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Author: Saratoga TODAY

Stillwater Basketball Champions Honored in Albany

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Sports.

ALBANY — The Stillwater varsity boys basketball team earned their second state championship in school history when they defeated Marcellus 59-50 in March at the Cool Insuring Arena in Glens Falls. Prior to capturing the Class B title, the team won the Wasaren League with a 16-0 record and finished the season with a nearly flawless overall record of 27-1.

To commemorate the team’s success, State Senator Jim Tedisco and Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner honored the team in Albany, where a resolution was passed on the Senate floor.

The Stillwater Warriors were also recognized for their academic achievements as a New York State Public High School Athletic Association Scholar-Athlete Team, earning an overall team grade point average above 90 percent.

“The Stillwater Boys Basketball Team had an incredible championship season that will be remembered for a long time,” Senator Tedisco said in a statement. “I’m proud of this team and [proud] to welcome and honor them on the Floor of the New York State Senate.”

New Exhibition at Tang June 1 Shines Light On Acclaimed 20th-Century Argentine Artist

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery at Skidmore College announces a new exhibition that brings together modern and contemporary abstract artworks, Vorágine: Yente and Cecilia Biagini, through Sept. 22. An opening reception and performance will be Saturday, June 1, at 4 p.m.

Yente (1905–1990) was a pioneering figure in abstraction from Argentina whose work has been gaining greater recognition in recent years. Cecilia Biagini (b. 1967) is an artist of Argentine origin now based in Brooklyn. 

Vorágine presents works Yente made from the late 1930s through the early 1960s, a period when she experimented with the visual languages of geometric abstraction across media, including painting, sculpture, tapestry, and artist books. Biagini, who has lived and worked in New York since the late 1990s, has a similar omnivorous approach to artmaking that includes installation, sculpture, painting, and music. 

Together, the two artists’ works narrate an often-overlooked history of women abstractionists in the Americas. 

Vorágine: Yente and Cecilia Biagini is organized by Ayelen Pagnanelli, an independent curator who recently earned her doctorate in art history at the Escuela IDAES at Universidad Nacional de San Martín in Buenos Aires, Argentina. She is also a Skidmore College graduate of the class of 2014 and a former Tang intern. 

The opening reception on Saturday, June 1, at 4 p.m. will also include a special performance with violins, movement, and voice at 5 p.m. by exhibiting artist Cecilia Biagini and Aimée Niemann. All are welcome. Admission to the Tang is free. For more information, call the Visitors Services Desk at 518-580-8080 or visit https://tang.skidmore.edu.

Mostly Modern Festival 5th Season Takes Place in Saratoga Springs June 6 -21

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

SARATOGA SPRINGS —Eleven concerts highlight the fifth season of annual international music festival celebrating modern classical music. 

The Mostly Modern Festival mainly takes place June 6-21 at the Arthur Zankel Music Center on the Skidmore College campus. Co-founded by a husband-and-wife team, composer Robert Paterson and violinist Victoria Paterson, the festival emphasizes modern classical music, paired with outstanding repertoire from the 20th century.

This season brings 11 shows total—orchestral, vocal, and chamber concerts by festival and guest ensembles of all new music. The festival hosts the Mostly Modern Festival Institute, a three-week intensive with a distinguished 50-member faculty for up to 30 composers and 100 instrumentalists, vocalists, and conductors.

Seven of the concerts are open to the public. All are staged at Zankel, with the exception of the opening night kick-off. They are as follows: 

Thursday, June 6: 5th Season Mostly Modern Kickoff at Caffè Lena.

Saturday, June 8: Enchanted Equestrian Evening of Modern Songs.

Sunday, June 9: Mostly Modern Orchestra with David Amado, Conductor.

Saturday, June 15: Mostly Modern Orchestra with Ankush Kumar Bahl, Conductor.

Sunday, June 16: Family Father’s Day Special – New York Stories.

Thursday, June 20: Dior String Quartet.

Friday, June 21: 5th Season Finale of Mostly Modern Orchestra with JoAnn Falletta, Conductor.

