In The Biz

Russo's update

2012-01-27T15:03:00.000-05:00

The Russo planning to open a restaurant on Broadway got in touch with us and we have more details on the new restaurant.

Russo’s Restaurant and Bar — Italian-American eatery — is slated to open in March at 390 Broadway.

Click here to read the full story.

Business Updates in Downtown Saratoga

2012-01-25T12:47:00.001-05:00

Common Thread Saratoga is moving their business from 55 Beekman St. to 508 Broadway, the former Nikita furniture store location, and next to Elizabeth's, which is planning to open the weekend of the Flurry Festival (Feb. 17 to 19).

The business was located on Broadway two years ago, at 482 Broadway, and was called Saratoga Needle Arts.

Owner Ashley Gardner said she is "very excited to capture all of the foot traffic from the City Center and the people that come to Saratoga. They didn't make it over to Beekman Street, even though I love Beekman Street."

Gardner also added that Common Thread will offer classes in knitting, crochet and spinning. They will also have drop-in classes and four "semester" classes that will be announced once every three months.

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Michelle LaLonde of Mimosa's is planning a soft opening on Feb. 3 and a grand opening from 4 to 7 p.m. on Feb. 11 at the store's new location at 489 Broadway.

The opening party will also feature a 10x10 event showcasing artwork that is 10" by 10" or smaller and costs $100 or less.

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The Saratoga Traveler has moved to a new location at 6 Phila St.

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Mohr's Service Center, at 239 Washington St., is continuing their construction for a new automatic car wash. Directly across from Clean2O. They are planning to open in March.

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For Earth's Sake has opened their doors at 120 West Ave, Suite 102, next to the Fortunate Cup Cafe. The store is bright and beautiful with a variety of selections from food and vitamins/supplements to cosmetics to skin care and more.

Erica Miller

Photography Supervisor

@togianphotog

Rumor mill: Brindisi's sold and Russo's moving in (but which Russo?)

2012-01-24T17:38:00.001-05:00

Since Brindisi’s restaurant started looking for buyers in November, people have been wondering what might be taking its place. (Editor's note: Another hat tip to Saratoga Idiots, you guys are all over the downtown restaurant scene)

We called Louis Brindisi to see if he had sold, and while he hasn’t confirmed the sale, it seems there may be something to rumors of a new restaurant named Russo’s moving in. (Editor's note: In a text to a Saratogian staffer this morning, Andy Brindisi, Louis' son, did confirm the sale)

Though some may recognize the Russo name from the popular Amsterdam eatery, don’t get the two confused. Amsterdam restaurant owner Mike Russo is emphatic that the Saratoga eatery will have no association with his establishment — besides the name, which he is not pleased to be sharing in the first place.

“I’m the original Russo,” he explained in a phone interview. “I own the Russo’s in Amsterdam. We’ve been here for years. It’s not the original Russo’s that’s opening there, it’s a lost family member.”

Russo did not give the name of the family member in question, but maintained that the two businesses are not, and will not be, related in any way. “They’re going to name it Russo’s, but it’s not part of the original,” he said.

Are you the other Russo? We want to talk to you about your plans, email news@saratogian.com.

Spanish restaurant headed to Broadway (updated 4:50 p.m.)

2012-01-24T14:52:00.001-05:00

Dave Zecchini, owner of DZ Restaurants, confirmed via a voice mail this afternoon that he plans to turn 384 Broadway into a Mediterranean bistro and tapas bar. (Credit goes to Saratoga Idiots for breaking this story last week)
The sale of the property is not yet final, a closing is scheduled next week. The building used to house Raina's boutique and Pizza on Broadway.

Table Hopping's Steve Barnes spoke to Zecchini who said he traveled to Spain last month for research (nice work if you can get it) and hopes to hire a chef from Spain.

This story was just updated: ~~We'll hopefully have more on this later today~~, here's the story we've got right now.

Emily Donohue

Here's an update:
The new restaurant will be called Boca Bistro (boca is mouth in Spanish, ours are watering) and might be open as early as May.

Zecchini and his wife Roslyn, who is executive chef for Forno and Pasta Pane, went to Barcelona in part to "immerse themselves in the culinary culture, to truly bring the authenticity of the food and culure to the new restaurant,” Nancy Bambara, DZ Restaurants director of operations, told us.

Forgot to add this...

2012-01-05T15:10:00.001-05:00

I drove past the building formerly known as Shoe Depot on my way to work today and saw workers taking down the sign, the end of an era.

Apparently they're doing the work because Frivolous Gal has officially moved in. Welcome to Broadway, Frivolous. May luck be in your favor, 2011 has been a tough year for Broadway's businesses.

Here's the story on the Shoe Depot closing, if you're interested.

-- Emily

Another shake-up on Broadway (** updated)

2012-01-05T15:04:00.002-05:00

UPDATE: The owner of the building, Calvi, just returned an earlier call we placed to him to say the building has not yet been sold, the sale is not finalized.

Reporter Lucian McCarty and photographer Erica Miller just got back from Broadway where there's been another business shake-up.

Raina's and Pizza on Broadway are both out -- their building at 384 Broadway may be purchased ~~has been purchased~~. The owner of Raina's confirmed that DZ Restaurants is the purchaser (well, she said it was Chianti's, but of course we know that DZ owns Chianti's, Forno and Pasta Pane).

Lorri Birmingham, owner of Raina's, says she plans to move just down the street into the former home of Zola Kids. No word on if or where Pizza on Broadway will find a new home.

Someone who answered the phone at DZ Restauants, but clammed up when she realized she was talking to a reporter, said a DZ is planning a new restaurant for the location.

What do you think? What kind of restaurant would you like to see in that primo location on Broadway? I'm getting hungry just thinking about it... or maybe I'm a bit overdue for lunch.

We'll have more on this later today, here's the story we've got so far.

-- Emily

Farewell to another Saratogian business reporter

2012-01-03T15:13:00.000-05:00

Man, I hate this. We said goodbye to another business Saratogian business reporter last week. Suzanna Lourie has left the newsroom and is embarking (soon) on a new career teaching in Costa Rica.

So, until we hire a new reporter (Interested? Send us your resume!) this blog will be on a bit of a hiatus. Assistant Managing Editor Betsy DeMars and I are going to try to throw as much news as we can in here, but please bear with us.

If you've got business news tips, please send them to news@saratogian.com.

Also, you can still follow Suzanna on twitter, @SuzannaKLourie. Hopefully she'll have another blog on our site soon, chronicling her adventures abroad.

Thanks for reading,

Emily Donohue
Online Editor

Nikita Furniture to close Broadway location tomorrow

2011-12-30T16:54:00.001-05:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — After yesterday's post about the new location of the Cupcake Lab at 510 Broadway, I walked past the Algonquin today and noticed the neighboring furniture store is closing tomorrow.

Nikita Indoor Outdoor Convertible Furnishings at 508 Broadway is closing tomorrow, Saturday, Dec. 31, according to a sign in the shop window.

The owner confirmed the closure, but was helping a customer and couldn't provide more details at the time.

According to the store's website, Nikita furniture has a second location at 7 Elm Street in Oneonta, but no word as to whether that store will remain open.

We'll hopefully have more details soon - If anyone has any more info about the store closing or who might be coming in as the Cupcake Lab (Elizabeth's) new neighbor, please leave a comment!

For more information call 796-1887.

New location and name for the Cupcake Lab

2011-12-28T16:34:00.000-05:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Two months after Mike and Liz Phillips closed the Cupcake Lab at its tucked away location upstairs in the Roohan Realty building off Long Alley, the husband and wife team has announced a new location for the business.

According to its website, the Cupcake Lab seems like it will reopen as "Elizabeth's," when it moves into its new home at 510 Broadway, the formerly 80 West Boutique.

The Phillips' latest venture will be much more visible than the Lab with a new Broadway window inside the historic Algonquin Building.

"We have extended the ideas that made The Lab, the Lab... more on that soon," reads the statement on the website.

No opening date has been set, but an update is expected soon.

New businesses coming to Ballston Spa & Saratoga

2011-12-15T18:28:00.000-05:00

Hello there,

I’m sure all my readers out there have been too busy with the holidays- you know, figuring out how to avoid the in-laws, waiting in hour-long lines at the Wilton box stores, the usual - to notice I haven't posted in a while.

On the positive side, all that time away from the blog has led to a good list of local business updates, which I will now attempt to consolidate in this one post.

Enjoy and there's more to come soon.

SKL

Ballston Spa biz:

Apparently I haven't drive through Ballston Spa in a while because last week a few new or newish businesses caught my eye...

A new jeweler is opening soon on Milton Avenue - near the corner of Front Street. The storefront at 53 Milton Ave., which Google Maps still shows as a vacant window with a "For Rent" sign (anyone know how often they update that?), is now boarded up with signs indicating Lagniappe Jewelers will be coming soon. I haven't been able to find out much more, but if anyone knows if Lagniappe is a local name I'd appreciate any more info.

Saratogian photographer Erica Miller noticed the Yoga Spa at 53 Front St. (coincidence?). According to its website the Yoga Spa had opened in September and offers a range of yoga classes (hot, regular, kids, seniors) as well as some dance and fitness options. On a personal note (I can't help it when it comes to yoga) turns out Jennilee Toner, one of the best instructors I've had in Saratoga or elsewhere, manages and teaches at the Yoga Spa. Don't know how this one escaped me, but check out one of her classes or contact Jennilee at jennilee@the-yoga-spa.com. You won't regret it.

- Saratoga Springs updates:

There's a new health foods store coming soon to Saratoga's west side. For Earth's Sake, located at 120 West Ave. next to the Fortunate Cup coffee shop, was meant to open in time for the holidays, but construction has pushed the opening back into the new year. I spoke with owner Tina Bakkalapulo earlier this week for Monday's print column so be sure to read more online at www.saratogian.com or in the paper about the new eco-friendly grocery and gift boutique.

This Saturday, Dec. 17, Savon Studios at 64 Woodlawn Ave. will host a cut-a-thon to benefit the American Red Cross. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.and all haircut proceeds go to the Red Cross' Hurricanes and Related Storms Fund 2011. Owner Jane martuscello said she hopes to raise awareness and help the people affected by disasters like Hurricane Irene. Appointments not necessary, but can be made by calling 581-1044. Women's cuts and blow drys are $35 and men's cuts $20. Snacks and refreshments will be served along with some prizes and giveaways.

Ballston Spa business owners organize holiday memorial tree fundraiser for local not-for-profit

2011-12-08T11:39:00.000-05:00

BALLSTON SPA — This holiday season, Ballston Spa businesses are working together to help support the Gateway House of Peace, a local hospice organization, by arranging a memorial tree fundraiser downtown.

With each donation of $10 or more, a memorial dove will be placed on the tree, each one representing a piece of the town’s greater support for Gateway House, which is both financial and also helps to build awareness of the local hospice’s mission.

Established in 2006, Gateway House started to take shape earlier this spring when volunteers began renovating the former American Red Cross building in Milton to eventually become a full-time, supportive hospice community.

Through fundraising efforts like “Raise the Roof,” Gateway House was able to exceed its goal of installing a new roof by November as well as re-insulating the building, fixing the exterior and installing new doors.

The next step in the process is another round of fundraising to take place during the winter months, which ideally will cover the remaining costs of renovating the home so Gateway House can open its doors and start serving patients of hospice, their families and loved ones.

Several Ballston Spa business owners including the owners of Whoopies are Good, Decadent Diva Chocolate Shop and Mary’s Beauty Salon have pioneered the organization of the memorial tree for hospice fundraising campaign.

The tree, which was decorated and lit for the Ballston Spa Holiday Parade, which took place on Friday, Dec. 2, is located on the deck outside Decadent Diva at 241 Milton Ave. in the heart of Ballston Spa.

Paul Brisson, co-owner of Whoopies are Good and active volunteer and member of the Gateway House board of directors said the community has been showing outstanding support for the tree and the entire charitable project.

“The tree is here to demonstrate our community’s support for Gateway’s vision, as a 100% volunteer, donor driven, community-owned residence for patients of hospice,” Brisson said in a recent statement.
“It is our goal to have hundreds of doves on this tree and others if necessary.”

Both Sunnyside Gardens and Bob’s Trees helped support the memorial tree project and agreed to donate an additional tree by the end of the season. Memorial doves are available at the Decadent Diva Chocolate Shop, which will be placed on the tree in exchange for a minimum $10 donation made in memory of a family member or loved one. All proceeds of the tree will go toward the final renovations of Gateway House so it can open in 2012.

Doves can also be purchased online at www.whoopiesaregood.com. Donations may be mailed directly to the shop at this address:

Decadent Diva
c/o Hospice Memorial Tree
241 Milton Avenue
Ballston Spa, NY 12020

For more information about the Gateway House of Peace visit www.gatewayhouseofpeace.org.

Jake's Help From Heaven non-for-profit holding special event at Cantina tonight

2011-12-07T16:27:00.000-05:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Heather and Brian Straughter founded Jake's Help From Heaven, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping families afford special equipment for children with certain medical conditions, early this year.

Tonight, Wednesday, Dec. 7, the eve of the one-year anniversary of their son Jake's passing, the Straughters will be at Cantina throughout the day to thank the community for their continued support.

Heath and Jeff Ames, owners of Cantina, will donate 50 percent of all meal proceeds from lunch and dinner (just mention Jake's Help From Heaven) will go toward the organization.

Jake has a rare genetic disorder that caused his body to give out so that he required costly medical equipment such as special chairs, beds and supports to live his everyday life.

Almost immediately after his death, Brian and Heather Straughter thought of ways to honor Jake and help parents in similar situations.

“We constantly realized this happens to people — it must devastate them,” she said.

Since its inception, Jake's Help From Heaven has helped a number of families in the Capital District afford items to help improve their child's quality of life.

Join Heather and Brian Straughter tonight at Cantina and enjoy a meal while also supporting a great cause.

For more information visit: www.jakeshelpfromheaven.org.

Restaurant update: Celebrate like a Hollywood star at Sperry's New Year's Eve party

2011-12-06T11:18:00.001-05:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Here's the latest news from Sperry's Restaurant.

Co-owner Christel MacLean just announced this year's theme for Sperry's New Year's Eve Party — Hollywood nights — to usher in 2012 like a star.

There are more details in the press release below and additional information coming soon to www.sperrysrestaurant.com.

There will be movie soundtracks, food, cocktails and all the glitz and glamor of Hollywood in downtown Saratoga Springs. Guests are encouraged to dress as their favorite Hollywood star!

Sperry's New Year's Eve 2011

Sperry's is also still offering its Home for the Holidays a la carte catering menu. Guests can order traditional holiday dinners or select items prepared and packaged by chef Dale Miller, which then get delivered right to your doorstep - voila! A nice idea for anyone like me who can't use a stove.

Here is the full menu with pricing.

Happy holidays!

Saratoga business and local synagogue requesting donations to help recognize Schoharie volunteers

2011-12-05T18:29:00.000-05:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Local synagogue Temple Sinai and Saratoga Springs-based Omelette King Catering Company are seeking donations to help give back to the dedicated volunteers who continue to help rebuild the town of Schoharie after it was devastated by Hurricane Irene.

The Temple Sinai Social Action Committee is asking for financial donations, vegetarian casserole style dishes and fresh fruit so they, along with the local brunch catering company, may host the event this Sunday, Dec. 11 at 10:30 a.m.

The hurricane hit Schoharie and many other towns in the area almost four months ago, but volunteers continue to support the local community with construction projects such as installing new sheetrocking and wiring.

The community breakfast event will be held at the Heritage Hall Community Center next to the Schoharie Reformed Church at 258 Main St. as a way to say thank you and recognize the local volunteers for their hard work.

Food donations can be brought to Temple Sinai, 509 Broadway, on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 9 and 10. Checks can be made out to the Temple Sinai Social Action Committee, P.O. Box 1045, 509 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Contact Amy Kantor at 580-0898 or omelette1@verizon.net for further information.

Leon's Mexican Restaurant on Crescent Street may be on the market

2011-12-05T13:47:00.001-05:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Over the weekend, several Saratoga Springs bloggers reported Leon’s Mexican Restaurant at 135 Crescent Street could potentially to be for sale.

The popular track-season destination only appears to be for sale based on the “confidential” Scott Varley Real Estate listing, which doesn’t specifically state the restaurant is on the market.

The listing does, however, have some details that match the property where Leon’s is located including that the site borders 3 roads (Crescent Street, Ward Street and either Adams or Monroe – they both Leon’s lot).

View Larger Map
Fun in Saratoga blogger Dan De Federicis also mentioned some of the information in the listing such as lot size and square footage also match Leon’s city tax assessment. I followed up on some of the info and based on the city’s evaluation, the land with the restaurant property included has a full market value of $583,800. Ok, that’s one inconsistency — the Scott Varley real estate ad has listed the price for a whopping $1.2 million.

I’m a big fan of Leon’s — generous portions, friendly service and a festive atmosphere — but that seems a bit steep.

Following up further, another thing doesn’t match up and that would be the owner Roberta Leon’s testimony.

On Monday afternoon, Leon said she wanted to put the rumors to rest and assure people the restaurant is not up for sale and they are looking forward to their 11th season in 2012.

While it’s unlikely a business owner would reveal the nature of a “confidential” real estate listing to a reporter, I would say the jury is still out on this one. If anyone has any further information about Leon’s and its future please leave a comment or feel free to email me at slourie@saratogian.com.

For more information call 587-2346 or visit www.leonsmexicanrestaurant.com.

Embrace the Race offers special holiday deals for the horse racing enthusiast in your life

2011-12-01T14:23:00.001-05:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Just because the horses have already crossed the finish line, doesn’t mean racing enthusiasts can’t get excited this holiday season for Saratoga Race Course’s 2012 meet racing this holiday season.

Embrace the Race, “The Apparel for the Horse Racing Lifestyle,” is offering special racing-themed gifts for the holidays including gift certificates, a track pack gift set and an online “Hint a Gift” tool.

The online Hint a Gift tool assists shoppers in finding just the right gift for that hard-to-shop-for racing fan, friend or family member. The tool is located on www.embracetherace.com and helps by offering suggestions to friends and family members selected by the user about what he or she would enjoy most, be it an Embrace the Race clothing item, hat or accessory.

If customers choose to give gift certificates, they may be used both online and at their 80 Henry Street Clubhouse Shop.

Another gift item this year is the track packs, which have both men and women options. The mug track pack includes a travel mug as well as an Embrace the Race T-shirt and signature hat ($40). The tote track pack features a tote bag, T-shirt and hat for $55.

Embrace the Race, founded by horse racing enthusiast and horse owner Michael DeAnzeris in 2010, also offers polo shirts, jackets, hats, shirts, accessories and more.

For more information visit www.embracetherace.com. Retail products can also be found at the National Museum of Racing on Union Avenue.

Ride the Polar Express in your PJ's and score free cotton candy at Circus Cafe

2011-11-30T12:05:00.000-05:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — This holiday season, passengers on the Polar Express will have the opportunity to come in to the Circus Café dressed in their cozy pajamas to receive homemade cotton candy.


Children sip hot chocolate on the Polar Express (Photo by Erica Miller)

For generations “The Polar Express” has been a beloved book and an iconic Christmas story retold year after year. Now children and families have the chance to board the Polar Express at the Saratoga Springs Train Station to take a trip to the North Pole and back.

After the hour-long journey where kids are encouraged to wear pajamas while they enjoy hot cocoa, Christmas caroling, presents and a visit from Santa, families can stop by the Circus Café for an extra treat.

“The Polar Express train ride that leaves from Saratoga has really taken off,” said Christel MacLean, owner of Circus Café.

During the holiday season the Saratoga & North Creek Railway operates two trips each day on the Polar Express — the first departing at 6 p.m. and the second at 8 p.m.

Since MacLean started seeing so many children clad in pajamas coming to the restaurant either before or after a trip, MacLean says she felt, “we had to join the festivities!”

The free cotton candy offer at Circus Café, located at 392 Broadway, runs now through Wednesday, Dec. 28, which is the last day for the Polar Express.

For more information call 583-1106 or visit www.circuscafe.com. To learn more about the Polar Express visit https.www.sncrr.com.

Historic Adelphi Hotel on Broadway up for sale

2011-11-19T12:19:00.000-05:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Albany Business Review and Fun in Saratoga blogger Dan De Federicis recently reported the historic Adelphi Hotel at 361/365 Broadway is up for sale for $4.5 million. Owner Sheila Parkert and her husband purchased the abandoned dilapidated hotel in the 70s for $100,000 with the long-term plan to renovate the building.

Five years ago, Parkert put the Adelphi up for sale at $10 million. Three years ago, the price dropped to $7.79 million. It might be worth more than the current asking price, but in the tough economic climate and real estate market it appears Parkert is willing to compromise. As of Saturday afternoon, she couldn’t be reach for further comment.

The Adelphi is one of Saratoga Springs’ oldest and most historic hotels, serving visitors since 1877. You can read the real estate listing here.

Siro's introduces tapas Thursdays and NFL Sunday's at the Lodge

2011-11-15T14:24:00.000-05:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Siro's Trattoria at the Lodge announced today a new initiative to combine dining and entertainment on Thursday and Sunday evenings.

Sparked after what the restaurant called a "blockbuster" Breeders' Cup party, the new tapas Thursdays and NFL Sundays will keep the party going throughout the racing off-season.

But Siro's is never one to forget its horse racing roots and will be offering both NFL football and pari-mutuel wagering on thoroughbred races.

Beginning Thursday, Nov. 17, Siro's will offer its "Trattoria Tapas Thursdays," which includes a special menu of Mediterranean-style $6 small plates and $12 shared plates. Some of these tapas options include: Polpetto con Mozzarella (meatballs with mozarella), Calamari Fritti, Pastiso (spiced Greek lamb lasagna), Israeli Couscous with Curry and Eggplant, Orzo "Barcelona" with Clams and Chorizo (sausage), Moroccan Sizzling Skillet Shrimp and Caprese Invernale (roasted tomato and burrata salad).

Sip wine and enjoy an array of tapas to live piano tunes by Roger Morris each Thursday evening.
For the football fans, Siro's Trattoria will open each Sunday at noon to catch the week's big games on multiple flat screen TVs. Pari-mutuel wagering will be available with a live teller on thoroughbred racing from Aqueduct Racetrack, Churchill Downs, Santa Anita and more.

Sunday lunch will feature homemade meatball heroes for $8 and a new special on Siro's hot wings. Sunday dinner runs from 3 to 7 p.m. featuring one special Italian meal special for $24, which includes: a main course of pasta with Sunday gravy, red sauce, fennel sausage, meatballs and pork shoulder with choice of soup or salad and dessert to top it all off.

Siro's Trattoria at the Lodge opens at 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturdays and noon on Sundays. For more info call 584-7988 or visit www.sirostrattoria.com.

at 1 Nelson Avenue,

Prime at Saratoga National introduces new Mugs & Martinis Society benefits

2011-11-14T13:53:00.000-05:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Prime at Saratoga National recently launched its new Mugs & Martinis Society membership benefits, reported Steve Barnes, on his Table Hopping blog for the Times Union.

To join the Mugs & Martinis Society (annual fee of $75) you must be at least 21-years-old. Rules include no sharing mugs or shakers, breakage fee applies.

Benefits include:

Saratoga National beer mug and Saratoga National cocktail shaker in personalized box with nameplate.

Email alerts about when new and limited craft beer will become available.

$1 off all regular martinis and $2 off specialty martinis.

50 percent off all draft beer Wednesdays

Preferential opportunities Prime events and specialty dinners.

21-ounce mug fills at regular 16-ounce prices, including happy hour pricing (excludes any beer over 7 percent ABV).

Prime at Saratoga is located at Saratoga National Golf Course, a mile east of Northway Exit 14 on Route 9P in Saratoga Springs. Call 583-4653 for info or reservations.

Happy wedding day to CityDesk reporter Lucian McCarty

2011-11-11T13:30:00.000-05:00

One of our own is finally getting hitched! The Saratogian news team is out early today, Friday, 11-11-11, to celebrate city reporter Lucian McCarty's big day. Hopefully no breaking news happens while we're out... All the Capital Region paparazzi are expected to be in Schuylerville for this big event.

Congratulations to Lucian and his wife-to-be Amanda Fiandaca (soon McCarty)! Check out Amanda's blog to stay up to date on the happenings at Schuylerville Public Library at http://schuylervillepubliclibrary.wordpress.com/.

And follow Lucian's (occasional) city blog posts at www.saratogacitydesk.blogspot.com.

Cheers!

