ST 121914

Lo c a l

•

I n d e p e n d e n t

Volume 9 • Issue 50 • December 19 – December 30, 2014

•

F r e e saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com • (518) 581-2480

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays Pages 21-27

Schenectady

CASINO ALBANY — Schenectady officially won the recommendation for a Vegas-style casino from the state’s Gaming Facility Location Board for the Capital Region/Hudson Valley section, Wednesday: The Rivers Casino & Resort at Mohawk Harbor.

The Mohawk River site’s $300.1 million proposal by real estate developers Galesi Group of Rotterdam and Chicagobased Rush Street Gaming was chosen over applicants from Rensselaer, East Greenbush and Schoharie County.

Started by the statewide referendum in November of 2013, which allowed up to four casinos to be built in upstate New York, the decision process has seen a variety of options and possibilities. One of the failed ones for the casino location was the idea of the new Vegas-style casino in Saratoga, which was discouraged

See Casino pg. 8

Hunter’s Chariot Students Raise Money for Running Chariot for Classmate

by Stephanie Hale-Lopez to fund a running chariot for their classmate, Hunter, Saratoga TODAY BALLSTON SPA — It’s the season of giving and students at Milton Terrace North Elementary School in Ballston Spa recently presented one of their classmates with a heartwarming surprise – the gift of mobility.

First and third grade students at Milton Terrace Photo by MarkBolles.com spent months raising money

to allow him more mobility. With help from the Evans family of four, the students gave 6-year-old Hunter his new chariot at an assembly Monday, Dec. 15.

“It’s an amazing gift because as a parent of a child with special needs, you can’t always do everything with the family because your equipment is limited; it doesn’t always fit the event or activity See Milton Terrace pg. 11

A classmate presents Hunter with his running chariot.

Keeping Us Safe

Saratoga Business Aiding Ebola Fight

by Megan Harrington for Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Health tech company mySmartHealthcare is fighting the Ebola virus from right here in Saratoga Springs.

The company, which is headquartered at 60 Railroad Place, launched a series of online training courses aimed at training healthcare professionals on the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) used to prevent the spread of infectious diseases such as Ebola.

Karen Cornelius, COO of mySmartHealthcare says, “We noticed such a broad fear of it [the Ebola epidemic], so we got on it right away.”

Cornelius explained that safety breaches were occurring due to a combination of misinformation and improper procedures. For example, some health care providers were using duct tape to secure gowns to their wrists and since the tape can be difficult to remove properly, See Ebola pg. 8

Inside TODAY Blotter 5 Obituaries 6-7 Business 16-17 Education 18-19 Pulse 37-40 Sports 44-47

Weekend Forecast FRIDAY

30|19 SATURDAY

30|21 SUNDAY

33|23

2

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

Generous Giving Marks 9th Year of Skidmore Cares SARATOGA SPRINGS — Once again Skidmore Cares has brought together faculty, staff, and students during the holiday season to make a significant contribution to local families in need.

The annual campus-wide initiative was launched in 2006

by Skidmore President Philip Glotzbach and his wife Marie.

This year the effort culminated on Friday, Dec. 5—designated

as Skidmore Cares Friday— with the collection of food, school supplies, and money to assist local agencies that serve the community.

This year’s Skidmore Cares beneficiaries are the Corinth Central School District, Wellspring, Franklin Community Center, Latino Community Advocacy Program, Mary’s Haven, Salvation Army, Saratoga County

Economic Opportunity Council (EOC), Saratoga Springs City School District PATHS Program, and Shelters of Saratoga.

“It is inspirational to work with members of our campus community to organize and rally our collective campus effort to make a difference in the greater Saratoga region,” said Marie Glotzbach.

“Skidmore Cares builds on the College’s heritage of being a good neighbor and provides a very personal way for our students and employees to participate.”

Skidmore students and staff set out mid-day on Monday, Dec. 8, to deliver over 1,800 food items and boxes of school supplies. The agencies also will receive shares of cash donations totaling some $11,000, with the funds coming from campus contributions and from vendors who do business with Skidmore.

The Skidmore Cares fundraising effort has again been boosted by proceeds from “Beatlemore Skidmania,” the

Skidmore students at the food drop-off at the Salvation Army in Saratoga Springs.

Photo courtesy of Eric Jenks.

College’s annual concert of Beatle music performed by students, faculty, and staff. Organized

by Professor of Music Gordon Thompson and a group of his students, the program this year featured three sold-out

performances in November in the Arthur Zankel Music Center.

Proceeds totaling $8,000 from two of the concerts have been donated to Skidmore Cares, while funds from the third show will support scholarships.

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

NEWS

3

St. Clements Celebrates Christmas with Annual Concert SARATOGA SPRINGS — Students of St. Clements Regional Catholic School dressed in their holiday best and stepped onto the stage to present the 2014 Christmas concert.

From kindergarten to fifth grade, all classes participated in the show on Tuesday, Dec. 16 and performed in front of a packed crowd.

The concert featured narrators, soloists and student-actors.

Photos by MarkBolles.com

4

GlobalFoundries Awards $172K in Grants MALTA — The G L O BA L F O U N D R I E S -Town of Malta Foundation recently presented its 2014 slate of grants totaling $172,915, benefiting 43 local organizations and community projects. The 2014 grant awards were presented at a reception hosted at the David R. Meager Community Center in Malta Wednesday, Dec. 17.

Organizations were on hand to receive checks funding their projects and programs. The 43 recipients range from sports programs such as the Ballston Spa Junior Baseball League; public safety efforts such as Malta Ridge Volunteer Fire Company; and educational programs such as local robotics teams, among many others.

week in Review clerk Craig Hayner held a ribbon cutting for the opening of a sheriff ’s sub-station and new Department of Motor Vehicles office in the Wilton Mall.

The office is located near the Bon-Ton entrance off Route 50.

The office, which is the seventh substation for SCSO, has deputies assigned to it 24/7.

The department and the Prevention Council have worked together for the past several years on the bi-annual Drug Take Back Days. The installation of the drop box is an extension of those efforts.

Wilton Rotary Donates Teddy Bears WILTON — Three members of the Wilton Rotary Club Bob Pommerer, Don Wildermuth, and James Gizzi presented a sack full of teddy bears and warm, hand-crafted blankets to the Franklin Community Center on Tuesday, Dec. 16.

(Right) Sheriff Michael Zurlo assists in the ribbon cutting Monday, Dec. 15.

Photo provided.

SSPD Install Prescription Drug Drop Box

The foundation distributed the grants in Malta Wednesday, Dec. 17. Photo by MarkBolles.com

Sheriff and DMV Office to Open in Wilton Mall WILTON — Saratoga County Sheriff Michael Zurlo and county

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Springs Police Department has installed a secure, prescription drug drop-off box in the lobby of the police station.

“The drop-off box allows anyone to dispose of their unwanted, unused or expired medications without having to wait for a drug take-back event,” said Police Chief Greg Veitch. “Unwanted, unused and expired medications may be dropped off at the police department 24 hours a day, seven days per week, no questions asked.”

Publisher/Editor Chad Beatty 581-2480 x 212

Shawn Lockwood 581-2480 x 202 Newspaper Production, Website

cbeatty@saratogapublishing.com

ads@saratogapublishing.com

General Manager Robin Mitchell 581-2480 x 208

Editorial Arthur Gonick 581-2480 x 214 Saratoga Springs, Malta and County News; ‘Pulse’ Editor

rmitchell@saratogapublishing.com

Marketing Director Chris Bushee 581-2480 x 201

cbushee@saratogapublishing.com

Advertising Jim Daley 581-2480 x 209

jdaley@saratogapublishing.com

Cindy Durfey 581-2480 x 204 cdurfey@saratogapublishing.com

Art Department Jessica Kane 581-2480 x 215 Creative Director jkane@saratogapublishing.com

Colleen Sweeney 581-2480 Graphic Design, Website ads@saratogapublishing.com

Amy Gifford 581-2480 x 207 Graphic Design, Website ads@saratogapublishing.com

art@saratogapublishing.com

Brian Cremo 581-2480 x 206 Wilton, Sports Editor, Obituaries, Briefs, Calendar brian@saratogapublishing.com

Stephanie Hale-Lopez Malta, Business/Education 581-2480 x 203

stephanie@saratogapublishing.com

Photographer Mark Bolles 490-1757

(L-R) Bob Pommerer, Don Wildermuth and James Gizzi. Photo Provided.

Saratoga Mayor Promotes “Christmas with the Kids” SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Springs Mayor Joanne Yepsen is promoting Saratoga Springs Fire Department’s and Saratoga Springs Police Benevolent Association’s annual event, “Christmas with the Kids.”

“I applaud our city fire

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014 department and the city PBA for putting together such an excellent event that allows so many children to get the Christmas gifts they both need and deserve,” said Yepsen.

“Helping out, being generous and giving back is what the holidays are all about. Public safety employees, along with the community’s participation, have done a wonderful job in helping these children who might not otherwise have presents and a special holiday celebration.”

The event is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 20 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Saratoga Casino Drops Event Center from Expansion Plans SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Casino and Raceway has dropped a proposed event center from its $30 million expansion plans.

According to reports, Brian Davis, director of design development for the casino, says SCR will remove the proposed 2,000-seat event center from its expansion plans and continue trying to build a hotel and other amenities at its site off Crescent Avenue.

Saratoga Casino and Raceway is now looking for city leaders’ support for its revised expansion plans and will resubmit an amended hotel plan. The previous plan called for a 108-room hotel, the event center, a large restaurant, café, pool and fitness center. The new amended plan will include everything but the event center, according to Davis.

State Asked to Investigate Death BALLSTON SPA — The attorney for the family of Daniel Carl Satre has asked the state to take over the investigation of the unarmed man’s death in a confrontation with police.

Ballston Spa police received a report on the night of Sept. 21 of a man screaming and walking in traffic on Saratoga Avenue, near Satre’s home. Two village officers arrived to find a distraught Satre, and called for backup.

Two officers from the Saratoga County Sheriff ’s Office and two state troopers arrived, and all six tried to take Satre into custody for disorderly conduct. When he struggled and resisted, he was repeatedly shocked with a stun gun. Satre passed out and could not be revived.

Albany lawyer Terence Kindlon wrote to Attorney General Eric Schneiderman after the state’s top prosecutor last week proposed that the governor issue a temporary executive order directing the attorney general to investigate police killings of unarmed civilians, according to reports.

Kindlon says Saratoga County police officials and the district attorney’s office work too closely together for an objective investigation and that an outside agency needs to take over.

This action comes in the wake of nationwide protests after police were cleared in the death of Eric Garner, a 43-year-old Staten Island man who died after police placed him in a chokehold. Protests also erupted after an officer was cleared in the shooting death of Tamir Rice, a 12-yearold boy who was shot by police in Cleveland while carrying a toy gun.

Locally Owned & Operated Five Case Street Saratoga Springs New York 12866 Phone: (518) 581-2480 Fax: (518) 581-2487 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Hours of Operation 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

Monday–Friday

mbolles@photoandgraphic.com

Distribution Kim Beatty 581-2480 x 205

Email ads@saratogapublishing.com to subscribe to our weekly newsletter! kbeatty@saratogapublishing.com

Next Deadline: Simply Saratoga 12/29

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014 Tracy Adams, 49, of Brooklyn, was arrested Dec. 8 and charged with grand larceny.

Michael D. Urbanski, 42, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested Dec. 8 and charged with petit larceny.

Monique M. Bennifield, 35, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested Dec. 9 and charged with disorderly conduct, obstructing governmental administration, criminal tampering, criminal mischief and endangering the welfare of a child.

Michael A. Gaioni, 21, of Castleton-on-Hudson, was arrested Dec. 9 and charged with issuing a bad check.

Patrick W. Maher, 59, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested Dec. 9 and charged with forcible touching and endangering the welfare of someone physically disabled.

William P. Sowers, 59, of Corinth, was arrested Dec. 10 and charged with criminal trespassing.

Lewis A. Blair, 31, of Ballston Spa, was arrested Dec. 11 and charged with failure to stop at a stop sign and aggravated unlicensed operation of a vehicle.

William H. Vandenburg, 39, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested Dec. 11 and charged with criminal trespassing.

Kory R. Lawrence, 25, of East Greenbush, was arrested Dec. 12 and charged with DWI and failure to signal a turn.

James C. Demers, 45, of Saratoga Springs, was arrested Dec. 12 and charged with DWI, failure to stop at a stop sign, failure to keep right and refusing a prescreen test.

SENTENCINGS Al Harris, 49, of Miner Road in Porter Corners, pled to the charge of DWI Dec. 9.

Sentencing will be Feb. 3 at 9:30 a.m.

Matthieu A. Burks, 26, of Oak Hill Circle in Rensselaer, was sentenced to 3 ½ years in state prison and 1 ½ years postrelease supervision Dec. 9.

Burks pled to the charge of attempted criminal sale of a controlled substance Oct. 20.

Grover L. Dake, 32, of Angel Road in Corinth, pled to the charge of robbery Dec. 11. Sentencing will be Feb. 5 at 9:30 a.m.

BLOTTER

DWI Dec. 11. Sentencing will be Feb. 5 at 9:30 a.m.

Sentencing will be Feb. 6 at 9:30 a.m.

Jeffrey D. Horton, 41, of Wellington Avenue in Albany, was sentenced to 1-3 years in state prison and an ignition interlock device for 3 years as a condition of discharge consecutive to state prison Dec. 11. Horton pled to the charge of vehicular assault Oct. 16.

Christopher R. Isaac, 31, of Old Gick Road in Saratoga Springs, pled to the charge of DWI Dec. 12. Sentencing will be Feb. 6 at 9:30 a.m.

Jeremy D. Mattrazzo, 34, of Kirby Road in Saratoga Springs, was sentenced to 10 months in the Saratoga County Jail concurrent with the city of Saratoga Springs Dec. 11. Mattrazzo pled to the charge of criminal contempt Dec. 4.

Alexander G. Connell, 28, of Village View Bluff in Ballston Lake, pled to the charge of burglary Dec. 12. Sentencing will be Feb. 6 at 10 a.m.

Thomas H. Cromwell, 39, of Hadley Road in Stony Creek, pled to the charge of criminal possession of marijuana Dec. 12. Sentencing will be Feb. 6 at 10:15 a.m.

Mark T. Jennings, 45, of Park Avenue in Albany, pled to the charge of driving while ability impaired by drugs Dec. 11. Sentencing will be Feb. 5 at 9:30 a.m.

Steven T. Stangle, 32, of Garrett Road in Ballston Spa, pled to the charge of grand larceny Dec. 12. Sentencing will be Feb. 6 at 9:30 a.m.

Raymond A. Ruchel Jr., 49, of 4th Avenue in Mechanicville, pled to the charge of aggravated

Michael J. Petteys, 41, of Main Street in Corinth, pled to the charge of DWI Dec. 12.

Charissa L. Holcomb, 42, of Poplar Street in Schenectady, was sentenced to nine months in the Saratoga County Jail and $10,260.83 restitution plus surcharge Dec. 12. Holcomb pled to the charge of grand larceny Oct. 17.

5

Jesse J. Mackenzie, 26, of Middleline Road in Middle Grove, was sentenced to time served, five years probation Dec. 12. Mackenzie pled to the charges of aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and reckless driving Jan. 7.

Devin E. Brent, 21, of Tina Court in Colonie, was sentenced to five years probation and sex offender registry Dec. 12. Brent pled to the charge of disseminating indecent material to a minor Oct. 17.

6

obituaries

Michael Scott Thiel

SOUTH GLENS FALLS — Michael Scott Thiel, of Feeder Dam Road, passed away peacefully after a brief battle with Epithelioid sarcoma at St. Peters Hospice Inn in Albany on Friday Dec. 12 at 12:53 a.m. He was 39 years old.

Born on September 19, 1975, in Smithtown, he was the son of the late Karen Nelson and William Nelson of Wilton.

Michael owned and operated Thiel’s Picture Perfect Landscaping in Long Island until he and his family moved to Saratoga County. He then worked as a driver for Sysco Foods and lastly for County Waste until his illness forced him to retire.

He married his wife, Keri, on August 4, 2000.

Michael loved to ride motorcycles, play his drums and listen and play music. His greatest love and enjoyment came from his family and friends. He will always be remembered as a great husband, father, brother, son and friend and will be dearly missed. He is predeceased by his mother, Karen Nelson.

Survivors include, his wife, Keri; son, James Thiel of South Glens Falls; a daughter, Emily Thiel of South Glens Falls; his father, William Nelson of Wilton; a sister, Meredith Amberger and her husband Rob of Wilton; his best friend/ brother John King; and Jason “Jelly” King, Katherine and Pops King and a son Johnathan Skelly of Long Island and his father Warren Thiel and his wife Dale and sisters Courtney and Kim. The family would like to personally thank nurses Margaret, Yvonne, Cindy and Linda with St. Peters Hospice Inn and nurses, Larissa Hewitt, Maggie, Louckes, Katie from Chemo and Dr. Morgan with the DanaFarber Institute.

Ruth E. Stevens

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Ruth E. Stevens passed away Thursday, Dec. 11 at Saratoga Hospital after a brief illness.

She was 95.

Born on January 23, 1919 in Whitehall, she was the daughter of the late Walter S. and May L. Lyman Dunbar. Ruth worked at the Hawley Home for Children in Saratoga Springs and was a volunteer for the St. Peter’s School lunch program. Ruth loved

to read books, knit, garden and take her daily walks. She was a communicant of the Church of St. Peter.

In addition to her parents, Ruth was predeceased by her loving husband, George E. Stevens; two brothers, Cliff and Art; one sister, Frances and her daughter-inlaw, Patricia.

Ruth is survived by her children, Carol E. Stevens and George E. Stevens of Saratoga Springs, and Paul E. (Mary) Stevens of Wilton; four grandchildren, Rebecca M. Stevens of Plainville, Massachusetts, George W. Stevens of Wilmington, North Carolina, Stephanie M. Stevens of Troy; one step-granddaughter, Nicole Casertino of Troy, one greatgranddaughter, Mia Stevens of Troy and many nieces and nephews.

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

Charles William Kerner SARATOGA SPRINGS — Charles “Charlie” William Kerner passed away peacefully in his home on Monday, Dec. 8 at the age of 99.

Born in 1915 in Bayonne, New Jersey, Charlie was a WWII veteran, having served in the U.S. Navy as an Aviation Cadet. He lived in Bloomfield, New Jersey before getting married and moving to North Caldwell, New Jersey to raise a family.

