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LOCAL • INDEPENDENT • FREE Volume 11 • Issue 30 • August 4 – August 10, 2017

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com • (518) 581-2480

Plans Underway for 2017 School Year

by Lori Mahan Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — “There is nothing like the first day of school,” Superintendent Michael Piccirillo exclaimed.

Between working in public education for the last 31 years and attending his own many first days of school, he has experienced a lot of that excitement first hand. Piccirillo attended Binghamton University and received his bachelor of arts degree in sociology, his master of arts in teaching from Binghamton with a certification in social studies for grades 7 through 12, where he went on to earn a doctorate in educational administration from Sage College. After teaching social

studies for 10 years in two different school districts, North Warren and Lake George, his own high school alma mater, Piccirillo has been in the Superintendent’s office for the last 10 years, the first five as assistant superintendent and the last five as superintendent.

“It has been a really interesting and exciting 31 years.”

This year on January 1 Piccirillo put in his retirement resignation and the district will announce his replacement in the coming months with his final day being December 31.

“I’m not finished with being a public educator, I’m just looking to do something different and to have a little bit more time with my family,” he said.

See Plans pg. 14

E.T. Calls SPAC Home

Featured Event Superintendent Piccirillo sits in his office ready for the first day of school.

Photo provided by www.SaratogaSchools.org.

Twenty Asphalt Jobs Coming to Ballston

by Larry Goodwin Saratoga TODAY

E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial is a trademark and copyright of Universal Studios. Licensed See SPAC pg. 39

by Universal Studios Licensing LLC. All Rights Reserved.

BALLSTON — Late last month, state Supreme Court Judge Robert Chauvin most likely ended a six-year legal dispute that has prevented the Dolomite Products Company

from building an asphalt plant in the Curtis Industrial Park.

David Toolan, an attorney representing Dolomite, said in an email that the plant “will have cutting-edge recycling technology and be one of the most environmentally friendly asphalt plants in New York.” It See Asphalt pg. 8

7 S ep temb er 1 6 - 1 7 , 2 3 - 2 4 & 3 0 - Oc to b er 1

saratogashowcaseofhomes.com

See pg. 39

Inside TODAY Blotter 5 Obituaries 6 Business 12-13 Education 14-15 Arts and Entertainment 37-40

Sports 44-48

2

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

Neighbors: Snippets of Life from Your Community Who: Kalai Where: Outside Saratoga Race Course.

Q. What are you doing today?

A. Lucky rocks. This is about my third year here.

Q. Lucky Rocks for a dollar. Why lucky rocks?

A. They’re one dollar and we sell them to get money for school supplies. I go to school at Ballston Spa. Q. Do you hand-paint them?

A. Me and my brother do. We have all kinds: sports rocks, yin and yang, we have happy faces, we have bugs, strawberries, we have ghosts.

Q. Where did the idea come from?

A. We thought it was a good idea to paint something. And we have slate in our backyard, so we look for rocks that are the perfect shape.

Q. Do you like horse racing?

A. Yes, I like watching them, and I have lots of jockey favorites. Irad Ortiz is my favorite.

Q. What do you want to be when you grow up?

A. An NFL player. Wide receiver, or quarterback. My favorite NFL player is Jerry Rice.

Photo by Thomas Dimopoulos.

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

NEWS 3

A Revolutionary War Parade and Family Reunion SCHUYLERVILLE — It has been 240 years since the turning point of the American Revolution at the Saratoga Battlegrounds, and yet the blood stains of a wounded enemy soldier are still quite visible on the floor of the only remaining structural witness to those great battles—the Marshall House in Schuylerville.

This weekend, “Saving a Witness to History – the Marshall House” is the theme of a family reunion that will coincide with Schuylerville’s annual Turning Point Parade and Festival.

The large and popular celebration, on August 5 and 6, commemorates the surrender of the British Army to American forces in 1777 as a result of their defeat at the Saratoga Battlegrounds, now preserved as a National Park. The full schedule of events can be found on the website www.turningpointparade.com.

Family descendants will gather at the Marshall House for a reunion. But more importantly, they will be there to develop a plan to help preserve the structure and the history it embodies.

For the appreciation of future generations, they will ensure its survival for the study of the home itself, the battles and the Revolutionary War. The British occupied the Marshall House, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, during the closing days of the Battles of Saratoga. It served as a refuge for the women and children accompanying the British army. It soon became a shelter for

Photos by Thomas Dimopoulos.

its wounded officers and men.

Not knowing its use, the Americans believed it to be British headquarters and rained cannon fire on the house. Three of the 11 cannon balls known to have struck the Marshall House are today on display inside that very same home, now occupied by current owners David Bullard and his wife Dr. Hilary Tann.

As the cannon fire exploded through the home the fear and panic experienced by its unfortunate inhabitants are famously described by the Baroness Frederika Riedesel in her diary, “War of the American Revolution and the Capture of the German Troops at Saratoga.” Riedesel was the wife of Major General Friedrich Adolf Riedesel, commander of the German mercenaries who formed a part of British forces.

For many years Bullard and Tann have generously welcomed Revolutionary War buffs, historians and other interested visitors who are shown the historic home,

the blood stains and the many artifacts from that period, including the stone cellar where the baroness, her three very young daughters, and a throng of wounded men sought shelter from the death and devastation occurring overhead.

At the reunion, and as part of the Turning Point Parade and Festival, the baroness will be colorfully impersonated as she recounts her adventures.

Her diary is one of the few contemporary and very detailed accounts of that historic battle.

The exclusive performance for the Marshall family, by Debbie Bailey of Greenwich, will be held at the home at 5 p.m. on Saturday.

More details and information about “Saving a Witness to History – the Marshall House” are posted on the website http://themarshallhouse.org.

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NEWS BRIEFS

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

Birdfeeders’ Hobby Shop The Savory Pantry to Host Honey Expert Searching for New Owners SARATOGA SPRINGS — Just ask them. People who feed outdoor birds really love their birds and love their hobby. The birds they feed become “their” birds, kind of like outdoor pets, or “pets without the vets”, as Lois Geshiwlm says.

Fourteen years ago, Lois and her business and life partner Nancy Castillo saw an opportunity to open a Wild Birds Unlimited shop that would cater specifically to the needs of bird-feeding hobbyists.

Castillo and Geshiwlm said they are looking for a new owner for their shop, someone who will carry on the customer-centric approach that has helped them succeed. They plan to continue operating their business until they find the right buyer.

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According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, nearly 53 million people in the United States feed birds and watch wildlife in their own backyards. And each year, $5 billion is spent on birdseed and wildlife food, $969 million on bird feeders, birdbaths and nesting boxes and $918 million on binoculars and spotting scopes.

In August 2003, Geshiwlm and Castillo opened their Wild Birds Unlimited (WBU) shop in the brand new Shoppes at Wilton strip mall on the busy Route 50 corridor. Besides a wide selection of WBUbranded, bird-feeding hobby products, they fine-tuned their product selection to appeal to gift buyers looking for unique nationally and regionally made nature-related gifts.

The shop in Saratoga Springs serves a smaller population than most in the Wild Birds Unlimited system. Yet the local owners have grown the business over the years to be one of the most respected shops in the franchise. Their strong online presence and early adoption of various social media avenues complement the welcoming store environment created by Geshiwlm and their experienced staff.

Wild Birds Unlimited is part of the original and largest franchise system of backyard bird feeding and nature specialty stores with over 300 locations throughout the United States and Canada.

The franchise specializes in expert information and offers an exclusive line of products designed specifically for the hobby of backyard bird feeding.

For more information, visit the websites www.saratogasprings.wbu.com or https:// franchise.wbu.com/.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Savory Pantry will host Jacob Perry, founder of Patagonia Bee Products, at its 486 Broadway location on Saturday, August 5th and Sunday, August 6th, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days.

When Perry, a native of Arkansas, traveled to South America for a backpacking trip, he was captivated by honey unlike any he had ever tasted. Honey imbues flavors and aromas from the flowering trees visited by the bees that make it, imparting luscious floral properties into the honey.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jacob to New York, and excited to introduce these truly extraordinary honeys to Saratoga and the Capital Region,” states Savory Pantry owner Keeley DeSalvo. “This is a rare opportunity to taste the magic of Patagonia, right here on Broadway. You’ll discover the nuances between the different varietals, and learn from an expert the amount of effort and passion that goes into each and every jar.”

Since the hives that yield Ulmo, Tineo, Rainforest, and Valdivian honeys border the native, largely untouched rainforests of Chile, a taste instantly transports you to the only

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place in the world these honeys are found.

Perry launched Patagonia Bee Products to share geographically unique “hive-to-hand” honeys with the world. In the process, Patagonia Bee Products would be the impetus for the revision of Chilean law to better support the livelihoods of small beekeepers and food producers, as well as providing economically sustainable support for rain forests.

Each jar comes from a single beekeeper, preserving the uniqueness of a place and a harvest season, and is regularly tested to ensure it remains entirely free of GMOs and pesticides.

Customers can enjoy discounts on purchases of three or more of these rare honeys that make wonderful gifts.

The Savory Pantry—with storefronts in Saratoga and Hot Springs, Arkansas, and a popular online marketplace—curates a wide selection of artisan and small-batch specialty foods, cocktail makings, gourmet gifts and customized corporate gifts of unparalleled quality.

For more information, call Keeley Ardman DeSalvo at 518-450-1130.

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Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

COURT Jonathan J. Cyphers, 36, of Ballston Spa, pleaded July 19 to felony burglary.

Sentencing scheduled for Sept. 7.

Ian R. Farley, 34, of Malta, was sentenced July 19 to five years of probation after pleading to felony DWI. Joel A. Rojas, 36, of Milton, was sentenced July 19 to 4-1/2 years in state prison, after pleading to criminal sale of a controlled substance, a felony.

POLICE Jacob A. Luciano, 23, of Mechanicville, was charged July 27 with felony burglary, in connection with an alleged incident that took place in Malta.

Andrew C. Dufort, 21, of Saratoga Springs, was charged July 22 with boating while intoxicated after his vessel was stopped on Saratoga Lake in the Town of Malta for suspected reckless operation.

Dufort was released to a third party with appearance tickets returnable to the Malta Town Court.

Kimberly A. DuarteMartinez, 44, of Ballston Spa, was charged July 24 with assault and aggravated criminal contempt – both felonies, and resisting arrest, a misdemeanor, in connection with an alleged incident that took place in the town of Ballston. She

was arraigned at Ballston Town Court and sent to Saratoga County Jail in lieu of $20,000 cash bail, or $50,000 bond.

Shane R. Irish, 31, of Greenwich, was charged July 25 with felony reckless endangerment, a disturbance at the Hannaford on Round Lake Road in the Town of Malta on July 6. Irish is alleged to have driven down the roadway while an accomplice held onto the victim, who was dangling out the window of Irish’s truck. The victim suffered minor injuries.

Benjamin J. Deeb, 37, of Wilton, was charged July 23 with first degree robbery, reckless endangerment, criminal possession of a weapon, and assault – all felonies, following an alleged robbery in the Town of Malta on July 6.

Deeb is suspected to have forcibly stolen property after threatening the victim with a firearm, and then having dragged the victim down the roadway by holding onto him out the window as the vehicle drove down the road.

Steven A. Thornhill age 31, of Gansevoort, was charged on July 21 for felony vehicular assault misdemeanor DWI, and failure to yield right-of-way following a crash on Route 50 in the town of Northumberland.

Oscar Catalan, 30, of Milton, was charged on July 20 with two felony counts and two misdemeanor

BLOTTER 5 counts sexual abuse and two misdemeanor counts endangering the welfare of a child. It is alleged he subjected four females to unwanted physical and sexual contact in the town of Milton. The victims are all known to him, according to the Saratoga County Sheriff ’s Department.

Stephen Chindamo, 54, of Saratoga Springs, Heather R. Forman, 38, of Halfmoon, and Kristen VanPatten, 26, of Burnt Hills were each charged on July 18 with two felony counts welfare fraud, two felony counts grand larceny, and one felony count of offering a false instrument for filing after allegedly submitting documentation to the Saratoga County Department of Social Services in an attempt to receive benefits they were not entitled to receive. The three individuals allegedly combined to receive more than $25,524 from the Saratoga County Department of Social Services.

Stephen M. Allen Jr., 30, of Ballston Spa, was charged on July 16 with five felony counts criminal possession of a forged instrument. The charges stem

from Allen allegedly being in possession of several forged checks in the Town of Milton.

John Lavada, age 27, Mayfield, was charged on July 14 with misdemeanor petit larceny.

Bryan C. Hills, age 32, Philmont, was charged on July 13 with aggravated unlicensed operation, a misdemeanor.

Kyisha N. Smith, age 35, Schenectady, was charged on July 12 with second degree harassment.

Avery Q. Zullo, age 20, Greenfield Center, was charged on July 12 with two felony counts of criminal possession of a weapon, obstructing governmental administration, a misdemeanor, attempted assault, and assault, both felonies.

Johnny W. Fragoso, age 49, Saratoga Springs, was charged on July 12 with aggravated unlicensed operation, a misdemeanor.

Jhojan Figueroa, age 30, Saratoga Springs, was charged on July 12 with aggravated unlicensed operation, a misdemeanor, operating unregistered motor vehicle on highway, no/expired inspection certificate, registration plate display violation, operating a motor vehicle with improper plates, and no/ expired insurance.

Trashaun A. Mosley, age 36, Saugerties, was charged on July 12 with two misdemeanor counts of criminal impersonation, and obstructing governmental administration.

6

OBITUARIES/NEWS

William “Umpy” F. Umstadter, Sr

Barney C. Villa, Jr.

HOOSICK FALLS — William “Umpy” F. Umstadter, Sr., passed away Saturday July 29, 2017.

Graveside services will be at 11am Monday, Aug. 7 in Elmwood Cemetery, Schaghticoke.

Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing and Cunniff Funeral Homes.

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

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Barney C. Villa, Jr. passed away July 28, 2017.

Calling hours will be 3 to 6pm Sunday, August 6, 2017, Burke Funeral Home, Saratoga Springs.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10am Monday, St. Clements Church, Saratoga Springs and burial will be private.

Please visit www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Burke & Bussing

Burke & Bussing

SARATOGA SPRINGS ∙ 584-5373

SARATOGA SPRINGS ∙ 584-5373

Funeral Homes

Funeral Homes

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

Limited Availability of Senior Passes at National Parks STILLWATER — A public frenzy for buying $10 senior passes to national parks before the price increases on August 28 has created a shortage in the Capital District, according to a statement provided by the National Park Service.

In order to meet requirements set by legislation passed by the U.S. Congress in December 2016, the price of the “America the Beautiful-National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands” Senior Pass will increase from $10 to $80. Parks are encouraging people to call ahead to make sure passes are in stock.

Fort Stanwix National Monument, Martin Van Buren National Historic Site, Saratoga

National Historical Park, and Women’s Rights National Historical Park do not carry the passes. “People are coming to our sites daily looking for the passes,” explained Saratoga National Park Superintendent Amy Bracewell. “Since we are sites that do not charge an entrance fee, we do not sell the passes. Please call before making the drive to the park.”

The main contact number for the Saratoga National Historical Park is 518-670-2985.

The senior pass has cost $10 since 1994. Until August 28, U.S. citizens and permanent residents who are 62 years or older can purchase the lifetime pass for $10. Previously purchased

Golden Age or senior passes will be honored for the lifetimes of the holders.

The pass can be purchased for $10 before August 28 at a national park or other federal recreation area that charges an entrance or standard amenity (day use) fee. The pass can also be obtained by mail or online for $10 before August 28, but there will be an additional $10 charge for processing for a total of $20.

Due to expected high-order volume, there could be delays with online and mail order processing of up to several months, but purchases before August 28 are guaranteed the $10 price.

For more information, visit the website www.nps.gov.

Water Meeting, Purple Heart Day Set in Malta MALTA — Malta Town Clerk Roseanne Clavin announced that a public workshop will be held to discuss a conceptual water study regarding service to the Maltaville area.

The public workshop will be held at the Malta Community Center, One Bayberry Drive, at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, August 14.

Town officials will discuss the water study as presented by engineers, with public questions entertained at the end of the meeting.

Additionally, in March, the Malta Town Board proclaimed the town as an official

Purple Heart municipality.

Monday, August 7, has been set as Purple Heart Day, according to Clavin.

There will be a ceremony at 2 p.m. on the grounds of the Veterans Memorial at 2540 Route 9, where town officials plan to publicly show admiration and gratitude for the women and men who have selflessly served our country and this community.

The events start with an unveiling of signs to publicly declare Malta as a Purple Heart Town. Immediately following is a wreath-laying ceremony to acknowledge Purple

Heart Day and the sacrifices that Purple Heart recipients have made in defending our freedoms and protecting our country.

Malta Supervisor Vincent DeLucia said he is “extraordinarily proud and honored that the town of Malta, the town board and all of its citizens hold those who served our nation to the utmost reverence. Not only is Malta home to a number of Purple Heart recipients, but also many active as well as retired veterans to whom we so respectfully honor and extend our gratitude for their services.”

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

7

Long Live the Bakers

Mildred Reed (center) with family in 2016. Photo provided.

MALTA — The Baker Family Reunion will be held next week in Malta.

The descendants of James Baker have scheduled the 153rd Baker Family Reunion on Saturday, August 12 at the Malta Community Park. The hours for this year’s reunion will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The first Baker Family Reunion was held in 1865 and has met every year since, except for one year during World War II. While many Baker descendants still live in and around the original family home in Stillwater, cousins living anywhere

from Massachusetts to Maryland, from Florida to Alaska have attended recent reunions.

Baker cousins are asked to bring a covered dish to share. Hotdogs, hamburgers, drinks and tableware will be provided. The Malta Community Park has picnic tables under a pavilion, bathroom facilities, playground equipment, a basketball court, and walking trails. The site is fully accessible with ample parking.

Baker cousins also are encouraged to bring photos, videos, memorabilia and news of the family. The Baker historian, Maria

Carr, will help attendees research family links.

Malta Community Park is on Plains Road (County Route 108).

Travelers can take Exit 12 off the Northway (Route 87) then Route 67 east, which connects to Dunning Street after the last traffic circle. The park is on the left side of Plains Road.

For further information email bakerreunion@roadrunner.com; visit the Baker Family Reunion’s Facebook page (http:// www.facebook.com/thebakerfamilyreunion) or blog (http://thebakerfamilyreunion.wordpress.com/).

