Rascals, the huge steakhouse and entertainment venue open for less than seven months at Crossgates Mall in Guilderland, is closed temporarily and its future is uncertain, according to several employees and others with knowledge of its status.

Employees I contacted this afternoon said restaurant management has told them little beyond that the venue is closed for now and may not reopen. Local music promoters that had scheduled bands for upcoming shows at Rascals tell me they were advised by Crossgates management to find alternative venues; bookers for area clubs report fielding inquiries from bands and managers who have been told Rascals is closed.