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Author: Saratoga TODAY

Week of September 27 – October 3, 2024

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Calendar.

This Week’s Events:   sep 27 – oct 3

Friday,
September 27

Cozy Corner Stitchers 

Galway Public Library, 2112 East Street, Galway | 4-6 p.m. This is an opportunity for adults and older teens to gather and socialize while working on any fiber art project they are currently creating.   This group meets every month on the 4th Friday from 4-6 p.m.  Registration is requested, but not required, at 518-882-6385.  

Saturday, September 28

Fly-In / Drive-In Breakfast

Empire State Aerosciences Museum, 250 Rudy Chase Dr., Glenville 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. Enjoy an assortment of pancakes, french toast, eggs, sausage, potatoes, juice, coffee, tea, fruit and more. Breakfast is open to the public. At 10 a.m., local pilot Edward Chevrette, author of “Wings of Fortune, personal tales from the golden age of Aviation” will give a light-hearted talk about his career in flight instruction. Fly-In if you would like. Pilots: Tower Frequency 121.3; Ground 121.9. Land at Schenectady County Airport and taxi to Richmor Aviation North. Tell them you are going to ESAM.

Flavors of the Fall Bake Sale and Café Fundraiser

Malta Ridge Methodist Church, 729 Malta Ave. Ext., Malta | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Baked goods will be available for purchase. Come, bring a friend, join us for coffee/tea and conversation while enjoying a homemade baked goodie.  A love offering basket will be available for the café. For directions or other information, call the church at 518-581-0210.

American Legion Monthly Meeting

Adirondack Post 70, 34 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs | 10 a.m.

Saratoga’s Giant PumpkinFest

Saratoga Springs City Center Parking Garage, 11-77 High rock Ave., Saratoga Springs | 11 a.m. Giant pumpkin growers from the Northeast will again compete to grow the biggest pumpkin of the year! Check out dozens of giant pumpkins at this popular fall event. This is a free event. 

Turkey Dinner 

Ballston Spa Elks Lodge #2619, 10 Hamilton Street, Ballston Spa | 4 – 6 p.m. The menu will include turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, vegetables, cranberry, roll and dessert. The cost is 2 for $30 or $17 each (cash only). Please preorder Thursday or Friday (9/26 or 9/27) 4:00 to 6:00. To place your order call 518-885-1149 or email dinners2619@gmail.com, Limited quantities available at the door. All are welcome.

Marc Ribot: Charlie Chaplin’s “The Kid” (1921)

Arthur Zankel Music Center, Skidmore College, 815 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 8 p.m. Legendary guitarist Marc Ribot will accompany the 1921 silent film “The Kid” with his delicate and at times haunting solo guitar score, contemporizing Charlie Chaplin’s work as a relevant story about our era’s economic and social conditions. Ribot will also perform a short solo set before the film. Tickets range from $5 to $20. https://www.tix.com/ticket-sales/zankel/7074/event/1379633 

Sunday, September 29

Breakfast Buffet

ITAM Post #35, 247 Grand Ave., Saratoga Springs | 8 – 11 a.m. Eggs to order, bacon, pancakes, etc. Adults $10, Seniors $9, Children 10 & under $5, Children under 5 free, Takeout orders $12. 

Outboard Motor Wet Swap Meet

Schroon Lake Town Boat Launch, Dock St., Schroon Lake | 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. 

Buy, sell or trade motors, boats and parts. Get advice on your old motor. Find sources for parts and service, Wet meet (boats in the water). Antique motor displays. Identify your motor. For further information contact Michael Glenn 518-505-3558. Open to the public, no admission fee. Refreshments available (donations accepted.)

Autumn Sunday Stroll

Meet: Southeast Corner of Nelson and Union Avenues, Saratoga Springs| 10:30 a.m. Join Sydney Hedge, Preservation & Programs Coordinator and explore the area surrounding the Saratoga Race Course! This walking tour highlights the history of the Reading Rooms, National Museum of Racing & Hall of Fame, Oklahoma Training Track, and the Fasig-Tipton Humphrey S. Finney Sales Pavilion. All Sunday morning tours last approximately 90 minutes and require walking and standing on varied terrain. Tours will be limited to thirty and tickets must be purchased in advance. The cost per tour is $15 for SSPF members and $20 for non-members. For additional information on the Autumn strolls or to purchase tickets visit www.saratogapreservation.org, call 518-587-5030, or email shedge@saratogapreservation.org. 

