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Author: Saratoga TODAY

Susie Kane-Kettlewell Solo Show Opens May 26


Works by Susie Kane-Kettlewell.

SALEM — The Historic Courthouse Gallery in Salem hosts Susie Kane-Kettlewell in her solo show, Evolution: Retrospective and New Art. 

Her non-representational images, now described as Late Modern, are the product of many years of observation, trial, error and experimentation since leaving the University of Ulster at Belfast, Northern Ireland where she studied Fine Art and received a Bachelor of Honors degree. Prior to her studies at University, she was a watercolorist and finds that Alcohol Inks have a similar quality of translucency allowing for constant toning of paint and expressionist depth creating an aura of tension and dynamism. Her new works are priced to sell.   

The show opens Friday, May 26 with an Opening Reception from 5 – 7 p.m. and closes June 25. Located at 58 East Broadway, Salem. Go to: salemcourthouse.org

The Tang – A 2023 Blue Star Museum: Free Admission for Military Personnel and Their Families All Summer

SARATOGA SPRINGS —The Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery at Skidmore College is joining museums in the Capital Region and around the country in the Blue Star Museums initiative, a program that provides free admission to currently-serving U.S. military personnel and their families this summer. 

The 2023 program will begin on Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 20, and end on Labor Day. Find the list of participating museums at www.arts.gov/bluestarmuseums.

Blue Star Museums is a partnership between the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families, in collaboration with the Department of Defense and participating museums across America.

The free admission program is available for those currently serving in the United States Military—Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, and Space Force, members of the Reserves, National Guard, U.S. Public Health Commissioned Corps, NOAA Commissioned Corps, and up to five family members. Qualified members must show a Geneva Convention common access card (CAC), DD Form 1173 ID card (dependent ID), DD Form 1173-1 ID card or the Next Generation Uniformed Services (Real) ID card for entrance into a participating Blue Star Museum.

The Tang Museum is open to the public on Thursday from 12 to 9 p.m. and Friday – Sunday from 12 to 5 p.m. tang.skidmore.edu

Ain’t Too Proud: The Life & Times of  The Temptations at Proctors 

SCHENECTADY — The first national tour of “Ain’t Too Proud – The Life And Times Of The Temptations,” the new Broadway smash hit musical will play Proctors in Schenectady Tuesday, May 23 through Sunday, May 28.    

Ain’t Too Proud… follows The Temptations’ extraordinary journey that began on the streets of Detroit. With signature dance moves and unmistakable harmonies, they rose to the top of the charts creating 42 Top Ten Hits with 14 reaching number one and being voted the greatest R&B group of all time by Billboard Magazine in 2017. 

The rest is history — how they met, the groundbreaking heights they hit, and how personal and political conflicts threatened to tear the group apart as the United States fell into civil unrest. This story of brotherhood, family, loyalty, and betrayal is set to the beat of the group’s treasured hits, including “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination,” “Get Ready,” “Papa Was a Rolling Stone,” and many more. 

Tickets are available through the Box Office at Proctors in-person, via phone at 518-346-6204 Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. or online at proctors.org. Groups of 10 or more can get their tickets by calling 518-382-3884 ext. 139. 

Saratoga Studio Announces Success at National Dance Competition, Open House Party May 21

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Celebrating Fred Astaire’s birthday, who would have been 124 years of age, Fred Astaire Dance Studios (FADS) in Saratoga Springs commemorates Astaire’s legacy by announcing the success of some of their students who participated in the 2023 Fred Astaire Cross Country Dance Championship in Boston, MA last month.

“Our students come from many different backgrounds but are all amazing dancers once their feet hit the floor,” said Grey and Elizabeth Masko, Co-Owners, FADS Saratoga Springs. “We’re so proud to see them earn these rankings on the national level after working so hard in our studio; they performed with such passion.”

Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Saratoga Springs will be celebrating their sixth anniversary of opening with an open house party from 1 – 4 p.m. on Sunday, May 21. Located at 3257 Route 9.  

The party will kick off with a champagne toast, followed by general dancing and student/teacher performances. The event will close with a professional show featuring FADS Saratoga Springs Professional Dancers. 

The event is free and open to the public. The studio can be reached at 518-587-0300. For more information about Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Saratoga Springs, visit fredastaire.com/saratoga-springs.

