December 19 – December 25 , 2025

LOCAL • INDEPENDENT • FREE Volume 19 • Issue 50 • December 19 – December 25 , 2025 • saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com • 518- 581-2480

134 & COUNTING The Grinch Flue Season Hits

Steals a Win Saratoga County The Grinch and Santa Claus compete in an exhibition harness race on Dec. 14. Screenshot of the race via the Saratoga Casino Hotel.

See Story pg. 37

See Story pg. 8

Inside: Gift Guide; Seasons Greetings; Worship Directory

Little Theater, Over & Out… insideTODAY Big Renovation

Of Luck

Business

12, 13

Education

14, 15

Arts & Entertainment 30-31 Property Transactions

A rendering of the Spa Little Theater interior as it’s expected to appear once renovations are completed. Image via Phinney Design Group/SPAC.

See Story pg. 31

See Story pg. 8

11

Sports

37-39

Holiday Gift Guide

22-24

Seasons Greetings

26-29

2

NEWS

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

The Wesley Community Unveils inhouse Nursing Home and Sub-Acute Rehab Therapy Team The Wesley Community, a 37-acre senior living campus with more than 700 residents in Saratoga Springs, is enhancing the rehabilitation and therapy services offered at the Wesley Health Care Center as part of its ongoing commitment to deliver the highest quality of care to senior residents.

The new in-house Nursing Home and Sub-Acute Rehabilitation Therapy Team, assembled and led by Linnea Heffner, includes more than 30 highly skilled therapists in various disciplines who are fully integrated into the Wesley Community working alongside nursing and medical staff. They specialize in physical, occupational, and speech therapy.

“By bringing therapy services directly under our roof – rather than partnering with an

outside provider – we can offer greater consistency, coordination and continuity of care,” said Wesley Health Care Center Administrator Marc Walker.

“Wesley is focused on providing personalized and responsive rehab therapies to our seniors.

As we implement these enhancements, we are confident relationships between residents and caregivers will grow stronger.”

The new in-house therapy team, now available six days a week, is additionally skilled at providing education and training on fall risks and gait and mobility for residents of Embury Apartments and Woodlawn Commons and provides evaluations in preparation for their return home.

The physical therapy specialties offered by Wesley include orthopedics, sports medicine, back injuries, and

neurological rehabilitation.

Occupational therapy services include repetitive motion injuries, arthritic disorders, hand therapy, and custom splint fabrication. Speech services include language, articulation disorders, language disorders, and stuttering.

“I am so happy to join and lead the in-house rehab team here at The Wesley Community,” said Wesley’s Director of Inhouse Rehabilitation Linnea Heffner. “Each member of the team is deeply committed to the progress and well-being of the Wesley residents we serve, which I strongly believe will contribute to the healing process.”

Heffner earned a degree in Occupational Therapy from Maria College and has held a leadership role in that discipline for a decade.

Tonko, Blumenthal Reintroduce Bill to Go After Cyber Grinch Bots Snatching Up Toys this Holiday Season Congressman Paul D. Tonko (NY-20), and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), today reintroduced their Stopping Grinch Bots Act, legislation which cracks down on cyber Grinches using bot technology to buy up entire inventories of popular goods only to resell them at exorbitant prices. These third-party sellers use bots to bypass security measures and manipulate online sales systems to buy toys, leading to some toys being almost impossible to buy online or in stores at retail prices.

Based on data from cybersecurity firm Imperva in its 2024 Bad Bot Report, bot-related hits on retail sites hit a record high last year, with almost 50 percent of internet traffic coming from non-human sources. These bots are also becoming increasingly sophisticated, using residential IP addresses and even AI to slip past security tools like CAPTCHAs, making this legislation more vital than ever.

“This holiday shopping season, Americans across the country are scouring stores, sites, and shelves for the perfect gift for their kids and loved ones,” Congressman Tonko said. “With prices already surging, the last thing parents, families, and small businesses need is cyber bot technology seizing the most popular items to sell them at outrageous costs. That’s where our Stopping Grinch Bots Act comes in. Our bill levels the playing field to prevent scalpers from sucking hardworking parents dry this holiday season.

I urge my colleagues to join in supporting this bill and help ensure Americans can spend their time this holiday season with their loved ones, not competing against Grinches.”

“Grinch bots are squeezing holiday shoppers—automatically snapping up online inventory to resell popular products at predatory prices,” said Senator Richard Blumenthal.

“Our measure blocks these

bullying bots and gives parents a fair chance to buy gifts for loved ones at reasonable prices.

By putting an end to bots’ holiday hijinks, our commonsense legislation will protect consumers, families, and small businesses from the cyber Grinches trying to steal Christmas.”

Bots are software programs that can automatically spot and snap up inventory on sale online. In a matter of seconds, third-party vendors can purchase hundreds of items, squeezing out parents and children.

In 2016, Tonko, Blumenthal, and Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer’s (D-NY) Better Online Ticket Sales Act (BOTS Act) was signed into law to ban “ticket bots” that intentionally bypass security measures on online ticketing websites to unfairly outprice individual fans. This new legislation would apply the mechanism of the BOTS Act to e-commerce sites to ban bots bypassing security measures on online retail sites.

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

NEWS

3

SJCA Announces a Panel Discussion of the Classic WWII Film Casablanca, Tuesday, January 6 at 7 pm on Zoom Saratoga Jewish Community Arts, with a generous grant from the Jewish Federation of Northeastern New York and the sponsorship of Temple Sinai of Saratoga Springs, is pleased to present a panel discussion of the critically acclaimed film Casablanca, on Zoom, Tuesday, January 6 at 7 pm.

A 1940s classic that would come to be hailed as one of the greatest films ever made, Casablanca featured what in retrospect would be viewed as an all-star cast: Humphrey Bogart,

Ingrid Bergman, Paul Henreid, Claude Rains, Peter Lorre, and Sydney Greenstreet.

While Casablanca has no battle scenes and a small body count, it remains one of the most powerful war films of all time – driven by the values needed to confront totalitarianism. Its impact is deepened by a supporting cast of real-life European refugees who didn’t have to act to show their hatred of the Nazis.

Based on an unproduced play, Everybody Comes to Rick’s, by Murray Burnett and

Joan Allison, the rights were acquired by Hal B. Wallis for $20,000, a record at the time. The writers, Julius J. Epstein, Philip G. Epstein and Howard Koch were still scribbling last-minute dialogue on set, just a few lines ahead of the actors. Memorable lines such as, “Here’s looking at you, kid,” were improvised.

The film is set in the early days of World War II in Casablanca, a city in French Morocco. It is portrayed as a place of transit, filled with refugees desperate to escape the Nazi regime. At the heart of the story

Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Approves 2026 Budget Saratoga County Board of Supervisors approved the County’s 2026 budget during its special Board Meeting on December 10, 2025. The budget passed unanimously and preserves investments in public safety, services for seniors, and other essential community programs.

The Board made no adjustments to the $434 million budget proposed in November. The 2026 property tax rate will be $1.77 per $1,000 of assessed value, maintaining Saratoga County’s ranking as the only County in New York State under $2 per $1,000.

In 2026, unfunded state and federal mandates are projected to cost Saratoga County more than $86 million - an amount that exceeds the County’s entire property tax collections by more than $8 million.

These mandated costs continue to escalate each year, placing pressure on local resources and requiring the use of reserve funds to meet these obligations. Further, county officials warn potential reductions in federal and state funding could impact essential programs and operations.

“The 2026 budget reflects Saratoga County’s

long-standing fiscally conservative principles, protects essential services, including public safety and vital supports for families and seniors, and prudently manages the strain of escalating unfunded mandates,” Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Chairman Phil Barrett (Clifton Park) said, “2025 was another successful year as the County solidified plans and completed initiatives that will benefit our economy, increase services for all County residents, protect our animals, and further enhance recreational opportunities through new trail and park projects.”

For 2026, the County projects $170 million in sales tax revenue, reflecting a prudent and conservative estimate considering ongoing inflation, a tightening labor market, and uncertainty in consumer spending. Debt service remains below 1% of total operating expenditures, supporting the County’s continued AA+ (S&P) and Aa1 (Moody’s) credit ratings, which are among the highest in New York State.

The budget adoption today brings us to the end of 2025. In 2025, the Board of Supervisors completed and initiated a

number of new programs and services including: 1. Build-out of the Environmental Health segment of the County Department of Health working with the NYS DOH 2. Redevelopment of the County Airport working in partnership with state and federal funding partners 3. Planning for a new homeless shelter to provide a long-term, economical solution to fulfill NYS mandates 4. Approved the creation of an Animal Abuse Registry 5. Moved a plan forward to provide a permanent solution for the disposal of Biosolids 6. New Trails and park resources The economy in Saratoga County continues to expand due to the positive environment attracting private sector investment. The recent announcement of Regeneron redeveloping an empty building in Saratoga Springs, Bass Pro’s arrival in Clifton Park and new medical services in multiple communities are examples of significant investment that will provide more jobs and create sales tax revenue shared by the County and local municipalities.

is Rick Blaine, an American expatriate who owns a popular nightclub, Rick’s Café American.

He is depicted as cynical and nonpolitical, but his past harbors a deep hurt from a failed romance in Paris with Ilsa Lund.

Ilsa re-enters Rick’s life when she arrives in Casablanca with her husband, Victor Laszlo, a Czech resistance leader. They seek hard-to-get transit papers to escape to America, a quest that leads them to Rick’s Café, the center of various intrigues.

The climax occurs when Rick must decide whether to use the letters of transit he has obtained to escape with Ilsa, or to help her and Victor escape, thus aiding the resistance against the Nazis.

“Casablanca,” says Phyllis Wang, Coordinator of SJCA, “explores themes like love, sacrifice, and moral ambiguity in a time of war. It combines personal drama with broader

political issues, making it a compelling narrative.”

Made with a wartime audience in mind, it’s impossible not to relate Casablanca’s messaging to the world we live in today. Authoritarianism is on the rise, and war again threatens to embroil Europe as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine nears its fourth year. While the final message of Casablanca is hopeful that America’s involvement will turn the tide against Nazi Germany, this, of course, was far from assured when the film was released in November 1942.

Even without knowing the outcome, Casablanca ends on a promising note. Rick makes a noble sacrifice, one that denies him true love, as the Lazslos escape while he and others resolve to take up the fight against the Nazis. It’s a message that has withstood the test of time and is as pertinent today as it was when first released.

OBITUARIES

4 Lyle DeVore

July 31, 1971 – December 11, 2025 SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY - Lyle DeVore of Malta, NY, and East Nassau, NY, passed away December 11, 2025, at St. Peter’s Hospital (Albany, NY) after a long and courageously fought battle with cancer. His family and friends are deeply saddened by his death, but at peace knowing he is at rest.

Lyle was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and nephew known for his passion for life and for his family and friends, all of whom are dedicated to carrying on his legacy. He is survived by his wife, Marcy Mangino DeVore; his beloved daughter and son-in-law,

Theresa Twomey Wilton - Theresa Twomey, 89, passed away on December 11. Calling hours were held Thursday, December 18, 2025,

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Mia and Patrick Meehan; his mother, Carole DeVore; his sister, Glenda DeVore; his uncle, George DeVore and his wife, Tina; his aunts, Patricia Heishman, Marlene Powers, and June Hunter; and several cousins. He was pre-deceased by his devoted father, Stanley “Stan da Man” DeVore, and Rosco, his faithful canine companion for many years.

Lyle was born 54 years ago in Saratoga Springs, NY. His entire life was devoted to family and racing. He graduated from Saratoga Springs High School in 1989 and LeMoyne College in 1993. From the age of 8 years until his passing, Lyle devoted his professional life to racing, influencing the lives of many in the racing industry.

Within hours of Lyle’s passing, tributes began to pour in from around the country— from those to whom he was a friend, from race fans, from race teams, to the most influential in the racing industry. You did not need to know Lyle personally to have your life touched by his passion and dedication, not just to dirt racing, but to the entire racing industry.

Lyle began his career in the racing industry the same way he

ended it—at Albany-Saratoga Speedway in Malta, NY. Initially, he picked stones from the dirt surface and collected trash on the track property so he could get in for free the next weekend.

The last 14 years of his life he was the A-S Speedway track manager and promoter, fulfilling his childhood dream.

Lyle made Albany-Saratoga Speedway one of the most successful racetracks in the country, averaging 140 cars weekly for the past few years.

His work ethic, commitment, strength, and determination to be the best promoter he could be is unmatched.

Lyle’s perseverance, dedication, and contribution to local and national dirt racing led to the honor of being selected by his peers as the national RPM (Racing Promotion Monthly) Auto Racing Promoter of the Year in 2020 and 2022. In 2024, Lyle was inducted as a member of the Northeast Dirt Modified Hall of Fame (Weedsport, NY).

Lyle was a member of the vanishing breed of promoters and track managers who are not afraid to get their hands dirty preparing the track surface, unclogging lavatories and track plumbing, deciding the

year’s schedule, enticing track sponsors, attending to all details related to opening and closing the gates on time, and everything in between. He was as skilled with a grader and water truck as he was with people.

As the track race director, he was best known for his raspy “yellow, yellow, yellow” that drivers would hear over the one-way radio, sometimes embellished by his other comments on their driving performance. He managed both verbal and social media comments with his honest viewpoints, and whether you agreed or not, you knew everything he said came from his first-hand knowledge and his heart.

Relatives and friends may call from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at the William J. Burke & Sons/ Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Church Services will be on Sunday, December 21, at 2 p.m. at Malta Ridge Methodist Church, 729 Malta Avenue Ext., Malta, NY 12020.

Burial will be in the Spring.

A celebration of life will be held at Albany-Saratoga

Speedway in the spring, date to be determined.

The family wants to thank The Community Hospice of Rensselaer, NY, Dr. Lawrence E. Garbo of NYOH Albany, NY, and Dr. Haiyang Tao (Saratoga Springs, NY) for their compassionate care given to Lyle. The family also wants to thank all family and friends for their kind words, love, prayers, and support at this challenging time.

In place of flowers, the family requests donations be considered for the Rensselaer County Hospice (295 Valley View Blvd., Rensselaer, NY 12144) or the American Cancer Society (33 Everett Road, Albany, NY 12205), dedicated to Metastatic Cancer Research.

Donations can also be made on the organization’s websites.