Charlie was married to Peggy Byrne Kerner from 1950 until she passed away in October of 2007.

His professional career was as an engineer and production manager in a variety of manufacturing industries. After his retirement, from 1985 until 2006, Charlie lived in Moultonborough, New Hampshire. He has resided at Prestwick Chase, a senior living community in Saratoga Springs, since 2006.

Charlie was educated as a mechanical engineer with a master’s in Business Administration. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the Newark College of Engineering and earned his MBA from Fairleigh Dickinson University.

In the 1950s and into the 1960s, Charlie worked at and then managed a fire extinguisher manufacturing facility for Walter Kidde & Company. In the mid-1960s Charlie was hired by the Howmet Corporation to work in their Austenal dental and orthopedic products manufacturing division.

Howmet spun the division off as Howmedica, Inc.

in 1970 and it was purchased by the global pharmaceutical corporation Pfizer in 1972. Charlie soon became a Pfizer divisional vice president, where he worked until retiring in the early 1980s. At Pfizer, he oversaw the construction of several oversees manufacturing facilities.

Charlie enjoyed power boats, alpine skiing, and tinkering with his collection of automobiles, most of which were built in the 1920s through the 1960s.

He was a longtime member of the Classic Car Club of America and Club President in the early 1980s.

Some of the restored vehicles from his collection were driven in parades and exhibited during car shows throughout the Eastern United States.

Survivors include his brother, Horace of Tuckerton, New Jersey; his daughter, Kathleen “Magie” Burby of Saratoga Springs; his sons, Charles of New York City, Thomas of Brookline, Massachusetts; and seven grandchildren, Joshua Burby of Princeton, New Jersey, Jacob Burby and Jordan Burby of Saratoga Springs, Catherine Kerner and Anne Kerner of New York City and Ella Kerner and Caroline Kerner of Brookline, Massachusetts.

Harry W. Croop Jr. S A R A T O G A SPRINGS — Harry W. Croop Jr., who brought joy to all who knew him, died Friday, Dec. 12 at the age of 94.

Born in Kingston, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Dr. Harry Croop and Elizabeth (McCloskey) Croop.

Growing up during the depression, and serving in the Army during World War II helped to mold his generous spirit and lifelong appreciation for simple pleasures.

Harry married Rosemary Shea, the sister of one of his childhood best friends, in 1948. He was a loving husband and caregiver to her until her death in 1984. He remarried in 1988 to Helen O’Reilly and they had a long and loving relationship.

Harry was an amazing father to Shea and Patti Croop. He embraced their friends and interests and supported them in their life choices (for the most part).

His dream of living in Saratoga Springs was realized in 1965 when he was promoted by Interlake/ Acme Steel to be the company’s sales manager for the Northeast region. He subsequently left Interlake, accepting the position of sales manager for Powell & Minnock Brick Company in Albany. He took great pride in his company’s brick, and a number of Saratoga’s public structures are a testament to his persuasive nature and P&M’s quality product.

Harry had a strong sense of service and love of his community that was demonstrated by participating in numerous city projects and volunteering at SPAC, Literacy Volunteers, the Community Gardens, and Income Tax Preparation for Senior Citizens. He worked full time into his 70s, still making time to play tennis and ski with his daughters and golf with his friends. Throughout his life, he also loved gardening, bridge, crossword puzzles, traveling, the opera, ballet, ice cream and laughing.

Harry spent his last two years at Woodlawn Commons where he participated in every activity imaginable and touched the hearts of residents and staff alike. He made several special friends during this time, greatly enriching his final years.

The outstanding care he received from his doctors, Saratoga Hospital and Hospice ensured that his humanity was honored and his death was peaceful.

Survivors include his daughters Shea Croop of Queensbury, Patti Croop and her husband Chris Dailey of Middle Grove, his sister-in-law, Lillian Croop and numerous nieces and nephews.

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

William J. King SARATOGA SPRINGS — William J. King passed away Monday, Dec. 15 at his home.

He was 84.

Born April 19, 1930 in Schuylerville, he was the son of the late William and Katherine (Keeley) King.

He served in the United States Army, stationed in Guam, from 1948 and received an honorable discharge in 1955.

William was a chef for 35 years at the Wilton Developmental Center in Wilton. He was a true fan of horse racing, but his greatest love was spending time with his family.

In addition to his parents, William was predeceased by his stepfather, Thomas Donahue Sr. and two stepbrothers, Thomas, Jr. and Donald Donahue.

Survivors include his wife of 29 years, Mary (Welden) King; three children, Wayne (Elsie) King, Wendy (Don) Taylor and William (Kathy) King; three grandchildren, Erin Gardner,

Afton King and Nicholas King; three great-grandchildren, Hailie Gardner, Wyatt Gardner and Antonio Payano; two brothers, Jack (Nancy) King of Saratoga Springs, Paul (Mary) King of Malta; three sisters, Kathy (Tom) Bosley of Saratoga Springs, Peg (Joseph) Migliaccio of Casanova, Virginia, Agnes (Frank) Welden of Greenfield Center as well as several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m.

Friday, Dec. 19 at St. Clement’s Church and burial will follow in the family plot at St. Peter’s Cemetery.

Jennifer Bess Warner SARATOGA SPRINGS —Jennifer Bess Warner, loving mother of Brett Nicholls and a compassionate friend, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, Dec. 7, after an accidental fall in her home.

A Washington, D.C. native, she went to The Madeira School of McLean, Virginia, where they instilled in her their motto “function in disaster, finish in style,” and she forever lived by those words.

Jennifer first came to Saratoga Springs in 1975

and attended Skidmore College, graduating in 1979 with a degree in geology. After working across much of North America, she returned to Saratoga in 1988 with a vision and determination to start another beautiful chapter in her life.

A skilled hydro-geologist at Nova Consulting of Minneapolis, she was very proud to be a mother in the professional world. Jennifer was admired by many for her strength, inner radiance and love for art and culture.

Kevin B. Baskin BALLSTON SPA — Kevin B. Baskin “Pops,” 62, passed away Saturday, Dec. 13.

Born in Plainfield, New Jersey on May 25, 1952, he was the son of Thurman and Ethel Baskin.

Kevin worked in public safety at Saratoga Hospital and Saratoga Race Track. He later was a jewelry specialist for Kohl’s. Kevin also designed jewelry for the

Gem Vault in Flemington, New Jersey. Kevin was a member of the Capital District Rock Club.

He enjoyed rock hunting, gardening, designing jewelry and soccer.

Kevin is survived by his wife, Jessie; his son, Kyle Baskin of Ballston Spa; and his daughter, Kaitlin Brabant and her husband, Dallas of Bremerton, Washington.

Pauline H. Anderson

Patrick J. Myers SARATOGA SPRINGS — On Dec. 12, Patrick J. Myers went home to join his dad, the late Brandon A. Myers, and his grandparents, the late John and Gertrude Myers and the late John and Marion Bokus.

Patrick died suddenly at his place of work. He was born on June 13, 1961 in Saratoga Hospital.

Patrick was a welder by trade and also was involved with auto mechanics. He designed and built his own woodstoves and

obituaries 7

sold them to interested buyers.

Survivors include his daughter, Lindsey Myers; his mother, Patricia M. Myers; a brother, Brandon J. Myers; and sisters, Stephanie K. Myers and Suzanne P. Gailoras; as well as several nieces and nephews and two uncles.

A service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20 at St. Joseph’s Church on Route 9N in Greenfield Center.

A trust fund will be available at a later date at The Adirondack Trust for his daughter, Lindsey Myers.

Kerin “Kerry” (Arnold) Beaton GREENVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA — Kerin “Kerry” (Arnold) Beaton of Greenville, South Carolina, formerly of Clifton Park, passed away Nov. 28. She was 52.

Kerry was the devoted daughter of Anne (Haviland) Arnold, of New Jersey, and the late Robert Arnold and the loving wife of Ken Beaton, of South Carolina. She was also step-mother to Christopher Beaton and his wife, Renata, of Connecticut, as well as Catherine Pauly and her husband, Kyle of Saugus; cherished grandmother of CJ and dear sister of Keith Arnold and his wife, Allison of Charleston, South Carolina, and Lisa Acosta of New Jersey.

Other survivors include her in-laws Kenneth and Rita Beaton of Saugus; James Beaton and his wife, Maureen, of Saugus; Donna Tarmey and her husband, Patrick, of Milford; Janice Russo and her husband, Joseph, of Saugus; Mary May and her husband, Richard, of Saugus; and many nieces and nephews.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Pauline H. Anderson, 96, of Saratoga Springs and formerly of Broadalbin and Wallingford, Connecticut, died Tuesday morning Dec. 16.

She was born in Broadalbin on November 27, 1918, a daughter of Donald and Bertha Brooks Anderson and graduated from Broadalbin High School in 1934 at age 16.

Pauline went on to receive a Bachelor of Arts degree from Keuka College and a Master of Library Science degree from New York State University at Albany. Ms. Anderson was the first female faculty member at Choate Rosemary Hall, Wallingford, Connecticut in 1950 and served as the Director of Educational Development, and the Director of the Andrew Mellon Library, until retiring in 1983.

She returned to Broadalbin and became a consultant for libraries around the United States and the world. Pauline also taught during the

summers at the University of Hartford. She authored two books on library development as well as numerous articles for trade publications.

At the time of her death, Ms. Anderson was working on a new children’s short story about squirrels.

Survivors include a nephew, David (Paula) Wallin-Eddy and their daughter, Olivia, of Broadalbin; Sue Horton, surviving wife of late nephew Dale, and their daughter, Deborah (James) Wilson and son David, and his son, Jayce Wilson, all of St. Augustine, Florida.

She also leaves behind her loving and caring friends at Woodlawn Commons, including Marjorie Osterhout as well as the gray squirrels who would inspire her last story.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Dec. 20 at 10:30 a.m. at the Saratoga Room at Woodlawn Commons, Saratoga Springs, with Rev. Linda Martin officiating.

Elizabeth Griffiths Hahl BALLSTON SPA — Elizabeth Griffiths Hahl, 64, died peacefully at home in Ballston Spa in the early morning hours of Sunday, Dec. 14 after a courageous battle with cancer.

She leaves behind her husband, Richard Hahl; her four children; Corey Taylor, Jill Davishahl, Kyle Taylor, Lauren May; and seven grandchildren.

Elizabeth, known to everyone as Biddy, was born on May 12, 1950 in New York City to Paul L. Griffiths II and Elizabeth Griffiths. She grew up in a loving family with sister, Priscilla Clark, and brother, Paul L. Griffiths III. Biddy spent most of her free time doing thoughtful things for others. During the summer months, she spent a great deal of time at the family camp on Schroon Lake, where life was centered around the

water, swimming and boating. The winter months brought exciting and adventurous snowmobiling trips to Canada with friends and family. One of her favorite places on earth was Kauai, Hawaii, where she loved to visit with her husband and friends. Everyone who has known Biddy knows her as a friend.

Biddy was an incredibly giving person who always thought of others before herself. She was a loyal friend, a loving mother, and a dedicated wife.

When diagnosed with cancer earlier this year, she remained brave, strong, and positive through her fight with the disease. Her love of life, her strength and perseverance, her passion for helping others, and her inner beauty are an inspiration to us all and will live on with her four children and seven grandchildren (with No. 8 angel due in March).

8

NEWS

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

Area Business Aiding in Ebola Fight

Continued from pg. 1

this actually led to a greater risk of contamination. The company saw the need for better instruction and is now one of the leading producers of simulations for donning and doffing (putting on and taking off) PPE. While mySmartHealthcare is based in upstate New York, their reach is international with customers in China, Singapore, South America, Russia, Turkey and Canada. Locally, mySmartHealthcare has partnered with Albany Med to accredit courses so staff can receive continuing education credits.

Cornelius says that their product is unique because “We create simulations that require the user to go through every single step, it’s very interactive.”

Cornelius explained that before her company began producing their simulations, health care providers typically only had exposure to a basic safety video and training sessions often included a dozen or more people. After

the brief training, Cornelius says, “Everyone was charged to go and just do it right.”

And that, she says, is where problems can arise.

Simulations with mySmartHealthcare are more interactive than a video or group presentation, and after completing the training, providers have to pass an assessment and prove that they are proficient.

Hospitals can then use this as evidence that they are following CDC guidelines. Institutions can also track every step of the simulation. For example, if a lot of users are struggling on a specific step (e.g. removing gloves), they can hold a special training on that particular action. The interactive portion of the training is important, because as Cornelius says, “You learn better when you do something yourself.”

In addition to primary provider training, mySmartHealthcare also offers trained observer instruction. During

news coverage of the transport of the infected Dallas nurse, you may remember the outcry surrounding the plain-clothed person holding a clipboard. Many viewers asked why the individual was not wearing PPE; however, Cornelius says this person is actually an integral part of the team. A trained observer’s job is to ensure all providers are following correct PPE protocol. While they do not have to don and doff their own PPE, they must be trained to notice any safety gaps.

Most importantly, mySmartHealthcare’s training can be accessed 24/7. The company maintains that providers can access it “Anywhere, Anytime, and Just in Time.”

Cornelius says the simulations are so important because they allow for learning in a safe, virtual environment where providers can’t harm themselves or anyone else.

“Practice makes perfect especially with low volume, high stakes procedures”, Cornelius says.

Picture Provided

The Electric City Wins Recommendation

Continued from pg. 1

by local resident opposition and ultimately dismissed by a unanimous City Council vote.

Racino officials have said they still plan on a new hotel in Saratoga Springs.

The proposition for a location off Exit 23 on the Thruway had cause for concern and was ultimately dismissed because the site had possibilities of being too political with connections to U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand.

Vocal East Greenbush resident opposition also had an effect on the decision.

Although the 2013 referendum allowed up to four new casinos, only three were picked. The other two chosen locations are in Sullivan and Seneca counties—the Lago Resort & Casino in Tyre (Seneca) and the Montreign Resort Casino in Thompson (Sullivan).

The panel said there was not enough demand for two casinos in

the southernmost zone, ultimately choosing to back off an Orange County site because of the thought that is might take money away from the Sullivan location.

As for Schenectady, the Riverfront location appeals to those who travel by land, air and boat. In addition to the casino, the property is expected to include a 250-room hotel, a 50-boat slip and dock, as well as a movie and television studio. Next to the casino will be a separate $150 million project ran by The Galesi Group of Rotterdam for apartments, retail stores, as well as a marina and hotel.

The location will be on the former American Locomative Co. (ALCO) site, which has been abandoned since 1969. The once locomotive, tank and automobile factory helped the once thriving city of Schenectady, along with General Electric, become once known as “the city that lights and hauls the world.”

Schenectady has since been hit with some of the highest poverty and unemployment rates in the

Capital Region.

The current project has been labeled as part of the Galesi group plan to rehabilitate the Mohawk Riverfront. Mayor Gary McCarthy has said he’s hopeful that it will benefit Schenectady and go along with the development it has seen in its downtown area, which includes Proctor’s Theatre.

Developers have also said that they’re committed to hiring those who are unemployed and unionized workers.

A report from the New York Gaming Facility Location Board said the Schenectady proposal was “a more comprehensive and well-measured proposal” than that of Rensselaer, which would have possibly been the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

The state law that authorized up to four upstate casinos also described the criteria for the best applicant, which mostly dealt with number of jobs, maximizing revenue to the state and time to open. A smaller portion of the criteria recognized the community impact, public support and local

business partners. Workforce training programs, agreements with organized labor and efforts to address problem gambling also came into play.

Hoping to boost upstate economies and local industries, the $300 million casino proposal in Schenectady was also encouraged because the environmental review process was already complete at the site.

The local Schenectady County Community College also offers a casino and resort management program.

The location board expects the casino to generate $8.2 million in tax revenue for the county and $65.7 million for state school aid and property tax relief.

It’s important to remember that Wednesday’s decision is a recommendation. It must now be acted upon by the state’s Gaming Commission before licenses are issued. After that, construction is anticipated to begin as soon as possible so that in two years, an expected 1,070 jobs will open up because of the casino and resort.

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

NEWS 9

FOXCATCHER — A Wrestling Legend Visits the Spa City In January 2015, the major motion picture “FOXCATCHER” will open at theaters across the United States.

The story focuses on the life of Olympic Wrestling champion Mark Schultz and paranoid-schizophrenic millionaire John du Pont, who murdered Schultz’s brother, Olympic champion Dave Schultz, in 1996.

Mark Schultz made a trip to our region for a prescreening of the movie and then ran a seminar at Spa City Jiu-Jitsu.

“This is an opportunity we couldn’t pass up,” said Ed Fyvie, head instructor of Spa City Jiu-Jitsu. “If you want to be the best, you have to train with the best. And Mark Schultz is certainly one of the best.”

The Schultz brothers are two of the most decorated wrestlers in the United States, having both won Olympic gold medals and world championships.

The film stars Steve Carell, Channing Tatum, Mark Ruffalo and Vanessa Redgrave.

Photos by MarkBolles.com In addition to teaching great techniques such as the arm-drag trip pictured above, Mark entertained the crowd with stories of dedication, overcoming adversity, and what it was like to face competitors from all the Eastern bloc countries who had boycotted the 1984 Olympics.

Adults weren’t the only ones interested in meeting the wrestling legend. Kids lined up for autographs and a chance to shake his hand (which was massive and as powerful as a silverback gorilla!)

10

NEWS

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

A Gift That Keeps On Giving

Local Soccer Player Selling Cutting Boards to Play in Barcelona

by Stephanie Hale-Lopez Saratoga TODAY BALLSTON SPA — The holiday season is a time where local students sell wreaths, poinsettias or even wrapping paper to fundraise for their favorite sports or clubs.

This year, for the second year in a row, one local soccer player is selling a more unique item – handmade, wooden cutting boards.

What started out as a hobby for 14-year-old Morgan Relyea and her father has turned into a way to help support Relyea’s extracurricular activities. The two team up when they’re not busy with work or school and make unique, wooden cutting boards to sell during the holidays.

“My father and I have been making them for a while now,” said Relyea. “He’s a cabinet maker, so we have the wood available to us and we only have to buy a few different types to make the cutting boards prettier. He has all of the resources, so it’s been fatherdaughter bonding.”

Relyea, a ninth grade student at Ballston Spa High School, plays center defense for the

Morgan Relyea, 14, works on perfecting a cutting board. Photo provided.

