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Author: Saratoga TODAY

Spa Catholic Hires New Science Teacher

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

Jana Alfarone has joined Saratoga Central Catholic as a Middle School science teacher. Photo via the school website. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Central Catholic announced this week that it has hired Jana Alfarone as a new Middle School science teacher. Alfarone will be teaching 6th grade science, 8th grade science, and forensics.

Alfarone has an Associates in Science in Medical Laboratory Technology from SUNY Farmingdale, a Bachelors of Science in Education from SUNY Old Westbury, and a Masters in Continuing Education for Teachers from SUNY Stony Brook. 

Alfarone served as a 6th grade science teacher at Woodland Middle School in East Meadow, Long Island from 1993 to 2022.

“I am excited to get to know students in small group settings in a faith-based environment,” Alfaribe said in a statement. 

Empire State University Launches Nursing Program

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Empire State University announced last week that it is launching a nursing program through a unique partnership with Rockland Community College (RCC). 

Nursing students will be able to transition from an associate degree in nursing at RCC to a bachelor of science in nursing through online coursework provided by Empire State University. The partnership allows students to earn both degrees in just four years. Students will be able to enroll in the 2+2 nursing dual-degree program for the Fall 2024 term.

July 19 – 25, 2024

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Local Briefs.

Bike Donations and Volunteers Needed

Please consider donating unwanted bicycles with tires over 20” that are in fixable condition! Also, we are in constant need of bikes with tires 24” and over, any style. We’re happy to fix them up!  Not sure if your bike is in fixable condition – send us a pic and we’ll let you know. We need your help – despite closing several times for our volunteer mechanics to catch up, we are still way behind and could use your help. Not sure how to fix a bike, but good with the public or with paperwork – we could use your help too. Please reach out to info@bikeatoga.org or via text 518-290-0746
Saratoga Automobile Museum’s Annual Gala

On July 26, the Saratoga Automobile Museum will present its Annual Gala, celebrating the Museum and the 2024 feature exhibition – “Enzo Ferrari: An Obsession with Speed.” This year’s Gala, of which legendary car collector Lawrence Auriana is the Honorary Chairman, will offer guests an unparalleled experience with a silent auction, book signing, cocktail hour, formal dinner, music, gaming tables, and more. Cocktails at 5:30 p.m., during which a panel discussion will be held. Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are available now, with sponsorship opportunities and honorary committee tickets. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit saratogaautomuseum.org or contact Megan Hennessey at 518-401-5185, megan@saratogaautomuseum.org.

Open Mic Coffee House 

On Friday, July 26 from 6 – 7 p.m., the Galway Public Library, 2112 East St., Galway, is hosting an Open Mic Coffee House.  Artists are asked to bring a selection of poetry, a short story, or music to share.  Sign-ups for five-minute time slots start at 5:30 p.m. at the library.  We ask that you limit your performance to 5 minutes to allow time for all to share their talents.  Light refreshments will be available.  Please call 518-882-6385 with any questions.

Annual Lawn Sale

The Old Stone Church is accepting donations starting now for its annual lawn sale at 159 Stone Church Road, Ballston Spa. Donations can be left in the back on the ramp. Accepting Household Items and Clothing.  No mattresses, car seats, exercise equipment, T. V’s, old phones, cribs, bassinets, golf clubs, bowling balls or skis. Call Ann at 518-885-4034 for more information. Sale Dates: Friday and Saturday, July 26 and 27 and Friday and Saturday, August 2 and 3 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

21st Annual J. Michael Fitzgibbons Memorial Golf Classic

Join Saratoga Bridges at McGregor Links Country Club on Monday, July 29, at 10 a.m. This event features lunch, 18 holes of golf, contests, complimentary beverages on the course, dinner, golf apparel and goodie bags. We will host a small award ceremony for the best golfers (and the most honest golfer). This event is a great opportunity to network with other golf lovers and support Saratoga Bridges. To purchase tickets, please go to www.saratogabridges.org and click on fundraising events, then click on The J. Michael Fitzgibbons Memorial Golf Classic. Tickets are $225 per golfer or $900 for a foursome. Spaces are limited, so act quickly!

