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Author: Saratoga TODAY

Isabel Baker 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — On Thursday, January 30, 2020 Isabel Baker left this world to join her husband Robertson. Services were private. Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at act.alz.org or the Community Hospice of Saratoga. Online remembrances may be made at burkefuneralhome.com.

February 1 – February 7, 2020

COURT

Dominick Monge, 24, of Amsterdam City, pleaded Jan. 24 to unlawful surveillance in the second-degree, a felony, in connection with an incident in Wilton. Sentencing scheduled Feb. 11.   

POLICE

Christopher Hansen, 31, of Buffalo, was charged Feb. 2 in Saratoga Springs with misdemeanor criminal trespass. 

Joseph Jacobs, 28, of Inwood, West Virginia, was charged Feb. 2 with misdemeanor DWI  and operating a vehicle without signal devices. 

Nicholas Petro, 21, of Granville, was charged Feb. 1 in Saratoga Springs with misdemeanor DWI, and failing to use headlights. 

Maurice Magee, 29, of Glens Falls, was charged Feb. 1 in Saratoga Springs with misdemeanor assault, obstructing governmental administration, and unlawful possession of marijuana. 

Anne Kenkel, 24, of Saratoga Springs, was charged Feb. 1 with criminal mischief, and criminal trespass. 

Thomas Butterfield, 52, of Gansevoort, was charged Feb. 1 in Saratoga Springs with assault.

Tammy Clark, 52, of Saratoga Springs, was charged Feb. 1 with assault. 

Darian Duell, 26, of Greenfield, was charged Feb. 1 in Saratoga Springs with obstruct governmental administration. 

Theresa Skaine, 51, of Saratoga Springs, was charged Jan. 31 with misdemeanor DWI, and failure to keep right. 

Augustus Balsamo, 36, of Saratoga Springs, was charged Jan. 31 with petit larceny. 

Doris Mendez, 46, of Saratoga Springs, was charged Jan. 31 with welfare fraud – a misdemeanor, and offering a false instrument to file – a felony. 

Shane Singh, 22, of Schenectady, was charged Jan. 24 in Saratoga Springs with criminal mischief in the third-degree, a felony. 

Alyssa Bridge, 27, of Saratoga Springs, was charged Jan. 24 with petit larceny. 

Kristi Carlson, 36, of Saratoga Springs, was charged Jan. 25 with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, and a speeding violation.

Christine Sterling, 32, of Chesapeake, VA, was charged Jan. 25 in Saratoga Springs with misdemeanor DWI, aggravated DWI, and speeding. 

Heather Thompson, 33, of Queensbury, was charged Jan. 25 in Saratoga Springs with misdemeanor DWI, and two violations.

Spencer Hawkins, 37, of Saratoga Springs, was charged Jan. 25 with misdemeanor DWI, and a driving violation. 

James Gurney, 24, of Saratoga Springs, was charged Jan. 25 with aggravated harassment  – misdemeanor. 

Travis Bopp, 35, of Liverpool, was charged Jan. 26 in Saratoga Springs with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, and a vehicle equipment violation. 

Cole Hayes, 29, of Albany, was charged Jan. 28 in Saratoga Springs with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, and a vehicle equipment violation. 

Shawn Farrell, 20, of Saratoga Springs, was charged Jan. 28 with criminal possession of a controlled substance. 

Annette Cammarere, 59, of Ballston Spa, was charged Jan. 28 in Saratoga Springs with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, and a vehicle equipment violation. 

Christine Soucie, 43, of Bennington, Vermont, was charged Jan. 28 in Saratoga Springs with criminal possession of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of marijuana, and operating a motor vehicle without stop lamps. 

Debra Morelli, 33, of Saratoga Springs, was charged Jan. 29 with welfare fraud – a misdemeanor, and offering a false instrument to file – a felony. 

Cynthia Cooper, 56, of Saratoga Springs, was charged Jan. 29 with petit larceny, and criminal contempt. 

Gregory Wasserbach, 54, of Gansevoort, was charged Jan. 31 in Saratoga Springs with misdemeanor DWI, and three driving/vehicle violations. 