VIP Premium Seating – $35; General Admission – $20; Group 8 or more – $12 each; Students, Skidmore Alumni and Faculty – $10.

Mostly Modern Festival “Season Pass” for $175 includes admission and premium seats to all public performances, attendance to dress rehearsals for the public concerts, meet & greets, as well as attending select private events.

For concert and ticket details, visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/mostly-modern-festival-season-five-2927179. 

Enter Now to Win Tickets and a VIP Experience to 47th Annual Freihofer’s Saratoga Jazz Festival

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

SARATOGA SPRINGS —Enter now for your chance to win a VIP Experience for two to the 47th Annual Freihofer’s Saratoga Jazz Festival on June 29 & 30 at Saratoga Performing Arts Center. 

Grand prize winner will receive:

Two VIP weekend passes; Access to The Pines Terrace with complimentary food and beverages; Two 2-nights’ accommodations on June 28 and June 29 at the Gideon Putnam hotel in Saratoga Springs; $500 gift card to Price Chopper/Market 32; 1-year supply of Freihofer’s Bread; Swag bag with merch and goodies. 

The festival takes place over days, atop stages, and features 22 electrifying artists.

Contest ends Wednesday, June 12 at 11:59 p.m. ET. To enter sweepstakes, go to: https://spac.org/vipsweepstakes. 

Nostalgia and Laughter in the Great Hall: Boat House Row and Bianca Del Rio Announced for UPH

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Universal Preservation Hall announced two distinct events coming to the Great Hall: Boat House Row: a Yacht Rock Experience 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 13 and Bianca Del Rio: Dead Inside Tour 7:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 16. 

RuPaul’s Drag Race season eight winner, Bianca Del Rio comes to Saratoga Springs with her “Dead Inside Tour” in August. This is the seasoned comic’s sixth worldwide stand-up comedy tour which will include audience interaction. Del Rio brings her lightning-fast wit and razor-sharp tongue to a unique blend of topics including politics, pop culture, current events and everyday life through someone who is “dead inside” and finds humor in everything. 

Fans of smooth melodies can set sail with the yacht rock group Boat House Row in July. Yacht rock: a highly polished soft rock brand from Southern California. Experience mellow music while pretending to be sipping champagne on your yacht. 

Tickets are available through the Box Office at Proctors in-person, via phone at 518-346-6204 Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. or online visit atuph.org. 

Opera Saratoga 2024 Features Three Productions, World Premiere at UPH; Season Kicks-Off In June

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Opera Saratoga 2024 season will feature three new productions this summer at Universal Preservation Hall. These are:

Guys And Dolls, June 29–July 7. 

Guys and Dolls, features Mikaela Bennett (City Center Encores’ The Golden Apple, West Side Story at Glimmerglass), as Sarah Brown. The beloved gambling musical will feature direction by Mary Birnbaum, choreography by Caili Quan, and musical direction by Andy Einhorn (Broadway’s Carousel and Hello, Dolly!), with scenic design by Kristen Robinson, lighting design by Anshuman Bhatia and costume design by Oana Botez. In addition to those already announced, the cast of Guys and Dolls will feature William Socolof as Nathan Detroit, Ariadne Greif as Miss Adelaide, Shavon Lloyd as Sky Masterson, Maximillian Jansen as Nicely Nicely Johnson, and Aubrey Allicock as Arvide Abernathy.

Così Fan Tutte, June 28–July 7.

Mozart’s wager opera Così Fan Tutte, featuring Grammy nominated bass-baritone Aubrey Allicock as the cynical Don Alfonso. The opera will also feature Nicoletta Berry as Despina, Julia Stuart as Fiordiligi, Anna Kelley as Dorabella, Maximillian Jansen as Ferrando, and Michael Hawk as Guglielmo. Directed by Gisela Cardenas (Princess Grace Fellow) and conducted by Ryan McAdams (Crash Ensemble, Opernhaus Zürich).

Inti Figgis-Vizueta World Premiere Opera, June 30 & July 5.

A world premiere opera, devised and composed during the summer season by Composer-in-Residence Inti Figgis-Vizueta. 

