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Author: Saratoga TODAY

July 7 – July 13, 2023

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Local Briefs.

Homestead: You Are Here – Opening Night

Saratoga Arts, 320 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 5 – 7 p.m. On July 14, multi-disciplinary artist Yuko Edwards’ on-going series Homestead: You Are Here will be on view in our Atrium Gallery this summer. The series began when the artist was a resident of Saratoga Springs and took solo walks throughout the inner-city. On those walks, Yuko saw reflections of her own family in the landscape, memories from the past as well as possible new futures. The photographic works raise questions of belonging and evoke the existence of the Black community and its energy.  www.saratoga-arts.org.

Legally Blonde Jr.

Presented by Saratoga Children’s Theatre, Friday, July 14 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, July 15, at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Based on the award-winning Broadway musical and the smash hit motion picture, Legally BlondeThe Musical JR. is a fabulously fun journey of self-empowerment and expanding horizons. Pricing: Adult: $15, Students: $10, Ages 10 and Under: $5. www.saratogachildrenstheatre.org Call 518-886-8800. 

The Shirah Brothers

The Middle Grove United Methodist Church welcomes The Shirah Brothers on Saturday, July 15 at 6 p.m. for a community concert.  The Shirah Brothers is made up of three brothers who share their love for singing Southern Gospel music.  Aaron, Jake, and Josh Shirah feel excited and blessed to have the opportunity to share God’s Word through music.  Love offering will be collected.  The church is located at 429 Middle Grove Rd., Middle Grove.

Dinner and Casino Night

Benefiting Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga. Entertainment, cocktails, dinner, and casino games. Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga is a nonprofit organization supporting vulnerable racehorses and people in leading a safe and meaningful life by nurturing the horse-human connection through therapeutic programming. We invite you to join us for our inaugural gala hosted by Tony and Robin Malatino on Saturday, July 15, 7 – 11 p.m. at Sugar Plum Farm, located at 96 Gilbert Rd., Saratoga Springs. RSVP by July 1. Attire: wear what makes you happy. Sponsorships available. VIP Reserved Dining Seating, $250 each including 300 casino chips, general tickets, $200 each, including 200 casino chips. Visit www.thsaratoga.org/events or call Meg at 518-290-6240 ext. 101. 

Veterans Picnic

Free to Veterans and their families. B.P.O.E. support for our Veterans dates back over 100 years and continues today because our mission is still the same, “to provide aid and comfort to any veteran in need.” Join us as we bring our mission to our community by attending the Veterans Picnic on Sunday, July 16, 2 – 4:30 p.m. at Saratoga Wilton Elks Club, 1 Elks Circle, Saratoga Springs. Food, fun and games. Contact John Safford, jsafford3@gmail.com 

NYC Ballet Musicians & Friends

Luellen Abdoo, Artistic Director. Thursday July 20, Noon – 1p.m. Program: Tchaikovsky String Sextet, Op. 70, Souvenir De Florence, Additional music TBA. Performers: Kurt Nikkanen and Luellen Abdoo: Violins, Eugene Moye and Hannah Holman: Cellos, Derek Ratzenboeck and Michael Davis: Violas.  Saratoga Arts, 320 Broadway, Saratoga Springs. Suggested donation $10+ (cash donation preferred)

The Camp Saratoga 5K Trail Series 

Held at 6:15 p.m. Monday evenings August 7, 14, 21 & 28.  Registration is $5 day-of or $15 for all four races., Proceeds benefit the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park.  For more information, call Laura Clark at 581-1278 or email laura@saratogastryders.org or visit www.saratogastryders.org.

Dinner Dance Fundraiser

Saratoga Springs Knights of Columbus Assembly 745 will be sponsoring a Dinner Dance to raise funds to help support our local needy veterans on Saturday, August 12, at the KOC Hall, 50 Pine Road, from 5 – 10 p.m., at a cost of $25 per person.  This event will have a live band and will feature a silent auction.  All proceeds from the event will go to: Veterans Community Housing Coalition (VCHC), Ballston Spa, and other veterans support agencies, as well as for $100 gift cards to VCHC residents at Christmas.

