 medium shrimp, shelled and deveined 8 medium calamari (squid), cleaned and cut into rings 10 clams 10 mussels, scrubbed 1/2 pound scallops (also add Lobster) *Note: With this recipe you will start out with the scallops and the clams since they are in the shell. Once the clams and mussels open and you have increased the stock mixed with wine you then add the shrimp, calamari (squid rings), and scallops; add the lobster last. They steam and cook within 10 minutes or less.

Seasoning & Pasta: 6 Italian tomatoes chopped 1 medium shallot, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 bunch of minced parsley Sea Salt Red pepper flakes 1/4 cup olive oil 1 T. butter 1/2 cup of clam juice or fish stock 1/2 cup dry white wine 3 Packages of spaghetti, linguini, or spaghettini, whichever one you find 1 bottle of good wine, to enjoy a glass while you cook this dish (hey, this should be fun!)

Directions: 1. In a large deep sided pan, heat ½ cup of olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.

When melted, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for approx 1 min. Increase heat to medium/ high, then add the mussels and clams (make sure you have discarded any with broken shells or that have already opened).

2. Add ½ cup of the wine, and ½ cup of the fish and clam juice, ¼ cup of chopped parsley, cover with a lid and allow to steam until the mussels and clams open.

CAREFULLY shake the pan occasionally. If the liquid level (wine) decreases too rapidly you can add more wine or stock when necessary. Cover with the lid to steam.

3. While mussels and clams are cooking / steaming, place a stock pot of water on to boil for your pasta. Season the water with a quarter teaspoon of salt once the water starts to boil.

4. Once the mussels and clams open (identify the ones that won’t open and throw them out) season with salt and red pepper flakes. Add the chopped tomatoes, cook for about 5 more minutes (lid on). If you need to add more stock or wine, this is the point to do so.

5. Next add the calamari, shrimp and scallops, lobster and 2 cloves of minced garlic and sprinkle a little more parsley. Cook over medium heat stirring as necessary.

6. Cooking time left is approximately 5 to 6 minutes so the shrimp should start to be pink and in a “c” shape, the scallops and calamari should go from translucent white to a solid white.

7. While the Frutti di Mare is cooking, add the pasta to the boiling water and cook until al dente

(slightly firm in the middle).

Drain pasta and have it ready to transfer to serving bowl.

8. Into a VERY large serving bowl, add sauce from the seafood and the pasta. Toss the ingredients together to combine and mix. Next add the seafood and GENTLY toss again. Garnish with additional parsley. Now you are ready to serve!

Enjoy this recipe. It is our family’s favorite.

We recommend a white wine during dinner and Limon cello and espresso to sum up your

dinner. Christmas Eve is about getting together and having a good time. It is about enjoying yourself and the people you are with. Cooking for the people you love is a gift in itself. Enjoy your holiday season. We hope that 2016 brings many blessings, laughter, health, and happiness to you and your families. Remember; “Life Happens in the Kitchen!”

Take care and Merry Christmas. Paula and John Reardon

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LOCAL BRIEFS Second Hand Rose Thrift Shop at (518) 695-4640.

AA Holiday Meetings The holiday season can be a lonely and difficult time, and if drinking is a problem, AA can help. Alcoholics Anonymous will host a Christmas Alkathon starting at 6 p.m. on Thursday, December 24 and continuing through Friday, December 25 at 6:00 pm; and a New Year’s Alkathon starting Thursday, December 31 at 6 p.m. and continuing through Friday, January 1 till 6 p.m., at the United Methodist Church, Fifth Avenue and Henning Road in Saratoga Springs. Hour-long AA meetings will be held on the even hours starting at 6 p.m. Thursday., with the last meeting at 4 p.m.

Friday (both Alkathons). A festive Christmas dinner will be served at 1 p.m. on Christmas Day. Celebrate in a safe place with sober friends. Anyone with a desire to stop drinking is welcome to attend. There are AA meetings in the Saratoga area every day of the week, all year long. AA has no dues or fees, there are no strings attached, and we respect the anonymity of all who attend. For more information or to find a meeting near you, call the AA Help Line at (518) 587-0407, or visit http:// meetings.aahmbny.org.

Christmas Gifts and Decorations Second Hand Rose Thrift Shop, 116 Broad St., in Schuylerville has Christmas gifts and decorations with home goods for all holiday parties. Come and check out our gently used clothes, shoes, books, etc., for men, women and children. Second Hand Rose is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. until Christmas. The Shop has continuous in store sales of first class bargains with new items arriving daily. Our proceeds after expenses are given back to Community Service Organizations. Volunteers are needed and appreciated. For more information, please call

18th Annual First Night Saratoga 5K Run Begin the First Night celebration right by joining the run before the huge New Year’s event.

Start and finish on the beautiful Skidmore campus. The first 3/4 mile is a gradual uphill on the perimeter road. The course exits the campus at Clinton Avenue and continues to Greenfield Avenue, continuing up North Broadway and back to campus.

This is a moderately challenging course, including both hills and downgrades. Registration is limited to 1,500 runners. Due to the overwhelming success of this run, and having to closeout registration several years in a row, there will be no day of race registration. To register, visit https://www.zippyreg. com/online_reg/registration. php?eventID=641 . Cost is $30.

First Night Saratoga 2016 First Night Saratoga is New York’s largest New Year’s event outside of NYC. For 20 years, First Night Saratoga has been the go-to event for families ringing in the New Year. As we planned for our 20th anniversary, we asked hundreds of people what they wanted to see and hear and this year’s program is a reflection of that. We have brought in the best from all over the spectrum of arts: musicians, dancers, magicians, and even a few psychics. We worked with dozens of venues and nearly one thousand volunteers and performers to bring you the biggest First Night Saratoga event the region has ever seen.

The evening starts with 1,500 people running in our First Night 5K and ends with SPAC’s 50th Anniversary First Night Fireworks display by Northstar Fireworks in Congress Park.

Cost is only $15. Children under 12 are free. CDTA will provide shuttle service from Wilton Mall to Saratoga Arts at 5:30 p.m. & 8:45 p.m. and from Saratoga Arts to the Wilton Mall at 8:30 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. after the fireworks.

Polar Plunge Celebrate First Day in Lake

George - New Year’s Day Polar Plunge Swim in Shepard Park, Lake George. Family activities, Polar Plunge New Year’s Day swim. Dip in the frigid water and see how far you get. The first 400 swimmers will take the plunge at 1 p.m., followed by each group of 400 every 1/2 hour. Pre-register at Duffy’s Tavern, Amherst St., Lake George on Thursday, December 31, from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. or 10:30 a.m. on January 1.

