Bicycle lanes are coming to Spa City’s Union Avenue

Project to enhance safety near Saratoga Race Course

By WENDY LIBERATORE SARATOGA SPRINGS

— The state announced Wednesday it will invest $5.7 million to build a sidewalk and bicycle lanes on Union Avenue near Saratoga Race Course.

The project, which dovetails with the city’s Complete Streets plan, will include an Americans with Disabilities-compliant sidewalk on the north side of Union Avenue between East and Polk avenues at Gate 16. The bike lanes will run on both sides of Union from East Avenue to Henning Road, near Exit 14 of the Northway. And Union Avenue, which will be updated with new drainage, will see new pavement from East Avenue to the Saratoga Lake bridge.

“Expanding bicycle and pedestrian access is an essential part of our commitment to invest in infrastructure that reconnects communities and provides new opportunities for recreation, tourism and economic growth,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a statement. “This Complete Streets project in Saratoga Springs will add to the charm of this historic upstate city and make it easier for residents and visitors to explore all that it has to offer without getting in their cars.”

Since 2012, the city has been working on a Complete Streets plan that is “focused on promoting and encouraging access for all modes of transportation for all users throughout the city.”

Mayor Ron Kim welcomed the state’s help.

“My administration has been promoting and building connected networks of bike and pedes- trian paths throughout the city to reduce greenhouse emissions, cut down car traffic, and ultimately make Saratoga more accessible to all its residents and protect the environment for future generations. This project is a crucial part of that effort and a critical element in the implementation of our Complete Streets plan,” Kim said in a statement.

“Saratoga Springs and the Saratoga Race Course are jewels of the Capital Region and among the most popular attractions in New York state. With these improvements to Union Avenue, we are making it easier for area residents and visitors to leave their cars behind and experience Saratoga by walking or riding a bicycle — allowing everyone to enjoy the history and vitality of this community

“The future is bright in Malta, but it’s time to stop with petty partisan antics and focus on improving our community,” Dunn said in a statement. “I’m proud to be working with Supervisor Hammond and so many grass-roots voters to help our town realize its potential.”

While Conservatives only represent a small percentage of Saratoga County’s voters, about 3,200 out of 183,400 registered voters, an endorsement from the party can make or break a candidate. Judicial candidate Chris Obstarczyk, a Republican, learned that when he narrowly lost to Democrat Robert Muller after failing to win Conservative backing.

Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park

Accepting Entries for Annual Earth Day Essay Contest

WILTON - Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park is hosting their Annual Earth Day Essay Contest. Each year, Wilton Preserve offers an essay contest in celebration of Earth Day and the environmental movement. Earth Day, celebrated on April 22, brings environmental awareness to the forefront. This day promotes increased environmental consciousness, community participation, and protection of the planet worldwide. The mission of the Wilton Preserve includes environmental education as a priority, and engaging youth in the environmental conversation is of the utmost importance. The Earth Day Essay Contest gives children of all

Shaken & Stirred Celebrity Bartender Party is Back for the First Time

After Pause

SARATOGA - After a three-year-long pause due to COVID-19, Shaken & Stirred is finally returning to benefit Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga Springs.

The Shaken & Stirred Celebrity Bartender Party is an annual fundraiser for UPH. Local businesses team up to compete against each other, bartending for the most tips. The team that raises the most during their shift wins. This year’s event will be 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m.

Thursday, May 18 at the Saratoga National Golf Course.

The vision of the Collaborative School ages the opportunity to research and engage in the climate conversation and actively seek out solutions to protect the future resources of this planet and to bring their thoughts and solutions to the climate crisis.

The theme for 2023 from EarthDay.org is Invest in Our Planet! This year’s theme is asking people to think about how overcoming climate change is within reach if citizens work together to commit to action and invest in the planet and the collective human future.

Climate change mitigation, restoration, and adaption require the will and voice of united people to make the changes the planet needs.

A panel of judges from Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park will review the essays and select winners in lower elementary, upper elementary, middle school, and high school levels to of the Arts is to provide extensive performing arts opportunities with instruction by regional and national professionals. Its programs inspire and cultivate career paths for students in creative fields while developing and welcoming a diverse palette of artists. Tuition assistance ensures student accessibility across Proctors Collaborative, including UPH’s summer program Rock Camp.