Online remembrances may be made at www. burkefuneralhome.com.

from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Compassionate Funeral Care, Saratoga Springs. A funeral service followed at 12:30 p.m., with graveside services at 1:30 p.m. at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery.

Lynne M. Cassidy

Robert F. DeVoe, Jr.

Thomas Francis Hornbach

Saratoga Springs - Lynne M. Cassidy, age 60, passed away on December 12, 2025, at Albany Medical Center. Calling hours will be held on Saturday, December 20, 2025, from 12 2PM at Compassionate Funeral Care, 402 Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Online condolences may be made at compassionatefuneralcare.com.

WILTON – Robert F. DeVoe, Jr., 81, passed away peacefully on December 15, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. At this time there are no funeral services scheduled.

Condolences visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Thomas Francis Hornbach passed away peacefully at home on December 9, 2025.

A gathering to celebrate his life will be held January 10, at 10 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Saratoga Springs, followed by a reception at 11:30 a.m. at the Italian American War Veterans Hall. Condolences visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

James P. Morrissey

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY - James P. Morrissey, 93,

passed away on December 12, 2025. Visitation was on Thursday December 18 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 149 Lake Ave. followed by a funeral service and burial in the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Rd. please visit www.burkefuneralhome. com.

OBITUARIES CONT. PAGE 6

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

BLOTTER

BLOTTER REPORT

1% or more blood alcohol content- first offense, aggravated DWI BAC of .18 of 1% or more- no priors and a traffic violation.

Dec. 11, 2025. 12:46 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the Town of Clifton Park on three misdemeanors — DWI- first offense, operation of a motor vehicle with blood alcohol content of .08 of 1% or higher- first offense and aggravated DWI blood alcohol content .18 of 1% or higherno priors. Appearance ticket issued Dec. 11, 2025. 8:56 a.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of making graffiti and 2nd degree criminal mischief.

Dec. 11, 2025. 9:11 a.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on Broadway on charges of criminal contempt- violation within the last five years and aggravated family offense, more than one offense within the last five years.

Dec. 11, 2025. 11:30 a.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested an individual on charges of 4th degree grand larceny, property value greater than $1000 and 4th degree grand larceny, credit card.

Dec. 11, 2025. 3:00 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Troy resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of felony possession of stolen property, fourth: property exceeds $1000 and misdemeanor unlawful possession of certain ammunition feeding device: not in home/ first offense. Released on own recognizance.

Dec. 11, 2025. 3:04 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Waterford resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of misdemeanor petit larceny and felony 3rd degree burglary. The original incident occurred July 15 in the Town of Clifton Park. Held, no bail.

Dec. 11, 2025. 4:05 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Mechanicville resident

in the Town of Halfmoon on three misdemeanors — 4th degree assault with intent to cause physical harm, resisting arrest and acting in a manner to injure a child.

Dec. 12, 2025. 1:51 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Troy resident in the Town of Halfmoon on charges of 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued.

Dec. 12, 2025. 7:59 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of operating a motor vehicle impaired by drugs – first offense and 3rd degree unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, both misdemeanors.

Released to third party.

Dec. 12, 2025. 10:46 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Malta resident in the town of Malta on charges of DWI- first offense and operating a motor vehicle with blood alcohol content of .08 of 1% or more- first offense, both misdemeanors.

Appearance ticket issued.

Dec. 13, 2025. 12:22 a.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Gansevoort resident on Caroline Street on charges of 3rd degree assault with intent to cause physical injury.

Dec. 13, 2025. 1:29 a.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Hudson Falls resident on Marion Avenue for 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and other violations.

Dec. 13, 2025. 2:23 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Troy resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor DWIfirst offense. Appearance ticket issued.

Dec. 13, 2025. 4:54 a.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Gansevoort resident on charges of DWIfirst offense, operating a motor vehicle with .01 of

Dec. 13, 2025. 9:20 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Waterford resident in the City of Saratoga Springs on charges of operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .08 of 1% or higher and DWIfirst offense, both misdemeanors. Appearance ticket issued.

Dec. 13, 2025. 11:14 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Lake resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .08 of 1% or higher and DWIfirst offense, both misdemeanors. Appearance ticket issued.

Dec. 14, 2025. 1:16 a.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested an Albany resident on Caroline Street on charges of 3rd degree assault with intent to cause physical injury.

Dec. 14, 2025. 2:22 a.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Mechanicville resident on William Street on charges of driving while impaired by the consumption of alcohol and several moving and equipment violations.

Dec. 14, 2025. 2:42 a.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Glenville resident at the intersection of E West Road and Route 9 on charges of DWI- first offense, operating a motor vehicle with .08 of 1% or more alcohol in blood and a traffic violation.

Dec. 14, 2025. 2:50 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Fort Edward resident in the Village of South Glens Falls on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense.

Appearance ticket issued.

Dec. 14, 2025. 10:05 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Hudson Falls resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree

5 unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued.

Dec. 14. 2025. 7:37 p.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Fonda resident on Caroline Street on charges of 3rd degree assault with intent to cause physical injury.

Dec. 14, 2025. 7:40 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Corinth resident in the Town of Moreau on charges of felony 5th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance- 500 milligrams of cocaine.

Turned over to other agency.

Dec. 14, 2025. 10:53 a.m.- New York State Police arrested two Rutland, Vermont residents on charges of felony 4th degree grand larceny- property greater than $1000. Booked into central arraignment.

Dec. 15, 2025. 2:20 a.m.Saratoga Springs police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on South Broadway on charges of DWI- first offense, operating a motor vehicle with .08 of 1% alcohol in blood and several motor vehicle violations.

Dec. 15, 2025. 9:09 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park resident in the Town of Clifton Park for charges of driving with

registration suspended.

Appearance ticket issued.

Dec. 15, 2025. 9:25 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident in the Town of Ballston. The arrest stemmed from an incident that occurred on Dec. 1 in the Town of Malta.

Dec. 15, 2025. 3:57 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Fort Edward man in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle.

Appearance ticket issued.

Dec. 16, 2025. 7:45 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Hadley resident in the Town of Wilton on misdemeanor driving with a suspended license.

Appearance ticket issued.

Dec. 16, 2025. 5:10 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the City of Saratoga Springs on charges of misdemeanor 1st degree unlawful dealing with a child: alcohol.

Appearance ticket issued.

Dec. 16, 2025. 10:17 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Corinth resident in the Town of Corinth on charges of 2nd degree misdemeanor reckless endangerment, 2nd degree menacing with a weapon and felony 3rd degree criminal possession of a weapon- previous conviction. Held, no bail.

NEWS/OBITUARIES

6

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Accessible Kayak Launch To Be Installed at Hudson Crossing Park Locally Owned & Operated PUBLISHER/EDITOR Chad Beatty 518-581-2480 x212 cbeatty@saratogapublishing.com MARKETING DIRECTOR Chris Bushee 518-581-2480 x201 cbushee@saratogapublishing.com ADVERTISING Jim Daley, Advertising Director 518-581-2480 x209 jdaley@saratogapublishing.com Cindy Durfey Ad Sales, Classifieds, Calendar, Obituaries 518-581-2480 x204 cdurfey@saratogapublishing.com DISTRIBUTION Kim Beatty 518-581-2480 x205 kbeatty@saratogapublishing.com DESIGN Julia Ettkin Graphic Designer Jocelyn Lucey Ad Designer, Web & Social Media EDITORIAL Aidan Cahill City, Crime, Education 518-581-2480 x214 acahill@saratogapublishing.com

Hudson Crossing Park is thrilled to announce that a brand-new accessible kayak launch will be installed in spring of 2026, representing a major step forward in making outdoor recreation available to visitors of all ages and abilities. The launch will be professionally installed

by BoardSafe, a national leader in adaptive waterfront access, ensuring that paddlers with mobility challenges can enter and exit the water with comfort, stability, and confidence.

Hudson Crossing Park is also excited to share that it has received four adaptive kayaks–two tandem and two single–from Rochester Accessible Adventures. These kayaks, designed specifically for individuals who need additional support, will allow more members of the community to the recreational opportunities available while paddling on the Champlain Canal. Announcements will

be made in the spring about opportunities to use these new kayaks.

This project was made possible through generous grant support, including a $7,500 Trail Grant from Saratoga County, $24,999 Quality of Life Grant from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, and $15,000 from AARP. Hudson Crossing Park extends its deepest appreciation to these partners for their commitment to expanding inclusive recreation opportunities in our region.

The addition of the accessible kayak launch will have a meaningful and lasting impact on the community. It opens the door for individuals with mobility disabilities, older adults, and anyone who benefits from extra stability to enjoy independent or assisted kayaking. Families, adaptive athletes, and visitors of all abilities will now be able to share the water together, strengthening social connections and improving

access to healthy, outdoor experiences. The launch also enhances local tourism by providing a unique adaptive amenity that will attract paddlers seeking inclusive adventures along the Champlain Canal. Most importantly, this project reinforces Hudson Crossing Park’s ongoing commitment to ensure that everyone, regardless of physical ability, can explore, learn, and recreate in a welcoming environment.

The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation’s Quality of Life Grants Program supports nonprofit organizations that empower individuals living with paralysis. Since the Quality of Life Grants Program’s inception, more than 4,000 grants totaling $48 million have been awarded. Funding for this program was made possible through a cooperative agreement with the Administration for Community Living (ACL grant #90PRRC0006-04).

AARP is a nonprofit,

nonpartisan organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all as we age. Through advocacy, information, and service at both the national and state levels, AARP champions positive social change. Guided by a vision of a society where every person can live with dignity, purpose, and the opportunity to fulfill their goals and dreams, AARP works to create a more inclusive and livable future for all generations.

Hudson Crossing Park is centered on Champlain Canal Lock C5 Island just north of the Village of Schuylerville along Historic Route 4. A 501C3 notfor-profit organization, Hudson Crossing Park’s mission is to tie environmental responsibility to economic revitalization, and to engage people of all ages in making informed choices for a sustainable future.

Learn more about this and other upcoming events at www.

HudsonCrossingPark.org.

Robert W. Sponzo Jr.

father and friend on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at the age of 57.

Rob was born on January 17, 1968 in Boston, MA and grew up in the greater upstate New York area. He attended Albany Academy for Boys and Boston College. He founded the Health Care Company Saramed, worked as a paramedic and most recently a Paralegal.

Rob had many interests including golf, horse racing, travel and video games, but most of all his family and children. Rob and his father were best friends and did many things together.

Rob was so proud of his children and their accomplishments, big or small. He was a caring and

compassionate man.

Rob is survived by his parents, Robert W. Sponzo MD and stepmother, Barbara, his children, Emma Sponzo and Nicolas Sponzo (fiancé Sage Brouilette). He is also survived by his sister Amy (Rob) Kudla and stepsisters, Nicole (Jeff) Shakow and Karen Demyan.

He was predeceased by his mother, Donna Tofflemier.

Rob had a large extended family and group of friends who will miss him dearly.

Services will be private. A Celebration of Rob’s life will be held in the Spring of 2026.

Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff

Funeral Home, 628 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Rob will forever remain in our hearts.

Memorial donations in Rob’s name may be made to Joseph’s House, 74 Ferry St. Troy, NY 12180.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome. com.

Jonathon Norcross Business, Sports Arts & Entertainment 518-581-2480 x219 jnorcross@saratogapublishing.com PROOFREADER Anne Strauss astrauss@saratogapublishing.com Send your calendar events to calendar@saratogapublishing.com

Email DESIGN@ saratogapublishing.com to subscribe to our weekly e-Newsletter!

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CLIFTON PARK, NY- It is with immeasurable sorrow that we share the passing of Robert W. Sponzo Jr., a beloved son,

Peggy Joan Paquette

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QUEENSBURY, NY - Peggy Joan Paquette, 85, passed away on December 12, 2025. A Funeral Home Service will be held at 4 p.m. on Friday, December 19 at Burke Funeral Home, 628 N Broadway. A Celebration of Life is from 5:30–8:30 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus, 50 Pine

Rd, Saratoga Springs. Please visit www.burkefuneralhome.com.

7

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Meet Baby Girl More than 1,000 Brave Cold for Knox Fest

Baby Girl came to us with her buddy, Tut, after her owner passed away. The two kitties don’t seem to be bonded and she seems to be a little bossy. She definitely does not enjoy visits from the other kitties at the center. Because of this, she will probably do best as an only kitty in a quieter home. Baby Girl is about 7 years old, loves to chat and is an expert pet receiver.

Baby Girl is ready to find her forever home with someone who will have daily conversations with her and give her all of the attention she demands.

The HOPE Pet Adoption Center is located in Wilton Mall and is open to the public Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 11-4 or by appointment. Online adoption applications can be found online at www.hopeanimalrescue.org.

Photo via Battles of Saratoga 250.

SCHUYLERVILLE — On Dec. 13, more than 1,000 people braved frigid temperatures to attend Knox Fest at Fort Hardy Park. The celebration honored Henry Knox’s Noble Train of Artillery, a daring winter journey that helped change the course of the American Revolution.

The event included horseand-carriage rides, food trucks with coffee and hot cocoa, living historians, reenactors singing period songs, live musket and cannon firings, a Henry Knox reenactor, and a bonfire.

“This day was a powerful reminder that history isn’t

just remembered — it’s lived, shared, and celebrated,” said Battles of Saratoga 250. “Thank you to everyone who braved the cold, volunteered, participated, and supported this unforgettable day. History is alive — and Saratoga continues to lead the way.”

NEWS

8

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Over and Out of Luck: Burglar Busted after Calling for Ride on Walkie Talkie

Hospitals Restrict Visitors as Influenza Rates Spike

by Aidan Cahill

by Aidan Cahill

Saratoga TODAY

Two men are facing felony charges after a burglary in the Town of Stillwater was foiled by the Saratoga County Sherriff ’s Office and an ill-fated walkie talkie transmission.

Joseph Briggs, 43, of Johnsonville and Michael Briggs Sr., 49, of Buskirk were arrested after a robbery on Brickyard Road in the Town of Stillwater on Dec. 15. According to the Sheriff ’s Office, the two men forcibly entered a residence to commit a burglary. While doing this, they kept in contact via walkie talkie.

Michael Brigs Sr. was arrested after an off-duty deputy provided a description of his vehicle leading to a stop on Halfway House Road. His partner in crime, Joseph Briggs, was caught by deputies after he called Michael on the radio requesting to be picked up from a bike path on Halfway House Road.

