Saratoga Today Newspaper December 10, 2010

FREE

Volume 5 • Issue 49 SaratogaPublishing.com

Structure of Hope Sculpture from World Trade Center steel proposed for City Center

by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY A dramatic work of contemporary art composed of five pieces of steel from the World Trade Center towers has been

proposed to be installed in front of the Saratoga Springs City Center.

Details about the sculpture, entitled “Tempered By Memory,” were unveiled at the Saratoga Springs City Council meeting on Tuesday, December 7 by Mayor Scott Johnson. The plans were presented to the Council by Joel Reed, Executive Director and Elizabeth Dubben, Project Manager of Saratoga Arts and Mark Baker, Image by John Van Alstine and Noah Savett

See Structure page 9

Dramatic Debut

Artist’s rendition of ‘Tempered By Memory’ sculpture in front of Saratoga City Center

Malta’s Big STEP New R&D center now open at Tech Park

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY

Photo by Don Proulx

Division Street School Drama Club, “Stage Write,” made its debut performance of “Blame it on the Wolf” on Wednesday, December 8. The play, with cast members from the fourth and fifth grades, features Sean Corbett and Austin Campbell as the wolf, who defend themselves against the myth that the wolf is always guilty.

On Tuesday, December 7, nfrastructure, a technology company dedicated to improving the efficiency of computer operations while also helping organizations become more energy efficient, announced the opening of its new research and development center at the Saratoga Technology and Energy Park (STEP), a facility owned by the

New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA).

Dana Flint, who works with nfrastructure in the public relations department, explained that the move from the company’s former location in Clifton Park is designed to “bring them closer to GlobalFoundries. [nfrastructure] is moving into the 6,600 square foot NYSERDA owned technology

See STEP page 12

Inside TODAY...

City Center Expansion Timeline pg 9 Obits pg 4-5 NYCOTB closes pg 14 Gift Guide pgs 15-17 Bob Trees pg 19 Community News pg 20

10,000 copies distributed weekly • To Advertise Call • (518) 581-2480

SARATOGA

Friday, December 10, 2010

2 “Barkfest” with Santa returns to Clifton Park Locally Owned and Operated 5 Case St., Saratoga Springs,NY 12866 Phone: (518) 581-2480 Fax: (518) 581-2487 www.saratogapublishing.com

Hours of operation 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-Friday Publisher/Editor Chad Beatty 581-2480 x 212 cbeatty@saratogapublishing.com

General Manager Robin Mitchell 581-2480 x 208 rmitchell@saratogapublishing.com

Advertising Chris Bushee 581-2480 x 209 cbushee@saratogapublishing.com Cindy Durfey 581-2480 x 204 cdurfey@saratogapublishing.com

Art Department Tiffany Garland 581-2480 x 213 ads@saratogapublishing.com

Sam Bolles 581-2480 x 205 graphics@saratogapublishing.com

Editorial Yael Goldman 581-2480 x 214 Newsroom Manager news@saratogapublishing.com

Daniel Schechtman 581-2480 x 203 reporter@saratogapublishing.com

Arthur Gonick 581-2480 x 206 Entertainment / Simply Saratoga Editor entertainment@saratogapublishing.com

Obits & Anne’s Corner Anne Proulx 581-2480 x 202 aproulx@saratogapublishing.com

Calendar & Briefs Kim Beatty 581-2480 x 215 kbeatty@saratogapublishing.com

Contributing Writers Marion E. Altieri thoroughbredwriter@yahoo.com

Meghan D. Lemery meghanlemery@yahoo.com

Suzanne Voigt sfmascv@nycap.rr.com

Jill Sweet jsweet@skidmore.edu

Kate Towne Sherwin sksherwin@hotmail.com

Kerry Mendez pyours@nycap.rr.com

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY On Sunday, December 5, anxious puppies and pooches hoping to get some lap-time with the Christmas season's main-man, Santa Claus, gathered at the Clifton Park Center for pictures and some "Barkfest."

A total of 61 dogs came for the big day hosted by Sloppy Kisses, where both pet and owner were treated to a continental breakfast and doggie goodie bags.

TODAY

SARATOGA

TODAY

Lee H. Gross, 31, of 204 E Front St., PO Box 132, Lewisberry, PA, pleaded guilty to a charge of fifth-degree attempted criminal possession of a controlled substance, a class-E felony. Gross was arrested in Saratoga Springs on June 19 and has been sentenced to one year in the Saratoga County Jail.

Anthony J. Bowden, 20, 24, Low St., Ballston Spa, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree robbery, a class-D felony.

Bowden was arrested in Saratoga Springs on May 16 and has been sentenced to one year in the Saratoga County Jail.

Michael Repicky, 25, of Riverview Rd., Rexford, was charged with disorderly conduct, a violation. He was arrested on December 5 in Saratoga Springs.

Brendan M. Scharf, 26, of 21 Backwood Ln., Clifton Park, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony. He was arrested in Saratoga Springs on July 14 and has been sentenced to five days in the Saratoga County Jail, five years of probation and ignition interlock.

Matthew J. Baxter, 34, of McConchie Rd., Galway, was charged with third-degree criminal trespass, a misdemeanor.

Baxter was arrested on December 7 in Saratoga Springs.

Andrew L. Greschak, 33, of 7B Sylvan Trail, Ballston Lake, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony. Greschak was arrested in Clifton Park on June 14 and has been sentenced to five years of probation and ignition interlock.

Shanik

T.

BLOTTER

Friday, December 10, 2010

Smith

(aka

"Champ"), 30, of 1168 Stratford Ave., Bronx, pleaded guilty to a charge of fifth-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance, a class-D felony. Smith was also charged with two counts of thirddegree criminal sale of a controlled substance, class-B felonies; two counts of thirddegree criminal possession of a controlled substance, class-B felonies; and two counts of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, class-A misdemeanors. Smith was arrested on June 3 for incidents that occurred on April 6 and April 8.

He has been sentenced to two and a half years in State Prison and two years of post release supervision.

Jarrod M. Stewart, 22, of 32 Daniels Rd., Greenfield Center, was charged with third-degree rape, a class-E felony. Stewart was arrested in Ballston Spa on December 1. He returned to the Town of Amsterdam Court on Thursday, December 9.

Justin M. Dingman, 27, of 980 PO Box 31, Porter Corners, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree robbery, a class-D felony. Dingman was arrested in Saratoga Springs on July 20 and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing on February 2.

Christie Yatto Waterson, 36, of Stillwater, was charged with endangering the welfare of a child, a misdemeanor. Waterson was arrested in Stillwater on November 26. She was processed and released with an appearance ticket before being turned over to

the Mechanicville Police.

George E. McHugh, 45, of 184 Church St., Saratoga Springs, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree attempted criminal sale of a controlled substance, a class-C felony. McHugh was arrested in Saratoga Springs on February 13, 2009 for incidents that occurred on January 12, February 6 and February 13, 2009. He has been sentenced to one and a half years of State Prison and two years of post release supervision.

George H. Lown, 45, of 1115 Rock City Rd., Milton, pleaded guilty to a charge of menacing a police officer/peace officer, a class-D felony. Lown was arrested on July 13 for an incident that occurred on July 12 in Milton. He is scheduled to return to court for sentencing on January 31.

Chad M. Cruger, 36, of Newton Dr., Saratoga Springs, was charged with disorderly conduct, a violation, and resisting arrest, a misdemeanor. He was arrested on December 5 in Saratoga Springs.

Michael J. Dzieniszewski, 24, of 3 Ferry St., Schuylerville, pleaded guilty to a charge of fourth-degree grand larceny, a class-E felony. Dzieniszewski was arrested on July 9 in Saratoga Springs and has been sentenced to one year in the Saratoga County Jail.

Jeffrey J. Wagner, 46, of 473 Rowland St., Milton, pleaded guilty to a charge of aggravated

driving while intoxicated, a classE felony. Wagner was arrested in Milton on August 2 and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing on February 1.

William J. Magee, 25, of Hidden View Dr., Clifton Park, was charged with disorderly conduct, a violation, and resisting arrest, a misdemeanor. Magee was arrested on December 5 in Saratoga Springs.

Norman Gordon, 49, of Fort Edward, was charged with fourthdegree criminal possession of a weapon, a misdemeanor, trespassing, a violation, and unlawful possession of marijuana, a violation, following a complaint regarding a trespass in progress at the Saratoga National Park.

Gordon was arrested in Stillwater on November 28, where a rifle

3

was seized from the subject by police. He is scheduled to return to court at a later date.

Susan Bartkowski, 45, of Loughberry Rd., Saratoga Springs, was charged with aggravated driving while intoxicated, driving while intoxicated, and driving with a blood alcohol content greater than .08 percent, all misdemeanors. Bartkowski was arrested in Saratoga Springs on December 6.

4

SARATOGA

OBITUARIES

Friday, December 10, 2010

TODAY

Eleanor “Cookie” Cooke

Saratoga Springs – Eleanor “Cookie” Cooke passed away Saturday, Dec. 4, 2010 at Wesley Health Care Center. She was 88.

Born Sept. 1, 1922 in Albany, she was the daughter of the late Matthew J. and Bertha A. (Deinlein) Cooke. Eleanor worked at the Watervliet Arsenal from 1940 to 1945 and then as a bookbinder at Williams Press and Boyd Press,

retiring in 1987. She was a member of the Klosky’s Bowling League at Albany Bowling Center since 1988 and also the Senior Citizen’s Open Bowling Group at Action Lanes.

Eleanor was an avid worldwide traveler.

“Cookie,” as most knew her by, had a loving and big heart. She always thought of others. At Christmas time she would make old

Saratoga County Deceased Veteren of the Month

Charles Douglas Reib Charles Douglas Reib from the Town of Hadley served as a volunteer in the US Air Force from 1951 to 1953 as an Airman Medic in the Korean War. He received the Good Conduct Medal, the United Nations Service Medal and the Korean War Service Medal.

Mr. Reib retired from International Paper Company in Corinth after 28 years. He was involved with the Boy Scouts and Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion (Lake Luzerne posts), and was a charter member of Adirondack Chapter 60 of

Korean War Veterans. He was also on the Parish Council of Holy Infancy Church in Lake Luzerne.

Mr. Reib passed away on April 6, 2008. He is survived by his wife Mildred “Midge” Reib, three daughters, Michelle Whitefield, Colleen DeMarsh and Kimberly Wegner.

A memorial program will be held in Mr. Reib’s memory on Tuesday, December 21, 2010 at 2:15 pm in the Supervisor’s Meeting Room of the County Building at 40 McMaster Street in Ballston Spa. The public is invited to attend this ceremony and the reception that will follow.

Dorothy M. (Garitz) Adams Wilton – Dorothy M. (Garitz) Adams of Wilton Commons passed into the arms of the Lord on December 1, 2010. She was 69.

Born on August 13, 1941 in Saratoga Springs, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Bertha Belleau Garitz. Dorothy was a lifetime resident of Wilton. Known to her friends and family as “Dottie,” she worked as a waitress for most of her life, including Scotties Truck Stop in Wilton and Ardees Diner in South Glens Falls.

Dorothy is survived by her daughter, Cheryl Yellen Lennox (Mark); three sons, Kenneth Yellen, Todd Yellen (Diane) and Jamey Bombard; two sisters, Joan Torgerson and Mary Anderson (Rich); nine grand-

children, four great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

There were no calling hours.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday December 11, 2010 at the Lennox residence, 9 West Lane, Saratoga Springs (Wilton) at 2 pm.

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

In lieu of flowers, remembrances can be made to the American Heart Association, 440 New Karner Road, Albany, NY 12205.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneral home.com.

toys and dolls look brand new and make sure they were given to needy children. She would also collect money and make sure a deserving family had a wonderful Christmas.

She would provide them with toys, warm clothing and a delicious dinner. Cookie was a remarkable individual who will be dearly missed.

Survivors include a number of nieces, nephews, cousins and her

very dear friends, Lynn and Phil Klein of Saratoga Springs.

Relatives and friends gathered on Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2010 at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes in Saratoga Springs. Funeral services were held on Thursday, Dec. 9 at the funeral home.

Burial followed in the family plot at Albany Rural Cemetery,

Menands, NY. For those who would like to remember Cookie with a charitable contribution, donations may be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital, 516 Carew St., Springfield, MA 01104-2396 or to a charity of one’s choice.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneral home.com.

Fred “Harpo” DiBlasi Saratoga Springs – Fred “Harpo” DiBlasi passed away Friday, December 3, 2010 at the Wesley Health Care Center, where he has resided for the past five years. He was 79.

Born on Dec. 27, 1930 in Amsterdam, he was the son of the late Dominick and Antoinette (Fariello) DiBlasi and one of their five children.

Fred married the late Jeanette Slusarz DiBlasi in 1971.

A US Navy veteran for three years, he was stationed in Cuba and upon returning home following service, he operated a service station in Amsterdam for over seven years. One day a man came to the gas station and asked Fred if he would be interested in exercising his horses for him. Fred gladly accepted this and became a farrier. He attended Cornell University where he received his degree and went to work at Vernon Downs in Syracuse until 1960. He then came to work in Saratoga Springs at the track. Excelling at his job, he was not afraid to tell you so himself and many people would come miles to have Freddy shoe their horses.