The Egg Announces 2023 Concerts: Judy Collins, Aimee Mann, Steve Hackett

ALBANY — The Egg has announced a series of performances and shows to mark its 2023 concert series.

Details of the performances are as follows:

An Evening with Judy Collins – Saturday, July 15. $49.50, $59.50. Over the last half a century, the legendary Judy Collins has thrilled audiences worldwide with her unique blend of interpretive folk songs and contemporary themes – a modern day Renaissance woman who continues to create music of hope and healing that lights up the world. Collins returns to The Egg to perform her greatest hits.

Gaelic Storm – Friday, June 16. $39.50, $34.50. Since their performance in the 1997 feature film “Titanic” catapulted Gaelic Storm to international acclaim, the band has remained one of the world’s foremost Celtic fusion bands. 

Aimee Mann – Monday, July 24. $59.50, $49.50, $39.50, $34.50. From her work in the 80’s with MTV favorite Til Tuesday and her acclaimed solo discs in the 90s to her Grammy award winning soundtrack to Magnolia in the 2000s, Aimee Mann is one of the most celebrated and insightful singer/songwriters of her generation – not mired in the traditional business of strictly writing love songs, but more prone toward diving into the vast majority of human interactions that almost never get a song written about them. Singer/songwriter Jonathan Coulton opens the show.

Steve Hackett – Tuesday, Oct. 10. $69.50, $59.50, $49.50, $39.50. Former Genesis guitarist Steve Hackett reignites the passion, drama and sheer musical mastery of the band’s classic lineup. This year, Hackett revisits the classic Genesis album Foxtrot which, in 1972, was pivotal in establishing the band as a major force in British rock – as well performing works from his solo career.

Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives – Thursday, Nov. 16. $49.50, $59.50, VIP: $200. Grammy award-winning singer, songwriter, and musician Marty Stuart is living, breathing country music history. One of the most eclectic country artists to rise to stardom in the ‘80s – and remaining there to this day, 

Tickets are on sale online at www.theegg.org or by telephone at 518-473-1845, or in person at The Egg Box Office Monday – Friday from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. 

May 19 – May 25, 2023

The Memorial Tour of Requiem: What Remains is Love by Maria Riccio Bryce

What Remains is Love celebrates the mystery, honors the faith, mourns the loss, and sings the glory of invincible love.  It is a perfect event to experience over the Memorial Day weekend in our shared time of remembrance. Friday, May 26, 7 p.m., at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Hackett Blvd., Albany. Saturday, May 27 at 7 p.m., at First Reformed Church, 8 N. Church St., Schenectady. Sunday, May 28 at 3 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, Guy Park Ave., Amsterdam. A Freewill offering will be gratefully accepted.

Annual Memorial Day Parade

Please join us on Saturday, May 27. Honor the memory of those U. S. servicemen and servicewomen who have passed away. The parade begins at 9 a.m. across from Carousel Village and continues with a pause for a ceremony at the Kayderosseras Creek bridge then continue along Milton Avenue to Front Street where the parade proceeds to the Civil War Monument, turning onto Low Street to Veterans Park. Hosted by the Village of Ballston Spa, Henry Cornell American Legion Post #234 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #358, the schedule includes the Placing of Wreaths, a rifle salute, Invocation, Memorial Day address. Remarks from Grand Marshal, a reading of the Gettysburg Address, Flag Raising at Veterans Park, TAPS, Closing Benediction, followed by a reception in Wiswall Park.

Voter Registration

The League of Women Voters of Saratoga County will be offering Voter Registration tables May 20 and May 27, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Saratoga Farmers Market, 112 High Rock Park Ave., Saratoga Springs. 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.

Storytelling (Re)Collected

Saratoga Arts and Ndakinna Education Center have collaborated to create an interdisciplinary exhibition experience in the Dee Sarno Theater that will inspire questions about how history and stories are recorded, and learning about history through all different genres of art affects the way in which we communicate with each other. To accurately reflect the diversity of our regional indigenous cultures, this exhibition includes both historical and contemporary work made with traditional Abenaki methods incorporating sound, language, and storytelling. Opening Night: Thursday, June 1, from 5– 8 p.m. 

Let the Music Fill Your Soul

The Clifton Park Community Chorus presents the free concerts, Friday, June 2 at 7 p.m. at St. Edward the Confessor, 569 Clifton Park Center Rd., Clifton Park and 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

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.

