The Gateway House of Peace has been providing dignified end of life care in Ballston Spa since 2014. The house can care for two terminally ill people and their families at a time in the last three months of life.
On September 26, from 1 to 6 p.m., the Gateway house will host a family-friendly fundraising event on their grounds at 479 Rowland Street, Ballston Spa. The event is $5 admission and will feature yard and carnival games, live music, food trucks from Ted’s Fish Fry, Spring Street Deli, Thorn and Roots, Stewart’s ice cream, and a silent auction.
Funds raised from this event allow the Gateway House of Peace to operate year-round at no charge to the families.
Another way to support the Gateway house is through the Gateway Thrift Shop, 404 Geyser Road, which sells donated items; all proceeds benefit the Gateway House of Peace.
Edward Hart, Vice President and Commercial Banking Manager of BSNB (Courtesy of Ballston Spa National Bank)
Ballston Spa — Christopher R. Dowd, President and CEO of Ballston Spa National Bank (BSNB) recently announced the appointment of Edward Hart to Vice President, Commercial Banking Manager.
Hart will lead the bank’s commercial lending team, providing leadership, coaching and performance management while driving commercial loan and deposit growth. He will also oversee portfolio expansion, credit quality and risk management while working closely with all business lines to develop business, strengthen key client relationships, and advance the bank’s overall commercial banking strategy.
“Ed is a strategic banker with decades of experience leading initiatives that strengthen financial performance and drive the growth of commercial loan portfolios,” says Jim Conroy, EVP, Chief Banking Officer. “As a lifelong resident of the Capital Region, Ed has built deep-rooted relationships throughout the community and is committed to providing thoughtful, tailored financial solutions that help local businesses and customers thrive.”
Hart previously served as a commercial loan manager at BSNB, where he managed commercial loan portfolios, underwrote loan requests, and evaluated credit risks. He later joined The Adirondack Trust Company, where he spent 21 years in a leadership role, managing a seasoned commercial loan portfolio and helping develop loan policies designed to safeguard the bank’s assets. He now returns to BSNB, bringing decades of commercial banking experience and a deep understanding of the Bank and the communities it serves.
“Throughout my career in commercial lending I have developed deep relationships with community members, many of which have lasted more than 20 years,” noted Hart. “Helping local businesses grow and prosper has always been the most rewarding part of what I do. As BSNB enters an exciting new chapter, I look forward to serving even more customers while continuing to provide the tailored solutions and local expertise we are known for.”
Owners of Lake Ridge Restaurant, Chef Scott Ringwood and Bob McKenna (Courtesy of Lake Ridge Restaurant)
Lake Ridge Restaurant is celebrating 25 years in business this year, but they almost didn’t make it one month. Bob McKenna and Chef Scott Ringwood opened the restaurant in September 2001, the same month of the devastating terrorist attacks on the Twin Towers.
“We got the approval to open on September 26, and nobody showed up,” McKenna recalled. “Nobody was doing anything at that point. Nobody was coming out to dinner. It was a scary time.”
Eventually the shock of the attack began to fade, and people emerged from their sanctuaries to begin a return to normality.
Ringwood was leaving Dater Tavern in Clifton Park in aspiration to open his own restaurant a year before the attacks. He approached his friend about partnering with him. McKenna, who had been in the car business for 32 years, didn’t hesitate.
The pair bought the property at 35 Burlington Ave, Round Lake and spent seven months renovating the building.
The key to their success? Well, it’s very similar to the car industry, according to Bob McKenna.
“It’s all about a customer experience, and you have to have good staff to give a good experience, and with that you get retention. That customer retention is great staff, great product, great experience; and from there you should be able to do a great business,” McKenna says.
The great product comes from a lifetime of experience from Chef Scott and a tight menu that allows for the highest quality ingredients.
The restaurant creates a cozy and intimate ambiance through its three dining rooms, two fireplaces, and a mahogany bar stocked with dozens of scotches and bourbons and a curated wine list.
Whether you’re in town for the horse racing, have never ventured to Round Lake, or are a regular, Bob and Chef Scott invite you to Lake Ridge Restaurant, open Tuesday through Saturday, 4 to 8:30 p.m.
Moreau – Supervisor Jesse A. Fish, Jr., and the Moreau Town Board recently announced the availability of select Town-owned parcels for sale, within the Moreau Industrial Park (MIP), located off Bluebird Road.
The 12 available parcels offer lots from one to 18+ acres in size, are generally level, and close to shovel ready. These lots are located in an established industrial area which provides access to existing municipal water and sewer infrastructure.
In 2025, the Town Board took action to update the zoning in the M-1 Zoning District, which encompasses the MIP, in order to support the Town’s Comprehensive Plan. That Plan calls for continued promotion and development of the MIP and is consistent with the current Town Board’s Economic Development Goals.
A Generic Environmental Impact Statement (GEIS) was prepared for the Industrial Park as part of its original development, outlining thresholds that are acceptable, per acre, and intended to streamline development.
While the Moreau Industrial Park was established in the early 1990s, these Town-owned parcels have not been actively marketed for development, in recent years. The current administration is focused on appropriate growth within the Industrial Park that is consistent with current zoning and brings both economic investment and jobs to the Town of Moreau and Saratoga County.
