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Chocolate and Dessert Concert Raises Funds for Friends of Johnson Hall
Tickets are still available for the 1st annual Chocolate and Dessert Concert, benefiting the Friends of Johnson Hall beginning at 6:30pm on Saturday, September 22 at the Johnson Hall State Historic Site. This fundraising event will support the ongoing historic restoration of Sir William Johnson and Molly Brant’s 18th century estate. 
A variety of 18th century hot chocolate drinks will be made and served by Paul Supley of Van Wyck Chocolate House. Culinary historian Sara Evenson will provide fresh-baked Pippin pies and biscuits with crabapple jelly. Following the chocolate and dessert, a concert of 18th century music will be held in the Hall’s center hallway by Liaison Plaisantes.
While tickets are still available, the event is limited to 40 participants. Pre-registration and pre-payment of $25 is required, payable to the Friends of Johnson Hall.
The Friends of Johnson Hall is a not-for-profit organization which supports the educational programming and ongoing historic restoration of Johnson Hall.
To make reservations and for more information, call (518)762-8712.
Johnson Hall was the 1763 Georgian-style estate of Sir William Johnson and Molly Brant and their family. Sir William (1715 – 1774) was the largest landowner and most influential individual in the colonial Mohawk Valley. His success in dealing with the Six Nations had a lasting impact on their relationship with the English, and largely influenced England’s victory in its struggle with the French for control of colonial North America.
The main house and flanking stone houses, originally surrounded by a 700 acre farm, now interpret the Johnson family through guided tours of the period room settings, educational programs and special events.
The Return of the Cavalcade of Champions Drum Corps
Click HERE for Tickets!
Fulton County Center for Regional Growth is excited to announce the return of the Cavalcade of Champions Drum Corps Exhibition on July 22, 2018!
It’s been 30 years since Fulton County has heard the exciting sounds of the drum corps and the show is expected to welcome them back with style. The Cavalcade of Champions will be a high-energy choreographed performance featuring dozens of marching drummers, brass musicians, and costumed color guard performers.
The Cavalcade of Champions will be held on Sunday, July 22, 2018 at Husky Football Field. Tickets are available online at www.fccrg.org/events-in-fulton-county/cavalcade-of-champions/ or at local venues and will also be available at the gate. Gates open at 5:30pm for a 7pm show.
Four of the country’s top corps will be performing in Husky Football Field at Gloversville’s Park Terrace School 50 Bloomingdale Avenue, Gloversville, NY. The stadium gates open to spectators at 5:30pm and the show starts at 7pm.
The corps are competing for a place in this year’s DCI Nationals Finals and will be performing their 2018 repertoires. The four competing corps are:
7th Regiment of New London, CT 7thRegiment takes its name from the last Civil War unit to 
leave Fort Trumbull in the corps’ hometown. After first competing in 2003, “7R” has been an Open Class finalist each year since 2009 and is the current three-time defending DCI Drum Line Battle Champion. 7th Regiment proudly represents the local community in New London and the state of Connecticut. They will perform In a Different Light.
Legends of Kalamazoo, MI. Established in 2006, Legends Performing Arts sponsors the Legends Drum & Bugle Corps, Legends Drum Corps Open (Southwest Michigan DCI event), and Legends Drum Corps Invitational (Southeast Michigan DCI event). First competing at the DCI World Championships in 2008, Legends has been recognized with an impressive string of Most Improved Open Class Corps awards in 2009, 2012, and 2015. The Kalamazoo based group has finished as an Open Class Finalist every year since 2009 and recently was an Open Class Bronze Medalist in 2016 and 2017. The Legends will be performing “Along Came a Spider.”
Raiders of Burlington, NJ. The New Jersey-based Raiders Drum and Bugle Corps was founded in 1990. First competing regionally in 1991, the group made its inaugural trip to the DCI World Championships a year later. A finalist in its division every year since 2001, Raiders won the DCI Division III World Championship title in 2005. The drum corps operates as part of the A+ Education and Performing Arts organization. The Raiders will performBeowulf: Rise of a Legend.
