December 4-10, 2020
Author: Saratoga TODAY
Blame It On Love: New Album from Spa City Songwriter Jeff Brisbin
SARATOGA SPRINGS — You may know Jeff Brisbin in any number of ways.
He is a one-man Welcome Party at the Spa City’s daytime cafes; He is a night-time traveler on a never-ending tour of regional performance stages, trusty guitar cradled in his arms. Maybe you first came upon him as the songwriter who struck those solemn tones in the wake of the sad passing of local resident Nancy Pitts, capturing in the process a city’s emotions in his touching ballad “Homeless Heart.”
Brisbin – the godson of Sage of Saratoga Frank Sullivan, first began writing songs at the age of 13, tumbling along the frayed edges of understanding tone and transcending meaning as his literary godfather looked over his shoulder.
“Frank would come over to the house and say, ‘Hey, show me the lyrics.’ It would be something silly thing like, ‘Poor Amy Drew, what happened to you?’ and he would give me constructive criticism: ‘What’s this about? What are you trying to say here?’” recalls Brisbin, who has just released a new album “Blame It On Love,” featuring 10 original songs that track the landscape of communally shared human themes, offering blessings for what is, yearning for what may be, and holding love tight to the chest, at its heart center.
Musically, the 10-tune journey is accompanied by dips into a ying-yang of harmonies – a solid foundation of guitar-bass-and-drums augmented by tasteful teases via a bevy of instrumentalists; There are pianos and there are mandolins. There are cellos and saxophones. There are organs and accordions and even a tin whistle to accent the varied collection of ballads, up-tempo celebrations, and addictive sing-a-longs.
One stand-out track, “New Year’s Day,” kicks off with the pulled tension of Oona Grady’s violin – morphing gypsy and Celtic styles, tempered by the percussive paddles of Brian Melick’s multiple drum tracks.
Grady and Melick are among the nearly two dozen players on “Blame It On Love,” which features some of the region’s most recognizable names: George Fletcher and Joel Brown, Chuck Lamb and Jim Mastrianni, among them.
“When you pick these people, it’s like casting a movie, and we got the best,” says Brisbin, who credits producer Dave Maswick for his genius in style, and whom he refers to as “My George Martin.” The album is Brisbin’s third, and his follow-up to “Foreverly,” released in 2017 and also produced by Maswick – whose Ballston Spa studio is where the tracks for “Blame It On Love,” first began coming together, in late summer 2018.
The album’s title track holds special significance.
“The first song, the title song ‘Blame It On Love,’ is about Forrest Jenkins. Forrest and I were dear buddies when he was in town,” Brisbin recalls of Jenkins, who was known as a singer-songwriter and guitar player when he lived in Saratoga Springs.
“After he moved away, we would talk every 10 days or so. When I released ‘Foreverly’ he called me up on a Thursday morning and said, ‘Hey go look at my Facebook page. I just reviewed ‘Foreverly,’ I love it.’ So, the weekend comes and goes and it’s like Tuesday when I get a call from his mother. She says: ‘Jeff Brisbin. I’ve got to tell you, when Forrest was home this weekend he talked about you so much I thought I knew you personally. He loved you.’ Forrest went home, got his mail from his neighbor, and then collapsed right there. A heart attack.” Jenkins was 50 years old.
“I immediately went and found a video of Forrest at Caffe Lena,” Brisbin recalled. “In one of the songs, one of the lines was: You gotta blame it on love. I hit the pause, got out my legal pad and my guitar and in 10 minutes I had the song ‘Blame It On Love.’ The song itself is universal, but it’s about Forrest, my love for him, and what happens to us in life.”
“Blame It On Love” is available as a CD available at Celtic Treasures in Saratoga Springs, and via download at a variety of streaming services, including Spotify, Amazon, CD Baby, iTunes, and Pandora, and others.
Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story Zoom Discussion
SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Jewish Community Arts presents a Zoom panel discussion of Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story, at 7 p.m. on Dec. 6.
Born Hedwig Eva Maria Kiesler in Vienna to Jewish parents in 1914, the late screen siren, known as Hedy Lamarr, immigrated to the United States and Hollywood where she appeared in such sexually charged films as White Cargo and Samson and Delilah. However, less known is that she helped to invent a secure, radio-controlled torpedo guidance system (sonar), known as “frequency-hopping,” that would form the basis of WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS, and cellphone technologies.
In addition to her sex appeal, six marriages, and multiple boyfriends, Lamarr’s gifts included obvious intellect and a quality of self-deprecating goofiness. Although she had no formal training and was primarily self-taught, she worked in her spare time on various hobbies and inventions, which included an improved traffic stoplight and a tablet that would dissolve in water to create a carbonated drink.
