LOCAL • INDEPENDENT • FREE
HEROIN Volume 11 • Issue 15 • April 15 – April 21, 2016
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No Murder Charge For Dealing Death
by Norra Reyes Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Another young victim was lost last week to the war on drugs, a 23-year-old local woman who died of a drug overdose right here in Saratoga Springs. For her, and many families like hers, the drug war is more of a street fight, one that lurks in every home medicine cabinet, haunts every playground, and boldly grins through every neighborhood here and across America. Retired New York State police sergeant Fred Scheidt of Greenfield
says you never see it coming. He lost his daughter, Katie-Lynn Scheidt, October 3, 2014, and the grief has never left him or the rest of Katie’s family.
understand the criminal element. They think that criminals are just like you and me. They aren’t.” According to Scheidt, dealers think nothing of handing out free
“On average for the past three or four months, we have been using Narcan a couple times a week.” - Saratoga Springs Deputy Fire Chief Peter Shaw
“But what makes me really angry,” said Scheidt, “is that she was four months clean when her dealer got to her. Regular people don’t
heroin samples to people who are in recovery, because they know they’ll be back for more, willing to pay, willing to beg, borrow and steal to pay for
Recusal Or Refusal?
more. “Katie would say she had to change her phone number because pushers were trying to encourage her to get back into it,” said Scheidt. “Subtly, people are dying. If you took out a pin map and marked all the spots, people would go, ‘are you kidding me?’” The combination of the often painful physical addiction; easy access to cheap opioids like heroin; and the insidious, cloying “friendship” offered by dealers with no conscience suggest overdose deaths are more inevitable than accidental. And murderous. See Heroin pg. 12
State Champ
Introduction: This is a story about transparency in government, overlaid on a timeline. The supporting documents that will be discussed have been placed online –http://saratogatodayonline.com/index.php/news/ news/item/5245-saratoga-emails
- for the reader’s consideration. After discussing this with management, before press time, I contacted Mayor Yepsen and invited her to respond to this story, and we pledged to print her response verbatim, in next week’s issue. SARATOGA SPRINGS — According to correspondence (emails and letters) and documents obtained by Saratoga
Last Chance To Vote See pgs. 26-28
Inside TODAY Blotter 5 Obituaries 6 Business 18-19 Education 22-23 Pulse 36-39
Weekend Forecast
TODAY, between officials at Saratoga Hospital and Saratoga Springs Mayor Joanne Yepsen, Mayor Yepsen opened discussions with the Hospital about fundraising work for her private company in October 2015, after the Hospital’s Planned Unit Development (PUD) amendment See Recusal pg. 10
See pg. 11
Sports 44-48
Mayor/Hospital Communication Submitted to Board of Ethics
by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY
Kasich in Saratoga
FRIDAY
62|33 SATURDAY
65|37 SUNDAY See Gymnast pg. 44
73|41
2
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
Man on the Street “What was your first concert and how old were you? ”
“Kiss. I was 13.” – Lisa Fraine (left), from Saratoga Springs
“I was 13 and I saw Green Day.” – Chris Cronin, from Saratoga Springs “I saw Hanson when I was 8.” – Johanna Berger, from Ballston Spa
“Jonas Brothers at 8 years old.” – Genevieve Fraine (center right), from Saratoga Springs “I saw Jay and the Americans. It was at the Brooklyn Paramount in 1963.” – JoAnn Bisogno, from Slingerlands
“Britney Spears when I was just 2.” – Marguerite Fraine (center left), from Saratoga Springs
“It was The Doors in 1970. I was 21 years old.” – Chris Savastio, from Slingerlands
“Train. It was just last year!” – Rosemary Fraine (right), from Saratoga Springs
“Phil Ochs. He was a protest folk singer and a contemporary of Bob Dylan – Mitch Frost, from Saratoga Springs
“High School Musical in concert when I was 10.” – Jasmin Senn, from Saratoga Springs “It was this traditional African music concert with a lot of drumming. I was 7.” – Rose Nixon (left), from Saratoga Springs “Journey when I was 13.” – Maya Clarke-Brunetto (right), from Saratoga Springs
“I don’t remember exactly when it was, but my first concert was the Philadelphia Orchestra at SPAC” – Carl Strock (left), from Saratoga Springs “When I was at Union College, I saw the Emerson Quartet perform an all-Beethoven show.” – Gene Damm (right), from Albany
“I saw The Plain White T’s at 13.” – Emma Rios, from Santa Fe, New Mexico “T.I. when I was 12.” – Joseph Hernandez, from New York City
“I saw Boston in Springfield, Massachusetts when I was a freshman in college” – Greg Bicher (left), from Saratoga Springs “When I was at Syracuse, I saw ZZ-Top open for Grand Funk Railroad.” –Jill Roome (right), from Rhinebeck
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
NEWS 3
Exclusive: SCT Announces Fall and Holiday Shows!
Past performance of “A Christmas Carol” by Saratoga Children’s Theatre. Photo by Mark Bolles
by Rebecca Davis Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS – Saratoga Children’s Theatre (SCT) has just announced their fall and holiday programming for 2016. For the fall show, premiering on October 14 and 15, SCT will be performing “The Addams Family.” The director for the show will be Tim Antonacci, with the music director to be announced. This performance is for SCT’s Teen Troupe; auditions will be open to teens between 13 and 18 years old. Auditions for “The Addams Family” will be on Saturday, June 18 at 5 p.m. at the Saratoga Springs Senior Center, located at 5 Williams Street. There will be 10 lead roles to fill, with more roles as supporting cast. To sign up to audition for the fall show, visit saratogachildrenstheatre.org. Finishing out the season will be SCT’s holiday show performance of “A Christmas Carol,” based off the story by Charles Dickens, on December 2 and 3. This show will be open to children between 7 and 18 years old; auditions will be announced soon on SCT’s website. For more information about Saratoga Children’s Theatre, visit saratogachildrenstheatre.org.
4
WEEK IN REVIEW
Friends of the Saratoga County Animal Shelter Selects New Leaders
Saratoga Springs Public Works Commissioner Proposes Potential Theatre District SARATOGA SPRINGS — Public Works Commissioner Anthony “Skip” Scirocco pitched the idea of creating a theatre district in Saratoga Springs at a city council meeting on Tuesday, April 5. He has hopes that a theatre district would benefit the economy, creating new jobs and raising tax revenues. Throughout its history, theatre and the arts have been areas of attraction for the city.
L to R: Donna Connor, Jennifer McDonald and Sandra D’Ambro
BALLSTON SPA – New leaders of the Friends of the Saratoga County Animal Shelter have been chosen. This organization, founded in 2008, is a nonprofit group of volunteers committed to providing support to the Saratoga County Animal Shelter. Jennifer McDonald and Donna Connor have been chosen as the newest president and vice-present of the organization.
The two women are experienced small business owners and shelter volunteers. Previous leaders plan to remain a part of the organization, including founder Sandra D’Amrbo, and will combine their knowledge and efforts with that of the newest leaders. For further information about Friends of the Saratoga County Animal Shelter, visit www.friendsofcas.org.
Public Safety Telecommunicators Week BALLSTON SPA – Saratoga County began its celebration of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week as of Sunday, April 10. This week is recognized to honor the many emergency dispatch workers who work to save lives by answering emergency calls and providing assistance to those
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in need. Local emergency dispatch workers from the Saratoga County Sheriff ’s Office demonstrated their hard work during the recent windstorm on Thursday, April 7 that left many homes and vehicles damaged and many homes with no power, answering 691 emergency calls in less than three hours.
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However, Scirocco said there is currently no year-round theatre venue in the city as there was in the Victorian days. Scirocco and Assistant City Engineer Deborah LaBreche have discussed the option of creating a year-round city theater on a part of the High Rock Parcel. Scirocco stated that the proposed High Rock theatre district would be valuable for the projected
High Rock parking plan and for local restaurant and hotel businesses, while expanding the Broadway show business upstate to Saratoga Springs. Scirocco said a mixed-use plan could be proposed for the prospective district, making it a potential area for condominiums, retail and artist rental lofts, hotels and restaurants, while also including paid parking and a theater courtyard.
Cuomo Signs Law Lifting NY’s MMA Ban ALBANY — The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) will host a fight card at Madison Square Garden on November 12, after Gov. Andrew Cuomo approved lifting the state’s ban on professional mixed-martial arts. Cuomo signed a bill on
Thursday, April 14, ending the state’s 19-year-old ban on the sport. The UFC, the sport’s largest promote, had lobbied to overturn for nearly a decade. The legislative stalemate ended on March 22 when the Democratic-led Assembly passed the measure after the Republican-led
Senate had done so eight times in the past seven years. UFC CEO Lorenzo Fertitta stated that in addition to the November 12 event, another event will be held upstate by the end of the year. Those details are still being worked out.
DEC Releases Bear Harvest Results for 2015 ALBANY – The Department of Environmental Conservation has announced as of Wednesday, April 6 that the 2015 hunting season entailed the second largest bear harvest
on record for New York State, due to a thriving bear population. 1,132 bears were harvested in the southern zone, a 30 percent increase from the recent five-year average. In the
Northern zone, 583 bears were harvested, a 27 percent increase from the recent five-year average. For a complete summary of the 2015 bear harvest results, visit www.dec.ny.gov.
2015 Black Bear Harvest & Recent Trend Comparison 2015 Total
2014 Total
Recent 5-year Average
Historical Average
Northern 583 518 460 515 Southern 1,132 1,110 869 207 Statewide 1,715 1,628 1,329 722
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Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
COURTS: Kimberly J. Booke, 30, of Gansevoort, was sentenced on March 29 to 1 year in jail, after pleading to the felony charge of grand larceny in the fourth degree. Patrick M. MacDonald, Jr., 27, of Ballston Spa, was sentenced on March 31 to 1 year in jail, after pleading to the felony charge of burglary in the third degree. Nicole M. DeJesus, 32, of Rensselaer, was sentenced on April 1 to 2-4 years in prison, after pleading to the felony charge of burglary in the third degree. Nicholas F. Bonfante, 36, of Troy, pled on April 1 to the felony charge of attempted burglary in the second degree. Sentencing is scheduled for May 13. Patience Patterson (a.k.a. Patience DiPasquale), 42, of Milton, was sentenced on April 4 to 5 years probation, after pleading to the felony charge of grand larceny in the fourth degree. Anthony M. Wheeler, 37, of Malta, was sentenced on April 5 to 4 months in jail, after pleading to the felony charge of failure to register as a sex offender. Cornelius A. Thompson, 31, of Schenectady, pled on April 5 to the charges of felony
aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the first degree, and driving while intoxicated. Sentencing is scheduled for May 31. Dieasha Jones, 24, of Albany, pled on April 5 to the felony charge of grand larceny in the third degree. Sentencing is scheduled for July 6. Brad S. Blair, 39, of Glens Falls, was sentenced on April 5 to 3 ½ years in prison and 3 years post-release supervision, after pleading to the felony charge of attempted criminal sale of a controlled substance in the third degree.
Margaret K. Knight, 34, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on March 24 and charged with petit larceny.
Zachariah L. DeLurey, 28, of Stillwater, pled on April 5 to the felony charge of driving while intoxicated. Sentencing is scheduled for May 25. Kimberly M. Kelly, 41, of Stillwater, was sentenced on April 6 to time served and 5 years probation, after pleading to the felony charge of aggravated driving while intoxicated. Justin M. Miner, 23, of Ballston Spa, pled on April 6 to the felony charge of attempted criminal sale of a controlled substance. Sentencing is scheduled for May 25. Leo B. Belcher, 50, of Troy, pled on April 6 to the felony charge of driving while intoxicated. Sentencing is scheduled for June 15. David J. Lehmann, 46, of Queensbury, pled on April 6
J. Rogers, 48, of Schuylerville allegedly attempted to intimately touch a 13-year old girl, offering her jewelry in exchange. Rogers was subsequently charged with one count of endangering the welfare of a child.
Clifton Park Man Arrested for Engaging in Sexual Relationships with Minors CLIFTON PARK — Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office has reported that a 21-year old man has been arrested and charged with sexual misconduct as of Friday, April 8, after participating in sexual relationships with two underage females. Connor Ash, 21, of Clifton Park began this activity with
ARRESTS: Amanda L. Smith, 26, of Glens Falls, was arrested on March 24 and charged with speeding in a post zoned, unsafe lane change
Schuylerville Man Charged after Alleged Intimate Conduct with a Minor SCHUYLERVILLE — Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office reported that a man was arrested and charged with endangering the welfare of a child as of Monday, April 4, after allegedly engaging in inappropriate conduct with a 13-year old. Robert
to the felony charge of driving while intoxicated. Sentencing is scheduled for June 1.
two females under the age of 17 in the summer of 2014, exchanging sexual text messages and pictures with one of the minors. Ash was arrested and charged with one count of disseminating indecent material to minors in the first degree (class D felony) and two counts of sexual misconduct.
Glenn D. Clark, 21, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on March 25 and charged with criminal possession of marihuana in the fifth degree. Sarah L. Holland, 29, of Somervile, MA, was arrested on March 26 and charged with driving while intoxicated, driving with a BAC more than .08 of 1%, and two counts of failure to signal a turn. Edward W. Dano, 49, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on
March 28 and charged with petit larceny. Cole D. Vincent, 47, was arrested on March 28 and charged with the felonies of escape in the second degree, and assault in the second degree. Cory Chadwell, 22, of Warrensburg, was arrested on March 28 and charged with unlawfully dealing with a child in the first degree. Lynn M. Risch, 50, of Saratoga Springs, and Donald A. Petersimes, 54, of Saratoga Springs, were arrested on March 28 and charged with trespassing on city owned property. Risch was additionally charged with possession of an open container. India L. Payne, 38, of Albany, was arrested on March 29 and charged with criminal possession of stolen property in the fifth degree. Christine M. Henderson, 40, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on March 30 and
charged with criminal contempt in the second degree, and harassment in the second degree. Michael Johnson, 51, of Albany, was arrested on March 30 and charged with unlawful possession of marihuana, and an equipment violation. Seth A. McGuire, 45, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on March 31 and charged with failure to signal a turn, refusing a pre-screen test, driving while intoxicated, and driving with a BAC more than .08 of 1%. Nicole M. Bonomo, 30, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on March 31 and charged with driving while intoxicated (2nd offense), and driving with a BAC more than .08 of 1%. Michael E. Burke, 27, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested on March 31 and charged with felony criminal mischief in the third degree.
6 Robert “Bobo” Braim SARATOGA SPRINGS — Robert “Bobo” Braim, formerly of Pearl Street in Saratoga Springs, passed away on Sunday, April 10, 2016 at Wesley Health Care Center. Born in Saratoga Springs on March 26, 1933, Bob was the son of the late Harry and Elizabeth (Sesselman) Braim. He worked for Van Raalte Company and retired in 2004 from the Saratoga Springs Department of Public Works. Bob was a kind man with a good soul. He always was there to lend a hand to friends and neighbors. He loved working in his yard and in his garden. Bob loved talking to people and had an incredible sense of humor that made you feel good when you were around him. He will be greatly missed. In addition to his parents he was predeceased by his sisters Norine Leight, Marty Braim, and Mary Scranton; his brothers Harold and Jack “Blossom” Braim; his niece Wendy LoCicero and nephews Richard Leight II, Keith VanHyning and Charles Braim. Survivors include many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews as well as his brother Gerald (Mary) Braim of Gansevoort. Friends and family gathered to remember him on Wednesday, April 13, 2016 at the William J. Burke & Sons/ Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway in Saratoga Springs. A funeral home service was conducted by Rev. George J. Blasick, C.Ss.R. Burial was held on Thursday, April 14, 2016 at Maplewood Cemetery in Saratoga Springs. Bob’s family wishes to thank the staff on 4 Springs at Wesley for their care and devotion, the nurses and the aides who took the time to stop and chat with him and bring a smile to his face, Bob’s care consultants who made his stay as comfortable as possible, and to Community Hospice for their care and compassion in making his final days peaceful. We would also like to thank Christine and Kevin for being amazing neighbors and friends, and for their constant visits that brought a smile to him. Online remembrances may be made at burkefuneralhome.com.
Rose Stark SARATOGA SPRINGS – Rose Stark, formerly of Forest Avenue, Saratoga Springs, died peacefully on Wednesday, April 6, 2016 at the Wesley Nursing Home. She was 100 years old. Born in New Haven, CT, Rose moved to Saratoga Springs when she married Henry Stark in 1946. Rose showed artistic talent in high school and went on to study art at Skidmore College. For a short time, she also
OBITUARIES taught art in the Saratoga Springs City School District. She enjoyed participating in “Art in the Park” for many years and won numerous awards for her paintings. Her beautiful artwork adorns many homes in the Saratoga area and beyond. Rose was an active member in Hadassah and in the local Synagogue Sisterhood. In her leisure time she liked to play mah jong and in her later years, she enjoyed swimming at the YMCA. Rose was a wonderful cook and baker and always welcomed guests into her home. She was a kind and loving role model to everyone. She cherished her husband, loved her sons deeply, and adored her grandchildren. They have wonderful memories of time spent painting, baking, and playing together. Rose was married to Henry for 68 years until his passing two years ago. She was also predeceased by her sister, Fay, and her brothers Max, Ruby, Abe, and Eli. She is survived by her three sons, Sidney (Debbie) Stark, Michael Stark, and Marvin (Miriam) Stark and by Lollie Abramson; nine grandchildren, Sara, Tsippi, Deena, Chavi, Peri, Avi, Tova, Elisheva, and Jacob and five greatgrandchildren, Aliza, Emma, Dovid, Serena, and Yahel. The family would like to thank the nurses, doctors, aides, and volunteers at the Wesley Nursing Home for the wonderful care given to Rose while she lived there. The funeral was held on Friday, April 8 at the Jewish Community Cemetery in Saratoga Springs. Shiva was observed in the home of Sid and Debbie Stark at 233 S. Main Ave., Albany and the home of Marvin and Miriam Stark in Providence, RI. Arrangements were under the direction of Tunison Funeral Home, 105 Lake Ave, Saratoga Springs; online remembrances may be made at www.tunisonfuneralhome.com
Joan K. Sullivan SCHUYLERVILLE – Joan K. Sullivan, 90, a former Church St. resident, passed away Saturday, April 9, 2016 at Saratoga Hospital. Born October 27, 1925 in Flushing, Queens, NY, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Josephine Craig Mathews of Rosedale, Long Island, NY. Mrs. Sullivan was a graduate of Andrew Jackson High School and went to work for Time Inc., and Elizabeth Arden in New York City before marrying John J. Sullivan and moving to Schuylerville. In 1960 John and Joan purchased Old Saratoga Inn and Bowling Lanes. She was a bowling coach and had a
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016 number of New York State Championship teams over the years. She also worked at the Schuylerville Public Library for several years. She knitted over five thousand teddy bear sweaters that she donated to Hole in the Woods Ranch. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, John J. Sullivan; a grandson, Jeremy; and daughter-in-law, Jeanne. Survivors include her children, Michael (Sue) Sullivan of Carthage, NC, Patrick Sullivan of Greenwich, Bob (Gerry) Sullivan of Salem, and Debbie (Dale) Charbonneau of Saratoga Springs; grandchildren, Sean Sullivan, Jen Myers, Stacey Poitras, Jennah Scofield, Bob Sullivan, John Sullivan, and Danielle Jourdan; and 12 great-grandchildren. A funeral mass was celebrated on Thursday, April 14 at Notre Dame-Visitation Church in Schuylerville with Rev. Martin Fisher, officiating. Burial followed in St. Mary’s Cemetery. Friends gathered to remember her on Wednesday, April 13 at Flynn Bros. Inc. Funeral Home, 13 Gates Ave. in Schuylerville. Memorials can be made in her memory to Bridging People & Places, PO Box 53, Schuylerville, NY 12871. Online remembrances can be made at www.flynnbrosinc.com
Doris Mae (Bradeen) Boyd SARATOGA SPRINGS — Doris Mae (Bradeen) Boyd, 95, while under Hospice care, passed away peacefully very early Saturday morning, March 26, 2016, just 3 months after the passing of her beloved husband of 72 years, Arthur Boyd. Doris and Arthur resided at the Home of the Good Shepard in Malta for the past year. Doris was born on October 18, 1920 in Lockport, NY to the late Leroy and Laura Bradeen. Doris was raised in Millinocket, ME, but spent her summers working and playing at a resort owned by her parents located on Kidney Pond, at the base of Mt. Katadin. From age 5 to 12 years old, Doris attended The McInnis School located in Greenville, ME. Starting in 8th grade, by the recommendation of Governor Baxter, Doris attended and resided at the Fryeburg Academy located in Fryeburg, ME. Doris was a sports fanatic and while attending the Fryeburg Academy, she earned her Varsity letters in Field Hockey and Basketball. Doris graduated from the Academy in 1938, and went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree in Home Economics from the University of Maine in 1942, where she met her dear husband, Arthur. Following her graduation from the University, Doris and Arthur married on July 14, 1943. Doris then began her career as a wife, loving mother and remarkable homemaker. She and Arthur resided in several New England cities before settling in Garden City, NY to raise their two children, Nancy and John. Doris and Arthur later moved to Woodbury, CT. After several years living in CT, Doris and Arthur relocated to Pawleys Island, SC. They enjoyed the warmth and sunshine of the South for about 10 years, before moving to Saratoga Springs to be closer to family. Doris and Arthur spent 15 years living at Prestwick Chase, in Saratoga Springs, prior to their move to The Home of the Good Shepard. Doris was not only an athlete in school but she continued through her adult life as a huge fan of professional tennis, and an avid player as well. As an adult she also
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016 enjoyed downhill skiing, and even taught her grandson, David, and granddaughter, Sara, how to ski. In addition to sports, Doris loved entertaining and was very passionate about singing, dancing and playing the piano. She was always known to grab the microphone if given the opportunity and sing to the crowd. Doris was a gourmet cook and often treated her family to elaborate meals. One of her most spectacular dishes was her Italian Roasted Leg of Lamb that she would prepare each Easter. Doris loved to socialize, and enjoyed playing Bridge with her friends. She was a beautiful woman, always dressed to the nines. She would light up every room she entered. Doris was someone you wanted to invite to your party not only for her beautiful singing voice and lively dancing, but for her charm and charisma. Doris attended the Presbyterian New England Congregational Church of Saratoga Springs. Doris is survived by her daughter Nancy Boyd Trimbur of Saratoga Springs, son John Boyd and daughter-in-law Diane Boyd of LaGrangeville, NY; her cherished grandchildren David Trimbur of West Berlin, NJ, Sara (Steven) Baldes of Corinth, NY, Jason Boyd of Sarasota, FL and Laura Lee Boyd of LaGrangeville, NY; treasured greatgrandchildren Reese Trimbur of West Berlin, NJ, and Madeline and Priscilla Baldes of Corinth, NY. Doris and her husband Arthur will be buried together during a private ceremony to be held May 13, 2016 at the Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville, NY. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Doris will be greatly missed; however, her family and friends can find comfort in knowing that after years of suffering with Dementia, “The Old Gray Mare” is everything that she used to be, now reunited with her loving husband, Arthur, dancing and singing in the heavens above. Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes of 628 North Broadway in Saratoga Springs. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
James G. Collins Sr SARATOGA SPRINGS — James G. “Jim” Collins Sr., passed away Saturday morning, April 9, 2016, surrounded by his loving family. He was 87. Born on June 29, 1928 in Saratoga Springs, he was the son of the late Michael F. and Mary Geary Collins. He resided all his life in the Saratoga Springs area, graduating with honors from St. Peter’s Academy in 1946. He then completed his
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OBITUARIES 7 Bachelor of Arts in Modern Languages from Siena College in Loudonville, NY, graduating in 1950. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the US Army serving two years during the Korean War. Following his return to civilian life, Jim’s employment included working with the Saratogian newspaper and Espey Manufacturing and Electronics Corp. In 1965, he joined the Urban Renewal Agency of Saratoga Springs, where he served until August of 1968, when he became Executive Director of the Saratoga Springs Housing Authority. During his 22 years as Executive Director, he was a member of the New York State Association of Housing and Renewal, serving as State Director from 1974-76; Past President and one of the founding fathers of the Central New York Housing Authority 1973-75; a member of the Public Housing Officials National Organization, 1984-1990 and was accredited as a Professional Housing Manager by the National Association of Housing and Renewal since 1977. He retired in 1990. Among the many distinguished civic and community efforts are Jim’s leadership and contributions to local service organizations including his work as a dedicated honorary life member and Past Grand Knight of Saratoga Council 246 Knights of Columbus, a Past Faithful Navigator of Saratoga Assembly 745 Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, a Past President of the Saratoga Columbian Association and a 47-year member of Saratoga-Wilton B.P.O. Elks Lodge 161. Additionally, Jim was elected to the St. Peter’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2003 and during his college years played semi-professional basketball for both the Spa-Vets and Sar-Vets. He is survived by eight children: James G. Collins, Jr. of Bethlehem, PA, Anne E. Perotta and her husband David of Saratoga Springs, Justin L. Collins and his wife Kristina of Gillsville, GA, Michael F. Collins and his wife Ann of Gansevoort, Mary Kate Green and her husband Michael of Glenville, Christopher G. Collins of Southampton, NY, Brigid M. Lennox and her husband William of Gansevoort, and Tara J. Geiger and her husband Michael of Guilford, CT; 16 grandchildren: James G. III and Michelle Collins, Thomas Marinello and Meghan McLain, Justin P., Daniel and Rory Collins and Siobhan Brumbelow, Jennifer Conroy and Stefanie Morici, Kristen and Brittany Collins, Chelsea and Zachary Lennox, Michael Jr. and Melissa Geiger, 4 great-grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his wife, M. Jeanne Trombly Collins and two sisters, Mary Frances Hickey and Gertrude Smaldone. Relatives and friends gathered to pay their respects on Tuesday, April 12, 2016 at the William J. Burke & Sons/ Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway in Saratoga Springs. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Wednesday, April 13 in St Clement’s Church, 231 Lake Ave. in Saratoga Springs; burial followed in St. Peter’s Cemetery, West Ave., also in Saratoga Springs. Memorials may be made in Jim’s name to the American Heart Assoc., PO Box 417005, Boston, MA 02241. Online remembrances may be made at www. burkefuneralhome.
