How to think WARM & SUNNY thoughts on a very frigid February morning. Former Saratoga Mayor, J. Michael O'Connell, interviews Andrew Jennings and Louise Goldstein on his weekly radio show, "The Capital District Forum " on Star 101.3 FM at 8AM on Sunday, february 17, 2008.
Discussion is centered on the latest on the Victoria Pool and Saratoga Spa State Park.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Friday, February 15, 2008
crown jewel of racing to shine brighter than ever
Friday, February 15, 2008
Posted on Thu, Feb 14, 2008 Zoom + | Zoom -
Leaving the starting gate of a 'new era' of racing
By JIM KINNEY, The Saratogian
Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno talks about the passage of the new NYRA franchise, flanked by State Assembly Minority Leader James Tedisco, left, and Saratoga Springs Mayor Scott Johnson. (RICK GARGIULO/The Saratogian)SARATOGA SPRINGS — State Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno congratulated others and was congratulated himself Thursday when he held a news conference to discuss NYRA’s new deal with the state to run Saratoga Race Course and two downstate tracks.
“It truly is a new day,” Bruno, R-Brunswick, said at the National Racing Museum and Hall of Fame, across the street from the Race Course. “A new era.”
The deal gives NYRA a new board of directors, an oversight board and an advisory committee for each track. Saratoga’s advisory board will have jurisdiction over capital improvements at the track. It will have five members each appointed by the mayor of Saratoga Springs, the county Board of Supervisors and NYRA itself.
The state will also give NYRA $105 million to get the racing firm out of bankruptcy and tide it over until money-making video lottery terminals are up and running at Aqueduct.
Horse owner Daniel Stone said NYRA has been in turmoil over the past few years and the new deal will help. But NYRA still needs more income to stay out of bankruptcy. That money will have to come from VLTs and Off-track betting. The OTBs themselves have to be reorganized.
“The OTB issue is still out there,” Stone, whose wife Carole Stone is on NYRA’s oversight board, said. “But today we are happy.”
Bruno said if it were up to him he would have included VLTs at Belmont as well as Aqueduct in this deal, along with a provision to merge off-track betting operations with NYRA under one leadership.
“We didn’t get there,” Bruno said.
City Accounts Commissioner John Franck said he’s also concerned that the city and county continue to receive a share of VLT revenue from Saratoga Gaming and Raceway. Currently, the localities get $5.1 million a year in VLT money: $3.8 million to the city and $1.3 million to the county.
Gov. Eliot Spitzer’s proposed budget eliminates that money from the budget.
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“We’ll have to fight for it,” Franck said. “But it isn’t going up. I’ve accepted that our share of that money won’t go up.”
NYRA will continue to pay property taxes both at Saratoga Springs and downstate. NYRA currently pays $500,000 a year in property taxes to the county, city and school district.
Martin Kinsella, executive director of the New York State Thoroughbred Breeding Fund said the deal works for the breeding industry, a big employer and user of farmland in Saratoga County, because the breeding fund is guaranteed 1.5 percent of VLT revenues.
“It basically goes back to the agreement we had four years ago,” he said.
That agreement never went into effect because development of VLTs at Aqueduct stopped as NYRA dealt with financial and legal troubles.
Reach Jim Kinney at jkinney@saratogian.com or 518-583-8729 ext.216.
Video: Sen. Bruno's remarks during the press conference
Video: Bruno fields questions about the deal
Posted on Thu, Feb 14, 2008 Zoom + | Zoom -
Leaving the starting gate of a 'new era' of racing
By JIM KINNEY, The Saratogian
Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno talks about the passage of the new NYRA franchise, flanked by State Assembly Minority Leader James Tedisco, left, and Saratoga Springs Mayor Scott Johnson. (RICK GARGIULO/The Saratogian)SARATOGA SPRINGS — State Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno congratulated others and was congratulated himself Thursday when he held a news conference to discuss NYRA’s new deal with the state to run Saratoga Race Course and two downstate tracks.
“It truly is a new day,” Bruno, R-Brunswick, said at the National Racing Museum and Hall of Fame, across the street from the Race Course. “A new era.”
The deal gives NYRA a new board of directors, an oversight board and an advisory committee for each track. Saratoga’s advisory board will have jurisdiction over capital improvements at the track. It will have five members each appointed by the mayor of Saratoga Springs, the county Board of Supervisors and NYRA itself.
The state will also give NYRA $105 million to get the racing firm out of bankruptcy and tide it over until money-making video lottery terminals are up and running at Aqueduct.
Horse owner Daniel Stone said NYRA has been in turmoil over the past few years and the new deal will help. But NYRA still needs more income to stay out of bankruptcy. That money will have to come from VLTs and Off-track betting. The OTBs themselves have to be reorganized.
“The OTB issue is still out there,” Stone, whose wife Carole Stone is on NYRA’s oversight board, said. “But today we are happy.”
Bruno said if it were up to him he would have included VLTs at Belmont as well as Aqueduct in this deal, along with a provision to merge off-track betting operations with NYRA under one leadership.
“We didn’t get there,” Bruno said.
City Accounts Commissioner John Franck said he’s also concerned that the city and county continue to receive a share of VLT revenue from Saratoga Gaming and Raceway. Currently, the localities get $5.1 million a year in VLT money: $3.8 million to the city and $1.3 million to the county.
Gov. Eliot Spitzer’s proposed budget eliminates that money from the budget.
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“We’ll have to fight for it,” Franck said. “But it isn’t going up. I’ve accepted that our share of that money won’t go up.”
NYRA will continue to pay property taxes both at Saratoga Springs and downstate. NYRA currently pays $500,000 a year in property taxes to the county, city and school district.
Martin Kinsella, executive director of the New York State Thoroughbred Breeding Fund said the deal works for the breeding industry, a big employer and user of farmland in Saratoga County, because the breeding fund is guaranteed 1.5 percent of VLT revenues.
“It basically goes back to the agreement we had four years ago,” he said.
That agreement never went into effect because development of VLTs at Aqueduct stopped as NYRA dealt with financial and legal troubles.
Reach Jim Kinney at jkinney@saratogian.com or 518-583-8729 ext.216.
Video: Sen. Bruno's remarks during the press conference
Video: Bruno fields questions about the deal
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
doomsday scenario for track
Posted on Tue, Feb 12, 2008 Zoom + | Zoom -
Scott: Doomsday scenario arrives in New York
By JEFF SCOTT, From off the pace
In recent weeks, as NYRA’s franchise and its first short-term extension were about to expire, it still didn’t seem possible that racing in New York would be shut down. There was simply too much at stake for everyone involved.
Based on statements issued Monday by NYRA, however, it now appears a shutdown is all but inevitable. If a new long-term agreement is not reached in the meantime, NYRA will suspend racing following Wednesday’s card at Aqueduct.
The delay in getting the franchise issue settled has primarily been because of Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno’s opposition to recommendations put forward by Gov. Eliot Spitzer (and approved by NYRA) last September. Protracted negotiations resulted in a new proposed bill that was reviewed by NYRA officials over the weekend.
On Monday, NYRA Chairman C. Steven Duncker expressed dissatisfaction with the new legislation. According to Duncker, the proposed bill “does not provide the proper business model and economic terms that permits (sic) NYRA to emerge from bankruptcy, nor does it correct the broken business model of thoroughbred racing in New York, a broken model that can only worsen and further imperil the industry under the legislation currently proposed.”
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Since everyone agrees that the business model under which NYRA has operated no longer works — if in fact it ever did — one would hope any new franchise agreement would be sure to provide a more acceptable framework. NYRA officials obviously don’t think that has happened. And since they’re the ones who would have to live with the thing, their opinion has to be respected.
NYRA also has to be careful not to sign on to an agreement which, in effect, might set it up to fail. Because there are plenty of people who would like to see that happen, beginning with those who have been associated with rival bidders on the franchise.
Which brings us back to Senator Bruno, who has been an outspoken critic of Spitzer’s recommendations (and NYRA) from the beginning. But what exactly is behind his opposition?
To what degree has Bruno’s stance been based on his ongoing feud with the governor and a desire to put his own stamp on the franchise process? Why was Bruno so adamant about splitting the racing aspect of the franchise among different operators — an idea opposed by virtually everyone — even as NYRA emerged as the only entity with a serious interest in the job?
Finally, what connection, if any, does Bruno have with Capital Play Inc, one of the
four original bidders on the franchise?
Excelsior Racing and Empire Racing, the other two non-NYRA bidders, have effectively ceased to exist. The Australia-based Capital Play, however, is still very much on the scene and (according to Bruno) is one of two finalists being considered to run the proposed slots operation at Aqueduct. Bruno’s son Kenneth, by the way, is reportedly employed as a lobbyist for — you guessed it — Capital Play.
Capital Play’s website includes bold claims about all the wonderful things it would do for New York racing if given the chance. All of this racing talk, however, is strictly for show. If the Aqueduct slots were taken off the table, those Aussies would be on the next plane back to Sydney.
One of the scariest aspects of this whole sorry situation is that if no agreement is reached, and racing is indeed halted, no one is sure what would happen next. With NYRA no longer having the legal right to operate racing, authority would pass to an oversight board dominated by political appointees from the Pataki administration.
Any attempt to continue racing under another operator would be countered by NYRA’s contention that it, not the State of New York, actually owns the tracks. The matter then would disappear into the courts, perhaps for years, with racing forced into indefinite hiatus.
This doomsday scenario, of course, is something no one who really cares about horse racing wants to see happen. At this late hour, however, it may take a miracle to keep the process from being set in motion.
Jeff Scott writes about horse racing Tuesday in The Saratogian. He may be reached at utahpine1@aol.com.
Scott: Doomsday scenario arrives in New York
By JEFF SCOTT, From off the pace
In recent weeks, as NYRA’s franchise and its first short-term extension were about to expire, it still didn’t seem possible that racing in New York would be shut down. There was simply too much at stake for everyone involved.
Based on statements issued Monday by NYRA, however, it now appears a shutdown is all but inevitable. If a new long-term agreement is not reached in the meantime, NYRA will suspend racing following Wednesday’s card at Aqueduct.
The delay in getting the franchise issue settled has primarily been because of Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno’s opposition to recommendations put forward by Gov. Eliot Spitzer (and approved by NYRA) last September. Protracted negotiations resulted in a new proposed bill that was reviewed by NYRA officials over the weekend.
On Monday, NYRA Chairman C. Steven Duncker expressed dissatisfaction with the new legislation. According to Duncker, the proposed bill “does not provide the proper business model and economic terms that permits (sic) NYRA to emerge from bankruptcy, nor does it correct the broken business model of thoroughbred racing in New York, a broken model that can only worsen and further imperil the industry under the legislation currently proposed.”