News from Sperry's

2011-11-11T13:23:00.000-05:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS -- Some juicy tidbits from Sperry's Restaurant on Caroline Street.

Sperry's Sous Chef Eric Tisaj won a gold medal with the highest point score at Sunday's 21st annual Culinary Cornucopia. He also won the Anton Flory Culinary Cornucopia Grand Award. His winning dish will soon appear on a special dinner menu. I don't know what half of these words mean, but it sounds scrumptious: Duet of Kurobuta pork tenderloin"Sous Vide." Calvados rosemary demi-glace, sweet potato, fennel and Pancetta hash, Haricot Vert and Autumn spiced pork belly, cranberry mustard sauce, braised brussel sprouts and melted celeriac.

It's that time of year - Sperry's "Home for the Holidays" is back. Executive Chef Dale Miller will prepare and package a traditional Thanksgiving/Holiday meal for you to enjoy at home. The package serves 12-14 people and costs $199 ($16 per person). Sperry's will also offer some a la carte dishes for customers - to order call 584-9618 no later than SUNDAY, Nov. 20. Orders can be picked up between 11 a.m. and noon on Thanksgiving day, Thursday, Nov. 24.

For more details visit www.sperrysrestaurant.com

Hattie's now serving brunch! Yum.

2011-11-11T13:05:00.002-05:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Starting tomorrow, Hattie's Restaurant will be dishing up a new Saturday and Sunday brunch menu each weekend between 9 a.m. and 2pm.
"We've had such a great response with our special brunches so we thought we would open it up on a regular basis," said co-owner Jasper Alexander. "I've enjoyed the process of creating a true Southern brunch and hope that the public embraces it."
The mouth-watering brunch menu features several $7 morning cocktail offerings including Hattie's signature Bloody Marys, mimosas, orange martinis, brandy milk punch and hurricanes.
Some of my favorites...

Cajun omelet: Three egg omelet with North Country Smoke House Andouille Sausage, caramelized onions and Cabot Extra Sharp cheddar cheese served with home fries and Texas toast ($9.95)
Crab Cakes Benedict: Two poached eggs of Hattie's crab cakes with fresh spinach and Hollandaise served with home fries ($13.95)

Pair one of those with a spicy Bloody Mary and you've got yourself a nice lil' Sunday... Ahh.

Here's the full menu.
Hattie's Brunch Menu

Local jewelry designer Dennis deJonghe wins two international design awards

2011-11-07T16:14:00.003-05:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Dennis deJonghe, owner of DeJonghe Original Jewelry at 470 Broadway, racked up two awards at the 2012 American Gem trade Association (AGTA) Spectrum Awards held in late October in New York City.

One of the most prestigious jewelry design events in the industry, the Spectrum Awards attracts hundreds of international entries with winners selected by a panel of judges, which changes each year. Judges primarily look for creativity and craftsmanship, but also judge each piece based on use of color, wearability and overall appeal.

Two of deJonghe’s pieced earned recognition at this year’s 28th annual AGTA Spectrum Awards. The first award, “Best use of Palladium Color,” was for deJonghe’s Aquamarine Pendant, a Palladium pendant with a 16.39ct aquamarine gem as the centerpiece accented with moonstones, pearls and diamonds.

“My inspiration was the main gem — a fine quality aquamarine by lapidary artist Michael Dyber,” said deJonghe in a statement. The angular pendant design was made to counterbalance the soft elements, he added.

The local designer also won the “Classical — Palladium Prestige Award,” for his Palladium Pearl Ring, which holds a 16.5mm white South Sea Pearl accented with diamonds.

Deceivingly simple, the ring was actually one of the more difficult pieces for deJonghe to craft with the large round pearl proving challenging to set.

The two pieces will be displayed at the end of January along with the other Spectrum Award winners at the 2012 Gem Fair in Tucson, A.Z.

deJonghe's award winning designs

For more information visit deJonghe Original Jewelry at 470 Broadway or call 587-6422. E-mails can be addressed to info@djoriginals.com.

Brindisi's Restaurant closes early for winter season, owner looking to sell

2011-11-07T12:28:00.002-05:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Last week, passersby noticed a dark and quiet window at Brindisi’s Restaurant at 390 Broadway.

On Monday morning, owner Andrew Brindisi quelled speculation that the Italian-American bistro was closed permanently.

It is, however, going on the market.

“Usually we close down for January and February, but November is actually the slowest time of the year and it costs more to stay open than it does to close,” Brindisi said. “I am putting it up on the market and if it doesn’t sell — I’ll be back in the spring.”

When Brindisi’s closed last week only a small number of employees found themselves — perhaps earlier than expected — out of a job.

“We probably had only about three or four part-timers, it was a real skeleton crew,” Brindisi said.
Although he is in the midst of interviewing realtors to put the restaurant on the market, Brindisi said he will also entertain anyone looking to buy the space without a real estate agent.

“It’s something I’ve been considering for a while,” he said. “Taxes keep going up every year and you can’t keep blaming the landlords — they have to pay school taxes and property taxes — it’s just not conducive when all the prices are going up.”

While Brindisi still has several years left on his lease and can’t technically sublet to another restaurant owner, he plans to sell the space including all its kitchen fixtures and other equipment for $250,000.
The buyer would then negotiate a year-to-year contract with the building’s landlord.

Brindisi himself put about $1 million into the 390 Broadway space since opening in 2000 and after 12 years in the business the restaurateur is ready to move on.

However, if the restaurant doesn’t sell this winter — he will re-open in March or April.

Brindisi’s will remain open over the next four or five months for private parties, Christmas parties and on and off-site catering gigs.

When the restaurant does change hands, Brindisi hopes to enter a new chapter of his life outside the restaurant businesses.

“I was hoping to get a job in public relations or in government because I really like politics and if I get any proceeds from this place I’d use it to buy a Harley Davidson.”

To contact Brindisi about private parties, catering or with buying inquiries call 587-6262 or e-mail brindisia@aol.com.

Hattie's Restaurant named one of Food and Wine's best fried chicken establishments in the U.S.

2011-11-02T12:40:00.002-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratogians have known it for years, but thanks to a new online article at FoodandWine.com, the nation will now know that Hattie’s Restaurant in Saratoga Springs cooks up the best damn fried chicken this side of the Mississippi.

The online version of Food and Wine magazine recently published an article covering the best fried chicken across the United States with Hattie’s Restaurant on Phila Street and Hattie’s Chicken Shack on Route 50 in Wilton placing among Food and Wine’s top 31 selections.

“It’s a great honor to be chosen among the many fried chicken establishments across America,” said co-owner and chef Jasper Alexander in a statement.

Hattie’s has been a Saratoga staple for the local dining scene and community since 1938 when it was founded by original owner Hattie Austin.

Over the past 75 years, Hattie’s fried chicken has gained national recognition as a favorite of many summer track-goers and with publicity appearances such as in 2006, when Hattie’s Restaurant was featured on celebrity chef Bobby Flay’s Food Network TV show, “Throwdown! with Bobby Flay.” A panel of celebrity judges chose Hattie’s as that episode’s undisputed winner.

To view the online article visit www.foodandwine.com/slideshows/best-fried-chicken-in-the-us.

Lucia boutique to host grand opening event Friday in new & improved location

2011-11-02T11:28:00.004-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The grand re-opening of one of my favorite Broadway boutiques is finally here.

This Friday, Nov. 4 from 5 to 9 p.m. Lucy Moran, owner of Lucia boutique, will host an opening event in her new location in the Saratoga Marketplace at 454 Broadway.

Lucy & Rory Moran

Since opening Lucia in a smaller space tucked inside the Marketplace over 5 years ago, Moran has dreamed of someday expanding the business in a more visible and spacious location.

"I have always felt that my current space has been temporary and now, Lucia is moving home," Moran said.

Lucia's new home isn't far from the shop's original location — it is still located on the ground level of the Saratoga Marketplace, but now in the space formerly home to Saratoga Turkish Bazaar (now located at 506 Broadway).

"I've wanted to expand for years because I felt like I haven't been able to have as big of a collection as I've wanted and definitely to have a street-front store with windows," Moran said.

This Friday, Moran will unveil her new space, completely redecorated to maintain Lucia's staple vintage bohemian vibe with extra space for new designers such as Cheap Monday and Dolce Vita Shoes as well as an expanded collection of the store's existing designers.

Moran's husband Rory, who will be opening the Comfort Kitchen restaurant (click here to see the In the Biz story on this entrepreneurial couple) on the lower level of the Marketplace this spring, is catering the event with mouth-watering homemade hors d'oeurves.

There will also be door prizes and discounts, as well as cocktails and comfort food... needless to say, this is a can't miss event for all fashionistas and perfect for holiday shopping.

See you all there!

For more information visit. www.luciaboutique.com.

New Fingery Lakes winery to open tasting room on South Broadway next year

2011-10-31T12:03:00.000-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Another Finger Lakes winery, Thirsty Owl Wine Company will be opening a new tasting room, eatery and wine store in the former home of the Kimberly Inn at 184 South Broadway next year.

In early October, Saratoga Shoots wrote a blog post about the rumors circulating of the possible opening of a Thirsty Owl tasting room on South Broadway.

On Monday, Oct. 31, Ted Cupp, who owns the wine company with son Jon Cupp, confirmed the speculation.

“I just purchased the building — we’re really in the early stages of the planning process right now,” Cupp said.

Over the next several months, the Cupps will have to tackle the often lengthy process of obtaining a liquor license and submitting plans for the business to the city planning board.

If all goes according to plan, the Thirsty Owl tasting room should be up and running by July 1, 2012.

“We hope to have a pretty large tasting room and some light fare, but we haven’t decided what that will be just yet,” Cupp said.

The business will be operated on the ground floor of the property and the former inn’s second floor will be leased as some sort of residence.

“This will be our first tasting room other than our site on Cayuga Lake,” Cupp said. “My family raised horses and we’ve been coming to Saratoga for years — it’s a great area.”

The Thirsty Owl Wine Company is based in the town of Ovid in the Finger Lakes region. I will be speaking to Cupp in about six weeks once the plans for the Saratoga Springs tasting room are more solidified so stay tuned for more information on this story.

The Cupcake Lab closes doors to prepare for new location

2011-10-24T14:58:00.001-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS -- While I was away on a brief vacation this weekend, I received an email from Mike Phillips, co-owner of the Cupcake Lab, formerly tucked away in the Roohan Realty building at 517 Broadway.

On Sunday, Oct. 23 Phillips and his wife Elizabeth announced it would be their last day open as the Cupcake Lab (or Lab for short) at that location.

But for the loyal customer base faithful to the Lab since it opened - never fear. Phillips will be re-opening as the new and improved Lab at Saratoga in a new location soon to be announced.

Mike and Elizabeth posted this statement on their website and Facebook page:

The Cupcake Lab and Coffee Cafe

It is with bittersweet emotion that we tell you today, Sunday10/23/11, is the last day The Lab will be open in our current location. Although we will miss our huge open space and our Long Alley neighbors…after 2 years of explaining where “Long Alley” is we are moving. We wish to thank each and every one of you for being our customers and our friends, we can’t wait to welcome you to our new location. Please stay tuned to this FB page or our website for our new location coming soon. We will look forward to seeing you very soon at The new Lab Saratoga!
Elizabeth and Mike

Stay tuned for more on this story tomorrow.

SKL

Four women-owned businesses in the Saratoga Marketplace to host grand opening event this weekend

2011-10-19T11:52:00.000-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The ladies of the lower level in the Saratoga Marketplace at 454 Broadway have pooled their resources to host a joint (and somewhat belated) grand opening event taking place Saturday, Oct. 22 and Sunday, Oct. 23.

Over the past five months, four new businesses — all for women, by women — opened in the Saratoga Marketplace, breathing life into what has long been a quiet lower corridor.

There are five women behind these four businesses: Aleah Homer of The Body Lounge and Dust Cosmetics; Kendal and Keriann McGillycuddy of McGillycuddy's Naturals; Karen Score of Yoga Mandali and the Studio Store and Lisa Alden of Fiat Feminae.

This weekend, the group is putting on a collaborative "grand opening" where guests will be able to shop four locations and receive special discounts, free food & refreshments and enter for giveaways.

Here's the gist of these businesses, all with links to the "In the Biz" story I wrote about each one when it opened and or moved.

The Body Lounge & Dust Cosmetics: Early this June, Aleah Homer made her dream of opening an L.A. or Manhattan-style spa come true when she opened the Body Lounge. The "unique" spa offers new-age treatments such as an oxygen bar, organic teeth whitening and acupuncture. Homer also sells Dust, her original line of organic mineral cosmetics, at the spa.

McGillycuddy's Naturals: Kendal and Keriann McGillycuddy were next to enter the Marketplace's lower level shortly after Homer in June. The sisters' mother started making natural, handmade soaps for the girls when they were young because they often suffered from sensitive skin irritated by the chemicals in most pharmaceutical body products. Eventually the soap-making became a family run business with soap-making shared between their mother and Kendal and Keriann. This summer, the sisters led the way in opening a retail shop, McGillycuddy's Naturals, which offers all natural, hand-crafted, bath and body products.

Yoga Mandali's Studio Store: Karen Score, owner of Yoga Mandali opened the Studio Store this August in the former location of the main Yoga Mandali studio on the lower level of the Marketplace. Yoga Mandali's studio moved to the upstairs level, above the retail shops and Score had always hoped to open a joint retail outlet. When her old space became available she seized the opportunity and opened the Studio Store, a yoga-wear and accessories shop that carries quality brands in athletic wear and a variety of other items from yoga mats to books and CDs.

Fiat Feminae: The latest lady entrepreneur to join the lower level is Lisa Alden, owner of the lingerie boutique Fiat Feminae. Alden opened the European-style lingerie shop on the second floor of 489 Broadway this summer, but began to find the upstairs location was intimidating customers on the street. When the space opened up in the Marketplace, Alden immediately signed the lease and in less than a week had relocated to the lower level in early October. Fiat Feminae carries exotic European lingerie, signature corsets and more.

This weekend customers will receive 20% off at the above locations. They can also enter for a grand prize giveaway, participate in a scavenger hunt with prizes and enjoy free food and refreshments (I'm sold).

The sales and special activities run from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22 and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23.

As a fellow female, let me just channel the Spice Girls and say, "Girl Power." Rock on.

UPDATED: Big Apple Pizza now Pizza 7 with expanded dinner menu

2011-10-15T18:32:00.001-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Earlier this spring, Hot Dog Charlie's, a late night favorite at 7 Caroline Street, was replaced by Caroline's third pizzeria, Big Apple Pizza.

A sign outside the Caroline Street eatery that reads, "Pizza 7" caught my eye a couple of weeks ago. At the time I wasn't able to get ahold of the manager, Chris Linn, to speak to about the full details behind the change.

Since my first post about the new Pizza 7, I've connected with Linn and learned the motivation behind the name change.

As a locally owned and operated shop, the owners wanted to avoid being associated with several Albany chains or any other corporation under the name Big Apple Pizza, Linn said.

"We're proud to be located and downtown Saratoga and would like to express our sincere thanks to those who have supported us so far," he added.

With the name swap comes a beefed up menu - which now features full dinner items like lasagna and stuffed shells along with the regular pizza, salad, subs and wings options.

"It's dinner delivered right to your door," Linn said. "Start off with an appetizer or garlic bread, enjoy your dinner of chicken parmigiana and finish it off with an authentic cannoli, slice of tiramisu, baklava or cheesecake."

Pizza 7 delivers its full menu every day during business hours.

They are also offering several noteworthy lunch specials - Before 3 p.m., customers can get any two slices and a drink for $4.00 or any sub, salad, wrap or gyro for $5 (a steal if I do say so myself).

For more information about Pizza 7 call 580-2000 or click here to view the full menu.

Businesses to host Halloween-themed events this weekend

2011-10-10T14:36:00.000-04:00

Get in the Halloween spirit at a masquerade ball in the spooky Adelphi Hotel.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — You couldn't ask for a better Halloween bash venue than the historic (and rumored to be haunted) Adelphi Hotel at 365 Broadway.

This Saturday, Oct. 15, local not-for-profit group ASPIRe N.Y., will host its third annual masquerade ball from 6:30 to 10 p.m.

ASPIRe stands for Autism Spectrum Peer Integration and Recreation and the organization is founded on a community-based approach, which provides recreation and activity groups for teens and young adults with Asperger's syndrome and a range of other Autism spectrum social disorders.

A major fundraiser for the organization, the masquerade ball will feature a dinner buffet provided by Augie's restaurant in Ballston Spa, live music by Big Medicine, dancing and a cash bar.

Guests can also bid online for a variety of silent auction items provided by local businesses and artisans before the event by clicking here.

Tickets for the event are just $50 and if you bring guests, it's $45 for each additional person.

Guests are encouraged to get in the Halloween spirit and enjoy the Victorian atmosphere of the Adelphi by wearing costumes or dressing in evening wear with masks.

A fun night for a good cause is bound to make this an enjoyable evening for all who attend.

Find out your destiny at Chic Underneath's tarot party

SARATOGA SPRINGS — It might be a lingerie and waxing boutique, but Chic Underneath will draw all sorts of customers to its doors at 7 Spring Street this weekend for a special tarot party from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 14.

Chic Underneath owners Lauren Plasencia and Kailyn McLaughlin have Mary Shimp scheduled to give free tarot readings during the event.

While you're waiting to find out your fortune, guests can sip champagne, taste some snacks and shop plenty of special deals on lingerie and undergarments.

I had the privilege to attend Chic Underneath's opening party and I give this boutique a special nod because the event was above and beyond. Both Plasencia and McLaughlin's family members provided a spread of gourmet treats, champagne with strawberries and a selection of beer stocked at the door ready to be thrust into the hand of any uncomfortable male customer.

While I can't guarantee this event will have all the bells and whistles of the last one, knowing the owners and their families I feel confident in saying this should be a great event to start your weekend.

10/07-10/09 Weekend Insider Roundup

2011-10-07T17:22:00.000-04:00

Welcome to your second October weekend! The forecast is finally clear skies and sunshine so get outside and celebrate fall's favorite month. My top pick is the do-it-yourself Saratoga Farms Tour, where you get to go to whichever farms you please, stay however long you want and sample delicious local products along the way (also a good time to pick out the perfect pumpkin in preparation for Halloween carving). Keep reading about other local events in the area this weekend ranging from a little TLC at the spa to an old-school car show in B.Spa.

Enjoy,

SKL

SATURDAY

Treat yourself to a spa treatment this Saturday

Health & Wellness/ Spa Appreciation Day. Pamper yourself this weekend at Kaivalya Spa & Wellness Center for Spa Appreciation Day. They will be offering major discounts on spa services including a scrumptious sounding pomegranate and green tea massage at $35 for 30 minutes and $50 for 60 minutes; a huge steal on Swedish massages for just $45 an hour and various other discounts on body scrubs, facials and reflexology. Unwind without breaking the bank - go ahead, you deserve it. Kaivalya Spa & Wellness Center, 7 Wells Street Saratoga Springs. Saturday, Oct. 8. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (209-1150 www.kaivalya.us). FREE entry.

Go on a DIY farm tour

Saratoga County Farm Tour. If the words "farm tour" sound more like a nightmare than a fun weekend activity to you, think again. On this unique tour of Saratoga's farms, you can bring friends, family or go solo as you drive yourself around to whichever of the seven participating farms you so please. It's fall and that means many yummy winter vegetables are starting to come into season, the pumpkins are ripe for the picking and the apples are at their prime. Guests will have the chance to sample local products, visit the farm animals and watch various demos. Farms featured include: Hanehan's Pumpkins, Schuyler Farms, Mill Creek Farm, General Bailey Homestead Farm, Joy of the Journey Farm, Lladybug Llamas and Willow Marsh Farm. Around Saratoga County - Saratoga, Ballston and Greenfield. Saturday, Oct. 8. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (885-8995 www.saratogafarms.com). FREE.

If you haven't celebrate Oktoberfest... now is the time

OctoBEERfest at the Mill. Head down to the Mill on Round Lake for their version of Oktoberfest - OctoBEERfest. How much explanation is needed for this one? Great beer, great company and live music - enough said. Celebrate fall with a cold on this Saturday. The Mill on Round Lake, 2121 Route 9, Round Lake. Saturday, Oct. 8. 2 to 8 p.m. (899-LAKE www.myfavoritetaverns.com). FREE admission.

Deal 'em in and test your poker face at a poker tournament

Texas Hold 'Em Tournament. Think you've got what it takes to be the best of the best in Texas Hold 'Em this weekend? Proceeds go to charity so there's no excuse not to head to the American Legion in Clifton Park on Saturday. Come early for dinner. All donations go to benefit Hannah's Hope Fund. American Legion, Crescent Road, Clifton Park. Saturday, Oct. 8. 4 p.m. start. (371-4463 www.hannahshopefund.org). $100 Suggested donation.

Catch a hockey game

Phantoms Season Opener: Phantoms vs. Connecticut. Believe it or not, it's that time of year again - hockey season. Support the Adirondack Phantoms as they kick off their 2011-2012 season Saturday night. Watch the boys take on Connecticut at the Glens Falls Civic Center and support the regional AHL team in its third ever season. Dress warm and don't forget the hot chocolate! Glens Falls Civic Center, Glens Falls. Saturday, Oct. 8. 7 to 9:30 p.m. (480-3356). $10 Kids tickets; $13.04, $16.25, $20.53, $22.67, $28.02.

SUNDAY

Head back in time at a nostalgic car show

'The Way We Were' Car Show. Hosted once again by the B.Spa Business & Professional Association, 'The Way We Were' Car Show features hundreds of classic old-school cars with all proceeds benefiting Ballston Spa community events and project. If you've got an old beauty you want to enter, the first 400 entries receive event dash plaques and the first 200 will receive car show souvenirs. Trophies will be awarded to the top 5 cars in 13 divisions - some categories include: Mayor's choice, best engine, best paint job and oldest vehicle. Bring the family for a festive atmosphere in downtown Ballston Spa this Sunday. Wiswall Park, Front Street, Ballston Spa. Sunday, Oct. 9. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (885-2772). FREE to attend. $10 Registration day of show.

Say goodbye to Grant Cottage for the season

Family Fall Festival at Ulysses S. Grant Cottage. Usher out the season at Grant Cottage with a family-fun festival. There will be hands-on activities for both kids and adults and the chance to sample some cake on the porch. Admission is free with tours running at usual costs. Enjoy the foliage with some of the area's most breathtaking views for a Sunday full of wholesome fun. Ulysses S. Grant Cottage, Wilton. Sunday, Oct. 9. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (584-4353 www.grantcottage.org). FREE.

Downtown businesses "go pink" for breast cancer awareness

2011-10-05T16:30:00.001-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and businesses in and around Saratoga Springs are "going pink" to help build awareness and raise money for breast cancer research.

Look stylish and benefit the Susan G. Komen for the Cure at Brooklyn Attitude next week

Brooklyn Attitude salon on Ballston Avenue teamed up with Kasandra Isaacson from Coldwell Banker Prime Properties to host the first annual, “Passionately Pink Saratoga” fundraiser.

Between 4 and 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 11, customers can come in to Brooklyn Attitude where for a $10 cash or check donation, they can get a pink hair extension.

The pink hair piece shows your support for breast cancer awareness and the $10 donation goes toward reaching a $2,000 goal.

All money raised from the event will be donated to the Susan G. Komen Passionately Pink for the Cure, an organization that supports breast cancer research, education, screenings and treatment programs.

For more information call 580-0016 or visit www.brooklynattitude.com.

Buy bras to fight breast cancer at Clothes Line

This month at Clothes Line of Saratoga, ladies can buy bras for breast cancer awareness with the boutique’s third annual October bra sale.

Customers who purchase one bra receive 10 percent off, two bras get 20 percent and purchases of three or more are 30 percent off.

A portion of proceeds will go to benefit the Saratoga Hospital Women’s Imaging Center to support breast cancer research, treatments and screenings.

“It’s to support breast cancer awareness and also to help raise proceeds to go toward finding a cure,” said Evelyn McCarthy, a Clothes Line sales rep.

Clothes Line is located at 486 Broadway. For more information call 306-5201.

09/30-10/02 Weekend Insider Roundup

2011-09-30T13:38:00.001-04:00

Hello hello,

The sun is out and the weekend is here. Welcome to this perfect fall Friday and let's hope the weather holds out for some of the great, outdoor activities going on in and around Saratoga Springs this weekend. But, even if we do get a little more damp weather, there's always plenty of indoor Oktoberfest drinking to be had! This week's top pick: The Native American festival going on Saturday and Sunday at SPAC - enjoy one of the last big events at SPAC for the season and check out traditional dancing, drumming, craft demos and more starting at 10 a.m. Saturday and Sunday!

