Stockade Spy December 2024
TM
December 2024 Published by The Stockade Association
historicstockade.org Vol. 66 No.4
Stockade Holiday Happiness!
Home for the Holidays, see page 3 Friday, Dec. 6, 7pm. Civic Players
Holiday Ramble, see page 2 Saturday, December 7, 11am – 4pm
Sunday, December 8 at 5:30pm
Sunday, December 8, 2024 4:30pm – Pre-Lighting Treats at Arthur’s 5:15pm – Gather at Lawrence Afterglow at St. George’s Great Hall
Our tree has arrived and Santa is getting ready to greet neighbors at the Stockade’s Annual Tree Lighting on Sunday, Dec. 8, at 5:30 pm. Join us for pre-lighting treats at Arthur’s. Gathering at 5:15 in the circle at Lawrence, intersection of N. Ferry and Green Street.
Stockade Association Social Hour
Mondays in December, 3 – 4pm Arthur’s Market
December 24 & 25, see page 2
Schenectady County Historical Society Events schenectadyhistorical.org
or call (518) 374-0263
All are invited to join in the singing
Friday, December 6, 6 – 8pm
Saturday, Dec. 7-28, 10am-4:30pm
of carols and tree lighting!
Chocolate Haus:
Holiday Edition
Dec. 13, 6pm & Dec. 14, 5pm
A Very Mabee Christmas Saturday, December 14, 12 – 2pm Holiday Stockade Stroll December 18 – 21, 5:30pm
Hanukkah begins Wed, Dec. 25 Kwanzaa begins Thursday, Dec. 26
STOCKADE SNOW
When snow is predicted, plan ahead to avoid a ticket and a tow! Find in- formation at the City of Schenecta- dy website: cityofschenectady.com. Search for Snow Emergency. Parking restrictions apply for Union Street, a priority street.
January Spy Deadline: DECEMBER 15. Please email editor: sylviebriber@gmail.com
We all look forward to the joyous look on the faces of our neigh- borhood children (ages 5-12) as they magically light our beautiful tree from The Saratoga Tree Nursery, NYS Department of Environ- mental Conservation. A big THANK YOU to Schenectady Heritage Foundation for donating this year’s tree.
Join in The Afterglow!
Follow the luminaries from Lawrence to The Great Hall at St. George’s to continue the holiday celebration with friends, refresh- ments, and music.
A DISH TO SHARE…neighbors are asked to drop off finger food snacks and sweets to The Great Hall before the Tree Lighting, starting at 4:30 pm. Beverages will be provided. All are welcome!
Dress warm and bring your best singing voice!
DECEMBER WASTE COLLECTION DATES
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6, 13, & 20; MONDAY, DECEMBER 30. Appliance pick up: Friday, Dec. 20.
Holiday Ramble in the Stockade Saturday, December 7 11am-4pm
Get ready to experience the magic of the holidays at the Holiday Ramble in the Stockade! On Saturday, December 7 from 11am-4pm, the charming streets of Schenectady’s historic district will come alive with seasonal cheer, local shopping, and festive experiences you won’t want to miss.
Christmas Church Services in the Stockade
First Reformed Church
Tuesday, December 24 Christmas Eve Services
5pm – 6pm Family service with shepherds and angels. 8:30pm Candlelight Concert with string ensemble and choir 9pm Candlelight worship with carols
11pm – midnight Jazz Vespers
frcschenectady.church (518) 377-2201 See ad page 3
St. George’s Episcopal Church
Tuesday, December 24, 4pm, Family Low Mass with carols 9:30pm, Carol Concert. 10:00pm, Christmas Eve Mass Wednesday, December 25, 11:00am Christmas Day Mass Sunday, January 5, 2025: 5:00pm, A Feast of Lights for the Eve of the Epiphany
stgeorgesschenectady.org (518)374-3163 See ad page 6 First Presbyterian Church
Please Join Us – Christmas Eve Candlelight Service Tuesday, December 24th at 6:00pm
fpcschdy.org (518) 374-4546 See ad page 7
Sweet Sprig and The Brouwer House Cre- ative will feature artisan gifts and door prizes, while Bex Salon offers holiday sweets, free gifts, and a pop-up with artist Melody Often. Wrap it all up at Hardwired Fitness with a be- ginner-friendly class and raffles.
Be sure to swing by the Schenectady Winter Village at Frog Alley, and don’t miss Stella’s Pasta Bar for an after-hours Christmas show and drink discounts with your Ramble map to end the day on a festive note.
Gather your loved ones, and make this a holiday to remember!
This year’s Ramble is packed with something for everyone. Start your day at Graham’s Coffee Parlor with a cozy Sug- ar Plum Latte, other holiday flavors, and a free sweet treat. Then, head over to Inner Bliss Yoga and The Stockade Inn to explore their refreshed spaces and unwind with mini yoga showcases and massages.
Arthur’s Market will warm you up with peppermint hot choc- olate and a seasonal wreath pop-up by Mud Road Farms, while Mohawk Valley Art Shoppe and Last Nerve Tattoo host an art show benefitting the Schenectady County Child Advocacy Center. You’ll also find raffles, 10% off gift cards, and flash tattoos!
Don’t miss the Festival of Trees at the Schenectady Coun- ty Historical Society, or holiday gift boxes and discounts at Alchemy Wellness.
CUT HERE
$
STOCKADE ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP FORM: October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025
Makes a great holiday gift! Join on line at: historicstockade.org
Anyone living
in the Stockade is Regular Membership: Upon the payment of dues, voting membership is available to any
eligible for a individual owning property, renting, or owning a business entity within the Stockade Historic District
regular membership Affiliate Membership: Upon the payment of dues, any individual or organization not eligible for regular membership is eligible to become a non-voting affiliate member designated as a “Friend of The Stockade.” Dues: Individual: $20; Household: $25; Business owner: $25; Affiliate: $15.
q Individual q Household q Affiliate Check one:
q Non-resident Stockade property owner(s) q Renter
q One designated representative of a Stockade business entity q Homeowner
Name(s)
Address Phone Email(s)
Check one:
q New Member
q Renewing Member
Date
The Stockade Spy is distributed free to the neighborhood monthly and mailed to non-resident members and “Friends.” Please make checks payable to: The Stockade Association
Mail to: Stockade Association Treasurer, 32 Washington Ave., Suite 100, Schenectady, NY 12305
2
(518)280-2233
714 Saratoga Road, Burnt Hills, NY 12027 trulyyourscustomframing.com
info@ truly yourscustomframing.com
Mention the Stockade Spy for $15 off your f irst order!
City of Schenectady
Doreen Ditoro
City Council Member
City Hall, 105 Jay Street, room 107 Schenectady, NY 12305 (518) 528-5870 dditoro@schenectadyny.gov
For fun people only!
Visit our curated curiosity shop! Filled with things you’ve never seen before! Lots to look at & explore!
ARTWORK • POSTERS • BOOKS • CARDS • BAGS PLUSH • TOYS • PUZZLES • GAMES+DICE • PENS STICKERS • PATCHES • PINS • TRINKETS
BearandBird 160JayStreet at the Jay Street Marketplace
Boutique+Gallery TEXT/CALL: (518) 227-1145 www.bearandbird.com
First Reformed Church Schenectady
In-Person & Virtual Services
Sunday’s: 10am Worship & 5pm Vespers
1streformed.com 5188-3-737-722701-2201
Dine In and GRAB-ANTDo-GOGoLULNuCnHch
WedWnesddnaeysd12a-y1psm12-1pm
President’s Message – Colleen Macaulay
Earlier this year while trying to secure a very special vehicle
for the StreetFest, I came upon the following:
“Someday we (will) make the good things in life for every- body.” – Charles Steinmetz
A provocative statement indeed. It is hopeful, caring and filled with imagination.
‘Tis the season of “somedays” …where extra special efforts
go into everything we do for family, friends, neighbors and even strangers!
May a tiny bit of Dr. Steinmetz’ wistful imagination be a part
of the season ahead for all of us.
Someday…
To Winter – Victoria Gatta
Oh, how you haste from the North;
A cold, knowing, numbing wind.
That which shudders the leaves,
Trembling the trees.
I too shall rest with the animals,
Nestled safely and warm till Spring.
THANK YOU, GREEN ST. NEIGHBORS!
Dan O’Neill and neighbors Steve
and Nathaniel are improving a sidewalk amenity area on Green
St. They were inspired by the gar- dening of Liz, another neighbor.
Bricks were graciously provid-
ed by neighbors, including Harry Whalen, Colleen Macaulay, and
Eric Johnson. The Stockade As- PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS sociation provided funds for the
joint sand, which stays flexible while reducing weeds.
They plan to complete the western side of the area next spring. Have extra bricks laying around? Dan’s happy to put them to good use! Contact him at Danon2810@gmail.com. IMPORTANT STOCKADE DATES – MARK YOUR CALENDARS Commemoration Weekend: Saturday, February 8, 2025;
6:00 pm – 335th Anniversary of the Schenectady Massacre. Tavern Night & Luminaries. More details to follow.
Board Meetings – 7:00 pm @ Stockade Inn
December 2, 2024; No January Meeting; February 3; March
4; April 7; May 5, 2025. Please contact President Colleen Macaulay at Ladymac1129@aol.com if you would like to observe a board meeting.
Stockade General Meetings Moved to Tuesday Nights January General Meeting – Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025; 7:00pm March General Meeting – Tuesday, March 18, 2025; 7:00pm
May Annual Meeting (board election) – Tuesday, May 20, 2025; pre-meeting mingle at 6:30; meeting at 7:00pm
3
Schenectady Civic Players Fundraiser Home for the Holidays
An Evening of Music with Act Two Friday, December 6. 7pm wine & cheese recep-
tion. 8pm A musical revue of holiday favorites.
Tickets $25. Reserve by calling (518) 382-2081, or purchase online at civicplayers.org
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Update from City Hall
North Ferry Street Pump Station – Carol DeLaMarter
A city contractor
has repaired and
painted the exterior
of the historic Pump
Station. The orig-
inal windows were
removed and re-
paired off site, and
are now installed,
completing the proj-
Photo by Gloria Kishton ect. Now its time to
reimagine a future
use of the building’s
interior space.
Electric City Recharged – Suzy Unger
The City hosted an event on November 18 at Proctor’s Theater to begin the process of updating the city’s compre- hensive plan. This was last done in 2008. A comprehensive plan sets out the vision and goals of the community and guides the city when making important decisions regarding development, the economy, housing, and transportation to name a few areas. Citizen participation is crucial to the de- velopment of a good plan.
This phase is expected to take a year and there will be many opportunities to give your input. Dubbed “The Electric City Recharged,” residents are encouraged to submit comments on the website set up for this purpose (https://www.elec- triccityrecharged.com/contact). Those of us who attend- ed came away with the feeling that it is going to be crucial for Stockaders to make their views known. So, even if you weren’t able to attend the November 18 kick off meeting, take some time to send in your comments. According to the consultants hired to lead the comprehensive plan process, LaBella Associates, the next step will be to set up visits to Schenectady neighborhoods starting in January. Watch this space for regular updates on this important matter!
Stockade Safety LIGHT UP THE STOCKADE! Keep your front and back porch lights on for your safety and for nighttime walkers.