Advertisement
Since everyone agrees that the business model under which NYRA has operated no longer works — if in fact it ever did — one would hope any new franchise agreement would be sure to provide a more acceptable framework. NYRA officials obviously don’t think that has happened. And since they’re the ones who would have to live with the thing, their opinion has to be respected.
NYRA also has to be careful not to sign on to an agreement which, in effect, might set it up to fail. Because there are plenty of people who would like to see that happen, beginning with those who have been associated with rival bidders on the franchise.
Which brings us back to Senator Bruno, who has been an outspoken critic of Spitzer’s recommendations (and NYRA) from the beginning. But what exactly is behind his opposition?
To what degree has Bruno’s stance been based on his ongoing feud with the governor and a desire to put his own stamp on the franchise process? Why was Bruno so adamant about splitting the racing aspect of the franchise among different operators — an idea opposed by virtually everyone — even as NYRA emerged as the only entity with a serious interest in the job?
Finally, what connection, if any, does Bruno have with Capital Play Inc, one of the
four original bidders on the franchise?
Excelsior Racing and Empire Racing, the other two non-NYRA bidders, have effectively ceased to exist. The Australia-based Capital Play, however, is still very much on the scene and (according to Bruno) is one of two finalists being considered to run the proposed slots operation at Aqueduct. Bruno’s son Kenneth, by the way, is reportedly employed as a lobbyist for — you guessed it — Capital Play.
Capital Play’s website includes bold claims about all the wonderful things it would do for New York racing if given the chance. All of this racing talk, however, is strictly for show. If the Aqueduct slots were taken off the table, those Aussies would be on the next plane back to Sydney.
One of the scariest aspects of this whole sorry situation is that if no agreement is reached, and racing is indeed halted, no one is sure what would happen next. With NYRA no longer having the legal right to operate racing, authority would pass to an oversight board dominated by political appointees from the Pataki administration.
Any attempt to continue racing under another operator would be countered by NYRA’s contention that it, not the State of New York, actually owns the tracks. The matter then would disappear into the courts, perhaps for years, with racing forced into indefinite hiatus.
This doomsday scenario, of course, is something no one who really cares about horse racing wants to see happen. At this late hour, however, it may take a miracle to keep the process from being set in motion.
Jeff Scott writes about horse racing Tuesday in The Saratogian. He may be reached at utahpine1@aol.com.
Monday, February 04, 2008
It's getting scary out there Folks
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NYRA trustee quits, blasting Bruno
By JAMES M. ODATO, Staff writer
Click byline for more stories by writer.
Last updated: 11:12 a.m., Friday, February 1, 2008
ALBANY -- Saratoga Springs lost its representative on the New York Racing Association board today when Adirondack Trust President Charles Wait quit as a trustee, criticizing Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno for not serving the best interests of racing and the community.
Wait said he could not stay quiet about his frustration with Bruno's refusal to go along with an agreement between Gov. Eliot Spitzer and NYRA for an extension of the racing franchise. He suggested that racing could go dark in Saratoga, as well as at Aqueduct and Belmont, if Bruno continues his demands for new elements beyond those agreed to in a September deal with Spitzer.
Bruno has blasted that agreement because it was worked out privately and without legislators' input. He has sought assurances that NYRA would be held accountable. He also wants to shrink the size of the NYRA board and increase the number of trustees appointed by the governor, Senate and Assembly.
"I believe that it is important for Saratogians to understand that we are facing a crisis in racing," Wait said in news release. "I know that Senator Bruno is powerful and popular and I know that criticizing him in public may bring retribution."
In an interview, Wait said he had to resign to make his feelings known because trustees shouldn't be acting independently, particularly when they criticize the leading Republican in New York. A trustee for 23 years, Wait was a NYRA stockholder appointed to the board by the racing association itself.
"It is also my opinion that there is no plausible reason for the New York state Senate to continue to delay ratification of the memorandum of understanding first proposed by Gov. Spitzer," he said. "I urge my senator, Sen. Bruno, to use his power and popularity to end the discord and uncertainty clouding the future of the Saratoga race meet. I urge him to encourage the Senate to agree to the memorandum of understanding. I urge him to safeguard the most important engine of economic prosperity in his district."
Representatives of Bruno, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver and Spitzer have been trying to negotiate a resolution for months.
A Feb. 13 deadline looms and NYRA can't wait much longer before it runs out of money and will have to take actions such as cessation of racing, Wait said. NYRA would continue to sue to prove it owns the track properties, which it must clarify to either sell real estate or borrow against it to pay off more than $300 million in debt, he said.
The racing association entered bankruptcy court almost 14 months ago to shield itself from creditors, including the state of New York.
Bruno's office had no immediate response.
Wait's resignation leaves the NYRA board with 23 members.
All Times Union materials copyright 1996-2008, Capital Newspapers Division of The Hearst Corporation, Albany, N.Y.
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NYRA trustee quits, blasting Bruno
By JAMES M. ODATO, Staff writer
Click byline for more stories by writer.
Last updated: 11:12 a.m., Friday, February 1, 2008
ALBANY -- Saratoga Springs lost its representative on the New York Racing Association board today when Adirondack Trust President Charles Wait quit as a trustee, criticizing Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno for not serving the best interests of racing and the community.
Wait said he could not stay quiet about his frustration with Bruno's refusal to go along with an agreement between Gov. Eliot Spitzer and NYRA for an extension of the racing franchise. He suggested that racing could go dark in Saratoga, as well as at Aqueduct and Belmont, if Bruno continues his demands for new elements beyond those agreed to in a September deal with Spitzer.
Bruno has blasted that agreement because it was worked out privately and without legislators' input. He has sought assurances that NYRA would be held accountable. He also wants to shrink the size of the NYRA board and increase the number of trustees appointed by the governor, Senate and Assembly.
"I believe that it is important for Saratogians to understand that we are facing a crisis in racing," Wait said in news release. "I know that Senator Bruno is powerful and popular and I know that criticizing him in public may bring retribution."
In an interview, Wait said he had to resign to make his feelings known because trustees shouldn't be acting independently, particularly when they criticize the leading Republican in New York. A trustee for 23 years, Wait was a NYRA stockholder appointed to the board by the racing association itself.
"It is also my opinion that there is no plausible reason for the New York state Senate to continue to delay ratification of the memorandum of understanding first proposed by Gov. Spitzer," he said. "I urge my senator, Sen. Bruno, to use his power and popularity to end the discord and uncertainty clouding the future of the Saratoga race meet. I urge him to encourage the Senate to agree to the memorandum of understanding. I urge him to safeguard the most important engine of economic prosperity in his district."
Representatives of Bruno, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver and Spitzer have been trying to negotiate a resolution for months.
A Feb. 13 deadline looms and NYRA can't wait much longer before it runs out of money and will have to take actions such as cessation of racing, Wait said. NYRA would continue to sue to prove it owns the track properties, which it must clarify to either sell real estate or borrow against it to pay off more than $300 million in debt, he said.
The racing association entered bankruptcy court almost 14 months ago to shield itself from creditors, including the state of New York.
Bruno's office had no immediate response.
Wait's resignation leaves the NYRA board with 23 members.
All Times Union materials copyright 1996-2008, Capital Newspapers Division of The Hearst Corporation, Albany, N.Y.
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Who's never won? Biggest Grammy Award surprises
Thursday, January 24, 2008
budget earmarks money for Saratoga Spa State Park
Budget earmarks money to fix parks
Spitzer's 2008-09 plan sets aside $110 million for Capital Region sites
By BRIAN NEARING, Staff writer
Click byline for more stories by writer.
First published: Thursday, January 24, 2008
ALBANY -- Chances are a Capital Region park near you will be repaired under a $110 million plan in Gov. Eliot Spitzer's 2008-09 budget.
Saratoga Spa, Moreau Lake, John Boyd Thacher, Grafton Lakes and Thompson's Lake state parks would be spruced up with everything from rebuilt swimming pools to new bathrooms.
At Saratoga Performing Arts Center about $2.5 million would be spent to renovate the amphitheater's exterior and access ramps, with another $1.1 million earmarked at the park for pool renovations, bike and pedestrian improvements along the Avenue of the Pines and Route 50, and repairs to roads and parking lots.
About $1.8 million is proposed at Moreau Lake park in northern Saratoga County to replace bathrooms, replace water and electrical lines, resurface roads, fix the bathhouse roof and improve the camper registration area.
In Albany County, Thacher Park would benefit from a $3 million pool rebuilding project, as well as another $500,000 set aside for water storage and supply improvements. At Thompson's Lake, $250,000 would be spent for a new septic system and water supply lines.
In Rensselaer County, about $700,000 would be set aside at Grafton Lakes for resurfacing the parking lot and building a new park police substation. At Cherry Plain, $250,000 would be set aside for new bathrooms.
At Peebles Island park, $2 million would be used to demolish an abandoned building, with another $350,000 proposed for bridge repairs.
In Schoharie County, about $800,000 would be spent toward strengthening the Erie Canal aqueduct at the Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site in Fort Hunter.
In Johnstown, Fulton County, pathways, benches and landscaping would be improved at a cost of $170,000.
All Times Union materials copyright 1996-2008, Capital Newspapers Division of The Hearst Corporation, Albany, N.Y.
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Spitzer's 2008-09 plan sets aside $110 million for Capital Region sites
By BRIAN NEARING, Staff writer
Click byline for more stories by writer.
First published: Thursday, January 24, 2008
ALBANY -- Chances are a Capital Region park near you will be repaired under a $110 million plan in Gov. Eliot Spitzer's 2008-09 budget.
Saratoga Spa, Moreau Lake, John Boyd Thacher, Grafton Lakes and Thompson's Lake state parks would be spruced up with everything from rebuilt swimming pools to new bathrooms.
At Saratoga Performing Arts Center about $2.5 million would be spent to renovate the amphitheater's exterior and access ramps, with another $1.1 million earmarked at the park for pool renovations, bike and pedestrian improvements along the Avenue of the Pines and Route 50, and repairs to roads and parking lots.
About $1.8 million is proposed at Moreau Lake park in northern Saratoga County to replace bathrooms, replace water and electrical lines, resurface roads, fix the bathhouse roof and improve the camper registration area.
In Albany County, Thacher Park would benefit from a $3 million pool rebuilding project, as well as another $500,000 set aside for water storage and supply improvements. At Thompson's Lake, $250,000 would be spent for a new septic system and water supply lines.
