AMC, which took over operations of the former Bow Tie theater in 2022 is planning changes of its facial exterior.
SARATOGA SPRINGS —The Spa City’s movie theater on Railroad Place may soon have a new face.
AMC Theatres has filed an application with the city Zoning Board of Appeals seeking a re-branding of its exterior signs at 19 Railroad Place.
The proposed action includes larger letter signs – although the overall square footage will not be increased – to read “AMC,” as well as the removal of currently existing metal “bowtie” accents.
Bow Tie Cinemas opened in Wilton and in Saratoga Springs in 2013. The Wilton location closed in 2020 and in April 2022 AMC announced it had struck a deal with Bow Tie to take over operations of the Saratoga Springs theater.
SARATOGA SPRINGS — The City Council unanimously approved a contract with SHI International Corp. of New Jersey, which will implement SHI software to allow the city to retain text messages from all city cell phones and automatically capture text messages.
“This is part of an initiative to improve our transparency and our ability to respond to FOIL requests,” said city Mayor Ron Kim, who brought the measure to the council table.
The SHI software, SMARSH, will use its automated carrier-integrated capture solution that retains all SMS/MMS data from the carrier the day SMARSH is implemented going forward.
Employees will text normally and the text messages will be captured as they pass through the carrier. The text messages are automatically pushed into SMARSH’s cloud-based records portal on the backend in an immutable format.
All data is indexed as it is pulled into the archive and will be searchable with parameters such as keyword, sender and/or recipients, and date range. The total recurring subtotal cost is just over $11,000, with a one-time subtotal cost of about $1,850.
“The use of SMARSH will provide an efficient and cost-effective way for the city to retain text messages from cellular devices,” Kim said. “Up until now, the city has really had no way to do this automatically. This will provide a seamless way for our city attorneys to efficiently, transparently and accurately respond to FOIL requests in the future.”
SARATOGA SPRINGS —The City of Saratoga Springs completed its purchase of cobra head street lights, which will convert the city’s street lights to LED, dark-sky compliant fixtures, city Mayor Ron Kim and Commissioner of Finance Minita Sanghvi announced Oct. 25.
The New York Power Authority (NYPA) will manage the upgrade of the street lights through a contract with the construction management firm Guth DeConzo, with the entire project slated for completion by June.
“This allows us to replace our streetlights with energy efficient LED technology, reduce street light energy use by as much as 65%, provide a safer and well-lit community, and reduce energy use,” Mayor Kim said in a statement.
Commissioner Sanghvi called the project “a major step toward reducing the city’s carbon footprint,” as well as generating an annual cost savings of about $270,000.
The technology will better allow the city to enhance public safety with cameras, install traffic management devices to facilitate traffic flow and use smart parking devices which can interface with smart phone apps allowing resident and visitor parking in downtown Saratoga Springs.
MECHANICVILLE —The United States Marine Corps Reserve and Dunkin’ on Oct. 20 launched the 2023 edition of the Capital Region Toys for Tots program with the groundbreaking announcement of the return of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Dunkin’ Toys for Tots Train.
The return of the train follows a four-year hiatus during which toys and holiday cheer were delivered to children and families in need by way of a tractor-trailer convoy.
The announcement was punctuated by a $25,000 donation from Dunkin’ and its Capital Region franchisees, which will be used by the Marine Corps Reserve to help deliver toys to children in communities throughout Upstate New York, and brings Dunkin’s total support of the holiday collection campaign to $425,000 since 2009. This year also marks the 76th anniversary of the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Toys program.
The Marine Corps Reserve Dunkin’ Toys for Tots Train, which made its last journey in 2018, became a cherished tradition for more than a decade. Large crowds of children and adults turned out at each designated depot to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and receive toys in addition to hot chocolate and baked goods from Dunkin’. However, in 2019 delivery of the toys fully transitioned from the rails to the highway and a convoy of trucks.
The holiday train will take to the rails on Dec. 2 and 3.
The 2023 toy collection drive will take place at approximately 400 locations throughout the area.
Capital Region Toys for Tots and the Marine Corps Reserve will work with more than 250 community agencies in 14 counties across the state to serve more than 200,000 children this holiday season.
Businesses or individuals interested in making donations can contact Toys for Tots at info@capitalregiontoysfortots.org.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — As Americans prepare for Halloween this year, American Humane—the country’s first national animal welfare organization—is reminding pet owners to think about their four-legged friends.
Below is a checklist of things you can do to prioritize pet safety this Halloween:
• Choose comfortable and non-restrictive costumes for your pets.
• Keep chocolates and candies out of their reach, opting for pet-friendly treats instead.
• Move lit candles, jack-o-lanterns, and other potentially hazardous Halloween decorations away from walking paths.
• Have a quiet and secure space for your pets if they get overwhelmed. It should be indoors and away from visitors and parties.
• Close doors when possible and keep a watchful eye on pets so they don’t escape when trick-or-treaters come to the door.
• Ensure your dog or cat has a microchip, collar, or ID tag in case they escape.
