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Author: Saratoga TODAY

Billy Cole – “With the Band, Memoirs of a Music Shop Owner” Book Signing June 23

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Billy Cole, longtime owner of Cole’s Woodwind Shop currently on Phila Street will be featured in a book signing 6 – 8 p.m. on Friday, June 23 at Impressions of Saratoga, 368 Broadway.  

Cole’s book “With the Band, Memoirs of a Music Shop Owner,” includes stories of his nearly 50 years in the music business and of being a personal friend and respected repairman to some of the top musicians in the industry.

June 23 – June 29, 2023

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Local Briefs.

Fish Fry Friday 

Knights of Columbus Council #246, located at 50 Pine Rd., Saratoga Springs, will be hosting Fish Fry Friday on June 30, from 5 – 7 p.m. This event will require advance call-in of orders on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday of that week between the hours of noon and 3 p.m. Call 518-584-8547 to place your order or for more information. A set number of orders will be scheduled for pickup at 5 p.m. and at intervals of every 15 minutes thereafter until sold out, so make sure to schedule early. As always, thank you for your support and helping us to continue our good works in the community.

Yoga in the State Park Summer Classes

Join us June, July, and August for weekly Yoga in the Spa State Park Summer classes. Classes are donation based and are held under the brick arches of the Park and Recreation Administration Pavilion (behind the Spa Little Theater). Bring your mat and yoga props. We do have mats and blocks available.  For more information and our summer class schedule, Visit our Facebook page, Yoga in Spa State Park. Email Amy DeLuca for more information acddesigner@gmail.com. 

Donations Wanted

The Old Stone Church is accepting donations for its annual lawn sale at 159 Stone Church Road, Ballston Spa, NY. Donations can be left in the back on the ramp. Accepting Household Items and Clothing. NO Mattresses, Car Seats, Exercise Equipment, TV’s, Old Phones, Cribs, Bassinets, Golf Clubs, Bowling Balls or Skis. Call Ann @ 518-885-4034 for more information.

28th Annual Saratoga Soroptimist Secret Gardens Tour

A dozen gardens in varying sizes and styles in Saratoga Springs and Wilton are featured 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 9. 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.

21st Anniversary “Blackjack” Gala 

The Saratoga Automobile Museum is thrilled to announce its highly anticipated 21st Anniversary “Blackjack” Gala, set to take place on July 2, 7 – 11 p.m. at the museum located at 110 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs. This momentous event promises an incredible evening of celebration, entertainment, and philanthropy, all in support of the museum’s mission to promote community, automobile education and safety. To purchase tickets or explore sponsorship opportunities visit www.saratogaautomuseum.org/ Interested individuals are encouraged to reach out to Megan Hennessey at 518.401.5185 or email megan@saratogaautomuseum.org.

The Camp Saratoga 5K Trail Series 

Held at 6:15 p.m. Monday evenings in August—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

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.

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 email sheim381@aol.com

June 23 – June 29, 2023

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Calendar.

Friday, June 23

Summer Reading Club ?

Ballston Spa Public Library, 21 Milton Ave., Ballston Spa

Children, teens and adults featuring the theme, “All Together Now.” In addition to fun, free programs, BSPL is hosting self-guided Summer Reading Challenges for all ages that allow readers to track their reading and earn prizes. The reading portion of the program serves as a great way to keep young minds active and help prevent a summer slide in academic performance. Program registration may be done over the phone or by stopping in. Reading club registrations must be done in person. For more information about the Ballston Spa Public Library summer programs, stop in, call 518-885-5022 or visit bspl.sals.edu. 

Saturday, June 24

Brookside Craft Fair ? 

