South Glens Falls ­— There are plenty of smiles under those masks as employees at the South Glens Falls Hannaford store present donations to Operation Adopt A Soldier (OAAS) to be used in free comfort kits sent to U.S. soldiers serving in areas of conflict. 

Shoppers at the South Glens Falls, Glens Falls, Queensbury and Hudson Falls Hannaford stores are invited to purchase and donate items to OAAS through the end of August as the non-profit marks one year since a devastating fire destroyed its Wilton headquarters.

An August 2019 fire that destroyed Operation Adopt A Soldier’s (OAAS) Wilton headquarters didn’t damage the all-volunteer group’s determination to restore its services to America’s soldiers.OAAS announced that four Hannaford stores in the southern Adirondacks are serving as collection sites for a month-long campaign to replenish OAAS’ inventory with donations from shoppers.

The collection bins are located behind the front-end cash registers. Shoppers can place their donations in the bins after checking out. A “wish list” of accepted items is posted on the bins.

The participating Hannaford locations are: 190 Quaker Road, Queensbury; 175 Broad St., Glens Falls; 3758 Burgoyne Ave., Hudson Falls; 27-41 Route 9, South Glens Falls.

“We are grateful to Hannaford for stepping up and assisting us in our mission to provide our brave soldiers with a little taste of home,” said Cliff Seguin, OAAS founder/co-chair. “OAAS only survives because of donations from our always-generous and caring public and business communities. It’s our never-ending mission to show everyone’s support for our military personnel serving in dangerous areas, far from home and family.”

The August 17, 2019 fire destroyed a multi-use structure on Route 50, Wilton, that included the OAAS office. Nearly all the group’s possessions – including 260 packed comfort kits awaiting Postal Service pickup – were destroyed. The structure has not been rebuilt.

Within days, OAAS relocated to a warehouse donated by Wilton businessman Richard Woodcock at 891 Saratoga Road (Route 9), Wilton. He’s also paying for the office utilities until OAAS finds a permanent home. Woodcock’s property is for sale or lease.

“Our volunteers were understandably shocked and devastated by the fire,” said Seguin. “But the public’s reaction to our misfortune was astounding and heartfelt. Donations poured in once everyone found out we had a temporary home, and we’ve been consistently sending the care packages ever since, except during the pandemic shutdown.”

OAAS accepts public donations at its Wilton office from 10 a.m. to noon each Thursday and Saturday, and by appointment for large-volume donations.

Meanwhile, the Chapman Museum at 348 Glen St., Glens Falls, continues to serve as an OAAS donation site while its reopening exhibit, “Let’s All Fight,” runs through Sept. 20. The exhibit honors the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II with a display of WWII-era propaganda posters that detail stateside efforts to support America’s soldiers serving overseas. Museum officials noted OAAS’ modern-day services form a bridge to America’s efforts during the 1940s.

OAAS, an all-volunteer, 501(c)3 non-profit, uses product and monetary donations to fill comfort kits that are shipped to U.S. military personnel serving in areas of conflict. The kits are free; each box costs $12 to ship.

Acceptable items include non-perishable food, snacks, candy/gum, toiletries, energy bars/drinks, CDs/DVDs, stationery, paperback books, games, puzzle books, sports gear, over-the-counter health products and phone cards. A detailed list of items is posted on www.operationadoptasoldier.com

OAAS cannot ship perishable/refrigerated foods, aerosols, cologne/perfume, hardcover books, used clothing and alcohol.

Useful donations that cannot be shipped or don’t fit in the boxes are donated to area charities.

SARATOGA SPRINGS —Thoroughbred and Standardbred horses often have stigmas set against them that they can be wild and unruly animals. This myth is most likely based around the fact that racehorses, just like any other athlete, enjoy what they do and put a lot of energy towards their goals. Horses love to run, and most racehorses are quite young and full of excitement when they are racing. That is what makes them good at what they do.

However, horses, just like people, have many different energy and mood levels, and their environment can have a large impact on how they react. So, one can imagine that being in large space surrounded by other horses and thousands of fans can get a horse amped up – and isn’t that what fans want from an animal about to race to the finish line?

Once these racehorses have transitioned into retirement, though, we see a drastic change in their energy levels. Some horses still love to have a very active, go-getter lifestyle – but many enjoy a leisurely life once given the chance.

