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Author: Saratoga TODAY

Free Baseball Clinic on May 16


The new Mark Paine Foundation logo, via the foundation. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Mark Paine Foundation (formerly known as the Mark Paine Memorial Scholarship) announced it would be hosting its first annual free baseball clinic for Saratoga Springs little leaguers on Sunday, May 16 from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. at the Saratoga West Side Little League. The clinic is powered by D-BAT, a baseball and softball training academy in Saratoga.

The Mark Paine Foundation was established in 2024 to honor the life and legacy of Mark Paine, the father of two young children and a former Saratoga High School star athlete who tragically passed away in February 2024. The foundation partners with Saratoga Youth Hockey, Saratoga Little League, and the Saratoga varsity athletic programs to offer grants, college scholarships, free skills clinics, and support for equipment needs.

Artist, Poet and Author: Tempa Dukte Lama to Lead Two-Day June Retreat in Saratoga Springs


Tempa Dukte Lama to lead retreat in June.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Artist, poet and author Tempa Dukte Lama will lead a two-day in-person retreat in June focusing on the Tsa Lung Practice from the Tibetan Bon Tradition. Events take place Saturday and Sunday, June 28-29 at the Saratoga Senior Center, on West Avenue in Saratoga Springs. 

Tempa Lama will demonstrate and give detailed instructions on a set of simple and effective Tsa Lung practices of body, speech, and mind. This teaching will be combined with an introduction to healing according to the ancient Tibetan Bon tradition. 

Tsa Lung is an ancient Tibetan Bon Yoga (Thrul Khor) practice. It is a contemplative practice that employs breathing, gentle physical movement, vocal sound, visualization, and deep meditative awareness as a path of harmonizing the body, mind, and energy, and ultimately attaining awakening. 

Among the cycle of Bon Trul Khor, the Tsa Lung practices are particularly accessible as they are simple and gentle and do not require a lot of flexibility. No familiarity with Trul Khor or yoga is required for attending this weekend.

Tempa Lama studied at Menri Monastery, India and is an ordained Tibetan Bon lama. He is the founder and spiritual director of Olmo Ling Bon Center and Institute in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and has authored eight books and several Bon practice manuals. Through his teachings, writings, and translations he works to make the ancient Bon wisdom teachings available and accessible in the West. 

For more information registration information for the retreat, go to: https://www.olmoling.org/events/thrul_khor_saratoga_springs

Rochmon Celebrates “The End Of The World As We Know It” at Caffe Lena on May 20


Rochmon (center) brings his colorful 21st century self to a classic R.E.M. release, this week at Caffe Lena.   

ARATOGA SPRINGS — On Tuesday, May 20, Rochmon Record Club will converge at Caffe’ Lena to listen to, and learn about R.E.M.’s fifth album, “Document.” 

Recorded during the spring of 1987 in the final 2 years of the Reagan Presidency, lead singer and lyricist Michael Stipe was on a mission and had something to say. With “Document,” the band mixed a harder rock sound with their acoustic sentiments, issuing 11 tunes. Some would later become R.E.M. classics: “Finest Worksong,” “King of Birds,” ‘Exhuming McCarthy,” “The One I Love,” and “It’s the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)” – the latter being the only artwork created in the 20th century to name-check in one space Leonard Bernstein, Leonid Brezhnev, Lenny Bruce and the late, great Lester Bangs. 

A Rochmon Record Club Listening Party is meant to inform and deepen understanding of the history of the individual performers, songs, and stories that went into the making of this classic album. Rochmon Record Club takes place on the third Tuesday of the month at Caffe’ Lena in Saratoga Springs. 

Doors open at 6:30, and the show begins at 7 p.m. with a live audio & video presentation by Chuck Vosganian aka “Rochmon.” For more information and tickets, go to: caffelena.org. 