Stanley R. Krystek SARATOGA SPRINGS — Stanley R. Krystek, Sr., age 80, passed away on Saturday, April 9, 2016 at the Wesley Health Care Center after a brief illness, surrounded by his family. Stanley was born on July 1, 1935 in Camden, NJ to the late Stanley and Beatrice (Perry) Krystek. He was the eldest of five sons.
Stanley graduated from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA and received his Master’s degree from Union College in Schenectady. He was a lieutenant in the U.S. Army and served at Fort Belvoir, Virginia from February 1960 to May 1962. Stanley worked for IBM for 37 years as a Quality Engineer. He was involved with Christian Endeavor, was an avid train collector and enjoyed reading and travel. Stanley is survived by his wife, Norma (Appleton) Krystek; his children, Stanley, Jr. and his wife Carol, Paul and his wife Susan, Gail Bates and her husband John; his grandchildren Jason, Bethany, Jessica, Joshua, Madison, and Haille; and his brothers, Clark, Edward, and Lee. He was pre-deceased by his brother James. A funeral service will be held on Friday, April 15, 2016 at 9:30 a.m. at the Presbyterian-New England Congregational Church, 24 Circular Street in Saratoga Springs. Burial with military honors will follow at 11 a.m. at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Road, Schuylerville. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society, 1 Penny Lane, Latham, NY 12110 or the Alzheimer’s Association, Pine West Plaza, Bldg. 4 Suite 405, Washington Ave. Ext., Albany, NY 12205. Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes of 628 North Broadway in Saratoga Springs. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
Appeal from 5th Grade Iowan Hi! I’m Madison P. I’m a fifth grader at Harlan Intermediate School in Harlan, Iowa. My class and I are studying Geography and History in the United States of America. It’s been interesting! In February 2017, I will be visiting New York (the state!) So I was automatically picked for this state. I am very excited to see what’s in your awesome state! I would also really appreciate it if you would send me pictures, postcards, information and souvenirs on your really cool state! My teacher, Mrs. Newlin, would like a car license plate if possible for a school project. I really appreciate your time and I look forward to learning more about your awesome state, New York!! Thank you! Sincerely, Madison P. Mrs. Newlin’s S.S. Class Harlan Intermediate School 1401 19th St. Harlan, IA 51537 Because of wonderful people like you, 110 Intermediate fifth graders are able to learn many things about your state. Nothing can equal the encouraging letters, beautiful picture postcards, and exciting historical information a newspaper’s readers send to them. All is very much appreciated, and I thank the newspapers very much for printing their letters. Mrs. Newlin Social Studies Teacher
8
OP - ED/LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Support Park Proposal, but not Victorian Theater It is nice that one member of the Council, Skip Scirocco, thinks out of the box. His proposal for “green park space with lighted walkways and benches” due south of the recently approved City Center parking garage, seems a good fit for the area. High Rock Avenue has, over the last decade, become an urban hotel, condo and restaurant area. The new park land breaks that density, and maintains the park “axis” from Congress Park to existing High Rock Park. While the park proposal is good, Scirocco also proposed a Victorianstyle theater to the south of the new park, fronting Lake Avenue. I don’t believe that the theater proposal is in the best interests of the majority of citizens. My reasons are: the parcel is publicly-owned land, there are existing theaters in the City including Universal Preservation Hall; most citizens would not avail its services; it is more important for the City to keep
the parcel along Lake Avenue for services since losing the Collamer Lot; and municipal services should benefit all citizens. One idea is future expansion of City Hall, particularly a new Police Station. This is not the only idea that serves the City as a whole, others can be proposed. If City Hall were to consolidate services in the future, what better place than Lake Avenue? Moreover, the new building would eliminate the awkward curb cut, next to the Police Station, either reverting to a wide sidewalk, or enabling a full additional lane of westbound traffic to turn right on Broadway. For the above reasons, the park proposal for High Rock Avenue sounds appropriate, but the Victorianstyle theater along Lake Avenue does not warrant support when the public interest is taken into account. Dennis Hodges Saratoga Springs
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
Time to Privatize NYRA The Concerned Citizens for Saratoga Racing supports the re-privatization of NYRA as a not-for-profit corporation. The passage of legislation to accomplish this goal is a priority for all of us in Saratoga Springs and Saratoga County as well as the Capital Region, and it should be addressed before the Legislature adjourns its formal session this June 2016. We strongly believe that a primary benefit to a notfor-profit corporation is the fact that voting representation from the private sector on the new Board of Directors can be designated for key stakeholders and host communities, like Saratoga. Returning NYRA’s governance to a not-for-profit corporation must guarantee that our community has voting representation that is in line with the substantial role
Saratoga plays in NYRA’s financial success; it must be a meaningful role for local advisory boards. We are grateful for the leadership and commitment provided by our New York State legislators to advance this goal. In particular, we believe that the letter to Governor Cuomo authored last summer on July 23, 2015, which was signed by legislators across the Capital Region as well as the Senate and Assembly leaders and Chairs of the Racing Committees in the Senate and Assembly helped us to make this discussion a priority this year. We look forward to working with these legislators and the Governor’s office to consider any ideas they may have. We believe a not-for-profit corporation model is not only the best option, but it is what
was agreed to and approved when the temporary board was formed four years ago. The temporary board and new management was charged with, and has successfully transformed NYRA’s operations, resulting in a profitable operation two years in a row. The Saratoga Race Course is the oldest sporting venue in the United States and hosts the most successful race meeting in our country every summer with a regional economic impact locally of more than $240 million annually. Saratoga must preserve and protect this unique treasure for generations to come. Todd Shimkus Spokesperson for the Concerned Citizens for Saratoga Racing and the President of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
NEWS 9
Viewpoint
Time for a New Form of Government
I was pleased to see that Mayor Yepsen mentioned the need for a City Charter update during this year’s State of the City address. A re-evaluation of our Charter is supposed to take place at least every ten years. It is most appropriate that we embark on this effort during 2016. The City of Saratoga Springs has operated under a Commission form of government since 1915. This system was very popular in the early years of the 20th century but has since been abandoned by most communities. Our City government has five parts; the Departments of Accounts, Finance, Public Works, Public Safety and the Office of the Mayor. The Commissioners of each department and the Mayor are elected every two years. They each have two separate and sometimes conflicting sets of responsibilities. As executives, they are responsible for the overall operation of their respective departments. As legislators, they conduct all City business with each of the five members having an equal vote at the Council table. Some individuals insist that our City has achieved great success because of our unique form of government. Others feel that our local government is seriously outdated. They feel that our success has been achieved because of great efforts from both the public and private sectors which have been able to overcome the handicaps inherent in a dysfunctional local government. Many who are closely involved with the daily functions of City
government point to numerous shortcomings. There presently are advocates for minor changes and revisions to our City Charter. Changes such as increasing the terms of office from two years to four and re-visiting the salary schedule, presently $14, 500 annually for the mayor and the four commissioners, are some of the possible revisions. Some are suggesting that the mayor receive a higher salary than the four commissioners. Others feel that this would not be fair since each member of the Council has an equal vote at the table and some commissioners have much larger and more complex departments to oversee than the mayor or other commissioners. It is my opinion that such ‘tweaking’ of our Charter could cause greater inequities and would not achieve the significant change that is needed for City government. I feel that it is well past the time for Saratoga Springs to embrace a form of government that is both democratic and responsive without the conflicts of interests and the inefficiencies that we continually see with the Commission form of government. Instead, a City government consisting of an executive branch charged with administration and policy balanced by a separate legislative body of citizens representing various interests in the community would be much more ideal. Whether we had a weak mayor working with a city manager or a strong full-time mayor who was adequately compensated for services rendered, the administration of City government could be much more cohesive and impacted less by political influence. Also, a diverse council charged with legislative duties would attract many bright, insightful citizens and give more individuals the opportunity to participate directly in City government. Details of a re-constituted City government can be worked out
in an open process by a City Charter Review Committee. I realize that Charter reform is a very controversial issue. Some Saratogians have a strong emotional attachment to the Commission form
of government. I do believe though that a well balanced Charter Review Committee can take a sober, rational look at our present form of government and come up with ideas for change that will improve
our City. I also believe that the majority of our responsible citizens will ultimately accept these recommendations. Christian E. Mathiesen Saratoga Springs Commissioner of Public Safety
10
NEWS
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
Recusal Or Refusal?
Mayor/Hospital Communication Submitted to Board of Ethics Continued from front page.
application was presented on the Mayor’s agenda earlier, at the August 18 City Council meeting. After about three months of sporadic discussions between the two parties, Saratoga Hospital wrote to the Mayor, declining to “pursue a working relationship” while she was in office, citing concerns expressed about “… a position that could imply or suggest a conflict of interest in any way” and other concerns, on two occasions: January 14 and 15, 2016. Four days after the Hospital’s second email, on January 19, Mayor Yepsen, at the City Council meeting, announced that she was recusing herself from discussions and votes about Saratoga Hospital’s expansion, citing that she “discussed a possible private contract between me and the Saratoga Hospital Foundation,” after that possibility had been terminated by the Hospital a few days earlier. The documents detailing these events, is a portion of documents submitted, and currently under review by the Saratoga Springs Board of Ethics. This correspondence has been verified by an official from Saratoga Hospital, who stated, “…we are aware that these
documents might someday reach the media.” The packet was originally sent by Amy V. Raimo, Vice President for Community Engagement and Executive Director of The Saratoga Hospital on March 1, in a response to a January 30 request for information letter from Commissioner of Finance Michele Madigan to President and CEO of Saratoga Hospital, Angelo Calbone. This entire packet of correspondence has been placed online (see the set labeled Document 1), and is one of six packets of documents related to the timeline of events that was submitted to the Saratoga Springs Board of Ethics by Commissioner of Public Works, Anthony “Skip” Scirocco, on March 7. The Board of Ethics held a meeting on Tuesday, April 12. During the public portion of the meeting, the Board Chair, Justin Hogan, acknowledged to Commissioner Scirocco that his inquiry had been received and was in the process of review. The Board of Ethics proceedings, due to the nature of the subject matters they entertain, are frequently confidential and are held under executive session. This was the case on April 12, and so there is no knowledge about any findings from that Board at this time.
This is an abridged summary of the timetable of events surrounding the discussions between Ms. Raimo and Mayor Yepsen, with key surrounding reference dates added. The timeline summary and correspondence submitted by Ms. Raimo to Commissioner Madigan covers events for the time frame beginning October 6, 2015 through January 15, 2016: Tuesday, August 18, 2015: At the City Council meeting, an item on the Mayor’s agenda -“Merit for Review - Saratoga Hospital Planned Unit Development Amendment Referral to Planning Board for Advisory Opinion”- passed unanimously. Subsequently, Saratoga Hospital would develop and deliver multiple presentations before the land use boards and at City Council public hearings about proposed expansion plans. Tuesday, October 6, 2015: Ms. Raimo accepts an invitation from the Mayor for a lunch/meeting at noon on Wednesday, October 14 to discuss grant writing / fundraising opportunities for the Hospital Foundation that might be appropriate for her private firm, Critical Needs Now. The Mayor is a partner in this firm. Tuesday, October 14, 2015: At the lunch/meeting, various
possibilities and requirements are discussed, as well as the Hospital’s approval process. Tuesday, October 20, 2015: A follow up email from the Mayor to Ms. Raimo included a copy of the Mayor’s resume and client list, two required items noted earlier by Ms. Raimo, but did not include writing samples, which were also requested. Monday, December 7, 2015: Ms. Raimo receives an email from the Mayor with a second copy of the client list, and a note that said writing samples would be forthcoming. Ms. Raimo acknowledged this email the next day. Thursday, January 14, 2016: {Note: There appears to be some emails that crossed on this day} Ms. Raimo receives an email at 1:59 p.m. from Mayor Yepsen asking if anything additional was needed; Ms. Raimo responded at 2:38 p.m. with a reminder about the writing samples. Later that day, the Hospital discussed and determined that it would not pursue a working relationship with the Mayor while she was in office due to potential conflict of interest concerns. Ms. Raimo communicated that determination, referencing a discussion with Mr. Calbone, to Mayor Yepsen at 3:56 p.m. That evening, at 6:59 p.m., the Mayor sent a response to Ms. Raimo that she was sending writing samples that evening. Friday, January 15, 2016: The Mayor responded to the January 14, 3:56 p.m. email stating she had “…gone through the proper channels to ensure the highest integrity and transparency.” Later that afternoon, Ms. Raimo responded to the Mayor, reiterating the Hospital’s decision not to engage the Mayor’s services while she was in office for reasons previously stated. Tuesday, January 19, 2016: The Mayor announces her recusal from the matters regarding Saratoga Hospital’s expansion.
In fact, the “proper channels”
the Mayor refers to would be the city’s Board of Ethics, whom she did appear before, to ask for guidance on this matter. On January 19, the Board of Ethics issued an opinion (see document 2 online), citing section 13-3 subsection I of the Code of Ethics, found on the question that
the Mayor, “…in discussing particulars of future work with the Saratoga Hospital Cares Foundation…had become involved with an entity that is ‘doing business with the City’…” and therefore would be in violation of that subsection. “On the facts presented, the Board finds that to be the case,” the opinion stated. However, it would appear that the point was rendered moot, based on the Hospital’s earlier communications to the Mayor on January 14 and 15. Further, an elected official provided a copy of a memo that the Mayor provided to all the Commissioners, that she had sent to the Board of Ethics, as an update, dated January 16. In that note, she stated that she “had no plans to work for Saratoga Hospital Foundation at this time.” Note that this item (Document 3a and 3b) is unsigned and contains no specific sender address, but it appears to have been sent to all the other Commissioners. Subsequently, several have verified receiving it independently. So, in fact, did the reason to recuse disappear before the announcement to do so? That appears to be an essential question. But the upshot of the Mayor’s recusal is that the Hospital will not be able to get a vote on their expansion application, as detailed in Norra Reyes’ story in Saratoga TODAY on April 8. The timetable, as provided and independently verified, can suggest a broad range of possible motivations. It remains for the Mayor to respond, for the Board of Ethics to conclude its examinations and for you to draw your own independent conclusions. Postscript: A story about transparency and timing should have my own transparency included. While the reader has no inherent “right to know,” I believe it is important for you to know this: With regards to the elected officials who provided the documentation herein: I have voted for some, not all of them, and not every time they ran in most cases - but I always voted for Joanne Yepsen. For her two elections as Mayor, and as County Supervisor before that. She even hired me to write a speech, for which I was paid $25, during one of my many sabbaticals here at Saratoga TODAY.
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
NEWS 11
Lights, Camera, Kasich! Presidential Candidates Hold Rallies Throughout Region by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — For one day, Monday, April 11, the dateline of this story could be CENTER OF THE POLITICAL UNIVERSE. This would accurately describe the activity that took place throughout the Capital Region. On that day, political junkies enjoyed a feast – a triple crown, if you will. On that day: - Republican Presidential candidate Donald Trump held a rally at Albany’s Times Union Center that drew an estimated 17,000 people, - Democratic candidate Bernie Sanders held a capacity-bursting rally at Albany’s Washington Avenue Armory, - And Republican candidate John Kasich, after making appearances in Albany and Troy, wound up his busy campaign day with a stop locally for a Town Hall style meeting before an SRO audience at the Saratoga Springs City Center. The Kasich Town Hall began at 5:30 p.m., and was broadcast to the world at 10 p.m. later that evening on Moderator Sean Hannity’s show on the Fox News network. (Note: Officially – this was billed as a “Fox exclusive” - personnel from other media were not permitted, although Photographer Mark Bolles and I went as citizens… Mark, like many in the audience, took pictures with his phone, and I snuck in a note pad (fully prepared to say it was for a civics class project if need be). By now, chances are good that you were there, watched the broadcast, read about it, or any combination of these. So while this is hardly breaking news, let’s add a little spice to the mix with some observations: - The audience – extremely orderly and well behaved. Exhibiting conduct that would make Saratoga Springs - or your mom - proud. If you don’t think that’s notable, compare this to most Donald Trump rallies, including Monday’s in Albany. No pushing and shoving here. People filed in orderly and behaved enthusiastically. Bridgette from Ballston Spa brought her sevenyear old son Patrick, who was wide-eyed and shy, “This is a great experience for kids, and for me. In
The Town Hall was broadcast to the world on FOX News later that night. John Kasich is Questioned by Sean Hannity at Monday’s Town Hall at the Saratoga Springs City Center. Photo by MarkBolles.com.
