Local First Saratoga North Edition 100622

Home Made Theater opens Nine

SARATOGA - For two weekends, starting on Friday, October 7, Home Made Theater will present the musical Nine; music and lyrics by Maury Yeston, book by Arthur Kopit, and adapted from the Italian by Mario Fratti.

Based loosely on Federico Fellini’s movie 8 1/2, Nine features one man and the myriad of women in his life. Celebrated but impetuous film director Guido Contini, succumbing to the pressures of filming his latest film epic, suffers a midlife crisis. One by one, women from his past and present - including his mother, his wife, his mistress, and his leading lady - haunt, instruct, scold, seduce, and encourage him until he finally learns to grow up.

Performances are Fridays and Saturdays, October 7th, 8th, 14th and 15th at 7:30PM and Saturdays and Sundays, October 8th, 9th, 15th, and 16th, at 2:00PM. All performances are at the Dee Sarno Theater, inside Saratoga Arts, 320 Broadway in Saratoga Springs. Tickets are available at Home Made Theater’s website, www.HomeMadeTheater.org, or by calling (518) 587-4427 during business hours.

Racino company expands with Mississippi purchase

Saratoga Casino owner buys gambling hall, hotel in Natchez

By RICK KARLIN

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The company that owns the Saratoga Casino racino and hotel has purchased a casino and hotel operation in Natchez, Miss.

Saratoga Casino Holding LLC officially closed on the purchase of Magnolia Bluffs Casino Hotel on Monday.

In addition to Saratoga, the company also operates the Saratoga Casino in Black Hawk, Colo.

Those two properties combined offer more than 1,700 slots, table games, a harness track, a AAA Four Diamond hotel, meeting-andevent space, dining, a sportsbook, and a venue for live entertainment.

“We are excited to add Magnolia Bluffs to our family and bring our experience in hospitality to Mississippi,” said Sam Gerrity, chief executive officer for Saratoga Casino Holdings.

Tim Morrissey has been appointed to the position of vice president and general man-

ager of Magnolia Bluffs Casino Hotel. The company says Morrissey brings over 12 years of experience in the gaming industry, holding senior management positions with several organizations throughout his career. He will oversee the day-to-day operations and work with the existing team to build on the current success of the property.

Morrissey has been a member of the Saratoga team for more than two years, joining the company as general manager of Saratoga Casino Black Hawk in 2020 and leading the team through the pandemic. The property has seen its most profitable years under the direction of Morrissey since being acquired by SCH in 2013.

Prior to joining the Saratoga team, Morrissey was the senior director of operations for the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe in Flandreau, S.D., where he oversaw the $30 million renovation and expansion of Royal River Casino & Hotel.

“With Tim’s proven ability to have a positive and immediate impact on both financial results and company culture, we felt he was the natural fit to lead the Magnolia Bluffs team and bring the property into the SCH family,” Gerrity said.

Saratoga Showcase is back, with focus on women in trades

Fewer homes on annual tour, but two-weekend event includes in-process builds by female students

Visitors to the Showcase of Homes tour this year will get to see a work in progress — not a home under construction, but a shed being built.

In an effort to shine light on women in the trades, tour-host Saratoga Builders Association invited girls from six school districts to build the sheds during the first day of the tour, Oct. 8

Each lean-to style shed will be up for auction and Curtis Lumber will transport the sheds to homeowners in a 25-mile radius (or farther for a small fee). Each shed is four-feet by eight-feet. The building site will be next to a home by Kodiak Construction at 16 Indigo Way, Wilton.

The tour continues on Oct 9, Oct. 15 and Oct. 16. Proceeds from the tour and the auction go to Rebuilding Together Saratoga County and Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties.

The live-action exhibit is the latest effort by the Capital Region Workforce Development Coalition, founded five years ago from within the builders association.

“Every time we met, we talked about how much more we could build if we had more labor,” said Doug Ford, vice-president of sales and purchasing at Curtis Lumber. “I finally said, ‘We need to take this off the agenda or do something about it.’ ”

The lack of trade people and laborers hit him this year with the Showcase. Instead of the usual 10 to 12 homes on the tour, there are only five. Both supply chain issues and a lack of workers kept builders from getting their homes done in time for the event, said Barry Potoker, executive director of the builders association.

Rebuilding the pipeline of young people into the trades takes time. Ford and other advocates started with young people. They talked with

By KENNETH C. CROWE II

“Every member of the Magnolia Bluffs team has been extremely welcoming,” said Morrissey. “I’m excited to continue the success of this property alongside the current team.”

Located on the Mississippi River, Magnolia Bluffs Casino Hotel opened in 2012 and features more than 450 slot machines, 14 table games, a restaurant and bar, sportsbook and a 141-room hotel located off-site in the heart of the city.

SCH is also a partner of Delaware North Companies in the operation of Gideon Putnam Resort & Roosevelt Baths in Saratoga Springs

superintendents at the local schools to find out why more students don’t make use of courses at the Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) to learn carpentry, welding, heavy machinery, HVAC, forestry, conservation and more. Ford said he learned there was a lack of awareness of jobs in the trades among students, guidance counselors and parents who aren’t associated with BOCES.