Michael Briggs Sr. was also

found in possession of a firearm — despite having a criminal record. He was charged with 2nd degree burglary — a class C felony, 3rd degree criminal possession of a weapon — a class D felony and 4th degree conspiracy — a Class E felony.

Joseph Briggs was charged with 2nd degree burglary, 4th degree conspiracy, possession of burglar’s tools and petit larceny — the later two being class A misdemeanors. It’s unclear as of publishing if the two men had any familial relationship.

They were arraigned in Stillwater Town Court and remanded to the Saratoga County Jail to await further proceedings.

The two could also face federal consequences for using the radios for crime. A 2021 bulletin issued by the FCC states that using personal radios to carry out crime may be subject to fines, seizure of equipment and potential criminal prosecution.

It’s unclear if such penalties will be imposed in this case. As of time of publication, no charges have been filed in federal court regarding the matter.

Saratoga TODAY

Albany Med Health System has become the latest hospital system to restrict visitors to patients in their facilities.

The new guidelines went into effect on Dec. 15 and impacted Saratoga Hospital, Glens Falls Hospital, Albany Medical Center and Columbia Memorial Hospital.

Under the new restrictions, children under 12, visitors with flu-like symptoms, rashes and diarrhea are all prohibited from visiting patients. In addition, only

two visitors are allowed to visit a patient’s bedside at one time.

In a press release, the hospital said the restrictions were put in place to help limit transmission of illnesses to protect visitors and staff.

Albany Med isn’t the first local hospital to implement visitor restrictions. Ellis Medicine implemented similar restrictions on Dec. 3 and Trinity Health System — which includes St. Peter’s Hospital in Albany and Samaritan Hospital in Troy — implemented the restrictions on Dec. 8.

The restrictions come amid a spike in flu cases across New York. As of Dec. 6, there have been 24,287 lab confirmed cases

of flu in New York State this season resulting in 1,399 hospitalizations for the virus, according to the Department of Health.

Saratoga County alone has seen 134 lab confirmed cases, a rate of 55.75 cases per 100,000 residents. These cases have resulted in 5 hospitalizations.

Downstate has been hit hardest by the virus with Kings County (Brooklyn) seeing 4,314 cases — the most anywhere in the state. Meanwhile, Westchester County has seen the highest rate of cases 184.91 cases per 100,000 residents. In terms of hospitalization, Bronx County has seen the most with 197 hospitalizations at a rate of 14.23 per 100,000 residents.

Online Transaction Ends in Robbery

by Aidan Cahill Saratoga TODAY

A Schenectady teen has been arrested after an online transaction ended in an attempted robbery in the City of Mechanicville.

Mechanicville Police say Natalia Adair, 18, was arrested Dec. 15 in Schenectady in connection with a robbery that

occurred the day prior.

The robbery occurred on South Central Avenue on Dec. 14. Police say a 21-year-old man was assaulted by three people as they attempted to rob him. The man told police that two of the individuals wore ski masks and at least one struck him in the head with a handgun.

The robbery occurred after the victim arranged a meeting online with someone he thought was a customer looking to purchase a watch.

The next day, police located the vehicle and arrested Adair.

She is charged with 1st degree attempted robbery, 4th degree

attempted grand larceny,4th degree conspiracy, and 2nd degree assault.

Police say more arrests are expected as they continue to try to identify others involved in the attempted robbery.

“This incident highlights the very real dangers associated with meeting unknown individuals through online marketplaces,” said Chief William Rabbitt. “We strongly encourage residents to take precautions when conducting in-person transactions. Meeting in public, well-lit locations and avoiding private residences can significantly reduce risk.”

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

NEWS

9

Two Arrested in State Police arrested Mechanicville man following a menacing investigation Domestic Incident The Saratoga County Sheriff ’s Office responded to an active domestic incident call Sunday at 12:37 p.m. on Reynolds Road in the town of Moreau. Investigation into the complaint led to the arrest of Mark N. Sabo, 60, and Tamera H. Sillero, 59, both of Moreau, N.Y. Sabo was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the 2nd degree (class A felony), two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the 3rd degree (class B felonies), four counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the 3rd degree (class D felonies), criminal possession of a firearm (class E felony), menacing in the 2nd degree and assault in the 3rd degree (class A misdemeanors).

He is accused of knowingly and unlawfully possessing four or more ounces of a narcotic drug with intent to sell it and a narcotic drug weighing one-half ounce or more.

Sabo is also charged with possessing a firearm having

previously been convicted of a crime, possessing armor piercing ammunition with intent to use it unlawfully against another and possessing large capacity ammunition feeding devices. He allegedly pointed a so-called ghost gun at the victim and threatened to shoot them during the incident and intentionally caused physical injury to them by striking them to their face with a closed fist.

Sillero was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the 2nd degree (class A felony) and two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the 3rd degree (class B felonies).

She is accused of knowingly and unlawfully possessing four or more ounces of a narcotic drug with intent to sell it and a narcotic drug weighing one-half ounce or more.

Both were arraigned before the Honorable Jeffrey B. McCabe in the Moreau Town Court and remanded to the Saratoga County Jail pending further proceedings.

Saratoga Springs Department of Public Safety Announces Citywide Speed Limit Reduction to 25 MPH The Saratoga Springs Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced that speed limit signage throughout the City of Saratoga Springs has been fully updated to reflect a new citywide speed limit of 25 miles per hour.

The change is intended to improve safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists and follows a comprehensive traffic safety review.

The review found that lower vehicle speeds significantly reduce the severity of crashes and greatly increase

survival rates for pedestrians. Research shows that a person struck by a vehicle traveling at 25 mph is far more likely to survive than at higher speeds.

“This change moves us toward a safer, more walkable community and reflects our commitment to protecting all residents, especially children, seniors, and those who walk or bike,” Public Safety Commissioner Tim Coll said.

Full enforcement of the 25-mph speed limit will begin in January 2026.

On December 6, 2025, State Police of Clifton Park arrested Norman Gifford, 61 of Mechanicville, NY for Menacing 2nd, Criminal Possession of a Weapon 3rd, and vehicle and traffic law violations.

On December 6, 2025, at about 11:06 p.m. troopers responded to the report

of an altercation involving a weapon at a home in Halfmoon.

The investigation determined Gifford was in a verbal altercation with the victim when he reportedly brandished a kitchen knife and threatened the victim with it.

Gifford fled in a vehicle after the altercation and

was located by troopers in the area of Cemetery Road in Halfmoon where he was stopped and arrested. He was transported to SP Clifton Park for processing where he was issued an appearance ticket returnable to the Halfmoon Town Court on January 14, 2026, and released.

Supporting Military Spouses Through Connection and Care: New York State Department of Veterans’ Services Launches Healing Haven for Military Spouses The New York State Department of Veterans’ Services (DVS) proudly announced the launch of Healing Haven for Military Spouses, a first-of-itskind statewide peer-to-peer initiative designed specifically to support the spouses of Service Members and all who served.

Healing Haven provides a confidential, accessible, and supportive environment for Military Spouses to gather, learn, share, and strengthen their personal well-being.

The DVS program began its rollout on December 1, 2025, with a successful first session, reflecting the deep need for a safe community space geared toward Military Spouses who shoulder unique emotional and psychological burdens.

Many experience high levels of stress, transition pressures, and caregiving responsibilities, yet often lack a dedicated setting where they can connect with others who understand their experiences. Healing Haven is designed to fill that gap.

Healing Haven is offered free of charge, supported in part through Suicide Prevention funding secured in the 2025–26 New York State Budget.

Sessions are led by Brett Cotter, a nationally respected stress-relief expert, author, and founder of the Stress Is Gone method. Mr. Cotter will facilitate two virtual sessions each month, combining

evidence-based stress-reduction strategies with supportive, community-building discussion.

Participation is confidential and open to Military Spouses from every region of the state.

Mr. Cotter is the author of The Stress Is Gone Method, The Suicide Prevention Family Handbook, and 3 Keys to Managing PTSD, and has worked with Fortune 500 companies, hospitals, schools, military bases, and retreat centers like Omega and Kripalu.

As trauma expert for Meditation University, he certifies professionals and trains Vet-to-Vet Peer Specialists. His compassionate, humor-filled approach combines Eastern and Western philosophies, making him a captivating and highly sought after speaker.

To maintain regular access for Military Spouses and ensure continuity of care, Healing Haven follows a clear, dependable monthly rhythm: • First Monday of each month: Guided Stress Is Gone session focusing on stress relief

and practical emotional wellness strategies; and • Third Monday of each month: Peer-to-peer gathering centered on connection, shared experiences, and community-building.

The routinized structure and frequent cadence of Healing Haven sessions allows Military Spouses to participate at whatever pace best supports their needs, while also creating a recognizable statewide cadence for ongoing engagement.

Because the program operates virtually, participation is open to Military Spouses from every county, including those who may face obstacles to inperson meetings such as work schedules, childcare demands, or transportation limitations.

Military Spouses may join at any time, regardless of whether they attended the kickoff session. Information and registration for upcoming Healing Haven sessions are available at: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/2F2lsRRhSKKGRE wofkz7RQ#/registration.

FOLLOW US ONLINE! saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

10

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Puzzles Across 1 Calibri, Arial, et al.

6 Early show featuring Robin Roberts, for short 9 Jargon 14 Childish retort 15 Sought office 16 Not just in one’s head 17 Actor who voices the panda in the “Kung Fu Panda” films 19 Layered dessert 20 Addams cousin 21 Visionary 23 Source of an oil with medicinal properties 26 Ireland’s “Amhrán na bhFiann,” for one 29 Brazilian supermodel who’s a face of Maybelline 32 Original Beatle Sutcliffe 33 Carol contraction 34 “Queen Sugar” creator DuVernay 35 Flying Cloud and Royale 8 36 With 40-Across, a punny title for this puzzle 39 Some amount 40 See 36-Across 41 North Carolina university 42 Org. that approves cosmetics 43 “U slay me!”

44 “I’ll take that as __” 45 “Slumdog Millionaire” actress 50 Vex 52 “Totally fine” 53 “Give me one moment” 56 Sat. antecedent 57 Wake-up call, for many 59 “Family Guy” voice actor who cocreated “Robot Chicken” 62 Leads 63 Mature 64 Meaningless 65 Fine and dandy 66 Walk very quietly 67 Pop-__ Down 1 Sizzling serving 2 Provided an address 3 Hummingbird’s drink 4 Sound of shame

See puzzle solutions on page 39

See puzzle solution on page 39 5 Blubber 6 Primo 7 Spice related to nutmeg 8 “Diana” singer Paul 9 Cuban woman, perhaps 10 “You beat me” 11 Water between Antwerp and Aberdeen 12 Belly 13 Loving words 18 Property claims 22 Title in Tibet 24 Nashville athlete 25 Parade spoiler 27 Hugh Laurie’s alma mater 28 Tousle 30 Hawaiian island 31 Dartmouth, for one 35 Artifact 36 Try, as a case

37 Radius neighbor 38 Excursion during a lunar landing 39 Beverage suffix 40 Good songs, casually 42 Worry 43 Close securely 45 Floppy 46 Intermittently fasted, perhaps 47 Daredevil quality 48 Sign in an apartment window 49 QB protectors 51 Factor in Hindu reincarnation 54 “Quickly!” letters 55 Video game giant 57 “Got it!”

58 Summer fire sign 60 “Scram!”

61 Molecule in some vaccines

Writing the Right Word by Dave Dowling

Accuracy in word choice is a key to effective communication. In your daily writing and speaking, try to make sure you use the right word in the right place with the right spelling. By doing so, its effect will affect your communication in a positive way. This quick weekly tip will help you filter the confusion in some of our daily word choices.

This Week: Vial, Vile Vial is a small closable container usually for liquids.

The lab technician put the remaining liquid in a small glass vial.

Vile means despicable, repulsive, or disgustingly bad.

We experienced vile weather during our Alaskan cruise.

Dave Dowling is the author of The Wrong Word Dictionary and The Dictionary of Worthless Words. Both books are available from many book retailers, and signed copies can be obtained by contacting Dave at dave.dowling65@gmail.com

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025 PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS

BALLSTON CNZ LLC sold property at 3 Sharon Lane to Michelle Collins for $864,326 Robert Lane sold property at 52 Church Ave to Kaval Patel for $345,000 Sharon Sagerman sold property at 539 Randall Rd to Andrew LaPort for $415,000

GALWAY Marciann Sauer sold property at 4876 Sacandaga Rd to Ross Wightman for $400,000 Karen Dandrea sold property at 2264 Alexander Rd to Secretary of Veterans Affairs for $264,869

GREENFIELD Joseph Samascott sold property at 79 Chandler Lane to Alexander Hebert for $354,000

at 210 Thimbleberry Rd to Kimberly Russell for $275,000 Diane Young sold property at 5166 Nelson Ave Extension to Isabella Esposito for $725,00

MILTON Schumaker Family Trust sold property at 17 Old Glory Lane to Nathan Tinney for $393,000 Good Clean Living LLC sold property at 615 Sunny Lane to Rae Church for $315,000 Robert Motala sold property at 8 Linden Lane to Frank Labate for $325,000 John Foskett sold property at 230 Drummond Dr to Isak Imeri for $435,000 Richard Frank sold property at 697 McCrey Dr to Anna Nizolek for $585,999

SARATOGA

Adam Favro sold property at Bump Hill Rd to Jennifer Zeh for $109,000

Scott Anthony sold property at 11 Hessian Dr to Joseph Haas for $243,800

MALTA

SARATOGA SPRINGS

Michaels Group Homes LLC sold property at 21 Wiggins Dr to James Coseo for $533,365

Maureen Cary sold property at 11 Wedgewood Dr to David Richter for $703,000

Keith Beveridge sold property

Paula Zimmerman sold property at 8 Marjorie

Dr. to Edward Molina for $500,000

Matthew Winters for $680,000

Michael Maratto sold property at 3 Blueberry Way to Emily Winfield for $759,900

AWM Company LLC sold property at Todd St to Goliath NY XV LLC for $900,000

Linda Benton sold property at 70 Railroad Pl #303 to Janina Mantell for $765,000

AWM Company LLC sold property at 170 South Broadway to Goliath NY XV LLC for $2,100,000

Jennifer Baldwin sold property at 79 Madison St to Chelsea Dobbs Stables LLC for $450,000 Keith Miller sold property at 5 Deer Leap Pl to Victoryline Properties for $260,000 Stephan Parisi sold property at 117 Washington St to Robert Woodcock for $670,000 Krista Rotondi sold property at 6 Richard Ave to Robert Ford for $845,000 Kurt Metzler sold property at 13 Horseshoe Dr to

AWM Company LLC sold property at 170 South Broadway to Goliath NY XV LLC for $2,100,000

WILTON

11 Forest Grove LLC sold property at 17 Plumas Pl to Jason Saunders for $880,549 Kyle Bell sold property at 502 Edie Rd to Jessica Freebern for $260,500 Brian Holt sold property at 93 Damascus to Zachary Guarino for $615,000 Judeanne Wiley sold property at 7 Jones Rd to Nishan Ketchoyian for $378,000

BUSINESS

12

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Dessert Bar Opens GlobalFoundries Updates: New in Wilton Mall CFO and AI-Driven Manufacturing Collaboration Announced

Photo via the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

WILTON — The Saratoga Food & Dessert Bar recently opened at the Wilton Mall, adding a robust selection of cookies, cakes, ice cream, grilled cheeses, and breakfast items to the food court.