Marc Giosi, 36, of Saratoga Springs, was charged Jan. 31 with misdemeanor DWI, and making an illegal signal. 

Hudson River Community Credit Union’s Give4Kids Matching Campaign Raises $25,500 for Local Youth Centers

CAPITAL REGION —In 2019, the Hudson River Community Credit Union (HRCCU) conducted its annual year-end Give4Kids Matching Campaign in its continued effort to support local youth centers in the communities it serves. 

This year’s campaign raised an impressive $25,500 to support local youth centers in the Capital Region. Recipients included the Saratoga Regional YMCA Corinth Branch’s After School Enrichment Program, Glens Falls Area Youth Center and the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area. Each location received a total of $8,500 to help support their efforts in the community.

Over the past seven years, HRCCU has raised more than $150,000 for local youth centers within the communities it serves. Donations have been used to purchase new equipment, supplies and provide student scholarships.

In 2020, HRCCU will again support local youth centers through its new fundraising event: The Great Inflatable Race. The fundraiser, which will take place on September 19, 2020 at the Washington County Fairgrounds in Greenwich, is designed to provide fun for the whole family while supporting a great cause. Registration for the event is now open to the public at https://newenglandruns.com/event/great-inflatable-race-saratoga-springs/ or https://www.hrccu.org/thegreatinflatablerace/.

Hudson River Community Credit Union (HRCCU) is a not-for-profit financial cooperative whose mission is to make life better for its members. Anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school located within Saratoga, Warren, Washington, Rensselaer counties or the Towns of Cohoes, Watervliet or Green Island and their immediate families are eligible to join.

Lena Spencer, Blotto to Be Honored at UPH in March

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Caffe Lena founder and owner Lena Spencer and legendary 1980’s Capital Region band Blotto are among the 2020 inductees in the recently created Capital Region Thomas Edison Music Hall of Fame.

The “Eddies” were created in 2019 by Jim Murphy and Salvatore Prizio of Schenectady-based Proctors Collaborative to celebrate professionals working in the area’s music scene. “Eddies” is named for Thomas Edison, who conceived the phonograph and relocated his Edison Machine Works to Schenectady. 

Lena Spencer was founder and owner of Caffe Lena from 1960 until her death in 1989.

AE Blotto

Blotto was active 1978-1984, in addition to subsequent reunions. They sported pseudonyms on recordings and on stage; their songs were played on radio’s “Dr. Demento Show” and the video for “I Wanna Be A Lifeguard” was played on MTV’s first day on the air in 1981. 

The induction ceremonies will take place at Universal Preservation Hall, on Washington Street in Saratoga Springs on March 9. The venue is slated to have its grand reopening 10 days earlier. UPH will also site the Eddies Hall of Fame and will feature a plaque with the likeness of each inductee, as well as videos about all who are enshrined. Future plans include exhibits of local music memorabilia.

The induction ceremony includes a dinner and live music. The event is open to the public; tickets are $50 and are available at universalpreservationhall.org

Freihofer’s Saratoga Jazz Festival 2020

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Twenty-four musical groups – 16 of whom will be staging Saratoga Jazz Festival debut performances – will appear at SPAC in June. 

The two-day lineup includes: Nile Rodgers & CHIC, Kool & The Gang, Ranky Tanky and Tiempo Libre, Taj Mahal, Drummer Omar Hakim’s “supergroup” Ozmosys, and “centennial celebrations” of the music of Charlie Parker and Dave Brubeck – the latter featuring performances by the Brubeck Brothers with Mike DeMicco and Chuck Lamb. 

The 43rd annual Freihofer’s Saratoga Jazz Festival takes place Saturday, June 27 and Sunday, June 28 at SPAC. 

 Nile Rodgers & CHIC, who headline Saturday night’s event pioneered a musical language that generated chart-topping hits like “Le Freak,” and sparked the advent of hip-hop with “Good Times.” A typical CHIC set includes mega-hits written, co-written and/or produced by Nile Rodgers, including “Get Lucky” (Daft Punk), “Like A Virgin” (Madonna),
“We Are Family” (Sister Sledge), “Let’s Dance” (David Bowie), “Upside Down” (Diana Ross) and many others. 