The Health, History, & Horses Charity Gala

Presented by Ladies of Charity, Saratoga Chapter. Funds raised are distributed annually to established charities in Saratoga & Warren/Washing counties: Catholic Charities, food kitchens, shelters, and tuition support programs. Thursday, August 17, 6 – 9 p.m. at Saratoga Winery, 462 route 29, Saratoga Springs. Complimentary Beer & Wine the 1st hour, hot and cold food stations, cash bar, live music, silent auction, 4 seasons basket raffle, 50/50 raffle and racetrack t-shirt quilt. Cost is $75 per person payable to Ladies of Charity. Attire: summer festive. Tickets: www.ladiesofcharitysartaoga.com. Contact Yolanda at 518-886-8064.  

Travel with the Academy for Lifelong Learning (ALL) to an Italian Cooking School 

Have you dreamed of living in a seventeenth century palazzo nestled on a hilltop village in the romantic Italian countryside? ALL is sponsoring a gourmet retreat and cooking school November 11-18, 2023. We will tour a historic or culinary attraction each day and begin cooking late afternoons under the guidance of a professional chef before enjoying a four-course dinner with local wines each evening. This small group experience includes all meals and six nights in a beautifully restored historic palazzo.  For more details, contact goedventures@gmail.com

Artist Exhibit

Bella Lucia’s, 1218 Route 146, Clifton Park | Nine artists and members of SSAS will be featured at the Pizzeria through the end of July.  Artists exhibiting are Denise Kornak, Anup Sood, Frank Coletta, Cheryl Jenks, Karen Zimmers, Barbara Hurley, Carol Winterton, Jack Morgan and Rita Helie.  Please visit these venues and support the arts in Southern Saratoga County.  For more information about SSAS visit:  southernsaratogaartist.com or check us out on Facebook.

Unique Vendors & Artisans

Ballston Area Senior Citizens Annual Bazaar on Saturday, October 7 at the Milton Community Center, located at 310 Northline Road Ballston Spa. What is your specialty? Pickles & relishes, jams & jellies, or any handmade crafts are appreciated and welcome. Vendors of all kinds will be accepted on first come bases for indoor spaces, until October 2. Indoor spaces– 8’W x 7’D are $30 indoor only are (electrical outlets indoor are limited). Outdoor spaces– 12’W x 10’D are $25. To receive an Exhibit Contract and Hold Harmless agreement and payment to reserve your space contact Sue Heimburg 518-885-8037 / text message with name and mailing address or e-mail sheim381@aol.com

July 7 – July 13, 2023

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Calendar.

Friday, July 7

Seeing Through the Lens of Orra Phelps ?

Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton
9 – 10 a.m. | Join our interns for a walk at the Orra Phelps Preserve and share the respect and love for nature that made Dr. Orra Phelps the wonderful naturalist she was. Learn about her amazing life and see the beauty of the Orra Phelps Preserve in the summer. Registration is suggested. To sign up call us at 518-450-0321, email at info@wiltonpreserve.org or visit the website at wiltonpreserve.org. 

The Orchard Project 2023 Arts Festival ?

Saratoga Arts, 320 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | Various Times July 7, 8 and 9. The Orchard Project is overjoyed to return to our summer home of Saratoga Springs. We are expanding upon a tradition of local events that began with the likes of Ben Folds, Esperanza Spalding, Savion Glover, and Alan Cumming – inviting artists at the forefront of storytelling to share their work, process, and sources of inspiration. The weekend will include work-in-progress showings of new work and free workshops, concerts, and conversations that share a joy of storytelling, creativity, and process. For more information about the events, visit orchardproject.com/orchard-project-2023-saratoga-events-seat-reservation-form/

Saturday, July 8

Bee Essentials to People and Planet

Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa

8:30 a.m. | Milton Grange will be sponsoring a talk about honeybee essentials. Rick Cobello, president of the Southern Adirondack Beekeepers Association will speak on this important topic. This is one of an ongoing series of lectures and classes that promotes a “Rural lifestyle”. They are brought to you by the Milton Grange and the Brookside Museum. A free breakfast will be served. RSVP is requested by calling Mary Ann Baker at 518-885-6606 by July 7. We look forward to seeing you there.

Climate Kids Discovery Day ?

The Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 65 S Broadway, Suite #105, Saratoga Springs

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Join us for a day of activities that teach about the environment, climate change and the world around us. We will be hosting partner organizations including Saratoga State Park, Grafton Lakes State Park, The Saratoga Library, MiSci and more as we teach about the basics of climate change and discover ways that we can help. Included in regular admission.

Live Tinsmith Demonstration ?