Patty Morris, superintendent of the Stillwater schools, worked with principals and staff in her district to arrange field trips to a work site and convene panels of tradespeople to talk to students about what they do. Morris also invited current BOCES students to talk to younger kids about their classes.

She frequently calls on Madalyn (Maddy) Byrnes, 17, a senior at Stillwater High and a conservation major at BOCES. Byrnes first planned to be an officer with the state Department of Environmental Conservation, but then switched to her first calling: forestry. Byrnes has been around her father’s tree service for as long as she can remember and she’s always been astonished by the work he can do. People are often surprised to learn she knows how to handle a chain saw, pruning saws, clippers and a bulldozer because she’s a girl. This summer, she was the only girl on the tree crew at a local tree service.

Working with all men is OK, Byrnes said, “you just have to take what they say with a grain of salt.” Next fall, she plans to attend the forestry program at Paul Smith’s College and then come home to work and

WILTON – The Friends of the Ulysses S. Grant Cottage will mark the bicentennial of his birth later this month with a gala that will also raise funds to build an education pavilion at the cottage site on Mount McGregor.

The Friends group received an earlier boost on Grant’s 200th birthday on April 27 when it was announce that the four-acre exercise yard of the former Mount McGre-

gor State Correctional Facility had been transferred to the cottage property. The former prison site adjoins the Ulysses S. Grant Cottage National Historic Landmark site.

The Ulysses S. Grant Bicentennial Birthday Gala will be held at 5 p.m. Oct. 16 at the Gideon Putnam Resort and Spa in Saratoga Spa State Park in Saratoga Springs. Tickets are $125 per person with a requested response of Oct. 6. Tickets may be purchased at www.grantcottage.

LORI VAN BUREN / TIMES UNION ARCHIVE Saratoga Casino Holdings, which owns the Saratoga Casino and Hotel, has purchased a property in Natchez, Miss. The company also owns a casino in Colorado.

PHOTOS BY SARATOGA BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

The home at 28 Granite St. in Saratoga Springs, part of this year’s Showcase of Homes, was built by DSG Construction And Remodeling;

Bicentennial of Grant’s birthday to be noted with gala

Nominations Open for Inaugural Poet Laureate of Saratoga

SARATOGA - As of September 1, 2022, the city of Saratoga Springs, New York will begin the process of identifying and naming an outstanding poet as its inaugural Poet Laureate. This honorary designation will celebrate a local poet who can engage new audiences, create new opportunities for poetry to be shared, and encourage the creation of poetry and other literary works. The Poet Laureate will serve a two-year term beginning January 1, 2023-December 31, 2025.

Links to the nomination/application form and guidelines may be found on the Mayor’s homepage on the City of Saratoga Springs website (Saratoga-springs.org) or by request to poetlaureatessp@ gmail.com.

The selection of the Poet Laureate is based on sub-

The Corinth Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary October Breakfast

CORINTH - The Corinth Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary October Breakfast will Benefit the Cancer Society. There will be a Basket Raffle as well as our regular Breakfast Buffet. The date is Sunday, October 23, 2022 , at the Corinth Firehouse, 16 Saratoga Avenue, Corinth, NY, from 8 to 11 PM. Donation of Adults $10 and Children 12 and under $5 and Children under 3 Free.

The Buffet is Home Fries, Sausage Patties, Bacon, French Toast, Pancakes, Scrambled Eggs, Sausage Gravy w/Biscuits, Fruit, Danish, Coffee, Tea

missions of the completed nomination forms, which will be reviewed by the Poet Laureate Committee, comprised of local arts and literature experts. Their selection of a nominee will be recommended to the Mayor of Saratoga Springs, who will announce the inaugural Poet Laureate in December 2022.

Poets may be self-nominated, or nominated by a colleague, organization, library, or writers’ group.

Those interested in submitting a nomination for the position must meet the following criteria:

·

Reside in Saratoga Springs for at least 12 months prior to the submission deadline;

year period, the individual must be willing and able to promote poetry, design and implement a community service project, lead workshops and readings, and participate in other literary activities around Saratoga Springs and the region.

Questions can be directed to poetlaureatessp@ gmail.com. The deadline for nominations or applications for the position of Saratoga Springs Poet Laureate has been extended to October 15.

Artisan’s Market at Brookside Museum is Seeking Craft Vendors

26 through December 24.

The Artisan’s Market features only hand made, hand crafted products created by the vendor. The market is heavily attended. The museum utilizes social media, posters, email blasts, press releases, media announcements, our newsletter, and website to promote this eagerly anticipated event.

bly digital) inventory list. Vendors are responsible for their booth set up; tables and shelving will not be provided by SCHC @ Brookside Museum.

Applications can be downloaded at https:// brooksidemuseum.org/ events/artisans-market/ and can be emailed to bsilvestri@brooksidemuseum.org or mailed to: Brookside Museum, Attn: Beth Silvestri, 21 Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY 12020

The Ballston Area Senior Citizens Will Hold a Flea Market

ADVERTISING

·

Be at least 21 years of age at the time of submission;

· Be actively writing, publishing, and presenting poetry;

· Have original poetry published in established (not self-published) poetry journals, magazines, or websites;

· For the specified two-

and Juice.