Sunday’s amphitheater headliner Kool & The Gang are best known for their hit singles “Celebration,” “Cherish,” “Joanna,” “Jungle Boogie,” “Too Hot,” “Hollywood Swinging,” “Ladies Night” and “Fresh.” 

Acts will be staged during the daylong shows both inside the amphitheater, and atop a second outdoor performance space, known as the Charles R. Wood “Jazz Discovery” Stage. 

Founded in 1978 by jazz impresario George Wein, Freihofer’s Saratoga Jazz Festival is the fifth longest-consecutive-running jazz festival in North America. 

 Tickets are currently on sale to SPAC members. Tickets of the general public will be available online at www.spac.org beginning Feb. 11. Prices vary. For ticket information, and a full lineup of artists, go to: www.spac.org.

January 31 – February 6, 2020

Friday, January 31

Fish Fry Friday
Fish Creek Rod and Gun Club, Route 32 South of the Village of Victory | 4:30 – 7 p.m.
All are welcome, members and non-members.  Menu: fish fry, chicken fry, clam fry, popcorn shrimp fry, buffalo shrimp, chowder, ask about our extra’s and beverages. You are welcome to eat in at our club house or call ahead for take-out. 518-695-3917. Continuing every Friday thru April 10.

Frostbite Friday
Beekman Street Arts District: Grand Ave. to Oak St., Saratoga Springs | 5 – 8 p.m.
Visiting artists, refreshments, art/craft demonstrations. Visit the Arts District on this mid-winter night as participating shops, galleries, and restaurants host our second Frostbite Friday event.  Taking place the night before Chowderfest, our event will serve as a fun kickoff for your weekend in Saratoga. Visiting artists and music will fill the galleries, and merchants will be offering warm beverages and treats. Warm yourself at the firepits in various locations and roast marshmallows. This will be a fun way to celebrate the start of a festive winter weekend in Saratoga. Weather permitting.

Fish Fry Friday
Knights of Columbus, 50 Pine St., Saratoga Springs | 5 – 8 p.m.

Same great menu as in the past: Fried or Baked Haddock or Fried Clamstrips with French Fries, Cole Slaw, Tartar Sauce, and Cocktail Sauce. $12 ($1 extra for take-out). Help the Knights continue their charitable work in the community. As always throughout the year, Joe Fredette and Frank Bunch cook and deliver a delicious meal every Thursday for the men and women’s veteran’s homes in Ballston Spa. Additionally, on Thursdays during the cold months, they cook for Code Blue. And, if you are one of the many who attend the ChowderFest each year, don’t forget to visit Joe and Frank outside the City Center on Ellsworth Jones Place on February 1st. For questions, please call 518-584-8547.

Saturday, February 1

Tag Sale
Former Galway Public Library Building, 5264 Sacandaga Rd., Galway | 10 a.m. – Noon
Some of the larger items currently available are: CD holder; children’s book spinner; paperback book spinner; desk chairs; 3 desks, including 1 large wooden one; 8 cubicle dividers with computer table attachments; brochure rack; children’s chairs; 2 folding tables; 2 wooden tables, along with other miscellaneous smaller items. This is a fundraiser for the Galway Public Library. For further information call 518-882-6385.

Chowderfest 
Downtown Saratoga Springs | 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Join us for a day of live music, family-friendly activities and, of course, a wide variety of chowders. Come enjoy samples of chowder from local restaurants. Once you taste them all, you can vote for your favorite. Part of Winterfest, Chowderfest is one of the area’s most highly anticipated events of the year and the perfect activity for a cold winter’s day. Stroll through downtown Saratoga and purchase a $1 cup (3 oz. serving) of chowder from as many participating establishments as you’d like. Some restaurants will be offering classic varieties, while some may be serving original, unique concoctions. Traditionally, over 80 vendors participate, including Saratoga County’s best restaurants and caterers. Chowderfest is organized by the Saratoga Convention & Tourism Bureau. For more information visit www.discoversaratoga.org/chowderfest

Sunday, February 2

Breakfast Buffet
Saratoga-Wilton Elks, 1 Elks Lane, Rt. 9, Saratoga Springs | 8:30 – 11 a.m.