“This season pays homage to Saratoga Springs’ history as a pleasure-seeker’s paradise and betting destination while looking to the future by pushing the definition of what opera can be – and how it can be made – forward,” said General and Artistic Director Mary Birnbaum, in a statement.  “We hope to tempt risk-takers to the festival by dazzling them with reinventions of two classics in addition to a totally unique creation that they can only see in Saratoga.”

The season runs from June 27 to July 7. Tickets start at $30 and are available at https://www.operasaratoga.org/tickets24.

Additionally, Listen To This: Voices From The Future – will take place at Universal Preservation Hall June 4, June 11, and June 18. The three-part concert series hands the mic to cutting-edge creators who break through boundaries of what opera can be through the lens of access and healing. 

Tuesday, June 4: The Other Side Of Silence will feature work by RPI Director of Institute Ensembles Robert Whalen who is collaborating with librettists Mark Steidl, Katherine Skovira and Sara Pyszka on a new opera for synthetic and acoustic voice The Other Side of Silence written by and for people who use Alternative Assistive Communication.

Tuesday, June 11: Winterreise, Director George Miller, Bass-Baritone William Socolof and Pianist Chris Reynolds collaborate on the workshop of a contemporary staging of Schubert’s seminal song cycle Winterreise. Originally from Albany and Saratoga Springs, respectively, Miller and Reynolds bring their many accolades back to the Capital Region.

Tuesday, June 18: i woke up in the sky, composer-performer Catherine Brookman shares her album i woke up in the sky with Opera Saratoga’s audiences. Her music deals with the experience of time passing, collapsing, unfinished business, heartbreak, loneliness, depression.

Opera Saratoga, formerly known as Lake George Opera, began with a production of Die Fledermaus at the Diamond Point Theatre on July 5, 1962. The Company now calls Saratoga Springs home and performs for more than 25,000 people annually. To date, the company has performed 106 different fully staged works by 66 different composers, including 42 works by American composers and 14 premiere productions. In 2023, the company hired its 10th Artistic and General Director. 

Gospel Music Sunday at The Strand

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

HUDSON FALLS — The Strand Theatre hosts a night of Gospel Music with Milayne Jackson featuring The Heavenly Echoes at 6 p.m. on Sunday May 19. 

Postponed from MLK event in January, this concert honors the life of Martin Luther King Jr. with gospel songs and featuring performances by Milayne Jackson, Jeff Kingsly, Jonathan Newell, Mark and Jill and the headliners The Heavenly Echoes. 

The Heavenly Echoes Gospel Singers are a Southern soul-style gospel group, founded more than 50 years ago by the late Deacon James Edmonds of the Sweet Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church in Albany. 

Tickets: $15/general, $10/seniors, veterans and students. Tickets are available at the Strand Box Office; cash or check only. Doors into the lobby, coffee shop and box office open at 4:30pm. For details, please go to www.mystrandtheatre.org. Strand Box Office 518-832-3484. The Strand Theatre is located at 210 Main St, Hudson Falls. 

May 17 – 23, 2024

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Local Briefs.

Mom Talk Friday – Ballston Spa Moms Group 

Community Alliance Church, 257 Rowland Street, May 24, Ballston Spa, 9:30 – 11 a.m. Melissa Gauy will be speaking on Belonging. Ballstonspamomsgroup.org

34th Annual In Bloom Saratoga: Petals, Plates & Pours Gala

LifeWorks Community Action presents the 34th Annual In Bloom Saratoga: Petals, Plates & Pours Gala at Universal Preservation Hall 6 p.m. Friday, May 24. The evening of elegance, live entertainment and community spirit will be hosted by NewsChannel 13 anchor Mark Mulholland. LifeWorks will present an unforgettable evening featuring live music by incredible local artists Garland Nelson and Soul Session, a delectable dinner crafted by Wandering Food Dude and a tasteful selection of cider, beer, and wine. Tickets are available at lifeworksaction.org. Tickets are $100 per person for general admission and $75 for young professionals aged 35 years and under. VIP Admission is also available.

