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Author: Saratoga TODAY

HMT Presents The Sound of Music – Show Opens June 9, Special Appearance by Sam Von Trapp on June 10 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

Do Re Mi: (clockwise starting top left) Natalya Palmer as Louisa, Vincent Connell as Kurt, Chase Cowell as Friedrich, Eilley Kalik as Brigitta, Bella Lawrence as Liesl, Isabelle Franco as Maria, Saiorse Gorman as Gretl, and Gwen Matthews as Marta. Photo by Dawn Oesch.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — For two weekends, starting on Friday, June 9, Home Made Theater will present the classic musical, The Sound of Music, music and lyrics by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein, and book by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse. 

The beloved musical tells the uplifting story of Maria, a young postulant who brings joy and music into the lives of the von Trapp family as their governess. Set against the backdrop of World War II, The Sound of Music is a tale of resilience, courage, and love that has captured the hearts of audiences for generations.

The Director of The Sound of Music is Dawn Oesch, who has previously directed the Home Made Theater productions of Mamma Mia!, Young Frankenstein, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, just to name a few. 

On Saturday, June 10 at 2 p.m. Sam von Trapp, the grandson of Georg and Maria von Trapp, will be in attendance and will speak about his family history after the performance. He grew up on the grounds of the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, VT. Along with his father, Johannes, von Trapp oversees brewery operations at von Trapp Brewing, and assists with guest relations, public relations, and marketing for all areas of the Trapp Family Lodge. Mr. von Trapp will attend the performance with his wife and two sons.  

The performance at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 17. will be a special “sensory friendly” performance. This performance will be designed to make theater accessible to patrons who may be prone to sensory overstimulation, including those on the autism spectrum.

Performances the first weekend are Friday, June 9 at 7 p.m., Saturday, June 10 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.  and Sunday, June 11 at 2 p.m. 

The second weekend will begin with a performance on Thursday, June 15 at 7 p.m. The rest of the weekend will include performances on Friday, June 16 at 7 p.m., Saturday, June 17 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., and Sunday, June 18 at 2 p.m. 

All performances are at the Pitney Meadows Community Farm at 223 West Ave. in Saratoga Springs. Tickets are $20 and are available on Home Made Theater’s website, www.homemadetheater.org, or by calling 518-587-4427 during regular business hours.

Tickets on Sale: Pulitzer Prize-Winner Richard Russo Returns to Spa City on Aug. 3 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

Richard Russo, author of Somebody’s Fool, will be featured in interview and Q&A session in Saratoga Springs in August.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Pulitzer Prize-winning author Richard Russo will return to Saratoga Springs for a special event celebrating the release of his new novel Somebody’s Fool, the third and final novel in his beloved North Bath Trilogy. 

The event will take place 5 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 3 at the Spa Little Theater, and is presented in partnership with the Saratoga Performing Arts Center’s Literary Arts@SPAC initiative and WAMC/Northeast Public Radio. 

Russo will be interviewed on stage by Joe Donahue of WAMC, and recorded for subsequent broadcast on Donahue’s The Book Show. The conversation will be followed by a question-and-answer session, and a book signing.

In Somebody’s Fool, the Pulitzer Prize–winning author of Empire Falls returns to upstate New York, and to the characters that captured the hearts and imaginations of millions of readers in his beloved best sellers Nobody’s Fool and Everybody’s Fool. Infused with all the wry humor and shrewd observations that Russo is known for, Somebody’s Fool is another classic from a modern master.

Russo is the author of nine novels, most recently Chances Are…, Everybody’s Fool and That Old Cape Magic; two collections of stories; and the memoir Elsewhere. In 2002 he received the Pulitzer Prize for Empire Falls, which, like Nobody’s Fool, won multiple awards for its screen adaptation, and in 2023 his novel Straight Man was adapted into the television series Lucky Hank. In 2017, he received France’s Grand Prix de Littérature Américaine. Originally from Gloversville, NY, he now lives in Portland, ME.

Tickets are required for this event and space is limited. Tickets, and can be purchased at northshire.com/upcoming-events. For more information on this or other Northshire events, call 518-682-4200 or visit northshire.com.