Morgan and her father. Photo provided.

Albany Alleycats, a soccer club based in the Capital Region. This spring, some members of the club will travel to Barcelona, Spain for one week. There, the athletes will have the opportunity to play against other teams, watch at least one professional game, and do some sightseeing. For Relyea, it’s a trip of a lifetime and her cutting boards will hopefully help

Relyea’s cutting boards come in two sizes – small and large. Photo provided.

get her there.

“We’ll play a couple of games and do some training,” said Relyea.

“I’ve been playing soccer since I was four or five and I’ve been with the Alleycats for three years. Soccer is a way to cope with things and let your emotions out along with exercising; and most of my friends play soccer as well, so it’s a good way to meet people.”

This isn’t the first time Relyea’s cutting boards have helped her out.

Last year, she sold several of them

and put the proceeds towards a trip to Australia as part of the “People to People Ambassador Program,” an organization that has provided educational travel for students across the globe for the last 50 years.

Relyea and her parents sell their cutting boards at local craft fairs and through email.

“People have been saying they make good Christmas gifts. I think they’re really pretty, but maybe I’m biased,” laughed Relyea. “People who’ve bought them told us they

didn’t want to cut on them because they’re pretty. They also make good housewarming gifts or bridal shower gifts. It seems like everyone has appreciated them.”

The Relyeas offer cutting boards in two sizes – small for $25 and large for $30 to $35. Since every cutting board is unique, sizing dimensions vary. If you’re interested in purchasing a cutting board, email Jean Relyea at chezrelyea@ nycap.rr.com for more information or to place your order.

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

NEWS

Milton Terrace Students Give the Gift of Mobility to their Classmate

Continued from pg. 1

that you want to do,” said Bekah, Hunter’s mother. “So sometimes, Brock and Garrett [Hunter’s brothers] will go with dad and Hunter and I will stay home, but that’s not the case any longer. We’ll get to do more activities as a family. Nobody has to sit on the sidelines and wait and watch, all five of us can go and do things together.”

Hunter’s chariot resembles the one used by 8-year-old Shamus Evans. Shamus was born with cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair as his primary means of mobility. Last year, the Evans family was able to obtain a running chariot with the help of Ainsley’s Angels of America, a group that provides equipment to those with limited physical ability to help them participate in endurance events. With the help of his running chariot, Shamus was able to participate in running events and races with his dad, Shaun.

Shaun and Shamus, along with mom Nichole and younger brother, Simon, are currently preparing for a cross-country run next summer to raise money and awareness in the hopes of distributing more running chariots through Ainsley’s Angels of America.

“Our goal is to distribute 15 chariots across the country next summer – one for every state we run through,” said Shaun.

“Once we get back from our expedition next summer, we’re going to start a local chapter of Ainsley’s Angels.”

The journey ahead is no easy feat, but Shaun says he’s preparing every day. Besides, this won’t be the first time Shaun and Shamus are put to the test, physically. In August 2013, the duo completed the Sweltering Summer 6 Hour race in Pittsfield, Massachusetts.

The race is a six-hour timed event on a loop, in which runners try to complete as many laps as possible in the allotted six hours.

Shaun and Shamus ran 125 laps for a total of 45 miles, earning

(top) Hunter with his mom, Bekah, and two brothers. (left) Shaun and Shamus Evans.

Photos by MarkBolles.com

(Center) Hunter and his mom thank everyone who helped fundraise for his chariot.

them first place overall.

“It melted my heart seeing Hunter today because we were on that end last year, when we received Shamus’ chariot from Ainsley’s Angels,” said Nichole.

“Hunter’s presentation today is

exactly why we do what we do. We want to give back the way we were given to.”

For more information on Ainsley’s Angels and the Evans Family, visit www.ainsleysangels. org/power-to-push.html.

11

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

Adirondack Friends Meeting 27 Saratoga Ave., South Glens Falls 793-3755 AdirondackFM@nycap.rr.com; www.adirondackfriendsmeeting.org Regina Baird Haag, pastoral minister Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

All Saints Episcopal Church 3 Simpson Ave, Round Lake 518-899-5510 www.allsaintsroundlake.com Rev. Dr. Scott Evans, Priest in Charge Service: Holy Eucharist Sunday at 9:30am followed by coffee hour.

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

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

Assembly of God Saratoga 118 Woodlawn Ave., Saratoga Springs 584-6081 Services: Sunday Worship 10 a.m., coffee served at 9:45 a.m.

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

Handicapped accessible.

Baha’i Community of Saratoga Springs 584-9679; 692-7694 usbnc.org

Ballston Center Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church 58 Charlton Road, Ballston Spa 885-7312 ballstoncenterarpchurch.org Services: Sunday Worship Service, 10:30 a.m.

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

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

Church of Christ at Clifton Park 7 Old Route 146, Clifton Park 371-6611 cliftonparkchurchofchrist.com Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Christ Community Reformed Church 1010 Route 146, Clifton Park 371-7654; ccrc-cpny.org.

Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

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

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

Congregation Shaara Tfille 84 Weibel Avenue, Saratoga Springs 584-2370 saratogasynagogue.org Services: Saturday 9:30 a.m., (1st & 3rd Sat. also 10:30) Monday & Thursday 7:30 a.m., third Friday each month 7:30 p.m.

Handicapped Accessible

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

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

Cornerstone Community Church 516 Park Ave., Mechanicville 664-5204

mycornerstonechurch.org Pastor Frank Galerie Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Corpus Christi Roman Catholic Community 2001 Route 9, Round Lake 877-8506 ccorpusc@nycap.rr.com Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 8:30 & 10:30 a.m.; Weekday Masses: MondayFriday 9 a.m.

Eastern Orthodox— Christ the Savior 349 Eastline Road, Ballston Spa 786-3100 xcsavior@yahoo.com.

Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m.

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

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

First Presbyterian Church of Ballston Spa 22 West High St., Ballston Spa 885-5583 Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Full Gospel Tabernacle 207 Redmond Road, Gansevoort 793-2739 Services: Sunday 10 a.m.; Bible Study: Thursday 6:30 p.m.

Galway United Methodist Church 2056 East Street (at intersection of Route 147), Galway 882-6520 www.galway-unitedmethodist-church.com Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m.

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

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014 Grace Brethren Church 137 W. Milton Road, Ballston Spa 587-0649 Rev. Dan Pierce Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Handicapped accessible.

Greater Grace Community Church Pastor David Moore 899-7777 thechurch@ggccmalta.org Services: Wednesday 7:30 p.m.

Friday 7:00 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.

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

Church Service - 11 a.m.

Prayer Meeting - Wednesday 6:30 p.m.

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

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

Jonesville United Methodist 963 Main St., Clifton Park 877-7332 Services: Sunday 8:30 & 10:30 a.m. Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

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

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

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

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

Middle Grove United Methodist Church 581-2973 Pastor Bonnie Bates

Services: Sunday 9 a.m.

Handicapped accessible

Mount Olivet Baptist Church Corner of Jefferson & Crescent Streets Saratoga Springs 584-9441 Rev. Dr. Victor Collier Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

All are welcome Handicapped accessible

New Horizon Church 150 Perry Road, Saratoga Springs 587-0711 Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m.

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

Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Childcare is available at all services.

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

Old Saratoga Reformed Church 48 Pearl St., Schuylerville oldsaratogareformedchurch.org Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Handicapped accessible.

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

Coffee and Fellowship in Living Stone Hall; Wednesday: Noon potluck luncheon; 1 p.m. choir rehearsal; 2 p.m. Bible Study Group

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

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

Handicapped accessible.

Porter Corners United Methodist Church 512 Allen Road, Porter Corners 893-2190 Pastor Al Johnson Services: Sunday evening 6 p.m.

Presbyterian-NE Congregational Church 24 Circular St., Saratoga Springs

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014 584-6091 pnecchurch.org Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m.

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

Handicapped accessible.

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

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

St. Clement’s Roman Catholic Church 231 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs 584-6122 Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 8, 9:30, 11:15 a.m. and 5 p.m., 1 p.m.

Spanish Service

St. George’s Episcopal Church 912 Route 146, Clifton Park 371-6351 stgeorge@csdsl.net Services: Saturday 4:30 p.m. & Sunday 8 & 9:30 a.m.

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

Handicapped accessible

St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church 167 Milton Ave., Ballston Spa

885-7411; stmarysbsta.org Services: Saturday 4 p.m., Sunday 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., Noon. Handicapped accessible

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

Handicapped accessible.

St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church 149 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs 584-0904 Services: Saturday 5 p.m. with Holy Communion.

Sundays 8:30 & 11 a.m. with Holy Communion.

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

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

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

Saratoga Chabad 130 Circular St., Saratoga Springs 526-0773 saratora@aol.com saratogachabad.com

Saratoga Friends Meeting (Quaker) Rts. 32 and 71, Quaker Springs 587-7477; 399-5013 Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

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

Handicapped accessible.

RELIGION Saratoga Seventh-Day Adventist Church 399 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs 882-9384; saratogasda.org Services: Sabbath School: 10 a.m.

Worship Service: 11:30 a.m.

Schuylerville United Methodist Church 51 Church St, Schuylerville 695-3101; www.sumethodist.org 11 a.m. Sunday worship Pastor Al Johnson

Shenendehowa United Methodist 971 Route 146, Clifton Park 371-7964 Services: Sunday 9 & 10:30 a.m.

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

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

Temple Sinai 509 Broadway, Saratoga Springs

584-8730 www.saratogasinai.org Shabbat Services: Friday 6 p.m. preceded by an oneg at 5:30 p.m., & 8 p.m. followed by an oneg after service (two early services/ month)Saturdays 10:30 a.m.

Preceded by 5:30 p.m. Oneg.

Handicapped Accessible.

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

Childcare: 6 months–4 years and expanding Handicapped accessible.

The Salvation Army/ Worship, Service & Community Center 27 Woodlawn Ave., Saratoga Springs 584-1640; Mail-P.O. Box 652 Captain Aaron A. Boone, Sr.; Captain Amber S. Boone Commanding Officers/Ministers Services: Sunday School 10 a.m.; Praise & Worship 11 a.m.

Trinity United Methodist Church 155 Ballard Road, Gansevoort 584-9107 tumcwilton.com Rev. Robert Kersten Services: Sunday 11 a.m.

13

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Saratoga Springs 624 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs 584-1555, uusaratoga.org Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Unity Church in Albany 21 King Ave., Albany 453-3603 Services: Sunday 9 a.m. & 11 a.m.

West Charlton United Presbyterian Church 1331 Sacandaga Road, West Charlton 882-9874; westcharltonupc.org Rev. Thomas Gregg, Pastor Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Wilton Baptist Church 755 Saratoga Road, Wilton 583-2736 wiltonbaptist@gmail.com wiltonbaptistchurch.com Services: Sunday 11 a.m.

Free Home Bible Study Great way to study through the Bible at your convenience. Exciting and informative study that could change your life. Compliments of Free Spirit Fellowship. For more information call (518) 885-3149.

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS

15

Property Transactions BALLSTON SPA 11 Kaleen Dr., $293,000. Cicero Builder Developer Inc. sold property to Edward and Lynn Bodine.

443 Robert Dr., $276,000. Wendy Zimmerman (as Trustee) sold property to Charles and Barbara Robben.

61 Knollwood Hollow Terrace, $215,000. David and Patricia sold property to Amy and Susan Salzman.

551 Rowland St., $321,660.

Legacy Custom Homes, LLC sold property to Michael and Katie Pawloski.

MOREAU

13 America Way, $404,283. Briarwood Brooks Development, LLC sold property to Timothy Lambie and Yana Zinnatullina.

86 Mountain Rd., $35,500.

Traditional Builders, Inc. sold property to Stewart and Bovee Developers and Investors, Inc.

23 Nolan Dr., $225,900. RPSNY, LLC (as Trustee) sold property to James Picard V.

37 Harrison Ave., $155,500. Diverse Holdings Group, Inc. sold property to Janice Johnston.

GALWAY 2008 West St., $199,900. Patrick McHale sold property to James and Christy Albertin.

5077 Sacandaga Rd., $125,000.

Timothy Jones and Carole Esposito-Jones sold property to Aaron Horan.

GREENFIELD 11 Rebecca Dr., $452,500.

Michael and Jeanne Naclerio sold property to Brandan and Kristen Greczkowski.

6 Clark St., $50,260. US Department of Housing and Urban Development sold property to William Rooper.

MALTA 4 Arrowwood Place, $166,900.

Michael Gasser sold property to Simrat Sodhi.

3D Applewood Dr., $255,000.

Susan McCabe sold property to Kevin and Ellen Boyle.

26 Arrowwood Place, $127,000.

Jane McMahon sold property to Nancy and Daniel Boice.

94 Pepperbush Place, $152,200.

Erika Anderson sold property to Christian Manolakis.

MILTON 15 Van Brummel Lane, $250,000.

Richard Clute sold property to Michael Dilger.

3232 Grenell Rd., $400,000.

Charles Atkins (by Atty) and Raymonde Atkins (Ind. and as Atty) sold property to Sean and Stacey Lajeunesse.

243 Reservoir Rd., $48,750. James Sweet, Sr. sold property to Clute Enterprises, Inc. 12 Abbey Lane, $327,136. Cerrone Builders, Inc. sold property to Christopher Rayder.

187 Potter Rd., $247,500. Scott Kitchner sold property to Fredrick Duell.

SARATOGA 126 Franklin Beach Rd., $269,900. Wendy Pyle, William Liberman, and David Liberman sold property to Anthony and Lori Scalera.

1416 Route 9P, $100,000. David and Barbara Durrick sold property to Thomas and Paula Marotta.

49 Caldwell Rd., $325,000. Mary Ann Zevetchin, Andrew Zevetchin and Helen Scalo sold

property to Hanehan Realty Associates, LLC.

SARATOGA SPRINGS 12 Cottage St., $360,000. Stephen Keane sold property to James Lloyd and Deborah Thomas.

18 Iroquois Dr., $342,000. Susan Kmen (by Exec.) sold property to Stacy Vockel.

121 Kaydeross Park Rd., $340,000. James Kelly and Stephanie Virginia-Kelly sold property to Sandra L Humphrey Trust.

163 and 165 Ash St., $80,000.

George and Lynn Howard sold property to McPadden Builders LLC. 124 Grand Ave., $205,000. Ellen Brooks sold property to Mark Chappell and Keirsa JohnsonChappell.

69 Second St., $378,900. Christopher Hemstead and Brooke McConnell sold property to Blair and Nicole Ciccarelli.

STILLWATER 570 NYS Route 9P, $605,000.

David Estridge sold property to Robert and Shelby McCoy. 106 Van Ness Rd., $215,197.

Kevin and April Marinello sold property to Fannie Mae.

WILTON 17 Deer Run, $370,000. Anthony Demagistris (as Trustee) sold property to Caleb and Joni Harms.

23 Waverly Place, $305,240. Tra Tom Development, Inc. sold property to Robert McGrath.

26 Carr Rd., $263,000. Leonard and Lori Porter sold property to Kyo Duk Chiu.

16

BUSINESS

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

Compliments to the Chef Opens in New Location The Kitchen & Cutlery Store Now Across From The Fresh Market

by Stephanie Hale-Lopez Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — After months of preparation, Compliments to the Chef, Saratoga’s well-known kitchen and cutlery store, has a new home. The store, owned by John and Paula Reardon, recently opened at its new location – 46 Marion Avenue, across from The Fresh Market.

Compliments to the Chef opened at Marion Avenue in late November, gaining almost 1,000 square feet of additional space. John says while the store, which was previously located at 48 Broadway, has gained some new perks, some aspects of the store aren’t changing.

“We have the same phone number, same website, same

people,” said John. “But now I have more space, more parking and a new partner in The Fresh Market. Every time I see a car parked in front of my store, it’s a joy. Customers that couldn’t get to me before are getting to me now. It just opens up a lot of possibilities.”

One of those possibilities, thanks to the additional space, includes setting up larger, more interactive displays for products, along with a wheeling demonstration counter and knife sharpening area.

“There are products that we can bring into this location that we just didn’t have the room for in the old location,” said John. “We have some bigger electronic pieces, like the electric griddle, and we’re going to be bringing in more coffee machines. The displays take up a lot of room. Our Wusthof knives are

Photos by Sharon Castro

The new location offers more space, increasing inventory.

Compliments to the Chef is now open at its new location – 46 Marion Ave.

also on display – sets that we haven’t had in a long time because we didn’t have the space. That way, customers can see what knives come in the set.

We can have and do more things here because we just didn’t have the space before.”

From fine china, to cookware and kitchen gadgets, John says there’s something for everyone at the store, no matter if you’re a home cook or a professional chef.

And with less than one week left until Christmas, Compliments to the Chef has last-minute

Owner John Reardon inside the new store.

shoppers covered.

“We have locally-made cutting boards by Adam Cielinski; he lives up the street and he’s been making these cutting boards for years,” said John. “We also have gift baskets made up all over the store for the husband that needs a quick, easy gift that’s already wrapped. These gift baskets are a first for us.”

The Reardons say they wouldn’t trade in any of their experiences on Broadway over the last 12 years and this relocation is both exciting and bittersweet.

While the store is currently open, the Reardons haven’t yet had an official grand opening for Compliments to the Chef. They’re hoping to celebrate their relocation with a grand opening ceremony in late January.

Compliments to the Chef is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at its new location, 46 Marion Ave. in Saratoga Springs, across from The Fresh Market. For questions or more information on the store, give the Reardons a call at 226-4477.

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

Adirondack Trust Co. Named Top Bank Lender SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Adirondack Trust Company recently announced that it has been named the SBA top active “Large Community Bank Lender in the Capital Region.”

This marks a new category for The Adirondack Trust Company as this is its first year in the “large” community bank lender category, which includes banks with $1-$10 billion in assets.

Previously, Adirondack Trust had been the top small community bank lender in the Capital Region for the past 13 consecutive years.

“This is a particularly gratifying designation this year as we moved up to a much larger asset category and were still able to show our commitment to small business financing through our SBA lending program,” said Stephan von Schenk, president.

“Since our founding in 1901 we have focused on helping small businesses grow. Each day we work with small, locally owned and managed businesses. Through the SBA and other bank financing programs, we are able to help these businesses facilitate their growth thereby increasing employment opportunities and quality of life for our local citizens.”

The SBA Capital region covers the following counties: Albany, Clinton, Columbia, Essex, Greene, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Warren, and Washington.