Garden Tour Set for July 19, 2025
– Suzy Unger
It seems like yesterday that we were hosting the biggest, best Walkabout ever. Even so, it is not too early to start thinking about next year’s big fundraiser. Since we alter- nate years, we will be offering a garden tour in 2025. The street fair was such a successful addition to the Walkabout, we are making plans to include a second annual StreetFest during the garden tour. So, Save the Date and stay tuned for more information as our plans proceed. Consider includ- ing your garden on the tour or becoming a volunteer. This is, as always, a team effort! Contact Suzy Unger at suzanne. unger@gmail.com if you want to join us!
WHAT’S UP DOWNTOWN
Weekly updates on downtown happenings: www.downtownschenectady.org
A Locally-Owned Independent Bookstore Since 1971
128 Jay Street, Schenectady
(518) 346-2719 www.opendoor-bookstore.com
New Walkway Exploratory Group – Jac Solghan Interested in improving Stockade historical walkways and paths? This new group will canvas and identify current walkways/pathways in need of repair We will need people familiar with grant writing/research. Please email me at ja- solghan@aol.com if you’re interested in joining the group. The focus of this new group is to repair the walkways that are already here and does not mean ripping up everything and putting in something new. The goal is to merge safety with preservation.
I will begin a group in the near future to start the process. We already have support from Assemblyman Angelo Sant- abarbara’s Team on this venture.
Art Night in Schenectady has a Stockade Vibe!
– Carol DeLaMarter
If you’ve caught on to Third Friday Art Walk that began (again) in Sep- tember, you may have noticed Stock- ade venues and artists are now just around the corner. This monthly free and open to the public event “walks” participants from downtown and Jay St., to Armory Studios NY on Wash- ington Ave. The one-night (5pm- 8:30pm) pop-up event celebrates live music, visual art on display, artist demonstrations and commu- nity art-making. Over the last three months the Stockade vibe has included locations here on N. Church St, Ferry St, Washington Ave and State St. Check out December locations for holiday music and retail. Stop by the Officers Club at Armory Studios and enjoy Stockade neighbor Doug Chilton on the piano with vocal guest. Plan your walk from the more than 14 venues and make a night of it and perhaps do some last minute holiday shopping. Birds of the Stockade
– Capt. Eagle Eyes, aka Jamie Taft
Cardinals can be found in the Stockade
and all across the eastern and midwestern
US. They don’t migrate in the winter, but
remain year round. Cardinals mate for life
and have two to three chicks every year
which both parents help to care for. They
eat plant seeds and also come to feeders.
Photo by Keith Dayer
Graham’s Coffee Parlor held a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, November 15. Owner Katryn Malen was joined by Stockade Inn owners John Samatulski and Zakhar Berkov- ich, to welcome Schenectady officials, Stockade neighbor- hood supporters, and coffee lovers!
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The cutest shop in Schenectady!
larutan-llA
,saos
,seldnac
,eracnis
srewolf deird
edam stfig +
.etis no
14 N Church St
neo woN
!syadnuS
5-21 irF-deW
4-11 nuS-taS
McGregor Auto Service
Full Service Repair Shop *NYSI *Foreign & Domestic
Open Mon – Fri 8:00AM to 5:30PM
Vinnie N.
Inner Bliss Yoga & Wellness
Experience the difference yoga makes!
21 days for $41
21 consecutive days of unlimited yoga – Come as often as you like to sample a variety of classes and styles of teaching.
innerblissny.com 838 218 7626 Inside Stockade Inn 2nd Floor
It is white and cylindrical and one inch in length
It is an inanimate object possessing great strength
It can counteract balance and cause one to slip
It can expound profound knowledge when held in a grip When possessing this object the mute come to talk Amazing in function is this used piece of chalk
GJW 6-16-1975
It’s time to give thought and power to your estate planning wishes! Contact Glenn for a free consultation. Evening appointments available.
Glenn J. Witecki, Esq. The Witecki Law Office 8 South Church Street Schenectady, NY 12305 518-372-2827; www.witeckilawoffice.com
SCHENECTADY CIVIC PLAYHOUSE
Home for the Holidays Fundraiser
An Evening of Music with Act Two. Friday, Dec. 6. 7pm wine & cheese reception. 8pm A musical revue of holiday favorites. Tickets $25, online or call the Playhouse.
100 Saints You Should Know
By Kate Fodor January 24–February 2, 2025
A Perfect Ganesh
By Terrence McNally May 9-18, 2025
Casa Valentina by Harvey Fierstein March 21-30, 2025
civicplayers.org n 12 S. Church St, Schenectady, NY n (518)382-2081
Remembering Jim Lane
– Children, Erin Marozas and Sean Lane
After a fall and a very brief hospital-
ization, James (Jim) Lane, age 89 1⁄2,
passed on October 29. Jim leaves be-
hind his best friend and eternal love,
wife of 65 years, Betty, his son Sean
(Kathy) of Crofton, MD, daughter Erin
(Don) Marozas of Livonia NY, and 2
grandsons, Brendan and Brian.
Jim and Betty Lane were decades-long residents of the Stockade having lived in many spots, their favorites being Cucumber Alley and 148 Front St., meeting many lifelong friends in the Stockade. Over the years at “148,” Jim became a creative and masterful home restorer, always working on a project somewhere in the house. He was instrumental in developing several of the Stockade celebrations and events still enjoyed today. He helped plan and implement the very first Memorial Day Picnic, the first Christmas Tree Lighting and the first Stockade Art Show. He also helped develop and carry out the first Flood Alert teams in the 1970s.
Jim served in the US Navy and had a myriad of jobs from short order cook to concrete truck operator, and even a stint at Arthur’s Market! He taught Elementary School in Sche- nectady for 34 years.
Jim was an avid lifelong athlete playing softball, volleyball, tennis, and basketball regularly into his 80s. He could often be found playing ball in Riverside Park or swimming at the Harlow’s pool at 17 Front St.
Jim shared his passions for sports, music, animals, good food, reading, and more! He is well-known for his home- PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS made ice cream, camp breakfasts and perfectly sauteed soft-shelled crabs.
In 1999, the Lanes moved to Broomes Island, Maryland to a beautiful waterfront home. On their 65th Anniversary this past October, they toasted with a Margarita and, as always, were still laughing.
Jim will be missed for his friendship, wit, charm, thoughtful- ness, generous spirit and for saying hello to everyone!
In typical Jim Lane fashion, there will be no formal services. A celebration of life party will be announced later. Jim would love for you to perform a random act of kindness as he often did. In lieu of flowers, donations earmarked for the Stockade Tree Lighting, may be sent to The Stockade Association. In- dicate “James Lane Memorial” in the memo line and mail to: The Stockade Association Treasurer, 32 Washington Ave., Suite 100, Schenectady, NY 12305.
Feeding the Soul
First Reformed Church invites neighbors in a community effort addressing food insecurity. A free Little Food Pantry is outside 8 N. Church St. for those who need help. Please add food when you have plenty. Everyone can join the weekly Wednesday Community lunch, 12-1pm. Stop by Covenant Hall; dine in or to go. Donations happily accepted. �idin�s Congratulations to Sylvie Briber on receiv- ing the DAR Community Service Award for �
her many years of leadership work and dedication to the Stockade neighborhood, her church and for her gratis vocal performances for com- munity events and fundraisers.
Have important mentions about our Stockade neighbors? Please 6 email sylviebriber@gmail.com so we can include it in our Tidings.
St.George’s Episcopal Church
in the heart of the Historic Stockade
30 North Ferry Street Schenectady,NY 12305
Holy Eucharist Sundays at 10am
Click on the link on our home page to watch online at YouTube channel: Saint George’s Schenectady
(518) 374-3163 stgeorgesschenectady.org
|
MARIO’S BARBER SHOP
Walk-Ins Welcome Open Monday – Saturday
“Traditional Service in a Modern Manner”
1521 Balltown Rd. Niskayuna, NY 12309
518-357-3036
|
ANGELO SANTABARBARA ASSEMBLYMAN – 111TH DISTRICT
Montgomery and Schenectady Counties
433 State Street, Center City Schenectady, NY 12305 518-382-2941 – FAX: 518-382-5731
2550 Riverfront Center Amsterdam, NY 12010 518-843-0227 – FAX: 518-843-0049
Email: santabarbaraa@nyassembly.gov
Phone 518-346-0423
Listed on National Historic Register
|
Stars of the Stockade – Sylvie Briber Douglas Chilton
As you snuggle down into a comfy couch, you can hear
Doug tickle the grand at “Dougie’s Living Room,” located at Armory Studios, at 6:30 to 9pm, every 1st Tuesday of the month – this month on December 3 – and also at Art Nights. Sprinkled in between, he plays piano at the Moon and River
Café on South Ferry St. and the Stockade Inn. You can find
all his dates at his page: facebook.com/pianofresh.
And every Sunday, at 10am, since 1991, Dougie has been playing the grand pia-
no and organ, and leading the choir at
the Messiah Lutheran Church at 2850 Guilderland Ave. (near Curry Rd). Doug
says that, “it is the most welcoming con- gregation he has ever met!”
The Piano Man graduated from The Crane School of Music and then re- ceived a Masters at the College of
Saint Rose. In the 90’s he taught music at the Yates Mag-
net School, and in the 2000’s taught students with special needs at the School at Northeast where the students knew
him as “Dougie Fresh!” All the while he performed at cof-
fee houses, weddings and other intimate parties and events
and especially with his longtime partner, Kevin Green.
For 27 years, Dougie and his wife, Cecile Stewart, and their
two boys, Dan and Jeff, lived on a 44-acre farm in Esper-
ance. Then, in 2014, they came to live in the Stockade.
You may often see Dougie on Stockade streets pulling his
little red wagon picking up trash throughout the neighbor- hood! He finds it meditative and he gets to know his neigh- PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS bors. His philosophy: garbage brings more garbage but
clean streets stay clean and feel better! He loves living in
the Stockade and likens it to his large farm. He says, “I tend-
ed my farm so why not tend to the Stockade?”
Google Group for Stockade Neighbors
Join the Stockade Google group! Go to https://groups. google.com/g/historic-stockade; click “ask to join,” or email administrator Mary Zawacki at: zawacki.mm@gmail.com.
S tockade
Furry Friends
We are delighted to intro-
duce the furry member of
the Samatulski/ Berkov-
ich Family, Rosie. She
is, we think, a chocolate
Photo by Gloria Kishton
lab/red nose staffordshire
bull terrier, who is a re-
covering transplant from
an ally in Florida. Rosie
was born on October 7, 2023 and arrived at Lucky Pup-
py Rescue in Argyle, NY in late February. While John and Zakhar intended to check out different pups, Rosie stole
their hearts and told them that they wanted to take her to
her forever home. Rosie’s adoption date is March 25, 2024.
She can frequently be seen on walks around the GE Realty
Plot, Riverside Park, and as a “concierge” at the Stockade
Inn. She loves treats and giving kisses. Stop by to say hi
and grab a nice beverage from Graham’s Coffee Parlor. 7
518.930.1201 bexsalon.com @Bex_salon 234 Union St
CHRIS LAFLAMME
REALESTATESALESPERSONn REALTORR
Helping you buy, own or sell your Historic Stockade property
Stockade Apartment Owner
Rentals occasionally available bleugroup.com
Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated
M: 518.461.3445
O: 518.724.5800 chris.laflamme@kw.com chris-laflamme.kw.com
935 New Loudon Rdoad Latham, NY 12110
A Division of N. Rossi & Sons Funeral Home, Inc.