Joan Rivers Comic Impersonator Kicks off Dinner Concerts atThe Mansion of Saratoga June 8

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

Celebrity impersonator Joe Posa as Joan Rivers, June 8 at
the Mansion of Saratoga. Photo provided. 

ROCK CITY FALLS — The Mansion of Saratoga kicks off its 801 Concert Series this summer with a tribute to Joan Rivers on what would be the caustic comic’s 90th birthday.

On Thursday, June 8 at 8 p.m., award winning actor and celebrity impersonator Joe Posa will perform as Rivers in a 90-minute comedy concert tribute.

“Joe was Joan’s favorite impersonator. It’s not just the clothes, the voice and the rapid fire jokes—all of which he gets perfect,” Jeff Wodicka, managing partner of The Mansion of Saratoga, said in a statement. “He truly inhabits Joan’s very-naughty-but-so-much-fun persona. This show is not for the politically correct, the weak-kneed or children.”

Posa began performing as Rivers in 2004 and first met her in 2006 while he was impersonating her at a corporate event in Houston, Texas. In a planned schtick, Posa first took the stage to do his act when suddenly the real Joan Rivers, who was hired to be the evening’s main performer, appeared to chase him off. After that show the two stayed in touch over the next decade, last meeting in July 2014, two months before she died at age 81.

For more information on the dinner and show concert series, which features multiple artists through August, go to: www.themansionsaratoga.com.

“Modern-Day Beacons for Country and Western Swing” – Live at Caffe Lena June 22

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

The Quebe Sisters will perform at Caffe Lena this month. Photo provided.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Billed as a neo-traditionalist western swing trio, the Quebe Sisters – siblings Grace, Sophia, and Hulda – will perform 7 p.m. June 22 at Caffe Lena. 

The sisters have released four studio albums – 2003’s Texas Fiddlers, 2007’s Timeless, 2014’s Every Which-A-Way, and 2019’s The Quebe Sisters – and put a youthful, jubilant spin on Bob Wills’ classic genre. 

The Quebe Sisters have toured across North America, Europe, and Russia. 

Tickets are on sale at: caffelena.org.

“Saratoga Naturally” Book Signing June 6 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

Saratoga Naturally, by Louis Valenti, book signing June 6.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Louis Valenti will stage a book signing featuring his new book “Saratoga Naturally’ from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, June 6 at Jacob & Anthony’s American Grille, 38 High Rock Ave.

Valenti’s nature photography book “Saratoga Naturally: Photographic Images Of Saratoga’s Most Beautiful Parks & Preserves,” features photographic images of five of Saratoga’s most beautiful parks and preserves including Saratoga Spa State Park; Colonel William F. Fox Memorial Saratoga Tree Nursery; Geyser Creek Trail; Bog Meadow Brook Nature Trail; and the Saratoga National Historical Park and Battlefield. 

The photographs include breathtaking landscapes, trails, wildflowers, trees, rare plants, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects including many of its most popular inhabitants such as the Barred Owl, Red Fox, Monarch Butterfly, Gray Tree Frog, Red-tailed Hawk, White-tailed Deer, and Painted Turtle, accompanied by poems from famous writers such as Robert Frost, Emily Bronte, William Shakespeare, Anne Frank, and many others. 

June 2 – June 8, 2023

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Calendar.

Friday, June 2

Fridays in the Garden

Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave, Ballston Spa | 2:30 p.m. Hear the Buzz: Launching a Pollinator Garden. The programs are to be held in the beautiful gardens of Brookside Museum. All programs are free to attend, though donations are welcome and appreciated.  Registration for each program is preferred, but not required. For more information, check out our website www.brooksidemuseum.org.

BBQ Dinner Take Out

Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Avenue, Ballston Spa 3 – 6 p.m. The Saratoga County History Center will hold a drive-thru Miller’s Backyard BBQ dinner. There will be a choice of a half chicken or half pound pulled pork dinner for $15.  We will also be serving a beef brisket dinner for $20 available by pre-order only.  Dinners include a baked potato, coleslaw, and corn bread. An 8-ounce serving of mac & cheese is also available for $5. All proceeds will help fund public education and children’s programs at the museum.  The dinner is take-out only.  We strongly recommend that you reserve dinners in advance at www.brooksidemuseum.org or call 518-885-4000. Please note that the brisket dinners are available only by pre-order.