Sales will be considered only for proposed uses which are consistent with the updated zoning and intended character of the district. Proposals will be reviewed through the Supervisor’s Office and the Building, Planning and Development Office, before being presented for any necessary Town Board action.
Businesses, developers and site selectors interested in available properties are encouraged to contact the Moreau Supervisor’s Office for additional information at 518-792-1030 Ext 6. For specific questions related to allowable uses, please contact the Building, Planning and Development Office at 518-792-1030 Ext 5.
Suzann and Peter Bobley at 18 Karat Farm (Courtesy of Saratoga PLAN)
Suzann and Peter Bobley have spent more than four decades caring for Thoroughbred racehorses. Now, the couple has taken a step to support the horses they love by permanently protecting the land that has become their home in retirement.
The Bobleys have partnered with Saratoga PLAN (Preserving Land and Nature), a nonprofit conservation organization, to permanently protect their 75-acre farm in the Town of Northumberland through a conservation easement funded by the Saratoga County Farmland and Open Space Grant Program.
The couple first came to the Saratoga region in 1983 to race Thoroughbreds. After starting on a small property on Long Island, they gradually expanded to larger farms before building 18 Karat Farm in 2006. They settled just outside Saratoga Springs, near the historic Rojan Farm and minutes from Saratoga Race Course.
“We found the land and the people of Saratoga and everything about this place beautiful,” Suzann Bobley said.
Saratoga PLAN worked with the Bobleys throughout the conservation process to establish a customized easement, which permanently limits future development while allowing the property to remain a working horse farm for generations to come. Today, the farm is home to 13 retired Thoroughbreds, including three horses from the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF), and their farm now serves as a TRF Sanctuary Farm.
“Protected farmland is essential to the future of Thoroughbred aftercare, it’s an investment in the lifelong welfare of the horses who have given so much to us. We are deeply grateful to the Bobleys for their continued support of our mission and deep commitment to conserving farmland. Strong partnerships that support both farmland conservation and equine aftercare help ensure a sustainable future of dignified lifetime care for Thoroughbreds beyond the racetrack,” said Maggie Sweet, executive director of the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation.
Having watched rapid growth reshape many of the rural landscapes on Long Island, Suzann and Peter understood how quickly farmland and open space can disappear. They knew they wanted a different future for the farm they built in Saratoga County, especially as development pressure increased around the property.
In 2021, when an adjacent 28-acre tract of forested wetlands was listed for sale, the Bobleys and several neighbors hoped it could be protected from development. Rather than risk losing the woods, the Bobleys purchased the property themselves, preserving open space next to their farm.
The protected property also contains wetlands that filter water and provide wildlife habitat. The parcel lies within a mile of protected lands that support Blanding’s turtles, a threatened species. According to the New York Natural Heritage Program, habitat loss and the degradation of private wetlands surrounding known populations are among the greatest threats to Blanding’s turtles. The conservation easement permanently protects these wetlands and the wildlife habitat they provide.
“The Saratoga region offers so much to the people who live here and to those who come to visit. The land and natural resources around us are a big part of what makes that possible. Protecting them is a shared effort and takes all of us. The Bobleys are a great example of how dedicated landowners can work with Saratoga PLAN to preserve the landscapes that define our region and the quality of life we all value for generations to come. We are grateful for our strong partnership with Saratoga County and its integral role in making this project happen,” said Saratoga PLAN Executive Director Jamie Brown.
Saratoga PLAN has helped conserve over 14,000 acres of land in Saratoga County. PLAN helps landowners conserve farmland, woodlands, and natural habitats, and connects people to nature through an extensive trail network, including 13 public nature preserves open for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and nature study.
The Wesley Foundation – the philanthropic arm of The Wesley Community in Saratoga Springs – recently announced the success of this year’s annual fundraiser, ‘Toasts & Tides.’ The coastal-themed gala generated more than $200,000 for implementing new smart technology to assist with patient care.
The funds raised from the summer fundraiser at The Lodge at Saratoga Casino Hotel in Saratoga Springs will be used to implement a modern nurse call system, which will provide residents with a greater sense of safety, independence and reassurance that assistance is always within reach. Additionally, advanced technology will empower Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and nurses by offering valuable insights to help prevent falls and reduce response time to address residents’ needs.
“The Wesley Foundation is truly grateful for the outstanding support and generosity of the guests, sponsors and donors who made this year’s gala a tremendous success,” said J. Brian Nealon, CEO of The Wesley Community. “By helping to fund both technology and staff, these donations will enhance our residents’ quality of life and foster a safer and more responsive and compassionate care environment for all who call our community home.”
Honorary chairs of the gala were Mike and Tricia Billok.
The gala was presented by The Adirondack Trust Company, with dozens of additional sponsors, including area businesses and community members, offering monetary and in-kind donations.
Founded in 1972, The Wesley Community was established as a long-term senior care community and has steadily grown into a continuum-of-care campus featuring independent and assisted living apartments, compassionate skilled nursing and memory-care services.