Saratoga Hospital Renovates MedicalSurgical Unit SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Hospital recently completed renovations to its third-floor medicalsurgical unit to improve the patient and visitor experience. The newly renovated unit has four private and eight semi-private rooms, for a total of 20 inpatient beds.

All rooms received a face-lift, including fresh paint, new furnishings, and computer equipment that enables most nursing tasks to be completed closer to the bedside. Private rooms also were outfitted with flat-screen TVs. Other renovations include new patient showers, new restrooms for visitors, a new reception area, and a new nourishment station.

Work began earlier this year and was done in phases to minimize the disruption to patients and their families. The project is part of the hospital’s ongoing effort to upgrade its infrastructure to better meet the needs of today’s patients.

New Attitudes Salon and Spa Opens in Saratoga SARATOGA SPRINGS — A new salon and spa has set up shop in Saratoga Springs. New Attitudes, located at 48 Henry Street, is now open for business and accepting new clients.

BUSINESS New Attitudes owner, Ruth Boals, says her salon and spa offers a variety of services to take care of you from head to toe, including: electro-therapy oxygen facials, volcanic ash mask, fullbody waxing, manicures and pedicures, massage, and full-service salon offerings. Boals was a Chi educator for Farouk Systems for seven years, specializing in ammonia-free hair color, highlights, Keratin Treatment, extensions and corrective color.

The salon and spa also offers an “Essential Oil” class every other Tuesday to teach clients how to stay healthy, as well as a nutritional therapist on site.

To set up an appointment, call New Attitudes at 879-6859 and visit their website at www.chihairgirlandwhatnot.com.

Serena Kirkpatrick Promoted at Flynn, Walker, Diggin C.P.A. SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Springs-based Flynn, Walker, Diggin C.P.A., P.C. recently promoted Serena Kirkpatrick, a certified public accountant, to manager at the firm. Previously a Supervisor, Kirkpatrick has been with the firm since 2005 and has accounting experience in a wide range of industries, including construction, distribution, hotels, manufacturing, and professional and not-for-profit entities.

Established in 1992, Flynn, Walker, Diggin provides audit, accounting, tax and management services to individuals, closely-held companies, and not-for-profit and government entities in Saratoga Springs, the Capital District, southern Adirondack region, and New York’s Tech Valley.

Hudson River Community Credit Union Opens New Branch CORINTH — Hudson River Community Credit Union (HRCCU) held a ceremonial groundbreaking for its new Corinth Branch Wednesday, Dec. 17.

This new 3,000-square-foot building, located at 312 Palmer Avenue in Corinth, replaces an existing structure built in 1963 to be the first HRCCU office, which was constructed shortly after the Credit Union was founded. The new branch will offer three drive-thru

17

lanes, a dedicated ATM drive-thru lane, children’s play area and a fireplace in the branch waiting area.

The branch was designed and built by F. H. Alexander of Ballston Lake.

Creatacor Team Continues to Grow CLIFTON PARK — Creatacor, Inc., an exhibit design, fabrication and trade show management provider in Clifton Park, recently welcomed Angie Meyer, account executive, to its continually growing team.

In her new role as account executive, Meyer is responsible for generating sales leads and working with prospects to help fulfill their exhibit needs.

Prior to joining Creatacor, Meyer worked in logistics serving as a liaison between carriers and manufacturers for freight forwarding companies. She brings more than 19 years of customer service, sales and logistics experience to her new position.

18

Education

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

Maple Avenue Principal Retires After 22 Years School’s First and Only Principal, Stuart Byrne, Says Goodbye

by Stephanie Hale-Lopez Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Maple Avenue Middle School Principal Stuart Byrne will retire at the end of December, 22 years after taking over the position and just over 40 years after beginning his career as an educator.

Byrne is the first and only principal in Maple Avenue Middle School’s history. The school opened in 1992 and has undergone many changes, but the one constant has been Byrne.

“I was hired at the end of 1991 and started in February of 1992,” said Byrne. “At that time, the building was a shell. Myself and a secretary were all that started, originally.

Everything was done from the ground up. I look back now and I think, ‘Did I do all that?’ But I did…I did.”

Not only is Byrne retiring after 22 years at Maple Avenue, he’s retiring from 42 years in education.

“I never left…I started in Kindergarten and just never left,” laughs Byrne.

Byrne said he’s had the good fortune to keep his career alive by teaching different subject matters, grade levels and eventually transitioning into an administrative

role. He said his lengthy career has as many peaks as the Rocky Mountains, but some events that stand out include the grand opening of Maple Avenue in 1992 and the 2002 expansion of Maple Avenue with the addition of eighth grade.

“Middle schoolers, as much as the times have changed and the demands have changed, they themselves haven’t changed a lot,” said Byrne. “I think what has changed is the world they’re coming into and the stresses and the pressures being put on them at a younger age. I think one of the challenges middle school teachers and educators have is the fact that we’re trying to make sure they’re competent in literacy and math, but it’s very important that they be critical thinkers. That’s something I find exciting. These kids have the excitement of a kindergartener, but young adult skills so you can take many of them up to higher levels of learning.”

Local, national and worldly events undoubtedly have an impact on the classroom. Byrne said two events stand out in his memory – 9/11 and the 1993 abduction and murder of Sara Anne Wood of Herkimer County, NY. Serial killer Lewis Lent Jr. admitted to killing Wood in 1996, but her body was

Photos by MarkBolles.com

Byrne has been the principal at Maple Avenue since it opened its doors in 1992.

Maple Avenue Principal Stuart Byrne will retire at the end of December. Byrne has been an educator for over 40 years.

never found. To this day, Byrne has Wood’s photo posted on the bulletin board in his office.

“Wood was abducted around the time we were opening Maple Avenue and my wife worked with her aunt,” said Byrne. “There hasn’t been any closure for the family, there hasn’t been a memorial service, and there hasn’t been a funeral. I always promised myself that I would keep the photo up until the family got closure, but the photo is coming down when I

leave. It’s been up there this whole time, it’s a little faded now. I’m hoping in the back of my mind that between now and my last day, there will be a news story saying they found her or can identify her.”

Byrne says he doesn’t have any set plans for his retirement at the moment, other than relaxing and spending time with his wife, Linda, his son, Nicholas, and his daughter, Lily, the three people he says provided him unconditional love and support throughout his career.

“For the first time in my life, I don’t have the next 10 years of my life planned out,” said Byrne.

“It’s a major change. I have a stack of books I’ve accumulated that are non-educational that I might actually get to break a cover on because it hasn’t happened yet.”

Jeffrey D. Palmer, principal at Gordon Creek Elementary School in Ballston Spa, will serve as the next principal of Maple Avenue Middle School effective Thursday, Jan. 1.

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

Help SaratogaMama Find “Sixteen under 16”

SARATOGA SPRINGS — SaratogaMama, a publication of Saratoga TODAY Newspaper, needs your help in finding 16 of Saratoga County’s rising stars.

Do you know a child who is going above and beyond for their community or school? Excelling in the arts, sports or music?

Overcoming an obstacle? Or going out of their way to make our world a better place? If the answer is yes, nominate them today by visiting SaratogaMama’s website.

“We know that there are a lot of kids doing great things in Saratoga County and we want to give them a voice,” said Colleen Pierre, owner and editor-in-chief of SaratogaMama. “We’re looking to tell stories of all different types.

There are kids we know of who are overcoming obstacles like medical

or physical challenges, kids who are starting non-profits and businesses, and everybody in between.”

Winners will be profiled in the spring edition of SaratogaMama Magazine! To be eligible, contestants must be under 16 years old as of March 1, 2015 and must reside in Saratoga County. To fill out an entry form, visit SaratogaMama. com/16Under16.

SSHS Drama Club Presents “Calvin Berger” SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Springs High School Drama Club presents the musical Calvin Berger by Barry Wyner, on Friday, Jan. 9 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 10 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Calvin Berger is directed by Leigh Berenis, with music direction by Kathleen McCarty, and features a cast, crew and orchestra of 25-30 students. In addition to the directors, other adults filling key roles are Bob Berenis, Scott Walrath and Lisa Shields. The production is presented through special arrangement with Tams Witmark.

Calvin Berger will be presented

Education in the high school’s Meade Teaching Auditorium. Tickets are $12 for adults, $7 for senior citizens and $5 for students and are on sale now.

Calvin Berger is recommended for PG-13 audiences. More information can be found at www.sshsdramaclub.com.

19

Two Blue Streak Robotics Teams Qualify for State

Fifth Grade Student Wins Schuylerville Spelling Bee SCHUYLERVILLE — On Thursday, Dec. 4, Clare Sacks, a Schuylerville fifth grader, battled her way through 12 rounds of words during the Schuylerville Central School District’s Spelling Bee. Sacks correctly spelled the word “churros” to secure her first place victory.

Sacks will compete at the regional spelling bee in spring 2015 at Proctor’s Theater in Schenectady.

Participants in Schuylerville’s spelling bee were made up of students in grades 4-8. The top place finishers included: first place winner – Clare Sacks, fifth grade; second place winner – Emma Proctor, sixth grade; and a third place tie between Rebecca Brandt, fifth grade, and Cameron Wian, sixth grade.

One of the Blue Streaks Robotics Teams who qualified for state and won the judge’s excellence award. Photo by MarkBolles.com

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Two out of the three teams that comprise Saratoga Springs High School’s Blue Streaks Robotics Team qualified for the state championship over the weekend.

Maple Avenue Middle School hosted the Saratoga Skyrise Challenge Saturday, Dec. 13 – the first ever VEX robotic competition held in the Capital Region. After the qualification rounds, the three Saratoga teams finished in first, fourth and fifth places.

“Saratoga Skyrise was a huge

success,” said Preston Sweeney, club advisor and technology teacher at Maple Avenue Middle School. “I am so proud of the team and their accomplishments so for in the season. I want to thank all the volunteers and parents for their help during the tournament.”

VEX Robotics is the largest and fastest growing middle and high school robotics program globally.

Roughly 4,800 teams from 20 countries comprise VEX and play in over 300 tournaments worldwide.

20

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

From the Publisher’s Desk . . .

As the song goes…It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

by Chad Beatty Saratoga TODAY Merry Christmas everyone.

Yes I said it…Merry Christmas. I know some people don’t consider it

politically correct to say that nowadays, but I am not one of those people. I also don’t take offense if someone greets me with Happy Hanukkah or Happy Kwanzaa.

More power to them. As a side

note, while I write this I am listening to Christian music and sending a check to the NRA. OK, I am only joking about the last line. (I sent them my check last month.)

I think it is sad that America

has gotten so carried away with political correctness that we are losing our identity, and our way.

People have become so afraid to offend anyone that no one stands up for anything. And when no one stands up for anything, there won’t be anything left to stand up for.

Along this topic, have you heard of Dr. Ben Carson? Dr. Carson is an African American who grew up in poverty with his brother and single mother in inner city Detroit. Despite having everything stacked against him, he rose through the ranks and became a professor of neurosurgery, oncology, plastic surgery, and pediatrics, and he was the director of pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital.

He is also a presidential candidate in 2016.

In his book “One Nation,” Dr. Carson has some wonderful insights into political correctness.

“Political correctness and hypersensitivity block discussion of important social issues while they are being changed – exactly the time when it is most important to discuss them.”

Dr. Carson goes on to say, “We all have choices in the way we react to the words we hear. Our lives and the lives of all those around us will be significantly improved if we choose to react positively rather than negatively.”

Thank goodness there are people on the national level speaking up on this topic. If you listen to the mainstream media you would think America is a country of prima donnas who get offended with every utterance.

That’s not the America that I grew up in. Our country became great because we tackled the tough issues and had brutally honest discussions to fix the problems.

Back then we also didn’t demonize religious groups because they stood up for what they believed in.

Whether people want to believe it or not, this country was founded on religious principles.

So this Christmas season let’s all get a little less offended with everyone, express a little more kindness towards all, and love our neighbors like we love ourselves.

And whether someone wishes you Happy Hanukkah, or Merry Christmas, smile and be glad they included you in their celebration.

God Bless

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

Season’s Greetings

Thank You for Your Support!

Established 1892

Established 1918

Established 1929

Established 1939

Established 1952

21

22

Established 1953

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

Season’s Greetings

Established 1960

Established 1961

Established 1969

Established 1980

Established 1980

Established 1982/2011

Established 1986

Established 1987

Established 1988

Established 1998

Established 1999

Established 2002

Established 2007

Established 2007

Established 2007

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

Thank You for Your Support!

Established 1976

Established 1978

Established 1979

Established 1984

Established 1985

Established 1986

Established 1988

Established 1991

Established 1991

Established 2002

Established 2002

Established 2006

Established 2009

Established 2009

Established 2009

23

24

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

Season’s Gr

Thank You f

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

reetings

for Your Support

25

26

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

y a d i l Ho

e d i u G t f Gi

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

27

70-72 Congress street Plaza • saratoga sPrings, nY 12866 • (518) 584-5400 Canadian Club

Hours mon. – wed.

9 a.m. – 9 p.m. tHurs. – sat.

9 a.m. – 10 p.m.

SUn. 12 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Cragganmore 12Yr malt 750 ml

Purdy’s Sale

53.99

$

CaPtain morgan sPiCed rum 1.75 l Purdy’s $ 99 Sale Mail-in Rebate

30.

- $8.00 22.99

Your Cost $ After M.I.R.

exp. 1/5/15

1.75 l

$

29.

99

menage a trois red

750 ml Purdy’s $ 99 Sale Mail-in $ 00 Rebate Your Cost $ 99 After M.I.R.

8.

- 2.

6.

exp. 12/31/14

simi CHardonnaY sonoma

750 ml Purdy’s $ 99 Sale Mail-in $ 00 Rebate Your Cost $ 99 After M.I.R.

11.

- 3.

8.

exp. 1/4/15

santa margHerita Pinot grigio

$

19.99

Purdy’s $ Sale Mail-in $ Rebate

19.99 - 5.00

Your Cost $ After M.I.R.

14.99

21.99 - 3.00

Your Cost $ After M.I.R.

exp. 1/4/15

glenlivet 15Yr frenCH oaK 750 ml

talisKer storm sCotCH 750 ml

Purdy’s Sale

baileYs irisH Cream 1.75 l Purdy’s $ Sale Mail-in $ Rebate

37.99 - 5.00

Your Cost $ After M.I.R.

32.99

exp. 1/5/15

Purdy’s Sale Mail-in Rebate

16.

- $15.00 99

$

1.99

Your Cost After M.I.R.

$

exp. 12/31/14

18.99

busHmills irisH HoneY wHisKeY 750 ml

Purdy’s Sale

49.99

$

KaHlua Coffee liqueur 1.75 l Purdy’s $ Sale Mail-in $ Rebate

28.

- 5.00

Your Cost $ After M.I.R.

99

23.99

maKer’s marK bourbon 1.75 l

Pinot noir Private SElECt 750 ml Purdy’s $ 99 Sale Mail-in $ 00 Rebate Your Cost $ 99 After M.I.R.

7.

- 2.

5.

frangeliCo “Hazelnut“ 1.75 l

$

smirnoff

1.75 l Purdy’s $ 99 Sale Mail-in $ 00 Rebate

18.

- 8.

Your Cost $ After M.I.R.

10.99

exp. 1/5/15

exp. 1/31/15

6.

- 1.

5.

exp. 1/4/15

750 ml Purdy’s $ 99 Sale Mail-in $ 00 Rebate Your Cost $ 99 After M.I.R.

8.

- 2.

6.

40tH anniversarY

$

exp. 1/4/15

Purdy’s Sale

55.99

9.

- 2.

7.

exp. 12/31/14

Purdy’s Sale

750 ml

$

8.99

Rebate 4.00onMail-in 2 Bottles

$

1.5 l

exp. 12/31/14

Purdy’s Sale

7.99

$

750 ml Purdy’s $ 99 Sale Mail-in $ 00 Rebate Your Cost $ 99 After M.I.R.

12.

- 2.

10.

exp. 1/4/15

HennessY vs malibu CoConut 1l rum CognaC

Purdy’s Sale Mail-in Rebate Your Cost After M.I.R.

750 ml $ 99

8.

- $2.00 $ 99 6.

exp. 12/31/14

Purdy’s $ Sale Mail-in $ Rebate

18.99 - 5.00

1l

Purdy’s Sale

42.69

$

sobiesKi PolisH Vodka 1.75 l Purdy’s $ Sale Mail-in $ Rebate

Your Cost $ After M.I.R.

Your Cost $ After M.I.R.

SVEdka Vodka 1.75 l Purdy’s $ 99 Sale Mail-in $ 00 Rebate

17.

- 7.

99

13.99

exp. 1/31/15

louis martini

Cabernet sauvignon sonoma 750 ml Purdy’s $ 99 Sale Mail-in $ 00 Rebate Your Cost $ 99 After M.I.R.

12.

- 3.

9.

13.99

exp. 1/15/15

18.

- 5.00

10.99

Your Cost $ After M.I.R.

exp. 1/4/15

miCHel torino

don david malbeC RESERVE 750 ml Purdy’s $ 99 Sale

12.

$

Rebate 3.00onMail-in 2 Bottles exp. 12/31/14

exp. 12/31/14

orin swift 90 + SUPER CUVEE mannequin wHite naPa lot 95 750 ml

Purdy’s Sale

24.99

$

bogle CHardonnaY

750 ml

Purdy’s Sale

Kim Crawford matua mommY’s time out sauvignon blanC sauvignon blanC Pinot grigio 750 ml

exp. 1/6/15

Purdy’s Sale

10.99

$

WE noW aCCEPt ameriCan ExPRESS

Mail-in Rebate on 2 Bottles

750 ml

CHateau st Jean CHateaut ste miCHelle fetzer CHardonnaY CHardonnaY “sundial” CHardonnaY 750 ml Purdy’s $ 99 Sale Mail-in $ 00 Rebate Your Cost $ 99 After M.I.R.

10.00

Purdy’s Sale

32.99

29.99

$

$

Purdy’s Sale

santa Cristina CaYmus Cabernet sterling meritage sauvignon tosCan sangiovese vintners 750 ml Purdy’s $ 99 Sale Mail-in $ 00 Rebate Your Cost $ 99 After M.I.R.