Seeking Yard Sale Donations

Needed for Annual Sale at Gateway House of Peace, 479 Rowland St., Ballston Spa. Bring items May 25-June 6. Gently used and ready to be sold. Please be considerate, if you cannot sell it, neither can we! Items not accepted: televisions, computers, car seats, cribs, mugs, books, large appliances, upholstered furniture, and mattresses. The annual yard sale runs Juyne 7-9, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. All proceeds benefit Gateway House of Peace End-Of-Life Comfort Care.

“The Night Shall Be Filled with Music” 

The Clifton Park Community Chorus presents “The Night Shall Be Filled with Music” Collection of some familiar favorites and some not so familiar. Friday May 31, at 7 p.m. at St. Edward the Confessor Church, 569 Clifton Park Center Rd., Clifton Park and again on Sunday June 30, at 7 p.m. at Clifton Common Stage, 24 Clifton Commons Blvd., Clifton Park. Outside performance, bring your own seating. Admission is free. Sponsored by The Town of Clifton Park.

Early Childhood Book Fair

Held at St. Paul’s Christian Childhood Center, located at 149 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs on June 1 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Join us for a Scholastic Book Fair geared to early childhood readers. Shop a large selection of picture books and popular titles for children in the early years. We will be holding an interactive dramatized story time each hour, as well as other fun activities. There is no fee for the event, books can be purchased with cash or check.

Pollinator Palooza

Sustainable Saratoga is hosting Pollinator Palooza, a native plant sale and pollinator education event, on Saturday, June 1 at 390 Wilton-Gansevoort Rd, Gansevoort from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Native pollinators (bees, butterflies, etc.) are in drastic decline due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. Planting native plants provides essential food and habitat for native pollinators. It is often challenging to find native plants, but at Pollinator Palooza, you can shop our selection of over 35 native plant species. Cash or check preferred We will have fun kids’ activities, raffles (gift certificates, books, plants, and more), entertainment, and delicious food from Coach’s Corner Food Truck and Sustainable Eats Food Truck!

23rd Annual Golf Classic

Hosted by the Saratoga County Cornell Cooperative Extension 4-H Leaders Association. This year’s event will take place on June 1, at the beautiful Fairways of Halfmoon Golf Course. We invite you to join us for a day of friendly competition and camaraderie with fellow golfers, all while supporting a great cause. 

Sponsorship opportunities range from $1200 to $130, and individual players can join for just $140. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to network, have fun, and make a difference in your community. To register, visit https://ccesaratoga.org/4-h-youth-development/4-h-annual-golf-classic 

The Yaddo Golf Invitational

Presented by NYRA – Hit the links on June 4 with 128 of the Capital Region’s golfers to benefit Yaddo’s legendary artist residency. Special guest and Honorary Chair, bestselling author and journalist, Steve Friedman. Golfers will enjoy 18-holes of golf, plus carts; lunch, fun contests, and admission to the post-play dinner and awards ceremony in the Mansion at Yaddo. Win the Hole-in-One contest, and take home a 2024 VW ID.4 Standard, courtesy of Nemer Auto Group! Tickets are on sale now. Held at Saratoga National Golf Club, located at 458 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs from 1 – 9 p.m. Sponsorship is also available. Hole signs start at $300. To sign up, visit https://yaddo.org/event/the-2024-yaddo-golf-invitational/ FB event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/323060993574201 or contact for questions: Kat Trippany, Director of Donor Relations ktrippany@yaddo.org 518-584-0746

Mostly Modern Festival

Returning to Saratoga for its fifth season from June 6 – 21, at the Arthur Zankel Music Center on the Skidmore College campus. There are 11 orchestral, vocal, and chamber concerts by festival and guest ensembles of mostly new music. The festival also hosts the Mostly Modern Festival Institute, a three-week intensive with a distinguished 50-member faculty for up to 30 composers and 100 instrumentalists, vocalists, and conductors. The festival’s brand-new dramatic vocal works initiative celebrates living composers, librettists, and singers and is creativity-driven and composer-forward. Audiences will witness riveting world premieres in each concert, written by upcoming and professional innovative composers. For concert and ticket details, visit www.mostlymodernfestival.org/concerts

SAIL Fundraiser Garage Sale

Donations wanted for the annual Southern Adirondack Independent Living Garage Sale (SAIL). The sale will be held at the Queensbury location at 71 Glenwood Ave., June 13 – 15. This is a vital fundraiser, filling the gaps left by grant funding and allowing us to continue our mission of helping people live more independently. We’ll be eagerly accepting donations from community members starting Wednesday, May 1 at 8 a.m. at both our Wilton and Queensbury offices, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. for further inquiries call 518-792-3537, email at sail@sailhelps.org or visit sailhelps.org. 