High School Musical 2 ?

Saratoga Childrens Theatre, 615 Maple Ave., Suite 3, Saratoga Springs | 7 p.m., and June 3 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. and June 4 at 2 p.m. Join us for a show that is quintessentially Summer as the gang from East High heads to the country club! Based on the hit Disney Channel Original Movie, High School Musical 2 includes both high octane dance numbers and powerful ballads from the film, creating a thrilling ensemble show that’s fun for all ages. Tickets: saratogachildrenstheatre.org/mainstage-shows

Let the Music Fill Your Soul ?

St. Edward the Confessor, 569 Clifton Park Center Rd., Clifton Park | 7 p.m. The Clifton Park Community Chorus presents the free concerts. Next concert is on June 25 at 7 p.m. at Clifton Common Stage, (outside performance, bring your own seating). Sponsored by the Town of Clifton Park. Admission is free. Facebook.com/CliftonParkCommunityChorus

SPACtacular Fundraiser

Saratoga Performing Arts Center, 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs | 5 – 11 p.m. Join us for a magical evening under the moonlight and on our stage. Create Your Own Adventure with Live Music, DJ, Dancing, Cocktails, Culinary Delights, Fireworks and Festivities! All to celebrate and support SPAC’s mission, residencies, and youth education initiatives. This is a 21+ event. Attire: Cocktail. Two ticket options, visit spac.org or call 518-584-9330 ext 142 to make a reservation by phone. 

Movies in the Park ?

Wiswall Park, Front St., Ballston Spa | 8:30 p.m. Free movies in the park is back for the 16th summer presented by the Ballston spa Business and Professional Association. Tonight’s movie: Strange World. (Rain Date June 3). The movies are projected onto the wall of the adjacent Front Street Deli building on Front Street in the village and begin at approximately dusk. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. Movie snacks will be available, courtesy of Starpoint Church.

Saturday, June 3

Free Learn to Fish Clinic ?

The Town of Clifton Park is offering a free learn to fish clinic on Saturday, June 3, 9:00-12:30. For more information contact Mike Woerner at the town department of Parks and Recreation, 518-371-6667.

Voter Registration

Saratoga Farmers Market, 112 High Rock Avenue, Saratoga Springs | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. The League of Women Voters of Saratoga County will be offering Voter Registration tables. Residents can learn where to find information about polling places, information about registration, early voting, absentee voting, and pick up absentee voting applications and voter registration forms.

Yard Sale ?

170 Ballston Avenue, Saratoga Springs | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Apparel, jewelry, accessories, baby clothes. All proceeds to support Zonta Club of Saratoga County.

10th Annual TUFF eNUFF Obstacle Course Challenge ?

BOCES Center, Henning Road,  Saratoga Springs | 8 a.m. Over 500 kids, teens, and adults will lace up their old running shoes to run, scramble over obstacles, jump muddy puddles, and trudge their way through mucky trenches at The Prevention Council’s 10th Annual TUFF eNUFF.  Are you TUFF eNUFF?  For more information, and to pre-register, go to www.FinishRight.com. The Kid’s Race is a 1-mile muddy course, and there is a 5K for teens and adults. “Day of” registration is available as well.

Cars & Coffee ?

Middle Grove Town Park, 430 Middle Grove Rd., Middle Grove, from 8 a.m. – 11 a.m.  Hosted by The Town of Greenfield Lions Club. Admission is free and is open to any car or truck, including daily drivers. There will be a 50-50 raffle and door prizes for entered vehicles. The Greenfield Lions will be selling fresh breakfast sandwiches and coffee. The event is sponsored by Ryan’s Garage. For more information about the Lions Clubs visit www.lionsclubs.org. 

Garage Sale & Bake Sale ?