Saratoga National Historical Park, 648 Route 32, Stillwater

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | At the time of the Battles of Saratoga, the tinsmith was an important part of both community and military life. Tinsmiths created dozens of useful items like cups, bowls, candle molds, lanterns, tea canisters, and other containers. They also provided armies with needed items such as oil flasks, canteens, document cases, cooking kettles, and even canister shot for artillery. Learn about the process and see a sampling of the many civilian and military wares a tinsmith could make. The event will be cancelled in the event of rain. 

Ballston Area Seniors Monthly Dance

Milton Community Center, 310 Northline Rd. Ballston Spa

7 p.m. – 10 p.m. | The dance is open to the public and there is ample free parking. There will be a Donation $5 per person. Snack and refreshment will be provided. Dance to the music of the Peaceful Country Band. Adults Only. For more information call 518-430-7029.

Sunday, July 9

Breakfast Buffet ?

Ballston Spa Elks Lodge #2619, 10 Hamilton Street, Ballston Spa

8 – 11 a.m. | Enjoy pancakes and sausage, French toast, eggs made to order, world famous omelets, home fries, toast, coffee, and juice. All are welcome. Adults $9. Seniors $8 and Kids $5 (cash only).

Monthly Breakfast ?

Fish Creek Rod & Gun Club, 123 NY-32, Schuylerville

8 – 11 a.m. | Menu: choose from pancakes – regular, buckwheat, apple cinnamon and blueberry or French toast. Eggs to order, home fries, bacon or sausage, toast, coffee, and orange juice. $10 adults, $5 children.

Summer Sunday Stroll ?

Saratoga Springs| 10:30 a.m. 

The cost per tour is $15 for SSPf members and $20 for non-members. For additional information on these summer strolls or to purchase tickets to any of these upcoming tours visit www.saratogapreservation.org, call 518-587-5030, or email nbabie4@saratogapreservation.org. 

Songs from our Hearts and Heritage: A Community Experience of Music ?

Congregation Beth Shalom,
688 Clifton Park Center Road, Clifton Park | 4 p.m. | Songs from our Hearts and Heritage will give audiences an experience with popular, liturgical, and original pieces by three gifted vocalists that includes Sylvia Bloom, Rabbi Anna Sugarman, and Elisa Harrington-Verb. The Saratoga Jewish Cultural Festival, with a generous grant from the Jewish Federation of Northeastern NY and sponsorship of Temple Sinai, collaborates with Congregation Beth Shalom of Clifton Park to stage an afternoon of music. Registration required at sjca.sjcf@gmail.com. Zoom access will be considered. saratogajewishculturalfestival.org www.saratogasinai.org

Monday, July 10

28th Annual Saratoga Soroptimist Secret Gardens Tour

Various locations, Saratoga Springs/Wilton | 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

A dozen gardens in varying sizes and styles.  Purchase $25 advance tickets at www.soroptimistsaratoga.org or at Northshire Bookstore in Saratoga Springs, Cudney’s Cleaners retail locations, and Faddegon’s Nursery in Latham. Day-of tickets for $30 will be sold while supplies last from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. outside the Saratoga Springs Visitor Center, 297 Broadway. Garden descriptions and suggested driving directions are provided with purchase. Ticket sales support women and girls, including Wellspring. Questions? Email secretgardensinfo@gmail.com.

Tuesday, July 11

Congress Park History Tour ?

Saratoga Springs Visitor Center, 297 Broadway, Saratoga Springs

10:30 a.m. | Learn about the fascinating history of “The Queen of Spas” with a leisurely walk thru Congress Park. Tours are held Tuesday – Saturday. Our experienced guides will tell you the stories of how Saratoga became “The Queen of Spas” in the 19th Century. The tragic story behind the Trask Family and the Spirit of Life statue. The history of the Saratoga City Museum and its notorious reputation as the highest rolling gambling casino in the US. How the city rallied to restore the historic Spit and Spat statues. Tour is 90 minutes in and about 1/2 mile in length. Price is $20, Children under 12 free. Phone or text to 518-832-3796. 