In Rensselaer County, about $700,000 would be set aside at Grafton Lakes for resurfacing the parking lot and building a new park police substation. At Cherry Plain, $250,000 would be set aside for new bathrooms.
At Peebles Island park, $2 million would be used to demolish an abandoned building, with another $350,000 proposed for bridge repairs.
In Schoharie County, about $800,000 would be spent toward strengthening the Erie Canal aqueduct at the Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site in Fort Hunter.
In Johnstown, Fulton County, pathways, benches and landscaping would be improved at a cost of $170,000.
All Times Union materials copyright 1996-2008, Capital Newspapers Division of The Hearst Corporation, Albany, N.Y.
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Thursday, January 17, 2008
Botanical Garden for Spa?
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Posted on Wed, Jan 16, 2008 Zoom + | Zoom -
Botanical garden proposed
Glass conservatory could grace Saratoga Spa State Park grounds
By ANDREW BERNSTEIN, The Saratogian
The Palm House, one of several greenhouses at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, is similar to the glass conservatory which would be part of a plan to bring a botanical garden to Saratoga Spa State Park. (Photo provided)
SARATOGA SPRINGS — From a world-class concert venue to the racetrack and natural springs, the Spa City has a lot to offer visitors. But what about a botanical garden?
That, too, could be added to the list of local attractions if a proposal made to Saratoga Spa State Park officials and other community leaders comes to fruition.
Brett Van Zandt, a Greenwich resident and administrator for not-for-profit organizations, is proposing a 40-acre garden that would include a glass-enclosed conservatory within walking distance of all the amenities of the state park. Van Zandt presented his idea to Saratoga Springs Rotary Club members earlier this month.
The project has been named “The Springs Botanical Garden.”
“The more people I talk to in the public, the more interested people become — on an organizational level, and even on a personal level,” Van Zandt said of the project’s momentum.
Van Zandt touts the value of a botanical garden as a family attraction and said the inspiration for the project came when he and his wife were talking about starting a family. “Being that we’re avid gardeners, we were talking about places we would take the kids, and we said we’d figure out where the botanical garden was, and take them there. Then we realized there wasn’t one in the area,” he said.
According to a Web site for the project, the gardens would incorporate perennial, annual, Japanese, water, European and American-style landscapes.
Van Zandt said he chose Saratoga Springs as the project’s location for a variety of reasons. Most importantly, he said, the city’s history of supporting other cultural institutions drew him here.
“We didn’t first think of the park, but conversations with business owners pointed to Spa State Park. We made phone calls and made it happen,” he said.
With the location chosen, Van Zandt now hopes to incorporate the local landscape, including a wetland in the southern section of the park.
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Michael Greenslade, manager of the Spa Sate Park, said Monday he had seen the proposal, and it would be considered as a part of the park’s master plan, which state park authorities will be creating during the next year.
“I looked at it and thought it might be a nice idea, but I don’t know where it would fit,” Greenslade said. “We do have a lot of acreage here in the park.”
Saratoga Spa State Park sits on 2,379 acres between Routes 9 and 50.
Greenslade said the master plan would include a complete overview of the park and its facilities, which will determine in what direction the state wants to take the park.
Seemingly undeterred by the possibility that his proposal might not be welcomed by the state parks department, Van Zandt has used the Web site dedicated to the project to discuss possible benefits to the region.
“It will provide the most beautiful and inspiring public gardens within a 60- to 80-mile radius,” the Web site reads.
For more information on the proposed garden, visit www.TheSpringsBotanicalGarden.org, or call 281-2152.
Reach Andrew Bernstein at abernstein@saratogian.com or 583-8729, ext. 219.
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Posted on Wed, Jan 16, 2008 Zoom + | Zoom -
Botanical garden proposed
Glass conservatory could grace Saratoga Spa State Park grounds
By ANDREW BERNSTEIN, The Saratogian
The Palm House, one of several greenhouses at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, is similar to the glass conservatory which would be part of a plan to bring a botanical garden to Saratoga Spa State Park. (Photo provided)
SARATOGA SPRINGS — From a world-class concert venue to the racetrack and natural springs, the Spa City has a lot to offer visitors. But what about a botanical garden?
That, too, could be added to the list of local attractions if a proposal made to Saratoga Spa State Park officials and other community leaders comes to fruition.
Brett Van Zandt, a Greenwich resident and administrator for not-for-profit organizations, is proposing a 40-acre garden that would include a glass-enclosed conservatory within walking distance of all the amenities of the state park. Van Zandt presented his idea to Saratoga Springs Rotary Club members earlier this month.
The project has been named “The Springs Botanical Garden.”
“The more people I talk to in the public, the more interested people become — on an organizational level, and even on a personal level,” Van Zandt said of the project’s momentum.
Van Zandt touts the value of a botanical garden as a family attraction and said the inspiration for the project came when he and his wife were talking about starting a family. “Being that we’re avid gardeners, we were talking about places we would take the kids, and we said we’d figure out where the botanical garden was, and take them there. Then we realized there wasn’t one in the area,” he said.
According to a Web site for the project, the gardens would incorporate perennial, annual, Japanese, water, European and American-style landscapes.
Van Zandt said he chose Saratoga Springs as the project’s location for a variety of reasons. Most importantly, he said, the city’s history of supporting other cultural institutions drew him here.
“We didn’t first think of the park, but conversations with business owners pointed to Spa State Park. We made phone calls and made it happen,” he said.
With the location chosen, Van Zandt now hopes to incorporate the local landscape, including a wetland in the southern section of the park.
Advertisement
Michael Greenslade, manager of the Spa Sate Park, said Monday he had seen the proposal, and it would be considered as a part of the park’s master plan, which state park authorities will be creating during the next year.
“I looked at it and thought it might be a nice idea, but I don’t know where it would fit,” Greenslade said. “We do have a lot of acreage here in the park.”
Saratoga Spa State Park sits on 2,379 acres between Routes 9 and 50.
Greenslade said the master plan would include a complete overview of the park and its facilities, which will determine in what direction the state wants to take the park.
Seemingly undeterred by the possibility that his proposal might not be welcomed by the state parks department, Van Zandt has used the Web site dedicated to the project to discuss possible benefits to the region.
“It will provide the most beautiful and inspiring public gardens within a 60- to 80-mile radius,” the Web site reads.
For more information on the proposed garden, visit www.TheSpringsBotanicalGarden.org, or call 281-2152.
Reach Andrew Bernstein at abernstein@saratogian.com or 583-8729, ext. 219.
CONTACT US • ADVERTISE WITH US • OUR PUBLICATIONS • PRIVACY POLICY
NEWSPAPERS IN EDUCATION • JOBS WITH US
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Saturday, January 12, 2008
Dance Fever Continued
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Dance fever at museum
Plan to honor John Travolta at site known for tradition raises dispute
By DENNIS YUSKO, Staff writer
Click byline for more stories by writer.
First published: Saturday, January 12, 2008
SARATOGA SPRINGS -- Is the traditional -- and some say stodgy -- National Museum of Dance ready to transform into a modern-day Boogie Wonderland?
A recent decision by the museum's board of directors to offer actor John Travolta induction into a new wing, which honors dance and film, is causing a stir at the 22-year-old facility on South Broadway.
The controversial move is the brainchild of the board's chairwoman, Michele Riggi, who wants to modernize the museum's image and increase attendance. Critics say her decision-making ignores traditional protocol.
The clash of old ways and new ideas represents a changing focus and growing organizational problems at the museum, some say.
"The museum is primarily run by one person -- the chairwoman -- and she does things sometimes without board approval. They need to get an idea of where they are going," said Lauren Zoppa, who recently resigned her post as the museum's grant writer.
In the last six weeks, the museum has lost three of its five employees, including Zoppa and arts and programming manager Beth Hartle, who both resigned after parting ways with the board. Donna Galeoto, the museum's volunteer and gift shop manager, was laid off to save on costs.
Earlier this week, a debate broke out among museum officials over Riggi's decision to honor Travolta, whose title role of Tony Manero in the 1977 film "Saturday Night Fever" significantly helped to popularize disco dancing around the world, and made Travolta a household name.
But the decision is a symptom of a larger problem, according to Zoppa, who said she quit last month because "quite frankly, the board is out of touch."
Hartle echoed the differences.
"My vision for the museum and the board's vision didn't seem to be on the same pathway anymore," Hartle said Friday. "I think there's always, at least for me, a disconnect between business and the arts, and it's really hard to tie them together."
Riggi, a former child dancer who promised to "bring life back into the museum" when she became chairwoman in 2006, did not return phone calls requesting comment.
She instead e-mailed a statement, saying she's trying to increase the museum's public exposure by establishing a new wing called the Dancing and Film Hall of Fame, and including more mainstream modern-day celebrity dancers like Travolta.
"The Dancing and Film Hall of Fame is a new concept resulting from the growing need to increase attendance, develop new audiences and enhance membership," Riggi wrote. "The National Museum of Dance is in transition and the board of directors will be conducting a search for the new director of arts and programming."
The National Museum of Dance was established in 1986 at the spacious old 1918 Washington Bath House with a $750,000 cash infusion from Saratoga socialite Marylou Whitney and money from other donors. It contains photographs, videos, artifacts, costumes, biographies and more.
The wife of a wealthy entrepreneur, Riggi received support from John Hendrickson, Whitney's wife, who spoke in an interview from the couple's home in Florida.
"We think Michele is doing an excellent job," Hendrickson said. "She's breathing new life into it."
The museum, which receives about 6,000 visitors a year and started a school for young dancers, needs to evolve by honoring the living and not just the dead, Hendrickson said.
"Quite honestly, no one wants to see the tap shoes of Ginger Rodgers, and most people don't know who Ginger Rodgers is," he said.
Current museum inductees include Fred Astaire, Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, Martha Graham and Agnes de Mille. More modern-era stars include Bob Fosse and Alvin Ailey.
But Travolta is not the issue, said Judith Fiore, a member of the Hall of Fame's ad-hoc nominating committee.
"The issue is there was a process. And that process has not been adhered to," said Fiore, who said the decision to invite Travolta into its new wing was made without a recommendation from the committee.
She said she believes the board changed a system that worked well since the museum's inception.
In her statement, Riggi indicated that only the existing 38-member Hall of Fame is overseen by the nominating committee.
The museum is closed until Memorial Day. Travolta, who also starred in "Grease" in 1978, has yet to respond to its invitation.
Yusko can be reached at 581-8438 or by e-mail at dyusko@timesunion.com.
Dance fever at museum
Plan to honor John Travolta at site known for tradition raises dispute
By DENNIS YUSKO, Staff writer
Click byline for more stories by writer.