The Spartans of Nashua, NH. The Spartans have laid claim to four DCI Division II World
Championship titles since its founding in 1955, most recently in 2007. The corps has earned numerous silver and bronze medals and was the 1999 Spirit of Disney award winner. The only competitive drum corps in New Hampshire, Spartans has had the privilege of playing for eight different United States Presidents. The Spartans will be performing Da Vinci’s Workshop.
Pre-event tickets can be purchased online from CRG’s website via credit/debit card. Pre-event tickets can also be purchased locally (cash only) for $25 per person at the Mohawk Harvest Cooperative Market (30 North Main Street, Gloversville) and CRG’s office (34 West Fulton Street, Gloversville). Day of event tickets will also be available at Husky Field at $30 per person. FREE Child Ticket with the purchase of an Adult Ticket (child = age 12 and under).
Special group pricing is also available. Please call us at 518 -725-7700 for more information or email Becky Hatcher at beckyh@fccrg.org.
On the day of the event, spectator parking around the event site will be at a premium. The City of Gloversville Transit System has agreed to provide a shuttle service for spectators from the public parking lots in downtown Gloversville along Elm Street, to the Park Terrace School. This will also allow attendees the opportunity to arrive early and visit the restaurants and shops along downtown Gloversville’s Main Street. Please look for event parking maps and bus schedules at www.fccrg.org, under the events tab.
Northville Rotary Celebrates its Tenth Wood and Art Show July 20-22
Woodworking and Fine Arts Weekend
In July 2009, eleven artists took a chance on a new show being held at the Inn at the Bridge in Northville featuring both woodworkers and fine artists. The idea was conceived by Rotarian Mike Kratky and the first event was organized by a small group of the 10 Rotarians at that time. Today the Woodworking and Fine Arts Weekend features over 65 artists and non-profits. It is held at the Northampton Town Park and Bradt Municipal Building – a venue that can hold the larger numbers of both artists and the public.
Juried artists and selected fine craftsmen display countless examples of the area’s most exquisite works of art. Among the fine artisans you can expect to find; woodworkers, painters, jewelers, photographers, weavers, basket makers, potters, and others, all displaying their unique talent with items available for purchase.
The Northville Rotary is proud to announce this year’s featured artists – Marion Kratky of Northville, an exceptional painter known for her beautiful landscapes, and master woodturner John L. Wdowin, of Mesa Arizona and Westdale, New York who creates unique waterproof vases.
Woodworker George Olsen, Jr.
Four of the “Charter Members” who have been with us over the past ten show and were instrumental in spreading the word to other artists who have joined us over the years is artist Marion Kratky and woodworkers Mike Kratky, George Olsen, Jr. and Al Caruso. Each will be featured in this year’s program.
Opening Ceremony 2017
The weekend will begin with Opening Ceremonies 5:00 on Friday, July 20th. The show will from continue 5:00-8:00. Hours Saturday will be 9-5 and Sunday 10-3 and include demonstrations, raffles, and a silent auction. Food can be purchased and picnic areas are available.
Come join us to celebrate “A Decade of Shows” and enjoy discovering the beautiful Sacandaga Lake, restaurants and shops of the quaint village of Northville.
Proceeds from this event will be used by the Northville Rotary throughout the year to provide scholarships to students, support community organizations, and projects of Rotary International. Contact Sue Owens sowens26@gmail.com for more information.
Cycle Adirondacks Introduces Fall Harvester Bicycling Event
Two-Day tour features the agricultural landscape and rich history of Fulton County
Cycle Adirondacks will cap its 2018 bicycling season with a brand new fall event, the Harvester slated for September 29-30 in Fulton County. The two-day family friendly road cycling event will be based at Johnson Hall State Historic Site in Johnstown and feature the pastoral agricultural landscape and rich history of Fulton County and the southern Adirondacks.
Registration, now open at CycleAdirondacks.com, includes fully marked and supported cycling routes for all abilities levels, meals, route snacks and entertainment. Not to mention unique stops at historic sites and farms in picturesque Fulton County during peak fall foliage.