After retiring from the track in 1992, Fred and his wife Jeanette traveled around Florida in their

RV. Freddy loved Florida as he spoke about it all the time. He also drove a school bus for some time after leaving the track, and it is said that the kids really loved having Freddy as their driver and they all respected him. He had a wonderful way with people and everyone who knew him liked him very much, and it was much the same with children. During his years in Saratoga Springs, Fred was a boxing coach at the Saratoga Youth Boxing Club.

In 1994, Fred contracted Guillain Barre Syndrome, which he never fully recovered from, which resulted in him being partially paralyzed and in a wheelchair for the rest of his life. A mild setback for Freddy though, who always had a positive attitude and would say you have to play the hand you are dealt, a fitting statement from a man who also loved to play cards.

Fred also had a great love for animals. He and his wife would rescue and nurse sick abandoned cats, had a couple of favorite dogs and a horse named Spots. Freddy enjoyed fishing and fixing old cars, especially Oldsmobiles, and he owned over ten in his lifetime. Fred loved baseball and the New York Yankees. A man who loved to tell jokes and make people smile, he loved his family and his friends and was loved and will be

missed by many.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was predeceased by one sister, Carmella DiBlasi-Greco-Montenaro, a brother-in-law, William “John” Ford, all of Amsterdam and a nephew, Daniel Ford.

Survivors include two sisters, Sophia Ford, Roseanne Smith and her husband Pierre, all of Amsterdam; one brother, Daniel DiBlasi and his wife Wilma of Pennsylvania, one brother-in-law, Robert Montenaro of Amsterdam and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A special thank you to the staff at Wesley Health Care for their kind attention and care to Freddy over the years.

Relatives and friends gathered to remember him on Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2010 at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes of Saratoga Springs. Funeral services were conducted on Wednesday at the funeral home.

Burial with military honors followed at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Road in Schuylerville.

Memorials may be made in his name to the SPCA of Upstate New York, 454 Queensbury Ave., Queensbury, NY 12804.

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

Thomas P. Casimano Gansevoort – Thomas P. Casimano, formerly of West Babylon, NY, passed away Sunday, November 28, 2010 at Seton Health at Schuyler Ridge, Clifton Park. He was 78.

Born on Oct. 24, 1932 in North Babylon, NY, the first son of the late Carl and Mary (Camarata) Casimano, he enjoyed hunting in the great outdoors and tending to his rose garden. He held a passion for motorcycles and cars, and enjoyed worldwide travel throughout his life. Thomas loved dogs and over his lifetime had many a good friend in his pets, and retired from a suc-

cessful career in the construction industry in 1989.

Predeceased by his parents, survivors include his sons, Philip (Nancy) Casimano of West Babylon and Anthony (Linda) Casimano of Schuylerville; his daughter, Kathleen Casimano Wanser of Gansevoort; eight grandchildren, Nicole, Danielle, Matthew, Paul, James, Sally Ann, Rosa Lynn and Anthony; his great-grandchildren, Luke, Anthony and Leah, and his surviving siblings include John, Lucy, Rose, Dominick and Barbara and their families.

Thomas will be celebrated at a

private gathering of family and friends from Saratoga Springs in the spring of 2011 in Long Island, NY. Contributions in his memory may be made to the National Kidney Foundation at their website: www.nkfneny.org or mailed to NKF of Northeast New York, Inc., 99 Troy Road, Suite 200, East Greenbush, NY 12061-1027.

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

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

SARATOGA

TODAY

Friday, December 10, 2010

5

Mary M. (Cudney) Gardner Saratoga Springs – Mary M. (Cudney) Gardner of Lawrence St., passed away Monday, Dec. 6, 2010) at the Wesley Health Care Center. She was 92.

Born on Jan. 5, 1918 in Schenectady, she was the daughter of the late Cloyce E. and Margaret J. (Carey) Cudney and had worked at the Van Raalte & Company Knitting Mill for several years.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by two brothers, Francis and Edward Cudney.

She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Robert and Susan Gardner of Saratoga Springs; one daughter, Carol (Corky) Neubauer of NC; five grandchildren, including Brian Gardner of Saratoga Springs and Kyle Gardner of Orlando, FL; and two great-grandchildren, Destiny and Justin Gardner.

Relatives and friends gathered to remember her on Wednesday evening, Dec. 8 at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North

Broadway in Saratoga Springs, followed by a funeral service at the funeral home.

Burial was held on Thursday at the family plot at St. Peter’s Cemetery, West Avenue in Saratoga Springs.

Memorials may be made in her name to With A Heart Choose A Friend Fund c/o The Wesley Foundation, 131 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneral home.com.

It is the policy of Saratoga TODAY to publish obituaries as a service to our readers. Please send your obituaries to Anne Proulx at aproulx@saratogapublishing.com.

Camilla Steel Penfield Saratoga Springs – Camilla Steel Penfield passed away Sunday, Dec. 5, 2010 at Wesley Health Care Center. She was 88.

Born in 1922, she was a lifelong resident of Greenfield Center.

Camilla graduated from Saratoga Springs High School in 1939. She was a long-time employee of VanRaalte Co. in Saratoga Springs and volunteered for the Red Cross during World War II. Camilla married B. Albert Steel in 1946. She was a communicant of St. Joseph’s Church in Greenfield Center and a member of the Greenfield Fire Auxiliary.

Camilla managed Brookhaven Golf Club from 1972 until her retirement in 1988. She resided in Clearwater, Fl and Saratoga Springs for 30 years, moving into Wesley Health Care Center in 2002.

Camilla is predeceased by her loving husband B. Albert Steel and three brothers, James Zigo, Richard

Zigo and Joseph Krajick.

Survivors include her four children, Vicki (Butch) Freeman of Saratoga Springs, Teri (Bruce) Bruno of Summerfield, Fl, Patti Wilkins of Saratoga Springs and Tim Steel of Somersworth, NH; five granddaughters and five greatgrandchildren.

There were no calling hours.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, Dec. 20, 2010 at 10 am at St. Joseph’s Church, Greenfield Center. Family and friends are invited to a gathering from 2 to 7 pm that afternoon at the home of her daughter Patti on Division Street, Saratoga Springs.

Burial will be private at the convenience of the family.

Donations may be made to Adirondack Save a Stray, 4880 Rt. 9N, Corinth, NY 12822. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Saratoga Town Court presents 2010 Justice Award

Photo provided

Teaching Assistant Cheryl Jarvis, Alexis Betchel (Saratoga Springs), Criminal Justice Instructor Dave Foldi, Derrik Weber (Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake) and Cody Barss (Corinth) were presented the 2010 Justice Award from the Saratoga Town Court on Tuesday, December 7.

Adirondack Trust named Top Small Community Bank Lender in the Capital Region The Adirondack Trust Company was named the top Small Community Bank Lender in the Capital Region for the tenth consecutive year.

SBA Syracuse District Director Bernard J. Paprocki recently announced that in the category for Small Community Bank Lenders The Adirondack Trust Company was the most active lender in the Capital Region for fiscal year 2010.

For the tenth straight year, The Adirondack Trust Company outperformed all other small community lenders with the highest dollar amount of 7(a) approvals. The Adirondack Trust Company

approved 25 loans worth $1.7 million to Capital Region startup and existing small businesses.

"We are extremely grateful not only by the recognition from the SBA but also from those customers that chose our company to work with on their SBA Loan," said Charles V. Wait, President and CEO of the Company. "Since our founding in 1901, we have worked with small businesses that provide the foundation for our local economy.

We are dedicated to serving these businesses with SBA Loans and other bank services so they can effectively manage and grow their business."

Saratoga Town Court presented the 2010 Justice Award to the F. Donald Myers Education Center's Criminal Justice program for its court security program.

Each year, the award is presented to an organization or individual who has improved the quality of life for the residents of the Town of Saratoga through an innovative criminal justice program.

The 2010 recipients are David Foldi, Criminal Justice Instructor; John Major, Work-based Learning Coordinator; and Cheryl Jarvis, Teaching Assistant.

In addition to the Justice Award presentation, Saratoga Town Court

also recognized their interns from summer and fall 2010: F. Donald Myers Education Center criminal justice students, Cody Barss of Corinth, Alexis Bechtel of Saratoga Springs and Derrik Weber of Burnt

Hills-Ballston Lake. Students from Ballston Spa High School, LaSalle Institute, Saratoga Springs High School, and Whitehall High School were also honored during the ceremony.

6

WEEK IN REVIEW Now that’s Friendly!

Friendly's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Harsha V. Agadi surprised Margaret Kellett of Gansevoort with $1,000 in cash at the Friendly's restaurant on Route 50 in Wilton. This was one of three cash prizes awarded to unsuspecting local Friendly's customers on Monday, December 6 to launch a twoweek "Random Acts of Friendlyness" Capital Region market tour.

Mark Bolles • Saratoga Today Through its "Empire State Project," Margaret "Peggy" Kellett of Friendly's will invest nearly $2 million Gansevoort with husband Kevin into its 17 locations throughout the and daughter Suzanne Farr Capital Region for significant improvements.

State, GlobalFoundries agree on incentive package

The Empire State Development Corporation and GlobalFoundries recently agreed on a small incentive package to encourage the chip manufacturer to expand its Malta factory.

GlobalFoundries will received $16 million if it expands the already $4.6 billion facility, also known as Module 1 of Fab 8. The details of the expansion agreement reveal that the company would invest an additional $336 million into the project and would add 450 jobs by 2018.

This is not the first state-mandated incentive the company is looking forward to receiving for bringing its operations to Saratoga County.

GlobalFoundries has already been offered $650 million for creating 1,205 jobs, not to forget the close to $1.4 billion in state funds and tax breaks also agreed upon.

Gibson appoints Communications Director This week, Congressman-Elect Chris Gibson announced the hiring of Stephanie Valle as his Communications Director. Valle will serve as the primary press liaison and be based in the Washington, DC office when she begins her official duties in January, 2011. Valle, a Clifton Park native, graduated from Shenendehowa High School in 2001.

SARATOGA

Friday, December 10, 2010

TODAY

ing scam through her title insurance company. State Police allege the owner of Johns and Lee Real Estate Services, located at 1520 Crescent Road in Halfmoon, stole more than $500,000 from a handful of mortgage closings, and in some cases did not pay off her customer's payments.

State Police are asking anyone who used Demers to deliver payments to contact their "original" mortgage company to ensure the mortgage has been paid.

Glass Racing, Thomas J. Gallo III Sales Agency, LLC, and Blue Stone Farm located in Cambridge.

The other three new board members are Lois Engel of Lattingtown, owner of Pucker Ridge Farm in Warrensburg; Vivien Malloy, owner of Edition Farm in Waccabuc; and Chris Purdy, DDS, owner of Ivy League Farm in Ithaca. All five are currently serving on the board and were re-elected to serve from Jan. 1, 2011, through Dec. 31, 2012.

Saratoga County residents appointed to NY Thoroughbred Breeders Board

Cop charged with stalking has case adjourned

Two local residents were among the five people elected to the New York Thoroughbred Breeders, Inc., Board of Directors during the Friday, December 3 meeting.

Elected to the 11-member board were John McMahon, owner and manager of Old Saratoga Thoroughbreds and Thomas J. Gallo III, founder and managing owner of Saratoga Springs-based Parting

Saratoga Springs police officer, Patrick Arpei, who in July was charged with fourth-degree stalking, a misdemeanor, had his case adjourned in contemplation of dismissal. Arpei, who according to official documents was in contact with a Wilton woman for ten months against her wishes, will have the case dropped in six months so long as he complies with a series of court orders.

Saratoga Gaming and Raceway donates $100,000 to charity at annual Make A Difference event

Saratoga County business woman allegedly stole $500,000 in refinancing scam State Police arrested Tami Demers, 41, of Stillwater for allegedly conducting a mortgage refinanc-

Photo provided

Saratoga Gaming and Raceway distributed checks to 24 community charities during its Sixth Annual Make A Difference event on Tuesday, December 7. Totaling $100,000 in donations, the local charitable organizations received gifts ranging from $1,250 to $10,000. The event included remarks by Saratoga Gaming and Raceway's Vice President of External Affairs, Skip Carlson and Executive Vice President and COO, Jamie Hartman, followed by check presentations by Guest Co-Host, WRGB CBS 6 News Anchor, Liz Bishop.

This year’s recipients were: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Capital Region, NY Chapter; American Red Cross, Adirondack Saratoga Chapter; CAPTAIN Youth and Family Services; Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Services of Saratoga County; Empire State Youth Orchestra; Equinox; Franklin Community Center; Karen and Gary Dake Foundation for Children; Nathan Littauer Foundation; Operation Adopt A Soldier; Rebuilding Together, Saratoga County; Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Capital Region; SaratogaArtsFest; Saratoga Bridges; Saratoga Center For The Family; Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council; Saratoga Hospital Foundation; Saratoga Sponsor-A-Scholar; Saratoga Therapeutic Equestrian Program; Senior Citizen Center of Saratoga Springs; Shelters of Saratoga; The Alcohol and Substance Abuse Prevention Council of Saratoga Springs; The Saratoga County Children's Committee; The Wesley Foundation.