New York most years the (nominee) decision is usually made by now, so it’s great that we are getting all this attention,” she said. “I’m curious to listen to a candidate that has more to say than Donald Trump,” said Bruce Clements, owner of a long-standing, multi-generational, Saratoga Springs-based Clements Insurance Agency. Former Saratoga Springs Deputy Mayor Shauna Sutton came out to “evaluate all the Republican candidate’s policies and experience… I want to know what they have to offer to solve the many problems we face today.” All in all, I was pleasantly surprised that no one checked my ticket – I even was prepared to go through some sort of metal detector for this event, but there was none. There was, however, a sizable and visible city police presence, as you might expect, and I, for one, never felt safer anywhere. Kudos to Public Safety and the City Center’s people, for the planning and effort that went into this event, on relatively short notice. - The Atmosphere – The main ballroom was set up for TV – the décor looked like a campaign headquarters, but otherwise anything outside of camera range was left sparse. My personal hero of the night was the camera operator, who maneuvered what appeared to be a multi-ton boom apparatus, allowing the camera to ‘float’ over the audience during segment ‘intros’ and ‘outros,’ and also focused in on the moderator and candidate from various angles and vantage points. A ‘big boy’s toy’ in the extreme, and cool.
- Moderation – I have to admit, I wasn’t a Sean Hannity ‘guy’ going in, and in fact, his questioning was hardly probing. In introducing candidate Kasich, he described him as a “good friend” and basically lobbed mostly softballs. No Trump/Chris Matthews skirmishing here. But from the standpoint of a television event, Hannity exhibited an extremely good sense of humor during the off-camera “commercial breaks,” revving up the crowd and peppering the proceedings with segments - such as when he attempted to ‘persuade’ a young couple from the VIP seats to come up on stage and have the male propose marriage to his girlfriend. Either she was a great actress, or the look on her face had genuine OMG written all over it! (He asked her, by the way, but it was to have dinner after the town hall). Hannity was a hilarious ringmaster, and at his best during these moments where, if you weren’t there, you’d never know. - The Candidate – Without getting into his specific policies, which are available on his website, John Kasich delivered his message concisely and forthrightly. He may have little or no shot to become someone you can actually vote for this year for President, but he certainly looked and acted like one. At one point, Hannity asked the crowd how many Kasich supporters were in the room, and well more than half of them cheered enthusiastically. This is hardly scientific, but certainly had to be gratifying to the Kasich people – at least to the extent that it fueled their energy en route to their next stop on the campaign trail.
12
NEWS
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
Heroin Takes Another Saratoga Life Continued from front page.
According to New York State Senator George Amedore, “The state of New York is facing a heroin crisis, and we need to do everything we can to stop the flow of these deadly drugs into our streets. Our efforts to increase prevention, treatment and recovery to help those suffering with addiction need to go hand-in-hand with stronger penalties for those who are bringing these drugs into our communities.” And so, Amedore introduced “Laree’s Law” (S.4163) in 2015, legislation that establishes the crime of homicide by sale of an opiate-controlled substance and makes the crime a class A-1 felony, punishable by 15 to 25 years in prison. It had originally been introduced the year before by Senator Neil Breslin, but was taken up by the majority in 2015. It passed the Senate but died in Assembly last
Katie-Lynn Scheidt at 3 years old and 20 years old. She would have been 32 on April 8. Photos courtesy of Eve Cascone.
year, and is presently on third reading on the floor of the Senate, while still being weighed in the Codes
Committee in the Assembly (A.6039, sponsored by Assemblyman Michael DenDekker). Currently, drug dealers are not held accountable in New York State if one of their “clients” dies of an overdose. If the case is tried at the federal level, such as in Katie’s situation, then the dealer can face 20 years to life with the added homicide charge. According to the National Conference of State Legislators, several states press homicide charges when a dealer’s sale results in an overdose death. It can even lead to a death penalty in Florida and Nevada. But, according to Oscar Schreiber, Public Defender with the Saratoga County Public Defenders Office in Ballston Spa, that’s not the case in New York State. Even someone with a prior violent felony, like rape, who is being convicted of felony drug possession, might be sentenced to just 2 to 2.5 years in prison, depending on several other factors, even if the user who bought drugs from him dies of an overdose. Some defendants can face up to 30 years, depending on priors and other factors. But none face homicide charges in New York State. “A local mother had come to us originally,” said Amedore spokesperson Eileen Miller. “She’s a former Albany police detective from Colonie
and her daughter, Laree Farrell Lincoln, died of an overdose in 2013.” Fred Scheidt said Laree had also been going through rehabilitation when she died. Schreiber said it’s especially dangerous for someone who has been trying to get clean. “Their resistance to the drug is so down after 30 days of coming off it, that if they slip and use, their dead,” he said. “We see a lot of that.” “I think people who kill people need to be held accountable,” said Scheidt, “not only because of what they have done, but what they could do. We could see him [Matthew P. Charo, defendant in the case of Katie’s death] downtown with his friends. My family would see him around town, and all we could think was what would happen if his activities – because he was allowed to be out for whatever reason – what if he killed someone else. I believe he was still dealing drugs in downtown Saratoga, and at any moment, any one of those could have resulted in a death.” According to Saratoga Springs Deputy Fire Chief Peter Shaw, “On average for the past three or four months, we have been using Narcan a couple times a week.” The StopOverdoseIL.com website states Narcan™ (naloxone) is an opiate antidote. According
Heroin Anonymous
Capital District Hotline: 518-227-0294 Capital District Email: Info@heroinanonymousnycd.org To learn about meetings in Saratoga Springs, call Darrin F. at 518-928-5687 or visit www.heroinanonymous.org/HAsaratogasprings1.html
to the site, “Opioids include heroin and prescription pain pills like morphine, codeine, oxycodone, methadone and Vicodin. When a person is overdosing on an opioid, breathing can slow down or stop and it can be very hard to wake them from this state. Narcan is a prescription medicine that blocks the effects of opioids and reverses an overdose.” “Sadly, we have been experiencing approximately 4 to 6 heroinrelated overdose deaths per year for the past couple of years. We have another 20 or so responses to overdose situations that require transport to the hospital,” said Saratoga Springs Police Chief Gregory Veitch. Nationally, heroin-related overdose deaths almost quadrupled between 2002 and 2013, according to the National Conference of State Legislators, and drug overdoses kill more Americans than car accidents each year. This kind of nightmare is all too familiar for the Scheidt family, who would have celebrated their daughter’s 32nd birthday on Friday, April 8. “It [Friday] sucked every which way but loose,” said Scheidt. “You wake up every morning, shake your head and say ‘that was a terrible dream.’ Then you realize it wasn’t a dream. It’s reality.” For Katie’s mother, Eve Cascone of Wilton, the pain has become worse with time. “Now it’s real,” she said. “I was in denial last year. I can’t deny it anymore. It’s become very ‘in my face,’ and real. Don’t think it won’t happen to your child. Not that I’m saying give Continued on page 13.
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
NEWS 13
No Murder Charge in NYS for Dealing Death Continued from page 12.
up hope – I’m saying be very careful and watch carefully because it can just grab anybody. It’s a disease, not a moral issue.” Chief Veitch said that in particular, heroin addiction is exceptionally difficult to handle for both the user and their loved ones. “Heroin is an issue in Saratoga Springs as it is everywhere,” said Veitch, “and law enforcement is only one part of the solution. Families, friends and service agencies all have a part to play in reducing the adverse effects that heroin has on the individual, their loved ones and the community.” Schreiber said for many users treatment would be better than jail. “We have a drug treatment court in this county,” he said, “and my office is pretty progressive – we just hired
a social worker.” With her help, the court can better assess the best course of action not only for rehabilitation, but also for preventing situations like Katie’s and Laree’s. Victims’ families do want better rehabilitation, but they also want dealers to face accountability – not just for selling drugs, but also for the resulting deaths. As far as these families are concerned, dealers in New York State are getting away with murder. Literally. That’s why so many are pushing for Laree’s Law. Part of the problem, Schreiber said, is that it can be difficult to prove the defendant was selling, and not just in possession as another user. And Scheidt wants to be sure the Good Samaritan Law stays in effect. “I’d much rather have Katie back alive than Matt Charo in jail for life,” said Scheidt. That said, Katie’s father,
Statewide Opioid Trends • Heroin-related deaths increased 163 percent between 2009 and 2013. • Naloxone emergency administration increased by 57 percent in one year, 2014 over 2013. • Opioid-related emergency department visits increased 73 percent between 2010 and 2014. • Half of heroin-related overdose deaths are under age 35. • Heroin-related overdose deaths of people under age 35 increased by 268 percent in 2013 since 2009. “Most overdoses are not instantaneous, and most are witnessed by others. Therefore, many overdose fatalities are preventable, especially if witnesses have had appropriate training.” Source: Opioid Poisoning, Overdose and Prevention 2015 Report to the Governor and NYS Legislature by the New York State Department of Health and AIDS Institute.
as a former state police officer, knows well that some dealers are not rehabilitatable, and belong under lock and key for a long time. “It’s not just the money for them,” said Scheidt. “Some of this is power as well. They find this 21-year-old girl and now they own her. Drug addiction is terrible enough. Homicide is terrible enough. But if you’re 21 years old and addicted, your dealers own you. They offer it free because they know you’ll be addicted, that you’ll go to the ends of the earth for it. They’ve cornered the market. What New York State needs is a clean law without a lot of loopholes, so these scumbags who prey on them, these pushers, don’t kill any more addicts. Katie’s dead. She’s not coming back. We’re not doing this for us, it’s for others.” Cascone believes Katie would have wanted her family to help people understand the heroin crisis. “Before she died, she had been off the heroin for quite some time,” said Katie’s mother. “And we were seeing the Katie we all knew. She was clear headed and had goals. One of them was to speak out against heroin, and I feel her family is doing that for her. I think that’s what she really wants us to do. I hope the people who love her never forget her.” Scheidt remembers exactly having such a conversation with his daughter before she died. “Like Katie said to me on the 26th of September,” he said, “people have to know.” For more information about Laree’s Law, call your New York State senator 518-455-3216 or assembly member 518-455-4218. For more about Katie and her life, visit her obituary at http://www.burkefuneralhome. com/memsol.cgi?user_id=1428288.
Saratoga Drug Arrests Arrests in the City of Saratoga Springs for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance have doubled from 52 in 2010-11 to 106 in 2015-16. Source: Saratoga Springs Police Department.
Total drug arrests in Saratoga County have increased 33 percent from 299 in 2011 to 443 in 2015. Source: DCJS, www.CriminalJustice.ny.gov.
14
BUSINESS
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
Mission 443 Provides YMCA Memberships to Those in Need by Rebecca Davis Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Regional YMCA (SRY) has a goal: to make sure that everyone who wants to go to the Y is able to. Through their Annual Scholarship Campaign program, SRY has provided countless memberships over the years to those who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford it. This year, the Scholarship Campaign is called Mission 443, and represents the goal of the 443 memberships SRYMCA hopes to provide in 2016. Mark Ventra has been going to the YMCA Saratoga Springs Branch for over five years, sometimes going five days a week. As a traveling salesman, the Y staff were sometimes the only people he would see on a regular basis besides his family, and he loved how welcoming and caring they all were. However, if it wasn’t for the Y’s Scholarship Campaign last year, Ventra would have had to stop going. “A year ago, I was diagnosed with a form of leukemia. At the same time, my job was going through financial difficulties and couldn’t afford to pay
YMCA Livestrong coach and former scholarship recipient Mark Ventra takes a run around the track. Photo provided.
me any longer, so I was let go,” explained Ventra. When Ventra approached John Higgins, Director of the Saratoga Springs Branch, and explained to him how he wasn’t going to be able to afford to renew his membership, Higgins simply told him, “We’ll take care of it.” “I never thought I’d need a scholarship,” said Ventra. “I always thought the scholarships were for people that weren’t as well off as I had been. I used to never give it a second thought about volunteering or giving $100 to the scholarship fund, and now, I couldn’t even pay for my own membership. I wasn’t looking for a handout, but they helped me anyway, no questions asked.”
With the help of the scholarship, Ventra was able to keep doing all the things he loved at the Y, from weight lifting and the track to their aquatic programs and cycling classes. “For me, the scholarship helped me to stay working out and doing the things I needed in my life more than ever before,” said Ventra. “Not in the literal sense, but a year ago, the YMCA saved my life. If the scholarship fund can help someone that, on the outside, seems to have it all going, it can help anybody. Without a place like this, I honestly don’t know what I would do.” Higgins also finally convinced Ventra to get involved with the YMCA’s Livestrong Program. Livestrong at the Y
seeks to help cancer survivors through physical fitness, wellness initiatives and supportive relationships with Y staff and fellow survivors. Ventra is now a certified Livestrong instructor. “I’m always very positive,” remarked Ventra. “I felt it was my mission at that point to help other people that may not be as resilient. I may not be able to change what’s happened, but I can help people move forward with whatever struggle they have.” Ventra also coaches JV lacrosse at Saratoga Springs High School (SSHS) and is the youth lacrosse instructor at the YMCA. “I always tell the kids, there are things in life that are going to come your way that you don’t expect. You might lose a job, you might get sick, but it’s how you handle those things that define you.” YMCA’s Scholarship Campaign also provides assistance to children and teens whose families cannot afford to send them to the Y. The YMCA is a safe, healthy place to go on the weekends and after school,
and no student should have to miss out on that because of inability to pay. 16-year-old Donald Steves, a student at SSHS, would not be able to go to the YMCA without his scholarship. “The scholarships are phenomenal. They give people that don’t have the money the chance to come to the Y and have a great time,” said Steves, who is also a volunteer with the YMCA’s afterschool basketball program and Saturday night kid’s club. “There are so many things to take advantage of here and everyone should have access to that.” Steves even made one of his best friends at the Y, fellow SSHS student Josh Green, who he said is “like a brother” to him. “The YMCA is special to me because it’s like my second home,” explained Steves. “I’ve learned all my social skills here, my manners. Great skills come from the YMCA.” For more information about the Saratoga Regional YMCA’s Scholarship Campaign, Mission 443, or to donate, visit srymca. org/scholarships.
Donald Steves (right) is a YMCA volunteer and scholarship recipient. Photo provided.
16
NEWS
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
Apple’s Wozniak Speaking at Leadercast by Eli King for Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — The world’s largest one-day leadership event will be simulcast at Skidmore College on Friday, May 6, with Apple Inc. Co-Founder, Steve Wozniak headlining a diverse speaker lineup expected to draw 120,000 viewers worldwide. Live in Atlanta, Georgia, Leadercast is a daylong annual conference that will be live-streamed to hundreds of satellite locations around the world, including the Gannett Auditorium at Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs. Hosted by Leadership Saratoga and Roohan Realty, the event will take place from 9 a.m. (registration opens at 8) until 4:30 p.m. This year’s theme, “Architects of Tomorrow,” will allow attendees to hear firsthand experiences and advice from seven prominent leaders in a variety of industries, including world renowned technology pioneer, Steve “the Woz,” Wozniak. Additional speakers include Author and Navy SEAL Commander Rorke Denver; Network Broadcaster with CBS Sports and News James Brown; and the Host of Leadercast, Comedian and Director Tripp Crosby.
“[Our employees] are really excited to hear how people from such diverse backgrounds are going to share their thoughts on leadership,” said Bo Goliber, Fingerpaint’s Head of Community Relations and Philanthropy. Goliber said that Fingerpaint was attracted to the event because it gives the community access to thought leaders that might not otherwise come to the area given that Saratoga isn’t a major city. “Internally,
we’re trying to strengthen an entire company of leaders,” continued Goliber, “...you get people exposed to people who are inspiring and who have all this energy and enthusiasm, it just lights a fire in everybody and they bring it back with them.” Globally, attendance includes companies like Coca-Cola, Tesla, Motorola, NASA, and SAP. The Saratoga Springs event is open to the public, giving attendees an opportunity to tune in to the program and
network with community leaders and sponsors, including attendees from Adirondack Trust, The Jones Firm, Performance Industrial, and Fingerpaint Marketing. “Leadership Saratoga is excited to again partner with Roohan Realty to bring Leadercast to the Saratoga Springs Community,” said Kathleen Fyfe, Vice President of Community Development and Program Director of Leadership Saratoga. “Finding ways like Leadercast to continue to bring ideas and thoughts about leadership to our community is one way
to provide more opportunities.” For tickets, a full list of speakers, event details, and information on the continuing education credits available for attending, visit www. LeadercastSaratoga.com. Regular admission is $99, the adult with student (two tickets) rate is $149, and student/non-profit/military rate is $79. Breakfast, lunch and program materials will be included. Discount group rates are available, for information, contact Kathleen Fyfe at kfyfe@saratoga.org or call 518-584-3255.
NEWS 17
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
Saratoga Springs Hosts Major Housing Summit SARATOGA SPRINGS — On Monday, April 11, at the Hilton Saratoga and Saratoga Springs City Center, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and Saratoga Springs Mayor Joanne Yepsen hosted the 3rd annual Strengthening Cities, Communities and Homes Summit, a day-long gathering of housing and economic development professionals, along with the Mayors of Albany, Kathy Sheehan; Amsterdam, Mike Villa; Glens Falls, John “Jack” Diamond; Schenectady, Gary Mc Carthy;
Plattsburgh, James Calnon; and Troy, Patrick Madden. Saratoga Springs Mayor Joanne Yepsen said before the event, “This year’s summit is targeted toward introducing and enhancing working partnerships focused on housing and community development. The agenda for this important summit includes exceptional keynote speakers and multiple break-out sessions, allowing Saratoga Springs to showcase our city and learn from other communities. This Summit truly exemplifies a model of federal,
state and local governments partnering with the private sector to create stronger and more vibrant communities. It is partnerships such as these that not only allow us to present a successful summit but to tackle national issues on a local level such as ending veteran homelessness.” The Strengthening Cities, Communities and Homes Summit brought together public housing leaders; developers; non-profits; Continuums of Care partners that service homeless individuals and
Donate Life Month
SARATOGA COUNTY —Saratoga County Clerk Craig Hayner and the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors, in conjunction with the New York State Association of Counties, the New York Alliance for Donation, Inc., and local residents are urging all County and New York State residents to fill out their Organ donation cards. In March, the Saratoga Board of Supervisors passed a resolution recognizing April as Donate
Life Month and ordered a “Donate Life” flag to be raised at the County Municipal Center throughout the month of April. New York State ranks second to last in the United States and territories for donor registry enrollment; an estimated 600 New Yorkers die each year waiting for an organ transplant that did not arrive in time; more than 10,000 New Yorkers are waiting for an organ transplant, representing the third highest need in the nation.
County residents are urged to fill out their organ donation cards at the Saratoga County DMV Offices as well as the Board of Elections.
Saratoga Hospital Honors Donate Life Month SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Hospital will be flying a Donate Life flag for the duration of National Donate Life Month, a month-long celebration held every April that showcases the lifesaving benefits of donation and encourages New Yorkers to enroll in the New York State Donate Life Donor Registry. The intent of the flag is to not only celebrate the heroic decision to donate life, but to raise awareness of the importance of organ and tissue donation. The hospital will also join the Center for Donation and Transplant (CDT) in participating in a number of different events supporting the incredible gifts of life given by donors and raising awareness about the importance of signing up on the New York State Donate Life Registry, including participation in National Wear Blue and Green Day, held on April 15.
The flags are provided by the Center for Donation and Transplant, the organ procurement organization that facilitates organ and tissue donation in 30 counties throughout New York and Western Vermont. Once the flags are raised and flown, CDT’s family services specialists send the flags to the donors’ families as a keepsake to remember their loved one. “Saratoga Hospital has always been an incredible partner, compassionate in their support for donor families and committed to celebrating those who have given the gifts of life through organ and tissue donation,” Lauren Quinn, Director of Hospital and Community Services at the Center for Donation and Transplant said. “The fact that the flag is flown in their loved one’s honor is incredibly meaningful to our donor families. This April, we hope that the flags also spread the message of the life-saving
benefits of donation and encourage community members to learn more and register as donors on the New York State Donate Life Organ and Tissue Registry.” To register as a donor or for more information about how to get involved, please visit the Center for Donation and Transplant’s website at www.donatelifecdt.org.
kLaVoy5k May 14, 2016 SARATOGA SPRINGS — The 9th annual kLaVoy5k will be held on May 14 in the Saratoga Springs State Park. There will be free moisture wick t-shirts to the first 200 registrants, on site massage therapist by Welcome Relief, awards and chip timing by Albany Running Exchange. More than 123,000 men, women
and children currently need lifesaving organ transplants. Every 10 minutes another name is added to the national organ transplant waiting list. Sadly, an average of 21 people die each day because the organs they need are not donated in time. The beneficiary of the kLaVoy5k is The Center for Donation and Transplant NY-VT
(Donate Life.) To register: https://www.zippyreg.com/online_reg/registration. php?eventID=755. Find us on Facebook, keyword: kLaVoy5k. To volunteer, email tonya@pellegrinievents.com.
families; fair housing advocates; real estate professionals; regional community planning; leaders in education and federal, state, and local officials to identify issues and discuss best practices and available resources. “The SCCH Summits we’ve hosted in Schenectady and Utica brought together concerned partners from the housing and community development sectors throughout our jurisdiction. These events provided opportunities not only to network; but to create lasting relationships that have resulted in shared best practices and sharing of critical information. These connections provided opportunities to improve housing, economic development and overall collaboration of leaders throughout
these communities,” said Jaime Forero, HUD Albany Field Office Director. The day-long summit featured concurrent breakout sessions on housing and finance related issues such as federal, state, and local housing program updates; place-based initiatives and Upstate New York; Commissioner’s Roundtable; best practices; resiliency; public housing; fair housing; ending homelessness and homeless services; home sales and realty; multifamily development; supportive housing; mortgage financing; anti-poverty initiatives; community planning and development; housing counseling and a vision for our cities. For details about the event, visit http://discoversaratoga.org/shcd.