Admission is free for onlookers.

For more information call (518) 668-5323; or visit, www. lakegeorgewintercarnival.com.

New Hours When Crafters Resume January 6 The Wednesday Crafters at Simpson United Methodist Church, 1089 Rock City Road, Rock City Falls (.4 mi south of Rt. 29) will take a short holiday break and resume Wednesday January 6, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

All in community are welcome to drop in and work on their hobby/project of choice. No church affiliation, registration, attendance commitments, or ability level required to participate in this free weekly gathering. Bring a bag lunch or enjoy the light refreshments provided. We follow the Ballston Spa School District Calendar for vacations and snow days.

So gather your yarn, coupons, papers, sewing machine, whatever the materials, and catch up on your UFOs (unfinished objects). Any questions please contact Cindi at (518) 885-9791.

Olde Saratoga Seniors The Olde Saratoga Seniors will meet on Wednesday, January 6, 2016 at noon at the Town Hall in Schuylerville. It will be a casserole luncheon. Please bring a canned good for the food pantry and a dish to share. New members are always welcome.

Call Pat (518) 331-2978.

Hattie’s 15th Annual Mardi Gras Benefit In honor of their 50th Anniversary, Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) is the proud beneficiary of the 15th Annual Hattie’s Mardi Gras.

Michael Panza and his team from Fine Affairs will transform the Canfield Casino into “New

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015 Orleans of the North.” Guests will enjoy the culinary expertise of Chef Jasper Alexander, dance the night away to the sounds of Garland Nelson and Soul Session, the band and so much more. The event will be held at the Canfield Casino, located in Congress Park, Saratoga Springs on January 16, from 6 – 10 p.m. For more information or to purchase tickets visit http://www.spac.org/ events/2016/01/16/hatties-15thannual-mardi-gras-party.

please call if you are interested in helping out.

A Purple Tie Affair Come to the Museum of Dance on January 16 at 7 p.m. for the third annual Purple Tie Affair.

You’ll enjoy delicious food and drinks from Longfellows, live music from The Accents, dancing, raffles, and prizes in support of two great causes: The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and Nick’s Fight to Be Healed Foundation for Pediatric Cancer. Wear your favorite cocktail party attire and be sure to wear something purple to show your support. Visit http:// www.purpletieaffair.org for more information. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a great night at the Museum of Dance and to support the causes fighting against blood cancers.

Cancer Support Group A cancer diagnosis can be shocking and traumatic, and survivorship requires many skills to navigate the journey towards well -being. The cancer support group, regardless of the type of cancer one faces, is a safe container to explore common physical, financial, emotional, cognitive, developmental, familial and spiritual issues.

Skills of resiliency, empathy, “being seen and understood,” are addressed. Inter-connectedness, intimacy, and new attitudes and possibilities are cultivated to face and release feelings of isolation, confusion, anxiety and day-to-day uncertainties in a group of people with similar wishes to improve the quality of their lives. Pierre Zimmerman, who facilitates this group, has been working with people who have cancer for the last 12 years, leading support groups, mindfulness based stress reduction programs and spiritual retreats. Pierre is a survivor of stage 4 cancer, diagnosed in 2001 and given a few months to live. He has been dedicating a large part of his life since then to supporting people on their journeys with cancer. Call Pierre at (413) 992-7012 to register and confirm — as schedule may be subject to change. This group meets at Saratoga Hospital, every 4th Wednesday of the month.

Annual Moonlight Ski and Snowshoe at Camp Saratoga Join us on Saturday, January 15 at the popular and highly anticipated Annual Moonlight Ski and Snowshoe at Camp Saratoga on Scout Road.

Luminaries will glow along 2.5 miles of groomed trails. Along the way you will find fields and forests, warming bonfires and plenty of hot chocolate. The terrain is suitable for all levels and ages and includes a smaller 1 mile loop. Participants can dropin anytime during the evening, no registration is needed.

Snowshoes and cross-country skis will be available on a firstcome first-serve basis in the I.P Winter Lodge off of Parking lot #2. The rental fee is $5 per person for non-members. Parking will be directed by Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park. This event is weather permitting.

Call (518)450-0321 for more information. We are still looking for volunteers for the event,

Ryan’s Run Ryan’s Run, sponsored by Saratoga Springs Teachers Association, is a 5K run/walk at Saratoga Spa State Park at the Warming Hut on May 21, 2016. All proceeds go to support families with MIOP and to fund research. The race is chip timed

by AREEP. Register at www. curemiop.org.

Volunteers Needed Saratoga County Retired and Senior Volunteer Program has partnered with Community Connections, a program of the Adult and Senior Center of Saratoga to recruit volunteers in a variety of capacities. The volunteers are trained and matched with care recipients

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

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

Family Friendly Event

Friday, December 18 Miracle on 34th Street Home Made Theater, Spa Little Theater, 19 Roosevelt Dr., Saratoga Springs, 7:30 p.m.

Sometimes we all need a reminder of how wonderful it is to believe! Just when a weary world needs it most, a whitewhiskered, kindly old man calling himself Kris Kringle appears to remind a little girl and her skeptical mother that the holidays are still a magical time of humor, generosity, and faith in the goodness of others.

Join us for this uplifting yuletide classic. Tickets are $18 for adults and $12 for children 12 and under. For more information and performances visit www. homemadetheater.org.

Saturday, December 19 Eagle Watch

Moreau Lake State Park, 9 a.m.

- Noon Grab a pair of binoculars and join park staff on their weekly Bald Eagle survey. Moreau Lake State Park’s section of the Hudson is home to wintering bald eagles. It is important for us to monitor their population and health, please come and help us!

Registration is necessary. Call (518) 793-0511

Family Yoga at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market Saratoga Spa State Park, Lincoln Baths Building, 65 South Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 11 a.m.

Family Yoga is back at our winter market (Nov-April). On the third Saturday of every month, certified yoga instructor Patty Rodecker will hold free Family Yoga classes at 11a.m. and 12

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p.m. The 30-minute classes will be family-friendly and designed for yogis of all ages and abilities.

Bring your mat or just wear your sneakers and enjoy a gentle, fun program designed to put a smile on your face and peace in your heart. Please register ahead by emailing Julia at: Julia@ saratogafarmersmarket.org.

pancakes, potatoes, breakfast sausage and ham, corned beef hash, scrambled eggs, eggs benedict, juice, coffee and tea.