5K Trail Series 

The Camp Saratoga 5K Trail Series will be held at 6:15 p.m. Monday evenings beginning July 29 and continuing August 5, 12, 19. and 26.  Registration is $10 day-of or $40 by July 29 for all five races. Children ages 0-12 are free; 13-18 are half-price. This is a low-key, all-outdoors event topped off by light refreshments and unusual raffle prizes.  Please bring your own water. Proceeds benefit the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park.  For more information, call Laura Clark at 518-581-1278 or email laura@saratogastryders.org or visit www.saraogastryders.org for more information and to sign up online.

4th Annual Lemonade Stand Event

On Saturday, August 3, from 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., the Ballston Spa Sunshine Kid’s Lemonade Stand returns at Ribbon Café, located at 11 Prospect St., Ballston Spa, rallying support for 9-year-old Charles Barton, who is courageously battling leukemia. The event promises a day filled with activities for all ages, including children’s activities organized by local organizations such as Ballston Area Community Center, Saratoga Children’s Museum, and Ballston Area Recreation Center. Visitors can enjoy music, vendor booths, and special appearances including visits from Ballston Spa’s EMS, miniature donkeys from Maple Leaf Farm, dancers from Carol Lawrence Dance Center, a DJ, stock cars, and a firetruck from Ballston Spa Fire station.

Vacation Bible School 

The Barkersville Christian Church at 7200 Barkersville Road, Middle Grove, will be hosting its annual Vacation Bible School August 5 – 9, 5:30 – 8 p.m. for children ages 4 to 12.  This year’s theme is Breaker Rock Beach learning God’s solid rock truth in a world of shifting sands.  There will be crafts, music, snacks, Bible stories, games, prizes and lots of candy.  A family picnic is scheduled for Saturday, August 10, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.  Register online at www.barkersvillecc.com or find them on Facebook at Barkersville Christian Church.  All are welcome.

Saratoga Arts Fundraising Gala

The gala will be held on Saturday, August 3 at Saratoga Arts, 320 Broadway, Saratoga Springs at 7 p.m.  This year’s event will focus on a curated silent auction of prolific artists from all over the Capital Region and beyond. In addition to fine food and drink, there will be special engagements by both iTheatre and Mostly Modern Projects, resulting in a completely singular experience. We sincerely hope that you’ll join Saratoga Arts in celebrating our history, and help us to realize our future. Follow us for updates as our exciting list of participating artists grows. As always, Foundation guests should expect the unexpected. For tickets, https://www.saratoga-arts.org/event-5733363. 

Makers Revolution and Sustainable Food Movement

August 10 and 11, Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. We will be showcasing over 75 of the best and brightest Artisans in the local and regional Maker and Artisanal Specialty Food community. These Makers, who have been selectively juried, will converge within an eclectic village bringing forth the latest talent and hottest trends. Also, enjoy a Food Market including food trucks and prepackaged foods, a Book Market, a Tiny Bookmaking Workshop, and live music! For more Information – including a full list of vendors is available at www.MarketsAtRoundLake.com. This is a free event and a fundraiser for the Round Lake Libraries.

2024 Swing for Music Golf Tournament

The Saratoga Chamber Players is planning the 2024 Swing for Music golf tournament, and we hope you will save the date to join us.  The proceeds will support our programming in the Saratoga elementary schools and our outreach to seniors as well as our dazzling chamber music concerts. The event will take place at Airway Meadows golf course on Friday, September 13. We look forward to your participation in the 9-hole scramble. Registration begins at 3:15 p.m. with a shotgun start at 3:45 p.m. The fee is $80. It includes prizes and the traditional taco dinner following the round of golf. Registration forms will go out in July, but meanwhile please mark your calendars and share this information with your leagues and fellow golfers. If you would like a registration form or have questions, contact: prubio@skidmore.edu.

Car Show

Saratoga – Wilton Elks Lodge #161 car show will be held on September 22, 9 a.m.  – 3 p.m. at One Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs. Rain date September 29. Classic, custom, collectible – all years welcome. Vendors, trophies, food, DJ, raffles, 50/50. For pre-registration forms email Pat at PKaniuka@gmail.com. Text or call 518-859-2648. 

