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Ballston Spa Wrestlers Advance to Section 2 Division 1 Championships

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Sports.

BURNT HILLS — Three Ballston Spa wrestlers earned first-place finishes in their respective weight classes, helping the Scotties capture the team championship at the 2023 Section 2 Division 1 Class 2 Tournament on Feb. 4.

Ballston Spa’s Ralph Keeney, Connor Gregory, and Darrien Insogna placed first in their respective weight classes, while Tristan Hinchcliff, Cameron Hinchcliff, William O’Connor, and Jacob Perkins finished as runner-ups in their weight classes.

Tyler Perkins placed third at 132 pounds, while Cole Donnelly placed third at 285 pounds. Quinton Warlikowski earned a fourth-place finish at 102 pounds, and James Capasso earned a fourth-place finish at 145 pounds. Gavin Whipple and Anthony Prastio each placed fifth in their weight classes.

All 13 wrestlers will head to the Section 2 Division 1 Championships this weekend at Cool Insuring Arena.

At 110 pounds, Keeney pinned all three of his opponents, defeating Amsterdam’s Breyana Montalvo in the quarterfinals, Queensbury’s A.J. Spero in the semifinals, and South Glens Falls’ Dylan Keech in the championship match.

Gregory, wrestling at 160 pounds, pinned Burnt Hills’ Andrew Martin in the quarterfinals and pinned Scotia-Glenville/Galway’s Alwalid Bourkia in the semifinals. Gregory earned a 3-0 decision over Queensbury’s Lucas Schell in the championship.

Insogna won at 215 pounds by pinning Burnt Hills’ Julian Goss in the semifinals, and pinning Averill Park’s Connor Byers in the championship match. 

Tristan Hinchcliff advanced to the championship at 118 pounds by earning a 12-5 decision over Mohonasen’s Nico Rivera in the semifinals, falling to Burnt Hills’ Tyler Whiteley by a 5-2 decision. Cameron Hinchcliff pinned Ben Taylor (Burnt Hills) in the semifinals at 126 pounds, losing an 8-6 decision to Averill Park’s Jacob Hanlon in the championship.

O’Connor, wrestling at 138 pounds, won a 9-4 decision over Queensbury’s Timothy Paculavich in the semifinals, and was pinned by Burnt Hills’ Gabriel Goss in the championship. Jacob Perkins beat Thomas Pawlinga (Burnt Hills) by 5-3 decision in the semifinals at 172 pounds, losing a 3-2 tiebreaker decision to Averill Park’s Elias Goosmann in the championship.

The Scotties finished with the top overall team score at the tournament, with 248.5 points. Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake, the host school, was second with 243 points.

Saratoga Catholic Boys Basketball Earns Senior Night Win Over Waterford-Halfmoon

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Sports.

Pictured with family members are the Saratoga Catholic varsity boys basketball seniors, from left: Kam Cox (14), Matt Murphy (33), Aidan Dunne (5), Justin Duscher (25). Photo by Super Source Media Studios.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Central Catholic varsity boys basketball team got back in the win column on Senior Night, honoring the Saints’ four seniors with a 41-35 victory over Waterford-Halfmoon on Tuesday.

“We’ve come a long way,” said head coach Shea Bromirski, who credited the seniors for their leadership. “It’s a classy group. We have really good kids here.”

Senior Justin Duscher, who led the Saints with 15 points, said it was meaningful to have the senior ceremony and noted the closeness of the Saratoga Catholic squad.

“I came here last year, and these guys welcomed me with open arms,” said Duscher. “This team’s a really tight-knit group of guys. It’s a special moment.”

Saratoga Catholic has four seniors: Kam Cox, Aidan Dunne, Justin Duscher, and Matt Murphy. 

Dunne said it was an exciting night, saying his teammates “mean the world” to him.

“They’re like the closest group of friends you could have,” Dunne said. “You’re with them every day.”

The Saints led 9-5 after a low-scoring first quarter, and the defensive affair carried into the second, with Saratoga Catholic taking a 17-12 lead into halftime. 