First published: Saturday, January 12, 2008
SARATOGA SPRINGS -- Is the traditional -- and some say stodgy -- National Museum of Dance ready to transform into a modern-day Boogie Wonderland?
A recent decision by the museum's board of directors to offer actor John Travolta induction into a new wing, which honors dance and film, is causing a stir at the 22-year-old facility on South Broadway.
The controversial move is the brainchild of the board's chairwoman, Michele Riggi, who wants to modernize the museum's image and increase attendance. Critics say her decision-making ignores traditional protocol.
The clash of old ways and new ideas represents a changing focus and growing organizational problems at the museum, some say.
"The museum is primarily run by one person -- the chairwoman -- and she does things sometimes without board approval. They need to get an idea of where they are going," said Lauren Zoppa, who recently resigned her post as the museum's grant writer.
In the last six weeks, the museum has lost three of its five employees, including Zoppa and arts and programming manager Beth Hartle, who both resigned after parting ways with the board. Donna Galeoto, the museum's volunteer and gift shop manager, was laid off to save on costs.
Earlier this week, a debate broke out among museum officials over Riggi's decision to honor Travolta, whose title role of Tony Manero in the 1977 film "Saturday Night Fever" significantly helped to popularize disco dancing around the world, and made Travolta a household name.
But the decision is a symptom of a larger problem, according to Zoppa, who said she quit last month because "quite frankly, the board is out of touch."
Hartle echoed the differences.
"My vision for the museum and the board's vision didn't seem to be on the same pathway anymore," Hartle said Friday. "I think there's always, at least for me, a disconnect between business and the arts, and it's really hard to tie them together."
Riggi, a former child dancer who promised to "bring life back into the museum" when she became chairwoman in 2006, did not return phone calls requesting comment.
She instead e-mailed a statement, saying she's trying to increase the museum's public exposure by establishing a new wing called the Dancing and Film Hall of Fame, and including more mainstream modern-day celebrity dancers like Travolta.
"The Dancing and Film Hall of Fame is a new concept resulting from the growing need to increase attendance, develop new audiences and enhance membership," Riggi wrote. "The National Museum of Dance is in transition and the board of directors will be conducting a search for the new director of arts and programming."
The National Museum of Dance was established in 1986 at the spacious old 1918 Washington Bath House with a $750,000 cash infusion from Saratoga socialite Marylou Whitney and money from other donors. It contains photographs, videos, artifacts, costumes, biographies and more.
The wife of a wealthy entrepreneur, Riggi received support from John Hendrickson, Whitney's wife, who spoke in an interview from the couple's home in Florida.
"We think Michele is doing an excellent job," Hendrickson said. "She's breathing new life into it."
The museum, which receives about 6,000 visitors a year and started a school for young dancers, needs to evolve by honoring the living and not just the dead, Hendrickson said.
"Quite honestly, no one wants to see the tap shoes of Ginger Rodgers, and most people don't know who Ginger Rodgers is," he said.
Current museum inductees include Fred Astaire, Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, Martha Graham and Agnes de Mille. More modern-era stars include Bob Fosse and Alvin Ailey.
But Travolta is not the issue, said Judith Fiore, a member of the Hall of Fame's ad-hoc nominating committee.
"The issue is there was a process. And that process has not been adhered to," said Fiore, who said the decision to invite Travolta into its new wing was made without a recommendation from the committee.
She said she believes the board changed a system that worked well since the museum's inception.
In her statement, Riggi indicated that only the existing 38-member Hall of Fame is overseen by the nominating committee.
The museum is closed until Memorial Day. Travolta, who also starred in "Grease" in 1978, has yet to respond to its invitation.
Yusko can be reached at 581-8438 or by e-mail at dyusko@timesunion.com.
Friday, January 11, 2008
Dance Museum descends into chaos over John Travolta!
SARATOGA SPRINGS
Controversies trip up Museum of Dance
Travolta induction rankles members of nomination committee
BY WENDY LIBERATORE Gazette Reporter
Staff resignations, a layoff and a debate about John Travolta’s induction into the Dance Hall of Fame have thrown the National Museum of Dance, once again, into chaos.
Michele Riggi, chairwoman of the board at the museum, said the museum is running on “a skeleton crew” after losing three of its five employees. This came at the same time that members of the Hall of Fame nominating committee expressed frustration with Riggi and the board for bypassing the process and inviting “Saturday Night Fever” star Travolta as the next Hall of Fame inductee.
Riggi invited Travolta to enter the Hall of Fame, joining dance luminaries like George Balanchine, Martha Graham, Isadora Duncan and Fred Astaire, last fall. Riggi said she would honor Travolta, as well as Ben Vereen and Tommy Tune, in what she calls the Dancers in Film, a new branch of the hall.
Judy Fiore, a member of the hall nominating committee, would not comment on Travolta’s worthiness to enter the hall. However, she was not happy that the committee was not consulted on Travolta.
“I can tell you that we were bypassed. I am definitely upset about that. I have been on the committee a long time,” said Fiore who is on the committee with other area dance advocates such as Pat Peterson and Mary Anne Fantauzzi. “As far as I understand the process, the committee makes the nominations. This goes back to the beginning of the museum. John Travolta is not the issue. The process is.”
Riggi said since the executive board agreed that Travolta should be in the Hall of Fame, she took it upon herself to invite him. Travolta has yet to respond to the invitation. However, Vereen, known for his work on Broadway and in the miniseries “Roots,” has accepted a place in the hall.
“You know they call the museum the ‘Dead Museum.’ I’m trying to make the museum alive. I want to induct people who are living. John Travolta would bring in excitement. He would bring revenue into Saratoga. He is a dancer. The board said ‘yes, let’s do it.’ So I did it,” Riggi said.
Besides, she added, the Dancers in Film Hall, which is to be located opposite the original hall of fame, does not yet have a nominating committee as it is new.
In addition to the Travolta controversy, staff reductions are affecting the museum.
Donna Galeoto, who managed the volunteers and gift shop, was laid off as a cost-cutting measure. The resignations of arts and programming manager Beth Hartle and grant writer Lauren Zoppa followed.
Hartle, who took over at the museum in fall 2005 when Garrett Smith quit, said she resigned in December because “It was time for me to do something new.”
“The fact is the museum is demanding. I learned a lot. I just knew it was time,” she said.
Riggi said that she felt Hartle “didn’t want to be questioned on things she was doing.” Still, she said, “When Beth left, I was blown away. I had no idea. I’m Italian. We can disagree. But then it’s over. I still love you. I just bought Beth a wedding gift. I love Beth. When she left, I was so shocked. She did a wonderful job. I hope the best for her.”
As for Zoppa, Riggi said, “She was there for a year and didn’t bring in one grant. We had to reevaluate what was going on there. That’s my job.”
Zoppa, who worked two days a week for the past year, said that is not true. She said she secured three grants, and two more were pending, when she left.
“The primary reason I left was I had difficulty with the board,” said Zoppa. “I didn’t think they were acting in the best interest of the museum. I would give them monthly reports, they didn’t read them. It was frustrating. And their priorities were changing on a weekly basis. But it was difficult for me to leave because the museum has tremendous potential.”
The museum, which is usually open on weekends in the winter and spring, is now closed until Memorial Day. Two employees remain, administrative assistant Lindsay Kiddle and rentals manager Jo Ambrosio. Raul Martinez took over teaching for Hartle at the museum’s School of Arts. The museum, a program of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, is interviewing candidates to replace Hartle.
Riggi said they are not looking for people with museum experience.
“We don’t have the proper lighting and air to protect things in the museum. I think it would be diffi - cult to get people in here because the museum is not Smithsonian quality,” said Riggi.
The state of flux is nothing new for the museum. Since its opening in 1986, nearly all the directors
have either been fired or resigned because they were at odds with the board or SPAC administration. Just two years ago, most its staff was laid off. Its remaining director and board president resigned in unison just months later.
“This seems to be the pattern for the museum,” said Zoppa. “We were hoping it won’t happen again, but it did.”
Controversies trip up Museum of Dance
Travolta induction rankles members of nomination committee
BY WENDY LIBERATORE Gazette Reporter
Staff resignations, a layoff and a debate about John Travolta’s induction into the Dance Hall of Fame have thrown the National Museum of Dance, once again, into chaos.
Michele Riggi, chairwoman of the board at the museum, said the museum is running on “a skeleton crew” after losing three of its five employees. This came at the same time that members of the Hall of Fame nominating committee expressed frustration with Riggi and the board for bypassing the process and inviting “Saturday Night Fever” star Travolta as the next Hall of Fame inductee.
Riggi invited Travolta to enter the Hall of Fame, joining dance luminaries like George Balanchine, Martha Graham, Isadora Duncan and Fred Astaire, last fall. Riggi said she would honor Travolta, as well as Ben Vereen and Tommy Tune, in what she calls the Dancers in Film, a new branch of the hall.
Judy Fiore, a member of the hall nominating committee, would not comment on Travolta’s worthiness to enter the hall. However, she was not happy that the committee was not consulted on Travolta.
“I can tell you that we were bypassed. I am definitely upset about that. I have been on the committee a long time,” said Fiore who is on the committee with other area dance advocates such as Pat Peterson and Mary Anne Fantauzzi. “As far as I understand the process, the committee makes the nominations. This goes back to the beginning of the museum. John Travolta is not the issue. The process is.”
Riggi said since the executive board agreed that Travolta should be in the Hall of Fame, she took it upon herself to invite him. Travolta has yet to respond to the invitation. However, Vereen, known for his work on Broadway and in the miniseries “Roots,” has accepted a place in the hall.
“You know they call the museum the ‘Dead Museum.’ I’m trying to make the museum alive. I want to induct people who are living. John Travolta would bring in excitement. He would bring revenue into Saratoga. He is a dancer. The board said ‘yes, let’s do it.’ So I did it,” Riggi said.
Besides, she added, the Dancers in Film Hall, which is to be located opposite the original hall of fame, does not yet have a nominating committee as it is new.
In addition to the Travolta controversy, staff reductions are affecting the museum.
Donna Galeoto, who managed the volunteers and gift shop, was laid off as a cost-cutting measure. The resignations of arts and programming manager Beth Hartle and grant writer Lauren Zoppa followed.
Hartle, who took over at the museum in fall 2005 when Garrett Smith quit, said she resigned in December because “It was time for me to do something new.”
“The fact is the museum is demanding. I learned a lot. I just knew it was time,” she said.
Riggi said that she felt Hartle “didn’t want to be questioned on things she was doing.” Still, she said, “When Beth left, I was blown away. I had no idea. I’m Italian. We can disagree. But then it’s over. I still love you. I just bought Beth a wedding gift. I love Beth. When she left, I was so shocked. She did a wonderful job. I hope the best for her.”