Donation Requested: Adults $8, Seniors and Military (Active/ Retired with ID Card) $7, Children 5—12 $6, Under 5 Free, Take-outs $8. Call (518) 5842585 for more information.

4th Annual Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl for Alzheimer’s

Flying Fingers Holiday Concert

Barrelhouse, 68 Beekman St., Saratoga Springs, Noon Registration Raise your Pint & Raise Hope & Awareness at our 4th Annual Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl. The crawl will walk throughout the great city of Saratoga Springs. The crawl will have food at three locations, plus drink specials at every bar from $2-$4. Each ticket includes food, bar specials, free Xmas swag and a custom pub crawl mug for the first 100 registered. There will be a silent auction of gift cards, prize baskets and so much more. Some of the bars will be having individual giveaways. 100 percent of the proceeds will benefit the Alheimer’s Association of Northeastern New York. Buy tickets and get info at www. crawltoga.com.

The Dance Factory Dance Studio presents “Believe” Schuylerville High School, 14 Spring Street, Schuylerville, 1 – 3 p.m.

Join us for our holiday performance featuring dancers ages three to twenty years, boys and girls, as they perform lively holiday-inspired dances in ballet, hip hop, tap, lyrical, and jazz. This event is sure to get you even closer to the holiday spirit and is appropriate for all ages. This two hour production is choreographed and directed by artistic director Dianne Carola.

Partial proceeds benefit Saratoga County Animal Shelter and Hendrick Boards organization for abused and abandoned animals.

For tickets call (518) 253-1433 or purchase at the studio.

Sunday, December 20 Breakfast with Santa Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge #161, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs, 8:30 – 11 a.m.

Fruit cocktail, French toast,

Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry Street, Saratoga Springs, 2 – 3 p.m.

Enjoy a holiday musical sign language performance by the Flying Fingers Sign Language Troupe led by Kassey Granger and sponsored by The Lions Club of Region N. The troupe, comprised of children ages 6-16, will entertain you with a variety of songs and teach some simple signs so you can “sing along.”

For families and children ages 5 and up. No registration required.

Free admission.

Monday, December 21 First Day of Winter Hike Moreau Lake State Park, 9 a.m.

– Noon Let’s start the winter off with a long walk in the woods. A lesser known trail nicely weaves through some thick forest up to the top of Palmertown Range. This hike will be a challenging 4+ miles. Please bring lunch and plenty of water.

Appropriate shoes are necessary.

Reservations are required with 24 hours advanced notice. Call (518) 793-0511.

Annual Members’ Show Art Center Gallery, 320 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Saratoga Arts is proud to present our Annual Members’ Show, on display in the Arts Center Gallery beginning December 21 through December 31. A staff and visitor favorite, our Annual Members’ Show presents 180 members artists from around the region in our main gallery, with works ranging from painting, drawing and printmaking to sculpture, ceramics and photography. This everpopular, year-end show is a great opportunity for our established

and emerging member artists to display their best artworks in a professional exhibition at The Arts Center Gallery and celebrate their many talents with fellow artists and the community. All artworks are available for purchase and would make a great gift this holiday season. Admission is free. For more information call (518) 584.4132 or visit www.saratoga-arts.org.

Winter Solstice Hike Saratoga Spa State Park, 2 p.m.

Celebrate the beginning of winter with a hike through our fields and forests! This moderate three mile hike will feature some of the nicest trails in the park. All ages are welcome, but the trail is not stroller friendly. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water. Fee is $3 per person or $5 per family. Registration required.

Call (518) 584-2000 ext 116

Make a Seasonal Ornament

Saratoga Springs Public Library, The Children’s Room, 4 – 5 p.m.

Come to the library and make a seasonal ornament to celebrate the holiday season. For students in grades 4-7. Please visit or call the Children’s Room at (518) 584-7860 ext. 305 to register.

Light in the Darkness First Presbyterian Church, 22 West High St., Ballston Spa, 7 p.m.

Light in the Darkness: A service of comfort and hope for the longest night of the year. Christmas can be a painful time. The constant, inescapable refrain about the happiness of the season reminds many people of what they have lost or have never had. Broken or lost relationships, employment and financial insecurity, poor health, depression - all of these can be more difficult as the nights lengthen and the cold intrudes.

Recognizing that Christ came to comfort those who struggle with sadness and pain. First Presbyterian Church will host a community service of scripture, prayer, music and candle lighting to invite God’s Word to shine light into our darkness. Everyone, regardless of church background (or no religious affiliation) is welcome. For more information call (518) 885-5583.

Tuesday, December 22 Alzheimers Association Adult and Senior Center of Saratoga, 5 Williams St., Saratoga Springs, 9 a.m.

Kym Hance, Alzheimers Association will be at the Center every Tuesday from 9-1pm, to answer questions, give referrals or just to chat. Please take advantage of this amazing opportunity to learn as much as you can about this disease.

Topics will vary monthly. For more information call (518) 581-8608.

Tuesday for Tots The Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Tuesday for Tots is a neat drop-in program at the Children’s Museum at Saratoga. Tuesday for Tots is every Tuesday from 10 a.m. -12 p.m. and 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. and is free with museum admission. This is a special time for younger visitors to gain preschool readiness skills in a fun and social environment. Drop in anytime for play dough, crafts, games and friends.

Wednesday, December 23 Family Christmas Party Featuring Mickey’s Christmas Carol Wood Theater, 207 Glen St., Glens Falls, 12:30 p.m.

Celebrate the Holidays at the Wood Theater with themed crafts, music, Santa Clause and a showing of Mickey’s Christmas Carol. The classic Disney animated characters play the roles in this animated retelling of the Charles Dickens masterpiece.

To purchase tickets visit http:// www.woodtheater.org/shows/.

Thursday, December 24 Turkey Trail Hike

Moreau Lake State Park, 10 a.m.

– Noon This moderate hike scales half-way up the Palmertown mountain range. Learn from the park naturalist how this trail got its name. Reservations are required with 24 hours advanced notice (518) 793-0511.

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

35 PULSE Gingerbread Galore at Embassy Suites!

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

by Rebecca Davis Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS – The Embassy Suites by Hilton in Saratoga Springs, located at 86 Congress Street, hosted its first annual Gingerbread Workshop in the afternoon on Saturday, December 12. Kids of all ages and their families gathered at the hotel to decorate their very own gingerbread house, with every candy décor imaginable provided.

Chef Matt Barton hosted and set up the Gingerbread Workshop, which was planned in the fall. The workshop provided gingerbread houses to over

Photos by Francesco D’Amico

a dozen eager families, who spent several hours decorating them to sweet perfection. The culinary team at Embassy Suites built and decorated an impressive replica of the hotel from scratch out of gingerbread, which was on display during the workshop.