Independently operated since 1908
501 Union Street, Schenectady, NY 12305 Tel (518) 374-0854 FAX (518) 377-0621 Licensed Funeral Directors
SUNDAYS
10:30 AM & 6:00 PM
In person and streaming on YouTube WMHH 96.7 FM at 11:00 AM
WEDNESDAYS
7:00 PM Prayer Meeting
CONTACT US
518.374.4546 | fpcschdy.org 215 Union Street fpcofficeschdy@gmail.com
Stockade Association Board of Directors stockadeassociation@gmail.com
Directors
Keith Dayer jazztubes@yahoo.com Term expires 5/2026
Justin Brown jjbrown1322@gmail.com Term expires 9/2026
Chris Marney ccmarney@gmail.com Term expires 5/2025
Stockade Association Board Meeting minutes
Monday November 18, 2024. Called to order: 7:04 pm Board members present: Colleen Macaulay, Dan O’Neill,
Colleen Macaulay Ladymac1129@aol.com Term expires 5/2025
Zakhar Berkovich, Keith Dayer, Chris Marney, Katherine Stephens, Rebecca Cleary, Justin Brown, Susannah Hand President’s Report, Colleen Macaulay: Meeting on 11/16 discussed changes to Comprehensive Streetscape Plan. Spy, Sylvie Briber via Colleen Macaulay: Spy will report on updates to city code and Streetscape Plan.
Dan O’Neill danon2810@gmail.com Term expires 5/2026
Preservation, Carol DeLaMarter via Colleen Macaulay: Windows at Pump Station painted. Plan to replace flood height chart proposed.
Beautification, Jac Solghan via Colleen Macaulay: Plant-
Zakhar Berkovich Zakhar.berkovich@gmail.com Term expires 5/2025
Susannah Hand Susannah-hand@hotmail.com Term expires 5/2026
Phone: (518) 377-0469 Email: sylviebriber@gmail.com Graphic Design: Gloria Kishton Graphics
Ads and Finance: Bob Lemmerman
Staff: Carol DeLaMarter, Victoria Gatta, Jan Haeck, Gloria Kishton, Bob Lemmerman, Jamie Taft, Suzanne Unger. Printed by Nott Street Office
Didn’t Get a Spy? Pick up a copy at Arthur’s Market, Front & N. Ferry, and Schenectady County Historical Society, 32 Washington Ave. Or call Editor, Sylvie Briber, at 518-377- 0469, and she will bring you a copy. Current and back issues of the Spy can be found on the Stockade Association website: historicstockade.org. Click on “The Stockade Spy Archives.”
Katherine Stephens
kathstephens2003@yahoo.com ers on Union Street will be moved to Winter storage
Term expires 5/2025
Rebecca Cleary bex@bexsalon.com Term expires 5/2025
Events, Chris Marney: Tree lighting and Afterglow, Dec. 8th. Tavern Night and Massacre Commemoration, Feb. 8th Infrastructure, Keith Dayer: SA trash cans being used for household trash. Suggest moving can on Green Street. Votes taken:
Published monthly, Sept.-May. Submissions due the 15th of previous month. Yearly and by-the-month advertising avail- able. Contact Bob Lemmerman at: robertl990@aol.com. The Stockade Spy was founded in 1961 by James D.J. Schmitt. Designed by Werner L. Feibes. First Editor: Barrie Covert. Editor: Sylvie Briber, 23 Washington Avenue
Approve minutes from 10/7/24 board meeting: all in favor. Approve Letter of support for upcoming YWCA construc- tion: all in favor (Katherine Stephens recused).
Approve new SA Governance Committee to review by-laws and existing committees: all in favor.
911
(518) 630-0911
(518) 382-5050
(518) 382-5200, ext. 5655
Approve moving General Membership meetings to Tues- days; all in favor.
Upcoming General Membership meetings: 1/21/25, 3/18/25, 5/20/25. Next Board meeting: 12/2/24.
Inviting Chris Wallin, City Engineer to next board meeting proposed.
Meeting adjourned at 8:15 PM
Police Emergency
Non-emergency
Code enforcement
Animal control voicemail
City website: cityofschenectady.com
DECEMBER WASTE COLLECTION DATES MONDAY, NOV. 4. WEDNESDAYS, NOV. 13, 20, & 27 Appliance pick up: Wednesday, November 20
No building materials or electronics will be accepted! Single Stream Recycling: Put all recyclable material into one container for collection. Pick up starts 6:15am. Put waste to curb the day before, after 2pm. Please remove emptied containers promptly. Questions? visit: www.cityofschenectady.com, click
New inventory of trees, sidewalks, curbs, etc. needed to inform changes to Streetscape Plan. Discussed introduc- ing different options for repair (vs replacement) of existing sidewalks, and different choices for amenity area materials for homeowners participating in the city’s Sidewalk Assess- ment District program. Also discussed were ways to make this information more accessible for homeowners.
PLANNING ON CHANGES TO A HISTORIC DISTRICT PROPERTY?
Changes to the exterior of property viewable from a pub- lic rights-of-way require prior approval from the Historic Resources Commission (HRC). Some changes may only require staff approval. Call City Hall to determine the ap- propriate level of review for your project. Other permits may be required. Applications available online at: cityofsche- nectady.com/203/Historic-District-Commission. Questions? Call Sergy Dossous at (518) 382-5147, ext.5406 or email: smdossous@schenectadyny.gov.
on “services,” or call the hotline at (518) 382-5144.
Heritage Home
for Women
“Proudly serving elder women since 1868”
1519 Union Street Phone: 518-374-6921 Schenectady, NY 12309
www.heritagehome4women.net
Thanks to everyone who came out and helped organize this year’s tree lighting!
—
Our annual Stockade Tree Lighting will take place on Sunday, December 8 at 5:30pm around Lawrence Circle at Front and Ferry Streets. The festivities will include holiday welcomes, blessings, carol singing, and surprises!
All neighbors and visitors are welcome.
The City of Schenectady will be offering a public workshop on November 18 about an update to the city’s comprehensive plan. This will be an opportunity to make known our concerns regarding chronic issues such as: traffic, sidewalks, and speed limits. It is important that we represent the Stockade at this workshop. You can access the current plan here. Click on the link to the Stockade neighborhood.
Additionally, here are the notes from the local advisory committee meeting which took place on October 15.
-Suzanne S. Unger
By Carol DeLaMarter
It is located at one of the most prominent intersections in the Stockade at Union and N. Church Streets.
Visitors and residents alike can often be seen stopping to read its history. The commemorative tablet honors the memory of Arendt Van Curler, the leader of the original 15 settlers who came here in 1662.
The tablet, installed in 1909, was a project of the young (1904) Schenectady County Historical Society and The Netherlands Society.
After donating $25 for a commemorative plaque in Nijkerk, Holland, (Van Curler’s birthplace) the SCHS board voted to erect a suitable memorial to Van Curler here in Schenectady. A Tablet Committee was formed, funds were donated and on September 29, 1909, the tablet was unveiled following a procession with a band, and speeches.
A citizen group gathered at the current location at the corner of Union and N. Church Streets. As part of his address, Union College President Richmond spoke of paying tribute to the first man who lives in the life and thought of this city, “whose name becomes part of the heritage of each newcomer.”
For all who pass by in 2024, the name of Van Curler becomes part of their heritage still.
By Chris White and Christopher Marney
While many of you had the chance to come through our house at 205 Union Street during the incredible 2024 Walkabout, we didn’t have time to talk through our house updates in great detail, so we wanted to share them here. Over the last couple years, we have been trudging forward with many of the things that (hopefully) will never be visible. We had the west foundation wall along the alley repaired and rebuilt and a drainage system installed in the backyard. We also installed batts of rockwool insulation on the entire third floor, in the kitchen and a few other areas where we could squeeze it in.
We think we are finally done with the “undoing” phase of our restoration project – pulling back the 1900s and often 1800s layers of wallpaper, floor boards and creative drywall “fixes.”
The most visible change has and continues to be to the facade. If you recall, a few years back, we discovered the original wood siding, called rusticated weatherboard meaning cut to look like stone blocks. We spent hours painstakingly and safely hand stripping the layers of lead paint with infrared and painting the gorgeous wood anew. This year, we re-adjusted the top of the foundation, which had been artificially built up with lath and plaster in the 1800s to give the illusion of a higher stone wall, and returned it to the original 1700s level. We then started making replacement weatherboards to fill in missing or heavily damaged areas, which mimic the spacing and style of the original boards above.
On the west wing, we carefully removed heavily deteriorated wood siding from the late 1800s and replaced it in kind with wood siding. Our exterior paint is gray linseed oil, tinted to match the original facade color we discovered inside. During the off-season, we give the boards an initial coat of paint, especially the back and sides, with sample colors. We are using period-appropriate rosehead cut nails to attach the siding to the house.
Inside, we spent many hours repointing the kitchen foundation, sistering and leveling joists, and adding 2×6 supports between the giant beams for extra support. As the kitchen will be a primary showcase room, we decided to showcase the incredible 1700s wide plank floor boards we had discovered on the third floor. So we brought those down to the kitchen where we will spend the winter scraping and installing them. These boards were originally the main flooring across the entire third floor, on top of which were added walls and oak flooring in the 1960s.
Along the way, we continue to discover many artifacts, which now number in the thousands. Pottery, clam and oyster shells, animal bones, nails, glass and more. All of these items are carefully cataloged as they tell the story of different parts of the house.
In the cold months ahead, we will be working on the kitchen and primary bedroom. We will be re-adding lime plaster to the walls and we are contemplating installing hydronic loops in the ceiling to provide radiant heat.
We know many of you follow us in person and on social media. If you don’t already, we’re on Facebook and Instagram under @SchenectadyRestorationProject. Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for what’s coming in 2025!
TM
November 2024
Published by The Stockade Association historicstockade.org Vol. 66 No.3
Photo by Gloria Kishton
On Your Mark, Get Set, Go!!!
H ELECTION DAY IS NOVEMBER 5 Voting Registration, Deadlines and Locations – Carol DeLaMarter
Reminder. If you have not registered to vote or have a change in address since you last voted in a federal or state election, remember that the deadline is October 26.
Go to: schenectadycountyny.gov/boe
Early voting begins on October 26.
You can vote at any of four Schenectady County locations. (This is a correction from the October Spy)
• Hon. Karen Johnson Library, 99 Clinton St.
• Glenville Senior Center, 32 Worden Rd, Glenville
• Niskayuna Town Hall, 1 Niskayuna Circle
• South Schenectady VFD #6, 6 Old Mariaville Rd.
Early Voting Hours
H H H • Saturday, October 26, 9am-5pm
• Sunday, October 27, 9am-5pm
• Monday, October 28, Noon-8pm
PLAN • Tuesday, October 29, 9am-5pm
• Wednesday, October 30, Noon-8pm
YOUR • Thursday, October 31, 9am-5pm
• Friday, November 1, 9am-5pm
VOTE • Saturday, November 2, 9am-5pm
• Sunday, November 3, 9am-5pm
H H H Election Day is Tuesday November 5.
