(left) Fifth Grade- Fifth Graders participate in the Pentathlon. (right) Third Grader receives a newly made shawl at the Brookside Museum. Photos courtesy of the Waldorf School
Third and fifth graders from the Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs had the opportunity to connect with history recently. While fifth graders participated in a pentathlon with neighboring Waldorf schools, the third graders learned how wool goes from sheep to garment.
The Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs hosted a Pentathlon—an honored Waldorf tradition celebrating the strength, beauty, and balance of the ancient Greek ideals. The school was proud to host students from six neighboring Waldorf schools at Gavin Park as they competed in events such as javelin, discus, long jump, running and wrestling.
More than just a competition, the Pentathlon is a rite of passage that honors each child’s unique abilities and their spirit of sportsmanship. The annual event takes place as the culmination of the fifth grade’s in-depth studies about Greek history and culture.
Third Grade, meanwhile, recently enjoyed their second annual field trip to Brookside Museum to participate in its Sheep to Shawl program. This immersive experience includes both demonstrations and hands-on activities related to wool processing: shearing a sheep, washing and carding wool, spinning and making a shawl.
The four unique stations kept the students actively engaged as they observed and participated in the shawl-making process. The day was both educational and a lot of fun!
The Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs serves children and their families from early preschool through Eighth grade. At the Waldorf School, we value the healthy development of the whole individual, in mind, body and spirit.
For more information, visit www.waldorfsaratoga.org or call 518-587-0549.
Photo via the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.
SARATOGA SPRINGS — Cardona’s Market recently concluded its 80th anniversary celebration by holding a special event at its newly renovated Saratoga location. The event featured various giveaways, new products, and food specials. Local officials including State Senator Jim Tedisco, Saratoga Springs Mayor John Safford, and Saratoga County Supervisor Matt Veitch were in attendance.
Photos of Christine L. Keller and Shelly Hendrix provided.
SARATOGA SPRINGS — Julie & Co. Realty recently added two new members to its brokerage: Christine L. Keller and Shelly Hendrix.
Keller has called the Adirondacks home for her entire life. Currently based in Putnam Station, she’s built a career as a realtor over the past 30 years, serving clients throughout Ticonderoga and the surrounding areas. Keller enjoys helping people at all stages of life; whether they’re searching for their first home, a vacation retreat, a business location, or simply a peaceful getaway property.
Hendrix is a real estate professional based in Ticonderoga and a lifelong resident of the Adirondacks. She began her career in real estate as an administrative assistant, gaining industry experience before earning her New York State real estate salesperson license in 2022. Since then, she has been guiding her clients through the buying and selling process. She’s received awards such as the 2023 Quality Service Producer and the 2024 Quality Service Pinnacle Producer. Hendrix focuses on properties in Ticonderoga and the surrounding areas, including Crown Point, Moriah, Port Henry, Schroon Lake, and Elizabethtown.
SARATOGA SPRINGS — The highly anticipated Belmont Stakes Racing Festival, taking place for the second year at the historic Saratoga Race Course, begins on Wednesday, June 4 and concludes on Sunday, June 8. The festival will include 27 stakes races with purses totaling $11,275,000, the richest purses and highest number of stakes offered since the launch of the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival in 2014. To celebrate the festival, Saratoga Springs is hosting a variety of events throughout the week.
Tuesday, June 3
Embrace the Belmont II (5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.) brings the community together to learn basic handicapping and explore the 2025 Belmont Stakes field. The event is designed to help local business owners, professionals, and residents deepen their understanding of horse racing. Last year’s event at the National Museum of Racing sold out, so this year, Embrace the Belmont II is moving to a larger venue: the Universal Preservation Hall. The emcee is Donna Brothers, an NBC Sports analyst who just covered the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes.
Wednesday, June 4
Belmont on Broadway, a free concert on Broadway in downtown Saratoga Springs, is slated for June 4, from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., with performances by Gin Blossoms and Uprooted. Broadway will be closed from Van Dam to City Hall most likely all day Wednesday starting early in the morning to install the stage.
