The Saratoga County Fair, is almost here! 

As the first in the area this year, the Saratoga County Fair is erring on the side of caution, and setting an example for the fairs to follow. 

They’ve sheared off a couple of days and have gotten back to their roots – educating the public about agricultural activities in a fun way – with animals, tractor and truck pulls, carnival rides, and fair food. 

“We have a full schedule and safety will always be first and foremost for us. We will follow the CDC guidelines that are current for that day, open up as much as possible, and go full speed ahead,” said Tammy Ballestero, President of the Saratoga County Agricultural Society.

Together Again

Ballestero is most excited to once again see her neighbors in person.

“There’s just nothing like hosting live events and the companionship you get once a year when folks get together up on the hill,” she said. 

In 2020, the pandemic halted social gatherings and caused the way people experienced the fair to be quite different. 

“In spite of the fact that we were not able to have a traditional fair last year, we were able to have a live event with a ribbon cutting, and to provide a lot of activities for people to participate in virtually. So, in that sense, it was a success,” said Ballestero.

What’s Changed

In 2021, reopening can’t mean going completely “back to normal” for the event, which typically draws in 100,000 people.

In addition to the shortened week, there are no concerts and no alcohol being served onsite. The demolition derby won’t be happening. 

Also, the fair is typically staffed heavily by volunteers, and there weren’t as many willing to step forward this year. 

Welcome Back Carnival Rides 

This year, the Saratoga County Fair is happy to welcome back Amusements of America for carnival rides and games. 

“People will still be pleasantly surprised. There’ll be a good mix of thrill and kiddie rides,” said Ballestero. 

Conscious of not excluding anyone, particularly the youth, they will again be having Think Differently Day, an hour-long event beginning at 11 a.m. on Friday, without the bright lights and loud sounds that can be disturbing for sensitive patrons. 

Welcome Back Fair Food

Familiar vendors and a dozen concession stands will also be back this year, including the popular Brickyard Tavern and Grill, who will be serving breakfast, sausage, and steak sandwiches.

The annual 4H Chicken Barbecue will be on Thursday, July 22, 4-7 p.m., but you must buy tickets in advance. 

Each dinner includes a half chicken, baked potato, coleslaw, dinner roll, slice of Smith’s apple pie, and a bottle of water for $14/meal. 

To order, contact Cornell Cooperative Extension by calling 518-885-8995, or go online to ccesaratoga.org 

Also returning this year, will be the lemonade stand run by 10-year-old Brendan Mulvaney. He started setting up the stand when he was five and donates the proceeds. 

“It’s an example of how youth in our community can make a difference and we at the Fair encourage everyone to support him,” said Ballestero. 

Back to its Roots

Showcasing Saratoga County agriculture is back to being at the heart of the fair. 

“Everyone has a different version of what their favorite thing at the fair is, but we’ve gotten back to our mission- a grassroots effort to stress the importance of agriculture,” said Ballestero.

“In Saratoga County, we are heavy into agriculture,” she continued. “We have horses, yes, of course, but we have a number of dairy farms, sheep, goats. Saratoga has one of the strongest Cornell Cooperative Extensions and 4H programs around. The fair is, hands down, the best place to showcase that.”

It’s not just animals, either. There’s chemistry projects, robotics, and machinery used by farmers to produce food on display. 

Grandstand is Gone

While many will be delighted by all that fair has to offer this year, one of the biggest changes is what isn’t there: the grandstand. 

Originally built in the 1800s, the aging structure was demolished last November. 

Bids to rebuild have topped $1million, and costs have increased since the original estimate, as contractors are still scrambling to get their hands on building supplies that have, in some cases, tripled in price. 

Because of that, bleachers have been set up, seating is limited, however, so bringing your own chair to sit and watch the truck and tractor pulls is allowed. 

Instead of prize money being awarded at the motorsport events, proceeds will be added to the grandstand building fund. 

Back to Forging Ahead

Raising enough money to pay for the grandstand replacement is the nonprofit Agricultural Society’s top priority…but it has been difficult. 

“Like all the nonprofits, we were hit hard and heavy by COVID,” said Ballestero.

Last year, traditional fundraisers where people get together, like breakfasts and dinners, were all suddenly off the table as possibilities. They instead launched Event21, where 21 fair directors asked 21 people to donate $21 each. Very quickly, they raised $17,000.

If the Agricultural Society can raise $250,000, Saratoga County pledged to match it, but they still have a long way to go to reach their goal.

“We’ve realized we need corporate sponsors if we are going to be successful in this,” said Ballestero. 

A fundraising breakfast and car show with raffle and vendors is also planned for August 22nd. 

Despite all the challenges, Ballestero is eager and excited to be forging ahead. 

“I want to thank the general public in advance. Things will be different but we promise, we are going to give you the best fair that we are able to.”

The Saratoga County Fair will be Thursday, July 22 through Sunday, July 25. They’ve slashed ticket prices to just $5 (down from $12), kids 12 and under are free.  Parking (which is normally free) will be offered from the Lions Club for $5/vehicle. Admission is FREE Thursday from 5-11 p.m. For more information, find them on Facebook, or go to saratogacountyfair.org.

Massage can do wonders for people suffering from a repetitive strain injury. Learn how massage can help with repetitive strain injury treatment here. 

