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Author: Saratoga TODAY

October 4 – October 10, 2024

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Local Briefs.

Veteran’s Business Counsel Career Fair

Eventgoers at this annual Career Fair can connect with more than 30 top employers from throughout the region representing diverse fields such as semiconductors, manufacturing, energy, finance, human services, health care and more. Hosted by Veterans Business Council of The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with Naval Support Facility Saratoga Springs and The Fleet & Family Support Center, this event will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, October 11 at the Naval Support Facility Field House, located at 19 JF King Drive, in Saratoga Springs. More information is available at https://chamber.saratoga.org/events/details/career-fair-hosted-by-the-vbc-42092?calendarMonth=2024-10-01.

Community Fun Fair – Vendors Wanted

October 12, Noon – 5 p.m. Rain or Shine. 4-H Training Center, 556 Middleline Rd., Ballston Spa. Vendor space only $50. Electric is an additional $25. This is a family-focused event and includes live music, craft vendors, children’s activities, and the World-Famous Cornell Recipe BBQ Chicken Dinner. Please visit, https://sc4h.org/vendors or contact Lisa at lmr283@cornell.edu or 518-885-8998

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.

22nd Duathlon Mohawk Towpath Byway

This exciting event offers participants the chance to experience the beauty of the Mohawk Towpath Scenic Byway with a 2-mile run, a 12-mile bike ride, and another 2-mile run. Whether you’re an experienced athlete or a first-time competitor, this USA Triathlon-sanctioned event is perfect for anyone looking to challenge themselves while enjoying the scenic landscapes of upstate New York. The race begins at Riverview Orchards, where you’ll transition between running and biking amidst the fall colors and picturesque views of the Mohawk River and Erie Canal. It takes place on Sunday, October 20, at 8:30 a.m. For more information, visit https://www.mohawktowpath.org/2024/08/20/2024-mohawk-towpath-scenic-byway-duathlon/ Proceeds from this event benefit the Friends of the Mohawk Towpath Scenic Byway.

6-Hour Live Defensive Driving

Saturday October 26, 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church, 175 Fifth Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Save 10% on Auto Insurance for 3 years and reduce 4 points off record.

10-minute morning break and ½ hour for lunch – bring your own or step out. No formal testing.

Cost: $40 prepaid or $45 at door. Limited seating, please pre-register. Donation given to the church.

Call:  518-784-5009 or register online: www.facetofacecourses.com. Instructors: Victor Bujanow and Deborah Harpine.

7th Annual Dan Provost Memorial Walk for Awareness and Recovery

Registration, fun, and games begin at 9 a.m. A 1.25-mile family-friendly walk at approx. 10 a.m. Refreshments, free Narcan training, addiction recovery resources, program information and numerous raffle items will be available. In memory of Saratoga resident Dan Provost, who passed away at age 23 from a drug overdose. The purpose of the Walk is to remember lives taken too soon, to raise awareness of addictions, educate the community about recovery services and celebrate those living in recovery. Suggested donation is $10, family donation $20. Register: https://zippyreg.com/register/danprovost. Proceeds benefit area recovery and education programs. For more information, contact Ken & Maureen Provost at 518-587-8422, danprovostmemorialwalk@gmail.com or Facebook. Gavin Park, 10 Lewis Rd., Saratoga Springs

Annual Fall Bazaar

For the Benefit of the Ballston Area Seniors. Saturday November 9, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Town of Milton Community Center, 310 Northline Rd. Ballston Spa. Come out and get into the holiday spirit. There will be vendors & crafters of all kinds. Country Café, Bake Goods, Crafter, Books & Puzzles, Thrift Room,

A Quilt Raffle & 50/50 Raffle. Raffle featuring Baskets of assorted items & gift cards, & services.

You do not have to be present to win.

Saratoga Springs Fire Department hosts Open House at Lake Ave. Station Oct. 12

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.


Saratoga Springs Fire Department hosts Open House Oct. 12. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Springs Professional Firefighters I.A.F.F. Local 343 and the City of Saratoga Springs Fire Department will be hosting a fire prevention open house from 1 – 4 p.m. on Oct. 12 at the Saratoga Springs Fire Department Station 1, located at 60 Lake Ave. 

The open house provides the community with the opportunity to meet the firefighters, see the trucks, tour the fire station and to learn about fire safety. 

The open house takes place during the United States Fire Prevention week. Starting in 1925, Fire Prevention Week is the longest running public health observance in the country with the goal of teaching children and adults different means on how to stay safe in case of a fire, and allows firefighters to provide valuable education with the goal of decreasing casualties resulting from fires. 

Those attending the Saratoga Springs Firefighters Open House will be able view demonstrations of the department’s ladder truck, vehicle extrication using the jaws of life and other skills that firefighters are required to know for day-to-day calls. Refreshments will be provided during the open house through the support of local businesses and the Local 343. 

Golf Invitational Raises $191K for Nurses

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Sports.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The 22nd annual Saratoga Hospital Golf Invitational, held earlier this month at the Saratoga National Golf Club, raised more than $191,000 in support of nursing education and professional development.

“Through this event, we aim to cultivate valuable relationships and provide lifelong professional development opportunities for our nurses,” said Toni Bishop-McWain, Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer, in a statement. “Investment in education directly enhances the quality of patient care and ensures a brighter future for the Saratoga region.”

Scores & Highlights: 9/19 – 9/25

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Featured, Sports.


Photo of the Ballston Spa varsity football team after defeating South Glens Falls 56 to 0 via the Ballston Spa Booster Football Club.

