Simply SARATOGA - Showcase of Homes Fall Edition 2016

A Saratoga TODAY Publication

SARATOGA

™

THE PEOPLE • THE PLACES • THE LIFESTYLE

Complimentary

Fall 2016

SEPTEMBER 17-18, SEPTEMBER 24-25 & OCTOBER 1-2 SARATOGASHOWCASEOFHOMES.COM

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SARATOGA

™

THE PEOPLE • THE PLACES • THE LIFESTYLE

Owner/Publisher Chad Beatty General Manager Robin Mitchell Creative Director & Managing Editor Chris Vallone Bushee Graphic Designers Alyssa Jackson Kacie Cotter-Sacala Advertising Design Morgan Rook Andrew Ranalli Advertising Sales Erin Boucher Jim Daley Cindy Durfey Magazine Intern Madison Feldhaus Contributing Writers Peter Bowden Nancy Castillo David DeLozier Ashley Dingeman Jodie Fitz Carol Godette Megan Harrington Dennis Hogan Charlie Kuenzel Meghan Lemery Fritz Yvonne McEachron Megin Potter Carrie Rowlands Johnson

Photographers

MarkBolles.com Susan Blackburn Sharon Castro Alice Corey Randall Perry John Seymour

Published by

Saratoga TODAY Newspaper Five Case Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 tel: (518) 581-2480 fax: (518) 581-2487

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Simply Saratoga is brought to you by Saratoga TODAY Newspaper, Saratoga Publishing, LLC. Saratoga Publishing shall make every effort to avoid errors and omissions but disclaims any responsibility should they occur. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written consent of the publisher. Copyright © 2016, Saratoga TODAY Newspaper

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CONTRIBUTORS

+Two !!

MEGAN HARRINGTON Megan is a freelance writer who has written for a variety of publications including national magazines, local newspapers, and websites. When she’s not writing, she enjoys training for marathons and coaching fellow runners.

After spending the previous seven years in New York City, Megan and her husband recently relocated to the Village of Cambridge and are loving their new community at the base of the Adirondacks.

MeetTeddy

Born 6.23.16 Congragulations, Megan!

PETER BOWDEN Peter has been the region's go-to garden guy for over 35 years. His knack for practical and concise explanations has served him well during his 20-year tenure as WRGB’s garden guy. He is an artist and avid photographer whose images have appeared in textbooks, magazines and travel guides. Peter lives with his wife, Sharon and their pets in an old house in the country.

NANCY CASTILLO Nancy is a co-owner of our local Wild Birds Unlimited Nature Shop, located off Exit 15 of the Northway. She writes The Zen Birdfeeder blog and has had her writing and photography published in BirdWatcher’s Digest and Watching Backyard Birds. You can occasionally hear her answering questions about birds on the WAMC VoxPop callin program. Nancy and her spouse enjoy watching birds at their feeders from their log home west of Saratoga.

DAVE DELOZIER Dave is known as the eco-local guy around town, as he published the "eco-Local Living mag from 2008-13. Dave and his wife Brenda "walk the walk" having converted their small suburban Saratoga Springs residence into a Permaculture homestead, integrating elements such as edible landscaping, PV solar power & micro-farming.

Dave is now a certified Permaculture Design Consultant and looks to help others who are seeking a more healthy, grounded and resilient lifestyle. ecolocal@gmail.com.

ASHLEY DINGEMAN My name is Ashley Dingeman and I can’t deny it – I’m in love with food. As a Saratoga Springs native, it has always been a dream of mine to have the opportunity to do the two things I do best: eat & write.

MADISON FELDHAUS Madison Feldhaus is a two time Saratoga Today intern, native Saratogian, and senior in the graphic design program at SUNY New Paltz. Working with both the weekly newspaper and the magazines has been an amazing experience. She loves photographing, illustrating, designing, and writing content for her projects. Her work can be found at www.behance.net/madisonfeldhaus.

DENNIS G. HOGAN Dennis G. Hogan was born in New York City and his story is a common one: his dad took him to Saratoga Race Course as a boy and he’s returned every year since. He is a writer and photographer with an appreciation for Thoroughbreds. He has previously written for ThoroFan and is a regular contributor to Equicurean Magazine. He lives in Westchester County, NY.

CHARLIE KUENZEL Charlie Kuenzel is a native Saratogian who spent 36 years as a Science educator in the Saratoga School District before retiring 6 years ago. Charlie, along with Dave Patterson are the co-owners of Saratoga Tours LLC who for the past 16 years have educated and entertained thousands of visitors to the city with stories to tell the exciting history of our great city.

MEGHAN LEMERY FRITZ Meghan is a native of the Glens Falls/Saratoga region.

Her passion is to provide her clients and readers with the tools necessary to live a life full of love, acceptance, truth, peace and balance. She is an author and writer for various publications in Upstate NY and State College, PA.She currently resides in State College, PA where she enjoys spending time with her husband and family. To contact Meghan directly email meghanlemery@yahoo.com

YVONNE MCEACHRON Yvonne McEachron is the founder/blogger of layered. design, llc., a styling company offering services in interior decorating, wardrobe styling, and wedding planning.

Follow @layeredny | www.layeredny.com

ive

MeetMargaux Ol

Born 6.26.16 Congragulations, Yvonne!

JODIE FITZ Jodie Fitz is a wife, working mother of three and the creator of the Price Chopper Kids Cooking Club. She released two cookbooks in 2015; The Chaotic Kitchen; a collection of recipes to help make the lives of busy families just a little bit easier when it comes to mealtime & Cooking Up Fun; designed to get kids taste testing & experimenting with foods.

CAROL GODETTE Born and raised in Saratoga Springs, Carol Godette’s fascination with neighborhood stores began at age 11 when she frequented Rowland’s. A passionate educator, Godette taught elementary school in the Saratoga School District for 31 years. Carol is a co-owner of the local Ben & Jerry’s franchise. Godette and her husband live in her childhood home where they raised their two children. She welcomes your comments and stories/photos on neighborhood stores via email: saratoganeighborhoodstores@gmail.com

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MEGIN POTTER Megin is an expressive writer and artist with work published in books, newspapers, corporate communications and online. A resident of the region for over 20 years, she continues to discover anew the interesting people, places and products it has to offer.

As a mother to her active young son, she is inspired to explore even more.

CARRIE ROWLANDS JOHNSON With a firm belief that digital marketing is a must for small businesses, Carrie recently joined forces with photographer Alice Corey and created the blogging bar. The boutique agency provides blogging, SMM and photography services …and recently launched a brand new column in Simply Saratoga Magazine called, Simply…

Saratoga Society. Carrie is also a licensed Real Estate Salesperson with Berkshire Hathaway. Read more of Carrie’s work (and a glimpse into life as a single mom of twin ten-year old boys) at CarrieRowlands.com.

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Book Now for:

The Holidays!

With wonderful stories and beautiful photography, this holiday edition just begs to be curled up with while sipping a hot cup of tea!

Publication Date: November 11th Deadline Date: October 14th Cost: Full Page: $ 1,835 1/2 Page: $ 1,010

1/4 Page: $740 1/8 Page: $455

A full color glossy magazine, with all the sophistication of our other publications, but in a smaller, thinner roll-it-up-and-carry-it-with-you size. This keepsake publication will cover and be distributed at the following events: The Festival of Trees, The Tree Lighting and Victorian Streetwalk!

Publication Date: November 23rd Deadline Date: October 21st Cost: Full Page: $ 850 1/2 Page: $ 650 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Ask about combo rates for both magazines!

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COMPLETE COVERAGE!

PAGES

1-84 Publication

a TODAY

A Saratog

A G O T A R A S ™

I have to say THANK YOU to Scot Trifilo of Terrace Homebuilders for letting me use his plants, cookbooks, dinnerware, canned goods (that he did!) and fresh vegetables (from his garden!) so I could get this tablescape for our cover - just right!

Alice Corey Photography

YLE L I F E S T entary • THE Complim LACES ll 2016 THE P Fa • E L EOP THE P

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SAR ATO COVERA | SIM PLY FALL 2016

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A GOOD READ

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Advice from Meghan Lemery Fritz

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rove and reeds

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Artist Spotlight – Martin Macica

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Tribute Trike

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Meet Sid Stark

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Man's Best Friend

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Saratoga History

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Dennis Hogan Interviews Tom Durkin

FASHION 113

HOME & GARDEN 134

The Showcase Pillars

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Architecturally Speaking

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Liberty Designs

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Wine & Dine with Graham and McGuire

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Birdwatching with Nancy Castillo

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Entertaining with Jodie Fitz

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Gardening with Peter Bowden

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Meet the Cook

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FABULOUS FALL ACTIVITIES!

SARATOGA

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THE PEOPLE • THE PLACES • THE LIFESTYLE

SHOWCASE OF HOMES 2016 Alice Corey Photography

LAKE LOCAL

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92SARATOGA FAMILIES

The Society Pages & FASHION!

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SEPTEMBER 17-18, 24-25 + OCTOBER 1-2 Visit 20 new homes from our area’s finest builders!

CONTENTS

Welcome and Showcase Committee Members 24 Schedule of Events and Ticket Information 25 Driving Directions and Map 26-27 Taste of Showcase Preview 28-29

GET SOCIAL WITH US!

#SaratogaSOH

Showcase Homes and Builders Subcontractors and Suppliers Showcase Sponsors

31-73 74-81 82

SHOWCASE HOMES 1 Bonacio Construction Inc. The Grove 2 Bonacio Construction Inc. Empire Run 3 Bonacio Construction Inc. Burnham Hollow 4 Bella Home Builders Rolling Green Estates 5 Saratoga Builders, LLC Burgoyne Estates 6 La Femme Home Builders, LLC Heights at Brown Road 7 Terrace Homebuilders 54 Nelson Ave Ext.

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31 33 37 39 41 43 45

8 Bella Home Builders Park Grove 9 Bonacio Construction Inc. The Elms at Saratoga 10 Witt Constructions, Inc. The Elms at Saratoga 11 Blitman Saratoga, LLC Beaver Pond Village Estates 12 McPadden Builders LLC Wyndham Way Extension 13 Barbera Homes and Development Malta Springs 14 Belmonte Builders Griffin’s Ridge

47 49 51 55 57 59 61

15 Malta Development Co., Inc. Orchard Pointe 16 Heritage Custom Builders LLC

Heritage Pointe 17 Caruso Home Builders

701 Riverview Road 18 Volpe Custom Homes

355 Schauber Road

63 65 67 69

19 Herbinger Homes

Maple Forest

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20 Amedore-Farone

Victorian Landings

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WELCOME

to the 2016 Saratoga Showcase of Homes, now celebrating 21 years of exceptional homes! I’m sure you will agree that this spectacular annual event is a not-to-be missed tradition and is truly an important part of the fabric in our fall season.

RS OF G 21 YEA IN T A R B C E LE

EXC E LLE

NC E

On behalf of the Saratoga Builders Association and the Showcase Committee, I’d like to thank all the generous sponsors and countless volunteers for their support. Special thanks to all our amazing and talented builders for their commitment to this show and for making the area’s premiere new home tour so popular. Lastly, we are grateful for the tremendous public support through ticket sales each and every year.

We are especially excited and proud to present 20 new homes in Saratoga County from 16 award-winning builders for your enjoyment over three weekends. In fact, this is a recordbreaking year with the largest number of locations ever on tour! As always, you’ll see the most innovative products, beautiful décor, professional craftsmanship and impeccable construction of each of these magnificent homes, inviting you through their doors.

In addition, we’ve cooked up a special “Taste of Showcase Preview” event kicking off the festivities on Friday evening for five hours at six selected showcase homes. You’ll enjoy touring the homes while snacking on food samplings from our area chefs plus beverage tastings of local beer and wine.

Best of all, the proceeds from this event go back into our community. The Saratoga Builders Association has now contributed over $900,000 to our local charities from this community event, and this year will be no different. Proceeds from this year’s Showcase of Homes will benefit two local worthwhile organizations: Rebuilding Together, Saratoga County and Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties. Both of these groups help give back to the community through improving the homes and lives of those in need. Many families in our area would never realize their dreams of home ownership or improvement of their living conditions without the efforts of these two incredible organizations.

2016 Showcase of Homes Committee DREW AIELLO

Homestead Funding

JESSE BOUCHER

Kodiak Construction

TAMMY DICARA

Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren & Washington Counties

FRAN DINGEMAN

Please take a moment to explore the pages of this official guide for lots of great information on each builder and their homes, details about the event and to see what’s waiting for you this year at the 21st edition of the 2016 Saratoga Showcase of Homes.

Network Saratoga

Where else can you visit 20 brand new homes over three beautiful autumn weekends for just $20?

Realty USA

JIM FUREY

Enjoy the show . . . and thank you for your continued support!

Realty USA

BARRY POTOKER Executive Director, Saratoga Builders Association saratogabuilders.org • saratogashowcaseofhomes.com

MARK HOGAN

Saratoga National Bank & Trust

2016 SHOWCASE JUDGES John DeLisle (Grasshopper Gardens) Peter Loyola (CLA Site) Christina Feldman (KBC Design Studio) Mary Alyce Evans (Designers' Studio) Pam Dorwin (Dorwin Dawson Associates) Janet Longe (23rd & Fourth) Sue Davis (SD Atelier Archtiecture)

PRIZE DRAWINGS GRAND PRIZE - A $3,000 VALUE!

2ND PLACE PRIZE WIN $1000 IN

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Tonya Yasenchak (Engineering America Co.) Jesse Boucher (Kodiak Construction, Inc) Cohen Cartier (Cartier Construction Co.) Liz Marini (Marini Builders) Cindy Quade (Signature Homes Realty) Awards Ballot Dawn Rodecker (Bucknam & Rodecker, CPA)

All ticket holders are eligible to vote for the People’s Choice Award with the ballot on the ticket. You will be automatically entered into our drawing for these prizes:

2 nights in a Penthouse Loft Suite at Pavilion Grand Hotel, complimentary valet parking for up to 2 cars, breakfast for 4 in the morning at TC Paris, spa treatments for 2 at All Good Things Spa, champagne on arrival and on night of choice a Specialty appetizer and small plate sampling from Fish at 30 Lake with wine pairings for 6 people.

GIFT CERTIFICATES

Adaptive Equipment Services At Home Dog Trainer Carson's Woodside Tavern Champs Chimney Chez Pierre Chic Underneath Courtyard Marriott Crafters Gallery Curtis Lumber Dehn's Flowers Dunham’s Bay Resort Feigenbaum’s

MARCI FILA

Fresh & Co. G. Wilikers Home Made Theater (HMT) Impressions of Saratoga Longfellows Restaurant Mazzone Hospitality Old Bryan Inn Saratoga Olive Oil Saratoga Sundress Seven Horse Pub Silverwood Spoken Boutique Spring Street Deli

MICHELLE LARKIN

Rebuilding Together Saratoga County

LISA LICATA

Co-Chair, SBA Julie & Co. Realty

BARRY POTOKER

Co-Chair and Executive Director, SBA Roohan Realty

PAM STOTT

Curtis Lumber

GET SOCIAL WITH US!

#SaratogaSOH

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DATES FOR UPCOMING EVENTS TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13

2016 Showcase of Homes Realtor and Judges Tour

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

2016 Showcase of Homes Awards Presentation Celebration & Dinner at Vapor in the Saratoga Casino Hotel

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16

2016 Taste of Showcase Preview at 6 selected showcase homes 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 17–18 21st Annual Saratoga Showcase of Homes 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 24–25 21st Annual Saratoga Showcase of Homes 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, OCTOBER 1-2 21st Annual Saratoga Showcase of Homes 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Over the past 20 years, this community event has contributed over $900,000 to our two local charities. Proceeds from the Showcase of Homes benefit Rebuilding Together Saratoga County www.rebuildingtogethersaratoga.org and Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties www.glensfallshabitat. org. For more details on the 2016 Saratoga Showcase of Homes event, please visit www. saratogashowcaseofhomes.com. Follow us on FACEBOOK and our BLOG for all the updates!

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FREE

Every ticket holder receives a complimentary shoe tote bag at the first home visited.

TICKET INFORMATION 2016 Saratoga Showcase of Homes 2016 Taste of Showcase Preview 2016 Combo Ticket for both events

$20.00 each $25.00 each $40.00

Tickets are available at; Adirondack Trust, Trustco Bank, Saratoga National Bank branch locations, Curtis Lumber stores in Ballston Spa & Queensbury, Realty USA in Clifton Park and Roohan Realty in Saratoga Springs.

Tickets are always conveniently available at the door of any showcase home during the tour hours of 11 AM – 5 PM and online at www.SaratogaShowcaseofHomes.com

We look forward to seeing you at the “Magic of the Showcase of Homes” this fall!

Showcase of Homes Proceeds benefit:

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Visit our website to view the interactive map and scenic house-to-house directions

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2016 Showcase of Homes

DIRECTIONS

1 BONACIO CONSTRUCTION The Grove, #116, 233 Lake Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 I-87 to exit 15, take route 50 North toward Wilton, right at the 1st traffic light onto Weibel Avenue, at the end of the road (T intersection/stop light) take a right onto Lake Avenue, The Grove is approximately 1 mile on right.

2 BONACIO CONSTRUCTION Empire Run, #401, 130 Excelsior Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Directions from House #1. West on Lake Avenue/RT-29, right on East Avenue, right on Excelsior Avenue, Empire Run is on right.

3 BONACIO CONSTRUCTION Burnham Hollow, 9 Burnham Road, Wilton, NY 12831 Directions from House #2. West on Excelsior Avenue, take 1st right onto Marion Avenue, Marion Avenue become US-9N, right onto Ballard Road/County Hwy-33. 1st right onto Northern Pines Rd/County HW-34, 1st right onto Burnham Road, follow signs to showcase home on right.

4 BELLA HOME BUILDERS Rolling Green Estates, 17 Rolling Green Drive, Wilton, NY 12834 Directions from House #3. Northeast on Burnham Rd, turn left onto Northern Pines Rd / County Hwy-34., Take 1st right onto Ballard Rd/County Hwy-33, right onto Edie Road, right onto Rolling Green Drive. Follow signs to showcase home on left.

5 SARATOGA BUILDERS Burgoyne Estates, 5 Anthony Lane, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Directions from House #4. East on Rolling Green Drive, right onto Edie Road, right onto Ruggles Road, turn slight left onto Ruggles Rd/County Hwy-67, take 1st left onto Lake Ave/NY-29, right onto Bryant Bridge Road, right onto Burgoyne Road. Take 1st left onto Anthony Lane. Showcase home on right.

6 LA FEMME HOME BUILDERS Heights at Brown Road, 84 Brown Road, Stillwater, NY 12170 Directions from House # 5. Northwest on Anthony Lane, left onto Burgoyne Road - keep right at the fork to continue on Burgoyne Road which becomes County Route 68, turn left onto County Route 67, take 1st right onto Fitch Road, left onto Route 9P/NY-9P, left onto Cedar Bluff Road/County Route 71.

Turn slight right onto Wright Road, right onto Brown Road, showcase home on left.

7 TERRACE HOMEBUILDERS 54 Nelson Ave Ext., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Directions from House #6. East on Brown Road, take 1st left onto Wright Road – which becomes Cedar Bluff Road/County Route 71, right onto Route 9P/NY-9P, left onto Crescent Avenue/County Hwy-22, left onto Nelson Avenue Ext/County Hwy-64. Showcase home on left.

8 BELLA HOME BUILDERS Park Grove, 24 Joshua Road, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Directions from House #7. North on Nelson Avenue Ext/County Hwy-64, take 1st left onto Crescent Avenue/County Hwy-22, right onto South Broadway/US-9 N, take 1st right onto Crescent Street, right onto Joshua Road, showcase home on left.

9 BONACIO CONSTRUCTION The Elms at Saratoga, 34 Joseph Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Directions from house #8. North on Joshua Road, left onto Crescent Street, right onto South Broadway/US-9 N, left onto West Fenlon Street – which becomes New Street, right onto Empire Avenue – which becomes Joseph Street, showcase home on right.

10 WITT CONSTRUCTION The Elms at Saratoga, 14 Persimmon Place, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Directions from House #9. North on Joseph Street, take 1st right onto Persimmon Place, showcase home on left.

NOTE: This house is on the next corner from 34 Joseph Street. No need to move your car.

11 BLITMAN DEVELOPMENT Beaver Pond Village Estates, 4 Annie Drive, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Directions from House #10. North on Persimmon Place, left onto Joseph Street – which becomes Empire Avenue, right onto Congress Avenue, left onto West Avenue, right onto Ballston Avenue/NY-50, take the 1st right onto Geyser Road/County Hwy-43, left onto Annie Drive, showcase home on left.

12 MCPADDEN BUILDERS Wyndham Way Extension, 21 Wyndham Way, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 Directions from House #11. Northwest on Annie Drive, take 1st left onto Geyser Road/County Hwy-43, right onto Stone Church Road, take the 1st right onto Wyndham Way, showcase home on left.

13 BARBERA HOMES Malta Springs, 2 Essex Street, Malta, NY 12020 Directions from House #12. West on Wyndham Way, left onto Stone Church Road, take 1st left onto Geyser Road/County Hwy-43, take 3rd right onto Greenfield Avenue/County Hwy-50, left onto Northline Road/County Hwy-45, left onto Malta Avenue/County Hwy-63, right onto State Route 9/US-9 S/NY-9, right onto Cramer Road, right into Malta Springs, left onto Essex Street, showcase home on right.

14 BELMONTE BUILDERS Griffin’s Ridge, 52 Village Circle North, Round Lake, NY 12151 Directions from House #13. South on State Route 9/US-9 S/NY-9, enter 1st roundabout and take 2nd exit onto State Route 9/US-9 S/NY-67, enter 2nd roundabout and take the 2nd exit onto US-9 S/NY-67, enter 3rd roundabout and take the 2nd exit onto Route 9/US-9 S, right into Griffin’s Ridge, follow signs to showcase home.

15 MALTA DEVELOPMENT Orchard Pointe, 3A Macoun Drive, Halfmoon, NY 12065 Directions from House #14. South on Route 9/US-9 S, left onto Route 146/NY-146, turn sharp right onto Plant Road, take 1st right to stay on Plant Road, turn right into Orchard Pointe, showcase home on left.

16 HERITAGE CUSTOM BUILDERS Heritage Pointe, 6 Heritage Pointe Drive, Clifton Park, NY 12065 Directions from House #15. Southeast on Plant Road, left onto Route 9/US-9 S, take 1st right onto Grooms Road/County Hwy-91, left into Heritage Pointe, follow signs to showcase home.

17 CARUSO HOME BUILDERS 701 Riverview Road, Rexford, NY 12148 Directions from House #16. North on Heritage Pointe Drive, left onto Grooms Road/County Hwy-91, left onto Droms Road, left onto Riverview Road, showcase home on left.

18 VOLPE CUSTOM HOMES 355 Schauber Road, Ballston Lake, NY 12019 Directions from House #17. Northwest on Riverview Road, right onto Balltown Road/NY-146, stay straight to go onto Blue Barns Road/County Hwy110, right onto Ashdown Road, right onto Schauber Road/County Hwy-80, showcase home on right.

19 HERBINGER HOMES Maple Forest, 4 Maple Forest Drive, Ballston Lake, NY 12019 Directions from House #18. Northeast on Schauber Road/County Hwy-80, right onto Eastline Rd/County Hwy-82, continue to follow County Hwy-82, left into Maple Forest, showcase home on right.

20 FARONE-AMEDORE Victorian Landings, 7 Hillman Loop, Round Lake, NY 12151 Directions from House #19. North on Longkill Road/County Hwy-82, right onto Round Lake Road/County Hwy-80, go through roundabouts staying on Round Lake Road, enter next roundabout after I-87 and take the 1st exit onto Victorian Boulevard, showcase home on the left.

Saratoga Builders Association, Inc. • P.O. Box 1063, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Tel. (518) 366-0946 • www.saratogabuilders.org saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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TASTE OF SHOWCASE PREVIEW FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 TH 5:00 – 10:00 PM A special “Taste of Showcase” preview at 6 selected homes in close proximity to each other is scheduled for Friday, September 16 from 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM featuring food samplings from area chefs along with local craft beer and wine tastings. The restaurants participating are: 15 Church, 2 West, Augie’s, Jacob & Anthony’s, Lake Ridge and Osteria Danny. There will be a limited number of tickets for this evening available and the cost is $25 each. The combination pack of this special Taste of Showcase Preview event and a regular Showcase of Homes ticket will be $40 each.

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CHEF DANNY PETROSINO

CHEF SCOTT RINGWOOD

from Osteria Danny at Terrace Homebuilders 54 Nelson Ave. Ext., Saratoga Springs

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CHEF BRADY DUHAME

from 15 Church at Witt Construction 14 Persimmon Place, Saratoga Springs

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CHEF JASON AUDETTE

from Lake Ridge Restaurant at Bella Home Builders 24 Joshua Road, Saratoga Springs

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CHEF CARY IGLESIAS

from Jacob & Anthony's American Grille at Blitman Development Corp.

4 Annie Drive, Saratoga Springs

from 2 West Bar and Grille at Bonacio Construction Inc. 34 Joseph Street, Saratoga Springs

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CHEF AUGIE VITIELLO

from Augie's Restaurant at McPadden Builders 22 Wyndham Way, Ballston Spa

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Bonacio Construction

Sonny Bonacio

THE GROVE 233 LAKE AVENUE, APT. 116, SARATOGA SPRINGS 2 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHROOMS, 1,624 SQ. FT. Come and experience life at The Grove, a newly renovated luxury adult rental community in the heart of Saratoga Springs. Live among the trees, in beautifully designed rental units that showcase the magnificent historic integrity of the property. Enjoy a community lifestyle that offers privacy or the opportunity to socialize with new neighbors and friends! The Grove offers 1 & 2BR options, with high end features, all located within close proximity to Downtown Saratoga, Saratoga Race Course, SPAC, Saratoga Lake, shopping, dining and the Northway!

Relax in our Great Hall and take in the beauty of what used to be The Chapel and its stunning historic feel. Our Great Hall is the hub of it all! Play a lively game of pool with neighbors in the Billiards Room or enjoy a movie in the theater. Spend hours with your grandkids or neighbors in our Game Room cheering on your favorite sports team, or relax in the Jacuzzi and swim a few laps in our indoor pool.