Residents must vote at their designated Polling place. District 1- Stockade residents living on the south side of Union Street (even house numbers) vote at Ten Eyck Apart- ments, 375 Broadway. District 2- All other Stockade resi- dents vote at St George’s Church, N. Ferry St.
The League of Women Voters has excellent information: My.lwv.org/new-york/schenectady-county/voting
Stockade-athon 15K Race
Sunday, November 10, 8:30am
New to the neighborhood? The Stockade-athon is a 15K course race through Schenectady’s historic Stockade, Cen- tral Park and historic Vale Cemetery. As one of the premier autumn road races in the Northeast, the Stockade-athon attracts some world-class runners, along with 1500 other serious to not-so-serious participants.
$5,000 in prize money is offered for open, master and team runners, with 15 age-group categories for first, second and third place male and female finishers.
Enjoy hot and cold post-race refreshments.
Go to STOCKADE-ATHON.COM
for all race information and to register.
The race starts at 8:30am, coming down Washington Ave- nue, then Front Street and should be through the Stockade by 9am. Event marshals are posted to ensure safety.
So, grab a hot drink and noisemaker, gather along the route and cheer on the runners!
PARKING: If you need to get your car out of the neigh- borhood before 9am, plan to leave by 8:30am, or park elsewhere where you won’t get cut off by the race.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Thank You Veterans!
SAVE THE DATES
Stockade Association Social Hour – Mondays at 3pm, at Arthur’s Market.
Stockade Association Board Meeting – Mon., Nov. 4, 7pm, Stockade Inn. Contact Presi- dent Colleen Macaulay at Ladymac1129@aol.com if you’d like to observe a board meeting. Election Day – Tuesday, November 5, 6am – 9pm.
Stockade-athon 15K Race – Sunday, November 10, 8:30am
Stockade Association General Meeting – Thursday, November 14, 7pm. 6:30pm mingle 55th Annual Holiday parade – Saturday, November 23, 5pm
December Spy Deadline: NOVEMBER 15 Please email editor: sylviebriber @gmail.com NOVEMBER WASTE COLLECTION DATES
MONDAY, NOV. 4; WEDNESDAYS, NOV. 13, 20, & 27 Appliance pick up: Wednesday, Nov. 20
President’s Message – Colleen Macaulay
The Stockade Association November…a month filed with action and emotion from start
General Membership Meeting
to finish.
Thursday, November 14, 2024
We start the month with the right to exercise our voice and
The Stockade Inn 7pm
VOTE. Our key polling place is a place of worship that with-
6:30pm – Pre-meeting mingle with refreshments stood the Revolutionary War.
Presentation by City Staff from the Planning Department: We then salute and raise our voices in heartfelt gratitude to
New Changes to the Historic District Ordinance
our Veterans.
ALL Neighbors Are Invited!
As our attentions are drawn to the holidays we can walk a
few short blocks to participate and celebrate at the largest
evening parade in the Northeast.
And as November grows to an end, we can raise our voices
once again in Thanks.
Thanks for family, friends and community. A communi-
Plan for Holiday Happiness!
ty whose members participate in so many special ways
throughout the year.
Get in the spirit by decorating your
Thank you to all of you!
house with candles in your windows,
wreaths on your doors, and garlands
draping your railings. The holidays
Tavern Night
bring many visitors to our Stockade
so let’s make it extra festive!
Stay tuned for our final Tavern Night of the year.
Date, time and location to be determined.
55th Annual Holiday Parade, presented by the County Once we have something firmed up, we’ll email
and City of Schenectady, Saturday, November 23, 5pm. it around and put it online.
This is the largest night-time holiday parade in the North- east with sparkling floats, glittering firetrucks, marching bands, dance troupes and Santa Claus!
The Festival of Trees daily, December 7 – December 28, Ode to November
10am – 4:30pm (closed 12/24 and 12/25). $6 for adults; kids Now that Autumn is firm in hand,
under 12 are free. Schenectady County Historical Society, The treelines reddened across the land.
32 Washington Ave, Schenectady
Maple syrup flows, the cider is pressed;
Stockade Tree Lighting, Sunday, December 8 at 5:30pm Friends make merry, by the campfire abreast.
around Lawrence Circle at Front and Ferry Streets with hol- – Victoria Gatta
iday welcomes, blessings, carol singing, and surprises! All neighbors and visitors are welcome.
CUT HERE
$
STOCKADE ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP FORM: October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025 Join on line at: historicstockade.org
Anyone living
in the Stockade is Regular Membership: Upon the payment of dues, voting membership is available to any
eligible for a regular membership individual owning property, renting, or owning a business entity within the Stockade Historic District
Affiliate Membership: Upon the payment of dues, any individual or organization not eligible for regular membership is eligible to become a non-voting affiliate member designated as a “Friend of The Stockade.” Dues: Individual: $20; Household: $25; Business owner: $25; Affiliate: $15.
q Individual q Household q Affiliate Check one:
Check one:
q Non-resident Stockade property owner(s) q Renter
q New Member
q Renewing Member q One designated representative of a Stockade business entity q Homeowner
Name(s)
Address Phone Email(s)
Date
The Stockade Spy is distributed free to the neighborhood monthly and mailed to non-resident members and “Friends.” Please make checks payable to: The Stockade Association
Mail to: Stockade Association Treasurer, 32 Washington Ave., Suite 100, Schenectady, NY 12305
2
The Stockade Association General Membership Meeting minutes
Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024, 7 p.m., The Stockade Inn Members met for a pre-meeting Mingle and refreshments at 6:30 p.m.
A guest, Kim Siciliano, CEO of YWCA of NENY presented the final plans for Harbor House and took questions.
A slate of directors and officers was introduced by the Nom- inating Committee Chair Chris White:
Dan O’Neill, Vice President
Susannah Hand, Secretary
Justin Brown, Director, term 2024-2026
Keith Dayer, Director, term 2024-2026
No nominations were offered from the floor
Motion made by Chris White to approve, seconded by Zakhar Berkovich. Motion carried.
Treasurer, Zakhar Berkovich, reported that the Association is in a good financial standing as of 09/01/24. He introduced 2024-2025 budget for next fiscal year with a slight deficit to spend down the balances on the mission of the association specifically increasing spending on beautification, streets- cape implementation, and apparel. Motion to approve the budget made by Chris Marney, seconded by Katherine Ste- phens. Motion carried.
Meeting adjourned at 9:03 PM
Submitted by Zakhar Berkovich
Stockade Association Board Meeting minutes Monday October 7, 2024
Meeting called to order: 7:05 PM
Board members in attendance: Dan O’Neill, Keith Dayer, Susannah Hand, Rebecca Cleary, Zakhar Berkovich, Chris Marney, and Justin Brown. Excused members: Colleen Ma- caulay, Katherine Stephens
Also in attendance: Sylvie Briber and Carol DeLaMarter Minutes from board meetings on 7/15/24, 8/15/24, 9/8/24, and general meeting 9/19/24 were approved
Reports:
Events – Chris Marney: Possible October pot-luck, location TBD. Tree lighting 12/8
Preservation – Carol DeLaMarter: Audio tour needs updat- ing; will move forward on this. Pump station: windows to be completed end of November. Cleaning of wet wells under consideration.
Walkabout – Sylvie Briber: Successful event. Suggestions for reducing lines and modernizing ticket sales discussed. Spy – Sylvie Briber: New delivery system this month, neigh- bors volunteered to deliver to their street.
Treasurer’s – Zakhar Berkovich: See website for full report. Gerneral Discussion: Sound system for general meetings. Next chapter of “Voices” Stockade Oral History project. Ad- dressing neighborhood weeds. Sidewalk incentive- target particular streets in need of repair, approach a street “repre- sentative” to spearhead participation in the city’s SAD pro- gram. Better signage for Stockade entrances. New head of city Traffic Department- may invite him to next membership meeting. Neighborhood bat boxes. Reinstating the outdoor lighting incentive.
Meeting adjourned: 8:51 PM
Submitted by Susannah Hand
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Doreen Ditoro
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City Hall, 105 Jay Street, room 107 Schenectady, NY 12305 (518) 528-5870 dditoro@schenectadyny.gov
For fun people only!
Visit our curated curiosity shop! Filled with things you’ve never seen before! Lots to look at & explore!
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First Reformed Church Schenectady
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Sunday’s: 10am Worship & 5pm Vespers
8 North Church Street
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Dine In and GRAB-ANTDo-GOGoLULNuCnHch
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Union Street Office
EvidEncE of old
SchEnEctady
Arendt Van Curler
Centennial Tablet
– Carol DeLaMarter
It is located at one of the
most prominent inter-
sections in the Stockade
at Union and N. Church
Streets. Visitors and res-
idents alike can often be
seen stopping to read its
history. The commemo-
rative tablet honors the
memory of Arendt Van
Curler, the leader of the
original 15 settlers who
came here in 1662. The tablet, installed in 1909, was a proj- ect of the young (1904) Schenectady County Historical So- ciety and The Netherlands Society. After donating $25 for a commemorative plaque in Nijkerk, Holland, (Van Curler’s birthplace) the SCHS board voted to erect a suitable me- morial to Van Curler here in Schenectady. A Tablet Commit- tee was formed, funds were donated and on September 29, 1909, the tablet was unveiled following a procession with a band, and speeches. A citizen group gathered at the cur- rent location at the corner of Union and N. Church Streets. As part of his address, Union College President Richmond spoke of paying tribute to the first man who lives in the life and thought of this city, “whose name becomes part of the heritage of each newcomer.”
PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS For all who pass by in 2024, the name of Van Curler be- comes part of their heritage still.
�idin�s Congratulations to our Union Street neigh- bors, Suzy Unger and Christopher Mar- ney, on joining the Schenectady County �
Historical Society Board of Directors. Congratulations to our North Ferry Street neighbor, Matthew Moross, on recently directing the suc- cessful play, “Well,” at the Civic Playhouse. Congratulations to John Samatulski for being honored with the Entrepreneurial Spirit Award by the Chamber of Schenectady County.
Congratulations to Assemblymember Angelo Santabarba- ra for being honored with the Community Partner Award by the Chamber of Schenectady County.
Congratulations to Omar McGill on receiving the History Maker Award from the NAACP.
Condolences to Kreshnik Kastrati and his family on the passing of his Mother.
Have important mentions about our Stockade neighbors? Please email sylviebriber@gmail.com so we can include it in our Tidings. Open Door and Gift Gallery – November Events Sunday, November 10, 11-12:30 – Wanda Fischer signs “Still doing Time: A Novel.”
Saturday, November 16, 1-2:30 – Paul O’Brien signs “Mus- ings on a Sunday Afternoon.”
Saturday, November 23, 1-2:30 – Phil Bayly signs “A Small 4 Mountain Murder: qa Murder on Skis Mystery.”
A Locally-Owned Independent Bookstore Since 1971
128 Jay Street, Schenectady
(518) 346-2719 www.opendoor-bookstore.com
Choral Evensong at St. George’s Church
On Sunday, November 17th, at 5:00 p.m. St. George’s Episcopal Church, 30 North Ferry Street, will anticipate the celebration of Thanksgiving with a Choral Evensong ser-
vice in honor of the holiday. Music will include the Evening Service in E by Herbert Murrill and the anthem, Thou Visit-
est the Earth, by Maurice Greene, along with many favorite Thanksgiving hymns.