“Fulton County is abundant with a rich history and scenic beauty along with an active cycling population. Partnering with Cycle Adirondacks to host this new event was the best way to showcase all three,” stated Gina DaBiere-Gibbs, Director of Tourism for the Fulton Montgomery Regional Chamber of Commerce. “Recreationally, Fulton County offers the FJ&G Rail Trail, mountain biking trails, a triathlon, and a cycling club. Cycle Adirondacks has visited Fulton County in the past with their weeklong tour as well. That event was very well received with cyclists and our local communities. We wanted to build off of these successes and create an event to highlight our historic sites, agriculture, scenic beauty, and benefit our local businesses.”
Additionally, partial proceeds from the event will benefit the Fulton Montgomery Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Scholarship Program, which was established in 1986 to provide financial assistance and incentives for students interested in pursuing a course of college study.
“The Chamber gives out scholarships annually to eligible high school seniors graduating from a Fulton or Montgomery County high school or applicants who have previously graduated from a Fulton or Montgomery County high school. We receive between 60 and 80 applications per year from all over the region and has awarded over $120,000 in scholarship funds to Fulton and Montgomery County high school seniors,” added DaBiere-Gibbs.
All cycling routes will start and finish at historic Johnson Hall. In between, guests will experience calm rural roads offering an up-close look at the beautifully diverse landscape of the Mohawk Valley and southern Adirondacks. All while visiting with those who work the land, preserve the history and call this special place home.
“Connecting people with place is a key component of any Cycle Adirondacks bicycle tour,” said Cycle Adirondacks Matt VanSlyke. “We strive to provide an experience that’s authentic and unique. Our guests travel far and wide to explore the world on their bicycles and it’s our mission to show them why Upstate New York is the finest place to ride.”
Harvester registration will include light breakfast options both Saturday and Sunday morning at Johnson Hall featuring fresh fruit, bagels with local cream cheese, assorted local and homemade baked goods as well as coffee/tea, juices and water from Black Tie Catering.
Following the Saturday ride, the event goes big with a finish line BBQ at Johnson Hall complete with pulled pork, bone-in smoked chicken, pasta salads, fresh strawberry salad, grilled herb vegetables, assorted desserts, coffee/tea and other assorted beverages. The BBQ will also feature local craft beers, ciders and live entertainment from the Insolent Willies from 1-4 p.m.
And best of all, the finish line BBQ and entertainment is a community event open to all which flows perfectly into the annual Bacon Jam set for later that afternoon in downtown Gloversville.
Event lodging for those visiting from out of town is widely available within a short distance from Johnson Hall. Complete event details and event registration is available now at CycleAdirondacks.com/Harvester.
DETAILS
- 2-Day noncompetitive bicycle tour with multiple fully supported daily rides for all ability levels
- Routes feature fall foliage, incredible landscape, farm and historical stops.
- Registration includes three meals, complete route, medical and mechanical support, off-bike activities, entertainment and an event T-shirt
- Registration and complete event schedule is now available at CycleAdirondacks.com.
Cycle Adirondacks
Cycle Adirondacks mission is to grow and support bicycle tourism in New York’s Adirondack Park and surrounding region. Created in 2015, Cycle Adirondacks began as a weeklong road cycling tour designed to connect people with some of the most spectacular landscape and communities in North America. What resulted is a world-class ecotourism company that continues to help strengthen the Northern New York economy.
The Return of the Cavalcade of Champions Drum Corps
Fulton County Center for Regional Growth is excited to announce the return of the Cavalcade of Champions Drum Corps Exhibition on July 22, 2018! 
It’s been 30 years since Fulton County has heard the exciting sounds of the drum corps – so make sure you purchase your tickets today and welcome this exciting and talented group back into our area.
Husky Football Field at Gloversville’s Park Terrace School (50 Bloomingdale Avenue, Gloversville) will play host for the evening’s entertainment. The stadium gates will open to spectators at 5:30 p.m. and the show starts at 7:00 p.m. Four of the country’s top corps will be performing: 7th Regiment from New London, CT; Legends from Kalamazoo, MI; Raiders from Burlington, NJ; and Spartans from Nashua, NH.