HOME FEATURES: Whirlpool Stainless Steel Appliances Maytag Energy Efficient Side by Side washer and dryers Quartz/Granite Countertops 9’ - 13’ High Ceilings Private Balconies/Gardens Custom Built-in Closet Packages Custom Composite Blinds Included Marble Tile Bathroom Floors Laminate Hardwood Floors Cable & Internet, Water, Recycling & Trash Included Indoor Climate Controlled Parking Garage with Storage Putting Green & Bocce Court & Walking Trail Indoor Pool and Spa Media Room Billiards Room Restaurant on-site

ARCHITECT: Re4orm Architecture APARTMENT RENTALS:

Resident Manager – Carol Buckley

MANAGEMENT COMPANY:

West Side Management

INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:

Beverly Tracy Home Design – Beverly Tracy

KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:

Signature Cabinets Group – Michael Bannon LANDSCAPE: Galusha & Sons

AS AN AWARD WINNING BUILDER of residential and

commercial structures since 1988, Bonacio Construction has worked on projects large and small and both grand and modest. Inside every structure you will discover the hallmarks of the Bonacio approach: value, integrity, and attention to detail. Our team approach including an audio visual and plumbing division, metal shop and design team bring out the best in all our buildings. In transforming the former St. John Neumann residence, which has stood the test of time for over 100 years, Bonacio Construction brought their wealth of knowledge in combining historic renovation and adaptive re-use to create the elegance of The Grove at Neumann, their first ever adult luxury rental community. The Grove rests on a tranquil setting, nestled in the pines and conveniently within walking distance to Downtown. True Bonacio style in preserving historic details and restoring this gem to its former glory.

Come and experience The Grove!

WWW.BONACIO.COM 518.584.9007

ENERGY EFFICIENCIES: Maytag Washer & Dryers

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2

Bonacio Construction

Sonny Bonacio

EMPIRE RUN 130 EXCELSIOR AVE, APT. 401, SARATOGA SPRINGS 1 BEDROOM, 1 BATHROOM, 930 SQ. FT. Empire Run boasts downtown Saratoga Springs’ newest, value inclusive apartment lifestyle, with ease of access to well-known restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Within seconds of the renowned Saratoga Race Track, Saratoga Performing Arts Center, and Broadway, Empire Run gives you access to all of the value Saratoga Springs offers, with worry free living.

When joining us, not only do you have the value of cable/internet and Whirlpool appliances, washers and dryers included, you also have a strength & cardio center and access to the City’s year-round recreation trail at your doorstep. Additionally included is the availability of immense off-street parking, climate controlled indoor parking and extra storage options.

Unique layouts available include private brownstone walk-up style or lobby-style entrances, all featuring:

HOME FEATURES: Whirlpool Stainless Steel Appliances Quartz Countertops 9’ High Ceilings Private Balconies Walk-in Closets with Custom Built-in California Closet Packages Kohler Stainless & Brushed Steel Plumbing Hardware Whirlpool Front Load Washers & Dryers Included Pella Windows & Doors Custom Composite Blinds Included Ceramic Tile Bathroom Floors Shaw “Raven” Laminate Hardwood Floors Cable & Internet, Water, Recycling & Trash Included Indoor Climate Controlled Parking Garage

BUILDING DESIGN: Balzer + Tuck Architecture APARTMENT RENTALS: Burns Management

Property Manager – Patrick Poirier COMMERCIAL REALTOR®: Julie & Co. Realty – Joann Potrzucki Cassidy

INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:

Beverly Tracy Home Design – Kelly Daly

KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:

Curtis Lumber Company – Jay Miller LANDSCAPE: Peak Environmental Concepts Inc. – Terry Hubbard

AS AN AWARD WINNING BUILDER of residential and

commercial structures since 1988, Bonacio Construction has worked on projects large and small and both grand and modest. Inside every structure you will discover the hallmarks of the Bonacio approach: value, integrity, and attention to detail. Our team approach including an audio visual and plumbing division, metal shop and design team, bring out the best in all our buildings.

Bonacio Construction brings a wealth of experience to their next mixeduse apartment project—Empire Run. Empire Run offers a quaint setting, connecting to Spring Run Trail, while just steps to commercial conveniences and walking distance to Downtown. In each of the open one and two bedroom layouts, you will find character and the high-quality finishes synonymous with Bonacio Construction. Make Empire Run your new residence!

WWW.BONACIO.COM 518.584.9007

ENERGY EFFICIENCIES: ZIP- System Building Construction

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Bonacio Construction

3

Dave Trojanski BONACIO CONSTRUCTION,

is a privately owned and operated construction and real estate development firm that's been in business for over 28 years. We have an established team of over 100 professionals and artisans with vertically integrated ownership of multiple subcontractor specialties.

Dave Trojanski joined the team to enable us to refocus and transform our existing home building division.

Dave and the entire team share a commitment to the fundamental principles that have made them stand out. Quality construction, commitment to exceptional customer service, and relationships built on integrity are the building blocks that have shaped their vision and driven their success.

BURNHAM HOLLOW - 9 BURNHAM ROAD, WILTON 4 BEDROOMS, 3.5 BATHROOMS, 2,408 SQ. FT. Our quaint cottage style home boasts combined features of shakes and board-n-batten siding with stone accents lending to genuine curb appeal. The hints of craftsman styling mixed with traditional features, makes this house appealing to any generation in the market for a new home.

With 1,712 square feet of first and second floor living space and an additional 685 square feet finished in the lower level walkout, the possibilities are endless. As you enter the foyer you are met by the craftsman style staircase which ascends to the two story balcony overlooking the foyer and great room. The wall of windows welcomes natural light into the home, making any occasion brighter. Entertaining in this home is a delight with the open floor plan to an easily accessible kitchen and friendly dining area. As you move into the master suite, it is filled with a beautiful private bath, bountiful storage in the walk in closet, and an abundance of natural light.

The informal entry from the garage offers built-in storage and a laundry area. Located on the upper level are the secondary bedrooms, a computer niche and an additional full bath. The lower level is finished with a forth bedroom and a third bath with a tiled shower. The recreation area and wet bar with full walkout access is the perfect area for casual entertaining.

ARCHITECT: James Fahy Design REALTOR:

HOME FEATURES: Finished Walkout Basement First Floor Master Suite Custom Built Ins Master Bath Underlit Countertop and Onyx Shower Ceiling Master Bath Rustic Wood Beams on Ceiling

ENERGY EFFICIENCIES:

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Blake, REALTORS – Penny Berg

INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:

Finishing Touches Home Decor Inc. – Shelly Walker

KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:

The Signature Cabinet Group – Michael Bannon

LANDSCAPE:

Energy Star Home 96% Efficient Furnace (Amana) LED Bulbs

Sunshine Landscaping – Rich Mullnow COPYRIGHT NOTICE: THESE PLANS ARE PROTECTED UNDER FEDERAL COPYRIGHT LAWS BY JAMES FAHY DESIGN. ANY REPRODUCTION, OR MODIFICATION OF THESE PLANS, IN WHOLE OF IN PART, WITHOUT THE EXPRESS WRITTEN CONSENT OF JAMES FAHY DESIGN IS A VIOLATION OF COPYRIGHT LAWS. CLIENT RIGHTS ARE LIMITED TO ONE-TIME USE FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THESE PLANS.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE: THESE PLANS ARE PROTECTED UNDER FEDERAL COPYRIGHT LAWS BY JAMES FAHY DESIGN. ANY REPRODUCTION, OR MODIFICATION OF THESE PLANS, IN WHOLE OF IN PART, WITHOUT THE EXPRESS WRITTEN CONSENT OF JAMES FAHY DESIGN IS A VIOLATION OF COPYRIGHT LAWS. CLIENT RIGHTS ARE LIMITED TO ONE-TIME USE FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THESE PLANS.

UNAUTHORIZED ALTERATIONS OR ADDITIONS TO THIS DRAWING IS A VIOLATION OF THE NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION LAW, ARTICLE 145, SECTION 7209.

UNAUTHORIZED ALTERATIONS OR ADDITIONS TO THIS DRAWING IS A VIOLATION OF THE NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION LAW, ARTICLE 145, SECTION 7209.

Copyright 2016 All rights reserved.

Copyright 2016 All rights reserved.

NO.

Great Rm Below

12'4 x 14'7

REVISIONS: BY

BR3

PROJECT:

LOT 9 BURNHAM WILTON, NEW YORK SARATOGA COUNTY

FOYER

WIC

REF

W

CLOSET

Entry

PHASE:

PROJECT NO.

DRAWN BY:

DRAWING NO:

JTL

DATE:

19'4 x 20'4

ARTWORK JOB NO.

A16-053

15-1723-1

1 of 3

CHECKED BY:

KAD

DATE:

7-12-2016

BONACIO CONSTRUCTION INC.

LOWER FOYER

BATH3 DRAWING TITLE:

FINISHED BASEMENT PLAN

Unfinished Area

PHASE:

DRAWING NO:

7-12-2016

TWO-CAR GARAGE

Unfinished Area

PROJECT NO.

CHECKED BY:

W - 42'4 D - 50'8

CLIENT:

BONACIO CONSTRUCTION INC.

DRAWING TITLE:

DRAWN BY:

JTL

KAD

FIRST FLOOR 1113 SF

LOT 9 BURNHAM WILTON, NEW YORK SARATOGA COUNTY

LINEN

JOB NO.

A16-053

DESCRIPTION

PROJECT:

ARTWORK

Pdr

D

Covered Porch

BY

BR4

SECOND FLOOR PLAN

DRAWING TITLE:

FIRST FLOOR PLAN

UP

COMPUTER NICHE

DATE

12' x 12'

24'8 x 13'4

LOT 9 BURNHAM WILTON, NEW YORK SARATOGA COUNTY

CLIENT:

BATH2 Foyer Below SLOPE CLG.

B. CL. CLOSET

Two-Story

CLOSET

Bridge CLIENT:

BONACIO CONSTRUCTION INC.

11'9 x 10'6 PANTRY

DOWN

LINEN

MBATH

CLOSET

KITCHEN

DOWN

SNACK BAR DW BRIDGE ABOVE

NO.

RECREATION ROOM

10' x 11'7 PROJECT:

12'4 x 17'

DESCRIPTION

WET BAR

BR2

9'8 x 12'8

DATE

BUILT-INS

15'10 x 13'3 two-story cl'g

DESCRIPTION

UP

DIN RM

GREAT RM

BY

James Fahy, P.E., P.C.

CLOSET REVISIONS:

DATE

COPYRIGHT NOTICE: THESE PLANS ARE PROTECTED UNDER FEDERAL COPYRIGHT LAWS BY JAMES FAHY DESIGN. ANY REPRODUCTION, OR MODIFICATION OF THESE PLANS, IN WHOLE OF IN PART, WITHOUT THE EXPRESS WRITTEN CONSENT OF JAMES FAHY DESIGN IS A VIOLATION OF COPYRIGHT LAWS. CLIENT RIGHTS ARE LIMITED TO ONE-TIME USE FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THESE PLANS. UNAUTHORIZED ALTERATIONS OR ADDITIONS TO THIS DRAWING IS A VIOLATION OF THE NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION LAW, ARTICLE 145, SECTION 7209.

James Fahy, P.E., P.C.

Copyright 2016 All rights reserved.

James Fahy, P.E., P.C.

REVISIONS: NO.

MBR

WWW.BONACIO.COM 518.584.9007

15-1723-1

2 of 3

PHASE:

ARTWORK JOB NO.

PROJECT NO.

DRAWN BY:

DRAWING NO:

A16-053 JTL

CHECKED BY:

KAD

DATE:

7-12-2016

15-1723-1

3 of 3

SECOND FLOOR 610 SF W - 39' D - 28'

FINISHED BASEMENT 703 SF

James Fahy Design 2024 W. Henrietta Rd. Suite 3K Rochester, New York 14623 (585) 272-1650 Fax (585) 272-1008

e-mail: info@jamesfahy.com website: www.jamesfahy.com

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

James Fahy Design

James Fahy Design

2024 W. Henrietta Rd. Suite 3K Rochester, New York 14623

2024 W. Henrietta Rd. Suite 3K Rochester, New York 14623

(585) 272-1650 Fax (585) 272-1008

e-mail: info@jamesfahy.com website: www.jamesfahy.com

(585) 272-1650 Fax (585) 272-1008

e-mail: info@jamesfahy.com website: www.jamesfahy.com

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Bella Home Builders Inc.

4

Dave DePaulo

ROLLING GREEN ESTATES 17 ROLLING GREEN DRIVE, WILTON 4 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHROOMS, 2,799 SQ. FT. An authentic Piper Cub airplane is Bella owner Dave DePaulo's 2016 Showcase surprise.

From airplanes to custom made furniture this home is a must see. This custom home is located on a private wooded 1.2 acre lot which backs up to a New York State Park. As you enter this beautiful home you are greeted by a two story open foyer with custom paneled trim flowing up the staircase. Walking into the vaulted great room you will find an inviting fireplace with a custom designed mantel. As this house has an open floor plan the working gourmet custom kitchen is open to the great room which creates a great space for entertaining. The study features hand crafted coffered ceiling along with an accent wall constructed of reclaimed weathered wood. The master retreat with a gorgeous master bathroom and a large walk in closet are located on the 1st floor. Make your way upstairs to three additional large bedrooms. As you walk down the hallway you can gaze on the open balcony to the Family Room below. In the last room one will find much of the Piper Cub Airplane that has actually flown over Saratoga Lake!!

HOME FEATURES: Piper Cub Airplane Hand crafted coffer ceiling in study Reclaimed weathered wood Custom trim and mantel 7” Baseboards

ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY:

REALTOR: Select Sotheby's International Realty – Gerald Magoolaghan INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:

Front Street Home – Edmund DeRocker

KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:

Builder’s Kitchens Inc – Andy Nolan

LANDSCAPE:

Sunnyhill Landscape Innovations – Kevin Rogner

BELLAHOMEBUILDERSINC.COM 518.312.8874

Pella windows 97% efficient furnace Power vented gas hot water heater

FIRST FLOOR PLAN

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

BELLA HOME BUILDERS INC.,

is a premier award winning company.

We create architecturally grand and luxurious homes that blend imagination, excitement, privacy and warm comfortable environments.

These homes are unique to each client. Our homes are known for their rich, interior woodwork, iron treatments, reclaimed material and dramatic ceilings. They are also renowned for their grand staircases, elegant fireplaces, pools and lush landscaping. We pride ourselves on our vision and ability to design homes that are spectacular in and out. Bella Home Builders’ basic approach is to offer superior craftsmanship at an exceptional value. We choose not to be a high volume company. We build a house as perfect as we can at a competitive price. Our values have been instilled “to do what’s right, be honest and fair.” We keep our promises!

SECOND FLOOR PLAN

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Saratoga Builders

5

Sam Palazzole & Dan Barber SARATOGA BUILDERS, LLC

BURGOYNE ESTATES 5 ANTHONY LANE, SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY 5 BEDROOMS, 4 BATHROOMS, 3,147 SQ. FT. This 2016 Showcase Home is a one of a kind custom home with timber frame accents offering a first floor in-law suite, open floor plan, and 2 story foyer and great room. It includes hardwood tile floors, granite countertops, Kohler fixtures, Pella windows, gas fireplace, trey ceiling, and much more.

HOME FEATURES: Expanded Gourmet Kitchen Hardwood Tile Floors Granite Countertops

ENERGY EFFICIENCIES /GREEN TECHNOLOGY:

REALTOR: Keller-Williams – Christine Marchesiello INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM: Marissa Hughes (Owner) KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:

is an award winning, custom home builder that builds homes of the highest quality and energy efficiency to satisfy the needs of every new home buyer. They will build custom homes using their own plans or the customer’s plans. They will build on their own lots or on land owned by the customer.

SARATOGABUILDERS.COM 518.587.2666

Builder’s Kitchens, Inc. – Nikki Stelling

LANDSCAPE:

Blue Spruce Nursery, Inc – Robert Daly

Highest Energy Star rating with a 50% reduction in energy costs.

Energy Star Appliances including the Refrigerator, Stove, Dishwasher, Microwave, and HVAC System.

518-587-2666

ww w. s a r a t ogab u ild ers.co m

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6

La Femme Home Builders

Lisa Breen

HEIGHTS AT BROWN ROAD 84 BROWN ROAD, SARATOGA 3 BEDROOMS, 2 FULL & 2 HALF BATHROOMS, 3,725 SQ. FT. WITH FINISHED LOWER LEVEL Welcome to the Heights at Brown Road. This custom farm house style home was designed to compliment its natural surroundings and views. This stunning home features over 3,400 square feet of beautifully appointed details throughout, including a gourmet kitchen with soapstone and black walnut counters and walk-in pantry with maple butcher block counters. The mudroom entry boasts a shiplap design with a custom built in bench made from reclaimed wood. The living and dining areas feature a custom fireplace mantle and built in bookcases, reclaimed barn beams and mushroom wood in tray ceilings. You will love the luxurious first floor master suite with soaking tub and custom shower, not to mention the lake views from almost every room. This home sits on 4.89 acres of rolling hills with a private dock and pond access.

HOME FEATURES: Panoramic Saratoga Lake and sunset views Private pond access with dock on 20 acre pond Three covered bluestone porches Covered Lanai with outdoor fireplace Timber frame exterior accents Signature interior moldings and trim details throughout

ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY: Ecotimber 100% FSC North American Maple Flooring Pella architectural series advance low e windows 96% high efficiency two stage gas furnace

HOUSE DESIGN:

LA FEMME HOME BUILDERS

offers a unique and refreshing approach to home building, from a woman’s point of view. As a second generation home builder, its owner and founder, Lisa Breen, in collaboration with the area’s finest and talented craftsmen in their field, has created a company to design and build custom homes with a strong emphasis on quality, attention to detail and unique design.

Since 2001, Lisa Breen has been a leader in the real estate industry building, renovating, and selling homes in the Saratoga County market. After fifteen years and raising two beautiful children, Lisa merged her talents and passion for building into one company, La Femme Home Builders.

Lisa Breen is a member of the Capital Region Builders Association, Saratoga County Builders Association and Professional Women in Building Northeastern New York.

LAFEMMEHOMEBUILDERS.COM 518.321.1535

Dreamscapes Unlimited – Robert Flansburg REALTOR: Re/Max Park Place – Lisa Breen

INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:

2B Design – Michelle Ahl

KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:

Columbia Cabinetworks – Amy Van Wye LANDSCAPE: Brookside Nursery – Ian Murray

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7

Terrace Homebuilders

Scot Trifilo

54 NELSON AVE EXT., SARATOGA SPRINGS 4 BEDROOMS, 4.5 BATHROOMS, 4,204 SQ. FT. Scot Trifilo has created a modern, edgy farmhouse & barn set on a beautiful 2 acre country home site located just minutes from downtown Saratoga Springs. This home is loaded with today’s most sought after amenities. An open layout on the main floor consists of a living room with a wood burning Rumford fireplace, a gourmet Wolf/Sub-Zero kitchen with hand-built cabinetry, and the sunroom/dining room with its magnificent view of the great outdoors. Rounding out the main floor is one of four bedroom suites, a mudroom, laundry room and half bath. The second floor consists of 3 additional bedroom suites, one with its very own private terrace. Each has an opulent bath with custom shower & free standing tub, and ample closet space. An open stair design effortlessly connects the three stories of this home with a unique industrial feel. Rounding out the home, the lower level consists of an oversized 2-car garage, ample storage, secondary mudroom, exercise area, home theater and full bar. Come see what Country Living in the City is all about.

HOME FEATURES: Home Safe Home features • Built-in ADT Security Alarm System • Built-in 8 camera video monitoring with smart phone app Timber frame front porches Metal roof 4 bedroom suites Built-in 6 zone Sonos sound system with smartphone app 5” Rustic white oak solid hardwood floor with Rubio Monocoat natural ‘green’ oil rubbed finish Separate Barn Fully landscaped 2-acre home site

HOUSE DESIGN:

Scot Trifilo & Robert Flansburg

ENGINEERING & BLUEPRINTS:

Dreamscapes Unlimited – Robert Flansburg

A CAPITAL REGION NATIVE and Siena college graduate, Scot Trifilo founded Terrace Homebuilders in 1987. Since then he has been dedicated to building truly superior homes with simple timeless principles and a meticulous attention to detail.

Custom homebuilding is about partnership and attentive communication. We provide unparalleled personal service and sustained satisfaction. We want our clients to have a pleasurable and satisfying experience while we offer superb quality with excellent value.

We offer individualized attention to every client.

INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:

For further information, please call Scot Trifilo at:

KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:

TERRACEHOMEBUILDERS.COM 518.857.9000

Blairhouse Interiors Group – Dominick Carota Zarrillo’s Custom Design Kitchens – Dawn Zarrillo & Scot Trifilo LANDSCAPE: New Dimensions Outdoor Services – Randy Countermine

ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY: High-efficiency Anderson Eagle series windows.

Light colored standing seam metal roof.

James Hardie fiber cement siding.

Energy star appliances, furnace and 75 gallon hot water tank.

R-49 attic insulation.

Rubio Monocoat natural ‘green’ hardwood oil finish.

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Bella Home Builders Inc.

8

Dave DePaulo BELLA HOME BUILDERS INC.,

PARK GROVE 24 JOSHUA RD., SARATOGA SPRINGS 4 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHROOMS, 3,173 SQ. FT. This custom home with its inviting, two story front porch is a true example of Saratoga architecture. There is an abundance of windows along with the mixed textures of shake shingles, granite and cedar siding. Custom tapered large granite exterior columns and two solid cedar garage doors complete this classic Saratoga beauty. When first entering this beautiful home you are invited by a warm open floor plan with an abundance of custom trim and cabinetry. The beautiful 5 1/2" hardwood floors throughout bring warmth to the home. The custom gourmet kitchen features an urban cultivator which allows the homeowner to have an indoor garden that can grow healthy, organic vegetables and herbs year round. Located on the first floor, the Master suite boasts a beautiful bathroom and walk-in closets. Take a stroll to lively downtown Saratoga and the famous Saratoga Horse track, or sit on the upper porch and listen to the sounds of S.P.A.C. If your desire is to be in the middle of it all this subdivision is for you!

HOME FEATURES: Two story porch Gourmet kitchen with urban cultivator Custom Built-ins and custom mantel Three piece custom crown moldings Location, Location, Location

REALTOR: Realty USA – Scott Varley INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:

Saratoga Signature Interiors – Nancy Smith

KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:

Zarrillo’s Custom Design Kitchens – Dawn Zarrillo

LANDSCAPE:

Bella Home Builders, Inc. – Dave DePaulo

ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY:

BELLAHOMEBUILDERSINC.COM 518.312.8874

Anderson windows 97% efficient furnace Power vented gas hot water heater

FIRST FLOOR PLAN

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

is a premier award winning company.

We create architecturally grand and luxurious homes that blend imagination, excitement, privacy and warm comfortable environments.

These homes are unique to each client. Our homes are known for their rich, interior woodwork, iron treatments, reclaimed material and dramatic ceilings. They are also renowned for their grand staircases, elegant fireplaces, pools and lush landscaping. We pride ourselves on our vision and ability to design homes that are spectacular in and out. Bella Home Builders’ basic approach is to offer superior craftsmanship at an exceptional value. We choose not to be a high volume company. We build a house as perfect as we can at a competitive price. Our values have been instilled “to do what’s right, be honest and fair.” We keep our promises!

SECOND FLOOR PLAN

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9

Bonacio Construction

Dave Trojanski BONACIO CONSTRUCTION,

THE ELMS AT SARATOGA 34 JOSEPH STREET, SARATOGA SPRINGS 4 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHROOMS, 3,710 SQ. FT.

This custom single story ranch was designed to fit a narrow home site. The house is deceivingly large from the exterior elevation with a fully finished lower level. The blended exterior siding styles and stone combination, as well as the welcoming front entry, adds to its unique character. Beautiful teak hardwood is throughout the entire floorplan, with the exception of bathrooms and laundry. This house is truly designed for comfortable entertaining with a large kitchen island open to both the dining room and great room. The four season sun room also lends access to the rear yard. The craftsman style staircase takes you to the fully finished lower level which boasts three bedrooms, a recreation area perfect for gatherings and a full bathroom. Enter the master suite through a nicely designed study alcove. The comfortably sized master bedroom is the perfect place to relax and lay your head at night. It features a tray ceiling and a walk in closet with ample storage. The private bath with free standing tub and separate tiled shower make for a tranquil retreat. Custom builtins and trim features give a special touch to all of this nicely nestled into 3,710 square feet.

HOME FEATURES: Four Season Sun Room Finished Lower Level Custom Built-Ins

REALTOR:

Coldwell Banker – Dan Gaba

INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:

Finishing Touches Home Decor Inc. – Shelly Walker

WWW.BONACIO.COM 518.584.9007

KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:

ENERGY EFFICIENCIES:

The Signature Cabinet Group – Michael Bannon

Energy Star Home 96% Efficient Furnace (Amana) LED Bulbs

Sunshine Landscaping – Rich Mullnow

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

is a privately owned and operated construction and real estate development firm that's been in business for over 28 years. We have an established team of over 100 professionals and artisans with vertically integrated ownership of multiple subcontractor specialties.

Dave Trojanski joined the team to enable us to refocus and transform our existing home building division.

Dave and the entire team share a commitment to the fundamental principles that have made them stand out. Quality construction, commitment to exceptional customer service, and relationships built on integrity are the building blocks that have shaped their vision and driven their success.

LANDSCAPE:

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10

Witt Construction

John Witt WITT CONSTRUCTION, INC.

builds award-winning, customdesigned homes that are striking in appearance, energy-efficient, and enduring in their value. Witt Construction, founded in 1987, builds custom and semi-custom homes in the historic city of Saratoga Springs, NY and the surrounding Capital Region. The company is recognized in the industry and by clients alike as the prominent custom-home builder in Saratoga and is noted for constructing homes that are rich in spirit of space and designed to enhance the unique character of each home. Equally notable is John Witt’s passion and gusto for crafting homes solid of structure, stunning in design, and inspired by an elegant sense of style.

THE ELMS AT SARATOGA 14 PERSIMMON PLACE, SARATOGA SPRINGS 3 BEDROOMS, 2 FULL & 2 HALF BATHROOMS, 3,779 SQ. FT. This unique, mixed-materials home was designed for a West Side neighborhood corner lot, just minutes from downtown Saratoga Springs, with extra outdoor living space on both front and side porches. An elevator services all three levels of the home.The first floor features an open layout: The Kitchen-plus-Pantry-plus-island shares an uninterrupted space with the Dining Room. The area continues into the Living Room, separated by cabinetry and beams, making maximum use of the flow. The first level also includes a Powder Room, a Mud Room and a walk-in closet, as well as the entry to the Garage.