Looking for Unique Vendors and Artisans

Ballston Area Seniors are gearing up for their Annual Bazaar Saturday, November 9, at the Town of Milton Community Center, located at 310 Northline Rd. Ballston Spa. What is your specialty? Pickles, Relishes, jams and jellies, or any handmade crafts are appreciated and welcome. We are looking for you to join us. Indoor spaces 8’Wx7’D are $ 30. indoor only are (first come, first serve basis and electrical outlets indoor are limited.) Outdoor spaces 12’Wx10’D are $ 25. To receive an Exhibit Contract and a Town of Milton agreement contact the Bazaar Vendor Coordinator Sue Heimburg we can e-mail out contracts. Sheim381@aol.com or Call—518-885-8037 / text message. 

Tuscan Treasures: Art, Food and Wine from Lucca to Florence

Academy for Lifelong Learning Announces Tour to Tuscany, November 10 – 18, 2024,  is an enchanting medley of Renaissance cities, rolling hills and terraced vineyards. This very special region offers a quintessential Italian experience. From olive groves and cypress alleys to the romantic villages perched on rocky outcrops, the landscape here has become a symbol of the country as a whole. We will spend three nights in Lucca and four in Florence. Special features include wine tastings, lunch at a Tuscan farm, a cooking class preparing a three-course dinner, guided tour of the Uffizi Gallery and visit to the Accademia to view the renowned David. The double occupancy price for air and land is $5775. For additional information, contact goedventures@gmail.com.

July 19 – 25, 2024

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Calendar.

Friday, July 19

Annual Garage and Bake Sale

The Galway United Methodist Church, Corner of Rte. 147 and CR 45, Village of Galway | 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Saturday, July 20 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. This sale is a multi-family sale that includes clothing, furniture, sporting goods, toys tools, household items, collectibles, electronics, books, baby items and much more.  The sale is held indoors come rain or shine.  A bake sale will be held at the same time. The public is welcome to attend. 

Local Author Book Reading & Signing

Northshire Bookstore, 424 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 10:30 a.m. Francine Apy will host a special reading of her new book, “Brianna’s Brave Day at School,”. The event is free and open to the public. For young readers ages 4-8, “Brianna’s Brave Day at School” tells the inspiring story of a young girl who finds her inner strength to share a special part of herself. Based on the real-life experiences of one of Apy’s three adopted sons, the book highlights themes of courage, resilience and the power of positive thinking. For more information about the event, contact Northshire Bookstore at (518)682-4200, or visit www.Northshire.com. To learn more about Apy and her SoulFilling mission, visit www.SoulFillingAdoption.com.

Grand, Gilded and Glorious: A Saratoga Stroll

Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center, 297 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 10:30 a.m. – Noon. This 90-minute guided walking tour will entertain and enlighten both visitors and residents with the famed stories of this great city. Saratoga Springs was the playground of the rich and famous during the 1800’s and provides the stories of this wonderful, gilded period in our history. This unique and engaging tour will guide participants from the Saratoga Springs Visitor Center to Congress Park and will conclude with a complete tour of the elegant Canfield Casino. Tuesday – Saturday, 10:30 a.m. – Noon, $20 per person. For reservations, please call the Saratoga Heritage Area Visitor Center: 518-587-3241. 

Paintings en Plein Air 

786 Charlton Road, Charlton | Opening Reception 6 – 9 p.m. Samuel Leone’s first solo exhibition, “Paintings en Plein Air”, will be on display at Main Street Studio from July 19 – August 4. Leone’s plein air paintings take us on a journey through Saratoga County farmlands, to the streets of Manhattan, Cape Cod and all the way to the countrysides of France and Spain. For more information and gallery hours, visit www.mainstreetcharlton.com

Saturday, July 20

Book Sale

Galway Public Library, 2112 East St, Galway | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. The Friends of the Galway Public Library will be holding a large book sale.  Books of all genres as well as DVDs.  Your monetary donation fills your bag!

