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Bloodville’s Industry After the Big Fires

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in History.

Remains of Scythe Factory -1900 fire
Photo Source: Saratoga County History Center, provided by The Saratoga County History Roundtable.

The fires that destroyed both the axe and scythe factories in Bloodville over 120 years ago did not completely end the industrial era of the hamlet, as is widely believed. There were actually a few valiant efforts to reestablish manufacturing in the years that followed. 

The hard-edge tool factories of Isaiah Blood (1810-1870) dominated the economy of Ballston Spa’s suburb of Bloodville for over 50 years. It can be said that Isaiah Blood is the “forgotten” entrepreneur of Ballston Spa. His scythe and axe works were famous throughout the country long after his death, but few documents survive to this day that describe his personal accomplishments and motivations.

Blood did not own the largest scythe and axe factories in the country, but they rivaled or exceeded all but a few. Prior to the Civil War, a factory was considered large if it gave employment to fifty people; Blood regularly employed over two hundred. In the New York Mercantile Union Business Directory of 1850, Blood was one of only seventeen scythe makers in the state, and at the time he was by far the largest. Only a few of the twenty-one axe makers in New York were as large as Blood’s, notably the factories of nearby Cohoes.

One reason Blood’s legacy faded so quickly was the destruction of both of his factories and the extinction of his direct family line. Blood’s own son died at a young age, as did his daughter’s children, so that by the 1920s there were no direct descendants left. The absence of any descendants to retain family photographs and records leaves a void that cannot easily be filled. Although his son-in-law continued to operate the business for twenty years after Blood died, both the scythe and axe factories were consumed by fire in 1900 and never rebuilt. This sudden and complete loss was devastating to the hundreds of skilled workers employed there, most of whom were forced to move away.

Bloodville presented a tempting location for businessmen who wanted to start up a mill. The Kayaderosseras Creek still provided adequate water power that only had to be supplemented by steam engines during the summer. The Ballston Terminal Railroad passed through town and was designed to haul freight cars to the Delaware and Hudson interchange in Ballston Spa. Nearby lived hundreds of well-motivated men looking for employment close to home. 

A man named John Butler began investigating what it would take to build a paper mill on the site of the old axe factory. He told a newspaper reporter that he was planning to erect a concrete dam that would utilize the water power of both the axe and scythe factory sites, giving the mill “a power of over 40 feet head and at the same time a large storage capacity.” His plans at the time also called for erecting a large, four-machine mill that would manufacture paper specialties and employ about 150 men. Local residents were saddened when Butler died unexpectedly before he could begin construction on the project. 

In August 1904, J. E. Weatherbee of Carthage, New York announced that he and several capitalists were interested in picking up where Butler left off. He recruited Bloodville resident James Lowell to become the superintendent in charge of building the mill. Lowell was considered a good choice for the job since he had just completed building a giant paper mill in Sturgeon Falls, Canada for the Imperial Paper Company.  

Excitement in the community ran high as construction of the mill actually commenced and reached a rapid completion. It was a substantial building measuring 130 feet by 60 feet in size. The first floor contained the perforating and core-making machines, while the second floor was used to store boxes. 

Once the mill was finished and equipped, it began the manufacture of bathroom tissue and other niche paper products under the name Ballston Pulp and Paper Company. The plant had three 1,000-pound beating engines, one refining engine, and one 92-inch single cylinder machine powered by water and steam. Production amounted to six tons of roll and package bathroom paper per day. 

Unfortunately, the new owner did not have much better luck with avoiding fires. Four years after the mill started operations, fire destroyed what was known as the “Toilet Mill,” causing about $8,000 in damage.  

A smaller paper mill was quietly built closer to the creek that manufactured specialty paper. This mill operated for several years but could not compete with larger paper mills. It closed in 1912 soon after an employee named George Bush died in an old flume while trying to repair the dam.  

The American Axe and Tool Company, which sold the property to Ballston Pulp and Paper, foreclosed on the mortgage in March 1913. The property was purchased at foreclosure by Robert Hunter of Fulton, New York who stated that he planned to open the mill back up again and continue to manufacture tissue paper. However, the mill lay idle for several more years until it was purchased by the United Paper Company of Atlanta, Georgia in 1917. It was only in operation for one day when it was destroyed by fire, causing $50,000 in losses.  