The second level comprises the Master Suite, with walk-in closet and Bath; two additional Bedrooms and a second Full Bath. There is bonus storage space above the Garage and the Laundry Room also is conveniently located on the second level with the Bedrooms.

The Lower Level includes the homeowner's Office and Quilting Room, space for a Powder Room, generous storage under the Garage and a large closet.

HOME FEATURES:

INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:

E Tanny Design – Elizabeth Tanny

Staircase open to all three levels Custom built-ins in the Kitchen, Family Room and flanking the fireplace make this home truly unique.

KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:

Witt Construction, Inc – Design Team LANDSCAPE: Mandy Spring Nursery – Todd Smith

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Air to air heat exchange, filters fresh air throughout the house Spray Foam Insulation Energy Efficient Pella Windows

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ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY:

WIT TCONSTRUCTION.COM 518.587.4113

SECOND FLOOR PLAN

FALL 2016 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 51

52 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2016

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FALL 2016 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 53

54 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2016

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Blitman Saratoga, LLC

11

HOWARD N. BLITMAN, P.E. BLITMAN DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (BDC) has been

BEAVER POND VILLAGE ESTATES 4 ANNIE DRIVE, SARATOGA SPRINGS 4 BEDROOMS, 4.5 BATHROOMS, 2,589 SQ. FT. 2,589 Sq. Ft 2 Story, 4 Bedroom, 4.5 bathroom home with a completely finished basement. The finished basement includes a full bathroom. First and second floors have master suites with full baths: Daltile floor and shower with elegant Kohler fixtures.

Gourmet kitchen features: Merillat maple cabinets, granite counter top, stainless steel GE appliances and Kohler fixtures.

HOME FEATURES: First and second floor master suites with full bathrooms Engineered wood floor First floor crown molding and upgraded wood trim Finished basement with full bathroom Optional maintenance free community

ENERGY EFFICIENCIES: AO Smith gas fired direct vent water heater 92% AFUE direct vent furnace Low E windows - Silverline by Andersen

building high quality homes for over a quarter of a century throughout New York State, and takes pride in making these outstanding homes available at reasonable prices. This value is made possible by longstanding relationships with the most proven quality building professionals available. Our association with these trades has spanned several decades and more than a thousand homes, ensuring that all of our homes consistently reflect the highest building standards.

From exterior designs artfully married to their natural settings to interior floor plans mirroring their owners’ lifestyles, BDC selects materials to the most exacting construction standards

Curtis Lumber – Heather Bodnaryk

Building on our belief that preserving the environment is integral to creating a new community, all of our homes are designed to work in harmony with their natural surroundings. This instills a neighborhood pride shared by every homeowner.

Sunshine Landscaping – Rich Mollnow

BEAVERPONDVILLAGE.COM 914.244.8600

REALTOR:

Realty USA – Michelle DeCoteau

INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:

Blitman Development Corp

KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM: LANDSCAPE:

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FALL 2016 2016 | | SIMPLY SIMPLY SARATOGA | 55 SARATOGA | 55 FALL

56 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2016

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McPadden Builders

12

Matt McPadden

WYNDHAM WAY EXTENSION 21 WYNDHAM WAY, MALTA 4 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHROOMS, 2,365 SQ. FT. This year's showcase home, the Walnut Model, is a wonderful family home. Features of this 2,365 square foot two story home include four bedrooms, two and one-half tiled baths, open floor plan, designer kitchen with loads of granite, hardwood floors in all main living areas, nine foot ceilings, first floor office and a master suite with "his and her" walk-in closets. McPadden has focused on melding a traditional colonial into something more with attention to details like a computer niche and screened-porch off the kitchen, built-ins, custom fireplace mantle, large walk-in pantry, first floor laundry room with utility sink, generous storage space and a half bath location convenient to outside for the children. The home site is .52 of an acre on a cul-de-sac.

HOME FEATURES:

MCPADDEN BUILDERS, LLC is a residential construction company focused on delivering a high quality product, on-time and with a personal touch. Matt McPadden and his company are currently building in three Saratoga County developments including Craw Farm, Huckleberry Finn Estates, The Elms at Saratoga, and now Wyndham Way in Milton. Matt and his team also welcome the opportunity of custom builds on individual home sites as well as full scale renovations to existing homes.

MCPADDENBUILDERS.COM 518.583.6097

REALTOR:

Custom built-in cabinetry Nine foot ceilings Screened porch Computer room off kitchen Large laundry room Bonus room over garage ready to be finished Egress window in basement

Roohan Realty – Valerie Thompson

INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:

Bennington Design Team – Andrea Chenier

KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:

Curtis Lumber – Heather Bodnaryk

LANDSCAPE:

Brookside Nursery – Ian Murray

ENERGY EFFICIENCIES: Lennox 95% AFUE Furnace R-40 Beno-therm cellulose attic insulation system Low expandable foam all windows/doors and penetrations

WW Wyndham Way

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FALL FALL2016 2016| |SIMPLY SIMPLYSARATOGA | 57 SARATOGA | 57

58 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2016

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13

Barbera Homes

Frank Barbera AN AWARD-WINNING BUILDER

MALTA SPRINGS 2 ESSEX STREET, MALTA 3 BEDROOMS, 2 FULL AND 2 HALF BATHROOMS, 2,076 SQ. FT. The Aston is a spacious, modern townhome that includes many features you’d expect to see in a single family home including a first floor master suite, upstairs loft area.

The modern farmhouse kitchen features a stainless steel farmhouse sink, comfortable contemporary banquette, a walk-in pantry with rustic sliding door and a spacious island.

A fireplace with two-story herringbone stone front creates a dramatic focal point for the great room. The finished basement includes a bar and exposed-brick wall for the perfect man cave or game room. The charming front porch and classic carriage house inspired exterior give this home great curb appeal.

HOME FEATURES: Bright, open living area with 18’ ceilings in the great room Back patio area with fire pit Upstairs media loft Finished basement

REALTOR: RealtyUSA – Terry Little INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:

Blairhouse Interiors Group

KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:

Bellevue Builders Supply LANDSCAPE: Lansing Property Services

ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY: ENERGY STAR Sonos® smart speaker system iPad home command center

For more than 40 years, award-winning Barbera Homes has been a trusted name in new homes in the Capital Region. As a second generation local home builder, we are proud of our reputation for exceptional craftsmanship and customer experience.

INTEGRITY For two generations we have built our company on the simple principle that we do what we say we are going to do, when we say we’re going to do it. This honest, no nonsense approach has earned the trust of our homeowners, peers and partners. It means that you can have the peace of mind of knowing that our team of professionals will be there for you before, during, and after the sale.

INNOVATION Construction technology and building practices are constantly changing. At Barbera Homes, we are committed to ongoing education and development for employees at all levels of our company so you can feel confident your home is built to the highest standards.

DESIGN At Barbera Homes we know that your home is your sanctuary. That’s why we built one of the most comprehensive Design Studios of any home builder in the Capital Region. Our Design Studio features a selection of features and finishes from some of the most trusted brands so you can personalize your home.

As a local home builder we know that our reputation is built one home at a time. That’s why we’re proud to be the Capital Region’s trusted home builder for more than four decades. But we also know that there is only one home that matters to your family…yours.

That’s why we are committed to building the highest quality home for you and your family.

518.690.0777 MALTASPRINGS.COM BARBERAHOMES.COM FIRST FLOOR PLAN

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SECOND FLOOR PLAN

FALL FALL 2016 2016 | | SIMPLY SIMPLY SARATOGA | 59 SARATOGA | 59

60 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2016

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Belmonte Builders

14

Peter Belmonte WITH OVER 35 YEARS OF HOME BUILDING EXPERIENCE in the Capital

GRIFFIN’S RIDGE 52 VILLAGE CIRCLE NORTH, VILLAGE OF ROUND LAKE 3 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHROOMS, 2,758 SQ. FT. With its Victorian styling, the Fallgate '42 pays homage to the architectural styling of the adjacent village of Round Lake and its Victorian heritage. It features 3 bedrooms, a first floor master bedroom and large bonus room.

HOME FEATURES: Barrel ceiling in master bedroom Victorian influenced front porch Screen porch Hydroponic garden in Kitchen Bookcase and wine storage built into staircase

District, Belmonte Builders builds a variety of designs across multiple price points in our neighborhoods and on our customers' homesites.

BELMONTEBUILDERS.COM 518.371.1000

REALTOR: Belmonte Builders – Mickey Ricciardi INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:

Liberty Design Group – Chris Liberty

KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:

Belmonte Builders – Lindsey Belmonte LANDSCAPE: CPI Landscaping – Chris Gennoy

ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/GREEN TECHNOLOGY: Energy star home

FIRST FLOOR PLAN

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SECOND FLOOR PLAN

FALL 2016 2016 | | SIMPLY SIMPLY SARATOGA | 61 SARATOGA | 61 FALL

62 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2016

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Malta Development Co.

15

Tom Samascott

ORCHARD POINTE - 3A MACOUN DRIVE, HALFMOON 3 BEDROOMS, 3 BATHROOMS, 2,440 SQ. FT. Introducing Orchard Pointe, a brand-new concept in townhome living. Conveniently located in the Town of Halfmoon, NY, Orchard Pointe offers luxury townhomes with all the amenities that you would expect in a home built by Malta Development. Gorgeous town homes with 1st Floor Master Suites and spacious Guest Suites, or one-story living for those who prefer no stairs–there’s something for everyone, at every stage of life. Presenting homes with State-of-the-Art Technology, super-energy efficiency for substantially lower utility costs, and absolutely the finest Standard Features Package ever offered. The Exterior Maintenance Plan means no more yard work so that you can relax and enjoy life at Orchard Pointe.

HOME FEATURES: Soaring vaulted ceilings in the Great Room, Dining Room, and Master BR; stately 10 ft ceilings in other areas.

Stone FP flanked by built-in cabinetry Cleverly designed, private Pocket Office with built-in desk and cabinetry Luxurious mudroom with built-in cabinetry Large, well-appointed Gourmet kitchen with double wall oven and cooktop.

Full basement, insulated and sheet rocked for easy finishing

ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY: National Green Building Standard certified for healthier living and lower utility bills High-tech ZIP System wall sheathing to reduce air infiltration and moisture-related issues.

Super-efficient Spray Foam Insulation, the gold standard in insulation.

REALTOR: Beth Smith Realty, LTD – Beth Smith/Denise Quinn INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM: In-House – Laural A. Samascott KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:

Curtis Lumber – Nicole Stack LANDSCAPE: New Dimensions Outdoor Services – Randy Countermine

SINCE 1988, Malta Development Co., Inc. has been building the American Dream for home buyers at every stage of life in Saratoga County. Malta Development is dedicated to creating communities that exceed expectation by anticipating the ever-changing needs of the modern home buyer and offering the most inclusive standard features package in the area.

Malta Development is a multiple Showcase of Homes award winner and in 2015 won a national award from the National Association of Home Builders for Lakeview Landing in Malta. Incorporating state-of-the-art technologies with traditional elements to create innovative and unique floor plans, we are inspired by every customer's desire for a higher quality of life, at every stage of life.

Our homes offer the highest standard of quality, craftsmanship, and energy efficiency. Malta Development is the only Production Builder in the Capital Region whose homes are National Green Building Standard and Energy Star certified and insulated with superefficient Spray Foam insulation. In 2008, we broke ground on Winner’s Circle at Saratoga, a luxury rental community in Milton, NY. Winner’s Circle is the only rental community in the Capital Region to hold the National Green Building Standard certification.

MALTADEVELOPMENT.COM 518.885.6420

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FALL FALL2016 2016| |SIMPLY SIMPLYSARATOGA | 63 SARATOGA | 63

64 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2016

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16 Heritage Custom Builders

Geoffrey Brooks IN THE EARLY 1950’S,

HERITAGE POINTE 6 HERITAGE POINTE DRIVE, CLIFTON PARK 4 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHROOMS, 3,200 SQ. FT. The Chestnut is a two-story home which features traditional details blended with a touch of contemporary flare. The large first floor windows allow plenty of sunlight to stream in, making this a warm and inviting place to raise a family and entertain guests. Enjoy cozy evenings in the Family Room in front of the fireplace, prepare meals in the Kitchen and serve them in the adjacent Breakfast nook or in the formal Dining Room. The two-car garage offers an entrance to the home that is complete with a traditional bench with storage and a large closet. The four Bedrooms and Laundry room on the second floor make this home the perfect choice for a family's first home. The Master Suite has a large Walk-in Closet and a private Bath with tile shower, soaking tub, commode and two separate vanities. The second floor is completed with three additional Bedrooms that offer ample closet space and share a full Bathroom.

HOME FEATURES:

Arthur J. Brooks began a business relationship by remodeling and restoring homes. Along with his wife Laurie and daughter Deborah; a truly family-based, quality-oriented building company was started.

Geoffrey C. Brooks continues his family’s tradition of building custom homes in the Capital District. Heritage Custom Builders, LLC has been built upon a tradition of quality, a dedication to excellence and commitment to fine detail.

BROOKSHERITAGE.COM 518.348.0931

Kitchen, Breakfast area and Family Room all open and connected Dining Room, Living Room, Powder Room, Mud Room and large Pantry complete 1st floor Laundry Room, Main Bath and four bedrooms on 2nd floor Master Suite with sitting room and two walk-in Closets Master Bath with large tile shower, soaking tub and two vanities

REALTOR: Realty USA – Scott Varley INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:

Classic Interiors – Lynn Ricci

KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:

Bellevue Builders Supply – Mark Gates LANDSCAPE: Heritage Custom Builders

FIRST FLOOR PLAN

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SECOND FLOOR PLAN

FALL FALL2016 2016| |SIMPLY SIMPLYSARATOGA | 65 SARATOGA | 65

66 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2016

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17

Caruso Home Builders

Anthony Caruso

SEQUOIA - 701 RIVERVIEW ROAD, REXFORD 4 BEDROOMS, 3.5 BATHROOMS, 3,500 SQ. FT. This beautiful craftsman style colonial makes this home a delight to look at. Enter through an inviting tiled foyer, featuring a walk-in coat closet. Experience the first floor's open floor plan that combines views of four rooms: from the dining room to the gourmet kitchen and from the two-story great room to the sunny dinette. Stand inspired by the floor-to-ceiling stacked stone fireplace in the great room. The second floor features a spacious master suite with French doors and tray ceiling, with a view to the full tiled shower through a glass wall. Conveniently located on second floor, the laundry room is accessible through the master walk-in closet.

INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:

Artful Living – Donna Parisi & Natalie Caruso

KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:

Bellevue Builders – Bill Kanas

CARUSOHOMEBUILDERS.COM 518.478.8596

LANDSCAPE:

Caruso Home Builders – Jim Flood Flood Landscaping 701 Riverview

Exceeds current NYS Energy Code standards Fully insulated garage Anderson 200 Series windows Control 4 Smart Home System

Caruso Home Builders is excited to announce their first subdivision in Clifton Park—Kendra Estates, located off Crescent road.

Dinette

18’-5” x 9’-8”

Great Room

Den

12’-2” x 12’-6”

D.W.

17’-9” x 12’-6”

Kitchen

Pwdr.

13’-4” x 13’-2”

Dining Room

Ref.

12’-2” x 9’-6”

Tray Ceiling

Dn

pt. ce O pla e Fir

Pantry Linen Dn

Up

Mud Room

Master Bedroom

18’-5” x 15’-0”

Open To Below

Tray Ceiling

Up Coat

Bath #4

Lin.

ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY:

REALTOR: Keller Williams Capital District – Natalie Caruso

W.I.C.

Custom Built-in Cabinetry Custom Kitchen design Double Sided Fireplace Large Master Suite with fully custom master bathroom Rounded Corners and Tray Ceilings

Fireplace

HOME FEATURES:

Building and maintaining relationships has been at the heart of Caruso Home Builders, LLC since its founding in 2008. Providing highquality, custom-built homes with the one-on-one attention needed to get every detail right—from blueprint to beyond completion—Mr. Caruso brings vision and determination to every project. Whether it is spot lot development, building on your own land or in a subdivision, Caruso Home Builders is dedicated to excellence, commitment and service.

Bedroom #4 13’-0” x 12’-9”

Foyer Study

11’-10” x 12’-10” Master Bath

Dn

Seat

Covered Porch

Lin.

3 Car Garage

30’-6” x 35’-4”

W Opt. Sink Laundry

D

Linen W.I.C.

W.I.C.

Bedroom #3 13’-3” x 13’-10”

W.I.C.

Bath #3

Bedroom #2 13’-3” x 12’-4”

First Floor Plan 1,823 Sq.Ft

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Second Floor Plan 2,109 Sq.Ft

FALL FALL2016 2016| |SIMPLY SIMPLYSARATOGA | 67 SARATOGA | 67

© CAMBRIA 2016

US Pat D737,057 | 9,289,923

THE CURE FOR THE COMMON KITCHEN

Change your kitchen from everyday to exceptional with natural beauty inspired by the coast of Wales. Explore Cambria’s more than 130 beautiful designs, including Seagrove™ from our Coastal Collection,™ at CambriaUSA.com.

68 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2016

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Volpe Custom Homes

18

Frank & Denise Volpe

THE NANTUCKET 355 SCHAUBER ROAD, BALLSTON LAKE 4 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHROOMS, 3,010 SQ. FT. The Nantucket is a custom built home that features a comfortable blend of cottage & coastal style charm. It has 4 bedrooms & 2.5 baths. Boasting a multitude of custom woodwork throughout, this home includes features such as board & batten walls, wood shiplap, bead-board, and raised panel moldings. Cased openings with seedy glass transoms, built in benches, & sliding barn doors are just a few of the elements that grace the first floor living areas. Wide plank white oak hardwoods give this home a cozy, yet rustic feel. The classic style kitchen with custom cabinetry is perfect for entertaining. A breakfast nook with built in banquette accommodates a large farm table with seating for 12. The butlers pantry with custom built shelving provides ample space for all of your staples and dry goods. The wet bar leads to a screened porch with wood planked walls and mahogany flooring. The open floor plan includes a large family room with wood-burning fire place and custom built ins.

Staircase includes built-in window seat. Large master suite has cathedral ceilings with wood beams and floor to ceiling walk in shower.

REALTOR:

Denise Volpe Broker – Denise Volpe SCREEN PORCH

KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:

FAMILY ROOM

KITCHEN

DN

THREE-CAR GARAGE

MUD

HALFBATH

VOLPEHOMES.COM 518.330.5425 ENTRY

ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY: Pella Windows 95% efficient furnace Energy-efficient Appliances & Lighting

BRKFST

BAR

UP

Minick Kitchen Design – Paul Minick LANDSCAPE: Volpe Custom Homes – Frank Volpe

PANTRY

DN

INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:

Volpe Custom Interiors – Denise Volpe

STUDY

COVERED PORCH

FIRST FLOOR PLAN

SCREEN PORCH

PANTRY

BRKFST

FAMILY ROOM

MASTER BATH

MASTER BEDROOM

BAR

WALK-IN

DN

UP

KITCHEN

THREE-CAR GARAGE

MUD

LAUNDRY

DN

BED #4

HALFBATH

ENTRY

WALK-IN

WALK-IN

STUDY

BATH

DN

Custom built-in cabinetry and extensive woodwork throughout Cathedral ceilings with custom wood beams Custom kitchen with floor to ceiling cabinets & marble countertops Breakfast area with built-in banquette seating Butlers Pantry with custom built-in shelving & marble countertops

LAUNDRY

HOME FEATURES:

VOLPE CUSTOM HOMES is a family owned and operated custom home builder. In 2004, we began with a vision of building homes one at a time with quality and focus. All of our homes are unique to each individual customer. Our passion is in building homes that are rich in character and are full of creative details.

What sets us apart is our focus on you the customer. You work exclusively with us from the inception to the fruition of your dream home. You will never meet a consultant, project manager or an agent.

Eliminating the layers leads to cost savings, clear communication, accountability and ultimately your home just as you envisioned it. You will be welcome to visit your build in progress, and are flexible to changes as your dreams develop. Our latest endeavor, Lakeside Meadow Estates, is set on 60 acres. It is located in Saratoga County. Eleven distinctive homes will be nestled on a private road. The setting is a peaceful haven with bluebirds, deer, and wildflowers. Volpe Custom Homes also welcomes the opportunity of custom builds on individual home sites as well.

BED #3

BED #2

WALK-IN

COVERED PORCH

FIRST FLOOR PLAN

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MASTER BATH

WALK-IN

SECOND FLOOR PLAN

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Herbinger Homes

19

Darren Herbinger AFTER TWENTY YEARS in the remodeling business, I am bringing my expertise into newhome construction by building a subdivision in a parklike setting, featuring sidewalks and streetlights.

With this project I will solely be in charge of building multiple homes in one location, all at the same time.

Maple Forest, located off of Longkill Road, is not just any subdivision, but a cluster of sixteen distinct homes each with my personal touch. I am offering my customers a wide variety of styles with quality construction and amenities such as Kohler fixtures throughout, Silent floor systems, Schrock kitchen cabinets with Granite Countertops, energy efficient Anderson windows and so much more.

MAPLE FOREST 4 MAPLE FOREST DR., BALLSTON LAKE 4 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHROOMS, 2,268 SQ. FT. The Hartwell is a custom 2,268 sq/ft home with a private first floor master suite which includes a walk in closet and elegant tiled bathroom. The custom stairwell overlooks the spacious open floor plan with 18’ ceilings and large Anderson windows allowing plentiful sunshine throughout the living area. The second floor offers 2 bedrooms with the same large Anderson windows as the first floor to keep the upstairs just as inviting.

The added bonus room over the garage gives additional space for a growing family.

The finished basement has your safety in mind by offering a LED lighted staircase. The home is one of 16 unique designs being offered in Maple Forest, a private cul-de-sac subdivision with streetlights and sidewalks.

HOME FEATURES: Schrock Kitchen cabinets with soft close doors and drawers.

Maintenance free Quartz countertops.

High quality Kohler Fixtures.

Trusted CertainTeed Siding and Roofing Materials Energy efficient Recessed LED lighting.

REALTOR:

Realty USA – Jennifer Fortune Wilson

INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:

JMP Interiors – Julie Maleski Putzel

KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:

Builders Kitchen – Rich Adams Jr. LANDSCAPE: Craig’s Mowing & Landscaping – Craig Monroe

ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY: Thermal Enclosure System Air sealing, quality insulation and high-performance windows.

Water Management System that help to protect roofs, foundations and walls from water damage.

High-efficiency Heating and Cooling Systems.

Energy-efficient lighting and appliances.

W.I.C.

HERBINGERHOMES.COM 518.373.8905

MASTER BEDROOM 14'-0"x15'-11"

M. BATH

CL. 'L'DRY

NOOK 10'-9"x9'-2"

MUD OPTIONAL BENCH

GREAT ROOM 15'-4"x17'-11" KITCHEN 10'-9"x11'-9"

2 CAR GARAGE 21'-0"x21'-2"

CL. PAN.

CL.

DN

BATH

UP

DINING 10'-9"x12'-0"

BEDROOM #3 10'-9"x10'-5"

FOYER

CL.

PDR.

BONUS ROOM 16'-8"x14'-3" CL.

FIRST FLOOR PLAN

8'-4"x5'-9"

LIN.

DN

BEDROOM #2 10'-9"x11'-5"

SECOND FLOOR PLAN

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20

Farone-Amedore, LLC

George Amedore, Jr.

VICTORIAN LANDINGS CHARLESTON - 7 HILLMAN LOOP, ROUND LAKE 3 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHROOMS, 1,776 SQ. FT. Nestled in the Village of Round Lake, Victorian Landings offers 80 elegant maintenance free townhomes designed for young professionals and growing families to empty nesters. These homes boast private entrances, attached 2 car garages, full basements and a choice of 1st or 2nd floor master suits.

HOME FEATURES: Elegant Stone Facades 2 Story Dining Room & Great Room Cozy Loft Area for Casual Days Impressive Custom Millwork Charming Hickory Wood Flooring

METHODS ARE ALWAYS CHANGING BUT PRINCIPLES NEVER DO. With more than 70

years of combined home building experience the Farone-Amedore team is committed to providing you with an unprecedented degree of excellence.

Our Vision is to develop homes that grow into neighborhoods, neighborhoods that evolve and shape communities that contribute to a healthy, vibrant way of life.

AMEDOREHOMES.COM 518.456.1010

ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY/SMART: Smart Wi-Fi Thermostat High Efficiency Gas Fireplace & Furnace Energy Efficient Air Sealing with Spray Foam

REALTOR: Amedore Homes, Inc. INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM: Amedore Homes, Inc. - Peter Amedore KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM: Builders Kitchens, Inc. - Jacquelyn Norris & Peter Stelling LANDSCAPE: Friello’s Landscaping - Chris Friello

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SUBCONTRACTORS AND SUPPLIERS AMEDORE - FARONE Builder’s Kitchen Central Plumbing & Heating Crawford Door & Window Curtis Lumber Empire State Stone Schenectady Floor Covering Precision Glass & Aluminum Friello’s Landscaping BARBERA HOMES & DEVELOPMENT, INC. Appolo Heating, Inc. Bellevue Builders Supply Best Fire Hearth & Patio Best Tile Blairhouse Interiors Group Builders Installed Products Central Plumbing & Heating David-Louis Floor Coverings Empire State Stone EH Laier & Sons LLC Empire State Stone Erie Materials Lansing Property Services, LLC Northeast Stairs, Corp.

Park Building Supplies Precision Glass & Aluminum Inc. Sherwin - Williams Towne TV Wolberg Lighting Design Lill Overhead Door John D. Marcella Appliances Cranesville Concrete Crawford Door & Window 74 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2016

BELLA HOME BUILDERS, INC. Albany Mechanical Services Capital Plumbing Brower Electric A.W. Hamel Stairs Granite & Marble Works Capital District Stairs Floor Source Albany Marble/Hudson Valley Lill Overhead Door Mosaic Tile BLD Contracting Andy’s Plumbing Town and Country Painting Hamilton Plumbing Best Fire AJ Masonry Clifton Park Glass & Mirrors Best Fire Hearth & Patio Norm Carlson “The Tile Man” Bonded Concrete Baker Electric Builder’s Kitchens Inc. Bonded Concrete Crawford Door & Windows Best Tile Curtis Lumber (24 Joshua Rd. and 17 Rolling Green Dr.)