Italian American War Veterans, 247 Grand Avenue, Saratoga Springs | 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Ladies of Charity Saratoga Chapter will be holding their annual sale.  Rain or Shine. Bake sale will include cakes, breads, cookies, cupcakes, brownies, pies, muffins, and other specialties. For more information call Sharon at 518-365-0004 or Claudette at 518-584-7592

Creating D & D Mini Sculptures

Galway Public Library, 2112 East St., Galway | Noon – 1:30 p.m. A free three-week series, Creating Dungeons & Dragons Mini Sculptures, on June 3, 10, and 17 from Noon – 1:30pm. Tim LaFave shows how to create interesting game boards and playable structures for Dungeon and Dragon gamers, ages 15 and up. Participants will supply their own building materials, from recycled items or craft and dollar stores. Registration at 518-882-6385 is required, as class size is limited to 8 participants.

Sunday, June 4

Pollinator Palooza 

Former Oligny Garden Center, 390 Wilton-Gansevoort Rd, Gansevoort | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Sustainable Saratoga is hosting Pollinator Palooza, a native plant sale and pollinator education event. 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; however, it is often challenging to find native plants. Come and shop our selection of over 25 native plant species (cash or check preferred). 

Wildlife Festival ?

Camp Saratoga, Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton | 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Nature crafts, live animal shows, guided Karner blue Butterfly walks, pond discovery, fire tower, hands on fun, local organizations and businesses, refreshments and more! This event is free. For more information visit wiltonpreserve.org. 

2nd Annual BBQ Fundraiser ?

VFW Post 420, 190 Excelsior Ave. Saratoga Springs, 1 -4 p.m. BBQ Chicken Fundraiser for the Boys and Girls Club of the Capitol Region. Hosted by 99 Restaurant & Pub! Fresh BBQ chicken & fixings.  Raffles, 50/50 and cash bar. Rock climbing wall, corn hole, Lyricism 101 RV and much more! Tickets are $25 per person, kids under 12 free.  Buy your tickets online at BGCCCapitalArea.org/99. All are welcome. Help to support this great organization! For more information call 518-307-2120,518-598-2856 or 518-879-7777.

Adirondack Trust Company Festival of Young Artists ?

Saratoga Performing Arts Center, 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs | 2 p.m. A free community event that is presented annually at SPAC to celebrate hundreds of the Capital Region’s brightest young actors, dancers, musicians, singers, poets, and visual artists. At 2pm, SPAC’s grounds will be transformed into a festival of student pop-up performances, fine art displays, food stands, poetry slams, games & activities, and free ice cream provided by Stewart’s Shops! At 4:30 p.m., hundreds of young artists will gather to present a show-stopping concert on SPAC’s main stage, featuring large-scale productions that combine music, song, poetry, visual art, and dance.

Auditions for “The Theory of Relativity”

Saratoga Children’s Theatre, 615 Maple Ave., Suite 3, Saratoga Springs | 6 – 8 p.m. Seeking actors 18+. Through a seemingly unrelated collection of songs, scenes and monologues, The Theory of Relativity introduces a compelling array of characters experiencing the joys and heartbreaks, the liaisons and losses, the inevitability, and the wonder of human connection. Performers will be seen in the order they arrive and should prepare approximately 16 to 32 bars in the style of the show. If you are unable to attend auditions, video submissions will be accepted through the end of day on Friday, June 2.  Please send your footage to info@saratogachildrenstheatre.org. Performances: July 28 at 7:30 p.m. and July 29 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Monday, June 5

Between the Covers Romance Author Event

Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St., Saratoga Springs | 6 – 7:30 p.m. Come meet romance writers: Kari Cole, Ginny Frost, Jean C. Gordon, and Minita Sanghvi. Eat some yummy chocolate treats as we ask our Romance Panel some questions about their process and inspirations. Authors’ books will be available for purchase and autographs at the event. Please register online. www.sspl.org. 

Tuesday, June 6

Saratoga Naturally Book Signing

Jacob & Anthony’s American Grille, 38 High Rock Ave., Saratoga Springs | 5 – 7 p.m. Local author, photographer Louis Valenti’s Saratoga Naturally is a stunning nature photography book, that captures both the unique beauty and the spirit of Saratoga’s natural wonders. Saratoga Naturally features photographic images of five of Saratoga’s most beautiful parks and preserves.  A perfect page turner and beautiful book for your coffee table.

