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Author: Saratoga TODAY

Solo Exhibit by Victoria van der Laan Opens at Springs Street Sept. 17

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

Victoria van der Laan “Remembered Geometries.” Photo provided.

SARATOGA SPRINGS —Victoria van der Laan shares a collection of works called “Remembered Geometries,” at Spring Street Gallery Sept. 17 – Nov. 2 

An opening reception will be held 6-8 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 17.

Remembered Geometries presents works based on traditional housetop quilt patterns. The technical use of fabrics and thread, color, line, and texture contributes to the overall complexity and magnetism of the exhibit. Van der Laan shares her craft with brilliant, sophisticated simplicity.

In addition to the traditional sales, van der Laan presents “Pay What You Wish.” “These works are 8” x 8” stretched gallery wrapped textile sketches offered at whatever price feels good to the buyer, no floor, no ceiling. The intention of this project is to promote equitable access to art and to cultivate a spirit of generosity,” said Van der Laan, in a statement. 

A portion of the proceeds sold through Spring Street Gallery will benefit Youth FX. Based in Albany, Youth FX primary mission is to work with diverse groups of youth from communities that have been historically under-served and in need of opportunities to learn filmmaking and acquire skills in emerging media technologies. 

Remembered Geometries is open to the public Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11 am – 1 pm and by appointment on weekends. Additional hours will be announced at: springstreetgallerysaratoga.org. 

September 16 – 22, 2022

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Calendar.

Friday, September 16

Drive-thru Miller’s Backyard BBQ Chicken and Pulled Pork Dinner To Go

SCHC’s Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Avenue, Ballston Spa | 3 – 6 p.m. | A benefit for the Saratoga County History Center, dinners are $15. Each chicken dinner will include 1/2 chicken, baked potato, coleslaw, and cornbread. Each Pulled Pork will consist of 1/2 lb pulled pork with baked potato, cornbread, and 4 oz coleslaw.  In addition, Mac and Cheese sides are available for $5. Please visit https://brooksidemuseum.org/event/millers-backyard-barbecue/ or call 518-885-4000 to reserve your meal. 

Monthly Fundraiser Dinner Take Out

11-13 Oak St., Saratoga Springs | 5 – 7 p.m.
Fundraiser to benefit Saratoga Central Catholic High School. Buffet menu: pasta with sauce, meatballs with sauce, sausage with sauce, tossed salad, Italian bread/butter. Cost is $15 per dinner or 2 for $25. Open to the public. Curb side pickup only. 

Saturday, September 17

Lumber and Tool Auction 

Shaker Heritage Society Barn, Heritage Lane, Colonie | 10 a.m. | The Northeastern Woodworkers Association will be holding their annual Lumber and Tool Auction. Doors open at 10 a.m. for viewing and auction starts at noon. Lumber will include various species of wood, including red and white oak, cherry, walnut, ash, maple, and mahogany.  Tools and equipment will include table saw, band saw, jointer/planers, drill press, dust collectors, drum sander, arc welder routers, and many smaller woodworking tools. There is no buyer’s premium, and no sales tax.  NWA is a 5013c not for profit organization.  All proceeds benefit the Fiske Scholarship Fund.  For further information, go to www.woodworker.org. 

NatureFest 

Moreau Lake State Park, 605 Old Saratoga Rd., Gansevoort | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. | The Friends of Moreau Lake State Park will be hosting NautreFest.  Entry to the park will be free.  This fun-filled family day of interactive nature related activities will include live animals, educational booths, rescue organizations, wagon rides and music.  Fun crafts and activities for the kids, food for purchase, and a silent auction and raffle.  Proceeds will go to Friends of Moreau Lake State Park. Visit our website: friendsofmoreaulake.org for more information.