Every album R.E.M. released pushed this band of college kids one step further. As always Rochmon will have some surprises in store! For Rochmaniacs at a distance, Rochmon Record Club will also be streaming live on Caffe’ Lena TV. Tickets at caffelena.org

A Rochmon Record Club Listening Party is meant to inform and deepen our understanding of the history of the individual performers, songs, and stories that went into the making of this classic album. By listening together, we hear the music again for the first time. Rochmon Record Club takes place on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at Caffe’ Lena in Saratoga Springs (caffelena.org).

Stream this show live at CaffeLenaTV.

Springs Street Opening: Brilliant Becoming: The Beauty of Becoming in Full Color


Brilliant Becoming: The Beauty of Becoming in Full Color, with artists Susie Kane-Kettlewell & Terry Teitelbaum. Photo provided.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Spring Street Gallery presents “Brilliant Becoming: The Beauty of Becoming in Full Color,” a dynamic exhibition featuring the work of artists Susie Kane-Kettlewell and Terry Teitelbaum. 

The Opening Reception will take place June 7, from 6- 8 p.m. at Spring Street Gallery, 110 Spring St. 

The show explores the raw, emotional power of growth and the luminous beauty of renewal through color-rich, motion-filled artwork.

A celebration of transformation and triumph, Brilliant Becoming pairs bold, kinetic bursts of abstract energy with expansive, luminous landscapes — each piece capturing a unique moment of becoming. Whether sudden or slow, chaotic or calm, the works evoke the depth and complexity of personal evolution: the fiery victories, the quiet awakenings, and the strength that emerges in between.

Through these vibrant paintings, viewers are invited into a shared space of reflection and resonance — where change is not a single moment, but an unfolding journey toward light, strength, and limitless possibility.

Spring Street Gallery is an award-winning nonprofit arts organization dedicated to providing exhibition and performance opportunities for local and regional artists. It fosters the arts as a vital resource for social engagement and educational connectivity.

For more information, go to: springstreetgallerysaratoga.org. 

Saratoga Arts’ $2 Million Renovation Receives Gift from Stewart’s

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Arts announced it received a $300,000 gift from Stewart’s and the Dake Family towards the center’s ongoing Capital Campaign to support the renovations at its Broadway location.  

“This exceptional gift comes at a critical time for Saratoga Arts and the construction project,” Amy Bloom, Executive Director of Saratoga Arts said in a statement. “Over the past several months, through board member gifts, local foundation and key donor contributions, we have experienced incredible community support.  These contributions ensure that we can sustain the organization while the building is under renovation and that our construction timeline stays on track.” 

Funding for the project has come from the city of Saratoga Springs, which owns the historical building, and New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) through a Capital Project grant.  

The $2 million project is focused on modernizing the gallery, upgrading the Dee Sarno Theater, while also improving the lower-level classroom spaces and providing direct access to Congress Park and a future patio.  It will also stabilize the building’s HVAC systems, install energy-efficient windows, address drainage and roofing issues, and upgrade power, wiring and lighting systems throughout the building.  

While the building is under construction, Saratoga Arts is holding classes at several off-site locations on Beekman Street including CREATE Studio and the Community Room behind the Eden Compton Studio.  Art in the Park returns to Saratoga on Saturday May 24 in Congress Park.

For more information about Saratoga Arts, visit saratoga-arts.org or contact Amy Bloom, Executive Director, at abloom@saratoga-arts.org. 

Victor Santiago 


SCOTIA — Victor Santiago, age 81, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.  A memorial service will be announced at a later date.  For online condolences, visit www.compassionatefuneralcare.com.

Gary J. Famiano

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Gary J. Famiano passed away Saturday, May 10, 2025. Born in Saratoga Springs on February 18, 1945, he was the son of the late Anthony A. Sr. and Margaret (Bencivenga) Famiano.

Gary graduated from Saratoga Springs High School, class of 1963. He worked for Farone’s as a bookkeeper and for Jamesway in the accounting office until joining WalMart’s accounting office until his retirement in 2017.