Keyword(s): repetitive strain injury treatment

Repetitive strain injuries (sometimes referred to as overuse injuries) often affect athletes, especially those who specialize in a sport early in life. They’re common among office workers, too. In fact, repetitive strain injuries (or RSIs) cost employers between $17 billion and $20 billion per year in workers compensation. No matter who you are or what you do, RSIs can have a serious impact on your performance and quality of life. The good news, though, is that there are lots of treatment options available, including massage.  Read on to learn about the benefits of massage for repetitive strain injury treatment.

What is a Repetitive Strain Injury?

As the name suggests, a repetitive strain injury is a type of injury that occurs when you spend too much time repeating the same movement over and over again. Just about anyone can develop an RSI. A baseball player might experience an RSI to their shoulder from throwing the ball in the same way over and over again without adequate rest. A computer worker might develop an RSI to their wrists if they spend too much time typing without resting their hands.  RSIs cause tightness and inflammation in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that make up a particular joint. There are lots of different types of RSIs, including the following:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Tennis elbow
• Golfer’s elbow
• Tendinitis
• Plantar fasciitis

RSIs can be quite painful. They also can make it harder for you to move your joint through a full range of motion.

RSI Symptoms

Pain is the most common symptom associated with an RSI. You’ll likely notice pain when you perform a specific movement or after you’re finished performing it. As the injury progresses, you may start to experience pain while doing unrelated activities. Some other symptoms include hypersensitivity and poor coordination. You might experience tingling or numbness in the affected area as well.

Traditional RSI Treatments

Often, when a person is diagnosed with an RSI, there are a few different treatments their doctor will recommend. Common treatments include the following:

• Medication (including over the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatory drugs)
• Hot-cold therapy
• Steroid injections
• Surgery to correct nerve/tendon issues

Sometimes, these treatments are the only option to help you heal from your RSI. In many cases, though, there are other, more natural remedies that you can utilize first.

Why Use Massage for Repetitive

Strain Injury Treatment?

Massage therapy is a great alternative or complementary treatment to some of the popular treatments listed above. There are lots of reasons why you may want to consider massage therapy to help with your RSI before you turn to other treatments, including the following:

Non-Invasive Treatment

The idea of undergoing surgery to fix your RSI probably doesn’t appeal to you. If you don’t want to deal with an invasive treatment and drawn-out recovery, you’re definitely better off using something like regular massages first. Massage helps to promote healing and improve your ability to move your joints in a pain-free, non-invasive way.

Minimal Side Effects

With anti-inflammatory drugs and painkillers, you can experience relief from your symptoms. They don’t get to the root of the issue, though. They also can come with a lot of potentially dangerous side effects. This includes things like digestive issues, dizziness, and an increased risk of cardiovascular problems.

Reduced Pain and Soreness

You don’t need painkillers to help you feel relief from the sore muscles and discomfort brought on by RSIs. Massage therapy can help to loosen up tight muscles and provide relief from any pain you might feel. Massage also triggers the release of endorphins. Endorphins are feel-good chemicals that can help alleviate pain. 

Improved Circulation

Massage also helps to promote better blood circulation throughout the body. When your blood can flow through your body in an efficient way, your muscles, tendons, and ligaments can get rid of waste products and heal more quickly. This, in turn, can help to reduce your pain and make the recovery process much more efficient. The increased blood flow brought on by massage can help promote faster tissue regeneration, too.

Improved Range of Motion

As you joints, muscles, and tendons begin to heal, you’ll find that it’s much easier for you to move your joints through a full range of motion once again. You won’t have to worry about compensating with other muscles and will be able to move in the most efficient and effective way possible. 

Decreased Injury Risk

In addition to helping you move better, regular massages can help to decrease your risk of developing RSIs in the future. Often, when an RSI occurs, it’s because you’re not taking proper care of the joint (or joints) that you rely on most often. By making massage a priority, you can ensure that those joints get the attention they need in order to function well. As a result, you’ll be less likely to need to take time off and rehabilitate them later on.

Improved Relaxation

Getting regular massages to help with your RSI can also help you relax and feel less stressed out, too. When you’re relaxed and managing your stress in a more effective way, your body has more resources at its disposal to help you heal. This, in turn, will help you get back to work or back to your sport of choice much sooner.

Get a Massage for Your RSI Today

As you can see, there are lots of reasons why you might want to use massage as your repetitive strain injury treatment of choice. Massage works well on its own or paired with other modalities to help minimize pain and improve your range of motion. If you want to experience all the benefits of massage, though, you need to make sure you’re working with the right massage therapist. If you live in or around the Saratoga Springs or Malta areas, we’re here for you at Saratoga Sports Massage. We use a variety of massage techniques to help you move better and feel your best.

Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.

Special Events & Programs

BROOKS BBQ TUESDAY

Tuesday, July 13 • 3 – 6 p.m. 

Sponsored by CDPHP. Chicken Dinner: $14. Rib Dinner: $16. Dinners include Baked Potato, Coleslaw, Roll. Valet Service Pick Up: Skip finding a parking space and getting out of the car. Curbside Day of Sales: Forgot to order your dinner? You can come and get your meal day of. Bulk Orders Delivery (15 or more): We will deliver to your office or place of business! Want to have a Backyard party and not cook?! Order Brooks dinners for your event. Call 518-584-1621 to order.