Annadale – Reading & Book Signing

Ballston Spa Public Library, 21 Milton Ave., Ballston Spa | 11 a.m. | Local author, Dr. Hollis Palmer will present his new book, Annadale, Book 1 of the Gilded Saratoga series, historical fiction based, in large part, on the trials and tribulations of several of the wealthiest, wildest, and most interesting families in the village. The series follows three generations of the Lathrops, Batchellers, Davidsons, and Hansons as they face the challenges of courtship, inheritance, and social expectations during the time of strict Victorian rules. A slide show illustrating the process of researching and writing the new book. Free and open to the public. For more information call 518-885-5022 or visit bspl.sals.edu.

Genealogy and Local History

Town of Saratoga Town Hall, 12 Spring St. in Schuylerville | 1 p.m. | Heritage Hunters program topic will be Genealogy Myths, presented by Genealogist Lisa Dougherty. Lisa will talk about some of the common myths and how they can mislead genealogy research. Many families have an old legend they cling to for generations. Maybe it’s about an act of heroism or a rumor about being related to someone famous. Just how true is the story? Lisa’s website is www.upstatenygenealogy.com. Public is welcome. For information call Ginny at 518-885-9309.     

Sunday, September 18

In the Saratoga Style: Potato Chips and Their Regional Folklore Exhibit 

Saratoga County History Center, 21 Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa | 1 – 5 p.m. | Open through December 23.   This is our newest exhibit, which explores the many stories that have claimed to explain the story behind the snack, from disgruntled customers to kitchen mishaps. The history of the legendary George Crum is examined, along with his experiences as a cook and outdoor guide of African and Native American ancestry.  Learn more about this contender for the inventor of potato chips, along with other possible innovators who may have been responsible for the irresistibly crispy potatoes.  

Harmony Corners Famous Chicken Barbecue Drive Thru

Harmony Corners Firehouse, Route 67, Charlton
3 – 6 p.m. | This will be drive thru takeout only, serving ticket holders. Tickets are available at Smith’s Pie Shop, Mail N More in Burnt Hills, and McConchie’ Heritage Acres Campground. Dinner includes 1/2 Chicken, baked potato, corn on the cob, coleslaw, roll, bottle of water, and a slice of pie. All for $15.

Monday, September 19

Saratoga Parkinson’s Support Group

Saratoga Public Library, Dutcher Community Room, 49 Henry Street, Saratoga Springs | 1 p.m. Live Meeting . Topic: Funding Topics for Long Term Care – Renee Birnbaum, CSA. Questions or information contact: Kevin McCullough saratoga.parkinsons@gmail.com 518-222-4247

Marie Thorne softballmom300@yahoo.com (518) 810-8483

Tuesday, September 20

Pierogi Sale

Christ the Savior Church, 349 Eastline Rd., Ballston Lake  | Noon – 1 p.m. We will have potato/cheese, sauerkraut, and farmer’s cheese pierogies. All pierogi orders are $10/dozen.  Please call 518-363-0001.  Stuffed clams will be available as well.

Havurah Vatik

Congregation Shaara Tfille, 84 Weibel Ave., Saratoga Springs
11 a.m. – 1 p.m. | September event: Revis(it)ing Lilith. Our presenter, Gregory Spinner, teaches in the religion department at Skidmore College. He will share his recent explorations into the ancient but obscure figure, Lilith. A catered lunch follows the program. Please RSVP by September 14. Call 518-584-8730, ext. 4. All Saratoga area Jewish seniors 55 plus are welcome. Proof of vaccination and masks required. 

Town of Greenfield Historical Society Meeting 

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

Program: Saratoga Corinth & Hudson Railway. Hal Raven owner and train conductor will talk about the scenic train line now operating between the Corinth Railway Station and King’s Station in Greenfield. He will discuss the train’s August 13, 2022, involvement with the 12th Annual Caboose Day and Car Show, the history of the train, and the rail line itself. Everyone is welcome to attend. Admission is free.

Wednesday, September 21

Olde Saratoga Seniors Meeting

Town Hall, 12 Spring St., Schuylerville | Noon. | It will be a sandwich luncheon with desert provided.  New members are always welcome.  For more information, contact Pat Temple 518-338-2329

Stuffed Shell Dinner Take Out

Saratoga Wilton Elks, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs | 4:30 – 6 p.m.
For curbside pickup only. Menu: Stuffed Shells, Meatballs, Sweet Sausage, Tossed Salad, Garlic Toast. Dinner for 2 / $30. Cash only. Call Monday or Tuesday between 10 a.m. – noon to place an order. 518-584-2585. 