“By choosing costumes that don’t interfere with your pet’s breathing, walking, vision and hearing, your furry friend can safely join in on the fun. When trick-or-treaters come to the door, keep your guard up so pets don’t escape, and make sure they have a quiet, secure space that’s away from visitors and parties,” said Dr. Thomas Edling, the Chief Veterinary Officer of American Humane, in a statement.
“As children bring home their sweet stash, remember to keep all candy away from animals— especially products with artificial sweetener. Halloween doesn’t need to be tricky this year. By taking just a few precautions, the festivities can be a treat for all members of the family.”
American Humane – founded in 1877 – is the United States’ first national humane organization and the world’s largest certifier of animal welfare, overseeing the humane treatment of more than one billion animals across the globe each year.
SARATOGA SPRINGS —The Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation hosts its popular Pints for Preservation Pub Crawl on Saturday, Oct. 28.
The event starts at 3 p.m. at Druthers Brewing Company, 381 Broadway, and features stops at bars located in historic buildings throughout downtown Saratoga Springs. All proceeds from the event support the Foundation’s mission to promote the preservation and enhancement of the architectural, cultural, and landscaped heritage of Saratoga Springs.
The Pub Crawl kicks-off at Druthers, and continues on to Whitman Brewing Co., Tin & Lint, The Misfit, and ends at Saratoga City Tavern.
Pub Crawl participants will enjoy drink specials at each of these establishments. People can take part in an Architectural Scavenger Hunt to win a “Major Award.” Raffle tickets will also be available to win several prizes from local businesses. The crawl will culminate with an after party including light fare at Saratoga City Tavern where winners will be announced.
Tickets are $35 for an individual, $60 for a couple, and $120 for a group of four. All participants will receive a complimentary Pub Crawl t-shirt and pint glass with purchase of tickets, while supplies last. The online registration deadline is Friday, Oct. 27 at 5 p.m. Participants may also register the day-of the Pub Crawl at Druthers starting at 2:30 p.m. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit www.saratogapreservation.org/calendar/pints-for-preservation or call 518-587-5030.
BALLSTON SPA — Saratoga County officials announced on Oct. 24 its Seniors Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, administered by the Department of Aging and Youth Services, provided $11,095 in fresh, local produce to Saratoga County seniors during the recently ended 2022 season.
Each year, the Saratoga County Department of Aging and Youth Services distributes coupon booklets to qualifying seniors through its Elderly Nutrition Program. Qualified individuals are those age 60 or older who earn a monthly income of no more than $2,096 a month for a one-person household or no more than $2,823 a month for a two-person household. The coupons can be redeemed at participating farmers market locations throughout Saratoga County.
Last year, the Department distributed 3,325 coupons valued at $16,625. Saratoga County seniors redeemed 2,219 of these coupons, which provided them with a total of $11,095 in fresh, local produce to support their health and nutrition. 2022 is the most recently completed season for which statistics are available.
Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Chairman Theodore T. Kusnierz, Jr. (Moreau) said, “The Seniors Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program not only helps our low-income seniors access fresh, locally grown produce, but it also supports our local farmers, which are a vital part of the Saratoga County economy. ”
The Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) is designed to provide low-income seniors with access to locally grown fruits, vegetables, and cut herbs; increase the consumption of agricultural commodities through farmers’ markets.
Early voting begins at six poll locations in Saratoga County on Saturday, Oct. 28.
BALLSTON SPA — There are 21 municipalities contained within Saratoga County. Five of them will have contested supervisor races on Nov. 7.
There are 23 Supervisors representing Saratoga County’s 21 municipalities; 19 municipalities are each represented by 1 supervisor. Two municipalities – Saratoga Springs and Clifton Park – are each represented by 2 supervisors. Supervisors represent their municipality at the county level and are elected to that seat by voters in their own specific municipality.
Political Party Affiliation Breakdown
• 21 of the 23 current Supervisors are affiliated with the Republican Party, while 2 current Supervisors are affiliated with the Democratic Party.
• 1 Democrat and 16 Republican supervisors (in a total of 16 county municipalities) are either running unopposed or have no election taking place this year and so are expected to return to the seat in 2024. The remaining five county municipalities will be hosting contested races for six total seats.
• There are approximately 175,000 registered active voters across the entirety of Saratoga County. Registered Republicans account for 35.8% of those voters, 29.6% are registered as Democrats, and 27.6% are registered to vote as unaffiliated with any party. The remaining 7% are comprised of those registered with the Conservative, Working Families or other party lines.
Contested county Supervisor races:
James Sullivan (D) vs. Ian Murray (R,C) – town of Saratoga;
Cynthia Young (D) vs. Mark Hammond (R,C) – Malta;
Jessie Fish, Jr. (D, M.U.) vs. Theodore Kusnierz, Jr. (R,C) – Moreau;
Toni Sturm (D) vs. John Lant (R, C) – Wilton.
In Saratoga Springs, voters have a choice of three candidates from which to select two supervisors to represent the city at the county level.