Along with his parents, Gary is predeceased by his niece Wendy Leigh Famiano as well as many aunts and uncles. He is survived by his sister Denene and her husband Bob Carso; his brother Anthony Famiano, Jr.; his cherished nieces and nephews Shawna Tousignant (Frank Caputo), Rob Carso (Meghan) and Michael Famiano (Andrea); and his great niece Madison Tousignant (Michael Ortale, Jr.) and great nephew Noah Tousignant. 

The family would like to thank the Doctors, Nurses, and Staff at the Wesley Health Center- Hathorn 3rd Floor who took such good care of him. They will miss him. Also the Doctors, Nurses, and Staff at Saratoga Hospital who provided the best care for him during his last days. Lastly, and very importantly Dr. Kevin Dooley who has been a huge part of the great and special care that Gary received. 

Relatives and friends were invited to call from 4-7 p.m., Thursday, May 15, at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518-584-5373).

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, May 16 at St. Peter’s Cemetery, West Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY.

In lieu of flowers, please donate in Gary’s name to St. Jude’s in Memphis, TN, the American Diabetes Association, or the American Cancer Association.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com. 

May 16 – May 22, 2025

Upcoming Events

2-Session Freshwater Fishing Instruction Class

The Academy for Lifelong Learning is offering a 2-session freshwater fishing course on Fridays, May 30 and June 6, 10 – 11:30 a.m. at the Knights of Columbus, 50 Pine Road, Saratoga Springs. The cost is $25 per person. Registration is open to everyone. Academy membership is not required. To view the flyer with more information and the registration form, go to www.allsaratroga.org.

Summer SPACtacular

Join us on Friday, May 30 at 5 p.m. for a magical evening under the stars and on the SPAC stage at our summer season kickoff fundraiser. The 3rd annual Summer SPACtacular promises to be the best yet, all to celebrate and support SPAC’s mission to serve the Capital Region and beyond through artistic excellence, educational programming, and community outreach. This event will sell out. Space is limited. Do not wait to purchase tickets. Tickets start at $175. This event is 21+. Learn more and buy tickets at spac.org. 

May 16 – May 22, 2025

This Week’s Events:   

Friday, May 16

Community Blood Drive

St. Clement’s Church, 231 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs | Noon – 5 p.m. For more information or to make an appointment to donate, call 1-800-redcross or sign up online at redcrossblood.org with sponsor code STCLEMENTS. According to the Red Cross, donors with all blood types are needed, especially those with types O negative, A negative and B negative. 

Roast Pork Dinner

Charlton Freehold Presbyterian Church, 768 Charlton Rd. Charlton | 4:30 – Sold Out Take out only. Price:  $15   Menu: Pork Loin, Gravy, Potatoes, Mixed Vegetables, Applesauce, Cake.

11th Annual Fundraising Gala 

Bright Family Historic Barn, Twin Leaf Farm, Greenfield Center | 6 – 10 p.m. Gateway House of Peace is excited to announce The Butterfly Ball. It will be an evening of dancing, delicious food, a silent auction, and a chance to win $10,000, all in the spirit of supporting our mission of providing free 24-hour care for the terminally ill. GHOP is a 100% donor-driven organization and relies on fundraising and donations. Contact Dianne Greene at dgreene@gatewayhouseofpeace.org for more information. Tickets are available at https://www.gatewayhouseofpeace.org/.

Saturday, May 17

Bird Walk

Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton | 8 – 10 a.m. Join us on a morning walk to observe which birds are making their way back to the area as spring is starting to bloom. Register online at wiltonpreserve.org or call 518-450-0321. 

ADK Tabletop Weekend 2025

Sandy Hill Arts Center, 214 Main St., Hudson Falls | Saturday, 9:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.  and Sunday 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. ADK Tabletop Weekend is a community event in Hudson Falls devoted exclusively to tabletop gaming, for anyone who enjoys (or is just curious about) playing board games, card games, role-playing games and more. Attendees can sign up to learn how to play new games or play old favorites. They can also grab a table and borrow games from the large library of modern board game titles or even borrow a table and bring their own games. For more information, visit https://tabletop.events/conventions/adk-tabletop-weekend. 