Floor Master/Carpet One J.B. Asphalt Paving Marcella’s Appliances North Valley Construction PLP Development Randall Perry Photography Rosick Well Drilling Security Supply Specialized Sheet Metal Equip NSE Inc. William J. O’Rourke Inc. Wolberg Electric Supply Zarrillo’s Custom Kitchens BELMONTE BUILDERS Crawford Door & Window VP Supply ABC Supply Curtis Lumber A.W. Hamel Stairs

BLITMAN SARATOGA, LLC Allerdice Building Supply Anthony’s Closets, Shower Doors & More Bellevue Builders Supply Blooming Grove Stair Co. Clemente Latham Concrete Curtis Lumber Erie Materials Floor Source, Inc. Madsen Overhead Doors, Inc. John D. Marcella Appliances Security Supply Saratoga Sod BONACIO CONSTRUCTION (Empire Run)

Kamco Supply Curtis Lumber ABC Supply Crawford Door & Windows saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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Waste Management Pallette Stone Galusha & Sons Bast Hatfield JWC Custom Homes Albany Mechanical B&B Plumbing & Heating Central New York Electrical AGM Glass C & S Siding Snyder’s Drywall Marcella Appliance Precision Glass Schindler Elevator Budget Blinds

ML Site Development Morin’s Construction BONACIO CONSTRUCTION (9 Burnham Rd.)

Albany Mechanical Capital Plumbing

Baker Electric Signature Cabinet Group Curtis Lumber Finishing Touches

BONACIO CONSTRUCTION (34 Joseph St.)

Carpet Master Carpet One Bellevue Builders Albany Mechanical Capital Plumbing Baker Electric Signature Cabinet Group Curtis Lumber Creative Stone A.W. Hamel Stairs Crawford door & Window Precision Glass Best Tile Best Fire Capital Stone Lill Overhead Door Lifetime Seamless Gutters Town & Country Painting Security Supply Marcella’s Appliances Finishing Touches NSE Inc. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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Continued from page 75...

Erie Materials Northeast Commercial Interiors Creative Stone Design A.W. Hamel Stairs California Closets Crawford Door & Window Precision Glass Best Tile Best Fire Capital Stone Lill Overhead Door Security Supply Marcella’s Appliances Town & Country Painting NSE Inc. Kodiak Construction Lifetime Seamless Gutters ML Site Development Morin’s Construction

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James Fahy Design Associates Architecture and Engineering PC Sunshine Landscaping BONACIO CONSTRUCTION (The Grove)

Allerdice Building Supply Curtis Lumber ACW Family Builders Builders Kitchens Parker & Hammond Polcare Enterprises Mike Darling Construction Budget Blinds Sunshower Services KAMCO Dyer Works Construction Kodiak Construction Northeast Underlayments

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Continued from page 76...

Capital Demolition Galusha & Sons Northwoods Concrete Northeast Fire Protection B & B Plumbing & Heating Central New York Electrical McKenzie Drywall Schindler Elevator QCQA Labortories AFSCO Fencing The Signature Cabinet C and D Painting Tri-Point Stone NLD Carpentry TPL Flooring Pinnacle Roofing Cellu-Spray Sherman Tile Admar Supply The LA Group Van Dusen & Steves Merchant Masonry Best Fire Snyder’s Drywall Stackewicz Inc. Concord Pools European Stucco Marcella Appliances Valente Builders Sunbelt Rentals Creative Material Stone Industries Adirondack Sign Crawford Door & Windows CARUSO HOME BUILDERS Roberty Contracting D’Agostino Concrete Grandview Block & Supply saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

American Timber Works Bellevue Builders Supply Park Building Supplies Security Plumbing and Heating EOS Technologies HART Alarm Lill Overhead Doors TP Masonry Adams Heating and Cooling G & P Plumbing Best Tile/Capital Stone Absolute Tile J & B Painting Ed Knight Carpentry Northeast Stairs Turnpike Glass Precision Glass & Aluminum Schenectady Floor Covering Albany EJC Siding Add Earl B. Feiden Add Custom Wall Finishes HERITAGE CUSTOM BUILDERS, LLC. Bellevue Builders Supply Geovanny Marble & Granite LLC John D. Marcella Appliances Schenectady Floor Covering Clifton Park Glass & Mirrors Security Supply Wolberg Electric Supply King Enterprises Classic Interiors HERBINGER HOMES Absolute Tile Adirondack Overhead Door Adirondack Paving

Appolo Heating A.W. Hamel Stairs Best Fire Best Tile Boel Electric Builders Kitchen Clifton Park Glass Craig’s Mowing & Landscaping Davidson Plumbing Earl B. Feiden Fiacco Brothers Hardwood Flooring Fresh Kote Prosource Flooring Security Supply The Stone Shop LA FEMME HOME BUILDERS, LLC Adirondack Carpentry Dreamscapes Unlimited Holmes Excavating RCB Masonry Vanguilder & Associates Dyerworks Construction Saratoga Boards Ltd. Dan DeWolf, Stone Masonry BCS Construction Weaver Flooring JFL Construction Tice Electrical Builders Installed Products Pella Crawford Windows and Doors Little Falls Lumber FALL 2016 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 77

Continued from page 77...

BDB Paving Columbia Cabinet Works 2B Design Unique Interiors Drumm’s Turf Services Precission Glass Kelleher & Herkenham Northern Hardwoods

Steve Smero Construction Adirondack Overhead Door Company Chippewa Stone Cut right stone Stickley Audi & Co

Curtis Lumber Witz Roofing Best Fire Security Supply Beacon Supply Heroth Siding Snyders Drywall Better Than New Painting Olde School Woodworking Brookside Nursery MALTA DEVELOPMENT CO., INC. Appolo Heating Curtis Lumber Alside Supply Pallette Stone David Louis Floors Sherwin-Williams Security Plumbing Supply Sears Overhead Door Co. of Glens Falls Precision Glass & Aluminum, Inc. Capital Stone Adirondack Plastics Laminates International Built-in Systems Form-it Construction, Inc. Ross Concrete, LLC Tiles by Giuseppe New Dimensions Outdoor Services, Inc. D.S. DiGesare Plumbing & Heating, Inc. Sheft Electric, LLC M & R Coulombe Drywall MCPADDEN BUILDERS, LLC W.J. Morris Excavating

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Curtis Lumber Erie Materials Security Supply Appolo Heating Hamilton Plumbing Best Tile The Tile Man Winchell’s Floor Covering Flooring America Lill Overhead Door Powers Construction JM Laurent Contractor Precision Closets AW Hamel Brookside Nursery Collins and Co. Granite and Marble Works Sheridan Painting Pallette Concrete Bonded Concrete Concrete Technologies Ross Concrete VR Electric The Night Stone Mason M & R Drywall Complete Construction BLD Contracting Corp Care Clean Energy Guard Insulation SARATOGA BUILDERS ABC Supply Appolo Heating, Inc. Best Tile Builders Kitchens, Inc. Security Plumbing & Heating Supply Crawford Doors & Window Curtis Lumber Earl B. Feiden, Inc. Floormaster Carpet One saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Granite and Marble PJ Baker Electrical Contractor, Inc. Precision Glass HART Alarm Rainbow Sprinklers Blue Spruce Nursery, Inc. TERRACE HOMEBUILDERS Curtis Lumber Bellevue Builders Northern Hardwoods Glens Falls Overhead Door Co. Zarrillo’s Custom Design Kitchens BR Johnson Inc. Windows & Doors Adams Heating & Cooling Capital Stone New Dimensions Outdoor Services Town TV & Appliances John D. Marcella Appliance The Tile Shop Creative Materials Beacon Roofing Supply Duke Concrete Products Supply Wolberg Electric Supply Security Plumbing & Heating Supply Q.C. Concrete Supply Blairhouse Interiors Group Allerdice Ace Hardware Patio & Grill Showroom VOLPE CUSTOM HOMES Bellevue Builders Supply Innovations by VP Erie Materials Best Tile Schenectady Stone Pella Windows and Doors

Minick Kitchen Designs CR Gas Logs & Fireplaces Adirondack Carpentry Dreamscapes Unlimited Holmes Excavating RCB Masonry Vanguilder & Associates Dyerworks Construction Saratoga Boards Ltd. Dan DeWolf, Stone Masonry BCS Construction Weaver Flooring JFL Construction Tice Electrical Builders Installed Products Pella Crawford Windows and Doors Little Falls Lumber Curtis Lumber Witz Roofing Best Fire Security Supply Beacon Supply Heroth Siding Snyders Drywall Better Than New Painting Olde School Woodworking Brookside Nursery BDB Paving Columbia Cabinet Works 2B Design Unique Interiors Drumm’s Turf Services Precission Glass Kelleher & Herkenham Northern Hardwoods Steve Smero Construction Adirondack Overhead Door Company Chippewa Stone FALL 2016 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 79

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WITT CONSTRUCTION, INC. E Tanny Design Nolan Engineering Jeff Arnold, Inc. Beasley Construction Thoroughbred Property Maintenance Creative Stone Designs Chippewa Stone Steve Herman Siding Patricelli Electric Wolberg Electrical Supply Highland Home Heating & Cooling Winkler’s Plumbing and Heating Security Supply Best Fire Builders Installed Products Snyders Drywall Glens Falls Overhead Door Crawford Door & Window JW Trackey Custom Finishes Brady’s Hardwood Floors Curtis Lumber County Waste Stone Industries Olde School Woodworking Earl B. Feiden Appliance Precision Glass & Aluminum Doc Tile Best Tile Adirondack A/V R.S.C.I. Betters & Thornquist Mandy Spring Nursery Capitol Stone Care Clean

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From The Editor

As always, Saratoga TODAY is honored to be a media sponsor for the Saratoga Builders’ Association’s Showcase of Homes. We so enjoy working with the builders, the designers and the SBA putting together this issue.

You can see how much fun we had doing the cover shoot with Liz Bishop on page 178!

In addition to over 80 pages of Showcase of Homes coverage (maybe that's why the New York Press Association awarded us the #1 HOME MAGAZINE in our market size!) we also have all of our regular features that I know you’re looking forward to.

Keep those comments coming, I love your feedback!

As you know, we have our weekly paper, Saratoga TODAY, to cover the news of the area, which means, I get to cover the fun stuff…

Like TONS of fabulous fall activities to enjoy the most beautiful season in the Northeast (starting on page 172), tips on how to get that “showcase look” in your own home (page 143) and how to entertain like a pro with Graham & McGuire (page 147).

We have wonderful people for you to meet…

Whether you’re a sucker for a good pet rescue story (page 100) or a patriot at heart (page 96) or looking to meet local artists (page 94).

You can meet them all (and more!) …Here on the pages of Simply Saratoga Magazine!

I’m always lucky to have one story in each issue that’s a little more personal than the rest… and in this issue that would be the Showcase Pillars piece. I love working with the SBA to promote the Showcase of Homes and I adore working with Randall Perry… which

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made it that much worse when I accidentally credited someone else for his work in our last issue of Welcome Home – Sorry Randall!

We’re finishing up our first year of “Meet the Cook” with a true local celebrity chef – enjoy! (page 156) I hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as I enjoyed putting it together and please keep those comments coming. If you know of people living interesting lives, living in amazing houses and doing awesome things, contact me cBushee@SaratogaPublishing.com or (518) 581-2480 x201 I have to close with a big THANK YOU to all of our advertisers, without them, Saratoga TODAY couldn’t continue to offer these beautiful publications free of charge to the thousands that read them each month–please mention us by name when visiting these businesses.

Enjoy the mag!

Chris

Chris Vallone Bushee Managing Editor

Alyssa and I having our LAST DRINK on her LAST DAY before heading off to greener pastures in California!! I’ll miss you Alyssa, I always knew my mags were in good hands with you as my graphic designer!

FALL 2016 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 83

FRANKLIN

COMMUNITY

CENTER

Providing a green thumb for those who need it.

FRESH PRODUCE FROM

written, photographed, and designed by Madison Feldhaus

W

hile traveling down East Beekman St. in Saratoga, take a moment to admire the luscious garden that can be seen just beyond a white fence. This would belong to the Franklin Community Center, an emergency food bank that serves our city.

minimum of three meals per day for three days per person in the household. The two and a half freezers and one refrigerator that have been obtained over the last couple years help to serve the correct amount of proteins, vegetables, fruits and grains for balanced meals. The pantry also tries to keep in stock gluten free, low sugar, low sodium, and organic items for those who have health issues and require certain types of foods.

The garden is the newest addition to the center, which started in the mid 80s as a shoe rack on the back of a door. The pantry now services 700 individuals from 250 Launched in the spring of this families per month. Francine Grinnell describes the organization year, Free Produce Day is a proin the best possible way, as “truly gram held twice a month that fills the neighbors serving neighbors.” The grocery bags of the pantry’s visitors idea came from Julie Slovic, the by providing them an extra amount of the locally grown community center’s produce. This fall the Food Program Adtruly neighbors ministrator. She is Free Produce Days passionate about will be taking place serving neighbors the project and its on September 14th volunteers, and is and 28th, and Octothankful for all of the local garden- ber 12th and 26th. ers who plant a row or two at home Beyond providing food, nutrito donate to the pantry. tional education programs are now

"

"Consumers are so grateful when they see the locally grown tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, kale...They appreciate that the produce was harvested the same day they are receiving it. Both the Plant a Row for the Hungry program and our garden strengthen the pantries focus on promoting healthier life styles."

Following HPNAP (Hunger Prevention and Nutritional Assistance Program) guidelines, the pantry provides enough groceries for a

84 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2016

th e

Garden

to the Pantry

"

offered. Working with Eat Smart NY, they help to talk to consumers about product that is frequently found in pantries or produce that is common, and demonstrate how to make meals in a healthy way and talk about nutritional value of simply prepared healthy foods.

to a Diningroom Table

For more information about the Franklin Community Center and the services it provides, as well as times to donate or recieve, go to www.FranklinCommunityCenter.org or by calling (518) 587-9826. SS saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

E AT I N G O U T

in Saratoga I'm Ashley Dingeman and

I can’t deny it – I’m in love with food.

As owner of SaratogaFoodFanatic.com, I’d like to invite you, the readers of Simply Saratoga magazine, to join me in savoring everything delicious in Saratoga!

Location Shots by Susan Blackburn Photography saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

FALL 2016 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 85

Lake Local

SWORDFISH BLT

# Lake Side Eats Picture your ideal late-summer day….

You know what I mean, when we try to enjoy every moment of these beautiful days before the harsh northeast winter sets in. Well, if you’re like most people, it probably involves the water, the sun, and if you’re like me, good food!

Now imagine this: having all of the above and more in one spot.

Located at 550 Union Ave, Lake Local is the-spot-tobe on ANY beautiful day. Aside from the restaurant itself, Lake Local is located right on Saratoga Lake, offering guests direct access to the water. Not just that, but they even have kayak and paddleboard rentals - appropriately named 550 Marina - for anyone who wants to work up an appetite before dining.

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Feel like just having a drink on the beach? They’ve got that too. With plenty of Adirondack Chairs facing the lake and picnic tables too, you can soak up the sun with a cold drink in your hand and take advantage of that glorious sunshine.

The menu includes many favorites from their sister restaurant, The Local Teahouse located on Beekman Street in Saratoga, including their famous fish and chips which are seriously the best in the area! Because of this waterfront location, they’re more heavily focused on providing fresh seafood options at Lake Local, including steamers, mussels, ahi tuna, and more.

Personally, I am a teeny bit obsessed with the Grilled Swordfish BLT ($15). And yes, it’s exactly how it sounds.

Thick cut bacon, lettuce, and tomato plus a nice piece

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THE LOCAL BURGER

of grilled swordfish, topped with a honey chive mayo, piled high on a brioche bun. Let me just say… that honey chive mayo is money. All around, this sandwich is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves the classic BLT and isn’t afraid to break the rules by adding a fourth ingredient. B.L.T.S ALL THE WAY. If fish isn’t your thing, Lake Local has plenty of other options on the menu that do not involve seafood, such as the Curried Chicken Salad ($13) and The Local Burger ($12), another favorite of mine from The Local Teahouse.

And if you’re just in the mood to hang out on the beach and want a super casual bite to eat, Lake Local recently launched their food truck for walk up food service. The food truck is open Monday-Wednesday from 4pm-10pm, Thursday and Friday from 12pm-10pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 12pm-10pm. If you’re an early bird or just want a quick bite before heading out onto the lake, the food truck is also open on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:30am-12pm, selling breakfast sandwiches, coffee, and of course, cocktails.

To sum it up, visiting Lake Local is like going to a beach house with a bunch of friends. There’s literally no way you can go to this restaurant and not have a good time. Whether you’re playing lawn games, watching boaters on the lake, or having a drink and enjoying a great meal, Lake Local is most definitely the place to be when the sun is shining! SS

CURRIED CHICKEN SALAD

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GROWING PAINS MEGHAN LEMERY FRITZ,

LCSW-R

Meghan Fritz is a psychotherapist practicing in State College, PA. Email meghanlemery@yahoo.com

O

ne of the main reasons individuals seek out therapy is that they feel stuck. Often times it’s not that something life shattering has occurred, but there is a feeling of detachment and overall discontent with everyday life.

A feeling where you are not ever very happy, but not necessarily sad either. It’s what I call the blahs.

When you feel like this it’s usually a sign from your internal GPS system that you have stopped growing in some way and that you are stagnant.

Think of a stagnant pond that has no fresh flow of water. Over time it begins to look murky and smell bad. There is no fresh life force pumping through the water. This is what happens to us when we stop growing emotionally and spiritually.

Often times we become so focused on reaching our goals that we forget to stop and really think about what we want. One of the main patterns I see in my practice is adults who have met their milestone goals of creating the career they want, getting married, having children and owning a home. It’s almost like watching the horses race at the racetrack- the gates are opened and everyone races to reach these cookie cutter goals that we think we have to reach to attain true happiness in life.

In the early stages of the race you are not stopping to think about what you really want or to enjoy the beautiful view- you are focused on the finish line of checking off the boxes you need to be a productive and respected member of society, your social circle or your family.

You work tirelessly to accomplish the goals you’ve been given by society, your parents, or your religion and then something unsettling happens.

You find yourself looking at the spouse you picked, the home you built and the children you

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How to Navigate Through the Stagnant Times in Your Life are raising who are on their way to adults and you think, “Is this it? What now? Do I really want any of this? What would make me truly happy?”

You may find that in an effort to keep that nagging blah feeling away, that you start going out more with your friends, or taking up a hobby that you love like running or spin class. This new found independence gives you energy and you find that you like the new people you are meeting and you aren’t as bored. Maybe you even find yourself flirting with others and going to places where you run into attractive, interesting people that make you feel like you aren’t dead.

None of these feelings are abnormal. What gets you into trouble is when you skip the process of really checking in with yourself and asking yourself what you are feeling.

Most people get lost and create a crisis in their life when they attempt to fill the empty void with distractions such as a new relationship or a new hot sports car or harmless flirting that eventually leads to something more intense.

Before you blow up your life recognize that growth is a necessary part of our evolution as humans. When we stop growing we start to decay- think of that stagnant pond… murky and lifeless.

Growth is usually very uncomfortable which is why we call them “growing pains”, not “growing comfortably and easily”.

If you find yourself in that stagnant season of your life (and most of us will experience this on some level eventually, it’s a part of growth!) don’t panic or beat yourself up with guilt.

Take a step back and begin to take an inventory of what is going on in your life. Is your marriage stagnant because you are both so focused on outer goals that you are neglecting your relationship?

Are you dissatisfied because the only role you ever knew was being a mom and now your kids are moving toward more independence? Have you experienced the loss of a parent and are feeling orphaned and lost? What is going on and what is making you feel uncomfortable?

Do the digging you need to do to find out what your internal GPS is saying to you. When you ignore the command to recalculate you will end up driving your life off of a cliff.

If you aren’t really sure what the issue is - seek out some counseling. Work with someone you trust who can help you say the truth of your feelings out loud and guilt free. If it turns out that the truth is deep down you do not want to stay in your marriage give yourself the space to say that out loud without guilt, fear or panic.

Avoidance will only hurt you and the people you love in the long run. If you are feeling dissatisfied in your relationship think about what you want, what you need and what’s missing. Tell your spouse the truth of what you are feeling in a way that opens the door for an honest adult discussion.

Too often I see people avoid this truth and they end up bringing a third party into the equation and causing major damage that is the result of their inability to own and speak the truth.

We have all heard the quote “The truth will set you free”. You don’t do anyone any favors when you lie to yourself and the people around you.

Don’t be afraid of the process of digging deep to get to the heart of the matter of why you are stagnant. Do the work you need to create the life you want and to honor the people you love with the clarity of your true feelings.

You are worth it. SS

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The Mulhollands

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F a m a g i o l t i es. a r WRITTEN BY MEGAN HARRINGTON, PHOTOS PROVIDED

If this family’s last name sounds familiar, it's likely because Mark Mulholland spends every evening in homes across the Capital District - via the television, of course! Mark is the Saratoga-North Country news chief for WNYT Channel 13 and a long time veteran of the news industry. Mark, the youngest of 9 children, was born in Whitehall, and has lived in Saratoga County for the past twenty years. He began his career in broadcasting while in college, first working at a local radio station and then moving on to Channel 8 News in Glens Falls.

After gaining some experience, he moved on to Channel 13 in Albany, ultimately becoming the weekday news anchor. After a time, Mark started working at a PR firm in Glens Falls, but when Channel 13 called and offered him a position in their Saratoga newsroom, Mark says he couldn’t say no. The family lives in Wilton, just a few minutes drive from the studio, and Mark says, “I’m so fortunate to love what I do and not have to commute!”

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ark’s two children, Connor, a junior, and McKenna, a freshman, both attend the Saratoga Springs School District. And since they were just 7 and 5 years old, Mark’s been the solo parent. His wife Kelly was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2004 at age 32 and sadly passed away at age 37. After her untimely death, the family wanted to do something in her honor, so they founded Kelly’s Angels. Kelly was a teacher in the Saratoga Springs School District and Mark says, “She loved kids and she loved being a mom. After getting sick, her goal was to get better and help children in some way.”

Through the organization, the family is working to fulfill Kelly’s wish. The main event for Kelly’s Angels is the annual Mother Lovin’ 5k race, held each May at SPAC, and the money raised provides grants to children who have lost a parent or sibling to cancer. Mark says, “So far, we’ve helped almost 70 children and families in the capital region.“

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The passion for Kelly’s Angels is truly a family affair. Recently, 16-year-old Connor was voted on to the organization’s board of directors. Connor also takes entrepreneur classes through local colleges and plays AAU basketball. Fourteen-year-old McKenna stays busy by playing softball for the Saratoga Thunder team and the Saratoga school team. And when they’re not on the race course, the field, or the court, the Mulhollands enjoy traveling (and surprises!). Mark says, “We especially love Disney, so I surprised the kids a few years ago. I told them we were going to run a turkey trot in Troy, but when they got in the car, their suitcases were packed and Disney magic bands were on the front seat.”

We love the Mulholland family not only for their sense of adventure, but also for their enthusiastic dedication to the Kelly’s Angels organization and the community at large. For more information on Kelly's Angels and the Mother Lovin' 5k, visit KellysAngelsInc.org. SS

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Saratoga's around-the-world trip to

POP UP

SHOP written, photographed, and designed by Madison Feldhaus

4th saw the opening of a unique store on Saratoga’s Caroline J uly Street whose temporary presence will bring a piece of the other side

of the world to the homes of those who discover it.

Saratoga native and world traveller Molly Reed dreamed of opening a Pop Up Shop and upon spotting the vacant location in June she seized the opportunity and opend rōv and reeds to share her spoils from trips to the Southeast and Morocco.

rōv and reeds stocks a mix of beautifully crafted handmade goods that originate both globally and locally. Upon stepping inside customers can expect to be transfixed with the variety of textures and patterns found on pillows, handbags, blankets, bowls, and more. Molly's favorite items for sale are rugs from Morocco due to the sense of victory that comes from having walked away with the lot. “I earned them.”

She went on to describe how “negotiations were a whole day affair with (drinking) tea and going back and forth” until both parties were satisfied with the outcome. This experience and others have been documented on the website’s blog, but stopping into the shop and asking Molly about it will provide the chance for the two of you to interact with the special pieces she picked up in person. Upon the shop’s close, Molly hopes to return to the markets she explored on her previous trips in order to build a relationship with the artisans.

Although the shop’s physical location on 24 Caroline Street closes on September 30th, the online store will remain open at rovimports.com. It is highly encouraged that customers purchase things when they connect with them in the store as most items are one of a kind and not easily restocked. Molly’s father, Tim Reed, owner of reeds in South Glens Falls has a philosophy as to why you shouldn’t delay. “Customers will come in and try a bag on in the mirror and then go home to sleep on it and leave their energy on it,” ... attracting the next person who walks in. SS

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FALL 2016 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 93

Artist Spotlight: Martin Macica

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS BY SUSAN BLACKBURN

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hen the teenage Martin Macica first picked up a mandolin, it was because it had been mysteriously left behind on the floor after a party at his father’s house.

There’s no way to know whether this was a seemingly random event, or an undeniable example of divine intervention, but whatever the case, there’s no doubt it was this moment that inspired Macica’s lifelong quest for excellence as a builder of fine musical instruments.

After apprenticing to learn his trade, Macica ran a successful retail business on Broad Street in Schuylerville for 22 years building mandolins, violins, violas, cellos, guitars, viols and the droney-sounding bouzoukis used to play Irish folk songs.

As the internet and the economy changed his business, he saw the art and appreciation behind instrument-making becoming lost. There was a growing disconnect between people seeing an instrument and knowing how it was made.

“People don’t know and they want to know,” Macica said. At trade shows, festivals, and on his blog, he demonstrates and chronicles the building process; which can take weeks, or even months.

“This way they know what they’re looking at,” he said.

Going even further, Macica, who has been called the “Energizer Bunny of craftsmen” by one of his students while viewing a demo, also teaches in-depth courses at the Maplewood Center for Common Craft in Greenwich and at the Arts Center of the Capital Region in Troy.

Meeting twice a week for several months, at the end of the 65-hour course, each student leaves with a working knowledge of guitar making, and their own guitar, made with hand tools.

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“There’s a joy in doing it with hand equipment and, if you do it right, there’s a real pleasure,” he said. This is something he has shared with his most dedicated students; his children.

Home-schooling with his wife of 17 years, Kimberly, they have developed a respect for the interconnectedness of the hands-on method, wood-working and music in their boys; Ian, 15, Josiah, 14, and Ezra, 10.

“The things that are real, we cultivate them. Such things as Crafts and Agriculture we have found to have a lot of life in them." said Macica. This is a lifestyle, like Macica’s approach to instrument-building, which requires focus, dedication and control. It is something that can be seen in the painstakingly flawless finish on the instrument’s surface and the even, distinct, and resonant notes that sound out from each pluck of the strings from his nimble fingers as he plays the quick, jovial songs that he writes himself.