This was yet another heavy blow to the hamlet of Bloodville, as the mill had just been renovated and would have provided jobs to several dozen men. No other mill activity is recorded at the site of Isaiah Blood’s old axe and scythe works thereafter but many of the homes in the hamlet today still harken back to that era.

Timothy Starr has published 18 books on local history in Saratoga County and the Capital District and is a former board member of the Saratoga County Historical Society.

‘Entanglement’ Soars Above the Atrium: New Sculpture For Skidmore College

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.


Alyson Shotz’ Entanglement. The artist worked with a Netherlands-based company that specializes in experimented with wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM), a type of 3D metal printing. A robot printed the work in two- to three-foot-long sections, one drop of molten steel at a time. The printing process took four months and the work totals 165 feet long. Photo provided.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Skidmore College announces the installation of the first permanent work of art for a college building. “Entanglement” is a monumental, site-specific sculpture by acclaimed artist Alyson Shotz in the new Billie Tisch Center for Integrated Sciences. 

To mark the occasion, Shotz will speak about her work with two Skidmore College faculty members at 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 17. 

Entanglement soars above the Glotzbach Atrium in the new Billie Tisch Center for Integrated Sciences (BTCIS). The 750-pound sculpture turns and twists impossibly in midair, like a giant open knot or a mobius strip that leads the eye in endless movement around its sinewy curves. As a viewer moves beneath the sculpture, its painted steel shimmers and its colors transform from gold to green to blue. 

“It’s a magnificent rendering of creative and analytical thought brought together into a powerful and thought-provoking display of motion and feeling,” Skidmore President Marc C. Conner said, in a statement. “It’s wonderful to know that for years to come, our campus community and visitors will get to be in the presence of this sculpture and all the reflection and emotion it suggests.”

Shotz is an interdisciplinary artist known for breaking down boundaries between media, working across sculpture, photography, and video. Shotz was selected to create a new work of art for BTCIS by a committee of faculty and administrators, along with Tang Teaching Museum Director Ian Berry. The commission is a return for the artist almost 20 years after her 2003 Tang Teaching Museum exhibition Opener 5: Alyson Shotz — A Slight Magnification of Altered Things, which presented her sculpture, video, photography, and painting — an interdisciplinary survey that explored art and science connections.

The Nov. 17 Dunkerley Dialogue at the Billie Tisch Center for Integrated Sciences is free and open to the public. For more information, contact the Tang Teaching Museum at Skidmore College at 518-580-8080 or tang@skidmore.edu, or visit tang.skidmore.edu.

1972: A Year of Music Celebrated at Skidmore in Weekend Concerts

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.


SKIDMANIA ’72 will be staged Nov. 18-19. (Artwork by Skidmore student Anjolee Lavery)

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Inspired by the long-running “Beatlemore” Skidmania concerts at Skidmore College, SKIDMANIA ‘72 is a reboot that will celebrate the music of 50 years ago, fueled by more than 70 Skidmore student musicians. The event takes place 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 18-19 at the Zankel Music Center, on the campus of Skidmore College. 

SKIDMANIA ‘72 features popular songs from 1972 – what organizers describe as a” unique look-back at the 70’s that includes music of Stevie Wonder, Carly Simon, Led Zeppelin, Betty Wright and many others.”

Not that anyone asked, but we would like to also point out that seminal year for music also saw the release of David Bowie’s “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust,” Mott The Hoople’s “All The Young Dudes,” Alice Cooper’s “School’s Out,” “Exile On Main St., from the Rolling Stones, “Transformer” from Lou Reed, the self-titled debut from Roxy Music, and Curtis Mayfield’s “Superfly.” Phew!

Tickets are $15 General Public, $8 Students (Non-Skidmore) & Seniors, and $5 Skidmore Community (Students, Faculty, Staff, & Retirees). Box office is open for in-person sales Tuesday-Friday from 1 – 5 p.m. and one hour before showtime. Seating is first come, first served and doors open 30 minutes prior to the start of the event.

All proceeds from SKIDMANIA ‘72 will benefit Skidmore Cares, a Skidmore College initiative that supports agencies in our communities. 