Ballston Spa Varsity Football Obliterates South Glens Falls

The Ballston Spa varsity football team easily defeated South Glens Falls, 56 to 0 last Friday night in a homecoming matchup. The Scotties dominated throughout the contest, scoring 14 points in the first quarter, 21 in the second, and 14 more in the third before tallying one final touchdown in the fourth. Ballston’s run game carved through South Glens Falls’ defense, scoring touchdowns off of 86-yard, 70-yard, and 49-yard runs.

With this W, the Scotties improve to 2-1 on the season after defeating Brewster 22-2 in week one and then losing to Averill Park 41-21 in week two. Their next scheduled game is on Friday, September 27 at Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake.

Blue Streaks Football Wallops Queensbury

The Saratoga Springs varsity football squad defeated Queensbury 29 to 8 last Friday. The Blue Streaks’ touchdowns came via a fumble recovery, two 13-yard runs, and a 5-yard run. With their second win of the season, Saratoga improved to 2-1 on the year. In game two, they beat Schenectady 48 to 14. They fell to Christian Brothers Academy 28 to 0 in week one.

Saratoga is next scheduled to play at home against Niskayuna on Friday, September 27.

Schuylerville Golfers Break School Record

The Schuylerville varsity golf team broke the school record for the lowest score in a match (146), while defeating South Glens Falls at the par 36 Airway Meadows. The record-breaking team included Adam DeGregory (-1) 35, Ryken Riper (-2) 34, Kadin Converse (-1) 35, and Jackson Dunbar (+6) 42.

Schuylerville Boys Soccer Team Earns Three Shutout Victories

The Schuylerville High School boys soccer team won three games recently, beating Scotia-Glenville 4-0 on September 18, defeating South Glens Falls 1-0 on September 20, and then earning another shutout victory, 6-0, against Corinth on September 23. 

Against Scotia-Glenville, Alex Renner and Nate Lanfear each tallied a goal and an assist to lead the Black Horses. Colden Harrison and Dom Letzring also found the net.

Against South Glens Falls, Renner scored the lone goal with an assist from Justin Nolazco-Lopez.

Against Corinth, Nolzco-Lopez recorded a hat trick in the first 25 minutes. Willem Foster, Renner, and Lanfear also scored for the Black Horses.

Saratoga Lacrosse Players Commit to UConn and Longwood

Saratoga Springs varsity lacrosse junior midfielder Sarah Berls has committed to the University of Connecticut (UConn). Berls plays with the Salt City Snipers lacrosse club in Syracuse. She’s also played soccer and basketball. 

Saratoga’s senior defender Averill Zimmer has committed to Longwood University, located in Farmville, Virginia. Zimmer is from Ballston Spa and plays lacrosse with the Lake Effect Storm Elite club. In addition to lacrosse, she also plays field hockey and has a black belt in Tae kwon do.

Skidmore Alum Drafted by National Lacrosse League

The Saskatchewan Rush of the National Lacrosse League (NLL) have selected recent Skidmore College graduate Charlie McFadden in the third round of the 2024 NLL Draft with the 37th overall pick.

McFadden is the first Thoroughbred to be drafted by an NLL franchise. The NLL is a professional box lacrosse league comprised of 15 teams, including nine in the United States and six in Canada.

In 2022, McFadden helped lead his Miners Lacrosse Club team to the Minto Cup final. In 2023, he played for the Coquitlam Adanacs of the Western Lacrosse Association. This past summer, he played for the Edmonton Miners Sr. B team and won the Rocky Mountain Lacrosse League championship and reached the President’s Final.

One of the most prolific scorers in program history and a two-year team captain, McFadden finished his Skidmore tenure ranked fourth all-time in career scoring with 179 points and fifth with 117 goals. He became the seventh player to reach the 40-goal plateau when he did it as a junior in 2023. As a senior, McFadden scored 33 goals and made it to 50 points for the second year in a row.

With one season of NCAA eligibility remaining, McFadden is attending (Division I) Fairfield University where he will play with Stags next spring. The Saskatchewan Rush will retain his NLL rights.

John J Sweeney

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

POTSDAM — John J Sweeney, age 57, of West Stockholm, NY passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at the Canton Potsdam Hospital. Arrangements for cremation are with the Garner Funeral Service. Condolences for the Sweeney family can be shared at www.garnerfh.com. 

John is survived by his wife Sharon Sweeney of West Stockholm, NY, his mother Jane Welch of Queensbury, NY, brother Brian Sweeney of Clifton Park, NY sister Patricia Sweeney of Brattleboro, Vermont, stepsons David, Michael and Robert, stepdaughter Malinda, 8 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. He is predeceased by his father Edward Sweeney. 

John was born in Rochester, NY on June 22, 1967 to Edward and Jane (Welch) Sweeney. He was a graduate of Saratoga Springs High School in 1986. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 13 years. He was married to Sharon Bickford on November 28, 2001. 

John was a kind and gentle soul and a generous person to everyone. He loved spending time with his dearly loved family. There will be a celebration of life for John to be held at a later date and time yet to be determined.

Merle Bonthuis

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.


SARATOGA SPRINGS —Merle Bonthuis, 98, passed away at home on September 16, 2024. Calling hours are 1 – 3 p.m., October 3, at Burke Funeral Home. Merle will be laid to rest with his late wife Margo at the Saratoga National Cemetery. Memorial donations to Saratoga Springs Lions Foundation, P.O. Box 759, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. www.burkefuneralhome.com

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.