SPAC IS BACK! PERK FOR SENIOR CENTER MEMBERS ONLY

Limited discounted SPAC tickets are back for Ballet & Orchestra. To place your order, call the Senior Centers front desk from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.: 518-584-1621. Premium seating: $37. Standard seating: $27.Tickets limited to one ticket per show per member. Sitting Together? You must buy tickets together. No refunds or exchanges. All tickets must be picked up at the Saratoga Senior Center. We will notify you when they are in. 

• New York City Ballet – NYCB On the Off Stage               

  Short Stories

  Wednesday, July 14 • 7:30 p.m.
  Thursday, July 15 • 7:30 p.m.
  Saturday, July 17 • 2p.m. 

  All Balanchine 

  Thursday, July 15 • 2 p.m.
  Friday, July 16 • 7:30 p.m.
  Satursday, July 17 • 7:30 p.m.

• The Philadelphia Orchestra Returns!

   Wednesday, August 11 • 8 p.m.

• Coleman, Bach & Brahms 

   Thursday, August 12 • 8 p.m.

• Yannick Leads Frank & Mozart

   Friday, August 13 • 8 p.m.

• Joshua Bell Returns!

   Saturday, August 14 • 8 p.m. 

NEW! FREE PITNEY MEADOWS POP UP FRESH PANTRY 

Mondays • 11 a.m. until gone

At the Saratoga Senior Center.We are collaborating with Pitney Meadows in their Food Security Access to Farm-Fresh Produce program. They are committed to provide fresh produce donations to food pantries, senior programs, and other programs to feed the community. Sponsored by MVP Healthcare.

FRIDAY BACKYARD BBQ LUNCH!

Fridays •  11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Pricing depends on Menu. Hot dogs always available for $2. Join Abby & Anna on Friday afternoons for some BBQ and fun! Come hang out with your friends & make the most of summer days! Different fun activity every week. Live Music Schedule: Bonnie Grecco: July 16. Bill Gervasio: July 30. Music without BBQ is covered under the monthly activity fee, Silver sneakers or pay $5 per person. 

LUNCHTIME CONCERT SERIES IS BACK

Concerts are held in the parking lot of the Spa City Motor Lodge, 413 Broadway unless otherwise indicated. Chairs are provided. This event is free. Donations are appreciated. 

• July 13 • 12 p.m.: Red Canna

Chamber jazz group playing the original compositions and arrangements of pianist/composer Elizabeth Woodbury Kasius and a selection of other modern composers.

What’s Happening at the Center

NEW! BARBER AT THE CENTER

2nd Monday of the Month • 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

$5 haircuts for men. Ryan will be coming to the Center to cut our men members hair. Must call the front desk to make an appointment. 

TAROT CARD READINGS 

Last Thursday of the Month • 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. 

$5 suggested donation. Mary is back! Do you have some unanswered questions about your life? A tarot card reading provides guidance to gain an insight into what the future holds through the use of a special deck of cards. Call to make a 15 minute appointment. 

BREAKFAST & LEARN    

Monday, July 26 • 9 a.m. 

Everything you need to know about advance directives, proxies and wills. Facilitated by Debra Verni of Herzog Law. Breakfast is $3.50 and begins at 9 followed by the presentationa at 9:30 a.m. Choices regarding medical care and financial decisions are within your control. Advance directives, which include power of attorney and health care proxy, are the legal documents, which allow you to designate individuals to make decisions related to your medical care and finances if you become incapacitated. Presentation and Q&A. Please sign up.

WRITING YOUR MEMOIRS 

Thursdays • 10-11 a.m.

Facilitated by Jackie, Skidmore intern at the Center. Write your stories and memories so that you and your loved ones can cherish them for a lifetime. No experience necessary. Jackie will guide you and give you prompts if needed. Please sign up. 

INDEPENDENT LIVING WITH AGING VISION

Wednesday, July 28 • 1 p.m. 

Facilitated by Lisa Jordan of The Northeastern Association of the Blind at Albany (NABA). An engaging presentation designed for adults to learn about the leading causes of vision loss, early warning signs, eye health, vision rehabilitation therapy and low vision adaptive aids, such as magnifiers, large print and talking items. To reserve your seat, contact the Saratoga Senior Center Front Desk. 

GROWING MICROGREENS

Tuesday, July 27 • 11 a.m. 

Facilitated by Capital Roots and sponsored by BlueCross BlueShield. At the Center under the tent. If you don’t have space for gardening, microgreens are a great option because they can be grown easily on a sunny windowsill. Microgreens are miniature versions of plants and they’re packed with lots of nutrients. Join Capital Roots’ educator to discuss the benefits of eating microgreens, how to grow them, and how to incorporate them into your meals. Please RSVP.

CHIT CHAT & MUSIC GROUP 

Mondays • 1 p.m. at the Center 

Looking for something fun to do? Join our Chit Chat & Music Group. Facilitated by Skidmore Intern, Abby. Join Abby for a fun hour of chit chat, laughs and music! Meet new friends and connect with old ones!

ART SHOW

July 13-23: Barry Finley will have his art displayed in the dining room for you to view. Please stop by and enjoy his unique works. If anyone else wants to show their work, call the Center.

ONE DAY BUS TRIPS A DAY IN VERMONT 

Tuesday, July 20

$55 member price. Non members welcome, please call the front desk. A Unique Vermont Experience! Shop and lunch in Manchester. Head to the Friesians of Majesty horse farm for a tour and show. These horses are stunning. Located in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains on a 650-acre full-service breeding and training facility. Leave at 7:45 a.m. 