Summer Concert ?

200 Park Place, Mechanicville | 6 – 8 p.m. Sundown Express – Southern/ Classic Rock. Tunes in Talmadge sponsored by the Mechanicville Library. Live music, food and dance. 

Trivia Night: Superheroes & Comic Books

Clifton Park Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Rd., Clifton Park | 6:30 p.m. Join us for fun, prizes, and snacks. Brush up on your superhero and comic book knowledge, and be ready for anything! Come with a team or join one when you get here. For adults and teens 14+. Registration required. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org. 

Wednesday, June 7

Downsizing Seminar

The Summit at Saratoga Senior Living Community, 1 Perry Road, Saratoga Springs | 1:30 p.m

The Downsizing Seminar will feature Equitas Realty Broker Janet Besheer and Organize Senior Moves owner Lori Tracey.  Come to speak with Summit residents.  RSVP at 518-430-2136 or email cdurant@summitseniorlife.com.   

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. $15 per dinner. (cash only).  

Pickin’s Session  

Ballston Area Seniors, 310 Northline Rd. Ballston Spa | 6:30 – 9 p.m. Open to the Public, Free Admission & ample free parking. Doors open 6:00 p.m. All acoustic musicians who enjoy playing country/western, folk, gospel & bluegrass are welcome to participate. If you don’t play, become part of the audience, and enjoy the music. Bring a snack to share. Beverages provided. Call 518-885-4229 with questions.

Poetry Reading ?

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

Thursday, June 8

Poetry Café: Story Poems – Prose Poems

Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St., Saratoga Springs | 6 – 7 p.m. For June’s online poetry discussion, we will look at prose poems – those that look or sound like prose, but use poetic devices that distinguish them from the usual non-fiction writing. We’ll read works by such poets as Charles Baudelaire, Russell Edson, and Claudia Rankine in this librarian-led discussion. Please register online. www.sspl.org. 

June 2 – June 8, 2023

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Local Briefs.

New History Exhibit Opening Reception

Opening Reception, Friday, June 9, 5:30 p.m. for the new Saratoga Springs History Museum exhibit “First Saratogians: The Indigenous Peoples of the Saratoga Springs Region,” in partnership with Ndakinna Education Center, examining the history of Native Americans in the local area from prehistoric times through today, using hundreds of artifacts and photographs to tell the story. Silent Auction, Beer & Wine Cash Bar (ticket includes 1 drink), and Catered Food Stations. History Museum Members $40, Non-Members $50, all proceeds benefit the History Museum. Tickets: saratogahistory.org/events (1 E. Congress Street in the Canfield Casino in Congress Park, 518-584-6920).

Indoor and Outdoor Yard Sale and Indoor Bake Sale 

Friday, June 9 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, June 10 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Malta Ridge United Methodist Church, 729 Malta Ave Extension, Malta. Special note: For the last 2 hours on Saturday June 10, (Noon to 2 pm) fill a paper grocery bag with Yard Sale items for $5! For additional information or directions please call the Church at 518-581-0210.

10th Annual Beekman Street Art Fair

Sunday June 11, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. The Beekman Street Art Fair, Saratoga’s ever-popular kick off to summer is celebrating 10 years of bringing artists, neighbors, and visitors together in a festive art and music filled environment. The 2023 fair features artists tents, entertainment coordinated by the Ballston Spa Community Band, culinary venues, and street performers.  And thanks to CDTA, fairgoers can easily get to and from the fair via a free shuttle bus running from the Saratoga Casino to Beekman and Grand Ave. For more information and shuttle bus schedule please visit www.ArtsonBeekman.org

Round Lake House and Garden Tour

On June 10, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. a tour of houses and gardens in Round Lake Village will benefit the historic Round Lake Auditorium. Included are tiny cottages, large Victorian era and brand new custom homes. We are featuring homes that have had recent renovation/construction/restoration projects. Tickets are $30 and may be purchased in advance at RoundLakeAuditorium.org or contact Lydia.A.Hoffman@gmail.com.  