SARATOGA

TODAY

BUSINESS

Friday, December 10, 2010

Yellow Boutique opens on Broadway

by Yael Goldman Saratoga TODAY Yellow Boutique made its debut in Downtown Saratoga Springs last week, and just in time for the holiday season.

The new ladies' outfitter officially opened on Saturday, December 4 at 491 Broadway, with a positive response from local shoppers.

Specializing in affordable and stylish attire, accessories and décor, the new shop's shelves are stocked with creative, West Coast-inspired garments, trendy purses and fabulous shoes.

The shop also features a small lingerie section, which Davis promises to expand for Valentines Day, and a display of local hand-crafted items everything from unique jewelry to bright floral artwork, representing the best of the region.

Yellow Boutique is owner, Emily Davis' first store. After working in the retail business for a number of years, she decided it was time to leave her corporate job and fulfill her lifelong dream of opening a stylish ladies boutique.

Each year Davis and her friends make an annual shopping pilgrimage to Saratoga Springs, so she knew that a downtown location of her own was the only way to achieve her vision.

For Davis, fashion is an art form and "retail therapy" is a female cureall. She dreamt of a boutique that would meet these needs; she wanted both the atmosphere and merchandise to be appealing and approachable for her customers and she achieved it all.

Davis has created a cozy yet feminine atmosphere, using demure draperies and soft furnishings to achieve a delicate although some-

how urban look that appeals to shoppers of all ages and sizes.

"I want people to feel comfortable and relaxed here," Davis explained, pointing to a deliberately dressed wrought-iron bust meant for an exquisite personal collection.

"They should feel like they're at home, trying on clothes in their own closet."

The racks in Yellow Boutique showcase a unique mix of fabrics and textures, most of which work together.

"It's important to offer an array of things to pair," she explained.

If a customer's size or desired product is not in stock, Davis' policy is to place a special order that can be shipped right to their house. The fashionista also offers personal shopping services; she's an expert at accessorizing and has already made a name for herself working with bridal parties.

The plan is to expand her offerings in Saratoga Springs and eventually open a second boutique in her hometown, Skaneateles. In the meantime, Davis is working to perfect the feel and selection at Yellow Boutique.

"I'm still molding the feel of the place, but I love this location. It's great to be here," she said.

For more information about Yellow Boutique, visit www.shopyellowboutique.com or call (518) 810-7055.

7

Local studio named one of Commerce recently approved its B&G Foodservice Equipment; Best Home Furnishings; Carta Bella; 2011 Board of Directors.

America's best designers Reduced Fat Design, a local design studio that specializes in digital communication, was recently recognized as one of America's best designers in the Print Magazine 2010 Design Annual.

The company was honored for their branding of King Brother's Dairy, another local business. Both Reduced Fat and King Brother's Dairy are thrilled about the national honor.

Jan and Jeff King, owners of King Brother's Dairy, approached Reduced Fat earlier this year when they re-launched the home delivery service originally provided by their grandfather. It was important to the Kings that their logo would communicate their businesses' strong family history while also appealing to the modern family.

With this in mind, Reduced Fat created a logo that illustrated the oldfashioned glass milk bottle used for home delivery decorated with King Brother's iconic crown. The image became the company's "identity" and is currently across multiple marketing materials such as the King Brother's delivery truck, business cards, postcards, tee-shirts, milk coolers and hats.

Chamber approves Board, welcomes new members The Saratoga County Chamber of

The members are: 2011 Chair: Angelo Calbone, Saratoga Hospital; Dennis Albright, T-Shirt Graphics; Vicki Aldrich, Weichert Realty Northeast Group; Linda Ambrosino, G. Willikers; Bruce Boghosian, Boghosian Brothers, Inc.; Dan Collins, DA Collins; Gary Ferguson, Saratoga National Bank; Susan Halstead, Family Vision Care Center; Chris Harmon, West Side Stadium Café; Steve Heidorn, Broadway Title Agency; Kevin Johnson, New York Long Term Care Brokers; Patricia Mangino, Mangino Buick; Mike Munter, Munter Enterprises; Ian Murray, Brookside Nursery; Mike O'Sullivan, The Saratogian; Mark Pepin, Time Warner Cable Business Class; Susan Slovic, Ballston Spa National Bank; Steve Springer, Atlantic British Limited; Stephen von Schenk, Adirondack Trust Company; Marcia White, SPAC New Directors for 2011: Travis Bullard, GlobalFoundries; Dan Frankowski, Quad Graphics, Inc.; Matt Jones; Jones Ferradino, Attorneys at Law; Valerie Muratori, Saratoga Bridges The New Chamber Members for December are: A &E Lawn Sprinkler, Ltd.; A Neat Freak; Cathy Allis; Angelina's Indoor/Outdoor Cleaning; AUSA Capital District of NY Chapter;

Cole's Spa Body Works; Colortyme Rentals; Common Thread Saratoga; Congress Park Capital, LLC; EBizDocs; English Connection, Div. of CONNECT Intl. Corp.; Garden Buffet at Saratoga Gaming and Raceway; H2Pump LLC; Hidden Gardens, Inc.; Interiors by G Hunter; Jostens; Lance Plumbing; Law Office of Brendan Chudy PLLC; Literacy New York Greater Capital Region; Mary Kay Cosmetics; North Country Flowers; Paper Dolls of Saratoga; Pipits of Saratoga; Prospect Lending; The Pyramid of Potential; Re-Play Sports; RetireCo; Saratoga Bootcamp; ScotiaGlenville Family Medicine, PC; Stephen M. Sherokey, LMHC; Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation; TM's Bookkeepping Service; Union Gables; Vaughn Vision; Maureen Werther; Wesley Evergreen Adult Day Services; The World Spa

Stewart’s opens 328th Shop Stewart's Shops announced the grand opening of its newest shop at 30 Church St. in Chatham this week.

The grand opening celebration is on Saturday, December 11. Stewart's will mark the opening of their 328th shop by making a $4,000 donation to the Columbia County Agricultural Society.

8

EDUCATION

Classroom Corner

Galway Students attend Leadership Conference Seven Galway High School students and their teacher were among the 560 students and 100 adults who attended the New York State Council on Leadership and Student Activities (NYS CLSA) conference in Buffalo, held November 21 through 23.

Galway High School seniors Layla Petruzzelli, Marissa Hanna, and Karen Jackson, along with juniors Jocelyn Dodds, Jessica Dorrough, Anni Balbian, Stacey Arnold, and the Student Senate advisor Denise Kalinkewicz went to the three-day conference, where they advanced their skills in public speaking, time-management, event planning, networking, organizational structure, fundraising and organizational finance. They also heard a presentation from Governor David Paterson and enjoyed a semi-formal dance.

"Our young leaders came away with valuable skills that will help them be successful in the 21st century," said Mrs. Kalinkewicz, who serves on the CLSA Board, explaining that all the girls chosen to attend the conference are officers in Student Senate.

Each year, CLSA sponsors a statewide charity for member schools to participate in. This year it's the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

The students who attended the conference are using their newfound

skills in coordinating the fundraiser Christmas Penny Wars from Monday, December 6 to Thursday, December 16. Participation points will be given to the winning class.

WSWHE BOCES joins international classroom network, receives $11,500 grant The Washington-Saratoga-WarrenHamilton-Essex BOCES Language and Culture Resource Center has been accepted as a member of the Hanban - Asia Society Confucius Classrooms Network.

Asia Society supports the development of Chinese language programs in schools across the United States and recognizes institutions with strong local leadership, commitment to international exchange and collaboration, and global vision.

This national network of 100 exemplary Chinese language programs chose WSWHE BOCES for its Project Chinese initiative, which offers extracurricular (online, afterschool and summer) programs for students in grades K through12.

Through involvement in Hanban Asia Society Confucius Classroom Network, the local BOCES program will be partnered with a school in China to enhance opportunities for language learning and to provide students, teachers, and administrators with opportunities to conduct exchanges and joint projects.

Project Chinese will receive a firstyear grant of $11,500 for creating

bilingual online reading materials to be shared with its partner school.

In addition, it will receive scholarships for students and teachers to study in China; travel opportunities to China for regional representatives; program development support; and 1,000 volumes of teaching materials from Hanban.

For more information regarding WSWHE BOCES Project Chinese, contact Peggy Sharkey: psharkey@wswheboces.org. For information regarding the HanbanAsia Society Confucius Classroom Network, contact Chris Livaccari: clivaccari@asiasociety.org.

B’Spa students attend GE International Space Station Day Students, parents and teachers from the Ballston Spa Middle School recently participated in the General Electric’s International Space Station Day that was held at the Schenectady Museum.

Students from the sixth Grade A team, along with members of the Science Olympiads, Future Cities, LEGO Robotics and Science Bowl teams were able to learn from the hands-on exhibits, a planetarium presentation and a collaborative NASA inquiry project-based activity. The students eagerly shared highlights from their experiences including new understanding regarding the structure of the Milky Way, motion of the stars, space exploration, static electricity, magnetism, alternative energy technology and even careers related to science and technology.

The NASA challenge allowed students to use their creativity and collaboratively solve a problem posed by presenters. Future plans for Ballston Spa students include participating in the Challenger Learning Center Missions.

SARATOGA

Friday, December 10, 2010

TODAY

I Am I Can!

by Yael Goldman Saratoga TODAY Many young girls face challenges in their formative years that can prevent them from reaching their goals or from receiving their high school diploma.

I Am I Can is a new local organization that seeks to provide the necessary guidance and support for high school girls who are lost, lack confidence and need direction for their future, so they can rise above the challenges they face.

The organization connects students from local school districts in grades nine through 12 with community mentors - professional women who work one-on-one with their mentee to inspire, support and ensure graduation success.

A student may need help with a particular class in school or with their resume, college applications, or getting into a military program; they may simply need someone to talk to or a positive role model to spend time with, and their mentor can provide that.

According to Avon Scherff, I Am I Can founder and local business woman, the mentoring program is geared toward girls who face significant obstacles (often financial or family-related) and lack a positive influence in their lives.

"Girls who are lost and lack guidance, self-esteem or confidence think about today, not tomorrow.

When you're worried about whether or not there is going to be food on the table, you live in the moment; you don't have time to think about your future," Scherff explained.

For Scherff, whose own experiences inspired her to create the advocacy program, a little guidance can go a long way.

"Unlike other programs, I Am I

Can is not a scholarship program we're not paying for them to go to college," she said. "Instead, we're helping them create a post-graduate goal (college, military, cosmetology school or technical school), and are providing the resources, the tools and the time for them to reach it."

Most importantly, the mentormentee teams have fun in the process - they plan their own schedule and activities by working together.

"That's the beauty of one-on-one mentoring; it's up to them to determine how often they should meet and what to do during their time together," Scherff explained. "It could be something as simple as getting ice cream or bringing the student to work. It really depends on that girl's individual needs."

Each quarter, the pairs will come together for a program-wide, teambuilding activity to have fun and strengthen the overall network and overarching mission of the organization.

Through the support and encouragement of their mentor and fellow I Am I Caners, the student will hopefully find inspiration and be able to plan for a fulfilling life after high school.

Although the non-profit is in its infancy, the I Can I Am program is off to a strong start.

The organization held its launch event on November 9 at Saratoga National Golf Club, raising more than $5,000 for the inaugural I Am I Can class. More than 70 supporters came out to support the mission.

According to Scherff, the next step is reaching out to school districts, and business and community organizations to connect with leaders and mentors and identify young women in need.

I Am I Can is seeking extraordinary women in the community to become advocates and/or mentors.

Community leaders, professional women, retired women and women who are looking for an important way to give back are encouraged to get involved and help a young girl by sharing what they've learned and experienced in their own lives.

If you would like to get involved or know a high school girl who would benefit from the I Am I Can mentoring program, please refer her by visiting iamicanacheive.org or contact Avon Scherff, President, at (518) 688-3010, ext. 102 or avon@scherffinsurance.com.

SARATOGA

TODAY

Friday, December 10, 2010

9

Structure of Hope continued from Page 1 President of the City Center.

Saratoga Arts commissioned the sculpture after being granted steel beam remnants from the World Trade Center’s North and South towers by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. Ms. Dubben noted the dramatic nature of the steel, saying “…you see where the nose of the plane impacted.” Saratoga Arts would donate the sculpture to the City of Saratoga Springs for display at the City Center near the corner of Broadway and Ellsworth Jones Place. The project’s tentative date for completion is September, 2011 and the goal is to have a ceremonial unveiling on September 11, 2011 – the tenth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

The sculpture itself is designed to be faithful and reflective of past events, yet forward thinking. “We chose artists who will build on the power of the material and its history to create a commanding visual commemorative, contemporary work of art,” noted Joel Reed in a release. The height of the structure

was estimated at the Council meeting to be approximately 18 to 22 feet, which would rise about halfway up the expanded City Center’s second floor.

In their comments, Mayor Johnson and the presenters were all enthusiastic about the opportunity this represented. “This is a very exciting proposal,” said the Mayor.

Mark Baker called it a “dynamic opportunity,” and took note of the special bond that Saratoga Springs had with the events of 9/11 - the City served as a “respite” community for first responders - and that the structure itself is “…iconic and strikes a balance with the facade of the building. Its breadth and depth resembles who we are as New Yorkers.”

The artistic team that was commissioned to create the structure included local sculptors with significant experience and credentials for projects of this type: John Van Alstine and Noah Savett.