If you wish to donate a Basket for the Raffle you may contact Michele Eggleston 518-654-9103 or 518-361-8140.

Southern Saratoga Art Society’s Autumn Jewels Juried Art Show

SARATOGA COUNTYThe 25th Annual “Autumn Jewels” juried Art Show will be held at the Clifton Park Senior Community Center from Oct. 3 - Nov. 1, 2022 . This show is sponsored by Southern Saratoga Art Society and is open to all area artists.

Entries will be judged and prizes awarded in both the fine arts and photography.

An award reception for all artists, families and

BALLSTON SPA - The Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum announced today that it is seeking craft vendors for its 22nd Annual Artisan’s Market. This juried market is to be held at the Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum (SCHC @ Brookside Museum) from November

friends will be held on Monday, October 24, 6:30 p.m., at the Senior Center. For rules, entry fees, entry forms and where to mail your entry, please visit: southernsaratogaartist. com or visit us on Facebook.

Empty Stocking Project Begins

SARATOGA COUNTY - The Saratoga County Children’s Committee is a nonprofit organization that helps children and families in Saratoga County. The Empty Stocking Project provides holiday gifts and necessities to about 900 children and teens each year. Generous people and organizations sponsor a child by purchasing gifts from the

The Juried Artisan Market is held at SCHC @ Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave Ballston Spa, NY 12020. The market is open to the public from Saturday, November 26 through Saturday, December 24 and will be staffed by museum employees. SCHC @ Brookside Museum handles all sales tax and pays vendors 60% of the sale price of their items. Booth fees are $30 for a 4’x4’ area and $45 for a 4’x6’ area. A limited number of booths with electricity are available for an additional $10 per booth. Vendors must provide a typed (prefera-

child’s “wish list”.

If you are willing to sponsor a child or for more information please call Kathy Kelly at 399-6629 or go to our website www. saratogachildrenscommittee.org. Cash donations are always appreciated and may be sent to The Saratoga County Children’s Committee, P.O. Box 1254, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Backyard Composting Workshop

SARATOGA - Join us for a Backyard Composting Workshop on Wednesday, October 12 at 6:30 PM. It will be taught by Lenore and Jack Reber and take place in the Susman Room at the Saratoga Springs

BALLSTON - Saturday, October 22, 2022 They are also looking for vendors for the event. It will be held at 310 Northline Road from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm. Indoor tables will be $30, and outdoor space will be $25. For more information or a contract, please contact ballston. area.seniors2@gmail.com.

Public Library. Lenore and Jack Reber are retired teachers who taught special ed and fourth grade, and elementary and middle school English, respectively. They have been gardening and composting for 50 years and continue to be excited about them both.

Free event.

Christ’s Cupboard Food Pantry

BALLSTON SPAChrist’s Cupboard Food Pantry, located at the First Baptist Church of Ballston Spa, 202 Milton Ave, has expanded our service hours. We are now open every Tuesday morning from 9-11am and every Thursday afternoon from 4:30-6:00pm.

Sons of the American Legion Squadron 1450 Chicken Dinner Fundraiser

CLIFTON PARK - This function is a fund raiser meant to provide our ability to

support to local organizations in need. These organizations include Homeless War Vets, American Cancer, The Quest for Grace Foundation, Boys State, local youth sports activities, and many others, especially those helping our Veterans.

The Chicken BBQ will be held on October 8, 2022 at the American Legion Post 1450 located at 275 Grooms Road Halfmoon, NY. The facility is located off Exit 8A off Interstate 87, heading East on Grooms Road 1 mile on the left. Dinner includes ½ chicken, Baked Potato, Vegetables, Dinner Roll, Desert, and coffee and Soda. The function will be offered from 4 PM – 6:00 PM at a cost of $15.00 per dinner. It is available as EAT IN or TAKEOUT. Tickets are available at the Legion Post Lounge, or from members of the Squadron. For further information please call Post 1450 at (518) 371-4463.

Ballston Area Senior Citizens Activities

BALLSTON/MILTON - BASC Inc. If you are 55+ a resident of Saratoga County. Looking to meet active seniors check out the Ballston Area Senior Citizens. Residents from surrounding communities are welcome to join.

Activities and programs include Festive Dinners, Dances with live band, Bus Trips, Weekly Luncheons, Exercise classes, Chorus, Crafts, and Pickin’ sessions.

Stop in the Milton Community Center any Thursday 10:00 am—11:45 am to join.

Yearly, (Jan. 1—Dec. 31, 2022) membership fee is $ 10.00 to join.

Visit www.ballstonmiltonseniors.com or Facebook Ballston Area Seniors.

Seeking Tax Assistance Volunteers

SARATOGA COUNTYTax-Aide, the free income tax assistance program sponsored by the AARP Foundation and the IRS, is seeking volunteers for the upcoming tax season at various sites in Saratoga, Warren & Washington, NY counties. You do not need to be an AARP member to volunteer.

Tax-Aide volunteers answer questions, prepare and file returns for low to moderate income taxpayers and seniors from February 1st to April 15th, 2023. No experience is required, but computer experience is helpful for tax counseling.