Cantina Funds Tallied Up

(Left to right) Linda Fox, Saratoga Hospital; Klare Ingram, Saratoga Hospital Foundation; Amy Cantanucci, Cantina Fun Run Committee member; Heath Ames, chair, Cantina Kids Fun Run Committee and owner of Cantina; Amy Raimo, Saratoga Hospital Foundation; Ann Marie Cross, Saratoga Hospital; Kathy McNeice, Saratoga Community Health Center; Meredith Woolford, Saratoga Hospital Foundation; and Mellanie Schroeder, clinical coordinator.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Pictured in front of a mural of more than 1,000 images collected from the first 10 years of the Cantina Kids Fun Run, members of the Cantina Kids Fun Run Committee presented Saratoga Hospital with a check for $76,758. The proceeds were raised at the 10th annual event held in June.

The Cantina Fun Run was created to support emergency

medical services at Saratoga Hospital and increase awareness of the importance of pediatric emergency care. In 2015, its mission was expanded to also provide support for pediatric care at Saratoga Community Health Center. The photomontage mural celebrates 10 years of local kids helping kids, and is located in the Emergency Department lobby at Saratoga Hospital.

8

NEWS

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

Twenty Asphalt Jobs Coming to Ballston Continued from front page.

will bring nearly two-dozen jobs to the area, he said.

Still, several residents living near the industrial park had opposed the project and sued Dolomite and the Town of Ballston Planning Board to halt construction.

Wesley Chella, Melissa Lescault and Steven Therrien are listed as “petitioners” along with I.M. Landscape Associates, a company run by Brookside Nursery owner Ian Murray.

Chauvin dismissed their case in a ruling dated July 24.

The judge cited a Ballston Planning Board vote to approve the site plan by Dolomite in May of last year, and prior attempts by town officials to change the industrial park’s zoning classification after Dolomite’s original application had been filed in 2011.

“Specifically it is alleged that the [May 2016] approval was contrary to the amended zoning ordinances

A satellite image of the Dolomite asphalt plant site (in red) in the Curtis Industrial Park. Photo provided by David Toolan.

as a prohibited use; that the approval was contrary to the Announcing Solo Art Exhibition with artist Patricia M. Carroll-Trudeau of River House Art Studio!

Artist Reception Friday Evening August 4th, 2017, from 6:00 to 8:00 Uncommon Grounds 402 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Please join in viewing the interpretations of nature and spirit: featuring past creations of life, and recent works of horse's soul.

provisions in the town’s zoning ordinances concerning noise levels; and that the approval was contrary to the provisions in the zoning ordinances concerning emissions,” Chauvin wrote.

He added, “the Town of Ballston Planning Board has submitted the affidavit of a physical engineer and professional geologist, both retained by the town, who indicate that the proposed project is, in

regard to noise and emissions, compliant with the applicable zoning ordinances.”

“In the present proceeding the court has previously ruled that the amended zoning ordinances are not applicable to the underlying proposed project and, as such, petitioners’ contention that it involves a prohibited use is without merit,” Chauvin concluded.

Ballston Town Attorney Debra Kaelin did not return a request for comment; nor did Claudia Braymer, an attorney listed in Chauvin’s ruling as a party appearing on behalf of the petitioners.

Toolan, who is based in Dolomite corporate offices in Georgia, indicated that construction would start on the new Ballston plant later this year. The opponents, he added, are not likely to appeal Chauvin’s decision.

“I’m not sure where they think they could go with an appeal,” Toolan said. “I can’t

imagine they’d be successful.”

“The plant is located in an industrial park next to several other industrial businesses so the objections to locating the asphalt plant in the industrial park for environmental reasons was completely baseless,” he said.

“Dolomite expects to complete the asphalt plant by May 2018 at the latest,” Toolan said, noting how the company “expects to hire approximately 20 employees in order to staff the plant and the paving crews associated with the plant.”

“Dolomite’s plant,” he added, “will also create new jobs for the local suppliers, contractors, and subcontractors that provide services and materials related to the asphalt paving industry.”

Toolan went on to assert that “a competitor was directing the opposition in order to keep a new asphalt competitor out of this market.”

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

A Popular Summer Feast by Fires Photos by PhotoAndGraphic.com.

by Larry Goodwin Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — “We have so many interesting farmers here, constituents, community people, chefs from all over the country,” observed Mayor Joanne Yepsen on Tuesday, as she provided opening remarks for the “Fire Feast on the Farm” held at Pitney Meadows Community Farm (PMCF).

Dan Forbush, one of many event organizers, said nearly 300 people had purchased tickets for the PMCF fundraiser. The tickets ranged in price between $200 and $500.

Last year, the Pitney family sold their farm’s property rights to the city for more than $1 million. It is now home to a lively community garden and a host of educational events.

The program for the August 1 Fire Feast, which was sponsored by a few dozen area businesses, called it “an amazing evening on the farm.”

“It is so important that we preserve farmland in the City of Saratoga Springs. And we now have 161 acres, in perpetuity, preserved. So enjoy,” Yepsen told the large crowd gathered under a newly constructed greenhouse at the West Avenue property.

John Sconzo, the PMCF organizer who led the introductions, then informed the crowd that two fire pits would be cooking at any given time, with each individual chef focused on serving specific items such as fresh seafood, beef and vegetables.

Long lines formed right away among most of the Fire Feast attendees, who appeared to relish each other’s company as much as the smoke and aromas wafting through the air on a warm summer evening.

Richard Ball, commissioner of the state Department of Agriculture and Markets, also made an appearance at the Fire Feast.

After Yepsen had departed for a city meeting, Ball briefly explained how he manages those things that sometimes cause the loss of sleep, including family issues, life on his own farm and his relationship with bankers.

“What keeps me up during the day is people like you,” Ball said.

“People like you, here tonight, who are putting this together and carrying the vision forward for a very special community.”

For more information, visit the website www.pitneymeadowscommunityfarm.org.

NEWS 9

10

NEWS

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

Notes from City Hall

by Thomas Dimopoulos Saratoga TODAY Elevated Levels of Lead Discovered in Drinking Water in Some City Homes While conducting routine testing of 60 city households, seven households were discovered to have elevated levels of lead in their drinking water. DPW Commissioner Anthony “Skip” Scirocco sought to assure residents that the exceedance occurred in a small number of homes with lead plumbing fixtures and that the city’s municipal water supply does not contain lead.

“First and foremost, the water supplied to the city is safe and free of lead,” Scirocco said. Both of the

city’s public water sources at the Water Treatment Plant and Geyser Crest Subdivision tested at “non-detect” levels for lead.

It is believed the cause for the exceedance in the seven households – which were built between 1982 and 1986 - is due to older pipes or plumbing materials containing lead.

Previous sampling in 2015 and 2016 demonstrated levels below the action level threshold.

Homes built before 1986 can potentially have lead soldering and other fixtures that increase the possibility for lead to enter the water. Lead can enter the water when it remains in contact with pipes or fixtures that contain lead for an extended period of time.

To reduce the amount of lead in water, it is recommended the water be run for at least

30 seconds, or until water is cold to the touch or reaches a steady temperature, before using it for drinking or cooking. This process flushes leadcontaining water from the fixture, according to the DPW. “We are conducting confirmatory sampling of the impacted homes and taking action to ensure that every resident in our city has clean water,” said Scirocco, adding that an aggressive plan to adjust the water chemistry to prevent the leaching of lead from older residential pipes and fixtures is being finalized for approval by the New York State Department of Health.

The City has contacted the seven households where testing levels were above the threshold to re-sample the water and offer an alternative water source while awaiting a second round of testing

results.

Anita Gabalski, district director at the state Department of Health, was present at Tuesday’s meeting and credited Scirocco with acting swiftly to address the issue and hiring a firm to conduct a corrosion control strategy.

Saratoga Springs City residents can participate in the State’s free In-Home Lead Testing Program, which provides residents served by either a private well or public water system an opportunity to have their drinking water tested for lead free of charge.

To obtain a free lead test kit, email FreeWaterTesting@ health.ny.gov directly, or call the State Health Department at 518- 402-7650.

Residents concerned about the plumbing in their homes, or with any questions about their drinking water,

can contact the city’s 24-hour water response line established at the Water Treatment Plant at 518-584-1848.

Public Hearing Re: Eminent Domain Procedures for Geyser Road Trail Plan Remains Open A 90-minute public hearing regarding Eminent Domain Procedures related to the city’s proposed Geyser Road Trail Plan was held Tuesday night at City Hall. Public comments regarding the issue will be accepted through Aug. 15, and the council will not take action prior to its Sept.

5 meeting, Mayor Yepsen said.

Contacts via the city’s website is at: http://www.saratoga-springs.org/.

Continued on page 11.

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017 Continued from page 10.

PILOT Plan Approved for West Side Affordable Housing Development The council on Tuesday unanimously approved a resolution authorizing a paymentin-lieu of taxes agreement regarding the Intrada Saratoga Springs Affordable Housing Project. The Missouri-based Vecino Group seeks to develop one three-story building and three four-story buildings just east of the Saratoga train station and near the Washington Street post office.

The development proposal calls for the construction of 158 “affordable” multi-family rental units. For renters, the one, two and three-bedroom apartment units break down in this way: 24 will be available for persons with an AMI of 50 percent or less, 109 will be available for persons with an AMI of 60 percent or less, and 24 will be available for persons with an AMI

of 80 percent or less. AMI, or the Area Median Income for a family of four in Saratoga County is approximately $84,000, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The PILOT Agreement calls for the company to make annual payments in lieu of taxes to the city. The tax exemption will begin on the date when the city issues a final certificate of occupancy and extend for 31 years.

The annual payment in lieu of taxes will start at approximately $84,000 and increase each year by two percent.

City Adoption of South Broadway Park Remains on Hold The City Council tabled a vote that would have used up to $20,000 of Open Space Bond Funds in the process of securing a parcel of land at a key intersection on South Broadway donated by the Crown Oil company.

The council was informed at the last minute that funds

NEWS 11 specific to Open Space could not be used for things such as ground-testing.

“We’ll have to find a different funding source to conduct testing,“ Finance Commissioner Michele Madigan said.

Last month, the city tapped the brakes regarding the gifted parcel, pending a further review pending any potentially lingering hazardous conditions, given its previous standing as a longtime gas station.

The property sits at 209 South Broadway - adjacent to a Dunkin’ Donuts shop - and has been vacant for a decade.

In April, David Eshaghian doing business as the Crown Oil Co. – expressed a desire to gift to the city the parcel, which was recently appraisal set at a value of $340,000. As far back as a decade ago, the city had considered purchasing the 0.2acre parcel outright to develop a pocket park that would feature equine sculptures.

City costs associated with the donated parcel, outside of

testing, include conducting a standard title search and closing costs.

Some suggestions regarding its future use if and when the city does accept the parcel include turning the property into a pocket park, installing benches, constructing a pavilion, or possibly re-routing a nearby spring to flow to the site.

Behind Closed Doors An executive session was held late Tuesday regarding a lawsuit challenges the permanent siting of the proposed Code Blue homeless emergency shelter on city’s west side, and an unrelated suit involving Mouzon House restaurant and the potential development of a multi-story parking garage behind the Saratoga Springs City Center. No action was taken on either discussion.

State Supreme Court Justice Robert Chauvin at Saratoga County is believed to be hearing both cases, and a decision regarding the Code Blue shelter is anticipated to be delivered in mid-August.

UPCOMING MEETINGS The Planning Board will host a workshop 5 p.m.

Monday, Aug. 7 and a full meeting 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 10 at City Hall.

The Charter Review Commission will host a meeting at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 22 at City Hall.

12

BUSINESS

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

Stewart’s Seeks to Build Anew in Milton

by Larry Goodwin Saratoga TODAY MILTON — Town officials are reviewing site plans for a new Stewart’s convenience store at the intersection of Route 50 and Northline Road.

Stewart’s Shops is proposing to build in an empty lot on the eastern side of Route 50, directly across from its existing Northline Road store, starting sometime next year.

“We will be progressing through the required approval process in hopes of this becoming a 2018 project,” stated Maria D’Amelia, the spokeswoman for Stewart’s Shops, in an emailed response to related questions.

“This is part of an overall reinvestment we are making in our shops,” D’Amelia explained. “We anticipate about a dozen of these types of projects across our market areas this current year, where

we replace an existing shop with a brand new build, whether on the same property or a nearby location, depending on availability of property that allows us to expand.”

“The property in Milton was purchased some time ago, seizing an opportunity at the time for potential future development that we are now ready to move forward with,” D’Amelia said.

The company has a similar project underway at the intersection of Routes 67 and 147 in Charlton.

Another store was recently built right behind an older one on Route 50 south of the Village of Ballston Spa. On July 27, James Easton, an associate at Clifton Park-based MJ Engineering, provided details about the Milton Stewart’s project to the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA).

Stewart’s Shops is seeking the approval of two zoning variances from the town.

Easton said there is “a large

An aerial view of the Northline Road and Route 50 intersection in Milton. Photo by PhotoAndGraphic.com.

wetland area” off Northline Road— toward the back of the empty lot—that would require special consideration by town officials.

MJ Engineering prepared a site map for the “draft area variance” application that was submitted to town officials. The map shows 13,500 square feet dedicated to “wetland mitigation” next to a large area for storm water retention.

The ZBA members discussed specific aspects of the proposed Stewart’s, including the configuration

of a new gas canopy and proper setbacks from the intersection, but they did not take a formal vote.

Recently appointed ZBA member Megan Soden asked Easton why a certain question regarding wetlands was left unanswered in the application, to which Easton responded by citing the technical requirements of the state Environmental Quality Review process.

“I think Stewart’s is great for the area,” offered ZBA member Eric Smassanow after last week’s

meeting. He had voiced a number of concerns but said they centered mainly on the approval process for this particular project.

Kimberly Weaver, the zoning board chairwoman, said the Stewart’s proposal goes next to the Milton Planning Board for review.

According to Smassanow, planning board members will address the overall design and traffic aspects of the proposed Stewart’s. He said he prefers a zoning board vote on the gas canopy and setbacks after that review is complete.

“How do I know what I’m voting for if we don’t have a final design?” Smassanow said.

Easton and the zoning board members also discussed the subsequent construction of office space on the site of the existing Stewart’s.

But D’Amelia indicated in her email that “the fate of the old shop has not yet been determined” for the Northline Road project.

She added that upgrading the Stewart’s stores in these ways is not only a financial investment, but reflective of local consumer demand as well.

“The new, larger shops allow for a better flow and more food-service options to improve the customer’s shopping experience,” D’Amelia said.

“Easy food options are fueling many of these projects throughout the company, as we evolve to meet the needs of our customers’ busy lifestyles,” she wrote. “They’re looking for quick, quality foods and beverages they can easily grab throughout the day.”

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

City Tap Room Donates to Retired Horses

(Left to right) Kelley Taylor, Tom’s Thunder and Rich Taylor. Photo provided.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — R.S. Taylor and Sons Tap Room is helping former racehorses this August by partnering with the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) to launch a new “Community Tap” program.

For every pint of its Belchertown Ale sold at its Saratoga Tap Room through the end of August, $1 will be donated to TRF horses. On Thursday, a casual launch party to raise a glass for thoroughbreds was held at its 26 Congress Street location.

For Rich and Kelley Taylor, R.S. Taylor and Sons Brewery and Tap Room are dreams realized and they hope to help other dreams come true and give back to the community through this program.

The original brewery is located on Misty Bleu Farm in the Washington County town of Hebron, about 45 minutes east of Saratoga Springs. Both the original brewery and the city tap room will offer seven handcrafted, English-style ales as well as a guest tap that will feature locally produced cider.

The Saratoga Tap Room hours are Monday through Friday, 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturdays from noon to 11 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 6 p.m. While the Saratoga Tap Room does not serve food, guests are welcome to order in or bring food.

For more information, visit www.rstaylorbrewing.com or www. trfinc.org.

Food Pantry Hires Assistant SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Franklin Community Center has welcomed Mary Alice Cole as the newest addition to its expanding Food Pantry. As the Food Pantry Assistant, Cole will be able to utilize her knowledge of nutrition and her passion for serving the community.

Cole has years of experience working in the nonprofit world including at Saratoga Springs City School District, Make-AWish Foundation and Cornell Cooperative Extension. She and her husband also have spent countless hours volunteering with organizations including Boy and Girl Scouts and NENY Regional Food Bank.

Cole will join Julie Slovic, the Food Pantry administrator, with the goal of increasing efficiency, promoting and providing healthy foods and ensuring that any neighbors living with food insecurity are having their basic needs met.

Mary Alice Cole. Photo provided.

Also, Cole will be overseeing the large team of volunteers who are necessary in order to keep the doors open. Anyone interested in joining the volunteer team can send her an email at MaryAlice@franklincommunitycenter.org.

For more information, visit www.franklincommunitycenter.org.

BUSINESS BRIEFS 13

DeCrescente Has Three More Beer Experts MECHANICVILLE — Last week, DeCrescente Distributing Company announced that employees Zeb Pagerie, MacKenzie Liptak and Ben Richards have earned the title of Certified Cicerone.

Liptak, Pagerie and Richards now make 15 people who have successfully completed the beer-training and certification program at DeCrescente Distributing.

In the beer industry, the Cicerone Certification Program is a comprehensive testing curriculum that provides a measureable means of designating the expertise of an individual about every facet of beer.

Certified Cicerone is the second level of certification and many

(Left to right) Zeb Pagerie, MacKenzie Liptak and Ben Richards of DeCrescente Distributing Company. Photo provided.

individuals spend one to two years preparing for this exam.

Those who achieve this certification have a solid and wellrounded knowledge of beer and beer service as well as assessing beer quality and identity by taste. The exam tests knowledge of modern beers and styles, beer history and historical styles, identifying flawed beers, understanding beer ingredients, the brewing process, plus beer pairing principles.

There are just over 3,000 Cicerones in the world and approximately 220 in New York State. DeCrescente Distributing is honored to have taught 15 of these Certified Cicerones, further demonstrating their established credibility in the beer industry and their continued commitment to superior customer service.

For more information, visit the website www.ddcbev.com.

14

EDUCATION

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

Plans Underway for 2017 School Year Continued from front page.

For the upcoming school year, Saratoga will see many new projects that will help students succeed. When Piccirillo first began as superintendent, their Legacy Plan was the 2018 Vision, which is now almost to a close. They are now working on their new Legacy Plan and developing their next 5 – 10 year vision. The Great Outdoors Project was just presented to the town board. It is a $15.6 million project that will address the long overdue needs across the districts in properties they own, such as the East and West Side Recreation buildings and the back of Gavin Park that is owned by Dorothy

Nolan Elementary School. They will be fixing and building more playgrounds and athletic fields.

Watson for Education is an IBM created augmented intelligence system that Saratoga will be the first district in New York State to utilize. They will be a “Lighthouse District” for other districts around the state to come and learn from. This program creates personalized education plans for every individual student. It helps to make sure that students are successful not only academically, but socially and emotionally.