Michael Spilman, Director of Sales at Embassy Suites in Saratoga, said the hotel is planning on future holiday events, such as programs for Easter, Mother’s Day and more. For more information about Embassy Suites in Saratoga Springs, and for upcoming events, visit the facebook page at facebook.com/ EmbassySuitesSaratogaSprings.

Lauren & Stuart deVoe enjoy a laidback afternoon at Embassy Suites

Maria Mangini & Adina Taluto show off their creation.

Gingerbread replica of the Embassy Suites in Saratoga made by kitchen staff.

Violet & Tiffany Albert decorate their gingerbread house together.

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Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

Claus for a Cause: SantaCon is coming to Town!

Continued from front page.

by Rebecca Davis Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Enjoy the holiday spirit, and spirits, with the 4th annual SantaCon Saratoga Springs on Saturday, December 19.

Attendees dress up head to toe as Santa Claus (Mrs. Clauses, elves, reindeer and other holiday characters are also welcome) and spread holiday cheer and charity throughout Saratoga as they visit local bars and restaurants. In order to get a wristband for the bars’ SantaCon specials, attendees must bring a minimum of four non-perishable food items to donate to Franklin Community Center.

“According to SantaCon rules, every time you call it a pub crawl, a sugarplum fairy dies,” said Anthony Aquino, one of the founders of Saratoga’s SantaCon. “It’s all about the donations.”

Aquino, along with his friend Michelle Nochisaki, founded their very own SantaCon in Saratoga four years ago. The two friends used to go to New York City’s SantaCon, but after being unable to attend one year, they decided to create their own SantaCon close to home. SantaCon is a worldwide event and according to its website, there are currently SantaCons in over 356 cities and 49 countries.

SantaCon Saratoga is growing. 300 people attended the first SantaCon Saratoga in 2012, while last year, over 700 people attended. This year, Saratoga Eagle sponsored radio advertisements, raffle prizes and even a van to haul the huge amount of donated food.

“Every year, I’m worried that my tires on my truck are going to pop because there’s so much food!” said Aquino. He also mentions how some people just stop by to donate, without even going

to the bars. “People bring food not to win a prize or the raffle, but because they want to be a part of something. By the end of the night, there’s just food all around.”

Julia Slovic, Food Program Administrator at Franklin Community Center, explains how SantaCon greatly helps their food pantry during the holiday season. “We have been fortunate enough to be the recipient of Saratoga SantaCon’s food drive for the past two years and we couldn’t be happier about it,” she said, “The amount of food collected throughout the event is overwhelming and helps keep our shelves stocked through the ever busy winter months. We truly appreciate that the event organizers were so forward thinking to include a charitable component to their fun-filled day.”

There will be a big van outside of Putnam Den, where SantaCon begins on Saturday, so

that arriving Santa Clauses can make their donations and receive their wristband. Raffle tickets are given out based on donations, so the more food brought, the more raffle tickets attendees will receive.

Last year’s raffle prizes included ski passes for six at Killington, a snowboard, a two-night-stay in the Bud Light Condo, and more.

While many SantaCons have been getting a bad reputation for their wild crowds, SantaCon Saratoga does things differently.

“We’ve had such a positive turnout, with zero issues of anyone getting too inebriated.

Everyone is just in a great mood all day,” said Aquino. “What makes this event special though is giving back to the community. Seeing the community come and hang out altogether makes it worth it.”

Thinking about attending SantaCon without a costume? If so, expect to stand out.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen an event where people get so involved in getting dressed up and playing a part,” Aquino added.

Participating Bars and Schedule: Putnam Den – 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Spa City Tap & Barrel – 2:45 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.

Harvey’s – 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Peabody’s/Bailey’s – 4:15 P.M. to 5:15 p.m.

Clancy’s/Dango’s/Trotters – 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Saratoga City Tavern – 5:45 p.m. to 6:45 p.m.

Caroline St. Pub – 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

The Bourbon Room – All day specials.

For more information about SantaCon Saratoga, and to see more great pictures from previous years, visit facebook.com/ saratoga.santa.

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

37 PULSE

School of Arts Brings Back Nutcracker SARATOGA SPRINGS – It seems that the School of the Arts’ “The Nutcracker” has become a new tradition in Spa City. On December 12 and 13, School of the Arts (SOA) dancers performed the second act of this famous ballet, “The Kingdom of Sweets,” to a sold out house in all four performances.

With beautiful sets by Laura DiRado and intricate costumes designed by Kim Vanyo, SOA’s performance was visually stunning. A total of 65 talented young dancers

were a part of the show, including Lilah DuBoff, who returned this year for her role as Sugar Plum Fairy, as did Sam Epstein as Cavalier. The ballet was directed by Raul Martinez and Joan K. Anderson. Martinez even made a cameo performance as Mother Ginger in the show.

Though this is only the second year the School of the Arts has put on this holiday classic, it looks like the community will be coming back for more for years to come.

Photos by Francesco D’Amico

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Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

The McKrells’ Christmas Show

week of 12/18-12/23 friday, 12/18:

Kevin and Kate McKrell (pictured above), along with Doug Moody and Brian Melick, will be performing The McKrells’ Christmas Show at 7 p.m. at Parting Glass Pub from December 21 to 23 and at The Spa Little Theater on Sunday, December 20. For more information, and an exclusive interview with Kevin McKrell, visit Saratoga TODAY’s website at saratogatodaynewspaper.com.