The bakery celebrated its grand opening with a ribboncutting ceremony hosted by the

Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce on Dec. 16.

Although the business initially started out only offering dessert items, it has “naturally evolved,” it said, due to its food court location. Sourdough grilled cheese with scratch tomato soup has become one of the bar’s top-selling items.

The Saratoga Food & Dessert Bar is open Monday through Sunday. It also accepts online orders for pickup or delivery.

MALTA — On Dec. 10, the Malta-based semiconductor manufacturer GlobalFoundries (GF) announced that its board of directors appointed Sam Franklin as the company’s chief financial officer (CFO), effective immediately. Franklin previously served as senior vice president of business finance & operations and investor relations and as interim CFO. “We are delighted to have Sam formally appointed as CFO,” said Tim Breen, CEO of GF. “His proven leadership and financial expertise will accelerate GF’s momentum and capitalize on the significant opportunities ahead. As we continue to drive profitability and deliver differentiated technologies for the scaling of AI from the data center to the physical world, Sam’s ability to deliver results and partner across the organization will be critical to our success.”

Franklin joined GF in 2022 and has held senior roles overseeing finance operations, business finance, investor relations, capital markets, and treasury.

“I am thrilled to take on this role and support the acceleration of GF’s mission to deliver essential chip technologies to our customers,” said Franklin. “As the secular drivers and demand for semiconductors continue to ramp, GF is building a strong foundation for its next phase of

robust, sustainable and profitable growth. I look forward to working with our talented teams across the world to advance our strategic priorities, drive operational excellence and create long-term value for our shareholders.”

On Dec. 11, GF also announced that it has entered into a new strategic collaboration with Siemens to leverage each company’s complementary AI-based capabilities to enhance performance of semiconductor manufacturing and advanced industries.

In their latest memorandum of understanding, the companies focus on automation technologies for semiconductor fabrication (fab automation), electrification, digital solutions, and software ranging from chip development to product lifecycle management.

One element of the new strategic collaboration is deployment of advanced AI-enabled software, sensors, and real-time control systems in fab automation to meet the growing demand for reliable semiconductors and autonomous platforms. Through centralized automation and predictive maintenance, GF and Siemens aim to increase equipment availability and operational efficiency in chip production while building capabilities that can be extended to other advanced industries. The companies

intend to develop and deploy new solutions within their own operations to deliver enhanced offerings.

This expanded collaboration comes at a time of unprecedented demand for essential semiconductors and autonomous platforms in critical areas such as artificial intelligence, defense, energy, and connectivity.

“Secure, locally manufactured semiconductors are at the core of the AI transition – from cloud to the physical world, bringing intelligence into devices we use every day and enabling applications we couldn’t imagine a few years ago,” said Breen. “Our unique collaboration with Siemens allows us to go faster – to build the technologies that make this possible – differentiated, energy-efficient, connected and secure chips across a wide range of nextgeneration applications.”

Siemens brings a comprehensive suite of industrial, energy and building automation and digitalization technologies including advanced software for chip design and manufacturing, fab automation, and product lifecycle management.

Utilizing Siemens’ suite of solutions, GF and Siemens intend to enable seamless collaboration across the entire semiconductor lifecycle and deliver high performance and reliable semiconductor solutions at scale.

Racing Museum Seeks Auction Items from Local Businesses SARATOGA SPRINGS — The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame will host the fourth annual Countdown to the Triple Crown fundraising event on Saturday, Feb. 7. This winter fundraiser, scheduled exactly three months prior to the 152nd Kentucky Derby, will feature dozens of silent auction items and an online auction of items and experience packages

to benefit the museum. Guests can attend the event in person at the museum from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. or bid on special packages online.

The museum is asking for support from the thoroughbred racing industry and businesses throughout the Saratoga Springs area to help make this event a success. Businesses are encouraged to donate an

item, experience, or gift card.

Contributing businesses will be promoted by the museum leading up to the event through the museum’s social media channels and through database distribution. Additionally, the museum will provide contributing businesses with two complimentary tickets to the event. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

BUSINESS BRIEFS

13

Cannabis Dispensary Opens M&T Bank Names in Halfmoon New Senior VP for Upstate Region

Photo provided by the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.

HALFMOON — Capital District Cannabis & Wellness recently opened its newest location at 1508 US-9 in Halfmoon, marking the occasion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Dec. 4.

“We’re proud to continue

growing within the community and look forward to new opportunities, partnerships, and ways to better serve our customers,” the business said. “Thank you for supporting us as we expand and continue to make a positive impact in the Capital District.”

The business, which also has outposts in Albany and Schenectady, bills itself as New York State’s first majority woman-owned dispensary. Its Halfmoon location is the dispensary’s first in Saratoga County.

Golf-Themed Bar and Grill Opens in Saratoga

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The former Brick At 2 West location on the west side of Saratoga has reopened as The Divot, a golf-themed bar and grill run by the previous owners’ daughter.

Erika Schreifels and a silent partner/golf enthusiast rebranded the eatery with the aim of both appealing to sports fans and making their mark (or “divot”) on the Spa City.

“It’s definitely not just like The Bunker,” Schreifels told Saratoga TODAY, referring to the popular spot downtown that has seven golf simulator bays. “It’s more of a family restaurant. We like to do events and catering.”

The Divot’s menu is expansive, offering everything from chicken wings to pizzas and burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, tacos, and salads. It also serves brunch every day, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was hosted by the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce at The Divot Bar and Grille on Dec. 8. Photo via the chamber.

One special menu item is The Glizzy, which The Divot describes as a four-ounce Duroc and Wagyu hot dog stuffed with cheese, wrapped in cocoa rubbed bacon, topped with warm beer cheese, and finished with a “bright snap” of spicy pickles. The Glizzy’s ingredients are something of a nod to horse racing. The Duroc pig is said to be named after a racehorse called Duroc (who was, in turn, named after

Géraud Duroc, a close friend of Napoleon Bonaparte).

Schreifels, who previously served as the general manager of Brick At 2 West for 15 years, also said that a putting green simulator was due to arrive at The Divot around mid-February.

The Divot is open Monday through Sunday. The kitchen is open from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m. and the bar serves drinks from 9 a.m. until 11 p.m.

CLIFTON PARK — Kyle Rogers has been named senior vice president, public relations manager for M&T Bank’s Western New York and Upstate Regions. Rogers will succeed Thea Pecht, who was promoted to the role of head of Western New York strategic initiatives in the office of Regional President and Chief Administrative Officer Tracy Woodrow.

Before joining M&T, Rogers worked at Highmark Health, where he led corporate communication strategies for the $29 billion healthcare company across its New York market.

At M&T, Rogers will serve as spokesperson and oversee all external communications and public and media relations for the bank’s Western New York and Upstate New York regions.

This includes 180 branch locations surrounding Buffalo,

Photo of Kyle Rogers provided.

Rochester, Syracuse, Utica, Albany, Watertown, Elmira, and Binghamton.

M&T is a financial holding company headquartered in Buffalo. It has a branch in Clifton Park.

EDUCATION

14

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Saratoga County Student Athletes WSWHE BOCES to host CTE Works! Score High Marks on and off the Field

by Aidan Cahill on Dec. 18 Saratoga TODAY

WSWHE BOCES will host CTE Works! on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at the Saratoga Springs City Center.

The one day interactive career exploration event will welcome students in grades eight through 12 from school districts across the WSWHE BOCES service area.

CTE Works! is designed to expose students to the world of work in the local region and highlight the wide range of career opportunities available close to home. Students will have the chance to explore highdemand industries, learn about career pathways and connect directly with employers and education partners.

Local employers will be on site to share information about their industries, demonstrate hands-on activities and discuss career pathways and workplace expectations.

“CTE Works! gives students the opportunity to explore real careers, talk directly with employers and

begin to visualize their own future in the workforce,” said Michelle Maddalla, Principal for Innovative Programs. “This event helps bridge the gap between education and industry while showing students just how many opportunities exist right here in our region.”

Sponsors for the event include Albany Medical Health Systems, CSArch, DA Collins, Hollingsworth & Vose, Home of the Good Shepherd, Munter Enterprises Inc., Saratoga Honda, SEDC and TCT Federal Credit Union.

These sponsors, along with additional business partners, local colleges, career and technical education programs and educational pathway partners, will be in attendance representing a wide range of industries. Each organization will share information about career opportunities and employment pathways with students.

The snow date for the event is Friday, Dec. 19, 2025.

School districts across the county are celebrating successes on and off the field as the list of scholar athlete teams was announced.

The New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) announced its list of scholarathlete teams Dec. 11. To qualify for the list, 75% of a team roster must have a 90.0% average or higher across all their classes for the designated marking period.

Across the 12 school districts and private high schools in Saratoga County, 114 teams met this threshold — equating to 1,305 student athletes.

The Saratoga Springs High School had the most athletes with 219 student athletes scoring a 90 or above average across the 13 teams it fielded.

Shenendehowa wasn’t far behind with 216 student athletes across 13 teams.

“The Scholar-Athlete program remains one of the most meaningful recognitions we provide as an Association,” said Dr. Robert Zayas, NYSPHSAA Executive Director. “The dedication shown by these student-athletes, balancing rigorous academic responsibilities with their commitments to interscholastic athletics, is truly remarkable.”

School Breakdown Ballston Spa- 137 athletes across 11 teams

Burnt Hills- Ballston Lake172 athletes across 12 teams Corinth- 62 athletes across 9 teams Galway- 50 athletes across 5 teams Mechanicville- 85 athletes across 8 teams Saratoga Catholic- 50 athletes across 7 teams Saratoga Springs- 219 athletes across 13 teams Schuylerville- 96 athletes across 9 teams.

Shen- 216 athletes across 13 teams South Glens Falls- 125 athletes across 12 teams Stillwater- 51 athletes across 7 teams Waterford- 42 athletes across 8 teams

Snowshoe and Cross-Country Ski Rentals at Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park Don’t hibernate all winter!

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are great ways to explore the trails during the snowy season. Starting on January 3, crosscountry skis, snowshoes, and micro-spikes will be available to rent every Wednesday through Sunday, the last day being March 15, weather permitting. Rentals will also be available on Monday, January 19, and for the full February school vacation week, from February 16 to 20. Adult and child sizes are available, meaning the whole family can enjoy the

winter trails at Wilton Wildlife!

The rentals will be located at the Welcome Cabin at Camp Saratoga, located in Parking Lot #1 at 90 Scout Road in the Town of Wilton. Rentals are $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for kids/ students. Members of Wilton Wildlife have access to rental equipment at no cost. Rentals are available between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm, with all rented equipment needing to be returned by 3:30 pm. Rentals are on a firstcome, first-served basis.

For more information,

call the Wilton Wildlife office at 518-450-0321 or email i n f o @ w i l t o np r e s e r v e . o r g .

For up-to-date trail conditions or program information, visit the Wilton Wildlife website at wiltonpreserve.org or follow us on Facebook or Instagram @wiltonpreserve.

Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park’s mission is to provide environmental education and opportunities for outdoor recreation while supporting conservation of ecological systems and natural settings.

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

EDUCATION BRIEFS

Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs Hosts Annual ‘Angel Room’ The Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs welcomed families from the community into its Angel Room, a cherished seasonal tradition that offers a moment of calm, beauty, and connection during the busy holiday season.

While parents enjoyed refreshments and conversation, young children were guided by “angels” (older students) through a beautiful winter wonderland, where they chose handmade holiday gifts for their loved ones.

Select Holiday Auction items were also on display, giving attendees a chance to preview offerings that support the school’s programs and tuition assistance while taking part in the Angel Room experience.

More than a holiday celebration, the Angel Room reflects the school’s broader approach to education—one

The Angel Room event brought together students young and old for a moment of calm during the holiday season (Courtesy of the Waldorf School)

that values rhythm, reverence, and age-appropriate experiences that nurture emotional well-being alongside intellectual growth. For many families, it has become a beloved annual tradition and a reminder

that the holiday season can be marked by simplicity, connection, and a calmer pace.

The Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs serves children and families from early preschool through 8th grade.

15

HVCC North Offers Complete Degree Programs as Branch Campus HVCC North, located in the Saratoga Technology + Energy Park (STEP) in Malta, NY, has been designated an official branch campus of Hudson Valley Community College by the New York State Education Department.

Consisting of two state-ofthe-art buildings: TEC-SMART and the STEM Education Center, HVCC North will continue to offer students access to educational opportunities in the highly growing fields of healthcare, STEM and skilled trades in Saratoga County and throughout the North Country.

The branch campus will offer five complete degree programs on site as well as a variety of individual courses, non-credit study and student resources.

Coursework in the

following programs can now be completed entirely at HVCC North: • Clean Energy Management A.A.S. • Electrical Engineering Technology – Electronics A.A.S. • Electrical Construction and Maintenance A.O.S. • Engineering Science A.S. • Health Sciences Certificate “The designation of HVCC North as a branch campus marks a very exciting chapter in our institution’s history,” said Hudson Valley Community College President Michael Brophy. “By extending our academic reach and offering select degree programs in full in Malta, NY, we are increasing access and creating new opportunities for learning in highdemand fields.”