The first step in finding the right ex-racehorse for a life in equine therapy is to determine what kind of horse they are. Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga look for a horse that more often craves an easy-going life because that is what we can provide for them. It is very important that the horse thrives in and enjoys the life that we give them just as much as we do.

Next, transition into their new world can take time depending on whether they are coming right off the track. A horse who transitions straight from the track environment to farm life will more likely take much longer to settle into their new life because they are both in a new home with new friends and also in a whole new world. In contrast, a horse who has already been in retirement for a while – for example, a mare who transitioned into breeding for some years after racing – can have an easier time of transition into a new home because they just need to be integrated into a new herd, not a whole new life.

Making the right decision on when to start training comes from taking the time to get to know the horse and observing them in their new environment. You want to be careful not to overwhelm the horse too quickly with too much new information. Just like humans, they will need time to create a life within their new home.

Once the horse has settled, it is time to begin training. Training for a therapy horse varies depending on what specific type of equine therapy is involved, but many components remain the same.

Pictured above, Taylor and Tommy Krogmann, two Act  With Respect Always (AWRA) followers, show off the AWRA face masks. Rich Johns, founder of the nonprofit, has sent over 150 masks to the community at no cost. Anyone interested in receiving a mask can contact Johns’ email at acejohns@aol.com. Their website can be accessed at actwithrespectalways.com and Facebook at www.facebook.com/actwithrespectalways/.

BALLSTON LAKE – Girl Scouts of Northeastern New York (GSNENY) congratulates Raia James, Sara Casale and Tiffany Cospito for becoming a Gold Award Girl Scout.

James earned the designation by creating a school supply closet at Paige Elementary School to address an ongoing need for school supplies throughout the school year. Casale started a self-confidence program for select eight grade students in the Shenendehowa Central School District to earn the designation. Cospito earned the award by starting a children’s music program at Hospicio San Jose, an orphanage in Guatemala.

Gold Award Girl Scouts don’t just change the world for the better but they change it for good. The Gold Award is earned by girls in grades ninth through twelfth who demonstrate extraordinary leadership in developing sustainable solutions to local, national, and global challenges. Since 1916, Girl Scouts have answered the call to drive lasting, impactful change.

The Gold Award is earned by a Girl Scout who works to address an issue they’re passionate about in a way that produces meaningful and lasting change. Whether it’s on a local, national, or global level, Gold Award Girl Scouts provide innovative solutions to significant challenges.

“Gold Award Girl Scouts don’t just change the world for the better, they change it for good—and [each girl] embodies everything this achievement stands for,” said Mary Buszuwski, GSNENY CEO. “[They all] addressed an issue that’s important to them—educational equity—for her Gold Award, and we congratulate [these girls] on this momentous accomplishment.”

Girl Scouts is 2.5 million strong—more than 1.7 million girls and 750,000 adults who believe in the power of every G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker, Leader) to change the world. Girl Scouts’ extraordinary journey began more than 100 years ago with the original G.I.R.L., Juliette Gordon “Daisy” Low. On March 12, 1912, in Savannah, Georgia, she organized the very first Girl Scout troop, and every year since, we’ve honored her vision and legacy, building girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. We’re the preeminent leadership development organization for girls. And with programs from coast to coast and across the globe, Girl Scouts offers every girl a chance to practice a lifetime of leadership, adventure, and success. 

BALLSTON SPA – Saratoga 4-H staff delivered trophies to winners of the Youth Video Challenge for the Virtual Saratoga County Fair. 4-H members were asked to be submit videos about the animal species they would typically bring to the Saratoga County Fair. This Video challenge provided youth an opportunity to show case their animals and knowledge of the species they care for. Educators and animal science professionals judged the videos on Wednesday, July 22 and winners were awarded on Thursday the 24.

The Saratoga County Fair is the most anticipated event of the year for 4-H members. Youth work year round to breed, care for, and prepare their animals to be shown at this annual event. In the past, around 200 youth across the county participate in animal shows, species including: dairy cattle, beef cattle, horses, rabbits, sheep, goats and more. Youth and their animals are judged for cleanliness, animal confirmation, genetics, and other aspects of animal health. The cancelation of the Saratoga County Fair was devastating, yet youth came together to exhibit their animal in a fun and educational way.

The Youth Video Challenge for the Virtual Saratoga County Fair had three categories, Cloverbud, ages 8 and under, Jr., ages 9-12, and Sr., ages 13-18. Cloverbuds receive participation awards and first, second and third place trophies were given to the top three videos submitted.