For anyone with an economics background the last year has been an interesting opportunity to witness the theories and accepted tenets put to the test. We’ve seen an unprecedented shutdown of much of the private sector, a displacement of workers in nearly every sector, a breakdown of the supply chains providing the basic necessities of everyday life, and a massive taking from future taxpayers to help keep businesses and households afloat while government agencies debate a myriad of policy solutions of varying efficacy. 

At its core, what this year has shown us is that economies are far too large and infinitely interconnected to be manipulated with precision: every policy has unintended consequences. Some of these turn out to be beneficial, and some to our detriment. 

Because the economy was in such a strong position prior to the pandemic, we believe the timeline and breadth of the recovery will be relatively short and wide. Had we been in an economic downturn at the end of 2019, we would be singing a very different tune.

The US government pumped $5 Trillion into the economy last year in an effort to help households and businesses bridge the pandemic. While the intention is laudable, it is not without consequences. This money will need to be paid back at some point, with interest, by our children and grandchildren. Expect future tax rates to consequently be higher than today.

Having increased the money supply by 30% in just one year, the economy is now awash in cash, and is ripe to experience higher rates of inflation than many of us have seen in a very long time. For over a decade, inflation has been extremely tame, but that is unlikely to last. Cases in point: the price of gas is up over 20% from pre-pandemic levels, and used cars are up 30% while clothing is up 7%. Higher inflation hurts the most economically vulnerable among us, including low-income families and the elderly, and may further exacerbate social inequities we are purportedly committed to quelling. 

A lack of supply is also working to drive up prices. Everything from chicken wings to motor vehicles are seeing steep price increases due to strained supply chains and heightened demand. While some of this is simply due to a lag from the time production resumes to when consumers receive goods, a large part is also due to a lack of the most basic resource in production: labor.

There are some who will say that the current unemployment benefits are not high enough to replace lost wages, and therefore cannot be a disincentivizing workers from returning to work. That simply isn’t true. Even if we grant that benefits are not high enough to replace earnings in every case, for the remainder we need to acknowledge that there is a benefit derived from just not doing anything. In other words, for many, the sum of the benefit derived from staying home, and the benefits received from the State is higher than the benefit of returning to work. While that’s well-intentioned, it’s not helpful to the recovery.

If I’m wrong, you won’t see any improvement in unemployment figures as benefits wind down.   

Furthermore, since we’re paying people to stay home, potential employers are not competing for labor at the market rate, they are competing with the State for labor at a subsidized rate. As a result, we’re seeing huge increases in wages for traditionally low-paying jobs. Many fast food restaurants in our area are offering more than $15.50/hour to start, and teen employment is at its highest level in decades as teens happily take jobs from those still sitting on the sidelines. Higher input costs yield higher output prices.

Markets are efficient, sometimes painfully. These issues will generally work themselves out on the macro level, but that means many may be left worse off in the wake.

As unemployment benefits wane, a glut of labor is likely to hit the workforce, which could actually end up driving down wages in many sectors, especially for workers in lower-skilled positions. With prices likely to increase for some time, these workers will be even more greatly impacted.

While we don’t expect the hyper inflation of the 1980s, we do expect higher inflation than many have ever experienced. At some point, sooner than many anticipate, the Fed will need to raise interest rates, which will have a cascading effect through the economy. As the cost of borrowing increases, businesses will be less able to build or upgrade factories and equipment to increase production. The cost of home ownership will continue to rise. 

It’s not all doom and gloom, and we think the coming year should continue to improve for most, but we are concerned about the long-term well-being of those who may be less able to adapt to what could be a rapidly changing economic landscape.

With all of the changes we’re sure to experience as the recovery picture becomes more clear, it’s as important as ever to make sure you work closely with your CFP® to chart your path through the recovery, and to capitalize on opportunities wherever they may be. Your commitment to your goals doesn’t change, but your strategy may need to.

Stephen Kyne, CFP® is a Partner at Sterling Manor Financial in Saratoga Springs and Rhinebeck.

Securities offered through Cadaret, Grant & Co., Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Sterling Manor Financial, LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor or Cadaret Grant & Co., Inc. Sterling Manor Financial and Cadaret, Grant are separate entities.

We do picnic-type meals with some frequency during the summer, whether at the lake or the park or on road trips. Figuring out foods that are fairly easy to prepare and eat, can be made in large quantities, travel well, and have a high likelihood of being eaten by the majority of my children has been a task I’ve spent a lot of time on. 

When I was growing up, any time we were going to be in the van for a while, my mom would bring a loaf of bread and a package of bologna or sliced ham and pass back sandwiches as kids were hungry. To this day, bologna on bread is one of my favorite things to eat, no joke! But the family I’ve created with my husband doesn’t care for bologna on bread, or ham on bread (some of them don’t like anything on bread, crazy kids!), so I’ve had to get creative with food-on-the-road. Here are some of our recent favorites:

MEATBALLS OR MEATBALL SLIDERS

It’s so easy to put a tray of frozen meatballs in the oven for twenty minutes, let them cool for ten, and then pop them in a container to go. I’ve done this while getting everyone and everything ready for whatever excursion we’re setting out on. I bring a bag of rolls (already sliced, or I pry them open with my fingers) and put one meatball in each one for an easy slider. I also bring a bunch of forks for those who don’t like sandwiches and hand out meatballs speared on the end of the forks like lollipops, which the younger kids especially like. 