18
BUSINESS
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
First-Ever Global Meetings Industry Day SARATOGA SPRINGS — On April 14, the Saratoga Convention and Tourism Bureau joined forces with the advocacy coalition Meetings Mean Business (MMB) to showcase the real impact that business meetings, conferences, conventions, incentive travel, trade shows and exhibitions have on people, business and communities in the first-ever Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID). “With the help of organizations such as Saratoga Convention and Tourism Bureau, we demonstrate the
critical role our industry plays in building personal relationships, driving positive outcomes and supporting strong communities,” said Michael Dominguez, MMB co-chair and senior vice president of corporate sales at MGM Resorts International. To help celebrate Global Meetings Industry Day, the Saratoga Convention and Tourism Bureau officially launched its new mobile app, Discover Saratoga NY. Each meeting and conference attendee meeting in Saratoga on Thursday, April 14 received a personal greeting from the SCTB and
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an invitation to download the app. A drawing from those that downloaded the app took place that same day and the winner received a $100 Saratoga Downtown Business Association gift card. “The meetings and convention industry plays a vital role in the year round economic vitality of Saratoga Springs and Saratoga County”, said Todd Garofano, President of the Saratoga Convention and Tourism Bureau. “In 2015, we welcomed over 400 groups of all sizes. They met at the Saratoga Springs City Center, local hotels and inns and at the many unique meeting and event venues throughout our great destination. These meetings and conferences bring thousands of people to Saratoga throughout the year and account for over $29
million in economic activity.” GMID marks the expansion of North American Meetings Industry Day (NAMID), held earlier this year in the United States, Canada, Mexico and parts of Latin America. NAMID included 88 events across the continent as well as robust conversations online and 3.2 million social media impressions. Proclamations of support were issued by the governor of Wisconsin and mayors of Toronto, Buffalo and Washington, DC. A NAMID billboard was featured all day in Times Square and Caesars Entertainment “Turned the Strip Blue” in Las Vegas with NAMID logos and signage. In Mexico, a collaboration agreement was signed between the federal government, the tourism board and all 11 Meetings
Industry Associations. The Meetings Mean Business coalition was created in 2009 to showcase the incredible value that business meetings, travel and events bring to the U.S. economy. Its members span all facets of the face-to-face meeting and events industry, which have come together behind a common goal: providing the resources, tools and information to show the real impact the industry has on businesses, economies and communities. For more information, visit www.MeetingsMeanBusiness.com and download our app on iTunes and Google Play. To learn more about GMID, visit http://www.meetingsmeanbusiness.com/GMID. For more information about the Saratoga Convention and Tourism Bureau visit www.discoversaratoga.org.
Mazzone to Open Fish at 30 Lake SARATOGA SPRINGS — Downtown will have a new hotspot at the corner of Lake Avenue and Pavilion Place this summer, as Mazzone Hospitality announced last week that they will be opening a new seafood restaurant in June. Fish at 30 Lake will not only feature fresh caught seafood, hardwood grilled fish, and a free standing raw bar, but will also offer hand-crafted cocktails, and a variety of local spirits. “Our goal is to create an approachable and comfortable space with the same quality and service we are known for, yet a concept very different from any of our existing restaurants and unlike anything currently in Saratoga Springs. Fish at 30 Lake will bring in seafood on a daily basis and
focus heavily on locality and seasonality,” said Mazzone Hospitality Owner Angelo Mazzone. The restaurant itself will be decorated to match the new concept that Mazzone Hospitality is pursuing. The restaurant will feature natural touches of reclaimed wood and industrial influences, as well as a stunning hand-crafted wine cabinet and a large mural painted by a local artist. The new venture will be located at the Pavilion Grand Hotel in downtown Saratoga Springs. Fish at 30 Lake will feature 80 indoor seats, as well as 40 outdoor seats. The restaurant will open at 2 p.m. daily for light fare and cocktails, with dinner service beginning at 5:30 p.m. Dinner service on Sunday will begin at 3 p.m.
Mazzone Hospitality owns and operates several of the Capital Region’s premier restaurants and banquet halls including: Glen Sanders Mansion in Scotia featuring Angelo’s Tavolo, two
ballrooms and an inn; Aperitivo Bistro, a dynamic wine bar and bistro adjacent to Proctors in Schenectady; Angelo’s Prime Bar + Grill, a casual and modern bar and grill in Clifton Park; TALA,
An American Bistro, featuring an eclectic mix of stylized entrees and a spa menu; and Angelo’s 677 Prime, an upscale steakhouse and wine bar in the heart of the theater district in Albany.
BUSINESS BRIEFS 19
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
Select Sotheby’s Welcomes New Owner
SARATOGA SPRINGS - Select Sotheby’s International Realty, a New York franchise affiliate of Sotheby’s International Realty, announced that Lou Izzo has joined the firm as Co-Owner and Real Estate Broker and will be assuming the role of President of the firm. Izzo brings over 25 years of real estate experience to the company, and has partnered with the firm’s Chief Executive Officer, Daniel Collins. Prior to joining the firm, Izzo spent many years as president of HUNT Real Estate ERA and currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Real Estate Leadership, an international consulting firm in the real estate industry. With the change in ownership structure also comes a change in senior level management. Andrea Demoracski, formerly the company’s Director of Operations, was recently promoted to Vice President, executing day-to-day operations and oversight of the firm and its staff members. Select Sotheby’s International Realty is headquartered in Saratoga Springs with additional offices in Bolton Landing and Lake Placid. The firm also has exclusive agent representatives in several markets across Upstate New York including Buffalo, Rochester, Finger Lakes, Syracuse, Hudson, Windham and Old Forge. For more information, call 518-580-8500 or visit SelectSothebysRealty.com.
ATC’s Community Shred Day SARATOGA SPRINGS—The Adirondack Trust Company will be providing a free personal document-shredding day that is open to the public on Saturday, April 23. The event will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at ATC’s Mabee Building located at 31 Church Street, Saratoga Springs. Individuals are welcome to
bring their personal data for confidential destruction. Items that will be accepted for shredding include sensitive papers (white or color), carbon paper, file folders, old checkbooks, bank statements, expired credit cards or debit cards, and plastic ID cards. Paper items with staples and/or paperclips will be accepted, they do not need to be removed prior to shredding. This service is intended for individuals, and will have a 2 box limit for each person. For more information, visit www.info.AdirondackTrust.com/ ShredDay.
Starbucks Included in Hotel Expansion SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Casino and Raceway today announced the second national brand that will be featured inside its new hotel expansion. The new Perks Café will be proudly serving Starbucks coffee and signature drink items. Perks Café, located in the hotel lobby next to Morton’s The Steakhouse,® will also offer a menu with grab-and-go breakfast, salads, sandwiches, soup and a variety of fresh baked pastries and bread available 7 days a week. For more information, visit www.saratogacasino.com.
Amedio Joins Julie & Co.
SARATOGA SPRINGS — Angela Amedio recently joined Julie and Co. as a real estate agent. “I am really excited to be a part of Julie Bonacio’s new boutique real estate brokerage. I would be delighted to help you buy, sell, or lease your home in the capital district,” said Amedio. It is the mission of Julie & Co Realty LLC to provide our clients with an exemplary experience, by the utmost attention to detail. Our agents will provide accurate, upto-date market conditions, skilled
analysis and sound real estate advice. We will continue to provide our agents with innovative new ideas and tools that will benefit both the agent’s and clients’ expectations. For more information, call 518-350-SOLD (7653), email info@ juliecorealty.com or visit www. JulieCoRealty.com
Saratoga Hospital Named Blue Distinction® Center SARATOGA SPRINGS — BlueShield of Northeastern New York has once again named Saratoga Hospital a Blue Distinction Center for three surgical specialties—spine surgery and knee and hip replacement— as part of the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program. Saratoga Hospital is the only Capital Region facility to be
recognized as a Blue Distinction Center+ for Spine Surgery for meeting both quality and costeffectiveness measures. Blue Distinction Centers are nationally designated healthcare facilities shown to deliver improved patient safety and better health outcomes, based on objective measures that were developed by Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies with input from the medical community.
Price Chopper, Market 32 Introduce PICS Brand
SCHENECTADY — PICS by Price Chopper is a new signature line of
store brand products offered at Price Chopper Supermarkets and Market 32. Sporting a contemporary, food-focused package design that is aligned with the company’s new (contemporary foodfocused) Market 32 brand, PICS products will gradually replace nearly 2,000 Price Chopper brand favorites. Most PICS brand items will be sourced from the same suppliers and to the same specifications as Price Chopper brand products, while select others, like PICS ice creams and refrigerated ready-tobake cinnamon rolls reflect new sources of supply that the chain’s category experts selected to provide even higher quality at the same or a lower cost. Pricing on the new PICS line will remain consistent with current store brand products.
Are Cruz criticisms of ‘New York Values’ legitimate? Cruz will fight for our true values… When Cruz was referring to “New York values,” what values, exactly? Is it that New York is ranked #1 in political corruption? That New York is ranked the worst state in America for taxpayers? NY’s excessive regulations have us ranked dead last, 50th, in “freedom”? Is it these “values” which are driving the exodus of taxpayers out of our great state? According to the Tax Foundation, from 2000 to 2010, 3.4 million residents moved out of New York, and the Empire State was featured third in Forbes’ “The States People are Fleeing in 2014.” I think NY’s values are not these political train wreck values, but those are the facts on the ground. It is how we vote. Yet, many of us welcome lower taxes, less government, and more
economic freedom than outsiders may realize. We are a state with very different perspectives, between upstate and New York City. Not shockingly, in a show of great liberal tolerance, Governor Cuomo told us there is no place in New York for conservative values. Nonsense. The people of New York are diverse. Here is an opportunity for the Empire State to truly impact the presidential race. Our values do match up with the country-at-large, more than outsiders realize, and a stronger conservative voting record could save our great state. I’m not alone. We hear so much conservative rhetoric in literally every GOP primary, and I would prefer to believe my eyes, not my ears.
There is no mystery or guesswork with Cruz, we don’t have to merely rely on rhetoric. Cruz promised his constituency he would fight the establishment, and he kept that promise, as evidenced by GOP leadership’s disdain for his discipline to fight the very system that keeps them in power. Trump may tell us he will fight the very liberal ruling class he has supported; Cruz has shown us he’s capable of doing this, even when forced to stand-alone. We are about to be called upon to offer a referendum on the Republican Party as it stands today. There is a question on the table as to our defining values: What will the home of Lady Liberty stand for in 2016? Joe Kakaty Saratoga Springs
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20
FOOD
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
Going for the Greens Saturdays, 9 to 1 Lincoln Baths, 65 So. Broadway Saratoga Spa State Park
by Himanee Gupta-Carlson
for Saratoga TODAY Saturdays in April signal a transition at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market. Tones of brown, orange and red root vegetables are giving way to green. Bunches of chives, bags of tender yet crisp pea shoots and such unusual items as kalette make shopping for a meal almost seem like an opportunity to eat the spring. These items also might coax you to check your own garden, too. Unfortunately, the soil in our region is too cold to get much of a spring garden going just yet. However, several farmers have been bringing new assortments of fresh-grown greens, savory herbs and other vegetables to market. Here’s a rundown of a few of the items available now: Chives. These long green grass-like fronds poke their way out of over-wintered perennial beds in early April. According to Paul Arnold, owner of Pleasant Valley Farm, the life cycle of chives is tied to the lengthening days. With more hours of daylight, chives grow tall and thick. They’ll remain abundant until summer when shortening days limit their access to light. Try sprinkling finely chopped chives over potatoes, or adding some to scrambled eggs. Pea shoots. These sweet crisp greens are popular now, as pea lovers wait for the “real vegetable” to make their debuts in June. Pleasant Valley seeds pea shoots every two days to bring to market. Home gardeners can seed pea shoots as well and develop an indoor garden in about 10 days. Toss pea shoots into salads, press them into sandwiches, or add them to stir-fries. Kalette. This vegetable grew out of a cross between kale and
brussels sprouts. The result is a plant with small tender leaves and florets that resemble broccoli. The plants are sold with their stalks, which are crisper and flavorful. The Fresh Take Farm will be selling kalettes for two to three weeks. Try them sautéed in oil with onions and garlic or steamed. Ramps. These wild scallion like plants grow in wooded areas, favoring maples, said Albert Sheldon of Sheldon Farms, who hopes to bring ramps to market soon. Both the leaves and the root are edible, and while they make a good substitute for scallions or green onions, they also taste great by themselves.
Parsnips. Pleasant Valley has been bringing parsnips left in the ground over winter to market now. Left this way, parsnips cure and sweeten considerably, Arnold said. As April arrives, the ground thaws, making it a good time to start digging out the parsnips to enjoy roasted, baked, sautéed, steamed, or fried. The Saratoga Farmers’ Market takes place 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays through April 30 in the Lincoln Baths Building at the Saratoga Spa State Park. The market will open its summer season Wednesdays, 3-6 p.m., and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 4 at High Rock Park.
Sauteed Ramps Ingredients
Directions
* Ingredients can be found at the market
Wash ramps thoroughly in cool water. Remove the stringy roots at the base. Chop the bulb and greens into ½-inch size pieces. Heat oil in a skillet or wok. Add ramps and stirfry rapidly over a mediumhigh heat until greens are wilted, approximately 1 minute. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Recipe courtesy of Albert Sheldon of Sheldon Farms Prep: 5 min Cook: 1 min 1 bunch ramps* Oil for cooking
Ramps from Sheldon Farms
Herbs by Pattie Garrett
Parsnips by Pattie Garret
Chives by Pattie Garrett
Pea Shoots by Pattie Garrett
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
FOOD 21
The Goodfella Way
by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY Hello my Foodie Friends. Everyone has their own way of prepping garlic. As I noted in an earlier article, I am a true connoisseur of some of our greatest movie directors and writers of past and recent decades. One of my favorite Martin Scorsese films is “Goodfellas.” Recently, I watched the movie again and caught a big culinary tip. The character Henry narrates a cooking secret: “In prison, dinner was
always a big thing. We had a pasta course and then we had meat or fish. Paulie did the prep work. He was doing a year for contempt, and he had this wonderful system for doing the garlic. He used a razor and he used to slice it so thin that it would liquefy in the pan with just a little oil. It was a very good system.” Slicing garlic thin infuses garlic into the dish giving you a hint of garlic without biting into raw garlic. When cooking sliced garlic in oil, the garlic flavor will mellow during the cooking. However, you will get a flavor that is closer to roasted garlic. This procedure is excellent for sauces and frittata’s. An excellent tool to use to get consistent and thin slices is a truffle/chocolate shaver. The truffle shaver cuts paper thin slices of shallots, truffles, garlic, chocolate and hard cheeses. It is made of stainless steel with an adjustable blade that
allows for precision thin slices. Stop by Compliments to the Chef at 46 Marion Avenue in Saratoga Springs to assist you with your culinary needs and to find a shaver that can help you cook garlic the Goodfella way! Here is a delicious recipe to use your truffle shaver for. Remember; “Life Happens in the Kitchen”. Take care, John and Paula. GARLIC HASSELBACK POTATOES Ingredients: • Desired number of potatoes, scrubbed (Russets or Yukon Golds, depending on preference) • Garlic cloves –numbering the same as your potatoes- peeled and thinly sliced • Butter, 1 tablespoon per potato • Olive oil, for drizzling • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste • Grated cheese, such as Cheddar, Monterey Jack or Colby • minced fresh parsley
Preheat oven to 425°F. Drizzle about a tablespoon of olive oil over the bottom of a rimmed baking dish large enough to hold your potatoes comfortably with a little room for the potatoes to fan out as they cook. Starting at one end, slice down with a knife. Repeat the slices at 1/8-to-1/4 inch intervals until you reach the other end of the potato. Tuck the thin pieces of garlic into the potato “fans” about every third
slice or so. Break the butter into pieces and dot the top of each potato with about 1 tablespoon. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and drizzle about 1 teaspoon of olive oil over each potato. Pop the baking dish into the oven and bake for about 40 minutes to 1 hour, or until the potatoes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Transfer to a serving plate and sprinkle with desired optional toppings.
The Savory Pantry and Lifestyles of Saratoga to Host Founders of Popular Lifestyle Brand, Beekman 1802 Book Signing, Tastings and Samplings, Gift Baskets and Giveaways, with 10 percent of Sales to Benefit Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council Food Pantry. SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY — The Savory Pantry and Lifestyles of Saratoga will host lifestyle brand Beekman 1802’s founders Josh Kilmer-Purcell and Brent Ridge at The Savory Pantry, 486 Broadway, on Sunday, April 24 at 1 p.m. Founded in 2007, Beekman 1802 has been named one of the fastest growing lifestyle brands in the country, its founders also winners of CBS’s The Amazing Race. The Savory Pantry will offer food tastings featuring Beekman 1802 products, signings of The Beekman 1802 Heirloom Cookbook, The Beekman 1802 Heirloom Vegetable Cookbook, and The Beekman 1802 Heirloom Dessert Cookbook, and specialto-this-event Beekman 1802 food and bath product gift baskets created in cooperation with Lifestyles of Saratoga. Lifestyles of Saratoga will offer samplings of Beekman 1802 bath and body products, as
artisan and small-batch specialty foods, cocktail makings, gourmet gifts and customized corporate gifts of unparalleled quality. “I love to collaborate with like-minded businesses on events that create and continue to foster a sense of community downtown while raising awareness and funding for much needed services
well as giveaways. Ten percent of all sales for both stores on April 23 and 24 will benefit the Food Pantry of the Saratoga Economic Opportunity Council. “We are thrilled to partner with our neighbors at Lifestyles in welcoming the Fabulous Beekman Boys to Saratoga! This will be a fun-filled
weekend of shopping, and an excellent opportunity to get a head start on gifts for Mother’s Day,” says The Savory Pantry’s founder, Keeley Ardman DeSalvo. The Savory Pantry — with storefronts in Saratoga and Hot Springs, AR, and a popular online marketplace — curates a wide selection of
in our area,” says Lifestyles of Saratoga’s owner Heidi Owen West. Lifestyles of Saratoga has been a beacon of women’s fashion on Broadway for the last 25 years. It boasts a specially curated collection of the best trends and styles the industry has to offer, not only inclothing, but accessories, jewelry, and body products as well.
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EDUCATION
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
Ballston Spa Robotics Team World War II Veterans Visit SSHS Headed to National Championship
SARATOGA SPRINGS – Two 90-year old World War II Marine veterans, Tom Smith (left) and Sal Famularo (right), visited social studies classes at Saratoga Springs High School (SSHS) on Thursday, April 7. The WWII veterans spoke about their experiences fighting in the Pacific Theatre and shared how they earned their purple hearts (pictured below). Photos by Francesco D’Amico.
SSHS Athlete Signing Ceremony SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Springs High School will hold a Signing Ceremony on Wednesday, April 20 at 3:30 p.m. in the lobby off of the Blue Gymnasium at Saratoga Springs High School for Student
Athletes who will be signing their National Letters of Intent to play Intercollegiate Athletics. Please contact Debbie Hopkins in the Athletic Office 518-587-6690 ext. 33304 if you would like to attend.
SRYMCA Announces $2,500 Scholarship To be eligible for the tuition assistance scholarship, students must be enrolled at Springfield College for the Fall 2016 semester and must participate in the YMCA Club, spearheaded by Harry Rock. The scholarship can be renewed annually with a qualifying grade point average. The winner of the scholarship may be
eligible for matching funds from Springfield College. Applications may be obtained from our website www.srymca. org or at any Association branch. Deadline for submission is Tuesday, May 31. Please contact Cassandra Latour, Human Resource Director at 518-583-9622 ext. 127 for more information.
BALLSTON SPA – The Ballston Spa High School Robotics Team #3044 has had a fantastic season competing at regional tournaments and it is not over yet. They were recently part of an alliance of teams that were finalists at the Finger Lakes Regional Robotics Tournament and ranked high enough to earn a Wild Card to now compete at the 2016 FRC Championship on April 27 through 30 in St. Louis, Missouri. After six weeks of preparation, the students competed over three days in matches and elimination rounds before successfully making it to the finals at the Finger Lakes Regional Robotics Tournament, where they lost after two intense matches. The team’s alliance partners included the Electric Mayhem from Buffalo and G.R.R. from Rochester. Team 3044 also won the Industrial Design Award sponsored by General Motors and the Industrial Safety Award sponsored by Underwriters Laboratories. Furthermore, Team 3044 won the
The Ballston Spa High School Robotics Team #3044. Photo provided.
Team Spirit Award sponsored by FCA Foundation at the NY Tech Valley Regional Robotics Tournament held at RPI in Troy. This is the team’s second trip to the FRC Championship tournament. They earned a spot at the Championship in 2013 when they won the W.P.I. Regional Robotics Tournament. This is Ballston Spa’s eighth year as a F.I.R.S.T. Robotics participant and the team, with close to 40 students, would not be possible without the assistance of many volunteer mentors, the school community, and sponsors to support the building of the robot and the travel to
competitions. The district continues to seek and receive corporate sponsorships for the team. Please contact Ballston Spa’s Coordinator of Development Amber Mooney at 518-884-7195 for additional information on sponsorship opportunities. For more information, photos and video clips, visit the team website at team3044.com and twitter feed @OxBe4. To learn more about robotics initiatives, check the district website at bscsd.org or contact Science Coordinator Diane Irwin at the Ballston Spa High School at 518-884-7150
Ballston Spa Education Foundation Presents Enrichment Grants BALLSTON SPA — The Ballston Spa Education Foundation (BSEF) recently presented grant awards to educators in the Ballston Spa Central School District. This year’s grant awards, which totaled over $10,700, included funds to support a 2nd grade play at Wood Road Elementary School, a Laser Cutter for the Ballston Spa High School Technology Department and a Little Library program at the Milton Terrace Elementary School. Grants were also awarded to the Ballston Spa Middle School for a Geode Splitter and Headphones for the Science Department and a Piano Keyboard Lab for the Music Department. With these latest grant awards, the BSEF has, since its
inception in 1996, funded almost $340,000 in enrichment grants to the school district. The Ballston Spa Education Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization with an all volunteer board made up of community members whose mission is to raise and distribute resources for educational enrichment opportunities outside
the realm of the daily operational needs of the Ballston Spa Central School District. The BSEF is celebrating its 20th anniversary this spring and has been conducting a 20 for 20 Campaign. For more information, please contact the BSEF at P.O. Box 276, Ballston Spa, NY 12020, or visit www.ballstonspaeducationfoundation.com.