Volunteers typically participate one or more days per week, with flexible schedules to accommodate volunteer availability. Volunteers who do not wish to prepare returns are also needed to greet taxpayers, confirm appointments or provide computer support. Free IRS certified training is provided for all positions.

For more information on how you can join our team, contact District Communications Coordinator Lorna Olivo at 518 309-8530 or email AARPTaxAideSaratoga@ gmail.com.

Apple Pie Social at the Wilton

Heritage Society

WILTON - The Wilton Heritage Society, 5 Parkhurst Rd., Wilton, NY will hold its annual Apple Pie Social on Sunday, October 9, 2022 from 1 - 4 pm or until sold out. This will be a curbside pick-up event. A generous slice of Apple Pie with cheddar cheese for only $5 per slice. Exact change is appreciated. Pies will be baked by Smith’s Orchard Bake Shop.

The Fifth Annual Saratoga International Flavorfeast

SARATOGA - October 8, 2022 , 11-4, This Columbus Day Weekend, take a culinary trip around the world at the Seventh Annual Saratoga International Flavorfeast!

Saratoga International Flavorfeast is a celebration of the Saratoga region’s unique and diverse culinary scene. It presents a feast for the senses and reflects the multicultural diversity of the region. And it’s held in the heart of Saratoga Springs. This fun-filled event includes $1 tastings of ethnic dishes at participating restaurants, multicultural street performances throughout the day, and more.

Beginning at 11am you can pick up your Flavorfeast “passport-map” of participating restaurants/ businesses in front of Fingerpaint Marketing, on the corner of Broadway and Division Street. This map will help you plan your day’s itinerary of travel to over a dozen destinations for $1 food samples of ethnic dishes from countries across the globe. For more information, go to http:// www.saratogaflavorfeast. com/ or call 518-365-3459.

Travel with The Academy for Lifelong Learning to Spain

SARATOGA - The Academy for Lifelong Learning invites you to a trip overview of its tour “Spain: A Treasure Chest of Wonders” at 1 pm Saturday, October 15 at Homewood Suites, 3368 South Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY.

Explore one of Spain’s best kept secrets on this trip that begins in the north where you can discover the Basque Country with a visit to Bilbao with its stunning Guggenheim Museum and the seaside town of San Sebastián. On the way south revel in the vistas and vineyards of the Rioja Region and the historic city of Segovia with its Roman ruins and medieval old town. Then on to the bustling metropolis of Madrid, whose highlights include a visit to its Royal Castle and the famous Prado Museum. From there we will enjoy an excursion to the famed city of Toledo, the city of three cultures: Jewish, Muslim and Christian. A special bonus is an overnight in one of Spain’s paradors, a historic building transformed into a hotel.

For more details, go to www.goedventures.com or contact goedventures@ gmail.com.

The 2022 Saratoga Showcase of Homes Tour is Planned for Two Weekends this Fall

SARATOGA - The 2022 Saratoga Showcase of Homes Committee is proud to announce this year’s dates and builders. Celebrating 26 years of exceptional homes, this annual tradition will be presented over four beautiful fall days on October 8-9 and October 15-16 We have a spectacular line-up of 8 locations from our region’s finest builders for the areas premiere new home tour event.

Over the past 25 years, this community event has contributed over $1.4 MILLION dollars to our two local charities. Proceeds

“Stop The Bleed” Training Course

MALTA - The Town of Malta CERT is presenting the first “STOP THE BLEED®” training course in what we hope will be a continuing series of classes as interest grows. The Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office is joining the Town to present this life-saving class and will be performing the training.

Through the STOP THE BLEED® course, you’ll gain the ability to recognize life-threatening bleeding and intervene effectively. The person next to a bleeding victim may be the one who’s most likely to save him or her. Take the course and become empowered to make a life-ordeath difference when a bleeding emergency occurs. STOP THE BLEED®. Save a Life!

This hands-on, FREE course will be offered to Malta residents on Wednesday, October 26th from 6:00pm – 8:00pm in the Malta Community Center. Attendees will receive a certificate acknowledging their successful completion of the course.

Because of limited class size, this will be the first in a series of classes. Maximum class size is 12 participants. To register, please visit the Community Center’s website at https://maltany.myrec.com.

As this class is expected to fill quickly, we will be scheduling additional classes in the future. To get your name on a waiting list, please email CW@crkl.com and put ‘Stop the Bleed’ in the subject line.

AARP Defensive Driving Safety Class

CORINTH - The Corinth Senior Center will sponsor an AARP defensive driving safety class on October 19 and 20th from 1-4. Please call 518 654-2040 to sign up and for more details.

from the Showcase of Homes benefit Rebuilding Together Saratoga County www.rtsaratoga.org and Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties www.glensfallshabitat.org. For more details on the 2022 Saratoga Showcase of Homes event, please visit www.saratogashowcaseofhomes.com. Follow us on FACEBOOK for all the updates!

Malta Ridge UMC Free Lunch

MALTA - The Malta Ridge United Methodist Church will hold a Free Lunch on Saturday, October 8, 2022 at the Church located at 729 Malta Avenue Extension, in Malta Ridge. A soup and sandwich lunch will be served at no charge from 11:30am to 1:30pm. All are welcome. For additional information or directions please call the Church at 518-581-0210.