Annual Summer Open House – Frances Day 

The Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery, Skidmore College | 2 p.m. The family-friendly event honors the museum’s namesake, Frances Young Tang, Skidmore College Class of ’61, and offers multiple ways for visitors to explore the museum’s stellar program of contemporary art exhibitions and events, with tours, art-making activities, food, music, giveaways and more. At 5 p.m. acclaimed Capital Region musician and performer Taína Asili and her ensemble take the stage for an energetic concert. All events are free and open to the public. For more information, visit http://tang.skidmore.edu or call the Visitors Services Desk at 518-580-8080.

Vibrant View

Spring Street Gallery, 110 Spring St., Saratoga Springs | 4 p.m. Open reception and artist talk. Showcasing the artwork of Soliven Melindo and Max Litvinov. The exhibit will run from July 20 – September 13. Both Melindo and Litvinov use bright colors in their work that can create experiences in color expression. Their bright hues of pink, blue, yellow and green, among other colors, are playful and friendly. The works’ subject matter, landscapes and still lives, will bring joyful energy into a viewers’ home and or office. Gallery hours are Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 4-7 p.m. and by appointment. For more information, please visit our website at springstreetgallerysaratoga.org.

Sunday, July 21

Summer Cottages of North Broadway

Meet: Northwest corner of North Broadway and Van Dam Street in front of Witt Construction 10:30 a.m. Led by Executive Director Samantha Bosshart. This stroll highlights the architecture and entertaining stories of those who built and resided in these grand residences. Tours are limited to 30 participants. The cost per tour is $15 for SSPF members and $20 for non-members. Foundation members with stroll passes need to contact the Foundation’s office to book their Summer Sunday Stroll before their chosen date.

Fundraiser for BluePath Service Dogs, Inc.

Speckled Pig Brewing Co., 11 Washington St., Ballston Spa | 3 – 8 p.m.  BluePath provides autism service dogs to children and their families offering safety, companionship, and opportunities for independence. $1.00 from every pint and pizza sold will be donated to BluePath. There will also be cookies for humans and dogs sold, raffles for gift certificates to local businesses, and dog tugs for sale. All proceeds from these items will benefit BluePath.

Saratoga Jewish Cultural Festival – Klezmer & Foods with a ‘K’

Saratoga Chabad, 130 Circular St., Saratoga Springs | 7 p.m. Enjoy Klezmer music and all the foods that start with K—knishe, kugel, kreplach, kneidel, kasha, and more! $5 donation requested. www.saratogajewishculturalfestival.org. 

Monday, July 22

Acting and Performance Drama Camp with Elyse Young

Malta Community Center, 1 Bayberry Rd., Malta | 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. Actors and actresses ages 10 – 15 collaborate as a team to write an original script or use existing story lines. Through the process campers will develop characters, choose costumes, rehearse and perform their work, all within a 2-week period. Theater games, acting exercises and craft projects are also included. Camp culminates with a performance on the Malta Community Center Stage! Monday – Friday, July 22 – August 2, (two weeks). www.maltaparksrec.com for additional information or call Malta Parks and Rec at 518-899 4411.

Tuesday, July 23

Guided Nature Walk: Dwaas Kill Nature Preserve

Clifton Park Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Rd., Clifton Park | 9 a.m. Join us for a guided nature walk at Clifton Park’s Dwaas Kill Nature Preserve. Darlene Kehn Hunter of the ASCR will share her knowledge as we explore this trail. Registration required. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org

Wednesday,
July 24

Manicotti Dinner

Saratoga Wilton Elks, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs | 4:30 – 6 p.m. For curbside pickup only. Call Monday or Tuesday between 10 a.m. – Noon to place an order, 518-584-2585. Menu: Manicotti with meat sauce, sweet Italian sausage, tossed salad, garlic toast. Dinner $15 each (cash only). 

Thursday, July 25

Ulysses & Julia Grant: Dancing on the Edge of the Gilded Age

Ulysses S. Grant State Historic Site, 1000 Mount McGregor Rd., Wilton | 2 – 3 p.m. In honor of Remembrance Day (Tuesday July 23) Grant’s great-great grandson Ulysses Dietz will take us on a journey through time to gain insight into Ulysses and Julia’s great love, and life on the cusp of a pivotal era of change in America’s history. www.grantscottage.org. 