SSHS Club Collecting iPods for Patients SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Generation Outreach Club at Saratoga Springs High School hopes to continue sharing the gift of music with dementia and Alzheimer’s patients at local nursing homes by donating iPods that will be loaded with music, evoking happy memories. Generation Outreach has succeeded in connecting the Music and Memory program to the Wesley
Health Care facility, the Saratoga Hospital Nursing home, and the Washington Center for Rehabilitation and Healthcare. The club has set up donation boxes at the High School, Lake Avenue Elementary School, as well as at the Putnam Market in downtown Saratoga Springs. New and functioning used iPods are requested. Non-Apple, MP3 players are not
compatible with the music software and cannot be used. Donations of headphones, not ear buds, are needed as well. Cash donations, as well as, checks written to “Generation Outreach,” are also appreciated. For more information about the program, or to make a donation, please contact Tim O’Brien at 518587-6690, ext. 33315, or generationoutreach2012@gmail.com.
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
Ava Mackenzie: 1 of 12 Statewide Winners of 450 Entries
Ava Mackenzie, a fifth grade student at Division Street Elementary School in the Saratoga Springs City School District, won a statewide poster contest entitled "Kids Safe Online.” The K through 12 contest, sponsored by New York State Information Technology Services Enterprise Information Security Office, helps educate students and adults about being safe online. Mackenzie's poster was among twelve chosen from 450 entries originating in 43 different schools in New York State. It also qualified for consideration in a national K through 12 poster contest, conducted by the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center. Photo provided.
April 22 Deadline for Mastrianni Scholarship SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Xavior “Sam” Mastrianni Scholarship Committee has recently released funding for educational scholarships to area residents. Scholarship applications are being accepted through April 22. The Mastrianni Fund honors the memory of Dr. Sam Mastrianni, Saratoga Springs psychiatrist and resident, whose vision and leadership guided the expansion of mental health services in Saratoga County until his death in 1995. Each year multiple scholarships are awarded to students who live within the Capital District Region, and who are advancing their education or professional development in the field of mental health. Scholarship applicants can represent a broad range of experiences and backgrounds, but preference is given to individuals working in a mental health setting. For further information or to receive a scholarship application call Four Winds Saratoga, Community Relations
Department 518-584-3600, Ext. 3115. Applications are also be available online at www.fourwindshospital.com. Deadline for filing an application is April 22.
EDUCATION BRIEFS
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Lake Avenue Welcomes Nixie SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Dog Therapy Program at Lake Avenue Elementary School welcomed a new addition recently, Nixie, a German shepherd mix from Dog Therapy International, where dogs are certified to work as therapy dogs. Weekly, there are several dogs that come into Mrs. Lynn O’Rourke’s classroom and read with a group of second grade students. “The program builds confidence,” said O’Rourke in a written announcement, “and they become risk takers in the small group when reading with the dog. Nixie is a new addition to the Lake Avenue dog family and we are glad to have her.” If there is any interest in becoming a family member, contact O’Rourke at 518-584-3678 or l_orourke@saratogaschools.org.
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Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
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Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
TOWN OF WILTON REC CAMP AT GAVIN PARK
THIS WEEK’S
SPOTLIGHT
Come Join us for a Summer of Fun, Excitement, and outdoor Adventure! WILTON RECREATION CAMP AT GAVIN PARK Wilton Recreation offers a fullday Summer Camp Program for children entering 1st through 9th grade, which runs from 9a.m. to 3p.m., June 28th through August 12th.
Gavin Park, Wilton, NY
www.townofwilton.com (518) 584-9455
To Advertise in the Summer Camp Guide
Call (518) 581-2480
Our camp offers a fun-filled schedule of daily onsite activities, themed events, as well as exciting trips for those campers registered for off-site adventures. Daily onsite activities include arts and crafts, sports, playground fun, and other organized group games. This year’s scheduled field trips include: Fun Spot, Saratoga County Fair, Magic Forest, and at least two swimming days per week at nearby pools and beaches and much more (trips are based on space and availability). Campers may also register for swim trips only, which means they will enjoy onsite fun for three days and join off-site campers twice per week. As per State Health Department regulations, the camp provides certified lifeguards that travel with the groups. These lifeguards supervise the swimmers in conjunction with the State Park Lifeguards and facility usage lifeguards. All campers registered for swimming and water trips are swim tested. Campers are then partnered with, and swim near, a fellow camper who has the same swimming ability. Once waterside, camp staff members conduct buddy checks every 15 minutes
(campers leave the water and report to their counselors). All staff members stand in and around water during swimming activities to assist with supervision. With available pre-camp and post-camp care, working parents can ensure their children are having fun in a safe environment before and after the camp’s regular hours. Space is limited. Parents who register their children for before camp care can drop off their registered campers as early as 8 a.m. and for after camp care can pick them up as late as 5:30 p.m. Busing is available for Wilton residents who register for regular camp hours. Camp registration is for Wilton Residents ONLY and begins on March 7th. Registration is open until camp capacity is reached, or May 27th, whichever comes first. There are no refunds for fees or deposits related to summer camp. Space is limited and registration must be done in person at Gavin Park, 10 Lewis Drive, Saratoga Springs NY. Camp registration forms are available at www.townofwilton. com or can be picked up at the park office, weekdays 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Any questions, please call (518)-584-9455.
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
BALLSTON SPA
PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS
GREENFIELD
52 Beacon St., Bldg. 12, Unit D, $243,365. Traditional Builders LTD sold property to Katherine Forrence.
9 Hi Trek Dr., $445,000. William Bokus and Dorreen Raucci sold property to Michael and Lisa Fudzinski.
504 Randall Rd., $393,975. Lucas and Jessica Jefts sold property to David and Jennifer Apffel.
9 Stonewall Lane, $284,000. Kevin and Pariss Clark sold property to Micah and Nichole Bodine.
13 Marlyn Dr., $255,000. Margaret and Anthony Centofanti, Jr. sold property to Anthony Centofanti.
6 Larkspur Court, $118,000. Briand Parenteau sold property to Joshua Thomas.
CLIFTON PARK
HALFMOON
503 Kinns Rd., $392,000. Eric and Yayoi Peterson sold property to Jennifer and Daniel Miller.
6C Pointe West Dr., $257,860. Pointe West Townhomes of Halfmoon LLC and TD and G LLC sold property to Edwina and John Kenney, Jr.
2 Kimberly Ct., $225,000. Darcie and David Brabenec sold property to Kimberly Turpin.
19 Ridgewood Dr., $379,900. Scott and Kristine Ashcraft sold property to Zachary and Ginelle Nagel.
900 Grooms Rd., $70,000. Deutsche Bank National Trust Company (as Trustee) sold property to David West, Jr.
123 Dunsbach Rd., $305,000. Bryan and Krista Zajesky sold property to Pamela Fetcho and Ralph Keating.
39 Glenridge Rd., $110,000. Peter and Dorothea Shevchik sold property to James Judge. 22 Sunrise Terrace, $255,500. Deborah Miller sold property to Rodney Peterson and Ingrid Drumgold. 4 Wilshire Dr., $355,000. Louis and Angela Pitaniello sold property to Catherine and Andreas Scholze. 22 Teakwood Dr., $255,500. Bryan Borges sold property to Craig and Victoria Bocketti. 5 Northcrest Dr., $270,000. Adil and Elda Saljanin sold property to Jaclyn and Bradley Gregg. 59 Tippery Way, $625,000. Ignacio Nunez and Megan Brown sold property to Russell and Cynthia Teplitzky.
CORINTH 107 Mill St., $67,950. Louis McCarthur, Jr. sold property to Daniel Taylor and Trellan Smith.
GALWAY Lot 15, Kania Rd., $71,000. High Country Geospatial Inc. sold property to John O’Neil and Renee Roth-O’Neil.
10 Victor Dr., $325,718. EW Birch Builders Victors Farm Inc. sold property to Marvin and Silver Blackman. 49 Hendrick Hudson Way, $327,540. Lee and Alyssa Whitcher sold property to Katelyn Mennella and John Russell. 11 Parkview Dr., $381,964. Abele Builders Inc. sold property to Joseph and Roberta Patterson. 39 Saville Row, $470,113. Legacy Builders LLC sold property to Ronald and Helen Onorato. 6 Barn Owl Place, $455,049. Barbera Homes and Development Inc. sold property to Daniel and Breton Hjeltnes.
MALTA 5010 Nelson Avenue Extension, $80,000. Deborah Martino sold property to Ashley Villa. 2 Wineberry Lane, $208,000. Helen Bulson and Paul May sold property to Mark Domijan. 4 Cheryl Court, $258,000. Michael and Holly Reilly sold property to David Smith.
2247 Route 9, 2300 Route 9, Route 9 Rear, 2354 Route 9 and 2364 Route 9 Rear, $2,006,800. Malta Route 9 Associates sold property to AMR of Malta NY LLC. 1041 Raymond Rd., $315,000. Peter Suzuki and Erin Slater sold property to Jozeanne Namocatcat and Hasan Dogan.
MILTON 16 Chapman St., $319,000. Mark and Beth Smisloff sold property to Gary Dale and Rochel Roe-Dale. 18 Van Tassel Lane, $205,000. Ryan Reddy sold property to Brooke Winters. 13 North Milton Rd. $120,000. Malcolm Aitken (by Co Execs) sold property to Stephen, Nancy and John Otrembiak and Mary Wing. 126 Deer Run Dr., $172,500. Andrew Janack sold property to Thomas Perillo, Jr. 30 Florence Dr., $127,582. Nicholas Belmonte sold property to Amanda Belmonte and Patricia Battesh. 154 West Milton Rd., $65,300. Robert and Barbara Ostrander sold property to Kathleen Iwaneczko. 3 Birchwood Ct. $209,000. Jill St. George sold property to John and Carolyn Bory.
MOREAU 374 Reynolds Rd., $175,500. Jon and Lisa Brockway sold property to John and Jolene Varney. 22 Harrison Ave., $39,000. Wells Fargo Bank sold property to Paul Madison.
NORTHUMBERLAND 224 Little Oaks Terrace, $230,000. Daniel Willette sold property to David Capra. 1237 West River Road, $85,500. Elizabeth Haggerty sold property to Jesse Lena.
SARATOGA SPRINGS 2219 Route 50 South, $87,500. Wells Fargo Bank sold property to 146 Middle Ave., LLC.
268 Broadway, Unit 403, $1,430,496. 262 Broadway LLC sold property to Salma Shadi. 136 East Ave., $332,800. Karen and Helen Wallingford sold property to 136 East Avenue LLC. 11 Liz Ann Dr., $620,000. William Zablinis sold property to Mark Ketchoyian. 48 Myrtle St., $275,000. Kevin and Elisa Sheehan sold property to Caroline Declercq-Blake. 165 Union Ave., $910,000. Andrea Spungen (as Trustee) sold property to Jesse and Melissa Smith. 6 Bunker Hill Dr., $302,000. David and Amy Holupko sold property to Matthew and
29 Nichole Holupko.
STILLWATER 52 Lakepointe Way, $355,686. Mason Street LLC sold property to Jennifer and Christopher Spano. 12 Ridge Court, $265,000. Maria Delorenzo sold property to Courtenay and Carolyn Hall. 700 Route 9, $240,000. Nancy Meyer sold property to Michael and Kathleen Johnson. 26 Graves Rd., $455,000. Stillwater Neighbors LLC sold property to Gabriel Kristal and Cecilia Aldarondo.
30 Adirondack Christian Fellowship 8 Mountain Ledge, Wilton 587-0623 | acfsaratoga.com Services: Sunday 8 a.m. & 10 a.m. Adirondack Friends Meeting 27 Saratoga Ave, South Glens Falls 793-3755 | adirondackfriendsmeeting.org Regina Baird Haag, Pastor Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Assembly of God Faith Chapel 6 Burgoyne St, Schuylerville 695-6069 | Rev. Jason Proctor Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m. Assembly of God Saratoga 118 Woodlawn Ave, Saratoga Springs 584-6081 | Services: Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Bacon Hill Reformed Church* 560 Route 32N, Bacon Hill | 695-3074 Rev. Janet Vincent | Services: Worship service 10 a.m.; Sunday School 10 a.m. Baha’i Community of Saratoga Springs 584-9679; 692-7694 | usbnc.org Ballston Center Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church 58 Charlton Road, Ballston Spa | 885-7312 ballstoncenterarpchurch.org Services: Sunday Worship, 10:30 a.m. Ballston Spa United Methodist Church 101 Milton Ave, Ballston Spa 885-6886 | Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Bethesda Episcopal Church* 41 Washington Street, Saratoga Springs Bethesdachurch.org | 584-5980 The Very Rev’d Marshall J. Vang Services: Sunday 8:00AM & 10:00AM Calvary Capital District 17 Low Street, Ballston Spa | Pastor Andrew Holt Services: Sunday 10 am | calvarycd.com Church of Christ at Clifton Park 7 Old Route 146, Clifton Park 371-6611 | cliftonparkchurchofchrist.com Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Christ Community Reformed Church 1010 Route 146, Clifton Park | 371-7654 ccrc-cpny.org | Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Christ Episcopal Church Routes 50 & 67, Ballston Spa | 885-1031 Services: Sunday 8 & 10 a.m. Christian Restoration Ministries Saratoga Senior Center 5 Williams St, Saratoga Springs 796-4323 | Pastor Pat Roach Services: Sunday 10 a.m.; 6:30 p.m. Christian Science Church 107 Circular St, Saratoga Springs 584-0221 | Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Community Alliance Church 257 Rowland St, Ballston Spa 885-6524 | Services: Morning Worship 10:30 a.m. Congregation Shaara Tfille* 84 Weibel Avenue, Saratoga Springs 584-2370 | saratogasynagogue.org Services: Saturday 10 a.m. Corinth Free Methodist Church 20 Hamilton Ave, Corinth 654-9255; 792-0271 Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Corinth United Methodist Church 243 Main Street, Corinth 654-2521 | cfumc@cnyconnect.net Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Cornerstone Community Church 516 Park Ave., Mechanicville | 664-5204 mycornerstonechurch.org | Pastor Frank Galerie Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Corpus Christi Roman Catholic Community 2001 Route 9, Round Lake 877-8506 | ccorpusc@nycap.rr.com Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 8:30 & 10:30 a.m.;
RELIGION Eastern Orthodox — Christ the Savior 349 Eastline Road, Ballston Spa 786-3100 | xcsavior@yahoo.com. Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m. First Baptist Church of Saratoga Springs 45 Washington St, Saratoga Springs 584-6301 | Services: Sunday 11 a.m. First Baptist Church of Ballston Spa 202 Milton Ave, Ballston Spa 885-8361 | bspabaptist.org Services: 10:30 a.m. worship, 9 a.m. Sunday School (all ages) First Presbyterian Church of Ballston Spa 22 West High St, Ballston Spa 885-5583 | Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Full Gospel Tabernacle 207 Redmond Road, Gansevoort 793-2739 | Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Galway United Methodist Church 2056 East St, Galway | 882-6520 galway-united-methodist-church.com Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m. (9 a.m. in July and August) Grace Fellowship Saratoga 165 High Rock Ave, Saratoga | 691-0301 saratoga.gracefellowship.com Pastor: Mike Adams Services: Sundays 9 & 11 a.m. Grace Brethren Church* 137 W. Milton Road, Ballston Spa 587-0649 | Rev. Dan Pierce Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Greater Grace Community Church Pastor David Moore | 899-7777 thechurch@ggccmalta.org Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Greenfield Center Baptist Church 30 Wilton Road, Greenfield Center | 893-7429 Services: Sunday School for all ages - 9:45 a.m.; Church Service - 11 a.m. Highway Tabernacle Church 90 River Road, Mechanicville | 664-4442 Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Hope Church 206 Greenfield Ave, Ballston Spa 885-7442 | Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Jonesville United Methodist 963 Main St, Clifton Park 877-7332 | Services: Sunday 8:30 & 10:30 a.m. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Living Springs Community Church 59 Pine Road, Saratoga Springs 584-9112 | Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Living Waters Church of God 4330 State Rt. 50, Saratoga Springs 587-0484 | livingwaterscog.us Services: Sundays 10 a.m. Malta Presbyterian Church Dunning Street, Malta 899-5992 | Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Malta Ridge United Methodist Church 729 Malta Ave. Ext, Malta 581-0210 | Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Middle Grove United Methodist Church* 581-2973 | Pastor Bonnie Bates Services: Sunday 9 a.m. Mt. Olivet Baptist Church Corner of Jefferson St. & Crescent St. Saratoga Springs | 584-9441 Rev. Dr. Victor L. Collier, Pastor New Horizon Church 150 Perry Road, Saratoga Springs 587-0711 | Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m. New Life Fellowship 51 Old Gick Road, Saratoga Springs 580-1810 | newlifeinsaratoga.org. Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.
NorthStar Church Gowana Middle School, Clifton Park 371-2811 | northstarchurch.com Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m. & 11:15 a.m. Old Saratoga Reformed Church* 48 Pearl St., Schuylerville oldsaratogareformedchurch.org Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Old Stone Church (American Baptist) 159 Stone Church Road, Ballston Spa 583-1002 | Services: Sunday 9 a.m.; Adult Sunday School 9 a.m.; Service 10:30 a.m. Our Lady of Grace Roman Catholic Church* 73 Midline Road, Ballston Lake 399-5713 | Services: Saturday 5 p.m. Sunday 8:15 & 10:15 a.m. Presbyterian-NE Congregational Church 24 Circular St, Saratoga Springs 584-6091 | pnecchurch.org Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m. Quaker Springs United Methodist Church* 466 Route 32 South, Quaker Springs 695-3101 | qsumc.com Pastor Al Johnson Services: Sunday 9 a.m. River of Hope Fellowship 100 Saratoga Village Blvd, Malta Cmns, Ste. 3 | 881-1505 riverofhopefellowship.com Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Roman Catholic Church of St. Peter 241 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 584-2375 | Services: Saturday 5 p.m.; Sunday 7:30, 9 and 11 a.m. St. Clement’s Roman Catholic Church 231 Lake Ave, Saratoga Springs 584-6122 | Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 8, 9:30, 11:15 a.m. and 5 p.m., 1 p.m. Spanish Service St. George’s Episcopal Church 912 Route 146, Clifton Park 371-6351 | stgeorge@csdsl.net Services: Saturday 4:30 p.m.; Sunday 8 & 9:30 a.m. St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church* 3159 Route 9N, Greenfield Center 893-7680 stjosephschurchgreenfieldcenter.org Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 10:30 a.m. St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church* 167 Milton Ave, Ballston Spa 885-7411 | stmarysbsta.org Services: Saturday 4 p.m., Sunday 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., Noon. St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church* 771 Route 29, Rock City Falls 893-7680 | sjoegctr@nycap.rr.com Services: Sunday 8:30 am. St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church 149 Lake Ave, Saratoga Springs 584-0904 | Services: Saturday 5 p.m.; Sundays 8:30 & 11 a.m. St. Peter Lutheran Church 2776 Route 9, Malta | 583-4153 Services: Sunday 8:30 & 10:30 a.m.; Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church 1 Grove Street, Schuylerville 695-3918 | Rev. Donna J. Arnold Services: Sunday 8 & 9 a.m. St. Thomas of Canterbury 242 Grooms Road, Halfmoon st-thomas-of-canterbury.org Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Saratoga Abundant Life Church 2325 Route 50 South, Saratoga Springs 885-5456 | SALChurch.org Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m.
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016 Saratoga Chabad 130 Circular St, Saratoga Springs 526-0773 | saratogachabad.com Saratoga Friends Meeting (Quaker) Rts. 32 and 71, Quaker Springs 587-7477; 399-5013 Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Saratoga United Methodist Church* Henning Road, Saratoga Springs 584-3720 | saratogaumc.com Services: Sunday 9 & 10:45 a.m. Saratoga Seventh-Day Adventist Church 399 Union Ave, Saratoga Springs 882-9384 | saratogasda.org Services: Sabbath School: 10 a.m. Worship Service: 11:30 a.m. Schuylerville United Methodist Church* 51 Church St, Schuylerville 695-3101 | sumethodist.org Services: Worship at 11am Shenendehowa United Methodist 971 Route 146, Clifton Park 371-7964 Services: Sunday 9 & 10:30 a.m. Simpson United Methodist Church Rock City Road, Rock City Falls 885-4794 Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m. Soul Saving Station for Every Nation Christ Crusaders of America 62 Henry St, Saratoga Springs Services: Sunday 10 a.m. www.SOULSAVINGSTATIONCHURCH.COM Stillwater United Church (Presbyterian U.S.A.) 747 Hudson Avenue, Stillwater | 664-7984 stillwaterunitedchurch.org Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Temple Sinai* 509 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 584-8730 | saratogasinai.org Shabbat Services: Friday 6 p.m. or 8p.m. (rotating schedule) Saturdays: 10:30a.m. Terra Nova Church* 45 Washington St, Saratoga Springs 833-0504 | terranovachurch.org Services: Sunday 5:30 p.m. The Salvation Army/ Worship, Service & Community Center 27 Woodlawn Ave, Saratoga Springs 584-1640 Services: Sunday School 10 a.m.; Praise & Worship 11 a.m. Trinity United Methodist Church 155 Ballard Road, Gansevoort 584-9107 | tumcwilton.com Rev Keith Mann Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Saratoga Springs 624 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs 584-1555 | uusaratoga.org Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Unity Church in Albany 21 King Ave., Albany 453-3603 Services: Sunday 9 a.m. & 11 a.m. West Charlton United Presbyterian Church 1331 Sacandaga Road, West Charlton 882-9874 | westcharltonupc.org Rev. Thomas Gregg, Pastor Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Wilton Baptist Church 755 Saratoga Road, Wilton 583-2736 wiltonbaptistchurch.com Services: Sunday 11 a.m.