“Watson is an exciting and robust system that will ultimately help us to personalize education for all of our students and that

has been one of our goals for our current 2018 legacy vision, but having the right tools to make it happen has been the difficult part of it. We believe Watson is going to be the tool we’ve been looking for,” he explained.

Expect a broader digital learning experience this year.

CloudBooks, which is a Dell created tablet, will be available for all sixth graders to use and take with them as they move throughout the system. Each year, another grade level will be added, they hope to accelerate additions if more funding becomes available.

They are using the Smart Schools Bond Act (SSBA) funds to purchase the new equipment.

The SSBA is “an initiative that would finance educational technology and infrastructure, providing students access to the latest technology and connectivity needed to succeed and compete in the global economy,” according to the website.

Since Piccirillo became Superintendent, graduation retention rate is at an all-time high. The goal for the last 10 years has been 95% and they have reached 94%.

“There is still room for improvement in terms of vision, obviously the target rate is 100%,” he clarified.

Piccirillo believes the retention rate has elevated due to more effort being put into support systems. They have partnered with Franklin Community Center and the LIFT Program to add more social workers to the staff, a mental health clinic, a substance abuse counselor at the middle and high school level. Graduation rates for subgroups have also improved.

For special education and economic disadvantage rates have skyrocketed, almost doubling in both areas. Ten years ago, economically disadvantaged students were at a 35% graduation rate and special education was at 40%.

Now, they are up to 80% and 75% respectively.

“As life gets more complex, students have greater needs and we need to be able to support them so they can focus on their academics and be successful academically. So yes there’s room for improvement but I also think we’ve made quite a bit of improvement over the last five years,” he noted.

There has been talk recently about the overcrowding in the elementary schools due to new housing developments being built. The district has six kindergarten through fifth grade schools, and of the most concern is with Dorothy

Nolan Elementary School behind Gavin Park.

Speaking on the subject, Piccirillo said, “Dorothy Nolan School alone has room for 1200 kids and presently is only up to 800. To my knowledge, there is no concern for overcrowding at the moment. If that concern does become valid, we have the room to grow.”

Dorothy Nolan Elementary owns the land behind Gavin Park and they can expand the building if necessary. If worse comes to worse, they can also re-district and place children in the South Glens Falls schools.

“In the past when this issue arose, we have moved Dorothy Nolan students to Caroline Street School as opposed to having them change districts,” Town Supervisor Art Johnson said.

“If overcrowding does become an issue, Superintendent Piccirillo will certainly address it,” Johnson remarked.

When I asked Piccirillo what his favorite part of the school day was he said, “Students! Whenever I have a chance to be with students, to talk with them, to visit classrooms and participate in activities with them, that’s the best part of the day because that’s why I got into public education as a teacher.

It’s always the hardest part of being an administrator is that the further up the ladder you climb in administration, the further away you get from the students.”

It goes to show that Superintendent Piccirillo has made great strives during his five years in the position and that the new Superintendent will have some big shoes to fill.

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

EDUCATION 15

Great Places for Kids to Visit the little ones and an historic carousel on the fourth floor ($1 per ride).

New York State Museum – Albany | www.nysm.nysed.gov: With exhibits about the earliest life forms in the area, the bones of the Cohoes Mastadon, dioramas about the native peoples of the region, a real

New York City subway car, part of Sesame Street’s set, and a 9/11 exhibit, there is literally something for everyone at this museum. And it’s free! There is also a discovery center with hands-on activities for

Children’s Museum of Science & Technology (CMOST) | www.cmost. org: CMOST’s mission is to “instill a sense of wonder and discovery in young minds, inspiring a lifelong exploration of science and technology,” and they live up to it! A wide variety of hands-on exhibits, live reptiles and other animals, and craft areas offer fun and educational experiences for toddlers up to 8- or 9-year-olds.

they dress up in different uniforms and play inside detailed recreations of a grocery store, bank, classroom, post office, and a ‘50s diner. They can try on real firefighter boots and jackets and slide down a fire pole, or put on a hard hat and build with construction toys. And that’s just the upstairs!

Downstairs they can make humansized bubbles, ride a trolley car, or put on a theatrical show with lots of costumes. Located just a few blocks off Broadway, it’s sure to bring a smile to the kids’ faces.

Children’s Museum at Saratoga | www.cmssny.org: If you have little ones, you must visit this museum.

Their imaginations will run wild as

Museum of Innovation and Science | www.misci.org: Located near downtown Schenectady, this museum has an amazing planetarium – the kids

are always fascinated by the night sky in front of their faces! Plus, MiSci features exhibits on things like the human body, weather, and building construction. They also have rotating exhibits from the famous San Francisco Exploratorium, and GE provides a variety of exhibits to engage kids with technology.

VIA Aquarium | www.viaaquarium. com: One of the Capital Region’s newest attractions, the VIA Aquarium in Rotterdam has become very popular.

Fish, jellyfish, stingrays, and sharks are just some of the creatures you’ll see. Plan on going early, as you may have to wait a little while in line before getting into the aquarium.

16 SNACpack & N. Fox Jewelers Go Above and Beyond Goal SARATOGA SPRINGS — N. Fox Jewelers decided to celebrate 70 years in business by collaborating with a charity.

SNACpack came into the conversation during a brainstorming meeting. Debbie Purstell, sales manager at N. Fox Jewelers reached out to the foundation and got the ball rolling.

SNACpack is strictly volunteer run, they have no funding from the state and every dollar they make is through fundraising and donations alone. For two Saturdays in a row, a sales team from the store sat outside with a booth set up with information on SNACpack, they also continued inside the store for one weekend. Purstell said they had a goal of $2,000 at the start and in the end, they had raised $3, 729.73.

“This charity is just something that resonates with everyone,” Purstell said.

To continue celebrating N. Fox Jewelers 70th year, their next charity collaboration

EDUCATION BRIEFS will be with Jake’s Help from Heaven. Both fundraisers were meant to take place back to back, but after SNACpack, N. Fox Jewelers sold out of the specific jewelry that brought in the donations. Once they stock back up, the next fundraiser is on August 17 to the 26.

Saratoga Children’s Theatre Performs Thoroughly Modern Millie SARATOGA SPRINGS — Starting Friday August 18 and Saturday August 19, at 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., the Janet Kinghorn Bernard Theater at Skidmore College will be hosting Saratoga Children’s Theatre’s four performances of Thoroughly Modern Millie.

Talented local teens from age 13 – 18 will be performing the classic musical directed and choreographed by Michael Whitney, musically directed Ben Jacob, and costumed by Sherry Recinella. All tickets are sold at the door, $10.00 general admission, kids 10 and under are free.

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

BARC Youth Theatre Company

Day Camp: Harry Potter

BALLSTON SPA — The Ballston Area Recreation Commission (BARC) Youth Theatre Company presents Chitty Chitty Bang Bang directed by Michael Gatzendorfer. Opening Friday August 11 at 7:00 p.m., the show will run an additional five performances on August 12 at 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., August 18 at 7:00 p.m. and August 19 at 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Tickets are between $5.00 and $10.00, depending on seating, and each performance will take place at the Ballston Spa High School auditorium. Featuring 40 talented young actors and actresses aged 8 – 18 and accompanied by a live orchestra. The BARC Youth Theatre Company is well known in the area. After being founded in 2002, BARC Youth Theatre has put on 14 well-received shows. For more information, www.barctheatre.org

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Serendipity Arts Studio will be hosting a day camp Monday August 7 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., registration fee is $50.00. Camp includes Harry Potter themed snacks (chocolate dipped pretzel wands, frozen butter beer, and golden snitch cake pops). Kids take an interactive cooking class and create wizard inspired arts and crafts. This is a drop-off class for children ages 7+, a sibling discount can apply.

Photo Finish Tour SARATOGA SPRINGS — Dona Anne McAdams will be hosting an educational tour at Saratoga Race Course’s Oklahoma Training Track. McAdams is a professional racing photographer who will be teaching about lighting, composition, and developing your own artist’s eye. This special tour begins at 8:00 a.m. at the museum, it Is $25 for museum members and $35 for non members.

Children’s Museum to Celebrate Big Truck Day SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Children’s Museum’s Big Truck Day will be held at The Maple Avenue Middle School parking lot in Saratoga Springs on Aug. 5th from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Big Truck Day is one of The Children’s Museum’s primary fundraisers, which allows the museum to offer quality programs and learning opportunities for children and families throughout our community all year long. The event will feature trucks of all shapes and sizes for children to tour.

There will also be a number of other activities for the entire family. For more information, go to www.cmssny.org.

Dean’s List Announcement Clem Marino and Janette Kaddo Marino would like to congratulate their son, Adam Marino, for making Dean’s List at State University of New York at Cortland this past semester.

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

17

Pages 17-21

A Totally RAD Way to Clean

by Megin Potter for Saratoga TODAY Clean your teeth and toilets with the same product? It seems impossible, but one local company has made it a reality.

Still striving to recover from the shady reputation it earned through the propagandist agenda of the 1930’s, hemp is an all-purpose plant resource that can be ingested internally and used externally to clean, heal, and nourish your body and your home.

“Sue had recognized the benefits of it when it was taboo,” said Greg Kerber, CEO of RAD Soap Co. Susan Kerber originally found hemp oil products at an Atlanta airport kiosk and brought them home to help treat her son, Zak’s eczema.

These worked so well that in 2009, she started making skin care products using this miracle ingredient in her own Cohoes kitchen.

Selling at local farmer’s markets, she was using approximately 24 lbs. a year. Radical changes have

pet care products sold worldwide.

“You can use it for everything,” said Greg about their

taken place since then and the family-run RAD Soap Co. now

uses 17,000 lbs. each year for their line of skin care, household, and

all-purpose Hempstile liquid soap. Hempstile is especially Continued on next page.

18

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

A Totally RAD Way to Clean Continued from page 17.

popular with campers and festival-goers, as is their Vibes allnatural 24-hour spray deodorant, which took seven years to develop.

RAD Soap produces soaps, body washes, creams, toners, salves, bug sprays, lip balms, beard oils, etc. enhanced with the magic of ingredients such as mushrooms, NY IPA hops, Death Wish coffee, chocolate, activated charcoal, volcanic ash clays, Himalayan salt’s ancient miracle minerals, and more.

“There’s a cornucopia of benefits in them,” said Greg.

Rad Soap Co.’s Remix laundry soap was released in June to rave reviews.

“It took off like crazy. It makes

The RAD Soap Co. display at Healthy Living Market in Saratoga Springs, . Their radical use of hemp, coffee, and Himalayan salt, among others, has given the local RAD Soap Co. a strong foothold in the world's personal care marketplace.

Susan Kerber.

your clothes fresh and clean. It smells good. It’s really cool,” said

Susan. She’s “the nose” behind the soft, but long-lasting scents in all

of RAD Soap Co.’s products.

RAD Soap Co. is changing the face of industry standards with their products’ serious cleansing and healing properties, which have been supported by a dozen doctors, and striving to connect with the consumer by rebooting their scent memories in an edgy, fun way.

“Rest assured, these are allnatural products, and what we use ourselves,” said Greg.

Last November, RAD Soap Co. opened their first retail store in Stuyvesant Plaza. With plans to expand that to 25 in the next 56 months, the initial retail locations will include Long Island,

N.J., Philadelphia, Los Vegas, and Southern California.

Throughout August, the weekly Taste NY at Saratoga in the Berkshire Bank Pavilion at Saratoga Race Course will provide track guests with the opportunity to sample and buy a wide variety of RAD Soap Co. products, Saturdays and Sundays 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

RAD Soap Co. items can also be found locally at Healthy Living Market, Four Seasons Natural Foods, Wild Birds Unlimited, and Benson’s Pet Center, among others. For more information go to https://radsoap.com/

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

19

The Difference Between “Planting” and “Transplanting”

by Peter Bowden for Saratoga TODAY I answer a LOT of gardening questions. It is interesting to see the questions change as the season progresses. There’s one misconception that crops up every summer... the difference between “planting” and “transplanting”. Here’s a typical situation: A customer is looking at the selection of flowering shrubs that are on sale and seems like they want to purchase some but then they’ll say this, “I should probably wait though.”

Then I’ll ask, “Why?” “I heard that you shouldn’t transplant shrubs during summer.”

Over the years, I’ve heard this many, many times before and, quite literally speaking, the statement is true but that isn’t what they are talking about...there’s a major difference between “planting” and “transplanting”.

When you’re digging up and moving an already established tree or shrub, that’s called “transplanting”.

If you attempt this during the long hot days of summer when the plant is in the full flush of growth, you run a very real risk of sending the plant into fatal shock. “Transplanting” is best done while the plant is dormant

during late fall or very early spring as soon as the soil can be worked.

When you shop in your local nursery or garden center, you are buying plants that were dug and balled or potted much earlier when the plant was still dormant. What you are doing when you bring your new shrub or perennial home is “planting” not “transplanting”. Don’t you think trees at the garden center would be happier planted in the cool, dark earth rather than sitting on the ground in their pots or balls in the heat until fall? Many folks put off their planting until fall because they think that they shouldn’t do it now.

If you have PLANTING to do, do it as soon as you can. Planting in July is better than August; and August is better than September and so on.

Think about it...if it wasn’t possible to plant in summer, landscapers would be out of business.

OK, now that we’ve cleared up that bit of confusion, let’s look at how to properly plant a shrub or tree to avoid a mistake many folks make.

Make the planting hole a little bit wider than the root ball. Dig the hole only as deep as the root ball or the pot that contains the roots.

You must avoid suffocating the tree

by NOT burying the trunk or stem under the soil. The spot on the tree trunk where the soil is in the pot or ball needs to be visible after planting.

The easiest way to check this is to lay a stick (the handle of your shovel works) across the planting hole and make sure that the top of the root ball is level with the ground.

If the plant is too low, remove it from the hole and add soil to the bottom to raise it up until you get it at the proper level. This seems trivial, but it can make all the difference to the plants’ health and survival.

When you dig a hole, then fill it

with a large root ball, there’s going to be soil left over. What do we do with it? Use the extra soil to build a dishshaped dike or berm out away from the stem of the plant. This will collect water and direct it down to the root system below. Finally, water heavily after planting to remove any air pockets from the soil.

You should also take care when applying bark and other mulches not to pile them up against the stems and trunks of plants. I’m always (sadly) amazed when I see trees with bark mulch piled in a smothering, deadly volcano shaped mound around the trunks of trees. Thanks for the read!

Perfect planting depth b.

Trees ready for summer planting.

Keep the soil moist.

20

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

If You Build It, They Will Come The 2017 Saratoga Showcase of Homes has 14 builders on tap for this year’s new home tour!

Saratoga Springs: The 2017 Saratoga Showcase of Homes Committee is proud to present a spectacular line-up of 14 of our region’s finest builders for the area’s premiere new home tour event.

Celebrating 22 years of exceptional homes, this annual fall tradition will once again run over three beautiful autumn weekends on September 16-17, 23-24 and 30-October 1.

The final line-up of award winning builders in this year’s event are; Abele Builders, Bella Home Builders, Belmonte Builders, Bonacio Construction, Herbinger Homes, Heritage Custom Builders, La Femme Home Builders, Marini Homes, McPadden Builders, Pigliavento Builders, R.J. Taylor

Builders, Saratoga Builders, Whitbeck Construction and Witt Construction. There will be a total of 18 new home locations on display in Saratoga County. Tickets to visit all these homes is still only $20.

Online Tickets on Sale Now! Early-bird tickets are now available online and anyone purchasing tickets online by September 1 will automatically be entered in a special drawing for a one-night stay at the Saratoga Casino Hotel, dinner for two at Morton’s Steakhouse ($200 gift certificate) and $100 spending cash. For more details and to learn more about this year’s event, builders, sponsors, maps and the 18

showcase homes now being built, please visit www.saratogashowcaseofhomes.com.

Tickets will also be available in mid-August at Adirondack Trust, Saratoga National Bank & Trustco Bank locations; Curtis Lumber in Ballston Spa & Queensbury; Realty USA in Clifton Park; Bonacio Construction and Roohan Realty in Saratoga Springs. Tickets will always be conveniently available at any showcase home during tour hours of 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Once again this year, each showcase ticket holder will receive a FREE shoe/tote bag at the first home visited!

Over the past 21 years, this community event has contributed over ONE MILLION dollars

7 S e p temb e r 16- 17, 23- 24 & 30- Oc tob e r 1

saratogashowcaseofhomes.com

to our two local charities. Proceeds from the Showcase of Homes benefit Rebuilding Together Saratoga County www.rebuildingtogethersaratoga.org and Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties

www.glensfallshabitat.org. A total of $70,000 was raised last year.

For more details on the 2017 Saratoga Showcase of Homes event, please visit www.saratogashowcaseofhomes.com. Follow us on FACEBOOK for all the updates!

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

BALLSTON SPA 20 Spring Circle, $415,561.

Briarwood Brooks Development LLC sold property to Kurt and Agneta Altenburger (CoTrustees).

9 Horseshoe Bend, $442,007.

Legacy Custom Homes LLC sold property to Margaret and Timothy Jayko.

247 Round Lake Rd., $200,000.

William Davey sold property to Jeffrey Matrazzo.

28 Sherwood Lane, $203,000.

Gregory and Allison Shelton sold property to Samuel Rourke and Allison Reed.

1013 Saratoga Rd., $174,600.

Eleanor Johnson sold property to Amy Brandt and Paul Card.

MALTA 41 Meadow Rue Place, $285,000.

Eric Smith sold property to Carole Mushaw and Cynthia Schroeder.

19 Essex St., $315,098. Barbera Homes Malta Springs LLC sold property to Debra Murphy.

156 Arrowwood Place, $185,000.

Tabitha Edwards sold property to Reid Frasier.

4 Teaberry Place, $375,000. Eric and Cheryl Feder sold property to Kelly Buell.

MILTON 504 Elk Circle, $176,000. Lars Skladzinski and Andrea Staepel sold property to Julia Orisini.

220 Falsetto Court, $395,000.

Richard and Heidi Hennessey sold property to Stacie and Michael Kruzinski, Jr. 656 Acland Blvd., $474,900.

Andrew Piroli sold property to Benny Bova and Chelsea Morini.

12 Lindewn Lane, $230,000.

Rebecca Hudson sold property to Joyce Dimitri.

PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS

665 Acland Blvd., $423,950. Stanley and Nancy Krawczuk sold property to Michael and Carrie Jones.

124 North St., $437,000. Benjamin Decker and Sarah Fox sold property to Jeffrey Nelson and Caryn Designor.

256 258 Milton Ave., $600,000.

Firm Weaver sold property to 256 258 Milton Avenue LLC.

130 Regent St., Unit 4, $220,000.

Scotsman Properties LLC sold property to Mary Williams.

SARATOGA SPRINGS 15 Thomas St., $325,000. Scott Ciampa sold property to Patricia Arnone.