The Saratoga Jewish Cultural Festival 

The Saratoga Jewish Cultural Festival launches its 11th season this summer with a series of programs by Congregation Beth Shalom of Clifton Park, Congregation Shaara Tfille of Saratoga Springs, Chabad of Saratoga, Chabad of Clifton Park, and Temple Sinai.Offerings to the public will run from June through August and include concerts, plays, lectures, films, discussions, and outdoor family events.  The festival begins June 11 with the Annual Jewish Women’s Gala and concludes August 22 with Klezmer and Kugel. For more information, visit www.saratogajewishculturalfestival.org.

The Ballston Spa Birdhouse Festival

Sunday June 11, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rain date is June 18. The Ballston Spa Birdhouse Festival is looking for crafters and artist to participate in our Festival. The Birdhouse Festival promises to be a huge event, with over 1000 birdhouses decorating the village of Ballston Spa. It will be a huge draw for people all over the capital region. Artwork must be original and handmade. To participate send samples of your work to marklouisco@gmail.com and we’ll send you the application. 

Flag Day Parade

Join us on Wednesday, June 14 as we celebrate this special day to give thanks to those who have served or sacrificed their lives to protect the land we love and the flag we so proudly display in our homes and communities. The ceremony starts at 6:30 p.m. at Saratoga-wilton Elks Lodge #161 on the outside patio. 

The Lady Pirates of Captain Bree

Malta Spotlighter’s Theatre Troupe’s production produced by special arrangement with Pioneer Drama Services; directed by Elyse Younga. A swashbuckling musical comedy set in the 1800s aboard the merchant ship “Kayla May”, will be performed Saturday June 17 at 2 p.m. and 7p.m. and Sunday June 18 at 2 p.m. on the Malta Community Center Stage. Limited seats available: tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children and may be purchased at the Malta Community Center or www.maltaparksrec.com.  Call Malta Parks and Recreation at 518-899-4411 for additional information.

John Huppuch Memorial Kids Fishing Derby 

Hosted by The Fraternal Order of Eagles to take place on Father’s Day – Sunday, June 18 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Rain or shine at Lake Lonely at the Fraternal Order of Eagle’s property located at 373 Crescent Avenue in Saratoga Springs. Free for children 14 and under. Participants should bring their own poles – there are a few for those who need them. Bait will be supplied. Prizes will be awarded. Hot dogs, chips, beverages will be free for those in attendance and their families. Sponsors of this Annual event deserve thanks! They are: Fraternal Order of Eagles, Wilton Elks Chapter 161, SSFD, SSPD, NYS ENCON, D & D Marine, Wiggly Worm, Saratoga Today, Saratoga Basspointers.

Craft Fair – Vendors Wanted

The Saratoga County History Center is seeking vendors of handmade crafts, antiques, and farm products for the annual craft fair at Brookside Museum on Saturday, June 24, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  No mass produced or commercially manufactured products will be permitted.  Spaces are available outdoors, with limited spaces available indoors.  The fair is a rain-or-shine event. Visit https://brooksidemuseum.org/events/2022-craft-fair/ for more information, or contact Beth Silvestri at 518-885-4000 or bsilvestri@brooksidemuseum.org.

Free Fishing Days June 25 and 26

Residents and non-residents who are 16 and older* can fish without a freshwater fishing license or recreational marine fishing registration (*Kids under 16 can always fish for free!). The perfect opportunity to try out fishing for the first time, to get back into the sport, or to take a friend or the whole family along to fish! Even though a license is not needed, all other fishing regulations apply. In Saratoga County fishing gear can be borrowed from the Town of Greenfield in Greenfield Center, call 518-893-7432, or from the Waterford Public Library, call 518-237-0891. More information, visit https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/44804.html, or Google – NY DEC Learn to Fish.