New York State Approved Defensive Driving Class

SARATOGA - On Saturday October 8th, 2022 from 9 AM to 3 PM there will be a New York State approved Defensive Driving Class. Save 10% on your base auto insurance for the next three years & receive up to 4 points off your driving record according to New York State Department of Motor Vehicle guidelines.

Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church 175 Fifth Avenue, Saratoga Springs New York 12866 Fee: $35.00 per person. Bring a friend fee is $30.00 each

Portion of fee goes to Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church.

Registration is required and can be made by calling Ray Frankoski @518286-3788

AS we are social distancing, a mask is required if you are not vaccinated. Class size is limit.

New Style and Old Tyme Fiddling, Adirondack Fiddlers

SCHUYLERVILLESunday, October 9th 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm. American Legion Hall, Clancy St. Schuylerville, NY

All fiddlers and musicians young and old and Public welcome. Round and square dancing. Food Available.

For more information call (518) 274-6817

Fish Creek Rod & Gun Club

Monthly Breakfast

SCHUYLERVILLEJoin us for our monthly breakfast on Sunday, October 9, 2022 8:0011:00am. 123 SR 32, Schuylerville, NY - $10 Adults, $5 Children Choose From: Regular Pancakes, Buckwheat Pancakes, Apple Cinnamon Pancakes, Blueberry Pancakes or French Toast. Eggs to Order, Home Fries, Bacon or Sausage, Toast, Coffee and Orange Juice.

Academy for Lifelong Learning at Saratoga Springs Offering Session 2 Fall Courses

SARATOGA - The Academy for Lifelong Learning continues its 30-year tradition of presenting educational and social opportunities for adults

Surrender Day in Saratoga!

SCHUYLERVILLE - The 245th anniversary of the Battles of Saratoga, America’s Turning Point, will be commemorated on Surrender Day Monday, October 17, 9:30 A.M. in Schuylerville’s Fort Hardy Park along the Hudson River with artillery firings, sword surrender ceremony, and music.

Surrender Day commemorates the victory of the American army of General Horatio Gates over British forces commanded by General John Burgoyne at Saratoga, New York, on October 17, 1777. Surrender day is a partnership of the town of Saratoga, the village of Schuylerville, Saratoga County 250th American Revolution Commission, and Saratoga County History Center. The ceremony is at Fort Hardy Park, the historical ground where the British forces surrendered and laid down their arms on October 17, 1777, bringing the Battles of Saratoga to an end.

The 45-minute event will feature British and American re-enactors, cannon salutes, musical entertainment, and “13 Toasts” to the Victory at Saratoga. The celebration will be attended by students from Schuylerville elementary schools, who will present essays about the “turning point” of the American Revolution. State historian Devin Lander will deliver the keynote speech. In case of inclement weather, this event will be canceled. The general public is encouraged to attend. Please bring your own chair and wear patriotic attire.

55+ by offering nineteen, 5-week courses starting the week of Oct. 17

Registration is now open at www.esc.edu/all Course brochures are also available at SUNY

Empire State College 113 West Ave., local libraries, YMCA’s and retirement communities or by request at (518) 587-2100 x2390 or jeff.shinaman@esc. edu. Registrations will be accepted throughout the term until courses are full. Some courses will sell out.

Annual membership is $75 and goes for 365 days from join date. Five-week courses are $50.

Topics for these volunteer-led, noncredit courses include music, literature, mindfulness, poetry, the solar system, senior issues, Italian language, variety speaker series, Ian Fleming/James Bond, history of Russia, ancient game of Go, writing, hiking, fly casting, history, art, science, and more. Join A.L.L. locally for classroom and outdoor courses, or from anywhere for Zoom options.

Thymly Herb Group Monthly Meeting

BALLSTON SPA - For over 40 years, the Thymly Herb Group has been gathering to learn, to share, and to garden together.

We typically meet the 3rd Monday of the month from September - July with monthly presenters, Herb of the Month, a meeting and light refreshments.

New members welcome!

Join us on Monday, October 17 at 10:00 AM.

The meetings are at the 4-H Training Center, 556 Middleline Rd, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 at 10:00 AM. Our presenter will be Margaret Hartley, Gazette author of Greenpoint.

Margaret’s topic will be “Planting for Pollinators”. (Haven’t joined yet? Dues are only $20 annually). We’d love to have you!

Please RSVP with questions or to let us know you will be joining us. thymlyherbmail@gmail.com

Saratoga Springs Public Library and Sustainable Saratoga are Excited to Host the 8th Repair Café

SARATOGA - October 8 from 12 - 4 PM at the Saratoga Springs Public Library.

We have coaches available to help you fix your lamps, small appliances, computers, leather, jewelry, or sew/hem your favorite item of clothes or beloved stuffed animal.