Past champions of Shaken & Stirred include DeCrescente Distributing Co, Julie & Co. Realty and Adirondack Trust Company. For more information, go to universalpreservationhall.org. There is no cover charge for this event.

Cerebral Palsy Fundraiser

SARATOGA / WILTON

- Come join us Saturday, receive a cash prize and recognition for their innovative ideas. Other essays are recognized by runner up and judges’ choice categories. High School entries must be no longer than 650 words; Middle School entries must be no longer than 500 words; Elementary School entries must be at least 10 sentences. Accompanying illustrations are also encouraged. The contest winner from each of the categories will receive a $50 cash prize!

The deadline for entries is Friday, April 21. Winners will be announced in May and prizes will be awarded at the Annual Wildlife Festival on Sunday, June 4th. Submissions may be mailed to Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park at 80 Scout Road, Wilton, NY 12831 or emailed to info@ wiltonpreserve.org by the deadline. Please include the student’s name, the name of the school, the

May 13th, from 6-10PM at the Saratoga/Wilton Elk’s Lodge. “Celebrate Mom” with a free carnation to the first 100 Mom’s, donated by Dehn’s Flowers. We are raising awareness and funds for the Cerebral Palsy Association of NY State. We have “Amazing Mom” themed raffle baskets and a BBQ buffet. Dinner will include chicken, macaroni salad, coleslaw, baked beans and cornbread. There will be a cash bar and yummy desserts too. Dance to the beat of our favorite quartet Betsy and the ByeGons. Cost is $25 per person. For reservations call Judy at 518-5875568 by May 9. Give MOM a night to remember.

Scotia United Methodist Annual Rummage Sale

SCOTIA - This year

Scotia United Methodist, student’s grade, and the teacher’s name. Make sure that there is an email and a phone number with each student’s entry. For more information, please call the Preserve & Park office at 518-4500321 or via email at info@ wiltonpreserve.org. For up-to-date trail conditions or program information, please visit the Preserve & Park’s website at www. wiltonpreserve.org The Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park is a non-profit organization that conserves ecological systems and natural settings while providing opportunities for environmental education and outdoor recreation.

Historian Tea Talks at Brookside Museum

BALLSTON SPA - The Saratoga County History Center will host a monthly series of informal Historian Tea Talks, presented

201 N. Ten Broeck St., Scotia will be holding their annual RUMMAGE SALE on Friday, May 5, 9am – 3pm & Saturday, May 6, 9am – NOON; (Bag Sale begins @ NOON on SATURDAY!) Wheelchair accessible. Food available for purchase on both days. For questions or directions, please contact the church office on 518-372-9575.

Malta Cemeteries

Announce

Annual Meeting by historians from around the county, beginning in February. Tea and cookies will be served, and the talks will take place in the Long Room at Brookside Museum.

(1.) The Malta Ridge Cemetery Association will hold its annual meeting on Saturday April 15, 2023 at 10:00 AM at the Malta Ridge United Methodist Church at 729 Malta Avenue Extension. All lot owners, descendants and anyone interested in the cemetery are encouraged to attend.

April 18, 3pm –Hall’s Brookside Dairy, Greenfield Center: “Nothing remains but an empty field and fond memories.”

John Greenwood

Visitors will also have the opportunity to glimpse at improvements being made behind the scenes of the 230-year-old building as the History Center prepares the exciting new immersive exhibit on Saratoga County, opening in Spring 2023. Registration is not necessary but is appreciated. A donation of $5 per registration is recommended to support the programs of Saratoga County History Center. Please visit www. brooksidemuseum.org for more information.

(2.) The Malta West Ridge Cemetery Association (a.k.a. Hall’s Corners Cemetery) will hold its annual meeting on Saturday April 15, 2023 at 10:30 AM at the Malta Ridge United Methodist Church at 729 Malta Avenue Extension. All lot owners, descendants and anyone interested in the cemetery are encouraged to attend.