Enjoy,

SKL

FRIDAY

Bid on some one-of-a-kind household decorations

Wilton Applebee's Auction for Charity. Running from now until 5 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 2, Applebee's in Wilton is holding a silent auction of all its decor with proceeds benefiting the Northeastern N.Y. chapter of the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Famous for its intricate wall hangings, sports memorabilia, celebrity photos and local collectibles, Applebee's is getting rid of it all in preparation for a renovation of the Wilton chain. Guests can place their bids with the manager on duty all weekend and will be notified if they win on an item. This is definitely a unique opportunity and the perfect holiday shopping idea for that special someone that's always impossible to buy for. Get down to Applebee's and check out the selection before it's gone! Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar, 3 Lowes Drive, Wilton. Until 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct, 2. Business hours. (583-2606). FREE to enter.

Get informed at a new documentary screening

Screening of New Documentary "Tony", by Invisible Children. Invisible Children, an organization dedicated to creating sustainable peace for families in Uganda, releases its latest documentary film, "Tony." The film tells the story of a boy growing up in the war in Uganda - a war that continues to this day and has caused countless deaths of innocents and resulted in the displacement of families as well as the recruitment of innocent child soldiers. You'll hear the firsthand account of one survivor and learn how you can help Ugandan families and children who's lives have been turned upside down by the 23-year long war between the Lord Resistance Army and the Ugandan Government. Chilling, but critical - "Tony" is an educational and informative look inside the lives of people living in Uganda. Palamountain Hall, Gannett Auditorium, Skidmore College, 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs. Friday, Sept. 30. 7 p.m. (580-5000 www.skidmore.edu). FREE.

SATURDAY

Rock out for breast cancer

Rocktoberfest for Breasts V. It's Oktoberfest...for charity! Head to Stillwater this Saturday to ring in October with an afternoon full of music, live entertainment and food and drinks. Some acts include: DJ Clockwork Octopus, the Zookeepers and Rusty Old Guys. Kids activities run from 12 to 4 p.m. and other highlights include a Chinese auction and a grand fireworks display. All proceeds go to the Michele Fund to support breast cancer research and other local organizations. Stillwater American Legion Post 490, Lave Avenue, Stillwater. Saturday, Oct. 1. 12 to 10 p.m. (664-4499 www.themichelefund.com) $20 donation

Celebrate our country's first citizens

Saratoga Native American Festival. The outdoors entertainment at SPAC isn't over for the season just yet. Gather friends and family this weekend to come celebrate all things traditional at the Native American Festival. The festival kicks off at 10 a.m. Saturday morning with an opening address and continues with a showcase of traditional dancers, singers and performers. Other highlights include drumming, dancing, kids' activities and a variety of food, beverage and craft vendors will set up on site both days. Vendors will also be giving free demos of craft skills such as basket weaving and mask making. The number one pick for the weekend! Saratoga Performing Arts Center, 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs. Saturday Oct. 1 & Sunday, Oct. 2. (583-1440 www.saratoganativefestival.com). $10 Adults, $7 Seniors, $5 Children under 12.

SUNDAY

Join a 5K community walk/run

The Greno Industries Run For The ROC 5K Run and Community Walk. Sponsored by the Saratoga Hospital Foundation, the Greno Industries Run for the ROC raises funds for patient programs and services at the Mollie Wilmot Radiation Oncology Center. For the kids, there will also be a separate "Lil' Derby Dash" race for kids at the Saratoga Flat Track beginning at 10:15 a.m. After the race you can relax and enjoy live music and complimentary refreshments. Prizes go to top three male runners, top three female runners and top runners in each age group. The first 400 to register receive a free race T-shirt as well. Saratoga Race Course, 267 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Sunday, Oct. 2. (583-8779 www.saratogahospitalfoundation.org). $25 Registration

Wilton Applebee's auctions off decor for charity this weekend

2011-09-29T14:44:00.001-04:00

WILTON — The Wilton Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar announced this morning it will be auctioning off its interior decor through 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 2 with proceeds going to charity.

Applebee's visitors will have the opportunity to bid on items including sports memorabilia, celebrity photographs and local Saratoga-themed collectibles.

Clearing its walls in preparation for an upcoming remodeling, the local Applebee's chose to auction its decor to benefit the Northeast N.Y. chapter of the Make-a-Wish Foundation.

Known for dense decorations paying homage to local sports teams and favorite singers or actors, Applebee's hopes this weekend's auction will not only help support a good cause, but will also be an opportunity for community members to do a little Christmas shopping.

"The holidays are right around the corner and this auction allows our customers to take advantage of some early shopping, all while benefiting a deserving organization," said Stephanie Griffin, director of marketing for T.L. Cannon Companies, in a recent statement.

To place your bid on any of the various auction items, just go to the Wilton Applebee's before Sunday evening and make your big with the restaurant manager on-duty at that time. All items must be paid for with cash and the deadline to pick up and pay for your item ends at 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 3.

For more information call 583-2606.

The Wilton Applebee's is located off Route 50 north in Lowe's plaza.

Goodbye Gotchya's, hello Groggery & Clayworks

2011-09-28T12:11:00.002-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Painted in the window of what used to be Gotchya’s restaurant on Beekman Street is a giant sign reading, “Coming soon — The Groggery.”

Owners Michael Pape and Michelle Corbett opened Gotchya’s Trattoria, an American pasta and pizza house, in July of 2005. On Tuesday, Sept. 27 the Gotchya’s website was up and running, but by Wednesday the home page simply read, “R.I.P. Gotchya’s July 2005 — September 2011.”

So what happened to the long-running pasta joint nestled in Saratoga’s arts district?

Although Pape and Corbett could not be reached for comment as of Wednesday evening, a voicemail recording at the old Gotchya’s phone number offers a few more details about the Groggery, a new pub/bar scheduled to open “soon.”

The message says the Groggery will serve, “beer, wine, cocktails and classic home-style bar food” and as of now — or when it opens — the pub will only accept cash payments.

Gotchya’s fans never fear — the Groggery will still remain under the same ownership when it opens its doors to the public.

“It’s the same owners as far as I know,” said Zack Lobdell, a manager at neighboring restaurant Beekman Street Bistro. “I think Michelle (Corbett) originally wanted to have an art gallery over there and they’re turning half of it into a gallery.”

Lobdell’s hypothesis appears on point based on another sign at the 68 Beekman building reads, “Clayworks at the Groggery.”

As of now, the official opening date of the Groggery and Clayworks is unknown, but because Pape and Corbett restored the historic building years ago before opening Gotchya’s, the re-design requirements shouldn’t take too long.

“They (Pape and Corbett) have been in and out of the building so far and we’re looking forward to seeing the new place,” Lobdell said.

09/23-09/25 Weekend Insider Roundup

2011-09-23T18:17:00.000-04:00

TGIF.

I know it's been a while - the brief hiatus after track season wasn't quite as brief as I expected, but on the first day of fall it seemed appropriate to roll back into the Weekend Insider Friday biz column.

Fall is upon us and Saratoga County is welcoming crisp autumn nights this weekend with a number of events, harvest-themed festivals and celebrations. Rain or shine, it's that time of year to sip hot apple cider, plan your Halloween costume and indulge in a pumpkin pie or pumpkin spice latte (a personal favorite).

We still have a whole season before the snow piles up on our doorstep (we hope) so get out there and usher in the harvest season with flair this weekend. Enjoy!

SKL

SATURDAY

Get lifted at the Adirondack Balloon Fest

The 39th annual Adirondack Balloon Festival. Now almost in its 40th year, the four-day Adirondack Balloon Festival is one of the largest in the region. The opening ceremony was held Thursday, Sept. 22 where visitors watched 12 balloons take off marking the start of this weekend's festivities. Over 60 massive, bright-colored balloons will take off all together this weekend and with an array of entertainment for the whole family. Some highlights include provided breakfast, food and drink vendors on-site, a craft fair and kids activities. The festival takes place at two locations, the Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport in Queensbury and Crandall Park in Glens Falls. A can't miss event. Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport and Crandall Park, Glens Falls. Happening now through Sunday, Sept. 25. (For more information and complete schedule of events visit http://www.glensfallsregion.com/things-to-do/balloon-festival/). FREE.

Bring the ladies to the N.Y. Women's Expo

N.Y.Women's Expo - Halfmoon. The largest show for women in the state is here in Halfmoon this weekend with over 150 exhibits celebrating all things female. The latest trends in beauty, health, fashion, beauty, home decor and more will be available in a variety of goods and services accessible at the event. Even non-traditional "women's" services in areas including education, legal advice, wireless and automotive will be available to guests. There will be informational sessions and seminars as well as several fashion shows running each day of the expo. A portion of the event proceeds will go to the Northeastern N.Y. Susan G. Komen for the cure organization. Shop, relax and learn with the girls this weekend. Free samples and complimentary services always a plus! Sportsplex in Halfmoon, 6 Corporate Drive, Halfmoon. Saturday, Sept. 24 and Sunday, Sept. 25.12 to 6 p.m. (479-3976). $5 pass good for both days.

Take advantage of free yoga in Malta

Yana Yoga Open House. Never one to miss out on free yoga, I couldn't help but add this to this weekend's top picks (well, my top picks...). Anyway, Yana Yoga will be offering free snacks, beverages and classes throughout the day: 9-10:15 a.m. Invigorating Yoga Flow; 10:45 a.m. to 12 p.m. Beginner Yoga Flow; 12:30 to 1:45 p.m. Yoga for Christians; 2:15 to 3:30 p.m. Healthy Hot Yoga Flow. Yana Yoga, Malta Commons, Malta. Saturday, Sept. 24. 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (522-5472 www.yanayoga.net). FREE.

Celebrate fall with Saratoga Polo

Saratoga Polo Association & Chrysler Fall Festival. Get down to the polo fields before the season comes to a close this weekend for their fall festival. In addition to horses and polo, Chrysler will put on a "Hot Rods and Hot Bikes" show with trophies going to the winners. Elvis impersonator Donny Romaines will keep the swinging 50s music going all day. The event is rain or shine and each vehicle costs $10 for entry. Another exciting highlight - the beer tasting pavillion, where guests 21 + can sample the best craft brews from across the Capital District. Part of the day's proceeds will go to benefit the Times Union Hope Fund. Saratoga Polo, 2 Bloomfield Road, Greenfield. Saturday, Sept. 24. 1 to 6 p.m. $10 (584-8108 www.saratogapolo.com). $10

Usher in October with Saratoga's own Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest at the Saratoga County Museum/Brookside. In true German tradition (other nationalities welcome) visit Brookside Museum this Saturday night for Saratoga's own Oktoberfest. The evening features live German music and entertainment, beer, food and a wine tasting. Proceeds help raise funds for the museum's educational programs and both a silent and live auction will take place as well. Brookside Museum, Ballston Spa. Saturday, Sept. 24. 6 to 11 p.m. (885-4000 www.brooksidemuseum.org). $40 each, $75 couple.

SUNDAY

Celebrate fall at the Henry Street Harvest Festival

2nd Annual Harvest Festival. Henry Street will shut down for several hours on Sunday afternoon to celebrate the 2nd annual Harvest Festival benefiting local non-profit Gateway House of Peace. Businesses will offer their own specialty events including bead crafts at Saratoga Beads, a beer tasting and live Irish music at the Parting Glass and a "cut-a-thon" featuring hair cuts and extensions at Simplicity - a Salon. In addition, local crafts and artisans will set up shop alongside food and drink vendors and two stages will feature live music throughout the event. Another fall must. Henry Street, Saratoga Springs. Sunday, Sept. 25. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (423-518).

Second annual Harvest Festival celebrates peace for a cause this Sunday

2011-09-22T14:22:00.001-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The second annual Harvest Festival will close down Henry Street this Sunday between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. for an afternoon filled with live music, activities, free food and more - all to help raise money for the Ballston-Spa based Gateway House of Peace charitable hospice organization.

While the event isn't exactly free, it's well worth its low admission prices beginning at $3 for children, $5 for adults and a $20 package deal for families. Fortunately, you can feel good knowing those pennies are going to a benefit the Gateway House, who relies one hundred percent on donor funding for its operations.

Businesses on Henry Street are working with Gateway House to put on a bigger and better event than last year's Harvest Festival, which drew a crowd of over 1,000 and raised several thousand for the organization.

This year's festival will host an array of craft and artisan vendors, food stands and two stages for day-long live music. Henry Street shops will feature their own sub-events throughout the day including a "cut-a-thon" at Simplicity — a Salon complete with hair extensions (no word if they're free...), a wine tasting at Scallions Restaurant and a beer tasting at the Parting Glass with a live Irish music performance.

Other fun family highlights: kid's bead crafts at Saratoga Beads; face paint and even a street circus performance by Acoustic Circus.

Sunday's Harvest Festival is expected to be the largest single event in Gateway House's six-year history. As an entirely volunteer and donor funded organization, every dollar earned this weekend will go directly to the non-profit, helping Gateway House continue to provide hospice services to the local terminally community.

A great and beneficial partnership, a seasonal celebration and fun festival for all ages sets this downtown celebration apart from the crowd and is, in this biz-blogger's opinion, a top-pick for the weekend and also an admirable example of the Saratoga community turning out to support one another. See you there!

SKL

For more about the Harvest Festival, call 423-5182 and for further information about Gateway House of Peace call 654-5403 or visit www.gatewayhouseofpeace.org.

Free yoga classes start this weekend in Glens Falls

2011-09-20T16:51:00.001-04:00

Yes Glens Falls might be slightly out of the Saratogian's coverage area, but this yoga enthusiast thinks free yoga classes is worth a mention.

GLENS FALLS — The Yoga Nook, located at 21 Thompson Avenue in Glens Falls, is celebrating the month of September, which is national yoga month with a series of free weekend classes running through October.
The Nook will offer both drop-in adult classes and family classes, which require registration.

Saturday, Sept. 24: Adult yoga 9 to 10:15 a.m.
Sunday, Sept. 25: Adult yoga 5 to 6:15 p.m.
Sunday, Oct. 2: Adult yoga 5 to 6:15 p.m.
Sunday, Oct. 9: Adult yoga 5 to 6:15 p.m.
Sunday, Oct. 30: Family yoga at 1 p.m. Featuring Halloween treats and refreshments after class.

For more information and to register for the family class call 798-0978.

Downtown developments; Turkish Bazaar out, Lucia in, new comfort food lunch spot on the way, seasonal stores pack up

2011-09-12T17:51:00.003-04:00

Developments at Saratoga Marketplace; Bazaar closes, Lucia expanding & new comfort food lunch spot in the works

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The seasons are changing and so are the shops on Broadway.

You might have noticed the covered windows at 454 Broadway, which used to hold bright displays of colorful carpets and ceramics, hand-woven scarves and other imported goods sold inside Saratoga Turkish Bazaar.

After five years in the street-side storefront of the Saratoga Marketplace (formerly Downstreet Marketplace), Saratoga Turkish Bazaar has closed those doors to focus on its second location, opened this spring, at 506 Broadway.

Once Bazaar Owner Levent Derdiyok finishes moving out of the Marketplace, the open space won't stay empty for long.

Lucia Boutique, a small specialty shop located inside the Marketplace, plans to move into the larger, more visible space by November.

Lucia Owner Lucy Straus said she was excited about the move and no one has been confirmed to move into her former space once they go into the new location.

In even more Marketplace news, Straus gave the Saratogian an insider tip about a new business her husband is opening in the former home of Bettie's Cakes on the Marketplace's lower level.

Straus said her husband's endeavor will be called Comfort Kitchen, which she described as a comfort food lunch destination that will also offer catering options.

Jude Connally packs its bags

SARATOGA SPRINGS — When Jude Zimmerman signed a three-month lease to open her Jude Connally clothing boutique in the 15,000-square-foot storefront at 438 Broadway (on the corner of Caroline Street), she knew it wasn't long term.

Still, the seasonal "pop-up" store was more than that according to an interview I had with Zimmerman early this summer. The owner had expressed hopes about staying in Saratoga long-term.

“It’s our first retail store, so it’s a test,” Zimmerman said back in May. “It’s what we’re calling a pop-up shop where we come into a vacant space and stay there through the season and hopefully, if we do well in Saratoga, we may end up staying there permanently.”

I haven't talked to Zimmerman since Jude Connally packed up and it's too early to speculate - who knows, Jude Connally might make its way back to Broadway sooner than we think. But, the fact remains the lease was up and the space on the corner of Caroline and Broadway next to Wheatfields Restaurant is once again empty.

We'll see what comes next.

Lake Ridge Restaurant celebrates 10th anniversary , offers special menu

2011-09-12T15:11:00.000-04:00

ROUND LAKE — Lake Ridge Restaurant, a family-oriented eatery in Round Lake, is celebrating its tenth anniversary by offering guests a special dining deal throughout the month of September.

Owners Bob McKenna and Scott Ringwood want to thank the community for supporting the restaurant since it opened in 2001 and to do so, they will offer a complimentary champagne toast to anyone who dines at Lake Ridge in September. Guests will be entered into a raffle for the grand prize of dinner for for and a second prize of lunch for four.

Chef Ringwood is also offering a special "10-10-10" menu, featuring 10 different dishes for $10 each.

The deal is a celebration of the past 10 years, during which McKenna and Ringwood transformed Lake Ridge restaurant into a large operation featuring three dining rooms, a full bar and an extensive American-style lunch and dinner menu.

According to Ringwood, the restaurant's success wouldn't be possible without Lake Ridge's loyal customer base.

"The menu is a thank-you-gift for all the great support over the years — we hope everyone can come and enjoy it," said Diana Murphy, the Lake Ridge restaurant manager.

The special deal will run through September and is open to anyone who eats at Lake Ridge.

Lake Ridge Restaurant
35 Burlington Avenue
Round Lake, NY 12151
www.lake-ridge.com

Looking for a job? Head over to the Saratogian Job Fair at the Wilton Mall today

2011-09-12T11:03:00.002-04:00

WILTON — Looking for a job or thinking about a change? The possibilities are endless and if you're not sure where to start or know exactly what you're looking for — the Saratogian is here to help.

Swing by the Wilton Mall today before 4 p.m. to check out the 2011 Saratogian Job Fair. Talk to the experts, see what's out there and bring your resume for free resume critiques and advice to help you nail that job you've always dreamed of.

When you're there don't forget to enter for a chance to win a $100 Stewart's gift certificate.

Here's the complete list of employers featured at today's job fair:

Ace Hardware
Adirondack Broadcast
Aflac
Aim Services
Army National Guard
Beacon Pointe
Corepay Inc ¼
Computer Science Corporation
Curtis Lumber Co.
First Investors
First Niagara Bank
Janitronics Facility Services
Legal Aid & Food Stamps
Liberty Hr Services
Happy Software
Mildred Elley
Saratoga Casino & Raceway
Saratoga Hospital Cancer Screening
Silverleaf Resorts
Star 101.3
State Farm
Stewart’s Shops
Trustco
US Army Recruiting Battalion
Vet HELP
Wildwood Programs

One Roof opens new location, One Big Roof, on Broadway

2011-09-07T15:21:00.001-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Holistic health center One Roof Saratoga announced today it will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony at 9:30 a.m., Friday, Sept. 16 to celebrate the opening of their second location One Big Roof at 433 Broadway, Suite 302 located above Putnam Market.

The expansion comes as a response to an increased growth in attendance and interest at the wellness center's existing location at 58 Henry Street.

One Big Roof will allow more clients to access the center's healing services with an extended class and program offering. Some of the highlighted services that will be offered at One Big Roof include therapeutic yoga classes, pregnancy and childbirth workshops, stress reduction programs, meditation and other alternative health initiatives.

Although the ribbon cutting will mark the gran opening of One Big Roof, the new, more spacious wellness center and studio is currently offering programs. For a complete calendar click here.

For additional information visit http://www.oneroofsaratoga.com/ or call 581.3180.

Sangwych changes hands, new additions

2011-09-07T13:18:00.001-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Sangwych, a local Brooklyn-style sandwich shop at 68 Putnam Street changed hands on Aug. 1 when John Meyer, Jon Malm and Bobby Holt purchased the deli from former owner Ron Farber.

Though Farber no longer runs Sangwych, the restaurateur doesn't have to worry about leaving the downtown foodie business as he also owns the fine dining bistro 28 Tables and The Metro (formerly Mare) nightclub and lounge both on Maple Avenue.

Handing the business over to Meyer, Malm and Holt was a simple switch as both Meyer and Malm have been working with Sangwych since its inception earlier this spring.

"We know how loyal our customers are and the great reputation Sangwych has so we won't deviate from that base," said Meyer in a recent statement.

The core menu will stay the same, continuing to offer Brooklyn favorites like shrimp PO boys, tuna nachos, lobster BLTs, fresh mozzarella, tomato and basil on Italian bread as well as scrumptious authentic Cannolis, homemade cookies and a variety of beverages.

The main change is the addition of Holt, former head chef at Gaffney's and Hatties, who plans on adding an extended menu with more daily specials. Sangwych's current menu sticks to some soups, salads and sandwiches, but the new owners plan to introduce chicken wings and homemade soups to the menu sometime this fall.

Another new development is the addition of delivery service for local businesses as well as Skidmore College. The deli also accepts the Skidmore student card.

Sounds like this niche eatery (which stays open until 2 a.m. Friday through Saturday - genius for those with the late night Caroline Street munchies, but want something other than pizza) is only going to get better this fall.

SKL

Saratoga Soups prepping for third soup season

2011-09-03T12:46:00.000-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Julia Van Zandt, also known as Julia the Soup Lady, started her own homemade soup business two years ago when she became fed up with feeding her kids unhealthy take out every night.

“My kids are very active,” Van Zandt said. “I was spending a tremendous amount of time driving to and from sports, music lessons and so on so I didn’t have time to cook and I was so tired of eating of boxes.”

Inspired by a cookbook she read about a man who created his own soup company in Austin T.X., Van Zandt and friend Lauren started their own endeavor with the Saratoga Soup Company.

After two years renting a kitchen space at Temple Sinai where Van Zandt could only cook once a week, the company is finally moving to their own space on Geyser Road where they will be able to stew soup as many days per week as needed to meet the company’s orders.

“We were selling out that’s why we needed to move,” Van Zandt said. “We loved being downtown, but we needed to put more people in the kitchen for more days to feed more people.”

The Saratoga Soup Co. is still on its summer hiatus (meaning no orders just yet everyone) until soup season kicks off in late September once Van Zandt has completed the finishing touches on her new kitchen. The company sells soup by order only, but Van Zandt said retail may be in their future. For more information visit www.saratogasoup.com and stay tuned for a special Saratoga Soup “In the Biz” column later in the month!

09/03-09/05 Weekend Insider Roundup

2011-09-03T11:44:00.000-04:00

Hello and Welcome to your very belated Weekend Insider Roundup.

My apologies for the late post and the subsequent lack of video this week - I've come down with a bad cold and was not "camera ready" per se.

Despite all that, get ready to celebrate your three-day final stretch weekend, also known in other parts of the country as Labor Day weekend. There's plenty going on and with the last day of racing on Monday, locals and visitors alike will want to catch a race or two at Saratoga Race Course before the track closes on another successful meet.

Enjoy the holiday!

SATURDAY

Snag a sweet deal at Fiat Feminae

Labor Day kickoff - Local Resident Appreciation. Fiat Feminae owner Lisa Alden wants to thank the community for their continued support during her first month in business. All local residents just have to show their ID at the fine lingerie and intimate wear boutique and they will receive a free panty with any purchase over $60. Fiat Feminae, 489 Broadway. Saturday, Sept. 3. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (584-5147 http://www.facebook.com/fiatfeminae). FREE.

Break a sweat for the horses

Run for the Horses 5K. Join the second annual 5k road race to benefit the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation. The foundation currently cares for 1,100 former racehorses after their career in racing comes to an end. The first 250 people to register will receive a free T-shirt and prizes will be handed out to all Kids Fun Run participants. Trophies and medals will be awarded to the top three men and women in each age category. Refreshments available after the race. Saratoga Spa State Park, Orenda Pavillion. Saturday, Sept. 3. 8:30 to 11 a.m. (226-0028). $20 pre registtration/$25 day of. Kids run free.