* — Handicap Accessible
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
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Hava Nagila: The Movie The song you thought you knew, the story you won’t believe comes to Saratoga SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Jewish Community Arts presents Hava Nagila: The Movie, on Sunday, May 1 at Temple Sinai at 7 p.m. The film is a slight, but very satisfying, and at times surprisingly moving documentary about the inescapable Jewish anthem and wedding or bar mitzvah staple. However, there is much more to Hava Nagila than meets the ear. The song is a portal into a century and a half of Jewish history from a Ukranian niggun (a wordless prayer) winding its way from the shtetls of Eastern Europe to the kibbutzim of Palestine to the culde-sacs of America. It is much more than Jewish kitsch, it carries with it an entire constellation of values and hopes for the future.
Hava Nagila reveals the power of one song to express and sustain identity, to transmit lessons across generations and to bridge cultural divides. It is a profound tapping into universal themes about the importance of joy, the power of music and the resilient spirit of a people. Find out how this song went from the Ukraine where it began to You Tube. It shows up in films such as Thoroughly Modern Millie, Wedding Crashers, Daddy Day Care, The Ed Sullivan Show and The Simpsons; as well as Raisin in the Sun and True Grit. Bruce Springsteen featured it in a concert, Glen Campbell included it on the second side of a single, Chubby Checker twisted to it and Lena Horne adapted it for her powerful civil rights anthem. Instrumental in introducing it to an American audience were Connie Francis, an Italian Catholic who included it in her bestselling
album Connie Francis Sings Jewish Favorites, and Harry Belafonte movingly recalled singing the song in Germany. It is not just a song, it’s an event, as suggested by Josh Kun, one of the academics who speaks on the mystery, history and meaning of Hava Nagila. It’s a song that screams, “This is a Jewish song.” Not everyone is happy about that. Henry Sapoznik, founder of KlezKamp Yiddish folk arts program, remarks, “It’s relentless, resilient, but so are cockroaches. It represents for multitudes of people Jewish music and that’s all that they will ever know.” Inevitably, Hava Nagila became a target for spoof and parodies and ultimately outright scorn by a new generation attempting to take Jewish music into the 21st century. But Hava Nagila endures as an immediate connection to tradition and community. “What says Jewish more at a
Photo provided.
celebration,” says Jewish Community Arts Coordinator, Phyllis Wang, “than a spontaneous musical eruption into Hava Nagila and its unprompted endless circle of dancers joining in a Hora.” Its lyrics speak of rejoicing, and throughout Jewish history, the song has been the best and most defiant answer to oppression and misery.
Hava Nagila: The Movie is a moving documentary about the inescapable Jewish anthem. Panel discussion and dessert reception will follow. $5 donation is requested. Sunday, May 1, 7 p.m., Temple Sinai, 509 Broadway. Call 518 584 8730 option 2 for information or reservations.
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LOCAL BRIEFS $5 donation requested to cover expenses.
Donny Elvis Fundraiser Cooking Classes Learn the core fundamental techniques of international vegetarian cooking. Using the freshest, healthiest seasonal ingredients, this class includes a discussion and demonstration of several essential culinary techniques and generous tastes of dishes prepared. Cost is $35 for each class and will be taught by Intaba Liff-Anderson, one of the seasoned chefs at Four Seasons Café. Classes are each Sunday at Four Seasons, 120 Henry St., Saratoga Springs, from 4 – 6 p.m. For questions or to register, call (518) 587-4670 ext 2 and speak with Rich or email Richard@ fourseasonsnaturalfoods.com.
Saratoga Warhorse Foundation Fundraiser A fundraiser helping veterans adjust to post-military life will be held at the Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge #161 on April 22 at 7:30 p.m. “The Not Too Far From Home Comedy Tour” features Dan Geurin, Steve Van Zandt and Aaron David Ward. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door. For more information or to reserve your ticket call (518) 584-2585.
Unique Approach to Healthcare Sarah LoBisco, ND, naturopathic doctor and functional medicine practitioner to present on new book highlighting a unique approach to healthcare. In celebration of the recent release of her new book, BreakFree Medicine: A Systematic and Integrated Guide to Balancing Your Body, she will be presenting at One Big Roof, A Center for Mindful Practices, on April 23. One Big Roof is located at 538 Maple Ave. (Route 9) in the Saratoga Health & Wellness Building (Across from Maple Ave. Middle School, Saratoga Springs). The event will take place from 4 - 5 p.m. Admission:
The Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Court McLaughlin #422, will present Donny Elvis on Saturday, April 23, at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 50 Pine Road, Saratoga Springs. Doors open at 5 p.m. and the show will begin at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 for the show and can be purchased at the door. Food will be available for purchase and there will also be a 50/50 Raffle and Chinese Auction. Proceeds are to benefit Mary’s Haven and Gateway House of Peace. Questions or information: contact Aileen Thomas @ (518) 583-2905.
Monthly Indoor Craft and Garage Sale On Sunday, April 24, from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., the popular Elks Ladies Auxiliary Indoor Craft and Garage Sale will take place at the Saratoga-Wilton Elks Club off Maple Avenue on Elks Lane. Admission is free with over 40 vendors; parking is great, bargains galore, lunch, books, household items, sports equipment, hand-made items, clothing, jewelry, party vendors, pet supplies and just about anything you can imagine may be found here. New vendors are signing up every month. Rain or shine the sales go on and it is a fun activity the entire family enjoys. Come browse, visit, eat or just get out of the house with a friend. You might find the perfect Mom’s Day gift at an awesome price. All proceeds go to our local charities. All markets are held the fourth Sunday of each month: next sales date is April 24. Tables are $15 for an 8 ft. table; call (518) 289-5470 for information or to sign-up for a table.
NYS Boater Safety Course Join instructor Allan Miller at the Malta Community Center on Monday, April 25 and Tuesday, April 26, at 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. for a comprehensive course on the fundamentals of safe boat operation. This is a required
course for anyone operating a personal watercraft in NYS. All persons between the ages of 10 and 18 must have a NYS Boater Safety Certification and individuals born on or after 5/1/96 must complete a boater education course in order to operate a boat. Upon completion, those under 18 will receive a Boater Safety Certificate and those over 18 may apply to NYS Parks for theirs. Ages 10+ Min/ Max: 6/45. Fee: R $50, NR $55, SRR $25. For more information, call (518) 899-4411.
Volkswalk Join the Empire State Capital Volkssporters for Fun, Fitness and Friendship! Volkswalk: Saratoga National Historic Park on Wednesday April 27 at 10 a.m. Register 30 minutes before start. The start point will be at the Saratoga National Historic Park Battlefield Visitor’s Center located at Route 32, Stillwater, NY. A Volkswalk’ is a leisurely walk (typically 10k or 6.2 miles. A 3 mile route is also offered) through a scenic and or historic area.
All about Birds Joan Collins will present “All About Birds,” a multimedia introduction to birding on Wednesday, April 27 as part of the monthly program of the Southern Adirondack Audubon Society. The program will be held at 7 p.m. in the Christine L. McDonald Community Room on the lower level of Crandall Library in downtown Glens Falls. The program is free and open to the public. For more information, visit http://www. southernadirondackaudubon.org.
Sustainable Saratoga’s 3rd Annual Tree Toga Tree Planters and Tree hosts needed. Sustainable Saratoga’s Urban Forestry Project has scheduled its 3rd annual TREE TOGA planting effort for the morning of Saturday, April 30. Volunteers like you are the key to the success of this annual event. With your help, we can grow a green legacy that will benefit our great city for decades to come.
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016 TREE PLANTERS (a great family activity). Have fun being part of a horde of tree planters by volunteering from about 9 a.m. - noon on the morning of Saturday, April 30. TREE HOSTS (get a FREE TREE at your house). Volunteer to host a street tree in front of your house. Enjoy nurturing the young tree for the first two years, especially by keeping it watered during hot dry spells. In 2016, we are excited to be planting twice the number of trees that we did in the past two years. As in the past, we will plant 25 trees funded from the City’s DPW tree budget. This April, however, we will also be planting 25 additional trees, funded by donors who have given generously to the tree fund of Sustainable Saratoga’s Urban Forestry Project. To volunteer, or if you have questions, email us at trees@sustainablesaratoga.org
1st Annual Golf Tournament The Eagle Matt Lee Fire Company is proudly celebrating 200 years in providing protection to our residents who reside in our Fire District. The Eagle Matt Lee Fire Company #1 will be hosting their 1st Annual Golf Tournament at the Ballston Spa Country Club, located at 1366 West High St., Ballston Spa, NY. Price of $85 per person includes golf, cart, prizes and a BBQ dinner by Henry’s Grill. The event will be held on May 16, 2016 with a 12:00 shotgun. The proceeds from this tournament will be used to support our celebration on June 25th. Registration deadline is May 1, 2016. Please visit our Facebook page for more information or call Pat Morrissey at (518) 885-5272.
27th Annual Fundraising Event The Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council (EOC) invites the community to attend their 27th annual fundraiser, the May Day Spring Fling, to be held at the Canfield Casino on Wednesday, May 4 from 5:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. The event is sponsored by Longfellows Restaurant and the The Olde
Bryan Inn and will include an open bar tended by VIP Bartenders, dinner and dessert stations, an exciting live and silent auction and music by J. Yager. At this event, attendees will have the opportunity to help support EOC’s new endeavor, a traveling food pantry. The pantry will serve as an outreach vehicle that will visit areas of the county where residents are in need of food, as a first point of contact, as well as other services such as weatherization. Purchase tickets http://www.brownpapertickets. com/event/122443
Care Links Fundraiser Hilton Garden Inn will be the site for the 13th Annual Luncheon to support CARE LINKS of Southern Saratoga County on Thursday, May 19 at its Clifton Park location. Doors will open at 11:30 a.m. to provide time to examine the raffle items with lunch served beginning at 12:30 p.m. Ticket price is $25 and the menu is Garden Salad, Chicken Francaise with Rice Pilaf Green Beans, Vanilla Chocolate Mousse and Coffee or Tea. Tickets may be purchased at Community Human Services located at 543 Saratoga Road in Glenville, the Clifton Park Town Hall, the Halfmoon Senior Center; Healthplex Fitness located at 1673 Route 9 in Halfmoon; and the Malta Town Hall. CARE LINKS is a program where volunteers are recruited from the community, are trained and matched with seniors who need non-medical assistance. The program is open to seniors in the towns of Ballston, Charlton, Clifton Park, Halfmoon, Malta and the city of Mechanicville. Currently there are 280 seniors receiving assistance in one form or another at no cost to them.
200th Anniversary Celebration Join Eagle-Matt Lee fire Company No. 1 as they celebrate their 200th Anniversary on Saturday, June 25, 2016 at the Saratoga County Fairgrounds, Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa. A parade starts at 11:30 followed by rides, games, food, vendors and more. There will be a Jaws of Life live demo, Local DJ Hersh Productions, Big Sky Country from 4 – 9 p.m. and more.
Send your local briefs to calendar@saratogapublishing.com two weeks prior to the event.
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
Saturday, April 16 Family Yoga at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market
Family Friendly Event
Friday, April 15 Skidmore Vocal Recital Arthur Zankel Music Center, Skidmore Campus, 5 p.m. Free and open to the public. For more information, call (518) 5805321 or go to www.skidmore. edu/zankel.
Family Movie Night Schuylerville Public Library, 52 Ferry St., Schuylerville, 6 pm. Join us in pajamas and feel free to bring snacks. The Film is rated PG-13 and runs approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Sign up for our e-news today and find out the title. www. schuylervillelibrary.sals.edu/
The Spring Gala 2016 Saratoga National Golf Club, 458 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs, 6:30 p.m. If primary school education is a passion and you value having exceptional educational choices in the Saratoga Springs community, please join us at the beautiful Saratoga National Golf Club for a benefit to support Saratoga Independent School. All proceeds from the evening will help expand academic programs, teaching resources and the development of every child at Saratoga Independent School. Tickets are still available and can be purchased at www. sisspringgala2016.splashthat. com.
Concert: Skidmore Guitar Ensembles Arthur Zankel Music Center, Skidmore Campus, 8 p.m. Free and open to the public. For more information, call (518) 5805321 or go to www.skidmore. edu/zankel.
Saratoga Spa State Park, Lincoln Baths Building, 65 S. Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. Certified yoga instructor Patty Rodecker will hold a free Family Yoga class. The 30-minute classes will be family-friendly and designed for yogis of all ages and abilities. Bring your mat or just wear your sneakers and enjoy a gentle, fun program designed to put a smile on your face and peace in your heart. Please register ahead by emailing Julia at: Julia@saratogafarmersmarket. org.
Genealogy and Local History Town of Saratoga Town Hall, Corner of Rt. 4 and Rt. 29, Schuylerville, 1 p.m. Heritage Hunters of Saratoga County will meet for a “Forum on Cemeteries” as the program topic. Reed Antis, member of the Friends of Moreau Cemeteries, Kelly Grimaldi, historian for Albany Diocesan Cemeteries and Dave Peck, active in the restoration of two Town of Saratoga graveyards, will discuss their past and current roles in dealing with old burial grounds. Public is welcome. For information, call (518) 587-2978.
Sunday, April 17 Breakfast Buffet Saratoga-Wilton Elks, 1 Elks Lane, Rt. 9, Saratoga Springs, 8:30 – 11 a.m. Fruit cocktail, French toast, pancakes, potatoes, breakfast sausage and ham, corned beef hash, scrambled eggs, eggs benedict, juice, coffee and tea. Donation Requested: Adults $8, Seniors and Military (Active/ Retired with ID Card) $7, Children 5—12 $6, Under 5 Free, Take-outs $8. Call (518) 5842585 for more information.
Skidmore Concert Band Arthur Zankel Music Center, Skidmore Campus, Saratoga Springs, 2 p.m. Free and open to the public. For
CALENDAR 33 more information call (518) 5805321 or go to www.skidmore. edu/zankel
Monday, April 18 The Parkinson’s Support Group of Saratoga Meeting Woodlawn Commons, 156 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs 2 p.m. This meeting is open to anyone with Parkinson’s Disease, family members and friends. For more information, call Joyce Garlock (518) 885-6427 or Marilyn Merry at (518) 798-8947.
Tuesday, April 19 The Essential Ernest Holmes Woodlawn Commons, 156 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Albany-Saratoga Spiritual Adventures is hosting “The Essential Ernest Holmes” on Tuesdays. During this 10-week class, students will explore the spiritually rich and lifetransforming writings of New Thought teacher Ernest Holmes as well as participate in experiential exercises to help them grow spiritually. Suggested donation: $20 per class session. To sign up, call (518) 423-3569. For more information, visit www. newthoughtnewyork.org.
Wednesday, April 20 The Olde Saratoga Seniors Meeting Town Hall, 12 Spring St., Schuylerville, Noon. The Olde Saratoga Seniors will host a sandwich luncheon. A teacup auction will follow. Dessert will be provided. New members and guests welcome. Call Pat (518) 331-2978.
Guided Mindful Meditation Saratoga Springs Public Library, Susman Room, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. Take a break from the daily grind and clear your mind with guided Mindful Meditation led by professionals from One Roof Holistic Health
Center. Sessions are free and open to the public, and will be held on the first and third Wednesday of each month. Everyone is welcome. For more information, call (518) 5847860 ext. 205.
Course Offered on Book Writing and Publishing SUNY Adirondack’s Wilton Campus, 696 US 9, Wilton, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. A course for aspiring authors interested in writing and selling books will be held on Wednesdays, April 20, 27 and May 4. “No Excuses: Writing and Selling Your Book” is offered through Continuing Education. Course fee is $65, which includes a coursebook. To register, call (518) 7432238. For more information, visit www.paulinebartel.com.
Thursday, April 21 Lasagna Dinner Saratoga Knights of Columbus, 4:30 – 7 p.m. Soup, lasagna, salad, rolls and dessert. Adults $10, seniors and veterans $9, children 6 – 12 $7. For more information, call (518) 5848547.
Malta Democratic Committee Informational Meeting Malta Community Center, Room 104B, Malta, 6:30 p.m. The Malta Democratic Committee is seeking residents interested in becoming active members of the town committee. The committee members also serve as members of the Saratoga County Democratic Committee representing the Town of Malta. Members must be registered Democrats and are elected by their constituents every two years. Registered Democrats in the Town of Malta are encouraged to attend the meeting and become involved. Contact the Malta Democratic Committee at malta.democrats@gmail.com for more information.
Local Town Websites Town of Ballston: Ballston Town Hall 323 Charlton Road (518) 885-8502 www.townofballstonny.org Village of Ballston Spa: 66 Front Street (518) 885-5711 www.ballstonspany.org Town of Greenfield: 7 Wilton Road (518) 893-7432 www.townofgreenfield.com Town of Malta: 2540 Route 9 (518) 899-2818 www.malta-town.org Town of Milton: 503 Geyser Road (518) 885-9220 www.townofmiltonny.org City of Saratoga Springs: 474 Broadway (518) 587-3550 www.saratoga-springs.org Town of Saratoga: 12 Spring Street, Schuylerville (518) 695-3644 www.townofsaratoga.com Village of Schuylerville: 35 Spring Street (518) 695-3881 www.villageofschuylerville.org Town of Stillwater: 881 N. Hudson Avenue Stillwater, NY 12170 (518) 664-6148 www.stillwaterny.org Town of Wilton: 22 Traver Road (518) 587-1939 www.townofwilton.com Saratoga County Board of Supervisors: 40 McMaster St, #1 Ballston Spa, NY 12020 (518) 885-2240 www.saratogacountyny.gov
Send your calendar events to calendar@saratogapublishing.com two weeks prior to the event.
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Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
Puzzles ACROSS 1 Shower alternative 11 Hollow 15 “The Man Who Knew Too Much” (1934) actor 16 NASA unit 17 Correct 18 Pigmented layer 19 Takeout menu eponym 20 Smartens (up) 21 1954 Detroit Auto Show unveiling 22 Battery, e.g. 23 Ride and Brown 24 Maker of Neo soft drinks 27 Capital NNE of Rome 29 Prayer opening 30 Feelers 33 Noggin 34 Chain with a red cowboy hat logo 35 __ Raven: Baltimore neighborhood 36 Square shooter? 38 Very small 39 Sequoia Park Zoo home 40 Teaching model 41 Actress who starred in two Hitchcock films 43 Jerk 44 Garibaldi’s wife 45 Tons 47 “Criminal Minds” network 50 Spanish address 51 Pointer’s cry 53 When the ghost of Hamlet’s father first appears 54 Nanny’s service 55 Fund-raising suffix 56 What “D” may mean, monetarily DOWN 1 Tough __ 2 They may be filled from wells 3 Mort Walker dog 4 Bk. about the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls 5 Aged 6 Where Mark Twain married Olivia Langdon
See puzzle solutions on page 42
See puzzle solution on page 42
7 Amplify 8 “A-Hunting We Will Go” songwriter 9 Marne modifier 10 “Yo!” 11 Mouse action 12 Metal-bending aid 13 Distrustful 14 “Tarnation!” 21 Fictional house “built according to no architectural plan whatever” 22 Hitchcock thriller set in East Germany 23 Friday et al.: Abbr. 24 Name in Virginia politics 25 Singer Laine 26 Gently convinced about 27 Barking horse relative 28 “The Cherry Orchard” daughter
30 Go a long way 31 Neutral color 32 Look for a good deal 34 “Yes!” 37 Region 38 Ginormous 40 “___ X” 41 Charged 42 Methuselah’s father 43 Comedian Smirnoff 45 Acoustical unit 46 Columbia Pictures co-founder Harry 47 Masala __: Indian beverage 48 Building with big doors 49 Proof mark 51 Top 52 “__ Underground”: cult film showcase
Writing the Right Word by Dave Dowling
Accuracy in word choice is a key to effective communication. In your daily writing and speaking, try to make sure you use the right word in the right place with the right spelling. By doing so, its effect will affect your communication in a positive way. This quick weekly tip will help you filter the confusion in some of our daily word choices. This Week: Baluster, Banister A baluster is a short pillar that supports a handrail. The balusters on the deck were secured with small screws. A banister is the handrail on a staircase. We slid down the banister when we were children. Dave Dowling is the author of The Wrong Word Dictionary and The Dictionary of Worthless Words. Both books are available from many book retailers, and signed copies can be obtained by contacting Dave at davedowling59@yahoo.com
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
35 Saratoga Bridges Announces Leadership Institute Graduate
Take a look at this week’s newest club member!
Adrienne Hurlock
Tooth Fairy Club is sponsored by:
Nicole M. Byrne, D.M.D Pediatric Dentistry 659 Saratoga Road Gansevoort, New York 12831 (518) 226-6010
Happy 100th Zoe!