Dog & Cat Adoption Event at the Wilton Mall

WILTON - April 22; 11am – 3pm near HomeGoods

Animal League America and HOPE Rescue

Ask you to please join us!

50% off adoption fees

Donate a “kitten season” item for a free raffle ticket entry.

Quilt Block Viewing and Reception

LAKE LUZERNE - The Adirondack Folk School invites friends of the School and the general public to view the incredibly creative response to our Quilt Block Challenge whose theme this year is “Fur, Feathers, Fins and Flowers.” The blocks will be exhibited at the Adirondack Folk School April 17-21 from 1:00-4:00. We invite all to join us at a reception for our quilters on April 21, 4:00-6:00 for hors d’oeuvres and beverages and a chance to vote for your favorite block.

Raffle tickets for the finished quilt will be on sale at that time, and the drawing will be held at the November Holiday Fair.

May & June Lacrosse Programs for Boys

CAPITAL DISTRICTCapitalland lacrosse will be running a boy’s MAY & JUNE lacrosse programs. Players can chose to play on Tuesdays night, Sunday afternoons or BOTH. Programs will start on May 16 and end on June 25. Each group will play for an hour and a half each day/night. Levels include: a co-ed K – 5th learn to play program; boys instructional programs for beginner & novice players grades 2nd – 5th & 6th- 10th; an advanced instruction program for players in graders 3 – 6 & 7 – 9 who want to refine their game while being introduced to more advanced techniques. All age level will be separated and a scrimmage will be held each night. For more information on all of these programs go to www. capitallandlacrosse.com or e-mail us at chad@capitallandlacrosse.com.

The Next Generation Needs You. Be a Mentor.

SARATOGA COUNTY

- The Saratoga Mentoring Program has been matching caring adults with children in Saratoga County for 29 years! Mentors can make a profound difference in the life of a child. Studies show that young people with mentors have more positive outcomes in school and in the community. Mentors are screened and trained before working with a child. Mentors meet with their mentees once a week for about 2 hours. In order to develop trust and consistency, a 1 year commitment is required. For more information visit our website at www. saratogamentoring.org or call 518-581-1487. Saratoga Mentoring is a program of Catholic Charities.

The Thymly Herb Garden Group Monthly Meeting

BALLSTON SPA - The Thymly Herb Garden Group will hold its monthly meeting Monday, April 17th, 2023, beginning at 10:00 AM. The meetings are at the 4-H Training Center, 556 Middleline Rd, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. If the Ballston Spa School District has a delay or closes that day, then we will not meet. Thymly Herb Group member Marilyn Stephenson will present the history of the herbaceous peony, their use as an herbal medicine, basic growing tips and companion plants for peonies in your home garden. Marilyn is a member of the Mid-Atlantic Peony Society (MAPS), the Ballston Spa House & Garden Club and the Sage & Snow Garden Club. The talk is free and open to the public. Following the presentation, there will be refreshments, a meeting and an Herb of the Month talk by a member. Dues for the year to join the Thymly Herb Group are $20.00. New members are always welcome. Please RSVP with questions or to let us know you will be joining us. thymlyherbmail@ gmail.com

Ancient Order of Hibernians

Speaker

Presentation

SARATOGA - Commodore John Barry Div. #1 of the Ancient Order of Hibernians presents William H. Payne author of A Stone of The Heart. A memoir of his great uncle Paddy Delany and his service in the Irish War of Independence and the ensuing

Saratoga Sustainability Fair

SARATOGA - Sustainable Saratoga and Skidmore College invite you to join us for the Saratoga Sustainability Fair on Sunday, April 16, from 10-4 at Skidmore College in the Case Center. The Sustainability Fair is a free community event celebrating sustainability awareness and opportunities.

Come check out sustainable resources all in one spot and help make our community a more sustainable place to live and work.

Our KEYNOTE speaker – JEN KRETSER, Director of Climate Initiatives for The Wild Center and manages the award-winning Youth Climate Program AND ELODIE LINCK.

Spend some time in our exhibitor hall, where you will find resources on renewable energy, zero waste, sustainable gardening, social justice, alternative transportation, food production and security, natural resource protection, energy efficiency, sustainability efforts in Saratoga Springs, and much more.