Now featuring eggs to order, fruit cocktail, French toast, pancakes, potatoes, breakfast sausage and ham, corned beef hash, sausage gravy and biscuits, scrambled eggs, eggs benedict, juice, coffee and tea. Donation Requested: Adults $9, Seniors and Military (active/retired with ID card) $8, children 5-12 $7, under 5 free. Take-outs $9. Call 518-584-2585 for more information.

Dharma Meditation 
Saratoga Health and Wellness Building, 538 Maple Ave, Saratoga Springs | 9 – 10:15 a.m.

Weekly meditation followed by short discussion. All contemplative traditions honored. By donation. Drop-ins welcome. Please visit www.oneroofsaratoga.com for more information.

Sobor Bowl 
United Methodist Church, 175 Fifth Ave., Saratoga Springs | 6 p.m.

Join us to watch the Big Game on the Big Screen in a sobor environment. Potluck: bring a dish to share. Free and all are welcome. For more information call Healing Springs at 518-306-3048. 

Monday, February 3

Wool Appliqué with Judy Donovan
Saratoga Springs Public Library, Susman Room | 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Join Judy Donovan of the Wings Falls Quilters Guild for a two-session wool appliqué class. Learn basic wool appliqué techniques as you create a floral appliqué that can be turned into a wall hanging or pillow. All supplies provided. Please register only if you can attend both sessions. Register online or by calling 518-584-7860, ext. 248. Ages 18 and up. Scissors are available to share. Please bring your own scissors if you have them. Next session Monday, February 10, 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Tuesday, February 4

Blood Drive
Shenendehowa United Methodist Church, 971 Route 146, Clifton Park | 1 – 6 p.m.

Sponsored by Nick’s Fight to be Healed. To schedule an appointment, please call 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org and use sponsor code NICKSFIGHT. 

Wednesday, February 5

2020 Winter Storytellers Series
SUNY Empire State College, 2 Union Ave., Room 126, Saratoga Springs | Noon – 1 p.m.

The Academy for Lifelong Learning presents the twelfth annual storytellers series every Wednesday through February 26. This week features storyteller Kent Busman with “Stories from the Adirondacks & Beyond.” Sponsored by Prestwick Chase at Saratoga. Free and open to the public. Postponed if Saratoga Springs city schools are closed or delayed. For more information, call the Academy at 518-587-2100, ext. 2415. www.esc.edu/all

Guided Mindful Meditation
Saratoga Springs Public Library, Susman Room | 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.

Take a break from the daily grind and clear your mind with guided Mindful Meditation led by professionals from One Roof Holistic Health Center. Sessions are free and open to the public and will be held on the first and third Wednesday of each month. Everyone is welcome. For more information, call 518-584-7860, ext. 205.

Poetry Reading
Caffè Lena, 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs | 7 p.m.

A poetry reading by Susan Oringel. An open reading will follow. Doors open for sign-ups at 7pm and the readings will start at 7:30. The host for the event will be Carol Graser and the cost is $5 general, free for students for more information, call 518-583-0022, www.caffelena.org.

Thursday, February 6

All Caregivers’ Support Group
Saratoga Hospital, 211 Church St., Saratoga Springs | 6 p.m.

First Thursday of each month, free and open to all. Pre-registration required. Call Pierre for info/directions to meeting space 413-992-7012.

Upcoming Meetings

Monday, February 3

Saratoga Retired Teachers
Longfellows Restaurant, 500 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs | Noon

For membership information and luncheon reservations, call 518-587-5356.

Galway Preservation Society
Galway Town Hall, 5910 Sacandaga Road, Galway | 7 p.m.