Annual Meeting East Line Union Cemetery

Malta Community Center, 1 Bayberry Drive, Malta | 10 a.m. Open to all lot owners. For more information email EastLineUnion@Gmail.com  or call Craig Tolosky, Sec.-Treas. at 518-888-4805.      

SoBro Triangle 

290 South Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. It is time to plant the Second Phase of the SoBro Triangle, and we can’t wait to get in the dirt with you.  We’re planning a BIG day and by registering on our website you will be joining a group of dedicated volunteers passionate about regreening our city with native plants. www.sobroconservancy.org. 

Plant Sale and Chicken BBQ 

Quaker Springs United Methodist Church, 466 South Rt. 32, Schuylerville | 9 a.m. Plant Sale begins at 9 a.m., Takeout BBQ (from Ugly Rooster Cafe), from 2 – 4 pm. $16 each. For BBQ reservations, call 518-584-1812 or 518-396-8430.  A Silent Auction will benefit the Guatemalan Mission Team.

Community Day Celebration

Middle Grove Park, 428 Middle Grove Rd., Middle Grove | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. The Town of Greenfield will hold its first Community Day Celebration. The event, described as a “red, white and blue barbecue,” will feature special commemorative, “TOG Better TOGether” t-shirts for $15. Sponsors will be listed on the back. Food and drinks will be sold and there will be a special appearance by many Greenfield farmers, market vendors, local artists as well as family activities like games, an inflatable obstacle course and more.

Genealogy and Local History

Town of Saratoga Town Hall, 12 Spring St., Schuylerville | 1 p.m. Heritage Hunters will meet. Mary Downey will speak on “Researching at the Family Search Center,” of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The Center is located at 411 Loudon Rd. in Loudonville. Mary is a retired registered nurse, has done genealogy for over 30 years, and was appointed Temple and Family History Consultant and Coordinator 3 years ago. The public is welcome to the program. For information call 518-885-9309.

Hubbard Hall Spring Gala: A New Beginning

25 E. Main St., Cambridge | 6 – 9 p.m. An evening of music, food, and celebration in support of the arts, our community, and the future of Hubbard Hall. This year’s event features: live music by The Mike McMann Band, buffet dinner, desserts, and passed appetizers by Brown’s Brewing Co. A relaxed atmosphere of community and camaraderie. VIP guests will enjoy an exclusive pre-event champagne toast and private tour of the LoveJoy, our newly renovated artist residency building. Dress is bright colors to usher in the new season. Tickets cost $125 Early Bird (through May 1), $150 Gala Ticket

$200 VIP and Gala (includes champagne toast and tour). RSVP at hubbardhall.org or call 518-677-2495.

Sunday, May 18

All You Can Eat Breakfast

Gansevoort Firehouse, 1870 Route 32N, Gansevoort | 8 – 11 a.m. Menu: Eggs cooked to order, omelets, pancakes, hash, French toast, home fries, biscuits, and sausage gravy, orange juice, milk, and coffee. Donations: $12 adults, $10 seniors 55+, $10 military and 1st responders, $8 children 6 – 12, kids under 6 free. 

Guided Wildflower Hike

Saratoga Spa State Park, Meet at the Creekside Classroom | 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. The hike will be led by an experienced environmental educator who is knowledgeable in their park’s ecology, allowing you a unique opportunity to ask questions and learn more about wildflowers and the local environment.  All participants will receive a complimentary wildflower identification brochure featuring images and names of common species. Guests are encouraged to track and record their observations during the hike. No registration required, for more information call: 518-810-6906

Composting Workshop

Hudson Crossing Park, Schuylerville | 11 a.m. Join Sustainable Saratoga to learn how (and why) to set up a residential composting unit. All materials provided for Schuylerville Village residents (NYSERDA supported). All are welcome, free workshop. Village residents can pre-order by emailing info@villageofschuylerville.org or by calling 518-695-3881. Help divert costly food waste of the landfill. 