HOT DOGS

As with the meatballs, I put the hot dogs on a tray in the oven for twenty minutes and let them cool for ten. If I have enough time, I like to then put each hot dog in a bun and then wrap it up in parchment paper or foil — my kids tend to get more excited about food that’s individually wrapped (and honestly, so do I!). If I don’t have the time, or I know people are feeling extra anti-sandwich-y that day, I’ll put the hot dogs in a container and bring the buns and some forks, just like with the meatballs.

CHICKEN NUGGETS

Like with the meatballs and hot dogs, the frozen nuggets go in the oven on a tray for twenty minutes and then cool for ten. In our house, a cooked component (even if it’s no longer hot by the time we eat it) is fairly crucial to happy on-the-go eating, and chicken nuggets are particularly kid-friendly.

PIZZA BITES

Yes, one last heat-and-go option! I get a huge bag of pizza bites — usually just cheese so my littlest guys don’t freak out (which also makes this good for Meatless Friday families) — and put them in a big container. It’s really cute to see my boys standing around the big bowl of pizza bites, popping one after another — there’s something really appealing about a container of easy finger foods.

QUESADILLAS

My last go-to option requires a bit more hands-on work, but takes less time overall. I cook simple quesadillas in a frying pan: just tortillas and cheese, which makes this another great meatless option. When I’m making quesadillas for an at-home meal, I’ll include chicken and veggies, but for travel, cheese is good enough. This is another food that wraps up nicely in individual portions — I cut them into wedges and wrap two or more wedges up in parchment or foil for easy distribution. 

The items mentioned above serve as the “anchor” of my on-the-go meals — a part of a formula I use every time: main dish plus chips plus fruit plus dessert. I buy those big bags containing individual chip bags, as well as fruit (fresh when I can take the time to wash it and figure out a good crush-proof container — grapes are some of the easiest to travel with, as are a bag of clementines — but often applesauce pouches, which are so easy) and usually a dessert (a box of cookies, for example). The container of cooked food, the fruit, and the dessert fit inside a reusable shopping bag, and the big bag of chip bags gets carried alongside. Easy peasy! I generally don’t worry about plates, but I do try to make sure to bring a lot of napkins. And having the boys bring their school water bottles is the easiest beverage solution.

I hope this is helpful to you as you spend time outside and/or on the road with your family this summer!

Kate and her husband have seven sons ages 16, 14, 13, 11, 9, 7, and 2. Follow her at www.facebook.com/kmtowne23, or email her at kmtowne23@gmail.com.

I’m guessing your kids are signed up for a sport this summer or maybe they will participate in sports at summer camp. The coaches and counselors will focus on skills like dribbling the basketball, shooting the soccer ball, bouncing a tennis ball on a racket and other sport specific skills. But how many will report that they did any running? Too often the focus is on the specific sport and yet almost every sport involves running! What is challenging about running and why should your child practice? Running is the basis of all sports!

The following fundamental movements are the best for recruiting muscles, increasing coordination, and building the basis for future skill development. 

1. Throwing and Catching
2. Jumping/Hopping
3. Running
4. Kicking
5. Ball Bounce
6. Stopping/Starting

We quickly encourage our kids to focus on all, but often with very little emphasis on number 3. Running is part of just about every sport! Does this mean your athlete should be putting in miles every day? Absolutely not. For kids it is all about fun and movement. However, paying a little bit of attention to how we move can set them up for success later on – whether in competitive sports or entering that first 5K in their 30s!

If I could meet with your kids and offer advice, I would encourage the following:

1. Eyes focused forward throughout the run
2. Feet landing right below hips
3. Arms bent at elbows and drives back
4. Feet land at midfoot
5. Body lean is from the ankle

Sports programs start for kids as young as 3-5. The free Kids Runs at the Freihofer’s Run for Women offer opportunities from 50m up to the mile and we have kids running, walking, and toddling! As they get older the distances can increase which is why we offer the Junior 3K for kids up to the age of 14. This 1.86-mile run is the perfect distance for those who like to use running to stay active and maybe help their other sporting endeavors.

Proper form does matter – at all ages!

Fun and functional should be the focus.

Dynamic warm up

Pick 4 and do 8-12 reps:
• 1/2 lap around a field skipping
• Leg swings (front-back, side-side)
• Squat to calf raise
• Walking lunge
• High knees
• Butt kicks
• Frankenstein walks
• Carioca (grapevine)
• Run backwards
• Ice skaters

COOL DOWN

Hold stretches for 30 seconds:

• Calf stretch
• Quad stretch
• Hamstring stretch

TRAINING PLAN

The key is making a plan work for your child. Everything can be adapted, and fun comes first. There are additional resources at www.freihofersrun.com. Each week has three days of running. Group A is younger or just starting to run. Group B is 5th grade up or already running.

Week 1: Equal run/walk time
Group A :30 run/:30 walking for 10-15 minutes
Group B 1 min run/1 min walk for 10-15 min.

Week 2: Same as week one or add 5 minutes to each run session.

Week 3 and 4:
Group A :45/:45
Group B 2 min/2 min. Goal at least 15 min

Week 5:
Group A 1 min run/1 min walk
Group B 3/1. Goal is 15 min.