Featured program, Chickens: Their Economic and Agricultural Impact through the Years in Saratoga County. Meetings start with refreshments and social time at 7 p.m. and a brief business meeting at 7:30 p.m., with the presentation beginning at approximately 7:45. The public is invited to attend. For more information, visit our website at www.galwaypreservationsociety.org

Wednesday, February 5

Olde Saratoga Seniors Meeting
Town Hall, Spring St., Schuylerville | Noon 

It will be a casserole luncheon.  Please bring a dish to pass.  New members are always welcome. For information contact Pat Temple, 518-338-2329. 

Thursday, February 6

Ch.60 Korean War Vet. Association
VFW Home, 190 Excelsior Aven, Saratoga Springs | 1:30 p.m.

All veterans who served anywhere during the Korean War, in Korea at any time, spouses, widows, friends and relatives are all invited to attend. New members are always welcome. Annual dues for veterans are $10, all others $5. For further information or an application to join the organization, contact Comm. Bob Garland at 518-280-0075.

1.31.20 – 2.6.20

AARP/TaxAide Services
The AARP TaxAide program will begin providing free tax preparation services for low-and-moderate income residents in Saratoga, Washington and Warren Counties.  The TaxAide program is sponsored by the AARP Foundation in cooperation with the IRS. TaxAide preparers are trained in federal and state tax regulations and are certified by the IRS. Free tax preparation services will be available through April 15.  To find the location nearest you, go to www.aarp.org/findtaxhelp or call 1-888-227-7669 for assistance. 

Italian Night Fundraiser
Join us at Knights of Columbus, located at 50 Pine Rd., Saratoga Springs from 5 – 8 p.m. for a fundraiser to help our community in need. Menu includes: pasta fagioli (cup $3/bowl $5), Chicken Parmesan ($16), chicken meritato ($18), braciola ($18), lasagna ($15), fruitti di mare ($20). All meals served with salad and bread. Open to the public.

18th Century Chocolate House at Brookside Museum
The Saratoga County Historical Society will celebrate the opening of its 2020 season with a Chocolate Festival at Brookside Museum, 6 Charlton St, Ballston Spa on Friday, February 7 from 7 – 8:30 p.m. Discover the fascinating and delicious history of Chocolate! Savor delectable samples of hot chocolate and taste sweet treats of the Colonial Era. View demonstrations of how chocolate was prepared in the 18th century. The Chocolate delights will be served by historical interpreters in Colonial clothing. Tickets $25 per person, $40 for two, $5 discount for SCHS members. Ages 21 and up. Pre-registration encouraged; seating is limited. To purchase tickets visit brooksidemuseum.networkforgood.com/events/17874-2nd-annual-colonial-chocolate-party or call the museum at 518-885-4000.

Seventh Annual Chocolate Festival
The 7th Annual Chocolate Fest is taking place on First Friday, February 7, from 6-9 p.m. Area restaurants, bakeries, and chefs will compete to showcase their talents and tastes by preparing small, sample sized chocolate offerings in up to 3 categories: Dessert (Sweet), Savory, and Chocolate Beverage. These chocolate treats will be judged by a panel of our First Friday Fanatics as well our visitors in Fan Favorite competition. Visitors can pick up a ballot form at any participating business and head to their favorite “Sweet Spot” shops, restaurants, and chefs to sample a $1 chocolate taste. While savoring these chocolate treats, visitors will enjoy a variety of First Friday activities going on throughout the Village, including art gallery openings, live music, artist demonstrations, and special promotions and sales just in time for Valentine’s Day. Complete listing of events at Ballston.org.

Camp Saratoga 8K Snowshoe Race
A snowshoe race on February 8 at 10:30 a.m. will be held at Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park, located at 80 Scout Rd. in Gansevoort. Age 65 and Over and 12 and under. Free lunch for athletes, volunteers and guests. Go to www.saratogastryders.org to download an application or link to online registration at www.runsignup.com . A limited supply of Dion Snowshoes will be available at a $5 rental charge.  Email Laura Clark at laura@saratogastryders.org to reserve a pair or phone 518-581-1278. For information about the entire Dion Snowshoe Series and for snow updates visit www.dionwmacsnowshoe.com

Winter Craft Fair
Held at the Sweet Basil Restaurant, 1012 Rt. 9, Queensbury, on Saturday, February 8. This craft fair will have over 20 crafters and will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The craft fair is free to attend.