Brookside Museum,
21 Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa

10 a.m. – 3 p.m. | This county-wide craft fair is a family-friendly free event. Guests will be able to shop a wide variety of locally handcrafted collectibles, antiques, and farm products. No mass-produced or commercially made items will be permitted. This is a terrific opportunity for New Yorkers to sample and appreciate the best of upstate artisans, farmers, and culinarians. The event is free and open to the public, and will be held rain or shine. brooksidemuseum.org/event/2023-brookside-craft-fair/

Medicare Basics Seminar

Ballston Spa Public Library,
21 Milton Ave., Ballston Spa
1 p.m. | Free event led by licensed agent, William Henderson. Mr. Henderson will address Medicare Parts A, B, C and D, if the Original Medicare is enough health coverage, if all prescriptions are covered, the cost and how to find help paying and enrollment deadlines. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, please call 518-885-5022 or visit bspl.sals.edu. 

Forester Family Gospel Group ?

Middle Grove United Methodist Church, 429 Middle Grove Rd., Middle Grove | 6 p.m.
This is a free event, but a love offering will be taken. 

Sunday, June 25

Second Annual Summer Kickoff Festival ?

Wiswall Park, Ballston Spa

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Creating a festive mood to welcome the summer season, this event features vendors, creatives, services, and entrepreneurs based in the Capital Region and surrounding areas. 30+ vendors selling baked goods, specialty foods, clothing, handmade gifts, jewelry as well as promoting local services including pet boarding, home needs, childcare, child development education and more! The Kids’ Free Activity Tent will have a yoga class, face painting, surprise visits from special characters, as well as bubble and water play stations. Rain date will be Sunday, July 9.

Summer Sunday Stroll ?

Meet: Canfield Casino,
Congress Park, 1 E. Congress St., Saratoga Springs | 10:30 a.m. 

Charlie Kuenzel will lead the “Historic Congress Park” Summer Stroll. Explore the historic landscape architecture of Congress Park, the early springs, and other facets of Saratoga history. 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. 

Energy Workshops for Teens/Adults

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+)! Also, on July 30 and August 27. Cost: $135/Workshop or $380/all three. Register at: www.deep-connections.com 518-775-7798.

Lake Smart ?

Dock Brown’s Tent at
Browns Beach, 512 Route 9p, Saratoga Springs

11:30 a.m.– 2 p.m. | Enjoy dock Brown’s Food Truck, meet your neighbors in the Saratoga Lake community, learn about Saratoga Lake ecology, fishing population, and tournaments, and meet your Marine patrol. Presentations by the Saratoga Lake Protection and Improvement District, Saratoga County Sheriff Marine Patrol on specific laws to Saratoga Lake. Saratoga Tackle and Archery on Saratoga Lakes fish population, regulations, and tips for professional and amateur anglers and local fish tournaments. Free raffle prizes from local businesses, must be present to win.

Free Fishing Days ?

Residents and non-residents who are 16 and older* can fish on June 25 and 26 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 www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/44804.html, or Google – NY DEC Learn to Fish.

Monday, June 26

“Stellar – Shine Jesus’ Light” Vacation Bible School ?

St. Paul’s Lutheran Church,
149 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs

9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 

June 26 – June 30 

Give your children a week of positive, Christ-centered experiences, grow their faith, and build meaningful relationships! Each day your child will come home with a big smile, a stronger faith, and singing their hearts out with the songs that they will be learning each day! There will be snacks, crafts, games, and skits, too. There are opportunities for children, youth, and adults, so go to www.spalutheran.org/vbs or call 518-584-0904 for more info and to sign up. Free and open to all, donations are appreciated. 

Mahjongg Games 

Galway Public Library,
2112 East St. Galway | Noon

The library hosts Mahjongg games each Monday. Players are requested to register at 518-882-6385. More information about all library programs is available at www.galwaypubliclibrary.org. 

Southern Saratoga Art Society Demonstration

Clifton Park Senior Community Center, 6 Clifton Commons Ct., Clifton Park | 6:30 p.m.
Corey Pitkin will be doing a Pastel demonstration.  Corey’s beautiful and memorable artwork features the precision of the old masters paired with uniquely emotional subjects. His award-winning work has been featured in both national and international publications and he is a Signature Member of the Pastel Society of America. For more information, please visit his website: www.coreypitkin.com. This meeting is open to the public and all are invited.