Energy Workshops for Teens/Adults

Sunday, June 25, 2023 (also 7/30 and 8/27)

SR at Wellness Center at Roosevelt II, Saratoga State Park, 37 Roosevelt Dr., Saratoga Springs

Feeling stressed?  Tired and drained?  Looking for ways to stay healthy?  Dr. Kate Kellman, DMQ, PhD & Linda Davin are presenting Workshops to teach people how to manage their energy with Chinese Medicine.  Ancient cultures have worked with it for 5,000 years.  Would you like to learn to work with yours?  Take one, two, or all three Workshops (Ages 15+)!  Cost: $135/Workshop or $380/all three.  Register at:  www.deep-connections.com  (518) 775-7798.

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

Clifton Park Senior Community Center Gallery, 6 Clifton Commons Ct., and SSAS will be hosting an exhibit during the months of June and July featuring the work of artist Frank Coletta. His artwork will include realistic landscape drawings in pen and ink depicting the beauty of the Hudson Valley area and flower drawings in colored pencil and ink. Mr. Coletta is an accomplished artist who has shown nationally and locally. The Mechanicville Library, 190 N. Main Street, will host artist Bill Daisak during June, July and August. For further information about SSAS visit our website: southernsaratogaartist.com or check us out on Facebook.

“Pasta la vista, Baby”

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Food.

Hello  my Foodie Friends!  I love Pasta. There, I said it. It is a weakness I have. Homemade pasta is a bigger weakness. Once you experience homemade pasta, it is close to impossible to go back to the store brand pastas. Making homemade pasta can require extra time – but it is worth it. If you haven’t ventured past the convenience of dried pasta, it’s time to make some changes in your life. We have nothing against dried pasta — there is definitely a time and a place for it, and in fact, sometimes there’s nothing better for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. If you’ve ever tried homemade pasta, however, you understand what pasta is really all about. Homemade pasta is a little chewy and very tender; it really does just melt in your mouth. It may sound difficult, but making your own pasta is actually much easier than you might think. Fresh pasta comes together quite quickly. Mixing and kneading the dough takes about 10 minutes, then you let it rest for 30 minutes. You can use this resting time to pull together the ingredients for the pasta sauce. After resting, rolling out and cutting the dough takes maybe another 10 to 20 minutes, depending on how fast you go and how many helpers you have.

Speaking of helpers, it helps to have a few. You can definitely do it by yourself, but it’s really nice to have an extra set of hands, especially if you’re hand-cranking the dough through a counter-top pasta roller. Whether working by yourself or with someone else, I find that you fall into a rhythm of rolling the sheets of pasta, cutting the noodles, and sprinkling everything with flour.

Once you’ve made your pasta, you can cook it right away, dry it, or freeze it for later. When you do cook it, remember that homemade pasta cooks much more quickly than the dried pasta you buy in stores. Give it about four minutes in salted boiling water, taste it, and keep checking in one-minute increments until the pasta is al dente. Add spinach or carrots to create colorful pastas; the dough contains very concentrated vegetable juices, but they don’t have an overt vegetable taste. They are delicious, and I am pretty sure they could still pass a picky-eaters’ taste test. Unless the picky-eater hates colors. 

Note: The name of the game at this point is to keep everything well-floured to prevent the pasta from sticking to itself or the roller as you work. If the dough starts to feel sticky as you roll it, sprinkle it with flour. Also sprinkle flour on any pasta you’re not working (rolled, cut or otherwise) with and keep it covered with a dishtowel.

Stop by Compliments to the Chef, your Neighborhood Kitchen and Cutlery located at 33 Railroad Place store to pick up a Pasta machine and other pasta accessories. Work your magic in the kitchen. Enjoy dinner al fresco (Caesar salad, bread, pasta, chicken Marsala, tiramisu for dessert and, of course, finished with home-made limoncello) and share an evening with great company and interesting conversation – all the ingredients for a truly memorable meal. Remember my Foodie Friends; “Life Happens in the Kitchen!” “Mangia!”

Take Care, John & Paula

Ballston Spa Students Compete at Regional Envirothon Competition

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

BALLSTON SPA — The members of the Ballston Spa High School Envirothon Team recently competed in the Saratoga Regional Envirothon Competition at the Saratoga County Fairgrounds. The event was held in-person this year after being held virtually during the pandemic and COVID-19 restrictions. The team placed first in the Aquatics and Forestry categories, and second overall in the county.

