Business - Saratoga Bridges to hold gala

The annual benefit's theme for this year is "Under the Big Top" and will feature The Bindlestiff Family Circkus and The Cirkestra, a circus-themed musical group who has been featured on "America's Got Talent."

While the event typically takes place in May, event chairperson Margie Rotchford said it makes more sense to hold it in August when Saratoga Springs is buzzing with locals and tourists alike who are in town during racing season.

"We get great support every year, but we want new people. There's no better time than August to reach out to a new crowd," Rotchford said.

The annual gala supports Saratoga Bridges, a community resource for people living with disabilities and their families. This year it will take place under a circus tent on the grounds of The Lodge Restaurant on Nelson Avenue. Cocktail attire is suggested but guests are also encouraged to dress up as their favorite circus performer.

"We want everyone to feel as if they are a part of the event. They can dress up to match the theme which will make it fun for everyone," Rochford said.

One of the main events of the gala is the auction, which tops itself each year with bigger and better items up for bid. Some of the items on this year's list are: a private box for five people at Saratoga Race Course for the Travers Stakes, 10 percent ownership of a Thoroughbred who will run at Saratoga Race Course this year (the horse has yet to be named), two tickets to Dave Matthews Band with VIP access at Saratoga Performing Arts Center, a seven-day vacation in Paris, a seven-day vacation in London, a catered cocktail party for 20 in your home, and Dr. Gerald Benjamin smile makeover.

Last year's event raised more than $45,000 and had more than 300 guests.

"Every year is such a success, I need to keep thinking of ways to top it for the next gala," Rotchford said. "This year I thought to myself, 'galas are typically such a circus, so why not have one? Even now that we are grown, it's still a fun and fabulous theme. Everyone will have a great time."

Rotchford said that she begins planning the galas well over a year before it takes place. She said she has the theme for next year's gala already figured out as well.

"This is something I work on every day, and I would never have been able to pull it off without everyone's help. It's my duty to thank and promote everyone who helps me," She added.
"Saratoga Bridges is such a wonderful organization. They help the neediest people live a good life. There was no way I could say no to such a good cause."

For more information on the gala and to purchase tickets which cost $150 per person, visit saratogabridges.org. To view all of the auction items visit www.saratogabridges.cmarket.com