The cost of the project has been estimated at $130,000 and Saratoga Arts has reported receiving about half that cost via pledges of talent Photo by Mark Bolles

City Center Expansion on Schedule The Saratoga Springs City Center is proceeding with its ambitious expansion schedule while remaining significantly under budget. Mark Baker, President of the City Center noted that there are some significant milestones coming soon: • Next Thursday, December 16 the City Center will host a Chamber of Commerce mixer at 5 pm and attendees will be able to see the unveiling of additions and remodeling of the first floor.

• The exterior treatments and curtain walls are expected to be complete shortly before Christmas.

• “Saratoga Springs first interior escalator,” according to Mr. Baker, is also expected to arrive before Christmas, and will be installed in the period between Christmas and the New Year. While this will likely to be able to be viewed by attendees at First Night, there “is no guarantee that they’ll be able to ride” the escalator at that time, Mr. Baker said.

There are many details that need to be accomplished, such as installing a separate phone line for emergencies. “Public safety comes first,” he said.

• Friday, January 14, 2011 is the date for “substantial completion” of the City Center expansion and renovations, with an anticipated public event to commemorate the achievement.

- Arthur Gonick

and equipment from contractors and arts professionals. They are looking to raise the remaining $70,000 from community support and private contributions. Visit www.saratoga-arts.org/toursevents/911memorial.php to learn more about the project and opportunities to contribute.

Eventually, the City Council will have to formally vote to accept the donation.

Photo Provided

Tempered By Memory's signature piece of steel - impact steel from the World Trade Center

10

ANNE’S CORNER

Anne’s corner

FREE This page is dedicated to you, the families who live, work and play in our great region. It is your opportunity to boast about your kids, announce your engagement or tell people about your accomplishments.

SARATOGA

the

Phillips – Reyes engagement

Tooth fairy club

Mr. and Mrs. Mark T. Phillips of Saratoga Springs are proud to announce the engagement of their daughter, Margaret (“Maggie”) to Andres J. Reyes, son of Angela Reyes and Carlos Juan Reyes, both of Lexington, MA. Maggie is a 2001 graduate of Saratoga Springs High School and a 2005 graduate of Siena College. She is employed at Children’s Hospital in Boston. Andres is a 2005 graduate of Dartmouth College and is currently a student at Suffolk University Law School. The pair met while working at the Skadden Arps Law Firm in Boston.

A September 4, 2011 wedding in Saratoga Springs is planned. Maggie and Andres will reside in Boston, MA and will continue the debate over whether Lexington or Saratoga was the more important battle of the Revolutionary War.

Eagle Scout ceremony Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge #161 was recently in charge of an Eagle Scout ceremony for Liam Lynch of Troop #7 at the Salvation Army Headquarters in Saratoga Springs, Liam’s troop sponsor.

Robert Lounsbury, Exalted Ruler of the local Elks lodge presented Liam with a framed National Elks Eagle Scout certificate with an American flag. Liam’s Eagle Scout project was painting a 10’ X 14’ sports mural in the local YMCA Community Room. The mural depicted four sports: basketball, swimming, cycling and running.

Pictured left to right are Robert Lounsbury, Liam Lynch, Tracy and Joseph Lynch, Liam’s parents.

TODAY

Friday, December 10, 2010

Take a look at this week’s new club members

Fiona

Look who just turned one…

It’s Vivianna!!

Happy Birthday Baby!

Love, Mommy, Natalie & Laila

Zoe Sponsored by:

659 Saratoga Rd. Gansevoort, NY 12831 (518) 226-6010

Babies’First Christmas!

Send me a recent picture of your little one and I’ll make sure to have it in the Christmas edition of Saratoga Today on Dec. 23! E-mail me the particulars and a picture by Monday, Dec. 20th at aproulx@saratogapublishing.com.

Send all of your LOCAL hometown people news to aproulx@saratogapublishing.com.

SARATOGA

TODAY

Friday, December 10, 2010

11

Court requires Saratoga County to pay HVCC, FMCC $118,000

by Yael Goldman Saratoga TODAY A court ruling last week requires Saratoga County to pay approximately $118,000 to Hudson Valley and Fulton Montgomery Community Colleges.

Saratoga County will pay $118,000 to HVCC and $50,572 to FMCC for area school districts' participation in College in the High School programs through both institutions.

College in the High School programs offer students the opportunity to enroll in general education courses such as math, science and language arts and receive college credit. The college level courses are taught at the participating high school by a teacher who has been certified as a community college instructor.

The appellate division of the State Supreme Court decision overturned a previous ruling that said Saratoga County was not required to pay tuition fees for students enrolled in their College in the High School Programs.

According to FMCC President Dustin Swanger, the suit was brought to court in 2008, at which point Saratoga County only owed $21,000, as a "legitimate professional disagreement over the interpretation of the law."

The Colleges continued to run the programs while settling the matter, therefore accounting for the additional funding owed.

"I am pleased with the outcome, I think it's a valuable service the community colleges provide to students in high school and the law is there to help us provide that service," Swanger added. "I suppose in difficult times it is troublesome to some folks, but it is what it is."

On average, 55 Saratoga County high school students enroll in the FMCC programs each fall while around 150 students from Stillwater, Waterford and Shenendehowa school districts participate through HVCC. The County, state and students enrolled in the program pay a portion of the tuition costs.

According to Sarah Boggess, spokeswomen for HVCC, the college incurs general administrative costs for a staff devoted to the program and must also charge for curriculum development; the county's payment is necessary for operations.

"We were concerned that students in Saratoga County would become

disadvantaged either by the fact that we would have to stop offering the program or the students would have to pay a higher tuition," Boggess said, asserting the college's satisfaction with the case's outcome.

On the other hand, according to Mark Rider, Saratoga County Attorney, the county is dissatisfied with the outcome and may seek an appeal. He said that the Law and

Finance Committee will make the decision during its Wednesday, December 15 meeting.

"The county views [the ruling] as another unfunded mandate by the state that they are compelling us to do. It's a significant figure, especially when you add it together with the regular students that we're paying over $6 million a year for," Rider said.

Be a Santa to a Senior!

"Be a Santa to a Senior" is calling on community members to volunteer during its annual effort to bring warmth and cheer to seniors during the holiday season. The program, run by Home Instead Senior Care, has provided over1.2 million gifts to over 700,000 underserved seniors over the last six years. To join the effort, you must first visit the organization's website at www.beasantatoasenior.com. Enter your zip code on the website to locate the nearest "Be a Santa to a Senior" tree to you.

Once you find the tree, visit its location, where you will be able to choose an ornament from the tree. On the ornament will be written the name of a senior, as well as a gift idea appropriate for the individual. Once you purchase the gift, return it to a participating location, and Home Instead Senior Care will take care of the rest. The organization is also looking for volunteers to help collect, wrap and deliver the gifts to seniors.

For more information, visit the organization online at www.beasantatoasenior.com.

SARATOGA

Friday, December 10, 2010

12 Maple Ave. students enjoy a taste of France!

TODAY

STEP welcomes nfrastructure to park continued from Page 1

Photo provided

Ravenous owners Lauren Wickizer and Francesco D'Amico taught Maple Ave Middle School French students how to cook crepes during a special presentation on Tuesday, December 7. Student, Olivia Millard, enjoyed the tasty treat!

park so that they can be closer to the action up in the Malta area.” nfrastructure is relocating 25 members of its staff from the Clifton Park location to begin work at the state-of-the-art facility in Malta.

“This new space will allow our team, comprised of highly-skilled and talented consultants and engineers, the opportunity to design, build, and operate advanced information technology systems that will help both private and public enterprises look to the future with solutions in the areas of data center, virtualization, storage consolidation, power management and telepresence,” Daniel T. Pickett, nfrastructure chairman and CEO said.

“We are proud to be among a collaborative group of people and companies dedicated to reducing the technological environmental footprint.”

Francis J. Murray Jr., president and CEO of NYSERDA, was also on-hand during the opening ceremony to make a public statement. “nfrastructure is a tremendous addition to STEP’s unique community of clean energy companies, and will be a valued partner for companies seeking a comprehensive approach to improving their energy efficiency. We welcome nfrastructure to this growing center of innovation in the Tech Valley

Photo Provided

Christopher M. Pickett (left), Daniel T. Pickett III (center), and John A. Pickett (right) stand in front of a computer server located at nfrastructure’s new facility at STEP. and look forward to its continued success,” Murray said.

While nfrastructure will be making the move with 25 current staff members, Flint indicated that the company is always looking to hire additional staff, and the new space at the STEP location will provide

the company with the opportunity to expand its resources and its workforce.

“They’re always in the hiring mode, always looking for qualified workers,” Flint said, adding “It’s always changing [depending on] what workforce is deemed necessary for their clients.” nfrastructure, who will be working very closely with GlobalFoundries, believes the new location will provide them with the opportunity to deepen its commitment to helping GlobalFoundries and other Malta based companies work more efficiently and effectively when it comes to managing computer based technology and energy use.

SARATOGA

Firday, December 10, 2010

14

TODAY

NYCOTB Closure could impact racing statewide

Antique Roadshow comes to Saratoga Springs

by Yael Goldman Saratoga TODAY

From December 13 through 17, the Ohio Valley Refinery & Roadshow is coming to the Hilton Hotel on 534 Broadway in Saratoga Springs.

Collectors will be looking for all kinds of antiques and collectibles here in the local community, anything from autographed baseballs to swords from the Civil War. During the event residents will have the opportunity to speak with experts from around the globe to find out what their items are worth, with the option to sell right on the spot. Collectors have suggested that $300,000 is expected to be distributed to Saratoga Springs residents for their antiquities, collectibles, gold and silver items.

Nearly all coins and paper currency, vintage jewelry, war memorabilia, musical instruments and toys made prior to 1965 are highly sought after.

The event, running from 9 am to 6 pm Monday through Friday, is free to attend. Participants are encouraged to bring as many items as they'd like to the show.

Although the ramifications of New York City Off-track Betting's shutdown are not yet certain, industry investors and officials are fearful the effect will ripple statewide.

Saddled with a $600 million deficit, a good portion of which is owed to New York Racing Association (NYRA), the bankrupt firm officially ceased parimutual operations after the state Senate failed to adopt legislation for its re-organization and rescue on Tuesday afternoon, December 7.

Under the proposed bill, NYRA and Yonkers Race Track would have taken over NYCOTB's telephone and internet betting operations in exchange for forgiving the company's debt. The solution was approved last week by the assembly and The Committee of Unsecured Creditors, but was shut down 29-21 in the senate.

More than 800 people lost their

jobs, and the damage extends further.

"A pebble hitting in the water causes a ripple - but this is a boulder hitting the pond," said New York State Racing and Wagering Board Chairman John D. Sabini.

"Now, not only will NYCOTB workers lose their jobs, but every segment of the racing industry from feed store owners to horsemen to those who board the equine athletes - will feel negative consequences. Every county in New York State will experience an adverse impact."

New York State will incur NYCOTB's debt, driving the 2011-2012 budget gap up to $10 billion: "The Senate vote passes the buck to New York State taxpayers," Governor David Paterson said in written statement.

To make matters worse, and more confusing, NYCOTB is the single largest distributor of NYRA's racing product, providing more than 40 percent of its revenue. As NYRA operates Saratoga, Belmont and Aqueduct,

it's likely the closure will impact state racing operations. The only question is how.

While OTB is the association's largest money-maker, NYRA is at the same time its largest creditor, forgiving more than $30 million in lapsed payments since 2009.

Off-Track Betting also contributes millions to the state's thoroughbred and standard breeding funds, which offers an incentive for racing in New York. According to a statement posted on the New York Thoroughbred Breeders website, with the closure breeders may not receive a major portion of NYCOTB's pre and post-petition obligations through these funds.

This diminished financial incentive could drive breeders and industry stakeholders to conduct business out of state - "the result will be detrimental," said NYTB Board President Barry Ostrager and NYTB Executive Director Jeff Cannizzo.

As of Tuesday, NYCOTB's wagering operations are terminated. However, c three locations in Queens, Brooklyn and Manhattan, which will remain open until Monday, December 13 to allow bettors to cash in on winning tickets.

The State Racing and Wagering Board on Wednesday approved several new emergency measures designed to safeguard the integrity of the pari-mutuel wagering system and minimize the impact of NYCOTB's closure on racing industry stakeholders across New York.

An immediate rule change allowing for advanced deposit wagering accounts to be processed on the Internet was approved along with applications from the New York Racing Association, Nassau Regional OTB, Catskill Regional OTB and Yonkers Raceway to process such account applications on the Internet.

The Board also approved a special NYRA Rewards promotion that will double incentive points for new NYRA Rewards account holders for three months after the accounts were opened. Saratoga Gaming and Racway was also granted permission to accept deposits and requests for withdrawals from accounts with the use of credit and debit cards as well as ACH (automated clearing house) transactions.

But even though the above emergency safeguards have been put in place, the fate of the New York State racing industry remains financially imbalanced and insecure.

"The closing of New York City OTB opens a gaping hole in the industry here," Sabini said.