Food

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Holiday Favorites for Every Table

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Best Christmas Chicken Recipe PREP & COOK TIME: 2 hour 10 min

INGREDIENTS: *Ingredients currently available at the farmers’ market • 1/2 cup kosher salt

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary*

• 1 whole chicken (4 pounds)*

• 1/4 teaspoon rubbed sage*

• Cranberry Mixture:

• Vegetables:

• 2 cups fresh cranberries • 1/3 cup light brown sugar • 1 teaspoon orange zest

SATURDAYS

• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice

9:30 A.M. - 1:30 P.M.

• Herb Butter Spread:

WILTON MALL FOOD COURT

by Jodie Fitz for Saratoga TODAY

W

hen it comes to holiday meals, the main course sets the tone. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, hosting something cozy, or looking for a shortcut that still feels special, there are plenty of delicious ways to build a memorable holiday table at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market.

For many families, traditional mains are at the heart of holiday gatherings.

• Roast chicken or turkey-style chicken offers a versatile, crowd-pleasing option that pairs beautifully with seasonal sides.

• Ham is easy to prepare, great for leftovers, and perfect for feeding a group.

• Roasts (beef or pork) bring warmth and tradition to the table and are ideal for slower, celebratory meals.

Looking to change things up or add a little flair?

• Steak or veal can be a wonderful alternative for smaller gatherings or special occasions, offering rich flavor without hours of prep.

• Pork chops, dressed up with herbs, apples, or a simple glaze, feel both festive and familiar.

Holiday tables often reflect family heritage and cherished traditions.

There’s no single “right” main course. Whether you’re cooking from scratch, mixing homemade with prepared options, or trying something new this year, the goal is the same: gathering around the table and enjoying good food together.

Market News: • Ugly Sweater December 20th - wear your ugly sweater & get entered into a drawing for a prize at the market • Market Holiday Event December 20th: FREE stories with Santa, free hot cocoa, free movie showing, craft table with Saratoga Springs Mobile Library • Yoga Saturdays at the Market with Himanee & Yoga Mandali located in the movie theater foyer at 10 am • Comfort Food Community is on site with CDPHP Market coupons • Holiday Guest Vendors on site 12/20 • Sponsor a snowflake to benefit the market $5

• Pierogies are a beloved staple in many homes; they are hearty and can hold a variety of fillings.

• Merch (SALE) & gift certificates – support local for your holiday gifts

More families are incorporating meatless mains into their celebrations.

Upcoming Music:

• Vegetarian-based dishes using seasonal vegetables, beans, lentils, grains, and cheeses can be just as satisfying and festive. Consider stuffed squash, hearty casseroles.

The holidays are busy and it’s okay to simplify.

• Ready-made mains from trusted local producers can save time while still delivering flavor and quality. Pair them with homemade sides or market-fresh ingredients for a balanced, stress-free meal.

• December 20: Kate Blain • December 27: BurnsMoore Bridge The Saratoga Farmers’ Market is open: Saturdays | 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Wilton Mall, Food Court, at 3065 NY-50, Saratoga Springs. Find us online at saratogafarmersmarket. org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @ SaratogaFarmersMarket. And don’t forget to join the market’s FREE weekly newsletter.

• 6 Tablespoons butter, room temperature • 1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves* • 1 teaspoon dried parsley*

• 1 teaspoon orange zest • 1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes* • 2 medium yellow onions, cut into wedges* • 2 large carrots, cut in half sticks* • 1 garlic bulb, cloves separated and skins removed* • 1 orange, cut into 8 pieces • 1/2 lemon, quartered • 1/2 cup chicken broth

INSTRUCTIONS: Truss the chicken using kitchen twine.

In a large bowl, dissolve 1/2 cup of kosher salt in 8 cups of lukewarm water. Cover the bowl and transfer the brine to the refrigerator. Let it rest in the refrigerator until it has fully cooled.

Once the brine is completely cooled, add the chicken to the bowl of brine, cover the bowl, and place it back in the refrigerator. Let the chicken soak for at least 30 minutes brining the chicken will make for a juicy chicken!

In a medium mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients for the cranberry mixture. Set aside to allow the cranberries to macerate.

In a medium mixing bowl, mix together all of the ingredients for the butter spread. Set aside.

To the center of a roasting pan, add the baby potatoes, onions, carrots, garlic cloves, 6 pieces of orange, and 3 pieces of lemon to make a bed for the chicken. Pour the chicken broth over the bed of vegetables.

Preheat the oven to 425 F. After the chicken is finished brining, lift the chicken from the brine and drain off any excess liquid. Dry it thoroughly using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Once the chicken is dry, gently lift the skin from the chicken using your fingers to loosen the skin, creating a space for some of the butter and herb mixture to go.

Flip the chicken over so that it’s back side up, and rub it with some of the butter mixture. Flip the chicken back over and place it onto the vegetable bed, breast side up. Rub some of the butter spread under the chicken skin (doing your best to evenly distribute it and get it into as many nooks and crannies under the skin as possible). Use the remaining herb butter spread to cover the skin on the top and sides of the chicken. Stuff the chicken cavity with the reserved orange and lemon pieces.

Spoon the cranberry mixture, including the juice, around the vegetable bed, then bake uncovered for 15 minutes at 425 F. After 15 minutes, turn the heat down to 350 F and bake for 20 minutes per pound, or until an instant read thermometer reads an internal temperature of 165 F when inserted into the inner thigh area near the breast (but without touching the bone).

Recipe and recipe photo by Key to my Lime

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Food

“TIS THE SEASON OF GIVING”

by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY Hello my Foodie Friends!

We are entering into those final days of looking for that special gift to give that “foodie” this holiday season. Tis the season of giving, and there is no better time to spread happiness and kindness than during the holiday season.

The holiday season is my favorite time of the year, and gift giving is one of my favorite things to do with having the opportunity to shower those I care for with gifts. Everybody knows that giving gifts is a great way to express your appreciation for others. Not only does it make the gift receivers happy, but it makes the gift giver happy as well. Giving gifts during the holidays also promotes greater connections with your loved ones. Many believe that it is important to know what they want to receive, but that is not always the case. Gift-giving is something that comes from one’s heart. It does feel great to be on the receiving end, but there is a feeling of satisfaction when you are the one giving the gifts.

During my childhood, Christmas at my house was always a big event for our family. My mother’s family was very big, and we all traveled to each other’s houses for the holidays.

Christmas day would always begin at our house opening gifts, and afterwards traveling to each cousin’s house. We all lived within five miles of each other, so it was not a long drive to get to each one. As I remember, there would be six stops that ultimately ended at my Uncle Woofy’s house. My mother’s family started in Sicily with the birth of my Aunt Ma’am Ma, who was ten years older than my mom (who was born in the USA). My Aunt was the selfappointed head of the family, and my mom wasn’t happy about it.

To me she was a wonderful Aunt because I was her favorite. To my mom she was a bit bossy. Every Christmas, my mother nervously awaited the arrival of her sister. There was a bit of a cooking competition between the two sisters. If you have been reading my articles, then you’ll know that my mom’s meatballs were legendary.

All the cousins and other Aunts and Uncles’ families would stop over on days she made meatballs.

However, this would not go over well with my Aunt Ma’am Ma. She would arrive with a lot of fanfare and people helping her carry in the gifts for the kids and a 30qt stock pot full of her meatballs.

On the stove was my mom’s 30qt stock pot of her meatballs. When my Aunt Ma’am Ma would arrive, she would proclaim to everyone, “here, get these heated up”. She would take my mom’s pot off the stove and put her stock pot in its place. As you can imagine my mom, by now was gritting her teeth and rolling her eyes. What was my Irish truck driver Dad doing at this point during the meatball competition? He would have a huge grin on his face every year and divert the focus to opening the gifts for the children. I was always first and I can still remember the first year of my Aunt Ma’am Ma’s special gift for me. It was an Avon aftershave cologne glass car! Remember the company Avon? As I opened the gift, I would excitedly say “wow, it looks so cool”. I was six years old at that time, and my aunt said I can shave. I immediately found a mirror and began my shaving gestures splashing the Avon cologne all over myself. Every Christmas for six years in a row, my aunt would give me a new Avon Cologne car. She would say, “hold on to them Johnny, they’ll be worth something someday”.

Are you still looking for that unique gift idea? The best gifts for foodies often involve a gift that they would not oftentimes

splurge on for themselves. If you need help on what to wrap up for the holidays, we’ve got some ideas that will please even the most discerning gourmands on your list.

Ideas: Knives: Give the gift of high-quality knives during this holiday season to someone special. Choose the best sharp knives that make a memorable attachment to each other.

Gifting knives isn’t just about cutting; it’s about creating lasting memories in the kitchen.

Whenever they use it, they will remember you with a smile.

Surprise your loved one by gifting some amazing knives. A knife set is truly the ultimate gift for a friend or loved one.

Barbecue and home-cooking aficionados alike can make use of a lovely, hand-forged knife set as a treasured kitchen tool for many years. From smaller chef ’s knives to massive meat cleavers, we have a variety of beautiful options for the loved one who you want to honor with something special this year.

Cookware: Cookware might not seem like a glamorous gift but to anyone who loves cooking a well-made, artfully designed piece of cookware is a dream gift. Cooking with exceptionally well-made tools is a transformative experience in every way; they speed up cooking time, cook things evenly and are endlessly durable. Treat the chef in your life to one of our cookware gems; you’ll reap the tasty rewards later.

17 Just a love for gadgets: Can’t decide on a gift for your favorite foodie? Perhaps a needed gadget such as a Microplane zester, a peeler, a whisk, mixing bowls, electric tea kettle, pepper and salt mills, mortar and pestle, cutting boards, BBQ tools, thermometers, and the list goes on.

Not sure what to give this holiday season? Let us help you find that unique, unexpected gift for the person who already has everything at Compliments to the Chef; your Neighborhood Kitchen and Cutlery store located at 33 Railroad Place in Saratoga Springs. We have a great assortment of kitchen accessories to get your young Foodies started. It is a gift worth giving. Stop in and ask me any questions you may have.

Oh, and I checked online what my aunt’s gifts are going for these days, and they are selling for $29.99 but to me they are priceless. Also, I finally got the courage to ask my dad why he didn’t stick up for my mom’s meatballs when my aunt brought her meatballs knowing that my mom already had them. He said, “Son, who was number one and who was number two didn’t concern me because you never come between two Sicilian sisters when there is food involved. Besides, I was looking at 60 quarts of meatballs!”. Each year when we froze the leftover meatballs, I ate like a king all winter.

Remember my Foodie Friends: “Life Happens in the Kitchen”. Take care and Happy Holidays: John and Paula. Treasure the memories.

Old World Authentic Italian Meatballs INGREDIENTS • 1 pound ground chuck 80/20 mix • ½ pound ground pork • 2 large eggs • ¾ cup grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese • ½ cup chopped fresh parsley

or ¼ cup dried parsley • 1 tablespoon garlic powder • 1 tablespoon salt • 1 tablespoon pepper • 1 ¼ cups Italian seasoned bread crumbs • ½ cup milk

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Add first 8 ingredients to a large mixing bowl.

2. Add breadcrumbs to the mixing bowl and top with milk. Using your hands, mix all ingredients together for several minutes until well combined, then form into balls.

If you are cooking in sauce: 1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat in skillet.

Add meatballs and brown on all sides, turning frequently to avoid scorching. Cook just until fully browned, then remove and cook in pasta sauce for at least 90 minutes, until fully cooked through.

If you are baking: 1. Line large baking sheet with parchment paper and place meatballs on top of parchment paper. Bake in 400 degree preheated oven for 20 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees on a meat thermometer.

If you are pan frying: 1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat in a large skillet. Add meatballs and cook, turning frequently to brown evenly and avoid scorching. Cook 15-20 minutes depending on the size of the meatballs, until internal temperature is 165 degrees on a meat thermometer.

Notes If the meat mixture is too dry, add another egg, or add milk or water by the tablespoon and mix in until it reaches desired level of moisture.

If the meat mixture is too wet, add breadcrumbs by the tablespoon and mix in until it reaches desired consistency.

Recipe courtesy of Nancy Blackstone at fourchild.com

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CALENDAR

This Week’s Events: DEC. 19-25 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19 Holiday Book Sale Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St., Saratoga Springs | Through December 23. As you plan your holiday shopping, we hope you’ll visit the Friends Book Shop! Our seasonal sales offer great reads, unique gifts, and perfect stocking stuffers, all at affordable prices. Every purchase directly supports library programs and services, making your holiday shopping meaningful in more ways than one.

Women’s Basic SelfDefense Clifton Park Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Rd., Clifton Park | 1:30 p.m. Join seasoned instructor and 6th degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do, Lisa Boucher of Boucher Martial Arts, to learn simple, easy, and basic self-defense and awareness techniques for all abilities. Registration required. 518-371-8622. www. cphlibrary.org.

Shop & Sip at The Artisan’s Market Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa | 4 – 6 p.m. The Saratoga County History Center presents a special evening of sipping. strolling and shopping at our 25th Annual Artisan’s Market. Shop the creations of local artisans while enjoying sparkling water, hot cocoa, or soft drinks, and treating yourself to some complimentary sweets.

Enjoy the opportunity to meet some of our amazing artisans, complete your holiday shopping, and see historic Brookside Museum decorated for the holidays. Shop a wide

variety of handmade goods, including ceramics, soaps, jewelry, knitwear, holiday ornaments and more! Find something special for everyone on your list this holiday season and savor this special night at Brookside!

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20 Winter Solstice Sunrise Walk Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton | 8 a.m. Get ready for the shortest day of the year! Come for a walk to learn about how celestial movements impact the natural world. Register on our website or by calling the office at 518450-0321. Our programs are weather dependent and may be cancelled due to inclement weather or poor trail conditions.