James Bond Showcase at Saratoga Auto Museum Opens Nov. 18

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Marking the 60th anniversary of the James Bond film franchise, the Saratoga Automobile Museum will celebrate with a major new exhibition called BOND IN MOTION featuring 25 official vehicles from the past six decades of the longest-running film franchise in movie history. The multimedia exhibit also features movie memorabilia, images, and video to create a totally unique Bond experience for museum visitors. The exhibition opens Nov. 18.

Visitors to the exhibition will experience all the excitement and drama of the world of Bond with a collection of automobiles including the iconic and most famous Bond car: the 1964 Aston Martin DB5. Other vehicles on display include the white 1977 Lotus Esprit from The Spy Who Loved Me (1977) that sensationally transforms from a high-performance sports car into a submarine; the 2007 Aston Martin DBS that made movie history with a record-breaking seven full rotation roll in Casino Royale (2006), and the one-of-ten 2015 Aston Martin DB10, built specifically for 2015’s Spectre.

The Saratoga Automobile Museum is located on Avenue of the Pines. Phone: 518-587-1935. Visit: saratogaautomuseum.org. 

Caffe Lena Presents Concert Sharing the Impact of Arts & Social Services

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — A young woman builds her life back after a stroke. Two friends start a music shop in Haiti. A daughter finds peace and fulfillment in her final days with her mother. A woman moves forward after homelessness. Each of these previously untold redemption stories involves a local non-profit organization, and each will be told in words and songs at Caffe Lena.

On Nov. 12, these stories and more will be presented on stage as part of TrueSongs: Lyrics of Life. The annual event shines a spotlight on the positive impact of local nonprofit organizations.

TrueSongs was created in 2019 by the Saratoga Springs music venue Caffe Lena to show how arts and social service organizations can work together to create a healthy, whole community. Now in its third year, TrueSongs will give five community members the chance to share their personal story with a live audience. Each storyteller has been working with a songwriter who will follow the story with a compelling new song meant to bring out the emotional heart of the experience.

The diverse pool of songwriters includes Michael Eck, Jeff Brisbin, Mel Guarino, John Dillon and Hold on Honeys. 

For many of the storytellers it will be the first time sharing their experience in public. For the songwriters, singing TrueSongs will open a new window of expression. 

TrueSongs: Lyrics of Life will take place 8 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 12. Advance Tickets: $20 general public, $10 students. At the Door: $22 general public. $5 student rush tickets will be sold at the door with valid ID. The concert will also be available to live stream for free on Caffe Lena’s YouTube channel. Information and advance tickets are available at www.caffelena.org.

Glens Falls Symphony Presents Regional Premiere by Pulitzer & Grammy-Winning Composer Jennifer Higdon on Nov. 13

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

GLENS FALLS — The Glens Falls Symphony will present an evening of music from the opera stage, including the regional premiere of Cold Mountain Suite by renowned composer Jennifer Higdon – at 4 p.m. on Nov. 13. The piece was co-commissioned by the Glens Falls Symphony with the ‘New Music for America’ consortium of 36 orchestras. 

Higdon will be in residency during rehearsals and performance of Cold Mountain Suite, and will be presenting the pre-concert talk at 3 p.m. The work is based on Higdon’s opera Cold Mountain, which in turn is based on the New York Times best-selling novel Cold Mountain by Charles Frazier. The novel tells the story of a deserter of the confederate army named W.P. Inman, and chronicles his journey back home to find the love of his life. 

The concert will open with the Toccata and Intermezzi movements from Claudio Monteverdi’s 1607 opera, L’Orfeo, considered by many to be the earliest-composed work of opera that is still regularly performed. The orchestral Higdon work, Cold Mountain Suite, will follow

Glens Falls Symphony  2022-23 Season: all concerts on Sunday at 4 p.m. at Glens Falls High School Auditorium, with free Pre-Concert Talk at 3 p.m. 

Season and single tickets are priced in three tiers: Adult: $38/$32/$25, Student: $10. Four-Concert Season tickets (Nov. 13, Dec. 18, March 19, 2023 and May 7: $132/$112/$92. Student Season Tickets: $40

Location: Glens Falls High School Auditorium, 10 Quade St, Glens Falls. 