Tickets can be purchased online from CRG’s website (www.fccrg.org, under the events tab). Tickets can also be purchased at the Mohawk Harvest Co-op (30 North Main Street, Gloversville) and CRG’s office (34 West Fulton Street, Gloversville) at a discounted rate.
On the day of the event, spectator parking around the event site will be at a premium. The City of Gloversville Transit System has agreed to provide a shuttle service for spectators from the public parking lots in downtown Gloversville along Elm Street to the Park Terrace School – so don’t miss out on this special provision! This will also allow you the opportunity to arrive early and visit the restaurants and shops along Main Street.
Here’s a snapshot of this event:
Cavalcade of Champions Drum Corps Exhibition
Sunday, July 22, 2018 at Husky Football Field, Park Terrace School, Gloversville
Gates open at 5:30 p.m.
Show starts at 7:00 p.m.
Purchase tickets online: www.fccrg.org or in person at Mohawk Harvest Co-op or CRG’s office
Want a preview of the event? Go to Youtube to watch clips of all 4 of the corps routines, as well as behind the scenes videos that allow you to get to know the members of the drum corps. Search them all and find a favorite that you can cheer on during their July 22nd event!
7th Regiment from New London, CT – Legends from Kalamazoo, MI – Raiders from Burlington, NJ. – Spartans from Nashua, NH.
CRG is seeking volunteers to assist us with this event! If you are interested in participating, please email Becky Hatcher at beckyh@fccrg.org.
Hands-On History Day at Johnson Hall
Johnson Hall State Historic Site will hold a free Hands-On History Day on Saturday, June 16 from noon to 4pm.
At noon, Senior Interpreter Audrey Humphrey will invite visitors to try out stilts, whirlygigs, draughts, skittles and other colonial toys and games. At 1:30pm, what kinds of things would be included in an 18th century trade bale will be discovered with Historic Site Manager Wade Wells. Finally, at 3pm Curator of Education Darlene Rogers will assist visitors in learning about writing with quill pens and ink in the colonial era.
Regular guided tours of Johnson Hall and the slaves quarter will be offered on the normal schedule, beginning on the hour at 10am, with the last tour beginning at 4pm. Admission is $4 for adults, and $3 for students and senior citizens.
The Hands-On History Day is in conjunction with Johnstown Historical Society programming on the same day. The Johnstown Historical Society Museum will be open for tours from noon to 4pm. The Drumm House will also offer tours from noon to 4pm, and will feature musket drills for children and 18th century weaving demonstration on a period loom. Tours will also be available at the James Burk Inn, which will feature period music and children’s coloring activities. These events are part of the Path Through History Weekend.
Johnson Hall was the 1763 English Georgian estate of Sir William Johnson and Molly Brant. Johnson was the largest single landowner and most influential individual in the colonial Mohawk Valley. His success in dealing with the Six Nations had a lasting impact on their relationship with the English, and largely influenced England’s victory in the Anglo-French struggle for control of colonial North America. Today, the main house and flanking stonehouses, originally surrounded by a 700 acre farm, interpret Sir William and Molly Brant’s family life through guided tours of the period room settings, educational programs and special events.
Johnson Hall State Historic Site is located at 139 Hall Avenue in historic Johnstown, just off West State Street (State Highway 29 West). For more information on Johnson Hall and its 2018 special events, write JohnsonHall@parks.ny.gov or visit www.facebook.com/johnsonhallstatehistoricsite or www.friendsofjohnsonhallny.org.
“Harnessing Nature” Film Showing
Presented by the Fulton County Historical Society and Museum and the Fulton County Historian
Thursday, June 7th, 6:00pm
Gloversville Middle School auditorium
Join the Fulton County Historical Society and Museum and the Fulton County Historian’s Office for a presentation of “Harnessing Nature: Building the Great Sacandaga Lake.” Saratoga County Historian Lauren Roberts and Director of Planning Jason Kemper will give a brief introduction and lead a Q&A session after the film. DVDs will be available for purchase. Proceeds from the evening’s sales will go to the Fulton County Museum.