Team members are Henry LaBarge, Cameron McKay, Allie Hunter, Jestin Ratti, and Asa Coleman. The team was coached by Ballston Spa High School Science instructor Mrs. Karin Marcotullio.

“The NYS Envirothon is an excellent opportunity for our students to apply their knowledge and skills to problems within our environment that need – perhaps desperately need – our attention and the attention of our next generation of scientists,” indicated Ballston Spa K-12 STEM Coordinator Diane Irwin.

The NY State Envirothon, sponsored by the New York State Soil and Water Conservation Districts, is designed to test students’ knowledge and understanding of natural resource issues within New York State. It also strives to cultivate students’ desire to learn more about our natural resources and environmental issues.

Envirothon activities begin locally with teams of five 9th through 12th grade students competing for their County Envirothon title. Local competitions are sponsored by their Conservation Districts, with a helping hand from local environmental recreational civic groups and businesses. County winners then move on to the state contest where their knowledge is challenged in five areas: aquatic ecology, forestry, soils & land use, wildlife, and a current environmental issue. 

For more information, please visit www.nysenvirothon.org.

Maple Ave Middle School premieres ‘The Gift Forever Ours’ In Honor of Longtime Music Teacher ‘Ro’ Koch

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

Photos by Super Source Media Studios.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Maple Avenue Middle School honored longtime band teacher Rose Marie ‘Ro’ Koch on Thursday, hosting a concert at Trombley Auditorium in Koch’s memory.

Koch taught in the district from 1977 to 2008 and passed away in 2009. The concert was highlighted by the sixth-grade band’s performance of “The Gift Forever Ours,” the world premiere of a piece commissioned by Koch’s sister, Lynne Cooke, in her honor.

Jonathan Doyle, music teacher at Maple Avenue Middle School, said he was first taught by Koch at age six, and said the concert was “a good way to honor her memory.”

“She was a sixth-grade band teacher herself, so we just figured that would be a good way to honor her memory and celebrate her life in that regard,” said Doyle. 

Doyle said he also took piano and clarinet lessons with Koch. He eventually began working alongside Koch after being hired as a music teacher at Maple Ave in 2003.

“So she was my piano and band teacher for several years, and then in 2003, I came up to interview for a position in the school here, and she was on the committee that was interviewing me,” Doyle said. “She gave me a huge hug when I came in the building, and when I got the job, we were working together.”

Doyle’s experience was just one of “thousands” of students who were influenced by Koch and her love of music. Doyle said Koch taught elementary band lessons, traveling to various elementary schools in the district, before becoming the sixth-grade band teacher at Maple Ave when it originally opened.

Koch established the Saratoga Schools Low Brass Club, and traveled often, visiting more than 40 countries. She was also a passionate Girl Scout leader and volunteer, and was a recipient of the Thanks Badge, the highest volunteer honor in Girl Scouts.

“Easily thousands of kids had her, either as a band teacher or general music teacher,” said Doyle. “She just always had this very friendly and joyful way about her. A great laugh, always encouraging. Just trying to get kids to really have fun with music and really love it.”

He said Koch was remembered by colleagues as being “very generous of spirit and laughter,” saying several retired co-workers returned to attend the concert.

Doyle said students were excited to perform the piece, saying it is “a gorgeous piece of music.”

“The first time I heard it, it was just a computer recording, but I could see the potential in it,” said Doyle. “Once we started playing it with the whole band, and got all the pieces together, it’s a fantastic piece.”

Doyle also stressed that his students worked “really hard” to bring the performance to life.

“They’re very excited about the fact that they are premiering a piece that has never been performed anywhere else in the world,” said Doyle prior to Thursday’s performance. “The whole idea of this world premiere is very exciting for them.”

Doyle said that ultimately, he feels the concert was his way of repaying Koch for helping guide him on his current path.

“If it wasn’t for her pushing me to always be a better musician, and supporting me through college and through my career, I would not be here right now,” Doyle said. “I see this as my culmination of being able to tell her, ‘Thank you so much for giving me an incredible role model.’”