“My guitars, I tell you, I love them. They have good overtone and a lot of depth. I want to just be inside that instrument," said Macica.

While he cannot live inside his work, Macica certainly puts his life into his work. He crafts everything from the scrolls to the cutouts that are circular on traditional instruments, elliptical on his.

For more information on Martin Macica, his stringed instruments, building classes or repairs go to macica.com SS

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Tribute Trike

A GENERATIONAL CONNECTION written, photographed, and designed by Madison Feldhaus photographed by Dino Petrocelli Highway of Death photo by Dino Petrocelli

photo by Madison Feldhaus

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hile driving around this summer you may spot a reminder of history journeying through Upstate New York. This would be Matt Gonyea on his tribute trike, a visual dedication to the armed services. Matt’s father, Larry, purchased the 2009 Honda Goldwing 1800 as a motorcycle in 2012. He had it converted to a trike in 2013 and commissioned the paintings June of 2014.

Larry, who passed away in November of 2014, designed the whole trike. He was a member of the Army National Guard, and though he served during peacetime, wanted a tribute to all veterans no matter what branch of service. Active or retired, it's for any veteran.

Sue Hopper, an artist from Iowa, hand painted all 33 images. She spent 2 partial days working on it at Americade, a motorcycle rally in Lake George, and finished 7 days later. Two Brother’s Trikes in Albany then stripped it down to the frame and motor, clear coated, and pieced it back together.

The artwork depicts moments from World War Two, with the exception being the Highway of Death from the Iraq war. Scenes featured include Hiroshima, Pearl Harbor, Battle of Bulge, Vietnam, Holocaust, D-Day, the Arizona Memorial, the Battle of Midway, and more. Throughout the trike there are service badges for all the different military branches. The front features Arlington Cemetery, with the names on the headstones being Matt’s family members that have served. Matt inherited the bike and has kept it in the exact condition that he received it from his father.

Recently at a show a World War II Vietnam Veteran connected with the bike, stating that he would "remember the moment until he died." The strong

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reactionsto the bike, show how it touches and brings back memories and remembers brothers in arms. “My father wanted to honor all veterans so I continue to ride it to honor him and to honor veterans.”

Both Matthew and his father partcipated in the Patriot Guard Riders.

Eventually Matt wants to paint his trailer with more recent wars. In the words of Matt himself, “You’ll never see another like it." SS

Battle of the Bulge photo by Dino Petrocelli

Vietnam photo by Madison Feldhaus

Jet photo by Dino Petrocelli

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Meet

Stark’s offers traditional garage-type services: oil changes; tires; inspections; brake, muffler and battery replacement; and tune-ups. Sid has one employee, a mechanic, who does most of the work.

Sid Stark

“It’s just the two of us. If you ask him, he’ll say he does 99-percent of the work and he’s probably correct.”

Sid prefers interacting with his customers, appreciating the nuances he’s gleaned from them over the years. The piles of books on his desk and table offers one example.

Photos by Alice Corey Photography

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Written by Carrie Rowlands Johnson

pile of books rests patiently amidst customer receipts, vendor orders and parts catalogs. Sitting nearby, a well-used phone decorated in smudgy black fingerprints clamors for attention, determined not to be ignored.

A friendly half-grin hangs from the face of the attractive man who silences and calms the ringing device, raising his pointer finger as he politely excuses himself from our conversation.

“Rebecca, when do you want to bring it in? Are you at the park now? Maybe 4:15?

4:30?”

Just above the pocket on the left side of the man’s dark blue shirt, embroidered letters spell out his given name, “Sid.” The sign painted on the exterior of the building offers completion, denoting

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his surname and the name of this wellknown Saratoga auto garage, “Stark’s.”

Sid remembers growing up in Saratoga, pumping gas to earn extra money throughout his summers, with no intention of inheriting this family business. He studied Chemistry at RPI and spent five years teaching both Chemistry and Physics. When that job ended, he started back at Stark’s and eventually took over for his father, Henry.

Sixty years after his father first built and opened Starky’s, as it’s affectionately known, Sid continues to delight and be delighted by his customers.

“That they trust us and trust our work, gives you a good feeling that you don’t get working for someone else. Here it’s me and the building and the business reflects our values.”

“I have a customer who is a limo driver and he brought me a bunch of books. He would read books while waiting for his fare and got me into reading. He got me into a lot of different authors I had never heard of.”

Now a self-described avid reader, Sid appreciates detective and spy novels and mysteries. Dig a little deeper on the table covered in mechanics magazines, and uncover an Organic Chemistry book, a reminder of Sid’s former career.

Dig a bit deeper into conversation and discover, Sid is not a car snob. He’ll accept customer cars of any make or model, but drives a Honda civic and a Toyota pickup, two manufacturers he’s grown to trust, appreciating that while both are branded Japanese, most of the vehicles are made right here in the USA. “I just like practical cars that’ll go from A to B, so I drive a Honda and a Toyota pickup.

I’m not one of those guys that likes to keep a car forever.”

It’s vintage American cars, however, that catch his eye, offering a glimpse at days gone by.

“I like cars from the 50’s, the colors and style— turquoise, pink, all kinds of wild colors and tailfins.

A customer walks into the shop. The two chit chat for a few minutes before Sid turns over the keys.

“I went to school with his wife and his wife’s sister,” Sid tells me as the man leaves.

Stark’s garage is clearly a beloved fixture here on Excelsior Avenue, though as Saratoga grows and expands, Sid notices his customers are driving in from farther away.

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“This building is circa 1958. When it was built, this was a smaller town and most customers lived two to three miles away. Now because of changes in the demographics, most customers are from surrounding towns.”

Sid travels farther to work now, too, he and his wife having moved to Albany several years ago for her job. They are parents to four daughters and grandparents to three granddaughters and three grandsons, many of whose faces you’ll see peering from photo frames scattered around Sid’s office. So far, none have expressed an interest in carrying on the family business.

When the doors to the shop close at night, you might find Sid hiking, biking or swimming with his family at one of the area lakes.

While he does plan to retire one day, Sid has no immediate plans for anything but running Stark’s, proud of the fact that it’s one of the oldest continuing garage businesses in the area.

“I don’t know what else I’d do… being in this business is who I am.”

A chemist’s brain, a businessman’s heart and a garage owner’s hands— all melding together to create this fabulous and endearing man known in Saratoga as simply, “Sid.” SS

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FALL 2016 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 99

Emily & Me An Adoption Story

written, photographed, and designed by Madison Feldhaus

Emily in because he had “really kind of fallen in love,” the friend set to work on getting Emily back. A few days after Christmas, Emily padded through a doorway just a few down from her old house and instantly calmed, settling into her new home.

photo by Eric Czerw

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ric Czerw got to know Emily, a black lab mix, over the past couple of years from seeing her and her owner John “Jack” Capper around their neighborhood. The rescue dog was rough around the edges when Jack first took her from the shelter as a puppy, but after spending time and giving a lot of love she learned to trust him.

Watching the world from her yard, Emily used to recognize Eric's truck and chase it. Eric started visiting with his neighbors and grew fond of her, but over this past winter there was a noticeable lack of their presence in the neighborhood. A mutual friend explained that the elderly Jack had fallen and after completing rehab was not allowed to move back into his home.

As a result of the eviction, Emily was sent to a shelter in Pennsylvania. After Eric expressed that he would have taken

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Over the past seven months Eric says the two have “gotten to learn each other.” He had always wanted to adopt a dog but his work schedule caused him to be hesitant. Eric had previously connected with a another dog at the Saratoga Rotary show in 2015 and thought it was fate, but something caused him to hold off. “If things are meant to be they’ll happen at the right time and place.”

Soon afterward Emily needed a home and everything fell into place.

Although residents of Clifton Park, the pair frequent the Saratoga downtown and its parks which they share a mutual love for.

Emily loves the abundance of people and smells that come with the atmosphere. Eric explained that when he first began walking Emily she walked at Jack’s pace, slower to accommodate his cane. Now that she has a younger owner, she has so much more energy that she exerts with Eric.

Proud to have the bond they share, Eric says, “she never ceases to make me laugh or smile.” SS saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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1963 aerial view of Broadway and the "Gut".

Tanenbaum's is a prominent structure in an area of parking lots and the gas station across the street from it.

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THE GHOSTS OF THE CANFIELD CASINO WRITTEN BY CHARLIE KUENZEL, PHOTOS PROVIDED BY SARATOGA SPRINGS HISTORY MUSEUM

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s the last few weeks of summer come to an end we are reminded of the wonders that fall brings to the great northeast. As the nights get cooler and the leaves turn color and drop to the ground, the excitement of Halloween also comes to mind. Candy and costumes, decorations and parties also remind us of the time of year for ghosts and goblins. When it comes to the topic of ghosts, you either consider the possibility or dismiss it all as fantasy. The Canfield Casino, located in Congress Park in Saratoga Springs, has been the location for many years of possible ghost activity recorded by many groups and individuals.

Years ago as a member of the Board of the Saratoga History Museum, I remember a monthly board meeting that occurred on a snowy night that resulted in a new direction for the museum. At the conclusion of that meeting a younger member of the board proceeded to tell of a recent experience that had happened to him that made him question what was going on in the building. We soon

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learned that other members of the board had experienced similar events without anyone previously saying anything about it. As we “connected the dots” of the discussion, a board member suggested that with that much activity in the building we should contact the television show “Ghost Hunters,” to request an analysis of the building. The Museum Board approved that action and contact was made with Ghost Hunters. Within an hour of completing the electronic application, the staff at Ghost Hunters contacted Director Jamie Parillo, and set up a schedule for an overnight investigation to be completed in the summer of 2010. The results of that investigation were aired as episode 18 during season 6 of Ghost Hunters. A search of your cable providers’ on-demand options or use of the internet will direct you for viewing of that episode and show you the many detailed findings of that investigation.

The investigation by the Ghost Hunters team was just one event in this story. Events of a possible supernatural nature continue

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to happen almost weekly at the Casino to workers and visitors alike. Most of the activities are not threatening in nature, but continue to occur. Lights being turned on and off, hair being pulled, as well as prerecorded audio descriptions of museum displays all being activated at once, spinning roulette wheels, and the sound of poker chips hitting the floor are all commonplace at the Canfield Casino. One general theme seems to be that when we disrupt the calm of the museum the activity increases. The History Museum had a second floor women’s dress display that existed for an extended period of time entitled; “200 Years of Women’s Fashion in Saratoga Springs”. At one point the museum Curator decided to repaint and reorganize the room that held that display. To make the job easier the curator moved all the dresses from the room to a temporary storage area to finish that job.

Once those fashions were moved from the display area the number of recorded incidence of strange occurrences increased dramatically and then just as quickly receded upon the moving of the dresses to their original location.

The third floor is the most active area in the museum for strange occurrences. The third floor is composed of many small narrow rooms that might have been used in the 1800’s as bedrooms. Under the cloak of privacy many different activities may have been in operation during those years of illegal gambling in the Canfield Casino. Without a real police force in Saratoga Springs until 1887, and the lack of modern forensic methods, many crimes were never solved and many incidences overlooked for lack of evidence. Is it possible that the spirits of former gamblers, prostitutes, or even the spirit of the original owner of the Casino, John Morrissey, still walks the halls? Since the third floor is set up to display a Victorian mansion of Saratoga Springs with personal items from the famed Walworth family, is it possible some energy from those items of that famous family are still in the Canfield Casino? The thing that continues to impress me is the number of new occurrences that happen to so many people who visit or work at the museum on a regular basis.

In 2010 when Ghost Hunters visited the Canfield Casino and aired their findings on their television show, the board of the Saratoga Springs History Museum decided to offer a ghost tour of the building. I was asked to participate and help to write the script of what would provide the structure for this new ghost tour. Once I researched the stories and events it was clear that any ghost tour would simply need to reflect the true stories from those people that had themselves experienced the strange events. Tours containing the true stories of experiences mixed with the background history of the building and its many people is more than enough to capture interest. No enhancements, no embellishments with the use of masks or weird soundtracks needed to be added to entertain audiences on those tours. The facts would be enough.

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Ghost tours of the Canfield Casino have been offered to countless participants during July and August this past summer. During the fall months additional tour dates and times will be added with a huge paranormal investigation tentatively scheduled for the night of Friday, October 21. The Olde Saratoga Paranormal Group will be doing a lengthy investigation that night with the assistance from interested participants. The Olde Saratoga group will be bringing modern data collection devices to do a complete investigation on site that night. If you are interested in being a part of this great event or any of the regular tours during the fall, call the Saratoga History Museum at 584-6920, or visit www.saratogahistory.org to get more information. Your experiences on one of these tours may be the basis of the next tour. SS SS

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RARELY SEEN PHOTOS OF OLD SARATOGA SPRINGS Images from the George S. Bolster Collection WRITTEN BY CHARLIE KUENZEL, PERMISSION FROM SARATOGA SPRINGS HISTORY MUSEUM SPECIAL THANKS TO CURATOR JOHN CONNERS

CONGRESS PARK BANDSTAND CASINO IN BACKGROUND

C.1922 Music was a big part of Saratoga Springs and band concerts were very popular in the summer season in Congress Park. In 1931 this bandstand was removed and the World War I Memorial was constructed in its place.

SARATOGA RACETRACK- STEEPLECHASE WATER JUMP. 1941 Steeplechase racing has been a part of Saratoga racing since the early days of the track. The present day steeplechase course does not have water jumps on the course. In this photograph the fourth jockey is looking under his arm and appears headless.

GRAND UNION HOTEL FROM CONGRESS PARK,

C.1920

CONGRESS HALL HOTEL, C.1880 Congress Hall Hotel was located on the eastside of Broadway between the entrance to Congress Park(East Congress Street) and the corner of Spring Street and Broadway. The original Congress Hall was constructed by Gideon Putnam, destroyed by fire in 1866 with this building replacing it on the same location by the then owner H.H. Hathorn.

The view of the Grand Union Hotel is from the former location of Congress Hall in Congress Park. Congress Hall was razed in 1912 after the City of Saratoga Springs bought it and wanted to use the space to further expand Congress Park. The famous Grand Union Hotel, like all the great hotels, was eventually torn down in 1952-53 and replaced with a shopping mall.

DEER PARK SPRING IN CONGRESS PARK, C.1880 This photo depicts the popularity of visitors daily to Congress Park in the 1800’s. Deer Park Spring was a pure water spring, not mineralized like the many famous springs of the day. The name Deer Park Spring comes from the fact that the area was once used as a “petting zoo” with deer for guests to feed after a small fee was paid.

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The Original

"MOM & POPS" Take a tour with us through Saratoga's old neighborhood grocers, we will be featuring a different store in each issue of Simply Saratoga Magazine -

Enjoy!

This map of historic west side stores, in and around Saratoga, was created by Tom Denny, using information provided by the author.

Names and locations of individual stores were taken largely from the annual Mannings City Directory and historic telephone directories.

WRITTEN BY CAROL GODETTE, PHOTOS PROVIDED

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very neighborhood of Saratoga had its own unique flavor and the area sometimes called “Spring Valley” or “The Gut” was no exception.

This working class neighborhood helped support the Broadway businesses and hotels. Robert Joki compiled an informative history of what he calls “Spring Valley” for Marianne and Dave Barker in 2000 when they purchased the Reeves Building on the NE corner of Phila and Putnam Street. As Joki writes, “The property at the corner of Putnam & Phila was an ideal location for a commercial enterprise.”

Today we associate this area with many eateries like Four Season’s Café, Bailey’s, Ben & Jerry’s, Peabody’s and the historic Café Lena’s. However, in the 1930’s and beyond, a variety of businesses catering to the Jewish community flourished. SS

This inside photo of Herzog’s depicts fresh kosher chickens for sale. The typical Jewish family purchased a kosher chicken to be cooked before sundown every Friday.

Photo credit: Minnie Bolster

This 1938 view of the Reeves Building (erected in spring of 1903) illustrates the businesses of Spring Valley. Herzog’s Meat Market on the left of the photo is shown in detail above. Photo credit: The George S. Bolster collection

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September 1943 photo of Tanenbaum’s illustrates the variety of fresh produce available for sale. Note that Nate Goldsmith’s rented part of this building for a restaurant. Later he relocated a few doors down on Phila Street and opened up as “Mother Goldsmith’s.”

Photo from George S. Bolster Collection, Saratoga History Museum

Tanenbaum’s 5 in the series...

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“

Ask any kid who went to Hebrew School- something mom and dad made you do- going to Tanebaum’s for one of their shortbread cookies afterwards definitely made Hebrew School more palatable,” fondly reminisces Arthur Ostrov.

Arthur loved these cookies so much, he even had his mom get the recipe to try and recreate the 3 inch square vanilla shortbread treat with the apple crumble topping and ½” diagonal of strawberry jam. He regrets his mom’s were never as good as Tanenbaum’s.

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Historical marker for “The Gut.”

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This store, located in the historic Reeves building, was the cornerstone of the Jewish cultural enclave. “This is where you went to find out what was happening in the Jewish Community,” explains Ostrov. The large presence of summer Jewish residents needed Kosher products- fresh produce, bagels and butter. Their daily visits made this gathering place the equivalent of today’s regular visits to Starbucks.

Each summer large numbers of Orthodox Jewish people arrived in Saratoga for mineral baths at the Lincoln, Washington or Roosevelt Baths. “Taking the water cure” involved a series of 15 to 21 mineral baths given on successive days and was popular in the 1950’s and 60’s. After World War Two, the East German government even paid for Holocaust survivors’ treatments at the baths for medical treatment. All up and down Phila Street, spanning onto Circular Street, were Jewish boarding houses and hotels that required a Kosher infrastructure. Tanenbaum’s serviced the

Jewish hotels and also supplied fruits such as large cherries to the Racetrack.

Daughter Mae reports that her father got up before dawn to drive to Menands and purchase wholesale fresh fruit to sell. The family lived over the store, each helping run it in some capacity.

Listening to Mae’s detailing of her idyllic childhood living over the store was akin to reading pages of Richard Russo’s “Bridge of Sighs.” Russo and Mae both describe childhoods where “we knew everyone and everyone knew us.”

A variety of patrons frequented the store: Minnie Clark Bolster’s Irish mom loved her visits to Tanenbaum’s; Patrick Goldberg- a roaming great dane- wandered in once to scarf down a whole smoked salmon; actor Monty Wooley best known for his movie role as “The Man Who Came to Dinner” was a summer regular. The actor even convinced Mr. Tanenbaum to quit smoking during one of his regular visits to the store.

Years later the store evokes the senses of local resident Susan Edwards. “It smelled like a New York City bodega and Mr. Tanenbaum looked like Santa Claus without the beard.”

Leo Tanenbaum was not a native Saratogian but chose to move his NYC produce store here in the early 1940’s.

Labor unions in NYC made it difficult to be profitable and his wife’s family was from Saratoga. He purchased the building in the early 1940’s and relocated to Phila Street to continue his market business.

After 28 successful years running the store, Leo and Regina Tanenbaum decided to retire and sold the building to Edward Walczak. The space operated for many years as the Golden Grill Tavern before becoming Bailey’s Café. SS

Phonebook ad for Tanenbaum’s

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Post Time Memories

with Dennis G. Hogan Photos by Sharon Castro

‘Morning at the Museum’ As Larry Daley, actor Ben Stiller plays a bumbling night watchman in the 2006 farce Night at the Museum.

On his watch all sorts of historical hi-jinx unfold once the visitors exit and the doors are locked; yet Stiller’s got nothing on former NYRA race announcer Tom Durkin.

Tom’s just finished up his maiden season conducting tours at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, and straight from the gate each step was a winning one.

Under his guidance statues came to life, Thoroughbreds immortalized on canvas appeared to preen and prance, and the portraits of racing’s most esteemed benefactors showed curious interest as each tour wound its way through the museum’s corridors.

“I really enjoy being a guide,” said Tom. “I have friends who visit from Italy and I’ll take them to museums and tell them everything I know.

I’ve actually thought of moving to Italy, at least part of the year, and giving tours in Florence.

I’m quite familiar with Renaissance art but I haven’t been able to pull that off yet. So, I figured: I know a lot about horse racing – why not do it here?”

Tom’s been around the game most of his life. His career as an announcer began in Wisconsin in the 1970’s. From there he accepted assignments in Florida, Illinois, Kentucky and New Jersey, before beginning with NYRA in 1990. His tenure in New York

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lasted until his retirement from the booth in 2014.

“I’m retired from calling races but not truly retired. I’m pretty busy otherwise - as time goes on I try to figure out how it was I ever had time to work!”

While leading the tour Tom took great pleasure in sharing his knowledge and experience with racing fans. His penchant for the game provided an insider’s take on many of racing’s greatest moments and celebrated characters, and his love of art was consistently on display.

“Some folks are interested in art for art’s sake, some like historical work while others enjoy contemporary work. Then there are those who are more interested in betting. You can tell by looking at people how engaged they are in a particular subject - and I’ll try to expand upon that.”

My tour began with an in-depth discussion of W. Smithson Broadhead’s magnificent painting of the 1955 Preakness and Belmont winner Nashua. We moved on to a large portrait of the ‘father of the turf ’ Treygonwell Frampton; a somewhat notorious owner whose tale would make even the most scurrilous race-tracker’s ears perk up.

Stopping at a large playback screen Tom asked the group for their favorite Breeders’ Cup race; after all, he was the official voice of the Breeders’ Cup until 2005. Forgetting my place as dutiful observer I blurted out ‘Zenyatta’s

Classic win!’ “Sure,” Tom chided, with feigned disappointment, “Don’t choose one of mine.”

Tours were held daily except Tuesdays during racing season, each limited to a group of 12, and most dates were sold out. And Durkin had a few choice words for those who have never visited the museum.

“Well, they’re missing a very interesting place - and if you’re a horse racing fan, it’s absolutely mandatory. That would be like a baseball fan going to Cooperstown and not visiting the Baseball Hall of Fame.”

Finally, I asked Tom what his experience would be if he, like Ben Stiller’s night watchman, found himself locked in the museum overnight and the exhibits began to stir and come to life.

“Well, I’d love to see Secretariat race Forego, and all the other greats. Maybe get Nashua and Swaps back together and have them all run around the museum and see who’d finish first.

And I’d have a long chat with the ‘father of the turf ’ Tregonwell Frampton. That would be a pretty fun night.”

And what’s next for the affable Durkin?

“I’d like to do tours of downtown Saratoga: Congress Park; architectural tours and the like. I know enough about architecture and I love that period in America: the late 19th and 20th centuries. Who knows? I just love living in Saratoga. Each day just walking down the street is a joy.” SS

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THE SOCIETY PAGES BROUGHT TO YOU BY CARRIE ROWLANDS JOHNSON OF the blogging bar & ALICE COREY PHOTOGRAPHY

The Results are in...

See how much money has been raised at these wonderful events...

UNCORKING THE CURE… TAPPING INTO HOPE

Thursday, June 16th The Hall of Springs Charity: JDRF Guests: 300 Money raised: $70,000

RED, WHITE AND BLUE PARTY Friday, June 24th Prime at Saratoga National Charity: The American Cancer Society Guests: 330 Money raised: $116,000

WHITE PARTY

W

e bought tickets, we donned fabulous summer dresses, we dressed in handsome suits, ties and tuxedos, we danced, we dined, we sipped cocktails, we tasted wines, we held our bidding placards high in the air, we signed our name in silent auctions, we gazed skyward as fireworks blazed though the night… gala after gala, all summer long… and we did what Saratoga does best— we raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for charity.

Everyone has a favorite gala— whether it’s dressing in our fanciest whites to kick-off the season at the White Party; gambling in our greatest game-show fashion at Finest Fillies; dancing under the stars and signaling the start of racing season at Siro’s Cup; Dining in the historic Canfield Casino at Equine Advocates; or lunching at the every-fabulous Prime at Saratoga National at the Fashionable Fillies Luncheon.

And the charities, the reason we all come together in our finest fashions— JDRF, Jake’s Help From Heaven, The American Cancer Society, Saratoga Bridges, Shelters of Saratoga, Center Hi, we're Carrie & A lic e and for Disability Services, The Jockey Club Safety Net Foundation, we want to co ve r your event!

Captain Youth and Family Services, Equine Advocates and The Ronald McDonald House. Such generosity, such amazing causes, uniting our community as we make the greatest gesture of thankfulness— giving back.

Thank you, Saratoga, for a phenomenal gala season. Thank you, charities, for your larger than life hearts.

Thank you, ticket holders for your generosity. Saratoga certainly is a home to be proud of, now isn’t it? SS

Meantime, Save the Date

for these upcoming galas and pick up a copy of our Holiday magazine for photos and details:

Saturday, July 16th The Saratoga Polo Club Charity: Saratoga Bridges Guests: 630 Money raised: $106,000

THE SARATOGA WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL Friday, September 9, 2016 — Sunday, September 11 Various prices and locations with the main event held at SPAC

FINEST FILLIES

GHOSTS IN THE GARDEN PARTY *New Event!

Benefitting Yaddo Garden Association Sunday, September 18th 3-6pm Yaddo Gardens www.yaddo.org for more information

Wednesday, July 20th Vapor Lounge Charity: Jake’s Help from Heaven Guests: More than 150 (With 9 teams consisting of fillies or colts and their trainers) Money Raised: More than $32,000

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

TOUCHED BY AN ANGEL Benefitting Hospice Thursday, October 16th National Museum of Dance

DISH IT OUT, A CELEBRITY CHEF GOURMET CHALLENGE Benefitting the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children Friday, October 21st Saratoga Springs City Center Call Chris Patregnani at 518-579-0984 or visit www.dishitout.org/saratoga/event for more information FIRST NIGHT SARATOGA Saturday, December 31st, 2016 Visit Saratoga-arts.org for more information

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THE SOCIETY PAGES

BROUGHT TO YOU BY CARRIE ROWLANDS JOHNSON OF the blogging bar & ALICE COREY PHOTOGRAPHY

The Results are in...

See how much money has been raised at these wonderful events...

SIRO’S CUP

Thursday, July 21st Siro’s Restaurant Charity: The Center for Disability Services Foundation Guests: More than 1,300 a new record for Siro’s Cup Money Raised: More than $300,000

Big Brothers Big Sisters Gala

AN UNBRIDLED AFFAIR

Thursday, July 28th The Holiday Inn, Saratoga Charity: Captain Youth and Family Services Guests: 265 Money Raised: $109,500, a 12% increase over last year!