Annual Sweetheart Dance
The Saratoga/Wilton Elks Ladies Auxiliary is holding their annual Sweetheart Dance on Saturday, February 8; at the Elks Lodge, 1 Elk Lane in Saratoga Springs. By popular demand, the Band GRAVITY will be our entertainment for the night. The evening begins with cocktails/appetizers from 6-7 p.m., dinner 7 p.m., and entertainment from 9 p.m. – midnight. This year’s Valentine raffles will again benefit the local CODE BLUE Shelter initiative. The Ladies will be raffling off wonderful baskets that they create with donations from the community and our generous Auxiliary members; including our popular Lottery Basket. This year’s entree choices are Prime Rib, Chicken Parmesan or Risotto (with eggplant, sun-dried tomatoes & zucchini), served with tossed salad, rolls, and corn. Strawberry Shortcake will be served buffet style all for only $35.00 per person. Cocktail hour will feature a specialty drink surprise. You and your special Valentine will have a great evening with dinner and “GRAVITY” to entertain with lots of dancing from 9-12 for the reasonable price of $35.00 per person. Reservations are on a first come first serve basis with seating limited. RSVP to Barb Ash (518) 584-0694, cell (518) 879-8713 or bash2@nycap.rr.com with your entrée choice, number of guests and method of payment. Checks, cash, and credit cards are accepted.

Pajama Party Fundraiser for Pediatric Oncology
It’s a pajama party at the premier award-winning Adelphi Hotel in Saratoga Springs and you’re invited. The event will be on February 8, from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Tickets are $100 per person. Proceeds will support our year-round programming for local pediatric oncology patients. Pajama attire encouraged. For more information on how to support, get involved and/or register, go to: ballsfest.org.

“Happy Heart” Luncheon
Join us February 11 from noon to 2p.m. Longfellows Restaurant, Rt 9P, Saratoga Springs. Special Event: A re-gifting party! Bring in a gift you received for Christmas or whenever in exchange for another gift! Gifts should not be wrapped, retail value between $5 to $10. Speaker: Elaine Miller from Campbell, NY is the author of 2 books. She will speak about her inspiration to write and the benefits of writing at any time of your life. Menu: Hot Turkey & Mashed Potatoes or Vegetable Lasagna. $19 inclusive. Reservations Necessary by February 7. Call Ellie at 518-584-3779. Presented by Saratoga Christian Women’s Connection.

Art Exhibit
Members’ Hall Show “Barbara Garro in Abstract” at Saratoga Arts, located at 320 Broadway in Saratoga Springs, for the month of February 2020 with a Druthers Reception, located at 381 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, on Saturday, February 15 from 6 – 8 p.m. 

Game Night 
Simpson United Methodist Church, located at 1089 Rock City Road, Rock City Falls (.4 mi s of Rte. 29), is hosting another Game Night on Saturday, February 15, from 5 – 7:30 p.m. All in the community are welcome to attend. Bring your favorite game and a dish to pass, or just bring a dish to pass and join in the fun and fellowship. Any questions call Kevin at 518-309-3306.

February Break Drama Camp
February Break Drama Camp at the Malta Community Center is now open to students ages 7-15. All campers will be involved in character selection, costuming, acting and performing our work for invited guests the last day of class. Older actors will also have the opportunity to learn backstage and stage management skills (if interested). Camp also includes theater games, crafts, acting skills and fun. This camp, headed by Malta’s Artistic Director Elyse Young, runs Tuesday – Friday, February 18 – 21 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Call the Malta Community Center at 518-899-4411 for additional information or register online at www.MaltaParksRec.com.