“Color of Sound” Saratoga Community Arts Concert

Saratoga Senior Center, 290 West Ave., Saratoga Springs | 2 – 3 p.m. Flutist Melanie Chirignan along with pianist Melinda Faylor and cellist Laura Melnicoff – Classically trained musicians who take elements of classical pieces and reimagine them into improvised compositions. They commissioned artist Mercedes Soriano to take a time-lapse video of them painting to one of the trio’s improvisations, which will be projected behind the performers while they play live to it, adding a captivating visual component. The 45-minute concert will be followed by a 10–15-minute question and answer portion. Free, open to the public.

Frederick Douglass Speaks on Democracy

Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa | 2 p.m. The Saratoga County History Center and the Saratoga Springs Black Elks have joined together to cosponsor a timely presentation by Frederick Douglass interpreter Nathan M. Richardson. Mr. Richardson will lead a conversation about the meaning of American democracy from the perspective of the renowned former slave turned writer, orator and abolitionist. Hear how his relationship with other abolitionists and several Presidents influenced his beliefs which remain important today. This event is underwritten by a generous donation from Frederic Sober Jr.  for more information, visit www.brooksidemuseum.org. 

Harmonies of Verse and Voice

Saratoga United Methodist Church, 175 Fifth Ave., Saratoga Springs | 3 p.m. Poems of CATULLUS, Emily DICKINSON and Edna St. Vincent MILLAY | TRADITIONAL: Black is the Color of my True Love’s Hair; Down in the Willow Garden | Gustav HOLST: Four Songs for Voice and Violin | Lily Holgate, violin; Chloe Holgate, soprano. Season Tickets: Adults: $108; Seniors: $90; Students: $72.Students. Individual Tickets: Adults: $30; Seniors: $25; Students: $20. For more information and to get tickets, visit www.saratogachamberplayers.org

Monday, September 30

Song Swap with Jeff Walton

Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St., Saratoga Springs | 7:15 – 8:45 p.m. Grab your favorite acoustic (or electric!) instrument, bring your love of music, and join us for an informal song swap led by local musician, Jeff Walton. Feel free to bring your own tunes to play and share. No registration is required.

Tuesday,
October 1

27th Annual Autumn Jewels Show

Clifton Park Community Senior Center, 6 Clifton Common Blvd., Clifton Park | The Southern Saratoga Art Society’s 27th Annual Autumn Jewels Show will be held from October 1 – Oct 30.  This is a judged show featuring cash prizes for artwork and photography and is open to the public.  A reception and award presentation will be held on Monday, October 28, 6:30 p.m. at the Senior Center.  

The Catholic Daughters of the Americas Meeting

(CDA) Court McLaughlin #422, Knights of Columbus, 50 Pine Road, Saratoga Springs | 6:30 p.m. Members gather at 5:45PM for recitation of the Rosary, followed by refreshments. The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. All members and prospective members are invited to attend. Please contact Regent Dawn Weber if you have any questions. 518-226-5641

Wednesday, October 2

Roast Pork Dinner 

Saratoga Wilton Elks Lodge, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs | 4:30 – 6 p.m. For curbside pickup only. Call Monday and Tuesday between 10 a.m. – noon to place an order at 518-584-2585. Menu: roast pork, mashed potatoes, vegetable, stuffing, applesauce, gravy and roll, tossed salad. Dinner for $15 (cash only). 