EQUINE ADVOCATES

Friday, July 29th The Canfield Casino Charity: Equine Advocates Guests: 177 Money Raised: $150,000

SARATOGA HOSPITAL GALA, SET SAIL Wednesday, August 3rd Polo Meadow at The Saratoga Casino Hotel Charity: Saratoga Hospital Guests: 1,000 Money Raised: More than $300,000

FASHIONABLE FILLIES

Thursday, August 4th Prime at Saratoga National Charities: The Jockey Club Safety Net Foundation and Shelters of Saratoga Inc. Guests: 160 Money Raised: $65,000

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Red, White & Blue Gala

Because of print deadlines, please check our Holiday magazine, printed in November, for wrap-ups on One Fine Day held at Saratoga National on August 23rd and the At the Rail Fashion Show at The Saratoga Race Track to benefit The Ronald McDonald House held Thursday, August 25th.

See you in November!

If you have a charity gala you’d like covered

by Simply Saratoga magazine, please contact Carrie Rowlands Johnson at 518-727-6737. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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FASHION... in Downtown Saratoga Springs WRITTEN BY YVONNE

MCEACHRON of layered. design

PHOTOS BY MARKBOLLES.COM

Get Their Look:

Jack

Sweater: Kuhl

Cathy

Top: Hatley Skirt: Snoskins

ALPINE

T

Sport Shop

JACK + CATHY HAY | OWNERS 399 CLINTON STREET, SARATOGA ALPINESPORTSHOP.COM | 518.584.6290 @ALPINESPORTSHOP

he Alpine Sport Shop is a Saratoga staple, going on 75 years in business. This 5,000 square foot space hosts an array of products from outdoor equipment to clothing and accessories. It’s a family-owned business with Jack and Cathy Hay at the forefront.

They have positioned themselves as more than just a ski shop, opened seasonally from August to April. The warm and inviting space boasts a wide selection of soft goods from winter mittens to men’s belts and women’s shawls. You don’t have to be a skier to shop there. Their clientele ranges from skiers to non-skiers of all ages. If you enjoy outdoor activities, it’s the place to shop for gear and equipment.

The store is broken up into equipment and soft goods. As far as equipment goes they have alpine and cross-country skis, bindings and poles, snowboards and snowshoes, to name a few. When it comes to soft goods, you can pick up a parka for those outdoor activities or a sweater dress to wear off the slopes.

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Get Her Look: Top: Snoskins Pant: Kuhl Jacket: Pistil Hat: Pistil Wristlets: Élan Blanc Boots: The North Face

“

“

We are the oldest continuously running ski shop in New York State.

When buying for the store, the owners look at trending pieces as well as seasonal staples. Classic layering pieces, worn as activewear adhere to the athleisure trend that we have seen over the past few years.

These pieces act as base layers for outdoor activities or a midweek workout.

For the Fall there is an emphasis on layering, as seen to the left on Hardgoods Sales Associate Alex Norton. Just think sweaters, especially ponchos and shawls for the ladies. Patterned leggings and lightweight down jackets are expected to be big sellers this season. When it comes to colors, you will see both sides of the spectrum from a push for neutrals and earth tones to bright and bold patterns.

Some of the lifestyle brands they carry are Kuhl, Pistil, Snoskins, and Krimson Klover.

A few of their skiwear lines are Obermeyer, Burton, and Marmot.

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FASHION... in Downtown Saratoga Springs WRITTEN BY YVONNE

MCEACHRON of layered. design

PHOTOS BY MARKBOLLES.COM

CAROLINE & MAIN HEIDI WEST | OWNER LYNDSEY LOWE | ASSISTANT BUYER 438 BROADWAY, SARATOGA CAROLINEANDMAIN.COM | 518.581.9955 @CAROLINEANDMAIN

C

aroline and Main is the new kid on the block, bringing West Coast inspired fashion to downtown Saratoga Springs.

The space itself evokes a laid-back, airy feel. They cater to women twenty-five and up. Their clientele is playful with a more casual approach to fashion. She loves a good stripe and does not shy away from a polka dot. She finds excitement in mixing prints and patterns.

Caroline and Main offers a little something for everyone, from their wide range of womenswear to bath and body essentials, as well as candles and small gifting items. They also feature a men’s capsule collection of denim and tees from Michael Stars.

Caroline and Main is the sister brand to Lifestyles of Saratoga. You will spot some of the same friendly and knowledgeable staff at this locale, along with a few new smiling faces. The clothes aren’t the only thing that makes this a “happy store.”

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Get Her Look: Jacket: Frnch Blouse: Frnch Denim: Just Black Shoes: Soludos

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Get Her Look: Jacket: Frnch Blouse: Frnch Skirt: Frnch Shoes: Soludos

“

“

It’s a happy store.

This season at Caroline and Main you will see their signature prints of polka dots and stripes popping up throughout the store along with bolder prints and colorful coats. Some of the lines they carry are Frnch, Gracia, CP Shades, and Joules. The line Frnch offers playful prints with sophisticated silhouettes. Gracia offers a flare to the lineup that does not go unnoticed.

A staple item they will continue to carry this Fall is their Just Black denim. They are beyond comfortable, made in the USA, and priced under $70. I may have picked up a pair, or two.

Heidi and Lyndsey brought in key pieces for this season’s trends. Currently, the relaxed fit silhouette featuring baggier jeans and loosefitting tees are having a moment. We still see the full skirt in a midi length, a great item to pair with flats or a pair of kitten heels.

The handkerchief has staying power and is following us into Fall. Their selection of colorful, silky scarves is the perfect accessory and at under $25, you can mix and match.

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FASHION... in Downtown Saratoga Springs WRITTEN BY YVONNE

MCEACHRON of layered. design

PHOTOS BY MARKBOLLES.COM

LUCIA

T

LUCY MORAN | OWNER 454 BROADWAY | SARATOGA MARKETPLACE LUCIABOUTIQUE.COM | 518.587.7890 @LUCIABOUTIQUE

o mark a decade of bringing fashion to downtown Saratoga Springs, Lucia renovated its space. With an increase in inventory, custom wall displays and a handful of new lines, the space feels fresh and is easier to navigate. Lucia is located in The Marketplace and features an array of designers from Mink Pink, to For love + lemons, and Blank denim. These lines are just a few that resonate with the boho chic vibe and feminine edge that is representative of Lucia’s clientele.

Lucia’s customer base spans from women in their late teens to their early forties and offers an equal mix of on-trend styles with everyday basics. They are known for their array of plaid shirts, large selection of denim and their accessories. Lucia is passionate about showcasing emerging jewelry designers. LA-based designer, Vanessa Mooney’s chokers are currently all the rage.

Lucy is the sole buyer for her store and feels as though this hands-on approach allows her to hone in on her customer base and find consistency throughout the seasons. Through this process, she has built a highly recognizable and successful brand over her ten years in business.

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Get Her Look:

Blouse: Honey Punch Necklace: Vanessa Mooney

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Get Her Look: Dress: Cotton Candy Booties: Qupid Sunglasses: AJ Morgan Choker: Ettika Bangles: A.Mano

“

“

Our renovated store offers new lines in a space that feels fresh and easy to navigate.

This Fall is all about the 90’s. Lucy and I were reminiscing, both being children of this glorious decade, how we are ecstatic about the return of the simple slip dress and the oversized plaid shirt. Some of the trends you will see this Fall are a baby tee over a slip dress courtesy of Cher and her gal pals from the cult classic, Clueless. An oversized comfy flannel shirt paired with a choker is a nod to the grunge look rocked in every music video plastered on MTV. The 90’s aren’t the only decade representing this season. We are seeing the 70’s fashion that ruled the runways for Spring/Summer follow us right into Fall. Pleating is huge, from dresses and skirts to blouses and outwear. A wool wide-brim hat is a top accessory this season. Instead of the neutral colors we wore this summer, opt for deep jewel tones such as emerald and burgundy to play to the season.

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FASHION... in Downtown Saratoga Springs WRITTEN BY YVONNE

MCEACHRON of layered. design

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PIPERBoutique ALESSANDRA BANGE-HALL | OWNER 441 BROADWAY, SARATOGA 518.450.1152 | PIPERBOUTIQUE.COM @PIPERBOUTIQUE

P

iper Boutique is your go-to shop for everyday casualwear as well as for pieces you can take from day to night.

Piper’s clientele are women ranging from ages thirty to sixty-five who are looking to have fun with fashion. They showcase their playful side through their wardrobe.

Alessandra is the owner and buyer for Piper Boutique. When you step into the store, an oversized gold branch chandelier greets you.

The fixture sets the tone for this chic space.

Alessandra stays on top of the latest trends and buys accordingly.

Piper carries contemporary womenswear lines, BB Dakota, Jack, Collective Concepts, and Bishop & Young. They also offer a curated selection of handbags and jewelry. They set themselves apart from other downtown boutiques by working with local jewelers to offer unique pieces that are sold exclusively at Piper.

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Get Her Look: Top: Private label

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Get Her Look: Coat: Private label Top: Private label Denim: Private label

“

“

Clothing that will take you from day to night.

Fall at Piper is all about texture, layering, and bold colors. Some of the textures you will spot this season are suede, faux fur, and waxed denim. When it comes to colors, bold, vibrant colors are making an appearance, from caramel and cranberry to mustard and olive.

The lightweight everyday trench is the perfect layering piece for Fall. Piper is currently carrying a gorgeous knee-length trench in a deep cranberry. I may have to snag one up myself. This season the duster coat is taking the place of the work blazer.

You can layer underneath this piece as well as on top. I love to throw a leather moto jacket over a duster coat. It’s the perfect pairing of Fall outerwear.

When it comes to accessories more is more this season. Single necklaces are being seen with multiple chains, cascading down the décolletage. If you aren’t in the market for a pre-layered piece you can stack your own. Multiple bracelets, stacked rings, and necklaces varying in length are all trending.

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FASHION... in Downtown Saratoga Springs WRITTEN BY YVONNE

MCEACHRON of layered. design

PHOTOS BY MARKBOLLES.COM

SPOKEN

PAM WORTH | OWNER BETH MONROE | BUYER, MERCHANDISER 27 CHURCH STREET, SARATOGA SPOKENSARATOGA.COM 518.587.2772 @SPOKENBOUTIQUE

W

ith Pam Worth at the helm of this colorful and warm boutique customers walk in to find themselves greeted with a huge smile along with unique pieces you can’t find anywhere else in Saratoga.

Pam has been dressing women for over thirty years, and her experience and innate sense of style has made Spoken Boutique a staple in the downtown retail sector. Spoken has a strong local customer base as well seasonal clientele from NYC and Florida who frequent the store throughout the Summer season.

Spoken Boutique services women in their forties through sixties who are looking for timeless pieces that offer a unique sense of style without sacrificing comfort. Pam’s mission is for her customer to feel comfortable in their skin, know what a quality garment feels like and find timeless pieces that can be worn season after season.

When buying for each season, Pam focuses more on her knowledge of her customer and less on the season’s trends. She follows trends loosely while staying true to their signature soft dressing and layering pieces.

525 America, Eva Varro, Surrealist, Vintage, and Red Engine denim are a few of the lines they carry.

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Get Her Look:

Sweater: 525 America Denim: Red Engine

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Get Her Look: Tonya (left) Sweater: Yest Denim: Red Engine Top: Surrealist

We follow trends loosely while staying true to our core customer and their unique sense of style.

“

“

Sherry (right) Top: Eva Varro Pants: Eva Varro Necklace: Alisha D.

Pam keeps things consistent at her store by staying true to her customer and their needs. When at market she looks for pieces that translate to her customer’s lifestyle.

With keeping this in mind, she shops for the upcoming season.

Spoken offers unique pieces with novelty detailing from exposed stitching, to buttons, lace, and thumbholes. The stretch factor is of importance to their clientele. Playing off these novelties, this Fall you can find cotton sweaters that are easy to care for, basic denim, to take you from day to night, and accessories that offer a pop of color to any outfit.

The color palette this Fall covers both sides of the spectrum, from muted shades in heathered fabrics to rich tones of navy, rust, merlot, and orange.

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FASHION... in Downtown Saratoga Springs WRITTEN BY YVONNE

MCEACHRON of layered. design

PHOTOS BY MARKBOLLES.COM

VIOLET'S LAURA PILECKAS | OWNER JESSICA GUERIN | MANAGER, BUYER 494 BROADWAY, SARATOGA VIOLETSOFSARATOGA.COM 518.584.4838 @VIOLETSSARATOGA

V

iolet’s offers everyday casual wear as well as cocktail and day dresses, with a shoe game that is on point. Violet’s is approaching its tenth year in business and owner; Laura Pileckas feels as though they have found their niche in the retail landscape of downtown Saratoga Springs, says store manager and buyer Jessica Guerin.

They know who their customer is and caters to their lifestyle. They carry lines that appeal to different age groups. A college student can shop the store with her mother, and both will leave with a new look in hand.

Violet’s has positioned itself as a one-stop shop where you can purchase a complete outfit, including undergarments and footwear. Some of the lines they carry are Free People, French Connection, and Hudson denim. As for shoes, you can always find high-quality lines such as Frye and Pajar. When it comes to footwear Violet’s stays true to their brand by mirroring their clothing sector. They offer a casual bootie by Frye to wear with a sweater and denim as well as colorful pumps to take you into the workweek.

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Get Her Look:

Dress: Velvet by Graham & Spencer

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Get Her Look:

Boots: Tate Chelsea by Frye

“

“

Take your first step into Fall with one of our new luxurious suede boots by the Frye Company.

The Fall trends you can shop this season are chunky knits, deconstructed denim, and cold shoulder blouses. The Summer was all about off the shoulder silhouettes. This season we aren’t venturing too far. To showcase the shoulder with a little more coverage, we have the cold shoulder making a comeback.

When it comes to sweaters cropped silhouettes are being used as layering pieces, paired with high-waist denim. Some other trends in denim are the deconstructed look, a raw frayed hem, and lighter washes.

Footwear this season is all about the fabric, from suede to velvet and embroidery. For pumps, we see simple, feminine heels alongside chunky kitten heels. Either style can be taken from day to night with ease.

The timeless and durable Frye brand is a staple at Violet’s for Fall/Winter. One of their go-to styles this season is the Tate Chelsea boot.

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FASHION... in Downtown Saratoga Springs Get Her Look: DON O'NEIL

Misty Copeland got married in this…

So can you.

SARATOGA TRUNK NATALIE SILLERY | OWNER 493 BROADWAY, SARATOGA 518.584.3543 FACEBOOK.COM/SARATOGATRUNK

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E

xperience a different approach to luxury fashion. Connect with your stylist today at Saratoga Trunk for an appointment.

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BRIDAL FASHION... in Downtown Saratoga Springs WRITTEN BY YVONNE

MCEACHRON of layered. design

PHOTOS BY MARKBOLLES.COM

LILY SARATOGA LAURA PALKOVICH | OWNER 6 FRANKLIN SQUARE, SARATOGA LILYSARATOGA.COM | 518.587.5017 @LILYSARATOGA

L

ily Saratoga has positioned themselves as a full service boutique for brides. Opening its doors twelve years ago, it services the bride that desires a personal one-on-one experience with a warm and inviting environment.

Their staff of eight employees is made up of women who specialize in specific areas, from make-up artistry to wardrobe styling and gown construction. This unique combination offers their clientele the added knowledge in the areas surrounding their big day.

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“

“

It’s this attention to detail and the knowledge of their customer that sets them apart from other bridal boutiques.

As a full-service bridal boutique, Lily is with their brides throughout the entire planning experience. They offer styling tips for the bride as well as their wedding party. Lily offers bridesmaids gowns, shoes, accessories, and jewelry to pull together a finished look for both the bride and her party.

Some of the designers they carry are Nicole Miller, Essense of Australia, Modern Trousseau, and Martina Liana. Modern Trousseau is a unique line as it is handmade in Connecticut and constructed of 100% silk, which is a rarity in the wedding gown market nowadays.

Laura Palkovich is the owner and buyer for Lily Saratoga. When Laura goes to market, she focuses on two areas; current trends in the industry and her customer’s feedback. The staff at Lily listens to their clientele and buys accordingly.

If they are finding a lot of women are requesting arm coverage, they peruse through the lines in search of dresses with sleeves as well as bringing in layering-pieces like a beaded bolero jacket. It’s this attention to detail and the knowledge of their customer that sets them apart from other bridal boutiques.

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OGA

E D I R B T SARA

n

zi Maga

xpo

idal E r B & e

Brides to b e. .

Whether you are looking for finishing touches, or starting from scratch, the

SARATOGA BRIDAL EXPO has everything you need…

Bakeries, Caterers / Venues, DJs / Music, Favors, Fashion, Hair & Make-up, Florists, Jewelers, Party-Rentals, Photo Booths, Photographers, Planners, Transportation, Tuxedos

& so much more!

SAVE THE DATE - SUNDAY 9/11!

Sunday, September 11, 2016 from Noon – 3:30 Runway Fashion Show starts at 2:45

The Saratoga Hilton, 534 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 We prefer all brides-to-be to pre-register to make check in quicker, and as a THANK YOU, all pre-registered brides will be entered into a drawing for awesome giveaways!

Guests are not required to register, but all attendees will be charged $5.00 at the door (cash only please)

SaratogaBridalExpo.com · (518) 581-2480

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H&G PHOTO BY RANDALL PERRY PHOTOGRAPHY

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WRITTEN BY CARRIE ROWLANDS JOHNSON · PHOTOS BY ALICE COREY PHOTOGRAPHY

SHOWCASE PILLARS M uted bands of sunshine stream in through a wall of windows, the light elegantly reflecting off the blue bottles of Saratoga water waiting patiently to fulfill their thirst-quenching duties.

A hand reaches across the table and pours the sparkling, refreshing liquid over four glasses of ice. I claim one of the glasses. One by one, each of the three men sitting at the table raises his own glass to his lips, somehow not interrupting the flow of the conversation as he does so.

Not another soul exists in this room, save the bartender. It is a private meeting, witnessed only by this writer of Simply Saratoga magazine, my notes the only record of words spoken.

The men are all whom you would consider a big deal in the new-housing construction industry. Barry Potoker is Executive Director of the Saratoga Builders’ Association. Randall Perry is one of the country’s leading architectural photographers and primary photographer for The Showcase of Homes. John Witt is… well, if you live anywhere near Saratoga you most likely know who John Witt is, one of the most prestigious builders in the area, his houses taking award after award, year after year. He’s also considered the Father of the Showcase of Homes, an event he created twenty-one years ago based on ideas he gleaned traveling across the country and fueled by his passion for artistic yet functional architecture.

“It was his concept. He received an award last year from showcase because it was the twentieth year, a big year. He has not missed a showcase. He has been in all twenty showcases.

He is truly committed, dedicated to this event.

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He was really the catalyst that started it,” Potoker brags on his colleague.

“It’s a great marketing venue for us as small builders to put our product out there. It’s great PR. Everyone wins. We leverage marketing, people in the housing market go through our home and people that aren’t in the market end up becoming buyers because it’s a buying aphrodisiac,” Witt modestly explains.

An aura of intrigue, excitement and pride surrounds the table at the Diamond Grill in Saratoga. These men are the pillars of the Showcase of Homes and clearly relish sharing their memories of Showcases gone by.

“We had one group come down every year from Montreal.”

“One woman rides a bike to all of the houses… I built her house twenty-six years ago. She’s 80-90 years old now.”

“Back in the day, our houses were probably around 100k.”

Not surprisingly, the Showcase was a hit from the very first year, enticing about a thousand people excited about the prospect of touring what for most - are dream homes - crafted by the finest builders in the area. Word spread like spilled paint, quickly turning the event into a must-do not only for house hunters, but the entire new-construction industry.

“After the first year, it was such a big hit, the buzz was great. It was great for vendors, too.

The first year Suttons did it no one really knew them and within the first couple months, they had sold hundreds of thousands of dollars (in

from the left: John Witt, Randall Perry, Barry Potoker

merchandise.) The showcase of homes has really brought a lot of builders, put them on the map, (along with) the designers, the furniture stores, landscapers and photographers,” Witt willingly shares.

Today it is one of the most favorite fall fundraisers in Saratoga County and the premiere new home tour in the area, attracting nearly four-thousand from across the Capital Region and beyond and orchestrated by The Saratoga Builders Association, a non-profit organization representing our local building industry. Guests of the Showcase are invited on self-tours of the houses, gifted a rare opportunity to meet - whom most consider real artists - in the construction industry, their custom homes more than just simple abodes.

“The one consistent thing I would have to say over twenty years, this is how the public can meet the builders. How are they going to meet so many people at one time? This is how. We allow the public to get in and see the inner workings, plus we give back,” says Potoker.

All of the proceeds from each twenty-dollar ticket are poured back into home-based charities such as Rebuilding Together Saratoga County and the local chapter of Habitat for Humanity, with a total contribution over the years of nearly one million dollars.

“It’s a labor of love for all of these guys- the builders, the sponsors, the people that take pictures, the charities who work as greeters at the door and sell tickets,” says Potoker.

Of course the event, just as the style of homes and decorating and price tags, have all morphed saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

with the times. In the early years, the Showcase featured spec houses, built specifically for the Showcase. Today, a builder like John Witt doesn’t typically offer a spec house, so his Showcase house already has an owner.

Randall Perry’s photos offer precious records of each and every house throughout the years.

Experienced with photographing homes all over the country, he sets aside the entire three weeks of the Showcase to photograph the homes wearing their Sunday best— decorated, landscaped and sporting innovative and inspiring upgrades.

“I was just talking to one of the builders and he was debating whether he’d have his home photographed. I said, this is what happens, builders debate about having their house photographed and then they win a category and they panic (and call asking for photos!) Every builder should have the exterior, great room, master bath, kitchen- for their own use, for marketing, whether they win or lose,” says Randall.

“Just having the photos, it’s great for us. We go back in time and see all of our homes and Randall shot 95-percent of the shots in there….

The quality of photos and the homes we’ve produced— it’s neat to have that documented.

Going forward, it will be even neater. Some of these houses are still amazing pieces of work and it’s been 20+ years,” adds Witt.

Of course, the road to the showcase hasn’t always been paved with gold. In 2009, the

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economy wasn’t strong enough to support new construction. With only three builders signed up, the yearly event was cancelled. The following year, the Showcase came roaring back, stronger than ever. Very telling of the dedication of this group, they still donated ten-thousand dollars to charity that year.

This year’s Showcase will feature a more modest range in price tags than years past, with the average pricing from 400-500 thousand dollars.

“We’ve done fantasy homes, but they’re out of reach for ninety percent of people, so it’s nice to show a modest price and what they can afford and see the neat innovations (with that price tag,)” says Witt, whose entry this year has a base price of 700k, with three finished levels and an elevator.

“It’s not big, but I’m looking forward to showing it because there are a lot of little goodies in it,” adds Witt.

And of course, the Witt house is always THE house to see, designed with delicious hardwoods roaming from room to spacious room; luxurious, functional materials like solid granite, butcher block and reclaimed wood sitting on hand-carved cabinetry and builtins; winding staircases connecting a level of hospitality and socialization to one promoting the deepest state of rest; rugged stone fireplaces; solid and custom-crafted doors and windows; attention to the tiniest of details; a natural flow from elegant indoor space to the glorious outdoors; and eclectic nuances like

doggie showers, elevators and curved walls and this year, a murphy bed.

“Everyone wants to see the Witt construction house… people always gravitate toward John’s houses because they’re innovative and creative and feature a lot of stone and in a lot of cases, are very grand. This year it’s interesting because there is no multi-million dollar home,” gushes Potoker, with obvious admiration and respect for his colleague.

Glasses are drained and the meeting wraps up. Though the men have other appointments and meetings waiting, they linger over one last morsel of conversation, our beloved city of Saratoga, where architecture and art meld as lovely as a musician and his instrument. John Witt’s own work forever etched in brick and mortar, cinderblocks and sheetrock.

“Just the history of architecture is amazing. I’ve been fortunate enough to be part of that. The Riggi house is one I designed on a napkin. It’s neat to take a palette of architecture and add to it, the projects Sonny (Bonacio) has done and I have done make the city greater. Architecture is a form of art we live in and eat in and drive by. We live in one of the best cities in the world because we have such different architecture, four seasons and quality of life.”

And because of the Showcase of Homes, even the most luxurious and elaborate builders and their art is accessible to any-one and every-one for one twenty-dollar ticket. SS

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cturally

SPEAKING

Follow us as we explore some of Saratoga's unique spaces...

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WRITTEN BY DAVID DELOZIER, PHOTOS BY RANDALL PERRY PHOTOGRAPHY

Natural Immersion

An old rock quarry is repurposed as a park-like home site just minutes from Downtown

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The prominent seam of limestone in the town of Greenfield, just to the north of Saratoga Springs, has been actively mined for decades. Pallete Stone and Pompa Brothers to the west of town are still active today, but in the not too distant past, there were many other, smaller, stone extraction sites. Often times these mining operations would hit a spring flow, and the quarry would fill with water, resulting in an early retirement for the mine. Nature has embraced this retirement, and quickly goes about reclaiming this place of industry. The abandoned waterfilled quarry soon becomes a sanctuary. Teeming with flora and fauna, the fast growth quickly consumes the site, leaving little evidence of its industrial past.

This is the setting that Jeffrey and Deane Pfeil came upon in their search for a new home site in 1994.

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Seeing The Park through the trees The site was tricky – heavily overgrown, and jagged rock leftover from the old mining activity would require extensive work to make it suitable to build upon. But the Pfeils saw the potential. The seclusion was seductive… hidden from the road by a dense canopy of trees was the quarry - now a pond - with a dramatic cliff backdrop, and a ledge on the opposite side that would be the perfect perch for a home. The quarry property had an adjacent 45 acres also available, which the couple envisioned as their own forever-wild preserve at their doorstep.

This, all just a short three-mile drive to their office in downtown Saratoga Springs.

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Creating a Universal Design for Aging in Place So enchanted were the Pfeils with their new land purchase, they wanted to build a home that would allow them to enjoy this place for the rest of their lives.

They also wanted to integrate some of their favorite building styles – Craftsman, Adirondack Camp, Frank Lloyd Wright, etc. The couple commissioned Sue Davis of SD Atelier Architects to make their vision a reality. Deane recalls the skill with which Davis crafted their vision into the design; “She would draw sketches as we spoke to her of our ideas, and it just came together from there!”

The Pfeils were interested in an emerging trend at the time called “universal design,” which allows for life changes that may occur to the owners. Features such as a barrier-free entry, wide doorways and integrated kitchen, dining room and living room, and first floor master suite were new back in 2000 when the couple built this house. Also

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known as “Aging in Place,” this type of design makes for easy adaptability to any mobility issues that may arise.