The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame’s latest exhibits, “A Look Through the Eyes and Life of Charlotte C. Weber” and “Greg Montgomery: 40 Years of the Travers Poster,” will open to the public. In the Museum’s McBean Gallery, “A Look Through the Eyes and Life of Charlotte C. Weber” chronicles the legacy of Charlotte Weber, who established Live Oak Stud in Ocala, Florida. The exhibit also explores her passion for art, philanthropy, and business, as well her roles as a leader and trailblazer in various disciplines. The Museum’s von Stade Gallery will host “Greg Montgomery: 40 Years of the Travers Poster,” one of racing’s most iconic series of artwork. Montgomery began producing annual posters for Saratoga Race Course’s Travers Stakes in 1986.
Bradley Chance Hays Live Painting at the Spa Fine Art Gallery is a special live painting event featuring celebrated Western artist Bradley Chance Hays occurring from 7 p.m. until 10 p.m. Chance will be in the gallery creating original work in real time—offering a rare glimpse into his expressive, high-energy process. Known for his bold depictions of horses and the American West, Hays brings a contemporary edge to a classic subject matter. The event is free and open to the public—stop by, meet the artist, and experience the creative spirit that kicks off Belmont Week.
Thursday, June 5
The Belmont Gala at the Canfield Casino will feature fine dining, live music, and a celebration of sportsmanship beginning at 7 p.m. The event will recognize the connections of 2024 Belmont Stakes winner Dornoch: owners Belmar Racing and Breeding LLC, Pine Racing Stables, R. A. Hill Stable, Two Eight Racing LLC, West Paces Racing LLC, trainer Danny Gargan, and jockey Luis Saez. Tickets can be purchased here: racingmuseum.org/events/belmont-gala.
Sports Illustrated’s Revel at the Races comes to the Belmont Stakes for the first time. In partnership with The New York Racing Association (NYRA), this event will be headlined by G-Eazy and take place at The Night Owl in downtown Saratoga beginning at 7 p.m. The event offers a high-energy night of live music, premium hospitality, and immersive brand activations that bring fans closer to the sports moments they love. Tickets are available at BelmontStakes.com/Revel.
Farm Brewery Tour & Tasting at Dancing Grain Brewery from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. includes a stroll through the scenic fields of Dancing Grain on a guided farm and brewery tour, a curated tasting of craft beers, and a farm-fresh lunch prepared by 9 Miles East. For more information, visit https://dancinggrain.com/.
Friday, June 6
Belmont Bites and Brews (6 p.m. to 8 p.m.) will be an open house event at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame featuring food trucks, local brews, and more. The event is free to attend. Participating vendors include Slidin’ Dirty, Screaming Eagle, Ted’s Fish Fry, and 80K Catering. New Scotland Spirits will also be on hand for a whiskey tasting.
“Famous Fillies” Preview Reception featuring Lisa Palombo at the Spa Fine Art Gallery from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The exhibition celebrates the most legendary female racehorses in history. Inspired by the 50th anniversary of the great Ruffian, this collection honors the spirit and power of champions like Zenyatta and Rachel Alexandra—fillies who redefined excellence on the track. This event is open to the public and reservations are optional.
Horse of a Different Color: A Belmont Special with Live Music at Saratoga Paint N Sip celebrates the opening of the 2025 Saratoga Race Track and the Belmont Stakes with a colorful horse. No painting experience necessary. For more information, visit www.paintandsipstudios.com/.
Behind-the-scenes walking tour of the Saratoga Race Course at 9:30 a.m. offers a rare opportunity to explore the oldest and one of the most iconic sporting venues in the United States. Led by the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation’s Executive Director Samantha Bosshart, this special walking tour will take participants through both the public and lesser-known sides of the Saratoga Race Course. Highlights include iconic locations such as the Grandstand and Clubhouse, including the Oklahoma Training Track, as well as areas not usually open to the public—the original 1847 Race Course, and Horse Haven. Tours begin at the Whitney Viewing Stand at the Oklahoma Training Track. Reservations are required and space is limited. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.saratogapreservation.org or call (518) 587-5030.
Grand, Gilded and Glorious: A Saratoga Stroll from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. is a 90-minute guided walking tour designed to entertain and enlighten both visitors and residents with the famed stories of the Spa City. Saratoga Springs was the playground of the rich and famous during the 1800’s and provides the stories of this gilded period of history. For more information, visit www.discoversaratoga.org/saratoga-springs-visitor-center/.