107 Ludlow St., $385,000. Debra Monte sold property to Michael and Jull Carey.

158 Washington St., $365,000.

Deborah Vaughn sold property to Craig and Lenore McQuade.

18 Covell Ave., $254,000. Rock Solid Real Estate LLC sold property to Thomas Iacobelli.

4 Underwood Dr., $325,000.

Claudia VanWagner (Trustee) sold property to Jeffrey and Tara Fear.

7 Daggs Lane, $310,000. Deirdre Locke and Andrew Bodden sold property to Billie and Michael McCann, Jr. 29 Pinewood Ave., $529,000.

Michael Mascarenhas and Kelly Grindstaff sold property to Thomas Yoshikami and Erica Wojcik.

173 Lake Ave., $345,000. Robert Pringle sold property to Peppers Corner LLC. 39 Oak St., $428,000. Molly Colgan sold property to Theodore Shaw and Siobhan Hart.

180 Meadowbrook Rd., $589,000.

Mark Harrison sold property to Christopher and Sheila Englehart.

23 Stony Brook Dr. $238,600.

Meadowbrook Estates LLC sold property to Victor and Karen Abate.

WILTON 4 Stonehedge Dr., $265, 000.

Eric and Susan Meybaum sold property to William Henke and Mary Utter.

360 Wilton Gansevoort Rd., $269,000. John and Jeannette Desimone sold property to

21 Jonathan and Ashley Stilan.

8 Carr Rd., $225,000. William Henke sold property to Patrick Tynan.

8 Sepia Lane, $250,200. Omar and Kenisha Manderson sold property to Frank and Amy Hemming.

11 Farmington Ave., $245,000.

Derek and Autumn Goddard sold property to Keith and Melissa Bailey.

22

FOOD

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

Garden Won’t Grow? Master Gardeners Might Know Why Zucchini and Summer Squash Nests Ingredients

Saturdays, 9 to 1 Wednesday, 3-6

* Ingredients can be found at the market

High Rock Park

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by Mary Peryea for Saratoga TODAY Earlier this summer, I purchased a lovely little zucchini plant at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market. I planted it in my yard and lovingly tended it. And then one day the plant disappeared.

What could have happened?

Back to the farmers’ market I went, this time to consult with the master gardeners. On hand that day were Rochelle Lynch and Dan Lynch. I explained my

dilemma and Rochelle asked if there were rabbits in the neighborhood. “Lots,” I said. She told me that was probably the root of my problem (pun intended), as bunnies will eat a plant down to the ground.

I asked if there is such a thing as a rabbit repellant. There is, but Rochelle said it really stinks.

“Smells like rotten eggs,” Dan chimed in. They suggested that I

plant my zucchini in a container.

These are the kinds of questions that volunteers with Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Master Gardener program will answer most Wednesdays and Saturdays at the farmers market. They come armed with information on testing the pH in your soil and combatting pests in your garden, along with tips for growing whatever you’re interested in eating from your backyard.

To become a Master Gardener, one needs to apply with Cornell Cooperative Extension.

The application requires references, a background check, and interview. If accepted, classes run for 14 weeks, from January to April, for a full day each week.

The classes’ cost last year was $250. Applications for 2018 will begin being accepted this month.

At the end, there is an openbook exam. Rochelle showed me “the book” – a binder about four inches thick. If you pass the test, you’re required to complete 100 volunteer hours. Those hours can be in a variety of settings: farmers’ markets, fairs, community gardens, presentations to groups.

Even after receiving designation as a Master Gardener, 30 hours of continuing education per year are required to keep it.

Dan Lynch is still working on his 100 volunteer hours. One of his projects involves working with other Master Gardeners to beautify the Saratoga Spa State Park’s Bruno Pavilion. If you’ve been there recently, you may have noticed new landscape material and flowers – a result of their labors.

The Saratoga Farmers’ Market is 3-6 p.m. Wednesdays and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays at High Rock Park. Visit us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese* ½ cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese*

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¼ cup chopped fresh basil*

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2 cloves garlic, minced*

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½ teaspoon ground pepper, divided

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2 medium yellow summer squash*

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2 medium zucchini*

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2 Tablespoons olive oil*

RECIPE PHOTO by Pattie Garrett

Directions 1. Position a rack in the top position of oven, preheat broiler to high 2. Combine ricotta, Parmesan, basil, garlic, and ¼ teaspoon pepper in a medium bowl. Set aside.

3. Using a spiral vegetable slicer or vegetable peeler, cut summer squash and zucchini lengthwise into long, thin strands or strips.

Stop when you read the seeds. You should have about 6 cups of “noodles”.

Place them on a sheet pan or in a 9 inch X 13 inch baking pan. Shape them into nest. Alternate the zucchini and summer squash in a pattern. You will have 6 nests.

4. Drizzle the nests with oil and sprinkle with remaining ¼ teaspoon pepper. Make a well in the center of each and spoon in about 2 Tablespoons ricotta filling.

5. Broil nests until browned in spots, 6 to 8 minutes. Serve warm.

FOOD 23

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

Mini Me

by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY Hello my Foodie Friends.

Sometimes you are surprised to find yourself reaching for a particular kitchen tool again and again.

You often pull it, dirty, from the dishwasher and wash it by hand because you need it. Cooking at someone else’s house, you miss it. That’s how it is with my small whisk. I never expected this little whisk to become one of my favorite cooking tools. There are so many uses for the mini-whisk.

Vinaigrette - If you’re just making a small batch of vinaigrette for a single or double serving of salad, a mini whisk is the perfect size. No need to pull out the full-size version. Scrambled Eggs or Omelet - If you want to just whip up a couple eggs, a mini whisk is exactly the right size for a delicious omelet recipe. Hot Cocoa - If you’re just planning to make one cup of hot cocoa at a time, a mini whisk works wonders as compared to a spoon. In

fact, whip it up extra quick and you’ll achieve a little froth as a bonus. Egg Wash - If you want to achieve a beautiful, shiny, golden brown coloring on anything from biscuits to pie crust, you’ll need to paint it with a little egg (yolk, white, or whole) wash first. And this is the perfect time to whip out that mini whisk. Pancake Batter - You never want to overwhip pancake batter lest it get too tough. For just a few servings, a mini whisk gets the job done well. Dipping Sauce - When you’re just mixing a few ingredients into a liquid base for a dipping sauce, a mini whisk is the ideal-sized utensil. Kid Cooking/Baking When kids are helping you out in the kitchen, a mini whisk is the perfect size for their cute little hands. Cocktails - There’s no need to make things sloppy and messy by using a full-sized whisk when mixing just a few drinks. Dry Rub - If you’re only making a small batch of dry rub, a mini whisk fits the bill exactly.

Yeast - When you need to stir your yeast into your warm liquid, nothing beats using a mini whisk to complete the job.

It may be a “mini me” but there are so many uses for this versatile tool to assist with your culinary needs. Have your little chefs help using this little tool too! Remember, “Life Happens in the Kitchen”. Take care, John and Paula.

24

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

Puzzles Across 1 Bid with a weak hand, often 6 Nikon D5300, e.g.

9 Team up with 13 “Ya think?!”

14 Like newly Botoxed skin 16 Clip contents 17 Young fella 18 When Valjean adopts Cosette 19 Sorento and Sedona 20 Bar exhortation 23 Firetruck tool 25 Kerfuffle 26 It can cover a lot 27 “Defence of Fort M’Henry” poet 33 “Total Recall” (2012) director Wiseman 34 Out-and-out 35 Designer Klein 36 Acting coach Hagen 37 “Don’t text and drive” ad, briefly 38 Lodging provider 41 Up-in-the-air approx.

42 “This doesn’t __ well ... “ 44 Wingtip strings 46 Get someone’s name wrong, e.g.

47 “Let’s do it!”

51 Rim 52 Wine stain color 53 Egyptian slitherer 54 Magician suggested by the ends of 20-, 27- and 47-Across 59 Sweet pea 60 Seafood restaurant order 61 “In my view ... “ 65 Crew of buddies 66 Long-drawn-out account 67 Poppycock 68 Alternatively 69 Get into the pool 70 Silver dollar topper Down 1 Medium of much Chinese art 2 Luau chow 3 Tack on 4 Out-of-the-blue 5 “Scat!”

6 Shows confidence and pride 7 Cause of much intolerance?

8 Babe or Baby

See puzzle solutions on page 46

See puzzle solution on page 46 9 Capital of Indonesia 10 Overlook 11 All-in-one Apple 12 Quick bite 15 Connect with 21 Bides one’s time 22 Bean cover?

23 Playground response 24 Second word of Coleridge’s “Kubla Khan” 27 Blunders 28 Flagstick holder 29 It’s swung by some pinch hitters 30 Prepares to be knighted 31 Trick 32 Long (for) 39 “__ say more?”

40 Decryption org.

43 Make easier to read, in a way 45 Fits in a cabin?

48 Hummus, e.g.

49 Publisher’s guidelines 50 Gently towel off 54 Slight lead 55 Tough navy guy 56 Case units, often 57 Many a Meccan 58 Tends tots 62 Military address 63 Manjula’s husband, on “The Simpsons” 64 “You betcha!”

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: Nip it in the bud, Nip it in the butt Nip it in the bud, meaning to stop something while it is still in development, is the correct expression. This phrase refers to the de-budding of plants, allowing the remaining buds to grow better.

The boss wants to nip that questionable practice in the bud.

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 dave.dowling65@gmail.com

25

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

WINNER’S CIRCLE

Second giveaway Monday, August 7th.

Saratoga TODAY Newspaper’s Guide to the 2016 Racing Season at the Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York

Kentucky Derby Winners Fail to Shine Bright

by Brendan O’Meara for Saratoga TODAY They appear to have more in common with blockbuster busts than anything lasting and memorable. Kentucky Derby winners become Spiderman 3, Jurassic Park 2, 3 and World, EVERY STAR WARS PREQUIL! Pardon the caps lock.

For some reason we’ve grown to expect a lot from our Kentucky Derby winners. They won the most prestigious race in the world, certainly the most coveted, and that grants them near-automatic passage to Champion Three-Year-Old at the end of the year. It’s by no means a certainty. Only eight of the past 17 Derby winners took the Eclipse Award, but it takes a pretty significant fall from grace to shake off the Derby shine.

Why would such an anomalous race with the freakiest of conditions on a temperamental track hold so much end-of-year ramifications barely 125 days into the calendar year? Maybe we need something to talk about.

Always Dreaming’s no-excuse loss in the Jim Dandy really raised the hackles. He went out on a lonesome lead, set the pace with tepid fractions, molasses-slow for Saratoga (24, 48, 1:03) and finished third in a five-horse field. Ladies and gentlemen, our esteemed Derby winner!

“He broke really well, and it went like we were expecting,” said

jockey John Velazquez. “He put in a really good fight down the lane. He just couldn’t get away from the other horses for whatever reason.”

Go up and down the Derby winning roster and you will see a slew of horses that were far more opportunistic than good.

Fusaichi Pegasus, Monarchos, War Emblem, Giacomo, Mine That Bird, Super Saver, Orb, Nyquist and now Always Dreaming.

Here’s a sampling of horses since 2000 that won the Derby and never won again: Mine That Bird, Orb, Monarchos, Super Saver, Nyquist.

We’ll never know how great Smarty Jones, Barbaro or I’ll Have Another could have been. For all we know, they could’ve been all timers.

Funny Cide, Street Sense (though he’d lose the Eclipse to Curlin), Big Brown, Animal Kingdom, California Chrome and, of course, American Pharoah turned out to be great horses in this small sample herd, though if you went back into the deep bench of Derby winners, you’ll likely see a similar pattern. A third are great, a third are meh, a third are forgettable.

And so in 2017 we’re left with a wide-open three-year-old crop with no real leading prospects. The one horse who appears to be in the driver’s seat, which is to say hasn’t blown his chance at true separation, is Tapwrit. Having won the Belmont Stakes impressively and training up to the Travers, a win in the MidSummer Derby would put him at the head of this year’s class.

The Jim Dandy/Haskell/Curlin Weekend did little to purify the water for our best three-year-olds.

The Haskell hosted a Golden Corral-style buffet of Derby runners, including Irish War Cry, a horse many thought would win the Belmont Stakes and the Haskell.

What we saw was another upset, but at least we had, more or less, heard of this horse, Girvin. His fans can

affectionately be called “Girverts.”

Can we get a hashtag and trend that?

That’s my summer campaign.

Anyway.

The thrilling finish to the Haskell increased the depth of the three-year-old pool by a few meters.

McCracken looked like a winner as Practical Joke (on short rest) and Girvin (#girverts) dueled with the latter nailing down the photo.

This degree of parity, or relative averageness, should make for a nice field in the Travers, probably near-full.

Though Good Samaritan stole the Jim Dandy headlines and Girvin struck lightning in the Haskell, the misfire of Always Dreaming and even the Preakness winner Cloud

Computing make you wonder who is ready to move forward and step up in class and whose best days may already be behind them.

Cloud Computing finished a dismal fifth in the Jim Dandy, one of those real head-scratchers or beard-strokers.

“He seemed to struggle with the track today,” said trainer Chad Brown, who at this writing is the leading trainer of the meet with 12 wins. “He just didn’t have it, and that’s about it. We are just going to have to reevaluate the horse and go from there.”

Much of what we saw underscores how the Triple Crown is its own thing, and then everything else thereafter is another

season altogether. The horses we saw develop through the winter and early spring are not the same horses come summer and fall. Or maybe they are. Many times they reveal their true nature as the late-bloomers catch up to them in terms of growth, speed, stature and seasoning. Look at 2016.

Nyquist v. Arrogate.

The showroom shine of the Derby winner carries with it near impenetrable lacquer, but as history has shown perhaps it’s best to call the Kentucky Derby what he is: a mediocre horse remembered for all time.

Brendan O’Meara is a freelancer writer, host of The Creative Nonfiction Podocast, and the author of Six Weeks in Saratoga.

26 WINNER’S

CIRCLE

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

Week Four Activities At Saratoga Race Course SARATOGA CHALLENGE Presented by NYRA Wednesday, August 9 and Thursday, August 10 will have two separate oneday challenges. Fee is $1,000 per day, $500 at least in live cash and $500 in prize pool. Contestants must wager a minimum of $100 on five different races. Registration ends August 6 at 5:00 p.m. online. Prizes are 2 seats to 2018 Belmont Stakes Challenge, 4 seats to the NHC, and guaranteed first place prize of $10,000. Must be 18 years of age to bet. Contact Dominic Labetti at dlbaetti@nyrainc.com with any questions.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 4 National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame The National Museum of Racing is located across the street from the

track and honors deserving jockeys, trainers, and horses. This year, Hall of Fame jockeys Victor Espinoza and Javier Castellano will be signing autographs.

Espinoza will be there on August 4 from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. and Castellano will sign August 5 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. It is 1 1/6 on turf, Grade 2, $200,000.

Breakfast at Saratoga, presented

by B95.5 FM Breakfast Club Fans are invited to enjoy breakfast on The Porch of the clubhouse while the thoroughbreds train on the main track. Breakfast is held from 7 to 9:30 a.m. and is available on a first-come, firstserved basis. The morning buffet is $18.50 for adults and $10.25 for kids. Mornings at Saratoga also welcome fans to go behind the scenes with a free, guided

backstretch tram tour. Tram tours begin at 7:30 a.m. and depart from the clubhouse entrance approximately every 15 minutes through 9 a.m. Tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are 45 minutes in length.

Breakfast and tours are available daily, except Travers Day, Saturday, August 26.

Woodford Reserve Fridays at The Post Racing fans are invited to continue their day at Saratoga with Woodford Reserve Fridays at The Post, the lively bar and entertainment sport located adjacent to the paddock. Each Friday of the meet will feature a DJ and dancing, cocktail samplings and trivia at The Post following the day’s final race Taste NY: Craft Beer Taste NY: Craft Beer event, which offers guests a selection of New York craft beers available for sampling each Friday in partnership with the New York Department of Agriculture and Markets. Fans will be able to sample five craft beers for $5 at the Berkshire Bank Saratoga Pavilion from noon to 5 p.m.

Community Booth Hope Soars will be at the community booth discussing their organization which aims to inspire the Parkinson’s community. They host a variety of events to raise research funds.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5 Whitney Day The Whitney family has been involved in Saratoga Racecourse for many generations starting in 1898 with William Collins Whitney.

Horses owned by the Whitney family have won every major race in the United States. The Whitney is a 1 1/8 dirt race, Grade 1, $1,200,000. The Longines Test is seven furlongs on dirt, Grade 1, $500,000.

Taste NY: Food and Artisans Taste NY: Food and Artisans, a lively on-track market where guests can sample and shop food and crafts in the Berkshire Bank Saratoga Pavilion from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The market will be held each Saturday and Sunday of the 2017 meet. The events will be complemented by handicapping tutorials and racing tips from the Bets Squad, as well as the opportunity to learn more about NYRA Bets and NYRA XP. Ketel One Party at The Post The fun will continue each Saturday of the season with the Ketel One Party at The Post. Saturday evenings at Saratoga will feature music from a DJ following the day’s final race, cocktail samplings and giveaways.

Taste NY: Food and Artisans Taste NY: Food and Artisans, a lively on-track market where

guests can sample and shop food and crafts in the Berkshire Bank Saratoga Pavilion from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The market will be held each Saturday and Sunday of the 2017 meet. The events will be complemented by handicapping tutorials and racing tips from the Bets Squad, as well as the opportunity to learn more about NYRA Bets and NYRA XP. Community Booth On Saturday, the community outreach booth will be honoring Christie’s Heartoberfest. Christie M. Tolosky perished from cardiac arrest at the age 24 after suffering from Long QT Syndrome that went undiagnosed. Due to this being a genetic cardiac condition, many of Christie’s family members were tested and properly diagnosed, therefore saving many lives. This organization is teamed up with the American Heart Association to continue spreading awareness about this disease and raising funds for the foundation.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 6 Jockey Legends Day Come meet and greet some of the most legendary riders in the history of thoroughbred racing. They are offering autograph signings.

Troy Handicap This race is ran on turf for 5 ½ furlongs, $250,000.

Alydar Ran on 1 1/8 dirt, $100,000.

Moet and Chandon Mimosa Sundays Stop by The Post Bar every Sunday from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. to sample mimosas. Must be 21+ to enjoy.

MONDAY, AUGUST 7 T-Shirt Giveaway The second giveaway of the season is a Saratoga t-shirt. Race goers will receive a coupon that must be redeemed by the seventh race at the designated areas, free of charge, while supplies last.

Berkshire Bank Family Monday Monday will be highlighted by the return of Berkshire Bank Family Mondays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Berkshire Bank Saratoga Pavilion. This week check out the Circus Show.