Beatles Concert Cabaret 
Treat yourself to a great all-in-one experience as the Burnt Hills Oratorio Society Chorus entertains you with the iconic songs of the Beatles. Set in the elegant Vista Ballroom at the Van Patten Golf Club, located at 924 Main St. in Clifton Park, this grand affair begins with a delectable Chef’s Buffet and cash bar, followed by a choral cabaret featuring solo voices from the BHOS family. Tickets sold only in advance. Due to popular demand, BHOS is now offering three performances, Friday, February 28 and Saturday, February 29 at 5p.m., and Sunday, March 1 at 1 p.m. This event has never failed to sell out, so buy your tickets early. Seating is limited and the last day to purchase tickets is Monday, February, 24. For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit the Society’s website at www.BHOS.us or call 518-416-4060.

Sweet Sound of Song
The Saratoga Chamber Players will hopscotch across the globe on March 1 at 3 p.m. with 3 outstanding artists at the United Methodist Church, Henning Road & 5th Ave., in Saratoga Springs. Soprano Charlotte Dobbs, bass baritone Andrew Padgett, and pianist Renana Gutman will take us from Dørumsgaard’s Norway to Fauré’s France, from Rachmaninoff’s Russia to John Ireland’s England and to the United States of Barber and Williams. The musicians will explore the poetry of nature through song with the piano in a significant role. Tickets are adults $25; seniors $20; and students $15. To purchase tickets, visit www.saratogachamberplayers.org.

Trout Unlimited Conservation Banquet
Open to everyone. The banquet will be held at The Century House in Latham on March 7. Tickets are on sale now on the Clearwater Chapter’s website www.clearwatertu.org. Reservations can be made up to March 1 by contacting TU members Chris and Erika Cook, 565 Grand Ave., Saratoga Springs or email Chris at communications@clearwatertu.org. Dinner, cash bar, hors d’oeuvres and award recognition, along with a live auction, silent auction, bucket raffles, card raffles and door prizes. A Grand Prize Drawing of a 12 ft. Kevlar Hybrid Canoe by Hornbeck Boats will be drawn at the banquet. All proceeds from this event benefit local “on the ground” conservation projects that support coldwater fisheries resources. TU is actively seeking donations of goods and services, as well as fishing gear and flytying materials from their members and the public for their Conservation Banquet. If you are interested in donating, please contact Chair Scott Parker at 518-894-4661 or sgparker149@gmail.com. 

Veterans Breakfast Clubs
Veterans and their friends are welcome at the following Veterans Breakfast Clubs:  Tuesdays: 8 a.m., Alexis Diner, 294 North Greenbush Road, North Greenbush, 518-286-2603. First and third Wednesdays each month: 9 a.m. Bellevue Cafe, 2630 Broadway, Schenectady. Thursdays: 8 a.m. Schodack Diner, 1842 Columbia Turnpike, Castleton. Thursdays: 9 a.m. IHOP, 611 Plank Road, Clifton Park. Third Thursday every month: 9 a.m. Malta Diner, 2476 Route 9, Malta.  Fridays: 8 a.m. Gateway Diner, 899 Central Ave., Albany.

Bus Trip to Turning Stone
Olde Saratoga Seniors are hosting a bus trip to Turning Stone Casino, Verona, NY on Monday, March 16.  Bus leaves Saratoga Train Station at 6:15 a.m.or American Legion, Schuylerville at 6.45 a.m. and returns approximately 8:30 p.m. Can play Bingo or Casino Bonus.  Cost is $10 for Senior members or $15 for non-members.  Please mail check to PO Box 60, Schuylerville, NY 12871 or contact Pat Temple, 518-338-2329.

Vendors Wanted for Stop and Shop
Wilton Emergency Squad is having a Spring Stop and Shop on Saturday, April 4, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the General Schuyler Building, 901 Route 29, Saratoga Springs, NY.  Looking for vendors. We usually have approximately 40 vendors, raffles, refreshments and much more.  Contact Jennie McReynolds at 518-338-2709.

Crafter Wanted 
An experienced crafter, to teach Ballston Area Seniors various crafts, on some Tuesday mornings at the Milton Community Center, located at 310 Northline Rd. Ballston Spa. If interest, call Madeline at 518-587-7076 for details.