Celebrate the final stretch of the 2011 racing season

Final Stretch Festival. Celebrate the final weekend of racing at Saratoga Race Course. The party kicks off with the family fun fest and Labor Day BBQ to mark the days of the 40-day Saratoga meet. The final stretch music festival runs downtown with six different acts playing at sites along Broadway from Ellsworth Jones Place to Ben and Jerry's at the corner of Phila and Putnam Streets. Saratoga Race Course, 267 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Saturday Sept. 3 until Monday, Sept. 5. 7 to 11 p.m. (5c www.saratogaracetrack.com) FREE.

Shop for more sexy deals at Chic Underneath

Labor Day Weekend sale at Chic Underneath. All summer styles of intimate and lounge wear at Chic Underneath will be 15 percent off this weekend to make way for fall. Hurry in quick because the first 15 purchases will also receive a free eyebrow shaping and eyebrow wax at this one-of-a-kind lingerie boutique and waxing salon. The sale runs through the weekend so don't miss this exclusive deal. Chic Underneath, 7 Spring Street, Saratoga Springs. Sat., Sept. 3 through Mon. Sept. 5. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sundays; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (450-1034 www.chicunderneathboutique.com). FREE to shop.

SUNDAY

Jam to Sir Elton John

Elton John Live at SPAC. Ummm it's Elton John - what other reason do you need to go to SPAC this weekend. John hasn't played in the Capital District for over a year and he is undoubtedly one of the world's most charismatic, glamours and world respected singer-songwriters to grace SPAC all summer long. It's Sir Elton John - you never know how much glitter, glitz and glam he will bring to Sunday's show so my recommendation is to be there and see everything first hand. 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Performing Arts Center, Saratoga Springs. 8 p.m. (587-3330 www.spac.org).$26-$179.50

Have fun with the fam at the track

Family Fun Fest at Saratoga Race Course + Community Appreciation Day. Celebrate the final festivities at the track on the last two days wrapping up the 143rd racing season in Saratoga Springs. All proceeds go toward the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Capital District. On Sunday and Monday the backyard at Saratoga Race Course will feature activities, carnival games, face painting, caricatures, giant inflatables and pony rides. Join then fun to usher out this year's meet! Things get better with jugglers and stilt walkers and even a magic show outside the bounce house, A can't miss event for the kids. On the final day of racing, Monday, all fans will receive free grandstand admission to celebrate the end of the 143rd meet at Saratoga Race Course. Saratoga Race Course, 267 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Sunday, Sept. 4 through Monday, Sept. 5. 10:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. (584-7064 www.saratogaracetrack.com). 3$ Grandstand

Continue the final festivities into the evening at Sperry's

Sperry's 2nd Annual End of Track Party. This Labor Day, say goodbye to this year's summer racing season with friends and family at Sperry's Restaurant on Caroline Street. The night features live entertainment by the George Boone Blues Band and plenty of great drink specials to say farewell to the 143rd meet at Saratoga Race Course and start planning for next summer when the 144th racing season begins in late July. Sperry's Restaurant, 30 1/2 Caroline Street, Saratoga Springs. Starts at 8 p.m.(584-9618 www.sperrysrestaurant.com). FREE.

08/26-08/28 Weekend Insider Roundup

2011-08-26T11:18:00.002-04:00

Hello and welcome to a special Travers weekend edition of the Insider Roundup. There's something happening this weekend everywhere you look so keep reading to get the scoop on Travers-related events and other unique offerings including a trip inside the wizarding world of Hogwarts for Harry Potter fans, and an intimate massage class for couples. Enjoy!

FRIDAY

Sample and vote for the best handcrafted beers in the region this Friday

Battle of the Brews. Head to the backyard this Friday at the track to quench your thirst and help raise money for the Adirondack/Saratoga chapter of the American Red Cross. DeCrescente Distributing and the Red Cross have teamed up with the region's best breweries to present the 14th annual Battle of the Brews. Guests will have the opportunity to sample some of New York's finest craft brews and vote on their favorite company and variety. Vendors will face off in hot competition to ensure you, the drinker, comes back for more and votes them grand cerveza champion. Some participating breweries include: Anchor Brewery, Blue Moon Brewery, Brooklyn Brewery, Davidson Brothers, Harpoon Brewer, Long Trail, Magic Hat, Olde Saratoga Brewery and many more. Must be 21 + to enter. Ticket price includes sampling, light food and commemorative track beer glass. Backyard, Saratoga Race Course, 267 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Friday, August 26. Noon to 4 p.m. (792-6545 www.saratogaracetrack.com). $25

Celebrate Saratoga summer at the Travers Eve Downtown Party

Travers Eve Downtown Party. Stroll down Broadway with friends and family to be a part of the annual Travers eve festivities in downtown Saratoga. The streets will be hopping with live entertainment, music and more as excitement for the running of the 142nd Travers Stakes builds. There will also be a jockey autograph signing and many downtown businesses and restaurants will be offering special track-themed giveaways. Broadway & Downtown, Saratoga Springs. Friday, August 26. 7 to 10 p.m. (584-7064 www.saratogaracetrack.com). FREE.

Taste Wine for Travers

13th Annual Travers Wine Tasting Benefit. This annual event is held to benefit senior services of Albany's Meals on Wheels program and other senior-related services. While spending money for a good cause, guests will also have the chance to sample gourmet appetizers and entrees from Capital District restaurants. To whet the pallet, guests can also sample over 100 wines and craft brews from around the world. A live and silent auction will be held. Usher in Travers with style at the National Museum of Racing. National Museum of Racing, 191 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Friday, August 26. 7 to 10 p.m. (463-4381 http://www.seniorservicesofalbany.com/event_travers.htm). $135-$150

SATURDAY

Watch the 142nd running of the Travers Stakes

The Travers Stakes. An obvious must for the weekend. Join the crowd and celebrate the 142nd running of Saratoga's most famous race at Saratoga Race Course. Save your money to bet a few bills on the 1.25 mile long, $1 million Travers, also known as the "Mid-Summer Derby" for 3-year-olds. Gates open at 7 a.m. on Saturday with the first post time at 11:35 that morning. Bring your coolers, fabulous track hats, friends and family for an unforgettable day at the races. Saratoga Race Course, 267 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Saturday, August 27. (584-7064 www.saratogaracetrack.com). $3 Grandstand, $5 Clubhouse.

Harry Potter fans - journey to NYC for the adventure of a lifetime

Bus Trip to Harry Potter Exhibit at Times Square Discovery Center. Witches, wizards and muggles alike will love the new Harry Potter Exhibit in New York City. Brought to you by the Friends of the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Library, this bus trip to the big city is open to children, families and the general public. The bus departs the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Library parking lot at 7:30 a.m. on the dot. After an enchanting day exploring the wizarding world, the bus will depart the exhibit at 6 p.m. getting families home at a reasonable hour. Price includes transportation and tickets to the exhibition. Times Square Discovery Center, Manhattan. Saturday, August 27. 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (505-1303 http://www.cliftonpark.org/friendsofcphl). $70 Adults, $45 Children.

Celebrate summer at the CP community fair

2011 Summer Community Fair. It's not summer until you've been to the fair. Families looking for a fun outing this weekend in a calmer atmosphere than the track have the chance to check out the Clifton Park Community Fair on Saturday. Each year the Shenendehowa Adult Community Center hosts the fair, which features an array of activities like crafts, demos, a bounce house, food vendors, face painting, a petting zoo, book sale, Chinese auction and much much more. Admission is free and there's fun for everyone at this day-long event. Shenendehowa Adult Community Center, 6 Clifton Common Court, Clifton Park. Saturday, August 27. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (383-1343 http://www.shenacc.org). FREE.

Give back to Bridges on Travers day

Saratoga Bridges Travers Day at the Races. One of Saratoga's most renowned charities, Saratoga Bridges, will hold its 22nd annual Saratoga Bridges Travers Day fundraiser event. Guests arrive 30 minutes before the first post and can stay well through the day's last race. Ticket price includes lunch, open from noon to 3 p.m., where guests can dine on selections from a fully catered buffet. Along with gourmet bites, ticket price includes one free cocktail, admission to the Clubhouse and a Post Parade program. Proceeds will help Saratoga Bridges continue running programs for adults with developmental disabilities across the Capital District. Carousel Restaurant, Saratoga Race Course, 267 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Saturday, August 27. 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.(587-0723 www.saratogabridges.org). $125 Per person.

Get cozy with a couples massage

Couples Massage Class. Couples have the chance to spend quality time together bonding through the art of massage this Saturday. Learn the tricks of the trade so in the future you and your significant other can utilize massage to relieve each others tension. You'll learn muscle relaxant techniques and motions to relieve achy muscles. A great way to grow closer to that special someone while also pampering yourself in a soothing setting. Why not? Try something new this Saturday. Kaivlya Massage Therapy, 7 Wells Street Suite 201, Saratoga Springs. Saturday, August 27. 3 to 5 p.m. (209-1150 www.kaivlya.massagetherapy.com). $60 Per couple.

SUNDAY

Go back to 1874 on Broadway

Summer Stroll: A Very Good Year: Broadway in 1874. The Preservation Foundation presents the 10th in a series of 13th walking tours of historic Saratoga Springs this Sunday. Walk down Broadway and learn all about how the street looked and felt back in 1874 - one of Saratoga's golden years in the Gilded Age. Hear about the three world famous hotels and the wealthy, sophisticated socialites who stayed there during the time. Did you know the Grand Union hotel on Broadway was the biggest in the world during its heyday? Learn about the hotel and other hidden secrets of Saratoga in the late 19th century. NW Corner of Congress Street & Broadway, Saratoga Springs. Sunday, August 28. 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. (587-5030 www.saratogapreservation.org). $5 Members, $8 Non-members.

OR...

In case of Hurricane Irene cancellations...
Grab some hot coco, stay insider and be safe!

The dough cousin joins the dough boy and dough girl at Esperanto

2011-08-25T11:52:00.000-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Watch out dough boy and dough girl, rumor has it your delicious dough cousin is in town.

Esperanto pizza at 6 ½ Caroline Street has been cooking up its signature dough boy — a tasty roll of fresh baked dough stuffed with sautéed spiced chicken, three kinds of cheeses and scallions — since 1994, when the place was still known as Sidelines Pizza.

Since its birth, the dough boy has become a staple snack in Saratoga Springs and across the Capital District. In fact, the boy even made its way into the recent WMHT-TV documentary, “Our Town Saratoga Springs,” as one of the things that residents feel makes Saratoga unique.

After dough boy cornered the market for not-pizza-but-still-satisfying late night snack, the dough girl came along 11 years later in 2005.

The girl, a vegetarian alternative, is full of roasted vegetables — olives, carrots, celery, onions, mushrooms — and the same three cheeses and scallions as the dough boy.

Six years later, on August 24, 2011, the dough cousin joined the Esperanto family.

“We’re trying to experiment with new types of dough boys; it’s our biggest seller so it makes sense to try different things,” said Esperanto Manager Joshua Bebb. “It’s our biggest season in the summer so we figured we’d give it a shot."

If the dough cousin is well received, Bebb said he would likely mix up the ingredients every month or so to keep the dough cousin fresh and exciting.

Right now, the cousin is wrapped around spinach, onion, roasted red pepper, feta cheese and mozzarella.
“The cousin isn’t really the mother or father of the dough boy,” Bebb said about how he chose the name of the new dough boy. “They’re just cousins, it’s more like extended family.”

All three dough boy versions cost $3.50. For takeout or pickup orders call 587-4236.

Metalsmith crafting Old World Wine Racks in Saratoga Springs

2011-08-24T11:44:00.001-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Mark Lessard, an experienced wine cellar designer and metalsmith, recently started his custom wine rack business Old World Wine Racks here in Saratoga Springs.

Lessard's custom racks cater toward the fine wine collector and connoisseur. Made from premium Italian wrought iron and artisan products, Lessard crafts each rack by hand to meet his customers' needs.

Lessard has spent his career designing and managing cellars in numerous capacities. After working for years in the wine industry, Lessard began to grow a passion for metal working.With Old World Wine Racks, Lessard is transitioning his hobby to his business combining his love of wine with his love of artistic design.

Each of his racks are made with wrought iron in a European style and fit to meet the collector's specific space, style and size requirements. Customers can currently visit Old World Wine Racks products online at www.odlworldwineracks.etsy.com or learn more at their Facebook page.

The business recently announced the opening of their Saratoga showroom, upstairs in the Menges and Curtis building at 472 Broadway, open by appointment only. For more information or to schedule a showing call 290-0734.

13th annual Travers Celebration week offers fun, prizes and food

2011-08-22T12:14:00.000-04:00

13th Annual Travers Celebration

It's almost here: Travers weekend. This week visitors from across the country will start pouring into Saratoga Springs to celebrate the 142nd running of the Travers Stakes on Saturday, August 27. Leading up to the weekend is NYRA's annual Travers Festival, which kicked off on Sunday with the start of the Travers 1864 Restaurant Week.

From now until Thursday, August 25, guests have the opportunity to dine out at over 50 participating restaurants offering a special 3-course meal for a steal - just $18.64 (may not include tax, tip or beverage) to commemorate the first running of the Travers back in 1864.

For a complete list of participating restaurants in Saratoga Springs and across the Capital District, click here.

Wednesday, August 24.

NYRA and Stewarts have teamed up again to host the annual Saratoga Race Course Stewart's Ice Cream Eating Contest on Wednesday the 24th. There are categories for kids, teens and adults - anyone brave enough to tackle pints of Stewart's world famous ice cream. Cool off, get messy, or just watch and cheer for the competitors outside the jockey silk's room Wednesday afternoon. Prizes include free gift certificates for (more) Stewart's ice cream.

Thursday, August 25.

Those who have a passion for fashion and a heart for charity can join the 13th annual Ronald McDonald House Fashion Show and Luncheon at the Rail Pavilion in the Clubhouse on Thursday. The catered lunch and fashion show, featuring new styles by Theia, runs from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Tickets start at $150 per person and can be ordered by calling 438-2655 or email, cturner@rmhcofalbany.org. Proceeds go to benefit the Ronald McDonald House charities across the Capital District.

The party continues after the races with the official 2011 Travers Celebration gala presented by Northeastern Fine Jewelry and Macy's. The extravagant event begins with an outdoor cocktail party featuring unique and elaborate food stations, beverage offerings and live music from the New York Players. Guests can dance under the stars and sip champagne to celebrate the contenders running this weekend in the $1 million Traver's Stakes. Tickets are $175 and proceeds benefit the Backstretch Employee Services Team (B.E.S.T.) and the Times Union Hope Fund. For tickets, call 383-6183 or visit http://traverscelebration.eventbrite.com/.

Friday, August 26

Brew masters will battle it out this Friday in the backyard on the eve of the Travers Stakes. The 13th annual American Red Cross Battle of the Brews kicks off at noon and runs until 4:30. Guests (of age, of course) will have the chance to sample some top-notch microbrews crafted right here in the Capital District. Patrons will have the chance to judge the various offerings voting for the winner in the people's choice and judge's choice categories. Admission is $30 and proceeds benefit the American Red Cross Adirondack-Saratoga chapter.

Friday night, as anticipation for Saturday builds, the annual Travers Eve celebration will take on downtown. All along Broadway, there will be different racing-themed events including a jockey autograph signing from 7:30 to 8:30. The street will be bustling with outdoor entertainment including Reggie and the Red Hot Feetwarmers and jugglers. Stop in to local boutiques and restaurants who will be hosting special Travers giveaways throughout the evening.

Saturday, August 27.

The day itself. The running of the 142nd Travers Stakes at Saratoga Race Course.

08/19-08/21 Weekend Insider Roundup

2011-08-19T14:13:00.002-04:00

Welcome to the weekend!

TGIF and happy Friday, am I the only one who feels like this week dragged on forever? Well, it's over now, the skies have cleared and it's time to have some fun as our August track season weekends are dwindling. This is the weekend before the running of the Travers Stakes on Saturday, August 27 and there's lots to do to start counting down the days. It's also a weekend of fun events geared toward several great charities. It begins today with Fabulous Fillies day at the track where a portion of proceeds benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Tonight at Saratoga Polo, there's a tailgate party to raise awareness and funds for those who suffer from kidney disease in Saratoga County. The kidney cause is the highlight this weekend, culminating on Sunday at the Gideon Putnam for the "Cat Walk for Kidneys" brunch and fashion show.

In other weekend news, keep your eyes out for a special celebration of culture in Congress Park and check out a world-class Cabaret show at SPAC. Enjoy!

SKL

Note: Please forgive the slip, but Grey Gelding is NOT one of the participating restaurants in NYRA's 1864 Travers Restaurant Week as stated in the video - for the full list, click here.

FRIDAY

Celebrate the fab fillies in your life at the track

What Women Want Gala Affair. On the eve of Saratoga Race Course's premiere filly race, the Alabama, lady track goers will have the chance to browse a variety of item's and displays provided by B 95's "What Women Want - Saratoga Style" event in the backyard. There will be fashion products, health services and much more from home improvement goods to fabulous track hats provided by Hats & Things. Ladies, this is your day so come dressed to impress, celebrate your fab fillies and help support the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Saratoga Race Course, 267 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Friday, August 19. 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. (584-6200 www.saratogaracetrack.com). FREE (with $3 grandstand admission).

Canter for kidneys at Saratoga Polo

Cantering for Kidneys Tailgate Party at Saratoga Polo. Celebrate the first "Health and Horses" event at Saratoga Polo to help raise money for those in Saratoga County who suffer from kidney disease. The tailgate party is themed "Health and Horses" and there will be prizes awarded to the top two tailgaters. Judging the contest is Hall of Fame Jockey Randy Romero and equestrian Colleen Cunningham, also a Saratoga High School student - both diagnosed with a kidney disease. Guests are encouraged to bring family, friends and everyone in between to this evening of fun and raising awareness and funds for kidney disease in the region. Saratoga Polo, 2 Bloomfield Road, Greenfield Center. Friday, August 19. 5 to 8 p.m. (225-8205 www.saratogapolo.com). $10 entry fee, does not include entry to polo match.

SATURDAY

Get in touch with your creative side at the two-day Saratoga Arts Celebration

Saratoga Arts Celebration. This juried fine arts and crafts festival will be running on Saturday and Sunday this weekend on the lawn of the National Museum of Dance here in Saratoga Springs. The event features a variety of exciting visual and performance art, including children's activities, demos, art talks, dance and musical performances. There will also be a food court on site to refuel throughout the day. Over 100 artists from more than 25 states will be present exhibiting their work. A high-quality (and free!) event perfect for both artists and non-artists alike. Bring the family and enjoy. National Museum of Dance, 99 South Broadway, Saratoga Springs. Saturday, August 20 & Sunday, August 21. 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. (893-2633 www.gordonfinearts.org). FREE.

Get classy with Cabaret

Cabaret Series "Live from the Algonquin." This evening of musical dance theatre is highlighted by "Live from the Algonquin" star and Cabaret legend Steve Ross. Ross will sing the Great American Song book in three shows: "Puttin' on the Ritz" (by Fred Astaire), "Ridin' High" (by Cole Porter), and "Rhythm and Romance." Ross has been internationally recognized for his smooth Cabaret style by the New York and the London Times. Catch it before it's gone at SPAC. Saratoga Performing Arts Center, Little Theatre, 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs. Saturday, August 20 through Thursday, August 25. 8 p.m. (584-9330 www.spac.org/cabaret.cfm). $35-$55

SUNDAY

Celebrate the annual Shalmon Festival in the park...L'chaim!

8th Annual Shalmon Festival. For the 8th year, Saratoga Chabad Jewish Center will host the Shalom Festival in Congress Park. There's fun for the whole family at this unique cultural event regardless of religious affiliation. Check out Jewish music, dance and activities. There will also be food stands selling Kosher hot dogs, falafel, cold drinks and fresh produce from local farmers. Saratoga Apple will be there, Harry the Juggler and many face-painting and game opportunities for the young ones. L'chaim again! Congress Park, Saratoga Springs. Sunday, August 21. 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. (526-0773 http://www.saratogachabad.com). FREE.

Get fit for free in Clifton Park

Clifton Park CrossFit Fitness Festival & Grand Opening. Clifton Park has a new workout center in town. This Sunday, the new CrossFit Clifton Park center celebrates its grand opening with a free, day long fitness festival. Some of the event's highlights include free workouts and demos, nutrition information and lots of other surprises, activities and prize giveaways. There will be food provided by the Meat House, athletic competitions and Fly 92.3 will be on site for live entertainment. If you're in search of a new gym to join this fall, come see how CrossFit stacks up to the competition. CrossFit Clifton Park, 1580 Route 9, Clifton Park. Sunday, August 21. 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. (221-8531 http://www.albanycrossfit.com/my-weblog/2011/06/clifton-park-crossfit-officially-opens.html). FREE.

Celebrate fashion for the kidney cause

Cat Walk for Kidneys. In addition to the tailgate event for kidney disease on Friday at Saratoga Polo, the Gideon Putnam Hotel will host its own fashion fundraiser for the cause this Sunday. Ticket price includes a fabulous brunch at the Gideon Putnam Resort and a preview of Saratoga Fashion at a runway show. Strutting their stuff on the catwalk will be Miss New York City Brittaney Jasenski accompanied by a large number of both celebrity and local fashion models. See local fashion on the runway from stores like Rockabella, Piper and Evoke Style. Kidney disease survivor jockey Randy Romero will also be present to support the cause. Gideon Putnam Hotel, 24 Gideon Putnam Road, Saratoga Springs. Sunday, August 21. 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. (533-7881 www.healthykidneys.org) $45 per person.

Feast on a fancy Sunday dinner without breaking the bank

Travers 1864 Restaurant Week. Sunday marks the kick off of the annual "Travers 1864 Restaurant Week," sponsored by NYRA and over 20 restaurant partners across the Capital District. The week long event runs until Travers Day itself on Saturday, August 27 at Saratoga Race Course. Guests can receive a 3-course meal for just $18.64 (honoring the first running of the Travers Stakes in 1864), at local participating restaurants. Enjoy a night on the town and start ushering in the 2011 Travers Stakes in style. For a complete list of restaurants click here. Participating Restaurants throughout the Capital District. Sunday, August 21 until Saturday, August 27. (584-6200 www.nyra.com/www.saratogaracetrack.com). $18.64 (may not include tip, tax or beverage).

The Candy Co. of Saratoga Springs launches new and improved website

2011-08-17T18:07:00.001-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Dawn Oesch, owner and founder of the Candy Company of Saratoga Springs at 5 Washington Street, launched a new and improved website yesterday, Tuesday, August 16.

The revamped www.saratogacandy.com features online ordering across the United States as well as a new line of gift baskets.

“It’s exciting — we’re starting a new line of gift baskets that people can order online,” Oesch said. “In the last year we’ve been doing a huge amount of gift bags; a lot of people want to leave something for wedding guests in their rooms so we wanted to make it easier for brides and corporations to hand pick gift bags online and have them delivered right to the hotel.”

The new interactive site features a large selection of the same products offered in Oesch’s retail shop.

“We’re expanding it to a broader group, but also keeping it easy for locals who see something they want to order online if they don’t have a car or don’t want to come downtown – it brings more accessibility to everyone.”

Check it out here: www.saratogacandy.com
Or “like” the Candy Co. on Facebook to receive exclusive deals and promotions

The couponing craze continues; TLC producers look to cast locals; More saving tips

2011-08-17T12:27:00.005-04:00

TLC looks to Saratoga Springs for "Extreme Couponing" 2nd season

SARATOGA SPRINGS — A story I wrote for Monday’s issue of the Saratogian about two local “extreme couponers” — Charlene DuBuque of Ballston Spa and Kate Scott of Saratoga Springs — appears to be gaining some national acclaim.

On Monday afternoon I received a personal email from one of the producers for TLC’s “Extreme Couponing” show (see below).

Before sending out their contact information, I contacted Charlene and Kate early Tuesday afternoon to see whether or not they would be interested in initiating communication with the TLC about potentially applying for (and hopefully being cast in) the second season of “Extreme Couponing.”
Both women were surprised, but more than willing to talk to the producers and see where the conversation would lead.

TLC contacted DuBuque on Tuesday and personally asked her to apply for the shows second season.

“Basically the show sent me an application wanting to know about my couponing experience and wanting to see pictures of my stockpiles (which are spread out across the house because I don’t have any one large area to isolate everything),” DuBuque said on Wednesday.

Although she remains skeptical that her level of couponing might not be extreme enough for the show, DuBuque said she still plans to apply just to see what happens.

“The whole thing makes me a little nervous… I’m not sure my stockpile is big enough, but five years ago I would have easily made it on the show,” DuBuque said.

The chance to appear on national TV is undoubtedly a life changing opportunity, but DuBuque knows to be wary of reality television especially as some former “Extreme Couponing” cast members have come off in a negative light.