Lamarr was in her 80s and at the end of her life when one of the pioneers of Wi-Fi, upon realizing that Lamarr had never been recognized for her contribution to communications, called her up. “Well, it’s about time,” came her response.
“Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story” rights a grievous wrong in the life, career, reputation, and memory of a superstar,” said Saratoga Jewish Community Arts Coordinator, Phyllis Wang. “It fascinates both as film history and as a sobering reminder of how little credit a woman like Lamarr received, even at the peak of her popularity.”
Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story is available for rental or viewing on most major video platforms and will be discussed at 7 p.m. Dec. 6. Registration is required at email address: sjca.sjcf@gmail.com for the Zoom link. Follow www.saratogajewishculturalfestival.org.
December 4 – December 10, 2020
Friday, December 4
Saratoga Festival of Trees
Saratoga Springs City Center, 522 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 2 – 6 p.m.
Catholic Charities of Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties invites the local community to unwrap the magic of the holiday season at their 25th annual fundraiser. With COVID-19 precautions in place, the Festival will once again showcase beautifully decorated trees, wreaths and other holiday and gift items for purchase. Festival proceeds will benefit the programs of Catholic Charities of Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties. New this year, the community will also be able to view and purchase trees online. Remaining days and hours are Saturday, December 5, Noon – 6 p.m. and Sunday, December 6, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Tickets are $8 per person, $5 for seniors, $3 for ages 10-18, and free for anyone 10 and under when accompanied by an adult. Everyone will be asked to wear their masks and socially distance, with limited numbers safely allowed in the Display Room at one time. For more information, please call 518-587-5000.
Takeout Roast Beef Dinner Fundraiser
Knights of Columbus, 50 Pine Rd., Saratoga Springs | 5 – 7:30 p.m.
Meals will include 8 oz. each of tender roast beef, mashed potatoes with gravy, a vegetable, salad, and rolls for $15 each. Last chance to order will be the day of the event from 1 – 4 p.m. or until we run out. To place your order or for questions, please call 518-584-8547. Thank you for your continued support of all our events, which help us to continue our work in the community.
Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting
Wiswall Park, Ballston Spa | 6 – 6:30 p.m.
The Ballston Spa Business and Professional Association is making every effort to keep the holiday spirit alive even if COVID-19 restrictions to large gatherings require a different approach to the celebrations. Santa will light the village Christmas tree from the bucket of a fire truck. The tree lighting will be live streamed on the BSBPA Facebook Page. For those who may choose to come to the park, NYS COVID-19 social distancing and mask requirements will be followed. Following the tree lighting, residents should be sure to peek out their front windows or stand at the end of their driveways as Santa will parade through neighborhoods in the village, along with the Ballston Spa Police and Fire Departments and Community Emergency Corps’ ambulance collecting Toys for Tots. The approximate route and times will be posted closer to the parade date on the BSBPA Facebook Page.
Christmas in the Country
Various Locations, Washington County | Friday and Saturday
Christmas in the Country is a group of artisans who get together every year for a Christmas in the Country tour of their homes and studios. They are primarily located in Fort Ann and Kingsbury. Participants will have Christmas tree signs in front of their houses; those who are not on the official list but are still participating will have snowman signs. Find Christmas in the Country – Washington County NY on Facebook for more information.
Saturday, December 5
Take a Walk in the Park with History
Corner of Route 50 and Middleline Rd., Ballston Lake | 10 a.m.
Join Ballston Town Historian Rick Reynolds for a historic tour of Anchor Diamond Park. The walk will be about 2 miles. Wear clothing for the weather. Register at rreynolds@townofballstonny.org with name and number in group. Free and open to all ages. Masks and social distancing required.
Ladies of Charity Poinsettia Sale
Saratoga Senior Center, 5 Williams St., Saratoga Springs | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Unusual and breathtaking colors. Plants from a local greenhouse. Cost is $12 per plant or 2 for $20.
Big Fez Xmas Show
The Parting Glass, 40-42 Lake Ave., Saratoga springs | 7 – 9:30 p.m.
Come celebrate with great holiday music, 2020 is almost over! Enjoy delicious Irish fare and beer in a safe and happy environment. For reservations please call 518-583-1916. Donations appreciated.
Sunday, December 6
Santa Claus is Coming to Town
Geyser Crest Area | Starting at 4 p.m.
The Saratoga Springs downtown Business Association and Stewarts Shops are bringing Santa to the children of Saratoga Springs. Catch a glimpse of Santa in your neighborhood as he travels through Saratoga Springs atop a tower ladder fire truck provided by King Enterprises. Follow Santa live on Facebook @downtownsaratogasprings. For more information visit www.saratogaspringsdowntown.com.