As for Zoppa, Riggi said, “She was there for a year and didn’t bring in one grant. We had to reevaluate what was going on there. That’s my job.”
Zoppa, who worked two days a week for the past year, said that is not true. She said she secured three grants, and two more were pending, when she left.
“The primary reason I left was I had difficulty with the board,” said Zoppa. “I didn’t think they were acting in the best interest of the museum. I would give them monthly reports, they didn’t read them. It was frustrating. And their priorities were changing on a weekly basis. But it was difficult for me to leave because the museum has tremendous potential.”
The museum, which is usually open on weekends in the winter and spring, is now closed until Memorial Day. Two employees remain, administrative assistant Lindsay Kiddle and rentals manager Jo Ambrosio. Raul Martinez took over teaching for Hartle at the museum’s School of Arts. The museum, a program of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, is interviewing candidates to replace Hartle.
Riggi said they are not looking for people with museum experience.
“We don’t have the proper lighting and air to protect things in the museum. I think it would be diffi - cult to get people in here because the museum is not Smithsonian quality,” said Riggi.
The state of flux is nothing new for the museum. Since its opening in 1986, nearly all the directors
have either been fired or resigned because they were at odds with the board or SPAC administration. Just two years ago, most its staff was laid off. Its remaining director and board president resigned in unison just months later.
“This seems to be the pattern for the museum,” said Zoppa. “We were hoping it won’t happen again, but it did.”
$4M in upgrades awaits Legislative approval for Saratoga Spa State Park
Friday, January 11, 2008
Posted on Thu, Jan 10, 2008
Zoom + Zoom -
Local state parks targeted for $4M in upgrades
By PAUL POST, The Saratogian
SARATOGA SPRINGS — More than $4 million worth of local upgrades are planned if the Legislature approves Gov. Eliot Spitzer’s proposal to revitalize state parks.
Spitzer, in Wednesday’s State of the State Address, proposed spending $100 million to improve aging infrastructure and facilities along with new development projects.
Officials have already prepared a long list of items for Saratoga Spa State Park such as paving, building repairs, restroom upgrades, dam rehabilitation and restoring Avenue of the Pines.
“None of these projects have been approved,” said Robert D. Kuhn, the Saratoga-Capital Region’s assistant director. “This will be a multi-year effort to bring parks up to where they should be. Until the (state) budget gets adopted we don’t know how that will ultimately come out.
“For many years now the parks have been underfunded.”
Parks Commissioner Carol Ash has directed staff statewide to identify needs within the system, which has been going on for several months.
“That $100 million is not a number that was plucked out of thin air,” Kuhn said. “It’s really to address all of the deferred maintenance that’s occurred over the years. A lot of parks are aging out at the same time.
“This whole initiative is about meeting basic infrastructure needs; to fix what’s broken.”
Spa State Park’s “wish list” includes a $1 million golf course irrigation system upgrade and $750,000 to bring dams at Geyser and Coesa ponds up to code. Three separate projects would cost $500,000 each. They are:
ä Restore rest rooms throughout the park.
ä Pave Avenue of the Pines bike path, plant new trees.
ä Pave Roosevelt Drive and various picnic area parking lots.
“There hasn’t been any paving done here in 10 years,” Kuhn said.
Saratoga Springs is in Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno’s district, the state’s highest-ranking Republican.
“While we will have to wait to see the governor's Executive Budget, Senator Bruno has been a strong supporter of investing in our state parks, especially at Saratoga Spa State Park,” spokesman Scott Reif said.
At Moreau Lake State Park, about $1.5 million would be spent for paving campground drives, creating a new entrance and building a right-hand turn lane for people entering the park off Old Saratoga Road. This would hopefully alleviate congestion when cars stack up, waiting to get in. Electric service would also be upgraded and rest rooms improved, making them handicapped-accessible.
If and when funding becomes available, priority will be given health and safety issues first, Kuhn said.
The parks system also maintains a state boat launch at Saratoga Lake where plans call for installing a $100,000 sewage pump-out station.
Peebles Island State Park is in Waterford at the southern tip of Saratoga County. That facility would get $900,000 worth of improvements.
There are 10 state parks and 10 historic sites in the Saratoga-Capital Region that stretches from southern Greene and Schoharie counties to Crown Point in Essex County. The region reaches west to Fulton and Montgomery counties and east to the Vermont border.
Technically, Grant Cottage in Wilton is a state historic site, but it’s primarily maintained by a non-profit group, Friends of Grant Cottage.
Grafton Lakes in Rensselaer County and Thacher Park in the Helderbergs are among the region’s other large parks. With 25 miles of trails, Grafton Lakes gets considerable winter use and has a WinterFest scheduled for Jan. 26. Plans there call for a $1 million upgrade to dams and spillways along with improvements to day-use picnic grounds and a popular beach area.
Thacher Park’s large pool was demolished last fall. Built in the 1950s, it had leaks that couldn’t be repaired. Separate from Spitzer’s new initiative, $3 million has already been approved for a new pool that should open in 2009 or 2010.
The state wants to incorporate some type of environmental stewardship project at each park, Kuhn said. At Spa State Park, land bordering Route 9 would be enhanced to promote habitat for the endangered Karner blue butterfly. At Moreau Lake, a management plan would be developed to deal with invasive species in the lake and Mud Pond, also within the park’s boundaries.
Environmental groups such as Adirondack Council have hailed Spitzer’s plan as a much-needed proposal.
“The Adirondack Park has about a dozen state-run campgrounds,” spokesman John Sheehan said. “Many state campgrounds and park buildings are causing water pollution in nearby lakes and rivers due to aging and inadequate facilities.”
//-->
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© 2007 The Saratogian - a Journal Register Property. All Rights reserved.
Posted on Thu, Jan 10, 2008
Zoom + Zoom -
Local state parks targeted for $4M in upgrades
By PAUL POST, The Saratogian
SARATOGA SPRINGS — More than $4 million worth of local upgrades are planned if the Legislature approves Gov. Eliot Spitzer’s proposal to revitalize state parks.
Spitzer, in Wednesday’s State of the State Address, proposed spending $100 million to improve aging infrastructure and facilities along with new development projects.
Officials have already prepared a long list of items for Saratoga Spa State Park such as paving, building repairs, restroom upgrades, dam rehabilitation and restoring Avenue of the Pines.
“None of these projects have been approved,” said Robert D. Kuhn, the Saratoga-Capital Region’s assistant director. “This will be a multi-year effort to bring parks up to where they should be. Until the (state) budget gets adopted we don’t know how that will ultimately come out.
“For many years now the parks have been underfunded.”
Parks Commissioner Carol Ash has directed staff statewide to identify needs within the system, which has been going on for several months.
“That $100 million is not a number that was plucked out of thin air,” Kuhn said. “It’s really to address all of the deferred maintenance that’s occurred over the years. A lot of parks are aging out at the same time.
“This whole initiative is about meeting basic infrastructure needs; to fix what’s broken.”
Spa State Park’s “wish list” includes a $1 million golf course irrigation system upgrade and $750,000 to bring dams at Geyser and Coesa ponds up to code. Three separate projects would cost $500,000 each. They are:
ä Restore rest rooms throughout the park.
ä Pave Avenue of the Pines bike path, plant new trees.
ä Pave Roosevelt Drive and various picnic area parking lots.
“There hasn’t been any paving done here in 10 years,” Kuhn said.
Saratoga Springs is in Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno’s district, the state’s highest-ranking Republican.
“While we will have to wait to see the governor's Executive Budget, Senator Bruno has been a strong supporter of investing in our state parks, especially at Saratoga Spa State Park,” spokesman Scott Reif said.
At Moreau Lake State Park, about $1.5 million would be spent for paving campground drives, creating a new entrance and building a right-hand turn lane for people entering the park off Old Saratoga Road. This would hopefully alleviate congestion when cars stack up, waiting to get in. Electric service would also be upgraded and rest rooms improved, making them handicapped-accessible.
If and when funding becomes available, priority will be given health and safety issues first, Kuhn said.
The parks system also maintains a state boat launch at Saratoga Lake where plans call for installing a $100,000 sewage pump-out station.
Peebles Island State Park is in Waterford at the southern tip of Saratoga County. That facility would get $900,000 worth of improvements.
There are 10 state parks and 10 historic sites in the Saratoga-Capital Region that stretches from southern Greene and Schoharie counties to Crown Point in Essex County. The region reaches west to Fulton and Montgomery counties and east to the Vermont border.
Technically, Grant Cottage in Wilton is a state historic site, but it’s primarily maintained by a non-profit group, Friends of Grant Cottage.
Grafton Lakes in Rensselaer County and Thacher Park in the Helderbergs are among the region’s other large parks. With 25 miles of trails, Grafton Lakes gets considerable winter use and has a WinterFest scheduled for Jan. 26. Plans there call for a $1 million upgrade to dams and spillways along with improvements to day-use picnic grounds and a popular beach area.
Thacher Park’s large pool was demolished last fall. Built in the 1950s, it had leaks that couldn’t be repaired. Separate from Spitzer’s new initiative, $3 million has already been approved for a new pool that should open in 2009 or 2010.
The state wants to incorporate some type of environmental stewardship project at each park, Kuhn said. At Spa State Park, land bordering Route 9 would be enhanced to promote habitat for the endangered Karner blue butterfly. At Moreau Lake, a management plan would be developed to deal with invasive species in the lake and Mud Pond, also within the park’s boundaries.
Environmental groups such as Adirondack Council have hailed Spitzer’s plan as a much-needed proposal.
“The Adirondack Park has about a dozen state-run campgrounds,” spokesman John Sheehan said. “Many state campgrounds and park buildings are causing water pollution in nearby lakes and rivers due to aging and inadequate facilities.”
//-->
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© 2007 The Saratogian - a Journal Register Property. All Rights reserved.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Will Saratoga Spa State Park get help at last?
Governor’s State of the State address holds exciting news for New York’s parks and trails
Governor Spitzer’s State of the State address today included a major initiative for New York’s parks, plus an exciting trail project.
The Governor committed to a $100 million capital program for state parks this year – hopefully the first installment of a larger park reinvestment effort over the next few years.
Parks & Trails New York applauds the Governor for his vision and commitment to restoring New York’s magnificent state park system. We are gratified that our advocacy efforts over the last year, which began with publication of our landmark report, Parks at a Turning Point, have resulted in this great leap towards a brighter future for New York’s parks.