History of Winslow’s Restaurant in Wilton, NY

Wilton Heritage Museum, 5 Parkhurst Rd, Wilton | 6 p.m. The Wilton Heritage Society will present Jeff Baker. Jeff ran Winslow’s Restaurant for many years after acquiring it from his grandparents, Tess and Harold Clute.  Many in Wilton still remember Tess and Harold and the wonderful turkey dinners they served.  Winslow’s has been a staple in Wilton and the turkey dinners are legendary.  Everyone is awaiting news on what’s next for Winslow’s.  Perhaps Jeff will solve that mystery for us.  Join us for a potluck dinner, followed by the presentation. 

Pickin’s Session

310 Northline Rd. Ballston Spa| 6:30 – 9 p.m. Open to the Public, Free Admission & ample free parking.

Doors open 6 p.m. All acoustic musicians who enjoy playing country/western, folk, gospel & bluegrass are welcome to participate. If you don’t play, become part of the audience and enjoy the music. Bring a snack to share. Beverages provided. Call 518-885-4229 with questions.

Poetry Reading

Caffè Lena, 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs | 7 p.m. Doors open for sign-ups at 6:30 p.m.  Caffè Lena presents a poetry reading by Jackie Craven. An open mic poetry reading will follow. The host for the event will be Carol Graser and the cost is $5 general, free for students. The featured reading will also be livestreamed. You can find a link for the livestream at caffelena.org, 518-583-0022.

Thursday, October 3

Brooks BBQ

Christ the Savior Orthodox Church, 349 Eastline Rd., Ballston Lake | 3:30 – 6:30 or sold out.  Chicken dinners are $17 and include half chicken, potato, cold slaw and dinner roll. Thank you for your support.

Saratoga County Business Showcase

Gideon Putnam, Saratoga Spa State Park | 4 – 6:30 p.m. Area professionals are invited to make connections amid a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere. Eventgoers will have the chance to interact with exhibitors to grow their network and find potential future partners. Attendees are encouraged to bring business cards. More information about the event is available online at saratoga.org. Businesses and organizations interested in being an exhibitor or sponsor are encouraged to reserve booth space by emailing Andrea Cole at acole@saratoga.org. Limited spaces are available.

Using Our Natural Resources More Effectively

Galway Public Library, 2112 East Street, Galway | 6:30 p.m. A discussion and brainstorming session of ways to improve the use of our natural resources in and by our community.  The program is open to teens and adults.  Registration is requested, but not required, by calling 518-882-6385.


Upcoming Events

Harvest Arts &
Crafts Fair

First Baptist Church Saratoga’s 231st Birthday Celebration! October 5, 2024. Vendors needed – we’re looking for vendors of all sorts with unique products and treasures to sell. The harvest fair is located in an excellent location in the heart of downtown Saratoga. There will be plenty of activities, food and more. Vendor booths are 6 – 8 ft. table space for $30. Indoor and outdoor spots available. For more information and vendor applications call 518-584-6301 or 518-587-1471, email: firstbaptistsaratoga@gmail.com. 

Farrell Goehring Organ Concert

On Sunday, October 6 at 2 p.m. Farrell Goehring, Organist, will play music of Andrew Lloyd Weber, Beethoven, Sibelius & Louis Vierne at the First Baptist Church, located at 45 Washington St., Saratoga Springs. The concert is presented without charge to the public. Donations towards the organ fund will be greatly accepted. Reception to follow. 

Heritage Hunters 2024 Annual Genealogy Conference

Saturday, October 19 at The Saratoga Town Hall, 12 Spring St. in Schuylerville from 8:15 a.m. to 3 p.m. At 8:45 a.m., Judith Harper, will present the program “Add PERSI, ArchivGrid, and HDI to your Family Research Toolbox!” At 10:30 a.m., Keren Weiner will speak about “Digging Deeper, Finding Our Family Roots.” At 1 p.m., Lynn Calvin will talk about “Navigating the Saratoga County Genweb Site.” At 2:15 p.m., John Cromie will cover the topics “Underused Resources at the County Clerk’s Office” and “Ask a Lawyer Your Genealogy Questions.” Light refreshments and lunch will be provided. Full details at Saratoga County Heritage Hunters on Facebook. Cost is $25. Non-members call Ginny at 518-885-9309 by October 11.

 

“Life is a Combination of Magic & Pasta”

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Food.