The day’s offerings also include an electric vehicle (EV) car show and an opportunity to test drive an EV. As well as a Repair Cafe. Bring a broken item and save it from the landfill.

https://www.skidmore. edu/sustainability/events/ fair.php

Ballston Spa United Methodist Church Thrift Shop

BALLSTON SPAThe Ballston Spa United Methodist Church Thrift Shop is open on Tuesday mornings from 9:30 until noon. We are located at 101 Milton Avenue in Ballston Spa.

Irish Civil war in County Mayo, 1917-1922

7:30 PM Thursday

April 20,2023 at Saratoga

-Wilton Elks, 1 Elks Lane, Rt. 9 (near 4 Marion Ave. via GPS) Saratoga Springs N.Y. For more information http:/wwwsaratogaaoh. com

Youth ALPHA

9 Week Program to Explore Christianity

ROUND LAKE - Middle school and High School students are invited to Youth ALPHA, a 9-week program to explore Christianity and questions about life and meaning. Tuesdays April 18 through June 13 at All

Saints Episcopal Church, 3 Simpson Avenue, Round Lake. Dinner (FREE) served at 6PM, program begins at 6:30PM. RSVP (518) 899-5510.

Vendors Wanted:

Annual Spring Craft Fair

SARATOGA - The Saratoga-Wilton Elks #161

Auxiliary is holding their Annual Spring Craft Fair on Sat, April 22nd at the Lodge at 1 Elk Lane in Saratoga from 10 to 4 PM. An eight foot table and two chairs in a 6 x 8’ space is $40. Admission will be free with ample parking. There are 36 spaces available and we are accepting a wide variety of crafters on a first come first serve basis. If you know of anyone you think would be a great addition please share this notice with them. For more information or to signup, contact Debbie at dozolins@nycap.rr.com or 518-885-6506.

Ballston Spa Elks April Dinner

BALLSTON SPA - Taste of Italy Dinner - Ballston Spa Elks Lodge #2619, 10 Hamilton Street, Ballston Spa, will host a Taste of Italy Dinner on Saturday, April 22 , from 4 to 6 pm.

The menu will include The Italian Trio, Chicken Parm, Lasagna, & Tortellini Alfredo, plus Bread Stick & Dessert. Dine in or take out. The cost is 2 for $27 or $17 each (cash only).

Preorder strongly encouraged, place your order at 518-885-1149, April 20th & 21st 4 to 6 pm or email dinners2619@gmail.com. Limited quantities available at the door. Proceeds support Elks Charities.

Mohawk Chevrolet Hosts Pet Adoption Clinic

BALLSTON SPA - The event partners with 20+ adoption agencies in the Capital Region

WHAT: Mohawk Chevrolet reintroduces its crowd favorite pet adoption clinic at the Ballston Spa dealership. On Sun., April 23, community members are invited to meet their future furry friends. The event will feature 20+ agencies, shelters, and vendors with a variety of cats and dogs, each with their own unique personalities and stories.

In addition to pet adoptions, there will be an abundance of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy. Mohawk Chevrolet will have food and drinks available for purchase, and various vendors will be showcasing pet products and services. Kids can also participate in face painting and other fun activities.

This event is a continu-

Burnt Hills - Ballston Lake Rotary Club

Drive Thru Dinner

BURNT HILLS - The Burnt Hills - Ballston Lake Rotary Club will be hosting a Spring Drive Thru Dinner in conjunction with Spartan Catering on Wednesday April 19, 2023. The dinner will be Italian themed. Ordering information is on the Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Rotary Club website. Curbside pick up will be at the Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake High School, 88 Lakehill Road, Burnt Hills, NY in the back parking lot from 4:306:00 PM. Proceeds will go toward scholarships awarded to BH-BL graduating seniors. Donations of non-perishable food items will also be accepted to support the Rotary Club’s Operation Hunger program. For more information, please contact Darlene Bower at 518-4665735. https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://bhblrotary. org/__;!!Ivohdkk!ngNUkRJjBkKYhfN8TuOn31RUD35DPXEHkd_wSVuCHmvhXjSf0PGyKWiniaAMLtqVLpSPDvE1It1C-vHg6CPnPppcysaD$ .