Bus Trip to Niagara Falls 
Still seats available for the Olde Saratoga Seniors Bus trip to Niagara Falls, two nights three days on Thursday, May 28 – Saturday, May 30, 2020. Package includes round trip transportation, 2 nights’ accommodations at the Sheraton Niagara Falls, 2 breakfast buffets, 2 dinners, 1 is a dinner theater, admission to the Herschel carousel factory, 1 ride on the carousel, 1 day of local Guide service, admission to the Niagara adventure theater, admission to the maid of the mist.  Stop at Seneca Casino, stop at the Niagara power Vista, and baggage handling.  Price for double two people in room, two beds $588 each. Total payment due by March 31, 2020 but must sign up as soon as possible.  For an itinerary and additional price for one, three or four people per room, contact Pat Temple, 518-338-2329.

Southern Saratoga Art Society Exhibits
Artists and members of the Southern Saratoga Art Society will be exhibiting throughout the area during 2020. Please try to visit these venues an support the arts in Southern Saratoga County. For further information about SSAS, visit our website: southernsaratogaartist.com. Clifton Park Senior Community Center, 6 Clifton Common Blvd, will host a one-woman show in the Center Gallery during February titled “From Abstraction to Flow” by artist Valerie Wolf. Her works will feature many bright colors to lead us through the long winter and include samples of both abstracts and flow method. NBT Bank, 9 Clifton Country Road, Clifton Park is hosting artist Carol Winterton during the months of January and February. Mechanicville Library, 190 N. Main Street, will show the works of artist Faith Weldon for the months of January and February. Catskill Hudson Bank, 2452 State Route 9, Malta is hosting artist William Daisak during January and February.

Ballston Area Seniors Chorus
We are looking for new members who enjoy singing. We are a fun group who rehearse a program which we then take out to local nursing and rehabilitation homes, who are always delighted to sing with us.  We rehearse on Mondays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.  at the Milton Community Center. Come and join us.

Social Activities for Seniors
If you’re over 55, a long-time or new resident in the area and looking to meet active seniors, check out the Ballston Area Senior Citizens (BASC).  BASC sponsors many activities at the Milton Community Center located at 310 Northline Road, Ballston Spa.  Residents from surrounding communities are welcome to join.  Programs and activities include Festive Dinners, dances with live bands, “pickin’ sessions”, bus trips, weekly luncheons, exercise classes, chorus, crafts, etc.  Stop in any Thursday at 11 a.m. and join us for lunch.  Yearly membership fee is $10. Call Barb Broderson, Membership Secretary at 518-885-4229 or visit www.ballstonareaseniors.com for additional information.

Transportation Drivers Needed
RSVP- Retired Senior Volunteer Program, helps recruit volunteers age 55 and older for many opportunities throughout Saratoga County. We are currently looking for Transportation Drivers to take seniors to and from medical appointments. We provide the vehicle, gas, and trip details with directions. If you are interested in learning more about this opportunity or hearing about the MANY other volunteer opportunities, please call Billie Jo 518-884-4110.

Association of Agricultural Fairs Extends New York State Fair Dates

NEW YORK — The New York State Association of Agricultural Fairs (NYSAAF) represents 52 Agriculture Fairs throughout New York State. The association’s objectives are to promote and encourage agriculture, horticulture, and the domestic arts through annual fairs, including material and educational development of agriculture and industry. 

NYSAAF fosters a spirit of cooperation among members and a place for the exchanging of ideas on management and problems of general interest, resulting in the continuing improvement of fairs and expositions throughout the state and providing a memorable experience for all fairgoers.

On Tuesday, January 21, it was announced that the New York State Fair would extend its dates to include five additional days. 

There are concerns about local County Fairs dates overlapping, as well as the limitations this may create for those respective agricultural showcases and entertainment packages. At this point, we do not know the impact that this will have on county fairs throughout the state during this transition. Next steps will be determined as we await further information from the New York State Department of Agriculture and the Governor’s Office.