Our guest speaker that afternoon will be Amaury Tanon-San-
tos, Executive Director of the Sycamore Collaborative, a partnership of faith communities working for social justice
and community resilience, providing services to high need people in Schenectady. Regardless of your faith tradition
you are cordially invited to join us for this special service. Pre-service organ music begins at 4:45 p.m.
Thank You for a Successful 73rd Stockade
Villager’s Art Show! – Steve Kowalski
We are thrilled to announce that the 73rd Stockade Outdoor
Art Show was a resounding success! Despite some weath-
er concerns, we made the decision to move forward, and it turned out to be the right choice. The potential for wind on
our rain date posed more of a challenge than the rain itself,
and we are grateful for everyone’s support.
This year, we showcased 72 talented artists, including excit-
ing new faces alongside our returning favorites. The turnout
was fantastic, with crowds enjoying both the stunning art-
work and the charm of our beautiful neighborhood.
A special thanks to Arthur’s and St. George’s for providing delicious food that added to the overall experience.
The Stockade Art Show, now under the leadership of the PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS Stockade Association, would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our neighbors for helping us make this event
a wonderful community celebration.
For a list of the winners, please check out David Giacaloni’s
blog post at Suns Along the Mohawk by going to: https:// giacalonephotos.com
Thank you once again for your support!
Birds of the Stockade returns next month! Google Group for Stockade Neighbors
Join the Stockade Google group! Go to https://groups. google.com/g/historic-stockade; click “ask to join,” or email administrator Mary Zawacki at: zawacki.mm@gmail.com. Update from City Hall – Carol DeLaMarter Exterior work on surface of historic North Ferry Street Pump Station is almost complete. Workmen have removed old windows and are restoring them offsite. They expect to in-
stall them by the end of November so venture down before
it snows. The roof repair proceeds with some interior work
on the old wet wells still on hold.
Mayor and City Council are busy negotiating 2025 city bud-
get that includes increases in fees and some plan for a small increase in property taxes. Perhaps in December we’ll have
a final budget through an improved process over last year. Perhaps you’ve noticed road work activity at the Union St. entrance at Erie Blvd. As part of an Erie Blvd. paving proj-
ect, the city has made improvements to address pedestrian safety including adding left turn signals and No turn on red
plus narrowing eastbound lane on Union.
5
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It is white and cylindrical and one inch in length
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It’s time to give thought and power to your estate planning wishes! Contact Glenn for a free consultation. Evening appointments available.
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SCHENECTADY CIVIC PLAYHOUSE
Our 2024 – 2025 Season
A Moon for the Misbegotten
By Eugene O’Neill November 15-24. 2024
100 Saints You Should Know
By Kate Fodor January 24–February 2, 2025
A Perfect Ganesh
By Terrence McNally May 9-18, 2025
Casa Valentina by Harvey Fierstein March 21-30, 2025
civicplayers.org n 12 S. Church St, Schenectady, NY n (518)382-2081
Schenectady Restoration Project – An Update
– Chris White & Christopher Marney
Photo by Chris White During the 2024 Walkabout, we didn’t have time to talk to everyone about our house updates in great detail, so want- ed to share them here. Over the last couple years, we have been trudging forward with many of the things that (hope- fully) will never be visible. We had the west foundation wall along the alley repaired and rebuilt and a drainage system installed in the backyard. We also installed batts of rock- wool insulation on the entire third floor, in the kitchen and a few other areas where we could squeeze it in.
We think we are finally done with the “undoing” phase of our restoration project – pulling back the 1900s and often 1800s layers of wallpaper, floor boards and creative drywall “fixes.” PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS The most visible change continues to be to the facade. A few years back, we discovered the original wood siding, called rusticated weatherboard, meaning cut to look like stone blocks. We spent hours painstakingly and safely hand stripping the layers of lead paint with infrared and painting the gorgeous wood anew. This year, we re-adjusted the top of the foundation, which had been artificially built up in the 1800s. We then started making replacement weather- boards to fill in missing and damaged areas.
On the west wing, we carefully removed heavily deteriorat- ed wood siding from the late 1800s and replaced it in kind with wood siding. Our exterior paint is gray linseed oil, tinted
to match the original facade color we discovered inside. We are using period-appropriate rosehead cut nails to attach the siding to the house.
Inside, we spent many hours repointing the kitchen founda- tion, sistering and leveling joists, and adding 2×6 supports between the giant beams for extra support. As the kitchen will be a primary showcase room, we are showcasing the incredible 1700s wide plank floor boards we had discovered on the third floor. These boards were originally the main flooring across the entire third floor, on top of which were added walls and oak flooring in the 1960s.
In the cold months ahead, we will be working on the kitchen and primary bedroom, re-adding lime plaster to the walls and are contemplating installing hydronic loops in the ceil- ing to provide radiant heat.
We know many of you follow us in person and on social media. If you don’t already, we’re on Facebook and Insta- gram under @SchenectadyRestorationProject. Stay tuned
6 for what’s coming in 2025!
St.George’s Episcopal Church
in the heart of the Historic Stockade
30 North Ferry Street Schenectady,NY 12305
Holy Eucharist Sundays at 10am
Click on the link on our home page to watch online at YouTube channel: Saint George’s Schenectady
(518) 374-3163 stgeorgesschenectady.org
MARIO’S BARBER SHOP
Walk-Ins Welcome Open Monday – Saturday
“Traditional Service in a Modern Manner”
1521 Balltown Rd. Niskayuna, NY 12309
518-357-3036
NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY
ANGELO SANTABARBARA ASSEMBLYMAN – 111TH DISTRICT
Montgomery and Schenectady Counties
433 State Street, Center City Schenectady, NY 12305 518-382-2941 – FAX: 518-382-5731
2550 Riverfront Center Amsterdam, NY 12010 518-843-0227 – FAX: 518-843-0049
Email: santabarbaraa@nyassembly.gov
Phone 518-346-0423
Natural Burial Available
Listed on National Historic Register
Wonderful Walkabout!!! – Sylvie Briber, Chair
Bless Mother Nature for smiling down on us all and giving
us the most perfect autumn day for the 59th Stockade Walkabout!
Visitors and neighbors alike were happy and relaxed,
celebrating our beautiful Stockade, enjoying the diverse
selection of houses and churches, fascinated by the SUNY Schenectady Archaeology dig and other special surprises!
Our first time StreetFest was a big smash! The artists
and vendors were happy selling their unique items while
visitors were delighted with the whole event! The special CLASSIC cars were an added bonus!
Our other “new this year” was the virtual house tour option, thanks to a Schenectady County Arts and Culture Devel-
opment grant. It was a huge success, providing a glimpse
inside open houses for those unable to attend in person.
We are planning to do it again for future events!
A great thank you to all our Stockade neighbors for their
support and help.
Thank you to the homeowners, docents, ticket sell-
ers, People of Olde Schenectady, exhibitors, demonstra-
tors, storytellers, musicians, and leaders at the Schenecta-
dy County Historical Society, the Brouwer House, the Civic Players, the Stockade Inn, and the SUNY Schenectady Archaeology dig.
And a big thank you to our great Walkabout Committee,
meeting every month since January, taking their tasks
seriously and creatively!
We appreciate all our sponsors and advertisers! Please
support them when you shop or require services.
Cornells n Stewart’s Shops
PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS Sch’dy County Arts & Culture Development Grant Stockade Inn, Inner Bliss, & Graham’s Coffee Parlor
The Witecki Law Office
Arthur’s 1795 n The Backstage Pub
Cohoes Design Glass Associates, Inc.
Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corp.
Electric City Community Grocery
First Reformed Church n Gorgeous…the salon
More Perreca’s n Schenectady Heritage Foundation
Union College n Vale Cemetery
Vischer Ferry General Store
Ambition Bistro
Bleu Group Enterprise, LLC
Killeen Restoration
Chris Laflamme, realtor
Nott Street Office/Union Street Office
BL’s Tavern & Grill; Curtis Lumber; The Open Door;
Stella’s Pasta Bar & Bistro; Shepherd Communication & Security
WHAT’S UP DOWNTOWN
Weekly updates on downtown happenings: www.downtownschenectady.org
Feeding the Soul
First Reformed Church invites neighbors in a community
effort addressing food insecurity. A free Little Food Pantry
is outside 8 N. Church St. for those who need help. Please
add food when you have plenty. Everyone can join the weekly Wednesday Community lunch, 12-1pm. Stop by Covenant Hall; dine in or to go. Donations happily accepted. 7
518.930.1201 bexsalon.com @Bex_salon 234 Union St
CHRIS LAFLAMME
REALESTATESALESPERSONn REALTORR
Helping you buy, own or sell your Historic Stockade property
Stockade Apartment Owner
Rentals occasionally available bleugroup.com
Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated
M: 518.461.3445
O: 518.724.5800 chris.laflamme@kw.com chris-laflamme.kw.com
935 New Loudon Rdoad Latham, NY 12110
A Division of N. Rossi & Sons Funeral Home, Inc.
Independently operated since 1908
501 Union Street, Schenectady, NY 12305 Tel (518) 374-0854 FAX (518) 377-0621 Licensed Funeral Directors
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, PCA
Please join our fellowship both online and in person. There are many ways to be connected.
Sunday: Worship at 10:30am & 6pm Wednesday: Prayer meeting at 7pm
Please feel free to visit our website at fpcschdy.org
or contact the Church office for further information at fpcofficeschdy@gmail.com or phone 518-374-4546. Search for “First Presbyterian Church Schenectady” on YouTube for the live feed to join morning worship online beginning at 10:30am every Sunday.
Listen to morning worship on your radio at 11am at the Mars Hill Network Broadcast on WMHH 96.7 FM.
Perreca’s Bakery
Simone’s Kitchen
Sweet Sprig
Truly Yours Custom Framing, Inc.
Stockade Association Board of Directors stockadeassociation@gmail.com
Directors
President
Colleen Macaulay
Keith Dayer Ladymac1129@aol.com
jazztubes@yahoo.com
Term expires 5/2025
Term expires 5/2024
Vice President
Justin Brown
Dan O’Neill
jjbrown1322@gmail.com danon2810@gmail.com
Term expires 9/2026
Term expires 5/2024
Chris Marney
Treasurer
ccmarney@gmail.com
Zakhar Berkovich
Term expires 5/2025 Zakhar.berkovich@gmail.com
Katherine Stephens
Term expires 5/2025
kathstephens2003@yahoo.com Secretary
Term expires 5/2025
Susannah Hand
Rebecca Cleary Susannah-hand@hotmail.com
bex@bexsalon.com
Term expires 5/2024
Term expires 5/2025
The Stockade Spy
Published monthly, Sept.-May. Submissions due the 15th of previous month. Yearly and by-the-month advertising avail- able. Contact Bob Lemmerman at: robertl990@aol.com.
The Stockade Spy was founded in 1961 by James D.J. Schmitt. Designed by Werner L. Feibes. First Editor: Barrie Covert. Editor: Sylvie Briber, 23 Washington Avenue
Phone: (518) 377-0469 Email: sylviebriber@gmail.com Graphic Design: Gloria Kishton Graphics
Ads and Finance: Bob Lemmerman
Staff: Carol DeLaMarter, Victoria Gatta, Jan Haeck, Gloria Kishton, Bob Lemmerman, Jamie Taft, Suzanne Unger.