For information regarding ticket pricing and seating for season, visit www.theglensfallssymphony.org, call the Symphony office at 518-793-1348 or stop by the office, upstairs in the LARAC Gallery building: 7 Lapham Place in Glens Falls. Office hours are Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Rough & Tumble Road Leads to Caffe Lena Nov. 20

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.


Mallory Graham and Scott Tyler AKA Rough & Tumble. Photo: Annie Minicuci Fine Art Photography.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Mallory Graham and Scott Tyler, collectively known as the Folk-Americana duo The Rough & Tumble have relentlessly toured since forming as a band in 2011. On Saturday, Nov. 20, they perform on the regional stage at Caffe Lena.  

“Living on the road full-time in a small camper, with two big dogs (Mud Puddle and Magpie Mae) for the last 8 years – until last week, when we settled in New Hampshire,” says Graham.  “We’re looking forward to spending more time in the Northeast.”

Show time is 7 p.m.on Nov. 20. Go to: caffelena.org. 

November 11 – 18, 2022

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Local Briefs.

Fall 2022 Famous Brown Bread and Bake Sale

It’s Fall and the temperature is dropping, but our kitchen is heating up! Simpson United Methodist Church, located at 1089 Rock City Road, Rock City Falls, NY is having our semi-annual Brown Bread & Bake Sale. Cost will be $8 per loaf.  Call 518-885-4794 to place your order. Pick-up dates: Friday, November 18 between 4 – 6 p.m. and Saturday, November 19 between 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Bake sale on Saturday. Please leave your name, telephone number and the number loaves you would like to reserve; and if possible, let us know if you will be picking up on Friday or Saturday. A representative from Simpson will call back to confirm your order.

She Kills Monsters 

For the first time, SCT is producing a play on our MainStage, and we couldn’t be more excited about it! This is a story of high schooler Agnes Evans as she deals with the death of her younger sister, Tilly. When Agnes stumbles upon Tilly’s Dungeons & Dragons notebook, she finds herself catapulted into a journey of discovery and action-packed adventure in the imaginary world that was her sister’s refuge. In this high-octane dramatic comedy laden with homicidal fairies, nasty ogres, and ’90s pop culture, acclaimed playwright Qui Nguyen offers a heart-pounding homage to the geek and warrior within us all. Production dates are November 18-20. Tickets available at stage.com/saratogachildrenstheatre. PG-13.

Holiday Fair – Food, Crafts and More

Saturday, November 19, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church located at 624 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs. The event will take place in the parking lot. Enjoy a fire pit, hot chocolate and s’mores as you shop. For questions call 518-587-0403. 

Annual Christmas Craft and Vendor Fair

The Middle Grove United Methodist Church is having their annual Christmas Craft and Vendor Fair on Saturday, November 19 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. A variety of crafters and vendors will present at our small but mighty church. Lunch (soup & sandwiches) will be available to purchase. Come join the fun and get some shopping done. The church is located at 429 Middle Grove Rd (corner of Middle Grove & North Creek Rd).

Comedy Show

North Country Comedy Tour – Fundraising show for After the Fire, Inc. A volunteer, non-profit organization helping people in Saratoga County who have been victims of fire in their home. EMCEE – Emcee is Mikael Gregg, Headliner is Brad Lowery, Feature is Pat DaBiere. The show will be held at Saratoga Holiday Inn, located at 232 Broadway, Saratoga Springs on Saturday, November 19. Dinner 6 p.m. Show 8 p.m. Dinner & show $60. Show only advanced sale $25. Show only at the door $30. Call 518-581-1823 to reserve your tickets now. 

Nutcracker Tea

Saratoga Springs Youth Ballet First Nutcracker Tea to be held Sunday, November 20 at historic Canfield Casino at 2 p.m. for a whimsical afternoon with tea, delicious treats, dancing, and holiday fun. Children and families will enjoy holiday shopping from local vendors, basket raffle and silent auction. Delight in live performances from the Nutcracker Suite along with a reading of The Nutcracker Story. Don’t forget to take your photo with Clara and the Sugar Plum Fairy! Tickets go on sale Thursday, Oct. 20 at eventbrite.com. Saratoga Springs Youth Ballet (SSYB) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit. For more information, contact Info@saratogaspringsyouthballet.org or call 518-306-4037 or visit www.saratogaspringsyouthballet.org. 