Tuesday, June 27

Tween Positive Self-Talk and Affirmation Boxes

Galway Public Library,
2112 East St. Galway | 1 p.m. Stacey Kozak, M.S. Ed Life Transition and Mindful Parenting Coach, leads this program for ages 11-14. This is one of the many activities available for children of all ages as part of the library’s Summer Reading Program, which runs from June 24 – August 12, with the theme of “All Together Now.” Registration is required at 518-882-6385. A calendar of all Summer Reading Program events is available at www.galwaypubliclibrary.org.

Free Rabies Clinic

4-H Training Center,
556 Middleline Rd., Ballston Spa

Times are strictly enforced: Cats 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.; Ferrets 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. (must be in a cage/carrier), and Dogs 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. (must be on leash). Vaccination certificates are written for one year. If a previous signed certificate is produced, a 3-year certificate will be written. For questions, call the Saratoga Animal Shelter at 518-885-4113. 

Revolution on the Hudson ?

Halfmoon Lighthouse Park,
597 Hudson River Rd., Halfmoon 6 p.m. | Living Historians: 24th Regiment of Foot Speakers: Sean Kelleher, “Incident at Jones Mill” Don Carola, “Sanbun Ford: Forgotten Patriot Rediscovered” and Rick Reynolds, “Joe Bettys: Patriot and Traitor.” 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.

Pressure Canning Vegetables, Meat and Soup

Cornell Cooperative Extension Office, 50 West High Street, Ballston Spa | 6 – 9 p.m.

Learn how to safely can low-acid foods, such as vegetables, meat, and soups in a pressure canner. In this hands-on workshop we’ll can green beans and learn about the different types of pressure canners. Includes tasting of canned beef. Class Fee is $15. Class size limited to 20. Pre-register by calling 518-885-8995.

Wednesday, June 28

Salisbury Steak 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: Salisbury steak, mushroom burgundy gravy, mashed potatoes, vegetable, salad, roll. $15 per dinner. (cash only). 

Galway Photography Club 

Galway Public Library, Community Room, 2112 East Street, Galway | 6 p.m. This month Dave Waite will be presenting “Following Rte. 30: Mayfield to Debar Pond.” Drawing from his Adirondack photo collection, Dave will take you through the Adirondacks, highlighting some of his favorite destinations while sharing his experiences as well as the history of these places, including Mason Lake, the Cedar River Flow, and Lake Lila. Anyone interested in photography regardless of their level of experience is encouraged to attend these relaxed and friendly gatherings. For more information contact: Dave Waite at davewaitefinearts@gmail.com

Thursday, June 29

The Story Behind Burke Funeral Home

The Saratoga Springs History Museum, 1 E. Congress St. Canfield Casino, Congress Park | 7 p.m. The rich history of Saratoga’s oldest continuously operating funeral home: William J. Burke and Sons, established 1893. Speakers Carol Godette, Mark Phillips and Jacqueline Bunge will discuss Victorian-era mourning and funeral customs, William Burke’s involvement in the embalming of President Grant, and more. Historic images and artifacts from the speakers’ private collections will illustrate the talk. Admission: Free for History Museum Members, $10 for non-Members. Tickets and details: www.saratogahistory.org/events 518-584-6920. 

School Librarian of the Year & Administrator of the Year Awards

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — WSWHE BOCES School Library Services presented their annual School Librarian of the Year and Administrator of the Year awards on June 8.


Administrator of the Year and School Librarian of the Year award winners with colleagues. Far left, Al Mattice with award. Center with award, Sheila McIntyre (Photo provided by WSWHE BOCES).

This year’s recipient of the School Library System Administrator of the Year Award is the Ballston Spa High School Assistant Principal, Al Mattice, nominated by Sarah Gunner Moorfoot. 