Holiday Market Spectacular Saratoga Farmers Market and Scene One Cinemas, Wilton Mall, 3065 Route 50, Saratoga Springs | 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

The farmers’ market begins at 9:30 a.m. with hot chocolate and stories with Santa until 11 a.m. Scene One will host a free ornament activity for families at 10 a.m. and offer a special showing of The Polar Express at 11 a.m. Meanwhile, it’s Ugly Sweater Day at the farmers’ market! Wear an ugly sweater and enter to win a prize at the market information table. The drawing will be at 1 p.m. Plus, our friends at the Saratoga Springs Public Library will have a reindeer craft for children and plenty of books to peruse and check out with a library card. Local vendors will have holiday offerings galore: the freshest vegetables, holiday meats, cheeses, bread, treats, and sweets, and everything

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

drawn wagon rides will be available. Menu includes Eggs cooked to order, omelets, pancakes, hash, French toast, home fries, biscuits with sausage gravy, orange juice, milk and coffee. Donation: $12 adults, $10 Seniors 55+, Military and 1st Responders, $10 Children 6-12, children under 6yrs. are free.

delicious. Shop and find the perfect gift and holiday decor, all handmade with love.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 22

Paws 2 Read

Teen Winter Games

The Ballston Spa Public Library, 21 Milton Ave., Ballston Spa | 11:30 a.m. A special holiday-inspired event featuring Georgie, the therapy dog. Children in grades K – 4 and their families are invited to celebrate the season while strengthening reading skills.

Georgie, a certified therapy dog, will be available to listen as young readers share their favorite books or choose from a festive selection. The program helps build confidence, encourages a love of reading, and creates memorable moments. Participants will also be treated to a winter themed take ‘n make craft and special holiday goodie bag! First come first served. Free and open to the public. For more information, call 518-885-5022 or visit bspl.sals.edu.

Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St., Saratoga Springs | 6 – 8 p.m. Join teen librarian AnnaRae and the Teen Advisory Board for a festive and competitive night of games and activities! Enjoy tasty snacks, an indoor snowball fight, prizes for the night’s winners and more! Wear your coziest pajamas and get ready to dominate the competition.

Psst… the parachute WILL be making an appearance.

Register online to save your spot! Sspl.org.

Photography Club Galway Public Library Community Room, 2112 East Street, Galway | Noon. This month, club member Maria Goldsmith will take us on a Journey Through England as she shares photographs and stories from her recent trip abroad. Everyone is welcome to attend these relaxed and friendly gatherings. For more information, please contact Dave Waite at davewaitefinearts@gmail.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21 All You Can Eat Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Clause The Gansevoort Vol. Fire Department, 1870 Route 32N, Gansevoort | 8 a.m. Horse

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23 Family Movie: The Grinch Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St., Saratoga Springs | 10 – 11:30 a.m. You’re invited to a matinee showing of Illumination’s take on The Grinch -- drink hot cocoa, hang out and color! Feel free to bring blankets for comfy floor seating. Open to children and their families.

No registration required.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25

MERRY CHRISTMAS

UPCOMING

Events

Holiday Hours at the Tang We have special holiday hours during Skidmore’s winter break, a great opportunity for families and visiting friends looking for indoor things to do over the holidays. It’s also the last chance to see See It Now: Contemporary Art from the Ann and Mel Schaffer Collection before it closes January 4. From December 16 through January 18, the museum will be open Tuesday–Sunday, noon–5 pm. The museum will be closed December 23–25 and December 30–January 1. With free admission and warm galleries full of contemporary art, the Tang has become a goto-spot for families and visiting friends looking for an indoor outing over the holidays. For more information, call the Tang Visitor Services Desk at 518580-8080 or visit https://tang. skidmore.edu.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 24

Christmas Trees and Wreath Sale

Santa’s Playland 2025

The Town of Greenfield Lions Club are selling fresh Christmas trees and wreaths at the corner of Route 9N and Wilton Road. Trees are $55 each, Plain wreaths $20 and wreaths with a bow $25. Lions are on site each weekend until Christmas. On weekdays tree sales are self-serve. A card reader will be available on the weekends for your purchases.

Cash and checks also accepted.

Quick Response, 2077 Route 9, Round Lake | 5 – 11 p.m.

Event is drive through only.

Santa will be on site from 5 – 9 p.m. Open to the public Wednesdays – Sundays through January 4. Closed December 25 and January 1. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ quickresponserestoration.

Send your upcoming local event briefs to calendar@saratogapublishing.com two weeks prior to the event.

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Winter Food Drive The Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum is hosting a Winter Food Drive to benefit LifeWorks Community Action. As the temperatures turn colder, SCHC seeks to support our community by raising funds and gathering food items to support those facing food insecurity. Please join us in generosity this holiday season. Non-perishable food items can be dropped off during museum hours. Most needed items include canned fruit and vegetables, pasta, rice, oatmeal, mac and cheese, canned tuna, canned chicken, and peanut butter.

4-H Party for a Cause The Winter’s Edge Party for a Cause fundraiser will be

held on January 17, from 6 – 10 p.m. at The Hideaway at Saratoga Lake Golf Course.

Tickets for this event are $20 and include music by Electric Rodeo, 5 Raffle tickets & Light Refreshments (veggies, cheese, crackers, pepperoni).

There will be a Silent Auction, Raffle Baskets, and a whole lot of fun. We will also have an open cash bar and a limited menu for additional purchases.

Additional raffle tickets will be available as well. Many thanks to Harmony Veterinary Center for being our signature sponsor.

For tickets, visit https://cce. sc4h.org/party/ If you have any questions, contact Greg Stevens at the 4-H office at 518-8858995 or grs9@cornell.edu.

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CALENDAR Call for Local Folk or Irish Performers Come audition for an opportunity to showcase your talent during “Café Malta”, an intimate coffee house at the Malta Community Center on Friday evening, March 13. It’s lucky Friday the 13th right before St. Patrick’s Day! We are looking for talented musicians, vocalists, and small acoustic bands, storytellers and/or dancers. Each acoustic act selected will play a short 10–15-minute set.

Auditions are by appointment only. Contact Elyse Young, Artistic Director, at 518-8994411 x 305 or theater@townofmalta.gov for more details or to schedule an audition.

Send your upcoming local event briefs to calendar@saratogapublishing.com two weeks prior to the event.

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Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Fear of the Future

by Bill Orzell

Saratoga TODAY This year, 2025, we have seen a lot of change, and we have had to condition ourselves to many “new norms.” Sundry “red lines” were crossed, so what might we expect in 2026?

It is difficult to predict the future; I prove this to myself, each time I visit the racetrack

betting window. One certainty, which I understand about 2026, is that it will be the final publication of the venerable Farmer’s Almanac. Not many of us are farmers these days, but it always felt comforting to browse this hardcopy prognosticator. This Almanac has provided weather forecasts, astronomical data with your place in the zodiac, and gardening advice since 1818.

The United States Mint has discontinued the production of our copper coin, and the shining profile of Abe Lincoln will not be part of future transactions. We will simply “roundup” or “round-down.” I’ll bet you can guess which way this will go for you and me, and all other consumers. This rounding-down has been practiced at our racetracks, on the flat

or the trotters, for decades. It seems almost comical that our State Racing and Wager Board would eliminate “breakage” for punters in 2025, along with the demise of the penny.

In the illustrious past of Saratoga Springs and its gaming halls, a card game called Faro was dealt, which at one time exceeded the popularity of poker and craps. The players

would bet on the next card to be drawn from the house deck.

The player could also wager on which card they felt would not be drawn by placing a penny on that icon. Betting against a horse, or coppering, is still a method practiced by many handicappers in our time.

Speaking of luck and pennies, it has long been held that finding a single cent on the ground was a sign of good fortune. Unless you had bones-inyour-belly, it was a quick way to improve your individual capital. In 2026 finding a penny may take on a new dimension, as the

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Fear of the Future cont. coin becomes as rare as a 2-door pickup truck.

I have one other surprising certainty for you in 2026, Ivory Soap no longer floats! Had you realized this unexpected and, for some, unfortunate development, was foisted upon the public? Ivory Soap was developed in the late 1870’s when Mr. Proctor and Mr. Gamble took an active role in their personal products partnership.

This buoyant feature of bar soap was important when

many took their baths outdoors, and in lakes and ponds. Nonsubmerging became a clever marketing slogan, “lathers freely, rinses readily, it floats!” Alas, one more constant on everyday life, consigned to the past.

My advice for 2026, go forth boldly with change in your pocket, rely on the intelligence you have developed by seeing things with your own eyes and not something artificial, and watch out for what might be on the bottom of your bathtub.

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Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Holiday Guide

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Holiday Guide

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Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Holiday Guide

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Holiday WORSHIP

Services

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Season’s

Greetings

FROM OUR REGION’S LOCAL BUSINESSES

Season’s

Greetings

FROM OUR REGION’S LOCAL BUSINESSES

Season’s

Greetings

FROM OUR REGION’S LOCAL BUSINESSES

Season’s

Greetings

FROM OUR REGION’S LOCAL BUSINESSES

Arts & Entertainment

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Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Yaddo President Steps Down, National Rising Star Gushes Search Underway for Successor About Saratoga: “Do You Guys Know You Live in a Hallmark Movie?”

Photo by Elizabeth Haynes, courtesy of Yaddo.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Yaddo President Elaina Richardson is stepping down from her post at the nearly 100-year-old artist residency.

The news was first reported in a New York Times article published Dec. 10 before Yaddo released its own statement on Dec. 12.

“With Yaddo strong and the board robust,” Richardson said, “I have decided that this is the right moment to step aside as president and let someone else bring fresh energy and ideas to this place we all love.”

Richardson served as president for 25 years, and Yaddo is now undergoing a nationwide search for her successor.

Yaddo artists and board cochairs Janice Y.K. Lee and Peter

Kayafas are forming an internal committee to guide the transition. The process is expected to take about a year. Richardson will continue to lead Yaddo until the next president is chosen.

“From stabilizing our historic mansion to building new studios, growing our endowment, and guiding Yaddo through the pandemic, Elaina has reshaped Yaddo’s story,” the artist community said in its statement. “She has welcomed thousands of writers and artists through our gates, strengthening our mission with vision, grace, and generosity. We are proud of Elaina— and proud of Yaddo.”

Yaddo credited Richardson with the following achievements, among others:

• helping to secure Yaddo’s designation as a National Historic Landmark in 2013; • overseeing the transfer of the Yaddo archival records to the New York Public Library; • renovating and expanding Pigeon Barn into a live-work facility; • restoring West House with upgraded electrical and plumbing systems, a wheelchair lift, and accessible bathrooms; • growing the applicant pool from 1,039 in 2000 to 2,662 in 2024; • and increasing Yaddo’s endowment from $9 million to more than $38 million.

Prior to becoming president of Yaddo, Richardson was editor-in-chief of Elle, one of the world’s most popular fashion and lifestyle magazines.

Photo of Stella Cole via the Saratoga Performing Arts Center.

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Stella Cole, a 26-year-old jazz singer, heaped praise onto the Spa City while performing here as part of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center’s “Sounds of the Season” series.

In between her renditions of jazz standards and Christmas tunes, the New York City-based Cole said she’d been to Saratoga before during the summer months. “I love Saratoga,” she said. “It’s the best.” But her Dec. 14 concert at Skidmore College’s Arthur Zankel Music Center marked her first time here outside of the busy tourist season.

“Do you guys know you live in a Hallmark movie?” she asked the audience, gesturing towards the snowy trees seen through the stage window.

Cole has been a rapidly rising star after attracting

attention on TikTok with her version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” She performed the song in Saratoga as well, somehow making one of the world’s most recognizable melodies sound fresh.

Called a “powerhouse rivaling Judy Garland and Rosemary Clooney” by People, Cole has released a trio of albums since acquiring millions of social media followers. This year, she released “It’s Magic,” a record produced by Grammy winner Matt Pierson that features Cole’s signature blend of songs made famous by movies and entries from the Great American Songbook.

Cole’s performance took place at the Zankel Music Center due to the renovation of the Spa Little Theater, where SPAC typically holds its indoor concerts. “Christmas Dreaming with Stella Cole” was SPAC’s final show of 2025.

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Arts & Entertainment

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Spa Little Theater’s Promising Anonymous Donor Gifts $1 Million to Caffe Lena Future and Storied Past

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS — $12 million will be poured into the renovation of Spa Little Theater, which in recent years has hosted much of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center’s yearround programming.

To celebrate the project, an official groundbreaking ceremony was held last Thursday in one of the theater’s rooms, where paint was peeling off the walls and a noticeable hole in the ceiling offered proof that the venue built in 1935 could use a facelift.

“We are here to say that we stand on the threshold of the most ambitious and significant project SPAC has undertaken since it opened in 1966,” said Elizabeth Sobol, CEO of SPAC, at the groundbreaking ceremony. “The revitalized theater will expand artistic and educational and community experiences that connect people to the arts, to nature, and to one another year-round. Today’s groundbreaking represents far more than just the beginning of a construction project. It is a powerful investment in the future of SPAC and in the cultural vibrancy and economic health of this city, this county, and this region—transformation through restoration.”

Since taking over operations of the 500-seat Spa Little Theater in 2022, SPAC has presented more than 100 events at the venue, welcomed more than 35,000 guests, and expanded the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center’s season to a year-round residency. Part of the goal of the theater’s renovation/ restoration is to “really solidify ourselves as a year-round presenter,” said Christopher Shiley, president of SPAC. More than 17,00 square feet of the building (which was originally designed to be a lecture hall, not a theater) will be renovated, including, among other things: a new bar/cafe, a new artist suite and dressing rooms, updated theater seats, a new stage floor, a new lobby layout with more restrooms, an updated box office,

The Spa Little Theater interior as it appeared on Dec. 11, 2025. Photo by Jonathon Norcross.

A rendering of the Spa Little Theater interior as it’s expected to appear once renovations are completed. Image via Phinney Design Group/SPAC.

a multipurpose community room with an adjacent outdoor patio, and a new Spa State Parkinspired mural on the walls of the theater.

Despite all these changes, SPAC wants to preserve the theater’s “charm” and “wonderful intimacy,” said Shiley. The front facade of the building will appear mostly the same postrenovation, although the stone steps will be restored, and a redesigned accessible entryway will be added. Inside the theater, the original color palette of cream and burgundy will be reinstated, while the seating and balcony will remain mostly the same.

Nods to the venue’s past speak to the reverence many feel for a theater that’s hosted legendary performers such as Groucho and Chico Marx, Kevin Kline, Patti Lupone, Gloria Swanson, Shirley Booth, and Vivian Vance (rumors that Robin Williams also graced the stage appear to be unsubstantiated).

According to the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation’s Dec. 2 virtual presentation, “Healing Water to the Arts: The Story of the Spa Little Theater,” a number of performing arts groups have passed through the venue, including both theater companies (Abbey Theater of Ireland, the Circle Repertory Company, and the Empire State Youth Theater Institute) and dance companies

(Jose Limon, Pilobolus, Ellen Sinopoli, and Mark Morris).