DuBuque still isn’t sure if cast members are compensated for the show, but said it would definitely be an extra incentive as she recently had to turn down a well paying full-time job in order to stay home with her kids for a few more years.

Once she applies, DuBuque (and Scott if she submits her application as well) will have to sign a disclaimer not to speak about certain aspects of the show. However, we will continue to follow DuBuque and Scott as they enter the next exciting step of an unlikely opportunity that could change their lives forever.

Below is another couponing follow up with some of the leftover material from Monday’s article that I couldn’t squeeze into the word count. Enjoy and stay tuned for more.

More tips for savings searches

SARATOGA SPRINGS — So how exactly do they do it? The couponing process can seem confusing and intimidating to the novice clipper, but DuBuque and Scott assure that anyone with an open mind can save a good chunk of change.

“Just start slow — if you’re not worried about switching brands here and there, you can really save a lot of money,” DuBuque said. “Even if you’re not willing to switch, keep your eyes open — $10 to $20 per week will really add up.”

For beginners, savings might stay allocated to groceries and toiletries, but for DuBuque and Scott, there isn’t a single outing free from discounts. By searching local coupon books, papers and magazines, DuBuque finds restaurant deals in Ballston Spa and Saratoga Springs. Another no-brainer is applying for discount cards at clothing stores like Gymboree, where DuBuque is a card holder and receives constant deals on apparel for her kids.

Another tip for families – buy in bulk.

“I save $100 to $150 a week just at BJ’s because you’re saving by buying in bulk to begin with — For example, I spent $99 on one trip after saving $85 in coupons,” DuBuque said.

Besides bulk trips to BJ’s, both DuBuque and Scott agree the biggest local savings come from Price Chopper. This is good news for the couponing newbies out there who can test out savings on their next grocery run.

“I went to Price Chopper with my mom recently and I got a whole cart for $41 and she got two bags for $35,” DuBuque said.

The next accessible saving spot is CVS — where CVS card holders receive “extra bucks” with each purchase.

“If I buy Colgate at CVS for $2, I would get a $1 back in extra bucks, so I’ll buy a whole bunch of that with the discount card,” DuBuque explained. “Then you’ll accumulate a lot of extra bucks so I’ll pay $15 for the first order (would have been $30-$40) and then get $15 back for my next purchase – the first order is always the most expensive.”

Scott said she typically receives her toiletries for free just by doubling coupons at Price Chopper and using the rewards program at CVS.

“Using the coupons combined with the extra bucks — one manufacturer’s coupon and one store coupon — and then using the extra bucks lets me get things like shampoo, air fresheners and laundry detergent for free,” Scott said.

Some of the details remain slightly unclear for new couponers, but both DuBuque and Scott urge community members to apply for discount cards, rewards programs and to check local coupon listings to find their own method of savings.

“Some people just throw the coupon sections out,” DuBuque said with a laugh. “At least give them to someone like me!”

Two local women launch new integrated marketing firm with specialty in horse racing; Tropic Hut restaurant reopens

2011-08-16T18:08:00.002-04:00

Local ladies create new, multi-level marketing firm

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Two local entrepreneurs, Diana Pikulski and Jacqueline Basha recently joined forces to form the Pikulski Basha Group LLC., a Saratoga Springs-based integrated marketing and business development firm.

The company will work with corporate, non-profit and individual partners to offer counseling services and help clients advance public policy initiatives, improve government and community relations, perform program analyses and much more.

The Pikulski Basha Group will pay homage to its Saratoga roots with a strategic specialty in working with clients in the horse racing and equine industries. As the former head of the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, Pikulski is no stranger to the thoroughbred business. One of Pikulski’s goals with the new firm is to help combine local partners with established clients in the horse racing, business and entertainment worlds in order to create integrated marketing plans focusing on local venues.

Between her career as an attorney and her 15 years of leadership as executive director for the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, Pikulski was named one of the 25 most influential women in the racing industry by the Thoroughbred Times. With her new marketing firm, Pikulski plans to continue working on promotion and fundraising for the Retirement Foundation, which she helped create over 30 years ago.

Pikulski’s local racing expertise will be complemented by Basha’s extensive business and multimedia experience. Basha has worked as a TV and radio producer and for the past 20 years, Basha has been running her own public relations and advertising agency working with clients from California, Florida, New York and Massachusetts. Like Pikulski, Basha has also worked with racetracks and gaming industries throughout her career.

In a recent statement, Basha expressed her excitement about the partnership with Pikulski — “With our combined experience, we are committed to establishing successful models for business and marketing strategies suited for evolving racing, gaming and entertainment venues.”

The Pikulski Basha Group will initially launch with three office locations in Saratoga Springs, New York City and South Florida.

For more information visit, www.pbgmarketing.com

Tropic Hut Restaurant Reopens after over a year

SARATOGA SPRINGS — According to a sign outside the Bayshore Tropic Hut and Marina located at 550 Union Avenue in Saratoga Springs, the Tropic Hut restaurant is reopen for business after over a year of closed doors. A member of the Saratogian's advertising team also confirmed this bit of biz news, but I haven't yet been able to contact owner John Ambrozak as the phone number listed on the restaurant's website (www.bayshorestropichut.com) is out of service.

I did, however, find another number for Ambrozak so I should have his statement within the next few hours. All signs point to a grand reopening and for those looking for dining options on the lake, this is certainly cause for celebration!

Saratoga Springs man on his way to international success with Vermont Peanut Butter Co.

2011-08-16T11:40:00.001-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Springs native Chris Kaiser was recently honored for the success of his new enterprise, the Vermont Peanut Butter Company.

Kaiser received an exclusive invite to speak alongside Ben Cohen, co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s ice ream, at the Best of Vermont Distributor show at the Killington Grand Resort and Hotel in Vt.

The invitation reaffirmed Kaiser’s recent success in the premium food business. Although Vermont Peanut Butter Co. is just two years old, the company has grown more than 500 percent since its inception and continues to expand monthly. In recent news, the company was awarded a national Whole Foods account and contracts to be featured on the sets of NBC, FOX and CBS for the upcoming shows — Glee, NCIS, Californication, Two and a Half Men and 10 more.

Like Ben & Jerry’s, Vermont Peanut Butter had humble beginnings as a small start-up business operated from a garage space and eventually expanding into a full factory.

On August 11, Kaiser spoke with Cohen at the Best of Vermont Distributor show in Killington. Each shared their stories about the challenges, setbacks and ultimate success of starting a Vermont-based premium food company and expanding it nationally. The two entrepreneurs discussed the values of community involvement, socio economic responsibility and maintaining a positive attitude that have helped them succeed.

Kaiser’s Vermont Peanut Butter Company is quickly becoming another renowned specialty food business started in Vermont, which many critics are calling the “next” Ben & Jerry’s of peanut butter.

The company currently sells 13 (soon to be 17) varieties of healthy and uniquely flavored peanut and almond butters. The products are now sold in over 700 stores across 13 countries. Another eerie Ben & Jerry’s similarity — Kaiser is currently manufacturing Vermont Peanut Butter out of the same 4,000 square foot in Waterbury, Vt., where Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield originally started making Ben & Jerry’s ice cream.

Sounds like this business-savvy Saratoga Springs native could be on his way to some very tasty international success.

For more information visit, www.vtpeanutbutter.com

DeCrescente Distributing Co. to expand headquarters; Spirits of Saratoga Wine & Liquor closes

2011-08-12T16:58:00.000-04:00

New corporate facility for DeCrescente Distributing

MECHANICVILLE — DeCrescente Distributing, a leading beverage distributor serving 11 counties around the Capital District, recently announced plans to break ground on a new state-of-the-art headquarters in Mechanicville.

In less than two weeks, the fourth-generation family run company will start work on two new buildings: a 19,000 square foot POS vending building and a 29,000 square foot conference center.

DeCrescente Distributing Co. teamed up with C.T. Male Associates and BBL Construction to begin construction on the new corporate facility, which features a full gym, cafeteria, wellness center, main conference area and plenty of extra office space.

Construction will commence on August 22 and the project is expected to wrap on June 1, 2012.

Wilton liquor store closes its doors

WILTON — Just heard from a fellow co-worker that Spirits of Saratoga Wine & Liquor, located on Lowes Drive near WalMart in Wilton, has officially closed for business. No word on why or when at this time.

08/12-08/14 Weekend Insider Roundup

2011-08-12T11:56:00.001-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Welcome to another stunning summer weekend in Saratoga and beyond. Yes, the track is still roaring and open for business, but if you're feeling like taking a break from the crowd (or trying to keep your wallet fat) there are plenty of other low-cost options for weekend activities. Editors picks? The "Adirondack Circuit" American Kennel Club Dog Show and Atmosphere live at Northern Lights. But from a wine lovers theatrical production to free ice cream and concerts, there is bound to be something for everybody this August weekend. Enjoy!

SKL

FRIDAY

Become a wine connoisseur at the theater

"Wine Lovers" — The Wine Tasting Musical. Wine enthusiasts and fans of the theatre will both take pleasure in watching this unique musical production. Wine Lovers tells the story of two students who attend a wine class led by one energetic teacher. As the class and the show goes on, the characters, and the audience, will learn all there is to know about reds, roses, whites and possibly a little about romance. Wine and love, sigh. Universal Preservation Hall, 25 Washington Street, Saratoga Springs. Friday, August 12 through Sunday, August 14. Friday: 7:30 p.m. Saturday & Sunday: 2 and 7:30 p.m. (584-2627 or 212 328 0388 www.wineloversthemusical.com). $45-$59.

Check out Saratoga’s own “Best in Show”

"The Adirondack Circuit" AKC Dog Show. An absolute must. I covered the 5-day show on Thursday and the over 900 dogs – over 150 breeds – that show each day are some of the nation’s top show champs. In less than an hour I ran into the #1 ranked female French bulldog, a national champ Shiba Inu, and the top Canadian Shih Tzu. From pint-sized pups to silky St. Bernards, there’s a pooch that will find a special place for any observer. Watching the owners groom their locks and looking on as Chihuahuas prance around the show ring – I can’t recommend this eclectic event enough. Most owners will let guests pet and cuddle their pretty pooches, but be sure to ask – some get a bit nervous with the crowd. Enjoy this puppy paradise. Saratoga County Fairgrounds, Prospect Street, Ballston Spa. Friday, August 12 through Sunday, August 14. 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (http://www.infodog.com/prm/218/prm218.pdf). FREE.

SATURDAY

Sweat it out for free lift tickets

Whiteface Road Warriors in Saratoga Springs. The Whiteface Road Warriors are back, bringing Saratogians the opportunity to snag free lift tickets to ski and ride Whiteface Mountain in Lake Placid this winter. Here’s the catch – to qualify, you must be decked out in ski gear – goggles, winter coats, hats, ski boots, whatever. Even if you can’t dig the snow gear out of storage, join the fun anyway for the chance to win lift tickets or other ticket packages including two for one deals.The Road Warriors will be out about this weekend so keep your eyes peeled. Various locations. Friday, Bailey’s Café, 37 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs. 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Congress Park, Saratoga Springs. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Gaffney's Restaurant, 16 Caroline Street, Saratoga Springs. 9 to 11 p.m. (523-1655 http://www.whiteface.com/summer/events/road.php). FREE.

Watch or run the Jailhouse Rock 5K race

Jailhouse Rock 5K. The Saratoga County Historical Society will host the 9^th annual Jailhouse Rock road race starting from the organization’s home at Brookside Museum in B.Spa. The course trots past the Saratoga County Fairgrounds to the correctional facility. The first 250 runners receive a free T-shirt and awards for age-group winners and for overall fastest male and female will go to the day’s champs. Proceeds go to benefit Brookside’s education program. Brookside Museum, 6 Charlton Street, Ballston Spa. Saturday, August 10. 8:30 a.m. (885-4000 http://www.brooksidemuseum.org/jailhouse-rock-5k/). FREE to watch. $22 pre-registered, $27 day of to run.

Rock out to Atmosphere at Northern Lights

Atmosphere at Northern Lights. One of the best-know (yet still semi-underground) American hip-hop groups, Atmosphere, is right here in our own backyard this Saturday. Rhyming since 1989, Atmosphere has released over 10 albums and is known across the globe. Famous for their intricate rhythms and smart rhymes, Atmosphere's still got it. See what the fuss is about this Saturday in Clifton Park. Northern Lights, 1208 Route 146, Clifton Park. Saturday, August 13. 7 p.m. (371-0012 www.northernlightslive.com). $20 Advance, $22 Day of.

SUNDAY

Indulge in a sundae this Sunday

Sundaes on Sunday: 9th Annual Ice Cream Social. If you're around the Schenectady/Niskayuna area this Sunday, stop by the Dominican Retreat and Conference Center for a free make your own ice-cream sundae. A great chance to bring the family, interact with the community and learn more about what the community center is all about (and did I mention free ice cream?). A choir will perform at 1 and 2:30 p.m. for live entertainment. There will also be fun activities for the kids and a chance to win a retreat giveaway. Dominican Retreat and Conference Center, 1945 Union Street, Niskayuna. Sunday, August 14. 12-4 p.m. (393-4169 www.dslcny.org). FREE.

Dance to some authentic Lousiana bayou beats

Captain Squeeze & the Zydeco Moshers. You might have seen them at the track on Mardi Gras Wednesday, but if you haven't caught Captain Squeeze (or even if you have) you'll want to get down to Clifton Park this Sunday to experience the excitement. Captain Squeeze and the Zydeco Moshers play true, Cajun-style zydeco music straight from New Orleans and on a show featuring toe-tapping dance moves, accordions, and one mosher playing a tin washboard strapped right on his chest. Perfect for any age, Captain Squeeze guarantees an evening of quality live entertainment and dancing (SEE BELOW VIDEO). Clifton Common Stage, Vischer Ferry Road, Clifton Park. Sunday, August 14. 7 p.m.(371-6667 http://www.cliftonpark.com/things-to-do/common-performing-arts.cfm). FREE.

NYRA announces 2nd annual Travers 1864 Restaurant Week starting August, 21

2011-08-11T12:48:00.002-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Over 50 restaurants in Saratoga Springs and the surrounding Capital District will offer special price deals and menus to celebrate the 142nd running of the Travers Stakes on Saturday, August 27 at Saratoga Race Course.

This marks the second annual Travers 1864 Restaurant Week, which runs from Sunday, August 21 through Thursday, August 25.

Over the course of the five days leading up to the 2011 Travers Stakes, diners have the chance to sample a three-course meal at participating restaurants for a fixed price of only $18.64 — in honor of the first running of the Travers back in 1864. The Travers Stakes is the oldest major stakes race in the nation for 3-year-old horses.

New York Racing Association Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Hal Handle said the organization is pleased to host the second year of the Travers 1864 Restaurant Week to bring the community together and celebrate Saratoga’s biggest and oldest race.

Below is the current list of confirmed eateries participating in this year’s Travers 1864 Restaurant Week:

•         Antipasto’s in Clifton Park
•         Aperitivo Bistro in Schenectady
•         Bangkok Bistro in Colonie
•         Bangkok Bistro in Schenectady
•         Barcelona in Albany
•         Black Watch Steakhouse in Glens Falls
•         Buca di Beppo in Albany
•         Café Nola in Schenectady
•         Caputo’s Pizzeria in Saratoga Springs
•         Cella Bistro in Schenectady
•         Carney’s Tavern in Ballston Lake
•         Charlton Tavern in Ballston Lake
•         The Chocolate Mill in Glens Falls
•         Circus Café in Saratoga Springs
•         Cornell’s in Schenectady
•         Crystal Ristorante in Amsterdam
•         Dolce Vita Restaurant in Schenectady
•         Dunham’s Bay Resort in Lake George
•         East Cove Restaurant in Lake George
•         Finish Line Restaurant and Bar in Malta
•         Fortunes at Saratoga Raceway and Casino in Saratoga Springs
•         Grandma’s Pies and Restaurant in Albany
•         Jack’s Oyster House in Albany
•         John Riccitello’s in Schenectady
•         Loca Luna in Ballston Spa
•         Londonderry Café in Albany
•         Manhattan Exchange in Schenectady
•         Marche at 74 State in Albany
•         Market Restaurant at the Albany Marriott in Albany
•         Nicolino’s in Amsterdam
•         Nove in Wilton
•         The Olde Post Grille in Lake George
•         The Pasta Factory in Latham
•         Pasta Pane in Clifton Park
•         Paolo Lombardi’s Ristorante in Wyantskill
•         Peaches Café in Albany
•         Provence in Albany
•         The Pub at Cooper in Glens Falls
•         Raindancer Restaurant in Amsterdam
•         Ravenous in Saratoga Springs
•         Reel Seafood in Albany
•         Salty’s Pub in Clifton Park
•         Simpson’s Grill at the Desmond Hotel and Conference Center in Albany
•         The Stockade Inn in Schenectady
•         Sunset Café in Ballston Spa
•         Tesoro in Guilderland
•         The Van Dyck Restaurant and Lounge in Schenectady
•         The Vista Restaurant in Clifton Park
•         Turf Tavern in Saratoga Springs
•         Valentino’s in Amsterdam
•         Water’s Edge Lighthouse in Schenectady
•         Wheatfield’s Bistro and Bar in Clifton Park
•         Wheatfield’s Restaurant and Bar in Saratoga Springs

($18.64 price may not include tax, gratuity and beverage.)

For more information on Travers 1864 Restaurant Week, a complete list of participating restaurants, and to view the prix-fixe menus, please visit http://www.nyra.com/Saratoga/RestaurantWeek.shtml.

Jitters Café on Geyser Road Closes

2011-08-10T15:47:00.002-04:00

BALLSTON SPA — A rumor overheard in the newsroom said Jitters Café, formerly located in the Country Club Plaza at 418 Geyser Road, suddenly closed for business.

The old local favorite featured homemade food — wraps, salads, desserts — made by former owner Gina Prince and her family. Jitters also offered a full breakfast menu, coffee, smoothies and every Wednesday night hosted a 7 p.m. open mic night followed by local musicians playing on the weekends.

Jitters phone number is disconnected, so I had to do some online sleuthing for this one. It turns out the surprised staff in the newsroom might have just learned about the closing today, as my biz detective work revealed signs of a Jitters shutdown as early as late June.

According to fan posts on the Jitters Café Facebook page, talk of an upcoming closing generated in early July.

Jitters' last activity was a post about an open mic night happening on June 22, but right after that loyal customers began expressing their dismay writing, "Please call — no answer at the shop," and "How sad to see the artwork, creativity and talent of such a wonderful place come to an end."

Other Facebook followers begged for owner, Gina, to return their calls, but there was no activity from Gina or Jitters since late June.

Anyone have any more information as to why Jitters might have closed or what's going into the empty space next, please comment and let me know!

We'll miss you Jitters.

Margie Rotchford to host shopping party and track luncheon to benefit breast cancer research

2011-08-10T12:20:00.001-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Tomorrow night at Encounter boutique on 482 Broadway, Margie Rotchford will host an exclusive kick off shopping party from 7 until 10 p.m. as the first of two upcoming events to benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

“The foundation started in 1993 and today they’ve raised over $300 million for breast cancer research — it’s a great cause,” Rotchford said.

The shopping party is free and features an evening full of hors d'oeuvres, pink cocktails and dancing to live tunes spun by DJ Joe Bell.

“We’re encouraging anyone to come and have a good time — there’s no pressure to buy anything, but anything someone might buy, 10 percent of sales goes to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation,” Rotchford explained.

Thursday’s event also includes hair embellishments by Simplicity Salon and fabulous track-style hats and fascinators designed by Nancy Matt and Christine Moore. Most importantly, guests can stop by Encounter to pick up an invitation to the main event, the Sizzling Hot Pink Saratoga Hat Luncheon, on Friday, August 19 at 11 a.m. in the upper Carousel restaurant at Saratoga Race Course.

The luncheon, sponsored by the New York Racing Association and co-chaired by Rotchford and Joanne Adams of NYRA, is a premiere fundraiser for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation with $100 of the $150 ticket price going directly to fund breast cancer research.

Recognized activists and local philanthropists such as Mary Lou Whitney, wife of former New York Governor George Pataki Libby Pataki, , and the mother of current Governor Andrew Cuomo, Matilda Raffa Cuomo will attend the event as honorary chairmen next Friday to support the cause.

The hot pink themed luncheon is emceed by ESPN’s Jeannine Edwards and features a fully catered lunch buffet, informal fashion show featuring designs by St. John, and several guest speakers. Keynote speaker Larry Norton, scientific director of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, deputy physician-in-chief and director of breast cancer programs, will present his speech, “Breast Cancer: How we are Winning the Race.”
Ticket holders will also have the option to keep their seats in the Carousel restaurant throughout the full day of racing.

“It’s a great charity — I think it’s around 93 percent of the money raised by the Breast Cancer Research Foundation goes directly to research,” Rotchford said. “I’m behind it 100 percent.”

For more information click here

Albany hot yoga studio moving to larger space in Stuyvesant Plaza this fall

2011-08-10T11:27:00.000-04:00

ALBANY — Stuyvesant Plaza in Albany announced today it will be undergoing renovations to house a new yoga studio the Hot Yoga Spot coming this fall.

Studio owner Jessica Lustig opened the Hot Yoga Spot near Stuyvesant Plaza on Fuller Road in December, 2010. Since then, Lustig’s following has increased and outgrown the original studio’s small 700 square foot space. This fall, when the Hot Yoga Spot relocates to its new 2,707 square foot home in the shopping center, Lustig will have nearly quadrupled the size of the Fuller Road studio.

Stuyvesant Plaza announced its plans to renovate the space, formerly Tynan’s Center for Dance, to include two different yoga studios with hardwood floors and mirrored walls.

With the new location, Lustig will be able to offer more classes and potentially hire additional instructors. The Hot Yoga Spot currently offers an array of hot classes (room heated up to 95 degrees) including yoga flow, power yoga, prenatal yoga, core fusion and more.

The studio’s new home will open its doors in September. For more information, www.thehotyogaspot.com.

Chianti now taking reservations for the first time in 13 years

2011-08-09T17:17:00.001-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — After 13 years and numerous locations, Chianti il Ristorante is finally offering reservations for the first time.

Formerly located on South Broadway, Chianti has spent several years at its current location at 18 Division Street, where guests would have to arrive well before 7 p.m. to guarantee a table. Others just crossed their fingers and sat back for several cocktails at the bar as they waited for their name to be called on the long list of hungry diners.

As one of the community's (and my own) favorite fine-dining spots in downtown Saratoga, Chianti's new reservation system is sure to be welcomed with open arms.

Chianti il Ristorante, Directions & Location

According to Chianti staff, the restaurant launched its live reservation system through OpenTable.com on July 27. Customers can now make reservations several ways: by phone (584-0025), or using the Open Table application on their Facebook page, as well as on the regular Open Table website.
I'll drink to that!

SKL

www.chiantiristorante.com

Ballston Spa business news: Tai Chi classes start this fall; Buick dealership wins GMC franchise

2011-08-09T12:44:00.000-04:00

Local expert to offer Tai Chi classes in Ballston Spa this fall

BALLSTON SPA — This fall, Tony Grimaldi will offer Tai Chi classes to the community at the Malta Community Center located at 1 Bayberry Drive in Ballston Spa.

After earning his certification in Tai Chi, a martial art form that originated in China over 1,200 years ago, Grimaldi’s reputation and following has grown throughout the Capital District. Grimaldi credits the art for its mental, spiritual and physical strength benefits and works across the Capital District to help bring Tai Chi to local communities. He teaches his New Moon Tai Chi classes regularly in Scotia at the Academy of Okinawan Karate and Kung Fu and at Charlton Elementary School.

This fall, Grimaldi plans to bring his expertise to Ballston Spa and the greater Saratoga County beginning September 13. Classes range from 6-15 weeks long and are recommended for ages 18 and up.

From September 13 until November 15, New Moon Tai Chi classes will run from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at the community center. Registration for class spots opened August, 1. To register or learn more visit www.newmoontaichi.com or email Tony Grimaldi at newmoontaichi@gmail.com.

Ballston Spa Buick dealership awarded GMC Franchise
BALLSTON SPA — One local car dealership, Mangino Buick on 1484 Saratoga Road in Ballston Spa, recently won a contract by General Motors to carry GMC vehicles, parts and services.

Recently, the local Buick dealer consolidated with the former Buick-GMC dealership in Mechanicsville, allowing GMC to appoint Mangino Buick a certified GMC dealer.