The Thymly Herb Garden Group Monthly Meeting

Monday, November 21, 10 a.m. Meetings are at the 4-H Training Center, 556 Middleline Rd, Ballston Spa. Our presenter will be Laurie Freeman, a retired biology professor, naturalist, herbalist, yoga instructor and hiking enthusiast. She will discuss how to make herbal infused oils and how to use them. A demonstration of making healing salve and lip balm included. Also, there will be refreshments, a meeting and an Herb of the Month talk by a member. Dues is $20/year to join the Group. New members always welcome. RSVP to thymlyherbmail@gmail.com

Monthly Indoor Craft and Garage Sale 

On Sunday, November 27, 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 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs. Admission is free. Over 40 vendors, great parking, crafts galore, and lunch. household items, hand-made items, clothing, wreaths, food treats, body lotions, and just about anything you can imagine in time for Christmas. More crafters sign-up every month. A fun activity the entire family enjoys. All proceeds go to local charities.  8’ table and chairs $15; Call Debbie at 518-885-6506 or email dozolins@nycap.rr.com for information or to sign up for a table(s).

Artisan Market – Craft Vendors Wanted

The Juried Artisan Market is held at Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave Ballston Spa. The market is open to the public from Saturday, November 26 through Saturday, December 24 and will be staffed by museum employees. SCHC @ Brookside Museum handles all sales tax and pays vendors 60% of the sale price of their items. Booth fees are $30 for a 4’x4’ area and $45 for a 4’x6’ area. A limited number of booths with electricity are available for an additional $10 per booth. Vendors must provide a typed (preferably digital) inventory list. Vendors are responsible for their booth set up; tables and shelving will not be provided by SCHC @ Brookside Museum. Applications can be downloaded at https://brooksidemuseum.org/events/artisans-market/ and can be emailed to bsilvestri@brooksidemuseum.org or mailed to: Brookside Museum, Attn: Beth Silvestri, 21 Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY 12020

Southern Saratoga Art Society Exhibits

The Town of Clifton Park Lobby, 1 Town Hall Plaza, Clifton Park will feature artist Faith Weldon during the months of November and December. The Clifton Park Senior Community Center Gallery, 6 Clifton Common Ct., Clifton Park will be hosting members in a show called “Seasons” showcasing the elegance of Spring, the passion of Summer, the subtlety of Autumn and the harshness of Winter during the months of November and December. The Mechanicville Library, 190 N. Main Street, Mechanicville will feature artist Karen Zimmer for the months of November and December. Visit these venues and enjoy the artwork of these various artists. For more information about SSAS visit our website: southernsaratogaartist.com or check us on Facebook.

Jane Austen Birthday Tea

Hosted by the Jane Austen Society of North America (JASNA)-New York Capital Region on Sunday, December 11, Inn at Saratoga, 231 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. Local author Heather Moll will discuss her latest novel, An appearance of Goodness, a murder mystery set at Pemberley. The mystery theme will continue with a discussion of the many Jane Austen mystery series. Cost is $40, includes a raffle ticket for Austen-related items, an Afternoon High Tea, and Jane’s Birthday Cake. Reserve your place by contacting jasnanycaptitalregion@gmail.com. Payment due before December 1. Payable to JASNA NYS Capital Region and send to: JASNA, NYCR, c/o Nancy Duell, 56 Fifth Street, Glens Falls, NY 12801. For additional information, contact Nancy at 1 (518) 321-1887 or jasnanycaptitalregion@gmail.com

ClayWorks Holiday Sale 

Saratoga Clay Arts Center, 167 Hayes Rd, Schuylerville | Meet the Artists at SCAC – Studio Tours, Demonstrations, Ceramic Art for Sale — Functional and Sculptural, Refreshments. November 26, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., December 4, 12 – 5 p.m. or by appointment from November 27 – December 3. Please email: artistsofscac@gmail.com. Follow us on instagram @artistsofscac

November 11 – 17, 2022

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Calendar.

Friday, November 11

Veteran’s Day Ceremony

Gurtler Brother’s VFW Post 420
190 Excelsior Ave, Saratoga Springs | 11 a.m.