With every purchase of a firewood stand, chicken coop, wishing wells, and more custom-built amenities, Adirondack Corporation will donate a portion of the proceeds to North Country Honor Flight (NCHF).
NCHF exists to keep President Truman’s promise to our veterans, that America will never forget their sacrifices. NCHF flies America’s Veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials built in their honor—at no cost to them.
As our Vietnam War veterans age, time is no longer on our side. Many are now in their late 70s and 80s, and each year we lose thousands who may never have the opportunity to be honored for their service. The window to say “thank you” is closing.
That is why North Country Honor Flight has expanded its mission to focus on Vietnam War veterans, while continuing to honor veterans of all eras. They are committed to ensuring that the heroes of the North Country—those who served during Vietnam and beyond—receive the recognition they have earned.
For a full list of products offered by Adirondack Corporation, visit www.adirondackcorp.com/nchf.
Palette will host a women and wealth networking event on Tuesday Aug. 25 at Universal Preservation Hall from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The full-day event is designed to spark meaningful conversations about the many forms of wealth women create throughout their lives.
Some of the keynote speakers include local racehorse trainer, Cherie DeVaux, CEO of Barstool Sports, Erika Bandan, and NY Race Track Chaplaincy President, Michele Borisnek to name a few.
Catherine Hover and Marcella Hammer founded Palette on the belief that greatness happens when people have more support, collaboration, and connection. The pair opened their space on 480 Broadway in 2019 to foster a community of like-minded, forward-thinking individuals. While the majority of members are women, Palette is welcoming of all.
All proceeds from the Women and Wealth event will support the SHERO fund which empowers and uplifts women and minority entrepreneurs by removing financial barriers and providing access to capital, mentorship, and business development opportunities.
For more information on the event visit, sherofund.myflodesk.com/womensequalityday.
After 40 years serving slices to Saratoga’s faithful, Pope’s Italian Restaurant is set to close its doors. Customers have a little less than a month to quench their Pope’s pizza appetite, their final day of business will be on Saturday, September 12th.
An announcement on Facebook informed the community about their closure.
“40 years ago, a man and his wife took a risk on creating a business to support his family. Since then, Pope’s Italian Restaurant has gone on an incredible journey to building a community & becoming a staple in the Saratoga area. From our start on Broadway to our current location on Washington Street, we couldn’t have done it without you. With all good things, this journey has come to an end,” the post reads.
The owners cited family reasons as to why they came to their decision.
“We’re ready to take a step back and focus on family— the thing that started this all. We hope you all know that though this may come as a shock to some, this isn’t a decision we made lightly, and with bittersweet hearts, we’re ready for a new chapter.”
The post has over 100 comments from customers reminiscing on memories made throughout the years: from late-night slices on Broadway, to their trusted familiarity, it is clear that Pope’s will be missed.
From Left to Right: Karen Chávez, Heather Mabee, Marc Holliday, Sheree Holliday, Johnny Velazquez, Ramón Dominguez, John Young, Debbie Finley, Terry Finley (Courtesy of Skip Dickstein)
Marc Holliday, a Thoroughbred owner, breeder and chairman of The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA), and his wife Sheree, an avid and competitive equestrian, were honored Wednesday, August 12, with the John Hendrickson and Marylou Whitney Award for their generous support of the New York backstretch community at the New York Race Track Chaplaincy’s 19th Annual Fundraising Brunch at the Saratoga National Golf Club in Saratoga Springs, NY.
“The backstretch community is the lifeblood of any racetrack and Sheree and I are proud to support the vital work of the New York Race Track Chaplaincy,” Marc Holliday said. “We are extremely honored to be recognized at this year’s brunch.”
As is the custom, the Hollidays were presented with a framed racing scene created by equine artist Tom Chapman from the New York Race Track Chaplaincy. On hand to assist with the award presentation was Marylou Whitney’s daughter, Heather Mabee.
Together, Marc and Sheree have been avid supporters of various NY Race Track Chaplaincy programs, especially its weekly food pantry, which benefited immensely from their generosity throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Most recently, they organized and sponsored a visit to SL Green’s SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, the world’s most immersive observatory experience with 360-degree views of New York City and beyond, for more than 85 children and family members of the backstretch community.
Marc and his team at SL Green also formed the Food1st Foundation in 2020, which has raised nearly $9 million to deliver nearly 1.1 million meals to the vulnerable and first responders across New York.
Previous honorees at the brunch have included Johnny and Leona Velazquez, Len Green, Tracy and Todd Pletcher, Andy Serling, Irad Ortiz Jr., Anne Campbell, Edgar Prado, Michael Dubb, Fay and David Donk, Marylou Whitney and John Hendrickson, Letty and Kiaran McLaughlin, Lisa and Kenny Troutt, Debbie and Terry Finley and the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association.
During Wednesday’s brunch, Terry Finley, the chairman of the New York Race Track Chaplaincy, announced that the organization’s graduate support program has been officially named the Len and Lois Green Stride Program. The Greens provided seed funding for the effort, which begins in ninth grade and provides high school students and their families a consistent source of guidance and encouragement throughout high school and prepares them for college.