Saturday, June 7
The Belmont Stakes Saturday Morning Social (9 a.m. to 11 a.m.) at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame will feature complimentary coffee and doughnuts (courtesy of Stewart’s Shops) and complimentary Saratoga Water. Admission to the Museum is free from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday Morning Social programming will include a special Belmont Stakes handicapping seminar with Mike Beer from Daily Racing Form at 10 a.m. Artist Greg Montgomery will also be on hand to sign copies of his 2025 Belmont Stakes and Travers Stakes posters (available for purchase).
Grand, Gilded and Glorious: A Saratoga Stroll from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. is a 90-minute guided walking tour designed to entertain and enlighten both visitors and residents with the famed stories of the Spa City. Saratoga Springs was the playground of the rich and famous during the 1800’s and provides the stories of this gilded period of history. For more information, visit www.discoversaratoga.org/saratoga-springs-visitor-center/.
Sunday, June 8
The Belmont Family Fun Fest (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame will include games, food, animals, and more in a vibrant open house setting. Highlights will include a bounce house and slides; complimentary ice cream, popcorn, and cotton candy; a hammer strike game with prizes; magical feats from the spectacular Mr. Twisty (at 11 a.m.); a towering rock-climbing wall; a menagerie of animals; a face painting station; and a bird show from the Silent Wings Raptor Rescue. The event is open to all ages and is free to attend.
Behind-the-scenes walking tour of the Saratoga Race Course at 9:30 a.m. offers a rare opportunity to explore the oldest and one of the most iconic sporting venues in the United States. Led by the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation’s Executive Director Samantha Bosshart, this special walking tour will take participants through both the public and lesser-known sides of the Saratoga Race Course. Highlights include iconic locations such as the Grandstand and Clubhouse, including the Oklahoma Training Track, as well as areas not usually open to the public—the original 1847 Race Course, and Horse Haven. Tours begin at the Whitney Viewing Stand at the Oklahoma Training Track. Reservations are required and space is limited. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.saratogapreservation.org or call (518) 587-5030.
Some additional Belmont Stakes Racing Festival items of interest:
• The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame satellite facility at the Saratoga Race Course’s Walk of Fame will be open daily during the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily.
• The Past is Present, a mural by artist Celeste Susany in celebration of 75 years of the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, will be complete and accessible for viewing on the Museum exterior on Ludlow Street.
• Contemporary Equine Art Display and Box Draw Art Sale (Monday, June 2 through Wednesday, June 4): In the spirit of the Belmont Stakes, the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame is hosting a display of original contemporary art created by five renowned equine artists: Robert Clark, Lisa Palombo, Jocelyn Russell, Steve Skipper, and Celeste Susany. Visit the Museum June 2 through June 4 to enter your intent to purchase one of these unique pieces. Proceeds from each piece of artwork are shared with the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame and the artist.
BALLSTON SPA — The Saratoga County Career Center in conjunction with the Greater Capital Region Career Centers will hold the following free virtual career workshops during the month of June:
June 4 at 10 a.m. and June 5 at 10:30 a.m.: Resume Development – This workshop presents the basics of a powerful and effective cover letter including formatting, tailoring it to match the job and getting through the online application process to land an interview. Please have a rough draft of your resume with you. Facilitated by Rensselaer & Columbia-Greene and Schenectady.
June 5 at 11 a.m. and June 18 at 1:30 p.m.: Transferable Skills – Transferable skills are qualities you have already acquired which can be used in a different job. Make it easy for employers to see the connection between your qualities and the skillset needed to do the job and market yourself as the solution to an employer’s problem. Learn ways to research the employer’s needs then identify and show them that you have these skills. Facilitated by Warren and Schenectady.
June 9 at 12 p.m.: Broadview Financial Well-Being – Your budget is a key that opens doors, guiding you to your money goals. Get ready to take control of your finances and your future! Find out how to organize what you make, spend, and save; set goals to save up, spend down, look ahead; harness the power of mindful spending; and identify budget tactics that work best for you. Facilitated by Broadview and Schenectady.