Friday, December 10, 2010

SARATOGA

TODAY

15

Holiday Gift Guide

SARATOGA

16

TODAY

Friday, December 10, 2010

Friday, December 10, 2010

Gift Guide

SARATOGA

TODAY

17

SARATOGA

TODAY

Friday, December 10, 2010

19

Bob’s Trees: A family tradition

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY Tucked away in the foothills of the Adirondacks, 20 miles west of downtown Saratoga Springs, lies a family tradition – an unwavering mainstay of Christmas cheer that many believed, sixty years ago, was no more than a fool’s errand.

“My Dad used to have a saw mill here,” said Bob Eaton, co-owner of Bob’s Trees along 1227 West Galway Road in Hagaman. “He felt guilty about not putting something back into the ground when they were taking so many trees for logs. So he thought that he could raise Christmas trees. A lot of the farmers [in the area] felt that that was the nonsensical thing to do, that you weren’t going to be able to make a living raising Christmas trees. Well, the farms now have pretty well disappeared, but we’re still here.”

In the late 70’s, early 80’s, Bob and his brother, Dave, took over the business from their father, and together with Kathy Doyle, Bob’s Trees has continued to provide a unique Christmas experience to upstate New Yorkers for the last 62 years.

“It’s something I’ve wanted to do since I was little,” Eaton said. “I started selling Christmas trees when I was 11 and I haven’t stopped.”

Bob’s Trees is the complete Christmas package – a nursery that not only sells Christmas trees, wreaths, boughs, garland and kissing

balls, but also provides visitors with the chance to get up-close and personal with live reindeer; the opportunity to enjoy a sleigh ride drawn by a team of horses through the snowcovered landscape; 35 miles of cross-country ski courses; a visit with the big man – Santa himself; and a warm cup of hot chocolate to finish the day at the site’s restaurant.

“You can go to a gas station and buy a Christmas tree. And some of them don’t look too bad, but many of those have been cut way, way ahead of time and shipped down from Canada. We’re more interested in providing a day of family entertainment, so that the family can come here and build memories,” Eaton said. “I had one lady that was in the other day. She’s been here 61 out of our 62 years in existence. That’s a loyal fan right there, I tell you. But we get a lot of them here.”

Bob’s Trees offers their customers a variety of Christmas tree choices, all of which are grown on premise and looked after for anywhere between eight to twelve years before they’re up to size and ready to be sold. The nursery offers the popular Balsam tree due to its fragrance and fullness, the Fraser Fir because of its longevity and stiffness, and the less popular Spruce and Douglass Fir varieties.

For a flat fee of $45, families can search for and cut their very own tree from the grounds, or choose from the pre-cut selection, where prices range anywhere from $25 to $55.

Photo provided

Visitors get up-close and personal with Santa’s reindeer at Bob’s Trees!

“I think the biggest compliment we get here is when we see a girl that’s about 18 or 19 years old come in with her Dad the week before Christmas. You look at them and you say, ‘First year of college huh?’ And he says, ‘Yup. We couldn’t get a tree until she came home from college.’

If it means that much for an 18 or 19year-old girl to come here every year, then we’ve got to be doing something right.”

For more information on Bob’s Trees, visit them on the web at either www.bobstrees.com, or on their Facebook page, where a competition for a free $50 gift certificate is currently underway, at www.facebook.com/BobsTrees.

20

Community News

Fisher girls recognized at Wilton Town Board meeting

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY On Thursday, December 2, the Wilton Town Board gathered at the Town Hall for their monthly meeting.

Roughly eight to ten people, outside of the board, were in attendance.

The meeting began with the presentation of two plaques to Margarite and Jasmine Fisher, two young girls who were instrumental in the town's coat drive this year.

"At this time the town would like to recognize the contributions of Margarite and Jasmine Fisher for their work with this year's coat drive,"

Town Supervisor Arthur Johnson said, who called the sisters up to the front of the room to present them each with a commemorative plaque for their hard work and effort. Over 600 coats were collected and given out during this year's coat drive. All leftover coats from the drive were donated to the Franklin Community Center.

Johnson also took the time to thank Julie Hotaling and Carrie Fisher, both of whom were essential in running and overseeing this year's Warmth for Wilton Annual Coat Drive.

The main order of business on the night's agenda was to see to the reap-

pointment of nine members on various town boards and committees. All nine were unanimously approved for reappointment by the Town Board.

A late addition to the meeting's agenda was the donation of an historic fire tower constructed in 1924 from Alex Mackay and his family to the town. Currently the tower is owned by the Luther Forest Corp., of whom Mackay is owner (and descendant of Thomas C. Luther). The tower, which was previously located on the Luther Forest Campus, will be relocated to Camp Saratoga for its 80th anniversary.

The town board agreed to maintain and insure the tower against damages, and to refrain from significant structural changes - so long as the tower remains a safe and sound structure.

In the event that the town decides not to use the tower for public government use, or a lapse in maintenance or insurance occurs, Mackay reserved the right to resume original ownership of the historical building.

SARATOGA

Friday, December 10, 2010

TODAY

Saratoga Springs City Council

by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY Dramatic news came out of the Saratoga Springs City Council Meeting on Tuesday, December 7.

Mayor Scott Johnson introduced proposed plans to accept a donation of a sculpture by Saratoga Arts to the Saratoga Springs City Center that is composed of steel from the World Trade Center (see story - page 1).

Other highlights included: • Mark Baker, President of the Saratoga Springs City Center, also updated the Council generally on the progress of its expansion. Mr. Baker reported that the aggressive construction timetable was proceeding while staying under budget and thanked the staffs of the various Commissioners for their help during the process. Mr. Baker and the City Center were saluted in turn for continuing to operate and generate sales tax revenue throughout the expansion.

• Following public hearings, the Council unanimously adopted modified fire inspection fees (which will change from a flat rate to a sliding scale which takes into account factors like square footage and occupancy), amendments to the taxi cab ordinance and adopted a new local law for dog licensing. The Council also adopted a comprehensive fee schedule for 2011, except for a few from Public Works that were tabled for further clarification.

• Derrick Legall, Recreation Commission chair announced that

Camp Saradac had turned a profit of $6,000 after losing money for the past 10 years.

• The Mayor appointed Howard Pinsley to the Planning Board, and re-appointed James Doern as parttime City Court Judge.

• Winter hours for the recreation center were announced: 8 am-9 pm Monday-Friday; 8 am-8 pm Saturday; 11 am-7 pm Sunday.

• The Mayor announced that Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) applications for 2011 are available and are due in the Office of Community Development at City Hall by 4:30 pm on Friday, January 28, 2011. Community Development can be reached at 587-3550 ext. 2575 for further information.

• Commissioner of Public Works Anthony Scirocco updated projects.

At one point, Deputy Commissioner Tim Cogan held up a section of the old Beekman Street water main to demonstrate its age and overdue need for replacement.

• Public Safety received unanimous approval to have the Mayor sign a contract for City jail cell renovations.

• Supervisor Joanne Yepsen reported on the County's expanded Veteran's programs in response to anticipated greater needs by returning Afghanistan and Iran conflict soldiers.

• Supervisor Matthew Veitch reported that the 2011 County budget, at $294 million with no property tax increase, will be voted upon on December 15.

Malta Town Board meeting The following items were among those covered at the Monday, December 6 Malta Town Board meeting: • Roger Laime updated the Board on the progress of the Downtown Planning Team. The team is currently at the draft amendment stage in revising the Downtown Master Plan and is evaluating the large number of public comments received, most during the series of workshops held last month.

Laime said the majority of comments pertained to the following "themes:” traffic (speed, flow, volume on Routes 67 and 9); walkability; connectivity (infilling between other projects in the North and South); Historic District (how to consider the group of properties); green space; and where the town center should be.

The team hopes to be ready to present the Downtown Master plan amendments to the Board with several alternatives during a special meeting by the end of December .

- The Board voted to abolish the elective office of Receiver of Taxes

and set the public referendum for March 16 from noon to 9 pm.

• Stillwater decided not to participate in the GlobalFoundries tax assessment municipal agreement or pay their designated ten percent of the litigation fees. Originally Malta was to pay 15 percent of the fees, but the Town will now take on Stillwater's portion and pay 25 percent.

• The Board designated Concordia as the town's dental insurance provider and CDPHP for general health coverage.

• Malta proclaimed May 24 as Colonel Elmer E. Ellsworth day and has petitioned for the State and County to make the same proclamation.

• Due to public concern and comment, the Town Board has decided to meet with the Historic Preservation Review Committee to revisit and discuss the Dunning Street Historic District. The public meeting will be held on December 15 at 6:30 pm.

-by Yael Goldman

SARATOGA

TODAY

Friday, December 10, 2010

upcoming town meetings Village of Ballston Spa: 66 Front Street 885-5711 www.ballstonspany.org 12/14: Jenkins Park Advisory Board meeting, 7 pm Town of Ballston: Ballston Town Hall 323 Charlton Road 885-8502 www.townofballstonny.org 12/13: Board of Trustees meeting, 7:30 pm 12/15: Planning Board meeting, 7:30 pm Town of Greenfield: 7 Wilton Road 893-7432 www.townofgreenfield.com 12/14: Planning Board meeting, 7 pm 12/16: Environmental Commission meeting, 7 pm Town of Malta: 2540 Route 9 899-2818 www.malta-town.org 12/13: Historic Preservation Review Commission meeting, 7 pm 12/14: Northern Sewage Plan workshop, 6:30 pm Town of Milton: 503 Geyser Road 885-9220 www.townofmiltonny.org 12/14: Harmony Corners’ Fire Department election, 6 to 9 pm City of Saratoga Springs: 474 Broadway 587-3550 www.saratoga-springs.org 12/13: Zoning Board of Appeals meeting and application deadline, 7 pm 12/15: Planning Board application deadline, 9 am 12/15: Design Review Commission meeting, 7 pm Town of Saratoga: 12 Spring Street, Schuylerville 695-3644 www.townofsaratoga.com 12/13: Town Board meeting, 7 pm Village of Schuylerville: 35 Spring Street 695-3881 www.villageofschuylerville.org 12/14: Board of Water Management meeting, 7 pm 12/15: Board of Trustees meeting, 7 pm Town of Wilton: 22 Traver Road 587-1939 www.townofwilton.com 12/15: Planning Board meeting, 6:30 pm

local briefs Parkinson’s Support Group The Parkinson’s Support Group of Saratoga will meet at Woodlawn Commons in Saratoga Springs on Monday, December 20 at 2 pm. This meeting is open to anyone with Parkinson’s disease, family members and friends. For more information, call Joyce Garlock at (518) 8856427or Dorothy Clark at (518) 5843894.

City of Saratoga Springs Community Development Block Grant Entitlement Funds For those interested in applying for the City of Saratoga Springs Community Development Block Grant Funds for the 2011 Program Year (July 2011 – June 2012), the application will be available beginning Monday, December 6, 2010 in the Office of Planning and Economic Development at City Hall – Room 10, 474 Broadway in Saratoga Springs. For additional information, please contact the Saratoga Springs Office of Community Development, Bradley B. Birge at (518) 587-3550, ext. 2515.

Free Publishing Information Meeting If you have interest in publishing your own book, come to the Holiday Inn in Saratoga Springs on Tuesday, December 14 at 7 pm. We will answer questions, accept manuscripts, and talk to anyone who would like to be published in 2011. If you want to attend or know someone who wants to publish, please register by calling the office at (518) 899-2097 or visit our website: www.opendoorpublishers.com.

Women’s Business Group The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce’s Women’s Business Group will meet on Wednesday, December 15 from 5 to 7 pm in the portico of the Gideon Putnam Resort, 24 Gideon Putnam Road, Spa State Park, Saratoga Springs. This is open to all women Chamber members and costs $10. Free appetizers and a discounted cash bar will be available.

The Women’s Business Programs foster business relationships, enable members to hear from leading female executives in the region, and provide professional development and career enrichment opportunities.

Reservations are appreciated by Monday, December 13. To register for this event, please call the Chamber at (518) 584-3255 or you may register online at www.saratoga.org.

21 Stewart’s Holiday Match From Thanksgiving Day through Christmas Day, Stewart’s Shops will match individual donations made to the Holiday Match program in all 328 Stewart’s Shops in NY and VT. All the money donated goes to charity; there are no administrative costs.

The goal of Holiday Match is to encourage individual giving and broaden the base of support for local charities. Stewart’s Holiday Match is a 501c3 foundation; all donations are tax-deductible. Stewart’s gladly accepts funds from groups or businesses, but only matches individual donations. “This is a two-part program,” said Stewart’s Foundation President, Susan Dake, “to bring donations in and get applications out to children’s groups in need of funds.” Local children’s organizations can pick up an application throughout the holidays at any Stewart’s Shop or on-line at Stewartsshops.com. The deadline for submission is January 31, 2011. All groups applying must be locallybased, benefit children under 18, and be a qualified, charitable 501c3 organization.

Annelise Kavanaugh named Volunteer of the Year at Brookside Museum Brookside, the Saratoga County Historical Society, is happy to announce that Annelise Kavanaugh of Ballston Spa was named the 2010 Volunteer of the Year. “The great work Brookside Museum does is possible only through the efforts and dedication of our volunteers,” said Jeanne Obermayer, President of Brookside. “I want to thank each and every volunteer for their hard work and dedication. I especially want to thank Annelise Kavanaugh, whose support as the chair of the Oktoberfest/Silent Auction Committee made it our biggest fundraiser. She also helped out with our education programs and served three years on the museum’s Board of Trustees. These are just a few of the reasons she deserves our Volunteer of the Year Award.” A plaque commemorating Kavanaugh’s service to Brookside is currently on display at the museum.