10th Annual TUFF eNUFF Obstacle Course Challenge

On Saturday, June 3 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, which takes place at the BOCES Center on Henning Road in Saratoga Springs. 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. Get there by 8 a.m. 

Cars & Coffee

The Town of Greenfield Lions Club is hosting the event on June 3 at the Middle Grove Town Park, 430 Middle Grove Rd., Middle Grove, from 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. 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

The Ladies of Charity Saratoga Chapter will be holding their annual sale on Saturday, June 3 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Italian American War Veterans, located at 247 Grand Avenue, Saratoga Springs. 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. 

Pollinator Palooza 

Sustainable Saratoga is hosting Pollinator Palooza, a native plant sale and pollinator education event, on Sunday, June 4 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the former Oligny Garden Center, 390 Wilton-Gansevoort Rd, Gansevoort. 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 to Pollinator Palooza and shop our selection of over 25 native plant species (cash or check preferred). 

2nd Annual BBQ Fundraiser

Join us Sunday, June 4 from 1 -4 p.m. for a 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. Join us at the VFW Post 420, 190 Excelsior Ave. Saratoga Springs. Buy your tickets online at BGCCCapitalArea.org/99 of at the door. All are welcome. Help to support this great organization! For more information call 518-307-2120,518-598-2856 or 518-879-7777.

Trip to Niagara Falls

The Olde Saratoga Seniors is hosting a trip to Niagara Falls on June 6-8, 2023 (3 days, 2 nights) The Price will be $469 per person double occupancy. Includes 2 breakfast 2 dinners, a tour of Niagara, Niagara-on-the-Lake, The Hornblower Cruise, Chocolate FX Tour, Niagara Falls view casino and bus transportation. If you are interested, please contact Pat Temple, 518-338-2329 or e-mail patty61349@yahoo.com. This will be a first come first served list for the bus. For an itinerary and more information contact me.

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.

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 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. 

7th Annual Swinging for the Arts

A 9-hole golf outing to benefit Saratoga Children’s Theatre. Join us at McGregor Links Country Club, located at 369 Northern Pines Rd. Wilton on Wednesday, June 14. RSVP by June 2. Format is Four Person Scramble 9 holes of golf, mulligans, contest holes, and pink ball contest. Sign-in begins at 4:30 p.m. Shotgun start at 5:30 p.m. Entry fee is $85 per person includes greens fee, cart rental, food, and a goodie bag. To register, visit https://www.saratogachildrenstheatre.org/

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.

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

May 19 – May 25, 2023

Friday, May 19

Charlton Town-Wide Yard Sale ?

Over 25 Homes, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Over 25 houses including the Scotch Church rummage sale and multiple sellers at Harmony Hall. Link for Google Map is available on the West Charlton Volunteer Fire Dept. Saturday hours 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. as well. Facebook page. West Charlton Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary facebook.com/WestCharltonVolunteer FireDepartment/

Fish Fry Friday ?

Knights of Columbus Council #246, 50 Pine Rd., Saratoga Springs

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.

Saturday, May 20

All You Can Eat Breakfast ?

The Gansevoort Volunteer Fire Department, 1870 State Route 32N, Gansevoort | 8 – 11 a.m. Menu includes eggs cooked to order, omelets, pancakes, hash, French toast, home fries, biscuits and sausage gravy, orange juice, milk and coffee. Donations: $12 adults, seniors 55+ $10, Military and 1st Responders $10, children (6 to 12) $8, Kids under 6 free. 

Fly-In Breakfast ?

Empire State Aerosciences Museum, 250 Rudy Chase Dr., Glenville | 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. Enjoy an assortment of pancakes, French toast, eggs, sausage, potatoes, juice, coffee, tea, fruit and more. The breakfast is open to the public. At 10 a.m., Brian Flynn, will present a talk on “The History & Mission of the Civil Air Patrol”. Flynn, a resident of Halfmoon is the Group Commander of the New York Mid-Eastern Group of CAP. He will speak about Emergency Services, Cadet Programs and Aerospace Education. Fly-In if you would like. Pilots: Tower Frequency 121.3; Ground 121.9. Land at Schenectady County Airport and taxi to Richmor Aviation North. Tell them you are going to ESAM.