June 10 at 10:30 a.m.: Interview Preparation – Learn how to articulate your strengths, what questions to expect, how to address difficult topics, and ace the interviewing process. Facilitated by Schenectady.
June 11 at 10 a.m. and June 24 at 1:30 p.m.: Goal Setting – Goals are what take us forward in life. They are the first step in every journey we take. In this workshop we will explain how goal setting works, why goals are important, and take home more helpful resources to get you started. Remember: “if you aim for nothing, you’ll hit it every time.” Find out how to reach your dreams. Facilitated by Washington and Albany.
June 11 at 10:30 a.m.: Civil Service – Join us for a workshop on navigating the civil service system in local governments! This session will cover essential steps to secure a civil service job, focusing on the hiring process. Participants will learn about competitive examinations and local government positions and how to prepare for them. Facilitated by Schenectady.
June 17 at 10:30AM and June 18 at 11AM: Completing Job Applications – Statistics show approximately 50% of mid-sized companies and almost all large corporations use an applicant tracking system to screen candidates for job opportunities. Learn how to prepare your online application to get the most visibility from hiring managers. Facilitated by Schenectady. Facilitated by Warren and Washington.
June 20 at 10:30AM and June 25 at 10:30 a.m.: Networking – Networking is your strategic tool for cultivating lasting relationships, fostering professional growth, and unlocking opportunities. Join us for an approachable journey to understanding networking. Facilitated by Warren and Albany. Facilitated by Schenectady.
June 24 at 11 a.m.: Overcoming Barriers – Join an informal discussion about how to overcome potential stumbling blocks to finding a job. Whether you’re facing transportation needs, childcare needs, prior justice system involvement, inexperience, health concerns or more, this workshop will provide you with resources and strategies to help you meet your goals. Facilitated by Fulton-Montgomery-Schoharie.
June 26 at 1:30 p.m.: Social Media – Your social media presence can make or break your ability to find a job. Learn how to use social media to your advantage in searching for a job and marketing yourself to land the job or career you’ve always wanted. Facilitated by Schenectady.
Registration is required for all workshops. Visit www.saratogacountyny.gov/workforce to register or call the Saratoga County Career Center at (518) 884-4170 for more information. The workshops are offered as part of the Saratoga County Career Center’s WorkPays! workforce education campaign.
Saratoga Springs — The Wesley Community is celebrating one of its own after LeadingAge New York bestowed its highest honor on Wesley CEO J. Brian Nealon at a conference on Tuesday, May 20 at the Saratoga Springs City Center.
Nealon’s four-decade-long career at The Wesley Community began in 1985 when he assumed the role of Chief Financial Officer. In 2003, he was appointed to Chief Executive Officer and has continued at the helm of the continuum-of-care campus since that time. Nealon was enthusiastically nominated by staff and peers for the prestigious 2025 LeadingAge New York award.
The Lawrence E. Larson Memorial Award of Honor is a tribute to the late Lawrence E. Larson, the association’s first chairman, for his distinguished service, dedication and foresight in aging services. The annual award is given to a member who has made outstanding contributions to the field and is a recognized leader at the state and national level, with a reputation for humanitarian achievement and professional vision.
“I am absolutely humbled to be the recipient of this deeply meaningful award. To be recognized this way by colleagues, friends, staff and family members of Wesley residents is truly a highlight of my career,” Nealon said. “Lawrence Larson’s enduring legacy has been an inspiration to all of us who are privileged to do this work. I will be forever grateful for this special honor.”
Nealon, a native of Latham, NY, received an accounting degree from UAlbany in 1977. He initially worked as a Medicaid auditor examining the books of nursing homes. His career path led him to Teresian House, a nursing home in Albany, where he worked for six years prior to his arrival at Wesley in 1985.
LeadingAge New York is a member of the eponymous national association comprising 5,600 non-profit organizations dedicated to advancing policies and conducting research that supports, enables and empowers people to live fully as they age. It annually recognizes the extraordinary dedication and contributions of its members at different levels of leadership and service in the field of long-term health care.