Shop for Round Lake Library As you search the internet for great deals, remember that you can get money donated to the Library for each search you do on GoodSearch.com, a Yahoo-powered search engine. And, when you place your order through the website’s GoodShop button, companies like Amazon, Target, Gap, Best Buy,

eBay, Macy’s and Barnes & Noble will give you discount coupons and will give a portion of your purchase to the Round Lake Library. Best of all, it costs you nothing, but gives the Library money to fund new children’s literacy programs and for resources and programs for job-searchers! Just be sure to designate the Round Lake Library as your cause.

Acting Exploration For adults and children ages 10 and older. Through the use of monologues, theater games, pantomime, improvisation and scene work, actors will develop new acting techniques and/or build on what they already know. Elyse Young, Malta’s Theater Director will help each participant work at their level. Course to be held on Wednesday evenings January 5 through February 9 from 6 to 7 pm.

Fees are $50 for Malta residents, $55 for non-residents or $25 Malta senior residents. Call Malta Parks and Recreation Department at (518) 8994411 for more information.

Call for Entries Mimosa Gallery at 70c Beekman Street in Saratoga Springs, announces a “Call For Entries” for its 3rd Annual “10”x10” = $100.” This exhibition will be held January 5 through February 19, 2011. The work submitted should not be larger than 10”x10” and retail for not more than $100. The artwork must have been completed within a year of submission and should be submitted for consideration via email (mimosagallery@ yahoo.com) or by appointment.

Painting, sketch, collage and sculpture are accepted mediums. 2D work must be ready to hang. Submissions must include artist name, address, telephone number and email address.

And each submission should include: title, medium, date completed, size and retail price. The deadline for

entry is Wed., December 15, 2010 and accepted work must arrive in gallery by Wed., December 29, 2010.

Contact Michelle or Rebecca for more information at (518) 583-1163.

Folk music“Lessons and Carols” Plaintive and little-known carols drawn from Celtic, African American, and Early American traditions are the trademark of the “Festival of Lessons and Carols.”

Taking place on Monday and Tuesday, December 13 and 14 at 7:30 pm, the concert is anchored by folk music legends John Kirk and Trish Miller of Greenfield Center, and includes Field Horne and Kristin Roberts of Saratoga Springs and Danielle Bailey and Theresa Bruno of Ballston Spa. The concert is free and takes place by candlelight at Christ Church, on the corner of Route 50 (Church Avenue) and Route 67 (West High Street) in Ballston Spa. The public is invited for festive refreshments afterward. For further information, call (518) 885-1031.

Discovering the Wonders of Christmas Saratoga Abundant Life Church, 2325 Rte 50, Saratoga Springs On Friday, December 17 at 7 pm.

Come for a night of music, drama, and dance that will bring the warmth of Christmas to your heart.

Quick Response Restoration Santa’s Playland 2077 Rte. 9, Round Lake This free event includes Santa Claus, beautiful light displays, Christmas train rides and more. Held on Saturday and Sunday, December 11 and 12 and Saturday, December 18 from 5:30 to 9 pm. No onsite parking. Shuttle service available from Corpus Christi Church and Wood Rd. For more information, please call (518) 899-7090.

HELPING HANDS Organization

Saratoga County Office for the Aging Retired and Senior Volunteer Program How to Help Many organizations look to the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program to help in their programs. Opportunities include AARP Tax Counselors – assisting taxpayers filing tax returns, Discovery Box Mentors – work with elementary school children with their reading skills, Emergency Preparedness Presenters – educate groups on being prepared for emergencies. Various other opportunities are available including office work, exercise leaders and home improvement projects.

Contact Call (518) 884-4110 if you would like more information.

Send your local briefs to Kim Beatty at kbeatty@saratogapublishing.com before Monday at 5 pm for Friday publication

22

CALENDAR

living Dec.

10 - Dec. 16 events

Friday, December 10

Donny Elvis at the Elks Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge #161, 1 Elks Lane, Route 9, Saratoga Springs.

From 7 to 10 pm. Tickets are $10 at the door, with a cash bar and chili and soup available for purchase.

For more information, call (518) 587-5568.

Elks of Greenwich Henderson Pizza Night “Henderson Pizza” every Friday night from 5 to 8 pm. Call (518) 692-2061 to place your order. Pick up or eat in. Public is invited.

Youth Dance Knights of Columbus, 50 Pine Rd, Saratoga Springs The Knights of Columbus monthly youth dance will be at 6:45 pm.

Students in grades 5 to 7 are welcome. Admission is $8. For more information, call Mike Dagle at (518) 587-2824.

Saturday, December 11 Holiday Giving Breakfast Division St. School, Saratoga Springs From 8:30 to 11:30 am. The Division Street PTA is sponsoring the Holiday Giving Breakfast to benefit Franklin Community Center. Saratoga Santa will be on hand to take pictures for a donation until 10:30 am. Cost is $4 per individual, $11 for a family of three and $14 for a family of 4 or more.

From 9 am to 1 pm. For more information, call (518) 638-8530.

Winter Scavenger Hunt and Holiday Crafts Wilton Wildlife Preserve, Scout Rd, Wilton From 2 to 3:30 pm. Children ages 6 to 12 will learn to use their senses to explore the outdoors during winter by completing a scavenger hunt in Camp Saratoga. Then we will craft holiday gifts from items found during the hunt. Please meet by the kiosk in the parking lot. Dress for outdoor weather. The rain location will be in the IP Lodge which is right off the blue trail from the parking lot. This program is free and open to the public. For more information, please call (518) 450-0321.

Cookie Walk The Malta Presbyterian Church, 118 Dunning St. Malta Beginning at 10 am. Friends and members of the church have baked homemade Christmas Cookies that are displayed on tables. Customers are given a bakery box and disposable glove to walk around the tables and choose cookies they want to buy. The boxes are weighed and sold by the pound. For more information, please call (518) 899-5992.

Tang Museum Family Saturdays From 2 to 2:30 pm. A brief tour of a current Tang exhibition followed by a hands-on art activity. Free and open to the public. Ages 5 and up with adult. For reservations and information, call (518) 580-8080.

Sunday, December 12 Breakfast with Santa St. Clements School, 231 Lake Ave, Saratoga Springs From 9 am to noon, enjoy this festive day with Santa. There will be crafts for the kids and decorative tree raffles. $5 per person with prepayment, $6 per person walk-in.

Please call the school at (518) 5847350 to reserve your spot.

Saratoga Farmers’ Market

Breakfast with Santa

Division St. School, 220 Division St., Saratoga Springs

Malta Ridge Volunteer Fire Company, 5 Hearn Rd, Malta

SARATOGA

Friday, December 10, 2010

From 8 am to noon, Santa will be spreading holiday cheer. Breakfast is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and children ages 6 to 10, free for children age 5 and younger. On Saturday, December 18, Santa will be driving through neighborhoods on the Fire Truck from 9 am to noon.

From 7 to 8:30 pm, the Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park (we have the largest population of the endangered Karner blue butterflies in the Northeast!) will be hosting a Holiday Open House.

Light refreshments will be served.

For more information, please call (518) 450-0321.

Breakfast Buffet at the VFW

Book Club

Gurtler Bros. VFW Post 420, 190 Excelsior Ave Saratoga Springs Join us in this delicious breakfast buffet from 8 to 11 a.m. Adults $6, seniors & military $5, children (ages 5 to 12) $5. Takeout available.

Malta Branch Library, 1 Bayberry Dr. Malta At 7 pm. We will be reading Let the Great World Spin by Colum McCann.

Greenfield Grange Breakfast with Santa Grange Hall, Grange Rd, off 9N From 8 to 11:30 am, the members of the Grange will be serving breakfast for adults $6, seniors $5.

Santa will stop by from 9 to 11 am.

Each child that brings a non-perishable food item will have breakfast for free! A complete menu will be offered with special featured items. Open to the public. For more information, call (518) 5849078

Monday, December 13 Community Bingo Saratoga-Wilton Elks Club, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga.

An evening of fun for old and young, every Monday evening at 7 pm. Doors open at 4 pm.

Refreshments will be available.

(518) 584-2585

English Spoken Here beginner class Saratoga Springs Public Library 49 Henry St. A class for adults from other countries to improve their spoken English. Held from 9:30-11:30 am.

Free and open to the public.

Register with Literacy NENY at (518) 583-1232.

Tuesday, December 14 Wilton Wildlife Preserve Open House 80 Scout Rd, Wilton

Wednesday, December 15 K of C Bingo The Knights of Columbus, Pine Road, Saratoga Community bingo each Wednesday at 7 pm. Doors open at 5 pm. Refreshments will be available. Call (518) 584-8547 for more information.

TODAY

information, visit saratogaplan.org

Schuylerville Ecumenical Choir Cantata Schuylerville United Methodist Church, 51 Church St. Schuylerville “The Christmas Promise” by Lloyd Larson. On Sunday December 19 at 7 pm.

Breakfast with Santa – Sunday, December 19 Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge #161, 1 Elks Lane, Route 9, Saratoga Springs.

Let us do the cooking this morning with a delicious breakfast even offering Eggs Benedict!

From 8:30 to 11 am. Adults $7, seniors and military with ID $6, children 5 to 12 $5, younger than 5 are free. Takeouts $8.

‘A Musical Shabbat’

Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge #161, 1 Elks Lane, Route 9, Saratoga Springs from 4:30 to 7 pm.

Complete dinner. Cash bar available. Adults $9, children 5 to 12 are $5, under 5 free. Seniors and military are $8. Takeout available for $10.

Congregation Shaara Tfille, 84 Weibel Ave., Saratoga Springs Rabbi/Cantor Kenneth Blatt will conduct and perform a Musical Shabbat on Friday, December 17 at 7:30 pm. The evening will begin with a Shabbat dinner at 6 pm – $18 for adults, $5 for children 13 and younger and free for children under 4. RVSP by December 13.

For information, contact the Synagogue at (518) 584-2370.

Thursday, December 16

Bowling With the “Gold” For the American Cancer Society

Ham and Chicken Dinner

Story Time Malta Branch Library, 1 Bayberry Dr. Malta Toddler story time begins at 10:30 am. Pre-School story time follows at 11:15 am. Please register at the Malta Library by calling (518) 6822495.

Upcoming Family Walks in the Woods Holistic moms and Saratoga P.L.A.N. are joining together to offer nature time for families. On Friday, December 17, we’ll meet at Galway Preserve with the hike beginning at 11 am. We will cancel for rain. To register, please call J’Mae at (518) 567-9527. For more

Saratoga Strike Zone, Ballston Avenue, Saratoga Springs On Saturday, December 18 from noon to 2 pm, help raise money for “Hearts of Gold,” a Saratoga Relay for Life team, raising money for the American Cancer Society.

Fifty percent of the proceeds will benefit the fight to cure cancer, one of the leading causes of death among men and women.

For a $20 donation, you can have fun bowling, be entered to win door prizes, and enjoy food and drinks. For more information, call Donna at (518) 701-7212 or Jodi at (518) 580-8503. If you want to reserve your lane early, please call (518) 584-6460.

Send your calendar items to Kim Beatty at kbeatty@saratogapublishing.com before 5 pm on Monday for Friday publication.

SARATOGA

PULSE

TODAY Friday, December 10, 2010

Local Gigs

23

“Classic Irish Christmas” starring Andy Cooney at Troy Savings Bank Music Hall Send listings to entertainment@saratogapublishing.com

- Benefit for Irish American Heritage Museum “Irish America’s favorite son” Andy Cooney brings his “Classic Irish Christmas” show from soldout Carnegie Hall to the historic Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, 30 2nd Street, Troy on Saturday, December 11 at 7:30 pm. This is a benefit concert for the Irish American Heritage Museum, located at 991 Broadway in Albany. The performance also features renowned Capital Region percussionist Jimmy Kelly.

Tickets are $34 and $29. Seats can be reserved through the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall box office at (518) 273-0038 or online at www.troymusichall.org.

Funds raised at Andy Cooney’s “Classic Irish Christmas” will benefit the Irish American Heritage Museum’s educational programs in

the Capital Region and its exhibits including the new “Irish and the Erie Canal” exhibit being developed for 2011. The Museum’s mission is to preserve and tell the story of the contributions of the Irish people and their culture in America, inspiring individuals to examine the importance of their own heritage as part of the American cultural mosaic.

“Feast” your Eyes "Paths in Life" is an exhibit that includes many of photographer Gary Larsen’s latest infrared photographic images. The images are currently on display at Image Provided Feast Gallery, located at ‘Varnums House’ by Gary Larsen 142 Grand Avenue (at the corner of Beekman Street) in Saratoga Springs.

An artist’s reception will take place on Saturday, December 11 from 5 to 8 pm and the exhibit will remain at the Gallery until January 3, 2011.