Matt Evans, 9 pm @ Bentley’s — 899.4300 Heather Maloney, 8 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022 Take Two, 8 pm @ Carney’s Tavern — 952.7177 Megan Houde, 7 pm @ Carson’s Woodside Tavern — 584.9791 Jukebox Night, 9 pm @ Caroline St. Pub — 583.9400 Jeanne O’Connor, 7 pm @ Crown Grill — 583.1105 Vinyl Evolution, 4 pm @ End Zone Sports Pub — 584.6460 Rick Bolton + Jeff Walton, 5 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 Frankie Lessard Trio, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 ILL Funk Band, 10 pm @ Harvey’s — 583.0003 Sidetracked, 5:30 pm @ JP Bruno’s — 745.1180 Pop City, 10:30 pm @ JP Bruno’s — 745.1180 TS Ensemble, 8 pm @ Nanola — 587.1300 Rick Rosoff Quartet, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Avenue — 583.2582 My Familiar, 10 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Larry Hooker, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Gang of Thieves w/ Cousin Earth, 9:30 pm @ Putnam Den — 584.8066 Up All Night, 8 pm @ Ravenswood — 371.8771 Moonshine Junkies, 9 pm @ The Mill — 899.5253 Triskele Xmas Show, 7 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916 Off Kilter, 8:30 pm @ The Rusty Nail — 371.9875 Rich Ortiz, 6 pm @ The Saratoga Winery — 584.9463 Russ Kennedy, 6:30 pm @ Thirsty Owl — 587.9694 Audiostars, 8 pm @ Vapor — 581.5775

saturday, 12/19: Houde + Hofmanis, 6 pm @ Bentley’s — 899.4300 Holiday Folk Show, 8 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022 EJ Hopeck, 8 pm @ Carney’s Tavern — 952.7177 The T’s, 7 pm @ Carson’s Woodside Tavern — 584.9791 The Heaters, 9 pm @ Caroline St. Pub — 583.9400 Karaoke, 10 pm @ Circus Café — 583.1106 Acoustic Circus, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 Bolton, Nolan + Greene, 10 pm @ Harvey’s — 583.0003 Aquanett, 10:30 pm @ JP Bruno’s — 745.1180 Joe Gitto + Dan Wanczyk Jazz Duo, 6:30 pm @ Mouzon House — 226.0014 Funk Evolution, 8 pm @ Nanola — 587.1300 Jon LeRoy Trio, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Avenue — 583.2582 Scott Bassinson, 6 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Dan Sherwin, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Jam for Tots, 7 pm @ Putnam Den — 584.8066 Ubuntu, 8 pm @ Ravenswood — 371.8771

No Right, 9 pm @ The Mill — 899.5253 Forthlin Road, 9 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916 Karaoke, 9:30 pm @ The Rusty Nail — 371.9875 Tim Ortiz, 3 pm @ The Saratoga Winery — 584.9463 Leah Woods, 6:30 pm @ Thirsty Owl — 587.9694 DJ Playground, 9 pm @ Vapor — 581.5775

sunday, 12/20: Holiday Folk Show Matinee, 3 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022 Live Jazz Brunch, 10 am @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 McKrells Xmas Show, 1 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916 Jess Marcotte, 3 pm @ The Saratoga Winery — 584.9463

monday, 12/21: Frankie Lessard, 6:30 pm @ Brook Tavern — 871.1473 Tim Wechgelaer, 7:30 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 McKrells Xmas Show, 7 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916

tuesday, 12/22: Let’s Be Leonard, 8 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022 Rich Ortiz, 9 pm @ Caroline St. Pub — 583.9400 Open Mic with Rick Bolton, 8 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 Toga Boys, 10 pm @ Harvey’s — 583.0003 McKrells Xmas Show, 7 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916 Mark Pratt, 5:30 pm @ Three Vines Bistro — 306.5881

wednesday, 12/23: BYOV Xmas Sweater Party, 8 pm @ Nanola — 587.1300 Masters of Nostalgia, 8:30 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Open Mic, 9 pm @ Putnam Den — 584.8066 McKrells Xmas Show, 7 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916 Karaoke, 9 pm @ The Rusty Nail — 371.9875

thursday, 12/34: Open Mic, 10 pm @ Circus Café — 583.1106 Megan Houde, 8 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 Hot Club of Saratoga, 7 pm @ Mouzon House — 226.0014 Chris Carey + Mike O’Donnell, 8 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Mark Pratt, 5:30 pm @ Three Vines Bistro — 306.5881

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

39

Thanks to Wrapping Firefighters Arianna Avila enjoys wrapping presents, too. Photo by MarkBolles.com.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — On Thursday, December 10, members of the Saratoga Springs Firefighters, IAFF Local 343, family members and volunteers met at the Principessa Elena

Society at 10 Oak Street to wrap presents for area children, an annual tradition that has been going on for several years.

Firefighter and paramedic Mike O'Reilly, a member of the

Principessa Elena Society, scours schools within the Saratoga Springs City School District for a list of children that could use some help. These children will receive hats, coats, gloves, and other items

as well as a toy. Principessa Elena Society president Jim Verderosa and the society’s members extend their gratitude to the firefighters and all the volunteers that helped out Thursday evening.

Holiday Spirit at Home of the Good Shepherd SARATOGA SPRINGS – The Home of the Good Shepherd at 390 Church Street hosted a holiday gathering of residents,

family and friends Thursday evening, December 10. Hors d’ oeuvres, tasty dishes, and refreshments were enjoyed

along with singing and dancing to songs of the season provided by “The Nat Phipps Duo.” Visit HomeOfTheG o o dShepherd. com

Firefighter Brian Kissinger (left) and Jake Smith of the SSHS varsity football team help wrap gifts for area children. Photo by MarkBolles.com.

Warmth in Wilton WILTON – Wilton Food Pantry customers will enjoy a warmer winter due to the knitting skills of Saratoga Springs High School senior Jill Aria, 18, who made 40 to 50 hats, mittens, slippers, blankets, and toys for donation to the pantry.

“I started knitting all of the items during the summer,” Aria said. “I had wanted to do this for a while, and I am glad that I finally found the time to follow through with my plans to make gifts for everyone. I taught myself how to knit when I was only thirteen, and I have been doing it ever since!”

Wilton Food Pantry Founder and Board Member Dennis Towers

said, “Most teenagers do their community service requirement and then we never see them again, but Jill has been volunteering for about a year and a half, now.

Donations are down, as they are for many nonprofits, so we are very grateful to Jill.”

The pantry has increased its visits so patrons can now shop 16 times a year, up from 12. It also shares out to other agencies, including the Shelters of Saratoga and the Corinth Food Pantry so no food is wasted. For information on how to volunteer or donate, visit www.wiltonfoodpantry.org.

Saratoga Springs High School senior Jill Aria knits warmth for Wilton Food Pantry customers. Photo provided.

Activities Assistant Cathleen Case and Activities Director Kelley Taylor.

Photo provided.

Over 1k Toys for Toga SARATOGA SPRINGS – On Monday, December 14, a check presentation was held at the Saratoga Brewery in celebration of the 2015 Toys for Toga campaign, which raised $6,705 and more than 1,000 toys for local children.

DeCrescente Distributing Company, Saratoga Brewery and Saratoga Convention and Tourism Bureau (SCTB) partnered together for this third annual Toys For Toga campaign, designed to help provide local children with toys for the holidays. The donated toys

were distributed equally among three local charities on Monday: Franklin Community Center, CAPTAIN Youth and Family Services and Mechanicville Area Community Services Center. Last year, Toys For Toga collected more than 700 toys and raised $5,400.