Purdy’s Sale

46.99

$

exp. 1/15/15

robert mondavi

dewar’s wHite 1l label

Purdy’s Sale

10.99

$

exp. 1/31/15

56.49

$

750 ml Purdy’s Sale

1.75 l

Purdy’s $ Sale Mail-in $ Rebate

tito’s Handmade eXCaliber vodKa 750 ml Vodka 1.75 l Purdy’s Sale

evan williams

7.99

$

veuve CliCquot brut Yellow

2012

39.99

$

Purdy’s Sale

22.99

$

relaX riesling 750 ml Purdy’s Sale Mail-in Rebate Your Cost After M.I.R.

8.99 - $3.00 $ 99 5. $

exp. 12/31/14

mionetto ProsseCo brut

750 ml Purdy’s Sale

750 ml

750 ml

$

Purdy’s Sale

10.99

Visit www.PurdYswines.Com for new arrivals and special events! [limit one rebate per item per Household]

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

food

29

Holiday Sips from Saratoga Farmers’ Market

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

As holiday hosts serve up cocktails and other celebratory drinks, including non-alcoholic ones for those who prefer them, Saratoga Farmers’ Market offers an increasingly wide selection of locally-produced beverages. Several market vendors are ready to offer samples and suggestions to shoppers this Saturday at Lincoln Baths in Saratoga Spa State Park.

Rick Green, the honey vendor at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market, is a wonderful resource regarding the science and art of beekeeping, and has developed some products related to the honey he sells. The latest introduction from his business, Ballston Lake Apiaries, is an alcoholic beverage called cyser.

Cyser is a honey wine made from Ballston Lake Apiaries honey and local cider. Cyser is a semi-sweet medium bodied wine similar to a Chardonnay.

It is 12% to 13% alcohol by volume, so it is sipped like a cordial in small quantities. Each batch has a different flavor according to the apples used. The batch Rick Green will be sampling on Saturday, Dec. 20 was fermented for a year using predominantly Golden Delicious apples.

Two area vineyards sell their

wines at the market. Some of the local grapes used are less familiar to customers than the predominant grapes in California wines.

Kathleen Weber of Northern Star Vineyard in Easton explains the red St. Croix wine this way, “With tastes of spice and pepper, Northern Star Vineyard’s St. Croix wine is light bodied and zesty. Crisp acidity pairs well with St. Croix’ bright berry and plum flavors. It’s best compared to a regional Malbec.”

Debreen Oliva of Oliva Vineyards of Fort Edward offers the following guidance for those seeking comparisons to familiar grapes. “The New York grape Noriet in our Nathan’s Select is similar to a merlot, while the Cayuga grape in our Winner’s Circle White will remind people of a semi-dry Chardonnay or Riesling. Our Post Time Peach is a great wine for anyone seeking something a bit fruitier.”

A holiday wine to enjoy at home or give as a gift is Oliva Vineyards’ Mulled Pretty Filly Rosé.

“Warm a bottle of this wine with the included mulling spices—cinnamon, cloves and allspice—and it makes the house smell wonderful, warms you up on a cold day, and tastes great,” says Oliva.

Since it’s always a good idea to offer non-alcoholic drinks for anyone who prefers them, there

are several options at the market related to the holidays: cider, eggnog, and freshly made juice.

Saratoga Apple and Malta

Ridge Orchard and Gardens both offer apple cider. Serve it cold or warm it up on the stove with spices, using the recipe below. Battenkill Valley Creamery sells a lot of its famous eggnog at this time of year, in addition to the always-popular chocolate milk, which can be warmed up for hot chocolate.

Clarity Juice, which specializes in raw and nutrient-dense juices combining a variety of fruits and vegetables, is now offering its bottled juice at the market. The crimson “Beetox” juice includes orange, beet, apple, lemon, and ginger, while “Saratoga” is a green juice with cucumber, apple, kale, spinach, lemon, and ginger. For anyone seeking a beautifully colored holiday Mimosa, owner Sydney Peyser recommends combining champagne and Beetox.

Mulled Apple Cider

Great aroma. Non-alcoholic.

Offer rum or whiskey for those who want to add it. *Ingredients available at Saratoga Farmers’ Market Ingredients 1 gallon Saratoga Farmers’ Market apple cider ½ c brown sugar 2 cinnamon sticks 2 tsp. cloves Directions Heat all of the ingredients together in a large pot over the stove Bring to boil, stirring constantly and then just keep warm to ladle out on demand. Leftover cider can also be stored in the refrigerator and heated up as desired.

30

food

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

Homemade Christmas Caramels

by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY Hello my Foodie Friends!

It’s candy making time and I am not the best at this, so I am passing along a recipe from our new partner ThermoWorks! I have been listening to our great chefs from some local restaurants and they have asked me to bring the best thermometers in the world.

Christmas was a magical time for my family and my brothers and sisters loved the candy-making competitions my mother and her sister would have. They never admitted it was a competition, but they would always try to top each other with more and more different kinds of candies.

My aunt’s name was Carmella, and guess what her specialty was?

Here is a recipe from ThermoWorks for Christmas Caramels: Caramels are non-crystalline candies made from a mixture

of caramelized sugars, butter and cream. Their chewiness comes from lower cooking temperatures and high moisture content. Caramels are at their best when they are chewy rather than hard, wonderfully mouthwatering and chewing liberates droplets of butterfat from the sugar mass.

The key to great homemade caramel is controlling temperature at three critical points in the process. First, cooking your sugar to just the right temperature; second, allowing the finished product to cool properly, and finally, storing the caramel so sugars will not crystallize before you’ve had a chance to eat them.

Start by combining the seeds from one vanilla bean, butter, salt and heavy cream in a sauce pan.

This mixture not only adds richness and flavor to the finished product, it also keeps the caramel soft and chewy. Bring to a boil, cover and remove from the heat. Allow the mixture to meld for 10 minutes. The longer it sits, the more vanilla flavor will infuse with the cream and butter.

Next, turn your attention to the sugar. In a high-sided sauce pan combine corn syrup, water, and sugar and cook over medium-high heat. One of the dangers of making caramel is crystallization. To reduce this risk, do not stir the mixture.

You don’t want any sugar granules

sticking to the side of the pot.

Allow the sugar to cook until it develops a faint golden color and registers 300°F. The Super-Fast Thermapen is ideal for monitoring temperatures when making candy because its temperature readings are fast and very accurate (±.7°F).

Once at 300°F, lower the heat to medium-low and gently swirl the pan periodically as you continue to cook the mixture. Cooking the sugar slower allows you to have more control as the temperatures creep higher, and reduces the chance that you’ll burn the mixture. When the mixture has reached 350°F it’s done.

Another option for monitoring the temperature of your candy is with an alarm thermometer, like DOT. Attach DOT’s Pro-Series probe to the side of

the pot with a pot clip and set the alarm to sound when your caramel has reached 350°F. Once at 350°F, remove the caramelized sugar from the heat and stir in the cream mixture. Return the pan to the heat (mediumlow) and cook the caramel until it reaches 248°F - what candy experts call “Firm Ball” stage. During this step in the process it’s important that you keep stirring the caramel so it doesn’t burn.

Pour the finished mixture to a pan lined with parchment paper that’s been coated with nonstick spray. Smooth out the caramel in the pan and let sit at room temperature (67 to 77°F) for 1 hour. After an hour, transfer the caramel to the fridge (set to below 40°F) and allow to cool for another hour.

Cut the caramel into bite size

pieces and wrap them in wax paper to preserve freshness while storing them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. The crystallization is caused as a result of the sugar crystals in the caramel becoming damp from humidity from the refrigerator or being stored at room temp and not in an airtight container.

Ingredient List: 1 cup Heavy Cream 5 Tbsp Unsalted Butter 1 Vanilla Bean Tsp Salt 1/4 cup Light Corn Syrup 1/4 cup Water 1 1/3 cup Sugar *248°F is only applicable at sea level. If you’re at a higher elevation, you need to reduce temperature by 1°F for every 500 ft above sea level.

Oh and the real winners of my Mom and Aunt’s competition were me and my siblings!

Enjoy your candy and remember my foodie friends: “Life Happens in the Kitchen!”

Take Care, John and Paula

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

Saratoga Frozen Springs Classic Games of the second annual Saratoga Frozen Springs Classic pond hockey tournament will take place Feb. 6-8 at the Saratoga Spa State Park. All games are played fouron-four, round robin style. Games shall be 40 minutes long consisting of two 20-minute halves with a two-minute break between halves.

Register your team today at www. saratogafrozenspringsclassic.com.

Second Hand Rose Thrift Shop Second Hand Rose Thrift Shop, 116 Broad St. in Schuylerville, extends its store hours for the Holiday Season. The Thrift Shop Holiday hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with in-store sales. Special sales items are picture frames, wine & cocktail glasses, Christmas cards and stockings. Snow days policy: when Schuylerville District Schools are closed because of inclement weather, Second Hand Rose Thrift Shop is closed as well. For further information, please call the Thrift Shop at 695-4640.

Over-30 Basketball at Gavin Grab your sneakers and get ready for Over-30 Basketball! Designed with the mature, basketballplaying crowd in mind, the Over-30 Basketball Program is for adults, ages 30 and over.

This is a drop-in activity which runs Mondays, 8-10 p.m. now through May 19. The weekly fee is $5 per person (cash only), and a maximum of 20 players can participate on any given night.

Any questions, please contact the park office at (518) 584-9455.

First Night Saratoga 5K Run The 17th annual First Night Saratoga 5K Run, presented by the Saratoga Arts, will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 31 at 5:30 p.m. The run is limited to the first 1,500 registrants.

There is no day of race registration.

The race has sold out for the past 13 years. A ChronoTrack B-Tag computerized scoring system will be used. The USA Track and Field certified course starts and finishes on the Skidmore College Campus.

Awards will be given to the top three

overall male and female finishers as well as the top three male and female finishers in five-year age categories.

All finishers will receive a First Night commemorative medal. Registration is $30. Refreshments following the race. Showers and restrooms available in the athletic complex.

Save time by registering online or download an application and map at www.saratoga-arts.org. There is no additional fee for registering online.

For further information contact First Night Saratoga at (518) 584-4132.

Annual Coat Drive Donations for the eighth annual coat drive are being accepted now through Jan. 7, the Saratoga National Bank and Trust Company (4208 Route 50 and 227 Ballard Road, Wilton) is hosting their annual Coat Drive. The Jones Road and Ballard Road offices of Saratoga National Bank and Trust Company are collecting winter coats and other cold-weather clothing items to benefit the Adirondack Vets House.

Items can be dropped off during regular business hours. For more information about the coat drive, call the Jones Road branch at (518) 587-8484.

Polar Express Comes to Saratoga The Polar Express comes to the Saratoga North Creek Railway (26 Station Lane Saratoga Springs). Take your child to experience the magic of the season on a mystical roundtrip journey to an extravagantly built North Pole. Read along with the story as the train makes its magical round trip journey to the North Pole.

Meet Santa and enjoy caroling, hot cocoa, a treat, and a special gift for each child. Kids are encouraged to wear their pajamas, just like in the story. Trips remaining are December 19-23 and 26-28. Ticket prices vary by class and availability.

Annual Members’ Art Show The ever-popular, year-end show is a great opportunity for established and emerging member artists to display their best works in a professional exhibition at The Arts Center Gallery and celebrate their many talents with fellow artists and the community.

The show goes from now to Dec. 31. Annually, with over 150 artists exhibiting artworks ranging from painting, drawing and printmaking to sculpture, functional fine art and photography, the annual Members’ Show promises to be a real treat.

For more information call (518) 584-4132.

LOCAL BRIEFS Yoga at Gavin Park Gavin Park is now offering Yoga on Sunday mornings, 8-9 a.m. beginning Jan. 11. This class is designed to help you become familiar with basic yoga postures, breathing and healthy alignment. Focus will be on standing poses and key principles of alignment to increase strength, balance, stamina, and flexibility.

Pre-registration is required. No drop-ins will be allowed. A minimum of eight people must register for a session to run. Cost for Wilton Residents is $45, Saratoga Springs School District Residents is $55, and all others are $60. Registration ends Jan. 9. You can register in person at Gavin Park, or visit online at www. townofwilton.com/departments/ parks-and-recreation. Questions may be answered by calling the park office at (518) 584-9455.

Saratoga Film Forum December Films Saratoga Film Forum film presentations are screened at the Saratoga Arts Center, 320 Broadway, on Thursday and Friday nights at 7:30 p.m. and at 3 p.m. on Sundays, with the exception of the free Spring Street Classics series presented at 110 Spring Street, Saratoga Springs.

Refreshments are available. General admission is $7; $5 for Film Forum members and students; some levels of membership include admission.

New members, sponsors, volunteers and advertisers are always welcome.

For more information, go to www.saratogafilmforum.org, call (518)584-FILM or email films@saratogafilmforum.org.

Capital Holiday Lights in the Park The 18th Annual Capital Holiday Lights in the Park is an aweinspiring show with over 125 light displays and scenes from now until Jan. 3 at Washington Park in Albany. It’s open every day from 6-10 p.m. Cost is $15-$75 depending on the size of the group.

Drive through the park and admire the beautiful sights!

Gavin Park Pickleball Come on down to Gavin Park and join the fun playing the net court game of pickleball. This game is played by 2 or 4 people on a badminton-sized court using wood, or composite paddle racquets and a plastic, poly baseball with or without holes. No commitment required.

Drop-in registration takes place in the park office, Mondays- Friday, now through April. Session fee is $3

per person, per visit, 9:15-11:15 a.m.

Any questions, contact the park office at (518) 584-9455.

The Puppet People Present Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’ A Charles Dickens holiday classic will take place at the Saratoga Springs Public Library from 1-2 p.m. on Dec. 29. This show features beautiful handcrafted marionettes, shadow puppets, gorgeous masks, lavish costumes, vivid sets, a professional soundtrack that includes many holiday favorites, and a giant 9-foot parade puppet. This program is for ages five and older. Free tickets are currently being sold. Shows will be at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. For more information call (518) 584-7860.

Monday Night Pool League Monday night pool league at DiDonna’s South Shore Restaurant (113 Route 9P, Malta) starts at 7 p.m. on Dec. 29. This is new so don’t be afraid to just show up and bring a friend. Cost is $5. Any questions call (518) 584-0227.

17th Annual First Night Saratoga 5K Run The 17th Annual First Night Saratoga 5K Run is set for Dec. 31 at 5:30 p.m. at the Skidmore College Athletic Complex. Cost is $30 per person. The event is limited to 1,500 runners. All race finishers will receive a commemorative First Night Saratoga medal.

Registration is now$30. Entry fees are nonrefundable and nontransferable. Mailed entries will not be accepted when 1,500 runners are registered.

Saratoga Winterfest 5K Snowshoe Run/Walk The Saratoga Winterfest 5K Snowshoe Run/Walk will be held on Sunday, Feb. 1 at 11 a.m. in the Saratoga Spa State Park. The Camp Saratoga 8K Snowshoe Race will be held on Sunday, Feb. 15 at the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park.

Camp Saratoga will begin at 10:30 a.m. and is a qualifier for the U.S. National Snowshoe Championship.

Go to www.saratogastryders.org to download an application or link to online registration at www.active. com. A limited supply of Dion Snowshoes will be available at a $5 rental charge. Email Laura Clark at laura@saratogastryders.org to reserve a pair or phone (518) 581-1278.

For information about the entire Dion Snowshoe Series and for snow updates visit www.runwmac.com.

33

Office of the Aging Looking for Volunteers Are you 55 and over and looking for a volunteer opportunity? Saratoga County Office of the Aging is looking for kitchen volunteers to assist with serving meals for the Senior Nutrition Program. There is a current need at the Saratoga Senior Center. This opportunity is flexible to fit into your schedule, MondayFriday availability between 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Call Billie Jo at the Saratoga County Office for the Aging for more details on this volunteer opportunity at (518) 884-4100.

Free Beer Tastings at Saratoga Winery Along with over 15 handcrafted wines to taste, The Saratoga Winery now has local craft beer on tap. Try all four local craft beers for free on Sunday, Dec. 28. No coupon necessary. Live Music from 3-6 p.m. and The Lunch Brake Food Truck from 1-6 p.m.

Spend the day relaxing and “unwineding” at 462 Route 29 West in Saratoga Springs from noon to 7 p.m.

SSHS Drama Club: ‘Calvin Berger’ Saratoga Springs High School Drama Club presents the musical “Calvin Berger” by Barry Wyner, on Friday, Jan. 9 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday Jan. 10 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The musical is directed by Leigh Berenis, with music direction by Kathleen McCarty, and features a cast, crew and orchestra of 25-30 students. In addition to the directors, other adults filling key roles are Bob Berenis, Scott Walrath and Lisa Shields. The production is presented through special arrangement with Tams Witmark. Calvin Berger will be presented in the high school’s Meade Teaching Auditorium. Tickets, which are on sale now, are $12 for adults, $7 for senior citizens and $5 for students. Calvin Berger is recommended for PG-13 audiences.

More information can be found at www.sshsdramaclub.com.

Hattie’s 14th Annual Mardi Gras Benefit One of the region’s “must attend” fundraising events of the winter is Hattie’s Mardi Gras Party at Canfield Casino. Located in Congress Park, the benefit will be held Saturday, Jan. 17 from 6-10 p.m. Cost is $100 per person.

Every year, this fundraiser raises thousands of dollars to support local causes - and it’s always a ton of fun too! This year, all funds will benefit Jake’s Help From Heaven!

Send your local briefs to calendar@saratogapublishing.com before Monday at 5 p.m. for Friday publication.

34

calendar refreshments, special sales, and a fun evening of shopping. For more information, visit www. shirtfactorygf.com.

CBS 6 Melodies of Christmas

Family Friendly Event

Friday, December 19 The Gingerbread Boy Arts Building, Lower Level, 320 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 10 a.m.

Presented by Wild Apple Puppetry.

Admission is $3 (cash only). Follow the signs that say “Puppet Show.”

Healthy Living Bake Shop Holiday Treat Tasting Healthy Living Market and Café, 3065 NY Route 50, Saratoga Springs.

Be sure to stop by Demolandia to sample a variety of house-made holiday treats, including Made Without Gluten Pumpkin Pie, Classically Delicious Raspberry Linzer Torte and Holiday Stolen Bread, that are available for preorder through December 21st. *Please be aware that samples are limited and flavors/types are subject to change. In addition, Bouche de Noel and our Assorted Holiday Cookies will be on display during each sampling. For more information call (518) 306-4900.

The Jungle Book Spa Little Theater, 19 Roosevelt Dr., Saratoga Springs, 7:30 p.m.