Brooks BBQ Fundraiser Take Out

Saratoga Senior Center, 5 Williams St., Saratoga Springs 

3:30 – 6 p.m. | Patrons may order Rib and Chicken Dinners in advance and pick them up at the Center on the at a drive-through in the front of the building. Pre-ordering is the best option, as day-of event ordering will be very limited! The dinners are $15 for Chicken and $20 for Ribs. Each dinner comes with a baked potato, coleslaw, and a dinner roll. Sponsored by CDPHP. The Senior Center will deliver orders of 15 or more to a home or business. Just let them know you would like delivery when pre-ordering.

America’s Turning Point Presents: Revolution on the Hudson ?

Halfmoon Lighthouse Park, 597 Hudson River Road Halfmoon | 6 p.m. A summer speaker series aimed at inviting the public to enjoy our beautiful public parks located along the Hudson River while learning about our revolutionary past. The public is invited to bring a picnic dinner and enjoy the grounds. 18th century living historians will be ready to answer questions and provide demonstrations before the speaker program begins at 7 p.m. 18th Century toys and games along with replica colonial clothing will be available for children to try. Please bring your own chairs. For details, visit https://brooksidemuseum.org/event/americas-turning-point-presents-revolution-on-the-hudson/ 

Wednesday, July 12

Celebration of Summer

Parting Glass, 40 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs | 4  – 7 p.m. The Saratoga Area Retired Educators Association invites all retired Saratoga Area educators, teaching assistants, librarians, and school support staff members to attend our social. This fun event will provide you with the opportunity to mix and mingle with other educators, meet some of our members and learn about the monthly luncheon meetings of our organization. There will be a $5 cover charge collected at the door.  Snacks will be provided and there will be a cash bar. For more information and to RSVP please call 518-569-0395.

Free Concert Series ?

Malta Community Center, Front Lawn, 1 Bayberry Dr., Malta | 6 – 8 p.m. Mark Gamsjager @ The Lustre Kings Beginning in 1995’s Mark Gamsjager Rocks & The Lustre Kings Roll, the band staked a claim to a modern take on the reverb-driven sounds of early rock, leaning also on touchstones of country, blues and R&B. Wednesdays, rain or shine. 

BBQ Chicken Dinner 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: BBQ chicken, potato salad, baked beans, corn muffin. Cost $15 per dinner. (cash only).  

Thursday, July 13

Adirondack Greek Festival ?

St. George Church, 55 Main St., South Glens Falls 4 – 8 p.m. On Thursday, enjoy souvlaki and gyro sandwiches and pasties outside under the tent. Friday and Saturday, July 14 and 15 from noon – 7 p.m., enjoy our full festival days with more authentic Greek food/dinners and pastires, music, entertainment, and church tours. Free admission and parking. OPA! No on-line or phone orders will be taken for this event. www.sgforthodoxchurch.org.

Foreign Film: The Phantom of the Open (2021)

Clifton Park Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Rd., Clifton Park | 6:30 p.m. | Maurice Flitcroft, a dreamer, and unrelenting optimist, manages to gain entry to the 1976 British Open Golf Championship qualification round–despite being a complete novice. In English/English subtitles. Rated PG-13; 106 min.; comedy, drama, sport. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org

Saratoga Arts Presents: Opening Night: Friday, July 14

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

Cutie, from the Series Homestead, Archival Pigment Print, 2011, by Yuko Edwards. Photo provided.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Arts hosts the Opening Night of multi-disciplinary artist Yuko Edwards’ on-going series from 5 – 7 p.m. on Friday, July 14. 

Edwards, who was born in 1975 in Iowa City lives and works in Bristol, England. Her work addresses concepts of self and social identity.

“Homestead: You Are Here” will be on view in our Atrium Gallery this summer. The series began when the artist was a resident of Saratoga Springs and took solo walks throughout the city. On those walks, she saw reflections of her own family in the landscape, memories from the past as well as possible new futures. The photographic works raise questions of belonging and evoke the existence of the Black community and its energy. 

Saratoga Arts is the community arts center located on the corner of Congress Park and Broadway in downtown Saratoga Springs. In its 30-plus years, Saratoga Arts has brought the arts to over 1 million people through its programs and provided performing and visual artists opportunities to earn over $3 million in art sales and performance fees. 

Stella Katherine Cole: Standards On Stage in Dinner Concert Series at The Mansion Of Saratoga

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

Stella Katherine Cole at The Mansion of Saratoga July 13.  

ROCK CITY FALLS — Stella Katherine Cole, a singer/actress with a natural affinity for the songs of the Great American Songbook, will perform 6 p.m. Thursday, July 13 at The Mansion of Saratoga. 