Week 6:
Group A 2 min run/2 min walk
Group B 5 min run/1 min walk for 15-20 min

Week 7:
Group A 3 min run/2 min walk for 15-20 min
Group B 7 min run/1 min walk for 20 min. Pick one day and run straight for 1 mile.

Week 8:
Group A 4 min run/1 min walk
Group B run 10 min/walk 1. 25 min

Week 9:
Group A 5 min run/1min walk
Group B run 1 mile/walk 1 min/run to 25 min. One day run 2 miles.

Week 10:
Group A 7 min run/1 min walk for 25 min
Group B 1 mile run/1 min walk/1mile run

Kristen Hislop is the Director of the Freihofer’s Run for Women and the owner of Hislop Coaching. Hislop Coaching is happy to meet with youth athletes to design an effective program.

For more visit www.freihofersrun.com and www.hislopcoaching.com.

“A comfort zone is a beautiful place, but nothing ever grows there…” – Author Unknown

The comfort zone is a unique place where one feels safe, in control, and content. Who wouldn’t want to stay there? A person who chooses to grow and evolve. That’s who!

So, what does it take to leave the zone?

1. Commitment
Resolving to remain on the growing edge of life, at any age.

2. Desire 
Seeking to identify meaningful ways to expand your lifestyle, attracting the new experience, people, and opportunities you’ve been hoping to find.

3. Willingness
Spontaneously opening up to new possibilities, giving yourself permission to try something new out of the ordinary. 

4. Confidence
Arriving at a place where you know you are ready and feel the task is achievable. Possessing a positive attitude and approach. 

5. Prepared
You’ve done your research to determine if your goal is realistic and how to proceed. At this juncture you need to be humble and ask for the emotional, technical, or physical support you need to be successful.

6. Opportunity
Are you looking for a once in a lifetime experience or seeking an ongoing experience? Sometimes you simply are unaware of what piques your interest until the right opportunity comes along. It may take the form of a group or venue. Other times, you may be the catalyst who initiates the process via a blog, newsletter, or a newly formed group. What truly matters is that you watch for clues and respond to opportunities that arise.

7. Acceptance
Be kind to yourself. Avoid forced outcomes, unnecessary pressure, and unrealistic expectations. Release control. Trust the process. Accept the outcome without judgement.

Remember growth takes time, patience, and persistence. If you enjoy a new activity, stick with it. Otherwise, move onto the next experience. Proceed at your own pace, build up your skills and confidence. Maybe start with a small step. Do something you feel very comfortable doing. Then move on to an unfamiliar task. 

There are not rules; it’s a growth process. 

Attitude is everything. 

This is the way I’ve always done it. I am not going to change. There is nothing new for me! VS. I’m choosing to open myself up to a new way of doing things. With the right information, tools, and support I can accomplish anything. There is a whole universe to be explored and enjoyed just waiting for me. 

The decision is yours This is your unique life.

Stay on the sidelines and play it safe, Or Take a leap of faith, try something new, and grow!

The Persian mystic Rumi one said, 

“When you go to a garden, do you look at thorns or flowers? Spend more time with the Jasmine.”

Step up! Step out of your comfort zone. I wish you a joyful, interesting …and fragrant life!

I remember the evening vividly.

I was standing outside on Broadway on a cold November night having just finished dinner with a group of friends. One of my friends introduced me to Arthur Gonick who was writing for Saratoga Today newspaper and had a social scene weekly feature. Arthur asked what I did for a living and was intrigued that I was a psychotherapist. I told him I had always wanted to write a column for a newspaper based on the techniques and interventions I used in my practice.  This was my beginning with Saratoga Publishing. My first article was in December of 2008 and as they say, the rest is HERSTORY. 

Coming up with monthly content for the Families Today section was so often based on personal experiences of loss, heartbreak, and dysfunctional relationships sprinkled with insight and humor.

Writing became my own personal therapist and way to heal my own struggles and challenges. Often times when writing an article I would realize I wrote the solution to a problem I was having in my own life with a difficult relationship or work situation. Looking back, I realize my Families Today Column has been my trusted advisor and loyal therapist in my own life.

Writing has always been a way for me to release and express everything I want to say or wish I had said to my younger self or the version of myself that struggled with feeling worthy and self-confident. I look back on my 13 years with this column and see how I grew with every article written.

My favorite days were the ones where an unexpected email would pop into my inbox thanking me for writing something that helped unlock insight and freedom from a toxic relationship or environment. One unforgettable evening was when someone walked by me in a restaurant and yelled, “GPS! I now follow my own inner GPS and it never steers me wrong, Thank you!”

Working on this team and writing this column has been an incredibly fulfilling journey and one that has been life changing and affirming.

As I tell all of you, following our intuition (aka internal GPS) is essential to honoring our peace of mind in every-day life.  The season of life I am currently in with my own practice, family and almost five year old is one that keeps every minute of time accounted for. 

For me to make the space to write from a place of inspiration and creativity I have to have time to let ideas flow and inspiration guide. Post Covid I find myself working hard to carve out space for the people and things I love. I am trying to take as much off of my plate as possible to make more space for NOTHING! I know that this space will help refresh my ability to creatively express myself through writing and other mediums.

To my readers, THANK YOU. You have inspired me every single month to dig deep and listen to what people are starving for- acceptance, insight and freedom from dysfunctional patterns. I will never stop the journey of wanting to know more and share more. THANK YOU for helping me see my worth.