We can’t wait to see you! https://www. facebook.comevents/3219284815005996/

Ballston Spa Elks Lodge 2619 Hosts a Turkey DinnerTakeout or Eat In

BALLSTON SPA - 10 Hamilton Street, Ballston Spa, will host a Turkey Dinner on Saturday, October 15th, from 4 to 6 pm. Menu includes Roast Turkey, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Stuffing, Veggies, Cranberry Sauce, Roll & Dessert. The cost is 2 for $25 or $15 each (cash only). Preorders strongly encouraged. To order, email: dinners2619@gmail.com or call 518-885-1149, Oct 13th & 14th - 4 pm to 6pm. Limited quantities available at the door. Proceeds support Elks Charities.

Take Action Against Radon

No one is invulnerable to cancer. When it comes to

ducing their cancer risk, individuals

cluding

their

many

and

for various health screenings. However, one important strategy may never occur to the average person — getting one’s home tested for radon.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reports that radon accounts for roughly 21,000 deaths from lung

cancer each year. In fact, radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in people who don’t smoke, according to the American Cancer Society.

Radon is a natural substance that is produced from rocks and dirt in the ground, but that doesn’t make it safe. Radon is always present in the air in low concentrations, but heavy concentrations are dangerous. This can occur when too much radon gas from underneath a home leaks into a residence and builds up inside. The higher the radon levels and the longer the duration of exposure,

the greater the risk for illness.

Radon is odorless and colorless, so there is no way to know if it is present without a specific radon test kit. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that affordable radon kits are available from hardware stores and can be ordered from the National Radon Program Services website at http://sosradon.org/test-kits.

Not all tests are the same, so it is important to read the directions. Depending on the test, it may take a few days or many months to finish the test and wait for the results from the testing laboratory.

If test results show a radon level of 4 picocuries per liter (pCiL) or higher, it’s adviseable to do a second test. If that test also comes back high, the issue will require remediation. A radon expert can provide advice and some solutions. Large radon problems typically require the services of a mitigation contractor to fix the home radon issues.

The CDC also advises people who have well water to get the well tested for radon, as sometimes well water can carry radon into the house, too.

Radon is a problem that can affect newer and older homes alike. Simple testing can determine if radon needs to be addressed or if a home is safe. It’s a routine safety measure homeowners should not overlook.

Did You Know?

Certain home improvement projects are more complex than others. Projects that involve working with gas lines are among the most complicated and risky undertakings, and even seasoned do-it-yourselfers are urged to leave such tasks to certified professionals. According to Angi, the average cost to move a gas line is between $15 and $25 per linear foot, and homeowners can expect to pay an additional $1 to $10 per linear foot for pipe materials. A natural gas plumber can install, extend and repair natural gas lines and ensure that the project is completed safely, on time and within homeowners’ budgets. Angi notes that the average cost to move a gas line is between $250 and $750 for the whole project. However, if a buried line must be excavated, that cost could run into the thousands of dollars.

Clean, Green and Affordable: Switching to Biofuels Helps the Environment Without Costly Renovations

By Anne Craig

ooking for ways to be part of the solution?

Main-Care Energy, a longtime Capital Region leader in fuel delivery and HVAC, is right there with you. That’s why they carry a full line of cleaner, greener biofuels that help you reduce your home or business carbon footprint immediately, without the need to invest in a major energy retrofit.

“We’re fully committed to finding affordable ways to reduce emissions, and our Bioheat costs the same as traditional heating fuels, yet it reduces emissions considerably,” says Gregory Childs, VP of Corporate Services at Main-Care. “Choosing Bioheat becomes even more affordable when you factor in the New York State income tax credit for residential consumers -- we send you the form and the exact number to enter. Who doesn’t like saving on their taxes? Bioheat is a cleaner fuel that actually pays you back, making heating your home even more affordable.”

Bioheat is produced from biomass, rather than fossil fuels. It can be produced from plants such as soybean, or from certain agricultural, commercial, domestic, and/or industrial by-products.

Bioheat is the heating oil industry’s official registered name for the blend of traditional heating oil with renewable biodiesel. In order for a fuel to be called Bioheat, it can only be made with biodiesel that meets the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. The result is a clean-burning fuel used to heat homes with benefits to system performance, human health, energy security, and global climate change.

Bioheat can be used in existing oil heat systems with no modifications -- in fact, it burns more efficiently and will keep your mechanical systems in better shape -- and Childs says customers love having a greener option that doesn’t require major investment. “They say a heat pump installation will run about $20,000, but it can run as high as $40,000. The state’s pushing to get everything electrified, and electrification has its place, but air source heat pumps just aren’t there yet when

360° of Service

Also Means Protecting Our Environment.

it comes to handling the temperatures of a New York winter.”

Main-Care has been working with Bioheat for a decade now, and no longer delivers traditional heating oil. “We live here too; we want clean air and clean water. Everyone does,” says Childs. “So we’ve really been pushing people in this direction, along with our partners and friendly competitors in our industry. We know we have a good answer here, an alternative to the alternative.”

It’s a logical development for Main-Care, founded in 1930 by two brothers who left the company to its employees when they passed in 1960. The company is still 100% employee owned to this day. “We have about 130 employee-owners, and we all share in profits and success,” says Childs. “We’re very conscientious, because what’s best for our customers is best for Main Care.”