Vibrant View: An Experience in Color Expression -Opening Reception & Artist Talk July 20

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

“Vibrant View” opens at Spring Street Gallery on July 20.

SARATOGA SPRINGS —Spring Street Gallery invites the public to join an opening reception and artist talk for “Vibrant View” showcasing the artwork of Soliven Melindo and Max Litvinov from 4-6 p.m. on July 20. The exhibit will run from July 20-Sept. 13.

Both Melindo and Litvinov use bright colors in their work that can create experiences in color expression. Their bright hues of pink, blue, yellow and green, among other colors, are playful and friendly. The works’ subject matter, landscapes and still lives, will bring joyful energy into a viewers’ home and or office. 

 Spring Street Gallery will also be continuing the mail art project. This project showcases posted mail artwork created by our own community. The artwork received is displayed in our gallery hallway at 110 Spring Street in Saratoga. You do not have to be a working artist to participate. All ages are welcome. Pick up your free postcard today at the Saratoga Springs library bulletin area or at Spring Street Gallery, 110 Spring St. All artworks will be documented and placed on our website for all to see in mid-September. 

 A portion of the sales from this exhibit will benefit LifeWorks Community Action. LifeWorks Community Action – formerly Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council (EOC) – is a nonprofit established in 1965 that works to alleviate poverty at the local level in Saratoga County and the Northern Capital Region.

Gallery hours are Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 4-7 p.m. and by appointment. For more information, go to: springstreetgallerysaratoga.org. Spring Street Gallery is located at 110 Spring St., Saratoga Springs.  

Joe Pug Performs at Caffe Lena Aug. 15

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

Joe Pug will perform in Saratoga Springs Aug. 15. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS— Folk singer Joe Pug, whose songwriting has been equally influenced by literature and poetry, will perform at Caffe Lena Thursday, Aug. 15.  

Pug has toured with Steve Earle, Josh Ritter, Old 97s, and others. His latest album, “Sketch of a Promised Departure,” was released earlier this year. 

For more information and tickets, go to: caffelena.org. 

Proctors Collaborative Announces Sponsorship of Ambassador Program 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

SCHENECTADY —The Proctors Collaborative Ambassador program announced a five-year joint sponsorship with Whiteman Osterman & Hanna LLP and BST & Co. CPAs LLP. 

The Ambassador programs are partnerships with a community organization that delivers trained ambassador staffers in each of the three cities of Proctors Collaborative venues- Schenectady City Mission of Schenectady at Proctors in Schenectady, Hope House at Capital Repertory Theatre in Albany and RISE Housing and Support Services at Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga Springs. 

The role of an Ambassador is to welcome people and provide help in crossing the street, directions, parking and restaurant recommendations while making visitors feel welcome coming into the city. 

Ambassadors receive wages and soft-skills job training, in support of their transition out of homelessness, poverty or substance abuse. They bring their own skills and on-the-ground knowledge of the local community, in support of a collaborative effort to make the neighborhood welcoming for all. 

Proctors Collaborative is an arts and community development organization operating multiple venues across New York’s Capital Region. Its affiliate organizations include Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga Springs. 

News & Notes: Week 2 Events at Saratoga Race Course

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Winner's Circle.


Photo by Dan Heary

Week 2 Stake Races 

*Mondays and Tuesdays = Dark Days. No racing. 

Saratoga Live presents daily coverage of the summer meet at Saratoga Race Course on FOX Sports. For the complete Saratoga Live broadcast schedule, and additional programming information, visit NYRA.com/SaratogaLive.