Trophy Winners are as follows:

Senior Division:

First- Kohlby Himelrick with his Goat

Second- Julia Bodien with her Rabbit

Third- Collin Anderson with his Sheep

Junior Division

First- Eva Anderson with her Rabbit

Second- Aaron Myatt with his Guinea Pig

Third- Eva Anderson with her Chicken

Congrats to our winners. Despite the County Fair being canceled, Saratoga County 4-H has been working to create and renew our diverse educational opportunities to fit the changing educational climate. For more information about 4-H Animal Science opportunities, please contact Brieanna Hughes at bh548@cornell.edu or visit our website at http://ccesaratoga.org/.

BALLSTON SPA – Saratoga 4-H staff delivered trophies to winners of the Youth Video Challenge for the Virtual Saratoga County Fair. 4-H members were asked to submit videos about the animal species they would typically bring to the Saratoga County Fair. The Video challenge provided youth an opportunity to showcase their animals and knowledge of the species they care for. Educators and animal science professionals judged the videos on Wednesday, July 22 and winners were awarded on Thursday the 24. 

The Saratoga County Fair is the most anticipated event of the year for 4-H members. Youth work year round to breed, care for, and prepare their animals to be shown at this annual event. In the past, around 200 youth across the county participate in animal shows, species including: dairy cattle, beef cattle, horses, rabbits, sheep, goats and more. Youth and their animals are judged for cleanliness, animal confirmation, genetics, and other aspects of animal health. The cancelation of the Saratoga County Fair was devastating, yet youth came together to exhibit their animal in a fun and educational way. 

The Youth Video Challenge for the Virtual Saratoga County Fair had three categories, Cloverbud, ages 8 and under, Jr., ages 9-12, and Sr., ages 13-18. Cloverbuds receive participation awards and first, second and third place trophies were given to the top three videos submitted. 

Trophy Winners are as follows: 

Senior Division: 

First– Kohlby Himelrick with his Goat 

Second– Julia Bodien with her Rabbit 

Third- Collin Anderson with his Sheep 

Junior Division 

First– Eva Anderson with her Rabbit 

Congrats to our winners! Despite the County Fair being canceled, Saratoga County 4-H has been working to create and renew our diverse educational opportunities to fit the changing educational climate. For more information about 4-H Animal Science opportunities, please contact Brieanna Hughes at bh548@cornell.edu or visit our website at ccesaratoga.org.

The historic Roosevelt II Bathhouse at Saratoga Spa State Park. Photos provided. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced the grand reopening of the historic Roosevelt II Bathhouse at Saratoga Spa State Park. 

First opened in 1935 by former New York governor and President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the iconic Georgian Revival-style bathhouse has been closed since falling into disuse in the 1980s. The bathhouse’s reopening is part of a $2.3 million transformational project that is restoring and improving upon the grandeur of the Roosevelt Baths.

“The Roosevelt II Bathhouse is a living piece of New York history that once provided a natural luxury experience to everyday New Yorkers, and by breathing new life into the facility, visitors will once again find themselves enjoying the peace and beauty of Saratoga’s natural springs,” Cuomo said. “New York’s parks are a national treasure and we will continue our hard work across the state to not only maintain them, but make them better than ever and true must-see destinations.”

Under the NY Parks 2020 initiative, the bathhouse’s historic lobby has been restored, new restrooms installed, new heating, ventilation and plumbing systems added, toxic asbestos removed, and programming space added for a planned artistic and wellness center.

Future plans include use of a portion of the 18,000 sq-ft facility by the not-for-profit group COESA. They will use 2,700 square feet to offer retreat experiences and classes in personal well-being, leadership, meditation, professional wellness training, and work-life balance. The facility will open once state regulations aimed at preventing spread of COVID-19 allow.

“This bathhouse will be returning to its original purpose – the enjoyment, well-being and relaxation of those who visit,” State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said. “I commend Governor Cuomo for bringing this historic facility back to life.”

The new coffee shop will be operated by Saratoga County-based Wired Coffee, which currently operates cafes in Malta and the city of Albany.

The COESA facility is across from the Roosevelt Baths and Spa, and is part of the Roosevelt Campus, which includes Parks administrative offices and the Spa Little Theater, as well as two mirror-image mineral water public bathing facilities, and the Hall of Springs.