North Country Wild Care’s 2025 Fundraising Gala

The Gideon Putnam, 24 Gideon Putnam Rd., Saratoga Springs |11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Keynote Speaker will be Steve Caporizzo, News Channel 20 Chief Meteorologist, animal advocate and founder of Pet Connection. Your support will benefit our local volunteer wildlife rehabilitators. Educational wildlife viewing begins at 11: 30 a.m. followed by the silent auction, lunch and live music. 100% of the proceeds from the lunch and silent auction go toward the cost of food and medication for sick, injured and orphaned wildlife. Tickets are $75 (by May 12) and thereafter $85. To order online: www.ticketstripe.com/ncwc-gala-2025 or call Julie at 518-522-2657. 

Paint & Sip

Gurtler Bros. VFW Post 420, 190 Excelsior Ave., Saratoga Springs | 1 p.m. Join us for an afternoon of painting, sipping and fun! Tracy Caprood will guide you through a creative painting session. $35 Fee includes supplies and refreshments. Call Tracy at 518-596-2220 for reservations. 

Malta Stillwater EMS Open House

Malta Station, 2449 Route 9 Malta | 12 – 5 p.m. Stillwater Station, 266 County Road 76 Stillwater will be held on Tuesday, May 20, 4 – 7 p.m. The Open House will include staff members who will demonstrate Life Saving Skills with Equipment, Narcan Training, Child Life Saving skills and answer general guests’ questions about EMS services. How to become a First Responder, and sign up to take a CPR Course will be available. Hot Dog Station, Snacks, Beverages, Balloons and various kid take away items.

Pollinator Partnerships: Advice from the Pollinator Community

Brookside Museum 21 Fairground Ave. Ballston Spa | 2 – 3:30 p.m. Come and hear panelists from Balet Flowers & Design, Pitney Meadows Community Farm, Saratoga Spa State Park and SoBro Conservancy of Saratoga speak on the wonders of pollinators and the crucial role they hold in making our growing season bloom and grow. For more information check www.brooksidemuseum.org. 

Harmony Corners Famous Chicken Barbecue

Harmony Corners Firehouse, Route 67, Charlton | 3 – 6 p.m. This will be drive-thru takeout only, serving ticket holders. Tickets are available at Smith’s Pie Shop in Charlton, Mail N More in Burnt Hills, Nate’s Snow Plow Repair & Service in Ballston Lake and McConchie’ Heritage Acres Campground. Dinner includes 1/2 Chicken, baked potato, corn on the cob, coleslaw, roll, bottle of water, and a slice of pie. All for $16.00.

Monday, May 19

Saratoga Parkinson’s Support Group Meeting

Saratoga Senior Center, 290 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs | 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. All are welcome. We look forward to seeing you there. Please contact us with any questions: Leader Gordon Blyth,  gordonsblyth@gmail.com 917-887-7980 or Co-Leader Marie Thorne softballmom300@yahoo.com 518-810-8483.

Tuesday, May 20

Inside Ballston Spa

Town of Milton Community Center, 310 Northline Rd., Ballston Spa | 8 – 9:30 a.m. A unique opportunity to explore how tourism and workforce development intersect in the Village of Ballston Spa and the Town of Milton, two communities deeply rooted in small business and hospitality. Local business owners, economic development leaders, and community members are invited to join the conversation and gain valuable insight into the forces shaping our local economy. Admission is free, but pre-registration is required due to limited seating. A light breakfast will be provided. Join us to be part of an insightful and interactive morning. For more details and to register, visit www.capitalregionchamber.com 

Drop-In Tech Help 

Clifton Park Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Rd., Clifton Park 4 – 5 p.m. High school volunteers can help with basic tech support on a first-come, first-served basis. Bring your devices, along with cords and passwords, and get assistance with tasks like navigating apps, setting up accounts, connecting Bluetooth devices, or general troubleshooting. Please note that volunteers cannot repair equipment or resolve complex hardware or software issues. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org. 

Kids Can Cook: Banana Oat Pancakes

Cornell Cooperative Extension, 50 W. High St., Ballston Spa | 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. A hands-on opportunity for budding chefs. The class will cover the importance of eating breakfast and whole grains, understanding and identifying whole grains, why it’s healthy for us, and how to read labels to find the whole grains. Cost is $10.  Register by May 16 by calling 518-885-8995. 