They are:
Gordon Boyd (D, WF); Matthew Veitch (R, One Saratoga); Michele Madigan (D, One Saratoga).
Running unopposed
– Supervisor races:
Eric Connolly, R-Ballston; Diana Edwards, R-Day; Kevin Tollisen, R,C – Halfmoon; Scott Ostrander, R,C – Milton; Jean Raymond, R-Edinburg; Joe Grasso , R,C – Charlton; Willard Peck, R,C – Northumberland; Clifton Park Town/County Supervisor Philip Barrett R,C, Clifton Park County Supervisor Angela Thompson R,C; Kevin Veitch R-Greenfield; Thomas Richardson D-Mechanicville; David Ball R,C – Waterford; C. Eric Butler R-Corinth; Arthur Wright R-Hadley.
There are no supervisor races on the ballot in the towns of Stillwater, Galway and Providence – although those towns do have other votable seats on the ballot, as well as ballot proposals.
SARATOGA SPRINGS —KaffeeHouse Saratoga has announced its latest creation, a range of muffins combining locally-sourced ingredients with recipes that celebrate the culinary culture of Saratoga Springs.
The menu features a choice of flavors, from Sundried Tomatoes with Spinach to options like bacon and egg. Crafted with a focus on quality and nutrition, these muffins are designed to accompany KaffeeHouse Saratoga’s coffee and specialty beverages, or as an on-the-go meal or snack option particularly fit for the drive-through.
“Creating these savory muffins was a labor of love, inspired by the diverse and vibrant culinary culture of Saratoga Springs. We’re excited to share our newest creations with our loyal customers and newcomers alike,” said Marcus Solga, owner of KaffeeHouse Saratoga, in a press release.
The new savory muffin line is now available at KaffeeHouse Saratoga. Visit their website at www.kaffeehousesaratoga.com for more information and to explore the complete menu.
Carnegie Hall’s Ensemble Connect perform at Woodlawn Commons for the Wesley Community on Oct. 25, 2023. Photo by Thomas Dimopoulos.
SARATOGA SPRINGS — “How do you get to Carnegie Hall?” goes the old joke which first appeared in print during the 1950s. It offers up the punch line: “Practice, practice, practice.”
Conversely, how do you get from Carnegie Hall to Saratoga Springs? Head northwest on W. 57th St. toward 7th Ave. using the Hudson River as your guide on the 183-or-so-mile journey.
This week, the Wesley Community welcomed Carnegie Hall’s Ensemble Connect to its campus for an afternoon program of classical music at Wesley’s Woodlawn Commons.
The performance was staged in recognition of the intergenerational connection of classical music between the young musicians and the senior residents to showcase how intergenerational connections allow youth and seniors to share experiences through mutually beneficial activities.
“We’re always thrilled to bring cultural events to our residents,” said Wesley Community CEO J. Brian Nealon, as the five-piece ensemble glided their bows across their respective string instruments or performed with hands across the piano keys of the room’s baby grand.
The musicians are based out of Carnegie Hall and are part of a fellowship program in partnership with Julliard School, The Weill Music Institute, the New York City Department of Education. They are currently engaged in a five-day residency at Skidmore College. It is a local residency first established in the fall of 2007.
“We had the opportunity through a board member who works at Skidmore to make this connection for us,” Nealon said. “Our residents love these types of programs and over the years we have been able to avail ourselves of Skidmore’s friendship and help to provide those types of services.”
Ensemble Connect is a two-year fellowship program that prepares extraordinary young professional classical musicians for careers that combine musical excellence with teaching, community engagement, advocacy, entrepreneurship, and leadership, according to the Carnegie Hall guidebook.
The group performs its own series at Carnegie Hall and has regularly appeared at The Juilliard School’s Paul Hall and other venues throughout New York City, as well as presenting dozens of interactive performances in schools. Ensemble Connect alums have gone on to perform, teach, and engage with communities in 53 countries around the world.
While on campus at Skidmore, the fellows offer master classes, lessons, and class demonstrations, as well as play side by side with students of the Skidmore College Orchestra, read student compositions, and stage a live performance. Their concert programs include world premieres commissioned by Carnegie Hall. They perform Friday, Oct. 27 at Zankel Music Center.
“It works both ways. Our residents also go over to Skidmore and avail themselves of the programming that Skidmore has,“ Nealon said Wednesday afternoon, as the ensemble performed 18th century works of Austrian composer Franz Schubert and Italian composer Gioachino Rossini, and George Gershwin’s 20th century jazz standard “Embraceable You,” as a group of about 40 Wesley Community residents looked on.
The Wesley Community is a 37-acre, not-for-profit agency which serves the needs of the elderly, as well as active seniors, adults and pediatrics. Eleven buildings dot the campus that more than 600 residents call home; about 125 independent living and assisted living residents are at Woodlawn Commons – where this week’s performance was held – another 225 are at Embury Apartments and approximately 250 at Wesley Health Care Center – the campus the nursing home.