A Ceremony honoring our Veteran’s. Everyone is welcome to attend and honor all our Veterans. All Veterans are encouraged to attend, you do not need to be a member the VFW. A lunch will follow the ceremony. For more information, please call 518-584-9686. Please leave a message. 

Saturday, November 12

Annual Church Garage & Bake Sale 

Presbyterian-New England Congregational Church

24 Circular St., Saratoga Springs | 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Indoors – rain, snow, or shine. No early birds admitted. All proceeds benefit church youth group activities. Something for everyone: homemade baked goods, antiques, vintage, gently used, new. Furniture, linens, housewares, vinyl LPs, toys, collectibles, small appliances, jewelry, much more. No books, DVDs, CDs, electronics, clothing, or stuffed animals. Bring a box to fill! Come early for the best selection; come back again after 2 p.m. for the half-price sale. 

Defensive Driving Class

Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church
175 Fifth Avenue, 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 518-286-3788. As we are social distancing, a mask is required if you are not vaccinated. Class size is limit.

Saratoga Cup Speedskating Meet

Weibel Ave. Ice Rink, 30 Weibel Ave. Saratoga Springs

9 a.m. – 4 p.m. | The Saratoga Winter Club will hold the annual Saratoga Cup and NorthEast Series I Short Track Speedskating Meet. Admission is free and open to the public. Speedskaters from the Capital District as well as from Vermont, Massachusetts, New Jersey and beyond will compete at this East Coast Tradition. Volunteers are still needed to help with off-ice positions including timers and judges. It’s a way for local high school students to fulfill community service hours in a fast-paced, exciting environment. Contact swc.skt.fst.brn.trn@gmail.com for more information. 

Winter Coat Sale Fundraiser

Gateway House of Peace
479 Rowland St., Ballston Spa | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

All proceeds go to Gateway House of Peace, a donor driven End-of-life home that cares for local resident & families during loved one’s final days. 

Holiday Shopping

The Adirondack Folk School
51 Main St., Lake Luzerne | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Gifts of all sorts from local artisans. You will love the selection of handmade jewelry, cards, advent calendars, ornaments, icicles, soaps, baskets, cutting boards, wooden boxes, hand painted mittens, woven scarves & shawls, pillows, books for all ages, and lots more. Something for everyone – big gifts and stocking stuffers! A perfect opportunity to make a dent in your shopping list. Hot chocolate will be served! And a surprise or two, just for fun!

Artist Talk and Demonstration

Galway Public Library, 2112 East Street, Galway

Noon | Our Featured Artist, Tari Lee Sykes, will talk about each of her Chinese scroll paintings now on display. She will discuss the meaning behind the subjects, how she learned to do them, explain the materials used, answer questions, and give a demonstration on use of the inks, brushes, etc. She’ll have materials available for attendees to try the Chinese Painting technique. Samples of her art are on view on the library website: www.galwaypubliclibrary.org. Registration is requested, at 518-882-6385.

Saratoga Chips & Beer Festival

Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave, Ballston Spa

1 – 5 p.m. | The Saratoga County History Center is partnering with DeCrescente Distributing Company to bring you the Saratoga Chip and Beer Festival featuring old-time musicians John Kirk and Trish Miller. They will bring their traditional “fiery fiddle tunes” and other folk gems rooted in American traditions to the festival. The duo complements our beautiful exhibit that tells the many stories behind the chip, and it’s natural to partner with DeCrescente, which not only distributes local craft beer and Saratoga Chips but is a historic fourth-generation Saratoga County business. Tickets can be purchased at brooksidemuseum.org/event/saratoga-chips-and-beer-festival-2. For more information, call 518-885-4000.

Sunday, November 13

Indoor Christmas Craft & Garage Sale

Saratoga-Wilton Elks Club
1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs | 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

The popular Elks Ladies Auxiliary Indoor Craft and Garage Sale. Admission is free. Over 40 vendors, great parking, crafts galore, and lunch. household items, hand-made items, clothing, fabrics, food treats, body lotions, and just about anything you can imagine in time for Christmas. 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).