During World War II, the theater was partly used to entertain soldiers. After the war and throughout the 1950s, it became known as the Spa Summer Theater and hosted a number of the aforementioned legendary performers. In the 1960s, it staged Broadway musicals such as “The King and I,” “South Pacific,” “Finian’s Rainbow,” and “Show Boat.” In the 1970s, John Houseman, an Oscar winner who worked with Orson Welles, brought his City Center Acting Company to the theater, staging as many as four plays in sixweek increments. From 1985 to 2020, the Home Made Theater called the venue home, producing more than 175 plays there.

“I’ve heard many memories from individuals who have been impacted by this [theater] one way or the other over its many decades in the park,” Shiley said.

“It’s been a real treat for me personally to work in the Spa Little Theater for the last three years producing SPAC’s year-round programming and getting to know more about what this building and this space have meant to the community for so many years.”

The historic Spa Little Theater will enter its next phase sometime around the end of 2026, when renovation work is expected to be completed.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Caffè Lena announced last Friday that it had received a $1 million gift from an anonymous donor, marking the largest single contribution in the storied music venue’s 65-year history.

In a statement, Caffe Lena said that the “transformational donation will strengthen the organization’s long-term stability as it continues expanding its mission-driven work in live performance, music education, and community outreach.”

The donor, who has attended performances at Lena for decades, shared their reasons for making the donation.

“Folk music has always been an integral part of my life, and in my opinion the Caffè is one of the most venerable institutions supporting folk music in the Northeast, and that includes New York City and Boston,” the donor said. “The work that the Caffè’s staff and board have accomplished over the past decade under Executive Director Sarah Craig’s leadership to both improve the Caffè’s performance space and expand the Caffè’s outreach to the Saratoga Springs community while staying true to the mission of the Caffè originally established by Lena Spencer is what inspired me to make this donation.”

The donor added, “In light of the uncertainty of future grants to the Caffè from private foundations given the shift in the

priorities of these foundations to help not-for-profit organizations that are materially impacted by the substantial reduction in federal grants, I am pleased to be able to provide some financial stability to the Caffè so that it will be able to continue fulfilling its mission for the indefinite future.”

Executive Director Sarah Craig responded to the donation with her own statement. “From its earliest days, Caffè Lena has been sustained by countless acts of generosity—from the musicians, the audience, the volunteers, and the wider community creating a place that belongs to all of us,” Craig said. “This remarkable donation is in keeping with that history. It affirms the ongoing value of a community space where people gather, create, listen, learn, and work together to bring the joy of music to all. We are deeply grateful for the trust and faith that this gift represents.”

Lena said that the funds will be placed in strategic reserves dedicated to preserving the venue’s long-term stability and enabling uninterrupted service to the community. The funds will help sustain dayto-day programming (which includes more than 300 concerts per year); music education programs; partnerships with three dozen social service organizations that help deliver music to underserved people; and free events for youth and adults.

Arts & Entertainment

32

Caffe Lena Presenting 16-Piece Jazz Performance at Putnam Place

Image via Caffe Lena.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Caffè Lena and Putnam Place will present a special Jazz at Caffè Lena performance featuring pianist Chuck Lamb with The Dylan Perrillo Orchestra on Tuesday, Jan. 13 at 7 p.m.

The concert will take place at Putnam Place to accommodate the full 16-piece orchestra.

The event brings together Lamb’s contemporary jazz approach with the Perrillo Orchestra’s focus on early American jazz traditions, offering audiences an opportunity to hear two distinct musical

perspectives in conversation.

Lamb has been the pianist for the Brubeck Brothers Quartet for more than 20 years, performing internationally and contributing original compositions influenced by jazz, fusion, classical, and world music.

The Perrillo Orchestra, based in Albany, performs arrangements inspired by the music of the 1920s through the 1950s. Their ensemble includes six horns, violin, rhythm section, and vocalist, creating a sound rooted in classic jazz and swing.

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Three Added to Racing Museum’s Joe Hirsch Media Roll of Honor SARATOGA SPRINGS — Writers Edward L. Bowen and Ray Kerrison and pioneering photographer Charles Christian “C. C.” Cook have been selected to the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame’s Joe Hirsch Media Roll of Honor.

Bowen (1942-2025), who was inducted into the Hall of Fame this year as a Pillar of the Turf, enjoyed a prolific career as a racing journalist and historian for more than 60 years.

An editor-in-chief of The BloodHorse magazine and the author of 22 books on horse racing, Bowen also served 24 years as president of the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation. He was the chair of numerous committees at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, including the contemporary Nominating

Committee for 38 years, beginning in 1987.

“Ed contributed to the betterment of racing in so many ways and the historical record of his outstanding writing will live on forever,” said Brien Bouyea, the Racing Museum’s communications director. “Ed built a reputation on integral reporting and captivating storytelling. He loved horses and horse racing and that passion shined through in his vivid work.”

Cook (1873-1954) was one of American racing’s first and most influential photographers. He worked as a photojournalist for newspapers in Chicago before becoming a freelancer around 1900.

His images of animals in the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago and the Barnum and Bailey Circus attracted wide attention. Cook began his association with racing photography at Washington Park in Chicago in the late 1890s. He was one of the first photographers in the United States to specialize in horse racing photography, as well as portraits and scenic images at various racetracks.

When racing was banned in his home state of Illinois, Cook relocated to New York.

Beginning in 1906, he worked for New York’s Globe newspaper and later as a staff photographer for The Morning Telegraph, the sister publication of Daily Racing Form.

For decades, Cook was a commercial photographer at tracks in Arkansas, Florida, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, and New York, among others. He also spent time as the official track photographer at Florida’s Hialeah Park.

Kerrison (1930-2022) wrote for the New York Post from 1977 through 2013, serving the paper as both a news and horse racing columnist.

He covered 32 editions of the Kentucky Derby and numerous other major races, including Breeders’ Cup events. He edited the National Star, Rupert

Murdoch’s first U.S. publication, in the early 1970s, then was hired by The Post in 1977 to cover horse racing. In his first year at The Post, Kerrison uncovered a racing scandal in which one horse raced under the name of another at Belmont Park. The betting fix involved the switching of the identities of the horses, Lebon and Cinzano. For this reporting, Kerrison was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. A couple of years later, Kerrison and fellow racing writer John Piesen broke the story of the biggest race-fixing scam in New York history. “Racing’s Darkest Hour” was The Post’s headline.

Kerrison’s reporting played a key role in uncovering the scandal that led to charges being brought against jockey Con Errico, mobster Anthony Ciulla, and more than 20 others. Along with his racing writing, Kerrison reported on many other major news events during his career, including Martin Luther King’s assassination in 1968, the first moon landing in 1969, and the Munich Olympics tragedy in 1972.

“Ray was smart, kind, dryly witty, and as committed to his craft as any journalist I’ve ever known,” Bob McManus, The Post’s retired editorial page editor, said after Kerrison’s death in 2022. “He was a man of unshakable principle, which was obvious in his writing, but also a fellow who respected his readers’ intelligence. His goal was to persuade, not to lecture, and while his work could be controversial, it always was honest.”

The National Museum of Racing’s Joe Hirsch Media Roll of Honor was established in 2010 to recognize individuals whose careers have been dedicated to, or substantially involved in, writing about thoroughbred racing (nonfiction), and who distinguished themselves as journalists. The criteria has since been expanded to allow the consideration of other forms of media.

33

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

It’s where NEED to be.

YOU

AD SPACE RESERVATION DUE: Monday | 5 p.m.

AD COPY DUE: Wednesday | Noon Publication Day: Friday

CLASSIFIED MARKETPLACE CALL 518-581-2480 EXT. 204 CLASSIFIED@SARATOGAPUBLISHING.COM

PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD TODAY! PHONE: 518-581-2480 ext. 204 EMAIL: CDURFEY@ saratogapublishing.com 2254 Route 50 South Saratoga Springs

LEGALS

Notice of formation of Best Home Saratoga LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 08/02/2025 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 81 Beekman St. Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025. 16096

WHITE PLUMBING 101 LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 8/10/25. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served.

A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 5 Southside Dr., Suite 11-158, Clifton Park, NY 12065-3870.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025. 16113

Notice of formation of Wyld Experiences LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 10/31/25. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 418 Broadway STE N, Albany, ALBANY COUNTY, NY 12207 USA. Purpose: Any lawful activity. 11/21, 11/28, 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2/2026. 16101

Notice of Formation of LLC. Articles of Organization for LGM LANDSCAPING LLC were filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 11/12/2025. Office located in Saratoga County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent upon which process may be served and a copy shall be mailed by the Secretary of State to the LLC at 40 A Horseshoe Circle, Halfmoon, NY 12065.

Purpose: for any lawful activity for which limited liability companies may be formed under the law. Under Section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Law. 11/21, 11/28, 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2/2026. 16143

Notice of formation of WHITE SERVICE RIGHT NOW LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 8/10/25. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 5 Southside Dr., Suite 11-158, Clifton Park, NY 12065-3870. Purpose: Any lawful activity. 11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025.

16112 Notice of formation of

WhalenMcPartlandCompany, LLC, filed articles of organization with the NY Secretary of State on 4/6/2022.

Office: [Saratoga COUNTY].

[Kelsey McPartland] is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. NY Secretary of State shall mail copy of process to [Kelsey McPartland] at [147 Braim Road, Greenfield Center NY 12833]. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 11/21, 11/28, 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025,

1/2/2026. 16156 NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Under Section 206 of the Limited Liability Company Law. Name: 12 Leland Street, LLC, Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on November 3, 2025. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: c/o The LLC, 15 Jefferson Street, Glens Falls, NY 12801. Purpose: Any lawful act or activities. 11/21, 11/28, 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2/2026. 16158 Brookford Partners MMF SPV LLC filed w/ SSNY 11/5/25.

Off. in Saratoga Co. Process served to SSNY - desig. as agt. of LLC & mailed to the LLC, PO Box 20088, Brooklyn, NY 11202. Any lawful purpose.

11/21, 11/28, 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2/2026. 16159 Notice of formation of Philipi Beer Garden LLC. Arts. Of Org. filed with the Secretary of State New York on 11/18/2025. Office location: Saratoga County. DOS has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. DOS shall mail a copy of process to Dino Papoutsis, 489 Broadway Saratoga Sp NY 12866. For any lawful propose. 11/21, 11/28, 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2/2026. 16167 NOTICE Of FORMATION OF A NEW YORK LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. The name of the limited

liability company is 10 E Washington St LLC (The LLC). The date of filing of the Articles of Organization with the Department of State was November 20, 2025. The county in New York in which the offices of the LLC are located is Saratoga County.

The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process may be served, and the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any such process served against the LLC to The LLC, P.O. Box 3029, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. The business purpose of the LLC is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under the laws of the State of New York. 11/28, 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2, 1/9/2026.

16183

it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, PO Box 1470, Halfmoon NY 12065. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2, 1/9, 1/16/2026.

16206

Notice of Organization of City Center WiFi, LLC. Authority filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 11/24/2025 . Office: Saratoga County.

SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to: c/o 3H Legal Services, PLLC, 36 Long Alley, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 11/28, 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2, 1/9/2026.

16189

Notice of formation of Savvy Salplings LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 11/21/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 2282 Alexander Rd Galway N.Y. 12074. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2, 1/9, 1/16, 1/23/2026. 16222

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: Wilcox Psychology, P.L.L.C.. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/20/25.

Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom processes against

Notice of formation of EFJAYS SOLUTIONS LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 10/31/2025 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 2110 Maple Ave, Ballston Lake, NY 12019.

Notice of formation of J. Dennis Enterprises LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 9/17/2025.

Office: Saratoga County.

SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 4 Vandenburg Ln. Halfmoon, NY 12065. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2, 1/9, 1/16/2026.

16219

34

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

LEGALS

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2, 1/9, 1/16, 1/23/2026. 16223 Notice of formation of SEA GLASS NAIL STUDIO LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 12/09/2025.

Office: Saratoga County.

SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 418 Broadway Suite # 10547 Albany NY 12207. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2, 1/9, 1/16, 1/23/2026. 16250 Notice of Formation of ADK Sled Chicks LLC. ADK Sled Chicks LLC filed Articles of

Organization with the New York Secretary of State on December 10, 2025. The office of the LLC is in Saratoga County, New York. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served, and shall mail a copy of such process to: 508 S Shore Rd, Northville, NY 12134. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity. 12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2, 1/9, 1/16, 1/23/2026. 16258 Notice of formation of Rooted Barn LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 12/04/2025 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A

copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: PO Box 5, Porter Corners, NY 12859.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

12/19/2025, 1/2, 1/9, 1/16, 1/23, 1/30/2026. 16282 Notice of formation of KTABLE LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 12/16/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 21 Evergreen Dr., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

12/19/2025, 1/2, 1/9, 1/16, 1/23, 1/30/2026. 16292 Notice of formation of Upstate Thrift & Apparel LLC. Articles

of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 09/07/2025 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 102 6th Street Saratoga NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 12/19/2025, 1/2, 1/9, 1/16, 1/23, 1/30/2026. 16312

PUBLIC NOTICES NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Resolution 360 of 2025 the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing on January 14, 2026 at 4:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the Board

can convene, in the Meeting Room of the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors at 40 McMaster Street, Ballston Spa, New York 12020 on a Local Law, identified as Introductory No. 4, Print No. 1 of 2025, entitled “A LOCAL LAW AMENDING THE 2026 COUNTY COMPENSATION SCHEDULE TO PROVIDE A SALARY AND COSTOF-LIVING INCREASE FOR CERTAIN COUNTY OFFICIALS” TAKE FURTHER NOTICE, that at this hearing, all persons wishing to speak will be heard.

Written communications may be emailed to publiccomment@ saratogacountyny.gov, or by mail addressed to: Clerk of the Board, Saratoga County Board of Supervisors, 40 McMaster Street, Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, which public comment must be received by January 14, 2026 at 3:30 p.m.

Copies of this proposed local law are available in the Office of the Clerk of the Board and online at www. saratogacountyny.gov.

Therese M. Connolly, Clerk Board of Supervisors 12/19/2025, 16267 NOTICE TO BIDDERS The Department of Central Services will receive sealed bids in person or electronically through the Empire State Purchasing Website until 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read aloud for Leased Copiers/Maintenance, as per specification 26-CML-1.