And what’s best for customers, he firmly believes, is being empowered with the information to choose what works best for them. “Ultimately, we believe that diversified energy sources are the key to energy security. Right now, if you install a heat pump, anyone worth their salt will tell you not to rip out your old heating system, because heat pumps just don’t work efficiently when it gets really cold and you’ll need a backup.”

Main-Care’s Bioheat can reduce air pollution by 50%, while burning so efficiently that your overall consumption may go down -- a win/win that Main-Care is happy to add to their blend of superior products and services. “And we’re here for you, 24/7/365. If you need us at 3 am, you don’t get an answering service, you’ll always get an employee-owner.”

eventually take over her dad’s business.

Byrnes said forestry is hard work, but Ford also tells parents — often the hardest minds to change about careers in the trades — that the trades aren’t all physical

trades have evolved. When they think

think

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Of October

It may be tempting to throw your weight around and assert power in a situation, Aries. But this may backfire in the long run. Try to be a team player.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, someone close to you may be driving you crazy, and you’re tempted to let them know. However, go with the flow instead and enjoy this calmer approach.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, an important decision must be made in the days ahead. Take a calm approach and do your best to keep your emotions out of this discussion.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Once you involve others in a situation, it can be difficult to dial back their involvement, Cancer. Consider whether you should ask for input or go it alone this week.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, rather than shouting from the rooftops how much you love a person, it may be better to take a more subtle approach. Reel in your excitement for the time being.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Keeping secrets is not the way to go, Virgo, especially when they are kept from someone close to you. Why all the smoke and mirrors? Be open and honest with yourself and others.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

A financial situation may be worked out this week or even inflamed, Libra. The only way to stay ahead is to keep careful track of your expenditures.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Be honest with yourself about

your needs, Scorpio. If you don’t feel like socializing in a loud and public manner, organize a group to come over for some more quiet R&R.

SAGITTARIUS –Nov 23/Dec 21

Getting involved with chores and other tasks can occupy your mind with some busy work, Sagittarius. After a brief mental break, you can return to more serious tasks.

CAPRICORN –Dec 22/Jan 20

Finances may get a boost this week as a new income stream falls into your lap, Capricorn. Investigate it fully before getting deeply involved.

AQUARIUS –Jan 21/Feb 18

Opening up about your personal life may relieve some pressure and stress that you have been feeling, Aquarius. Find someone who doesn’t have a close stake.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Don’t spread the word about a big idea until you are sure about it and ready to move, Pisces. Don’t let others steal your thunder.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

OCTOBER 9 Bella Hadid, Model (26)

OCTOBER 10 Mya, Singer (43)

OCTOBER 11 Cardi B, Rapper (30)

OCTOBER 12 Hugh Jackman, Actor (54)

OCTOBER 13 Paul Simon, Singer (81)

OCTOBER 14 Rowan Blanchard, Actress (21) OCTOBER 15 Bailee Madison, Actress (23)

org/galatickets.

The gala program features a presentation by actor Treat Williams. In addition, there will be a virtual question-and-answer session led by Grant’s greatgreat-grandson Ulysses Grant Dietz with biographer Ron Chernow, author of “Grant,” and retired U.S. Army General David Petraeus.

Grant led the Union armies at the close of the Civil War defeating the Confederacy. He later served two terms as president. He came to Mount McGregor in 1885 to finish writing his “Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant.” Three days after completing his memoirs, Grant died at 8:08 a.m., July 23, 1885 in the cottage which became known as Grant’s Cottage. The two-story residence has since been a historic landmark.

Grant was born on April 27, 1822 in Point Pleasant, Ohio. He attended West Point, graduating in 1843. He served in the Mexican-American War, later left the army but returned to fight in the Civil War. After the war he was elected president in 1868 and re-elected in 1872.

Lake Luzerne Seeks Ambassadors

LAKE LUZRNE - The Ambassador Program of the Lake Luzerne Heritage District has entered its 8th year of greeting visitors and friends to the historic buildings in downtown Lake Luzerne; the Rockwell-Harmon Visitor Center, the Gailey Hill one-room school house and the Pagenstecher Pulp Mill. All sites will be open with consistent hours and days. Thursdays - Saturdays between 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. and Sundays 12-3PM.

Participating in the Heritage Ambassador Program is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. If you are a friendly person who likes to have fun sharing the hospitality Lake Luzerne is famous for let Ambassador Coordinator Sue Wilder know by contacting her at sue. welcome2ll@gamil.com or call her at 518-696-4947. She’ll answer your questions, explain the program and discuss the guidelines of becoming an ambassador.

Saratoga BitesVisit the Brookside Museum

BALLSTON SPA - Visit the Saratoga County History Center at the Brookside Museum for a mouthful of history! George Crum serves up his famous Saratoga chips in SCHC’s newest exhibit, “In the Saratoga Style: Potato Chips and Their Regional Folklore.” The chip exhibition comes in large part from the tasty collection of Alan Richer from Saratoga Lake, the greatest American collector of chips. Scoop up the history of Stewart’s Shops Ice Cream and learn of its founders, the Dake family, in the exhibit, “A Century of Ice Cream, a Centennial of the Dake family and Stewart’s Shops.” Enjoy the stories of Finger-Lickin’-Good Southern Charm through an oral history told by Anita Turner about the many black-owned restaurants in Saratoga Springs during the mid-1900s, including Hattie’s Chicken Shack, in the exhibit, “Black Experiences in Saratoga County: 1750-1950.” Finally, view a massive clambake held in Jonesville in 1922 through the presentation, “County Life in Photographs.” Get your filling of local history this autumn at the Saratoga County History Center, located at 21 Fairground Avenue in Ballston Spa, NY. Entry is complimentary.