On Thursday, August 4, Mangino Buick added GMC automobiles to its current line up of Buick cars and crossovers.

The family owned and operated dealership has been in the Mangino family since 1978 when Ralph Mangino Sr. purchased the dealership. Today, Mangino Buick is overseen by Mangino’s son Ralph Jr., and his daughter Patty. The family expanded their operation in 2004 when Ralph Sr.’s daughter Tina and her husband Mike Coffey bought a Chevrolet dealership on Route 30 in Amsterdam.

In addition to their active role in the Capital District’s automobile industry, the Manginos are involved with several community service initiatives. The family has sponsored community events, scholarships and donated a vehicle for Ballston Spa High School’s driver education program.

Reserved Travers day picnic tables available this week through NYRA

2011-08-08T17:17:00.000-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — This week racing fans have the opportunity to reserve a picnic table at Saratoga Race Course for 142nd running of the Travers Stakes on Saturday, August 27.

The New York Racing Association initiated the table reservation option last year as a means to (relatively) control the chaos and raise proceeds for a number of different equine charities.

Beginning today, parties can register for the chance to purchase one of the select reserved picnic tables set aside by NYRA for Travers day.

Registration closes at 6 p.m., on Saturday, August 13. On Sunday, 50 randomly selected applicants will be notified of their selection and then have the option to buy one of the designated tables for $100 each. Tables are set for a maximum of six people per unit.

With lines for the coveted picnic tables in the yard likely to begin well before dawn, NYRA’s reserved table contest doesn’t sound like a bad idea for those hoping to get a few extra hours of shut eye before the big day.
To apply and for a full list of rules and regulations visit www.nyra.com.

Local artist/architect opens new abstract gallery on Phila Street

2011-08-08T11:53:00.000-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Local artist and architect Victor Cinquino brought a new edge to the Saratoga art scene on July 19, when he opened Cinqui Studio on the second floor of the historic Palmetto Fruit warehouse building at 36 Phila Street.

"Rising Storm" 16x20

“Deep down I’ve been a modernist for a very long time,” Cinquino said.

A practicing architect for the past 42 years, Cinquino learned the potential of digital software in design early and as technologies grew, he realized a passion for abstract art outside the rigid lines and mathematics of traditional architecture.

“I’ve had a desire to do and offer this kind of abstract art — we have a lot of very accomplished artists here in Saratoga Springs, but it tends to be very traditional stuff — Victoriana, horses,” Cinquino said. “It was really an opportunity to offer something different and really get into the abstract world.”

Cinquino, originally from Schenectady, moved to Saratoga in 1975 to pursue architecture. After over 30 years of operating his own firm, Cinquino is now the sole employee in the process of transitioning out of the architecture world to pursue his up and coming artwork.

"Blossomer Moon" 16x20

Recently, one of Cinquino’s prints received an honorable mention for the July 2011 “Contest of the Month” at the Museum of Computer Art in Brooklyn.

The work featured at Cinqui Studio is produced digitally and made into high quality prints using a Giclee printing process to emphasize the colors and quality of each piece. He offers mostly 16 by 20 inch digital prints, which run for around $280 framed and $200 unframed.

“I’m hoping to offer Saratoga an alternative by offering true abstract modern work,” Cinquino said. “I’m in a very new place here that some of the art community is having a hard time grasping their head around — the idea that it’s all done digitally and there are no ‘originals’ in that sense.”
Since opening on Phila Street in mid-July, Cinquino said he’s still working on establishing Cinqui Studio as a prominent local art gallery, but that word of mouth is steadily building his business.

“Most of the clientele has been people looking to decorate their homes,” he said. “As an architect I’ve had some connectivity with interior designers and am looking into going corporate in the future.”

Corporate meaning he would partner with local interior designers who would recommend Cinquino’s pieces as décor for the right clients and homes.

"Collide-O-Scope" 20x20

The boutique gallery will also feature guest artists who work in mediums like photography, pottery and jewelry making to make special appearances at Cinqui Studio. The gallery is open Tuesday through Sunday from noon until 5 p.m., and Tuesday through Sunday from 6 to 8 p.m. through Labor Day. For more information visit www.CinquiStudio.com.

08/05-08/07 Weekend Insider Roundup

2011-08-05T16:13:00.000-04:00

Welcome to your first August weekend! There are plenty of great events going on in town over the next few days including wine tasting at the track, a world-class poker tournament and an acrobatic special with the Philadelphia Orchestra at SPAC.

Enjoy the weekend.

SKL

Support your team at Saratoga Race Course's first ever Rivalry Day

Rivalry Day. Even if you miss the races, Red Sox and Yankee fans have the opportunity to be part of NYRA's first ever Rivalry Day this evening at the Saratoga Race Course. Early this morning players lined up sporting red and navy for the Sox or white and navy for the Yanks to get the autographs of two legendary ballplayers, Mickey Rivers from the Yankees and Dennis "Oil Can" Boyd from the Red Sox. Throughout the day, racing fans donning Sox or Yankees gear receive $2 off grandstand admission. Following the races, tonight's 7 p.m. Red Sox-Yankees game kicks off and will be broadcast on the television screens around the track where fans can watch the ball game with a few cold ones and support their favorite team in one of the greatest historical sports rivalries of all time. Saratoga Race Course, 267 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Friday, August 5. 11 a.m. until after the 7 p.m. game. (584-7064 www.saratogaracecourse.com). $3 grandstand, $1 with Red Sox/Yankees gear.

Sip champagne to celebrate Fiat Feminae lingerie's grand opening

Bustiers & Bubbles: Fiat Feminae's Grand Opening at the Paddock Lounge. Today marks the official opening of Saratoga's newest intimate wear boutique - Fiat Feminae located at 489 Broadway. This evening, to celebrate the boutique's grand opening, owner Lisa Alden will host a "Bustiers and Bubbles" event at the Paddock Lounge on Caroline from 8 until 10 p.m. The first 25 (error in video!) guests to enter will receive a complimentary gift bag full of intimate surprises and gift certificates from local businesses. The bags also provide an entry into the grand opening drawing where the lucky winner will receive an exclusive Fiat Feminae piece valued at $300 and adorned with Swarovski jewels. Get in early for a chance to win, a champagne toast and live music by Crossfire. Paddock Lounge, 6 Caroline Street, Saratoga Springs. Friday, August 5. 8-10 p.m. (www.paddockloungesaratoga.com). FREE

Watch world class acrobatics set to the Philadelphia Orchestra

Philadelphia Orchestra at SPAC: Cirque De La Symphonie Magical Tales and Love and Romance. This unique show takes place on both Friday and Saturday evening at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center. Watch a body twisting acrobatics and poetic dance performance set to the smooth classical tunes of the Philadelphia Orchestra for a visual and audio combination treat this weekend at SPAC. A perfect way to access the orchestra for those still hoping to get involved. The theme of Friday's performance is "Magical Tales" and Saturday's is "Love and Romance." Saratoga Performing Arts Center, 8 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs. Friday, August 5, & Saturday, August 6. 8 p.m. (584-9330 www.spac.org). Tickets start at $20.

Check out Saratoga's biggest trucks with the family

Big Truck Day. Remember when you were a kid and felt that allure and mysterious pull toward all the biggest and brightest firetrucks, construction vehicles and dump trucks? Well, even if you can't, there's a chance your child will and Saratoga's Big Truck Day is a perfect Saturday family activity to wow the little ones. The event will let kids and families check out the town's big trucks and emergency vehicles and guests will have the chance to meet the faces behind Saratoga's metal giants on wheels. Rain date is August 13. Maple Avenue Middle School, 515 Maple Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Saturday, August 6. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (584-5540). $5 per child. $1 per adult.

Play poker for a cause

"All in for Wishes" Charity Poker Tournament. For Saratoga's avid poker stars who want to have fun and give back to the community, the Make-A-Wish Foundation's charity poker tournament might be up your alley. The Northeast chapter of Make-A-Wish is bringing in world-renowned poker celebrities at this weekend's tournament for community members to buy in and face the stars in a Texas Hold 'Em tournament. All proceeds go to the Foundation's wish-granting program, with a goal of funding 10 wishes from the event. A $200 buy in lets players compete for prizes including an entry into the World Series of Poker main event in 2012. Saratoga City Center, 522 Broadway. Saturday, August 6. 12 p.m. (584-0027 www.saratogacitycenter.org). $200 buy in.

Spend your Sunday getting crafty

VFW Post #420 Annual Craft Fair. This Sunday, the local VFW on Excelsior Avenue is hosting its annual craft fair to benefit the Guardian House Woman's Veteran Shelter in Ballston Spa. The fair features local crafts, artisans and galleries to raise donations for the shelter. There will also be a snack bar and used book sale. VFW Post #420, 190 Excelsior Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Sunday, August 7. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (885-9029). FREE.

Sip wine at the races

Galloping Grapes: A New York Wine Event at the Saratoga Race Course. Wine lovers and racing enthusiasts can combine passions this Sunday at the track. A special section in the backyard will be dedicated to all things New York wine. Wineries from across the state and right here in Saratoga will be on display for guests to sample, taste and purchase products. The first 500 guests through the door to the event will receive a commemorative Saratoga Race Course wine glass. All proceeds go to two education based charities run by the Times Union. Saratoga Race Course, 267 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Sunday, August 7. Noon until 7 p.m. (584-7064 www.saratogaracecourse.com). Entry to the wine event is $20 in advance, $25 day off and does not include regular track admission price ($3 Grandstand, $5 Clubhouse).

New life coaching center celebrates opening on Broadway today; Keller Williams welcomed to 38 High Rock

2011-08-05T11:07:00.000-04:00

New self help business celebrates grand opening tonight on Broadway

SARATOGA SPRINGS — This evening, the Life Stylized Success Center celebrates its grand opening from 5 to 10 p.m. at their location at 444 Broadway, just above Wheatfield's restaurant in suite 302.

The life coaching center offers a variety of classes, programs and events to help both individuals and businesses empower themselves and succeed in their personal lives and the workplace.

Life Stylized Success Center was the brainchild of Oswego native Sierra Sullivan, who recently returned to Saratoga Springs with husband Ron Smith from their previous home in Los Angeles, Calif.

Sullivan and Smith teamed up with Saratoga native Karen Carey and her husband Kevin Carey to form the partners behind Life Stylized Success Center.

Smith hails from a longtime background in the Calif.wellness coaching business and along with Sullivan's publishing background for Ray Magazine, a west coast lifestyle publication, the couple hopes to bring a new energy to Saratoga's self help community.

Sullivan was also an active member in creating the first Saratoga Women’s Fest in March 2011.

Karen Carey has also spent years in the life coaching and wellness business and in a statement said she was excited to bring west coast and east coast wellness together here in Saratoga Springs.

Tonight's event features drinks, appetizers and provides guests the opportunity to learn more about Life Stylized Success Center's various programs and opportunities.

For more information, visit www.lifestylized.com or call Sierra Sullivan at (323) 788-5853

Keller Williams now open at 38 High Rock

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Earlier this week, Keller Williams realty celebrated its new location at the 38 High Rock Condominium complex in Saratoga Springs.

Before the move, Keller Williams operated from an office just off Route 50 at 3 Maple Dell Drive. The new office space is twice the size as the previous and will occupy 2,730 square feet of space. The 38 High Rock offices will initially house 75 real estate agents serving Saratoga County and beyond and the company plans to take 25 more staff members on board by the end of the year.

Mike Hoffman, principal of Turf Hotels, which owns the neighboring Hampton Inn and Suites hotel, welcomed Keller Williams at a special housewarming ceremony as 38 High Rock's newest retail partner and commended Keller Williams Operating Principal Janet Besheer for the expansion, which will help the company cater to more real estate clients especially during track season.

Besheer and the local Keller Williams company planned to expand, but were waiting for the perfect space. When she saw the opportunity at 38 High Rock, Besheer jumped at the opportunity.

Keller Williams, located on the ground floor, joins Jacob and Anthony's restaurant as the second retail partner in the 38 High Rock condominium, retail and hotel complex.

The new offices also feature an advanced training room with high-tech art audio and visual equipment that will aid the company as it develops new commercial and luxury home divisions.

For more information visit www.kw.com/kw.

The Beresford Gallery returns to Saratoga for 31st year; Motivational program leader partners with local businesses

2011-08-04T10:05:00.000-04:00

The Beresford Gallery returns for 31st season in Saratoga

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Beresford Gallery will re-open this Friday, August 5, in the Shoe Depot building at 385 Broadway in Saratoga Springs.

Based in Unionville, Pa., the gallery exhibits annually in the Hamptons, Wellington and Saratoga Springs as well as in Florida during the winter months.

Founded over 40 years ago, the Beresford Gallery specializes in sporting-themed paintings, statues and sculptures — with a Saratoga specialty in equine and racing centered work.

This year marks the Beresford’s 31st straight year exhibiting in Saratoga Springs, but it’s the gallery’s first time in a new location within the Shoe Depot building. Throughout the 15 day stay on Broadway, the Beresford will feature artists painting at the gallery and customers will have the chance to commission their own personal piece by a Beresford artist.

The gallery will be open from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. between August 5 and 20. For more information stop by 385 Broadway or call 583-4523.

Local motivational speaker Coach Johns brings aboard more Saratoga business sponsors

SARATOGA SPRINGS — President of the Act With Respect Always program Rich Johns (also known as “Coach Johns”) recently announced a new partnership with several Saratoga Springs-based businesses.

After teaching and coaching in the Saratoga school district for nearly 40 years, Johns founded the Act With Respect Always campaign. He travels to schools across the Capital District giving presentations and holding workshops to teach students the importance of leadership and character education both in the classroom, as well as on the athletic fields.

This month, Johns announced Act With Respect Always’ most recent local business partners: Adirondack Trust, Scotty’s Exit 16, The Stadium Café, Saratoga Springs Lieutenants PBA, Cudney’s Cleaners, Saratoga Honda, Saratoga Springs Firefighters, Holiday Inn of Saratoga, Saratoga Strike Zone, Turbine Services Limited, Saratoga National Bank and The Hampton Inn.

Acknowledging the importance of these recent sponsors Johns stated, “Having the addition of these fine groups as part of our ‘endorsement team’ helps us to spread this importance word about respect.”
The new business advocates join a long list of Act With Respect Always sponsors including local businesses like the Saratoga Springs Rotary Club and Roohan Realty.

For more information visit www.actwithrespectalways.com.

Man o' War restaurant to offer lunch specials and entertainment at Fasig-Tipton this August

2011-07-29T12:25:00.001-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Beginning Friday, August 5, the Man o' War restaurant will open a temporary branch at the Fasig-Tipton Sale Pavillion located on the corner of East and Madison Avenues in Saratoga Springs.

Named after the legendary racehorse who lost only one race in his career in 1919 at Saratoga Race Course, the Man o' War restaurant will offer an la carte lunch menu, extended dining on sales nights during the Fasig-Tipton Select Yearling Sales week and post-racing refreshments and live entertainment on select dates.

Located less than half a mile from the track, Fasig-Tipton attracts racing enthusiasts every season for its variety of art exhibits and for its annual thoroughbred sales week in the Humphrey S. Finney Pavillion.

Mazzone Hospitality Owner Angelo Mazzone announced the plans for the Man o' War restaurant today stating, “Saratoga is the summer place to be and we’re honored to contribute to the experience with great food, atmosphere and live entertainment at historic Fasig-Tipton.”

Specific dates for dining specials and entertainment at Man o' War are as follows:

Lunch from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. from Friday, August 5 to Saturday, August 14.
Lunch from 11 a.m., until after the sales at Fasig-Tipton on August 8-9 (Saratoga Select Yearlings) and August 13-14 (New York Bred Yearlings).
Light fare, drinks and entertainment after racing on August 19-20 (TVG Alabama Stakes) and August 26-27 (Travers Stakes).

For more information about Fasig-Tipton and the Man o' War restaurant or to make reservations call 518-583-0091.

0729-0730 Weekend Insider Roundup

2011-07-29T10:58:00.000-04:00

Want to make the best of your track season weekends? Reporter Suzanna Lourie has the scoop on some of the area's top weekend highlights including everything from a pint-sized wrestling match to a night of 70s-themed disco fever.

Enjoy!

Watch the races then continue the festivities at the track

Party at the Spa. The first of this season’s two “Party at the Spa” events this summer is this Friday at the Saratoga Race Course. Presented by Coors Light, the event kicks off with a first post of 2:30 p.m. with the last race starting before dusk. But, as Saratoga racing fans know, the party never stops after the day’s final race. Head over to the Paddock Bar for live music featuring the band Rockjunky and start your weekend off right at the track. A great choice for those college students celebrating Friday’s college day at the track. Saratoga Race Course. 267 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Friday, July 29. 2:30 p.m. (718-641-4700 www.saratogaracecourse.com). $3 Grandstand admission, $5 Clubhouse.

Check out a pint-sized face-off at Northern Lights

Champion Midget Wrestling. Feeling like trying something new this weekend? Get down to Northern Lights to watch live Capital District champion midget wrestling on Friday! Wow. Enough said. This has got to be the top pick of the weekend – when else are you going to have the chance to watch this quirky, bizarre sporting event so close to home? Maybe there is mud involved… Northern Lights. 1208 Route 146, Clifton Park. Friday, July 29. 7 p.m. (371-0012 www.northernlightslive.com). $15 Advance, $20 Day of, $25 VIP.

Join the National Museum of Dance for drinks, disco dancing and dozens of prizes

Disco Fever. Another fantastic Friday event this week is the National Museum of Dance’s fundraiser “Disco Fever.” The museum’s recent New Action Committee teamed up with the Metro to present this 70s-inspired evening. Ticket prices include access to an open bar (wine, beer and St. Germain cocktails), live DJ entertainment by Crush 105.7, dancing and appetizers. There will also be a disco dance contest with prizes awarded to the male and female who show off their best “Saturday Night Fever” moves. Dance contest prizes have been donated by D’Andrea’s Liquor and Mary Martin & Co. For those who want to keep on dancing downtown, the Albany Aqua Ducks will be providing free trolley rides to the Metro downtown. Put on your dancing shoes and best funk attire to dance the night away and help the National Museum of Dance continue presenting some of the region’s finest dance-related exhibitions and events. National Museum of Dance. 99 South Broadway, Saratoga Springs. Friday, July 29. 8 p.m. until midnight. (584-2225 www.dancemuseum.org). $55 Advance, $65 At the door.

Calling all teens and young adults – Introduce yourself to the orchestra at SPAC this Friday.

Philadelphia Orchestra: Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra. Ever been curious about the world-class Philadelphia Orchestra that comes to SPAC every summer, but felt too clueless to enjoy it? This Friday, Skidmore College teams up with the Saratoga Performing Arts Center to present a basic overview of the Philadelphia Orchestra. A perfect chance for anyone from their teens to their 30s who wants to get their footing in classical chamber music knowledge. The event is narrated by David Hyde Pierce and consists of three of the best-known compositions by Britten, Stravinsky and Beethoven. Saratoga Performing Arts Center. 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs. Friday, July 29. 8 p.m. (584-9330 www.spac.org). Tickets start at $20.

SATURDAY, JULY 30.

Pig-out with burgers and beer at the Taste of Country National BBQ Championship.

Taste of Country National BBQ Championship. Over 20 BBQ pit masters will gather to compete for the title of the National BBQ champion at Saratoga Casino and Raceway for this Saturday’s Taste of County National BBQ Championship. Guests will be able to sample some of the United States’ best barbecue at this fun outdoors event, which include the necessary beer garden and features live music by James Wesley, Phil Vassar and other local artists to be announced. A special bonus for guests who show their ticket stub at the Player’s Extra Club in the casino will receive $20 worth of free slot play. Saratoga Casino and Raceway. 342 Jefferson Street, Saratoga Springs. Saturday, July 30. 11 a.m.— 10 p.m. (584-2110 www.saratogacasino.com) $15 Advance, $20 At the door.

Celebrate Dave with Big Eyed Phish at the Paddock Lounge

Live at Paddock: Big Eyed Phish. Missing Dave Matthews’ presence at SPAC this year? You’re not the only one. Dave fans can check out the region’s top Dave Matthews Tribute Band, Big Eyed Fish, at the Paddock Lounge this Saturday. The event kicks off with a p.m. “social hour” that runs until 8 (a social 3 hours) and features 2 for 1 drink specials. The band starts their set at 9 p.m. The Paddock Lounge. 6 Caroline Street, Saratoga Springs. 9 p.m.—1 a.m. (www.paddockloungesaratoga.com, www.bigeyedphish.com). FREE.

Check out Kentucky’s own Sleeper Agent live at the Den

Sleeper Agent at Putnam Den. Sleeper Agent is a fast-paced garage pop six-piece group hailing all the way from Bowling Green, Kentucky. The band’s sound is rooted in southern rock and soul music and features duo male/female vocal stylings. Sleeper Agent has an upcoming debut album, “Celebrasian,” due out in September and produced through Mom & Pop Records. After gaining acclaim across the Midwest (their sound has been compared to the White Stripes) this sounds like another night of top-notch alt-rock presented by WEQX 102.7 at the Den – other guests for the evening include: Viva Brother, 1,2,3, and Kitty. Putnam Den. 63A Putnam Street, Saratoga Springs. Saturday, July 30. 7—10 p.m. (584-8066 www.putnamden.com). Call for ticket price.

SUNDAY, JULY 31.

Bring the family to celebrate National Dance Day – try your hand at exotic dance styles from belly-dancing to conga moves.

National Dance Day. The National Museum of Dance in Saratoga Springs joins the nation in celebrating National Dance Day. Brought to you by the creators of the hit TV show “So You Think You Can Dance,” the National Dance Day event features an interactive program where Usher wannabes can test out their skills in different dance styles including hip-hop, swing, belly-dance, aerobic dance, and choreographed dance. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Dizzy Feet Foundation, a national organization dedicated to supporting and increasing awareness of dance education in the U.S. National Museum of Dance. 99 South Broadway, Saratoga Springs. Sunday, July 31. 1—4 p.m. (584-2225 www.dancemuseum.org). $6 Adult, $4.50 Student/Senior. FREE Under 12.

Take a trackside Sunday stroll at Saratoga Race Course

Summer Stroll: Trackside: Racing in Saratoga. Of the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation’s 13 walking tours of the city, the trackside tour is perfect for both local racing fans and out-of-towners alike. The tour takes guests on a walk by the exteriors of the Reading Room, the National Museum of Racing and then into the Saratoga Race Course. Inside the track, visitors will have the exclusive chance to learn all about the history of racing in Saratoga Springs from guide Georgia Horner while visiting the Oklahoma Track, the Fasig-Tipton horse sales pavilion and stables. The tour runs rain or shine, reservations encouraged, but not necessary. Get behind the scenes of the Saratoga Race Track, the only place to be this summer. SE Corner of Nelson Avenue and Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Sunday, July 31. 10:30 a.m.—12 p.m. (587-5030 www.saratogapreservation.org). $5 Members, $8 Non-members.

Saratoga Hybrid Cab offers customers a sustainable option in transport

2011-07-27T12:30:00.003-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — When 3 a.m. hits and it comes time to call a cab to bring you home from Caroline Street, most people aren’t thinking about reducing their carbon footprint. But the only reason people didn’t think about choosing a sustainable cab company was because before now it wasn’t an option.

All of that changed on Friday, July 22, when Byron Norsworthy switched from another cab company to open his new independent business, the Saratoga Hybrid Cab company.

“What inspired me to do it was I had driven for another company since February, 2010, and I got tired of paying so much for gas,” Norsworthy said of his motivation to open a hybrid cab company. “I’ve always been a fan of sustainability, since my college days.”

Norsworthy operates his single-car company from a 2008 Toyota Prius and said once he gets enough business he would like to hire a second car and second driver.

“It’s kind of an experiment, but so far I’ve had a lot of positive feedback and a lot of people saying it’s a great idea and it was about time someone did this here,” Norsworthy said of his first week in business.

Norsworthy is on top of a nationwide trend — green cab companies have been sprouting up across the country. In cities like New York and San Francisco, taxi businesses are working to slowly convert their fleets to hybrid and sustainable vehicles.

Here in Saratoga Springs, Norsworthy hopes to promote his business through word of mouth especially with local organizations that emphasize eco-friendly.

“I know some people involved in sustainable movements in Saratoga and they’re helping to get the word out — I’m also hoping to establish connections at Skidmore (College),” Norsworthy said of his promotion strategy.

Saratoga Hybrid Cab’s rates are essentially the same as other local taxi cab businesses, but Norsworthy mentioned rates could be lower for longer trips out of town given the increased gas mileage.