New York’s state park system is near to crisis condition, the result of many years of underfunding and deferred maintenance. Over the past 15 years, 29 new parks were added to the system, for a total of 178 parks and 325,000 acres, yet the park agency’s capital budget today, adjusted for inflation, is half what it was in 1992. The result is 750 urgent capital projects totaling $650 million.
In his address, the Governor also committed to supporting the Walkway over the Hudson – a visionary project to convert the Poughkeepsie-Highland Railroad Bridge over the Hudson River into a pedestrian and bicycle path that will offer breathtaking views. The Governor’s inclusion of the Walkway is a clear recognition of the importance of trails to the state’s economy and quality of life and a welcome validation of our work in helping communities develop these resources.
Parks & Trails New York pledges to work with the Governor and the Legislature to ensure that the funding for these initiatives is included in the final state budget and that this is but the first phase of a multi-year reinvestment plan for our parks.
Read more of Parks & Trails New York’s response to the State of the State.
Let the Governor know that parks and trails are important to you and that you support the initiatives put forth in the State of the State.
Support Parks & Trails New York’s Campaign for Parks.
Please pass this alert on to others who care about parks & trails in New York
Parks & Trails New York29 Elk Street, Albany, N.Y. 12207518-434-1583
Website Email
Start the year off right. Easy ways to stay in shape
Governor Spitzer’s State of the State address today included a major initiative for New York’s parks, plus an exciting trail project.
The Governor committed to a $100 million capital program for state parks this year – hopefully the first installment of a larger park reinvestment effort over the next few years.
Parks & Trails New York applauds the Governor for his vision and commitment to restoring New York’s magnificent state park system. We are gratified that our advocacy efforts over the last year, which began with publication of our landmark report, Parks at a Turning Point, have resulted in this great leap towards a brighter future for New York’s parks.
New York’s state park system is near to crisis condition, the result of many years of underfunding and deferred maintenance. Over the past 15 years, 29 new parks were added to the system, for a total of 178 parks and 325,000 acres, yet the park agency’s capital budget today, adjusted for inflation, is half what it was in 1992. The result is 750 urgent capital projects totaling $650 million.
In his address, the Governor also committed to supporting the Walkway over the Hudson – a visionary project to convert the Poughkeepsie-Highland Railroad Bridge over the Hudson River into a pedestrian and bicycle path that will offer breathtaking views. The Governor’s inclusion of the Walkway is a clear recognition of the importance of trails to the state’s economy and quality of life and a welcome validation of our work in helping communities develop these resources.
Parks & Trails New York pledges to work with the Governor and the Legislature to ensure that the funding for these initiatives is included in the final state budget and that this is but the first phase of a multi-year reinvestment plan for our parks.
Read more of Parks & Trails New York’s response to the State of the State.
Let the Governor know that parks and trails are important to you and that you support the initiatives put forth in the State of the State.
Support Parks & Trails New York’s Campaign for Parks.
Please pass this alert on to others who care about parks & trails in New York
Parks & Trails New York29 Elk Street, Albany, N.Y. 12207518-434-1583
Website Email
Start the year off right. Easy ways to stay in shape
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Master Plan for Saratoga Spa State Park to be developed
Officials seek to chart park
By DREW KERR
Published: Wednesday, January 02, 2008
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To order copies of staff-produced photos from The Post-Star, please visit http://reprints.poststar.com/.
dkerr@poststar.comSARATOGA SPRINGS -- Officials are hoping to cast a long-term vision for the 2,800-acre Saratoga Spa State Park, an endeavor they think will embolden efforts to secure funding for one of the region's historic gems.Efforts to create a comprehensive master plan -- the park's first -- will begin this year, charting the park's course for the next 20 years, said Robert Kuhn, assistant director of the Saratoga-Capital District Region of the state park system.The park is one of just 11 -- among 213 parks statewide -- that is taking up the planning effort in the near future, according to the New York State Council of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
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The plan will address facility needs and identify aspects of the park that could be enhanced. Exact plans haven't been devised, but ideas include adding more tennis courts,expanding the trail system and allowing camping, Kuhn said.Putting the priorities on paper, and attaching dollar amounts to them, will make selling state leaders on the ideas easier, he added."You can't go ask for money until you know what you want to spend that money on," Kuhn said in an interview this week. "That plan will become the backbone of any budget request you make."A committee will likely be formed to help draft the plan, and input from the public will also be invited, Kuhn said."This isn't just about our ideas, but the public's ideas too," Kuhn said.
Louise Goldstein and Andrew Jennings, co-founders of the Save the Victorian Pool Society, said they hope to be a part of that planning process.The Save the Victorian Pool Society is a local group that advocates on behalf of the pool, which is located in the Spa State Park."People have no idea what great American history is out there," Goldstein said.Jennings also said it would be important for efforts to "not just look at cosmetics but some real historic preservation."The planning is part of a new initiative to plot the course of parks across the Empire State, said Eileen Larrabee, a spokeswoman for the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
"It helps us respond to the community's interest and makes sure that we are providing the services New Yorkers want," she said Friday. "For whatever reason, there has been a lack of planning in the past. But, to be efficient and effective, we need to plan."With a $650 million backlog for infrastructure improvements among all of the state's parks, Larrabee also said the plan will be an asset to park advocates in making their pitches for financial support."It does give you that sort of backup as you talk to legislators and the private sector for resources," she said. "We know these parks play a role in economic development, so we're hoping this will help in our efforts."Meanwhile, management of the 72-year-old Gideon Putnam Resort and Spa, a luxury hotel and National Historic Landmark in the park, changed hands as of Tuesday.The formal agreement between the state and Delaware North has yet to be signed off on by the state's comptroller and attorney general as required, but an interim agreement allows the company to take over for the beginning of 2008, regardless.
The company, which also manages hospitality and video lottery terminals at the Saratoga Gaming and Raceway, is planning significant upgrades to the hotel and the Roosevelt Bathhouse.A slight but significant change in the works is the addition of a pair of water heaters at the bathhouse. With the heaters, warm baths of pure mineral water can be offered for the first time in decades.There was something of a controversy in 2007 when the bathhouse admitted to using tap water to help warm the baths.In 2007, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, a park tenant, also underwent its first major restoration since opening in 1966. The venue received new seats, improved lighting and a refurbished back stage.The $2 million restoration project is part of an overall $10 million campaign to renovate the facility, which only a few years ago went through a period of financial uncertainty.
Improvements to the 40-year-old concert venue's facade, however, will not be taken up in the coming construction season as hoped, because funding from the state fell through.Larrabee said she hopes state legislators, when they reconvene later this month, will make the improvements a part of their budget discussion.Officials do intend to pursue renovations at SPAC's bathrooms during the coming construction season, however.
By DREW KERR
Published: Wednesday, January 02, 2008
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dkerr@poststar.comSARATOGA SPRINGS -- Officials are hoping to cast a long-term vision for the 2,800-acre Saratoga Spa State Park, an endeavor they think will embolden efforts to secure funding for one of the region's historic gems.Efforts to create a comprehensive master plan -- the park's first -- will begin this year, charting the park's course for the next 20 years, said Robert Kuhn, assistant director of the Saratoga-Capital District Region of the state park system.The park is one of just 11 -- among 213 parks statewide -- that is taking up the planning effort in the near future, according to the New York State Council of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
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The plan will address facility needs and identify aspects of the park that could be enhanced. Exact plans haven't been devised, but ideas include adding more tennis courts,expanding the trail system and allowing camping, Kuhn said.Putting the priorities on paper, and attaching dollar amounts to them, will make selling state leaders on the ideas easier, he added."You can't go ask for money until you know what you want to spend that money on," Kuhn said in an interview this week. "That plan will become the backbone of any budget request you make."A committee will likely be formed to help draft the plan, and input from the public will also be invited, Kuhn said."This isn't just about our ideas, but the public's ideas too," Kuhn said.
Louise Goldstein and Andrew Jennings, co-founders of the Save the Victorian Pool Society, said they hope to be a part of that planning process.The Save the Victorian Pool Society is a local group that advocates on behalf of the pool, which is located in the Spa State Park."People have no idea what great American history is out there," Goldstein said.Jennings also said it would be important for efforts to "not just look at cosmetics but some real historic preservation."The planning is part of a new initiative to plot the course of parks across the Empire State, said Eileen Larrabee, a spokeswoman for the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
"It helps us respond to the community's interest and makes sure that we are providing the services New Yorkers want," she said Friday. "For whatever reason, there has been a lack of planning in the past. But, to be efficient and effective, we need to plan."With a $650 million backlog for infrastructure improvements among all of the state's parks, Larrabee also said the plan will be an asset to park advocates in making their pitches for financial support."It does give you that sort of backup as you talk to legislators and the private sector for resources," she said. "We know these parks play a role in economic development, so we're hoping this will help in our efforts."Meanwhile, management of the 72-year-old Gideon Putnam Resort and Spa, a luxury hotel and National Historic Landmark in the park, changed hands as of Tuesday.The formal agreement between the state and Delaware North has yet to be signed off on by the state's comptroller and attorney general as required, but an interim agreement allows the company to take over for the beginning of 2008, regardless.
The company, which also manages hospitality and video lottery terminals at the Saratoga Gaming and Raceway, is planning significant upgrades to the hotel and the Roosevelt Bathhouse.A slight but significant change in the works is the addition of a pair of water heaters at the bathhouse. With the heaters, warm baths of pure mineral water can be offered for the first time in decades.There was something of a controversy in 2007 when the bathhouse admitted to using tap water to help warm the baths.In 2007, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, a park tenant, also underwent its first major restoration since opening in 1966. The venue received new seats, improved lighting and a refurbished back stage.The $2 million restoration project is part of an overall $10 million campaign to renovate the facility, which only a few years ago went through a period of financial uncertainty.
Improvements to the 40-year-old concert venue's facade, however, will not be taken up in the coming construction season as hoped, because funding from the state fell through.Larrabee said she hopes state legislators, when they reconvene later this month, will make the improvements a part of their budget discussion.Officials do intend to pursue renovations at SPAC's bathrooms during the coming construction season, however.
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Saratoga Spa State Park first in the state to create a master plan.