To my Saratoga Publishing Team, Chad Beatty, Chris Bushee, Arthur Gonick and Robin Mitchell.  Thank you for giving me a chance, the freedom to write about anything and everything and never- ending patience when missing deadlines.  I have loved being a part of this incredible team and community.

To my husband and family, thank you for letting me write about our lives, our relationships and for listening with enthusiasm every month to my new article as if it were my first.

While this is the end to my monthly column I know that I will continue to find ways to do what I love best, helping people be the best version of themselves and healing from the inside out.

WE are worth it!

For more information email meghanfritzlcsw@gmail.com or visit www.fritzstanger.com

First things first…

Thank you for voting for Goodemote Physical Therapy…it’s an honor to be voted “Best of Saratoga for Physical Therapy” for the THIRD YEAR IN A ROW!  From my point of view, the quality of therapy I see at GPT is the best I have ever been a part of in my 24 years of being a PT. 

As the COVID restrictions are being lifted I have been allowing students to return and with that comes an opportunity to, hopefully, influence the next wave of PTs. Having students gives me the opportunity to reflect and consider what principles guide us at GPT. Today I thought it would be a good idea to dive a bit deeper and try to provide examples of what a physical therapist can/should be doing with their patients.

I was the first group of physical therapists that graduated with a Masters Degree in Physcial Therapy and now every PT gets their Doctorate. At my graduation we were told how important it was as a profession to have “more” eduation so we could be better prepared for the changing landscape of healthcare in America. I can say with absolute certainty that this is still stressed and the new generation of PTs learns more than I did in PT school. 

Education is an important foundation for a quality PT…but it’s not the whole story. The other equally important part of being a good PT is what I call the “art of physical therapy.”

When I started my career, I felt like my education had definitely prepared me to see patients and I was raring to go! But one day my surpervisor asked me a question that changed the trajectory of my career because it shifted my mindset. 

He asked me, “why are you doing that exercise with Mrs. Jones?”

I gave him a “textbook” answer…to which he replied, “I don’t care what the book says Matt…I want to know why YOU are doing it!”

This was a defining moment for me and it has stuck with me every since. It may sound obvious, but I had learned to give the “right” answers to get good grades in school, but this is not how it works with patients. The education is the foundation, but there is so much more to actually guiding patients through their rehabilitation. I still review my day and ask myself why “I” am doing what I am doing. It started me on this journey to step outside the “book” answers and find an answer that works for the individual patient. 

As with most medical professions we are taught to use what the most current research shows us is beneficial to patients. I am a big supporter of this philosophy…as a starting point and/or as a guideline…but as with most research there are patients that don’t quite fit into the “typcial” mold. I think it is our job as a physical therapist, to keep our minds open to use what the “book” teaches us AND to interpret the patient’s actual experience to help us decide “why we are doing what we are doing.” 

I call this, “the art of therapy.” 

The “art of therapy” is about relating to patients, using our education to interpret what they are saying and then to guide them to the outcome they want. This is an important part of our role as PTs…to guide the patient to “their outcome.” For me this means remembering that I am treating the whole individual…not just their diagnosis. 

The diagnosis is a helpful starting point for deciding the best course of treatment, it is the “book” part of being a physical therapist. But the person is not a diagnosis…and too often a diagnosis doesn’t take into account the chain reaction that happens to the body, resulting in multiple areas of concern. This is where my job gets fun…interpreting what clues the body is offering to figure out the real source of the problem. 

For example, someone with knee pain from degeneration will often walk with a slightly bent knee (especially when there is swelling). This is because the knee “feels” better when it has a slight bend to it. Unfortunately, this “bent knee gait” often leads to pain behind the knee at the calf and pain on the inner aspect of the thigh. The longer someone walks with the bent position, the more lopsided their hips/pelvis are while walking which in turn will often lead to muscle tension and potential pain in the hips and lower back. So by the time we see this patient, they have 3-4 problems that a diagnosis of knee degeneration simply cannot explain. 

The diagnosis is the “book” part of the condition and the chain reactions are where the “art of therapy is needed. We need to tailor our interventions by taking into account the physical, mental, emotional and social experiences of our patients. The job of the PT is to decipher all this information to understand the “whole person” and then use this to design a program to meet their individual needs and desired outcomes. 

At GPT, we feel that seeing the whole person is the key to success and this can only happen by listening to our patients and helping them achieve the outcomes they want. That is what we are here for and we are happy to help in any way we can!

Winning the “Best of Saratoga for Physical Therapy” is a reminder to keep learning and honing our skills to provide the best care we can and to live up to this honor! Thanks again for voting for Goodemote PT…it is an honor to serve Saratoga!

June Events & Programs
…adding new programs all the time.

RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE

Friday, June 18 • 12 – 6 p.m. 

At the Saratoga Senior Center. 

Visit redcrossblood.org to schedule an appointment.

YARD SALE 

Friday, June 18 • 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. 

Saratoga Senior Center Parking Lot. Music by Jeff Brisbin: 11 a.m. -12 p.m. Concession Stand: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Tie dye station $5. Tarot Card Reading with Mary Shimp: 10 a.m.

LUNCHTIME CONCERT SERIES AT NOON IS BACK!

Concerts will be held in the parking lot of the Downtowner Hotel, 413 Broadway, unless otherwise indicated. Chairs provided. Free. Donations appreciated.