24

SARATOGA

PULSE

Friday, December 10, 2010

Casino Holiday Gala “at the Lake House” - Benefit for Saratoga Springs History Museum Here’s a perfect reason to get dressed up and party this holiday season! The Saratoga Springs History Museum, Saratoga Springs’ only organization devoted exclusively to all aspects of preserving the history of the Spa City, will host its annual holiday fundraiser from 6:30 to 10:30 pm on Friday, December 10 at the Canfield Casino, one of Saratoga Springs’ most elegant locations.

The Holiday Gala is one of the most entertaining annual fundraisers in Saratoga Springs. The holiday-decorated Canfield Casino will be transformed into one of Saratoga’s most colorful periods: the big band swing era of the great lake houses.

Harkening back to that celebrated era, the Canfield Casino will become a period nightclub featuring a mix of contemporary and nostalgic music by The Karen Lawrence Band.

Guests will be welcomed with complimentary photographs from the

The next best thing to the North Pole...and closer!

The Charles R. Wood Theater and Rabine Productions are collaborating on the second annual presentation of the family holiday play, “Santa’s List” at the Wood Theater, 207 Glen Street in Glens Falls on Tuesday through Thursday, December 21 to 23 at 7 pm.

Set in the North Pole workshop on Christmas Eve, “Santa’s List” follows the frantic antics of the elves when they discover that Santa’s list of who’s naughty and nice is missing! Elves Scratch, Pimly, Bittibit and Naya Photo Provided search high and low for the list while Yuggo Linda Britt as “Mrs. C” gets elves Pimly, and his sidekick Toadie take advantage of the Naya, Bittibit and Scratch excited about chaos by attempting to take over control of the Christmas Eve in “Santa’s List” North Pole. Will Mrs. Claus once again save the day?

Tickets for “Santa’s List” are $10 for children age 10 and younger, $15 for adults. Call the Wood box office for tickets at (518) 874-0800. For online reservations and more information, visit www.woodtheater.org.

Saratoga Photobooth Company.

Longfellow’s Restaurant, one of Saratoga Springs’ foremost special event caterers, will provide sumptuous hors d’oeuvres and hearty carving stations.

Throughout the evening the Casino will be a great place to do your holiday shopping by choosing from a wide variety of silent auction items donated by local restaurants, shops and attractions. These include golf at Saratoga National Golf Club, a Lake Placid overnight featuring a stay at the Mirror Lake Inn and many more special packages and gifts. All purchases will benefit the History Museum. In addition, the Museum and holiday shop will be open all evening.

TODAY

All proceeds will support the museum’s ongoing educational projects, materials and events. The History Museum is one of the first stops in the City for schoolchildren, local families and tourists wanting to know more about Saratoga Springs’ rich and unique history.

Tickets are $65 in advance and $75 at the door and can be purchased by calling the Saratoga Springs History Museum in the Canfield Casino or by visiting www.saratogahistory.org. Members receive tickets for $55.00 and memberships can be purchased for as little as $10. Also, by becoming a member you receive notices to all monthly events and special programs, discounts in the gift shop as well as the Museum’s newsletter.

For tickets or more information, call the museum at (518) 584-6920.

Artists: Have a seat, please!

The Lower Adirondack Regional Arts Council (LARAC) is now accepting applications for their 2011 ‘Have a Seat in Glens Falls’ chair artists.

‘Have a Seat in Glens Falls’ is LARAC’s summer outdoor art project, in which artists creatively decorate Adirondack chairs that will be placed throughout Downtown Glens Falls from Memorial Day through Labor Day, 2011.

Next summer’s project has no topic, but rather each chair design is open for interpretation based on any creative topic that the artist chooses. LARAC will be judging all

entries prior to acceptance. If accepted, your design template will be displayed at a ‘Have a Seat in Glens Falls’ event in February 2011 to be chosen by a sponsor at that time. Completed chairs will be due on March 31, 2011.

Artist packets containing design applications, project requirements and templates are currently available by calling (518) 7981144, ext. 5 to request a mailed packet. Application deadline is January 14, 2011.

To view this past summer’s chairs, please visit haveaseatglensfalls.com.

Shenendehowa Student Designed Ramona Quimby Poster Home Made Theater (HMT) has chosen the design of Shenendehowa high school student Katy Koval as the poster for this year’s family show. For the past nine years Home Made Theater has been working with Sallie Way’s graphic design class at Shenendehowa High School to create HMT’s family show posters. Ms. Way’s students learn the basics of graphic design and get a chance to work with different non-for-profit clients to create real pieces of work to be used for various projects.

HMT’s General Manager Stacie Mayette first met with the students in late September to share the job with them. Since then the students have been working on their designs and presented their posters to HMT in November. The chosen design was printed locally and has been mailed on postcards to over 5,000 people and can be seen on posters around Saratoga Springs and surrounding communities. The partnership between Home Made Theater and Shenendehowa High School has benefited both the theater and the school.

All of the designs will be on display in the lobby during the run of Ramona Quimby in December. As a thank you, all the students have been invited to the preview performance.

SARATOGA

TODAY

PULSE

Friday, December 10, 2010

Photos by Mark Bolles

Support the Arts while gift-giving!

- ARTSPASS sales begin for SaratogaArtsFest 2011

Holiday shoppers who are seeking a Saratogathemed gift now have a great choice - the ARTSPASS for SaratogaArtsFest 2011.

The 2011 ARTSPASS for adults and seniors will be sold for $30, a discount of $5 through March 31, 2011.

ARTSPASS is now available through December at three Saratoga Springs stores: • Impressions Photos Provided of Saratoga, Marianne Barker at Impressions of Saratoga 368 Broadway with the 2011 ARTSPASS • Saratoga Beads, 80 Henry Street with cash or check only.

• Mimosa Gallery, The handcrafted ceramic 70C Beekman Street ARTSPASS this year is in turquoise, The ARTSPASS will also be sold the 2011 festival’s signature color. It at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market on has been produced by L’Esperance Saturday, December 18. Tile Works of Rock City Falls each ARTSPASS purchases at all year since the festival’s inception in advance locations must be made 2007.

An ARTSPASS not only provides admission to the full range of events and cultural activities during the June 9 to 12, 2011 citywide arts showcase. It also entitles the holder to discounts at Saratoga Springs restaurants and shops during the festival and various year-round privileges at area arts organizations.

“A locally crafted ARTSPASS at the holidays is a special way for a gift-giver to offer a memorable arts experience to family and friends,” said Mary Ellen O’Loughlin, executive director of SaratogaArtsFest.

More information about the festival is available at www.SaratogaArtsFest.org.

25

26

SARATOGA

FOOD

Friday, December 10, 2010

TODAY

For a classic Christmas feast or a Parisian Hanukkah dinner

ROAST GOOSE is right!

Suzanne Voigt Farmers’Market

The Mary Pratt of Eilhu Farm and a vendor at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market is offering fresh, pastureraised goose for your holiday pleasure. Goose has long been an American tradition for the Christmas table, dating back to colonial days when colonists could find plenty of wild geese to replicate the holiday dinners of their European heritage. Interestingly, goose is also a popular Hanukah meal, especially in Paris. Goose offers a variation from the Thanksgiving turkey and compliments well with many who also serve ham at Christmas or roasted glazed potatoes for Hanukah. This recipe is a hybrid of two very popular goose recipes found at www.epicurious.com and created by my Jewish neighbor for one of their Hanukah meals. We cooked it last year for our Christmas Day celebration and it was a huge hit – even the

reluctant teenagers who were a bit skeptical at first, asked for seconds.

Its been requested for this year’s feast, so I plan to pick up my preordered goose at the special Holiday Farmers’ Market, December 23, 36pm at Division Street Elementary School. My mouth is already watering….

Ingredients 1 fresh goose (approx 13 lbs.)

1/4 cup kosher sea salt 1 apple, cored and sliced 1 orange, skinned and sliced 1 cup chopped celery 1 potato, diced into chunks 3 garlic cloves, diced

Basting Syrup 2/3 cup honey (for a variant try Ballston Lake Apiaries Blueberry Honey) 1/3 cup butter, melted 1/4 cup brown sugar 2 tbsp. Calvados (Brandy) 7-9 Golden Delicious apples (Gala work well too), cored and sliced 1/4 cup lemon juice 6 tablespoons sugar 1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 1/4 cup Calvados (Brandy)

Directions 1. Place goose in a large pot.

Cover with water enough to cover bird and stir in the sea

salt. Refrigerate overnight.

2. Remove goose from water and drain well. Remove all innards. Rub inside cavity with lemon juice. Place apple, orange, potato and celery inside the body cavity. Truss the bird like a turkey.

3. Using knife, cut small slits all over goose; place garlic slices into slits.

4. Place goose on rack, breast side down, in large roasting pan.

Roast goose 2 hours 45 minutes, basting occasionally with basting syrup. Reserve 6 tablespoons fat from drippings. Turn goose over.

Roast until brown and thermometer inserted into thickest part of thigh registers 175°F. Continue basting with basting syrup, about 45 minutes longer.

5. While goose is cooking, toss apples and lemon juice in large bowl. Pour the reserved goose fat into 15 x 10 x 2-inch glass baking dish. Using slotted spoon, transfer apples to baking dish; toss apples in goose fat. Add

sugar, Calvados and cinnamon to apples; toss. Bake apples alongside goose until very tender and golden, about 1 hour.

6. Take out goose and let sit for 15 minutes before carving.

7. Optional: take some of the goose drippings and roast

potatoes in them and serve with the goose and caramelized apples.

If you want a fresh goose for your Holiday celebrations, order one this week at the Saturday market!

Market operates 9-1, Saturday, at Division Street Elementary School.

Cookie Walk in Malta!

The Malta Presbyterian Church is holding their 6th Annual Cookie Walk on Saturday, December 11th, beginning at 10 am. Friends and members of the church bake fancy homemade Christmas Cookies to be sold by the pound at the Cookie Walk. The Cookies are displayed on tables and people are given a bakery box and disposable glove to walk around the tables and choose cookies they want to buy. The boxes are weighed and sold by the pound.

People leave smiling with a boxful of delicious homemade Christmas Cookies.

The church is located at 118 Dunning Street, Malta, next to the Ballston Spa Bank, east of the Rt. 9 round about. For more information, please call (518) 899-5992.

SARATOGA

TODAY

Friday, December 10, 2010

Words to know: digraph: n, a pair of letters that represent one sound such as the ea in beat.

Sudoku

PUZZLES PUZZLES PUZZLES

27 “As a well spent day brings happy sleep, so a life well spent brings happy death.”

Crossword

- Leonardo da Vinci

See puzzle solutions on page 29

ACROSS

See puzzle solution on page 29

Scrabblegram

See puzzle solution on page 29

1 Smart 5 Use a user ID 10 Look at 14 “Rendezvous With __”: Hugo-winning Arthur C. Clarke novel 15 “Brusha, brusha, brusha” toothpaste 16 Morlock fare 17 Gp. dissolved in December 1991 18 Hybrid big cat 19 Half an ice grabber 20 Shrink for a noted Vulcan?

23 Feature of Incan farms 24 What serious players play for 28 Act that gets you a hand 29 Reason for a laundry odor?

33 Dry, as wine 35 Untrained 36 TV production co. whose mascot was Mimsie the Cat 37 Neighborhood garage sales?

42 Point 43 “This American Life” radio host Glass 44 Fin. neighbor 45 Collection for an artist’s garment?

49 “Tiny Toon Adventures” bunny 52 Mount also known as Horeb 53 Exterminate 56 Some employee benefits, and this puzzle’s title 60 Slung food 63 Initial strategy 64 It precedes di or da, in a Beatles song 65 Sommer of “A Shot in the Dark” 66 Many a surfer 67 Roulette bet 68 Diamond spoiler 69 1954 event coded as “Castle Bravo” 70 Lushes DOWN 1 Pie maker’s pride

Top Video Rentals 1. The Expendables 2. Grown Ups 3. Eat Pray Love 4. The Last Airbender 5. The Sorcerer's Apprentice

Raising Hector

2 Locked, in a way 3 Marathoner’s lament 4 Traffic blocker 5 Bath salt fragrance 6 Speaks one’s mind 7 Infatuated 8 First-year law student 9 Not even one, with “a” 10 Chevy sportsters 11 UN workers’ agcy.

12 Two or more eras, in geologic time 13 Artificial locks 21 Infant who escaped Krypton 22 Jet __ 25 Salinger title girl 26 Green stroke 27 Where to study for a Th.D. 30 Orson, e.g., in a ’70s-’80s sitcom 31 Word with nanny or web 32 Nine-time U.S. skating champ

Broom Hilda 6. Toy Story 3 7. Sex and the City 2 8. Disney's A Christmas Carol 9. Predators 10. The Search For Santa Paws

Animal Crackers

34 Hairdo 37 Ventura County’s __ Valley 38 “Let’s go!”

39 French wine term 40 Many an Asimov character 41 Three-course military supplies 42 Symbol of stubbornness 46 Some kind of nut 47 Tool holder 48 Goes on monotonously 50 Playground mishap 51 Bright, as a porch 54 Dizzying genre 55 Nicholas I and II, e.g.

57 Hawaiian food fish 58 Lump 59 Broccoli relative 60 Mag mogul with a mansion 61 __-American 62 Reggae precursor

28

CLASSIFIED

HELP WANTED SALES MANAGER, DIGITAL/ SPECIALTY PRODUCTS Responsibilities Include: Overseeing advertising sales for our websites, training newspaper print sales team, cold calling, prospecting, qualifying, presenting, relationship building.