Monday, December 7
Clayfest
Saratoga Clay Arts Center, 167 Hayes Rd., Schuylerville | 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Saratoga Clay Arts Center is pleased to present its first annual holiday invitational exhibition, CLAYFEST, our way of celebrating the holiday season with a compilation of incredible functional and decorative works by clay artists from across the country. The exhibition will be a beautifully diverse exhibition of functional and decorative pottery – cups, mugs, bowls, teapots, pitchers, vases – as well as some fabulous ceramic jewelry and holiday ornaments. The Schacht Gallery is open Monday – Saturday from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. and by appointment. Visit saratogaclayarts.org, call 518-581-2529 or email info@saratogaclayarts.org for more information.
Tuesday, December 8
Brooks House of BBQ Dinner Fundraiser
Saratoga Automobile Museum | 4 – 7 p.m.
Enjoy the famous Brooks BBQ at home with helping raise funds for the Saratoga Automobile Museum’s exhibit and educational programing. Meals include: 1/2 chicken, baked potato, cole slaw, a roll, a drink and a cookie. Take out only. Please pre-register (order) on our website www.saratogaautomuseum.org/events. Cost is $15. Please contact Megan Hennessey at (518) 401-5185 or via email at megan.hennessey@saratogaautomuseum.org with any questions.
Wednesday, December 9
Roast Pork Dinner
Saratoga-Wilton Elks, 1 Elks Lane, Rt. 9, Saratoga Springs | 4:30 – 6 p.m.
Menu: roast pork, mashed potatoes, vegetable, stuffing, applesauce, gravy & roll, tossed salad. Dinner for 23 $25 (cash only). For curbside pick-up only. Call Monday or Tuesday between 10 a.m. – Noon to place an order, 518-584-2585.
Thursday, December 10
Brown Bag Lunch
Saratoga Springs Public Library Zoom Presentation | 11:45 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.
The History of Saratoga Springs using the bolster Photographic Collection, Part 2. James Parillo and Charles Keunzel are back with more fabulous images from the Bolster Collection, sharing more stories of the history of Saratoga Springs. Please register online. This online program uses the Zoom livestreaming platform. It will require access to a computer, mobile device with the Zoom app installed, and/or a phone for audio-only access. Registration with an email is required in order to receive information on how to connect. The email will be sent three (3) hours prior to the scheduled start time of the program. To register visit sspl.libcal.com/event/7195263.
December 4 – December 10, 2020
Victorian Streetscapes Cancellation Stamp
The 2020 Victorian Streetscapes Cancellation Stamp will be available at the Saratoga Springs Post Office at 475 Broadway on Saturday, Dec. 19 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Monthly Dinner
On Friday, December 11 from 5 – 7 p.m., Principessa Elena Society will have soups available by the quart. Choose from Pasta Fagioli or Italian Wedding Soup. Only Take out will be available. Cost is $5 per quart. Open to the public, purchases made at the front door.
Fundraiser Takeout Fish Fry
Knights of Columbus #246 will be hosting a Fundraiser Takeout Fish Fry on Friday, December 11 from 5 -7:30 p.m. This will be the last event which the Knights will do until the beginning of Lent. Orders should be called in to 518-584-8547 on Wednesday, December 9 and Thursday, December 10, between 1 and 3 p.m. On Friday, December 11 orders will begin at 1 p.m. and continue until we have run out. Menu will be fried or baked haddock ($14) or fried clam strips ($12), shrimp salad special ($10), New England clam chowder ($4), macaroni and cheese ($5), and dessert ($2). When picking up your order, you may enter the building wearing a mask or call from the parking lot upon your arrival, give a description of your vehicle, and your meal will be brought out to you. Thank you, once again, to all those who have supported the Knights in all their efforts during these trying times.
Academy for Lifelong Learning Barnes & Noble Book Fair
Greet Academy members at the door and receive an Academy voucher. Shop at Barnes & Noble, located in Wilton Square, 3029 State Route 50, Saratoga Springs on Saturday, December 12 anytime between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. and mention the Academy for Lifelong Learning. A percentage of your purchases will be donated to A.L.L. Enter the free raffle for a case of Sundaes Best Hot Sauce. Find more information about the Academy for Lifelong Learning at www.esc.edu/all or call Jeff Shinaman at 587-2100, ext. 2390.