Buoyed by a social media following of half a million fans, Cole recently made her debut at New York’s legendary Town Hall, as well as a series of high-profile performances at New York’s Tony Award® winning nightclub, 54 Below. 

She recently premiered her new show, Stella Katherine Cole Has Standards with a series of sold-out performances in St. Louis, MO., Evanston, IL., and Carmel, IN.  

The Mansion of Saratoga, which features a dinner and a show as part of its 801 Convert Series, is located at 801 Rte 29, Rock City Falls. Go to: themansionsaratoga.com/concert-series-line-up. 

Saratoga Shakespeare Company to Present “Twelfth Night” in the Park in July

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Shakespeare Company presents a two-week production of “Twelfth Night,” in Congress Park on July 13 – 16 and July 19 – 22. 

William Shakespeare’s timeless comedy of love and loss, mistaken identities, and siblings reunited. Will be presented on the Alfred Z. Solomon stage. All performances start at 6 p.m., and all shows are free to attend. 

SSC’s Twelfth Night will be directed by Helena Binder. A theater professional for more than 40 years, Binder is best known for her work in opera, directing productions for the New York City Opera, Dallas Opera, Minnesota, Atlanta and Palm Beach Operas, among others.

Saratoga Shakespeare Company is a local 501(c)(3) charitable organization entirely funded by donations. Founded in 2000, it is one of the only Equity Shakespeare companies in the country that provides free and open access productions in public parks. 

Caffe Lena Presents: Tom Chapin July 23

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.


Watch Tom Chapin on July 23, in-person at Caffe Lena or virtually.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Legendary singer/songwriter/activist Tom Chapin brings his feel-good music back to Caffe Lena on Sunday, July 23. The 7 p.m. concert will be presented live on stage and will also be streamed to the online community.

Chapin serves up a tasty mix of story songs, ballads, comedic and political songs, family music, sing-alongs, old-time folk classics, and a favorite song or two of his late brother Harry’s. Tom accompanies himself on guitar, banjo and autoharp.

In a career that spans five decades, 27 albums and three Grammy awards, Tom Chapin has covered an incredible amount of creative ground. In addition to his work as a recording artist, concert performer, storyteller and activist, he’s performed on Broadway and worked extensively in television, radio and film. 

Tom and The Chapin Family have been touring this year with “Harry Chapin at 80: A Retrospective.” This concert of Harry Chapin classics has been recorded on video for release later in 2023.

In addition to his musical and media endeavors, Chapin has long been an advocate for environmental causes, issues of hunger and social justice, and a supporter of music and the arts in public schools. And he is the 2023 recipient of the prestigious Robert H. Chambers Award for Excellence in the Traditional Arts: which recognizes the innate power and potential of the traditional arts to help foster understanding among people of different cultures.

Caffe Lena is located at 47 Phila Street in Saratoga Springs. Tickets are available online at www.caffelena.org.

Hollis Palmer: All That Glitters, Book 3 in Saratoga’s Gilded Age

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Photo: “All That Glitters,” a new 200-page book published by Hollis Palmer. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Local author Hollis Palmer has published Book Three in his Saratoga’s Gilded Age Series. 

The 200-page book, “All That Glitters,” is Palmer’s 15th overall, and visits the Queen of Spas at the peak of the Gilded Age in a telling through the stories of four families who lived in Saratoga.  

All that Glitters is available at Impressions Of Saratoga and online via Amazon.

Music Haven 2023 Kicks Off July 9

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

SCHENECTADY — Schenectady’s Central Park hosts the summer concert series Music Haven 2023 from July 9 – Aug. 26. 

A variety of food and beverages will be available for purchase at all shows, beginning at 6 p.m. on 7 p.m. concert nights and throughout festivals and special events.

The Agnes Macdonald Music Haven is family-friendly and easily accessible.

Music Haven July 2023

7 p.m. Sundays with other events as noted*

July 9: Rocky Dawuni. An international star and champion of social causes, Dawuni straddles Africa, the Caribbean Islands and the United States to create an enticing Ghanaian Reggae that unites generations and cultures. Special Guests: Zorkie Nelson & Umoja Drummers.

*7 p.m. Thursday, July 13: La Banda Morisca. This spirited sextet from Southern Spain pays homage to their ancient Al-Andalus cultural heritage while rocking it forward with rich sonic accents from north Africa’s Maghreb Desert and the Middle East. Special Guest: Maria Zemantauski.