Knowledgeable online marketing concepts. Richner Communications, Inc. publishes 27 community newspapers and shoppers. Compensation package includes salary, commission, bonus plan, health plan, 401K, more.

Send resume w/ salary requirements to careers.richner@gmail.com

HELP WANTED All MajorCredit Cards Accepted!

Driver- Steady Miles. NEW PAY PACKAGE! Single source dispatch.

Daily or Weekly Pay. Dry Van and Refrigerated. Great benefits. CDL-A, 6 months recent experience.

800-414-9569 www.driveknight.com Evaluators needed for market research projects. BARE International licensed 23 years. Fees start at $10/hr.

Contact: NewEval@bareinternational.com or call 703-995-3106 or 800-296-6699 ext 3106

AIRLINES ARE HIRING-Train for high paying Aviation Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified-Job Placement Assistance. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance (866)296-7093

ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from home. *Medical, *Business, *Paralegal, *Accounting, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance.

Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. Call 888-201-8657 www.CenturaOnline.com

Drivers-CDL-A Drivers Needed NE regional van frieght. Company andlease purchase options.

Great Pay & home most weekends.

866-231-2376 www.drive4ats.com

YOGA TEACHERS WANTED to teach at a studio in Greenwich, NY. Studio opened in 2009.

Call Zaidee at 692-7041

Driver Training CDLA: Tractor Trailer Learn to Earn $35- $45,000 per NTTS grad employers, D.O.L.,A.T.A., National Tractor Trailer School, Liverpool, NY www.ntts.edu 1-888-243-9320 ALL CASH VENDING ROUTE! Be Your Own Boss! 25 Machines + Candy. All for $9995. 877-915-8222

AUTOMOTIVE

Experienced Tanker Drivers Needed! Increased pay and home time! *Plenty of miles *Steady Freight Call Prime Today! 1-800-277-0212 www.primeinc.com BE YOUR OWN BOSS- START TODAY! OWN A RED HOT! DOLLAR, DOLLAR PLUS, MAILBOX OR DISCOUNT PARTY STORE FROM $51,900 WORLDWIDE! 100% TURNKEY 1-800518-3064 WWW.DRSS4.COM

Friday, December 10, 2010

MERCHANDISE PRIVACY Hedges- Blowout Sale 6' Arborvitae(cedar) Reg $129 now $59 Beautiful, Nursery Grown. Free Installation 518-536-1367 www.lowcosttrees.com Lilac, white birch 4ft $12.95 each shipped HAS YOUR BUILDING SHIFTED OR SETTLED? Contact Woodford Brothers Inc, for straightening, leveling, foundation and wood frame repairs at 1-800-OLD-BARN. www.woodfordbros.com.

"Not applicable in Queens county"

GARAGE SALE DOWNSIZING SALE Estate-like sale in Saratoga Victorian neighborhood.

Extensive, tasteful collection of clothing and accessories, sized 10 to 12, home furnishings, furniture. 10 a.m to 3 p.m., Friday Dec. 10 through Sunday, Dec 12. 181 Phila Street, Saratoga. Percentage of proceeds to benefit Saratoga Center for the Family.

No earlybirds please.

ADOPTION

ADOPT Happily Married, loving couple will provide warm home, education, good upbringing, and happiness to your baby. Expenses paid.

Contact Patty and Greg. www.pattyandgreg.com 1-888-497-4431

$234,900 MALTA 3 LARKSPUR DRIVE This fabulous 3 bdrm, 1.5 bath home is located in an ideal Malta neighborhood convenient to every major activity, shopping, parks and recreation you could ask for. Set on a private home site this impeccably maintained property features beautiful perennials, privacy fencing, vine covered pergola, fireplace with sitting area, patio, deck and an enclosed sunroom to enjoy it all!

REAL ESTATE for rent WILTON McGregor Village Apts.

Fall Special...Now $695/month, Plus First months rent FREE 2 bdrm, 1 bath $750. Cats only.

(A/C avail) 518-886-8013 All 1st flr. units includes features for persons w/disabilities required by the Fair Housing Act.

SERVICES

SERVICES

businessservicedirectory cleaning Clean As A Whistle Professional House & Office Cleaning We can help you get ready for the Holidays, Just think of the time you'll save!

Insured & Bonded References Reasonable 518-894-4476

maintenance Fall Clean-up Leaves Jim & Jim 469-7490 399-8601

decorating ELEGANT INTERIORS Custom painting and wallpapering. Residential/ light commercial. Faux finishes. Custom Molding.

Free estimates fully insured/ ref. Evenings & weekend schedules avail.

When attention to detail matters.

Greg Perreault (518)366-5743

firewood Remember... your fire is only as good as your firewood!

Boice hardwoods 885-9059

small engine repair Adirondack Equipment Repair Snowblowers, Chain Saws, Lawn Equipment.

Pick up & Delivery 581-3809 87 Old Schuylerville Rd, Saratoga Springs, 12866

music lessons Guitar & Vocal www.thestudio musiclessons.com Call 584-5953

For Information, Contact: Cindy Quade, Broker 518-376-2965 cquade@nycap.rr.com www.SignatureHomes-Realty.com

OPEN HOUSE SUN. 12-3

$299,000

BALLSTON SPA $399,900 163 STONE CHURCH RD

SARATOGA SPRINGS 350 LAKE AV

Elegant Home on five acres, set back 200' from road.

Open floor plan suits many needs.High ceilings, exotic hardwoods, upgraded finishes. Huge Master bath.

Curtains not needed, spacious and light.Gourmet kitchen/stainless steel, formal living and dining rms and family room and fireplace. Finished walk out basement, central air, laundry rm, fr doors.

Private, yet minutes to downtown Saratoga, SPAC, & stores.

Very sunny home. Large deck.

Wendy Gilligan (518) 860-3109

This is a great home that was recently brought back to life by Vintage Bungalow, LLC. It boasts a new garage, new kitchen, new tiled baths, new hardwood floors, a great sunroom, new moldings and fresh paint. Gas fireplace in Family room. Great location‌ close to track and easy access to Northway.

Kyle Fillion (518) 322-5759

SARATOGA

TODAY

SPORTS

Friday, December 10, 2010

29

Community Sports Bulletin Elks Lodge holds annual Hoop-Shoot competition

Varsity Girls Basketball Schedule

Varsity Boys Basketball Schedule

Ballston Spa

Ballston Spa

12/7: at Burnt Hills Ballston Lake, 26-29 L 12/10: at Saratoga Springs, 7pm

photo provided

First place finishers, front row left to right: Javen Smallwood, Sarah Signor. Back row, left to right: Daniel Signor, Katlyn Tavarres, Devin Davidson. Not pictured: Jacob Kislowski The Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge #161 held its annual basketball Hoop-Shoot awards ceremony on Wednesday, December 1 following the local round of competitions.

Sixteen awards were given out to those who placed first through third in age brackets 89, 10-11, and 12-13 for both boys and girls. The six first place winners included Javen Smallwood, Sarah Signor, Daniel Signor, Katlyn Tavarres, Devin Davidson and Jacob Kislowski. All six will be moving on to the district finals in Mechanicville on Saturday, January 8.

Teddy Bear Toss with the Adirondack Phantoms

Bring a new or gently used teddy bear to the Phantoms game against the Portland Pirates on Saturday, December 11 at 7pm for the Teddy Bear Toss. After the first Phantoms goal, throw your bear on the ice! All bears will be donated to the Salvation Army.

Send your sports stories and briefs to Daniel Schechtman, Sports Editor at sports@saratoga publishing.com

12/7: vs Burnt Hills Ballston Lake, 57-59 L 12/10: vs. Saratoga Springs, 7pm

Burnt Hills - Ballston Lake

Burnt Hills - Ballston Lake

12/7: vs. Ballston Spa, 29-26 W 12/10: at Shenendehowa, 7pm

12/7: at Ballston Spa, 59-57 W 12/10: vs. Shenendehowa, 7pm

Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Springs

12/2: at Schenectady, 31-46 L 12/7: vs Niskyauna, 32-35 W 12/10: vs Ballston Spa, 7pm

12/3: at Glens Falls, 56-50 W 12/4: vs. Vestal, 47-57 L 12/7: at Niskyauna, 42-48 L 12/10: at Ballston Spa, 7pm

Schuylerville 12/1: vs. Emma Willard, 61-27 W 12/7: vs. Hudson Falls, 44-31 W 12/10: vs. Stillwater, 6pm

South Glens Falls 12/1: vs. Greenwich, 45-55 L 12/4: at Horseheads, 29-64 L 12/13: vs. Glens Falls, 7pm

Schuylerville 12/2: at Broadalbin-Perth, 58-66 L 12/10: at Stillwater, 7pm

South Glens Falls 12/3 vs. Bainbridge, 65-38 W 12/6: at Green Tech, 49-55 L 12/10: at Scotia, 7pm

Ballston Spa divers recognized for stellar season Ballston Spa Diving Coach Dennis Hogan and Joan Libby, Director of Health, PE & Athletics, presented certificates to 9th grader Addison (Addy) Walkowiak and senior Nicole Kverek for their very successful diving season.

Nicole placed third at the Section II dive Championships, and 12th at the New York State meet.

Addy was the 1st place finisher at the Section II dive Championships photo provided and placed 7th at the New York Addison Walkowiak and Nicole Kverek do right by BSpa div- State meet.

ing team

puzzle solutions from pg. 27

30

SARATOGA

SPORTS

Friday, December 10, 2010

Skidmore's Gavrik to play for Ukraine in 2011 IIHF U20 World Championship Skidmore College ice hockey freshman Vlad Gavrik has been selected to represent his home country of Ukraine in the 2011 International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) U20 World Championship in Belarus. The championship takes place from December 13 through 19.

Ukraine is competing in the IIHF U20 Division 1 - Group A with Belarus, Japan, Great Britain, Italy and Latvia.

Gavrik, who is from Kharkiv, has played in all seven games for the 3-3-1 Thoroughbreds this season, recording three goals and three assists. He currently leads the team with two game-winning goals.

"It's an honor to represent and play for your country," Gavrik said. "I can't wait to start playing.

I played for the team last year and it was fun."

Gavrik is not the only player on the Skidmore roster to represent Ukraine. Thoroughbred senior Alex Mykolenko has also played as a member of the U18 and U20 national teams.

Mykolenko will be unable to join his teammate Gavrik in Belarus

Academics and Athletics Damian Fantauzzi

photo provided

Vlad Gavrik this year due to age restrictions.

"It is terrific to be able to

recruit two players who have played in the International Championships, and it has really raised the profile of our program," said Skidmore ice hockey coach, Neil Sinclair.

"It's great to have that international presence both on campus and in the locker room. I think it meshes really well with the educational theme here at Skidmore," Sinclair said.

Gavrik played his final game of the semester for the Thoroughbreds at 7 pm on Tuesday against SUNY Plattsburgh at the Saratoga City Rink. He left for the competition in Belarus on Wednesday.

TODAY

During an economic crisis, school budgets become a matter of concern for school boards and voters. When finances become an issue, the metaphorical knife comes out, and programs and personnel become the targets of budgetary cuts.

My opinion comes from 38 years of being a teacher and coach. Educational programs and personnel are the focus of the budget process, and these are the areas where the voter can really have an influence. School programs are placed under the microscope, and the school boards are in the uncomfortable position of making tough decisions. Choosing or selecting what to keep verses what to cut can deny kids access to programs, and might put some people out of work. Obviously this is a very difficult task for school superintendents and boards.

There has been a focus over the past couple of decades on math and science. Important, for sure, but let's not forget that there's more to the educational dart board than the bull's eye. Art, music, special needs, teaching staff, support staff and athletics are usually the most scrutinized areas and programs, and are typically among the first to be cut.

But not every student will become a mathematician, a scientist or work in a related field.

There is a real world out there and it is called society.

What comes with our society, in America, is a social network of diversity, incorporating many professional fields of employment. Schools' special programs and extracurricular activities are just as meaningful to education and are just as practical as the core curriculum. They are an important aspect for a complete education, which in turn helps prepare individuals to become a valued contributor to our way of life. These programs give students the incentive to achieve competitive grades, to be responsible in the classroom, and in some cases, a purpose for coming to school.

Professions that are taken for granted and even unrealized by the public are fostered by these special programs and are part of a thriving community. The arts have many professions like advertising, drawing and painting, architecture, product design, computer graphics, film, photography and music. Athletics do so much for the maturation of the student by teaching them the importance of teamwork, helping them understand the role of leadership, developing respect for others while fostering a focus on achieving, setting goals and allowing for the growth of selfesteem.

I feel we need to support the importance of a well-rounded education. The future of America depends on what is being done in the scholastic environment. It will pave the way for a functional and diverse society with the economic growth of a stable and progressive community. All of the educational options need to be available for America's youth so they can have choices, choices where they will be eager to learn and discover what's in their future. A well-rounded education needs to be just that - well rounded. It's important and necessary for the growth of the individual.

Paid Advertisment

Teddy Bear Toss page 29

32

sports

World Championship Hockey page 30 Friday, December 10, 2010

Vol. 5 • Issue 49 • FREE • Saratoga TODAY