Community Booth On Monday, the community outreach booth will be featuring the Continued on next page.

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

Continued from previous page.

Friends of Moreau State Park who’s mission is to “partner with NYS Parks to enrich the experience for every park visitor through education, events, and strewardship.”

TUESDAY, AUGUST 8 DARK DAY, NO RACES.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 9 Quick Call Race Ran on turf, 5 ½, for $100,000.

Moet and Chandon Wine Wednesdays

WINNER’S

Every Wednesday The Post Bar will host this event offering different wine samples to participants 21+.

Celebrate Brew Central NY Day Taking place all day long in the Berkshire Bank Saratoga Pavillion.

Activities include exhibits and entertainment that spotlight the reemergence of craft beer, ciders, spirits, and wine. Five samples for $5, must be 21 to participate.

Community Booth Today the community outreach booth will feature The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation.

This foundation rehabilitates retired

27 CIRCLE

thoroughbreds with the hopes of them gaining a second career. They also have their Second Chances Program. This program is for inmates to”rehabilitate and rebuild their life skills while providing supervised care to reired racehorses.”

Vineyard Vines, a champagne celebration hosted by Moet & Chandon, and gifts by Spa Mirbeau. They will also be raising funds to support The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

This year’s luncheon will honor Sheila Rosenblum of Lady Sheila Stable.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 10

NYSS Statue of Liberty Division Restricted to three year old daughters of New York Stallions, run on 1 mile turf, $100,000.

FABULOUS FILLIES DAY This day will be in honor of women and their contributions to the thoroughbred industry. Several events will be taking place throughout the day, including, the Sizzling Hot Pink Saratoga Hat Luncheon presented by

A Tribute to Glenn DiSanto Glenn DiSanto was a beloved fixture at the track. For many years, he would start his day early and interact with trainers, jockeys, and fans. DiSanto posted up at Barn 69 each April for pre-season and then when the track would open in June, he would move his black “GD” sign from Oklahoma to his private barn on Gridley, where he would remain for the rest of the season. During the 2016 season, DiSanto suffered from

health problems. On January 14, 2017 Glenn DiSanto passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. On August 5, DiSanto’s birthday, his family will be hosting a celebration of life at the track. Saratoga Race Course will be holding a race in his name, honoring what a steeple he had been for many years. This years ThoroFan’s Guide to Saratoga Race Course Trainer’s Saddle Towels is dedicated to Mr. DiSanto.

ThoroFan Annual Awards Brunch This year’s 5th annual ThoroFan Awards Brunch will feature Donna Barton Brothers as the keynote speaker and will honor Bob Giordano with their prestigious ThoroFan Award. Giordano is the creator of the ThoroFan Guide

to Saratoga Race Course Trainer’s Saddle Towels. The Timothy Reynolds Memorial Fan of the Year Award is going to Dawn Mellen, founder and president of the racing aftercare organization After the Finish Line. Brunch will be held

at the Embassy Suites in Saratoga Springs, NY. Tickets are $50 per person, this includes brunch, autographs, and photo opportunities.

This event takes place on Saturday August 12. For more information, www.thorofan.com.

Community Booth Today the community outreach booth will host Floyd Warriors, an organization offering a support system to people battling cancer with the basic needs in life. Such as preparing

meals, doing household tasks, and keeping things clean and moving forward.

Taco and Tequila Thursdays On every Thursday of the season, come enjoy tacos and margaritas at The Post restaurant while listening to a live flamenco guitar performance.

This event takes place after the day’s final race.

Taste NY: Wine, Cider, and Spirits Taste NY will be offering a variety of samples every Thursday from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. for the wine, cider, and spirits lover. $5 for five samples, 21+ to participate.

28 WINNER’S

CIRCLE

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

Weezie at the Flagpole

by Louisa Foye for Saratoga TODAY On an absolutely glorious Jim Dandy Day, the much anticipated dual between Kentucky Derby champ Always Dreaming, and Preakness champ Cloud Computing, in the $600K Grade 2 Travers prep, fizzled in the sunshine, as Birthday Boy Bill Mott’s

Good Samaritan rained on their parade! Running for the very first time on dirt (upon the suggestion made by WinStar Farms Elliott Walden all year, based on the pedigree of the 3-year-old son of Harlan’s Hoiday!), Good Sam exposed the apparent mediocrity of this year’s Triple Crown race winners!

Coming off the pedestrian pace set early by Always Dreaming, Good Sam took advantage of the unfolding battle between the Derby and Preakness winners, by saving ground early, and then sweeping wide on the turn, to go from last to first, leaving the field in his dust! Although it appeared that Always Dreaming had the perfect set up on the favoring inside rail, as it turned out, it was the perfect storm for Good Sam, as Cali-shipper Pavel’s predicted early speed never materialized into a pace-favoring

scenario for the favorites. The table was set for Good Sam to pick up the pieces off the pace, for a 4-3/4 lengths victory and a 100 Beyer, under a hand ride by Joel Rosario. His victory further complicated an already topsy-turvy 3-year-old division, once again solidifying Saratoga’s reputation as the Graveyard of Champions, taking 2 more victims!

Earlier on the card, an impressive performance was delivered by Coal Front for Todd Pletcher and Johnny Velazquez in the 6-1/2 furlong Grade 2 Amsterdam for 3-year olds. The undefeated son of Stay Thirsty, who completed a rare Jim Dandy/Travers double back in 2011, certainly made his Papa proud, battling back from injury as a promising 2-year-old, to record a 105 Beyer in his stakes debut!

The Amsterdam in the 5th was the 3rd straight, and 4th win of the day for Johnny, while

it was Todd’s 4th win out of the first 5 races! This dominant string started right off in the 1st Race for 2-year-old maidens at 6 furlongs. Zayat Stables’ Mojovation, a first-time starter and son of Quality Road, broke very well, and won easily by 2 lengths, and is another in a long line of good looking babies in the Pletcher barn!

Following the late scratch of last year’s winner, A. P. Indian (who they later announced on Tuesday would be retired!), the 33rd running of the Grade 1 Alfred G. Vanderbilt, turned into a real coming out party for El Deal!

He proved to be the real deal, recording a 112 Beyer in his 3rd straight win for Jorge Navarro and owners Albert & Michelle Crawford (better known in the standardbred world!). El Deal was initially trained in his first 2 campaigns by paralyzed former Jockey, Andrew Lakeman, who wistfully spoke

to me about him with tremendous pride after the PDJF fundraiser Monday evening. As you can imagine, it was very emotional for me to listen to him speak about his sadness upon losing El Deal.

Popular Trainer Jimmy Toner and French Jockey Florent Geroux finally got off the duck together in the 59th running of the 1-3/8, Grade 2 Bowling Green on the inner turf course. After patiently bringing up the rear on the 16-1 long shot, Hunter O’Riley, Geroux guided the 4-year-old ridgling through a wide last move that forced a 3-way race for the finish, where he narrowly beat Grade 1 United Nations Winner Big Picture by a neck, for his first stakes win. Sadler’s Joy was a neck back at the wire for 3rd, while Grade 1 Manhattan winner and favorite, Graham Motion’s Ascend, settled for 4th. I hope to see them all return to battle in the Sword Dancer on the Travers card, but we may have an Arlington defector or two.

Sunday’s running of the $1 Million Haskell did little to clarify the muddled picture in the 3-year-old division, as 9-1 shot Girvin nosed out 7-1 shot McCraken, in a thrilling 3-way photo, leaving the division in chaos! Chad Brown’s Practical Joke was 3rd at the wire. In spite of my happiness for Trainer Joe Sharp and wife Rosie Napravnik Sharp’s first Grade 1 victory with Girvin, I must also confess that I was very disappointed on multiple counts with the outcome. First and foremost is the connection so many of us felt with Isabelle de Tomaso, upon hearing the story of this incredible 86-year-old owner of Irish War Cry, the Haskell morning line favorite. Isabelle is the daughter of Monmouth founder, Amory Haskell, and back in the 50’s, she was a daring young race car driver, a profession that needless to say, did not thrill her father! She competed in the 24 Hours of Continued on page 29.

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

WINNER’S

29 CIRCLE

Continued from page 28.

Sebring with her late husband Alejandro, an Argentinianborn, Italian race car driver and businessman/car maker.

Naturally, it would’ve been a perfect fairy tale ending if Isabelle’s once in a lifetime, Triple Crown-calibre horse, IWC, the NJ-bred son of the star mare at her NJ farm, Irish Sovereign, had crossed the finish line a winner, in NJ’s signature race! I was also very disappointed for the wonderfully gracious Trainer, Graham Motion, and for the gregarious comeback kid, Jockey Rajiv Maragh, who so deserved this big victory! As Graham so eloquently stated, following a very tough weekend, where he saw 3 of his fine multiple graded stakes winners lose (Ascend in the Bowling Green, Miss Temple City in the Matchmaker at Monmouth, & IWC in the Haskell), “Racing is all about challenges. It is not supposed to be easy!”

In last Wednesday’s 7th Race, Trainer Linda Rice pulled off an old school move by bringing back Voodoo Song, her 3-year-old son of English Channel, previously trained by the beloved and recently retired Mike Hushion, on 4 days’ rest, and it proved to be a wise decision, as he was a repeat winner! It was also nice to see Paulassilverlining take the Grade 2 Honorable Miss on the same card, as she continues to deliver. In the 4th Race on Wednesday, Fayeq, the lightly raced, 3-year-old, 1/2 brother to the great Rachel Alexandra, was very impressive in the 1-1/8mile Allowance for Kiaran McLaughlin, who is now considering entering Fayeq in the Travers. Another Travers possibility is Al Stall’s Tom’s d’Etat, who dominated his competition in another 1-1/8mile Allowance on Thursday, winning by 7 lengths.

In Thursday’s feature, The John Morrissey, a 6-1/2-furlong sprint for NY-breds, Celtic Chaos appropriately won, in a race named after the Irish-American, bare-knuckle Boxer, who later became a State Senator, US Congressman, and the brainchild of the Saratoga Race Course. I loved seeing

the adorable young Eric Cancel pick up the stakes win on Celtic Chaos for the ever-zealous connections of Zilla Racing.

In Sunday’s opener, the $200K, Grade 3 Shuvee, Paid Up Subscriber won in a virtual walkover by 32 lengths, for Chad Brown & Johnny V, sadly, with just 2 contenders, precipitating win only betting. It’s hard to imagine why none of the other 7 horses nominated were entered! One final observation for the week was the sensational performance in Sunday’s 5th Race by the 2-year-old maiden daughter of Candy Ride, Separationofpowers, who won handily for Jose Ortiz and Chad Brown, and appears to be a star in the making!

After a wildly successful Dunking Booth to benefit the PDJF on Saturday, that saw Jockeys and disgruntled fans alike delight in dumping NYRA Handicapper, Andy Serling, at $10 a throw, the PDJF closed out the week with their biggest fundraiser of the year, Riders Up/ Jockey Karaoke, an annual event that is a fan favorite at Vapor, and is always tremendously entertaining, and a rousing success! After graciously sitting in the Dunking Booth at the end of Saturday’s

event, Ramon Dominquez, the universally beloved Hall of Famer, and PDJF recipient, opened Monday’s affair with his heartfelt words that not only brought tears, but also opened wallets for the animated live auction, where generous contributors donated thousands of dollars per item!

Emcee Tom Durkin fired up the crowd and the other participating Jockeys with his funky throw down with health & fitness guru/ tv personality, Marcie Fraser, showing the crowd that he can really shake it up with the best of them! Johnny & Leona Velazquez (dressed as a man!) were once again crowd favorites, and the always engaging Rajiv Maragh and Julien Leparoux lit up the stage with their hilarious rendition of “I’m Sexy and I Know It”, highlighted by their rip-away t-shirts, exposing “SEXY” in red lipstick across their ripped stomachs! Perhaps the most entertaining performance was turned in by the gregarious Kendrick Carmouche, who brought his fellow Jocks to their feet, along with being a Peoples Choice award winner, with his right on and show stopping “Big Baller” impersonation! Another notable performance was that of the “Love Man”, the smooth operator and super-Agent, Ronnie Ebanks, and

Photo Provided by NYRA.

a big round of applause was made for every brave Jock who faced the wrath of Judges Anthony Bonomo & Vinny Viola, and Todd Pletcher & Graham Motion.

This Saturday’s Whitney will pit leading contender Gun Runner, who has been a handful

in the mornings, but is obviously ready to go, against Keen Ice, the 2015 Travers/American Pharoah-killer, in what should be an exciting edition to report on next week! ‘til then, may the horse be with you!

30 WINNER’S

CIRCLE

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

Reid Making Jumps and

by Tony Podlaski for Saratoga TODAY

Courtney Reid never thought her career would never be involved in horse racing. She thought her undergraduate and graduate work would land her a career in either the psychology or public health field.

However, her career has brought her to the point where she will likely have a significant future in racing. Over the last couple of years, Reid has made substantial jumps and strides where she is now the racing operations manager for the National Steeplechase Association.

“I wanted to be a clinical psychologist or sports psychologist,” Reid said. “I quickly found out there are not many sports psychology jobs out there. I chose public health instead because it had broad-based things I could do. I could work for different government agencies. That was the route I was going to take.”

Reid’s racing background is pretty much atypical to others involved in horse racing and steeplechase racing. Her career in racing began when she needed summer job while going to James Madison University as a psychology major in 2009. Her summer job involved issuing licenses from the Virginia Racing Commission at Colonial Downs.

With the help of former Virginia Racing Commission executive secretary and chief steward Bernie Hettel, Reid was hired on a full-time basis while working on her master’s degree in public heath from Liberty University. From there, Reid’s career has excelled and expanded.

Since November 2015, the 27-year-old Reid has been with NSA where she assists Bill Gallo,

Courtney Reid.

the director of NSA, in producing the American Steeplechase Racing Yearbook, helping in

writing the condition book and revising rules for steeplechase racing, and planning many events throughout the racing season.

“She has been amazing here for us,” Gallo said. “She’s young and enthusiastic. She has a real passion for the game. She has been a positive influence on all of us and our racing operations. She is technologically savvy. What she has done here [in the racing office] compliments us. This gives her a more diverse background.

Everything that she does here, we do on a smaller scale.”

When Reid came to Saratoga

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

WINNER’S

31 CIRCLE

Strides for Future Racing Career for the first time last year for her NSA responsibilities, she has also assisted the racing office in taking entries, managing the database, and working on other tasks. At the same time, she has found that working in the racing office being a learning opportunity to expand her skill set and meet more people in the sport.

“They were short-handed in the racing office,” Reid said.

“Someone found out that I knew how to do all of that stuff.

I loved it. It has been a great opportunity to learn and meet all of the players.”

Reid is aware of the significance of Saratoga racing.

Because of that, she has learned to take time and be patient with her responsibilities since there is practically no room for error.

You can’t mess up,” she said. ”It’s a big dead if you mess up. You have to be really diligent, methodical, and careful about everything.

Mistakes are not perceived well. I have a tendency to be quick with everything. So, it’s really important that I slow down.”

Reid also knows the importance of tradition at Saratoga, which includes steeplechase racing.

“The steeplechase is engraved in Saratoga,” she said.

“Our horsemen love coming up here. They get treated well. We don’t have many Grade 1 races [like the A.P. Smithwick and the New York Turf Writers]. So

when they are here, it’s a really good showcase for steeplechase racing in North America.”

At the same time, Reid admits that she has been star-struck by some of the horseman like Todd Pletcher, Chad Brown, and several current and former jockeys, including Hall of Famer and Saratoga legend Angel Cordero Jr., after working the Saratoga meet for two consecutive years.

“It’s like living in a movie, a good one,” she said. “Everyone is so happy up here. There is a good vibe. I like all of the jockeys

here. They’re all cool. I love Angel Cordero. He always makes me smile in the office.”

Recently, Reid successfully completed the steward program after passing the exams at the Racing Official Accreditation Program (ROAP) School held at Santa Anita. At the end of the week-long intensive program, Reid completed an oral exam, video exam, and a 4½-hour written exam.

“It’s tough. It’s a grueling process,” Reid said. “Only 30 percent of the people pass it the first time.”

Now that Reid is a licensed steward, she believes her role in NSA will likely expand. As a licensed steward, she can offer seminars for officials who need accreditation.

“When you are an accredited steward, you have to do 16 hours of accreditation every two years as part of continuing education,” she said. “We find video around the world that are controversial as a learning opportunity. We use the

disqualification videos for both flat and steeplechase.”

Looking at her future and everything she has accomplished to this point, Reid plans to stay on this route in the industry.

“I intend to be successful in the industry; I love it,” she said.

“I want to thrive in it and make a difference. I have a passion for the thoroughbred racing industry.

I didn’t think that was how my life was going to be. I don’t foresee myself not being in the industry.”

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LOCAL BRIEFS

Saratoga Pinball Show Do you enjoy pinball or have fond memories of playing them in arcades? For some family-friendly entertainment visit the Saratoga Pinball show, held at the Saratoga Regional YMCA in Saratoga Springs, on Saturday, August 12, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. The show will feature approximately 50 pinball machines from the past and present, all set on free play. For one admission price, you are welcome to stay all day and play as much as you like for no additional cost. The show will also feature an indoor flea market with various pinball and arcade games and parts for sale. Proceeds from the show be donated to charity.

Benefit for Equine Center Horse Therapy for Children Nipper Knolls Equine Center in Gansevoort, a 501 c 3 not-for-profit corporation, focuses on providing the opportunity for experiencing the joy of horsemanship through therapeutic (adaptive) riding and physical therapy using the horse’s motion (hippotherapy) to children with special needs. Seattle Slew’s grandson, Worldly Slew (104 starts), was rescued and now, at 25 years old is a therapy horse at the center. On Saturday, August 12, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday, August 13, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., True Elegance Boutique will donate 30% of the days’ proceeds to help support the center. True Elegance Boutique is located at 124 Milton Avenue, (Rt 50) Ballston Spa. For more information, contact, www.

TrueEleganceBouique.com, 518229-0097.

Woodcarvers Wanted We are looking for anyone interested in joining us, from beginners to experience woodcarvers. We have both Men and Women in our group. We meet every Tuesday, 9 to 11:30 a.m. at the Milton Community Center, located at 310 Northline Rd. in Ballston Spa. There is no charge and we have no teacher but everyone is willing to help you.

We carve everything from small boots, birds, walking canes to even a rocking horse. Please contact

Neil Scheuerman on Tuesday at the Community Center, 9 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. phone 518-8856740. Visit the Ballston Area Senior Citizen’s web page: www. ballstonareaseniors.com.

BHOS is beginning its 48th season of great choral music and invites all singers to join us. No audition required. Hear It. See It. Live It. For more information, call 518-4164060 or visit, www.BHOS.us.