Charlton Freehold Church Spring Festival

CHARLTON - The Charlton Freehold Presbyterian Church, 768 Charlton Rd., Charlton NY, will hold it’s first Spring Festival with Crafters and Vendors on Saturday, May 6, 10am-3pm. In addition to visiting an array of items offered by crafters, vendors, and bakers, adoptable dogs from the Saratoga County Animal Shelter will also be present to anyone looking to give a loving pet a furever home!

ation of Mohawk Chevrolet’s service to the community and raising awareness about the importance of pet adoption to encourage more people to consider giving a loving home to a pet in need.

Mark your calendars by RSVPing to the Facebook event page here.

WHEN: Sunday, April 23, 2023 - 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

WHERE: Mohawk Chevrolet 639 State Route 67, Ballston Spa, New York 12020

WHO: Mohawk Chevrolet Capital Region Pet Adoption Centers and Shelters Pieroghi Sale

at Christ the Savior Church

BALLSTON LAKEChrist the Savior Church, 349 Eastline Rd., Ballston Lake is having a pieroghi sale on Tuesday, April 25th. As usual we will have potato/cheese, sauerkraut, and farmer’s cheese pieroghis. All pierogi orders are $12/dz. If you wish them uncooked,.we will accomodate as a special order. Please call 518-3630001. P/U will be from 11:30-12:30 p.m. Limited quantity of stuffed clams may be available as well.

American Red Cross Blood Drive

BURNT HILLS - The Burnt Hills Baptist Church, 193 Kingsley Road, Burnt Hills, NY will be having an American Red Cross blood drive on Friday, April 21, 2023 from 12:00 pm to 6:00 PM. To schedule an appointment, contact Red Cross at redcrossblood. org or 1-800-RED CROSS and user sponsor code BURNTHILLSBAPTIST.

Fermenting Vegetables for Health

BALLSTON SPATuesday, April 25, 6-8:00 pm, Cornell Cooperative Extension, 50 West High, Ballston Spa

Fee: $15 Preregistration required, call 518-8858995. Learn the health benefits of probiotic bacteria in fermented foods and how easy it is to ferment foods at home. We’ll discuss the dry salt method as we make kim chi and the brining method as we make fermented mixed vegetables. This class will cover equipment, tips and techniques for successful fermentation. Participants will take home a quart jar to finish fermenting.

Adirondack Post 70

of the American Legion Monthly Meeting

SARATOGA - Adirondack Post 70 of the American Legion will hold its monthly meeting on Saturday, April 22nd , 2023, at 10AM. 34 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs.

It Works!

Free Program for Parents/Caregivers

CAPITAL DISTRICT - Cornell Cooperative Extension of Warren and Washington Counties will be offering “PS: It Works! Parenting Program” on five consecutive Tuesdays beginning April 25, 2023 from 12 noon to 1:30pm via zoom. This free program is designed for parents/ caregivers with children from toddlers to teens who want to learn how to help guide the children in their care in a supportive way. Basic parenting skills will be explored in this fun, interactive class. To register contact Roxanne Westcott 518-668-4881 or email rmw38@cornell. edu.

Raising Dough Fundraiser

SARATOGA - West Side Sports Bar & Grill, 112 Congress Street, Saratoga Springs

Wednesday, April 26 • 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Academy for Lifelong Learning invites you to share a meal and have a drink. A percentage of food, beverage & takeout sales will be donated to the Academy. Get your raffle tickets for a $50 gift certificate to the West Side. Bring your friends, family, and neighbors. Plenty of room for singles too. Don’t miss the fun! Hope to see you there. www.allsaratoga.org, call (518) 290-6988, or email jeff@allsaratoga. org.

Country Round and Square Dance

SCHUYLERVILLEOld Saratoga American Legion, 6 Clancy St., Schuylerville NY has Country Round and Square Dance coming. April 23rd 1-4:30PM. Save the date!

The Sons of the American Legion Post 70 Monthly Meeting

SARATOGA - The Sons of the American Legion, Post 70, will hold a meeting on Saturday, April 22nd, 2023, at 11AM. 34 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs.