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Author: Saratoga TODAY

Louis J. (Bunny) Farone, Jr.

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SARATOGA SPRINGS — Louis J. (Bunny) Farone, Jr., 85, a businessman and developer in Saratoga Springs, died peacefully, surrounded by his family on Friday, January 17, 2020. Mr. Farone was born in Saratoga Springs on August 9, 1934, the son of the late, Louis J. (Doc) and Margaret Hickock Farone. He served in the United States Army in Germany for two years, the New York National Guard for three years and studied business at Boston University. 

His business career began at Saratoga Modern Distributing Co. with his father. He was responsible for developing Interlaken Travel Trailer Park where he and his family enjoyed spending summers. During the time there, he established many friendships including the one who encouraged him to have a personal relationship with God.

With his architectural creativity and innovation (and his wife, Margaret) he converted two old dairy barns located on the edge of Interlaken Park into the beautiful and unique Caunterbury Restaurant (now Longfellows), an enchanting mélange of restaurants and pocket sized shops. During the Caunterbury days, he connected with customers and staff forming friendships and fond memories. He renovated 14 Phila St. and with historic artifacts opened The Tin Shop, an Art Deco themed Jazz Club (now Harvey’s). He restored Riley’s Lake House, an Art Deco Casino, to its original beauty and character of the 20’s and 30’s to benefit The Multiple Sclerosis Society in 1984.

He was a true outdoorsman. He loved to walk and hunt the fields of Meadowbrook Farms (now Saratoga National) where he appreciated the peaceful quiet of the woods. He had a fondness for cooking and cherished family game dinners. He spent time on Lake George with his family enjoying the beauty of the lake from his antique Chris Craft boats.

Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Margaret; three children, Laura L. Farone, Louis J. Farone III and Peter G. Farone; ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He was a great- hearted father and grandfather. His grandchildren were a treasured part of his life; they shared a very special bond and looked after him in his final months. Along with his parents, he was predeceased by his sisters, Louise Blanch, Joan Snyder and Constance Farone.

 A private burial service was held at Greenridge Cemetery on Monday, January 20, 2020. Please send remembrances to Mrs. Margaret Farone in care of Burke Funeral Home. Bunny was a very spiritual man and his family is at peace knowing he is at home with his Lord.

Online remembrances may be made at burkefuneralhome.com.

Stephen L. Smith 

BATH, NY — Stephen L. Smith, 67, formerly of Saratoga Springs, passed away Friday, February 21, 2020. Calling hours were held March 5 at the Burke Funeral Home. A mass was celebrated on March 6 at St. Clement’s Church with a burial in Greenridge Cemetery. Online remembrances may be made at burkefuneralhome.com.

Joseph G. Nokes 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Joseph G. Nokes (Joe) 71, passed away Thursday, February 27, 2020 surrounded by his loving family. Calling hours were held March 3 at Burke Funeral Home in Saratoga Springs. Interment was held March 6 at 2 p.m. at Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville. Online remembrances may be made at burkefuneralhome.com.

Robert L. Dowen, Sr. 

DELMAR — Robert L. Dowen, Sr., 86, passed away February 22, 2020. Calling hours 9-11 a.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2020 at Burke Funeral Home, Saratoga Springs. Funeral service 11 a.m. Following the service, there will be a gathering at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. Visit burkefuneralhome.com.

John C. DeMasi, MD 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — It is with profound sadness that the family of John C. DeMasi, MD, 34, announces his sudden death on February 23, 2020. No calling hours. Mass of Christian Burial, 9 a.m., March 7, 2020 at St. Peters Church. Burial will be private. Memorial donations to FIGHT vEDS (www.fightveds.org/donate). Online remembrances may be made at burkefuneralhome.com.

February 28 – March 5, 2020

Friday, February 28

25 Cent Paperback Book Sale 
Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St., Saratoga Springs | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

The Friends of the Saratoga Springs Public Library is holding a 25cent paperback book sale Friday and Saturday. Also, in the Book Bag shop all items will be 20% off. In addition to books, we carry vinyl records, CDs and DVDs. All our merchandise is gently used, in excellent condition. Our mandate is to fund special projects of the Saratoga Springs Library from our sales. 

Fish Fry Friday 
Fish Creek Rod and Gun Club, Route 32 South of the Village of Victory | 4:30 – 7 p.m.

All are welcome, members and non-members.  Menu: fish fry, chicken fry, clam fry, popcorn shrimp fry, buffalo shrimp, chowder, ask about our extra’s and beverages. You are welcome to eat in at our club house or call ahead for take-out. 518-695-3917. Continuing every Friday through April 10.

Lenten Fish Fry Dinner
Knights of Columbus #246, 50 Pine Rd., Saratoga Springs | 5 – 8 p.m.

In addition to New England Clam Chowder, entrees will include Fried or Baked Haddock, Fried Clam Strips.  Open to the public every Friday throughout Lent, until April 10. Take-out available. For questions, please call 518-584-8547. 

Saturday, February 29

Cabin Fever Luncheon
Spa State Park Administration Building, 19 Roosevelt Ave., Saratoga Springs | 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Spa State Park History Project, Hidden History, Emerging Projects. Reservation required, limited seating, members free. General admission reservation (if seating is available) $10. To join/renew, www.friendsofsaratogaspastatepark.org/be-a-friend. For reservation and details, email info@friendsofsaratogaspastatepark.org.

Acting for Dancers
School of the Arts Lewis A. Swyer Studios, 99 S Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 1:30 – 3 p.m.

The School of the Arts presents: Saturday Workshop Series 1- Acting for Dancers with Anny DeGange Holgate. (Also on March 7 and March 14.) Explore Acting, Improvisation and Dance with Anny DeGange Holgate! Open for students ages 12 and up. $55 for the series. Drop in $20. For registration go to dancemuseum.org/school/, call 518-584-2225 ext 3008, or email school@dancemuseum.org.

Ghost Fleet Awakened
New York State Military, 61 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs | 2 p.m. 

Ghost Fleet Awakened: Lake George’s Sunken Bateux of 1758. Underwater archaeologist Joseph Zarzynski chronicles the life and career of Dr. Robert Inverarity from his days as a US Navy illustrator and camouflage specialist to his innovative maritime archaeological expeditions on Lake George.

Spaghetti Dinner 
American Legion Post # 278, 6 Clancy Street, Schuylerville | 5 – 7 p.m.

Cost is $9 per person, for reservations and advanced tickets call 518-695–3011. Tickets sales and take-outs available at the door. Help support our veterans.

Sunday, March 1

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

Now featuring eggs to order, fruit cocktail, French toast, pancakes, potatoes, breakfast sausage and ham, corned beef hash, sausage gravy and biscuits, scrambled eggs, eggs benedict, juice, coffee and tea. Donation Requested: Adults $9, Seniors and Military (active/retired with ID card) $8. Children 5-12 $7. Under 5 free, Take-outs $9. Call 518-584-2585 for more information.

Sweet Sound of Song 
United Methodist Church, Henning Road and 5th Ave., Saratoga Springs | 3 p.m. 

The Saratoga Chamber Players will hopscotch across the globe with 3 outstanding artists. Soprano Charlotte Dobbs, bass baritone Andrew Padgett, and pianist Renana Gutman will take us from Dørumsgaard’s Norway to Fauré’s France, from Rachmaninoff’s Russia to John Ireland’s England and to the United States of Barber and Williams. The musicians will explore the poetry of nature through song with the piano in a significant role. Tickets are adults $25; seniors $20; and students $15. To purchase tickets visit saratogachamberplayers.org.

Monday, March 2

Lenten Study Series
Charlton Freehold Presbyterian Church, 768 Charlton Rd., Charlton | 10 a.m. – Noon.
A Lenten Study Series: Beloved Communities using the book “Becoming a Beloved Community.” The cost is $8 per person. Please email office@charltonfreehold.org. Series will also take place on Wednesdays from 7 – 9 p.m. through April 8. 

Tuesday, March 3

Song Swap with Jeff Walton 
Saratoga Springs Public Library, Susman Room, Saratoga Springs | 7 – 8:30 p.m.

Local favorite, singer-songwriter and performer extraordinaire, Jeff Walton will lead an all acoustic song swap. Bring your guitar, your ukulele, or harmonica, and come down and share your music! All abilities and ages are welcome. No registration required.

Wednesday, March 4 

Poetry Reading 
Caffe Lena, 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs | 7:30 p.m.
A poetry reading by Leslie Gerber. An open reading will follow. Doors open for sign-ups at 7 p.m. The host for the event will be Carol Graser. Cost is $5 general, free for students. For more information about the poet, visit  www.lesliegerber.net. 

Thursday, March 5

Donate Blood : Red Cross Month
Marriott Courtyard, 11 Excelsior Ave., Saratoga Springs | 1 – 6 p.m.

American Red Cross urges the public to join its lifesaving mission by giving blood or platelets this March in celebration of Red Cross Month. Donors of all blood types, especially type O, are urgently needed.

Book Discussion
Summit at Saratoga Senior Living Community, 1 Perry Rd., Saratoga Springs | 2 p.m.
Author Chris Leonard talks about his new book: “Schenectady GE Realty Plot.” The book focuses on the history of the Plot, envisioned as a place where political, business, religious and entertainment elite would reside, with GE at the center. Light refreshments provided. RSVP at Concierge@SummitSeniorLife.com or call 518-430-2136.

Friends in Adoption “Get Acquainted Workshop” 
Hampton Inn and Suites, 25 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs | 5 p.m. and Saturday: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Prospective adoptive parents are invited to attend Friends in Adoption’s (FIA) “Get Acquainted Workshop.” A comprehensive two-day informational event featuring presentations from families who adopted children through Friends in Adoption, along with experts in the field of adoption.  For more information and to register, visit www.friendsinadoption.org.

Vests and Vino
The Saratoga Winery, 462 NY-29, Saratoga Springs | 6 – 9 p.m.

Rebuilding Together Saratoga County launches Vests & Vino – a benefit to support repairs for homeowners in need. Join for a night of beer and wine sampling, wood-fired pizza and live music! Wear your best vest and enjoy a glass of vino for a great cause. Tickets can be purchased on Vests & Vino’s Facebook Page or call 518-587-3315.

The Prestons of East Street: The Story of a 19th-Century American Family 
Galway Public Library, 2112 East St., Galway | 7 p.m.

Join local author Alan Maddaus as he discusses his book. For more information, visit www.galwaypubliclibrary.org.

Upcoming Meetings

Monday, March 2

Saratoga Retired Techers Meeting
Longfellows Restaurant, 500 Union Avenue (Rte. 9P), Saratoga Springs | Noon

For membership information and luncheon reservations, call 518-587-5356.

Galway Preservation Society Meeting
Galway Town Hall, 5910 Sacandaga Rd., Galway | 7 p.m.

“The 200th Anniversary of the 1820 Revival in Galway” presented by J. James Mancuso. Brief business meeting at 7:30 p.m. The presentation will begin 7:45 p.m. 

Wednesday, March 4

Cancer Support Group
Saratoga Hospital, 211 Church St., Saratoga Springs | Noon – 1 p.m.

Free and open to all. Pre-registration required. Call Pierre Zimmerman, MS for more information 413-992-7012.

Wilton Heritage Society Meeting and Potluck
Wilton Seniors Center, 18 Traver Rd., Wilton | 6 p.m.

Kirk Woodcock, Highway Superintendent of the Town of Wilton will be the speaker. Meeting will follow.

Thursday, March 5

Korean War Veterans Association
VFW Home, 190 Excelsior Ave., Saratoga Springs | 1:30 p.m,

Veterans who served anywhere during the Korean War, in Korea at any time, spouses, widows and friends are all welcome to attend. Contact Charles Walter at 518-884-0396.

2.28.20 – 3.5.20

AARP/TaxAide Services
The AARP TaxAide program will begin providing free tax preparation services for low-and-moderate income residents in Saratoga, Washington and Warren Counties.  The TaxAide program is sponsored by the AARP Foundation in cooperation with the IRS. TaxAide preparers are trained in federal and state tax regulations and are certified by the IRS. Free tax preparation services will be available through April 15.  To find the location nearest you, go to www.aarp.org/findtaxhelp or call 1-888-227-7669 for assistance. 

Trout Unlimited Conservation Banquet
The banquet is open to everyone. It will be held at The Century House in Latham on March 7. Tickets are on sale now on the Clearwater Chapter’s website www.clearwatertu.org. Reservations can be made up to March 1 by contacting TU members Chris and Erika Cook, 565 Grand Ave., Saratoga Springs or email Chris at communications@clearwatertu.org. Dinner, cash bar, hors d’oeuvres and award recognition, live auction, silent auction, bucket raffles, card raffles and door prizes. A Grand Prize Drawing of a 12 ft. Kevlar Hybrid Canoe by Hornbeck Boats. All proceeds benefit local “on the ground” conservation projects that support coldwater fisheries resources. TU is actively seeking donations of goods and services, as well as fishing gear and fly-tying materials for the banquet. Contact Chair Scott Parker at 518-894-4661 or sgparker149@gmail.com. 

Family Festival 
The Saratoga Ancient Order of Hibernians will hold a Family Festival on March 8 from 2 – 6 p.m. at the Saratoga-Wilton Elks, 1 Elk Lane, Saratoga Springs. A grand day of Irish music by Forthlin Road and Grafton Street Trio, dancing by the Wild Irish Acres Dancers. Donation $10 at the door. We ask that you bring canned food items to be donated to our local food pantries. Light fare and raffles.       

“Looking Green” Luncheon
Come join Saratoga Christian Women’s Connection Tuesday, March 10, from Noon to 2 p.m. at Longfellows Restaurant. Our Special Feature this month is Caitlyn Sheldon, a local librarian, who will speak about researching and creating her authentic Victorian Saratoga Dress Ensemble. Her Ensemble will be on display. Our speaker is Judy Button from Lockport, NY who will speak about “God’s Love for Us.” Menu choices are Corn Beef and Cabbage or Sweet and Sour Asian Stir Fry, $19 inclusive. Reservations necessary by March 5. Call Ellie at 518-584-3779 or Anita at 518-583-4043.

Spotlighter’s Theatre Troupe Auditions
Town of Malta Spotlighter’s Theatre Troupe will be holding auditions for their June musical production of “The Rockin’ Tale of Snow White” at the Malta Community Center.  The show, produced by special arrangement with Pioneer Drama Services, will be directed by Elyse Young, with musical direction by Donald Young and choreography by Roseanne Clavin. Auditions are by appointment only on Sunday, March 29 and Monday, March 30.  Needed are over 30 actors and actresses ages seven through adult. Contact Elyse Young, Artistic Director at theater@malta-town.org or 518-899-4411, ext. 305 for more information or audition appointment.

Anxiety and Depression Workshop 
An exciting evening workshop from a dynamic presenter, Jaimen McMillan, in conjunction with Parent University, will be held on March 31 at 7 p.m. at the Maple Ave. Middle School, Large Group Room, 2nd floor.  A look at support for anxiety and depression based on movement and space. No registration required. Free and open to the public.

Open Mornings at Waldorf School
Experience a morning Main Lesson. Meet for Q & A. Tour our buildings. Lower School, March 31, 8:30 – 10 a.m. at 62 York Ave. Saratoga Springs and High School, April 1 8:30 -10 a.m. at 122 Regent St., Saratoga Springs. RSVP: admissions@waldorfsaratoga.org or call 518-587-2224.

Call for Artists with Chronic Illnesses, Disabilities, & Caregivers
If you are an artist living with or caring for someone with a rare disease, serious illness, or disability, this is a great opportunity to share your art. Saratoga-based nonprofit, Beyond My Battle, is holding the second annual “Art with Heart and Hope” show on May 21 at Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga Springs. Deadline to submit is March 30. All art must be able to be hung on a wall. Artist must be at least 18 years old and live in the Capital Region of NY. Artists should submit a photo of their artwork, along with a title, dimensions, medium, and  description (approximately 100 words) of how they use art to move beyond their personal battle to art@beyondmybattle.org no later than March 30.

18th Annual Maple in April 
On April 25 and 26 the 18th annual Maple in April Festival will be held along Rockwell St. in Hadley. This is an activity-packed, family-friendly, free spring festival hosted by the Hadley Business Association in collaboration with other area organizations. You can look forward to maple demonstrations and tasting everything maple, a scholarship breakfast, horse-drawn wagon rides, a car show, street vendors, art auction, kids’ activities, farm and family pet activities, and more. While some of the scheduled activities are weather dependent, the event will take place whether there’s rain, sunshine, or both.  For more information go to www.HadleyNYbusiness.org or email: info@HadleyNYbusiness.org

Veterans Breakfast Clubs
Veterans and their friends are welcome at the following Veterans Breakfast Clubs:  Tuesdays: 8 a.m., Alexis Diner, 294 North Greenbush Rd., North Greenbush, 518-286-2603. First and third Wednesdays each month: 9 a.m. Bellevue Cafe, 2630 Broadway, Schenectady. Thursdays: 8 a.m. Schodack Diner, 1842 Columbia Turnpike, Castleton. Thursdays: 9 a.m. IHOP, 611 Plank Rd., Clifton Park. Third Thursday every month: 9 a.m. Malta Diner, 2476 Rte. 9, Malta.  Fridays: 8 a.m. Gateway Diner, 899 Central Ave., Albany.

Bus Trip to Turning Stone
Olde Saratoga Seniors are hosting a bus trip to Turning Stone Casino, Verona on Monday, March 16.  Bus leaves Saratoga Train Station at 6:15 a.m.or American Legion, Schuylerville at 6:45 a.m. and returns approximately 8:30 p.m. Can play Bingo or Casino Bonus.  Cost is $10 for Senior members or $15 for non-members.  Mail check to PO Box 60, Schuylerville, NY 12871 or contact Pat Temple, 518-338-2329.

Havurah Vatik
“Medicare for All” – What Would it Mean presented at the Congregation Shaara Tfille, 84 Weilel Ave., Saratoga Springs. Dr. George Jolly will explain and clarify issues surrounding possible changes in the way we pay for healthcare. Examine how we, as American Seniors, pay for healthcare now. Then we’ll look at what changes have been proposed to “improve” and “enhance” Medicare.  We’ll also look at some of the concerns and criticisms that have been raised. George Jolly, MD, is a local retired Internist/Geriatrician and long-time member of the Physicians for a National Health Program (PNHP), a group that advocates for national, universal health insurance. Bring your questions, concerns, and the comments you have heard. He will speak to all of them (if there’s time). A catered lunch follows the program,  RSVP by March 11 to 518-584-8730, ext. 4. 

Vendors Wanted for Stop and Shop
Wilton Emergency Squad is having a Spring Stop and Shop on Saturday, April 4, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the General Schuyler Building, 901 Route 29, Saratoga Springs, NY.  Looking for vendors. We usually have approximately 40 vendors, raffles, refreshments and much more.  Contact Jennie McReynolds at 518-338-2709.

Bus Trip to Niagara Falls 
Still seats available for the Olde Saratoga Seniors Bus trip to Niagara Falls, two nights three days on Thursday, May 28 – Saturday, May 30, 2020.  Price for two people in room, two beds $588 each. Total payment due by March 31, 2020 but must sign up as soon as possible.  For an itinerary and price for one, three or four people per room, contact Pat Temple, 518-338-2329.

2020 Hubbard Hall Spring Gala 
On Saturday, May 30 from 7 – 10 p.m. we’ll be celebrating another great person who has exemplified our mission to make art and community happen here in Washington County. It’ll be another great night with wonderful food by the Round House Bakery Cafe, open bar, music from Dave Cuite and friends, an exciting live raffle of great prizes, and friendly fun. Tickets are $125 per person, includes food and open bar. For more information, visit www.hubbardhall.org. 

Farm Jam! 
A musical fundraiser to open doors to a Waldorf Education on May 30, from 6 – 11 p.m. at Pitney Meadows Community Farm. Music performances by The Refrigerators, Sean Rowe, Annie & the Hedonists, The Rodeo Barons, & The North & South Dakota’s Food & Drinks served by local restaurants, wineries, and breweries, Tickets will be on sale soon. For more information regarding sponsorship, performing at our Farm Jam, or more event details contact events@waldorfsaratoga.org.

Southern Saratoga Art Society Exhibits
Artists and members of the Southern Saratoga Art Society are exhibiting throughout the area. Please try to visit these venues and support the arts in Southern Saratoga County. For further information about SSAS, visit our website: southernsaratogaartist.com. Clifton Park Senior Community Center, 6 Clifton Common Blvd. Clifton Park, NBT Bank, 9 Clifton Country Road, Clifton Park, Mechanicville Library, 190 N. Main Street, Catskill Hudson Bank, 2452 State Route 9, Malta. 

Transportation Drivers Needed
Retired Senior Volunteer Program helps recruit volunteers age 55 and older for many opportunities. We are currently looking for Transportation Drivers to take seniors to and from medical appointments. We provide the vehicle, gas, and trip details with directions. If you are interested in learning more, please call Billie Jo 518-884-4110.

Social Activities for Seniors
If you’re over 55, a long-time or new resident in the area and looking to meet active seniors, check out the Ballston Area Senior Citizens (BASC).  BASC sponsors many activities at the Milton Community Center located at 310 Northline Road, Ballston Spa.  Residents from surrounding communities are welcome to join.  Programs and activities include Festive Dinners, dances with live bands, “pickin’ sessions”, bus trips, weekly luncheons, exercise classes, chorus, crafts, etc.  Stop in any Thursday at 11 a.m. and join us for lunch.  Yearly membership fee is $10. Call Barb Broderson, Membership Secretary at 518-885-4229 or visit www.ballstonareaseniors.com for additional information.