UUCSS 12th Annual Plant Fair

Unitarian Universalist Church, 624 North Broadway | 10 – 1 p.m. Sunday, noon – 2 p.m. Plants and vegetables proven to flourish in Upstate New York— Tomatoes, herbs, lettuce, and much more. Organically grown by members of the Congregation. Also, perennials and house plants from locally grown flowers, ferns, and bushes. For information call 518-587-0403 and ask for Bev. 

Plant Sale

Middle Grove United Methodist Church, 429 CR-21, Middle Grove

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Also being held on Saturday, May 27 and Sunday, May 28 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Genealogy and Local History

Heritage Hunters will meet on Saturday, May 20, at 1 p.m. at the Town of Saratoga Town Hall, 12 Spring St. in Schuylerville. Daniel Mazeau, of Beverwyck Archaeology, will speak about an excavation he and partner Aaron Gore did on the Cohen-Ketzer property located in Bethlehem. The property owners were anxious to know whether evidence could be found of an occupation by a Revolutionary War veteran. Beverwyck Archaeology is a Cultural Resource Management Firm. Their website, beverwyckarchaeology.com, shows some of the work they’ve done, including their adventures in excavating a family burial vault. Public is welcome. For info call 518-885-9309.

Saratoga County: Our Home! ?

Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Avenue, Ballston Spa

1 – 5 p.m. | Guests will go on an immersive, artifact-rich journey spanning four centuries of Saratoga life, business, and nature. From the First Nations who lived here before European settlement to the new tech-centered economy, “Saratoga County: Our Home!” offers guests a rich time-travel experience that will instill awe and respect for the county’s evolution. The exhibit, which will be ongoing, may be visited during the museum’s open hours, daily except Monday, 1 to 5 p.m. Admission is free. For information call 518-885-4000 or visit brooksidemuseum.org.

Sunday, May 21

Breakfast Buffett ?

ITAM Post #35, 247 Grand Ave., Saratoga Springs | 8 – 11 a.m. Eggs to order, bacon, pancakes, etc. $10 adults, $9 seniors, $5 children 10 and under, children under 5 free. $12 take out orders. 

Spring Fling Festival ?

The Car Shoppe, 1110 US-9, Queensbury | Noon – 5 p.m. 

The Spring Fling Festival benefits the Adirondack Vets House, Inc by bringing our area’s businesses together to create a day of fun in the sun! Free admission, open to the public. There will be pony rides and farm animals, bounce houses, a dunk tank, cornhole tournament, face painting, food trucks, candle making, local vendors, live music, raffle baskets, carnival games and more! Rain date is May 21, 12 – 5 p.m.

Team Billy Ride and Walk for Research ?

Farmers’ Market at High Rock Park, Saratoga Springs | 8:30 a.m. Rides of 50, 25 and 10 miles will begin at 8:30 a.m., with a three mile walk through the historic district at 9 a.m. The rides follow some of the most beautiful sections of Saratoga County, with the 50-mile bike ride through the Saratoga National Historic Park. On-site registration: 7:30 a.m. All donations tax deductible and made payable to the National Brain Tumor Society. To register, donate or volunteer: www.teambilly.org Phone: Cherie Grey 518-813-0449, cjgrey1@juno.com.

The Quintessential Quintet and More ?

Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church, 

5th Avenue and Henning Rd., Saratoga Springs | 3 p.m. 

Saratoga Chamber Players under Artistic Direction of Jill Levy welcomes back grammy-nominated pianist Andrius Zlabys. Joining Zlabys and violinist Jill Levy are violinist Lily Holgate, violist Lila Brown, and cellist Scott Kluksdahl. Concert program includes Haydn’s Piano Trio in D major, Brahms Piano Quintet in F minor, Andante Piano Trio by Ukrainian composer Dimitri Levkovich, and violin duos of Bartok and Ligeti. Tickets are available at www.eventbrite.com.e/the-quintesential-quintet-more-tickets-394360842897

Harmony Corners Famous Chicken Barbecue Take Out

Harmony Corners Firehouse on Route 67, Charlton 3 – 6 p.m. This will be Drive thru takeout only. Tickets are available at Smith’s Pie Shop, and Mail N More in Burnt Hills. Dinner includes 1/2 Chicken, baked potato, mixed veg, coleslaw, roll, bottle of water, and a slice of cake. All for $15. 