SARATOGA SPRINGS
Future of state park to be plotted
Capital projects will be identifi ed
BY LEE COLEMAN Gazette Reporter The Saratoga Spa State Park has been chosen to be the first of the state’s 178 parks to create a new comprehensive master plan. “Where should the park be in five, 10, 20 years out?” asked Robert Kuhn, assistant regional director of the Saratoga-Capital District Region of the state park system. “Do we want camping here?” Kuhn said, giving an example of the kind of thing the master plan will answer. Kuhn said the Spa State Park staff is thrilled to be the first in the state to do a new master plan. “It’s wonderful for us, but a huge challenge,” Kuhn said at a recent meeting of the Saratoga-Capital District Region park commission. The master plan — including detailed environmental and economic studies — will identify future capital investments at the 2,800-acre park needed to rehabilitate and upgrade the park’s many recreational and cultural venues. Many of the Saratoga Spa State Park’s historic buildings were constructed during the Great Depression. Most of them opened in 1935 and are in need of regular repair and renovation. “The master plan is an important document,” said Eileen Larrabee, a spokeswoman for the state Offi ce of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. She said on Monday a comprehensive master plan requires comments and suggestions from the local community on the future development of the park. “Over the past decade very few master plans have been done,” Larrabee said. This is why state parks Commissioner Carol Ash is asking that 50 parks in the state complete a new master plan within the next fi ve years. “Spa State Park is slated to be the first,” Larrabee said. The last master plan for the Spa State Park was done more than a decade ago, she said. Kuhn said Spa State Park is lucky to have Michael Greenslade as its new director. The master plan will be done “in-house” by park staff. Most recently, Greenslade was director of the Moreau Lake State Park. He helped that park finalize a master plan after it acquired 3,200 acres in Saratoga and Warren counties from the Open Space Institute and Niagara Mohawk Power Corp. Greenslade will be in charge of coordinating the new Spa State Park master plan process. Larrabee said the Moreau Lake State Park master plan was one of the few completed in New York state in recent years. “The process requires that we open it up to the public, to the local municipality,” Kuhn said about the master plan. Heather Mabee, president of the Saratoga-Capital District Region’s park commission, said the master plan “will be a living document.” “It will be something anybody can read, it will be user-friendly,” Mabee said. Mabee said the Spa State Park’s master plan should be completed as early as the end of 2008. “It will be a lot of work,” she said at a recent commission meeting. “We will need all the help we can get,” Greenslade replied. Ash said this fall that a major problem facing the state park system is the lack of adequate funding in recent state budgets. “Over the past 15 years, the size of our system expanded from 184 sites — including historic sites and state parks — in 1992 to 213 today, an increase of 29 new facilities,” Ash said in testimony before a fi scal year 2008-09 parks capital funding hearing in Albany. “But over this same period, our capital budget was cut,” she said. “Our actual expenditures in 1992 were $60 million. This year, our capital expenditures from all sources will be $40 million.” “Adjusted for inflation, our capital budget today buys 50 percent less than it did in 1992,” she testifi ed. Ash said there is a backlog of $650 million in “urgent capital needs” in parks across the state. The Saratoga-Capital District Region, which includes the Spa State Park along with nine other state parks and seven historic sites, needs $43 million for “urgent” capital projects, Kuhn said. “We won’t get it in one year,” Kuhn said. He said the money for the region will be phased in during coming budget years. “Everything looks positive to get the funding, starting in next year’s budget,” Kuhn said.
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Future of state park to be plotted
Capital projects will be identifi ed
BY LEE COLEMAN Gazette Reporter The Saratoga Spa State Park has been chosen to be the first of the state’s 178 parks to create a new comprehensive master plan. “Where should the park be in five, 10, 20 years out?” asked Robert Kuhn, assistant regional director of the Saratoga-Capital District Region of the state park system. “Do we want camping here?” Kuhn said, giving an example of the kind of thing the master plan will answer. Kuhn said the Spa State Park staff is thrilled to be the first in the state to do a new master plan. “It’s wonderful for us, but a huge challenge,” Kuhn said at a recent meeting of the Saratoga-Capital District Region park commission. The master plan — including detailed environmental and economic studies — will identify future capital investments at the 2,800-acre park needed to rehabilitate and upgrade the park’s many recreational and cultural venues. Many of the Saratoga Spa State Park’s historic buildings were constructed during the Great Depression. Most of them opened in 1935 and are in need of regular repair and renovation. “The master plan is an important document,” said Eileen Larrabee, a spokeswoman for the state Offi ce of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. She said on Monday a comprehensive master plan requires comments and suggestions from the local community on the future development of the park. “Over the past decade very few master plans have been done,” Larrabee said. This is why state parks Commissioner Carol Ash is asking that 50 parks in the state complete a new master plan within the next fi ve years. “Spa State Park is slated to be the first,” Larrabee said. The last master plan for the Spa State Park was done more than a decade ago, she said. Kuhn said Spa State Park is lucky to have Michael Greenslade as its new director. The master plan will be done “in-house” by park staff. Most recently, Greenslade was director of the Moreau Lake State Park. He helped that park finalize a master plan after it acquired 3,200 acres in Saratoga and Warren counties from the Open Space Institute and Niagara Mohawk Power Corp. Greenslade will be in charge of coordinating the new Spa State Park master plan process. Larrabee said the Moreau Lake State Park master plan was one of the few completed in New York state in recent years. “The process requires that we open it up to the public, to the local municipality,” Kuhn said about the master plan. Heather Mabee, president of the Saratoga-Capital District Region’s park commission, said the master plan “will be a living document.” “It will be something anybody can read, it will be user-friendly,” Mabee said. Mabee said the Spa State Park’s master plan should be completed as early as the end of 2008. “It will be a lot of work,” she said at a recent commission meeting. “We will need all the help we can get,” Greenslade replied. Ash said this fall that a major problem facing the state park system is the lack of adequate funding in recent state budgets. “Over the past 15 years, the size of our system expanded from 184 sites — including historic sites and state parks — in 1992 to 213 today, an increase of 29 new facilities,” Ash said in testimony before a fi scal year 2008-09 parks capital funding hearing in Albany. “But over this same period, our capital budget was cut,” she said. “Our actual expenditures in 1992 were $60 million. This year, our capital expenditures from all sources will be $40 million.” “Adjusted for inflation, our capital budget today buys 50 percent less than it did in 1992,” she testifi ed. Ash said there is a backlog of $650 million in “urgent capital needs” in parks across the state. The Saratoga-Capital District Region, which includes the Spa State Park along with nine other state parks and seven historic sites, needs $43 million for “urgent” capital projects, Kuhn said. “We won’t get it in one year,” Kuhn said. He said the money for the region will be phased in during coming budget years. “Everything looks positive to get the funding, starting in next year’s budget,” Kuhn said.
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Saturday, December 22, 2007
A lovely poem for this or any season
Stopping By Woods On A Snowy Evening
Whose woods these are I think I know.
His house is in the village though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.
My little horse must think it queer
To stop without a farmhouse near
Between the woods and frozen lake
The darkest evening of the year.
He gives his harness bells a shake
To ask if there is some mistake.
The only other sound's the sweep
Of easy wind and downy flake.
The woods are lovely, dark and deep.
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.
Robert Frost, Stopping by Woods on a Snowy EveningUS poet (1874 - 1963)
Whose woods these are I think I know.
His house is in the village though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.
My little horse must think it queer
To stop without a farmhouse near
Between the woods and frozen lake
The darkest evening of the year.
He gives his harness bells a shake
To ask if there is some mistake.
The only other sound's the sweep
Of easy wind and downy flake.
The woods are lovely, dark and deep.
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.
Robert Frost, Stopping by Woods on a Snowy EveningUS poet (1874 - 1963)
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
water=kaching kaching!
Let the city have lake water
Published: Friday, December 14, 2007
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Now the members of the Saratoga Lake Association, having gotten pummeled in court, are going to drag out for another round their selfish quest to keep anyone from sharing their water.Saratoga Lake is big enough and clean enough to take care of the water needs of Saratoga Springs with ease. Expert studies have shown that.But heaven forbid, the lakesiders are saying, that anyone sip from "their" water.It's better, they say, for workers to rip a ditch down the length of the county, right through Moreau State Park, and toss a pipe in it.
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The lakesiders like to act as if the county pipe plan, which would draw water out of the Hudson River, is a fait accompli.Work has started on the pipeline, but with all the problems besetting the project -- a shortage of paying customers being, perhaps, the biggest -- the pipe plan may yet prove to be a pipe dream.Even if the county manages to get its pipe into the ground, Saratoga Springs doesn't have to tap into it.The city is lucky enough to have an ample supply of water just waiting to be tapped.Other communities draw water out of big lakes like Saratoga Lake.And other communities allow recreation on the lakes from which they draw water.
You don't have to look far for examples. The village of Lake Placid has drawn all its water from Lake Placid for more than a century.Lake Placid holds a volume of water similar to Saratoga Lake's and, although Lake Placid is smaller than Saratoga Springs, it attracts tourists by the hundreds of thousands, not just in summer but in every season.Lake Placid has never had a problem with its water supply.And recreation on Lake Placid, where hundreds of motorboats cruise in the summertime, has never been restricted.And the Saratoga Lake homeowners have never drawn a convincing distinction between Saratoga Lake and Lake Placid.
If the environment were their concern, they would have rallied against cutting a trench many miles long through the county's forests and fields.If water quality were their concern, they'd have welcomed a city tap, because drinking water must be monitored and kept to a high standard.Their concern is keeping the lake to themselves, and it always has been.Unfortunately, their selfishness has found powerful allies among the county's Republican supervisors, who themselves have a shameful record when it comes to public works.In the late 1990s, the county's Republican supervisors rammed through a plan to build a $10 million landfill in Northumberland that local farmers and many other people told them was unnecessary. That landfill has never been used.
Let me repeat that: $10 million.Never been used.The water pipe could turn into a similar boondoggle. But even if water eventually flows through this pipe, it's better for the city to have its own.Will Doolittle is projects editor of The Post-Star. He may be reached at will@poststar.com.
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Published: Friday, December 14, 2007
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Now the members of the Saratoga Lake Association, having gotten pummeled in court, are going to drag out for another round their selfish quest to keep anyone from sharing their water.Saratoga Lake is big enough and clean enough to take care of the water needs of Saratoga Springs with ease. Expert studies have shown that.But heaven forbid, the lakesiders are saying, that anyone sip from "their" water.It's better, they say, for workers to rip a ditch down the length of the county, right through Moreau State Park, and toss a pipe in it.
Advertisement
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aCampaigns = new Array();
aCampaigns[836] = 100;
aAds = new Array();
nAdsysTime = new Date().getTime()/1000;
document.usePlayer = 1;
if ((nAdsysTime >= 1181710800) && (nAdsysTime = 1174280400) && (nAdsysTime = 1189486800) && (nAdsysTime = 1190264400) && (nAdsysTime = 1191301200) && (nAdsysTime = 1191992400) && (nAdsysTime = 1192078800) && (nAdsysTime = 1193029200) && (nAdsysTime = 1195624800) && (nAdsysTime = 1196834400) && (nAdsysTime
The lakesiders like to act as if the county pipe plan, which would draw water out of the Hudson River, is a fait accompli.Work has started on the pipeline, but with all the problems besetting the project -- a shortage of paying customers being, perhaps, the biggest -- the pipe plan may yet prove to be a pipe dream.Even if the county manages to get its pipe into the ground, Saratoga Springs doesn't have to tap into it.The city is lucky enough to have an ample supply of water just waiting to be tapped.Other communities draw water out of big lakes like Saratoga Lake.And other communities allow recreation on the lakes from which they draw water.