Pictured left to right: Jaime Williams of the Franklin Community Center; Bill Gathen of DZ Restaurants; Max Oswald of Saratoga Brewing; Megan Quillinan; Nicole Coons; Holly LaTorre of the Mechanicville Community Center; Charlie Usas of The Barrel House; Mary Duclos of CAPTAIN Youth and Family Services and Meg Thompson of Saratoga Brewing. Photo provided.

40

It’s where NEED to be.

YOU

Publication Day:

CLASSIFIED MARKETPLACE

Friday

Ad Copy Due: Wednesday, noon

Space Reservation Due: Monday, 5 p.m.

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

classified@saratogapublishing.com

Call (518) 581-2480 x204

DIVORCE

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

- 518-274-0380

HELP WANTED AIRLINE CAREERS Start Here Get trained as FAA certified Aviation Technician. Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call AIM for free information 866-296-7093

MISCELLANEOUS

SAWMILLS from only $4397.00 - MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill- Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship! FREE Info/DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com 1-800-578-1363 Ext.300N

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

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

Call 518-650-1110 Today!

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

WANTED CASH for Coins! Buying Gold & Silver. Also Stamps & Paper Money, Comics, Entire Collections, Estates. Travel to your home. Call Marc in NY: 1-800-959-3419 CASH FOR DIABETIC TEST STRIPS Up to $35/Box! Sealed & Unexpired. Payment Made SAME DAY. Highest Prices Paid!!

Call Juley Today! 800-413-3479 www.CashForYourTestStrips.com

HUNTING Our Hunters will Pay Top $$$ To hunt your land. Call for a Free Base Camp Leasing info packet & Quote. 1-866-309-1507 www.BaseCampLeasing.com

41

42

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

Puzzles Across 1 Parlor action 5 Dorm peer leaders: Abbr.

8 Lidless container 14 Palm that produces purple berries 15 CPR giver 16 Missouri River city 17 “You don’t look a day over 29,” probably 19 One may use a teleprompter 20 IM guffaw 21 Hustled 23 Points in math class 24 Didn’t come to pass 28 Chorus for the villain 29 “Dang!”

30 Fellow 31 Drink with sushi 32 Cow or sow 35 Flooring phrase 40 Promos 41 General organization?

42 Tetra holder 43 Reining word 44 “Given the circumstances ...”

47 So as not to be noticed 51 Stories of the ages 52 Invalidate 53 Vacation destination 56 Wanted badly 59 Device for exposing the end of 17-, 24-, 35- or 47-Across 61 __ Pie 62 Great Basin native 63 Orkin victim 64 Pull out of the water 65 TD’s half-dozen 66 Gorillas, e.g.

Down 1 Go through a lot of tissues 2 Tunnel effect 3 Help from behind 4 Gather dust 5 “I can __” 6 __ curiae: friend of the court 7 Tough to climb 8 Nav. noncom 9 Word before base or ball 10 Kingdoms 11 Skywalker associate, familiarly

See puzzle solutions on page 38

See puzzle solution on page 46 12 Monastic garment 13 Inducing the willies 18 Sea eagles 22 Kitchen dweller of song 25 Spanish 101 verb 26 Cook quickly, in a way 27 Half-note feature 28 Obey 30 Campus no.

31 Farm home 32 Unit between levels 33 Prince in “Frozen” 34 Large grazer 36 Cowardly Lion player 37 Bouncy pace 38 Missouri River city 39 Sundance Kid’s girlfriend 43 Boll eater

44 Actor Will of “The Lego Movie” 45 Many diner dishes 46 Not working 47 Stress-related ailment, possibly 48 Language on a longship 49 16th-century circumnavigator 50 Turn out 54 Prepare for a shot 55 Song and dance 57 Former Abbey Road Studios owner 58 “GoodFellas” boss 60 IRA suggester

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: Baluster, Banister A baluster is a short pillar that supports a handrail.

The balusters on the deck were secured with small screws.

A banister is the handrail on a staircase.

We slid down the banister when we were children.

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

44

SPORTS

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

Off To A Flying Start!

Saratoga Springs Gymnastics Opens Year With Three Wins

by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS – The Saratoga Springs High School Varsity Gymnastics team has served notice that they intend to be a force again, as they paced to their third win to open the season in a meet against Shaker on Tuesday, December 15, at the

Wilton branch of the Saratoga Regional YMCA. Saratoga swept the high marks in all events, as well as second place in all categories and third in all but one. Reigning Section 2 vault champ Julia VanHorne took that event and the bars. Kate Della Ratta finished first on the beam and Laura Eberlein was first in the floor event. The all-around high score

was posted by Courtney Kirsche.

Their next match at home will be on Tuesday, December 22 – the start of a two-day series against Guilderland.

Varsity Gymnastics Saratoga vs. Shaker 12/15/15 Team totals: Saratoga- 171.65 Shaker- 150.45

Vault: 1. Julia VanHorne - 9.0 2. Courtney Kirshe - 8.85 3. Sophie Hrebenach - 8.7 Bars: 1. Julia VanHorne - 8.8 2. Abby Zabielski - 8.4 3. Kelsey Jackowitz - 8.3 Beam: 1. Kate Della Ratta - 8.8 2. Courtney Kirshe - 8.6 3. Kayla Morris (Shaker) - 8.55

Floor: 1. Laura Eberlein - 9.15 2. Courtney Kirshe - 9.1 3. Carmen Cusick - 9.0 All Around: 1. Courtney Kirshe - 34.6 2. Julia VanHorne - 34.35 3. Laura Eberlein and Sophie Hrebenach - 32.7

All-Around Winner Courtney Kirshe Sticks Landing On Vault To The Delight Of Coach Deb Smarro. Photos by MarkBolles.com.

Hall Brothers Making Their Mark Nationally

by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Two young men, who are brothers and Saratoga Springs natives, have the distinction of attaining high levels

of achievement at the national level in the sport of Tai Kwon Do. The Hall brothers – Patrick, age 22, and Brian, 19 both third degree black belts, coach each other in collegiate and national tournaments and have compiled an impressive collection of credentials.

Patrick won the USAT (USA Tai Kwon Do) New York State Championship last March, and the New England Open this past October. He competed at the Collegiate Nationals in Delaware this past April, and the USAT

Nationals in Austin this July with his brother Brian as his National Level 1 Coach.