Dunne had nine points in the first half to pace the Saints, who limited the Fordians to just five made field goals in the half. Bromirski said that defense has been a main point of emphasis for the Saratoga Catholic team this season.

“That’s what we hang our hat on, is the defensive end of the floor,” said Bromirski. “That’s something we talk about every day in practice. … They bought in to playing that end of the floor.”

But Waterford-Halfmoon opened the second half on a 12-0 run, jumping to a 24-17 lead with 3:27 left in the third. Duscher, the Saints’ leading scorer, stepped up at the end of the quarter, hitting back-to-back three-pointers to cut Waterford’s lead to one entering the fourth. 

Bromirski said that Duscher making big shots is “what he’s done for us all year.”

“Every time that we’ve won a close game or done something, he’s been our guy who makes big shots for us,” Bromirski said. “He’s one of the best kids I’ve ever coached, one of the best people I’ve ever coached.”

The teams traded baskets early in the fourth, with the Saints taking the lead for good on a basket by Aidan Crowther with 3:24 remaining. Duscher then scored to give Saratoga Catholic a 36-33 lead, and a steal and fastbreak for Hunter Fales made it 38-33 with 2:08 left.

The Saints held strong defensively in the final minutes, sealing a 41-35 win with free throws from Duscher. Bromirski said the team came alive late after “doing the little things.”

“I talk to these guys religiously about (how) the ball goes in the hoop when you do the right things,” said Bromirski. “When you’re playing as hard as you can, and you’re getting every loose ball, somehow the ball starts to find the basket.”

Duscher’s 15 points led all scorers, while Dunne added nine in the win for the Saints. Ronan Rowe had six points, Fales and Crowther each had five points, and Ryan Gillis added one point for Saratoga Catholic.

Derrick Ponture and Anthony Scunziano each had 13 points for Waterford-Halfmoon. Matt Soden added five points, while Nate Griner had four points.

Saratoga Catholic (11-8) will play Waterford-Halfmoon again on Friday in a Wasaren League crossover game, with the Section 2 Class C Tournament to follow. 

“Our resume’s pretty good. I would think that we would be somewhere in the top half of the Class C bracket,” Bromirski said. “… Then we’ll see who we play on Tuesday, and we’ll go from there.”

“Just to lock in,” said Dunne of the team’s mindset. “I don’t think we’re playing our best basketball right now, but we were a couple weeks ago, and we can get back to that.”

Talking Heads’ Jerry Harrison, Adrian Belew Announce ‘Remain In Light’ Albany Show

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

ALBANY — Original Talking Heads member Jerry Harrison and noted touring member Adrian Belew have announced 18-additional tour dates for their upcoming ‘Remain In Light’ tour, in celebration of the band’s iconic 1980 record.

The ‘Remain In Light Tour’ will find Harrison and Belew performing songs from this monumental period of the band’s history alongside a powerhouse band, including former members of Turkuaz, Julie Slick on bass, and Yahuba Garcia-Torres
on percussion.

The show will be staged Wednesday, March 8 at Empire Live, located at 93 N. Pearl Street, Albany. Call 518-900-5900, or go to: empirelivealbany.com

SPAC Announces 2023 New York City Ballet (July 18-22) and The Philadelphia Orchestra Season (Aug. 2-18)

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

Firebird will be staged July 21 & 22 as part of the New York City Ballet’s four programs this summer at SPAC. Photo provided.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Performing Arts Center has announced the return of its resident companies — New York City Ballet and The Philadelphia Orchestra — to their summer home in Saratoga Springs for a celebratory season that will feature masterworks from the classical cannon, alongside SPAC premieres and debuts. 

New York City Ballet returns with the full company from July 18 – 22, with its roster of more than 90 dancers under the direction of Artistic Director Jonathan Stafford and Associate Artistic Director Wendy Whelan, accompanied by the New York City Ballet Orchestra, led by Music Director Andrew Litton. 

The Company will present four programs including “NYCB On and Off Stage,” hosted by NYCB dancers for a unique “behind the curtain” experience featuring excerpts from the week’s ballets. 