After the baths were dedicated by President Roosevelt, who was a proponent of curative mineral baths, the facility offered baths until early 1943, when it was converted into a military hospital for disabled veterans. After construction of the Veterans Administration hospital in Albany, the facility was used by State Parks as office space, a restoration shop and storage until the building was closed in the late 1980s.

There is 12,000 feet remaining in the renovated bathhouse to be redeveloped in the future. In 2019, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center received $2 million in Regional Economic Development Council funding to offer substantial new opportunities for public use of the space.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Relocating to Saratoga for the summer meet, many stable workers have traditionally stayed at rudimentary cabins at the Pine Grove Family Camp on Pine Road, located between Washington Street and Grand Avenue on the city’s west side. 

This year, Nick Caras, Programs Director of the NY Chaplaincy, Kim Weir, a Saratoga Volunteer Coordinator, and Mark Kehrer, Pastor of Revelation Church, initiated a collaborative effort with volunteers and community sponsors to improve housing conditions for backstretch families who have traveled to Saratoga for the duration of the meet.

“For a long time, I’ve wished that when the families come up from Belmont to Saratoga, those cabins they stay in would be clean, fresh and welcoming,” Caras says.

By mid-June, 12 families and businesses from the Saratoga community stepped forward and the cleanup began. This week, the crew celebrated completion of the cleanup and the families moved in.

Masks and hand sanitizer were provided by the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, Impressions of Saratoga donated one tote bag full of goodies to each cabin, and Temple Sinai donated one loaf of Challah bread to each cabin. 

“This will be a very different Saratoga racing season than any that came before it but at least it will be a little bit better for these families,” Weir said. “To see so many different entities within the Saratoga community come together to help some families they don’t even know was really heartwarming,” 

Among those who pitched in: Impressions of Saratoga; The Dominguez Family; Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren, and Washington Counties; The Brown Family; The Brindle Family; The Lautenberg Family; Saratoga Springs Friends of Recreation; The Weir Family, The PNECC Social Concerns Committee, The Saratoga Immigration Coalition, Temple Sinai; and Friends of Spa City.

The New York Race Track Chaplaincy ministers to the heart and soul of the backstretch community at Saratoga Race Course as well as Belmont Park and Aqueduct Racetrack with children’s enrichment, social service, recreational programs, educational opportunities and non-denominational social services.

“Champions Talk,” a virtual benefit for the organization featuring Saratoga’s own Tom Durkin along with

Hall of Fame jockeys Ángel Cordero Jr. and Ramón Dominguez, Kentucky Derby winning owner Terry Finley of West Point Thoroughbreds, Churchill Downs’ all-time leading trainer Dale Romans and Pro Football Hall of Fame and two-time Super Bowl winning coach and Thoroughbred owner Bill Parcells will premiere on Facebook and YouTube at 7 p.m. on  Aug. 5. For more information, go to: www.rtcany.org.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Wesley Foundation’s “Share a Step For Seniors” virtual fundraiser raised more than $30,000 to support local seniors served by The Wesley Community, marking a record for the event since its inception in 2018.

Donations received via the virtual fundraiser, which invited community members to work towards a fitness-oriented goal while raising funds, will support The Wesley Community’s continued efforts to serve its residents and staff during the coronavirus global health pandemic. The Wesley Community is a non-profit senior living campus in Saratoga Springs with more than 700 residents.

The 2020 “Share A Step For Seniors” included 50 participants and more than 150 sponsors and donors. The annual event has now raised more than $41,000 and participants have traveled more than 4,200 miles since its inception.

“We are proud to announce a record-setting amount of more than $30,000 for this event, which will go a long way in helping to support the many seniors on our campus,” said J. Brian Nealon, CEO of The Wesley Community. “We are extremely grateful to all of the participants, sponsors and supporters of this event, who not only went above and beyond to help us raise record funds but also helped promote and improve the health and wellness of our community.”

The week-long fitness initiative, which began on June 19 and ran through June 26, offered participants the opportunity to raise funds for The Wesley Community while working towards a fitness-oriented goal. Members were asked to track their workouts, share their progress on social media and encourage friends and family to support their efforts via a donation.

Major sponsors included Stewart’s Shops and the Dake Family, Jim LaVigne and Mary Gavin, Mannix Marketing and Saratoga.com, CDPHP, Ruth Pouliot, Lisa Cardone-O’Connor – Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, Fingerpaint and T.C. Equipment. 

For more information visit www.thewesleycommunity.org.