The Markets at Round Lake Three Markets – Two Days – One Eclectic Village. Come and Celebrate the Makers Revolution and Sustainable Food Movement on August 12 and 13. Saturday. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. We will be showcasing over 80 of the best and brightest Artisans in the local and regional Makers, Crafter and Artisanal Edibles community. These Makers, who have been selectively juried, will converge within an eclectic village bringing forth the latest talent and hottest trends. Also featuring Food Trucks, Live Music, Book Sale, Creativity Caravan and BarStream Events. The event will be held be held on the Village Green, located at 49 Burlington Ave, Round Lake. The profits from the event are solely dedicated to help support the Round Lake Library.

Brooks BBQ Fundraiser There will be a Brooks BBQ Fundraiser at Fogg’s Automotive, 642 Saratoga Road, Glenville on Wednesday, August 16 from 4 p.m. until all chicken dinners are sold out. This drive-thru event will be offering Chicken dinners (1/2 chicken, baked potato, roll & butter and cole slaw) for $11.. A half chicken will be available for $7.This event is a benefit for the National MS Society.

Summer Fling at Stillwater United Church Come and join the fun on the Stillwater United Church lawn, 747 Hudson Ave., Stillwater, on Saturday, August 12, Noon – 7 p.m. It’s an all day, open to all, BBQ choices: hamburgers, hot dogs, sausage with peppers/onions, steamed clams by the dozen and assorted salads. Dinners are served at 5PM: $20 for the Clam Steam; $15 for a Camp Fire Chicken Dinner. Pre-purchase tickets only, call 518-664-7984. Games and kids’ activities will be held throughout the day. In case of rain, food will be served indoors in the airconditioned Fellowship Hall.

Burnt Hills Oratorio Society - Preview Summer Sing Come all singers to the 2017-2018 season preview of the Burnt Hills Oratorio Society with Artistic Director William Jon Gray at the Round Lake Auditorium, Tuesday, August 15. Arrive 6:30 p.m. to sign in and enjoy a dessert reception. Singing starts at 7 p.m.

Music is provided as we sing through Haydn’s The Creation, plus the music of Rodgers and Hammerstein, and John Rutter. $10 entry to cover the cost of the venue at 2 Wesley Ave., Round Lake.

The Health, History, and Horses Charity Gala The Ladies of Charity, Saratoga Vicariate request the pleasure of your company at our Gala to support our community charity programs. The Gala will be held on Thursday, August 17 from 6 – 9 p.m. at Longfellow’s Restaurant located at 500 Union Ave. in Saratoga Springs. There will be live music, complimentary beer and wine the first hour, hot and cold food stations and cash bar reception. There will be a silent auction and 4 Seasons Basket Raffle. Tickets are $70 per person.

Please RSVP by August 5 to Carol Leone, 19 Alydar Court, Saratoga Springs NY 12866 or call 518-5847496.

Southern Saratoga Artists’ Society The monthly meeting of SSAS will be held on Monday, August 21, 6:30 p.m. at the Clifton Park Senior Community Center, 6 Clifton Common Blvd. Featured guest, Jake Bortscheller, will give a talk and slide show about the four National Parks in Alaska Jack has spent the last four summers photographing the vast wilderness of the parks including wild life unrivaled by any other state and will share these amazing photos.

The public is welcome. For more information visit: www. southernsaratogaartist.com or contact Patricia Wade, meridian1@ nycap.rr.com, 518-877-4846 The Camp Saratoga 5K Trail Series The Camp Saratoga 5K Trail Series will be held Monday, August 21

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017 at 6:15 p.m. at Camp Saratoga, Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park. The races are open to all and registration is $5 at the door.

Proceeds benefit the Wilton Wildlife Preserve and the Saratoga Spa State Park. Refreshments and raffle prizes afterwards. Grand prizes will be awarded for best times for all 5 events, continual improvement and most family members. For more information visit ww.saratogastryders.org or email laura@saratogastryders.org .

Upstate Conservative Coalition of Saratoga We are a group of like-minded individuals determined to promote traditional conservative values in our community and beyond.

Join us at our monthly meeting to discuss how we can help promote our conservative policies in local, state and national politics. Check us out at: www.upstateconservatives. org. We meet the first Tuesday of every month (next meeting September 5) at the Milton Community Center, 310 Northline Rd. Ballston Spa from 7 – 9 p.m.

BSBPA Seeks Property Beautification Nominations The Ballston Spa Business and Professional Association is requesting nominations for its 2017 Property Beautification Awards in Ballston Spa. The awards are given in recognition of the restoration, renovation, new build, and beautification efforts by homeowners and businesses, which have enhanced the Ballston Spa area. For criteria details and online nomination form visit www.ballston.org. Printed forms will also be available at the Village of Ballston Spa Office, 66 Front Street and should be mailed to: 2017 Beautification Awards, c/o BSBPA, PO Box 386, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. All nominations should be made by September 8, 2017.

Bus Tour to New York Botanical Gardens A bus tour to the New York Botanical Gardens on September 15 is open to the public. The tour is sponsored by District IV of the Federated Garden Clubs of NYS (FGCNYS). The highlight of the visit will be twenty breathtaking works of glass art by Dale Chihuly on display throughout the gardens.

The cost of the tour includes

transportation, admission to the gardens, and dinner in Kingston on the way back. Buses leave from Queensbury and Wilton. The price is $94 for members of the FGCNYS; $99 for non-members.

For more information, contact bmillington@msn.com or call 518-587-3085.

Taste of Showcase A special “Taste of Showcase” preview is scheduled for Friday, September 15 from 5 – 10 p.m. featuring food samplings from area chefs along with local beer and wine tastings. A limited number of tickets for this evening will be available and more information about this event regarding location and ticket prices will be announced at a later date.

Bus Trip to the Bronx Zoo Notre Dame Visitation Church is sponsoring a bus trip to the Bronx Zoo on Saturday, September 16.

Bus leaves Wilton Mall 6 a.m. and returns approximately 8:30 p.m.

Adults cost $75 and children ages 12 & under cost $65. To reserve your tickets, please contact Anne Cadwallader at 518-695-6787 or Darlene Bolduc 518-695-6743.

This is a fundraiser for the Church renovation.

The 2017 Saratoga Showcase of Homes Celebrating 22 years of exceptional homes, this annual fall tradition will once again run over three beautiful weekends this September 16-17, 23-24 and 30-October 1. This year will have a total of 17 new home locations on display in Saratoga County.

Tickets to visit all these homes will still only be $20. For more information visit.

Feast of the Fields 2017 This year Feast will be held Thursday, September 21 from 5:30-9 p.m. at Saratoga National Golf Club. It promises to be a funfilled, delicious evening featuring top chefs preparing small plates from fresh ingredients harvested by local farms, along with enticing products and drinks from local producers. Our theme this year is a classic fall staple–squash.

For more information visit our website http://www.saratogaplan. org/whats-new/upcoming-events/ feast-of-the-fields/.

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

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

Family Friendly Event

Friday, August 4 Tenth Annual Ballston Spa Short Film Festival Ballston Spa High School auditorium, 220 Ballston Ave., Ballston Spa, 7 p.m. and Old Iron Spring Park, Front St., Ballston Spa, 9 p.m.

The film festival also takes place on Saturday, August 5 (same locations and times). This free, family friendly event presents 43 short films, up to 15 minutes in length from local, national and international filmmakers. Refreshments and pre-screening trivia will be held in Old Iron Spring Park 8 – 9 p.m. both evenings, and after parties follow the evening screenings both nights at Brookside Museum located across from the park. For the showings in Old Iron Spring Park we encourage you to bring blankets and chairs to enjoy these films under the stars. In the event of poor weather outdoor movies will be moved to the high school and will be announced on the BSFF web site; BSpaFilm.org. The full list of film selections is available on our website, www.BSpaFilm.org.

Saturday, August 5

Make an Audio Cassette Cover we will spend time in the elevator, listening to Up = Out: A Sun Ra Mixtape. We will check out the tape-mixing station in the elevator, then make colorful cassette covers for what could be our ideal tape mix.

Reservations are highly encouraged.

Free and open to the public. Suitable for children ages 5 and up along with their adult companions, the Family Saturday programs are fun and educational. For more information call 518-580-8080.

Book Signing, “Racing with My Shadow” – Karen Rogers Northshire Bookstore, 424 Brodway, Saratoga Springs, 7 p.m.

Join us for a signing with the author, a professional leading jockey at the New York tracks and one of the first successful female jockeys.

This memoir shares her personal journey to overcome the negative results of childhood sexual and emotional abuse through her work in the sport. Please note that this is a signing only - there will be no author presentation. For additional events visit www.northshire.com.

Sunday, August 6 Breakfast Buffet Saratoga-Wilton Elks, 1 Elks Lane, Rt. 9, Saratoga Springs, 8:30 – 11 a.m.

Now featuring eggs to order.

Donation Requested: Adults $10, Seniors and Military (Active/Retired with ID Card) $9, Children 5—12 $8, Under 5 Free, Take-outs $10. Call 518-584-2585 for more information.

Annual Blessing of Animals Service

Big Truck Day Maple Ave. Middle School, Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Check out Saratoga’s big trucks and meet the people who drive them.

Construction trucks, dump trucks, emergency vehicles and more will be on site. All proceeds benefit The Children’s Muse-um’s program and exhibits. Rain date is August 12. Cost is $5 for children and $1 for adults.

Tang Family Saturdays Tang Teaching Museum, Skidmore College, 815 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 2 – 3:30 p.m.

The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Saratoga Springs, 624 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 10 a.m.

All pets and their families are welcome to the annual “Blessing of Animals” service. Offerings from this service will be donated to H.O.P.E. and donations of pet food are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring a memento of a pet they have loved and lost. For further information please contact Laurie Singer at LSinger001@nycap. rr.com.

CALENDAR 33 Kelly’s Krusaders Team in Training Artisanal Brew Works, 41 Geyser Road, Saratoga Springs, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Gather your friends and family and join us for great Artisanal beer, delicious food from the Sunshine Catering Co. Food Truck, lawn games and raffle prizes! All proceeds benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Team In Training. For more information, contact John Waechter at 518-3783679 or jwwaechter@outlook.com, or http://pages.teamintraining.org/ uny/chitri17/KELLYSKRUSADERS

Monday, August 7 Free Summer Reading Camp Hope Church, located at 206 Greenfield Ave., Ballston spa, 9 a.m.

- Noon This year’s Camp HOPE Reading Camp will be held on August 7 – 11.

“Books in the Barnyard: Cultivating a Love for Reading” will help prepare your children grades one through five for the upcoming school year using games, crafts, music, instruction and a general fun time.

Call Melanie Combs 518-605-7396 or the church office 518-885-7442 for registration forms or register on line at www.hopechurch.us. Come out and join in on the fun.

The Camp Saratoga 5K Trail Series Camp Saratoga, Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park, 80 Scout Rd., Gansevoort, 6:15 p.m.

The races are open to all and registration is $5 at the door.

Proceeds benefit the Wilton Wildlife Preserve and the Saratoga Spa State Park. Refreshments and raffle prizes afterward. Grand prizes will be awarded for best times for all 5 events, continual improvement and most family members.

For more information visit ww.saratogastryders.org or email laura@saratogastryders.org .

Wilton Democratic Committee Meeting

Tuesday, August 8 Whitney Day at Old Friends Old Friends at Cabin Creek, 483 Sandhill Road, Greenfield Center, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. week’s featured residents will be Commentator, who won the Whitney in 2005 and 2008, and Will’s Way, who won it in 1997. Fans can visit and enjoy a picnic is the paddocks with the 15 resident horses. Greenhouse Salad Company will be selling wraps, salads and other fare from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., with a portion of the proceeds going to Old Friends. For more information, please call 518698-2377, visit the website at http:// oldfriendsatcabincreek.com/ or like us on Facebook.

Wednesday, August 9 Fish Dinner Saratoga-Wilton Elks, 1 Elks Lane, Rt. 9, Saratoga Springs, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Donation Requested: $12 adults, $11. Seniors (62 years) and Military (Active or Retired) with ID Card, $8 Children 5-12. Children under 5 Free, $12 All Take-outs. Cash Bar Available. Call 518-584-2585 for more information.

Malta Summer Concert Series Malta Community Center, One Bayberry Dr., Malta, 6 – 8 p.m.

This week’s concert features Stony Creek Band. The series is free and there is plenty of parking. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Rain location is inside at the Malta Community Center. Contact 518-899-4411 or www.MaltaParksRec.com for further details.

Ballston Area Seniors Pickin’ Sessions Milton Community Center, 310 Northline Rd., Ballston Spa, 6:30 9:30 p.m.

Musicians are invited to play background or join up with a group. Free to the public, ample free

parking and please bring a snack to be share. Amateur / professional musicians, Check out our web page, www.ballstonareaseniors.com

Thursday, August 10 Public Tour at the Tang Tang Teaching Museum, Museum’s Atrium, 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs, Noon Curator’s Tour with Assistant Director for Curatorial Affairs Rachel Seligman of current exhibitions. All tours are free and open to the public. For more information, call 518-580-8080 or visit http://tang. skdimore.edu.

KWVA August Luncheon Halfmoon Diner, 231 Grooms Rd., Clifton Park, Noon Hosts are Paul O’Keefe and Mary Kuelsow. Members who served anywhere during the Korean War, or in Korea at any time, spouses, widows, friends and relatives are all invited to attend. For reservations, please phone Mary at 518-5801436 by August 8. For any other information or an application to join the organization, please contact Comm. Roger Calkins at 518-5843037. New members are always welcome.

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

The Ballston Spa Business and Professional Association is proud to once again present its free Concerts in the Park series. This week’s featured concert is Blues Noir.

Upbeat on the Roof Concert: Cannon the Brave Tang Museum, Rooftop Patio, 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 7 p.m.

Rain location is inside museum. For more information call 518-580-8080.

Ace Hardware Conference Room, 55 Northern Pines Rd, Gansevoort, 6:45 pm.

For information, call Pat 917-2825297

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

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Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

THE SOCIETY PAGE

Photos by PhotoAndGraphic.com

Barb Casey with poster of Anne Palamountain.

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Skidmore alumna, Amy Bergstraesser ’11, recipient of the fourth Anne T. Palamountain Scholar Award, which is presented to Palamountain Scholars who have distinguished themselves through leadership, service to others, and commitment to the larger good of society.

Skidmore College hosts 38th Annual Palamountain Scholarship Benefit

REENFIELD CENTER — Skidmore College hosted its 38th annual event to benefit the Joseph C. and Anne T. Palamountain Scholarship Fund, on July 25.

The fund - created to honor Skidmore's late president and his wife for their 22 years of dedicated service and leadership at the college - provides support for students who, because of financial need, might not otherwise be able to attend Skidmore.

Hartly Pollard, Terrill Brown, at the Skidmore College To date, more than 350 Palamountain Scholarships have been awarded to Skidmore students, with 22 student scholars sup- Palamountain Scholarship Benefit Event, held at the ported this year alone. Anne Palamountain, wife of Skidmore's fourth president, created the Palamountain Benefit in 1979.

Saratoga Polo Association July 25, 2017.

Dawn Cottrell, Armando Posada.

Gary Contessa, Mike Dubb, Paul Carlucci.

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CAPTAIN Gala: An Unbridled Affair

APTAIN staged its 2017 gala, “An Unbridled Affair,” July 27, 2017, at the Saratoga Springs Holiday Inn. Among the list of this year’s honorees: jockey Jose Ortiz, trainer Chad Brown, owner Michael Dubb, and Turf champion Lady Eli. Images by PhotoAndGraphic.com.

Susan Gordon, Kristen Corcaran.

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

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THE SOCIETY PAGE

Julien Leparoux and Rajiv Maragh.

Leona and John Velazquez.

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Saratoga Jockeys Take to the Stage to Benefit Permanently Disabled Jockeys

ARATOGA SPRINGS – Saratoga Jockeys took to the stage with humor at the Vapor Night Club on July 31 during the annual Karaoke contest to benefit the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund.

PDJF provides financial assistance to 60 former jockeys who have suffered catastrophic on-track injuries, and has dispersed more than $6 million to permanently disabled jockeys since the charity organization’s founding in 2006.

Hamming it up at the Vapor Night Club on July 31, 2017. The event was a benefit for the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund.

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Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

THE SOCIETY PAGE Mary Beth Delarm and Marissa Wendolovske.

Laura Harrison.

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Matthew Lent, Dave and Jane Otoupal, Elizabeth Lent, Steve and Tracy Abbott.

AIM Hosts Croquet on the Green

ARATOGA SPRINGS – The fourth annual Croquet on the Green event to support AIM Services was held at the AIM Lawn on Route 50, Aug. 1.

AIM Services provides residential and community based services to people with disabilities.

Rosemary Riedhammer and Cindy Harrington, representing Shelters of Saratoga, flank Jessica Moore from the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation.

Patty Riggi, Sandra Foley, Nicole Rich and Michele Massiano.

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Fashionable Fillies Gather in Fundraiser for Jockey Club Safety Net Foundation, S.O.S.

ARATOGA SPRINGS – Those with a passion for fashion as well as for fleet-footed horses gathered for the Fashionable Fillies Luncheon on July 31, 2017, at Saratoga National Golf Club, during an event to benefit The Jockey Club Safety Net Foundation, and Shelters of Saratoga.

Robin Kappler, Maria Harrison, Sylvia Kravis Phillips, Louise Straney, Nancy Johnson and Agnes Nolan.

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

The History of Rock and Roll: Saratoga and Beyond at Saratoga Springs Public Library Aug. 9 SARATOGA SPRINGS — What was the first song you heard that opened up a whole new world of possibilities?

What was the most memorable concert you attended that remains a fond memory to this day?

Come a share an evening of stories celebrating the history of rock and roll in Saratoga and beyond in a free public forum from 7 to 8 p.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 9 at the Saratoga Springs Public Library.

Ever since 1956, when Elvis first shook his hips into the living rooms of America, rock and roll has had a powerful impact in shaping our world.

Were you there the night Phish played at a small club on Caroline Street in 1990? How about that summer night in 1984 when Bruce Springsteen stopped the rain?

Were you among the 30,000-plus who saw The Who at SPAC, or in the crowd of 40,000 who partied to the sounds of the Grateful Dead at the venue in 1985? The Allman Brothers at Skidmore College? U2 at the Saratoga Casino?

The Jean Stamm Memorial

ARTS 37 + ENTERTAINMENT

Berlin Calling – Event at Northshire Bookstore Aug. 11 When underground ideas, sounds, or images seep into conventional culture, the status quo itself is altered. Surely, one aim of politically subversive art is exactly that: change the world. When commonly held assumptions are challenged and subverted, a new synthesis is born, whether that be in the art world or politics or everyday life. The subculture’s loss is the mainstream’s gain.