Experts Next Door

Virtual Program | 7 p.m. | The connections between Saratoga and “Sin City” are notorious, and the possibilities for future exhibits and events are exciting! To kick-off the partnership, Mob Museum Trustee and University of Nevada, Las Vegas Associate Professor of History Michael Green will participate in the History Center’s popular virtual speaker series “Experts Next Door.”  Dr. Green will go over some of the famous and not-so-famous links between the two resort towns, after which he will take questions and comments from the audience. Open to the public. Free, but donations are greatly appreciated.  To register, please visit https://brooksidemuseum.networkforgood.com/events/44049-experts-next-door-20-saratoga-las-vegas-connection?fbclid=IwAR3V7t-jX4BHw7XTjYV-EWjmHR3jZr86Ln-OOQcDKIBHBZrsKNp5xtQleio

Thursday, September 22

Saratoga Cub Scouting Open House 

East Side Recreation Center (northwest corner on Lake Ave.), Saratoga Springs | 6-7:30 p.m. | Come join the Cub Scouts and families of Pack 4016 for a night of fun.  All youth in grades K-5 are invited to enjoy some Scout games and learn more about Cub Scouts.  While the school year is just starting, the Scouting year never ends.  From summer outdoor activities to racing cars at a January Pinewood Derby, elementary grade Cub Scouts (boys and girls) have year-round fun with friends while learning a wide range of skills.  Contact John Koch (saratogascouter@kochny.com) for more information.

September 16 – 22, 2022

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Local Briefs.

Truck Rodeo

The SWW Workforce Development Board, along with local businesses, have teamed up for the first tri-county Truck Rodeo on September 24. It will be held in the SPAC parking lot from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. CDL drivers from local businesses will compete and test their skills operating various commercial vehicles. Truck driving is an exciting and essential role and having an CDL license opens many career opportunities. If you or someone you know has an interest in driving, or obtaining a CDL license, this is the place to be! Come out to cheer on drivers from your favorite local businesses. Plus, food trucks and a Touch-a-Truck corral. Fun for all ages!

Wheels: Women and Independence, 1900 – 1920 

Galway Public Library, 2112 East St, Galway | 11 a.m. Presenting Anne Rockwood’s program Wheels: Women and Independence, 1900 – 1920. Participants should register at 518-882- 6385 to join Anne as she celebrates the suffrage and automobility centennials. This traveling exhibit showcases the experiences of pioneer female automobile enthusiasts, with New York State as the starting point for their adventures. At the time, women represented less than 10% of licensed drivers, and “autoing” was definitely not for the faint of heart. Each woman has her own unique story to tell, with a passion for motoring at center.

Tables Available for Monthly Indoor Craft and Garage Sale 

On Sunday, September 25 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, Saratoga Springs. Admission is free. Over 40 vendors; great parking, bargains galore, and lunch. Household items, hand-made items, clothing, fabrics, food treats, body lotions, and just about anything you can imagine. New vendors signing 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 for information or to sign up for a table(s).

After the Fire’s Monthly Meeting

The meeting will be held Tuesday, September 27 at 7 p.m. at Halfmoon Town Hall on Lower Newtown Rd. in Halfmoon.   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.

The Social Origins of Authoritarian Regimes: A History of State-Middle Class Relations in Egypt

A lecture by Relli Shechter, Greenberg Middle East Scholar-in-Residence on Wednesday, September 28 at 7:30 p.m. at Skidmore College, Davis Auditorium, Palamountain Hall. Based on my forthcoming book, entitled The Egyptian Social Contract: A History of State–Middle Class Relations, this talk explores the intricacies of both formal and informal agreements between the Egyptian state and its citizens. Relli Shechter is the 2022 Greenberg Middle East Scholar-in-Residence at Skidmore College and Chair of the Department of Middle East Studies at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Israel. Free and open to the public. For details, visit https://www.skidmore.edu/greenberg-residency/index.php. Attendees must adhere to Skidmore’s COVID-19 safety guidelines.