If you see this bright young lady at the West Side Sports Bar and Grill this evening, be sure to wish her a happy birthday! Ms. Zoe Flanagan is 100 today! A family celebration is planned for Saturday, but tonight she’ll be greeting her many friends, fans and other well-wishers at the West Side. Congratulations, Zoe from your friends at Saratoga TODAY. Photo Provided.
SARATOGA SPRINGS — Lena Benvenuto, Quality Assurance Specialist, is Saratoga Bridges’ fifth Leadership Institute Graduate. Lena has demonstrated a potential for advancement in administrative and agency-wide functions and activities as she received two agency promotions during her participation in this training. Saratoga Bridges Leadership Institute began in 2009 to strengthen their workforce and build internal leadership capacity. Selected staff meets monthly with coordinator Dr. Thaddeus Obloy to receive training on the fundamentals of leadership. Training
focuses on topics that include supervisory strategies, communications, human behavior, self-analysis, presentation skills and more. As part of the program, Lena developed a five minute video to promote employment opportunities for adults with disabilities. She filmed people involved in Saratoga Bridges working at the Saratoga Holiday Inn, Saratoga Farmers’ Market, Ballston Spa Central School District and the NYS Education Department. The video showcases the benefits of hiring employees with disabilities, explains the program to parents and guardians and is a tool to
Lena Benvenuto, graduate of Saratoga Bridges’ Leadership Institute. Photo provided.
assist in training new employees. The video is available on YouTube, by searching Saratoga Bridges. For more information, visit saratogabridges.org
Susan Law Dake, Stewart’s Foundation to Receive ‘Good Scout Award’ SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Stewart’s Foundation and its longtime president, Susan Law Dake, are being honored for their outstanding service to the community by an organization that has set the standard for community service for over a century, The Boy Scouts of America. Local Boy Scouting will present the “Good Scout Award” at a dinner at the Saratoga Springs City Center on Wednesday, May 4 at 7 p.m. A reception will begin at 6 p.m. The Good Scout Award was established by the Boy Scouts of America to honor those who do outstanding community service and demonstrate the Scouting values of character, leadership and service. As president of the Stewart’s Foundation, Dake oversees the allocation of funds to hundreds of local non-profit organizations. Stewart’s is committed to making the maximum positive impact in the areas of local education,
health, arts, recreation/kids, social services and civic groups. An active community leader, Dake also serves on the non-profit boards of Siena College, Empire State College Foundation, The Saratoga Performing Arts Center, The Saratoga Foundation, The Arnold Cogswell Foundation and the Dake Family Foundations. Local organizations and individuals are invited to become dinner sponsors, members of the Honorary Committee, dinner attendees or donors to the silent auction. To purchase tickets or to make a donation, go to trcscouting.org/Saratoga/Events/
Susan Dake, President of The Stewart’s Foundation. Photo provided.
GoodScout or contact co-chair John Koch at 518-644-4438 or saratogascouter@kochny.com.
PULSE ‘Brighter Days’ Exceeds Fundraising Goal
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by Rebecca Davis Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Shelters of Saratoga (SOS) held their sixth annual “Brighter Days” gala on Thursday, April 7 at Longfellows. All proceeds from the gala benefit SOS’ many programs and services for homeless individuals in Saratoga County. In 2015, SOS touched the lives of over 1,000 men, women and youth who were either homeless or at risk of homelessness through their residential shelters, emergency shelter Code Blue, drop-in centers and outreach programs. The fundraising goal for “Brighter Days” was $59,000.
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
Photos by MarkBolles.com
Impressively, SOS exceeded that goal by raising $67,000. “Brighter Days” featured dinner, a cocktail reception, auctions and live entertainment from NonStop Music. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the “Help, Hope, Humanity” awards to community members who have made a difference at SOS. The awardees include Mark Bertrand, for his work and founding of The Giving Circle, Ken Klotz, former Saratoga Springs mayor and longtime SOS supporter, and the Riggi Family for their ongoing philanthropy. For more information about Shelters of Saratoga, visit sheltersofsaratoga.org.
Kenneth Klotz (left) welcomed by SOS Executive Director Mike Finocchi (right).
Kelly and Mark Bertrand. Mark was one of the evening’s “Help, Hope, Humanity” honorees.
Karen and Kenneth Klotz, former Saratoga Springs Mayor and gala honoree.
Terri Parish with Kelvin Davis, a former resident at SOS, who now works there as a monitor.
Wayne Bemis and Kathleen Edwards.
Gala honorees, the Riggi Family. Left to right: Vince, Patty, Michele and Ron.
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
37 PULSE
Art Exhibit Takes Aim at Open Conversation about Firearms by Rebecca Davis Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Now more than ever, guns are at the forefront of political debate in the U.S. The right to bear arms is a hot button subject, and one that many find difficult to discuss openly. Spring Street Gallery, located at 110 and 112 Spring Street, seeks to breach that communication barrier with their new exhibit, “The Gun Show.” “The Gun Show,” which opened on April 9 and is on display until May 28, includes artwork, historical artifacts, discussions and film screenings all centered on firearms. Maureen Sager, the Executive Director at Spring Street Gallery, came up with the idea for the show after seeing how current events are spurring people to proclaim and defend their gun ideologies. “Maureen noticed that people talk about guns a lot on social media, but no one ever has a real conversation about them,” said Benj Gleeksman, one of the exhibit’s organizers. “She felt that having a show like this would be a great catalyst for people to have actual conversations about guns, instead of just posting about it on the internet.” The art collection includes work from nearly a dozen artists, including paintings, sculptures and photography. Each artist brings their own perspective into the pieces, but without political agenda. Rather, they hope their work sparks conversation – conversation that may not happen otherwise – and “The Gun Show” is a perfect environment to foster that. “Any perspective that is presented through an artistic lens is a unique perspective, without being tainted by the media,” continued Gleeksman. “The great thing about this area is that you’ve got a strong creative spirit, with gun culture and history built into that. Seeing guns from an artistic and historical standpoint helps to open people’s minds. Photographer Clifford Oliver has two pieces in “The Gun Show.” The first photo is from 1993, when Oliver visited Somalia as a journalist. He captured with his camera several young boys behind a barbed-wire fence in the capital city of Mogadishu, curiosity lighting up their faces as they clutch empty ammo shells they had found. At this time, Somalia was at the beginning of its ongoing civil war, making the entire country a terrifying warzone. “I always thought of myself as
wouldn’t be able to do any of the art I do without hunters using guns, and also having enough respect for the animal they kill to not let any of it go to waste. I find that respect remarkable. It goes hand in hand with the attitude of respect and responsible gun ownership that there is not enough conversation around.” Charlie Wheeler is an arms historian that has been collecting guns since he was 10 years old. His most impressive piece in the show is a musket, patch-worked together with parts from France, Britain and the Americas dating back to 1730. It is the only one like it in the world. “I wanted to share the craftsmanship and the effort people put in in centuries past, and the stories each piece can tell us,” said Wheeler. At one point, Wheeler referenced a painting in his collection
that shows a grandfather teaching his grandson how to hunt pheasants. “Those conversations don’t happen anymore,” he said, gazing at the painting. “The lessons that go with hunting and gun safety, that tradition, aren’t held anymore. That lack of experience results in a fear of firearms that is now pervasive.” As part of “The Gun Show,” Wheeler will be giving a presentation about the history of firearms at Spring Street Gallery on Saturday, April 16 at 2 p.m. For more information and a full list of the discussions, presentations and film screenings for “The Gun Show,” visit springstreetgallerysaratoga.org/ the-gun-show. Spring Street Gallery is open to the public weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and also by appointment.
A photo by Clifford Oliver, taken in 1993 in war-torn Somalia.
an anarchist, someone who dreamed of anarchy, but to actually see it… it’s unbelievable,” said Oliver, shaking his head. “We couldn’t go anywhere without military, and honestly, I wouldn’t have wanted to. There was constant gunfire all the time. It was just a sad place.” Like Oliver’s work, all of the pieces in the show have a fascinating backstory. For Rabbi Linda Motzkin, the process of creating her art is just as important as the finished product. Rabbi Motzkin is a Hebrew calligrapher that scribes the Torah, but because she’s a woman, she does not have easy access to materials. Instead, Rabbi Motzkin makes scribe parchment from deerskins provided to her by local hunters. The overall process
of turning the skins into parchment can take days or even weeks to complete. If the finished product doesn’t come out just right, she can’t use it for the Torah. “There’s a lot of potential along the way for messing up,” said Rabbi Motzkin. “Early on, I was discarding panels of parchment I couldn’t use, but then I realized they are quite beautiful. It’s an interesting medium to work with. Every time, I produce something entirely unique. No two are alike. ” When asked why sharing her work at exhibit is important, Motzkin replied, “I found it very compelling to have a show that opens up conversation around an issue that is so polarized in this country right now. I
Rabbi Linda Motzkin shows off her artwork. Photo by MarkBolles.com.
Visitors view the work of Samson Contompasis at the show’s opening reception. Photos by MarkBolles.com.
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Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
Experience the Joy of Fiber Farming in the Washington County Fiber Tour WASHINGTON COUNTY — The 24th annual Washington County Fiber Tour will take place on April 23 and 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This self-guided tour of 15 farms and a fiber mill is free and open to the public. The Washington County Fiber Tour is committed to the recent renaissance of interest in natural fibers with nearly every species of animal raised for wool or fiber featured on its farms. Farmers from across the county will introduce you to their livestock and answer your questions about the care of their animals and the uses of their fiber. Visitors will be able to meet Romney, Merino-cross, Cormo, Icelandic, Blue-faced and Border Leicester sheep, as well as the
shepherds who tend them. Visit a sheep dairy which produces woolen items from their Friesiancross sheep and, with a reservation, you can enjoy a gourmet lunch at their farm featuring specialty cheeses. Watch herding dogs in action or meet livestock guardians who protect flocks and herds from predators. See both kinds of fiber-producing goats -- the Angora goat which produces luxurious mohair fiber and cashmere goats with their super-soft down fiber. Visit alpaca farms and ranches and experience their luxurious fiber. Stop at a local farm which has been raising Angora rabbits and encouraging new spinners, weavers and textile artists for nearly a quarter of a century.
Workshops and demonstrations at our farms introduce visitors to the handwork that transforms fleeces into fine woolen garments, textiles and crafts. Tour the area’s premier wool and fiber processing mill for a glimpse into the commercial production of natural fibers. There visitors can see the complex equipment and skilled labor needed to turn fleeces into premium yarn for knitting and weaving. Family-friendly activities include cart-goat demonstrations, sheep shearing, sheepdog herding, felting, dyeing, spinning, finger puppets for children and much more. Children of all ages will delight in newborn lambs, goat kids, alpaca crias and other baby animals.
July 19-24, Ballston Spa, NY
175 Years ago, this man Howell Gardiner, Town of Greenfield, Saratoga County And those listed below were responsible for the formation of the Saratoga County Agricultural Society, which presents annually The Saratoga County Fair President. - Howell Gardiner, Greenfield. First Vice-President. - Calvin Wheeler, Providence. 2nd Vice-President. - Jacob Denton, Saratoga Springs. Treasurer. - Hiram E. Howard, Milton. Corresponding Secretary. - Archibald Smith, Ballston Spa. Recording Secretary. - John A. Corey, Saratoga Springs. An executive-committee was also constituted, consisting of two members from each town Help us find the relatives of these families in Saratoga County: who may still be living in Saratoga County. Ballston. - Isaac Curtis, Stephen Merchant. We want to invite them to our Charlton. - John Low, Henry Ostrom. 175th Birthday Party, July 19th Clifton Park. - Abijah Peck, Jr., Henry Palmer. Corinth. - David Rogers, Edward Edwards. at the Saratoga County Fair! Day. - E.M. Day, Amos Hunt. Edinburgh. - Samuel Batcheller, Ira Beecher. Galway. - Jesse H. Mead, Jeremiah Whitlock. Greenfield. - Joseph Daniels, Henry Lincoln. Hadley. - Charles Stewart, Harman Rockwell. Half-Moon. - N.G. Philo, Stephen R. Smith. Malta. - John Tallmadge, Seneca Hall. Milton. - Seth Whalen, George B. Powell. Moreau. - Thomas S. Mott, G.P. Reynolds. Northumberland. - Walter Doty, Coles Golden. Providence. - William V. Clark, Seymour St. John. Saratoga. - Henry D. Chapman, William Wilcox. Saratoga Springs. - P.H. Cowen, John H. Beach. Stillwater. - Lewis Smith, Yates Lansing. Waterford. - John Knickerbocker, John Cramer (2d). Wilton. - John Morris, Duncan McGregor. If you have any information on relatives of the above people, please contact the Saratoga County Fair, 162 prospect Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 518-885-9701 or info@saratogacountyfair.org
For visitors who want to buy local, the on-farm shops, studios and fiber mill all offer quality products for sale. The Fiber Tour takes place
rain or shine, and visitors should dress for the weather. For details about the farms and specific activities being offered, visit washingtoncountyfibertour.org.
MOVE Music Festival to Feature 100 Artists ALBANY — The MOVE Music Festival, now marking its fifth year in New York’s Capital Region, will take place April 22 through 24. The three-day festival captures the essence of Upstate New York’s musical roots, with 100 musical acts slated to play venues across the Capital City. MOVE features industry clinics and panels, including recording industry professionals – providing musicians and performers an incredible opportunity to connect and discuss career development, branding, marketing and management. Produced by Albany-based Indian Ledge Music Group, thousands of bands and artists have submitted to play MOVE over the past five years, with more than 500 acts gracing stages and auditoriums across the city. “The 100 bands we select to play from the thousands submitted is not an easy task,” explained Bernie Walters, founder of MOVE music festival. “There’s an overwhelming amount of talent out there and we’re humbled that so many bands are eager to play MOVE. Each year, the percentage of submissions increases, which is a testament that MOVE is becoming a notable festival with that ‘to see and be seen’ vibe.”
MOVE festivals of the past have earned notoriety for turning out impressive lineups, and this year’s festival will be no exception. This year, MOVE will be featuring Skaters, Arkells, Mirk, Super 400, New Madrid, Sirsy, Roots of Creation, Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad, Jane Lee Hooker, Eastbound Jesus, The Racer, and Hard Soul, in addition to the 90-plus acts coming from across the region and around the country. The MOVE Music Video Awards, now in its second year, will be live at Albany’s Madison Theater on Sunday, April 24 to conclude the three-day festival. To follow lineup developments, major upcoming announcements, ask general festival questions, and purchase all access wristbands, visit movemusicfest.com.
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
39 PULSE
Serendipity Arts Studio to Feature “Chopped” Chef SARATOGA SPRINGS — Serendipity Arts Studio announced the addition of Chef Natalia Gaviria to its growing list of Instructors. Based in New York City, Natalia is known for a culinary style rooted in the simplicity of natural ingredients applied to everyday life. As a part-time resident of Clifton Park, she recently inquired about offering classes at Serendipity Arts with an emphasis on vegan, gluten-free and health-conscious recipes. “Chef Natalia possesses the nutritional expertise that I have been hoping to add to our cooking class calendar,” said Patrice Mastrianni, owner of Serendipity. “I couldn’t wait to add Chef Natalia to our calendar. We are offering two adult cooking classes to start: vegan cooking on April 17 and a gluten-free desserts
class on April 20. I’m sure once Saratoga gets a taste of Natalia’s cooking style they will hunger for more!” Born and raised in Colombia, Natalia is a graduate of the New York’s Natural Gourmet Institute for Health and Culinary Arts, and holds a Masters in Food Therapy. Chef Natalia gained television fame as a featured chef on the Food Network’s hit show “Chopped,” where she showcased her skills, ingenuity and style in front of the camera on the “Haricot Flair” and “Best Bloody Mary Brunch” episodes. She gained firsthand experience at numerous New York restaurants, as an event caterer and as the author of four cookbooks for the Latin American market. As owner of Cook-Life Inc., Chef Natalia develops recipes and restaurant concepts across the globe for such clients as Nestlé
Colombia, Amy’s Bread Bakery, Syracuse University, Sony, Pratt Institute, as well as Russian television and restaurants across Africa. She is sought after globally as a speaker and workshop facilitator. Natalia loves collaborating with families and private clients to develop healthy meal solutions that nurture and foster creativity in the kitchen, and she is excited about bringing her skills and expertise to the Saratoga area. To register for Chef Natalia’s classes, stop at the studio just off Broadway, on Congress St. in Congress Plaza behind CVS or visit Serendipity’s website at SerendipityArtsStudio.com For more information, call 518-8869553 or email serendipityartsstudio@gmail.com.
Chef Natalia Gaviria is set to teach cooking classes at Serendipity on April 17 and 20. Photo provided.
May Day Spring Fling: Evening of Food and Fun to Support New Traveling Food Pantry SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council (EOC) invites the community to attend their 27th annual fundraiser, the May Day Spring Fling, to be held at the Canfield Casino on Wednesday, May 4 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. The May Day Spring Fling is sponsored by Longfellows Restaurant and the The Olde Bryan Inn and will include an open bar tended by VIP Bartenders, dinner and dessert stations, an exciting live and silent auction and music by J. Yager. Tickets are priced at $80 each and can be purchased by going to saratogaeoc.org. By attending this event, attendees will help support EOC’s new endeavor, a traveling food pantry. The pantry will serve as an outreach vehicle that will visit areas of the county where residents are in need of food, as a first point of contact, as well as other services such as weatherization. Anita Paley, Executive Director of the EOC said, “Each day, some of our neighbors in Saratoga County have to make a decision about eating or paying their bills. Household costs have increased with unexpected costs for medicine not covered by health insurance, increases in daycare expenses, home repairs
and other increases all of us have noticed. Many of the individuals who seek our help are working and trying to get ahead; they need just a little bit extra to get to the next place.“ Paley continued, “EOC is very excited to present Saratoga County with an innovative traveling food pantry to support communities where transportation issues and food deserts collide. Helping people eat is important and I know in my experience, some of the best conversations start over food. It will give EOC a chance to listen to people, and get to know them and what they need. The 27th May Day Spring Fling Honorary Chair, A.C. Riley added, “May Day has been a key event bringing together people with a genuine interest in their
community and a strong desire to help others. It’s one of the first fundraisers of the spring season, and is full of fun, good food and interesting people who really care about the people we serve. “ As to this year’s focus, A.C. commented, “This year’s focus on our planned mobile food pantry is one of the most exciting ‘Funda-Need’ projects I can remember, and will be such a benefit to people who have trouble coming to the EOC main site.” The Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council, Inc. is the designated anti-poverty agency for Saratoga County, dedicated to providing and promoting opportunities for individuals and families to achieve self-sufficiency. In 2015, the EOC helped over 30,000 local residents move closer to economic self-sufficiency
through Community Action programs and services including the Community Lunch Program, Emergency Food Pantry, Head
Start Program, Energy Services and Women, Infants and Children (WIC). For more information, visit saratogaeoc.org.
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Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
week of 4/15-4/21 friday, 4/15: Matt Evans, 9 pm @ Bentley’s — 899.4300 The Bombadils + 10 String Symphony, 8 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022 Black Abbey, 7:30 pm @ Carney’s Tavern — 952.7177 Tim Wechgelaer, 7 pm @ Carson’s Woodside Tavern — 584.9791 Jukebox Night, 9 pm @ Caroline St. Pub — 583.9400 In Spite of Ourselves, 6 pm @ Diamond Club Grill 587.2022 Vinyl Evolution, 4 pm @ End Zone Sports Pub — 584.6460 Rick Bolton + Jeff Walton, 5 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 Acoustic Circus, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 The Wallies, 10 pm @ Harvey’s — 583.0003 Don Hoffman, 5 pm @ Nanola — 587.1300 Dos Amigos, 9 pm @ Nanola — 587.1300 Rick Rosoff Quartet, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Avenue — 583.2582 George Muscatello, 6 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Hot Club of Saratoga, 9 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Al Santoro Trio, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 The Killing Condition w/ All for Revenge, 8 pm @ Putnam Den — 584.8066 Jim Hood, 9 pm @ The Mill — 899.5253 Wide Awake Band, 9 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916 Rusty Old Guys, 9:30 pm @ The Rusty Nail — 371.9875 Third Rail, 6 pm @ The Saratoga Winery — 584.9463 Matt Cosgrove, 6:30 pm @ Thirsty Owl — 587.9694 Aquanett, 8 pm @ Vapor — 581.5775
saturday, 4/16: The Road Kings, 6 pm @ Almost Saratoga — 587.0048 Just Nate, 9 pm @ Bentley’s — 899.4300 Bluegrass Jam w/Alan Epstein, 9:30 am @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022 Griffin House, 8 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022 Take 2, 7:30 pm @ Carney’s Tavern — 952.7177 John Stack, 7 pm @ Carson’s Woodside Tavern — 584.9791 Radio Junkies, 9 pm @ Caroline St. Pub — 583.9400 Karaoke, 10 pm @ Circus Café — 583.1106 Electric City Couture After Party, 6 pm @ Diamond Club Grill 587.2022 Toga Boys, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 Steve Candlen, 6 pm @ Gideon Putnam — 584.3000 Harmony Rocks, 10 pm @ Harvey’s — 583.0003
EB Jeb, 8 pm @ Nanola — 587.1300 The Jon LeRoy Trio, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Avenue — 583.2582 Jill Hughes + The Hi.Rollers, 9 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Er Go Blu, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Memorial Concert for Andrew Hagan, 8 pm @ Putnam Den — 584.8066 Master Cylinders, 9 pm @ The Mill — 899.5253 Frank Wakefield, 8 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916 Karaoke, 9:30 pm @ The Rusty Nail — 371.9875 Marcus Ruggiero, 3 pm @ The Saratoga Winery — 584.9463 Phil Drum, 6:30 pm @ Thirsty Owl — 587.9694 Dread, 9 pm @ Vapor — 581.5775 Rob Aronstein, 7 pm @ Wishing Well — 584.7640
sunday, 4/17: Andy Cohen + Dakota Dave Hull + Paul Asbell, 7 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022 TIP, 4 pm @ Nanola — 587.1300 Bobby Kendall, 6 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Live Jazz Brunch, 10 am @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563
monday, 4/18: Jeff Walton, 6:30 pm @ Brook Tavern — 871.1473
wednesday, 4/20: Erin Harkes, 6 pm @ Diamond Club Grill — 583.1105 The Masters of Nostalgia, 8:30 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Celtic Session, 7 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916 Karaoke, 9 pm @ The Rusty Nail — 371.9875
thursday, 4/21: Pat Decker, 7 pm @ Bailey’s — 583.6060 Open Mic, 7 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022 Matty Finn, 6 pm @ Carney’s Tavern — 952.7177 Open Mic, 10 pm @ Circus Café — 583.1106 Dan Sherwin, 6 pm @ Diamond Club Grill — 583.1105 Sirsy, 8 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 Chris Carey + Mike O’Donnell, 8 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Rich Ortiz, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Free Air w/ LovePort, 9:30 pm @ Putnam Den — 584.8066 Citizens Treasure, 7 pm @ The Mill — 899.5253 Celtic Session, 7 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916
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It’s where NEED to be.