Norsworthy, 27, originally from Reading, Pennsylvania, moved to Saratoga Springs two years ago with his wife, Rachel, who grew up in the area. After getting involved in environmental studies in college, Norsworthy continued to educate himself about sustainability and is a green enthusiast who practices what he preaches. Before moving to Saratoga, Norsworthy and his wife traveled around working on organic farms in places such as central New York and New Hampshire.

“I was just really impressed and realized the seriousness about some of the problems we have about air and water quality and running out of resources and the possibility of a really ugly world if we keep going the way we’re going,” Norsworthy said about his passion for sustainability.

After working as a full-time cab driver for nearly two years at another Saratoga cab business, Norsworthy realized it was time to follow his instinct and work toward making Saratoga Springs a slightly greener environment.

“It felt like a waste to be driving a big car for just one or two passengers when I could get three times the gas mileage with a different car,” Norsworthy said. “It seemed like a no-brainer.”

Next Saturday morning when you’re looking for a ride home, consider treading lightly on the environment by calling Saratoga Hybrid Cab.

Saratoga Hybrid Cab
Byron Norsworthy/Owner-Operator
Phone: (518) 698-4122
E-mail: info@saratogahybridcab.com
Website: www.saratogahybridcab.com and click here to find SHC on Facebook.

Gotbeer.com gives fans the chance to name a race at the Saratoga Race Course this summer

2011-07-25T13:48:00.000-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — I recently wrote a story about the latest digital extension of DeCrescente Distributing Co., gotbeer.com, a website devoted entirely to breweries, beers and bartenders in the Capital District.

Carmine DeCrescente III originally founded the website with his brother, Matt, back in 2003. But, as technology evolved the DeCrescente brothers saw a window of growth for the website. The site temporarily shut down in February and was unveiled last month, along with the new GotBeer mobile application at a DeCrescente Distributing Co. launch party June 9 hosted by Jillian’s in Albany.

The newly refurbished website design includes social media capabilities such as a live Twitter feed, Facebook connection and a community photo gallery featuring snapshots of fans from local events, bars and concerts.

With the 143rd annual meet underway at Saratoga Race Course, gotbeer.com is narrowing its focus to Saratoga Springs, the only place in the Capital District to be during the next six weeks of the 2011 racing season.

For the remainder of July and throughout early August, gotbeer.com will be running its “Name-Your-Own-Stakes,” competition. The winner

“We decided the site had a lot of room for opportunity, so we blew it up,” Carmine said. “We custom made it according to what we thought people would like and completely redesigned it to make it more up-to-date and more of a beer destination.”

Throughout July and early August, gotbeer.com will be running its "Name-Your-Own-Race Stakes," competition where applicants can submit their best idea for a race name, and if crowned, the winner will have a race during the summer’s meet named to their liking.

The winning race name will post later in the month on Monday, August 22 courtesy of NYRA, the mastermind behind the winning name will be granted access to the Winner’s Circle at the track for a photo-op with the race’s winning horse.

The champ and three guests will also gain access to The Curlin’ Café, where they will receive free food and drinks for the entire day.

For more on how to play visit www.gotbeer.com. The top five entries will be unveiled on August 4, so put on your creative thinking cap and submit your best race name soon Saratoga racing fans! The grand winner will be announced on August 11.

SKL

Opening Weekend Insider Roundup

2011-07-22T11:53:00.001-04:00

Happy opening day!

Well folks it’s finally here: The 2011 racing season at the Saratoga Race Course. Your weekend starts Friday, opening day of the track and all weekend long local businesses are overflowing with racing-themed events and promotions. Researching what’s on for the weekend of July 22 was slightly overwhelming, but I’ve narrowed it down to what (in my humble opinion) seem like the most exciting and give you the best bang for your buck.

Of course, the place to be this weekend is 267 Union Avenue at the track, but in between racing there are plenty of other unique and fun events happening after hours in the area.

This weekend we’ve got everything to a barely-there fashion show to all of the events going on through the Hats Off to Saratoga festival. Enjoy and please, remember to drink water to stay safe and avoid that opening weekend hangover especially in this crazy heat wave we’ve been having here in Saratoga. And they’re off!

FRIDAY, JULY 22.

Join the crowd and drag your cooler down to the track on opening day (or any other day)

Saratoga Race Course Opening Day. Join the thousands of racing fans that will come to the track this Friday to celebrate the official start of the 2011 racing season. The excitement is building and this Friday patrons will be smiling and ready to celebrate opening weekend. Fans will finally be able to get a first look at many of the changes that NYRA instituted this year at the SRC. Join the fun at the only place to be this Friday. Saratoga Race Course, 267 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs. All weekend. Gates open at 11 a.m. Post time at 1 p.m. (584-7064 www.saratogaracecourse.com). $3 Grandstand Admission. Children under 12 FREE.

Start your opening day after-party at The Post

Smokin’ Summer Series featuring MIRK. Too tired from the heat and a day’s worth of drinking at the track? You don’t have to go all the way to Caroline to continue the festivities. Capital Region funk and soul band MIRK is kicking off the 2011 race season with live music at The Post (between the paddock and gate C). Refuel and grab dinner at Blue Smoke or the Shake Shake, both located right by The Post, while you’re at it. Dance the night away and ring in racing season right! Saratoga Race Course, 267 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Friday. 5 p.m. (584-7064 www.saratogaracecourse.com). $3 Grandstand Admission. Children under 12 FREE.

Unwind with wine and live music after the races at Saratoga Winery.

Track Season Kickoff Event. Saratoga Winery is celebrating the start of this year’s thoroughbred racing season with live music, food and hand-crafted wines. Check out the rock-n-roll stylings of Skyler’s Dream Team and feast on wood-fired pizza while you lounge back in an Adirondack-style chair this opening night. Apparently “wine smoothies” will be available – I’m intrigued! The Saratoga Winery & Tasting Room. 462 Route 29 West, Saratoga Springs. Friday, July 22. 6-9 p.m. (584-9463 www.thesaratogawinery.com). FREE cover.

Sip cocktails and check out a barely there fashion show at Duo.

Cocktails & Corsets. Fiat Feminae lingerie boutique owner Lisa Alden is hosting a special sneak preview party at Duo this Friday. The store at 489 Broadway will be open for regular business hours to preview Fiat Feminae’s exclusive European lingerie collections. Later on, the seduction continues at Duo Lounge for another sneak peak event (Fiat Feminae opens for regular business on August 5). After a one-hour cocktail party, guests can enjoy live DJ entertainment and a fashion show featuring models wearing Fiat Feminae’s luxurious collections. Sounds like a scandalously good time. Duo Lounge, 175 South Broadway, Saratoga Springs. Friday, July 22. 9 p.m. (728-8133). FREE cover.

Grab your girls for Fillies night at the Paddock

Friday Night Ladies Night. Friday is officially ladies night at the Paddock Lounge on Caroline. The night feature Hypnotiq Harmonie drink specials, live entertainment with Crush 105.7 and Sanctuary Spa giveaways. The Paddock Lounge, 6 Caroline Street, Saratoga Springs. Friday, July 22. 5 p.m. until close. (330-2426 www.paddockloungesaratoga.com). FREE cover.

Tip your hat to Saratoga

Hats Off Festival. Salute Saratoga with an opening weekend tradition at the Hats Off Music Festival and the general Hats Off Festival. The events are bountiful this season and it all begins with the HO Music Fest. Some highlights: Soul Session at Ellsworth Jones Place near the City Center, rock/pop 60’s-inspired band Joe’s Boys at the Collamer Parking Lot and crowd favorite Rich Ortiz at the Adirondack Trust Co. Drive-Through. For times and more details visit the website below. In addition to music the HO will feature their annual Saratoga Hat Contest at the track to wrap up the festival on Sunday. Prizes go to 3 categories: Uniquely Saratoga, Fashionably Saratoga and Kreative Kids. Around Broadway/Saratoga Springs. Friday, July 22 until Sunday, July 24. (584-3255 http://www.saratoga.org/visitors/hats-off-music-festival.asp). FREE.

SATURDAY, JULY 23.

Enjoy a cool concert with Reel Big Fish in Clifton Park

Streetlight Manifesto & Reel Big Fish. Get down to Northern Lights in Clifton Park this Saturday for what is bound to be an unbelievable night of world class alt-rock and folk beats. Great bands, great music, great venue. Enough said. Northern Lights, 1208 Route 146, Clifton Park. Saturday, July 23. 7 p.m. (371-0012 www.northerlightlive.com). $20 advance, $23 day of.

Attend a gala for a good cause

Light Up the Night Gala. The Saratoga National Golf Club presents its annual benefit to support the department of medicine at Albany Medical Center. Tickets include gourmet cuisine, champagne and specialty drinks. There will also be live music by the New York Players and a grand fireworks display to light up the night in Saratoga. Saratoga National Golf Club, 458 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Saturday, July 23. 7:30 p.m. (262-8892 www.amc.edu/foundation/event/light_up_night.html). $150 per person.

SUNDAY, JULY 24.

Unleash your inner flower child at a Yaddo Garden tour

Yaddo Garden Tour. Check out Saratoga’s most luscious gardens at Yaddo with a complete one-hour tour. You’ll learn the history of the Trask family an the Yaddo Artists Retreat. A fun, interesting way to learn more about Saratoga’s best kept secret. Yaddo Gardens, Union Avenue, Route 9P, Saratoga Springs. Sunday, July 24. 11 a.m.-12 p.m. (584-0746 www.yaddo.org/yaddo/YGhome.asp). $5 per person.

Check out the final season of the Festival of Baroque Music in Saratoga before it's gone

52nd Annual and Final Season: Festival of Baroque Music. The Baroque Festival is the country's longest running early music festival and will conclude its 52 years in Saratoga this weekend. This Sunday, get down to The Studio in Greenfield Center to enjoy works by classical artists like Bach, Scarlatti and Vivaldi. There will also be a champagne toast and hall dedication with the festival founder. The special guest this year is harpsichordist Kenneth Slowik of the Smithsonian Institute. The Studio, 165 Wilton Road, Greenfield Center. Sunday, July 24. 4-7 p.m. (893-6062). $24 adult/$14 senior/$10 student/FREE 12 and under.

More changes at Saratoga Race Course; Dunkin' Donuts to host grand opening event

2011-07-21T13:43:00.001-04:00

More changes create extra "elbow room" for track goers.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Director of Hospitality and Group Sales for the New York Racing Association Stephen Travers led a media tour Wednesday morning to highlight some of the design and food and beverage changes at the Saratoga Race Course this season.

Travers and NYRA emphasized the reduced price of beer, which has been cut up to 33 percent, and also of other track staples like popcorn and lemonade.

In response to the Saratogian’s article published on Tuesday that highlighted many of the changes in the food and beverage offerings at the track, Travers pointed out that Jack O’Brien who ran the 22 lemonade carts last year, is not local and is based out of Miami. The kids, however, who staffed the stands were indeed local students.

“We eliminated them so that people have more room and can enjoy their space without feeling forced to buy something with a cart every 10 feet,” Travers said about NYRA’s motive to remove the lemonade stands. “Our five lemonade stands will also staff local employees.”

In addition, several other changes have been made this year to lower prices and create more open space for track patrons.

The Jim Dandy bar was renovated so that the room can now hold nearly 200 people and many waitress stations on the Clubhouse porch were relocated to create more “elbow” room for diners.

The Travers bar was also removed to help ease congestion. Travers said that the menu at Blue Smoke wasn’t “customer friendly” last year and the restaurant will expand its menu to offer customers more variety this year with a variety of boxed fries, or frites. Blue Smoke also added a newly renovated bar on its second level.

Low beer prices created a buzz in the community, but Travers said he does not think lower prices will lead to excessive drinking.

“People do not over drink because it’s cheaper,” Travers said. “They’ll drink what they drink and be delighted it’s cheaper.”

When media representatives asked Travers why NYRA chose to make these new renovations and dining changes Travers only said, “Because it was the right thing to do.”

Dunkin' Donuts to hold ceremonial "first brew" featuring high-profile execs.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The new Dunkin’ Donuts stand at the Saratoga Race Course will celebrate its official grand opening with a ceremonial “first brew” on opening day morning at 11:30.

Feelings in the community about the new Dunkin’ and other food and beverage changes have been mixed. In a story I wrote on Tuesday about NYRA’s decision to remove certain local businesses to enact lower prices, some welcomed the new cheap price of beer and others felt wary about NYRA going in a more “corporate” direction.

For those track goers who haven’t yet had their daily dose of java, perhaps an iced coffee at Dunkin’s “first brew” event will ease some of the nostalgia for the old Carvel soft-serve stand, which formerly occupied DD’s booth near the bandstand.

Jerry Burke, the Dunkin’ Donuts franchisee for the Capital Region, will be running the stand at the “first brew” event celebrating the first time track fans can purchase coffee and breakfast menu items at the Saratoga Race Course. NYRA’s Director of Hospitality and Group Sales Stephen Travers said in the past, visitors could only get coffee at the track if they paid $14.95 for the 7 a.m. “breakfast at the track” package.

In an Ed Lewi press release sent out on Thursday, Mark Bardack announced that Dunkin’ Donuts will also be offering Saratoga-themed DD rechargeable gift cards. On Mondays, cardholders can present their card at the gate and receive $2 off grandstand admission.

Dunkin’ will also offer the in-store “40 Days at Saratoga” sweepstakes where customers have the chance to win one of 40 VIP Clubhouse packages for a day at the track.

NYRA President Charlie Hayward and Dunkin’ Donuts’ Upstate New York Field Marketing Manager Eric Stensland will also attend the “first brew” event tomorrow at 11:30.

The Dunkin’ Donuts booth will open daily at 7 a.m. and will close after the day’s final post.

Verizon Wireless launches its 4G data network around Saratoga Springs just in time for racing season.

2011-07-21T11:30:00.002-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — This morning, Verzion Wireless announced it has activated its high-speed 4G LTE data network on 13 cell sites in and around Saratoga Springs.

The decision to give customers in the Capital Region the chance to sample Verizon’s 4G LTE mobile network is a part of a company initiative to eventually roll out its new advanced network across the nation.

As of today, Saratoga Springs Verizon customers will be the first in the Capital Region able to experience the company’s new 4G LTE data network, which operates up to 10 times faster than Verizon’s 3G network.

The activation of the new network in and around Saratoga was timed to roll out just in time for the influx of people coming to the area for both the 2011 racing season at Saratoga Race Course and concert goers gathering for Live Nation’s concert series at SPAC.

Russ Preite, president of Verizon Wireless’ upstate New York region, said that he was excited to lead the Capital Region into the 4G LTE wireless broadband world.

Preite said the ultra-fast download capacities and advanced network technology are, “Helping residents, businesses, media and local government connect faster and more fully with each other and with those outside the area.”

Verizon Wireless introduced its 4G network to the New York City and Rochester markets in December and is planning to bring full 4G capacity to the Capital Region, Syracuse and Ithaca areas in the near-future. The move is part of the company’s long-term plan to deliver 4G LTE to all of its 3G customers across the nation by the end of 2013.

For more information about Verizon’s 4G LTE data network visit www.verizonwireless.com/lte.

Green salon to make an appearance at the Saratoga Race Course for opening weekend

2011-07-20T14:08:00.001-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Albany-based salon Complexions Spa for Beauty and Wellness will set up a branch at the Saratoga Race Course over opening weekend from Friday, July 22 until Sunday, July 24.
The Complexions tent is located just outside the clubhouse near the entrance to the paddock. This weekend the spa will be offering a variety of salon and spa services for fans who want to unwind during a long day at the track.

Complexions Spa is renowned for being the state's first and only gold-level LEED certified new construction spa, a certification that guarantees green and energy-efficient services. The spa specializes in organic treatments and also works with plastic surgeons in the area to help develop individually-tailored skin-care and post-operation treatment programs for customers.

Complexions Spa Owner Denise Dubois said she is excited to offer her services this weekend in Saratoga for both men and women who might not have the chance to visit their permanent location in Colonie.
The Complexions tent will offer traditional hot shaves and neck trims for the men, chair massages, make-up touch ups, eyelash strip applications, nail polish changes and hair styling. In addition, guests will be able to browse racing-themed fashion accessories and jewelry for purchase while they enjoy their spa service.
Dubois announced that Complexions will also hold a drawing on opening weekend with the grand prize being a day of full-service pampering at the spa valued at over $300.

Another perk is that each visitor who comes to the tent will receive a $10 gift card for use at Complexions Spa located on Wolf Road in Colonie.

Track changes: Worth it? Let me know.

2011-07-19T22:06:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone,

I wanted to quickly post a reaction in regards to today's previous post that featured the full article about changes in the food and beverage businesses at the Saratoga Race Course for the upcoming 2011 racing season.

They had me at $3 12 ounce Coors drafts. I'm sure there will be a lot of thirsty trackgoers who will rejoice in this news. In previous years, the cheapest domestic beer available was a 20 oz. draft for $6.75. This could mean that fans won't go through the effort of lugging a full cooler of beer into the track simply to save a few bucks.

But, on the other side, it's sad to see many of the local vendors go at the track. Granted, Carvel wasn't exactly local, but what about soft serve? Maybe Ben and Jerry's should look into that. I know I like my twist cone with rainbow sprinkles at the track just as much as the next racing fan. But the lemonade kids and P&H Popcorn, well they've been there forever, and although we have lower prices on all the same items, is it worth it?

I don't know the answer, but I'm curious as to what you out there in the Saratoga community think.

Please let me know any and all comments, feedback, response - Are cheap beers worth nixing our local staples at the track? Let me know what you think here or on Twitter @suzannaklourie or email at slourie@saratogian.com - I'd be happy to interview anyone who wants to chat about the food & bev. changes at the track this year.

I'll also be at the track's media tour of all the food/beverage and style changes tomorrow morning at 11 a.m. so if there are any questions you'd like me to ask let me know!

Cheers,

SKL

Big changes for Saratoga Race Track's food and beverage businesses this year.

2011-07-19T15:48:00.001-04:00

By SUZANNA K. LOURIE
slourie@saratogian.com

SARATOGA SPRINGS — This racing season, fans at the Saratoga Race Course will notice two big changes in the track’s food and beverage offerings: the absence of many local vendors and new low price points.

The New York Racing Association has been working with its dining subcontractor Centerplate, a hospitality business that oversees the food at professional sports stadiums and entertainment venues across the nation, to reinvent the food layout at the track in order to follow a new strategy and cut costs.

“For a great many years, it seems people haven’t been paying attention to the customer base at Saratoga,” said Centerplate General Manager Drew Revella. “They’ve been asking for increased variety and lower price points — we have a new management team and that’s what we’re doing to meet those needs.”

One of the ways that NYRA and Centerplate have responded to these needs is an overhaul of the vendor line up at the track. Many familiar businesses like P&H popcorn and Jack O’Brien’s 27 lemonade stands staffed primarily by local students won’t be returning trackside for the 2011 season.

What the cuts do allow, however, is the implementation of new lower price points on staple items like beer, lemonade and popcorn.

Mark Bardack, whose Ed Lewi firm handles public relations for Saratoga Race Course, revealed some of the reduced prices offered this year at the track.

In 2010 the cheapest beer option was a 20 oz. domestic beer that went for $6.75. This year the cheapest beer on-track is a 12 oz. domestic that will go for $3.

When it comes to imported beers, the prices have been slashed even further. In 2010 a 16 oz. imported beer sold for $8, this year a 12 oz. imported beer will go for $4.

Both NYRA and Centerplate acknowledged the value of including local businesses at the track, but Revella said that many of the old local lemonade and popcorn vendors were coming at an additional cost for the race course.

“As a company we realize the importance of Saratoga and its history,” Revella said. “We are a concessioner so things like popcorn and lemonade we already sell at our stands so there was really no need to have a secondary contractor do the things we already do and do well.”

With Centerplate running the concessions this year, they have been able to cut prices on more than just beer. It might not be from one of Jack O’Brien’s lemonade kids or a P&H vendor, but this year fans will be able to purchase a 16-oz. lemonade for $3.50 and a 32 oz. popcorn for $3.75. Last year, both items ran for $4.50 or more.

Another new addition is the $5 value meal in the backyard, which includes a choice of hot dog or slider as well as chips and a soda.

Other changes include the Carvel ice cream stand, which will be replaced with a new Dunkin’ Donuts booth offering a variety of cold and hot beverages and breakfast items.

“Carvel was kind of one dimensional in my opinion with their soft serve and we think Ben and Jerry’s can service the ice cream well,” Revella said about why the company chose to drop Carvel and expand Ben and Jerry’s.

“We’ve spent money to build a beautiful new deck and patio area with fencing at our tent in the carousel,” said Pat Pipino, owner of the Ben and Jerry’s on 34 Phila Street in Saratoga Springs.

In previous years, Ben and Jerry’s operated two tents: one in the carousel and one in the paddock. This year Ben and Jerry’s will have its carousel tent as well as a full stand located on the second floor and various cart locations around the track.

“We’re so excited that NYRA is working with us because we are a local business,” Pipino said.

Other local businesses making an appearance include this year’s line up on restaurant row, which will feature the Irish Times, Cantina, Putnam Market and Saratoga Chicken. Revella also said that both Hattie’s in the Backyard and Carolina Barbecue will be back this year to represent local eateries at the track.

One other absence is the branch of the Saratoga Post Office, a decision made by the post office due to financial costs of operating their trackside stand.

NYRA President Charlie Hayward explained the reasoning behind many of the new renovations and dining options.

Hayward said that last year the track’s local advisory board conducted a series of interviews with fans, officials and local businesses and then presented the findings.

“One of the most significant findings wasn’t economic, but there was a feeling that the area behind the clubhouse and the grandstand had become very cluttered and felt more like a flea market than a race track,” Hayward said about the report. “We took a very hard look at our third party vendors and with Centerplate’s new management it created an opportunity to clean up some of that clutter and to address a secondary issue, which was the pricing.”

In terms of the improved aesthetic at the track, Hayward said that NYRA has standardized the tents in the area where local artists and vendors sell their products in order to make it look cleaner and more uniform.

“This year we have some nice new tent options, we have clear stand tents, which look a lot more professional that the old more carnival looking tents,” Revella said of the track’s new aesthetic. “It’s very neat, clean and organized as opposed to in the past when people see clutter and hodgepodge they think of carnies. This is much more streamlined.”

NYRA also works with Centerplate at Belmont Park, home of the Belmont Stakes in Elmont, where similar enhancements and changes have been made.

Revella said that Centerplate has been making significant renovations at Belmont where they renovated the old food court, now the Heritage Club to include a full service bar and expanded menu options.

Hayward said that NYRA is also working on larger capital improvement plans that would take place over four to five years at the Saratoga Track, which he stated, “Will be much more extensive than what we did at Belmont.”

Revella also agreed that both NYRA and Centerplate still have work to do to improve the Saratoga Race Course.

“We’ve addressed a lot of the things that need to be done, but we’re not finished yet — we’re not satisfied yet,” Revella said about the changes at Belmont and Saratoga. “We really want to make all of our venues a destination where people can get the ultimate experience.”

Make that 3 new lingerie shops...

2011-07-18T12:32:00.000-04:00

More underwear!

Saratoga has truly gone from zero to sixty this month when it comes to lingerie boutiques. This morning, the same day that the Biz column ran in print with the story about Chic Underneath and Fiat Feminae opening in town, I learned that a third undergarments shop is opening on Caroline Street.

Ballston Spa's Torso Lingerie Studio located 55 Front Street, will open a second location in Saratoga Springs at 24 Caroline Street in between the former Club Shadow and Silverwood Galleries.

I've put in calls to Torso's owners and will let you know as soon as I receive more details about their Saratoga opening and (since it seems to be the trend with lingerie stores) any special events or parties that correspond.

SKL

7/18 Biz column: Two new boutiques in Saratoga to focus on the ladies

2011-07-18T11:00:00.001-04:00

By SUZANNA K. LOURIE
slourie@saratogian.com

Chic Underneath owners Lauren Plasencia & Kailyn McLaughlin

SARATOGA SPRINGS — In less than a month, Broadway has gone from having zero options for women’s intimate wear to having two new lingerie boutiques.

The first to open is Chic Underneath on the corner of Broadway and Spring Street, followed by Fiat Feminae at 489 Broadway.

Mechanicville natives and childhood friends Lauren Plasencia and Kailyn McLaughlin are the faces behind Chic Underneath, a combination lingerie shop and waxing boutique located inside a historic building at 7 Spring St.