The design incorporates arched doorways and room dividers to create continuity from room to room. The center of the home is one large space that integrates the kitchen with dining area and living room, with ample Craftsman-styled windows providing a view to the pond and dramatic cliff wall outside. Two bedrooms on the second floor accommodate family visits. Complementing the natural beauty outside, the Pfeils incorporated natural stone entry accents, and cherry wood cabinetry in the kitchen and mudroom side entry. Radiant heated cherry flooring provides comfort over the long northeast winters. The granite fireplace in the great room mimics the cliff wall just outside at the pond’s edge.

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Communing with Nature The Pfeils wanted a house that had the feel of living outdoors, with the creature comforts that modern humans need. The house was built to appear as if it rose up out of the ledge at the edge of the pond.

A granite slab deck hangs at the edge of the ledge, giving a sense of elevation to the home. An iron railing follows its natural contours of the ledge, creating a delicate connection with the pond below.

Jeffrey installed a waterfall on the 20 foot tall rock cliff on the opposite side, giving drama and solace to the time spent on the granite slab deck. Just inside, the broad windows frame the beauty outside. In the late afternoon, sunlight bounces off of the pond, sending shimmering beams onto the coffered ceiling in the great room. Every window is a storybook scene. The view from the upstairs’ bedroom dormer windows may have wild turkeys grazing at the edge of the wood. Another view on the opposite side has belted kingfishers pulling fish from the pond.

The Pfeils are lucky, for sure, to live in such a place.

But the luck came from seeing something beautiful when others saw just rocks and bramble. “I can’t see living anywhere else,” beams Deane. We get to work on Broadway, and our three mile commute takes us back to our little private park.” SS

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LIBERTY DESIGNS

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lean lines; layers of textures and perfectly synched colors; fabulous window treatments; and attention to detail are all elements scattered about in the warm, inviting spaces. Though they appear professionally done, you might second guess that inclination because of just how lived-in and loved these homes feel when you peek inside.

With six Showcase of Homes and several Parade of Homes featured on her resume, Chris Kwarta has made an impression on Saratoga in a big way. A residential designer for nearly twenty years, she started her current company, Liberty Design Group, about two years ago.

Kwarta credits part of her success to her ability to separate her own design style from that of her clients’.

Written by Carrie Rowlands Johnson Photos by Randall Perry Photography saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

“I never try to impart my personal likings and design and what I may do at my house. It’s all about my clients and what their likes are…It’s asking questions, how they live in their house, how they’re going to be living in their house, do they have kids or animals… It’s just trying to pull out as much information as possible.

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Sometimes it’s like pulling teeth, other times it’s easier. If a client is not sure, I give them a couple options and then tweak things from there.”

Kwarta earned a degree in Interior Design from Sage College. She worked at Moose Creek and Sutton’s in addition to operating a business with a partner before opening Liberty Design Group. Here, she consults with clients on window treatments, furnishings and floor plans, utilizing private vendors as well as local furniture stores.

She also works exclusively with Belmonte Builders, helping clients building new homes select materials during construction. She recently completed Belmonte’s 2016 Showcase of Homes, a project she adores because it allows her to express her creativity.

(See page 110).

“It’s a little daunting. It’s definitely fun. It’s challenging because I want to please Belmonte, who’s the client, but also please the masses, and I want to do a good job for me.”

Kwarta describes this year’s Showcase home as a nod to the Victorian without being goopy, over-the-top.

Last year’s Showcase house, also by Belmonte, garnered several awards, including one for design, something Kwarta is obviously very proud of.

“We used a lot of rustic elements… wrought iron railings… reclaimed lumber… that kind of, to me, was telling the story for the house. Having the stone around the fireplace, having those beautiful rustic elements— the reds, blues and greens with the Turkish carpet. I found that and pulled all of my colors up from that. It’s where you see the window treatments with the red and orange in them and that

"They’re your surroundings.

You might as well make them beautiful..."

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kind of warm, reclaimed looking piece… It’s that refined rustic look I’ve always loved.”

Kwarta’s 2012 Showcase was a John Witt home. She explains how she worked with the client’s choice of dark bedroom walls: “In this, the homeowner wanted the deep, dark walls so that was my inspiration for the room, then finding the rug with the great black and orange and different colors in it. It was their furniture, Stickley Mission.

That was a fun house, a beautiful room.”

This year’s Parade of Homes house reflects the current trend of melding darks and whites. In this kitchen, Kwarta chose a deep espresso bar and white cabinets and 7-inch white oak plank floors. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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“Here you can see where I have more of the neutral coloring with walls. The floors are a medium tone and there’s that light and dark cabinet combo and then interject that little bit of color with accessories at least.”

As a designer, Kwarta is always scouring magazines, store windows, HGTV and Houzz.com for inspiration. She’s also a big fan of HomeGoods.

“It’s fun. I get to do something different every day. I get to touch beautiful things. I get to stand back and admire something that’s absolutely gorgeous. I get to furnish a new house or do the material selections with Belmonte customers. I get to live something new, exciting and different every day. They’re your surroundings. You might as well make them beautiful instead of drab and I find that fun and rewarding!”

At Liberty Design Group, Kwarta works with a variety of budgets and encourages everyone to at least explore what a designer might have to offer. They may not have the means to outfit the entire house or even a single room with brand new furniture, but rearranging what’s already there is a great start. She relishes working with her potpourri of clients.

“I just like getting to know my clients. You get to know who they are, what their hopes and dreams are for their home, how they want to live in it. When I can bring that to them and they have that smile on their face and in their eyes and I hear how happy and comfortable they are in their own home, it’s not any more rewarding than that.”

Making clients feel at home in their stylish house— that’s Liberty Design Group.

2016

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Residential Designer & Founder of Liberty Design Group Chris Kwarta

“Belmonte has a lot of furniture they keep from the model homes, that we’ll try to use if at all possible and they had these chairs from years back and I just fell in love with them- very boxy and square, but I love the tufting and the velvet- such a neat color as well. I knew in my head I wanted to put them in the study and kind of use them as a martini room, a cool retreat to go to.

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I found that awesome dresser in the center of those, and turned it into a bar… The collage is actually part of the bar, two shelves have liquor glasses, rocks glasses, a shaker to make martinis and the chalkboard that says ’It’s cocktail thirty’… and includes layering and gives interest and makes it multi-functional.”

-Chris Kwarta

SS

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Wine & Dine {Like a Pro!}

S killed hands work quickly, deftly and

painstakingly, peeling thin layers of skin from the miniature Cipolini onions. The knife dances around one tiny orb after another until a small pile rests on the counter, awaiting their inclusion in the Cipolini Red Wine Pudding, part of the third course at tonight’s professional Chef dinner.

Nearby, pork belly sizzles in a stainless steel pan, gifting anyone nearby with a heavenly aroma.

Guests mingle in the very same kitchen; sipping wine, chatting and watching as the duo that is Graham and McGuire transform a few bags of groceries into a mouth-watering, four-star restaurant quality four-course meal.

Mark Graham is known throughout Saratoga for his past stints as Chef at various fine dining restaurants around the area: The Wine Bar, The Lodge and Chez Sophie in Saratoga and Mezzanine and Taste in Albany. He has been cooking for thirtytwo years, spending time in both Boston and California and working with such industry giants as Chef Bradley Ogden, Chef Gary Danko and Chef Wolfgang Puck.

Written by Carrie Rowlands Johnson Photographed by Alice Corey Photography saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Seth McGuire’s wine expertise is linked with the Saratoga Race Course and Vintner Joseph Carr. The wine industry has been part of her life for twentyone years and the restaurant industry for twentyeight.

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unforgettable meal directly to your kitchen. The cooking couple teamed up early this year, quickly filling their calendars with private dinners and wine pairings, garnering intense compliments from the guests they so cheerfully serve.

Seth and Mark are as united answering questions, as they are around the cook-top - effortlessly going back and forth as they describe the reactions of various customers: “A woman told us it was the best night of her life. (Another night) a woman said she had ‘No words.’ Every time there’s an amazing compliment. We’ve had people lick the plates! I don’t think she cared whether we were looking or not.

She couldn’t take it— couldn’t leave it on the plate.”

Whipped cream parties, birthday celebrations, dinner amongst friends— there doesn’t need to be a special occasion to invite Graham and McGuire into your home. Some people invite friends who each pay their own way instead of going out to a restaurant.

“It’s people who want to be intimate with family and friends and have a restaurant experience and beyond and catered to your liking… I ask them what their favorite things are to eat. What are your dislikes, allergies, culinary, religious concerns and what do you want to try?

I formulate a menu— proteins if you do that. I can do vegetarian. I can do anything,” purrs Graham in his deep yet melodic voice you can only imagine if you’ve actually spoken to him.

Tonight, photographer Alice Corey (of the blogging bar, Alice Corey Photography and Simply Saratoga Magazine) and her husband Mike host a party of eight in their Ballston Spa home. The children are with their aunt, the house is sparkling clean, the wine is flowing, laughs are bubbling, Graham & McGuire are cooking and the table is fabulously set with the couple’s wedding china. A gorgeous floral arrangement from Posie Peddler on West Avenue in Saratoga is the perfect compliment to Graham & McGuire’s color theme and tonight’s place settings.

“The menu tonight is seafood, pork and steak. I ask for input on the protein, and start building the menu based on that.

Then I send (the menu) to my partner Seth to match wines. Usually the menu is a surprise,” says Chef Graham.

Everyone takes their seats as Graham plates and serves the first course— diver scallops with grapefruit and pickled berries, avocado butter and truffle honey.

McGuire pours the wine she has preselected, a 2014 Whispering Angel Cotes du Provence Rose’ from France.

“You don’t want to have a red wine with this dish. It’s the same as food. You’re balancing fruit and acid and tannins and dryness so it’s still matching all that and as you match the balance with the food it’s balancing the wine and putting it together.”

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“

It’s people who want to be intimate with family and friends and have a restaurant experience and beyond..."

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The previously chatty guests are nearly silent as they take their first bites. After chewing and savoring, the coveted feedback streams in.

“This is the best meal I’ve had in Saratoga,” says one guest.

“That is one thing that’s been a lot of fun with this because these aren’t typical dishes,” says Graham.

My favorite is the third course, a dry-aged steak with Chanterelles mushrooms, asparagus and the Cipolini Red Wine Pudding we saw prepared earlier in the evening. The mushrooms are one of Graham’s three favorite ingredients.

“It’s part of the motivation of starting our own private, intimate catering company— to reach the customer and know they’re satisfied or if not, what can I do. In a restaurant, you see plates and sometimes hear compliments or complaints. With this intimate atmosphere they enjoy the action of watching the cooking. It’s interactive in nature.”

Interactive, intimate and intensely flavorful— fulfilling wishes and dreams of employing your own private chef, even if just for one delicious evening.

For more information, visit grahamandmcguire.com

SS

“Exotic mushrooms, fois gras and rabbit. Exotic mushrooms are one of the few things man has not been able to control in nature and with food because you can’t grow morells or Chanterelles and truffles in a factory— only when nature decides to give them to you.”

It is paired with the only red wine of the evening— a 2012 Mourre du Tendre Cotes du Rhone from France.

Four delightful courses in total, culminating with dessert.

“I don’t like pork and I don’t like white wine. But this is awesome,” raves a guest.

“I never would have paired white wine, but it’s strong enough to stand up to the pork,” comments another diner.

That he has satisfied every guest’s individual taste is gratifying for Graham, a self-proclaimed social butterfly who is nearly as enjoyable to talk with, as his culinary creations are to savor.

TO SEE WHERE THE LOCALS GO LOOK FOR THIS DECAL

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Birdwatching with Nancy Castillo

SQUIRRELS 101 This Red Squirrel can’t climb the pole when protected by a baffle. © Nancy Castillo

If you have a yard with birdfeeders, it will usually mean you have a yard with squirrels. Even if they weren't there before you started feeding the birds, Gray Squirrels, Red Squirrels, and/or Eastern Chipmunks will usually find their way into the yard and discover the tasty buffet you put out to attract birds.

So instead of the peaceful and enjoyable ritual of watching the birds as you savor your morning coffee, you may find yourself screaming like a lunatic at the critters eating all your birdfood or chewing up your birdfeeders.

Purple Finches enjoying safflower seed © Nancy Castillo Chickadee enjoying a squirrel-proof birdfeeder © Nancy Castillo

But I assure you - it doesn't have to be that way!

You CAN feed the birds at your birdfeeders and keep squirrels at bay. As I write this article, I'm looking out at 14 birdfeeders in my yard, feeders filled with seeds and nuts and suet and being visited by dozens of birds like chickadees, finches, nuthatches, cardinals, jays, woodpeckers and more, all while the furry critters settle for what might hit the ground. It is the ideal bird-feeding scenario and a birdwatcher’s dream.

If that isn’t what’s going on in your yard, these tips can help you achieve this calm and bird-filled setting in your yard: OFFER FOOD THAT SQUIRRELS DON'T CARE FOR There are some foods that birds will eat and squirrels don't like. The first is safflower seed. It's a white seed that attracts cardinals, grosbeaks, titmice, chickadees, doves, Purple and House Finches, and others. And squirrels don't care for it. They may try a little now and then, but they will not sit feasting on it for hours.

A well placed birdfeeder pole will keep squirrels at bay © WBU, Inc.

Another benefit of safflower is that some of the birds people don't want at their feeders, (like starlings and other blackbirds) do not like safflower. Whether trying to deter squirrels or these less-than-desirable birds, offer safflower by itself (not mixed in with other seed) in a tube or hopper feeder. You can hang it from a tree or even close to trees or other jumping-off points.

Birds might take a little time to get used to the change in seed, so be patient - there are plenty of birds that really enjoy safflower.

Squirrels also don't eat Nyjer seed (also called thistle or Niger seed). It is a tiny black seed with a thin shell that is eaten mostly by goldfinches.

Nyjer needs to be offered in a specialty finch feeder.

I don't recommend finch socks since squirrels inevitably chew through finch socks to get to the food, only to find out they don't even like it.

Gray Squirrel © Nancy Castillo saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

You can also offer birdfood that contains capsaicin, or hot pepper. Birds do not taste the hot

(in fact some birds eat and disperse pepper seeds), but squirrels do. Hot pepper suet and hot pepper birdfood cylinders work best. Just sprinkling cayenne pepper on seed doesn't do the trick since it just doesn't stick to the seed. Be sure to wash your hands after handling hot pepper products, just like you would if you were preparing food with jalapeños. (It's always a good idea to wash your hands every time you fill your birdfeeders.)

PUT YOUR BIRDFEEDERS OUT OF REACH Did you know that the men’s long jump record is just short of 30 feet? It’s a good thing squirrels can’t jump that far, but did you know they can jump horizontally 8-10 feet? Or vertically 4-5 feet?

Knowing these two facts about squirrels can help you place feeders out of reach of even the most athletic squirrel. A birdfeeder pole should be placed 8-10 feet from any jumping off point – think trees, shrubs, fences, roofs, birdbaths, garden décor – anything they might use to their advantage to gain access to birdfeeders.

The birdfeeder pole should have a baffle, either a stovepipe- or cone-shaped metal piece that keeps critters from climbing the pole. The top of the baffle should be 4-5 feet off the ground so squirrels cannot jump above it. And just as importantly, birdfeeders should be hung high enough so that the bottom of the feeder is at least 4-5 feet off the ground.

OFFER FOOD IN A SQUIRREL-PROOF FEEDER There are a number of squirrel-proof birdfeeders on the market, and we find that the best ones are those that close the food ports off when the squirrel gets on the feeder. Some definitely work better than others, like those that have sensitivity adjustments to exclude chipmunks and larger birds as well.

As squirrels discover a squirrel-proof birdfeeder, and also during the summer as young squirrels are discovering potential food sources, you will see them on the birdfeeder attempting to get to the food. But when the food ports close, the squirrels soon realize it is not a source of food for them and will take to just enjoying the cast-off seed below the feeders.

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR BIRD FEEDERS! Most of us don't hate the squirrels, we just don't want them eating up all the birdfood or destroying our birdfeeders. When you utilize one or more of these strategies, you'll be able to offer a wide variety of birdfood and attract a diversity of birds to your yard, all while the squirrels just clean up underneath. It’s not too difficult or expensive, and the payback comes when you add calm and enjoyment back to the wonderful hobby of feeding the birds!! SS

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ENTERTAINING Made Easy!

Breakfast Bread

B.FAST IN BREAD • 1 pizza dough, whole wheat

• 2 cups of turkey, breakfast sausage or turkey bacon • 3 large eggs • 1 cup fresh baby spinach, chopped finely 1. Remove the casings on the turkey breakfast sausage and cook

2.

3.

4.

5.

it thoroughly in a frying pan over medium heat. Stir the meat frequently to keep the meat separated, to allow it to cook all the way through and to prevent burning on the bottom. If you are using turkey bacon, cook it as directed and then cut into small pieces. Set the meat aside.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

Roll the dough out onto a floured surface. If you are using a stone pizza round you can actually roll the dough directly on to the stone surface that is pre-floured. Set aside.

Using a fork, whip the eggs and milk together. Cook them in a scrambled fashion over medium heat in a pan that has been coated with a non-stick cooking spray.

Add a layer of meat onto the rolled dough surface, leaving a 1⁄2 cup to the side. Then add a layer of eggs on top of the meat. Next add a layer of 3⁄4 cup of spinach and sprinkle one cup of the cheese on top of the spinach. Fold in a third of the pizza toward

• 1/8 cup milk • 1 1⁄2 cups part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded • Non-stick cooking spray

the center. Sprinkle the excess sausage, spinach and cheese on top of the dough layer. Fold over the other third of pizza to create a long rolled loaf. Pinch the dough across the top and at the ends to seal the contents inside and to help prevent the cheese from leaking out during the baking process.

6. Bake for approximately 30 minutes, until the crust is hard and golden brown.

Time Saving Tip: Whip the eggs together. Place them in a butter-coated glass dish and microwave on high for one minute. Remove the dish with an oven mitt and stir. Continue to cook the eggs at one- minute intervals, stirring in between, until the eggs are fully cooked.

On the run: This recipe is great to make on a Sunday and served warmed-up in a microwave or toaster oven at the beginning of a busy work day!

Breakfast Burritos • Turkey Sausage breakfast links, cooked

• 1 tablespoon canola oil

• Turkey Bacon, cooked

• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

• Ham, cooked

• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

• 8 large eggs

• Mild Salsa

• 8 oz. sharp cheddar, shredded

• Non-stick cooking spray

YUM

• 6 – tortilla wraps 1. Scramble the eggs together in a bowl

with the onion powder & black pepper.

Cook them in scrambled fashion using the non-stick cooking spray.

2. After you have cooked the sausage,

the bacon & browned the cooked ham, simply dice them all into small pieces.

3. Fill the center of each burrito with

eggs, meat, salsa & approximately 2 tablespoons of cheese. Roll them as you would a burrito.

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4. If you are going to cook them right

away, place them seam down, in a glass-baking dish that has been coated with the non-stick cooking spray. Baste the top of each burrito with the canola oil & top them with shredded cheese.

Cook them in a pre-heated oven at 375 degrees for approximately 10 minutes, until they are golden brown on the edges.

5. Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit.

Make Ahead: Place each burrito you have just rolled on a baking sheet that is lined with parchment paper. Place the tray of burritos into the freezer and let them freeze for at least one hour. Remove the tray, wrap each one individually with parchment paper and place them in an airtight freezing container or plastic freezer bag. When you are ready for your burritos, simply remove them from the freezer and let them set while you are heating the oven.

Follow the directions above; baste, top with cheese & bake before serving. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

HI, I’M JODIE FITZ! I’m so excited to be sharing some of our family favorites with the readers of Simply Saratoga magazine!

I have spent the last six years traveling in SIX (!) states cooking with kids and families…

I can relate to the BUSY COOK : ) As my recipe collection continues to grow, I am starting to share some of the recipes that you will find at our house for meals…

Enjoyed by both family… and friends!

I am always experimenting and creating tasty bites, finding the simplest way to do it and love sharing great flavor and time saving finds along the way.

Breakfast Pizza

• FlatOut® Traditional Artisan Pizza Crust

You can always catch what’s going on in our lives at www.jodiefitz.com and www.facebook.com/jodiefitzcooks, or check out my new cook books coming soon!

• 1 cup baby leaf spinach, finely chopped • ½ cup cooked ham, diced • 4 large eggs • 4 oz. shredded sharp cheese • 1 tablespoon olive oil • Black pepper 1. Pre-heat the oven to 375 degrees.

2. Cook the eggs in a scrambled fashion over medium heat in a pan coated with non-stick cooking spray.

3. Stir the chopped spinach and olive oil

together. Baste the pizza crust with the spinach and oil. Evenly spread the ham and eggs over the top of the crust. Add a little black pepper to taste. Top the pizza with the cheese. Bake the pizza for 20 – 25 minutes; until the dough is crispy and the cheese is fully melted.

4. Cooking the Eggs by Microwave: Whip

the eggs together. Place them in a butter coated glass dish and microwave on high for one minute. Remove the dish with an oven mitt and stir. Continue to cook the eggs at one-minute intervals, stirring in between, until the eggs are fully cooked.

On the Run: Prep the pizza the night before and bake it fresh in the morning or bake the entire pizza the night before, slice and heat in the morning.

PIECE OF PIE

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Gardening WITH

PETER BOWDEN

S

eptember is one of those months that is split by two seasons. September has one foot planting in summer, the other in fall. The beginning of the month has us reveling in our flowerbeds with our annual flowers and roses at their peak providing lots of flowers for enjoyment with enough extra for cutting to bring inside or to share with special friends. The vegetable garden too has hit its stride and there are tomatoes, beans, squash and all manner of fresh treats. These are the days we dream of during the long cold evenings of winter.

Even as we relish the precious last days of summer, the end of these glorious days is hinted at, by days that are growing rapidly shorter and the chill in the evening air. For the gardener, these are days to savor, even as we prepare for

the season ahead. Many of the projects we take on in September look very much like the first we tackle in spring. You could actually call September our “second spring.”

September is a great time to plant shrubs and trees for instance. The days are shorter and there is generally more rain. The combination of cooler, moister soil stimulates root growth on woody plants. This makes September a great time to take advantage of clearance sales at the nurseries with plenty of time left before winter to establish a root system in their new location. Naturally, you need to make sure to plant properly to ensure that your fall planted shrubs and trees get off to the best start. It would seem simple enough, but there is a right way and a wrong way...and planting the wrong way

can have severe consequences. If the stem or trunk above ground is covered with soil, it hinders the plant’s ability to pass moisture and nutrients from the root system to the branches and leaves above. Use the extra soil to build a dish-shaped dike or berm out away from the stem of the plant. This will collect water and direct it down to the root system below. All that’s left is to water heavily after planting to remove any air pockets from the soil. If we have a very dry fall (like we did last year) you’ll want to water it occasionally right up until the ground starts to freeze.

There’s another project that many people tackle in spring that’s actually best done in September….lawn seeding. The shorter, cooler days of early September make it the ideal time to make permanent improvements to the condition of our lawn. Turf experts agree that this is the best time of year to start a lawn from seed. If you have a new home that needs a lawn or bare areas that need seeding, get right to it so the seeds will have a chance to sprout and get well established before the ground freezes. This is the best time to tackle this project, but the window of opportunity is a small one, so don't put it off.

Consult the folks at the garden center to determine the best grass blend for your particular soil and light conditions. For late summer seeding, avoid cheap blends that contain annual ryegrass. You'll also see seed blends available that claim to be 'for sun or shade'. There aren't too many grass types that thrive equally in sun or shade. These blends simply mix sunny types and shady types together in one bag. In sun, some of the seed thrives but the shady seed dies. In shade, the opposite happens. The best idea is to choose a blend that is specific to your need. The right seed blend is always a good investment.

Most folks overdo it and put down way more grass seed than is necessary. One or two seeds per square inch is just right. After your seed is on the soil, start watering and watering and watering. No matter how high the quality of the seed used, it won’t germinate unless the area is kept moist CONSTANTLY. After the

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young grass is up, apply a slow-release starter lawn food to stimulate quick root growth. Starter foods should have a higher middle number (phosphorus). Phosphorus stimulates root growth, and that's what's needed for a new lawn. The stronger the root system, the quicker the grass gets established and the better it will come through winter.

Speaking of lawns, did you know that September is the best time for weed control? Most of us take the “reactive” approach of killing dandelions and other lawn weeds in the spring when we see them flowering. After we wipe that initial round of flowering weeds out, we'll have a lovely lawn all summer.

Unfortunately the seeds of dandelions from other, untreated areas around our yards or a neighbor's yard are blowing in all summer and sprouting in our lawn. These little seedlings of the perennial weeds are small and go unnoticed. They'll survive the winter and burst into flower with the first warm days the following spring.

With this in mind the “proactive” gardener will treat his or her lawn in late summer. By killing the young weed seedlings that are growing in your lawn now, you'll find that you won't have to take the “reactive” measure of trying to fit weed killing into a busy spring gardening schedule. You'll also wipe out a higher percentage of the weeds if you treat in late summer since they're smaller and it takes less weed killer to kill small weeds than mature weeds. A little effort now will make your spring lawn the weed-free wonder of the neighborhood!

THANKS FOR THE READ. SS

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WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER, PHOTOS BY ALICE COREY PHOTOGRAPHY

Meet the Cook Who Uses

that Kitchen

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...in the

kitchen

with Chef Jasper Alexander At home and at work, the Alexanders are cooking up comfort from a recipe full of feel-good ingredients.

J

asper, the executive chef at Hattie’s Restaurant, is famous for his southern comfort foods, and most especially his fried chicken. With the release of The Hattie’s Restaurant Cookbook this year, he and his wife Beth are inviting everyone to take a seat at the table and try their hand at making cooking approachable again.

“I’m married to a chef, the average home cook doesn’t have that, but with this cookbook, it’s like Jasper’s in the kitchen with you,” said Beth.

Between responding to the enthusiastic response by fans since the release of the book, and the intensity of the crowds during

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“I pretty much love everything in my kitchen, it has a very warm, glowy, cozy feeling to it,” said Beth.

It was completely renovated with help from Bonacio Construction five years ago, a job that Beth said she loved, but that was also overwhelming at times.

“I didn’t want run of the mill, I knew I wanted something interesting, and when we finally found it, it clicked and it all fell into place,” she said of the process and choosing items from the faucets, and the light fixtures, to the rich earthy tones of the multi-colored backsplash.

the summer season, life can get distracting, and when they’re not at the restaurant, they’re at home by the swimming pool, grilling out and relaxing, she said.