Saratoga Chamber Players Concert
2020-21 marks the 34th season of the Saratoga Chamber Players (SCP) and we’re still at it. Under the artistic direction of Jill Levy, SCP will once again bring us programs with seasoned, professional musicians. This concert season kicks off with the return of Jill on violin and cellist Ashley Bathgate in a December 13 concert to be streamed. And we plan on doing another streaming concert of all Beethoven sonatas on January 31 with Jill and pianist Peggy Kampmeier. The concerts will ask you to pay what you will. Jill also has plans for a string quartet concert on April 4 and a program of sextets in late May to include the rarely heard work of Peter Schickele, a concert in honor of the late David Wasser, long-time board member. www.eventbrite.com/e/contribute-click-on-tickets-tickets-127734729013
Havurah Vitik: Celebrate the Days of Chanukah
Rabbi Boaz Marmon who now serves as rabbi of Congregation Shaara Tfille, will join us with a program featuring an exploration of the Hasmonean royal dynasty — descendants of the Maccabee leadership — and how the Maccabean revolt against the Seleucid Greeks played out in history. He will combine this look back at Jewish history with music: songs for the Chanukah season and spirit. This is a Zoom event on December 15 from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Havurah Vatik in the time of Covid: Bring your own lunch; pajama bottoms welcomed; coffee or tea suggested. Nothing supplied but valuable information, exchange of ideas, opportunity to “see” friends and acquaintances.
28th Annual Holiday Cookie Sale
The Galway United Methodist Church will hold its 28th Annual Holiday Cookie Sale on Saturday, December 19, 2020. Cookies must be pre-ordered and paid for in advance. Cookies will be boxed in 1 pound assortments and pick up will be available for drive through only in the church parking lot at the corner of Rte. 147 and CR45 in the Village of Galway. Pick up will take place between the hours of 10 AM and noon on the 19th. Contact Sharyn Kalinkewicz at 518-928-0179 for information, placement of orders and/or payment information.
Indoor Classes
Have you Heard? The Town of Malta Parks and Recreation has started indoor classes. For the latest programs and events go to our website maltaparksrec.com
Friends Bookshop
Now open for 15-minute appointments, which can be made by calling 518-584-7860 ext: 333. The schedule is as follows: Monday – Thursday 12-5 p.m., Closed Fridays, Saturday 10:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.. Closed Sunday. bookbagshop@gmail.com
Volunteers Needed
Do you have a morning to spare? Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council (EOC), a nonprofit based in Ballston Spa, is looking for volunteers to help with its food programs on weekday mornings. Urgent needs include:
• Pick-up assistants to ride-along and help retrieve donated food from local stores. Runs start in Ballston Spa and last from 8 – 11 a.m. Shifts are available Monday – Thursday.
• Delivery drivers to bring food pantry packages to clients in Saratoga County. Shifts are available Tuesday through Friday mornings and routes begin in Ballston Spa.
• Crew members to help prepare meals at the Soup Kitchen. Shifts are available Wednesday through Saturday mornings.
Be part of neighbors helping neighbors. Apply online at saratogaeoc.org/volunteer, email volunteerdesk@saratogaeoc.org or call 518-288-3206.
Southern Saratoga Art Society
Artists and members of the Southern Saratoga Art Society are exhibiting this month at the Clifton Park Senior Community Center, 6 Clifton Common Court, in Clifton Park. Thirteen artists will present “A Fall Festival of Art,” an eclectic mix of artwork. Please try to visit, late afternoon is best at this venue, and support the arts in southern Saratoga County. For more information about SSAS visit southernsaratogaartist.com.
Skidmore Cares 2020 Donation Drive Provides Community Support
SARATOGA SPRINGS — For the 15th consecutive year, the Skidmore College community has come together to assist local residents and families through the Skidmore Cares community service program.
This year, Skidmore faculty, staff and students donated nearly 3,000 food items and more than 3,400 school supplies and personal care items – including 2,130 face masks – for Saratoga County community organizations. In addition, monetary donations to Skidmore Cares and community agencies totaled nearly $800.
To help ensure the health and safety of all involved, the annual campus-wide event was modified this year, encouraging individuals to drop off donations at outdoor locations on campus in early November.
Skidmore employees organized and delivered the contributions to 10 local community service agencies: Shelters of Saratoga, Franklin Community Center, Mary’s Haven, Saratoga Economic Opportunity Council, Wellspring, Corinth Central School District, Saratoga Springs City School District PATHS, the Latino Advocacy Program, the Salvation Army and Saratoga Center for the Family.
The donations come at a critical time for local residents and agencies facing challenges created or intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Founded in 2006, Skidmore Cares has now raised more than $122,000 for community causes and distributed nearly 60,000 food, personal care and school supplies items.
