In keeping with this years winter carnival theme “Roman Around Carnival” We know that such famous venues as the Colosseum and Circus Maximus of Rome would host events involving magnificent processions, exotic animals, gladiator battles, chariot races, executions and even mock naval battles. But here in Saranac Lake our venue is the newly refurbished Civic Center and instead of gladiators, firefighters competed in our long running winter carnival firefighters broomball tradition.

We would like to thank all the participants, spectators and the Saranac lake Civic center for a great time last night. Teams included the Saranac Lake Volunteer Fire Department, The Lake Placid Volunteer Fire Department, the Tupper Lake Volunteer Fire Department, The Bloomingdale Volunteer Fire Department, and the Paul Smiths Gabriels Volunteer Fire Department.

Congratulations to the winners: In first place the Paul Smiths Gabriels Fire Department and in second place the Bloomingdale Fire Department.

This years broomball tournament began by recognizing a moment of silence in memory of Todd Claremont, and Ken Mclaughlin. Todd a newly retired NYS Trooper, was an active Volunteer Firefighter, who in addition to his service to the community loved this broomball tournament. Todd passed prior to last years carnival and in recognition the “Todd Claremont Broom-Baller Award” was created. Ken was a beloved 50 plus year veteran of the SLVFD and was an icon in our department. This years Broom Ball tournament falls on the 1 year anniversary of Ken’s passing. We miss them both with all our hearts.

The winners of the Todd Claremont Broom-Baller Award are chosen by the Claremont family. This years winners are Chrissy Roudonis of the Paul Smiths Gabriels fire department and Shea Arsenault of the Tupper Lake Fire Department.

We had a great time and we wish everyone a Happy Carnival!