Bid forms and instructions are available at the Department of Central Services, 50 W. High Street, Ballston Spa, NY between 9:00 a.m. & 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (telephone - 518-885-2210) or at the Empire State Purchasing Group website (www. empirestatebidsystem.com) Saratoga County, through its Department of Central Services, reserves the right to reject parts of any or all bids.

JOHN T. WARMT Director of Purchasing Saratoga County 12/19/2025, 16290

35

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

It’s where NEED to be.

YOU

AD SPACE RESERVATION DUE: Monday | 5 p.m.

AD COPY DUE: Wednesday | Noon Publication Day: Friday

CLASSIFIED MARKETPLACE CALL 518-581-2480 EXT. 204 CLASSIFIED@SARATOGAPUBLISHING.COM

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1/27/2025 4:29:42 PM

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Sports

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Trainer Reflects on Santa Battles Grinch in Father’s Passing Second Saratoga Showdown and First Grade 1 Victory at Saratoga To celebrate a year of racing on the New York Racing Association (NYRA) circuit, the NYRA Press Office checked in with a selection of trainers, owners, jockeys and racing personalities to share their reflections.

In June, trainer Miguel Clement earned his first Grade 1 victory a short time after the untimely passing of his father Christophe, the winner of more than 2,500 races and $184 million in purses. In the months since, the Clement family has supported each other to carry on with Miguel at the helm.

The 34-year-old trainer reflected on his first Grade 1 win, and stressed the importance of family, both personally and professionally.

NYRA’s interview with Clement has been edited for length.

Q: Your first stakes victory came this summer at Saratoga with Deterministic in the Grade 1 Resorts World Casino Manhattan, a race your father won three times with Forbidden Apple [2001], Gio Ponti [2009] and Winchester [2010]. What do you remember most about that experience?

Miguel Clement: Without a doubt, the Manhattan was meaningful as the stable’s first Grade 1 win, and Dad always loved that race. To get a big victory like that right after Dad [passed], it was tough emotionally, but it was needed.

There’s nothing like winning a big race at Saratoga.

His three victories this year I think are enough to be considered for the Eclipse Award, but I am biased.

Q: As you reflect on this year, what are some other key milestones you and the team are proudest of?

MC: As everyone knows, it’s been a very challenging year.

Dad played a big role in all our lives and had a larger-than-life personality. He is greatly missed, and fortunately the horses are running well, so they are a muchneeded distraction. I thought we had a very strong season, and it’s really great they are running well. The stable needed it, the family needed it. The horses did more than their fair share.

Q: What role does family play in the stable’s success?

MC: My wife was there for me through all of it. My sister and my mom sacrificed everything to try to find Dad a cure, and my mother tried her best to be there at Saratoga this summer as many days as she could to show support for the stable.

My sister redirected much of her work towards working on the finances of the stable so I could focus as much as I could on the horses. In that regard, my wife did the same.

My family is a very big deal, maybe more so for me than any other outfit. They protect me, they help me, and they don’t get any recognition. The family put me in this position and they support me. A lot of the outreach and affection went towards me and not them, but it hit them as bad as me. So much of the credit goes to them.

Q: What are some lessons or pieces of advice from your father that have stuck with you?

MC: That it’s a very humbling game. You try to be as consistent as possible, which is tough in this profession because you deal with so many ups and downs and a lot of volatility. You just try to work as hard as possible. If you have a strong work ethic, that takes care of a lot of it.

View the Paper Online:

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

The Grinch and Santa Claus compete in an exhibition harness race on Dec. 14. Screenshot of the race via the Saratoga Casino Hotel.

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS — In an annual tradition that perhaps foretells whether this Christmas will be a jolly or mean one, Santa Claus and The Grinch aired their grievances with a feat of strength: a harness race at the Saratoga Casino Hotel.

The mile-long race on Dec. 14 circled several inches of packed snow. The Grinch opened up an early lead, bursting ahead of Claus at the start of the contest. Claus was stuck on the inside, trailing by about twoand-a-half lengths as the foes entered the backstretch. Santa

kept his cool, biding his time for a comeback as children across Saratoga feared their presents might be stolen by a victorious Mean One. The anxiety heightened as The Grinch expanded his lead to three lengths. As the ill-tempered, pot-bellied Christmas ruiner passed the grandstands in the stretch, he seemed to be almost taunting those in attendance.

But then, The Grinch went wide on a turn, opening up space on the inside. Claus attempted to squeeze into the gap as if it was a chimney, but The Mean One kept him at bay.

Still, St. Nick gained ground and cut his enemy’s lead to about two lengths. Sensing that his

chance of victory was narrowing, Santa snapped the reins as he does every Christmas when beckoning his reindeer toward the heavens. With that, Santa’s horse came so close to the reclining Grinch that the Mean One could’ve kissed its nose.

But as they entered the final stretch, centuries of a milk-and-cookies diet seemed to slow down St. Nick. The mean Green One insulted Claus and all of polite society as he cruised across the finish line with a commanding fourlength victory.

It was the second-straight year that The Grinch defeated Santa in Saratoga. In 2024, The Grinch won by an inch.

Adult Fitness Opportunities Offered in Ballston Spa BALLSTON SPA — The Ballston Spa School District’s Adult Fitness Program will start again in January 2026.

Offerings will include soccer, basketball, self-defense, yoga, DanceFit, and aqua zumba. No experience is required to participate. Each program includes

a 10-class session.

Pre-registration is required for all programs, and fees are due prior to the start of each course. Due to safety regulations, aqua zumba registration will close at 25 participants.

If interested in learning more about the adult fitness

programs or to register, visit www.bscsd.org.

Registration forms can be dropped off in person and/or mailed to: BSCSD c/o Office of Community Relations and Program Support 70 Malta Avenue Ballston Spa, NY 12020

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Sports

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Saratoga Racers Start Season 4-1

Saratoga Racers guard Juwan Malone in a Dec. 7 game against the Herkimer Originals in Mechanicville. Malone has emerged as one of Saratoga’s top scoring threats this season. Photo via the Saratoga Racers.

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

MECHANICVILLE — The Saratoga Racers entered their sophomore season with new ownership and a new home court, ready to capitalize on their 13-7 inaugural year that ended in the American Basketball Association’s (ABA) playoff semifinals.

On Dec. 7, the Racers put on a show at Mechanicville’s Riverside Center. It was their second regular season contest played at their new home base. In that game against the Herkimer Originals, whom the Racers previously defeated by just one point on Nov. 9, new standouts emerged amongst a roster populated with familiar faces.

Saratoga entered the contest 3-1, having won three straight after a season-opening loss to the New England Lightning in Rhode Island on Nov. 2. The first two stanzas were evenly matched, with the score tied 64 to 64 as the decisive second half began.

In a nod to the Saratoga Race Course, the third quarter started with a “call to post” bugle sound effect—and they were off. Guard Juwan Malone impressed early, draining a three before grabbing a quick steal and easy layup. His teammates followed suit, pressuring Herkimer relentlessly on defense and racking up a series of interceptions and quick buckets. The points soon piled on, with Saratoga taking an 84 to 71

lead with 8 minutes remaining in the quarter.

The Racers moved the ball efficiently on offense, creating open looks for practically everyone donning one of the team’s redesigned minimalist, red-and-white uniforms. With a healthy double-digit lead deep in the third quarter, Saratoga slowed down the game’s pace before erupting with two triples to end the stanza. After three, it was Racers 109, Herkimer 92. (Seemingly in a celebratory mood, a couple Racers danced to “Cotton-Eyed Joe” on the sideline prior to the fourth quarter).

In the final quarter, Saratoga steamrolled the opposition with a pretty swish from beyond the arc by forward John Ryals, who was one of the top scorers on last year’s squad. But Herkimer didn’t relent, narrowing the lead to just 8 points with around 9 minutes left in the game.

Saratoga countered by doing what they did well throughout the contest: draining triples and forcing turnovers.

RJ Rosa, another returning standout, had a series of big moments in the closing minutes. Both last season and against Herkimer, Rosa consistently demonstrated high basketball IQ, making smart plays and getting open looks at the basket. Malone joined with Rosa to help seal the deal in the game’s final moments, hitting a big three-pointer to grow Saratoga’s lead back up to 13 points. As Herkimer scrambled for a last-minute comeback,

Rosa and company remained disciplined, keeping Toga on top to secure a 147-136 victory.

The win was Saratoga’s fourth in a row.

Malone led all Racers with 29 points, though six of his teammates finished with double digits: Donavan Williams (22), Rosa (21), Ryals (20), Cam Thomas (15), Isaiah Grandison (13) and Tyler Mithell (10). Forward Joey Harden led his squad in both rebounds (12) and assists (6).

Rosa added 4 steals.

Malone, who has also played for the Albany Patroons, has emerged as one of Saratoga’s most lethal offensive weapons this season. In the Racers’ first game against Herkimer in November, he racked up 27 points. The team has also been bolstered by impressive offensive outputs from Tobias Holmes, Harden, and Rosa.

Collectively, Saratoga has excelled from beyond the arc, shooting 17 for 32 (53%) in the first game against Herkimer and hitting 19 of 44 triples (43%) against the Vermont Coyotes on Nov. 23.

The Racers will return to the Riverside Center in Mechanicville on Jan. 24, which will be the first of six straight games played at home.

Prior to the start of this season, former Racers owner Keith Harrington sold the team to an ownership group led by Frank Polsinello, a Mechanicville native who relocated the team from its former home court at Saratoga Central Catholic.

Sports Scores & Highlights

39

Week of December 19 – December 25 , 2025

Jr. NBA Scores DIVISION 1 WARRIORS VS. BULLS Warriors-27: AJ Pollak-10pts, Shepard Allen-5pts Bulls-4: Samuel Graney-4pts

The Skidmore College riding team placed second at the Holiday Tournament of Champions, hosted at Centenary University on Dec. 6. Photo via Skidmore Athletics.

Games

Fun And

LADY SAINTS UNDEFEATED The Saratoga Central Catholic Lady Saints rallied past the Hoosic Valley Hawks 50-39 on Dec. 11. Sophia Ryan had a game-high 14 points, while Addison Whitbeck chipped in 12. With her 14 points, Ryan officially surpassed her school’s all-time scoring record that was set in 1980. Only a junior, Ryan has already amassed 1,041 points in her high school career.

The Lady Saints followed up on the historic game against Hoosic Valley with their fourthstraight win of the season against Cambridge on Dec. 15.

In their 53-31 victory, Whitbeck earned a game-high 23 points, and Ryan added 11. The Lady Saints are now an undefeated 4-0 this season.

ADIRONDACK UNITED START SEASON WITH A WIN In Adirondack United’s home opener at the Harding Mazzotti Arena on Dec. 6, they defeated Beekmantown 4-2.

Emerson Lochner-Fehl opened the scoring just over 2 minutes into the game. In the second period, Gianna Marcantonio

made a rush to score unassisted.

In the third period, LochnerFehl added another goal assisted

by Marcantonio and Aubrey Lozier. Following Lochner-Fehl’s second, Maeve McCarty finished the United’s scoring, assisted by Ella Carner and Lochner-Fehl.

Aurora Graham-Hayes contributed to Adirondack’s win with 23 saves. Adirondack will next travel to Skaneateles on Dec. 19 for a rematch of last year’s state title game.

SKIDMORE RIDING TEAM PLACES SECOND IN HOLIDAY TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS The Skidmore College riding team traveled to Centenary University to compete in the Holiday Tournament of Champions on Dec. 6. The team rode to reserve champion out of 16 schools, scoring 32 points behind champion team Savannah College of Art and Design.

Isa Jensen started the day with an outstanding ride in the Open Fences, placing second behind current Individual Open Fences National Champion Alex Alston. Ian Gaudio rode to second place in the Intermediate

Fences, and a minor hiccup at the beginning of an otherwise beautiful trip kept Ani McIntyre out of the ribbons in the Limit Fences.

Jensen returned for the Open Flat with a strong ride to third place. Lillard Preschlack took second place in the Intermediate Flat, and McIntyre returned for the Limit Flat, placing second. Isa Washburne made her first tournament appearance, placing third in the Novice Equitation, and Catherine Epstein had a smooth ride to place third in the Introductory Equitation.

Gaudio also competed in the Low Medal and was called back on top after a beautiful ride on the flat. He finished in eighth place after a small error in the jumping phase. Avery Johnson competed in the High Medal, and despite a strong ride on the flat, was not called back over fences.

After winter break, the team will travel to the next Tournament of Champions at Savannah College of Art and Design on Jan. 24. Regular semester competition begins on Feb. 21 at Siena University/ Dutch Manor Stable.

Puzzle Solutions See puzzles pg. 10

MAVS VS. CELTICS Mavs-23: Grayson Chartrand6pts, Jake Borman-6pts Celtics-5: Finn Redner-2pts Rhys Hotaling, Axel Baltodano, Brady LaCasse-1pt

DIVISION 2 SPURS VS. WOLVES Spurs-11: Jackson Lizzi-4pts, Evan Lofink-2pts Wolves-9: Declan Blust-3pts, Dylan Lynch-2pts NUGGETS VS. HORNETS Nuggets-29: Vincent DiFusco-15pts, Owen Clancy-9pts Hornets-28: Levi Rawert16pts, Malcolm Grant-4pts

CELTICS VS. WARRIORS Celtics-30: Luke Longo-14pts, Tommy Farrelley-4pts Warriors-19: Matthew Boucher-12pts, Bennett Taylor-4pts

DIVISION 3 BUCKS VS. WARRIORS Bucks-34: Jayden Collins16pts, Kayden Klippel-10pts Warriors-29: Nick Coloccia6pts, Jackie Harms-6pts HEAT VS. CELTICS Heat-31: Boden Pileckas10pts, Harrison Khoury-8pts Celtics-29: Solomon Rucinski-25pts, Gavin Clancy-4pts

PISTONS VS. MAVS Pistons-27: Jack RileyChittenden-8pts, Vincent Cinquanti-5pts Mavs-17: Harper Brodie-8pts Max Driscoll-4pts

DIVISION 4 BULLS VS. PISTONS GRIZZLIES VS. MAVS Bulls-33: Shiloh Parker-13pts, Grizzlies-36: Taylor EndresLucas Lysyczyn-12pts 10pts, Kyle Harness-8pts Pistons-26: Andon Cangeleri- Mavs-19: Jayden Oliver-7pts 8pts, Riley Gaul-5pts Morgan Duval-6pts