Saratoga Naturally Photography Exhibit

The exhibition, displayed at Thirsty Owl Bistro, located at 184 S. Broadway, Saratoga Springs, features stunning nature photographs that capture both the unique beauty and the spirit of Saratoga’s natural wonders – parks and preserves, breathtaking landscapes, trails, wildflowers, trees, rare plants, and many of its most popular inhabitants. For more information, visit LouisdValentiPhotography.com. The exhibit will be on display until June 15. 

Craft Fair at Brookside Museum – Vendors Wanted!

The Saratoga County History Center is seeking vendors of handmade crafts, antiques, and farm products for the annual craft fair on Saturday, June 22, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. No mass-produced or commercially made items will be permitted. Spaces are available outdoors, with limited spaces available indoors. This is a rain or shine event. Visit https://brooksidemuseum.org/event/2024-craft-antique-fair/ for more information or contact Beth Silvestri at bsilvestri@brooksidemuseum.org.

Town of Wilton Community Day

Held on Saturday, June 22, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Wilton Recreation – Gavin Park 10 Lewis Drive, Saratoga Springs. There will be food trucks, bounce houses, contests, Beer & Wine tasting, Live Entertainment and much more! We are having a presale of Brooks BBQ for only $15 per dinner at Gavin Park or Town Hall. Buy them now while they last!

Charity Golf Tournament

Benefiting the Capital Region’s American Cancer Society, Saturday, July 20, 9 a.m. at Fox Run Golf Club, Johnstown. Hosted by Total Tech Solutions, Saratoga. Inviting local businesses and golfers to participate in this fun-filled day while supporting a worthy cause. The tournament will feature a scramble format, prizes, contests, and refreshments. The cost is $125 per player includes golf, cart, breakfast, and lunch. 4 person Teams (scramble). Register before June 1 and save $10 per player. Register online at: totaltechsolutions.org/tournament. This fundraising event aims to raise critical funds for the American Cancer Society that are used for treatment, transportation to treatment and research in the area. All proceeds from the tournament will be directly donated to the organization.

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.

May 17 – 23, 2024

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Calendar.

Friday, May 17

Historic Cornell Fire Tower

Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park, 80 Scout Rd., Parking Lot #3, Wilton | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Climb the stairs to the top of the Fire Tower for the aerial view of Camp Saratoga and explore the historic reproduction of a fire ranger cabin. For safety reasons, the tower will be closed in inclement weather. No registration required. Also open on May 19. 

Photography Show 

Clifton Park Senior Community Center, 6 Clifton Common Blvd., Clifton Park | Artists and members of Southern Saratoga Art Society are exhibiting throughout the area through May. The photographers showing are Peggy Becker, Denise Kornak, Rebecca Jenkins, Mary Mochrie, Anup Sood and Brian Skanes. For information call 518-383-1343. Also visit Mechanicville Library, Clifton Park Town Hall, and Bella Lucia to see various artwork of many other members of SSAS. For further information about SSAS, visit our website: southernsaratogaartist.com

Saturday, May 18

Fly-In Breakfast at ESAM

Empire State Aerosciences Museum 250 Rudy Chase Drive, Glenville 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. Pancakes, French toast, eggs, sausage, potatoes, juice, coffee, tea, fruit and more. Open to the public. At 10 a.m., Major General Denise M. Donnell, Assistant Adjutant General and Commander, New York Air National Guard, Latham, will speak about the variety of aircraft she has flown and balancing a military career with family life, including the challenges of deployment. She will also touch on career opportunities for the younger generation. Donnell is presently the primary advisor on all Air Guard matters to the Adjutant General. 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. 

The Art of Photography: From Adirondacks to Brookside

Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa, 10 – 11:30 a.m. Join Dave Waite & Kathleen Royka and come learn the skill of capturing the photo you see in your mind’s eye. Whatever camera you use, cell phone or SLR, this program is for you. Refreshments will be served.

Armed Forces Day Parade

Begins at Town Hall, Malta 10 a.m. A special salute to the military and you are invited. From Town Hall the parade will travel South through the roundabout and then travel North on Route 9. It will end at the Malta Community Center, One Bayberry Drive. Route 9 will be closed from 10 – 11 a.m. along the designated parade route.

Annual Plant Fair

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Saratoga Springs, Parking Lot, 624 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Tomatoes, Vegetables, and Herbs and a wide variety of local Perennials.

Also on Sunday, May 19 from noon – 2 p.m. For questions: 518-587-0403 

Where are we?

Saratoga National Historical Park, Visitor Center, 648 Route 32, Stillwater | 10:30 a.m. This 60-minute, hands-on session provides participants with a basic-level understanding of compass use, map reading, and the essentials of orienteering. No GPS here, we’re doing this “old school!” Space is limited, so email us at SARA_reservations@nps.gov to reserve your spot.

Stayin’ alive!

Saratoga National Historical Park, Visitor Center, 648 Route 32, Stillwater | 12:30 p.m. This 60-minute, hands-on program exploring some of the basics of wilderness survival, including: getting water, starting a fire, basic shelter, safety, signaling, personal gear, and why food is the least of your concerns! Space is limited, so email us at SARA_reservations@nps.gov to reserve your spot.

Genealogy and Local History

Town of Saratoga Town Hall, 12 Spring St., Schuylerville | 1 p.m. Join Heritage Hunters and Joseph W. Zarzynski, a maritime archaeologist from Wilton and a former Social Studies teacher in the Saratoga Springs School District, who will be the speaker. He will tell the story of the 44 ft. long British warship that had been burned and then sank into Lake George during a 1757 French raid upon Fort William Henry. In 1903 it was raised and unceremoniously cut up for souvenirs. Zarzynski will examine its history, with photographs and the story of surviving and repurposed artifacts. The public is welcome. For information call 518-885-9309. Selected books will be available by check or cash.

Fiber Arts Meet-Up

Ballston Spa Public Library, 21 Milton Ave., Ballston Spa | 1 p.m. Calling all knitters, weavers, crocheters, and embroiderers. Crafters of all skill levels are invited to attend monthly. This free group is a good chance to meet people with similar interests for ideas, brainstorming, help or just fellowship! Light refreshments will be served. Open to the public. For further information please call 518-885-5022. 

Sunday, May 19

The 20th Annual Team Billy Ride and Walk for Research 

Farmers’ Market at High Rock Park, Saratoga Springs | 8:30 a.m. To raise funds for the Billy Grey Research Chair. Three rides of 50, 25 and 10 miles will begin at 8:30 a.m., with a three-mile walk through the historic district starting at 9 a.m. The rides follow some of the most beautiful sections of Saratoga County, with the 50-mile bike ride through the Saratoga National Historic Park. This local event and ongoing donations have made possible over $2,900,000 in research grants for brain tumor research. All donations are tax deductible and made payable to the National Brain Tumor Society. To register for the Ride for Research, to donate funds or volunteer, please go to www.teambilly.org Phone: Cherie Grey 518-587-7211, cjgrey1@juno.com.

Composting Workshop

Hudson Crossing Park, County Rd 42, Schuylerville | 10 a.m. Composting is an amazing, natural process that almost anyone can do at home. It’s also one of the best ways you can help fight climate change. Come to our composting workshop, bring the family, and enjoy the gardens at the park. For information about Sustainable Saratoga visit https://sustainablesaratoga.org

Spring Gala for Home Made Theater

The Mansion of Saratoga, 801 NY-29, Rock City Falls | 11:30 a.m. Our garden brunch gala will feature a full brunch menu of American and French favorites prepared by Chef Rick Bieber. Your ticket includes coffee or tea, juice, iced tea, lemonade, and one free cocktail. Other beverages will be available at a cash bar. There will be performances from the upcoming production of The Secret Garden as well as raffles, silent auction items and other activities. Honorary Committee: $200, Garden Guest: $125. 

Harmony Corners Famous Chicken Barbecue Drive Thru

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, and Mail N More in Burnt Hills. Dinner includes 1/2 Chicken, baked potato, mixed vegetables, coleslaw, roll, bottle of water, and a slice of cake. All for $16.00.

Four Seasons Lodge Panel Discussion

Zoom Program | 7 p.m. Saratoga Jewish Community Arts and the Jewish Federation of Northeastern New York present a panel discussion of the documentary Four Seasons Lodge. The 2008 film grew out of a series of articles by Andrew Jacobs, a reporter for The New York Times and a novice director who was imaginative enough to enlist the help of the outstanding cinematographer Albert Maysles. While the film is labeled a Holocaust documentary, it is not your typical Shoah story. Four Seasons Lodge is available free to stream on Amazon Prime Video and Kanopy (registration with library card required). It may also be rented on Amazon Video. Zoom Program, registration is required. For more information, visit www.saratogajewishculturalfestival.org or www.saratogasinai.org

Monday, May 20

Saratoga Parkinson’s Support Group Meeting

Saratoga Senior Center, 290 West Ave., Saratoga Springs| 2:30 p.m. This month’s speaker is Nancy Nealon, Senior Education and Outreach Manager, from the Parkinson’s Foundation who will speak on how the Parkinson’s Foundation makes life better for people living with PD by improving care and advancing research towards a cure. In addition, Nancy will share information and resources available from the foundation. She is excited to share a number of current critical initiatives with us. In everything we do, we build on the energy, experience, and passion of our global Parkinson’s community. Please contact with questions: Leader Gordon Blyth, gordonsblyth@gmail.com, 917-887-7980, Co-Leader Marie Thorne softballmom300@yahoo.com 518-810-8483.

Oil Painting and Composition Demonstration 

Clifton Park Senior Community Center, 6 Clifton Common Blvd., Clifton Park | 6:30 p.m. The Southern Saratoga Art Society will host a free Oil Painting and Composition demonstration by artist Lisa David. Lisa frequently revisits playful vintage subjects with a realistic approach and a strong use of color. The public is invited to attend. For more information, visit: southernsaratogaartist.com

Tuesday, May 21

New Support Group SPOHNC

Saratoga Hospital, 211 Church St., Cafeteria Conference Room, Saratoga Springs |5:30-6:30 p.m. A newly formed SPOHNC Head Neck Cancer support group meeting. Contact 518-886-5648 for questions. This group meets every 3rd Tuesday of each month. 

Sunset Yoga

Middle Grove Park, 428 Middle Grove Rd., Middle Grove | 7 – 8 p.m. Greenfield Rec has added some adult exercise classes for the first time. Sunset Yoga will take place for five weeks for $10. It will be led by Jilly Sansone, a certified yoga and mindfulness meditation teacher. The Town of Greenfield will also hold Barre-Ty Party on June 9 from 4 – 5:30 p.m. at Pure Barre at 56 Marion Ave., Saratoga Springs. Registration links can be found at www.greenfieldny.org to reserve a spot. The cost is $15 for residents and $18 for non-residents. The fee includes the class, champagne, light bites, as well as discounts at the boutique and on future membership.

Town of Greenfield Historical Society Meeting

Community Center, 25 Wilton Greenfield Road, Greenfield Center | 7 p.m. 

Wednesday, May 22

Chicken Marsala Dinner Take Out

Saratoga – Wilton Elks Club, 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, 518-584-2585. Menu: chicken marsala with pasta, vegetable, salad, roll. Cost is $15 per dinner. Cash only.

Thursday, May 23

Shenendehowa K-12 Art Show

Clifton Park Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Rd., Clifton Park | Student artwork from Shenendehowa grades K-12 will be on display through May 29 at the Library. All are welcome to come and view these masterpieces throughout the library. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org

VBC Jamboree Fundraiser

Gurtler Brothers VFW Post 420, 190 Excelsior Ave., Saratoga Springs | 3 p.m. The Veterans Business Council of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to present the 2024 VBC Jamboree, a fundraiser to support the council’s mission of facilitating opportunities for military veterans in Saratoga County. The VBC Jamboree is the council’s traditional cornhole tournament expanded to be bigger and bolder than ever before. Festivities will begin with the start of the cornhole tournament, followed by live entertainment from Beatin’ the Odds. BBQ from Dizzy Chicken from 4 to 7 p.m.

John Morrissey Trifecta Tour

National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, 191 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs | 6 p.m. The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame is partnering with the Adelphi Hotel and the Saratoga Springs History Museum to present the John Morrissey Trifecta Tour. Focusing on Morrissey’s connections to three iconic Saratoga Springs institutions, the tour will celebrate the remarkable legacy of the fierce individual who established organized thoroughbred racing in the village during the summer of 1863. This event is likely to sell out and tickets must be purchased in advance. You may purchase your tickets at https://1049a.blackbaudhosting.com/1049a/John-Morriseys-Trifecta-Tour. For more information about the Museum, including special events and program offerings, please call 518-584-0400 or visit our website at www.racingmuseum.org.

A Veteran Speaks: Oscar Kemp of the 115th NY and the Grand Army

Saratoga Town Hall, 12 Spring Street, Schuylerville | 7 p.m. The Civil War is one of the most studied conflicts in American history, but much of the emphasis is on battles, leaders, and soldiers during the four years of war. What happened to the survivors? What were their stories and how did they transition back into civilian life? Join Civil War veteran Oscar Kemp (portrayed by descendant and Grant Cottage staff member Ben Kemp) as he recounts his war experiences with the 115th NY Infantry and then discusses the experience of veterans after the war and the Grand Army of the Republic. 

“I Choose You”

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Food.

Hello  my Foodie Friends!   

We are in that time of year of celebrating Weddings. Typically, the season begins in late Spring and goes into early Fall. It’s the most wonderful day for many – the day you get to say your vows with the one you love the most in the world. The one that you want to spend the rest of your life with. And all the people you love most in the world will be right there with you! 

I hold dear memories of my own wedding that include the magical part of being special and surrounded by love. It includes feeling the delight and sharing that happiness with others and recognizing that these are the people who will remain in your life as a part of your marriage. We were very blessed to have parents on both sides, which made sure our wedding day was unforgettable. Keep in mind that things will happen and not to sweat it. Our day was perfect until we did not have a ride home from the venue! 

My mother added to our day by making large platters of Italian cookies to add to our dessert offerings. All of the Italian matriarchs in my family joined in together to make the most incredible cookies (that were a hit) being consumed by the handfuls by our guests. Paula and I walked around the reception with two huge platters to share with our guests. Although cookies may not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of a wedding, once you start thinking about it, you may realize how much they can be a perfect way to celebrate such a special day. While the wedding cake is still the belle of the ball, cookies can be an excellent support to this main headliner. In fact, cookies are a great treat that are commonly served during weddings or special occasions, we just don’t pay that much attention to celebrate such a special day. As we plan for our daughter Aubrey’s wedding, we reflect on the magnificent experience that our families provided in making sure we had a special day. 

Another part of weddings is what to get for the couple? At Compliments to the Chef, your Neighborhood Kitchen and Cutlery store located at 33 Railroad Place, we offer those culinary tools that many would contribute to a couple’s kitchen and culinary needs. We also offer a wedding registry for the special couple. Stop in and we can work with you on your selection. Updating the kitchen is often the first thing we think of when starting a new life together. This new step offers a great opportunity to throw out old kitchenware and update your old pots, pans, and knives. Gifting kitchen tools to someone who loves cooking can be a thoughtful and practical gesture. Consider their cooking style and preferences when choosing the tools, and you might want to pick something unique or of high quality. From specialized gadgets to quality knives or cookware, there are plenty of options to consider. Stop by Compliments to the Chef, and let us help you with that special gift. Remember my Foodie Friends: “Life Happens in the Kitchen.”

Take Care, John & Paula

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