• June 15: Devesh and Veena Chandra perform classical music of North India – Devesh’s innovative and imaginative approach and Veena’s mesmerizing sitar makes their performances en-thralling to both Western listeners and Indian classical purists.

• June 22: Red Canna chamber jazz group playing the original compositions and arrangements of pianist/composer Elizabeth Woodbury Kasius and a selection of other modern composers

• June 29: Zan and the Winterfolkan eclectic group of musicians with wide-ranging influences, from folk to bluegrass to jazz to rock. Paired with Strumfelds seductive vulnerability and soulful lyrics, The Winter Folk creates a unique and captivating sound in both their recordings and live performances.

• July 6: Garland Nelson Soulist’ Defined by many spiritual dimensions, Garland is an entertainer’s entertainer. Pure Energy

CHIT CHAT & MUSIC GROUPS

Mondays •  1 p.m. at the Center

Facilitated by Skidmore Interns Abby and Jackie. Join us for a fun hour of chit chat, laughs and music! Meet new friends and connect with old ones! 

WE ARE BACK! GOLF LEAGUE

Tuesdays • 9 a.m.

Call the Front Desk if you are interested in joining. We play 9 holes at Spa State Park on Tuesdays usually around 9 a.m. We are looking for someone to assist the front desk in facilitating the league. 

TUESDAY “TO-GO” MEALS

Call the front desk to order. $11 Pre-order meals by 4 p.m. the day before. Sponsored by The Home of the Good Shepherd and Humana Healthcare. We will deliver to Senior Housing Sites if you put a bulk order together (10 or more dinners).

 • Tuesday, June 15: Longfellows

• Tuesday, June 22: Simply Food by Maura –

   Roast Turkey Dinner – stuffing, mashed potato,
   gravy, green beans. 

• Tuesday, June 29: Home of the Good Shepherd

BINGO & SOUP! 

Wednesdays • 11:30 a.m. 

Bingo: 12:30 p.m. Join us for homemade soup, $3 per cup then join in a rousing game of Bingo! Welcome new caller, Tony!

TAROT CARD READINGS 

Last Thursday of the Month • 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. 

Welcome back Mary Shimp! Call the Front Desk to make a 15-minute tarot card reading appointment. $5 suggested donation.

10 WARNING SIGNS OF ALZHEIMERS   

Wednesday, June 16 • 11:30 a.m. via ZOOM 

Facilitated by Katie Keary, Alzheimer’s Association. June is Alzheimer’s & Brain awareness month! Alzheimer’s and other dementias cause memory, thinking, and behavior chang¬es that interfere with daily living. Learn about common warning signs of Alzheimer’s and what symptoms to look for in yourself and others, as well as tips to approach someone who is experiencing changes in their memory, the benefit of early detection and diagnosis, and more.

DIABETES 101 – 2 PART SERIES 

Thursday, June 17 and Monday, June 21

Via ZOOM. Facilitated and sponsored by MVP.

Part 1: Become knowledgeable about the different types of diabetes, how they are diagnosed, signs and symptoms, etc. A cooking demo geared toward healthy eating with diabetes will be presented.

Part 2: I have diabetes, now what? Learn about the screenings and tests that you need so you can live well with diabetes. 

GROWING MICROGREENS

Tuesday, June 22, 11 a.m. 

At the Center. Facilitated by Capital Roots and sponsored by BlueCross BlueShield. If you don’t have space for gardening, microgreens are a great option because they can be grown easily on a sunny windowsill. As the name implies, microgreens are miniature versions of plants and they’re packed with lots of nutrients. Join Capital Roots’ educator to discuss the benefits of eating microgreens, how to grow them, and how to incorporate them into your meals.

NEW SUMMER SKIDMORE INTERNS & CLASSES

Keep an eye on the eblast for new programs! Jackie, Maya & Abby have some great ideas for summer classes.

YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR FREE CLASSES AT THE SENIOR CENTER!

Do you carry United Healthcare and are 65+ years? You may be eligible for Renew Active and free classes at the Center. Do you carry any of the following Medicare advantage plans: BlueCross BlueShield, BlueShield of NENY, CDPHP,  EmblemHealth, Empire BlueCross, Empire BlueCross BlueShield, healthfirst, Humana, Independent Health, MVP, or WellCare? You may be eligible for the Silver Sneakers program and free classes at the Center

VAN TRIPS ARE BACK! 

Lunch Bunch: Water’s Edge Lighthouse – Tuesday, June 15

The Water’s Edge Lighthouse is located in Schenectady on the shore of the Mohawk River. The scenic location is a wonderful backdrop with which to enjoy a good meal. Leave the Center at 11 a.m. Pay $10 at sign up. Please bring additional money for lunch.

Berkshire Botanical Garden – Monday, June 21

Enjoy an exciting, guided walking tour, led by experienced Garden Guides. A “museum of living things,” the Garden features dozens of display areas that are educational and highly ornamental, with plant collections emphasizing plants that are native to the Northeast. Have lunch at Pleasant and Main, a hidden cottage restaurant in the gorgeous Berkshires. Leave at 8:15 a.m. and return about 4 p.m. Pay $28 at sign-up. Please bring additional money for lunch. 

Van Trip Protocol: Van trips are open to members only. You must sign up with the front desk. Masks must be worn on the van.