You don't have to look far for examples. The village of Lake Placid has drawn all its water from Lake Placid for more than a century.Lake Placid holds a volume of water similar to Saratoga Lake's and, although Lake Placid is smaller than Saratoga Springs, it attracts tourists by the hundreds of thousands, not just in summer but in every season.Lake Placid has never had a problem with its water supply.And recreation on Lake Placid, where hundreds of motorboats cruise in the summertime, has never been restricted.And the Saratoga Lake homeowners have never drawn a convincing distinction between Saratoga Lake and Lake Placid.
If the environment were their concern, they would have rallied against cutting a trench many miles long through the county's forests and fields.If water quality were their concern, they'd have welcomed a city tap, because drinking water must be monitored and kept to a high standard.Their concern is keeping the lake to themselves, and it always has been.Unfortunately, their selfishness has found powerful allies among the county's Republican supervisors, who themselves have a shameful record when it comes to public works.In the late 1990s, the county's Republican supervisors rammed through a plan to build a $10 million landfill in Northumberland that local farmers and many other people told them was unnecessary. That landfill has never been used.
Let me repeat that: $10 million.Never been used.The water pipe could turn into a similar boondoggle. But even if water eventually flows through this pipe, it's better for the city to have its own.Will Doolittle is projects editor of The Post-Star. He may be reached at will@poststar.com.
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Urgent needs for NYS Parks, 12/17/07
News from New York State Office of Parks & Recreation
For more information contact: Eileen Larrabee or Cathy Jimenez, 518-486-1868
State Council of Parks Issues Report Highlighting Needs and Accomplishments of State Parks and Historic Sites
Report, First in 35 years, Highlights Capital Backlog Throughout New York State
ALBANY, NY (12/17/2007; 1419)(readMedia)-- The New York State Council of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation today released its 2007 Annual Report to Governor Eliot Spitzer highlighting achievements over the past year and setting forth recommendations for improving the (1) infrastructure and management and (2) stewardship of New York’s 213 State Parks and Historic Sites. The report details the growing backlog of urgent capital needs at state parks and historic sites and identifies priorities of the State Council for 2008.
“The New York State Parks system is an irreplaceable public asset that provides unparalleled recreation opportunities, enhances the health of citizens, supports the state’s economic vitality and quality of life, and harbors irreplaceable ecosystems and natural resources. The Annual Report outlines a major effort to return New York’s parks to preeminence as the best state parks system in the nation and calls for a renewed investment in our public facilities throughout the state,” said State Council Chair Dr. Lucy Waletzky.
“I want to thank the members of the State Council of Parks for their commitment to preserving and protecting the valuable natural resources within our parks and historic sites and for their efforts in advancing the annual report. This document is an important step in focusing attention on the many challenges facing our state parks and historic sites after years of underinvestment and offers valuable insight and suggestions to develop and expand successful stewardship and land initiatives across New York,” said State Parks Commissioner Carol Ash.
Ash noted that despite statutory requirements for the issuance of an annual report, this document is the first formal submission in 35 years provided to the Governor.
An ongoing comprehensive assessment of State Parks’ capital investment needs has identified critical capital projects with a total cost exceeding $650 million. The following are State Parks’ capital needs broken down into four categories:
Remediation of existing facilities (65 percent of capital need). Projects include maintenance and rehabilitation of existing infrastructure in the parks and historic sites.
Health and safety (15 percent of capital need). Projects include upgrades to electrical systems and drinking water supply systems, repairs to dams and bridges flagged as potential hazards, and attention to inactive landfills that were not properly closed.
New facilities development (15 percent of capital need). Projects include capital investments are needed to develop new facilities that have been acquired over the past decade in order to create contact stations, parking areas, restrooms, picnic grounds and swimming areas.
Natural resources (5 percent of capital need). State Parks’ natural resources are threatened by pollution, invasive species, soil erosion and global warming. Specific projects to restore habitats and ecosystems within State Parks facilities have been identified to ensure the protection of natural resources.
Despite the unmet capital funding needs, State Parks achieved a number of accomplishments and successes over the past year including opening of new parks and facilities, restoration of several historic buildings, construction of vacation rentals; major rehabilitation projects; electrical upgrades and playground improvements; and increased interpretive programming and educational opportunities.
In 2008, the State Council will focus on significantly increasing State Parks’ capital budget to address the rehabilitation and reconstruction of aging infrastructure; cultivating and encouraging support for state parks and historic sites with elected officials, community leaders, and parks and historic preservation organizations; working to strengthen friends groups and increasing volunteer efforts; and participating in private fundraising efforts to advance high priority capital projects.
The Annual Report was adopted by members of the Council of Parks at an October 16, 2007, meeting. The State Council consists of the Chairs of the eleven regional park commissions; Carol Ash, Commissioner of State Parks; Pete Grannis, Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Conservation, and Robert MacKay, Chair of the State Board of Historic Preservation. The function of the council is to advise, make recommendations and report on the progress of all matters affecting state parks, recreation and historic preservation.
In January 2007, Governor Spitzer appointed Dr. Lucy R. Waletzky to serve as chair of the State Council of Parks. The following individuals serve as chair for each of the New York State Parks regions: Dalton Burgett (Allegany); Edward Audi (Central); Linda Jackson (Finger Lakes); Peter Humphrey (Genesee); Herbert Balin (Long Island); Edward Cox (New York City); Jean Knox (Niagara); Samuel Pryor (Palisades); Heather Mabee (Saratoga-Capital District); Lucy Waletzky (Taconic); and Harold Johnson, II (Thousand Islands).
For more information on New York State parks and historic sites, please call 518-474-0456 or visit www.nysparks.com. For a copy of the New York State Council of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation 2007 Annual Report, visit www.nysparks.state.ny.us/council/docs/Annual_Report.pdf.
###
For more information contact: Eileen Larrabee or Cathy Jimenez, 518-486-1868
State Council of Parks Issues Report Highlighting Needs and Accomplishments of State Parks and Historic Sites
Report, First in 35 years, Highlights Capital Backlog Throughout New York State
ALBANY, NY (12/17/2007; 1419)(readMedia)-- The New York State Council of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation today released its 2007 Annual Report to Governor Eliot Spitzer highlighting achievements over the past year and setting forth recommendations for improving the (1) infrastructure and management and (2) stewardship of New York’s 213 State Parks and Historic Sites. The report details the growing backlog of urgent capital needs at state parks and historic sites and identifies priorities of the State Council for 2008.
“The New York State Parks system is an irreplaceable public asset that provides unparalleled recreation opportunities, enhances the health of citizens, supports the state’s economic vitality and quality of life, and harbors irreplaceable ecosystems and natural resources. The Annual Report outlines a major effort to return New York’s parks to preeminence as the best state parks system in the nation and calls for a renewed investment in our public facilities throughout the state,” said State Council Chair Dr. Lucy Waletzky.
“I want to thank the members of the State Council of Parks for their commitment to preserving and protecting the valuable natural resources within our parks and historic sites and for their efforts in advancing the annual report. This document is an important step in focusing attention on the many challenges facing our state parks and historic sites after years of underinvestment and offers valuable insight and suggestions to develop and expand successful stewardship and land initiatives across New York,” said State Parks Commissioner Carol Ash.
Ash noted that despite statutory requirements for the issuance of an annual report, this document is the first formal submission in 35 years provided to the Governor.
An ongoing comprehensive assessment of State Parks’ capital investment needs has identified critical capital projects with a total cost exceeding $650 million. The following are State Parks’ capital needs broken down into four categories:
Remediation of existing facilities (65 percent of capital need). Projects include maintenance and rehabilitation of existing infrastructure in the parks and historic sites.
Health and safety (15 percent of capital need). Projects include upgrades to electrical systems and drinking water supply systems, repairs to dams and bridges flagged as potential hazards, and attention to inactive landfills that were not properly closed.
New facilities development (15 percent of capital need). Projects include capital investments are needed to develop new facilities that have been acquired over the past decade in order to create contact stations, parking areas, restrooms, picnic grounds and swimming areas.
Natural resources (5 percent of capital need). State Parks’ natural resources are threatened by pollution, invasive species, soil erosion and global warming. Specific projects to restore habitats and ecosystems within State Parks facilities have been identified to ensure the protection of natural resources.
Despite the unmet capital funding needs, State Parks achieved a number of accomplishments and successes over the past year including opening of new parks and facilities, restoration of several historic buildings, construction of vacation rentals; major rehabilitation projects; electrical upgrades and playground improvements; and increased interpretive programming and educational opportunities.
In 2008, the State Council will focus on significantly increasing State Parks’ capital budget to address the rehabilitation and reconstruction of aging infrastructure; cultivating and encouraging support for state parks and historic sites with elected officials, community leaders, and parks and historic preservation organizations; working to strengthen friends groups and increasing volunteer efforts; and participating in private fundraising efforts to advance high priority capital projects.
The Annual Report was adopted by members of the Council of Parks at an October 16, 2007, meeting. The State Council consists of the Chairs of the eleven regional park commissions; Carol Ash, Commissioner of State Parks; Pete Grannis, Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Conservation, and Robert MacKay, Chair of the State Board of Historic Preservation. The function of the council is to advise, make recommendations and report on the progress of all matters affecting state parks, recreation and historic preservation.
In January 2007, Governor Spitzer appointed Dr. Lucy R. Waletzky to serve as chair of the State Council of Parks. The following individuals serve as chair for each of the New York State Parks regions: Dalton Burgett (Allegany); Edward Audi (Central); Linda Jackson (Finger Lakes); Peter Humphrey (Genesee); Herbert Balin (Long Island); Edward Cox (New York City); Jean Knox (Niagara); Samuel Pryor (Palisades); Heather Mabee (Saratoga-Capital District); Lucy Waletzky (Taconic); and Harold Johnson, II (Thousand Islands).
For more information on New York State parks and historic sites, please call 518-474-0456 or visit www.nysparks.com. For a copy of the New York State Council of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation 2007 Annual Report, visit www.nysparks.state.ny.us/council/docs/Annual_Report.pdf.
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