Hello  my Foodie Friends!   

Autumn is here and the cooler weather often triggers our desire for pasta. There is something about eating carbohydrates, creamy sauces, and earthy autumnal vegetables that makes the autumn season ideal for pasta consumption. No matter what they contain, fall pasta dishes must be warm, they must be hearty, and, above all, they must be deeply satisfying. My love for pasta stems from growing up in an Italian-American household where pasta was always a staple in many of the meals we had. I often times reflect on the joys of growing up with an Italian family such as: when your friends came over, they were asked no fewer than six times if they wanted something to eat; Frank Sinatra or Dean Martin played in the background while everything was being cooked; leftovers were stored in Polly O ricotta containers; and, yes, we were all guilty of talking with your hands. One of my favorites is remembering when I was little, mine, and my four other siblings favorite way to help was making home made pasta with Nonni (my grandmother). After we washed our hands, we were allowed to help if we were quiet and didn’t fight with each other. Very hard! The luckiest kid got to guide the pasta as Nonni rolled the pasta through the machine. Stirring her secret pasta sauce with the wooden spoon was a close second. I am certain you can visualize what the kitchen smelled and looked like during this process. Once the pasta was made, the dish created and all were seated, it was always a struggle getting Nonni to actually join the table and eat. I’ve tried to carry on these traditions with my own children. 

Making homemade pasta is a fun event to get the entire family involved with. One important tool to have when making homemade pasta is a Pasta machine. A pasta machine is used to create laminated pasta. They typically consist of two stainless-steel rollers with adjustable settings, which knead and stretch the pasta dough. Pasta machines are often sold with an additional removable cutter that creates pasta shapes such as spaghetti and linguini. There are also many different attachments available, from different-shaped cutters to attachable motors.  

Consider pasta as a meal that brings you together as a family from start to finish. We’ve learned from our older generations and teach our younger generations. No matter what you’re looking for, pasta and noodles have become entwined with culture, history, and more importantly in our lives and families. Stop by Compliments to the Chef, your Neighborhood Kitchen and Cutlery Store located at 33 Railroad Place in Saratoga Springs. We carry all types of tools to assist you with making your pasta: Pasta machines, pasta drying racks, ravioli stamps and forms, pasta rollers, pastry cutters, pasta pots, and so much more.  Remember my Foodie Friends; “Life Happens in the Kitchen”.  Make those magical culinary moments happen.

Take Care,
John & Paula


Homemade Pasta Dough


Ingredients

 3 cups Flour spooned and levelled

 4 large eggs 

 1 egg yolk 

1. Place the flour on a clean work surface, make a well in the middle and add the eggs.

2. Using a fork whisk the eggs whilst slowly incorporating the flour until combined and looks like a very rough dough. You may need to use your hands once most of the egg is incorporated to help it along.

3. Bring the dough together with your hands to form a ball. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and pliable. Wrap the dough in cling film and leave to rest for 30 minutes, out of the fridge.

4. Once the dough is rested it’s time to roll it out. Cut the dough in half so it’s easier to roll out and flatten it with the palm of your hand so it will fit through the first setting on the pasta machine, usually 0. 

5. Pass the dough through the widest setting once then fold one side over the other. Flatten the dough with the palm of your hand again so it will fit through the widest setting and roll it through again.

6. Repeat this process folding the sides in and passing it through the widest setting four times. Once you’ve done that pass the dough through each setting once from the widest to the second last setting (number 7)

Recipe courtesy of Emily Wyper Inside the Rustic Kitchen at insidetherustickitchen.com

“Caffè Lena @ SPAC” Returns for a Free Festival on the Charles R. Wood Stage Oct. 5

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.


Nation Beat with Melanie Sholtz will perform during the Caffe Lena at SPAC festival Oct. 5. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — In partnership with Caffè Lena, Saratoga Performing Arts Center hosts the “Caffè Lena @ SPAC” festival noon to 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5.

The free day-long concert will take place on SPAC’s Charles R. Wood Stage and feature five bands that explore roots, rock, funk, bluegrass, jazz, pop, and indie-folk music. 