More Saratoga County Stories Book Release

Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Avenue, Ballston Spa | 2 – 4 p.m. The second volume of stories published by the Saratoga County History Center (SCHC) covers various topics related to the history of Saratoga County. This compilation of 66 articles by 33 authors, originally published weekly by the Saratoga County History Roundtable, draws on the knowledge and experiences of local historians and “history buffs,” some of which have only recently taken up the pen to share their stories. Guests can talk with the authors and obtain signed copies of the book. A second event will be held on Saturday, December 3, from 2-4 p.m. at Grooms Tavern, Clifton Park. Visit the website www.brooksidemuseum.org.

Between Heaven and Earth

Spring Street Gallery, 110 Springs St., Saratoga Springs | 2 – 4 p.m. Presenting works by Rabbi Linda Motzkin, a Torah scribe, author, parchment maker, and an artist is to be celebrated on her solo exhibition opening. It’s also a celebration of Rabbi Motzkin’s and her husband Rabbi Jonathan Rubenstein’s retirement from Temple Sinai in downtown Saratoga Springs where they have served as co-rabbis together since 1986. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Bread and Torah Project of Temple Sinai and other charitable causes. Spring Street Gallery is open to the public. To make an appointment, purchase artwork, or for questions, please text or call Belinda Colón at 518-290-0660 or email the gallery at springstreetgallerylist@gmail.com. 48 hours’ notice is required for private tours/appointments. 

Polka Dance 

Knights of Columbus Council #246, 50 Pine Rd., Saratoga Springs 2 – 6 p.m. | The event is held to raise funds for homeless veterans. The cost will be $20, payable at the door. There will be lite fare food and a cash bar available. Please support this worthwhile event — four hours of fun for a good cause! As always, the event is open to the public. For more information, call 518-584-8547.

Film: My Disability Roadmap 

The Park Theater, 14 Park St., Glens Falls | 2 – 5 p.m.

In partnership with All Abilities Productions of Upstate New York, The Park Theater Foundation presents “My Disability Roadmap Movie & Fundraiser.” The film, My Disability Roadmap, showcases the life and cinematic work of Samuel and Daniel Habib. This event will include a brief discussion, basket raffle, live music, refreshments, and light appetizers. Tickets: Early Bird – $15 | Day Of Show – $20. For further information and to purchase tickets, visit parktheatergf.com/events or phone 518-792-1150.

Monday, November 14

Nature on the Move 

Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton | 10:30 a.m.

Come enjoy nature with others looking to get outside. This walk is geared toward gentle exercise and those with basic fitness levels, ages 16 and up. This program will not take place in bad weather. Visit wiltonpreserve.org and click the “Public Programs” tab to register online. For more information, email info@wiltonpreserve.org or call 518-450-0321. 

Tuesday, November 15

Pierogi Sale 

Christ the Savior Church, 349 Eastline Rd., Ballston Lake | Pick up 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 

We will have potato/cheese, sauerkraut, and farmer’s cheese pierogis. We will have a very limited quantity of sweet potato pierogies (seasonal). All pierogi orders are $10/dozen. Please call 518-363-0001. Limited quantity of stuffed clams will be available as well. Please order early as we expect a lot of orders.

Tuesday, November 15

Brooks BBQ Fundraiser

Saratoga Senior Center
5 Williams St., Saratoga Springs | 3:30 – 6 p.m.

Patrons may order rib and chicken dinners in advance and pick them up at the Center on the November 15 at a drive-through in the front of the building. Day-of orders will be available while they last. The dinners are $20 for Ribs and $14 for Chicken. Each dinner comes with a baked potato, cold slaw, and a dinner roll. The Senior Center will deliver orders of 10 or more dinner to a home or business. Just let them know you would like delivery when ordering. Call 518-584-1621. The fundraiser, sponsored by Humana, will help support the programs and services at the Center.

Learn to Speedskate

Weibel Ave. Ice Rink, 30 Weibel Ave. Saratoga Springs

6:15 – 7:30 p.m. | Learn to Speedskate with legendary Saratoga Winter Club! Four Training Sessions (also on November 17, 22, 29 from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m.) Skate with SWC (December 1 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.). Learn basic speedskating techniques on and off ice. $50 individual fee or $90 per family of 2 covers instruction, skate rentals (if available) and US Speedskating required insurance (additional family members $15 each). Proper safety equipment must also be purchased ahead of time. Skaters must be able to stand on skates and stop on own accord. See full flyer for more information. Email swc.skt.fst.brn.trn@gmail.com or call 518-430-7600 to pre-register.