Friday, JulY 19 

Curlin (R): 3YO, 1 1/8 – Dirt, Purse $135,000

Saturday, JulY 20

GIII Lake George:
F3YO, 1 Mile – Turf, Purse $175,000

GI Coaching Club American Oaks:
F3YO, 1 1/8 – Dirt, Purse $500,000

Sunday, JulY 21

GII Shuvee: F&M 4&UP, 1 1/8 – Dirt, Purse $200,000

Wednesday, JulY 24

GII Honorable Miss Handicap:
F&M 3&UP, 6 Furlongs – Dirt, Purse $200,000

Thursday, JulY 25

GIII Caress Presented by Albany Med:
4&UP, F&M 5 1/2 Furlongs – Turf, Purse $200,000

Premium Giveaways

Friday, July 19

Tumbler 

The first giveaway of the season is a 40-ounce, white drink tumbler adorned with the traditional red Saratoga logo. It features high-quality construction for maximum cold retention, a screw-on cap for easy filling and cleaning and a reusable straw for smooth sipping on a hot summer day. The Saratoga Tumbler will be available on the second Friday of the summer meet. Fans with paid admission on each giveaway day will receive a coupon for the giveaway, while supplies last. Season ticket and season pass holders are not guaranteed a giveaway. Fans must present their coupon at the giveaway station on track (near the Big Red Spring) to receive the complimentary item.

Community Outreach Booth

As part of NYRA’s season-long commitment to spreading awareness of local non-profits, NYRA will again host one organization each day in the Community Outreach Booth, located adjacent to the Jockey Silks Room, inside Gate B. 

Friday, July 19: Saratoga Automobile Museum

Saturday, July 20: RISE Housing & Support Services

Sunday, July 21: Christie’s Heartoberfest

Purdy’s Summer Concert Stage

The Purdy’s Summer Concert Stage will host live musical performances each afternoon of the season from popular local and regional bands. This year’s summer music stage is presented by Purdy’s Discount Wine & Liquor in Saratoga Springs.

Friday, July 19: Mark and Jill Blues

Saturday, July 20: Diva and the Dirty Boys

Sunday, July 21: Big Fez & the Surfmatics

Wednesday, July 24: Bluebillies

Thursday, July 25: The Red Haired Strangers

HANDICAPPING SEMINAR AND MEET-AND-GREET
Every Sunday beginning July 23

Enjoy your Sunday at the races in the Spa’s newest hospitality venue, the climate-controlled Paddock Suite, learning betting strategies and tips from expert handicappers. Guests will also be treated to a meet-and-greet with Saratoga Race Course’s new track announcer Frank Mirahmadi, along with a rotating cast of on-track talent, personalities and VIPs. Tickets can be purchased through Fevo.

TASTE NY PAVILION:
Every Thursday-Sunday
beginning July 11

New York-made food and beverages will be available for sample and purchase at the Taste NY Pavilion, located inside Gate A at the Top of the Stretch, where fans can enjoy New York craft beers, wines, spirits, cheese and chocolate (must be 21 and over to sample and purchase alcoholic beverages). Featured products hail from Montauk to the Finger Lakes and the Hudson Valley to the Adirondacks as a showcase of the state’s robust food and beverage industry.

SARATOGA BREAKFAST AND BREEDING FARM TOUR:
Every Wednesday-Saturday and select Sundays, beginning July 12

The popular Saratoga Breakfast and Breeding Farm tours, which were first introduced in 2022, will be expanded this summer to meet growing demand. The program will be offered Wednesday through Saturday (excludes July 13, Aug. 24), plus select Sundays, beginning Friday, July 12 through Saturday, August 31. This yearwill feature newcomer Sugar Plum Farm to supplement incumbents Song Hill Thoroughbreds and Old Tavern Farm.
Fans will enjoy a buffet breakfast during morning training at Saratoga Race Course before boarding a CDTA trolley to that day’s breeding farm before returning to the Spa for the afternoon’s races.
Tickets must be reserved in advance at NYRA.com. Each tour accommodates up to 52 guests. Admission to Saratoga Race Course is included in the package.

BERKSHIRE BANK HORSE SENSE
Every Friday-Sunday
beginning July 12Fans of all ages can pet a retired thoroughbred every Friday through Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. at Berkshire Bank Horse Sense. The educational exhibit also includes fun facts about the life and career of a thoroughbred. The family-friendly attraction is located inside Gate A and is presented by Berkshire Bank.