The demands and distractions of their busy life seem farther away with the approach of the winter months when the inviting aroma of simmering cloves or cinnamon wafts from their French top stove to fill the home.

From the workspace in the kitchen, the fireplace crackles in full view, and the Alexanders gather with their two children, Charlie, 10, and Zoe, 16, around the wooden plank island, a repurposed table salvaged from Hattie’s years ago.

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“It’s a grown-up kitchen,” emphasized Beth.

Everything from knives to cutting boards has its place, as functionality is high valued in a chef ’s kitchen, but that doesn’t mean personality is put on the back burner. There is room for many antiques to nest there, from serving trays to one of her favorites; a quirky gravy boat. Beth said that she gets so much joy in decorating and display, especially during the holidays, that in another life that could be her profession.

With decorating, as with cooking, the Alexanders are spreading a cheery feeling of warmth for others to enjoy.

“Our house is a very cozy house that’s not so much a house, as it is a home, and that’s what I like,” she said. SS

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Road trip to

Dancing Ewe Farm written and photographed by Pattie Garrett

There is a little bit of Tuscany on a hilltop in Washington County. It’s a sheep farm called Dancing Ewe Farm.

Jody and Luisa Somers named their farm Dancing Ewe because it suggests movement, has elegance and of course, there’s the sheep. The name fits. The Somers love raising sheep to make the highest quality Pecorino cheese (Pecorino comes from the Italian word “pecora”, which means sheep), harvesting olives for olive oil, and making authentic Tuscan cured meats. They share their love with visitors who make the weekend road trip to the farm for a meal made from scratch and a spectacular view.

Jody was influenced by his experience with the 4H club when he spent his time around sheep and started training border collies. When it came time to make a career choice, he wanted to raise sheep and learn the art of Pecorino cheese making, explaining, “It made sense to farm sheep because of my knowledge of sheep and farming.” He moved to Italy to learn traditional Pecorino production saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

and took away so much more. He met Luisa who is from Manciano, in the Maremma Toscano region of Tuscany known for its beautiful hills and olive groves overlooking the Argentario coast.

It is important to Jody and Luisa that they continue the customs and traditions of Tuscany, preserving the art of producing quality foods from the region.

Jody explains that, “the work is cyclical.

There is a season to the work and I look forward to each season.” Each year they return to Tuscany where they’ve made a second home. It is their deep sense of roots and family that brings them back to Italy.

The Somers open the doors of their farm and welcome guests for a 4 course dinner on Saturday evenings and a 3 course Noon meal on Sundays. It’s an experience like no other. “I enjoy the excitement!” exclaims Luisa, describing FALL 2016 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 161

the meals served at the Dancing Ewe Farm.

Guests come from near and far to enjoy the weekend meals and Luisa loves to “wow” them with her authentic Tuscan foods. “It is exciting to see their reaction to the meals.”

Luisa stays true to the region’s cuisine with its simple unique flavors. She uses methods handed down through her family for generations, mother to daughter, preparing food side-by-side, often without recipes - only experience. Ingredients are fresh, natural, and understated, so the food’s real flavor is enjoyed. Many of the ingredients are grown and produced on the farm right down to the herbs in the garden.

Luisa explains, referring to everyone working on the farm, “We do it all… from milking sheep, making cheese, planning and preparing meals, harvesting olives for olive oil, scouting out wines to serve.”

She continues, “It’s rewarding when at the end of the day guests say goodbye with a genuine compliment. It is worth a lot.”

If creating ambiance is an art then the Somers are masters. The meals are enjoyed in a barn overlooking Washington County providing breathtaking views. Sitting at long tables, guests quickly becomes friends.

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During the Saturday evening meals, guests enjoy spectacular sunsets. As the evening grows dark, the lights draped from the ceiling mimic stars, creating a sparkle in the glasses warming the room. Guests, now friends, linger over dessert and conversation as the evening comes to a close.

Sunday lunch starts with Luisa’s wine selection. Guests mingle, finding things in common, and friends are made before lunch is served. With a full view of the valley and hills, guests sit back and enjoy a relaxing meal as an ever present breeze cools the warm afternoon. Nothing feels rushed.

Located in Granville, the Dancing Ewe is a one hour ride from Saratoga Springs through beautiful Washington County. You may want to plan a little extra time to stop along the way to take pictures and visit antiques shops.

Saturday’s four-course dinner including a ½ bottle of wine is $75 per guest and Sunday’s three course meal including wine is $55 per guest. Prior to each meal, Jody gives a tour of the farm to meet the sheep and their lambs, and learn about the traditional art of making Pecorino cheese. Bring a camera

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(or your phone!) to take pictures of the adorable lambs. And yes, you can pet them.

Note about Pecorino Cheese: The sheep on Dancing Ewe Farm graze on a variety of grasses in the pastures providing beneficial nutrients. Sheep’s Cheese is a rich source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids and contains more short- and long-chained fatty acids that make it easier to digest. When compared to other cheese, Pecorino is much higher in protein and fat. It is higher in calcium, phosphorus, Vitamin E, B6 and other vitamins and minerals.

If you haven’t tried Pecorino cheese, you may be in for a surprise. Many are mild with a creamy taste and others have a rich stronger flavor. Sheep’s milk ricotta is heavenly with its creamy, milky flavor. Beware, you will eat it by the spoonful.

You can find Dancing Ewe food at local farmers’ markets, their online store, or by visiting the farm. Learn more at www. dancingewe.com. SS These pages were designed by Madison Feldhaus, intern at Saratoga Today.

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Get in the

Spirit!

A suggested course of wineries and distilleries in our area. …and in the sake of drinking responsibly, may we suggest renting a trolley, calling a car service or this great idea SARATOGA...

SARATOGA COUNTY…

THE SARATOGA WINERY & TASTING ROOM 462 Route 29, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

COOPER’S CAVE ALE COMPANY 2 Sagamore St, Glens Falls, NY 12801

DRUTHERS BREWING COMPANY 381 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

SARATOGA APPLE 1174 Route 29, Schuylerville, NY12871 See our ad on page 167

HENRY STREET TAPROOM 86 Henry St, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 THIRSTY OWL OUTLET & WINE GARDEn 184 S Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 SARATOGA DISTILLERY 59 Franklin St, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 OLDE SARATOGA BREWING COMPANY 131 Excelsior Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 SWEDISH HILL WINERY 441 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 ARTISANAL BEER WORKS 41 Geyser Rd Saratoga Springs , NY 12866 UPSTATE DISTILLING COMPANY 41 Geyser Rd, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

YANKEE DISTILLERIES 5 Fairchild Sq, Clifton Park, NY 12065 HIGH ROCK DISTILLERY 1321 Saratoga Road, Balltson Spa, NY 12020 LEDGE ROCK HILL WINERY 41 Stewart Dam Rd, Corinth, NY 12822 SHMALTZ BREWING COMPANY 6 Fairchild Sq, Clifton Park, NY 12065 SARATOGA COURAGE DISTILLERY Wilton Road, Greenfield Center, NY 12833 COMMON ROOTS BREWING COMPANY 58 Saratoga Ave, South Glens Falls, NY 12803

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WARREN COUNTY...

WASHINGTON COUNTY...

ADIRONDACK WINERY 285 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845

R.S. TAYLOR & SONS BREWERY & TAP ROOM 3602 County Route 30, Salem, NY 12865

ADIRONDACK PUB AND BREWERY 285 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845

SLYBORO CIDER HOUSE AT HICKS ORCHARD 18 Hicks Rd, Granville, NY 12832

CRAFT ON 9 1451 Saratoga Road Fort Edward, NY 12828

ARGYLE BREWING COMPANY 1 Main St, Greenwich, NY 12834

DAVIDSON BROTHERS TOUR EXPERIENCE 1043 State Route 9, Queensbury, NY 12804

BATTLE HILL BREWING 4 Charles St, Fort Ann, NY 12827

SPRINGBROOK HOLLOW FARM DISTILLERY 133 Clements Rd, Queensbury, NY 12084

LAKE GEORGE DISTILLING CO. 11262 New York 149, Fort Ann, NY 12827

MEAN MAX BREW WORKS 193 Glen St, Unit 2, Glens Falls, NY 12801

ESSEX COUNTY PARADOX BREWERY 154 U.S. 9, Schroon Lake, NY 12870 LAKE PLACID PUB & BREWERY 813 Mirror Lake Dr, Lake Placid, NY 12946 GREAT ADIRONDACK BREWERY 2442 Main St, Lake Placid, NY 12946

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Getting Hooked

By Megin Potter

The stillness of the calm, cool water creates a mirror reflecting the colors of the fall trees. Finally, dimples pop up on its surface signaling bugs are there. It’s the moment fly-fishermen live for.

“Hey, it’s starting to happen,” John Martucci hears over the walkie-talkie, but one question still looms. Did he match the hatch?

Of Work and Reward On his way down to the water, Martucci searched for spider webs and the bugs caught within them for a clue as to what’s at the river that day. Next, he chose from the hundreds, if not thousands, of flies that he’d tied by hand for one that looked enough like the area’s natural insects to fool a fish.

“Even if I don’t catch anything, I know I’m going to have a great time,” said Martucci. He’s been fly-fishing for more than 166 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2016

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30 years, not so much for the fish, as for the other rewards that come with it.

“Nothing is as rewarding as tying your own flies. You have to do a lot of things right; the size, the color, the presentation to the fish... because they’re not stupid!”

Insulated from the rest of the world and hoping for success, as they fish, Martucci and his nephew John O’Keeffe, 15, bond over their shared experience.

“Sometimes I get more enjoyment in just watching. The smile on his face, this is what it’s all about.”

Fishing the Battenkill

John Martucci

Known to fly-fishermen as the “Trophy Area” the stretch of the Battenkill passing through the border between New York and Vermont has been heavily fished.

Although the clean water and abundant dark pools hold a lot of promise, the “nice” big trout caught from its waters are becoming more like fodder for the legendary fish stories that fishermen tell rather than everyday occurrences.

“I listen to it all and pick the useful pieces out of it,” said Tim Blodgett, owner of Saratoga Tackle and Archery, which moved from Saratoga Lake to Schuylerville this year. He offers guidance, supplies and service to fishermen, but said fly-fishing has become very much a specialty, giving way to more common cross-over and warm water fishing in this area.

John's nephew, John O’Keeffe

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But to get the whole story, you have to wade in a little deeper.

The New Face of Fly-Fishing “The biggest problem is that people haven’t taken the time to actually learn how to do it, but they’re starting to come around a little more,” said Sinicki.

In addition to the kids that he teaches, he’s finding that veterans and addiction recovery groups are injecting new blood and adding a new dimension to the sport because of the sense of peace they can find while out on the water.

“You get away from it all for a little bit, just being next to the water. It’s a release and it gives them something to do and concentrate on.”

Programs such as Casting for Recovery are actively linking fly-fishing to people wanting to work their muscles and improve motor skills. Sinicki also found this aspect of resilience imbedded within the sport especially helpful during his own recovery after surviving a horrific gas explosion while working in Malta. SS

“It’s not just for the trout, it’s the most fun you can have standing up!”

“Fly-fishing the Battenkill is backing down a little bit,” agreed Paul Sinicki, the President of the Capital District Fly Fishers, a fly tying teacher at the Adirondack Folk School and the 4H Training Center in Ballston Spa.

Fly tying teacher, Paul Sinicki

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Rediscovering Vermont’s

COVERED BRIDGES

by Megin Potter Photos provided by Bennington Chamber

“Commonplaces never become tiresome. It is we who become tired when we cease to be curious and appreciative. We find that it is not a new scene which is needed, but a new viewpoint.” –Norman Rockwell 168 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2016

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N

orman Rockwell’s famous illustrations of country life are still charming reminders of how, by appreciating its faces and places of beauty, the ordinary can transform into the iconic.

An hour from Saratoga, you can drive through the Rockwell Covered Bridge located near his former home. Along the way, why not enjoy the many picturesque views of the idyllic landscapes that are highlighted in a covered bridge driving tour of Vermont’s Southern Bennington County, and maybe even discover a reawakening to the romance that so many have with this area?

Unassuming Marvels Covered bridges have an ancient history around the world, but saw their glory days in America during the mid to late 1800’s.

Beacons of art and engineering, their builders incorporated design and practicality to create wooden structures that last centuries.

Covered bridges connected towns and provided a sheltered meeting space for its people. With more than 100, Vermont has the highest concentration of covered bridges in the country. Bennington County’s dense number of covered bridges and the world’s first museum dedicated to them, makes it an ideal place to learn about these important structures, take pictures, and experience their continuing magnetism.

Vermont Covered Bridge Museum at The Bennington Center for the Arts 44 Gypsy Lane, Bennington, VT 1-802-442-7158 www.thebennington.org/covered-bridge/ As the first stop on the tour, here you can discover the tools, engineering and creators behind the bridges. Use what you learn to build and test your own bridge with their computer simulation program and grab access to their new audio tour to guide you on the rest of your journey. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Burt Henry Covered Bridge, River Rd, Bennington, VT This 1840 bridge is the town lattice truss design the museum was modeled after. It is also the first of three bridges that can be seen within the distance of just two miles.

Paper Mill Village Bridge, Murphy Road, Bennington, VT Built by the renowned Charles F. Sears and named for Vermont’s first paper mill, it is also known as the Bennington Falls Covered Bridge, because of its location above a small waterfall in the Wallomsac River that is a favorite with photographers.

Silk Road Bridge, Silk Road, Bennington, VT Believed to have been built by Sears’ father, Benjamin in 1840, a tree nail used in its construction is inscribed with the initials of a young boy who used to watch with interest nearby as it was being built, said Bennington Center for the Art’s Associate Director Taylor Hutchins.

Chiselville Bridge, Sunderland Hill Road, Sunderland, VT Built in 1870, it spans the Roaring Branch Brook and is strangely high up from the water because the log stringer bridge that it replaced nearly washed away during a flood, carrying a local doctor going to the aid of Revolutionary War soldiers with it, said Hutchins.

West Arlington Bridge, a.k.a.

Rockwell Bridge, River Road, Arlington, VT The last stop on the tour, up the street from Vermont’s Inn on Covered Bridge Green, Norman Rockwell’s former home, and with its Gothic-steepled Chapel on the Green church backdrop, it creates an iconic scene that makes for the perfect ending. SS FALL 2016 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 169

Rollin

By Megin Potter Photos Provided

on the River

obstructions, so you don’t have to be an expert to navigate it. You can spend two days paddling it, but most of the people that Otey sees prefer trips that are between 2 and 4 hours in length, he said.

I

t’s so easy to get caught up in the flow of everyday life that before you know it, summer has slipped away and the first bursts of fall’s brilliance are on full display.

This is a time of quiet and solitude on the Battenkill River.

“It is beautiful; the water quality is excellent and clear. There’s the foliage, migrating waterfowl, the weather is still good and you don’t have the crowds of summer,” said Don Otey. Otey and his wife Lisa, own and operate Battenkill Valley Outdoors, where they provide equipment for customized outdoor adventures on the river until Columbus Day weekend.

Down By the River

The Battenkill River runs for 60 miles from Vermont to New York.

A Class 1 river, it has fast moving water with small waves and few 170 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2016

“That’s a good length of time. Bring a picnic, do some swimming or fishing. Just come here, park your car and we take care of everything else – we put you in and pick you up,” he said.

Renting canoes, kayaks, inflatable kayaks, and the family-friendly rafts and equipment, they will also tow yours for a small fee if you bring your own.

Because the river’s water level can change several feet in just a day depending on rainfall, Otey recommends checking the link to the U.S. Geological Survey River Gage on their website or calling ahead to check on fall conditions before your trip.

Dress for Success

On the Battenkill, the speed of the current and temperature down by the river can change just as quickly as its depth, which is why Battenkill Riversports’ river guide Mackenzie Dumas recommends wearing water shoes and layering clothing for protection against the elements.

She suggests a layering pattern of: tight, loose, tight. Start with something tight to the body, she said, such as Under Armour, followed by a loose-fitting sweatshirt, and topped off with a tightfitting fleece. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Dumas grew up kayaking on the Battenkill and will share facts about the river during her guided lessons and tours, including that it is one of the cleanest in the North East because eighty percent of the land on the river’s edge is private property, but also where the best places to stop and eat are located!

“I point out wildlife and talk about the different kinds of fish. We have bald eagles that nest here, hawks, and deer,” she said.

Dumas’ fall favorite however, is viewing the foliage change along the state border.

“As soon as you reach the New York side it’s Firs instead of just Maples and then it’s Maples and Oaks. It’s just super beautiful!” SS

For more information go to BattenkillValleyOutdoors.com and BattenkillRiversports.com

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NEW THIS YEAR

9/17

September - October 2016 Compiled and designed by Madison Feldhaus photos by John Seymour

SARATOGA SPRINGS

International Film Festival

This inaugural festival is an opportunity for the area to participate in a showcase of independent films.

More information can be found at www.saratogasiff.com

10/17 - 10/18 1ST ANNUAL SCARYTOGA

Harvest Moon Festival

Held at Saratoga Winery, experience and take part in real paranormal investigations, group and private psychic readings, horse drawn ghost tours, poolside seances, and more. Tickets and more information about the event and Scarytoga itself can be found at www.scarytoga.com

Lake George

9/17 - 9/18

Jazz Festival

A weekend of free performances by talented jazz musicians. Enjoy the soulful music while picnicking on the lawn of Shepard Park or listen from the water. www.lakegeorge.com

18TH ANNUAL

Art in the Park

9/17

Artists from the Saratoga and Capital Region will be displaying and selling ceramics, drawings, paintings, jewelry, photography, sculpture, printmaking, and works in other media. Events at Congress Park in Saratoga Springs will include local music, delicious food, Best-inShow prizes, and Kidz Art Zone. www.saratoga-arts.org

9/24 - 9/25 SOUTHERN ADIRONDACK Fiber Festival Celebrate the 8th Annual Southern Adirondack Fiber Festival located at the Washington Fairgrounds in Greenwich. Both experts and beginners will love walking the grounds, visiting demos and workshops, and eating festival foods. Purchase finished products, patterns and kits, handmade soaps, fleece, yarn, and skein.

Enter the Photo Contest and raffle for prizes. www.adkfiber.com THE AMERICAN MUSIC

Festival for the Lake

9/24 - 9/25

The original, and still #1, rock music festival in Lake George features 5 bands 'Saturday Rocks' and 4 on 'Sunday Jams.' ww.festivalforthelake.com 172  |  SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2016

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16TH ANNUAL

Great Pumpkin Challenge

10/15

A great community event with 2,000 walkers, riders and runners participating in a benefit for Saratoga Bridges. The race begins at the Saratoga Spa State Park Columbia Pavilion and continues throughout the scenic and historic state park. There is no day of registration and the event takes place rain or shine. www.saratogabridges.org

Malta Family Fun Festival

10/1 World’s Largest Garage Sale Find everything from antiques, hard-to-find items, old toys, new toys, hats, hardware, vintage clothing, handmade crafts, dollar items and more. Stretching for miles, the sale starts South of Lake George and continues north of Warrensburg into the Adirondacks. www.warrensburggaragesale.com

Color Me Rad

10/22

Held at the Malta Community Center the afternoon will include "Halloween Safety Show" presented by magician, Joey DiDonna, a children's Halloween Parade with Trick or Treat Fun, and the opportunity for the family to carve a pumpkin together.

Registration for this event is required by Tuesday, October 18. www.maltaparksrec.com

BOO 2 YOU FESTIVAL

10/29

Spend the afternoon with spooky dancers and costumed characters at the Downtown Glens Falls Halloween block party! Play games on Glen Street, Trick or Treat at the downtown storefronts, and settle in with your loot for the screening of Hocus Pocus at the Wood Theater at 4PM. www.glensfallsregion.com

10/2

Saratoga State Park's 5k benefiting Special Olympics New York sends its runners through RAD color stations that leave you covered in powders of pink, yellow, green, blue, and violet. www.colormerad.com

Taste of North Country

10/2

FOOD FESTIVAL

Sample selections from the North Country's best restaurants! Located in Glens Falls City Park, enjoy food from some 40 restaurants, live music, and children's activities. The event benefiting Glens Falls Kiwanis Club takes place rain or shine! www.glensfallstaste.com

Leaf Peeping From the Water LAKE GEORGE SHORELINE

Visit www.LakeGeorgeShoreline.com for more information.

THE LAKE GEORGE STEAMBOAT COMPANY

THE WAY WE WERE CAR SHOW Ballston Spa Business and Professional Association and the Saratoga Automobile Museum present the 14th annual show of cars. Enjoy live music, food and family activities at Front Street, Downtown Ballston Spa, NY. Free for spectators. Exhibitors pre-register by 10/1 at 10AM or day of show by 3PM. Rain date: October 16. www.ballston.org saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

To learn more or to reserve a ticket call (518) 668-5777 or visit www.LakeGeorgeSteamboat.com.

MOWKAWK MAIDEN CRUISES

Visit www.ChamplainCanalTours.com for more details or call (518) 695-5496 for reservations and information.

ADIRONDACK CRUISE AND CHARTER COMPANY

To book your cruise visit www.adkcruise.com or call (518) 956-2626.

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THE ADIRONDACK MUSEUM The Adirondack Museum's 59th season is here with its beautiful Blue Mountain and lake views. Featuring 22 modern exhibition galleries and historic buildings, the museum immerses its visitors in the story of the Adirondacks and its people. With permanent exhibitions on Boats & Boating, Wood and Waters, and the great outdoors there is so much to discover about

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the history of the spectacular Adirondacks. With activities and areas designed specifically for children, the Adirondack Museum is a fantastic location to take the family this fall.

For more information about the Adirondack Museum, call (518) 352-7311, email info@adirondackmuseum.org, or visit www.adkmuseum.org. Open daily through October 10th

SARATOGA DOWNTOWN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION'S

Saratoga

Fall Festival

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 11AM - 4PM A spectacular celebration of fall and Halloween starts on Saturday the 29th with Free Family Fun in Downtown Saratoga.

The day is due to be full of fall crafts, entertainment, and live music. Roll a pumpkin down Caroline Street, or paint one to take home at G. Willikers. Opportunities for fun include facepainting and hair chalking, magicians, clowns, rock climbing, fall carnival games, On the Spot Photos on Division Street, pony rides, and a petting zoo. End the day by watching your kids walk in the children’s costume parade. Line up starts at 3 p.m. at The City Center and the parade will end at the Congress Park Carousel where the Department of Public works will sponsor the kids to ride for free!

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PUMPKIN FESTIVALS Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin' Festival SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 25 11AM - 4PM Held at Stoweflake Mountain Resort in Stowe, Vermont, this festival presents the challenge of building the ultimate trebuchet, the modern catapult. Adults and kids are invited to test their intellectual prowess or to come and watch pumpkins get launched and smashed. vtpumpkinchuckin.blogspot.com

Pumpkintown USA SEPTEMBER 19 - OCTOBER 31 10AM –5PM Connecticut's premier "Not Scary" fall celebration is a small village by the name of Pumpkintown, where its inhabitants are over 70 Pumpkin-headed people and animals. Find out what life in Pumpkintown is like while on a hayride through the forest and explore their old fashioned village which includes a post office, saloon, church, and more! www.pumpkintown.com

Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular OCTOBER 6 - NOVEMBER 6 View a nighttime display of over 5,000 jack-o-lanterns at Providence, Rhode Island's Roger William Park Zoo. The 2016 presentation titled, "American Treasures" highlights America's history and culture. Other areas of the trails include Humanitarian Heroes, Endangered Species, and more! www.rwpzoo.org

New Hampshire's 26th Great Pumpkin Festival SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22 A one day, community based, family oriented Spooktacular that celebrates artistry and creativity the autumn way with over 20,000 Jack-O-Lanterns.

Flaunt your Halloween spirit in your costume during the grand parade or by carving a pumpkin to be lit.

Haunted attractions and amusement rides will also be there to for fall celebration! www.nhpumpkinfestival.com

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ADIRONDACK Balloon Festival

SEPTEMBER 22 - 25

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 4PM – 6:30PM Crandall Park, Glens Falls, NY. Opening Night launch with up to 30 balloons.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 3PM – 8PM Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport, Queensbury, NY Up to 80 balloons, ZONTA Craft Fair, live music, food vendors and more.

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 24 5AM – 9AM, 3PM – 7:30PM Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport, Queensbury, NY. Big Balloon Breakfast, food vendors, ZONTA craft fair and launch of up to 100 balloons.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 5AM – 9AM Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport Queensbury, NY. Big Balloon Breakfast, food vendors and ZONTA craft fair. Launch of up to 100 balloons.

4PM – 6:30PM Crandall Park, Glens Falls, NY. Launch of up to 25 balloons at live music, food vendors and more.

All events are weather permitted.

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GHOSTS

in the

Yaddo Gardens TOURS

FRIDAYS AND SUNDAYS SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 30 5:00 PM

Feel the energy and creativity of the forces of the Earth! Share in the Spiritual intrigue from Native Americans, Edgar Allan Poe, the Trask family, and other contemporary visitors!

Docent led tours begin at the Yaddo Garden Parking lot and last for approimately 1 hour.

This tour of the Yaddo Gardens does not include the Yaddo Mansion.

Cost is $10 per person (children 12 and under are free). Private docent led ghost tours may be arranged September 19 - October 30. Contact Yaddo at 518-584-0746 or visit www.yaddo.org.

Five Case Street, Saratoga Springs NY 12866 (518) 581-2480 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

We’re Mobile Friend ly!

issuu.com/saratogapublishing

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Behind the Scenes

Cover credit...

Fall 2016 Cover Shoot

LOCATION:

As you can see from these amazing BTS pics by Alice Corey, this Terrace Homebuilders farmhouse is the perfect blend of edgy industrial meets classic comfort. This home is #7 of the tour, located at 54 Nelson Avenue Extension.

GUEST STAR: Liz Bishop HAIR & MAKE UP: Diane Palma Professional Hair & Makeup @ Blended Hair Studio WARDROBE: Lifestyles of Saratoga and Caroline & Main INTERIOR DESIGNER: Dominic Palleschi Carota, of Blairhouse

Thank you E EVERYONessful

er succ for anoth of Homes Showcase COVER!

PRODUCED BY: Chris Vallone Bushee BTS PHOTOS: Alice Corey Photography COVER PHOTOGRAPHER: Randall Perry Photography Thanks, Randall - we did it!

Back row from left to right: Scot Trifilo, Dominic Palleschi Carota Front row from left to right: Kacie Cotter-Sacala, Randall Perry, Chris Bushee, and Liz Bishop

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