- excerpt from Paul Hockenos’ new book “Berlin Calling.”

Event will be held at the H. Dutcher Community Room of the Saratoga Springs Public Library at 49 Henry St., Saratoga Springs and will be followed by an open mic featuring any audience members willing to share their own special moments.

The free event will be moderated by journalist Thomas Dimopoulos and will feature George Demers, Joe Deuel, Mary Ann Fitzgerald, Greg Haymes, Robert Millis, Larry Wies and other guests.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Berlin has long had a reputation for its off-beat mystique and powerful allure, drawing an array of underground artists, punk rock and techno connoisseurs, and DIY political activists into its city limits. From free-love communes to the era of amphetamine-fueled techno clubs, it’s a city of charisma and innovation. So how and why did Berlin become the vibrant world capital of eccentric subculture?

American journalist Paul Hockenos moved to West Berlin in the 1980s and has watched it change

over more than three decades. In “Berlin Calling: A Story of Anarchy, Music, the Wall, and the Birth of the New Berlin,” Hockenos delves into Berlin’s tendency toward reinvention and its ability to “posit itself anew many times over” – a quality he attributes to the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Hockenos presents his book, “Berlin Calling: A Story of Anarchy, Music, the Wall, and the Birth of the New Berlin,” in conversation with William Lewis, professor of philosophy at Skidmore College, at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 11 at Northshire Bookstore Saratoga, 424 Broadway.

Other notable upcoming events at Northshire Bookstore: 7 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 5 - Karen Rogers – “Racing with My Shadow “signing only with the author, a professional leading jockey at the New York tracks and one of the first successful female jockeys. This memoir shares her personal journey to overcome the negative results of childhood sexual and emotional abuse through her work in the sport.

2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 10 - Bob

Cafaro – “When the Music Stopped: My Battle and Victory Against MS.” The author, a cellist with the Philadelphia Orchestra, will share his personal journey and a brief musical performance.

Berlin Calling: A Story of Anarchy, Music, the Wall, and the Birth of the New Berlin Northshire Bookstore Saratoga, 424 Broadway.

Event date: Friday, August 11, 2017 - 7:00pm

ARTS 38 +

ENTERTAINMENT

Lawn Jockeys, Chess Pieces – New Exhibition at the Tang Museum’s opens Aug. 12 SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery at Skidmore College will host a new exhibit titled “Other Side: Art, Object, Self,” from Aug. 12 through Dec. 30.

The exhibition features contemporary art from the Tang Collection that examines ways in which artists use materials, found objects, or even their own bodies to explore questions of national, cultural, and self-identity.

Through the artist’s craft, and in the contemplative

space offered by the museum, painted sheet music represents both hope and loss; a literary and cinematic classic is reimagined with a Nigerian-born British artist in the leading role of a 19th-century British dandy; and model train cars carry the weight of a broken Constitution. Each artwork, through material, object, or symbolic reference, encourages viewers to pause and consider questions or issues prevalent in the world today while labels prompt dialogue and debate.

The centerpiece of the exhibition is a 16-foot chessboard of salvaged metal and 32 chess pieces made from cast-concrete lawn jockeys created by artist Willie Cole.

Among the artworks in the exhibition are a number of other recent acquisitions being exhibited for the first time at the Museum, including Yinka Shonibare’s photographic suite Dorian Gray, 2001, and works

by Jamal Cyrus, Flor Garduño, Tim Hawkinson, Michael Joo, and Miguel Aragón.

Sting on the Lawn Tix Now Available at SPAC SARATOGA SPRINGS — Lawn tickets are now available for Sting’s 57th & 9th concert with special guests The Last Bandoleros as well as Joe Sumner on Aug. 30 at Saratoga Performing Arts Center, Live Nation announced this week.

Lawn tickets are priced at $29.50 plus fees.

On the guitar-driven 57th & 9th Tour, Sting is joined by a three-piece band including

his longtime guitarist, Dominic Miller, plus Josh Freese (drums) and Rufus Miller (guitar) with backing vocals from Diego Navaira & Jerry Fuentes of The Last Bandoleros and Joe Sumner.

Sting’s most recent album was recorded in a studio near the corner of “57th and 9th” – hence the name. The intersection also marks the longtime residence of Springsteen accomplice “Miami” Steve

LUZERNE MUSIC CENTER Monday, August 7 at 7:30pm

Johannes String Quartet

The Johannes String Quartet continues to pursue their love of string quartet literature with a program that includes Mozart, Bartók, and Beethoven. $35 Adults $25 Seniors $5 Students

Friday, August 4 at 7:30pm

Faculty Artist Series

Adults $15 Students $5

Curated and performed by the LMC Faculty.

Tickets available at

luzernemusic.org/2017-season Box Office: (518) 696-3843

New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and the New York State Legislature.

Van Zandt, and the landmarked Windermere building, whose landlord was recently named to New York City public advocate Letitia James’ recently released “2016 Worst Landlords Watchlist.”

Lawn tickets for the Sting show, as well as remaining limited pavilion tickets are available online at www.livenation. com , the SPAC Box Office or through Ticketmaster.

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

Tenth Annual Ballston Spa Short Film Festival BALLSTON SPA — The 10th Annual Ballston Spa International Short Film Festival will be held 7 p.m. in the Ballston Spa High School auditorium, and 9 p.m. outdoors in the Old Iron Spring Park on Front Street on Friday and Saturday, Aug. 4-5.

The free, family friendly event presents short films up to 15 minutes in length from local, national and international filmmakers.

More than 100 short films from around the world were submitted and over 80 of those were reviewed for

consideration in the festival.

This year’s Festival will present 43 short films in four slates spread over Friday and Saturday evenings. Each slate will run approximately one hour and each slate will present a different selection of films. This year, there will be six films making their respective world premiere. Fourteen films have original scores and 15 are from young filmmakers, 21 or younger.

The full list of film selections is available the website, www.BSpaFilm.org.

Primus Comes to the Palace ALBANY — Primus, the multi-platinum selling band, will be coming to the Capital Region in late October and they’ll be bringing their first studio album of original material since 1995 with them.

The concert will be staged Oct. 27 at the Palace Theatre.

The new album, “The

Desaturating Seven,” the band’s ninth studio album overall, was inspired by a 1970’s children’s book vocalist Les Claypool often read to his kids when they were growing up. The book tells a story of seven goblins – one representing each color of the rainbow – who simultaneously pull all of the color out of the world.

“Many years ago, when my children were little kidlets scurrying around the place wreaking havoc and whatnot till it was time for bed and book time, my wife turned them on to a book called “The Rainbow Goblins” by Ul De Rico,” Claypool explained, in a statement. “The dark imagery and beauty of the art struck me immediately and I thought: This would make good fodder for a piece of music…I figured it’s about time someone brought ‘Goblin Rock’ back to the fold.”

Tickets for the Oct. 27 show are $59.50, $49.50, $39.50, $34.50 & $29.50 and go on sale Friday at the Palace Theatre Box Office, located at 19 Clinton Ave., via Ticketmaster Charge-byPhone at 800-745-3000 or online at ticketmaster.com.

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

ARTS 39 + ENTERTAINMENT

E.T. Calls SPAC Home

by Thomas Dimopoulos Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Stéphane Denève was 11 years old when he sat inside a darkened movie theater and watched a young boy try to help a loveable alien find its way home. Thirtyfive years later, that moment continues to carry a special emotional significance for Denève, and one that he hopes to share with thousands of others on Saturday when he stands atop the stage at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, flanked by four HD screens screening Steven Spielberg’s “E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial,” and leading the Philadelphia Orchestra in a live musical accompaniment of John Williams’ score.

“I was born in ’71 so I saw the movie when I was 11. I loved it so much I cried in the theater.

And during my childhood, I had a poster of ET over my bed,” says the conductor.

When it came to his own daughter, Denève and his wife ensured the first time she saw the film was during the staging of a performance accompanied by the screening of the movie with her father conducting the orchestra.

“That was very special, being able to share that with her,” he says. “I was very moved by it.”

Conducting the orchestra in real time while the film is screening is not without its challenges.

“Sometimes I feel like I’m piloting a big plane,” Denève laughs. “The movie is moving forward and so you’re moving forward with it. You cannot stop and say: oh, let me do it again.

“There are hundreds of cues through the movie interpreting the score. It’s fun, of course, but it’s also one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done in my career because you want to be both precise and expressive,” says Denève, who in June was named as the next music director of the St. Louis Symphony.

Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Orchestra’s August residency, which kicked off Thursday with Tchaikovsky’s famed 1812 Overture, will run through Aug. 19 with a celebratory “A Night at The Opera.”

“It’s an incredible orchestra. It’s home for them, of course.

You feel the connection they have with the audience. Some of the musicians even have their private homes in Saratoga,” Denève says. “You put a group together to do something special and I feel we are creating the tension, the rhythm and the dialogue between the instruments.

“When I am conducting I can feel the energy in the room. The energy of the audience, even though I have my back to them, is essential. You really feel when people are listening and the peak of tension, and attention, in the audience. I find that quite magical.”

Elizabeth Sobol, who is spending her first summer guiding SPAC as the organization’s president and CEO, says she is excited about all of it - from the scheduled appearances of Yo-Yo Ma and Marcus Roberts, closing night’s “breathtaking evening with exquisite arias,” and a night set aside to pay tribute to Gershwin.

“At SPAC you want to be presenting the best of all genres.

Gershwin was the ultimate composer who brought popular and classical music together on the knife edge that made it such brilliant, amazing, universal music,“ Sobol says.

Saturday, Aug. 5 - E.T. The ExtraTerrestrial (complete with film).

Steven Spielberg’s cinematic masterpiece “E.T. The Extra— Terrestrial,” will be shown on four HD screens and accompanied by a live performance of John Williams’s Academy Awardwinning score.

The Philadelphia Orchestra’s return to its summer home at Saratoga Performing Arts Center features three weeks of performances. The season, Aug. 2 – 19, encompasses wide-ranging classical and contemporary repertoire, world renowned musicians and conductors, family-oriented multi-media offerings and an opera evening. All performances at 8 p.m.

Some highlights: Friday Aug. 4 - Cirque de la Symphonie; Saturday, Aug. 5 - E.T. The ExtraTerrestrial (complete with film); Wednesday, Aug. 9 - American Classics Day 1. An icon of classical music and arguably the world’s

greatest living cellist, Yo-Yo Ma will grace the SPAC stage with his unmatched artistry; Thursday, Aug. 10 - American Classics Day 2. Maestro Marin Alsop n conducts an evening dedicated to the music of cherished American composer George Gershwin. Also: The Marcus Roberts Trio; Friday, Aug. 11 American Classics Day 3. Duo Concerto for Vibraphone and Marimba is comprised of several Pat Metheny and Lyle Mays compositions arranged and orchestrated by Principal Percussion Christopher Deviney; Saturday, Aug. 12 - Raiders of the Lost Ark (complete with film). The film

that gave the world one of its greatest movie heroes, Indiana Jones, will make its SPAC debut as John Williams’s epic score is performed live; Wednesday, Aug. 16 - Sophisticated Ladies; Thursday, Aug. 17 - French Festival Day 1. Music Director of The Philadelphia Orchestra and Grammy Award-nominee Yannick Nézet-Séguin returns to Saratoga to lead the final week

of programs; Friday, Aug. 18 French Festival Day 2; Saturday, Aug. 19 - A Night at the Opera.

Music Director Yannick NézetSéguin will lead singers from The Metropolitan Opera in an evening of glorious arias and sublime ensembles from the opera repertoire.

The full schedule of SPAC’s programming and events is available at spac.org.

ARTS 40 +

ENTERTAINMENT

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

week of 8/4-8/10 friday, 8/4:

monday, 8/7:

Ryan Montbleau, 8 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583-0022

Open Mic Night, 7 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583-0022

The Heaters, 10 pm @ Caroline St. Pub — 583-9400

Jeff Walton, 6 pm @ Horseshoe Inn — 886-8086

The Audiostars, 7 pm @ Horseshoe Inn — 886-8086

Super Dark Collective — New Life w/ Eternal Crimes & Mystery Girls, 10 pm @ One Caroline — 587-2026

The Garden Raid: A New Musical, 7:30 pm @ Hudson River Music Hall — 832-3484 Mike O’Donnell, 7 pm @ Inn at Saratoga — 583-1890

CRITERION 19 RAILROAD PLACE, SARATOGA SPRINGS

(518) 306-4205 08/04/17-08/10/17 saT: 12:55 PM weD: 7:00 PM Fri - sun: 10:20 aM, 1:20, 4:10, 6:40, 9:40 Mon & Tue: 10:50 aM, 1:30, 4:10, 6:40, 9:40 weD: 10:50 aM, 1:30, 4:10, 6:40, 10:00 Thu: 10:50 aM, 1:30, 4:10, 6:40, 9:40

Disney’s newsies: The BroaDway Musical! (PG) 2D The Dark Tower (PG-13) 2D The Dark Tower (PG-13) 2D BTX DeTroiT (r) 2D aToMic BlonDe (r) 2D The eMoji Movie (PG) 2D Dunkirk (PG-13) 2D valerian anD The ciTy oF a ThousanD PlaneTs (PG-13) 2D The BiG sick (r) 2D war For The PlaneT oF The aPes (PG-13) 2D sPiDer-Man: hoMecoMinG (PG-13) 2D BaBy Driver (r) 2D Wilton, NY 12866 3065 Route 50, Wilton

The Dark Tower (PG-13) 2D The Dark Tower (PG-13) 2D BTX DeTroiT (r) 2D kiDnaP (r) 2D aToMic BlonDe (r) 2D aToMic BlonDe (r) 2D BTX The eMoji Movie (PG) 2D

Fri - Thu: 11:40 aM, 7:50 Fri - Thu: 12:00, 3:10, 7:00, 9:20 Fri - sun: 10:40 aM, 1:50, 4:40, 7:30, 10:40 Mon - Thu: 11:10 aM, 1:50, 4:40, 7:30, 10:40 Fri - sun: 10:00 aM, 1:00, 4:00, 6:30, 9:00 Mon - Thu: 10:50 aM, 1:20, 4:00, 6:30, 9:00 Fri - sun: 10:40 aM, 12:50, 3:30, 7:20, 9:10 Mon - Thu: 12:40, 3:40, 7:20, 9:10 Fri - Thu: 10:20 PM Fri - sun: 10:10 aM, 1:30, 4:30, 6:20, 9:30 Mon - Thu: 11:40 aM, 1:40, 4:30, 6:20, 9:30 Fri: 12:20, 2:50, 6:10, 10:00 saT: 2:50, 6:10, 10:00 sun: 12:20, 2:50, 6:10, 10:00 Mon & Tue: 12:10, 2:50, 6:10, 10:00 weD: 12:10, 2:50, 10:00 Thu: 12:10, 2:50, 6:10, 10:00 Fri - sun: 11:30 aM, 3:50, 6:50, 10:10 Mon - Thu: 11:30 aM, 3:20, 6:50, 10:10 Fri - sun: 10:30 aM, 2:30, 5:20, 8:10, 10:50 Mon - Thu: 11:00 aM, 2:30, 5:20, 8:10, 10:50

(518) 306-4707 08/04/17-08/10/17 Fri - Thu: 11:50 aM, 1:00, 5:30, 8:00, 9:40 Fri - Thu: 10:50 aM, 4:30, 7:00 Fri - Thu: 9:50 aM, 12:40, 4:00, 7:20, 10:00 Fri - Thu: 10:20 aM, 1:40, 4:50, 7:40, 10:40 Fri - Thu: 10:00 aM, 2:20, 3:30, 6:40, 10:30 Fri - Thu: 1:20, 9:30 Fri - Mon: 10:40 aM, 1:10, 3:40, 6:30, 9:00 Tue & weD: 1:10, 3:40, 6:30, 9:00 Thu: 10:40 aM, 1:10, 3:40, 6:30, 9:00

Dunkirk (PG-13) 2D

Fri - Thu: 10:30 aM, 1:30, 4:20, 7:10, 10:10

sPiDer-Man: hoMecoMinG (PG-13) 2D

Fri - Mon: 9:40 aM, 12:50, 3:50, 6:50, 9:50 Tue & weD: 12:50, 3:50, 6:50, 9:50 Thu: 9:40 aM, 12:50, 3:50, 6:50, 9:50

Jon LeRoy Jazz Piano Trio, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Avenue — 583-2582 George Muscatello, 6 pm @ One Caroline — 587-2026 Mason and Corry, 9 pm @ One Caroline — 587-2026 Emily Teller, 8 pm @ Peabody’s — 886-8673 Start Making Sense — Talking Heads Tribute, 8 pm @ Putnam Den — 584-8066 Forthlin Road, 8 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583-1916 One OK Rock, 7 pm @ Upstate Concert Hall — 371-0012

saturday, 8/5: Dom Flemons, 8 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583-0022 Gravity, 7 pm @ Horseshoe Inn — 886-8086 The Garden Raid: A New Musical, 7:30 pm @ Hudson River Music Hall — 832-3484 Becky Walton & Mike Steiner, acoustic duo, 7 pm @ Inn at Saratoga — 583-1890 Robanic Reggae — every Saturday, 2 pm @ Lake Local — 886-1373 Pete Sweeney Quartet, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Avenue — 583-2582 Chicken Herders, 9 pm @ Peabody’s — 886-8673 Deja Vu Jazz, Swing Jazz Combo — every Saturday, 3-6 pm @ SPoT Coffee, Glens Falls — 584-9094 Forthlin Road, 8 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583-1916

The OTB Band, 9 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583-1916

tuesday, 8/8: Traditional Open Irish Session w/Drank The Gold, 7 pm @ Inn at Saratoga — 583-1890 Robonic Reggae — every Tuesday, 2 pm @ Lake Local — 886-1373 Jerry Garcia B-day celebration feat.