Highlighting the season are contemporary new works including Play Time by Gianna Reisen set to music by Solange Knowles; Love Letter (on shuffle) by Kyle Abraham, featuring the music of James Blake; and Liturgy by Christopher Wheeldon with music by Arvo Pärt, in addition to two works by Justin Peck including the SPAC premiere of his first full-evening ballet, Copland Dance Episodes, set to four of Aaron Copland’s most acclaimed musical scores:  Appalachian Spring, Billy the Kid, Fanfare for the Common Man, and Rodeo, as well as Scherzo Fantastique set to music by Igor Stravinsky, which had its World Premiere at SPAC in 2016. 

Also featured is a program dedicated to three story ballets including Balanchine’s Swan Lake, Robbins’ Fancy Free and Firebird by both choreographers. 

The Philadelphia Orchestra’s three-week residency (Aug. 2 – Aug. 19) will feature Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin (Aug. 11–12) leading two programs including a Rachmaninoff 150th birthday celebration, and appearances by cellist Yo-Yo Ma (Aug. 17) and violinist Gil Shaham (Aug. 16), returning for the first time in a decade in a special SPAC premiere leading Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons. 

Making their 2023 SPAC debuts is a diverse roster of artists including Emmy-, Grammy-, and Tony Award-winning icon Audra McDonald (Aug. 10) for a Broadway program, and global “little orchestra” Pink Martini, featuring China Forbes (Aug. 4), in addition to pianists Isata Kanneh-Mason (Aug. 3) and Bruce Liu (Aug. 11). The 2023 season also includes a diverse line-up of conductors making their SPAC debuts, including Fabio Luisi (Aug. 2-3) for the opening two nights including the popular Festive Fireworks program, Enrico Lopez-Yañez (Aug. 4) to lead Pink Martini alongside the Orchestra, Roderick Cox (Aug. 9) in a performance of Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony, and Xian Zhang (Aug. 17) for Yo-Yo Ma Plays Dvořák.

SPAC also revealed its 2023 festival theme of EARTH would be integrated throughout the Orchestra’s residency, highlighted by Earth: An HD Odyssey (Aug. 18), featuring ravishing images of the planet on a large LED screen accompanied by Richard Strauss’ epic tone poem Also Sprach Zarathustra featured in 2001: A Space Odyssey and John ¬Adams’ exhilarating Short Ride in a Fast Machine. Continuing the theme, Yannick Nézet-Séguin will lead the Orchestra in the SPAC premiere of Pulitzer-Prize winning composer John Luther Adams’ Vespers of the Blessed Earth, alongside Stravinsky’s famed The Rite of Spring (Aug.12).  

The popular film nights will also return to delight audiences of all ages as the Orchestra accompanies, live to picture, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire™ in Concert (Aug. 5) and Jurassic Park in Concert (Aug. 19), celebrating the 30th anniversary of the film.                                                                                            

Tickets will be available beginning on Feb. 14 at 10 a.m. for members (tiered by level) and on Feb. 23 at 10 a.m. for the general public. For specific program dates and performances, visit spac.org for details. 

Adirondack Theatre Festival’s Benefit Will Celebrate The Beatles Saturday, Feb. 11 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

GLENS FALLS — The Beatles will be celebrated as Adirondack Theatre Festival’s annual benefit returns after a two-year hiatus. This benefit has become legendary in Glens Falls for creative themes including James Bond and the Olympics. 

After going dark for two years, Adirondack Theatre Festival’s fundraiser returns – this time with a Fab Four theme and tunes by popular Beatles cover band Across the Pond. 

The festivities will take place on Saturday, February 11 at the Park Theater, 14 Park St. in downtown Glens Falls. The Beatles Bash: A Benefit for Adirondack Theatre Festival starts at 6:30 p.m. 

Tickets are $85 per person and include wine, beer, appetizers, and entertainment. A cash bar is also available for mixed drinks. Entertainment includes live music by Across the Pond, a live auction hosted by news anchor Benita Zahn and anchor Tamani Wooley, tributes to honorees M&M Digital Printing and Michael and Janet Spielberger, and the unveiling of Adirondack Theatre Festival’s 2023 summer season. Attire is “let it be” groovy.

Details and tickets to the event can be found at www.atfestival.org or by calling 518-798-7479.