Printed by Nott Street Office
Didn’t Get a Spy? Pick up a copy at Arthur’s Market, Front
& N. Ferry, and Schenectady County Historical Society, 32 Washington Ave. Or call Editor, Sylvie Briber, at 518-377- 0469, and she will bring you a copy. Current and back issues
of the Spy can be found on the Stockade Association website: historicstockade.org. Click on “The Stockade Spy Archives.” IMPORTANT NUMBERS
Police Emergency
911
Non-emergency
(518) 630-0911
Code enforcement
(518) 382-5050
Animal control voicemail
(518) 382-5200, ext. 5655
City website: cityofschenectady.com
NOVEMBER WASTE COLLECTION DATES MONDAY, NOV. 4. WEDNESDAYS, NOV. 13, 20, & 27 Appliance pick up: Wednesday, November 20
No building materials or electronics will be accepted! Single Stream Recycling: Put all recyclable material into one container for collection. Pick up starts 6:15am. Put waste to curb
the day before, after 2pm. Please remove emptied containers promptly. Questions? visit: www.cityofschenectady.com, click
on “services,” or call the hotline at (518) 382-5144.
S tockade Furry Friends
Meet Albi, a super friendly puppy who frequently explores the Stockade. Here he is enjoying the autumn sunshine with his own- er, Michael Mulroney. After his walk, he’ll return home to Green Street and his other owner, Kaylee Merlow.
PLANNING ON CHANGES TO A HISTORIC DISTRICT PROPERTY? Changes to the exterior of property viewable from a pub- lic rights-of-way require prior approval from the Historic Resources Commission (HRC). Some changes may only require staff approval. Call City Hall to determine the ap- propriate level of review for your project. Other permits may be required. Applications available online at: cityofsche- nectady.com/203/Historic-District-Commission. Questions? Call Sergy Dossous at (518) 382-5147, ext.5406 or email: smdossous@schenectadyny.gov.
Stockade Safety
LIGHT UP THE STOCKADE!
Keep your front and back porch lights on for your safety and for nighttime walkers.
The Yates Boat House – Sylvie Briber
Neighbor Keith Dayer showed me this photo of the old Yates Boat House, located just south of the Ferry Street Pump Station and I was intrigued to find out more about it! I found a 1905 postcard that read:
“It was the most popular of two boat houses. Dances were held here. It’s grand on warm summer evenings with the band on the balcony.”
Keith tells us: “The idea of a river view from the rooftop of the old pump station had been suggested by some, and oth- ers had suggested that the old pump station could be used as a boat house as a new purpose.”
Coming Around again!
Photo by Gloria Kishton
With the opening of Graham’s Coffee Parlor and the re-launching of hotel operations, the Stockade Inn boldly enters the next phase of its redevelopment. This is the second location for Grahams Coffee Parlor, with their first location in Niskayuna.
Owner Katryn Malen worked in the restaurant industry in New York City before returning to the area in 2014.
“This just seemed like the right next step. We share the vision of owners John Samatulski and Zakhar Berkovich for creating a unique boutique hotel within the capital region,” said Katryn.“We are so excited to be part of the Stockade neighborhood.” Stockade Association President, Colleen Macaulay, welcomed the Stockade’s newest woman-owned business, describing it as “cheerful and bright, with yummy delights.”
The multi-year restoration of the hotel became necessary after a major fire in its kitchen in January 2020. The building suffered significant additional damage after the fire. Restoration work completed to date includes restoration of all fire and water damage, the renovation of 14 hotel rooms, new electrical, HVAC and plumbing systems and renovation of the kitchen. Not to mention the first ADA-compliant entrance in the 200 year history of the property.
“At its core, this is a historic preservation project, but we are also enhancing the hotel’s amenities and utilizing modern interior design elements to create a truly unique guest experience that blends perfectly with the Stockade Historic District,” said John Samatulski.
The onsite coffee house joins the Hotel’s Yoga and Wellness Studio, Inner Bliss. Owner Mary Clare O’Conner celebrated 10 years in business this year.
So, what’s next? John and his team will dedicate most of their time next year restoring the exterior of the building, utilizing a grant and loan package from Schenectady Heritage Foundation and a $95,000 façade grant from Schenectady Metroplex Development Authority. This work will include a new patio on Church Street on the north side of the building.
Schenectady Heritage Foundation chair, Gloria Kishton praised John and Zakher’s long-range plans saying, “The restoration of the Stockade Inn began with the vision of a buyer and the enthusiastic support of the Stockade neighborhood. Since then, it has garnered the appreciation and investment of the preservation community.”
St. George’s invites you and your Pets!
Our next General Membership Meeting will be 7 p.m. on Tuesday, January 21, 2025.
January General Meeting: Tuesday, January 21, 2025; 7:00 p.m.
March General Meeting: Tuesday, March 18, 2025; 7:00 p.m.
May Annual Meeting (board elections): Tuesday, May 20, 2025; pre-meeting mingle at 6:30; meeting at 7:00 p.m.
Meetings are held in The Stockade Inn and all neighbors are invited!
Stockade Inn
Published by The Stockade Association historicstockade.org Vol. 66 No.2
WHAT’S NEW AT THE
With the opening of Graham’s Coffee Parlor Candlelight
and the re-launching Stockade Inn
of hotel operations, the Tours are
Stockade Inn boldly enters the next phase BACK!
of its redevelopment. This is the second location for Grahams Coffee Parlor, with their first location in Niskayuna. Owner Ka- Wednesday, Thursday
tryn Malen worked in the restaurant industry in New York City and Friday evenings
before returning to the area in 2014. “This just seemed like in October
Photo by Chris White
the right next step. We share the vision of owners John Sama- Join us for spooky tales
tulski and Zakhar Berkovich for creating a unique boutique of Schenectady’s maca-
hotel within the capital region,” said Katryn.“We are so excited bre past! We’ll explore the
to be part of the Stockade neighborhood.” Stockade Associ- historic Stockade after dark, and discover the neighbor-
ation President, Colleen Macaulay, welcomed the Stockade’s hood’s most blood-curdling stories of spirits, murders, and
newest woman-owned business, describing it as “cheerful and ghouls. Choose either the “Colonial Hauntings” or “Ghostly
bright, with yummy delights.”
Victorian” tour. The two tours feature different stories from
different periods of Stockade history, and venture through
different parts of the neighborhood.
Pre-registration required! Tickets are $15 at:
Photo by John Samatulski schenectadyhistorical.org/events/
or by phone at: (518) 374-0263
Space is very limited & tours sell out fast!
Don’t miss out – get your tickets now!
Bring a flashlight; wear sturdy shoes.
Tours leave from Schenectady County Historical Society, 32 Washington Avenue on:
Thursdays, October 10, 17, & 24 Fridays, October 11, 18, & 25 Saturdays, October 12, 19, & 26
Colonial Hauntings tours leave at 6:00 and 6:40pm
Ghostly Victorian tours leave at 6:20 and 7:00pm
Co-sponsored by Schenectady County Historical Society and Schenectady Heritage Foundation. Proceeds support Historical Society programs and Schenectady Heritage Foundation’s preservation grants.
Katryn with new trainee, Megan The multi-year restoration of the hotel became necessary af- ter a major fire in its kitchen in January 2020. The building suf- fered significant additional damage after the fire. Restoration work completed to date includes restoration of all fire and water damage, the renovation of 14 hotel rooms, new electri- cal, HVAC and plumbing systems and renovation of the kitch- en. Not to mention the first ADA-compliant entrance in the Continued on page 2
November Spy Deadline: OCTOBER 15
Please email editor: sylviebriber@gmail.com
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Stockade Association Social Hour – Mondays at 3pm, at Arthur’s Market. Stockade Association Board Meeting – Monday, Oct. 7, 7pm, Stockade Inn. Contact President Colleen Macaulay at Ladymac1129@aol.com if you would like to observe a board meeting.
Harvest Harmony sip n’ shop – Friday, October 4, 5-9pm. See article pg. 5
Pet Blessing – Sunday, October 6, 3pm. St. George’s Church, front lawn Candlelight Tours – Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays, Oct.10 – 26. See article above
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The Stockade Association held a President’s Message – Colleen Macaulay
Special Meeting on September 19, 2024. (Editor’s Note: This is a letter sent to Colleen from Malek Haffar, a
lead member of the Gilded Age team that was filming here in the
At the meeting, members approved the 2023 annual meet- Stockade a few weeks ago.)
ing minutes and unanimously voted in a slate of directors: Hi Colleen,
Dan O’Neill, Vice President; Susannah Hand, Secretary; Justin Brown, Director; and Keith Dayer, Director. No As I am finally wrapping up my paperwork for our time in Sche-
additional nominations were raised.
nectady, I wanted to reach out to thank you and the Stockade
District for hosting our shoot in your neighborhood. I can speak
The meeting also featured General Services Commissioner for our entire crew in saying that filming in the Stockade District
Paul LaFond discussing a potential garbage fee program was an absolute pleasure. From the outset, everyone was so kind
and the city’s lead pipe survey. Kim Siciliano, CEO of and eager to help us. The neighborhood association meeting we
YWCA of NENY, presenting final plans for Harbor House. had at Arthur’s was one of the most pleasant and helpful meet-
See article on page 6.
ings I have ever had with a neighborhood association. It is truly
Google Group for Stockade Neighbors
a wonderful neighborhood you have there. Lizzy and I are very
Join the Stockade Google group! Go to https://groups. grateful that we had a chance to enjoy it for a period of time.
google.com/g/historic-stockade; click “ask to join,” or email The Film/TV industry as a whole relies on film friendly commu-
administrator Mary Zawacki at: zawacki.mm@gmail.com. nities. It is not lost on us that we are guests in the communities
that we film in and we appreciate how accommodating you were
Stockade Inn, continued from front cover
with our traveling circus coming to town.
200 year history of the property. “At its core, this is a historic We would like to give a modest donation of $2,000 as a symbol
preservation project, but we are also enhancing the hotel’s of our gratitude.
amenities and utilizing modern interior design elements to create a truly unique guest experience that blends perfect- Best, Malek Haffar
ly with the Stockade Historic District,” said John Samatulski. This is a proud moment for our Land Beyond the Pines!
The onsite coffee house joins the Hotel’s Yoga and Wellness We will come up with a festive
Studio, Inner Bliss. Owner Mary Clare OConner celebrated 10 way to enjoy the contribution
years in business this year.
made to our community.
So, what’s next? John and his team will dedicate most of their time next year restoring the exterior of the building, utilizing Ochre &
Of Ochres and Burnt Umbers,
a grant and loan package from Schenectady Heritage Founda- That I know best, nature knows better.
Burnt Umber
tion and a $95,000 façade grant from Schenectady Metroplex She with her brush, painting each tree
Development Authority. This work will include a new patio with a gentle, painter’s touch.
on Church Street on the north side of the building. Schenect- Gone with peace the verdant hues of
ady Heritage Foundation chair, Gloria Kishton praised John Summer; Replaced with ease, the Ochres
and Zakher’s long-range plans saying, “The restoration of the and Burnt Umbers of Autumn;
Stockade Inn began with the vision of a buyer and the enthu- Fallen leaves fluttering on the breeze.
siastic support of the Stockade neighborhood. Since then, it has garnered the appreciation and investment of the preser- – Victoria Gatta
vation community.”
CUT HERE
$
STOCKADE ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP FORM: October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025 Join on line at: historicstockade.org
Anyone living
in the Stockade is Regular Membership: Upon the payment of dues, voting membership is available to any
eligible for a regular membership individual owning property, renting, or owning a business entity within the Stockade Historic District
Affiliate Membership: Upon the payment of dues, any individual or organization not eligible for regular membership is eligible to become a non-voting affiliate member designated as a “Friend of The Stockade.” Dues: Individual: $20; Household: $25; Business owner: $25; Affiliate: $15.
q Individual q Household q Affiliate Check one:
Check one:
q Non-resident Stockade property owner(s) q Renter
q New Member
q Renewing Member q One designated representative of a Stockade business entity q Homeowner
Name(s)
Address Phone Email(s)
The Stockade Spy is distributed free to the neighborhood monthly and mailed to non-resident members and “Friends.” Please make checks payable to: The Stockade Association
Mail to: Stockade Association Treasurer, 32 Washington Ave., Suite 100, Schenectady, NY 12305
2
H ELECTION DAY IS NOVEMBER 5 There are deadlines for registering
and voting. Read the information below to MAKE YOUR PLAN AND VOTE!
All the information and applications you need to vote are available online at the Schenectady County Board of Elections (BOE) website: schenectadycountyny.gov/boe REGISTER TO VOTE: Mailed or in-person applications
must be received no later than October 26.
Go to: elections.ny.gov/register-vote to check qualifica-
tions and your status, and find all the information you need
to register (3 different ways): online, in person, or by mail. LOOK UP YOUR POLL SITE AT: lookup.elections.ny.gov
4 WAYS TO VOTE
EARLY VOTING: October 26 – November 5, at your poll site.
IN PERSON: November 5, 6am – 9pm, at your poll site.
EARLY MAIL IN: Request ballot online or in person. Appli- cations for mailed ballots must be received no later than 10
days before election, or one day before election, in person. Follow directions on ballot to cast your vote. Submit by mail postmarked by Nov. 5; in person to BOE
H H H by Nov. 5; bring to an early voting site Oct.
P L A N 26-Nov. 3; or to your polling site on Nov. 5. YOUR ABSENTEE: Qualifications apply. Apply
for a ballot online at least 10 days before election, or in person by day before elec- VOTE tion. Follow the directions above (for Early PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS Mail-in) to cast your vote.
BOE accommodates those with print dis-
H HH
abilities. Contact them at 518-474-1953 or pio@elections.ny.gov.
QUESTIONS? CALL 518-474-1953
OR GO TO: INFO@ELECTIONS.NY.GOV POSITIONS AND PROPOSITION ON THE 2024 BALLOT President; Vice President; US Senator; Representative
to Congress, District 20; State Senator, District 44; State Assembly, District 111; Family Court Judge; County Court Judge; Proposition 1: Expand the Equal Rights clause in
the NY State Constitution (enacted in 1938) to prohibit dis- crimination by the government against New Yorkers based
on disability, age, ethnicity, national origin and sex. Discrimi- nation by race, color, creed, or religion is already prohibited. POLLING PLACES FOR STOCKADE RESIDENTS: DISTRICT 1 – Vote at Ten Eyck Apartments, 375 Broadway: Residents living on the South side of Union Street (even house numbers) and the east side of Washington Ave. between State Street and Union Street.
DISTRICT 2 – All other Stockade residents vote at St. George’s Church Great Hall, North Ferry Street. Entrance
on Green St. parking lot.
Voters who request an absentee ballot can choose to vote
in person (early vote or Nov 5) instead.
The League of Women Voters has excellent information: my.lwv.org/new-york/schenectady-county/voting HOWEVER YOU CHOOSE TO VOTE IN 2024 MAKE YOUR PLAN AND VOTE!
3
(518)280-2233
714 Saratoga Road, Burnt Hills, NY 12027 trulyyourscustomframing.com
info@ truly yourscustomframing.com
Mention the Stockade Spy for $15 off your f irst order!
City of Schenectady
Doreen Ditoro
City Council Member
City Hall, 105 Jay Street, room 107 Schenectady, NY 12305 (518) 528-5870 dditoro@schenectadyny.gov
For fun people only!
Visit our curated curiosity shop! Filled with things you’ve never seen before! Lots to look at & explore!
ARTWORK • POSTERS • BOOKS • CARDS • BAGS PLUSH • TOYS • PUZZLES • GAMES+DICE • PENS STICKERS • PATCHES • PINS • TRINKETS
BearandBird 160JayStreet at the Jay Street Marketplace
Boutique+Gallery TEXT/CALL: (518) 227-1145 www.bearandbird.com
First Reformed Church Schenectady
In-Person & Virtual Services
Sunday’s: 10am Worship & 5pm Vespers
1streformed.com 5188-3-737-722701-2201
Dine In and GRAB-ANTDo-GOGoLULNuCnHch
WedWnesddnaeysd12a-y1psm12-1pm
Over the Fence
Schenectady Heritage Foundation News
– Gloria Kishton, Chair
Last month, Schenectady County Metroplex Development Authority approved a grant of $600,000 to Lightwell Devel- opment, a New York City based company that plans to rede- velop the former Masonic Temple, Chamber of Commerce, and Rudnick’s Clothing Store buildings, located at State St. and Erie Blvd. Lightwell will invest $11 million for 45 new apartment units on the upper floors and two new retail spac- es on the ground level. A closing is planned for this fall. This is in addition to a $450,000 Restore NY grant previously secured by Metroplex for the Masonic Temple project.
In 2022, the Foundation led a successful effort to gain local historic zoning protections for the Masonic Temple. We’re also helping to get it listed on the National Register of His- toric Places by sharing our extensive research. Listing offers access to historic tax credits and other benefits. We also supported the redevelopment project at a public hearing. PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS Photo by Gloria Kishton
In June, Foundation members toured the site. While see- ing the lost grandeur of these spaces, it’s exciting to real- ize their potential is appreciated. Historic preservation is an important economic development strategy in Schenectady! Congratulations to Mary Zawacki, Exec- �idin�s utive Director of the Schenectady County �
Historical Society, and RJ Graves, Stock- ade neighbors on N. College, on their re- cent marriage. Wishing you both many years of happiness! Farewell to Rev. Dr. MG Martell Spagnolo, Minister at First Reformed Church, who has accepted a new position in Connecticut. His last Sunday is October 20. Congratulations to David Garcia De Lira who earned his MFA from Syracuse University and accepted a position at Pratt Munson in Utica.
Welcome new members to Sch’dy’s Historic Resources Commission: Pablo Sepulveda, an architect, and Mere- dith Runkel. Both are Stockade residents.
Condolences to Peter Carman and Lynn Bodden on the passing of Peter’s sister.
Congratulations to the Merrell’s upon the birth of Halo. Have important mentions about our Stockade neighbors? Please email sylviebriber@gmail.com so we can include it in our Tidings. October Events at The Open Door Catherine Bruns will sign her new book “In the Blink of a 4 Pie…a Maple Syrup Mystery” on Sunday Oct. 20, 11-12:30.
Masonic Hall, top floor, 2024
A Locally-Owned Independent Bookstore Since 1971
128 Jay Street, Schenectady
(518) 346-2719 www.opendoor-bookstore.com
The cutest shop in Schenectady!
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McGregor Auto Service
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Open Mon – Fri 8:00AM to 5:30PM
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Inner Bliss Yoga & Wellness
Experience the difference yoga makes!
21 days for $41
21 consecutive days of unlimited yoga – Come as often as you like to sample a variety of classes and styles of teaching.
innerblissny.com 838 218 7626 Inside Stockade Inn 2nd Floor
It is white and cylindrical and one inch in length
It is an inanimate object possessing great strength
It can counteract balance and cause one to slip
It can expound profound knowledge when held in a grip When possessing this object the mute come to talk Amazing in function is this used piece of chalk
GJW 6-16-1975
It’s time to give thought and power to your estate planning wishes! Contact Glenn for a free consultation. Evening appointments available.
Glenn J. Witecki, Esq. The Witecki Law Office 8 South Church Street Schenectady, NY 12305 518-372-2827; www.witeckilawoffice.com
SCHENECTADY CIVIC PLAYHOUSE
Well
By Lisa Kron September 20-29, 2024
A Moon for the Misbegotten
By Eugene O’Neill November 15-24. 2024
A Perfect Ganesh
By Terrence McNally May 9-18, 2025
100 Saints You Should Know
By Kate Fodor January 24–February 2, 2025
Casa Valentina by Harvey Fierstein March 21-30, 2025
civicplayers.org n 12 S. Church St, Schenectady, NY n (518)382-2081
Friday, October 4 n 5-9pm
Brouwer House Creative 14 N. Church Street
Celebrate the Magic of Autumn
at Sweet Sprig’s Sip n Shop Event
Sweet Sprig invites you to enjoy an evening filled with warmth, creativity, and the magic of the season. Gather your friends for a night of fun, shopping, and autumn-inspired delights. From tarot readings to spiced cocktails, it’s the per- fect excuse to enjoy a cozy, memorable evening together!
For more information about the Autumn Sip n Shop or to RSVP, please visit www.sweetsprig.com or contact us at sweetsprig@gmail.com
Update from City Hall – Carol DeLaMarter Finally, work on the exterior of Historic Pump Station at the foot of N. Ferry St is visible. Stucco has been removed to expose (temporarily) old brick and work has begun on the roof. Windows will be removed (temporarily) and plywood will cover area until historic windows are repaired and rein- stalled. You may also have noticed a persistent odor. The metal roof and vents that were removed, exposed interior wet wells that had not been cleaned out and now require special handling to eliminate the odor. The city’s goal is to approve work and contract quickly and then complete this unanticipated work ASAP.
With the visible commitment to restore the exterior, the Stockade Association and Schenectady Heritage Founda- tion are encouraging the City to reapply for Preserve NY grant from NY Preservation League. This grant could fund Consultant services for structural and environmental engi- neering assessment that will prepare a Condition Report to address what’s needed in the interior for reuse by the com- munity. For new (and old) Spy readers, you can check out the Feasibility Study completed in August, 2021 on options for how to repurpose this historic building for public use. Go to: Historicstockade.org.
WHAT’S UP DOWNTOWN
Weekly updates on downtown happenings: www.downtownschenectady.org
PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS Photo by Gloria Kishton
5
Stockade Association Board Meeting
Monday, Sept. 2024, 7:00 pm. Stockade Inn
Minutes will be available soon at: historicstockade.org
St. Francis’ Day Blessing of Pets Sunday, October 6, 3pm
St. George’s Church, front lawn, N. Ferry Street Bring your pets, and your friends and their pets!