“Mr. Mattice always listens to concerns and is thoughtful and measured in his responses. When we have had to discuss challenging issues (such as parental objections to library materials), he has been steadfast in his support of our students’ right to information and has taken the time to read and understand our updated district board policy on library materials and objection to instructional materials and controversial issues. I have been fortunate in so many things this year as a first-year librarian–and [this principal] is a huge reason why my first year has been such a joyful learning experience. He has been a sounding board, a teacher, a leader, and a friend for me and the library this year. I believe that Al deserves to be recognized for the hard work he has done this year and for the support he has provided the library,” stated Sarah Gunner Moorfoot.

This year’s recipient of the School Library System School Librarian of the Year Award is Milton Terrace Elementary School Librarian Mrs. Sheila McIntyre, nominated by Dr. Kathleen Chaucer and others.

Mrs. McIntyre’s Award nomination included statements from a total of ten administrators, teachers, and students. A few of the comments were:

• “[Mrs. McIntyre] is the heart and soul of our school community, a total class act, and I am honored to call her a colleague.”

• “She is a fierce advocate for our students and is able to establish rapport with our most challenging students. She loves the children who feel unloved, meets the children who feel unreachable, and gets to know our students so well that she is able to anticipate and recognize their needs.”

• “She plants, cultivates and nurtures the love of reading as well as supporting all aspects of learning to read for all members of her school community. We love her beyond measure, are grateful for her leadership at the building, district, and professional level, and are excited to nominate her for this award.”

Lake Ave Students Participate in New York DAR Flag Essay Contest

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

Photo provided.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — In remembrance of Flag Day, the Saratoga Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution had over 60 essays to read about “What does the American Flag mean to me?” for the New York DAR Flag Essay Contest.

The winner was Marin Tolosky. Second place was Avery Nowicki, third place was Riley Gorman, and Airame Rivers earned honorable mention. All students attend Lake Avenue Elementary School. Cindy Hollowood, Vice Regent presented the winners with certificates and checks.

Saratoga Springs Lions Club Awards $30,000 in Scholarships 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

Logo provided

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Six scholarships totaling $30,000 will be awarded to six graduating Saratoga Springs High School seniors by the Saratoga Springs Lions Club.

The $10,000 Jack Berkowitz Memorial Scholarship will go to Gregory Duke McCauley of Saratoga Springs. Gregory was selected for the highest award based on his academic achievements as well as his commitment to community service. He will study engineering at Clarkson University.

Kristen Eyer of Gansevoort and Catherine Kelly of Saratoga Springs will each receive a $5,000 academic scholarship. Eyer will study biochemistry with the goal of becoming an ophthalmologist. Kelly will study marketing and sports management.

Victor Santabar of Greenfield Center will receive the $5,000 Continuing Technical Education Scholarship. A senior at Saratoga Springs High School and BOCES, where he studied small animal science, he will major in zoology with the goal of becoming a zoologist/wildlife biologist.

Ciara Meyer of Saratoga Springs will receive a $2,500 academic scholarship. She will major in English with the goal of a career in law or journalism.

The $2,500 Leos Scholarship will be given to Isabelle Savage of Wilton, an active participant in numerous community service projects and a member of the Saratoga Springs Leos Club, the high school branch of the Saratoga Springs Lions Club. She will study nanoscale engineering.

Formal presentation of the scholarships took place at the June 22 luncheon of the Saratoga Springs Lions Club at Mama Mia’s Restaurant, Saratoga Springs.

Galway Central School District Announces Top 10 Students

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

GALWAY — Galway Central School Junior/Senior High School Principal Michael Miller has announced the Top 10 students of the Class of 2023.