Maple Avenue Middle School Presents: The Little Mermaid The Musical

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

The Little Mermaid The Musical, performed by the Maple Avenue Musical Club. Photo provided.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Maple Avenue Musical Club recently completed a six-show presentation of The LIttle Mermaid The musical. 

The cast of 42 students started preparing in November for the 2-hour show, which is based on the popular Disney movie.

“This cast has worked so hard over the past several months to put together an outstanding show,” said Candace Calvin, MAMS director. “From vocals to costumes, props and sheer talent, we (were) so excited to share this performance with our community.”

The Maple Avenue Middle School Musical Club performs shows annually, including Shrek, Mary Poppins, Annie and more.

Feb. 16 – Tang’s Dunkerley Dialogue features Artist Lauren Kelley, Performance by Autumn Knight

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

Artist Lauren Kelley in the exhibition Lauren Kelley: Location Scouting at the Tang Teaching Museum at Skidmore College, photo by Megan Mumford.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery at Skidmore College will present the next event in its Dunkerley Dialogue series at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 16 and celebrate the exhibition Lauren Kelley: Location Scouting with a talk and a performance.

Artist Lauren Kelley will be in dialogue with Skidmore Theater Artist-in-Residence Teisha Duncan. Since fall 2021, Kelley has reimagined the Tang mezzanine as a community space for conversation, dialogue, study, and contemplation. In her work, Kelley combines meditations on travel with snapshots of everyday life through drawing, sculpture, and stop-motion animation videos. Kelley has also activated the space through collaborations with sculptor Margarita Cabrera and animator Jennifer Levonian. 

Kelley was born in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1975. Her work has been shown at the Studio Museum in Harlem; The Kitchen, New York; The New Museum; and the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston; among others. From 2017 to 2020 she served as Director and Chief Curator of the Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art and Storytelling in New York.

Duncan is an international actress, educator, and director from Xaymaca (Jamaica). Her sphere of interest and continual study includes storytelling, mask work and puppetry in rituals and performance, Caribbean theater, theater of Black Africa, pre-colonial African performance and post-colonial drama, and mythology in theater and Ancient Egypt. At Skidmore she is an Artist in Residence (Acting) in the Theater Department. 

A new collaboration begins this month with artist Autumn Knight, who will give a performance following the Dunkerley Dialogue of Nothing #12: tangy, in which the artist delivers a collaged text that uses sound, objects, and architecture to build a world around tangentially connected subject matter. 

Autumn Knight is a New York-based interdisciplinary artist working with performance, installation, video, and text. Knight’s video and performance work has been presented by various institutions including the Whitney Museum of American Art and The Kitchen (NY). 

Dunkerley Dialogues pair Skidmore professors with artists in a conversation format, which is often a catalyst for new connections and understandings across disciplines and can spark new ideas for all participants. Dunkerley Dialogues are made possible by a generous gift from Michele Dunkerley ’80.

This event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact the Visitors Services Desk at 518-580-8080 or tang@skidmore.edu, or visit https://tang.skidmore.edu. 

February 10 – February 16, 2023

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Local Briefs.

The Flurry “Winter Roots” Festival

The Flurry “Winter Roots” Festival will be held February 17-19, 2023. This winter’s Flurry will take place entirely within the Hilton and City Center complex and will offer over 100 sessions of live music and dance for all. Adult prices range from $38-$145, and discounted advance tickets are available online until February 12. Volunteers are needed and free admission is provided for those who work 6 hours during the weekend. More information about ticket sales, the schedule of sessions, performers, and volunteer opportunities can be found at www.flurryfestival.org. View details of the covid policy at www.flurryfestival.org/winter-covid-policy/.

Carnegie Hall Ensemble Connect Residency Performance 

Ensemble Connect, a group of the finest young professional classical musicians based out of Carnegie Hall, celebrates its 16th year at Skidmore on February 17, 7:30 p.m.  Concert Program:

JENNIFER HIGDON | Dark Wood

MOZART | Quintet for Piano and Winds in E-flat Major, K. 452

MICHI WIANCKO | 7 Kinships (NY Premiere, commissioned by Carnegie Hall)

R. SCHUMANN | Piano Quintet

Skidmore College, Arthur Zankel Music Center, is located at 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs. Visit their website for event details. Tickets are available for purchase at the box office.  