The two reverse the coaching roles depending on who is competing! Most recently, Brian coached Patrick to win the New England Open at M.I.T. The same weekend, they flipped roles and Patrick coached Brian to a 15-6 win at the M.I.T. Sport Tai Kwon DoTournament.

Both boys have studied at Pai’s Tae Kwan Do. Patrick, a Siena graduate, is an instructor there. Patrick earned his

first-degree black belt at Pai’s, at age 13. Brian, a Skidmore student, achieved his first-degree black belt as a 10-year-old.

The boys have been encouraged since their childhood by their parents, Maura (a third degree black belt) and Gary Hall

Brian and Patrick Hall (Photo Provided)

(first degree black belt). The boys coach their mother in intermural competitions. Both brothers attended St. Clements Elementary School and Saratoga Central Catholic School, where Brian was a member of the 2014 WAC champion basketball team.

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

SPORTS 45

“May the force be with you”!

by Damian Fantauzzi for Saratoga TODAY This weekend is the premier of yet another Star Wars movie – “The Force Awakens.” It was 32 years ago, in 1983, when the last Star Wars movie – “Return of The Jedi” - premiered. I remember that movie well. I took my son, who was 5 at the time, and he was awed. At first I thought he might have been too young, but he loved it, and handled it very well.

So what does this have to do with my sports column? Nothing!

It has to do with the hype that can

come with a series of things, like movie sequels, and yes, professional sports’ playoff series. The NCAA is prepping for its national championship series in college football. Still a system that is sort of in its infancy, the NCAA is actually still experimenting with its championship format.

We all know that sports are built on hype, and in America athletics are a big part of our national interests. According to Bleacher Report, an online sports website, the Cotton Bowl is being billed as a slugfest, and for good reason. Alabama and Michigan State ranked 36th and 49th, respectively, in average scoring this season, and both sides tout burly defensive fronts that should apply pressure all night long.

Can Michigan State’s 19thranked scoring defense be capable of doing what few Alabama opponents have throughout the 2015 campaign: shut down the Heisman trophy winner Derrick Henry and the Crimson Tide running game?

It may be impossible to contain Henry entirely, but the Spartans should have some hope.

They rank seventh among FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision) teams in rushing yards allowed per game (113.1) and have the discipline up front to at least contain Henry for stretches. If the Spartans can flex their defensive muscles early and flash that resilient demeanor, they’ll force quarterback Jake Coker to try and beat them. Coker is not a slouch – but he’s known more of a game manager than anything else.

Michigan State won’t be able to pull off the upset without a solid offensive display of its own. In a matchup against the nation’s stingiest rushing and third-ranked scoring defense, that may be too much to ask for.

When the Big Ten and SEC powers collide, based on Alabama’s track record, Henry should eventually break out for a decisive run or two. Assuming trends hold, the Crimson Tide should strut into the national title game.

Then there’s undefeated number one the Clemson Tigers, who have a shot to keep their undefeated season rolling against Oklahoma in the Orange Bowl, but don’t be surprised if the

COLLEGE PLAYOFF SCHEDULE

Capital One Orange Bowl (4) Oklahoma vs. (1) Clemson Sun Life Stadium, Miami Gardens, FL Thursday, December 31 4 p.m. / ESPN

Goodyear Cotton Bowl (3) Michigan State vs. (2) Alabama AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX Thursday, December 31 8 p.m. / ESPN

CFP National Championship Semifinal Winner vs.

Semifinal Winner U. of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, AZ Monday, January 11, 2016 7 p.m. / ESPN

marquee showdown evolves into a shootout of epic proportions.

Clemson hasn’t scored fewer than 30 points in a game since its 23-13 win over Florida State on Nov. 7, and quarterback Deshaun Watson has piled up stats at a ridiculous rate. During the regular season, Watson was the only player in the country to tally at least 3,500 passing yards and 800 rushing yards, and he did so while posting 41 total touchdowns.

However, the Sooners have got some serious confidence thanks to quarterback Baker Mayfield. “Mayfield has completely transformed the Sooners, both tangibly and intangibly,” ESPN.com’s Jake Trotter wrote.

“He’s completed 69 percent of his passes while throwing 35 touchdowns to just five picks. Just as importantly, he’s brought a swagger that’s rubbed off on the rest of the team, which had been lacking in Norman in recent years.”

Since losing to Texas in early October, Oklahoma has ripped off seven straight wins by an average margin of 32.6 points.

Considering its opponents in that span which included TCU, Oklahoma State, and Baylor, that’s impressive. The Tigers have answered every question about their top-rank status with resounding answers all season long, but the positive vibes that have enveloped Mayfield and company over the past two months have the Sooners on track to pull off a semifinal stunner.

If the Sooners and/or Spartans win, given the caliber of their teams, these can’t really be called upsets.

Understandably, the college football playoff format is still difficult to establish. The nature of the sport dictates limitations because of its physical nature. It’s not like college basketball’s March Madness, where you can have a field of 64 and play regional games working toward a championship game. NCAA Football will never have the itinerary of basketball - it would be impossible, but I can see in the foreseeable future a maximum format of 8 teams.

I do believe that Alabama has a big advantage, because they have been there before and that gives them the edge, and they do have Derrick Henry. It will be fun and I’m looking forward to the playoffs hoping these games can live up to the hype of “The Force Awakens.”

Town of Wilton Recreation Jr. NBA Scores - Saturday 12/12 Division 1 Cavs-35: Ronan Rowe-12, Alexander Renner-8 Spurs-10: John Steinfort-4, Brooke Kuzmich-2 Lakers-20: Calvin Curtis-10, William Dennett-6 Warriors-18: Kellen Driscoll-10, Liam Oliver-Goodwin-4 Celtics-10: Ben Slavett-4, Rowan Armstrong-2 Rockets-9: Peter Krackeler-5, Luke Manuel-2 Division 2 Warriors-27: Andrew Masten-6, Andrew Walsh-6 Heat-16: Antone Robbens-9, Jude Aliperti-5 Mavs-29: Jaxon Young-11,

Treyvon Stanislowsky-8 Celtics-9: Hunter Ingram-4, Ian Burnett-3 Knicks-27: Hayden Casavant-12, Flagg Taylor-6 Cavs-11: Arieon Rose-7, Lucas Kingsley-2 Division 3 Heat-19: Kyle Holmes-7, Garrett Hedge-4 Nets-17: Ethan Bowers-7, Carl O’Callaghan-6 Sixers-38: Frankie Laniewski-23, Clayton Wilhelm-4 Blazers- 25: Garrett Farr-7, Andrew Crossett-4 Celtics- 30: Kaan, Lus-9, Raymond Ellis-8 Warriors- 24: Cooper

Walley-6, Will Braxton-6 Magic-31: Justin Nesbitt-13, Sean Hudson-9 Knicks-11: Chase Corbett-3, Adam Provost-3 Division 4 Blazers- 41: Hunter Regels-13, Kevin Amberger-12 Warriors-32: Shamir Shaffe-21, Saajid Mohamed-4 Bulls-32: Andrew Phillips-15, Liam Vanwagenen-6 Pacers-27: Rece McClements-5, Jakob Wiegand-4 Spurs-30: Timothy Barrett-8, Kaden Learch-7 Cleltics-29: Graham Patton-11, Timothy Derlinga-6

46

SPORTS

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

COMMUNITY SPORTS BULLETIN Breakers Club at Gavin Park

Call 518-584-9455 for more information.