“Lauren and I have always lingerie-shopped together and we never really found anything we love or was good quality — and at Victoria’s Secret almost everything has ‘PINK’ written on the butt,” McLaughlin said of the owners’ motivation to open Chic Underneath.

When McLaughlin became a licensed “waxer,” or esthetician, she and Plasencia developed a creative business plan to open a full-service waxing and lingerie boutique in Saratoga Springs.

“We’ve always wanted to do this together and we thought it would be great to combine waxing and lingerie,” McLaughlin said.

The store carries more than 10 lines of undergarments and specializes in plus-size lingerie and maternity wear. McLaughlin also said that Chic Underneath will soon carry a line of mastectomy wear, in honor of her mother, who is a breast cancer survivor.

“We wanted to create a spot where women can shop in a judgment-free zone,” McLaughlin said. “It’s a place where women can get their lingerie, get a bikini wax to get set for the weekend and just feel comfortable about it.”

In addition to waxing services (McLaughlin does everything from bikini lines to eyebrows), Chic Underneath will also offer extras like bra fittings and personal shopping consultations.

After months of renovations, McLaughlin and Plasencia opened Saturday, marking the first in a series of local events that celebrate the women of Saratoga Springs.

Like the owners of Chic Underneath, Lisa Alden also helps boost women’s confidence by making them feel sexy with her new lingerie boutique, Fiat Feminae, which will begin its slow opening Friday. Alden will host an exclusive “first peak” event at 9 a.m. in which guests will be able to preview some of the products and collections that Fiat Feminae will carry.

Alden will also host a “Cocktail and Corsets” party that evening at Duo Lounge at 175 S. Broadway that will feature a cocktail hour followed by DJ entertainment and a fashion show where models will preview Fiat Feminae’s chic collections.

These two preview events will build up to the official grand opening

Aug. 5, where guests will receive a complimentary gift from the shop’s collections. Following the grand opening, Alden will also host a champagne-themed launch party called “Bustiers and Bubbles” at the Paddock Lounge on Caroline Street.

Alden, a Saratoga Springs native, first thought of the idea for Fiat Feminae three years ago, but it wasn’t until she hosted a June preview event that she realized it was time to follow through with her dream.

“I got inundated with emails and phone calls from women asking me to open in Saratoga, saying there was no place to shop outside of Victoria’s Secret,” Alden said. “I realized then this was a sign and I decided to go with it.”

Alden’s vision for Fiat Feminae is to go beyond ordinary and offer women high-end lines of intimate wear that they can’t get at other undergarment chains like Victoria’s Secret or Frederick’s of Hollywood.

“I wanted to bring in something you would see and go, ‘Wow,’ ” Alden said. “I want a place where the collections and the colors would pop and it almost makes you feel the sensuality just by looking at it. It’s sophisticated and classy, but has an edgy sexiness to it.”

Fiat Feminae will feature intimate wear, teddies, chemises, hosiery and a line of corsets designed by Alden, and will also carry exclusive European collections and designer brands featured on the hit CW TV show “Gossip Girl.”

Alden, who lives with her fiancé and two children, also finds time to balance her corporate career, managing a payroll company with her passion for lingerie design. But down the line, Alden said she hopes to leave the corporate world in order to focus on her new business.

“I feel that women are too often made to feel bad about wanting to dress a little sexy and feel good about themselves — they should dress however they want,” Alden said of the Fiat Feminae mission.

Between the Chic Underneath and Fiat Feminae openings, something will be available to meet every woman’s needs, and with Plasencia, McLaughlin and Alden at the helm, one thing is certain, these local entrepreneurs help women of all ages, shapes and sizes to find own their sensuality and walk with confidence.

“I want all women to feel good — I want them to try on the collections and leave knowing they have something that will make them feel good, sexy and confident whenever they wear it,” Alden said about Fiat Feminae.

Down the road on Spring Street, McLaughlin and Plasencia have a similar goal for Chic Underneath.

“We want all women to feel comfortable, confident and just have a great experience while in our store,” McLaughlin said.

Second lingerie shop to open on corner of Broadway and Spring tomorrow

2011-07-15T14:11:00.000-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Last month Saratoga had no lingerie boutiques. But, by the start of August Saratoga Springs will have two new lingerie shops located right on Broadway: Fiat Feminae and Chic Underneath.

The first of the two shops, Chic Underneath, is set to host its grand opening party this Saturday, July 16, from 5-8 p.m. at its location on the corner of Broadway and Spring Street.

The shop is owned by Lauren Plasencia and Kailyn McLaughlin and has a different mission than Lisa Alden's Fiat Feminae. Chic Underneath will offer a unique combination of products and services as a combined lingerie shop and waxing boutique.

The shop specializes in lingerie, plus size lingerie and sleepwear products, but Plasencia and McLaughlin will also offer extra services like bra fittings and personal shopping consultations.

This Saturday, stop by Chic Underneath (located just across from Congress Park) for a complimentary glass of champagne and the chance to check out the new store and its collections.

It’s truly a summer celebrating the women of Saratoga and the list of events, parties and grand openings begins this weekend at Chic Underneath.

www.chicunderneath.com
www.facebook.com/chicunderneath

07/15—07/17 Weekend Insider Roundup

2011-07-15T12:24:00.001-04:00

TGIF. Welcome to the weekend! It's going to be sunny and beautiful out so make sure you spend some time checking out these or any other fun events going on in and around Saratoga. Enjoy.

SKL

FRIDAY, JULY 15.

Take advantage of a special deal at Saratoga Polo

Saratoga Polo World Expo. The Saratoga Polo Association just kicked off their 2011 season and they’re offering a special $15 deal this Friday, July 15. The event, sponsored by Saratoga Saddlery boutique and Equicurian Magazine will feature an international crowd with players and fans from countries like Italy, Mexico, Argentina and Pakistan. There will be a tournament event and the $15 will give guests access to the exclusive clubhouse (normally $25) where there is a full cash bar and appetizer options from Lily and the Rose Gourmet Caterers. The Saratoga Polo Association, 2 Bloomfield Road, Greenfield Center. Friday, July 15. 5:30 p.m.(584-8108 www.saratogapolo.com). $15.

Dine on wood fired pizza at the Saratoga Winery

Live music, wine tasting & wood fired pizza. Get down to the Saratoga Winery & Tasting Room this Friday for a perfect summer evening. There’s no cover and guests can sip a glass of wine while watching live music by Ryan Jenson. Dinner is covered with wood fired pizza to go along with your cocktail. The perfect way to usher in a great summer weekend. The Saratoga Winery & Tasting Room, 462 Route 29 West, Saratoga Springs. Friday, July 15. 6—9 p.m. (584-9463 www.thesaratogawinery.com). FREE admission.

SATURDAY, JULY 16.

Celebrate blueberry fest in Menands

Blueberry Festival. This Saturday at the Capital District Farmer’s Market in Menands is the annual blueberry festival. Spend the morning outside and check out the blueberry dessert contest complete with prizes for the best cake, pie, cobbler, muffin or other various blueberry delicatessen. Vendors will be selling blueberry pancakes along with their usual local produce, flowers, fruits, and other farmer’s market goods. There will also be live music from Tad & Mike to complement the event. Delicious. Capital District Farmer’s Market, 381 Broadway, Menands. Saturday, July 16. 9 a.m.—1 p.m. (465-1023 www.capitaldistrictfarmersmarket.com). FREE.

Take a food tour of Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Food Tours. Take a unique culinary tour of the tastes of Saratoga. The tour begins at the Saratoga Farmer’s Market where participants will have the chance to sample a variety of fine cheeses, tapinades and homemade jams all manufactured locally. Next, head to the Olde Bryan Inn where appetizers will be served along with several talks by local experts about Saratoga’s unique food and farm history. Saratoga Farmers Market, High Rock Road, Saratoga Springs. Saturday, July 16. 12:30—3:00 p.m. (803-4181 www.saratogaspringsfoodtours.com). $40

SUNDAY, JULY 17.

Get in race season spirit at the track’s annual open house

Saratoga Race Course: 31st Annual Open House. Each year the Saratoga Race Course puts on a traditional open house fit for the whole family. The day will be packed with games, activities, live music and entertainment, as well as pony rides and non-betting horse races. There will also be a number of behind-the-scenes tours and all proceeds from the event will go to local non-profit organizations. Saratoga Race Course, 267 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs. 11 a.m.—4 p.m. (584-7064 www.saratogaracecourse.com). FREE.

Prove your beer drinking skills at Putnam Den’s first Beer Olympics.

Putnam Den's First Annual Beer Olympics. Join Putnam Den for their first annual Beer Olympics this Sunday. Local bars and independent teams are encouraged to participate. Some of events include: beer pong, crazy waiter beer carry, tricycle obstacle course, blindfolded beer taste tests, relay chug, limbo contest, beer can toss and a shotgun contest. The top two teams will go head-to-head in an all out water balloon dodge ball tournament… Should be interesting so if you’re not playing, at least come and cheer on your teammates (and take incriminating photos…). The Putnam Den, 63A Putnam Street, Saratoga Springs. 4—7 p.m. (584-8066 www.putnamden.com). $6 per person.

Lisa Alden hopes to empower women with the opening of her new lingerie boutique on Broadway

2011-07-14T15:40:00.000-04:00

Last Friday I posted about a new lingerie boutique that is hosting a sneak peak event on Friday, July 22. Here is a little more about Fiat Feminae and its ambitious owner Lisa Alden. Read on to find out all about Alden's upcoming preview events and parties!

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Three years ago, Saratoga native Lisa Alden dreamed of making the women of Saratoga feel sexy. This August, Alden’s vision will come to life with the opening of her new Fiat Feminae Lingerie boutique at 489 Broadway.

After receiving an overwhelming response from women in the community following a June preview event, Alden, who graduated Saratoga Springs High School in 1998, decided to run with the idea in her hometown.

“I got inundated with emails and phone calls from women asking me to open in Saratoga saying there was no place to shop outside of Victoria’s Secret” Alden said. “I realized then this was a sign and I decided to go with it.”

Part of Alden’s vision was to bring her boutique to Broadway because she pointed out that there is no place besides Victoria’s Secret and Fredericks of Hollywood for women to shop for intimate wear between here and Albany.

“You get bored with the basic colors you see in Victoria’s Secret and in my opinion, some of the Frederick’s stuff is cheaply made,” Alden said of the idea behind Fiat Feminae. “I wanted to bring in something you would see and go, ‘Wow,’ where the collections and the colors would pop and it almost makes you feel the sensuality just by looking at it. It’s sophisticated and classy, but has an edgy sexiness to it.”

Fiat Feminae will carry exclusive European collections as well as designer brands featured on the hit CW TV show Gossip Girl. The shop will feature items like intimate wear, teddies, chemises, hosiery and a line of Fiat Feminae corsets designed by Alden herself.

Beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday, July 22, Alden will open the boutique for a “first peak” event where guests will be able to preview some of the products and undergarment lines that Fiat Feminae will carry. Following the sneak peak event Alden will also host a Cocktail and Corsets event that evening at Duo Lounge at 175 South Broadway. The event kicks off with a 9 p.m. cocktail hour followed by a DJ performance during a fashion show where models will preview Fiat Feminae’s chic collections.
Alden, who lives in Saratoga Springs with her fiancé and two children, somehow finds time to balance her corporate career managing a payroll company with her passion for lingerie design. But down the line, Alden said she hopes to leave the corporate world in order to focus on her new business.

Meanwhile, Alden hasn’t let her busy schedule slow her down as she prepares for a very grand entrance onto the Broadway retail scene. In addition to the sneak peak and cocktail party this weekend, Alden is also planning several special events for Fiat Feminae’s official grand opening on Friday, August 5. That day, each guest who walks in the door will receive a free gift bag complete with a free gift from the store and after regular business hours, there will be a champagne inspired “Bustiers and Bubbles” official launch party at Duo.
One thing is sure, Alden is helping pave the way for Saratoga women of all ages, shapes and sizes to own their sensuality and walk with confidence.

“I feel that women are too often made to feel bad about wanting to dress a little sexy and feel good about themselves — they should dress however they want,” Alden said of her mission with Fiat Feminae.
“I want all women to feel good — I want them to try on the collections and leave knowing they have something that will make them feel good, sexy and confident whenever they wear it.”

SKL

Bettie's Cakes' grand opening tomorrow on Broadway

2011-07-14T12:04:00.000-04:00

Bettie's to open on Broadway tomorrow.

Just heard via Twitter (@suzannaklourie for those not already following) that Bettie's Cakes is finally moving to its new on-Broadway location at the former home of Maestro's Restaurant.

I did a quick story back in early June about Bettie's moving from the Downstreet Marketplace to 371 Broadway. Although they had planned the grand opening for June, looks like it got pushed back to mid-July, but hey we're not complaining...the old location was closer to our office!

Check out Bettie's new digs tomorrow for their first day of business. Beginning at noon they will be giving away free cake ball truffles and rumor has it that Bettie herself will making a special guest appearance. They had me at free cake ball truffles so join me tomorrow to see what all the excitement is about.

www.bettiescakes.com

SKL

Saratoga Capriccio to open on Henry Street today

2011-07-13T11:40:00.000-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Capriccio Saratoga, the new branch of Albany Italian eatery Café Capriccio, will open its doors to the public at 5:30 this evening.

Owner Jim Rua founded Café Capriccio, a fine-dining restaurant that offers authentic regional Italian cuisine, in downtown Albany 30 years ago and recently expanded the business to include Capriccio Saratoga, a traditional Neapolitan bistro in Saratoga Springs.

Last year, Rua teamed up with his son, Franco Rua, who has been the chef at Café Capriccio, to help oversee Capriccio Saratoga’s kitchen. Also, longtime family friend Henry Ciccone will become the new branch’s general manager. The three will serve as proprietors and co-owners of Capriccio Saratoga.

“We had been thinking of coming to Saratoga for a while,” Franco said. “We were looking at the old Marino’s Pizza on Beekman Street, but the lease fell through.”

Local restaurateurs and real estate brokers Christel and Colin MacLean heard that the Ruas were hoping to open a restaurant in Saratoga and suggested they look into the 26 Henry St. location, which was home to Dine restaurant at the time.

The three men entered into negotiations with Dine back in February and made a deal to purchase the space and reopen it as Capriccio Saratoga, an eatery with an innovative take on authentic regional Italian cuisine.

“We’re doing a specific take on the classic menu we offer in Albany by focusing on the Neapolitan region of Italy,” Franco said. “The city of Naples is where the tomato first became widely used and where pizza and tomato sauce originated from, so we want to keep that focus.”

According to Franco, the restaurant will focus on offering genuine Neapolitan wood-fired pizza baked fresh in an oven straight from Italy.

“Naples is the land of beautiful sunshine and fresh vegetables prepared in a simple but classic way, and we hope to reflect that in what we’re doing here,” Franco said. “We have real pizza as you would get in Naples, but we’re not just a pizza place.”

In addition to its 11 styles of Neapolitan pizza, Capriccio Saratoga’s menu will also feature an array of fresh antipasti platters made with fine Italian meats and cheeses, as well as a variety of salads, vegetables, pasta dishes, meats and more.

Starting Thursday, Capriccio Saratoga will be open for regular business hours, which run from 11:30 a.m. until its late-night closing time. The kitchen will stop serving its full menu at 11 p.m., but Franco mentioned that pizza will be available for customers later into the evening.

“I’m very excited,” Franco said of the restaurant’s opening. “It’s a cool concept and it’s unlike what we’ve done in the past. It will be different in a lot of ways and hopefully successful.”

Franco’s father is equally excited about his family’s latest venture.

“We love the cuisine of Naples, the people of Naples and the city of Naples,” Jim said. “We’re going to bring a little bit of Napoli right here to Saratoga Springs.”

Regional online farmer's market FarmieMarket launches today

2011-07-12T12:51:00.000-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Fresh produce online? It might sound counter-intuitive, but today's launch of the newly expanded virtual farmer's market FarmieMarket.com makes local food an online reality for customers across the Capital Region.

FarmieMarket.com previously operated within Albany area, but today the site will expand to cover Saratoga, Schenectady and Rensselaer County.

The website allows customers to browse fresh produce and other natural goods from small family-run farms in the Capital District. Shoppers can gather information about each product and its corresponding farm and then add items to their shopping cart, pay by credit card and have their orders delivered to their home or workplace. Deliveries are made once a week: Tuesday in Rensselaer County, Wednesday in Saratoga County and Thursday in the Albany and Schenectady areas.

FarmieMarket.com currently has about 20 small local farms in its database that all work to deliver their produce fresh to customers in the area.

Once customers enter the site, they can choose their individual market territory to ensure browsing only the closest farms to that given county. For example, customers in the Albany and Schenectady Counties will be directed to the Heldeberg Market and shoppers in the Saratoga region will order from the Turning Point Market.

The site has established relationships with many regional farms in line with its mission to help sustain small farms by allowing them to expand their business and customer base. FarmieMarket.com is a pioneer in the new movement toward combining online services and technology with locally-sourced goods and produce.

The online store is always open for busy customers who have trouble making it to their own local farmer's market, which tend to run once a week on Saturdays or Sundays. The minimum order is $30 and there is a $5 delivery fee.

Check it out at www.FarmieMarket.com

SKL

Sperry's celebrates its first anniversary of new ownership with a garden party this Thursday & new brunch menu

2011-07-12T11:28:00.002-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — This Thursday, July 14, Christel and Colin MacLean will host a garden party at Sperry's Restaurant to celebrate their one-year anniversary of new ownership and to thank the community for their support.

Last year on July 14, the MacLeans hosted a kick off garden party to mark the start of Sperry's new ownership when they purchased the historic Caroline Street bistro from previous owner Ridge Qua.
The garden party starts at 5 p.m. and runs until 7 p.m. this Thursday outside on the patio at Sperry's on 30 Caroline Street. The event will features complimentary hors d'oeuvres by Chef Dale Miller and complimentary cocktails for guests.

Guests enjoy Sperry's first garden party on July 14, 2010.

While guests enjoy samples from the kitchen and sip some of Sperry's signature cocktails they can also enjoy live music in the courtyard by the local favorites the George Boone Blues Band.

Following the one-year anniversary celebration, owners Christel and Colin MacLean will fittingly unveil Sperry's new brunch menu starting this weekend on Saturday, July 16 and Sunday, July 17.

Starting this weekend, Sperry's will be serving up its scrumptious new brunch menu from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m on Saturdays and Sundays.

The relaxed-vibe menu will feature some of Chef Dale Miller's favorites including signature dishes like lemon ricotta pancakes and baked cinnamon pecan French toast with banana caramel sauce. Other mouth-watering brunch specials include eggs Benedict of the day and a Louisiana eggs scramble.

Guests enjoying Sperry's new brunch will also have the chance to enjoy a beverage from the new brunch cocktail list to accompany their meals.

The garden party and new brunch menu are the perfect complement to the gorgeous summer weather we've been having so be sure to get in early on Thursday for your happy hour and check back this weekend for brunch!

SKL
www.sperrysrestaurant.com

Fiat Feminae to host a sneak peak event on Broadway

2011-07-08T21:41:00.000-04:00

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Springs native Lisa Alden announced on Friday, July 8, that she will be opening Fiat Feminae Lingerie Boutique at 489 Broadway this summer.

Before the official grand opening, Alden will host an exclusive “first peak” event at 9 a.m. on Friday, July 22 at the store’s Broadway location. The event will give guests the opportunity to have an insider look at Fiat Feminae’s exclusive European collections as well as designer brands that have been featured on the hit CW TV show Gossip Girl.

In addition to carrying bras, underwear and other intimate wear, the boutique will also feature a unique line of shape wear and corsets.

“My passion is to empower women by encouraging them to embrace their sensuality,” Alden said in a recent statement announcing the new store’s sneak peak event.

A long-time resident of Saratoga Springs, Alden hopes that her boutique will help expand the blossoming sector of businesses owned and managed by women on Broadway.

I will release more details and information regarding the official opening of Fiat Feminae next week following a pending interview with Alden. Stay tuned ladies.

(The Fiat Feminae website is currently under construction, but you can check out their Facebook page here.)

SKL

In The Biz

Russo's update

Business Updates in Downtown Saratoga

Rumor mill: Brindisi's sold and Russo's moving in (but which Russo?)

Spanish restaurant headed to Broadway (updated 4:50 p.m.)

Forgot to add this...

Another shake-up on Broadway (** updated)

Farewell to another Saratogian business reporter

Nikita Furniture to close Broadway location tomorrow

New location and name for the Cupcake Lab

New businesses coming to Ballston Spa & Saratoga

Ballston Spa business owners organize holiday memorial tree fundraiser for local not-for-profit

Jake's Help From Heaven non-for-profit holding special event at Cantina tonight

Restaurant update: Celebrate like a Hollywood star at Sperry's New Year's Eve party

Saratoga business and local synagogue requesting donations to help recognize Schoharie volunteers

Leon's Mexican Restaurant on Crescent Street may be on the market

Embrace the Race offers special holiday deals for the horse racing enthusiast in your life

Ride the Polar Express in your PJ's and score free cotton candy at Circus Cafe

Historic Adelphi Hotel on Broadway up for sale

Siro's introduces tapas Thursdays and NFL Sunday's at the Lodge

Prime at Saratoga National introduces new Mugs & Martinis Society benefits

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Prime at Saratoga National recently launched its new Mugs & Martinis Society membership benefits, reported Steve Barnes, on his Table Hopping blog for the Times Union.

To join the Mugs & Martinis Society (annual fee of $75) you must be at least 21-years-old. Rules include no sharing mugs or shakers, breakage fee applies.

Benefits include:

Saratoga National beer mug and Saratoga National cocktail shaker in personalized box with nameplate.

Email alerts about when new and limited craft beer will become available.

$1 off all regular martinis and $2 off specialty martinis.

50 percent off all draft beer Wednesdays

Preferential opportunities Prime events and specialty dinners.

21-ounce mug fills at regular 16-ounce prices, including happy hour pricing (excludes any beer over 7 percent ABV).

Happy wedding day to CityDesk reporter Lucian McCarty

News from Sperry's

Hattie's now serving brunch! Yum.

Local jewelry designer Dennis deJonghe wins two international design awards

Brindisi's Restaurant closes early for winter season, owner looking to sell

Hattie's Restaurant named one of Food and Wine's best fried chicken establishments in the U.S.

Lucia boutique to host grand opening event Friday in new & improved location

New Fingery Lakes winery to open tasting room on South Broadway next year

The Cupcake Lab closes doors to prepare for new location

Four women-owned businesses in the Saratoga Marketplace to host grand opening event this weekend

UPDATED: Big Apple Pizza now Pizza 7 with expanded dinner menu

Businesses to host Halloween-themed events this weekend

10/07-10/09 Weekend Insider Roundup

SATURDAY

Treat yourself to a spa treatment this Saturday

Downtown businesses "go pink" for breast cancer awareness

09/30-10/02 Weekend Insider Roundup

Hello hello,

Enjoy,

SKL

Get informed at a new documentary screening

SATURDAY

Rock out for breast cancer

Celebrate our country's first citizens

SUNDAY

Join a 5K community walk/run

Wilton Applebee's auctions off decor for charity this weekend

Goodbye Gotchya's, hello Groggery & Clayworks

09/23-09/25 Weekend Insider Roundup

Second annual Harvest Festival celebrates peace for a cause this Sunday

Free yoga classes start this weekend in Glens Falls

Downtown developments; Turkish Bazaar out, Lucia in, new comfort food lunch spot on the way, seasonal stores pack up

Lake Ridge Restaurant celebrates 10th anniversary , offers special menu

Looking for a job? Head over to the Saratogian Job Fair at the Wilton Mall today

One Roof opens new location, One Big Roof, on Broadway

Sangwych changes hands, new additions

Saratoga Soups prepping for third soup season

09/03-09/05 Weekend Insider Roundup

08/26-08/28 Weekend Insider Roundup

The dough cousin joins the dough boy and dough girl at Esperanto

Metalsmith crafting Old World Wine Racks in Saratoga Springs

13th annual Travers Celebration week offers fun, prizes and food

08/19-08/21 Weekend Insider Roundup

The Candy Co. of Saratoga Springs launches new and improved website

The couponing craze continues; TLC producers look to cast locals; More saving tips

Two local women launch new integrated marketing firm with specialty in horse racing; Tropic Hut restaurant reopens

Saratoga Springs man on his way to international success with Vermont Peanut Butter Co.

DeCrescente Distributing Co. to expand headquarters; Spirits of Saratoga Wine & Liquor closes

08/12-08/14 Weekend Insider Roundup

NYRA announces 2nd annual Travers 1864 Restaurant Week starting August, 21