The Town of Greenfield Historical Society Meeting

Greenfield Community Center
25 Wilton Rd., Greenfield Center | 7 p.m.

Program: Middle Grove High School. Corinth Town Historian and Director of the Corinth Museum, Rachel Clothier, will share her knowledge of the 1880s Middle Grove High School. The school once occupied the current Greenfield Historical Society’s Chatfield Museum at 440 Middle Grove Road. Please join us. It is open to the public free of charge.

Presentation: Katrina Trask’s Saratoga Legacy

Saratoga Springs History Museum
1 E. Congress St., Congress Park, Saratoga Springs 

7 – 8:45 p.m. | Rumara Jewett speaks about Saratoga visionary Katrina Trask (1853-1922) on the 100th anniversary of the dedication of the Trask Gateway Memorial in Congress Park. The evening also includes historical readings by Tamie Ehinger and Michael Belanger, a musical performance of Trask’s lyrics by vocalist Eileen Egan Mack and pianist Michael Clement, and a special exhibition. Open to the public; to reserve a free ticket, visit www.saratogahistory.org/alfred-z-solomon-program-series. Presented with support from Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation, Saratoga Arts, and the Alfred Z. Solomon Charitable Trust. 

Wednesday, November 16

Olde Saratoga Seniors Meeting

Town Hall, 35 Spring St., Schuylerville | Noon

It will be a sandwich luncheon and Sarah from the Schuylerville Library will be giving a presentation. All are welcome, new members and guests. More information contact Pat at 518-338-2329.

Turkey 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: Roast turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, vegetable, gravy, tossed salad, dinner rolls. Dinner for 2 / $30. (cash only). 

Town of Greenfield Leo Club

Greenfield Community Center
25 Wilton Rd., Greenfield Center | 6 p.m.

The club meets the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month (unless bad weather – zoom meeting). The objective is to provide the youth of the world with an opportunity for development and contribution, individually and collectively, as responsible members of the local, national, and international community. Motto: Leadership – Develop skills as a project organizer, time manager and team leader. Experience – Learn how teamwork, cooperation and collaboration can bring exciting changes to your community and the world. Opportunity – make friends and feel the rewards of community service. Leo Chair is Brittney Campbell. Email LionBrittney@gmail.com to RSVP.

Thursday, November 17

Third Thursday Jazz 

The Park Theater, 14 Park St., Glens Falls | 7:30 p.m. The Park Theater Foundation presents, “Third Thursday Jazz” with The Matt Niedbalski Trio featuring saxophonist, Nate Giroux, and saxophonist / bassist, Steven Kirsty. Experience some of the best jazz music in the Capital Region! Tickets: $10. For further information and to purchase tickets, visit parktheatergf.com/events or phone 518-792-1150.

SSCSD, BOCES Team Up to Offer STEAM Academy

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Springs City School District has partnered with Washington-Saratoga-Warren-Hamilton-Essex BOCES to offer a STEAM Academy at Maple Avenue Middle School, according to a news release from the district.

The STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) Academy will be held Dec. 3, Dec. 10, and Dec. 17 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. each day. There are three course offerings for students in grades 3-8, and all courses cost $100 each.

‘An Extraordinary Science Adventure,’ led by Lisa Whitman, is being held for grades 3 through 5 and will feature hands-on science activities and experiments. Activities will include designing a balloon brain, making a lava lamp, producing slime and silly putty, and learning the chemistry behind the making of ice cream, according to a menu posted by the district.

‘Into the Valley of Digital Creation,’ hosted by Nicholas Regner, will help children in grades 4 through 8 discover key principles and design theories utilized by companies. The students will apply the concepts in a variety of projects. Students must bring their Chromebook to this course.

‘Space Stations,’ with Ken Santucci, will study the purpose of space stations, from the fictional Death Star of the ‘Star Wars’ franchise to the International Space Station. The course will discuss how the stations get and stay in space, how they are built, and more.

Registration for the courses must be submitted by Nov. 18, and can be done on wswheboces.org. For questions, call 518-581-3585 or email giftedresources@wswheboces.org.