Scheduled to appear: Nation Beat with Melanie Sholtz, Wild Adriatic, Alice Howe & Freebo, Rachel Sumner & Traveling Light, and Kat & Brad. The “Caffe Lena @ SPAC” festival highlights a unique, ongoing collaboration between the arts center and the folk music venue.

The collaboration between SPAC and Caffè Lena first launched in 2017, encompassing jointly curated and presented programs at both venues. Guests are welcome to bring in food, drink, blankets and lawn chairs for the concerts. Food concessions will also be available. Gates open 11:30 a.m. The concerts will take place rain or shine. 

Visit spac.org and caffelena.org for details. 

Saratoga Arts to Undergo Renovation; Will Close Nov. 15

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.


In advance of its closing for several months for construction at Saratoga Arts, a “Pre-Construction Sale”of items will take place 10 am – 2 p.m. Sept. 28.

SARATOGA SPRINGS —Architectural plans have been finalized and construction scheduled to begin at Saratoga Arts by the end of the year.  As a result of the work, Saratoga Arts gallery and office location will close Nov. 15. Reopening is anticipated by summer 2025. 

Renovations will upgrade the gallery, the theater, some lower level spaces and significantly update the mechanical/HVAC and other systems within the building.  

Classes and events after Nov. 15 will be off-site, with the staff working remotely and meeting as needed in person to assure the organization stays on track and ready to re-open in our newly renovated space.  

A “Pre-Construction Sale” of some existing items will take place 10 am – 2 p.m. Sept. 28 at the center on Broadway. The sale will include various First Night Items, art supplies, art, and more. 

For more information about Saratoga Arts, programs, and the upcoming construction go to: https://www.saratoga-arts.org. 

“SPAC in Conversation: Florence Fabricant” Oct. 16

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

SARATOGA SPRINGS —“SPAC in Conversation,” will return with Florence Fabricant, renowned New York Times food and wine columnist and prolific cookbook author.

Moderated by SPAC President & CEO Elizabeth Sobol, the discussion will explore how Fabricant forged a career in food writing, her earliest food memories, her latest recipe discoveries, and her insights into New York’s most iconic dining rooms and bars. 

The event will take place Wednesday, Oct. 16 at the Spa Little Theater and the Hall of Springs. The event is also highlighted by a plated lunch and boutique shopping and conversation with the legendary New York Times food and wine writer.

“When I first moved to New York City from North Carolina, Florence Fabricant quickly became my wise guide to navigating the vast and sometimes overwhelming food scene in the city. And now, after following her columns for decades and continuing to grow our own CulinaryArts@SPAC program, it is a great thrill to bring such a legendary and influential culinary figure to Saratoga,” Sobol said in a statement. 

The schedule of events is as follows: 10 a.m. – Conversation with Florence Fabricant, Spa Little Theater; 11:30 a.m. – Boutique shopping, Hall of Springs; 12:30 p.m. – Luncheon, Hall of Springs; 1:30 p.m. – Book signing and raffle drawing, Hall of Springs.  

 Cost to attend the fundraiser is $100 and includes admission to the discussion, Hall of Springs luncheon and boutique shopping. Tickets may be purchased at spac.org, or by calling at 518-584-9330, ext. 142.  

Oct. 4: Kirtan Bliss – Mantra Music & Heart Song Experience with Gershone and Gina

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.


Yoga Mandali presents Kirtan Bliss – Mantra Music & Heart Song Experience with Gershone and Gina.
Photo : gershonemusic.com.

SARATOGA SPRINGS —Gina Minyard and Gershone Hendelberg will lead the night of Kirtan Bliss – Mantra Music & Heart Song Experience, at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4 at Yoga Mandali, located on the second floor of the Downstreet Marketplace in Saratoga Springs. 

Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Minyard and Hendelberg – who has performed at Red Rocks, Bonnaroo, and High Sierra Music Fest, share more than four decades of practice, teaching, and experience between them in yogic arts and bhakti bliss. They began collaborating in 2022. 