S tockade
Furry Friends
Meet Zoey and Barrett! Chris
and Chris (205 Union St) are
proud to welcome Zoey (left)
into their family. At just 2.5 years
Photo by Gloria Kishton old, she’s already had quite an
interesting life. She was found
starving on the street outside an
American animal rescue clinic in
Kabul, Afghanistan in 2022. Once healthy enough, she traveled through Dubai to Tennessee and was living with a foster family before making her way home to the Stockade. She joins Barrett, an 8-year-old Goldendoo- dle. Chris and Chris recently lost Barrett’s sister Waverly to cancer. Zoey has fit in well and has loved meeting all our awesome neighbors! YWCA Harbor House News – Suzy Unger
Seven years after the YWCA of Northeastern New York first presented plans for a new building on their campus, named Harbor House, the long-time Stockade neighbor is ready
to start construction early next year. CEO Kim Siciliano, Terry Belkas-Mitchell, principal, of Xenolith Partners LLC, an affordable housing developer, and Brian Loughlin, AIA, APA of Magnussen Architects and Planning, attended the Stockade Association General Meeting on September 19 to PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS bring Stockaders up to date on the project. In an effort to respond to the needs of women and their children in our community, the YW has long sought to expand and improve their physical environment to match the other services the YW already offers.
There are a few changes to the original plan, although the fi- nal plan is substantially the same. The new structure will sit behind the main building on Washington Avenue. The roof, windows and materials have all been carefully designed to complement the existing building and surrounding environ- ment. The main building will have a separate entrance, lo- cated on the north side, for residents. All others will continue
to use the renovated stairs and entrance facing Washington Avenue. The existing parking lot will be redesigned and an- other lot added behind the new building. For concept draw- ings, go to thenyhc.org/projectsharborhouse-at-the-YWCA. Click on “images.”
Perhaps the most notable change will be the removal of a 1960’s addition at the back of the main building, to be re- placed by a rose garden. Both the rooms in the new building and the renovated ones in the original building will have en suite bathrooms and more space than the current rooms. The total number of rooms available will expand from 42
to 96. The Y does not anticipate increased traffic conges- tion because most residents do not own their own cars. The reconfigured parking lot will improve traffic flow, and the day care center, which now generates some congestion on Washington Avenue, will be moved off campus.
Work will begin in April or May of 2025 on both the ren- ovation of the original building and construction of Harbor House. It is expected to take two years for completion. Res- idents will be provided alternative accomodation during the
6 construction phase.
St.George’s Episcopal Church
in the heart of the Historic Stockade
30 North Ferry Street Schenectady,NY 12305
Holy Eucharist Sundays at 10am
Click on the link on our home page to watch online at YouTube channel: Saint George’s Schenectady
(518) 374-3163 stgeorgesschenectady.org
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MARIO’S BARBER SHOP
Walk-Ins Welcome Open Monday – Saturday
“Traditional Service in a Modern Manner”
1521 Balltown Rd. Niskayuna, NY 12309
518-357-3036
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ANGELO SANTABARBARA ASSEMBLYMAN – 111TH DISTRICT
Montgomery and Schenectady Counties
433 State Street, Center City Schenectady, NY 12305 518-382-2941 – FAX: 518-382-5731
2550 Riverfront Center Amsterdam, NY 12010 518-843-0227 – FAX: 518-843-0049
Email: santabarbaraa@nyassembly.gov
Phone 518-346-0423
Listed on National Historic Register
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Memoririal Benench in the Lilac Grove – Sylvie Briber
Two of our beloved Stockade leaders are now sharing a bench in Riverside Park!
Bob Briber and Peter Rumora met in the historic neighbor-
hood of Center Square in Albany. They worked together for
many years on the preservation of Washington Park after Bob created the Washington Park Conservancy in his retirement.
Bob moved to the Stockade in 1995 and showed his love for
the neighborhood by being a charming host for many Stock-
ade events: the Stockade Walkabout, the Garden Tour, the Secret Stockade Tour, new neighbor welcoming parties and croquet and ice cream social parties! He liked taking photos
and writing stories for The Spy, besides writing minutes for
many Stockade Association meetings.
After a couple
of years, Pe-
ter Rumora fol- lowed Bob to the Stockade and
their friendship
and working to- gether contin-
Photo by Keith Dayer ued.
Peter is remem- bered for his
love of garden-
ing and plants.
He said of himself, “gardening is in my blood and in my
soul!” With his 60 varieties of conifers, Peter was pleased
to share his garden on the Stockade tours. And as an active board member, Peter led many fun events!
PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS He also gave gardening advice to neighbors and helped
Vale Cemetery choose conifers and flowers. With the help
of neighbors, Peter opened his house for the 2019 Stockade Walkabout and his whimsical sculptures delighted visitors!
The plaque adorning the bench is a fitting quote from the well-loved song, “Bookends,” by Simon and Garfunkel: “Old friends like bookends.”
The bench is nestled in a grove of lilacs that Peter planted
in Riverside Park near North Ferry Street.
Big thank you’s to our Front Street neighbor, Keith Dayer for
not only his inspiration and vision for this project but also for his
hard work and follow through. Also thank you’s to the OGS City
crew, Mike Cerrone, Andy, Sam and Jeff for the installation. Feeding the Soul
First Reformed Church invites neighbors in a community
effort addressing food insecurity. A free Little Food Pantry
is outside 8 N. Church St. for those who need help. Please
add food when you have plenty. Everyone can join the weekly Wednesday Community lunch, 12-1pm. Stop by Covenant Hall; dine in or to go. Donations happily accepted. Birds of the Stockade
– Capt. Eagle Eyes, aka Jamie Taft
Ravens are large, black, thick-
necked birds with a hefty bill and
a shaggy neck. They push their
heads forward and fluff up their
throat feathers when calling. They
are bigger than crows, the largest
songbird in the world. See them in the Stockade as they
soar, alone or in pairs. They also congregate in large flocks
and will eat almost anything! 7
518.930.1201 bexsalon.com @Bex_salon 234 Union St
CHRIS LAFLAMME
REALESTATESALESPERSONn REALTORR
Helping you buy, own or sell your Historic Stockade property
Stockade Apartment Owner
Rentals occasionally available bleugroup.com
Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated
M: 518.461.3445
O: 518.724.5800 chris.laflamme@kw.com chris-laflamme.kw.com
935 New Loudon Rdoad Latham, NY 12110
A Division of N. Rossi & Sons Funeral Home, Inc.
Independently operated since 1908
501 Union Street, Schenectady, NY 12305 Tel (518) 374-0854 FAX (518) 377-0621 Licensed Funeral Directors
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, PCA
Please join our fellowship both online and in person. There are many ways to be connected.
Sunday: Worship at 10:30am & 6pm Wednesday: Prayer meeting at 7pm
Please feel free to visit our website at fpcschdy.org
or contact the Church office for further information at fpcofficeschdy@gmail.com or phone 518-374-4546. Search for “First Presbyterian Church Schenectady” on YouTube for the live feed to join morning worship online beginning at 10:30am every Sunday.
Listen to morning worship on your radio at 11am at the Mars Hill Network Broadcast on WMHH 96.7 FM.
Stockade Association Board of Directors stockadeassociation@gmail.com
Directors
Keith Dayer jazztubes@yahoo.com Term expires 5/2024
Justin Brown jjbrown1322@gmail.com Term expires 9/2024
Chris Marney ccmarney@gmail.com Term expires 5/2025
Katherine Stephens kathstephens2003@yahoo.com Term expires 5/2025
Rebecca Cleary bex@bexsalon.com Term expires 5/2025
Phone: (518) 377-0469 Email: sylviebriber@gmail.com Graphic Design: Gloria Kishton Graphics
Ads and Finance: Bob Lemmerman
Staff: Carol DeLaMarter, Victoria Gatta, Jan Haeck, Gloria Kishton, Bob Lemmerman, Jamie Taft, Suzanne Unger. Printed by Nott Street Office
Didn’t Get a Spy? Pick up a copy at Arthur’s Market, Front & N. Ferry, and Schenectady County Historical Society, 32 Washington Ave. Or call Editor, Sylvie Briber, at 518-377- 0469, and she will bring you a copy. Current and back issues of the Spy can be found on the Stockade Association website: historicstockade.org. Click on “The Stockade Spy Archives.”
Thank You!
Sponsors of the 2024
STOCKADE WALKABOUT
Cornells n Stewart’s Shops
Sch’dy County Arts & Culture Development Grant Stockade Inn, Inner Bliss, & Graham’s Coffee Parlor
The Witecki Law Office
Arthur’s 1795 n The Backstage Pub Cohoes Design Glass Associates, Inc. Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corp. Electric City Community Grocery
First Reformed Church n Gorgeous…the salon
Colleen Macaulay Ladymac1129@aol.com Term expires 5/2025
Dan O’Neill danon2810@gmail.com Term expires 5/2024
Zakhar Berkovich Zakhar.berkovich@gmail.com Term expires 5/2025
Susannah Hand Susannah-hand@hotmail.com Term expires 5/2024
n
Union College n Vale Cemetery
Published monthly, Sept.-May. Submissions due the 15th of previous month. Yearly and by-the-month advertising avail- able. Contact Bob Lemmerman at: robertl990@aol.com. The Stockade Spy was founded in 1961 by James D.J. Schmitt. Designed by Werner L. Feibes. First Editor: Barrie Covert. Editor: Sylvie Briber, 23 Washington Avenue
Ambition Bistro
Bleu Group Enterprise, LLC Killeen Restoration
Chris Laflamme, realtor
Nott Street Office/Union Street Office
BL’s Tavern & Grill; Curtis Lumber; The Open Door; Stella’s Pasta Bar & Bistro; Shepherd Communication & Security
Stockade Safety
LIGHT UP THE STOCKADE!
Keep your front and back porch lights on for your safety and for nighttime walkers.
PLANNING ON CHANGES TO A HISTORIC DISTRICT PROPERTY?
Changes to the exterior of property viewable from a pub- lic rights-of-way require prior approval from the Historic Resources Commission (HRC). Some changes may only require staff approval. Call City Hall to determine the ap- propriate level of review for your project. Other permits may be required. Applications available online at: cityofsche- nectady.com/203/Historic-District-Commission. Questions? Call Sergy Dossous at (518) 382-5147, ext.5406 or email: smdossous@schenectadyny.gov.
More Perreca’s
Vischer Ferry General Store
Schenectady Heritage Foundation
Police Emergency
Non-emergency
Code enforcement
Animal control voicemail
City website: cityofschenectady.com
OCTOBER WASTE COLLECTION DATES FRIDAYS, OCT. 4 & 11. MONDAYS, OCT. 21 & 28 Appliance pick up: Monday, September 21
No building materials or electronics will be accepted! Single Stream Recycling: Put all recyclable material into one container for collection. Pick up starts 6:15am. Put waste to curb the day before, after 2pm. Please remove emptied containers promptly. Questions? visit: www.cityofschenectady.com, click
on “services,” or call the hotline at (518) 382-5144.
911
(518) 630-0911
(518) 382-5050
(518) 382-5200, ext. 5655
Perreca’s Bakery
Simone’s Kitchen
Sweet Sprig
Truly Yours Custom Framing, Inc.
JOIN US AT OUR ANNUAL
TAKE BACK THE
NIGHT MARCH
www.ywca-neny.org 518.374.3394 24HR DV Hotline: 518.374.3386
OCTOBER 17TH, 2024 5:30 – 7PM | 44 WASHINGTON AVE
YWCA NENY DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SUPPORT SERVICES
Individual, group, and children’s counseling
Teen & Youth Violence Prevention Advocacy
Education and Outreach
Economic Empowerment Information & Referrals to Community Resources
Rapid Rehousing Assistance & Emergency Relocation Services