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Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
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44
SPORTS
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
Local Gymnast Ava Dallas Wins NYS Championship BALLSTON SPA — Ava Dallas, age 13 of Wilton, won USA Gymnastics’ New York State Level 7 all-around championship in the Senior A Division, at the state gymnastics meet held at Rockland Community College in Suffern on April 13. Dallas won the title with an all-around score of 37.375. Dallas also won individual titles on the floor exercise (9.575), the vault (9.55) and the balance beam (9.2). With the win, Dallas will represent New York State at the upcoming USA Gymnastics Regional Competition being held in Northborough, MASS on April 16-17.
Dallas competes for Stepping Star Gymnastics, located at 40 South Street, Ballston Spa. This is Ava’s first year competing for Stepping Star in USA Gymnastics-sanctioned events. Previously, Ava competed for the Saratoga Regional YMCA ‘Springettes’; and is a prior YMCA Level 4 New York State, Northeast Region, and National Champion. Overall, Stepping Star Gymnastics had a strong showing at the New York State meet. Juliana Winslow, age 9 of Greenfield Center, finished fifth all-round (36.850) in the Level 7 Child A Division.
Juliana won an individual title on the vault (9.425) and also qualified to represent New York State at the upcoming Regional Competition. Tessa Pierce, age 12 of Middle Grove, placed eighth overall (36.175) in the Level 7 Junior D Division and won an individual title on the floor exercise (9.550). Sophia Damiano, age 12 of Saratoga Springs, placed sixth overall (36.375) in the Level 7 Junior B Division. For more information, email Mindy or Devon at Stepping Star Gymnastics at steppingstarinfo@ gmail.com. Ava Dallas (C), with her coaches Devon (L) and Mindy Delay (R)
Section 2 Girls Basketball Scholar-Athletes Recognized COLONIE— The New York Public High School Athletic Association’s Section 2 Girls Basketball Committee announced their annual Scholar-Athlete basketball awards. The selection was based on their achievements in the classroom, the community and on the basketball court. Local girls who were recognized as scholar-athletes were: Madeline Chudy – Saratoga Springs High School Chloe Ethier – Saratoga Central Catholic Katie McMahon – Ballston Spa High Carlee Irish – Schuylerville High School
Chloe Ethier (14). Photo by MarkBolles.com.
Madeline Chudy (13). Photo by MarkBolles.com.
Ballston Spa Fitness Expands with New Indoor Cycling Studio BALLSTON SPA — Indoor cycling has arrived in Ballston Spa. Ballston Spa Fitness has expanded its facility with the addition of a brand new indoor cycling studio called Ballston Spa Cycle. “I’ve wanted to do this for several years,” said Tiffany Robyck, owner and founder of Ballston Spa Fitness. “I am an outdoor cyclist and I love to ride. I wanted to share my love for riding and indoor cycling workouts, and I saw a need for this in the Ballston Spa area.” Ballston Spa Cycle is in the same location as Ballston Spa Fitness, which resides at 18 Ralph Street. There are six
certified indoor cycling instructors who offer classes at various times every day of the week. Classes are 45-60 minutes long. A class schedule is available at www.ballstonspafit.com. The classes are beginnerfriendly, as there is no prior experience required. All of the workouts can be done at one’s own pace, and the instructors will help cyclists at any level to get the most out of their workout. There are 19 stationary bikes available, and reservations - which can be made online - are recommended. Ballston Spa Fitness is celebrating the new Ballston Spa Cycle with a Grand Opening
Party on Saturday, April 16 from 10 a.m.to 2 p.m. There will be free 30 minute classes every half hour during the event. “I hope to inspire others to be active and live a healthy lifestyle,” said Robyck. “Between the music pumping and being with an instructor and other class participants - indoor cycling isn’t just a great workout, it’s a really fun workout!” Ballston Spa Fitness and Ballston Spa Cycle are located at 18 Ralph Street in Ballston Spa. For more information, call (518) 605-2813 or visit www.ballstonspafit.com.
(Clockwise from Left): Ballston Spa Fitness Instructors Stephanie Duell, Stacey Denisulk, Lisa Mitzen, and Owner Tiffany Robyck
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
SPORTS 45
Number 42 - A Pioneer For the Integration of Baseball
by Damian Fantauzzi for Saratoga TODAY Born January 31, 1919, in Cairo, Georgia, Jackie Robinson became the first black player in the major leagues in 1947, signing with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Throughout his decade-long career with the Dodgers, Robinson made advancements in the cause of civil rights for black athletes. In 1955, he helped the Dodgers win the World Series. He retired in 1957 with a career batting average of .311. Robinson died in Connecticut in 1972. The significance of his legacy is well known and what he did was amazing. I saw the movie “42,” a couple of years ago, and what he went through was a story unrelated to the game of baseball. It had nothing to do with his accomplishments as a baseball player - being the first African American in Major League Baseball - which was by far his biggest achievement. After watching the movie, I found it disheartening to see how many players, managers and fans were downright disrespectful with their mean spirited comments and antics. What Jackie Robinson experienced was scenario of misguided hate - baseless because of skin color. In my opinion, some of what was done to him was due to a fear of what could and would develop from the first black athlete becoming a player in America’s favorite pastime. He opened the door for other African American baseball players, as well as all of the professional sports. In retrospect, after being signed by Brooklyn, Robinson, at first, lived as a lonely man while playing for the Dodgers. Mostly in his early years with Brooklyn he roomed by himself, and at first, there was very little communication with his fellow teammates and
manager. Clyde Sukeforth, interim manager at that time for suspended manager Leo Durocher, felt pressured to play Robinson and was encouraged to do so by Branch Rickey, team president. Rickey’s legacy goes deeply into the archives of Major Leagues; he was responsible for the development of the farm system (the minor leagues), and before going with Brooklyn he was an important cog in the St. Louis Cardinals organization for 25 years. But Branch Rickey was highly criticized in some quarters for integration of Major League Baseball. Some history on Jackie Robinson: The youngest of five children, he was raised in relative poverty by a single mother. He attended John Muir High School and Pasadena Junior College in California, where he was an excellent athlete and played four sports: football, basketball, track and baseball. He was named the region’s Most Valuable Player in baseball in 1938. Robinson’s older brother, Matthew, inspired Jackie to pursue his talent and love for athletics. Matthew won a silver medal in the 200-meter dash‹- just behind Jesse Owens -‹at the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin. Jackie continued his education at UCLA, where he became the university’s first student to win varsity letters in four sports. In 1941, despite his athletic success, Robinson was forced to leave UCLA just shy of graduation due to financial hardship. He moved to Honolulu, Hawaii, where he played football for the semi-professional Honolulu Bears. His season with the Bears was cut short when the United States entered into World War II. From 1942 to 1944, Robinson served as a second lieutenant in the United States Army. He never saw combat, however. During boot camp in 1944 in Fort Hood, Texas, Robinson was arrested and courtmartialed after refusing to give up his seat and move to the back of a segregated bus when ordered to by the driver. Court-martialed? Robinson’s excellent reputation, combined with the united efforts of friends, the NAACP and various black newspapers, shed public light on that injustice. He was ultimately acquitted of the charges and received an honorable discharge. His courage and moral objection
to segregation were precursors to the impact he would have in major league baseball. In 1944, Robinson began to play baseball professionally. At that time the sport was segregated; African-Americans and whites played in separate leagues. Robinson began playing in the Negro Leagues, but he was soon chosen by Rickey, president of the Brooklyn Dodgers, to help integrate major league baseball. He joined the all-white Montreal Royals, a farm team for the Brooklyn Dodgers, in 1946. Robinson later moved to Florida to begin spring training with the Royals, and played his first game in Ebbets Field for the Brooklyn Dodgers on April 15, 1947, becoming the first black player to compete in the major leagues. (Today is the 69th anniversary of that first game). This information comes from research on biography.com. Others who defended Jackie Robinson’s right to play in the major leagues include National League President Ford Frick, Baseball Commissioner Happy Chandler, Jewish baseball star Hank Greenberg and Dodgers shortstop and team captain Pee Wee Reese. In one incident, while fans harassed Robinson from the stands, Reese walked over and put his arm around his teammate, a gesture that has become legendary in baseball history. Jackie Robinson succeeded in putting the prejudice aside, and showed everyone what a talented player he was. In his first year, he hit 12 home runs and helped the Dodgers win the National League pennant. That year, Robinson led the National League in stolen bases and was selected as Rookie of the Year. He continued to wow fans and critics alike with impressive feats, such as an outstanding .342 batting average during the 1949 season. That year, he also led in stolen bases and earned the National League’s Most Valuable Player Award. His success in the major leagues opened the door for other African-American stars, such as Satchel Paige, Willie Mays, and Hank Aaron. I called Robinson a pioneer because of the courage he had to be America’s first African American in Major League Baseball. Part of his legacy was that he rarely responded to the many innuendoes and
Jackie Robinson in 1950
insults that were flung his way. In my opinion, this makes Robinson an American hero for persevering during a time in our country when professional athletics was predominately white. He obviously had a mission to prove the worth of his race in athletics. I know he was preceded by Jesse Owens in the 1936 Olympics in Berlin, in front of Hitler, but that was track and it was on the international stage. Baseball in 1947 was totally America’s favorite pastime, and second to none. Times are obviously different now; even though the game of baseball is still popular and considered by many people America’s favorite pastime, today’s national professional sports scene is bigger than ever with the NFL, NBA, NHL and the PGA. Pick one as a favorite, and you’ll have something to debate with some diehard baseball fans. In the past 40 years we, as a nation, have many choices for our favorite
sports and teams, not to mention the gender differences in athletics, which is a whole other topic. If you look at the number of African American athletes in professional sports, using peripheral vision of days gone by, Jackie Robinson was as much of a pioneer as the “Westward ho” movement of the mid 1800s. Plenty of credit should go to Branch Rickey, a man who had an insight into the future. For Rickey to stick his neck out - knowing he would be subject to criticism and hate - was courageous. The reality of this was something that had to happen, and I believe once the door was pushed open there was obviously no going back. Sports fans and all people in America can be proud of those who were willing to put themselves out on a limb to create change. Robinson and Rickey are American icons for their courageous gamble 69 years ago.
46
SPORTS
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
COMMUNITY SPORTS BULLETIN Spring Into Spring with a New Bike! Bikeatoga will be holding its Spring Kids Bike Giveaway for Saratoga County children on Saturday, April 23 in Saratoga Springs – location TBA (see below). Participants must make an appointment. Children must be present and accompanied by a parent or guardian. Throughout the year, volunteers refurbish bikes donated by area residents for distribution to children whose families lack the means to purchase bikes on their own. In the last five years, hundreds of bicycles have been collected, repaired and distributed to children in the local community. Bikeatoga will be providing helmets and helmet fittings for any child receiving a bicycle. To make an appointment, please call 518-306-6931 or email gsaratoga@gmail.com. Leave your name and phone number, and your call will be returned with an appointment time and the location of the Bikeatoga Workshop. Please visit www.bikeatoga.org for more information.
kLaVoy5k Registration Now Open The kLaVoy5k is a community event to help raise awareness about organ and tissue donation. All proceeds from this event go directly to The Center for Donation and
Transplant - Donate Life. This year’s 5k begins at the Saratoga Springs State Park warming hut on Saturday, May 14 at 9 a.m. Day of event registration is at 7:30 a.m. You may pre-register, and the first 200 pre-registered will get a long sleeve moisture wick shirt. To pre-register, visit https:// www.zippyreg.com/online_reg/ registration.php?eventID=755 For more information, email: tonya@pellegrinievents.com.
Sign up for City of Saratoga Springs Recreation Department Zumba Fitness Classes. Teens/adults ages 16 + are welcome to join. Session and drop in options available. Sign up at 15 Vanderbilt Avenue or visit www.SaratogaRec.com. Questions? Call 518-587-3550 x2300 or email recreservations@saratoga-springs.org.
Adult Sports and Fitness Opportunities in Ballston Spa Schools The Ballston Spa Community Education Program is currently offering adult sports from 8-10 p.m. with Co-ed Indoor Soccer and Co-ed Volleyball held on Mondays and Men’s Basketball on Wednesdays. The popular Walk About
program provides a safe, indoor walking course for those interested in a low impact fitness activity. The program continues through April when school is in session. A $15 registration fee is required for this program and non-residents are charged $18 to participate. Walkers may join the program at any time throughout the session. Pre-registration is required and fees are due at the beginning of each course. Those interested may register for courses by mail or in-person at the District Office, 70 Malta Avenue. Additional information regarding any of the courses offered is available online at www.bscsd. org or by calling 518-884-7195 x 1329.
and $1085 for non Saratoga Springs city residents. Early Bird weekly rates are $170 for Saratoga Springs city residents and $235 for non Saratoga Springs city residents. Early Bird registration ends May 16, when prices will increase. Immunization records must be submitted with application in order to register. Sign up at the Saratoga Springs Recreation Center at 15 Vanderbilt Avenue, Monday Friday 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. or Sunday noon -6 p.m. For additional information or to download forms go to www. SaratogaRec.com. Questions? Call 587-3550 x2300 or email recreser vations@saratogasprings.org.
Register Now for Camp Saradac - Now 8 Weeks!
Saratoga Rowing Association Summer Camps
The Saratoga Springs Recreation Department will again be hosting Camp Saradac this summer. New this year is the addition of an eighth week for more camp fun! Camp Saradac dates are June 27August 19 (no camp July 4th). Camp will be in session Monday - Friday from 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Camp will again be offering exciting weekly field trips, creative recreational and educational programs, arts + crafts, weekly swimming and themed weeks. Early Bird rates for the full eight-week program is $795 for Saratoga Springs city residents
Child Summer Sculling Camps: For 9-13 year olds, sessions for experienced and beginner. This camp is for one week per session from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. The first session is July 4 – 8 and we are offering seven sessions. There is a limit of 10 kids per session. Cost is $240 plus a $10 temporary membership fee. Summer Learn to Row and Preparation Camp-children: Open to 7 – 12 graders. Learn to Row Camp prepares the rower for the Jr. Competitive Team. Each Learn to Row camp is for two weeks from
Puzzle solutions from pg. 34 Send your sports stories or briefs to Arthur Gonick, Sports Editor at arthur@saratoga publishing.com
9 a.m. – noon and we offer 3 separate sessions. The first session is July 4 – July 15. The cost is $250 plus a $10 temporary membership fee. There is a discount for multiple session registrations on this camp only. Preparation Camp is to help prepare you for the next step of joining our Jr. Competitive Team. The camp is from Aug 15 – Aug 19 from 9 a.m. – noon and requires that you have attended at least one Learn to Row Camp. The cost is $150 plus a $10 temporary membership. Kindersculls: This camp is for boys and girls, ages 4 - 9 years old. This is a wonderful way to introduce the youngest of rowers to the sport! The cost is $375 plus a $10 temporary membership for the week - August 15 - August 19. There are 2 sessions, one morning (from 8:30 - 11:30 a.m.) and one afternoon (from 12:30 - 3:30 p.m.). Adult Summer Learn to Row: Open to all adults of any age. This camp is a great way to try rowing with other beginners. The camp meets twice a week on Tuesday and Thursday at 6 p.m., beginning on July 5 (skipping the week of August 1) through August 11. Cost is $200 plus a $10 temporary membership fee. To register, visit our website at www.saratogarowing.com and click on Register Now! Any questions, contact our office at 518-587-6697.
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
SPORTS 47
Viewpoint: See Something, Say Something... On Thursday, March 31, as I was driving from my home in upstate New York toward Boston, I noticed a number of signs posted on I-90 warning travelers, “If you see something, say something.” My destination was TD Garden in Boston. My best friend and I had tickets to three events at the 2016 World Figure Skating Championships. The signs reminded me that security would most likely be very tight as I recalled the aftermath of 9/11 and the Boston Marathon bombing. I vowed to remain vigilant and say something if I saw something. Here’s what I saw: Upon checking into our hotel where we were greeted with utmost courtesy, my friend and I walked to the subway station. Not to cast aspersions on subway systems of other major cities, we were pleasantly surprised to find the trains and stations well lit and well maintained. Every person we asked for assistance seemed happy to help these two women of a certain age who appeared to be clueless. At one point, we were seated across from two young women in their 20s who seemed to be staring at me. But when we made eye contact, the girl on the right smiled at me and shouted across the aisle, “I really like your necklace!” It just so happened that I was wearing a pendant in the shape of a figure skate. Pleased that they had noticed it, I pointed to my friend sitting next me and told them “She gave it to me!” They smiled and we found out we were not the only ones on the train going to Worlds! My vigilance was softened. Once we arrived, the flow-through traffic into the Garden went very smoothly. I was anticipating that security would be as onerous as the TSA screening at the airport, but all we needed to do was put our keys and phones over our heads, walk through the machine and then open our bags for a cursory inspection. By all accounts, I was expecting more intense security. The
crowd followed directions and at no time, while my friend and I were at TD Garden did we witness any sort of incident of misbehavior at any of the events we attended. The staff at the Garden should be complimented for their friendliness and hospitality, even when they discovered we were both New Yorkers! (Although one gentleman jokingly castigated my friend’s NYC pronunciation of the word “Baw-ston.”) Once, when she attempted to buy a food item at one of the vendors, the computerized cash register was malfunctioning and unable to use her credit card. The clerk told my friend to take the item and come back later to pay for it! We were flabbergasted. Aside from the congenial atmosphere, there was another remarkable incident that occurred during the “other” sporting Championship that was taking place last weekend that did not involve college basketball. I also “saw” a genuine atmosphere of goodwill toward everyone who attended this event, which was notable given the political climate of our nation at this moment. There were thousands of people gathered under one roof, hoping to enjoy the spectacle of one of the greatest, most artistic, elegant and athletic sports in the world. Everyone was focused on watching which competitor demonstrated the best performance in the Ice Dancing, Pairs, Men’s and Ladies’ Figure Skating events. Spectators looked on in amazement at the prowess and determination of these young athletes gathered here from all over the world. Dare I say - it would seem as if we were a cultural melting pot of people participating in a United Nations conference of global unity. We cheered for every competitor as we watched them all try to do the best job they were capable of doing. We appreciated the time and effort they put into preparing for this Championship. We screamed with delight at the execution of every quad and intricate step
sequence. We applauded their efforts even when they fell or if they did not complete an element successfully. At every event, no matter which section we were seated in, we heard Russian, Korean, Canadian, Japanese, French, Italian and American voices cheering for every skater, not just the ones from their own country of origin. When was the last time you attended a baseball, football, hockey, soccer or basketball game and cheered for the opposing team? Yes, I saw something at the 2016 World Figure Skating Championship. I saw hospitality and inclusiveness. I saw people from all over the world standing and cheering because they witnessed something glorious. Because of this, I feel I need to say something. I would like to say “Thank You” to all the athletes who competed. You did an amazing job, not because you performed so beautifully - but because you made us feel joy again. I want to say “Thank You” to the City and people of Boston, for your generosity of spirit and making a couple of out-of-towners feel “Boston
Strong.” And I would like to say “Thank You” to the ISU for having the foresight to hold this competition in the Untied States. You planned and executed an outstanding and memorable competition that could not have come at a better time for us. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to see something and say something. Let’s not focus on criticizing the misdeeds of others. Let’s celebrate our human decency. The next time you see a sign that says, “If you see something, say something” put the word “nice” after the word “something” and act on it. There is no doubt you will feel a little bit better, not only for yourself, but for the person or
people to whom your compliment has been addressed. Mimi Oettinger Saratoga Springs
Volume 11 • Issue 15
Week of April 15 – April 21, 2016
SPORTS
Spring Sports Spring to Life Dodging raindrops and storms, postponements and cancellations, the spring sports schedule finally came into full bloom this week in our region. (Top) On Tuesday afternoon, Ballston Spa’s JV and Varsity Boy’s Track teams battled Burnt Hills/ Ballston Lake at BHBL, while later that night (Bottom) Schuylerville’s Zach Pierce (2), who scored 7 goals in the Varsity Boy’s Lacrosse team’s first two games (both wins) led the Black Horses to a third straight victory, over Amsterdam, 10-7. All photos by MarkBolles.com
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