Sara Conti, daughter of Marie and Joseph Conti of Galway, is the valedictorian of the class of 2023. Sara is the head editor of Eagles Media Center (EMC) and Impressions Literary Magazine, president of the Robotics Club, and vice president of Science Club. She served as treasurer of National Honor Society, and as an anchor on Galway TV (GTV). She has played volleyball since eighth grade, and joined the varsity track team her senior year. Sara plays the flute in the Galway High School Band, and has had multiple poems published in various anthologies. She plans to attend Hamilton College to pursue a degree in physics.

Sydney Kress, daughter of Shanon and Erich Kress of Amsterdam, is the salutatorian of the Class of 2023. Sydney dedicated most of her time to academic endeavors throughout her high school career. She began taking several college courses at the end of her junior year through various colleges. In the fall of this past year, she pursued Early College Admission at Fulton-Montgomery Community College, attending full time during her senior year. Sydney has been an avid member of the Senior High Band, participating in Pep Band, Jazz Band, Marching Band, and exploring solo opportunities through NYSSMA. She was also a member of the National Honor Society. She will be attending Russell Sage College in the fall, majoring in biology with a pre-med concentration in hopes of becoming a specialized surgeon.

Following is a list of Galway CSD’s Top 10 students for the Class of 2023, including their future college and major:

• Emma Jordan (Rochester Institute of Technology, electrical engineering with a focus on clean and renewable energy)

• Abigail Ehrenberg (American University, international relations)

• Thomas Villano III (United States Military Academy at West Point, life science or kinesiology, pre-med track)

• Stephanie Martin (SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, environmental resource engineering)

• Joshua Lovelass (Coastal Carolina University, professional golf management)

• Sophia Fasolino (University of Tampa, biochemistry, pre-med track)

• Kerringtyn Davis (The College of St. Rose, forensic psychology)

• Jayden DeVellis (Keuka College, nursing)

New Recruitment Campaign Targets Visitors to Support Local Employers

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Saratoga County Capital Resource Corporation, launched a new marketing campaign on May 15 aimed at attracting new talent to the region.

‘Live Like You’re On Vacation’ is a multi-faceted recruitment campaign geared toward tourists who already love visiting this region and professionals considering relocation. The campaign highlights the three regions – Saratoga, the Adirondacks, and Lake George – in an effort to showcase the variety of opportunities available to residents.

“When you live in the Saratoga, Adirondack, and Lake George region, you are truly living like you’re on vacation,” said Todd Shimkus, President of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce. “From historic horse racing to millions of acres of protected forests to the Queen of American lakes, we have all of this – and much more – right in our backyard.”

The Chambers will work collaboratively with local employers looking to hire staff from outside of the region. The materials, including a brochure and videos created in partnership with Trampoline Design of Glens Falls, will help provide a glimpse of what living in the region looks like along with highlighting some of the main attractions that make it so special.

“We know that people love to come visit this region, and we benefit greatly from tourists who want to experience first-hand what we have to offer,” said Tricia Rogers, President of the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce. “But imagine if those tourists became permanent residents. It not only benefits the area economically, but it also expands and grows our communities.”

The ‘Live Like You’re On Vacation’ campaign will run for the remainder of the year with plans to spotlight the region seasonally, promoting the wide variety of options residents have in this four-season destination.

The campaign was created with assistance of the Saratoga County Capital Resource Corporation and a matching grant from National Grid, through the New York State Public Service Commission approved Economic Development Plan.

“The mission of the Saratoga County Capital Resource Corporation includes undertaking projects for the purposes of encouraging the development of, or retention of, employers in Saratoga County,” noted Matthew Veitch, Chair of the Corporation’s Board. “No doubt the region’s employers are challenged by the historic labor shortage we now face, and our hope is that some of the people we know love to visit here will be motivated by this campaign to relocate here along with their families so we can perhaps fill some of these open jobs.”

Make-A-Wish Northeast New York Relocating to Saratoga

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Neighborhood Buzz.

Photo by Make-A-Wish Northeast New York.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Make-A-Wish Northeast New York has announced it will relocate its office to Saratoga Springs this summer.