David Gans, Pearly Baker’s Best, 7 pm @ Putnam Den — 584-8066

wednesday, 8/9: Hot Club of Saratoga, 7 pm @ Hamlet + Ghost — 450-7287 The Schmooze, 6 pm @ Horseshoe Inn — 886-8086 Tim Wechgelaer & Chris Carey, Acoustic Duo, 7:30 pm @ Inn at Saratoga — 583-1890 Masters of Nostalgia, 8:30 pm @ One Caroline — 587-2026 Irish Celtic Session — every Wednesday, 7 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583-1916 Chris Webby, 7 pm @ Upstate Concert Hall — 371-0012

thursday, 8/10: Jerling, Kribs & Lambiase, 7 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583-0022 Open Mic — every Thursday, 10 pm @ Circus Café — 583-1106 Dirt Cheap, 6 pm @ Horseshoe Inn — 886-8086 Jeff Walton, Acoustic Folk Rock, 6 pm @ Inn at Saratoga — 583-1890 Tim Wechgelaer & Rick Bolton — every Thursday, 5:30 pm @ Lake Local — 886-1373

Stone Sour, 7 pm @ Upstate Concert Hall — 371-0012

Hot Club of Saratoga — every Thursday, 7 pm @ Mouzon House — 226-0014

sunday, 8/6:

Kevin & Kate McKrell, 9 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583-1916

Dylan Perrillo Orchestra, 7 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583-0022 Radio Junkies, 7 pm @ Horseshoe Inn — 886-8086 Miriam Enman and Friends, 2 pm @ Hudson River Music Hall — 832-3485 Hot Club of Saratoga — every Sunday, Noon @ Salt & Char — 450-7500 Kevin McKrell, 8 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583-1916

Tim Wechgelaer — Every Thursday, 5:30 pm @ Lake Local — 682-2772 Goose — residency, 9:30 pm @ Putnam Den — 584-8066 Holly & Evan Band, 1 pm @ Saratoga Race Course Gazebo — Kevin & Kate McKrell, 9 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583-1916

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Ad Copy Due: Wednesday, noon

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Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

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Call (518) 581-2480 x204 DONATE YOUR CAR

Wheels For Wishes

Make-A-Wish® Northeast New York WheelsForWishes.org Call: (518) 650-1110 * Car Donation Foundation d/b/a Wheels For Wishes. To learn more about our programs or financial information, visit www.wheelsforwishes.org.

INSTRUCTION PIANO LESSONS – Experienced Piano Teacher located at THE SPRINGS. Call Miriam (518) 886-9028.

DIVORCE DIVORCE $349 - Uncontested divorce papers prepared. Only one signature required. Poor person Application included if applicable Separation agreements Custody and support petitions. - 518-274-0380

MISC FOR SALE KILL BED BUGS! Buy Harris Bed Bug Killers/ KIT Complete Treatment System. Available: Hardware Stores. The Home Depot, homedepot.com. Try Harris Guaranteed Roach Killers Too!

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AUTOMOTIVE Public Auto Auction 8/5/17 @ 9AM. 300± vehicles: repos, trades, donations & more! Consign before noon Friday! 298 J. Brown Dr., Williston, VT. THCAuction. com 1-800-474-6132

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Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

WANTED Vendors, Crafters & Artisans Wanted. The Ballston Area Senior Citizens will be holding their Annual Bazaar on October 28 at the Milton Community Center, located at 310 Northline Rd. Ballston Spa. Indoor & out door space available (on first come / first serve basis indoor only). To receive an Exhibit Contract and pay to reserve your table, please contact Sue e-mail— sheim381@aol.com or call Sue @ 518-885-8037 / text message.

CRAFTERS WANTED - Charlton Freehold Presbyterian Church (768 Charlton Rd.) is looking for crafters for their annual Craft & Bake Sale on Saturday, September 16, 2017, 9am3pm. This well attended annual event is an excellent place to showcase your talent and sell your wares. Please contact Sheelagh Baily at shbaily@nycap.rr.com or 518-882-6706.

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44

SPORTS

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

Meet Gavin Park’s New Director, Mark Marino

by Lori Mahan Saratoga TODAY WILTON — Mark Marino, a Massachusetts native, decided to move to the Saratoga Springs area a number of years ago after he and his wife realized the school systems were better here and there would be more job opportunities. Marino attended Norwich Military University with a degree in physical education and moved on to be an Officer in the Army. From 1981 until 1984 he was stationed in Watervliet, where he got a taste of the area. For 14 months Marino worked at the Capital District YMCA until his position was eliminated. From there, he decided to pursue being a physical education teacher like he had planned. For 10 years he was a substitute teacher in Waterford and also owned his own landscaping business for a number of years. These jobs combined with his military background made him the perfect candidate for the director of Gavin Park position. On July 6, the Wilton Town Board voted to approve Marino’s appointment as director of Gavin Park.

“I always wanted to be a physical education teacher and athletic director, this job is the best of both worlds,” he said.

A key element in his hiring was his career background, especially his landscaping business. He knew what the grounds should always look like and what it would mean to maintain them.

He was experienced in managing people, he taught and worked with kids for many years, he is an officiate for three different sports, and he was also an athlete. He was a prime candidate.

In regards to Art Johnson, Town Supervisor, Marino exclaimed,“I am very grateful Art is my boss. He was essential in bringing me on board and I really appreciate them giving me the opportunity to do this.”

Gavin Park offers a wide variety of different programs. Tracy

Kubis is the assistant recreational director, she is essential to the summer camp and summer programs. Ross McNeal helps Kubis to coordinate and execute the programs.

The main thing Marino is looking to add personally is a hiking activity, geared toward ages 14 – 18.

“I would love to see that age range get off social media and have more face to face time. I think a hiking program could provide that,” he observed.

Marino said there is not much to add to the park right now because Stephen Porto left it in such a good place after his 10 year tenure. Porto added new fields but also created the concept of Splash Park. Splash Park is a water park for kids 12 and under but most frequented by kids six and under. Sprinklers and other fun contraptions run on a 15 minute sensor, shooting out water for kids to splash around in.

“We try to provide a lot of variety for people so it doesn’t become stale or feel stagnant,” he remarked.

Campers get their fill of variety. They visit all beaches in the area, The Great Escape, Valley Cats games, and other fun activities happening daily.

Only five weeks into the job, Marino said his main goal right now is to “make sure that all the fields, courts, and nettings, along with anything else related to what people are using, are safe and well maintained.”

On a daily basis, Marino arrives at 8:50 a.m. and meets with Kim Brock, who runs the financial side, to discuss payroll and other related things. Then he takes out the golf cart and rides around to every field to make sure everything is proper and clear. He then has meetings with people and in between it all, leaves his office door open.

“I believe in an open door policy. My door is always open for anyone to come in and discuss any concerns or issues,” he expressed.

Marino stands by the entrance sign to Gavin Park. Photos by PhotoandGraphic.com.

Marino examines the grounds at the start of a new day.

His day then wraps up at five o’clock and he heads home, excited for the next day to begin.

“In all the jobs I’ve had in my life, I really feel well-received here. I believe in the team effort and being transparent and having open communication and an open door. Everyone here does their job very well and that’s a credit to the overall organization, the town board, the parks and recreation commission, and Gavin Park as a whole. It’s just a

very well run organization and it has been for years. My goal is to maintain that level in the years to come. This is a job where I really look forward to coming to work,” Marino said sincerely.

Marino is especially grateful to Maintenance Supervisor John King and his staff for all their hard work physically maintaining the grounds in a timely and organized fashion. He could not speak highly enough about his staff as a

whole, from the camp counselors to the maintenance staff to the financial department.

“I want to give a lot of credit to the staff. You can’t run an organization well without having a good staff and again players like Tracy, John and Michelle, they all do such a great job,” he said.

For more information on all that Gavin Park offers to the town of Wilton, visit www.townofwilton.com and navigate to the parks and recreation department.

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

Tango Fusion Dance Classes SARATOGA SPRINGS — Join Tango Fusion for dance classes at the National Museum of Dance, 99 South Broadway in Saratoga Springs. Admission is free.

-6:30pm - East Coast Swing (all levels) -7:30pm - West Coast Swing (beginner and intermediate)

Please note that the 6:30 and 7:30 class will be held in the museum’s foyer and the 8:30 Tango classes will be held in the Swyer Studios behind the museum. For more information, contact the Tango Fusion Dance Company at 518-932-6447.

September. For further information please contact: Jim Perkins 480-5262 Ref4bball@gmail.com

JDRF Ride to Cure Diabetes SARATOGA SPRINGS — On September 14 – September 17, Saratoga Springs will host one of five JDRF cycling events for the first time ever. This ride is to raise

money for type 1 diabetes. Over 750 participants aged 13 – 89 will gather from all over the world to raise money for the cure.

Miss Scotties Travel Softball Program MALTA — Miss Scotties program is a travel softball team holding open tryouts for their upcoming season. Tryouts are open to any girl from the Albany/Capital District area interested in playing competitive softball. Practices begin during the winter and travel season runs through July.

10u – August 14 & 17 at 6:00 p.m.

12u – August 1 & 3 at 6:00 p.m.

14u – July 31 & August 2 at 6:00 p.m.

16u – By appointment only.

Annual Beat the Odds Golf Tournament SARATOGA SPRINGS — The 19th annual tournament will take place at Saratoga National Golf Club on Tuesday August 8 at 8:00 a.m. ending at noon, free admission.

Featured speakers include physician and nutritionist Elizabeth Boham,

Second Annual Spa City Gun’s and Hoses Charity Softball Game

-8:30pm - Argentine Tango (beginner and intermediate)

Women's Basketball Official's SARATOGA SPRINGS — Section 2 is looking for those interested in becoming a women’s high school basketball official. No experience needed. Classes begin in early

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MD, Keri Lyn Walsh, high school teacher and breast cancer survivor, and the Director of the Cancer Research Center at the University of Albany, Martin Tenniswood, PhD. For more information call 518-439-5975.

Photo by Ann Dolan. Saratoga Springs PBA and Saratoga Springs Firefighters Local 314 take a group photo after the game.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — This year’s game was for Cindy Russell, mother of SSPD officer Victoria Russell. Mrs. Russell is battling ovarian cancer for the second time

since 2015. It was a close game with the winner alternating between Saratoga Springs PBA and Saratoga Springs Firefighters Local 343. PBA took the win for a second year in a

row with 20 runs, Saratoga Springs Firefighters ended with 15 runs.

Both teams raised over $2,000 which is being donated to help Mrs. Russells’ expenses.

Saratoga Regional YMCA Summer Youth Basketball League SARATOGA SPRINGS — The third week of the season was a close one. Village Photo had a six point lead at the half and won by one point over D’Andrea’s Pizza, 32 to 31. John Leuchton was the lead scorer for Village Photo with eight points. Jackson Reynolds led

D’Andrea’s Pizza with 18 points.

Raloid Tools defeated Mike & Steve’s L Raisers, 35 to 33.

Raloid Tools was led by Owen DaGastino , Andrew Maston, and Gage Berube with six points each.

Gaven Planavsky scored 14 points for Mike & Steve’s L Raisers.

Mexican Connection won in the last two minutes with a 31 to 26 victory over Cudney’s Launderers.

Rodell Evans and Gianni Delgado led the team with eight points each while Jake Alexander and Jacob Armer scored four and three points for Cudney’s.

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Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

COMMUNITY SPORTS BULLETIN Transitional Services Association 7th Annual Golf Tournament SARATOGA SPRINGS — Transitional Services Association (TSA) will be holding their seventh annual golf tournament on September 11 at the Van Patten Golf Club from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. All proceeds will go to support TSA’s main mission, which is to provide rehab and recovery support services to individuals with psychiatric disabilities, substance abuse disorders, and abused and neglected children.

RSVP by September 1. Visit www.tsa-inc.org for information on the tournament and how you can donate to the cause.

CDPHP Cycle! BIKE RENTALS SARATOGA SPRINGS — CDPHP and Capital District Transportation Committee (CDTC) teamed up in 2014 to run a test pilot bike program in all four of CDTC’s major cities. Now, the program has evolved into bike hubs with a varying number of bikes to rent available that you pay by the hour to ride.

“It was determined that in order to be successful, a regional approach had to be taken. Each city could not operate it’s own bike-share. It was determined that the Capital District was the only regional entity that could support such a program,” communications manager Jaime Watson said.

After working together for nearly nine months, CDTA and CDPHP worked round the clock to get the bike share program off the ground.

“While two very different business models, CDTA and CDPHP have very similar missions. Most importantly, we are both deeply committed to the communities we call home,” Allessandra Skinner, director of public relations at CDPHP. Thanks to track season and the sunny weather, memberships are very popular. The monthly membership is only $15.00 a month, 60 minutes of daily free time and overall, helps to save tremendously. The cost per hour is $5.00, prorated per minute. Bike hubs in Saratoga are located at Congress Park, Railroad Run Saratoga YMCA, Union Ave by the track, Division Street, and Caroline Street. For more information, www.cdphpcycle.com. An application for smartphones is also available to download.

Saratoga Recreation Department Clinic and Program Openings SARATOGA SPRINGS — Limited spots are still available for the 2017 summer clinics and programs at the Saratoga Recreation Department. Sign up at the Saratoga Springs Rec Center at 15 Vanderbilt Avenue, Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. or Saturday 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. For additional information or to download forms visit SaratogaRec.com. To contact

the recreation department call 518-587 ext 2300 or email reservations@saratoga-springs.org with any questions.

Recreation Department Horsing Around Program SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Springs Recreation Department is offering a new program called Horsing Around during the 2017 Track meet.

Horsing Around is a drop-off program for children ages 5-12.

Various recreational activities and arts and crafts will be offered. For additional information or to download forms go to SaratogaRec.com. Contact the Recreation Department at (518) 587-3550 x2300 or recreservations@saratoga-springs.org with questions.

SUP Yoga SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Kayak Shack has begun offering weekly “SUP Yoga” classes, every Saturday and Sunday from 9-11 a.m. at the Shack’s location at 251 Stafford Bridge Road, Saratoga Springs. The courses are open to all skill levels, and will involve yoga sessions conducted on paddleboards out on the waters of Fish Creek. The fee or entry is $35 and includes a board rental, PFD, instruction, and yoga class.

Those who bring their own boards only have to pay $20.

More information is available at www.kayakshak.com.

Puzzle solutions from pg. 24 Send your sports stories or briefs to Sports@Saratoga Publishing.com

Saratoga Youth Field Hockey Program SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Springs Booster Club will be hosting its seventh fall season of youth field hockey beginning on Aug. 29 and ending on Sept. 30.

The program is open to youths in grades 3-6, no experience needed.

The program features practices, working on fundamental skills, and at least four play days with other area school club programs.

The youth program brochure can be downloaded from the Booster Club’s website at www.eteamz. com/Saratogafieldhockey1.

Registration is now open and the cost is $100 for the fall season, which includes a team vest for new players. For more information please contact Jo-Anne Hostig, Saratoga head field hockey coach at Togafieldhockey@gmail.com.

Saratoga Springs Ice Rinks Now Open SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Recreation Department has announced that the Saratoga Springs Ice Rinks at 30 Weibel Avenue are now open. Schedules for the rinks can be found online at www.SaratogaRec.com. Any further inquiries should be directed to the department at 518-5872300 ext. 2300, or at recreservations@saratoga-springs.org.

Camp Saratoga 5K Fun Runs WILTON — Taking place on the trails at the 310-acre Camp

Saratoga, this series is open to all ages and abilities. Runs will take place on July 24, Aug. 7, and Aug. 21 at the Wilton Wildlife Preserve. Registration will begin at 5:30 p.m., with the races commencing at 6:00 p.m. Registration is $5 per racer at the door. It is designed to be a fun but challenging trail course. Proceeds benefit the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park, Saratoga Spa State Park, and another non-profit. For more information contact Laura Clark at races@saratogastryders.org or 581-1278. Runs take place rain or shine.

Saratoga Springs Recreation Department Drop-In Sessions SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Springs Recreation Department currently offers dropin sessions for Adult Basketball, Pickleball, Racquetball and Wallyball. Visit SaratogaRec.com and click on Rec Center Calendar for the latest schedule. For more information, call 518-587-3550 ext. 2300, or email recreservations@saratoga-springs.org.

Recreation Department Fall Soccer Registration SARATOGA SPRINGS — Early Bird registration for the fall 2017 recreation center soccer season is now underway, and will continue until Aug. 14. For additional information, call 518-587-3550 ext. 2300, or email recreservations@saratoga-springs.com.

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

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NEW West Mountain Biking Trails

by Lori Mahan Saratoga TODAY GLENS FALLS — West Mountain has opened up it’s winter trails for biking this season. The Mountain Bike Park opened the second weekend in July of this year.

Adding an express chair lift, West Mountain is able to bring guests and their bikes to the top of the mountain to ride down. After receiving a grant from the town of Queensbury, they were able to purchase bike rental equipment and marketing materials for the bike park.

“With our own staff, we designed a series of cross country and downhill bike trails. We also have a pump track. Currently we have about 22 trails and we are adding more trails weekly,” Sara Montgomery, general manager of West Mountain said.

West Mountain is also offering cross-country and downhill riding lessons along with guided tours of the mountain.

“When we set our mind to something, we’re able to accomplish a lot in a very small amount of time.

We’re very lucky that we have the people on staff that we do who are able to do these types of projects,” Montgomery said.

Sara Montgomery and her husband, came up with the bike trail idea and oversee the concept as a whole. The Montgomery’s oversee everything from the waivers,

Riders access the express chair lift.

to the equipment ordering, to the account management. West Mountain also offers head to toe protective gear for riders. Bike rentals include a fleet of 15 Scott Bikes, downhill and cross-country are available. To participate, all day passes are for children 12 and under are only $15, teens 13 – 19 are $20, and adults 20+ are $30, a senior citizen discount is available for riders 65+ for $15. Mountain Bike Park season passes are also available for committed riders, adults can buy a pass for $180, teens for $150, and youth for $99.

The bike trails are open Thursday and Friday from 11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. and weekends from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. All riders must sign a waiver, children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and children teens 13 - 18 must have an adult sign an additional waiver to ride unaccompanied. Tickets and rentals can be purchased on site. Bike and protective gear rentals are a separate price ranging from $20.00 $40.00 depending on the package.

“It will probably take a couple seasons to hit its full swing, but we are seeing a lot of people. I spend a lot of time asking people for their feedback and where they’re traveling from. We had one guy from Arizona stop in, we’ve had people from Albany area, Malta, Clifton Park. I think the word is spreading it’s just going to take some time. We’ll probably do

A mountain biker takes in the trails. Photos Provided by West Mountain.

more marketing for the park next year,” Montgomery remarked.

The bike park will open in late June / early July each season and will be open until the number of riders starts to dwindle.

Montgomery added, “We are open for scenic lift rides as well.

So people can take the lift to the top and then we have a hiking trail mapped out with beautiful views. They then take the lift back

down after the hike.”

Currently, the bike trail has a small but efficient team of four lift attendants, three people in the rental shop, and a manager on duty.

“The mountain bike trails are just the first part of a larger plan that we have for off season business.

We did want to offer the scenic lift tours because it is nice for people who do not have an interest in

biking, so they also have something to do,” she observed.

At the top, there is also a bounce house available for the younger kids and a grilling area for adults and families to make a day of the trails.

Montgomery continued, “We tried to make it all inclusive so that everything is right there for the riders. This is all part of a bigger plan for West Mountain.”

Volume 11 • Issue 30

FREE

Week of August 4 – August 10, 2017

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New West Mountain Biking Trails See page 47.