Annual Fall Barbecue 

Shenendehowa Rotary Club in Clifton Park is hosting the Annual Fall Barbecue to raise funds for “To Love a Child’s Bountiful Backpack” program.  This program is an all-volunteer effort that provides nutritional food for school-aged children in the Shenendehowa CSD.  The event is being held at the Shen United Methodist Church, located at 971 Rte. 146, Clifton Park. Meals are:  1/2 chicken, baked potato, coleslaw, roll and butter.  Prices:  $15 online or $17 without advance purchase. To purchase meals, go to shenrotary.org/bbqchicken.  You may pick them up on 9/29 between 4 and 6 p.m.  If you do not pick up your dinners by 6 p.m., we thank you very much for your donation!

Southern Saratoga Art Society Exhibits

Artists and members are exhibiting throughout the area. The Town of Clifton Park Lobby, 1 Town Hall Plaza, will feature artist Cheryl Jenks during the month of September. The Clifton Park Senior Community Center Gallery, 6 Clifton Common Ct., will be hosting a Group Show featuring five members during September.  Artists Virginia Harrison, Barbara Hurley, Kristine Kelly, Judy Loucks, and Jo Weatherwax will be exhibiting.  The Mechanicville Library, 190 N. Main Street, will feature photographer, Anup Sood for the months of September and October.  Visit these venues and enjoy the artwork of these various artists. For more information about SSAS visit our website:  southernsaratogaartist.com or Facebook.

Saratoga Recycles Day

Sustainable Saratoga will hold their 6th annual Saratoga Recycles Day on Saturday, October 1, from 9 a.m.  – Noon. Accepting clothing & textiles (any condition), scrap metal, eyeglasses, hearing aids, adult bikes, 20 & 24-inch mountain bikes, musical instruments, backpacks, cell phones with chargers, camping gear, and more. eLot will collect appliances & electronics (including TVs). There will be an additional $30 fee per TV or monitor.  And Youth2 will give out bamboo reusable towels to the first 100 cars. $5 per household vehicle fee. Cash or check accepted. For details about what is being collected, maps of the collection stations, and list of FAQs, visit https://sustainablesaratoga.org/projects/zero-waste/recycles-day/. Still have questions?
Email zerowaste@sustainablesaratoga.org.

Charlton Freehold Fall Festival

Come and enjoy a day of many activities on October 1. Blessing of the Animals, beginning with a short service at 9:30 a.m., browsing the booths of local artisans and vendors offering a variety of crafts and goods while you listen to live music! Chili, hot dogs, and baked goods will satisfy anyone’s appetite which include vegan and keto choices.  Take a break or end the day with fun games on the lawn for the young and mature.  Come to Charlton Freehold, located at 768 Charlton Rd. in the Village of Charlton, where there is plenty to do! 

5th Annual Dan Provost Memorial Walk

The 5th Annual Dan Provost Memorial Walk for Awareness and Recovery to be held on Saturday, October 1 at Gavin Park, Wilton, starting at 9:30 a.m.  This will be a 1.25-mile family friendly walk, information on area addiction recovery resources, Narcan training, refreshments, and great raffle items.  Proceeds to benefit area addiction recovery programs.  Suggested donation $10 individual/$20 family.  Registration at zippyreg.com or at the door.  For further information call 518-587-8422 or see Facebook.   

Goat Brothers 28th annual Swap Meet

 Saturday, October 1 at the Saratoga County Fairgrounds, 162 Prospect St., Ballston Spa from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.  Admission is $10 (under 12 free). Motorcycle Show. Cars and trucks welcome to the show, live entertainment, motorcycle parts and accessories, gifts and novelties, food, and drink available. For information, call 518-583-3398 or visit, www.goatbrothers.com. 

Blessing of the Animals

Saturday, October 1 at 11 a.m. at St. Peter Lutheran Church, located at 2776 Hwy 9 Malta (across from the Malta Drive-In). In commemoration of the Feast of St. Francis you are cordially invited to bring your pets (leashed, caged, or securely held), pictures of your pets, or beloved stuffed animals (no leashes or cages required) to a service of blessing of all God’s companion creatures. Professional nail clipping will be offered free of charge. For more information or questions call 518-583-4153. 

World Cultures Full Circle

 An hour of flute and piano arrangements of uplifting music. From the jazz of Gershwin in America (including a special arrangement of Rhapsody and Blue excerpts) and Claude Bolling of France; through many musical styles from around the world embracing Spain, Germany, Argentina and more.  Performers are Judith Thomas, pianist known in Saratoga for her work at UU services as Music Director and as a popular entertainer in the Assisted Living circuit; and, Jolene Crowley, a former teacher and orchestral performer.  Refreshments will follow the concert. The concert will be held on Saturday, October 1 at 7 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Saratoga Springs, 624 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs.  Cost: $20 Donation.  

Looking for Land in All the Right Places Farm Tour

Finding land to farm can be a tough challenge for new farmers or those looking to expand their operations. Join the Agricultural Stewardship Association for a day long tour on Sunday, October 2, featuring three properties which offer leasing and/or farm management opportunities for farm seekers. The tour will start and end at the ASA office at 2531 State Route 40, Greenwich. Transportation will be provided by van and carpooling. This program is free to all, however advanced registration is required. For more information on the three farms, a complete agenda for the day, and to register, please visit the ASA website: www.agstewardship.org/events or call 518-692-7285.

Paint Collection Day

Sunday, October 2, from Noon – 3 p.m., Sustainable Saratoga and our partner, Green Sheen, will accept interior and exterior household paint, deck coatings, stains, shellacs, sealers, urethanes, waterproofing sealers, metal coatings, field, and lawn paints. We can’t accept aerosols. Containers should not be empty or leaking. No other items will be accepted on October 2. SPAC overflow parking lot on the west side of Route 50. Anyone can participate. There are no residency requirements for this event. $5 per household vehicle fee. Cash or check accepted. For details about what is being collected, maps of the collection stations, and list of FAQs, visit https://sustainablesaratoga.org/projects/zero-waste/recycles-day/. Still have questions?
Email zerowaste@sustainablesaratoga.org.

Spare Some Time Bowling Fundraiser

The fundraiser will benefit the Saratoga Children’s Theatre to help raise money toward improvements to our Black Box Theater and our scholarship fund. It will be held on October 2 from 2 – 5 p.m. at Strike Zone, 32 Ballston Ave., Saratoga Springs. Cost is $100 per lane includes unlimited bowling for 4 people, shoe rental, soda and 2 slices of pizza. Email Caroline@saratogachildrenstheatre.org to reserve your spot.

The 25th Annual “Autumn Jewels” Juried Art Show 

The Art Show will be held at the Clifton Park Senior Community Center from October 3 – November 1.  This show is sponsored by Southern Saratoga Art Society and is open to all area artists.  Entries will be judged, and prizes awarded in both the fine arts and photography.  Entries must be received by Wednesday, September 19.  An award reception for all artists, families and friends will be held on Monday, October 24, 6:30 p.m., at the Senior Center.  For rules, entry fees, entry forms and where to mail your entry, please visit: southernsaratogaartist.com or visit us on Facebook.

H.O.P.E. 20 Year Anniversary Gala

Thursday October 6, from 6:30-10 p.m. at the Saratoga National Golf Club, located at 458 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs. Homes for Orphaned Pets Exist is celebrating 20 years of helping people and pets find each other at the annual H.O.P.E. Gala.  Steve Caporizzo is the special guest emcee, and live music will be provided by Hot Club of Saratoga.  There will be plenty of great food and drinks, a silent auction, raffle, and live auction with Mark Capone.  Reservations are required and can be made online at hopeanimalrescue.org.  For more information, call 518-450-7013.

Repair Café

Saratoga Springs Public Library and Sustainable Saratoga are excited to host our 8th Repair Café on October 8 from 12 – 4 p.m.  at the Saratoga Springs Public Library. We have coaches available to help you fix your lamps, small appliances, computers, leather, jewelry, or sew/hem your favorite item of clothes or beloved stuffed animal. We can’t wait to see you! https://www.facebook.com/events/3219284815005996/

The 2022 Showcase of Homes

Tickets for the areas premiere new home tour are on sale now. Celebrating 26 years of exceptional homes. Tickets are available at all Adirondack Trust branch locations, Curtis Lumber in Ballston Spa, Saratoga National Bank on South Broadway, Saratoga Springs, and Roohan Realty on Broadway, Saratoga Springs. Tickets are available at any showcase home during the tour hours of 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. or can be purchased online thru the website at www.saratogashowcaseofhomes.com. Participating award-winning builders are Belmonte Builders, DSG Construction and Remodeling, Kodiak Construction, Peerless Builders, Trojanski Builders and Witt Construction. Unfortunately, due to material shortages, there are just 6 homes on tour this year so you can see them all in one day.

Calling All Singing Voices!

Saratoga Voices invites singers to join them for their 1st performance at Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga Springs. Handel’s Judas Maccabeus, November 19 at 7:30 p.m. Rehearsals are Tuesday evenings at O’Rourke Middle School in Burnt Hills. Our first rehearsal is September 7. Go to SaratogaVoices.org/Sing to schedule a vocal placement interview. Must be vaccinated. 518-416-4060, info@saratogavoices.org.  

Fall Foliage Trip to Burlington, VT

On October 14 travelers can spend a day on their own in Burlington or choose to spend part of the day at the nearby Shelburne Museum and the remainder of the day in Burlington, home to the thriving arts scene, a sparkling waterfront, great shopping, and dining. The round-trip bus is $39. The bus trip including Shelburne Museum admission is $62. Contact the Saratoga Senior Center for more information or to reserve your spot at 518-584-1621. 

Fall Stop & Shop Vendor and Craft Show 

Held on October 22, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Wilton/General Schuyler Rescue Squad Emergency Building on Route 29, outside of Schuylerville. Raffles and concession with many vendors will be there.  For further information and an application to rent a table, contact Jennie McReynolds at 518-338-2709 or by e-mail jlt100211@yahoo.com. 

Seeking Tax Assistance Volunteers

Tax-Aide, the free income tax assistance program sponsored by the AARP Foundation and the IRS, is seeking volunteers for the upcoming tax season at various sites in Saratoga, Washington and Warren Counties. You do not need to be an AARP member to volunteer. Tax-Aide volunteers answer questions and prepare returns for low to moderate income taxpayers and seniors from February 1 to April 15, 2023. No experience is required, but computer experience is helpful for tax counseling. Free training is given. For more information contact Lorna Olivo at 518-309-8530 or AARPTaxAideSaratoga@gmail.com. 

Presentation: Celebrating the Feast ofSt. Michael in Saratoga Springs Sept. 27

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in History.

The Bandstand on Oak Street, ca. 1950. Photo by Mario Izzo.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — City Historian Mary Ann Fitzgerald will deliver a presentation about the Feast of St. Michael, celebrated on the city’s west side dating back to the early 20th century.   

The event, free and open to the public, will take place 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 27 at The Saratoga Springs History Museum, 1 East Congress St.

Starting in 1914, the Feast of St. Michael was celebrated in late September in Saratoga Springs’ Dublin neighborhood, which had started as an Irish enclave, then became home to Italian immigrants and African Americans, among others, and is now known as the Beekman Street Arts District. 

As the statue of Saint Michael was paraded down Beekman Street, people pinned money to him, which benefited the Principessa Elena Society, a community resource for newly arrived Americans that still exists today in the neighborhood. The “Festa” grew into a widely beloved celebration that embraced live music, plentiful cuisine at Dublin’s numerous Italian restaurants, and even fireworks on the outskirts of town. It ended in the 1970s, occasionally revived between 1997 and 2001.

“Everyone in Saratoga Springs went to the St. Michael’s Feast street celebration, not just Catholics and not just Italians,” says Fitzgerald, co-founder of the Saratoga Springs West Side Oral Narrative Project, which is the basis for the presentation. Funding for the event is provided by the Alfred Z. Solomon Charitable Trust.  

“One commonality of the interviews in the project,” Fitzgerald says, “was that everyone remembered the Feast of St. Michael, and everyone wished it could come back.” 

Schuylerville Boys Soccer Overcomes South Glens Falls in OT Thriller

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Sports.

SCHUYLERVILLE — On Monday, September 12, the Schuylerville Black Horses squared off against the South Glens Falls Bulldogs. South High opened the scoring midway through the first half when James Thompson elevated a shot over the outstretched arms of Griffin Brophy, Schuylerville’s goalkeeper. The score remained that way until Schuylerville’s Chris Jones evened the scoreline with 13 minutes left in the match. While the momentum seemed to be with the Black Horses, South High’s Charlie Bammert slid one home with under five minutes remaining to put the Bulldogs up 2-1. With a few ticks of the clock left, Schuylerville’s Sam Tyler took advantage of a deflected pass and tied up the game 2-2 just before the final whistle. In the first few minutes of OT, Schuylerville was awarded a free kick from 30 yards out. Corey Cottrell stepped up and found the back of the net for a game winner. The game finished 3-2, in favor of the Black Horses. Schuylerville improves to 2-0-1 in the league and 2-1-1 overall. South Glens Falls moves to 1-1 in the league and 2-2 overall.  

Morris Twins Shine in New Jersey

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Sports.

Dani (left) and Randi Morris. Photos provided.

BURNT HILLS — Burnt Hills Middle School seventh graders, Randi and Dani Morris (12) from the Jason Morris Judo Center, were double medalists at the 1st North American Judo Championships in Wayne, New Jersey on September 11. Randi took gold in the 11- and 12-year-old 52kg weight class division and claimed a silver medal in the 13- and 14-year-old 53kg division. Dani won gold in the 11- and 12-year-old 52kg+ division, then picked up a silver in the 13 and 14 year-old 58kg category. Burnt Hills High School senior, Kyle Tran (17) won gold in the Cadet (15- and 17-year-old) 60kg weight class and also won a gold medal in the men’s 60kg category. Burnt Hills High graduate and Union College freshman, Luke Munro (18) won a gold in the 18 through 20-year-old 73kg division then picked up a bronze in the senior 73kg category. Scotia High School graduate, CJ Tenney (27) was also a double medalist winning a gold in the Novice 60kg weight class then won a silver in the elite 60kg category. Niskayuna High School graduate, Joe Quinn (22) picked up a bronze in the novice 81kg weight class. Shenendehowa High School graduate, Josh Falk (26) won a silver in the +100kg brown belt category to close out the Jason Morris Judo Center medal count. For more on the Jason Morris Judo Center, visit:
www. realjudo.net. 

TCT Federal Credit Union Donates to BSCSD Students

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

Photo provided.

BALLSTON SPA —TCT Federal Credit Union, a longtime supporter of the Ballston Spa Central School District, has recently donated 100 backpacks full of school supplies for the upcoming year. The supplies will be distributed to students and families in need. “We are so thankful for all of the ways TCT supports our students and recognizes our outstanding staff throughout the school year” said the school district in a statement. Families in the Ballston Spa schools who need assistance in obtaining school supplies for their students should contact Deb Dugan, 518-884-7195 X1356 or ddugan@bscsd.org. 

Ballston Spa School Board Appoints Interim Superintendent

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.


Photo provided.

BALLSTON SPA —The Ballston Spa Central School District Board of Education has appointed Mr. Gianleo Duca as the new Interim Superintendent for the 2022-23 school year. 

“Mr. Duca’s experience as a strong instructional leader within our district uniquely qualifies him to support our students and staff as we continue to move forward with district initiatives and the search for a permanent Superintendent during the coming school year,” said School Board President Jason Fernau. 

Duca holds a bachelor’s degree in History Education from Western New England University, a master’s degree in Education from Salem State University and received an Administrative Certification from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. In December of 2019, he received his Doctorate Degree from the Sage Colleges, Esteves School of Education. He holds a New York State Certification as a School District and a School Building Leader. 

“I am grateful for the opportunity and truly honored to lead our district, said Duca.” “I have a tremendous respect for the students, staff, caregivers, and the community of Ballston Spa. Together we will continue our work on developing innovative programming options while simultaneously meeting the needs of all our students.”  

Mr. Duca, who has been with the district since 2015, served as an Assistant Principal and Interim Principal before being appointed Principal in July 2018. The school currently has over 1,200 students enrolled in the 9th-12th grades. Prior to his service at Ballston Spa, he held Social Studies teaching positions at South Colonie High School and Medford High School (MA). Dr. Duca currently resides with his family in Waterford, NY.

WSWHE BOCES Set to Host CTE Works! on October 4

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

SARATOGA  — On Tuesday, October 4, local industry partners and Washington-Saratoga-Warren-Hamilton-Essex (WSWHE BOCES) will host CTE Works! at the Saratoga Springs City Center. CTE Works! brings 8th and 9th graders from school districts throughout the WSWHE BOCES service area to a one-day interactive career exploration event. The event exposes students to the world of work in our region and attempts to show students the career opportunities available right in their own backyard. Local employers will be on hand to discuss the pathways in their industries, what they have to offer and provide interactive activities that are examples of their work. 

“It is critically important that young people meet local industry partners, experience a bit of what they do and learn about the outstanding opportunities they can have working right here in their own city or town. We encourage these interactions. CTE Works! is one of many experiences we offer that allows students to figure out what they like to do, what they want to do and what they dream they can do in the future,” said Principal for Innovative Programs at WSWHE BOCES and CTE Works! Committee Member, Michelle Maddalla.

The CTE Works! expo is designed to highlight careers throughout the region, including but not limited to: 

Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources; Architecture & Construction; Arts, A/V Technology & Communications; Business, Management & Administration; Education & Training; Finance; Government & Public Administration; Health Sciences; Hospitality & Tourism; Human Services; Information Technology; Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security; Manufacturing; Marketing; Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics; Transportation, Distribution & Logistics and more.

For more details about the event, visit: www.careerandteched.org/apps/pages/CTEworks. 

“Truck Rodeo” to Highlight CDL Career Path

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

SARATOGA—The need for Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) holders is growing exponentially across the United States. In response to the shortage of CDL Truck Drivers across our region, the Saratoga-Warren-Washington Workforce Development Board (SWW WDB), along with local trucking businesses, is hosting their first “Truck Rodeo” on September 24 to highlight the features and benefits of this career path. Organizations with truck fleets and CDL drivers interested in competing in the event are encouraged to participate. The event will take place at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The competition offers several categories of competitive vehicle classes to highlight the variety of fleets across the region, and to provide a realistic job preview of the roles and responsibilities of drivers. This event is open to all members of the public and will include a “Touch-a-Truck Corral” while representatives from the Workforce Development Board educate the community on the truck driving industry. 

The modern truck driver is part of a transportation and logistics industry that moves materials across the region, state and country. E-commerce has been a catalyst for the high demand for drivers, and the pandemic has only exacerbated the worker shortage resulting in supply-chain shortfalls. 

The American Trucking Association estimates that by 2028, America will need 160,000 additional drivers nationwide. The future of the industry depends upon attracting and retaining new drivers to this growing career field. Federal training dollars and other funding opportunities are available to help those seeking financial support to obtain either Class A or Class B commercial driver’s licenses. And, effective May of 2022, New York State has lowered the qualification age from 21 to 18 years old. 

The goal of this upcoming event is to highlight that the perceptions of driving a truck for a living are changing. The SWW WDB want to educate and inform the community, demonstrate the skill-level and professionalism of our trucking community, and highlight the regional opportunities and significant earning potential of this career path. For more information on this event, please contact Gretchen Steffan, SWW WDB Executive Director, at gsteffan.sww.wdb@gmail.com or 518-824-8883.