“Harnessing Nature” chronicles the incredible journey of the creation of the Great Sacandaga Lake, including first-hand accounts of valley residents and original documents describing this amazing feat of engineering. For the residents of the Sacandaga Valley, the loss of their homes and communities was devastating. For the residents downstream who had suffered staggering losses from years of flooding, it was long overdue. For those who live along it’s shores today, it is important to understand the story of the Great Sacandaga Lake.
This event is free but reservations are required. Reservations can be made by going to facebook.com/fultoncountyhistorian.
The 24th Regiment of Foot Infantry to Garrison at Johnson Hall State Historic Site
Johnson Hall State Historic Site will be hosting His Majesty’s 24th Regiment of Foot on Saturday, May 5 and Sunday, May 6 from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm. The regiment will be garrisoned for the weekend in the southwest stonehouse to exercise their manual of arms, drilling as did the soldiers of King George the III over 200 years ago. Drill will focus on marching and musketry in period uniforms and accoutrements of soldiers who served with General Burgoyne’s Army from 1776- 1777. Historic Site Manager, Wade Wells will also exhibit and discuss the diet and variety of foods that were provided to British soldiers as their weekly provisions.
For those interested in participating in living history please take note of the following! To All Dashing High-spirited YOUNG HEROES Who Wish to obtain GLORY in the SERVICE of their Country and re-enact the American War for Independence, have now the finest Opportunity, by joining this enterprising respectable regiment. Everyone must be well aware, that this Honorable Corps, possess Advantages superior to any other under the Crown. Good Quarters, plenty of Beef, Pudding and drink after Dinner. Lose no Time! Therefore, in speaking to the Recruiting Officer or Col. Paul Novotny over the weekend!
Johnson Hall will be open for tours on the hour both days from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm during this event.
For more information on this event, contact Wade Wells at 518-762-8712 or at wade.wells@parks.ny.gov.
Johnson Hall was the 1763 Georgian estate of Sir William Johnson and Molly Brant and their family. Sir William (1715 – 1774) was the single largest landowner and most influential individual in the colonial Mohawk Valley. His success in dealing with the Six Nations had a lasting impact on their relationship with the English, and largely influenced England’s victory in the Anglo-French struggle for control of colonial North America. The main house and flanking stonehouses, originally surrounded by a 700 acre farm, now interpret the Johnson family through guided tours of the period room settings, educational programs and special events.
Johnson Hall State Historic Site is located at 139 Hall Avenue in historic Johnstown, just off West State Street (State Highway 29 West). For more information visit our Facebook page or www.friendsofjohnsonhallny.org, or email JohnsonHall@parks.ny.gov.
MAPLE WEEKENDS
The Upper Hudson Maple Producers Association will once again host Maple Open House Weekends, March 17, 18, 24 and 25, allowing the public to take a free tour of area sugarhouses and see maple syrup made onsite.
Families are invited to experience first-hand the sights, smells and sounds of maple sugar-making. Past events have been so successful they have been expanded to multi-weekends, giving more opportunities to visit sugarhouses.
Signs will be placed along roadsides over the course of the weekends to direct motorists to the sugarhouses. The sugarhouses will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Most sugarhouses will offer samples and demonstrations. Many of the locations will be serving pancake breakfasts as well.
Participating Fulton County sugarhouses:
Brower Road Sugar House, Gloversville, (518) 848-7685
Frasier’s Sugar Shack, St. Johnsville, (518) 568-7438
Mud Road Sugar House, Ephratah, (518) 863-6313
Peaceful Valley Maple Farms, Johnstown, (518) 762-8936
Maple season generally runs from now through the beginning of April. The Upper Hudson Maple Producers Association is a trade organization representing maple producers in Washington, Warren, Saratoga, Montgomery, Fulton and Rensselaer Counties. The Upper Hudson region is among the biggest syrup producing areas in New York State. To find more information about the event, local sugarmaking, and maple recipes, visit www.upperhudsonmaple.com.