The Jungle Book is the delightful story of Mowgli, a boy raised in the jungle by Bagheera, a wise black panther, and Baloo, a goofy bear. Mowgli runs away with a band of monkeys – only to be held captive by them. Will the cunning python Kaa help rescue Mowgli? Will all of the animals in the jungle learn they are truly “brothers of one blood?” In the end, Mowgli’s animal teachers find they have something to learn from the boy. Visit http:// homemadetheater.org for ticket information and performance schedule.

Friends and Family Night The Shirt Factory, 71 Lawrence St., Glens Falls, 6 – 8 p.m.

The public is invited to enjoy

Proctor’s Theater, 432 State Street, Schenectady, 7 p.m.

The Capital Region’s premiere holiday extravaganza, featuring the Empire State Youth Orchestra and Youth Chorale with special guests Grand Central Station, The McKrell’s, The Northeast Ballet and Orlando’s School of Dance. For ticket sales and additional shows visit www.proctors.org.

Saturday, December 20 Yoga in the Atrium: Gentle Vinyasa Flow Healthy Living Market and Café, 3065 NY Route 50, Saratoga Springs, 8:15 – 9:15 a.m.

Join Melissa for a gentle yoga class that’s appropriate for all ages and all experience levels; it’s a very easy and relaxing class, and a great stress reliever.

Focusing on the breath and concentrating on breathing is a main component of this class, along with focusing on the here and now; today- not the past or future. In this class, we’ll try to relax the body and quiet the mind. This Yoga class is free, pre-registration is required.

(518) 309-4900.

The National Trunk Show & Sale Saratoga National Golf Club, 458 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Saratoga National will be hosting a Smathers & Branson Trunk Show All S & B products will be 20% off. A great place for last minute holiday gifts. For more information call (518) 583-4653.

Dedication Ceremony Saratoga Recreation Center, 15 Vanderbilt Ave., Saratoga Springs, 10:30 a.m.

The ceremony will begin with a welcoming from Mayor Joanne Yepsen. The ceremony will feature guest speakers sharing their wonderful stories of George Parker and Landon Moore.

Landon Moore was an original Recreation Commission member from 1977 to 1988. In 1968,

Landon began his volunteer coaching for the biddy basketball program, totaling 41 years in all. The Recreation Commission will be naming a Recreation Center basketball court, the Landon Moore Court in his honor. George was a volunteer coach for the basketball program from 1975 to 2009. Today, George is still involved in the basketball program, serving as the basketball coordinator, a position he has held since 1992.

The Recreation Commission will be honoring George Parker by naming the Recreation Center gymnasium, the George Parker Gymnasium. Please help us celebrate these two outstanding individuals by joining us. For more information call (518) 5873550 x2300.

3rd Annual Santacon Saratoga Springs Start Point: Putnam Den, Putnam St., Saratoga Springs, 12:30 p.m.

Get in the holiday spirit and join your fellow Santas while enjoying food and drinks at local bars and helping out a good cause at the Third Annual Santacon Saratoga Springs 2014. Santacon is a convention for “Santas” of all walks to gather and have a great time while doing public good and spreading holiday cheer. For Santacon Saratoga Springs, all attendees are asked to dress up head to toe in a full Santa suit (or other holiday garb) and bring at least 4 non-perishable food items to donate to the local food bank at the Franklin Community Center. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/ events/1426072657611453/.

The Nutcracker Ballet Charles R. Wood Theater, 207 Glen St., Glens Falls, 2:30 p.m.

Nothing brings in the holidays better than Reality Dance Studio’s production of The Nutcracker.

This holiday classic is a delightful treat for the entire family. This large-scale production features beautiful sets, lavish costumes, dazzling special effects, and Tchaikovsky’s glorious music.

Take a seat and delight as you witness our 20 foot growing Christmas tree and grandfather clock, watch in disbelief as Santa’s magical sleigh produces lifesized dolls and giggle away as our rambunctious rats catapult giant cheese from a man-sized rat trap. For ticket information

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014 and additional performances visit www.woodtheater.org.

Living Nativity Calvary United Methodist Church, 15 Ridge Place, Latham, 5:00 - 7:40 p.m.

Calvary United Methodist Church will offer Living Nativity performances, featuring the King’s Kids drama group, carols, live animals, and refreshments with 20 minute continuous performances, starting at 5 pm with the last performance at 7:40 pm. For more information call (518) 785-5142.

Ballston Spa Film Festival Ballston Spa High School Auditorium, 220 Ballston Ave., Ballston Spa, 6:45 – 9 p.m.

Tim Burton’s classic, ghoulish tale with wicked humor & stunning animation Jack Skellington, the bored Pumpkin King of Halloween Town becomes fascinated with Christmas.

He tries to bring bits of the Christmas spirit back in his own way to his Halloween buddies.

“Just because I cannot see it, doesn’t mean I can’t believe it!” Free admission. For more information call (518) 441-4236 or visit: bspafilm.org.

Sunday, December 21 Breakfast with Santa Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge No. 161, 1 Elks Lane, Rt. 9, Saratoga Springs 8:30 – 11 a.m.

Fruit cocktail, French toast, pancakes, potatoes, sausage, ham, corned beef hash, scrambled eggs, eggs benedict, juice, coffee and tea will be available with an $8 requested donation. Seniors and military (active/retired with ID card) $7. Take-outs are $8.

For more information, call (518) 584-2585.

Brunch with Santa Saratoga National Golf Club, 458 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Santa will be in the house for Sunday Brunch. For more information call (518) 583-4653.

Holiday Celebration The Children’s Museum, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs, 1 – 3 p.m.

Fee with Museum admission.

Usher in the holidays with a special scavenger hunt, festive holiday crafts, caroling and other fun surprises. For more information call (518) 584-5540.

Make & Take Reindeer Food The Children’s Museum, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs, 2:00pm—2:30 pm.

Light the way for Santa and his sleigh with a magical mix that glistens in the moonlight. Make a batch of reindeer food with edible glitter. $2/child, pre-registration required. (518) 584-5540.

First Annual New Play Festival The Dee Sarno Theater at The Arts Center, 320 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 7 p.m.

The Local Actors Guild of Saratoga is proud to announce their first annual new play festival. The Local Actor’s Guild will present three full length original works in rep from local playwrights. Productions include: “Welcome Home Jimmy”

by Brian Sheldon about an Solider returning from a tour of duty in Iraq. “Life in 3D” by Christina Asselin about a recently single woman finding love again and her mother accepting her daughter’s lifestyle. “Chasing Charles” by JJ Buechner about friendship set in Manhattan during the AIDS crisis.

General admission is $15 per show or purchase a flex ticket for $30 and see all three shows for one price. For reservations please call (518) 393-3496.

Monday, December 22 Christmas Party Charles R. Wood Theater, 207 Glen St., Glens Falls, Noon Second Annual Wood Theater Family Film Series Holiday party! Doors open at 12:00 pm.

Children and adults are invited to participate in making Holiday crafts and enjoy snacks while listening to live music. At 1:00 p.m. Santa will arrive and read “The Night Before Christmas” to captive audiences. On the big screen, “Frosty’s Winter Wonderland” and “The Night Before Christmas” will begin playing at 2p.m. All tickets just $5 for this event. Children are invited to visit with Santa after

Send your local briefs to calendar@saratogapublishing.com before Monday at 5 p.m. for Friday publication.

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014 the conclusion of the films. For more information, visit www. woodtheater.org.

Song Swap with Jeff Walton Saratoga Springs Public Library, H. Dutcher Community Room, 7 – 8:30 p.m.

Local favorite, singer songwriter and performer extraordinaire, Jeff Walton will lead an allacoustic song swap. Bring your guitar, bring your ukulele, bring your harmonica. Get off your couch and come down and share your music. All abilities and ages are welcome. No registration required.

Tuesday, December 23 Capital District Handel’s Messiah Community Sing-Along Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 52 Blue Barns Rd., Rexford, 6:30 – 9 p.m.

Instrumentalists and singers are invited to participate in a sing-along / play-along experience celebrating the holiday season with Christmas selections from George Frederick Handel’s Messiah.

Singers and instrumentalists are invited to arrive at 6:30 p.m. to set up their instruments and find their places. Singers please bring your own music, and for instrumentalists your own music stand, lighting and seating if desired. Those wishing to enjoy the music are welcome to arrive prior to the 7 p.m. start. Following the music, there will be an open house featuring Crèche Displays, Christmas video presentations and refreshments. Everyone is welcome to attend. Find us on Facebook at Capital District’s Handel’s Messiah Community Sing-Along. For more information call (518) 383-1651.

Elf The Broadway Musical Proctor’s Theater, 432 State St., Schenectady, 7 p.m.

ELF is the hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. Unaware that he is actually human, Buddy’s enormous size and poor toymaking abilities cause him to face

the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas.

This modern day Christmas classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner ELF. For ticket sales and additional shows visit www.proctors.org.

Wednesday, December 24 No Scheduled Events

Thursday, December 25 MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Friday, December 26 Christmas Holiday Camp Gore Mountain, 793 Peaceful Valley Rd., North Creek, 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Our Christmas Holiday Camp is a great way for children, ages 4-12, to spend their holiday vacation on the slopes and meeting new friends! Kids enjoy three consecutive days of fun skiing/ riding with the same coaches.

This camp is open to all abilities, and includes lift ticket, lunch, and supervision each day. For more information, visit www. goremountain.com.

Saturday, December 27 Learn to Skate Clinic Empire State Plaza Ice Rink, Albany, 9 – 11 a.m.

Presented free by BlueShield of Northeastern NY and hosted by the Hudson Mohawk Figure Skating Club. For more information and to register visit http://winter. empirestateplaza.org.

Sunday, December 28 Dylan Perrillo Orchestra Caffé Lena, 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, 7 p.m.

Based in the Capital District this large, colorful ensemble came together to celebrate the beginnings of jazz, especially

calendar tunes from the 1920s to ‘40s.

With ten musicians in the group, they cover Billie Holiday to Louis Armstrong, Al Bowlly, Annette Hanshaw, Coleman Hawkins, Lester Young, Charles Mingus, Eric Dolphy and a healthy sampling of contemporary musicians as well. Their joyful approach turns every performance into a music party for all to enjoy. To order tickets visit, www.caffelena.org.

Monday, December 29 Winter Wonderland Celebration The Children’s Museum, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs, 10:30 a.m. – Noon Celebrate the coming of winter, and decorate cookies, sip hot chocolate, make tie-dye snowflakes and other fun wintry crafts. $2 per child, ages 4+. For more information, visit www.cmssny.org.

Tuesday, December 30 Signs of Winter Scavenger Hunt Saratoga Spa State Park, 10:30 a.m.

Join us for a winter story and help us search for signs of winter.

This program is recommended for children under the age of 5.

Registration is required. Fee is $3 per person or $5 per family.

Please call (518) 584-2000 ext. 150 to register. For more information and additional events visit, http://www. nysparks.com/events/.

Wednesday, December 31 Noon Year’s Eve Children’s Museum of Science and Technology, 250 Jordan Rd., Troy, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Join us and participate in the various noon year’s themed activities including a live animal presentation in the Operation W.I.L.D. exhibit, celebratory Noon Year’s Eve crafts in our GE Junior Discovery Room, face painting, and “cool” science activities and demos! Leading up to noon, children will be able to will ring in the Noon Year with a bubble blowing bonanza, participate in a museum-wide countdown

to noon, and a parade. Preregistration is not required.

Recommended for visitors of all ages. For more information, visit www.cmost.org.

First Night Saratoga Celebration Downtown Saratoga Springs, Beginning at 5 p.m.

First Night is a New Year’s celebration of the arts and community. Each year, thousands of revelers come to Saratoga Springs to experience a wide-ranging variety of arts and music. It is a true showcase of the diverse and immense talent in the CapitolSaratoga region. Broadway and the surrounding streets of Saratoga Springs will be filled with music, art, comedy and family-friendly entertainment.

There’s no better way to ring in the New Year. Buttons - A First Night Saratoga admission button provides you access to all 35 First Night venues and 70 First Night performances and happenings. For more information,visit http://www. saratoga-arts.org/firstnight.

First Night Saratoga 5K Skidmore College Athletic Complex, 5:30 p.m.

Start and finish on the beautiful Skidmore campus.

The first ¾ mile is a gradual uphill on the perimeter road. The course exits the campus at Clinton Avenue and continues to Greenfield Avenue, continuing up North Broadway and back to campus. This is a moderately challenging course, including both hills and downgrades.

Limited to 1,500 Runners: Due to the overwhelming success of this run, and having to close-out registration several years in a row, there will be no day of race registration.

For more information or to register online, visit, www. saratoga-arts.org.

y r r e M ristmas!

Ch

Local Town Websites Town of Ballston: Ballston Town Hall 323 Charlton Road (518) 885-8502 www.townofballstonny.org Village of Ballston Spa: 66 Front Street (518) 885-5711 www.ballstonspany.org Town of Greenfield: 7 Wilton Road (518) 893-7432 www.townofgreenfield.com Town of Malta: 2540 Route 9 (518) 899-2818 www.malta-town.org Town of Milton: 503 Geyser Road (518) 885-9220 www.townofmiltonny.org City of Saratoga Springs: 474 Broadway (518) 587-3550 www.saratoga-springs.org Town of Saratoga: 12 Spring Street, Schuylerville (518) 695-3644 www.townofsaratoga.com Village of Schuylerville: 35 Spring Street (518) 695-3881 www.villageofschuylerville.org Town of Stillwater: 881 N. Hudson Avenue Stillwater, NY 12170 (518) 664-6148 www.stillwaterny.org Town of Wilton: 22 Traver Road (518) 587-1939 www.townofwilton.com Saratoga County Board of Supervisors: 40 McMaster St, #1 Ballston Spa, NY 12020 (518) 885-2240 www.saratogacountyny.gov

Send your local briefs to calendar@saratogapublishing.com before Monday at 5 p.m. for Friday publication.

35

36

Merry Christmas Saratoga!

From your friend, Joan Gailor

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

Congratulations Eddie & Leann Remembering our wedding anniversaries may be challenging as we get older, but that won’t be the case for Eddie Fyvie and Leann Driscoll. On 12-1314 they celebrated their wedding vows at the beautiful Lake Placid Lodge in Lake Placid, NY. They were joined by their parents Ed Fyvie, Deanna Bibeau, and Dennis and Kathy Driscoll; Best Man Chad Beatty, Matron of Honor Casey Sacci and a dozen of their closest friends.

You can read more about their wedding and browse the stunning photos in the 2015 edition of Saratoga BRIDE, hitting the streets February 2015.

John McKenna Room Receives Donation from USAWOA

Pictured are CW4(R) Chick Evans VP of the Uncle Sam Chapter handing the Donation Check to Mr John McKenna, CW5(R) Thomas Hatlee, Secretary,CW3 Kevin Hart and CW4(R) Art Benoit. The Donation was presented Wednesday November 19th.

The United States Army Warrant Officer Association (USAWOA) Uncle Sam Chapter in Albany NY presented a Donation to Mr John McKenna founder of the John McKenna Room at the

Albany Airport.

The John McKenna Room is a Hospitality Room which is open to soldiers traveling to their training base or traveling to their next duty station. A

soldier can also be given a night’s stay at a local motel at no cost to the individual.

The John McKenna Room is named for Captain John McKenna who was killed in Iraq.

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

PULSE

The Laffer Gallery Presents its 3rd Annual Juried Group Show

The Laffer Gallery is excited to announce the 3nd annual juried group-show entitled “Upstate Artists” for the 2014 Holiday Season!

The Laffer Gallery is honored and pleased to present a juried group exhibition juried by Paul Hobart.

Mr. Hobart is a regionally recognized supporter of the arts in upstate New York and an avid and fearless collector of contemporary art who rarely misses art exhibition openings in galleries from Albany and Troy to Lake George and beyond.

“Upstate Artists” features a diverse cross section of the Upstate New York arts community and exhibited work chosen from over 140 entries in response to an Open Call for Submissions to local artists.

Please allow us to introduce and congratulate the artists chosen for this exciting new exhibit: Abraham Ferraro, Andrea Hersh, Anne Francey, Ashley Wolff, Chad Smith, Cheryl Horning, Chris Duncan, Dan Greenfeld, David Francis, David Hill, Diane Golden, Dona Mara Friedman, Gail Nadeau, Gary Shankman, Hollyn Blair, Jill Fishon-Kovachick, JoAnn Axford, Judith Ellers, Kathryn Klompas, Linda Van Alstyne, Marina Petro, Marta Jaremko, Mary Ellen Riell, Matt Chinian, Maxine Tucker, Pat McEvoy, Randi Kish, Rebecca Kane, Robert Augstell, Robert Gullie, Robert Moylan, Russell Serrianne, Takeyce Walter, Terri Messinger and Wenda Habenicht.

For more information please contact: Erik Laffer Owner/Director | The Laffer Gallery 96 Broad Street Schuylerville, NY 12871 518.695.3181 info@thelaffergallery.com

37

PULSE ‘Keeping an Eye on’ the Tartan Terrors

38

The Tartan Terrors are their own Celtic Invasion, mixing rock’s energy with traditional folklore, dance, and humor. With an arsenal featuring classic pipes and fiddle, driving drum tones, and signature guitar styles, standing-room only audiences understand why Dig This Magazine declares The Terrors “one act to keep an eye on!” The Terrors use their Sonic blitz to bring on board award winning Step and Highland Dancers and internationally recognized comedic performers alike. Managers agree that “their sold out evening

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

Photos Provided

performances are a testament to their popularity.”

Members of the Tartan Terrors have performed on four different continents in some of the most prestigious Festivals, Highland Games and Theatres of North America including Lone Tree Center for the Arts, Colorado; Strand Capitol, Pennsylvania; Oshkosh Opera House, Wisconsin; Dublin Irish Festival, Ohio; Newport Irish Festival, Rhode Isand;

and on Good Morning America.

Join the phenomenon of the Tartan Terrors and see why Celtic Beat Magazine hails them as “the heirs apparent to the [Celtic] mayhem.”

The group will be performing as headliners of the First Night celebration at the Saratoga Springs City Center.

For more information on the band, visit tartanterrors.com.

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

PULSE

Lustre Kings to Rock Out at City Center SARATOGA SPRINGS — Mark Gamsjager and the Lustre Kings play rock ‘n’ roll the right way, and they will be in town at the Saratoga Springs City Center Dec. 31 as part of First Night 2015.

The powerhouse Albany, New York combo has wowed crowds at Manhattan’s Rodeo Bar, Seattle’s Tractor Tavern and all points inbetween; and they’ve done it with uncommon fervor, commitment and

flair. The Lustre Kings have a devoted international fan base and they continue to tear up the road every year.

In addition to their own dates, the Lustre Kings have accompanied Wanda Jackson, the Queen of

Rockabilly, for over five years, and frequently work with seasoned artists like Bill Kirchen, Eddie Angel and Robert Gordon. The group is versed in classic pop standards and light jazz as well as their trademark American roots rock music. The new, appropriately-titled long-player “Way Out There” (Wild Boar Records) is

their fourth and finest effort. In his liner notes for the album, six-string wizard Deke Dickerson says, “Like a fine wine, the Lustre Kings just get better with each passing year, and this new album has the seasoned bouquet and nutty aftertastes that won’t leave you disappointed.”

For more information on the band, visit lustrekings.com.

Fireworks!

Ring in the New Year and the 100th anniversary of Saratoga Spring’s incorporation as a city with the First Night Saratoga fireworks display. At midnight, after a few words from Mayor of Saratoga Springs, Joanne Yepsen, Alonzo Fireworks will present a dazzling display in Congress Park. Congress Park cannot be entered during the

fireworks, but Saratoga Arts provides a perfect viewing area by arranging for the streets to be closed at the intersection of Spring and Putnam Streets, near the carousel.

The First Night Saratoga fireworks display is presented by Saratoga Arts with support from the Saratoga Convention and Tourism Bureau and Gaffney’s Restaurant.

First Night Saratoga 5K When First Night Saratoga was in its infancy, the 5K run was initiated, and 250 brave runners made their way around the Skidmore Campus following a huge snowstorm that had left upwards of a foot of snow on the Spa City.

Last New Year’s Eve we had 1,500 runners from 21 different states, making it a family affair, as many of these folks are home for the holidays.

Equally important to the success of the race has been the dedicated volunteers who have been a part of this race for the past seven years. A very special thank you to Jeffrey Allen and his wife Naomi, who were two of the founders of the inaugural First Night 5K seventeen years ago, and continue to volunteer their time to ensure the First Night Saratoga 5K is a great success!

39

PULSE

40

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

week of 12/19-12/27 friday, 12/19: Austin Barosi, 7 pm @ Bailey’s - 583-6060 Toga Boys, 9 pm @ Bentley’s - 899-4300 Songs to Amuse, 8 pm @ Caffè Lena - 583-0022 Steve Candlen, 7 pm @ Carney’s Tavern - 952-7177 Jukebox Night, 10 pm @ Caroline St. Pub - 583-9400 Jeanine Marie Jazz Trio, 7 pm @ Crown Grill - 583-1105 Vinyl Evolution, 4 pm @ End Zone Sports Pub - 584-6460 Rick Bolton + Jeff Walton, 5 pm @ Gaffney’s - 587-7359 Ubuntu, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s - 587-7359 The Remainders, 9:30 pm @ Harvey’s - 583-0003 Dueling Pianos, 8 pm @ Nanola - 587-1300 Rick Rosoff Quartet, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Avenue - 583-2582 Andy Iorio, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge - 583-4563 Robert DeLong — WEQXmas Party, 9 pm @ Putnam Den - 584-8066 Mitch Frasier, 8 pm @ Ravenswood - 371-8771 Nate, 9 pm @ The Mill - 899-5253 Triskele Xmas Show, 7 pm @ The Parting Glass - 583-1916 Rusty Old Guys, 8:30 pm @ The Rusty Nail - 371-9875 Rich Ortiz, 6 pm @ The Saratoga Winery - 584-9463 Audiostars, 8 pm @ Vapor - 792-8282 Christine Spero, 7 pm @ Wishing Well - 584-7640

saturday, 12/20: Megan Houde + Eric, 8 pm @ Bailey’s - 583-6060 Matt Evans, 9 pm @ Bentley’s - 899-4300 Driftwood, 8 pm @ Caffè Lena - 583-0022 Austin Barosi, 9 pm @ Cantina - 587-5577 Geo, 7 pm @ Carney’s Tavern - 952-7177 Gravity, 10 pm @ Caroline St. Pub - 583-9400 Karaoke, 10 pm @ Circus Café - 583-1106 Cole Broderick, 6:30 pm @ Fifty South - 884-2926 Steve Candlen, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s - 587.7359 E-Town Express, 9:30 pm @ Harvey’s - 583-0003 George Fletcher’s Folding Money, 9 pm @ Nanola - 587-1300 Todd Nelson’s TN3, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Avenue - 583-2582 Dan Sherwin, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge - 583-4563

The Figgs / Blockhouses, 6 pm @ Putnam Den - 584-8066 Betsy + the ByeGons, 8 pm @ Ravenswood - 371-8771 Crossfire, 9 pm @ The Mill - 899-5253 Kitchen Party, 9 pm @ The Parting Glass - 583-1916 Karaoke, 9:30 pm @ The Rusty Nail - 371-9875 Holiday Country Dance Party, 8 pm @ Vapor - 792-8282 Rob Aronstein, 7 pm @ Wishing Well - 584-7640

spotlight

sunday, 12/21: Jewmongous, 7 pm @ Caffè Lena - 583.0022 Jazz Brunch, 11 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge - 583-4563 Steve Candlen, 3 pm @ The Saratoga Winery - 584-9463

monday, 12/22: Mike Passineau, 6:30 pm @ Brook Tavern - 871-1473 Chris Carey/ Tim Wechgelaer, 7 pm @ One Caroline - 587-2026

tuesday, 12/23: Rich Ortiz, 10 pm @ Caroline St. Pub - 583.9400 Two Step Tuesdays, 8 pm @ Crown Grill - 583-1105 Open Mic with Rick Bolton, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s - 587-7359

friday, 12/26: Dave Fisk Quartet, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Avenue - 583-2582 Tim Ortiz, 9 pm @ Bailey’s - 583-6060 Sugar Pill, 9 pm @ Bentley’s - 899-4300 Racquette River Rounders, 7 pm @ Caffè Lena - 583-0022 Matty Finn, 7 pm @ Carney’s Tavern - 952-7177 Donatellos, 10 pm @ Caroline St. Pub - 583-9400 Cole Broderick, 7 pm @ Crown Grill - 583-1105 Woodstone, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s - 587-7359 Rich Ortiz, 9:30 pm @ Harvey’s - 583-0003 Rob Aronstein, 8 pm @ Nanola - 587-1300 Shiri Zorn, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge - 583-4563 Half Step / Acoustic Circus, 9:30 pm @ Putnam Den - 584-8066 Forever Young, 8 pm @ Ravenswood - 371-8771 Third Rael, 6 pm @ The Saratoga Winery - 584-9463 Get Up Jack, 8 pm @ The Parting Glass - 583-1916 Knights Revivial, 8:30 pm @ The Rusty Nail - 371-9875

While you’ll still be able to see them at select fundraising events and weddings, GRAVITY’s last club date before going on a hiatus will be this Saturday at Caroline St. Pub. Go see them at the type of venue they cut their teeth on over nine years and 500+ gigs ago. A tip of the hat to a group that has never failed to delight where ever they have played!

Big Sky Country, 8 pm @ Vapor - 792-8282 Mike Purcell, 7 pm @ Wishing Well - 584-7640

saturday, 12/27: Arch Stanton Quartet, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Avenue - 583-2582 Alicia Bautista, 8 pm @ Bailey’s - 583-6060 Guy Davis, 8 pm @ Caffè Lena - 583-0022 Vivid Duo, 9 pm @ Cantina - 587-5577 Herm Stanley, 7 pm @ Carney’s Tavern - 952-7177 Saving Atlantis, 10 pm @ Caroline St. Pub - 583-9400 Karaoke, 10 pm @ Circus Café - 583-1106 Cole Broderick, 6 pm @ Fifty South - (528) 884-2926 Acoustic Circus, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s - 587-7359 The Ideal Situation, 9:30 pm @ Harvey’s - 583-0003 Yellow Dog, 8 pm @ Nanola - 587-1300 Just Nate, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge - 583-4563 Rustic Overtones w/ Dryer, 9:30 pm @ Putnam Den - 584-8066 The Heaters, 8 pm @ Ravenswood - 371-8771 Rich Clements Band, 3 pm @ The Saratoga Winery - 584-9463 Jeff Strange, 8 pm @ The Mill - 899-5253 Forthlin Road, 9 pm @ The Parting Glass - 583-1916 Karaoke, 9:30 pm @ The Rusty Nail - 371-9875 Blackout Party, 9 pm @ Vapor - 792-8282 Rob Aronstein, 7 pm @ Wishing Well - 584-7640

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

fun and games

Puzzles

Across 1 Tucked-in part of a dress shirt 4 Cocoon contents 9 Glaringly vivid 14 “__ you kidding me?”

15 Words after make or close 16 Carne __: roasted Mexican dish 17 Ford Model T, colloquially 19 Siesta taker 20 Eight-armed cephalopod 21 Speed demon 23 Open-__ shoes 26 TV producer Norman 27 Online “Yikes!”

30 Chinese leader 33 Bus depot: Abbr.

36 Mature male gorilla 38 Purim observers 39 Essayist de Botton 40 Match for a pocket handkerchief 41 West Pointer 42 Mideast strip 43 One only in it for the money 45 Baton Rouge-to-Montgomery dir.

46 Twisting force 47 WWII venue 48 Latin god 50 “__ a lift?”

52 Japanese cooking show 56 Schemer Charles 60 Gallivants 61 Certain rock music fan, and what 17-, 21-, 36-, 43- and 52-Across each has 64 Last Olds off the line 65 Mental picture 66 NBC skit show 67 Zac of “The Lorax” 68 Glove material 69 Game gadget, or the area where it’s used Down 1 Boaters and bowlers 2 Actor La Salle 3 It may drop down or pop up 4 Made vulnerable 5 Axlike shaping tool 6 Tribal land, informally, with “the”

41

See puzzle solutions on page 46

See puzzle solution on page 46 7 Colorado resort 8 Out of the wind 9 Fire truck feature 10 Lady Liberty’s land, familiarly 11 Somerset Maugham novel, with “The” 12 Prefix with logical 13 Pub missile 18 On fire 22 South Sudanese supermodel Wek 24 Goof 25 Short person?

27 Missouri river 28 La Scala’s city 29 Like eyes showing boredom 31 Drops in a slot 32 Stranded at 7-Down, perhaps 34 Chirp 35 Jetson dog

37 By way of 38 Spree 41 Multi-screen theater 43 “Gee whiz” 44 It goes for a buck 46 Second-most populous Arizona city 49 Warm Argentina month 51 “Stupid me!”

52 “Dies __” 53 Massage deeply 54 Actor Jannings 55 Earthquake response gp.

57 Cozy home 58 Writer Grey 59 Inactive 62 Art on the reality show “Ink Master” 63 Single-malt datum

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: Odious, Odoriferous, Odorous Odious means distasteful or offensive.

Jane thinks cleaning the oven is an odious task.

Odorous refers to something smelly.

The odorous materials need to be placed in plastic bags.

Odoriferous means having an odor or fragrance.

Perfume is a blend of certain odoriferous substances.

Dave Dowling is the author of The Wrong Word Dictionary and The Dictionary of Worthless Words. Both books are available from many book retailers, and signed copies can be obtained by contacting Dave at davedowling59@yahoo.com

42 It’s where NEED to be.

YOU

Publication Day: Friday

Ad Copy Due:

Classified marketplace classified@saratogapublishing.com

Wednesday, noon

Space Reservation Due: Monday, 5 p.m.

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

Call (518) 581-2480 x204 FOR SALE

FOR RENT

OUT-OF-STATE REAL ESTATE

BUYING/SELLING

Sebastian, Florida Beautiful 55+ manufactured home community.

4.4 miles to the beach, Close to riverfront district. New models from $99,000. (772) 581-0080, www. beach-cove.com

Beautiful Oak Bar High Table w/2 matching swivel stools, 43” high, 36” round, never used. $250.

Call (518) 852-2505.

HOME IMPROVEMENT HAS YOUR BUILDING SHIFTED OR SETTLED? Contact Woodford Brothers Inc, for straightening, leveling, foundation and wood frame repairs at (800) OLD-BARN. www. woodfordbros.com. “Not applicable in Queens county”

Tiny house AUCTION, Vermont post & beam sheds, Livestock shelters & firewood storage January 22, 2015 Absolute no reserve Bid online (802) 297-3760 www.JamaicaCottageShop.com SAWMILLS from only $4397.00‐ MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill‐ Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. FREE Info/DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com (800) 578‐1363 Ext.300N CASH for Coins! Buying Gold & Silver. Also Stamps, Paper Money, Comics, Entire Collections, Estates.

Travel to your home. Call Marc in NY: (800) 959‐3419

DONATE YOUR CAR Wheels For Wishes benefiting

x % Ta 100 tible uc Ded

Northeast New York *Free Vehicle/Boat Pickup ANYWHERE *We Accept All Vehicles Running or Not *100% Tax Deductible

Call: (518) 650-1110

WheelsForWishes.org

Rega in you r freedo m 888-558-LIFT www.EazyLiftAlbany.com

• Sales • Rentals • Service • Buybacks

STARTING AT

$1,495

Installed with Warranty

Visit our Display Center at 836 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, NY 12110

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

ADOPTION

43

ADOPTION A childless young married couple (she‐30/he‐37) seeks to adopt.

Will be hands‐on mom/devoted dad. Financial security. Expenses paid. Call/text. Mary & Adam.

(800) 790‐5260.

ADOPTION: Unplanned Pregnancy? Caring licensed adoption agency provides financial and emotional support.

Choose from loving pre‐approved families. Call Joy toll free (866) 922‐3678 or confidential email:Adopt@ ForeverFamilies ThroughAdoption.org

Your One-Stop Holiday Decorating Shop…

Everything from Trees and Wreaths to Lights and Ornaments and everything in between!

MISCELLANEOUS DIVORCE $349 - Uncontested divorce papers prepared. Includes poor person application/waives government fees, if approved. One signature required. Separation agreements available. Make Divorce Easy- (518) 274-0380

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED Part Time / Full Time COUNTER HELP ASSEMBLY SHIRT PRESSER Apply in Person, 228 Washington St., Saratoga Springs.

AIRLINE CAREERS begin here Get FAA approved Aviation Maintenance Technician training.

Financial aid for qualified students – Housing available. Job placement assistance. Call AIM (866) 296-7093

CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND 8 LOCATIONS: • Scotia • Clifton Park • Latham • Guilderland • East Greenbush • Wilton • Glenmont • Queensbury

HOURS: • Mon-Sat 9am-8pm • Sun 9am-6pm www.hewitts.com

HELP WANTED

44

SPORTS

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

Despite Rough Patches, Saints off to 2-0 League Start

by Brian Cremo Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — The defending Western Athletic Conference North Division champion Saints are off to a 2-0 league start. But both games— at home against Fort Plain and Canajoharie—have come with some close calls and almost losing what looked like a comfortable lead in the fourth quarter.

Going into the fourth against Canajoharie on Monday, Saratoga Central Catholic was up 48-31 before giving up 28 points in the final quarter and squeaking out a 61-59 victory. The game before, against the Hilltoppers, the Saints gave up 25 points in the fourth before winning by four.

Both games included many missed opportunities to seal the deal earlier at the charity stripe.

This week’s Q&A with Saints head coach Ken Mantia sheds further light on this year’s Spa Catholic squad.

Q. Does losing so many guys from last year make you take even more positives from early wins against rivals Canajoharie and Fort Plain?

A. Our kids always get fired up to play Fort Plain and Canajoharie because they traditionally are the teams you have to beat to win the WAC. This year you must also add OESJ and Northville in a very balanced WAC North with many contenders. We continue to be pleased with the effort on the defensive end and the improved ball movement on the offensive end. There will be many challenging games to look forward to and we must continue to improve in many areas.

Q. Coach, can you talk about the importance of closing out games and why the last two have ended the way they have in your opinion?

A. A lot of the credit goes to Fort Plain and Canajoharie. Those teams scrabbled their defenses, made many very difficult deep 3-pointers and put us on the line.

Our ability to shoot free throws under pressure and understand time and score late in games must improve. I am sure it will.

Q. We know what Evan Pescetti can bring to the table and many expect a lot from four-year varsity player Ryan Czarnecki. What other pieces do you really need to step up on the offensive side?

A. Patrick Clare, Will Mann and Max Layden have to score for us to

win. Evan and Ryan are outstanding players who will score; however, when those other guys are aggressive on offense we get much better spacing and become a very solid offensive team. (Jake) Van Patten, (Colin) Bradley and (Dylan) Seeber do a great job keeping the intensity up on defense and we have been pleased with Jake Schneider the past few games in the post.

Q. Expectations for tonight (Dec. 19) against Northville?

A. Northville has a very solid team and a great guard in Danny Reidell (27 ppg). He is quick and can shoot (seven 3-pointers in win over Galway) or drive. We will have to be on top of our game on both ends of the floor if we want to come away with a victory.

Q. As you try to find your identity as a team, do you think there is currently one inconsistency that needs to stay consistent?

A. While we are playing hard defensively, we must adjust to the officials and see how they are calling the game. We cannot win anything of importance if several of our key guys continue to reach, grab and get in foul trouble. In theory, the zone defense is supposed to keep you out of foul trouble; however, thus far that has not been the case. That has to improve.

We must become better from the foul line late in games while playing with a little more poise as the crowd gets loud and the game speeds up.

in our 3-2 zone, setting the tone from the outset. Dylan Seeber and Colin Bradly never stop talking on defense. Both are very solid defenders off the bench.

Q. Evan Pescetti. Last year he was new on the team and he shined. This year, guys are aiming for him and he is off to somewhat of a slow offensive start point wise. Maybe he can make that target on his back a positive when eyes are on him because he might be your best passer?

A. Evan has a positive impact on the floor in many ways other than scoring. He can finish with 8-10 points, but any serious coach watching the game would know he just completely dominated it in other areas that lead to wins. My main concern with Evan has been keeping him on the floor due to foul trouble (fouled out with seven minutes left against Canajoharie). But his decision making as a passer and his defensive rebounding have been great all year.