The individual exhibits include:

“In the Saratoga Style: Potato Chips and Their Regional Folklore” (Open through December 23) – This is our newest exhibit, which explores the many stories that have claimed to explain the story behind the snack, from disgruntled customers to kitchen mishaps. The history of the legendary George Crum is examined, along with his experiences as a cook and outdoor guide of African and Native American ancestry. Learn more about this contender for the inventor of potato chips, along with other possible innovators who may have been responsible for the irresistibly crispy potatoes. This exhibit come largely from the collection of Alan Richer, America’s premier collector on the subject.

SCHC’s Brookside Museum is open Thursday through Sunday from 1pm to 5pm. Admission to this museum is free and donations are welcome. www.brooksidemuseum.org

Send

OFF

Jones & 50 Wine and Spirits Any Wine Purchase

Ballston Area Seniors Chorus is Looking For a Piano Player

BALLSTON SPA - The Ballston Area Seniors Chorus is looking for a piano player to help us with rehearsals and concerts.

We meet on Mondays from 10 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Milton Community Center 310 Northline Rd. in Ballston Spa, NY

We are looking for new members who enjoy sing.

DOGS

Camp Wood / Cooking Wood Exit 15N.com Lou "The Wood Guy" Rt. 50, Wilton. 24/7

CARS WE BUY JUNK CARS

Top $ paid. Cash on the spot! Free removal. Call or text for a free quote! (518) 779-5497

CASH FOR METAL/CARS

We buy farm equip., metal, cars.

We have the equip. to take care of big jobs. Highest prices paid. Demolition. Towing & transport avail. Part of the proceeds go to the veterans. (518) 339-3369

C.L HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Taking care of all your window and remodeling

&

F.E. PALMA CONSTRUCTION Building, Remodeling, Renovations. Since 1985. Free est. Ins. o518-627-4344 c518-257-2880

FIREWOOD FREE DELIVERY

&

FRIDHOLM PAINTING INTERIOR PAINTING One or multi-room projects.

and Cathedral Ceilings.

Exterior

We Love What We Do!

JOBS TOO SMALL?

DIVORCE $389.00 Uncontested

DUMPSTER RENTALS

sizes

Do come and join us. Please call Alison Bodle at 518-288-3565 if you are interested, and for more information.

Haunting Season Kicks Off at Double M in Ballston Spa

BALLSTON SPA - Fall is in the air and the chills of the Halloween season have begun at the Double M Haunted Hayrides in Ballston Spa. The autumn tradition returns with its popular tractor-drawn

haunted hayride through the woods and five walk-thru haunted houses.

This year Double M is introducing two new haunted houses, a homestead of horror named Blood Moon Farm and the land of twisted holidays known as Fear All Year, plus returning favorites Brutality, The Last Inn, Slaughter Swamp and of course the legendary haunted hayride. With over 75 scare actors performing each night, this immersive event is best

Professional int/ext painting, kitchen, baths & basements! Roofing, siding, electrical, plumbing. Give us a call, we do it all! Avail. for after hours emergencies Bob 518-275-7731

JUNK REMOVAL & DEMO Oil tanks, hot tubs, pools, sheds, barns, houses, fence & retaining wall removal, yard cleanup. Res./comm. clean out & organize. Fully equipped to handle any job. (518) 339-8710. Part of the proceeds go to the veterans.

described as being inside a horror movie where you are the slasher’s main target.

Double M’s Opening Night was Saturday, September 24th and the season continues on select Thursday-Sunday nights through the end of October. Reservations can be made online at www. doublemhauntedhayrides. com or by calling 518-8849122. Double M is located at 678 Route 67 in Ballston Spa.

PAINTING

ROOFING Specializing in architectural, 3 tab, metal, cedar shakes & repairs. Free est.

SNOWPLOWING SEASONAL. GREENFIELD/ SARATOGA AREA. CONTACT (518) 764-9254 FOR PRICES.

STUMP ’N GRIND Stump grinding service, big or small, insured & backyard accessible. (518) 301-5712

Ballston Area Senior Citizens Pickin’ Sessions

BALLSTON SPAWill resume on the first Wednesday of each month.

At the Milton Community Center, 310 Northline Rd.

Ballston Spa, NY 12020

Open to the Public, Free Admission & ample free parking. Doors open 6:30 pm, the Jam start at 7:00 pm to 9:30 pm Open to all musicians who enjoy playing coun-

try/western, folk, gospel & bluegress.

Come an enjoy the music and be part of the audiene. Jack Broderson at 518-885-4229

Ballston Spa UMC

Thrift Shop

BALLSTON SPA - The 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.