July 16: Joey Alexander. Music Haven first presented this multiple Grammy-nominated jazz sensation in 2015. The Indonesian pianist’s star has only risen since then, with appearances at the world’s most prestigious festivals and events. Special Guests: Joe Barna & Sketches of Influence.

*11 a.m.–10 p.m. Saturday, July 22: NipperFest Music & Arts Festival. Celebrate the local creative community with 16 bands on two stages of great original music, including Billboard AAA Top 40 artists Jocelyn and Chris, an artist pavilion, food trucks, and craft beer. Presented by Nippertown.com.

July 23: Sona Jobarteh. Gambian singer, educator, activist Sona Jobarteh is the first professional female Kora virtuoso to hail from any of the great West African Griot dynasties. Special Guests: Heard.

*5–9 p.m. Sunday, July 30: Blues BBQ featuring Vanessa Collier. Johnny Sansone and Jontavious Willis. 2023 Blues Music Award’s reigning Contemporary Blues Female Artist of the Year, Collier honks a mean sax and sings with the same edge and grit. New Orleans multi-instrumentalist Sansone and Taj Mahal protégé Willis make this an undeniable triple bill.

August 2023

*7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 5: Schenectady-Saratoga Symphony Orchestra. Under the baton of Artistic Director Glen Cortese, the SSSO returns with “Legends of Broadway” – selections from beloved musicals including West Side Story, Les Miserables, Evita, Jesus Christ Superstar and more. Special Guest vocalists: Amy Decker and Casey Gray.

Aug. 6: Eileen Ivers. The original star of “Riverdance” and a nine-time All-Ireland Fiddle Champion, she’s played with Sting, The Chieftains, and Symphony Orchestras alike and been called “The Future of the Celtic fiddle.” Special Guests: The McKrells.

*5–9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 11: In the Heights. Before Hamilton, Broadway wunderkind Lin Manuel Miranda created this Tony Award-winning musical about life in the barrio. A block party with Latin food and music by Taina Asili precedes the screening.

Aug. 13: Aditya Prakash Ensemble. One of the youngest musicians to ever perform with sitar legend Ravi Shankar, Prakash is a master of South Indian Karnatik singing, whose fearless musical vision incorporates jazz and funk, creating an ultra-hip world music experience. Special Guests: SUNY Schenectady Jazz Faculty Combo. 

Aug. 20: Cedric Watson & Bijou Creole. One of the brightest young talents to emerge in Cajun, Creole and Zydeco over the last decade, Watson is a four-time Grammy-nominated fiddler, singer, accordionist, and songwriter with seemingly unlimited potential. Special Guests: Old-Fashioned Aces. 

*7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Aug. 25–26: Will Kempe’s Players. Will Kempe’s Players share the love, lies, and laughter of back-to-back Shakespearean comedies boasting surprises, skulduggery, hijinx, and even a little music. (The Taming of the Shrew on Friday and Two Gentlemen of Verona on Saturday). Period music by: Andy Rutherford on lute and Yvonne Hansbrough on flute.

For more information, visit Music Haven’s website, www.musichavenstage.org. 

McGregor Links Country Club Offering “a little something for everybody”

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Sports.


McGregor Links Country Club. Photo by Dylan Mcglynn.

WILTON — The historic McGregor Links Country Club has seen several improvements and additions in recent years, adding a driving range, expanding its pro shop, and establishing or bringing back events.

Head Golf Professional Michael Decker, who joined McGregor in 2021 after three years as the assistant professional at Shaker Ridge Country Club in Albany, said the course offers “a little something for everybody.”

Since arriving at McGregor, Decker has taken ownership of the pro shop, established and grown a large PGA Junior League, and overseen the introduction and return of numerous events.

Decker said he had heard “nothing but great things” about McGregor prior to accepting the job.

“I think it went through a little stretch where it was a little rocky, so my goal when I took the job was to come in, do whatever I can with the new owner, Joe Kehn, and help turn the place around,” Decker said.

While McGregor is a country club, Decker emphasized that it is not fully private. McGregor is open to the public Mondays all day; 10 a.m. and later Tuesday through Friday; noon and later on Saturdays and Sundays, Decker said.

“It’s semi-private, so it’s open to the public,” said Decker. “We are limited at certain times. … But we absolutely are open to the public.”

Decker said one of his major efforts since taking the job has been to build McGregor’s Junior League program. Last year, the program featured 89 kids, Decker said, noting he was awarded the ‘Gamechanger Award’ from the PGA for having the largest junior league in PGA’s Northeastern New York section.

This year, McGregor’s junior program has 100 kids, Decker said. He said running the program is “extremely rewarding,” noting he feels part of his job as a PGA professional is to grow the game.

“I spend a lot of time doing that, and to watch a place that didn’t have any PGA Junior League three years ago to now having the biggest one in the entire section, and one of the biggest in the country, is actually amazing,” Decker said. “It’s something that I definitely pride myself on, and look to keep growing year after year.”

The Junior League is open to the public, allowing all kids under age 15 to participate regardless of prior experience. The program offers six practices and six matches at McGregor Links, according to the course’s website.

“We shut down the front nine of the course,” said Decker. “We’ll have 150-plus people out there any given PGA Junior League match, with the parents following the kids, riding in the fairways, having some drinks and food. It’s a sight to see.”

The club hosts a ‘Links Together’ program on Tuesdays and Thursdays as well, which Decker described as “a summer camp for kids.”

“They get to use the pool, they get to learn a little golf, they can do arts and crafts, they can learn pickleball,” Decker said. “That’s awesome. … We’re using basically all the facilities that we have here.”

In addition to a new driving range, McGregor features a pool, six pickleball courts, and a tennis court, all of which have been recently renovated, Decker said.

Decker has also taken over ownership of McGregor’s pro shop, he said, and was awarded 2021 Merchandiser of the Year by Northeastern New York PGA for his efforts.

The shop offers a wide variety of products, with Decker saying golfers can find “anything you can really think of,” including major brands of golf clubs, balls, footwear, clothing, as well as other equipment such as range-finders and ball markers. 

McGregor Links also works with the on-site restaurant, Hills and Hollows, to host a variety of events, including Nine and Dine events and Cigar and Bourbon Nights, and private events such as bachelor parties.

Decker has additionally helped reintroduce events such as the McGregor Links Invitational, a two-day event featuring two-person teams. This year’s Invitational is scheduled for July 28-29, according to McGregor’s website.

“I brought that back probably for the first time in 10 years, and we’re starting to grow that again, which is great to show off the course, show off all the stuff that Joe Kehn and his staff have done out on the course,” said Decker. 

Decker, a native of Pine Bush, said he initially accepted the job after recognizing McGregor as “an opportunity.”

“The potential of it that I saw, I mean, you’re in Saratoga, you’ve got one of the best golf courses around, and you’ve got a new owner (Joe Kehn) who loves the place more than anyone and is putting money into it,” said Decker. “I saw that as an opportunity. I liked the sounds of that, and wanted to grow with McGregor.”

News & Notes: 2023 Events at Saratoga Race Course

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


Photo by Chelsea Durand, courtesy of NYRA.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – The New York Racing Association (NYRA) announced the lineup of new and returning attractions and events for the 2023 summer meet at historic Saratoga Race Course. 

Highlighted by the 154th edition of the Grade 1, $1.25 million Travers on August 26 and the Grade 1, $1 million Whitney on August 5, the 2023 summer meet will open on Thursday, July 13 and continue through Monday, September 4.

Following the four-day opening weekend, racing will be conducted five days a week, Wednesdays through Sundays, apart from the final week, when the meet will conclude on Labor Day.

Admission gates will open for live racing at 11 a.m. for all but Travers Day when gates will open at 7 a.m. With exceptions for Whitney and Travers Days and throughout Closing Weekend, first post time is 1:10 p.m.

The 2023 summer meet will feature the following events lineup:

Opening Weekend
Thursday, July 13 – Sunday, July 16

Opening Weekend will feature the traditional opening day graded stakes, the Schuylerville for 2-year-old fillies, on Thursday, July 13 and the first Grade 1 of the season, the Diana, on Saturday, July 15. The four-day annual celebration will be highlighted by live musical entertainment and a performance by the Islip Horsemen’s Association Drill Team on Saturday.

Week 1 Stake Races 

Tune-in to Talking Horses for in-depth analysis from handicapper Andy Serling and other guests.

*Mondays and Tuesdays = Dark Days. No racing.

Thursday, July 13

GIII Schuylerville: F2YO, 6 Furlongs – Dirt, Purse $175,000 

Friday, July 14 

Coronation Cup: F3YO, 5 1/2 – Turf, Purse $150,000

The Wilton: F3YO, 1 Mile – Dirt, Purse $135,000 

Saturday, July 15

GI Diana: F&M 4&UP, 1 1/8 – Turf, Purse $500,000

GIII Kelso: 4&UP, 1 Mile  – Turf, Purse $175,000
GIII Sanford: 2YO, 6 Furlongs  – Dirt, Purse $175,000

Sunday, July 16

GIII Quick Call presented by Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation: 3YO, 5 1/2 Furlongs – Turf, Purse $175,000

Wednesday, July 19

GI A.P. Smithwick Memorial (Steeplechase): 4&UP, 2 1/16 – Turf, Purse $150,000
NYSSS Statue of Liberty Division (R): F3YO, 1 Mile – Turf, Purse $150,000

Thursday, July 20

NYSSS Cab Calloway Division (R): 3YO, 1 Mile – Turf, Purse $150,000

Taste NY Pavilion

Every Thursday – Sunday beginning July 13

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 beer, cider, wine, spirits, cheese, chocolate and gelato. This year marks a decade since the launch of the Taste NY program. In honor of the anniversary, NYRA will be expanding its offerings to include two dozen featured products, from Long Island to the Adirondacks and the Capital Region to Western New York, as a showcase of the state’s robust food and beverage industry.

SARATOGA Breakfast and Breeding Farm Tours

Every Wednesday – Friday beginning July 14

Expanded for its second year, NYRA is continuing the Saratoga Breakfast and Breeding Farm Tour. Tours this year will be offered Wednesday through Friday throughout the meet. Wednesday tours will travel to Song Hill Thoroughbreds, while Thursday and Friday tours will visit Old Tavern Farm.

Guests will enjoy a buffet breakfast at Saratoga Race Course before taking a CDTA trolley to the designated farm, where they will participate in a 60- to 90-minute guided walking tour of a working thoroughbred breeding farm. Admission to the races in the afternoon is included in the package. Tickets, which are $85 for adults and $35 for children 12 and under, must be reserved in advance at NYRA.com.

SUNDAY BRUNCH AT THE RAIL OF THE 1863 CLUB

Every Sunday beginning July 16 

Fans 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 $100 and include admission, a table seat for the day, brunch buffet, soft drinks, two mimosa or Bloody Mary drink tickets per person, 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.

SARATOGA LOW ROLLER CONTEST

Every Thursday And Sunday beginning July 16

Horseplayers can enjoy the Saratoga Low Roller Contest held exclusively on-track every Thursday and Sunday at Saratoga Race Course. Fans can pre-register on contest days outside the Miller Time Fourstardave Sports Bar. There is a $40 buy-in, of which $30 will go to the player’s bankroll and $10 to the prize pool. The winner will receive a Saratoga Low Roller championship T-shirt in addition to the cash prize.

Berkshire Bank Family ZONE 

Fans will enjoy 40 days of the Berkshire Bank Family Zone, an interactive play area for children located near Gate A, which will be supplemented by Berkshire Bank Family Sundays.

Berkshire Bank Family Sundays – Every Sunday:

Berkshire Bank Family Sundays will feature a wide variety of free family-friendly activities, games, attractions and educational activities each Sunday inside the Berkshire Bank Family Zone, located near Gate A at the Top of the Stretch. New this year, each week will feature a different theme, including Beach Day, Sci-Fi Day, Carnival Day and Superhero Day.

Breakfast at Saratoga

Breakfast at Saratoga welcomes guests to enjoy a morning buffet at The Porch with a view of the thoroughbreds training on the main track. Breakfast is available every live racing day from 7 to 9:30 a.m., excluding Travers Day and Labor Day. 

Fans can also go behind the scenes with a free, guided backstretch tram tour, driven by CDTA. Tram tours run from 7:30 to 9 a.m. and depart from the clubhouse entrance approximately every 15 minutes. Tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are 45 minutes in length. Tours are available every live racing day with the exception of Travers Day and Labor Day.

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, including The Garland Nelson Trio, The Hawthornes, ILL Funk, The Lustre Kings and Donna Tritico Band, among many others. This year’s summer music stage is presented by Purdy’s Discount Wine & Liquor in Saratoga Springs.

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.