Q. In the Beson Memorial Tournament, Czarnecki wasn’t looking for his shot for four whole quarters. In the last two league games, he stepped up and hit some late free throws against Fort Plain and he dropped a season high 23 against Canajoharie. What does “The Czar” mean to this team?

Saratoga Central Catholic’s Ryan Czarnecki (left) and Evan Pescetti (right).

Photo by MarkBolles.com

A. Ryan Czarnecki has stepped up as that fourth year varsity player. His ability to get to the basket, play the point or off guard and shoot with range is pretty special. This is a kid who was MVP of the entire league in baseball as a junior and now he is running the show in basketball as well. I love the fact that Ryan wants the ball at the end of games and is always willing to meet any challenge.

He makes coaching much easier.

Q. Lastly, does this team have an underdog mentality?

A. We really just like to play. In the end, everyone finds out if you were overrated, underrated or justly rated. That is what is great about sports. You have to prove it on the floor. Every game is supposed to be fun. Please remind me that next time I am popping a TUMS late in the fourth quarter.

’Toga Freshman Basketball Gives Back

Q. We’ve seen glimpses of Layden and Clare being aggressive. Is that something you need every night?

A. Basketball is fun. This is not open heart surgery. We want all of our kids to be aggressive. If you miss a shot, and it is a shot that is in your range, that is fine with our coaches.

Hit the court with a purpose and have fun. When Pat and Max are pushing the ball and attacking, we become a much more versatile team. I do not think Canajoharie really knew too much about Clare or Layden going into Monday’s game. They do now (points against Canajoharie: Layden-18, Clare-12).

Q. A staple of last year’s team was defense—especially the top of the 2-3. Is there a concept for this year’s defense or something you would like them to keep in the back of their minds more often?

A. The only area on defense that concerns me is the fouling. I love the constant communication and the non-stop effort. Will Mann and Jake Van Patten do a great job

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Springs boys freshman basketball team joined up with the St. Mary’s White Junior Boys basketball team to sponsor an entire family of six this Christmas.

The assist goes to all of head coach Tony

Devizzio’s players and their families for giving when it counts the most.

Pictured above, members of the freshman team pose with Saratoga Springs Principal Brett Miller on Dec. 16.

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

SPORTS

You Got to Give the Kid a Chance

by Damian Fantauzzi for Saratoga TODAY Johnny Manziel, otherwise known as Johnny Football, just had his first start for the Cleveland Browns against the Cincinnati Bengals; it was his initiation as a starting quarterback in pro football and his team lost 30-0.

His coach said he played like a rookie. Well, he is!

I’m not a fan of some of his off-the-field antics, but maybe it was a reaction to the negative press he has been getting in Cleveland.

To be fair, when you’re a bad boy in the limelight of stardom, you will be highly scrutinized by the press.

Enough said about this part of his early career in the league!

It seems, because of how he’s being viewed as a little boy with an attitude, that there might be a wish from certain parts of the media to set him up for failure. He has had some playing time

getting his feet wet, but as a starter in this past Sunday’s game with the Bengals, he tripped over his shoelaces.

How easy is it for those who have never been in a situation like this to be critical of one who has?

It’s the same old story of proof for the naysayers that he is unworthy of his new role as starting quarterback because of a poor performance.

You’ve got to give the kid a chance!

One game isn’t a career to be fair, and I am obviously working on that. The press has got to stop throwing sand on Johnny Football. Have you ever been there? If you’ve played sports, generally this is something you can relate to: not performing to your potential and expectations.

Flubbing up at curtain call is a learning experience and it has happened to some of the best quarterbacks in the NFL! I can identify with this whole scenario. When I first played basketball at New Mexico Highlands University, after a successful high school and junior college basketball career, I had to adjust to the higher level of competition. At first it was a struggle, but I eventually proved my worth as a player who could contribute as my first season at Highlands evolved.

When you have a team that is made up of 75 percent former Indiana high school basketball players, where basketball is king, there is a lot

of adjustments and plenty to learn. It wasn’t easy for me, and I had my Johnny Manziel flops along the way.

NMHU was a Division 1 NAIA school, which was equivalent to Division I-A or Division II competition—a far cry from Mechanicville High School and Adirondack Community College.

Johnny Manziel deserves some patience for his game as starting quarterback from the fans, as well as the local and national press. I feel he will prove why he was awarded the Heisman Trophy in 2011.

To be fair again to Manziel’s performance, the Bengals’ are a veteran team and are headed toward the playoffs. Those guys from Cincinnati showed Johnny Football no mercy. That’s the NFL. Manziel was manhandled by a super defense.

Johnny was hit by a swarm of very aggressive bees and he had multiple stings from a nest of super hungry defensive players. A team like that makes you pay, and so they did. The Browns gained a meager 107 total yards in the game on 38 total plays, which is a new low in the 2014 NFL season.

Sunday’s game wasn’t all Manziel’s fault. The whole team did not perform well.

The Brown’s defense couldn’t get off of the field as the Bengals ate the clock up with their ground game.

Very seldom is it the fault of one person in team sports for the lack of

execution of offense in one game. Coach Mike Pettine needs to give his new quarterback more time, and we all know how these NFL coaches are always under the microscope. Not an easy job!

It is so important for these rookies, in professional sports, to be counseled with good advice from professional psychologists to help them prepare for their new life in a whole new world. Maybe for a longer period of time, it’s a reality of adjustments.

A thought for the critics: there seems to be a “kiss of death” for former Heisman Trophy winners.

Tim Tebow and RG III are part of the quarterback hoax of being able to step into the NFL as a star and/or starting quarterback.

But, this is about a different world and a whole new level of play. The story about my experience at New Mexico is a good example.

Playing time is the issue and patience from those looking in from the outside does not guarantee success for the player.

So, Johnny Football needs the consideration and time to adapt to a whole new world and brand of the sport.

I’d like to see him come into his own, and it won’t be easy.

Something I think Tim Tebow needed— more time.

Good luck to Johnny, and if I were allowed to give him any advice, I would say, “Keep your nose clean.”

45

Saratoga Springs Rec Department Events Jr. Sluggers Sign up now for the City of Saratoga Springs Recreation Department Jr. Sluggers program. This program is for participants in grades K-7 and will begin on Mon Feb. 23. Grades K-3 will meet from 5:30-6:45 p.m. and grades 4-7 will meet from 7-8:30 p.m. This program will be held at the Saratoga Recreation Center. This weekly program focuses on the fundamentals of hitting, fielding, throwing and catching in a fun environment. Cost is $50 for Saratoga Springs city, $70 for school district residents and $90 for non-Saratoga Springs city residents.

Box Lacrosse Sign up now for the City of Saratoga Springs Recreation Department Box Lacrosse program. This program is for participants in grades K-7. It will be held on Saturday, Jan. 3 from 8-9:30 a.m. and Sunday, Jan. 11 through Feb. 8 from 9-10:30 a.m. at the Saratoga Recreation Center. Coordinator is Ben Sugarman. This weekly program focuses on skill development, attitude, hard work and teamwork . Cost is $50 for Saratoga Springs city and school district residents and $70 for non-Saratoga Springs city residents.

Vacation Week Programs The city of Saratoga Springs Recreation Department will be holding Vacation Week programs during December, February and April for grades K-6.

These programs will include various sports and activities in a fun and supportive environment. Programs will be held at the Recreation Center. Registration is very limited and a late fee will be assessed to anyone registering within three weeks of the first day of the program. The December program cost is $30 for Saratoga Springs city and school district residents and $40 for non-Saratoga Springs city residents and will run Dec. 29-30. February program cost is $60 for Saratoga Springs city and school district residents and $75 for non-Saratoga Springs city residents and will run Feb. 17-20. April cost is $70 for Saratoga Springs city and school district residents and $90 for nonSaratoga Springs city residents and will run April 6-10.

Sign up for all programs at 15 Vanderbilt Avenue or call (518) 587-3550, ext. 2300, email recreservations@saratoga-springs.org or visit saratogarec.com for more information.

Elliot Hungerford • Saratoga Springs • Junior • Forward The Blue Streaks junior and team captain netted three goals and two assists in Wednesday’s 11-0 rout over Christian Brothers Academy. Hungerford’s season totals are now four goals and three assists as the Blue Streaks advanced to 3-1-1.

Star Athlete of the week!

SARATOGA

TODAY 581-2480

Photo by MarkBolles.com

Send “Star Athlete” nominations to Brian Cremo • brian@saratogapublishing.com

46

SPORTS

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

Community Sports Bulletin Jr. NBA Scores — Town of Wilton Recreation (12/13/14) Division 1

Division 2

Bulls 26, Nets 17 Bulls: Brandon Saunders11, Andrew Austin-8 Nets: Camden Rhude-10, Adam DeGregory-2

Thunder 26, Spurs 12 Thunder: Jesse Kuzmich-10, Mackenzie Waghorn-5 Spurs: Kiersten Holub-4, Brendon Young-4

Knicks 21, Warriors 6 Knicks: Antone Robbens-12, Pierson Davis-5 Warriors: Jude Aliperti-2, Tobey Diulio-2

Heat 15, Knicks 8 Heat: Brandon Stimpson-4, Tanner Wilson-4 Knicks: Cyrus Kelly-4, Cooper Walley-4

Clippers 30, Thunder 14 Clippers: Benjamin Hull-9, Ethan Casavant-6 Thunder: Chase Corbett-6, Anthony Cavotta-5

Nets: Grayson DuMortier-16, Shamir Shaffe-11 Wolves: Garrett Hedge-6, Sean Hudson-6

76ers 27, Mavs 21 76ers: Ollie Bolduc-14, Brayden Elliot-6 Mavs: Braylon DuMortier-14, Quinten Harris-3

Mavs 21, Celtics 13 Mavs: Hayden Casavant-6, Charles Yates-6 Celtics: Lucas Ferro-6, Jake Doherty-3

Warriors 31, Celtics 30 Warriors: Jordan Catone-13, Aidan Holmes-11 Celtics: Christian Kondo-11, Garrett Myers-10

Wolves 39, Knicks 35 Wolves: Isley Sterling-12, Adam Basile-9 Knicks: Timothy Barrett-8, Ethan Mania-7

Blue Streaks Alumni Game Set for Dec. 27

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Springs High School doors will open at noon as the school hosts the Blue Streaks alumni game Dec. 27.

The event is free and open to the public. An introduction of the players will take place at 12:30 p.m. with tip-off currently set for 1 p.m.

A pregame ceremony will include the recognition of the 1988 Blue Streaks—the last Saratoga Springs basketball

Send your sports stories or briefs to Brian Cremo, Sports Editor at brian@saratoga publishing.com

team to win a Section II title.

The ’88 team also won regionals and advanced to the New York State Final Four. Local community members who have been longtime supporters of Saratoga Springs High School athletic programs will also be recognized.

As of this week, alumni from 1967 all the way to 2012 are signed up. There is also a possibility that there will be two games depending on how many sign up.

For more information or to add yourself to an alumni roster, call Ty Stacey at (518) 366-0067.

Blazers 34, Bulls 31 Blazers: Frankie Laniewski-16, Charles DeRizzo-13 Bulls: Jackson Reynolds- 19, Flagg Taylor-8 Division 3

Knicks 25, Rockets 13 Knicks: Bryce Emery-10, Joshua Foley-8 Rockets: Justin Nesbitt-4, Camille Sterling-3 Nets 45, Wolves 16

Bulls 41, Rockets 40 Bulls: Benjamin Scammell-15, Payton Baldwin-12 Rockets: Nicholas Martuscello-8, Brendan Berry-7 Thunder 39, Spurs 27 Thunder: Rece McClements-10, Max Jackson-9 Spurs: Jack Rothstein-10, Marcus Vedder-9

Division 4

Saratoga Shining Stars Earn Gold CAPE COD — The Saratoga Springs Shining Stars celebrated the holidays early with a win at The 20th Cape Cod Synchronized Skating Classic.

Recently the team has performed at the Adirondack Flames hockey game and the opening of the Empire State

Plaza Ice Rink.

For their first competition of the season, the Saratoga Springs Synchronized Skating Team traveled to Bourne ,Massachusetts over the weekend of Dec. 12.

Dressed as Elvis and skating to a medley of his songs,

they earned a gold medal in the Beginner 2 level competition.

If you’re interested in seeing them perform or learning more about synchronized skating, you can see them at the annual first night exhibition Dec. 31 at the Weibel Avenue Ice Skating Rink in Saratoga.

The Saratoga Springs Shining Stars team includes Samantha Evers, Julie Dardis, Cameron Porter, Zachery Kasparian, Lily Rosan, Allie Motzer, Ella Mason, En Tse Hsieh, Anna Farrell, Emma Hoffer and Lillian Bergbom.

Puzzle solutions from pg. 41

Week of December 19 – December 30, 2014

SPORTS

47

NYRA Releases 2015 Racing Dates OZONE PARK — With the 40-day summer meet at historic Saratoga Race Course as its glittering centerpiece, the New York Racing Association has released its racing calendar for 2015, which calls for 251 days of live thoroughbred action at Aqueduct Racetrack, Belmont Park and Saratoga.

The Saratoga meet, anchored by the Grade 1 Whitney on Saturday, Aug. 8 and the 146th edition of the Grade 1 Travers on August 29, will begin on Friday, July 24 and conclude on Labor Day, Monday, September 7, with racing conducted six days a week, Wednesday through Monday.

Racing on the Big A’s inner track, which began on Dec. 3, will continue through March 22.

In an effort to keep field sizes at a maximum in advance of Aqueduct’s spring meet, racing will be conducted four days a week for four weeks— the last week of February and the first three weeks of March.

There also will be no live racing at Aqueduct from Monday, March 23, through Tuesday, March 31.

“In light of the national foal crop reduction, our goal in creating a four-day race week during this period is to increase field size and provide additional rest for our equine athletes in advance of our Aqueduct spring meet,” said Senior Vice President of Racing Operations for the New York Racing Association Martin Panza.

“In essence, the March break is allowing us to create a more vibrant spring meet at the Big A.” The 19-day spring meet will be conducted on Aqueduct’s main track from April 1 through April 26, kicking off with the first two Grade 1 races of the year— the $1 million Twinspires.com Wood Memorial and the $400,000 Carter Handicap on Saturday, April 4.

The 59-day Belmont spring/summer meet begins on Wednesday, April 29 and features the 147th running of the Grade 1, $1.5 million Belmont Stakes on Saturday, June 6. The highlight of the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival, Belmont Stakes Day itself will offer nine additional stakes, with five stakes run on Friday, June 5, and two on Thursday, June 4.

There will be no racing on Wednesday, June 3.

The Belmont spring/summer meet also will feature the second

“must-see” event of the year, the internationally themed “Stars & Stripes Festival” on Saturday, July 4, with six graded stakes worth $3.8 million. The spring/summer meet concludes on Sunday, July 19.

Later in the year, the Belmont Fall Championship meet will run 38 days from Friday, Sept. 11 through Sunday, Nov. 23, with “Super Saturday” scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 26.

The racing calendar wraps up with 40 days of live racing at Aqueduct commencing on Wednesday, Nov.4 and running through New Year’s Eve, with a five-day winter break scheduled from Monday, Dec. 21 through Christmas Day, Friday, Dec. 25.

As for the upcoming spring, NYRA released the stakes-laden “Spring Showcase” at the Big A this week.

The Grade 1, $1 million Twinspires.com Wood Memorial will be supported by 13 other stakes worth an additional $2.3 million when racing moves to the main track on April 1 for Aqueduct Racetrack’s 19-day Spring Showcase meet.

New York’s traditional prep for the Kentucky Derby, the 1 1/8-mile Twinspires.com Wood Memorial is one of five stakes on Saturday, April 4, including its Grade 1 counterpart, the $400,000 Carter Handicap at seven furlongs. Joining the first two Grade 1 events on the New York Racing Association calendar that day will be the Grade 2, $300,000 Gazelle for 3-year-old fillies at 1 1/8 miles, the Grade 3, $300,000 Bay Shore for 3-yearolds going seven furlongs, and the season’s first turf stakes, the inaugural $100,000 Danger’s Hour for 4-year-olds and up at a mile on the grass.

Other new additions to the Big A’s boutique meet include the $100,000, one-mile Plenty of Grace for turf fillies and mares on April 11; the $100,000, 1 1/16mile Woodhaven for 3-year-olds on the grass on April 18 and its sister race, the $100,000 Memories of Silver for 3-year-old turf fillies on April 19; and the $100,000, 6 ½-furlong Belle Harbor for 3-year-old fillies on closing day, April 26.

The meet will run Wednesdays through Sundays, with the

Rounding out the stakes schedule for the 19-day meet is a trio of traditional graded stakes: the Grade 3, $200,000 Top Flight Handicap for fillies and mares going 1 1/8 miles on Saturday, April 11; the Grade 2, $200,000 Distaff Handicap for filly and mare sprinters on Saturday, April 18, and the Grade 3, $200,000 Excelsior at 1 ¼ miles on Saturday, April 25.

Joining the Belle Harbor on closing day at the Big A are two 6 ½-furlong New York Stallion Series races for 3-year-olds: the $100,000 Times Square and the $100,000 Park Avenue for fillies.

Following the conclusion of Spring Showcase on April 26, racing will return to Belmont Park on Wednesday, April 29, for the 59-day Belmont spring/summer meet. The centerpiece of this meet is the 2015 Belmont Stakes Racing Festival, featuring the 147th running of the Grade 1 Belmont Stakes on Saturday, June 6.

In a close race, Moreno pulled off an upset at the $1.5 million Whitney Stakes at the Saratoga Race course on Aug. 2 this past meet. The Whitney will be held on Aug. 8 in 2015. Photo by NYRA.

exception of Easter Sunday, April 5.

Stall applications for the Aqueduct spring meet and Belmont spring/ summer meet are due Thursday, February 26.

“The ‘Spring Showcase’ meet at Aqueduct will usher in the season with at least one stakes race on every Saturday and Sunday that we run,” said Panza. “As well, the addition of four new stakes races on the turf in conjunction with the return of racing to the main track will further enhance the meet for horsemen and fans alike.”

Overnight purses will increase during the Aqueduct spring meet with maiden special weight purses rising to $70,000. Purses for first, second and third-level allowance races will rise to $72,000, $74,000 and $78,000, respectively.

“Overnight races comprise the backbone of our racing schedule, and the purses will rise in accordance with the new focus on this special meet,” said Panza, who noted that the only “Spring Showcase” races that will not receive a hike in purses are claiming races that already are at their statutory limits.