Saratoga Parkinson’s Disease Support Group

Monday, February 20, 1 p.m. at the Saratoga Springs Public Library, located at 49 Henry Street, Saratoga Springs, in the Dutcher Community Room. The topic will be “Driving Evaluations” our speaker is Donna Stressel, OTR/L, CDI, CDRS, Sunnyview Rehab Hospital. Contact: Kevin McCullough saratoga.parkinsons@gmail.com 518-222-4247, Marie Thorne softballmom300@yahoo.com

February Break Camps 

Saratoga Children’s Theatre, 617 Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs | 2 Camps. Costuming: from start to finish – Over the course of the week, students will draw a rendering, learn basic machine and sewing skills, create a small project to practice skill, and collaborate with instructors and peers for ideas to make their design a reality. They will also be encouraged to utilize up-cycled materials and found objects. February 20-24, 9 a.m. – Noon, ages 10 – adult, cost is $275 includes all materials. Rising Stars: High School Musical Week – Join us for a week of singing, dancing, crafts, and fun. Over the course of the week, students will work towards putting on a short performance for family and friends on Friday. February 20 – 24, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Ages 4 – 7. Class fee $300. For more information visit, saratogachildrenstheatre.org/classes-workshops. 

February Break Drama Camp with Elyse Young 

Town of Malta Parks and Recreation Department announces February Break Drama Camp for ages 10-15 will run Tuesday, February 21 through Friday, February 24 from10 a.m. until 3 p.m. The camp will be taught by Malta’s Artistic Director Elyse Young and will include acting skills, vocal techniques, theater games, crafts, rehearsals and performance of a short play. Camp and performance will take place at the Malta Community Center, One Bayberry Drive, Malta. For more information, go online to www.maltaparksrec.com or contact Town of Malta Parks and Recreation Department at 518-899-4411.

Fish Fry Friday 

Knights of Columbus Council #246 will once again be hosting Fish Fry Friday each Friday throughout Lent, February 24 through April 7, 5-7 p.m. Advance call-in of orders on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays between the hours of noon and 3 p.m., beginning on Wednesday, February 22. The menu will include Fried or Baked Haddock ($15) or Fried Clam Strips ($12), each with French Fries, Cole Slaw, Tartar Sauce, and Cocktail Sauce; Macaroni and Cheese ($5); New England Clam Chowder (pint – $7/quart – $13); Single Order o French Fries ($3); and Dessert ($2 – when available). Call 518-584-8547 to place your order or for more information. 

A Winter Concert: Return of the Duos

Saratoga Chamber Players is pleased to announce a winter concert on Saturday, February 25, at 3 p.m. at the Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church, 175 Fifth Avenue, in Saratoga Springs. The program will bring together Jill Levy, violinist, and Artistic Director, with Margaret Kampmeier, pianist. With music spanning four centuries, treat yourself to the Classical sweetness of Franz Schubert, the contemporary Turkish delight of Kamran Ince, the modern French birdsongs of Olivier Messiaen and the passionate, modern inventiveness of Richard Strauss. Tickets are $20-$30, available at the door or on the website. For more information visit www.saratogachamberplayers.org

Monthly Indoor Craft and Garage Sale 

On Sunday, February 26, from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. the popular Elks Ladies Auxiliary Indoor Craft and Garage Sale will be held at the Saratoga-Wilton Elks Club on Elks Lane. Admission is free. Over 40 vendors, great parking, crafts galore, and lunch. Household items, hand-made items, clothing, food treats, body lotions, and just about anything you can imagine. New vendors sign-up every month. A fun activity the entire family enjoys. All proceeds go to local charities.  8’ table and chairs $15; Call Debbie 518-885-6506 or email dozolins@nycap.rr.com for information or to sign up for a table(s).

Parkinson’s Cabin Fever Dance Party

Help for Parkinson’s, a local charity committed to helping those affected by Parkinson’s Disease live well, invites you to join us on Saturday, March 4. Dancing and fun starts at 7 p.m. at Colonie Golf & Country Club, 13 Country Club Ln. Voorheesville. Meet old and new friends, eat, drink, and dance to the local band GB-five. Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive condition, for which there is no cure. The HELP for Parkinson’s organization’s mission is to bring local programs and resources, as well as relevant local and national information directly to those living here in the capital region dealing with Parkinson’s. Tickets are $40 per person, includes light food and a cash bar. Information and tickets available at www.helpforpd.org/march4th.

Southern Saratoga Art Society Exhibits

Artists and members are exhibiting during January and February. Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, 153 Nott Terrace, Schenectady is hosting three artists, William Daisak, Karen Zimmer, and Carol Winterton. The Clifton Park Senior Community Center Gallery, 6 Clifton Commons Ct., Clifton Park will be hosting “The Two Vals,” Valerie Woodward and Valerie Wolf, featuring an eclectic mix of artwork and use of vibrant colors in landscapes, still-life, paint pouring, realism to abstract. The Mechanicville Library, 190 N. Main Street, Mechanicville will feature artist Barbara Hurley. Barbara paints in acrylics, oils and watercolors. Barbara will donate proceeds from sales to the Round Lake Methodist Church. For more information, visit: southernsaratogaartist.com or check us out on Facebook.

Corning Museum of Glass Trip

A one-day trip on Wednesday, April 19, open to the public. Explore this amazing glass museum right in our own backyard. Optional sandblasting workshop available, must pre-register. Lunch on your own at the museum cafe. After the museum, wander around the quaint town of Corning for the afternoon. Member price $80. Non-member price $105. Optional sandblasting workshop- add $14. Call the Saratoga Senior Center at 518-584-1621 to sign up.

February 10 – February 16, 2023

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Calendar.

Friday, February 10

Fish Fry Fridays ?

Fish Creek Rod and Gun Club, 123 NY-32, Victory Mills

4 – 7 p.m. | Friday Night Fish Fry will be back for 2023. It will run through April 7. Various menu items are available from fried fish to chicken nuggets with French fries, Cole slaw and chowder also available. For more information call 518-695-3917.

Saturday, February 11

Defensive Driving Class

Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church, 175 Fifth Ave., Saratoga Springs | 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Save 10% on your base auto insurance for the next three years and receive up to 4 points off your driving record according to New York State Department of Motor Vehicle guidelines. Fee: $35 per person. Bring a friend fee is $30 each. Portion of fee goes to Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church. Registration is required and can be made by calling Ray Frankoski at 518-286-3788. As we are social distancing, a mask is required if you are not vaccinated. Class size is limit.

Monthly Meeting – Catholic Daughters of America

Knights of Columbus, 50 Pine Road, Saratoga Springs

9:15 a.m. | Court McLaughlin #422, Members gather for recitation of the Rosary, followed by refreshments at 9:30 – 10 a.m. This month members may bring baby shower items to be donated to Birthright. Members will also play a few simple rounds of bingo for Birthright to raise funds while having fun together. Please join us. Any Questions? Contact our Regent Lucille Kock by phone or text at 516-319-4577.

Sundaes Best Hot Fudge Sauce Factory – Open House ?

23 Northern Pines Rd, Building 2, Gansevoort | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Sundaes Best Hot Fudge Sauce will host an open house and pop-up shop at their manufacturing facility. Celebrating 22 years in business, owner Katie Camarro and friends will be on hand with product displays and gift ideas for Valentine’s Day. www.sundaesbest.com, 518-584-4036.

Camp Saratoga 8k Snowshoe Race ?

Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton | 10:30 a.m. May have an indoor facility for this one depending on COVID. It there is no snow, and is at all possible, we may have a trail race instead. Go to www.saratogastryders.org to download an application or link to online registration at www.runsignup.com. A limited supply of Dion Snowshoes will be available at a $5 rental charge. Email Laura Clark at laura@saratogastryders.org to reserve a pair or phone 518-581-1278. For information about the entire Dion Snowshoe Series and for snow updates visit www.dionwmacsnowshoe.com. 

Free Lunch ?

The Malta Ridge United Methodist Church, 729 Malta Avenue Extension, Malta Ridge 

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. | A soup and sandwich lunch will be served at no charge. All are welcome. For additional information or directions please call the Church at 518-581-0210.

Cat and Dog Adoption Clinic ?

H.O.P.E. Adoption Center, Wilton Mall at Saratoga,
3065 Route 50, Saratoga Springs

11 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Come meet the many adoptable pets of H.O.P.E. You can start the adoption process today by filling out an adoption application online at hopeanimalrescue.org/forms. 

Winter Fun Day ?

Wilton Wildlife Preserve, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton 

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Enjoy the warmth of the bonfire, sled down the hill at Camp Saratoga, make a snowman, and eat a s’more! Explore the trails with a cup of hot cocoa and marvel at the Preserve in winter. Drop by at any time, no registration required.

24th Annual Chowderfest ?

Downtown Saratoga Springs, Various locations | 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Event goers will have the opportunity to enjoy 4 oz. samples of chowder for $2 at participating Saratoga County establishments and vote for their favorite. This event is coordinated by Discover Saratoga and presented by Saranac and White Claw. Free shuttles to downtown Saratoga Springs will be available from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Saratoga Casino Hotel. For more information, including a list of participating chowder vendors and discounted hotel rates, please visit discoversaratoga.org/chowderfest or call 518-584-1531.

Abstract/Organic, A Duo Exhibition 

The Schacht Gallery, 167 Hayes Road, Schuylerville

5 – 7 p.m. | Showcasing two contrasting sensibilities in clay – exquisite abstract vessels by Chip McKenney (FL) and expressive organic sculptures by Cheryl Horning (Greenwich, NY). While their work is very different, McKenney and Horning were paired together for this duo exhibition because of their unique interpretations of abstraction in clay. Both educated at Skidmore College. Light refreshments will be served. Admission is free. Abstract/Organic will run February 11 – March 18, The Gallery is open daily from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. and by appointment. Visit www.saratogaclayarts.org, call 518-581-2529 or email info@saratogaclayarts.org for more information.

Annual Sweetheart Dinner Dance

Elks Lodge, 1 Elk Lane, Saratoga Springs | 6 p.m. 

The Saratoga/Wilton Elks Ladies Auxiliary is holding the dance. The Band Gravity will be our entertainment. Cocktails/appetizers 6-7 p.m., dinner 7 p.m., and entertainment 9 p.m. – midnight. The raffles will benefit Foreverly House (Veterans Community Housing Coalition Home for Female Veterans with Children}. Entree choices: Prime Rib, Stuffed Chicken, and Spinach Lasagna; served with roasted potatoes, tossed salad, roll, and green beans. Dessert is cupcakes with a variety of flavors. Cost: $45 per person. Reservations first come first serve, seating limited. RSVP: Sandy Hennigan 518-232-4049 or sandytoga@hotmail.com with entrée choice, number of guests and method of payment. Checks made out to the Ladies Auxiliary or cash are preferred. 

Sunday, February 12

Monthly Breakfast ?

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

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

Winter Walk

Glowegee Preserve, Wilton Wildlife Preserve, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton | 10 – 11 a.m.

Presented by Saratoga Plan and Wilton Wildlife Preserve. Registration is appreciated. wiltonpreserve.org/education/calendar

Monday, February 13

Nature on the Move ?

Camp Saratoga North, Wilton Wildlife Preserve, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton | 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Come enjoy nature with others looking to get outside and embrace the winter. This walk is geared towards those with basic fitness levels. Snowshoe rentals will be available 15 minutes prior to the program at $3/pair. Registration is required at least one business day in advance. To register, email info@wiltonpreserve.org or visit or online at Wiltonpreserve.org/education/calendar. 

Crochet & Knit 

Mechanicville District Public Library, 190 N. Main St. Mechanicville | 6 p.m.

Beginner friendly. Teen – Adult. Register online for all programs meclib.sals.edu. 

Tuesday, February 14

Local Magicians Meeting

S. W. Pitts Hose Co. of Latham, 226 Old Loudon Road, Latham

7 p.m. | The local group of The Society of American Magicians, Assembly #24, meets on the second Tuesday of the month. We welcome all persons, age 16 and older, with any interest in the art of magic whether it be: performance, history, collecting or purely entertainment to join us for a fun evening. For more information about our organization, or for a link to a local magician, visit our web site: www.sam24.synthasite.com.

Wednesday, February 15

New York Grown and Certified Workshop 

Zoom or in Person, 287 Main St., Schoharie | 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Join Schoharie County Office for Agricultural Development, Mohawk Valley Economic Development District, Inc. (MVEDD), and the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets for the workshop. It will include information addressing the process to apply, benefits of certification, exclusive grant, and marketing opportunities, and more. The program offers opportunities for traditional dairy, livestock, and produce farms, but also for less conventional producers (fresh cut flowers, maple, honey, firewood, craft beverage ingredients, craft beverage production and more). Applications available at certified.ny.gov/get-certified. Early registration is encouraged. A light lunch will be provided for those who attend in person. 

Olde Saratoga Seniors Meeting

Town Hall, 12 Spring St., Schuylerville | Noon
It will be soup day. Several members will be bringing in their specialty soup for everyone to try. Entertainment will be the Zucchini Brothers. It should be a fun day. We will also have information on trips. Guests and new members are welcome. For more information, contact Pat at 518-338-2329

An Afternoon with Bob Kovachick 

Saratoga Senior Center, 5 Williams St., Saratoga Springs

10 p.m. | Bob Kovachick has had an illustrious career spanning more than 50 years of keeping families informed, prepared, and safe as WNYT NewsChannel 13’s chief meteorologist. Light fare served. Open to the public. Please sign up in advance $10. Sponsored by CDPHP. 518-584-1621

Stuffed Shell Dinner

Saratoga Wilton Elks, 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: stuffed shells, meatballs, sweet sausage, tossed salad, garlic toast. Dinner for 2 / $30. (cash only). 

Galway Public Library Board of Trustees Meeting

2112 East St, Galway | 6:30 p.m.

The agenda and other documents will be available prior to the meeting on the library website: www.galwaypubliclibrary.org. The public is welcome to attend. More information at 518-882-6385.

Thursday, February 16

Pokemon Party ?

Clifton Park – Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Rd., Clifton Park

4 p.m. | Do you love Pokemon? Join us for an afternoon of crafts, trivia, puzzles, and more! This program will include activities related to Pokemon – we will not be playing Pokemon, so you can leave your cards at home. For grades 3-5. Registration required. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org

Matilda the Musical Jr. Presented by Ballston Spa Middle School

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

Photos provided by Ballston Spa Central School District.

BALLSTON SPA — Ballston Spa Middle School’s Launching Pad Productions is proud to present Matilda the Musical Jr. The students will present five performances, including Feb. 9, 10 and 11 at 7 p.m. and Feb. 11 and 12 at 1 p.m. at the Ballston Spa High School.

Seating is general admission, and tickets are $5.00 for students/senior citizens and $10.00 for adults. Tickets may be purchased at the door up to 45 minutes prior to each performance. 

Over 100 BSMS students are busy preparing for opening day, with 51 students performing in the cast and 60 backstage helping as part of the production crew. 

Matilda (Maeve deFrancqueville) has astonishing wit, intelligence… and special powers! She’s unloved by her cruel parents, Mr. Wormwood (Liam Brooks) and Mrs. Wormwood (Lucy Dooling) but impresses her schoolteacher, the highly loveable Miss Honey (Libby Stavers). 

Matilda’s school life isn’t completely smooth sailing, however – the school’s mean headmistress, Miss Trunchbull (Charlie Davis), hates children and just loves thinking up new punishments for those who don’t abide by her rules. But Matilda has courage and cleverness in equal amounts, and could be the school pupils’ saving grace!

The Ballston Spa Rotary Club will also be at each show for the annual Spread the Love Food Drive. Non-perishable food and monetary donations will be accepted in the high school lobby prior to the shows. All donations will be distributed to food pantries in Ballston Spa.  Audience members are asked to please consider bringing a donation to help support the community.