SUNDAY BRUNCH AT THE RAIL OF THE 1863 CLUB
Every Sunday beginning July 14Fans are invited to enjoy a brunch buffet while experiencing The Rail at the 1863 Club, the first-floor banquet space at the 1863 Club. Tickets start at $105 and include admission, a table seat for the day, brunch buffet, soft drinks, Post Parade program book, tax and gratuity. Reservations are available by calling the NYRA Box Office at 844-NYRA-TIX or online at Ticketmaster.com


HANDICAPPING SEMINAR AND MEET-AND-GREET
Every Sunday beginning July 14Enjoy your Sunday at the races in the Paddock Suite, learning betting strategies and tips from expert handicappers. Tickets start at $75 and include admission, Post Parade program book and a table seat for the day within the climate-controlled, shared suite overlooking the historic saddling area. Fans will also be treated to a meet-and-greet with Saratoga Race Course’s track announcer Frank Mirahmadi. Tickets can be purchased online through Fevo.

FAMILY SUNDAYS AT THE FAMILY FUN ZONE
Every Sunday beginning July 14Family Sundays will feature a wide variety of free family-friendly activities, games, attractions and educational activities each Sunday inside the Family Zone, located near Gate A at the Top of the Stretch. Each week will feature a different theme, including Beach Day, Christmas in July, Day at the Zoo, Summer Olympics, Carnival, the Wild, Wild West and NYRA mascot Gallop’s Birthday on August 18.

First Responders Day presented by albany med
Thursday, July 25

First Responders Day will pay tribute to all first responders with free admission (proper ID required). The afternoon will honor local first responders and will feature the New York Police Department Ceremonial Unit and performances from the New York State Troopers Pipes and Drums. The day will also include a recruitment event for those interested in learning about first responder career opportunities.

Local Athletes excel at World Ninja Championships

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

Anna Venditti clings to a steel beam as she navigates her way
through the Ninja obstacles.

The Ninja Labs (Saratoga & Albany) recently traveled to Greensboro, NC for the World Ninja League World Championships. The World Ninja League is the premiere obstacle league in the sport of Ninja.  The event took place June 21-24th at the Greensboro Coliseum and hosted over 2300 athletes from 11 different countries and across 7 different age and skill divisions.  

Much like the finals of the hit TV show American Ninja Warrior, the main event at the WNL World Championships features a 3 stage obstacle course. Athletes who clear each stage (or finish in the top percentages of their division) move on to the next stage, but only those who clear each stage are still in contention for the World Championship title.

There is also a “World’s Strongest Ninja” title that is up for grabs during the event.  In order to be crowned the World’s Strongest Ninja, athletes must do well not only on the obstacle course runs, but also perform well in the skills challenges that also take place during the Championships.  A ninja’s speed, technical skills and endurance are challenged during these skills events.

Sixteen local athletes competed at Worlds and 4 finished in the Top 10 of their Divisions:

Coach Geoff Snyder finished 7th in the World in the Masters Division (40+)

Coach Nicole Van Oort finished 4th in the World’s Strongest Ninja category in the Adult Female Division.

Coach Anna Venditti finished 4th in the World and 3rd in the World’s Strongest Ninja category in the Young Adult Division (15-17).

Adelena Messier earned the title of World Champion by clearing Stage 1 and Stage 2, as well as going the furthest the fastest on Stage 3.  She beat out 112 other top teen females (13-14) to take the title.  Adelena also finished 3rd in the World’s Strongest Ninja category.

“I’m incredibly proud of Adelena & Anna, but I’m also equally proud of all of our Ninja Lab athletes and coaches.” said head coach Geoff Snyder. “We have built a quality program that has produced some of the best ninjas in the World Ninja League.  Our athletes work incredibly hard year around and it’s been amazing to see the fruits of their labor this past season.”

Spa Catholic Football Returns

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Sports.


Graphic via the Saratoga Central Catholic Athletics X account.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Central Catholic School announced last week that it will merge with Stillwater to create a new football program. 17 Spa Catholic students will participate in the inaugural season beginning this fall at the modified and junior varsity levels. Varsity will start in the 2025-2026 school year. 

Stillwater’s team is the defending Class D Sectional Champions.