“There is no one who more embodies personal leadership and commitment to the field of long- term care than Mr. Nealon. Not only has he successfully led The Wesley Community for over 40 years, he has done so through tumultuous times, times of uncertainty in the field, times of overwhelming challenges that would have defeated a lesser person,” said Christopher R. Lyons, Chief Executive Officer of Aim Services, Inc. “The Wesley Community would not be the leader in long-term care that it is in our community without Brian… Great Leaders are authentic, they walk with a clarity of purpose and character that is genuine; that’s Brian Nealon. I am honored to be his colleague and blessed to be his friend.”
“Brian speaks from the heart when speaking to the staff, and he means it. When talking, he makes it so we all understand what he is speaking about, and sometimes the conversations are not easy, but Brian does it with compassion and grace. It opens up the conversation so anyone feels they can ask a question. Not all CEOs can manage that. Brian does this every single time,” said Patricia Seber, Director of Independent Living, Woodlawn Commons at The Wesley Community.
“Brian’s leadership is characterized by a rare combination of vision, empathy and action. He is a tireless advocate for our residents, ensuring their well-being and dignity are always prioritized. He also fosters a positive and supportive work environment where every staff member feels valued and respected,” said Meghan Glowa, Director of Human Resources, The Wesley Community.
For more information about The Wesley Community visit www.thewesleycommunity.org/.
Photo provided by the New York Racing Association (NYRA).
SARATOGA SPRINGS — If there’s one thing track-goers love, it’s a free giveaway.
The New York Racing Association announced this week that opening day of the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival on June 4 will include 10,000 “I Love NY-Breds” baseball caps up for grabs.
Admission gates open at 11 a.m., with first post scheduled for 12:40 p.m.
The caps are meant to celebrate New York Showcase Day, which will feature six $200,000 events exclusively for New York-breds, including the seven-furlong Mike Lee for sophomores; Bouwerie at the same distance for sophomore fillies; the nine-furlong Commentator for 3-year-olds and up; and the Critical Eye at the same distance for females 3-years-old and up. On the turf, there will be a pair of 1 1/16-mile events, the Kingston for older horses and the Mount Vernon for older fillies and mares.
New York Showcase Day will also shine a spotlight on the state’s agricultural industry, with food and beverages made exclusively in New York State. Fans will have the opportunity to sample and purchase craft beer, wines, spirits, and food at the Taste NY Pavilion. The Pavilion will operate from noon to 5 p.m., and will feature products from Whitman Brewing, Speckled Pig Brewing, The Albany Distilling Company, Keuka Spring Vineyards, Country Corner Cafe, and Toga Nola, among others.
New York Showcase Day will also feature the Mendelssohn Club, an Albany-based choral group, which will perform “New York, New York”.
GANSEVOORT — Margaret Elizabeth Petruccione passed away peacefully in her residence at the Home of the Good Shepard on May 23, 2025. Born on March 6, 1927, she is the daughter of Charles and Anna Ginevan. She was a longtime resident of Amsterdam, NY before moving to Malta and then Saratoga.
Margaret attended St. Mary’s Institute and graduated in 1945 as salutatorian.
Margaret married Angelo Petruccione on May 27, 1950, and together they raised five children.
Margaret devoted numerous years to her employment at New York Telephone, consistently demonstrating her commitment and diligence.
Her religious life was deeply rooted in the community; she was a former member of St. Mary’s Church in Amsterdam, NY, and a current member of St. Clement’s in Saratoga Springs, NY. Her faith was further expressed through her involvement with the Catholic Daughters of the Americas.
She leaves behind a loving family, survived by daughters Mary Vancore (George) of St Johns, Florida, Anne Wojciechowsky (Benjamin) of Saratoga Springs, NY and Norma Bozell (Brent) of Great Falls, Virginia; sons David (Sandy) of Lima, NY and Peter (Dawn) of Saratoga Springs, NY; sister-in-law Norma Stellato along with 13 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren as well as multiple nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents and siblings Mary Achcet, Walter Gineven, Charles Ginevan, and Edward Ginevan.
Relatives and friends may call from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Monday, June 2, at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518-584-5373).
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, June 3, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Clement’s Catholic Church, Saratoga Springs, NY.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to St. Mary’s Institute Amsterdam, NY or Community Hospice of Saratoga.
Remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com