Located in downtown Saratoga, right off Broadway, the new home will serve as the heart of Make-A-Wish Northeast New York’s community of wish families, volunteers, and staff. Saratoga, with its cultural heritage, beautiful scenery, and abundant recreational opportunities, provides an ideal stage for creating inspirational wish experiences for children with critical illnesses, their families, and the people that love them. 

“On behalf of all Saratogians, I extend a joyful welcome to Make-A-Wish Northeast New York.” said Saratoga Springs Mayor Ron Kim in a press release. “We are thrilled they have chosen Saratoga Springs as their new home to pursue their all-important mission of making dreams come true to children and their families.”

“The opportunities afforded to us by this community will bring magic to wishes as we give families the unforgettable experiences that only Make-A-Wish can provide.” said Jamie Hathaway, Interim President & CEO of Make-A-Wish Northeast New York, in the release. “We look forward to creating new partnerships with like-minded organizations, businesses, and donors as our program enters a new era in the Saratoga Region.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Make-A-Wish to our neighborhood,” said Sarah Smith, Executive Director of The Children’s Museum of Saratoga, in the release. “The Museum serves the children of the Capital Region but makes it our goal to reach the children who need us the most. We look forward to working with Make-A-Wish children, families, and staff to help make their wish experience inspirational and life-changing. I am a Wish mom, so I know how important it is.”

New Restaurant, 42 Fusion, Opens in Ballston Spa

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.

Photo by Dylan McGlynn.

BALLSTON SPA — A new restaurant has opened its doors on Front Street in Ballston Spa, with the introduction of 42 Fusion, a Mexican-Italian fusion eatery.

The restaurant is co-owned by Faustino Lopez, who is also the chef, and Alicia Halse. Lopez said it is his first venture as a restaurant owner after working in a variety of restaurants in the area.

Lopez is a native of Mexico who has lived in the United States for about 17 years, he said. He also has experience working in Italian restaurants, saying 42 Fusion is a combination of the two cuisines.

“I’ve worked in more Italian restaurants and all that kind of stuff, and I’m from Mexico,” said Lopez. “We try to do those two combinations of Mexican and Italian. We try to create new dishes, invent new dishes, so everybody can try it.”

42 Fusion is open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., offering lunch and dinner options. Lopez mentioned quesadillas and paninis as lunch options, and the restaurant also offers a variety of salads, tacos, and pastas, as well as options such as gnocchi, chicken milanese, short ribs, and more, according to their menu.

“We tried to create a lunch menu, just fairly simple, quick and delicious,” said Lopez. “And dinner is going to be more romantic, more fine dinner.”

The restaurant is located at 42 Front Street, the former home of Sunset Café. Halse said the group moving into the space was a result of “perfect” timing.

“All of the spaces on Front Street have been occupied for a long time, so to find something like this, we were just really lucky,” Halse said. “To be right across from the park, where they do live events, they do parades, they do car shows, they do so many things. It was just a no-brainer, when we saw it.”

Prior to opening, however, Lopez and Halse had to fully renovate the interior of the restaurant.

“We had to do all the inside work,” said Lopez. “It took us about three months.”

“And being a small business, you’ve got to save money and time where you can,” Halse added. “So it was just us doing everything. Stripping the paint, doing the floors or ceiling tiles or light fixtures.”

The restaurant launched a soft opening in late May, with Lopez saying business has been going “pretty well.” Halse said they hope to hold a formal grand opening ceremony in mid-July.

“I think a lot of people are coming in right now,” Lopez said.

The two said it is meaningful to be open and receive positive feedback from the local community. Lopez, who lives in Saratoga Springs, said he hopes 42 Fusion can help draw more people into Ballston Spa.

“We put a lot of time into this place,” said Lopez. “I really like Ballston Spa. I think it’s a nice area to be in the restaurant business. I want to bring more people into the village.”

“When you put so much work into something, it just makes you that much prouder to see it actually flourish,” Halse said.