In their offerings of yoga, music, meditation, kirtan, and satsang, they invite others into the grounding, elevating, and ever-expanding process of tuning their own divine instruments, and to come together in transformational alchemy, joyful communion, sacred embodiment, and ecstatic celebration.

Registration is $25. Go to: https://www.yogamandali.com/. 

Schuylerville School Board Appoints New Member

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

SCHUYLERVILLE — The Schuylerville Central School District has appointed a new Board of Education member: Shaun Cumm. Cumm is a former board member who will fill an open seat for the 2024-2025 school year. 

The board had been working to fill a vacancy following the resignation of Michael Bodnar, effective August 31. 

Cumm is a Physician’s Assistant at Glens Falls Hospital for Adirondack Cardiology. He has coached more than 40 youth/club soccer, football, basketball, and lacrosse teams. He previously served on the Schuylerville Board of Education from July 1, 2023 until June 30, 2024. He has three children in Schuylerville High School in grades 12, 10, and 9. 

Cumm will serve as a board member until June 30, 2025. In May of 2025, voters will elect a person to fill the remainder of the seat’s vacancy, which will be two years. 

Saratoga Springs High School Named National BannerUnified Champion

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.


Saratoga Springs High School. File photo

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Springs High School has earned the National Banner Unified Champion School status for the second time. The school is one of only 36 National Banner schools across New York State.

The distinction marks the highest level of achievement for Unified Champion Schools in the nation, recognizing their ability to create inclusive school communities where all students are accepted and celebrated.

In Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools, students with and without disabilities play on the same sports teams and take physical education courses together. Students learn inclusive leadership skills and lead campaigns and activities that engage the entire school community to encourage inclusion among their peers.

To earn National Banner status, schools must meet 10 standards of excellence, demonstrating their commitment to Unified Sports, inclusive youth leadership, and whole-school engagement. Schools must also show that their inclusive programs are sustainable for the long term.

Bike Program Launched at Maple Ave Middle School

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.


Maple Avenue Middle School Students enjoy new bikes and trails as part of the “Bikes in Schools” program. Photo provided by Saratoga Shredders.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Springs City School District and Saratoga Shredders officially launched the Bikes in Schools program at Maple Avenue Middle School on Monday. For the first time, mountain biking is now part of the middle school physical education (PE) curriculum.

Maple Ave received a full donation package from Saratoga Shredders, which included 30 bikes, 30 helmets, a cycling-focused PE curriculum, professional development for teachers, and a brand-new set of mountain bike trails right behind the school.

“We are thrilled to partner with the Saratoga Shredders to bring this program to life,” said John Goodson, the district’s athletic director, in a statement. “Because of the Shredders’ generosity, our students now have mountain biking as part of their PE classes across all 6 Saratoga elementary schools and Maple Ave Middle School, promoting physical fitness, mental wellness, and a love for the outdoors.”

“By bringing bikes into schools, we’re removing barriers to this often cost-prohibitive sport, creating an equitable experience where every kid has access to mountain biking,” said Anna Laloë, executive director of Saratoga Shredders. “Not only are we getting more kids on bikes, but we’re also teaching bike safety, empowering students to ride confidently in their neighborhoods and around town.”

The Saratoga Mountain Bike Association (SMBA) planned and built the new trails, while Grey Ghost Bicycles in Saratoga assembled the bikes.

The Bikes in Schools initiative at Maple Ave is part of a broader goal to bring cycling to all K-12 students in the district by fall 2025. Saratoga Shredders has already donated more than 200 bikes in the last year. Saratoga Springs High School is next in line for the program.

Fasig-Tipton Acquires Vacant Lot Near Saratoga Race Course 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.


The vacant lot at 267 East Avenue in Saratoga Springs purchased by Fasig-Tipton. Image via Google street view.  

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Fasig-Tipton, a thoroughbred auction company, has purchased .73 acres of vacant land near the Oklahoma Training Track in Saratoga Springs, the Albany Business Review reported last week.  

The parcel is located near the corner of East Avenue and Mitchell Street.

The company apparently has no imminent plans for the property.