Looking for something for your children to do over the Wilton Break, December 24-31? We have the perfect solution for you!

Gavin Park once again is offering a school break camp program for children in Kindergarten through 6th grade. Program hours are 8:30 a.m. ­5:30 p.m. (except on 12/25 and 1/1 when the office will be closed).

Program fee is $35 per day (3 day minimum) for Wilton residents, ($45 per day, and 3 day minimum for nonresidents). Enrollment fee includes crafts, movies, bingo and outdoor fun (weather permitting), as well as a light afternoon snack and drink.

Children need to bring their own lunches with drinks.

Pre-registration is required and is going on now until the programs fill.

Registration may be completed online, in person, or via U.S. Mail. Online registrations may be completed by going to townofwilton. c o m / d e p a r t m e nt s / p a r k s and-recreation, and selecting the appropriate quick link. In person registrations can be completed at the Gavin Park Office, which is open weekdays from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Payment by check, MasterCard/VISA, or money order is accepted.

Saratoga Springs Recreation Department Holiday Hours The Recreation Center and ice rinks will be closed Christmas Day Friday, December 25 and New Years Day Friday, January 1.

The Recreation Center will be open 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Thursday, December 24 and Thursday, December 31.

The Holiday schedule for the ice rinks can be found at www.SaratogaRec.com

Learn-to-Skate This Winter!

Saratoga Figure Skating Club Accepting Applications – New this year: Beginner Adult Classes Saratoga Springs Figure Skating Club’s (SSFSC) Learn-to-Skate winter session begins January 3, 2016.

Two six-week sessions will be offered. This popular skating program uses the U.S. Figure Skating Basic Skills framework and was created to be the best beginning ice-skating program in the world.

It is designed to serve the needs of both recreational and competitive skaters.

Participants will work on skills appropriate to their

level and may prepare for performances at the spring exhibition held March 20.

The theatre-on-ice style exhibition is fun and exciting for skaters of all levels.

Anyone interested in learning more about the Learn-to-Skate program should visit SSFSC’s website at ssfsc.wordpress. com or contact Mary Ellen O’Loughlin at oloughlinssfsc@aol.com.

Zumba at Gavin Park Zumba, the Latininspired, dance-fitness craze, continues to be a popular recreational offering at Wilton¹s Gavin Park! Sign up now for the latest round of Zumba classes!

Interested parties may enroll in either or both of the Zumba sessions. Session one will run on Mondays from 5:45-6:45 p.m., January 4 through March 7 (no classes on 1/11, 1/18, 2/1, 2/16), with a second session running from March 14 through April 18.

Pre-registration is required. No drop-ins will be allowed. A minimum of 10 people must register for a session to run. No more than 75 people will be accepted per session. Registration ends one business day prior to the start date for each session.

Puzzle solutions from pg. 42 Send your sports stories or briefs to Arthur Gonick, Sports Editor at arthur@saratoga publishing.com

Registration may be completed online, in person, or via U.S. Mail. Online registrations may be completed by going to http://townofwilton.com/departments/parksand-recreation and selecting the appropriate quick link.

In person registrations can be completed at the Gavin Park Office, which is open weekdays from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Payment by check, MasterCard/VISA, or money order is accepted. All participants must be at least 15 years old. Call 518-584-9455 for more information.

Register now for December Vacation Week Saratoga Springs Recreation Department is taking registrations for our December Vacation Week program. Expose your child to a variety of sports and activities in a fun, supportive environment.

Sign up at 15 Vanderbilt Avenue. Call (518) 587-3550 x2300, email recreservations@saratoga-springs.org or visit www.SaratogaRec. com for more information.

First Night Saratoga 5k Run The 18th annual First Night Saratoga 5K Run, presented by Saratoga Arts, will be held on Thursday, December 31 at 5:30 p.m. The run is limited to the first 1,500 registrants. There is no day of race registration. The race has sold out for the past fourteen years.

A ChronoTrack B-Tag computerized scoring system will be used. The USA Track and Field certified course starts and finishes on the Skidmore College Campus.

New this year: the course has been modified with the elimination of the four 90 degree turns at the beginning of the race. Awards will be given to the top three overall male and female finishers as well as the top three male and female finishers in fiveyear age categories. All finishers will receive a First Night Commemorative Medal.

Register by November 27 for the early registration fee of $25 and a guaranteed long-sleeved shirt. After November 27 registration is $30. Refreshments following the race. Showers and restrooms are available in the athletic complex. Register online, or download an application and map at www.saratoga-arts.org. There is no additional fee for registering on-line. For further information contact First Night Saratoga at 518-584-4132.

Week of December 18 – December 23, 2015

SPORTS 47

Saints Steamroller Railroaders Photos by MarkBolles.com

Ani Crocker (12) had 6 points; Katie Case (2) had 5 points and 7 rebounds

Kristen Maher leads the break and had 11 points

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Central Catholic Girls’ Varsity Basketball squad is off to a fine start, beginning the season 3-1 in Western Athletic Conference play, and 4-2 overall. They served notice that they will be a force to contend with on Monday, December 14, when Tom Coons’ squad completely vanquished Whitehall by an impressive 51-12 score!

The Saints put this one away early, jumping out to an 18-5 lead after the first quarter, and 38-7 by halftime. Leading all scorers was junior co-captain Emma VanDeCar with 17 points; senior co-captain Chloe Ethier led both teams with 11 rebounds and contributed 6 points.

The Spa Catholic girls’ team will next be at home on Tuesday, December 22, for a conference game against Northern Division rival Galway.

Chloe Ethier had 6 points and 11 rebounds

Emma VanDeCarr led all scorers with 17 points