The Town of Greenfield Historical Society Meeting 

Community Center, 25 Wilton Rd, Greenfield Center | 7 p.m. Jan and Jack McEneny will give a talk on their personal search, their visits to two now vanished communities in the Adirondacks and County Mayo, Ireland.  Both Jan and Jack found that both of their families fled post famine Ireland and each found a fresh start in America in the remote “Glass Factory Village” near Lake Desolation in Saratoga County.  It’s a story of two Vanished Villages and One Re-Discovered Irish American Story.

Wednesday,
May 21

Roast Beef Dinner

Saratoga Wilton Elks Lodge, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs | 4:30 – 6 p.m. Take out only. Call Monday or Tuesday between 10 a.m. – noon to place an order at 518-584-2585. Menu: Roast Beef, roasted redskin potatoes, vegetable, salad, roll, gravy.  $15 per dinner (cash only). 

Free Community Meal

Maplewood Parkway Methodist Church, 15 Maplewood Parkway, S. Glens Falls | 5 – 7 p.m. Come join us for food and fellowship. It will be held on the third Wednesday of each month. This month we are serving Pulled Pork, Coleslaw with Homemade Dessert. 

The Astronomy Club 

Galway Public Library, 2112 East Street, Galway | 6:30 p.m.  The presentation will be The Life Cycle of a Star. The Club is open to adults and teens (middle school and older).  Registration is requested, but not required, by calling 518-882-6385.  This group meets regularly on the third Wednesday of each month from 6:30 to 7:30 pm.  New members are welcome.

Galway Village Cemetery Association Annual Meeting

Galway Volunteer Fire Department, West Street, Village of Galway | 6:30 p.m.  Volunteers are needed to serve on the Board.  Meetings are held once per year to determine and administer cemetery policies.  If interested, contact President Charles Quinlan, Sr. at 518-882-6325.

Thursday, May 22

70 Years of the Saratoga Senior Center

Saratoga Senior Center, 290 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs | 2:30 p.m. Missed the magic of our 70th Anniversary party and the captivating historical presentation on the Center? You’re in luck! Matt will be presenting this fascinating journey through our history once more, and we’ll also be sharing our heartfelt anniversary video. It’s a historic presentation honoring the visionaries who built our past homes and shaped the Center we cherish today, while connecting our story to the history of our city and county.

Saratoga Springs: An Era of Change — The 2025 Trifecta Tour

National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, 191 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs | 5:45 – 9:30 p.m. Journey to the Saratoga Arms Hotel and the Saratoga Springs History Museum on a complimentary shuttle bus, returning to the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame to conclude the evening. 

Enjoy delicious snacks and drinks at each stop along the way while learning about the history of this remarkable city. Admission is $100. Museum member admission is $85. Call 518-584-0400 for tickets.

The Power of Parents

Galway Public Library, 2112 East Street, Galway | 7 p.m. Presented by MADD New York Capital Region.  This workshop empowers parents of middle and high school students to have ongoing, intentional conversations about the dangers and consequences of underage drinking and marijuana use.  This free class is geared toward parents, guardians, and caregivers.  Teens are welcome to attend our Teen Advisory Board meeting being held at the library during the same time as The Power of Parents program.  Please call 518-882-6385 to register.

Maypoles and Doves and Puppets, Oh My!: Waldorf School Holds Spring Faire


Waldorf students dance around a maypole at the school’s Spring Faire event. Photo provided.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Students, friends, and family members danced around a maypole as live music played during the Waldorf School’s Spring Faire on May 3. 

Children enjoyed natural crafts such as botanical silk dying, wool felting, and making flower crowns. The outdoor pizza oven churned out slices while goats, rabbits, and even a dove (named Igor) made appearances. The event also featured The Rolling Pebbles (a youth folk band with two Waldorf students as members), a marionette show, and contra dancing.