Monday, May 22

Nature on the Move ?

Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton

10:30 a.m. – Noon | Come enjoy nature with others looking to get outside. This walk is geared towards gentle exercise and those with basic fitness levels. Registration is required. Visit our website at wiltonpreserve.org, call the office at 518-450-0321 or email info@wiltonpreserve.org. 

Trivia Night

Saratoga Senior Center, 

5 Williams St., Saratoga Springs

5:15 p.m. | Where all those useless facts you’ve been collecting can finally come in handy! Pizza bites served. Bring your own beverage. Join us for fun, friendly competition! Prizes! Please sign up, seating is limited. $5.

Tuesday, May 23

Who is Tracking Your Online Behavior? 

Clifton Park Halfmoon
Public Library, 475 Moe Rd., Clifton Park | 4 p.m.
Internet companies are collecting your data. Discover the advantages and disadvantages of having your data collected and decide if the advantages are worth the loss of privacy. Registration required. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org

Introduction to Canning at Home

Online Zoom Program or in person, 50 West High St., Ballston Spa | 6 – 8 p.m. 

Learn when and how to use different canning methods including a boiling water bath canner and steam canner for high acid foods, and a pressure canner for low acid foods. Safely canning foods to avoid botulism food poisoning will be discussed. Canners, jars, lids, and other canning accessories will be displayed and discussed. Cost: $15, register by calling 518-885-8995.

Grant Cottage Strategic Plan Public Meeting

The Gideon Putnam Room, Saratoga Spa State Park | 6:30 p.m. 

The Friends of the Ulysses S. Grant Cottage Board of Trustees will discuss the plans for the future of Ulysses S. Grant Cottage State Historic Landmark. Mt. McGregor and Grant Cottage Historic Site have seen dramatic changes over the last 136 years since the Grant family lived here. We are now embarking on the next phase in that journey and want you to join us in crafting a new vision for the future of the Historic Site. We hope this plan will allow the Historic Site to reach its full potential and be an even more effective place for learning and inspiration.

After the Fire Monthly Meeting

Halfmoon Town Hall, Lower Newtown Rd., Halfmoon

7 p.m. | After the Fire is a non-profit organization that helps Saratoga County Residents who have suffered a loss due to fire. Families are provided with gift cards, a night’s stay at a participating hotel/motel, Red Cross referral, informational material, emotional support. etc. Volunteers Needed: Anyone interested in learning more about After the Fire, or becoming a member, may attend a meeting, visit us on Facebook at www.afterthefire.org, or leave a message on voicemail at 518-435-4571.

Wednesday, May 24

The Inaugural Yaddo Golf Invitational 

Saratoga National Golf Club,
458 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs

1 p.m. | Join Honorary Chair and special guest, Dottie Pepper. Golfers will enjoy 18-holes of golf plus carts, lunch, fun contests, and admission to the dinner and awards ceremony. Each golfer will receive a signed copy of Dottie Pepper’s book, Letters to a Future Champion: My Time with Mr. Pulver. Space is limited to the first 128 golfers. Reserve your foursome today! All monies raised from this event will benefit Yaddo’s historic Artist Residency programming. Not a golfer? Tickets are also available to join us for post-play dinner, starting at 6 p.m. Tickets and Sponsorship Information: www.yaddo.org/the-2023-inaugural-yaddo-golf-invitational

Roast Beef 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: Roast beef, roasted redskin potatoes, vegetable, salad, roll, gravy. $15 per dinner. (cash only). 

Artist Talk

Galway Public Library,
2112 East St. Galway | 6 p.m. Fred Lyngard speaking about Robert Timberlake, Worldwide Famous Artist, an artist who is successful in his own lifetime! Unheard of? A painter who has stayed in his own hometown but whose works have been on display in many internationally famous galleries. How, you ask? His imagination has allowed him to create marvelous works of art of simple, ordinary objects most people don’t even notice until they view his truly unique paintings. Come see for yourself! See more information available at www.galwaypubliclibrary.org. Register at 518-882-6385.

A Call to Duty: Saratoga County Veterans in WW2 

Brookside Museum,
21 Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa

7 – 8:30 p.m. | Former Albany-based Associated Press reporter Christopher Carola tells the stories of the many Saratoga County residents who served in the military during the Second World War. Using local archives, wartime articles from The Saratogian and his own interviews with WWII veterans, Carola talks about the experiences of dozens of men and women who answered their nation’s call to duty. This talk is in-person and is free, though donations are always appreciated.

Thursday, May 25

Beginner Technology Class

Wilton Mall, 3065 Route 50, Saratoga Springs | 5 p.m. 

SAIL will not be hosting free monthly technology classes. In this month’s class you can expect to learn basic computer skills, general computer questions, how to create and use email. Contact Nick Possemato at 518-792-3537 ext 2200 to reserve your spot. 

Indulgence Bakery Celebrates Storefront Opening in Downtown Saratoga Springs

Photos by Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Local business Indulgence Bakery celebrated the opening of its first storefront location this week at a ribbon cutting ceremony with the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce. 

Indulgence Bakery offers cakes, cupcakes, cookies and more, baking indulgent treats for life’s sweetest moments. 

“I’ve just always loved creating desserts and I love creating custom desserts and pretty things for everyone’s celebrations,” said Alex Gaertner, the owner and creator of Indulgence Bakery.

Gaertner originally started the business in 2020, and it has been growing ever since. Earlier this year, the bakery moved into 63 Putnam St. Rear in downtown Saratoga Springs and opened its space to the public. 

“Now we have this brick and mortar store and people can come in and get some treats, in addition to all of the events that we still bake for and love to do,” Gaertner said.

The recent ribbon cutting celebration was a big moment for the local entrepreneur. 

“I’ve been dreaming about this moment since before I can remember,” she said during the ceremony. “It’s surreal and it’s amazing.”

Indulgence Bakery is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday and Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, as well as by appointment or pre-order only on Tuesday and Wednesday.

For more information, visit www.bitesofindulgence.com.

Berkshire Bank Promotes Greg Saint John to SVP, Deputy Chief Credit Officer

Greg Saint John. Photo provided.

ALBANY — Berkshire Bank has announced that Greg Saint John, an experienced credit officer and banking industry veteran, was promoted to senior vice president, deputy chief credit officer and commercial credit director. He will report directly to Executive Vice President, Chief Credit Officer Philip Jurgeleit.

“I’m pleased to welcome Greg to the Credit leadership team with his expanded responsibilities as deputy chief credit officer,” stated Jurgeleit. “Greg’s vast experience, knowledge of Berkshire Bank, its customers and communities will help strengthen Berkshire as it continues on its path toward becoming a high-performing, leading, socially responsible community bank.”

“As a Berkshire Banker since 2010, I am looking forward to utilizing my broad background to continue to elevate Berkshire’s strong culture of credit risk management while enhancing relationships with all our stakeholders,” stated Saint John.

Chipotle Aiming for Location in Downtown Saratoga Springs

12 Ballston Ave. Site plans have been submitted to the City of Saratoga Springs Planning Board to redevelop the property into a Chipotle Mexican Grill (Photo by Dylan McGlynn).

SARATOGA SPRINGS — A long-empty restaurant in Saratoga Springs may soon be the site of a new Chipotle Mexican Grill.

Site plans have been submitted for 12 Ballston Ave, former home of the Starting Gate Bar and Grill, which has been vacant since 2015 according to submitted plans. The plans would see the removal of the current structure, to be replaced with a 2,343-square foot building to house Chipotle.

The plans were proposed in April by applicant CollabDev 2, LLC, based in Boston, Massachusetts. Frank Parillo of Saratoga Prime Properties is the owner of the property, according to plans filed with the City of Saratoga Springs Planning Board. 

The sketch plans for the project were submitted by Solli Engineering, based in Monroe, Connecticut. Phinney Design Group is also involved in the process, according to the submitted plans.

The 2,343-square foot restaurant would include an outdoor patio area and walk-up mobile pickup window, and would also include improvements to drainage, landscaping, and utilities.

The property is accessed from Ballston Ave and Hamilton St, and would contain 23 parking spaces, including one ADA-accessible space and three spaces designated for order pickup.

The plans also propose a public easement of 3,134 square feet of land on the neighboring property, 32 Ballston Ave, the location of Saratoga Strike Zone. The easement would be perpetual, and used to “provide the area necessary to comply with the City’s parking regulations,” and to provide room for “safe egress” onto Ballston Ave and Hamilton St, the plans say.

The applicants are currently seeking permits from the city, Parillo said.