Saratoga TODAY August 22 – August 28, 2025

Photo of the 1978 Saratoga Springs hockey team provided by Rick Cobello.

The land on the southeast corner of the County Route 68/Burke Road intersection, which may be the future site of the Mostly Modern Arts Center. Photo by Jonathon Norcross.

National Grid Increases Rates as Lawmakers and Governor Push Back

by Aidan Cahill Saratoga TODAY

The New York State Public Service Commission recently approved a rate proposal by National Grid which would see rates for electricity go up by 11% and rates for gas go up by 10%.

The Commission approved the proposal on Aug. 14. The proposal was signed by multiple agencies, companies and other organizations including the US Department of Defense, Walmart, The New York Solar Energies of New York, The New York Geothermal Energy Organization, and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union No. 97 — among others.

Under the proposal, rates across the areas National Grid serves would go up for residential customers by around 1112% for year one, five percent for year two and three percent for year three. In terms of gas expenses, National Grid states in its proposal that rates will go up by around eight percent across all three years it covers.

The rate increase comes after over a year of negotiations between National Grid and various stakeholders.

Under the initial proposal rates would’ve increased electricity rates for residential consumers by 15% and gas rates for residential consumers by 20%. These rates were reduced through the negotiating process to where they are in the current proposal.

Under the approved proposal, revenues for National Grid from electricity would increase by $167.3 million in year 1, $297.4 million in year 2 and $243.4 million in year 3.

“The main rate drivers of the recommended increases are due to increases to operations and maintenance (O&M) expense, return on and return of (i.e., depreciation expense) capital investments, and a change in the return on equity to reflect market conditions offset by lower than previously forecast property taxes and a forecasted

increase in revenue,” The proposal said.

The increased rate isn’t without controversy. The report detailed how in hearings across the state during the year of negotiations, 62 individuals spoke up about the rates and nearly 9,000 people submitted written comments.

“Many speakers opposed the proposed rate increases, stating that bills are already unaffordable and suggesting that executive compensation and shareholder dividends be reduced prior to raising rates,” the proposal stated “Others noted that the requested rate increases outpace inflation and suggested that there should be methods for funding necessary infrastructure improvements without rate increases.”

Despite these comments, The Commission ultimately decided to approve the rate increases.

“While reflecting a considerable reduction from National Grid’s original request, the Joint Proposal nonetheless provides sufficient funding for the Company to maintain safe, adequate and reliable utility service at just and reasonable rates; thus, the Joint Proposal appropriately balances the interests of ratepayers, the Company, and its investors,” The Commission stated.

The approval was met with swift backlash from many New York lawmakers and other politicians. Governor Kathy Hochul released a statement criticizing the decision.

“While I appreciate that the New York Public Service

Commission worked to significantly lower the outrageously high initial rate proposals, it’s still not enough,” Governor Hochul said. “I have been crystal clear that utilities must make ratepayer affordability the priority.”

In response to the rate hike, Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, whose represents parts of Schenectady and Amsterdam, announced he would introduce legislation which would allow the legislature to review any rate hike by the Public Service Commission.

“Utility costs are already a significant burden for New Yorkers,” Santabarbara said. “This bill makes sure that when major decisions like this are made, elected representatives have the chance to step in on behalf of the people they serve – even if the PSC has already approved it. In this case, we still have time to review and potentially reverse this increase before it becomes permanent.”

This isn’t Santabarbara’s first time introducing legislation to exert legislative control over the Public Service Commission. Back in January, Santabarbara proposed legislation which would require legislative consent on all proposed rate hikes. The same bill was proposed in the senate by Senator James Tedisco, who represents all of Saratoga County and parts of Schenectady and Kevin Parker who represents parts of Brooklyn.

The legislation was referred to committee in both houses and no action has been taken since.

Saratoga Lake Homeowners Launch Website

Demanding NYS DOT Honor Six-Year-Old Promise

Four homeowners who lost their only safe access to their private lakefront property during a 2019 state emergency road repair have launched a website to pressure New York State to fulfill its written promise to restore their access.

The website, NYSDOTBrokenPromises.com, details how the New York State Department of Transportation (NYS DOT) demolished the homeowners’ stairs to their docks while constructing an emergency retaining wall on Route 9P, then failed to replace them despite documented assurances.

“Six years ago, we cooperated fully when the state needed to address a dangerous road collapse,” said Peter Hopper, president of the Spruce Ridge Association, the neighbors’ HOA. “NYS DOT promised in writing to replace our stairs. Today, we still can’t safely access our own property.”

The emergency began in 2018 when large sections of Route 9P pavement broke away and slid 20 feet onto the homeowners’ docks below. After Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner

alerted NYS DOT to the hazard, the agency constructed a 12-foothigh, 200-foot-long retaining wall in May 2019, destroying the existing stairs in the process.

Despite multiple meetings and correspondence over six years, NYS DOT has offered only a fraction of the replacement cost and insists the homeowners—all retirees—manage the complex engineering and construction on the steep terrain themselves.

“We’re not engineers or construction experts,” Hopper said. “The state has the expertise and resources to rebuild what they destroyed. We’re simply asking them to keep their word.”

The homeowners have contacted Governor Hochul and NYS DOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez, requesting their intervention. Those efforts generated no significant response.

“We’ve exhausted all other options,” said neighbor Charlie Murphy. “We’re four middleclass retirees in an exhausting fight with New York State, hoping public pressure will finally make them do the right thing.”

For more information, visit NYSDOT-BrokenPromises.com.

Two arrested for Animal Abuse

The Sheriff’s Office arrested Nancy M. Kenny (age 72) and Rachael N. Furman (age 32) of Wilton and charged them each with 37 counts of overdriving, torturing and injuring animals; failure to provide sustenance (class A misdemeanors).

Kenny and Furman are accused of failing to provide proper sustenance and a cleanliving environment to eight dogs, four cats, two chickens, one duck, one rooster, and a rabbit who were located inside their residence on Louden Road in the town of Wilton.

Additionally, they are accused of failing to provide sustenance to 14 chickens, three ducks, two turkeys, and a pig that were located outside the residence.

The arrests were the result of a lengthy investigation that began with several loose dog complaints.

“I am absolutely sickened by this situation and the spate of similar calls we’ve handled recently,” said Sheriff Michael H. Zurlo. “Let

me be crystal clear – if you abuse animals, we will arrest you and charge you to the fullest extent of the law. This has to stop. Now.”

The animals were seized pursuant to a court order and relocated to safe environments where they are receiving proper care. The Saratoga County Hazmat Team was called to the scene due to the presence of high ammonia levels inside the residence which was subsequently condemned by the Town of Wilton Building Inspector once the animals were removed.

Kenny and Furman were released on appearance tickets pending further proceedings in the Wilton Town Court.

The Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Saratoga County Animal Shelter, Saratoga County Hazmat Team, Wilton Fire Department, Wilton EMS, Wilton Building Inspector, Granville Veterinary Service, Milton Animal Control, and Malta Animal Control.

Alice Marie Mancini

SARATOGA SPRINGSAlice Marie Mancini, 83, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2025. Visitation was Wednesday August 20 at William J. Burke & Sons/ Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Home, 628 N. Broadway Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Kathleen A. Zito

SARATOGA SPRINGS -

Kathleen A. Zito, 79, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2025. Visitation is 4-7 p.m. on Monday, August 25, at Burke Funeral Home, 628 N. Broadway. Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Tuesday, August 26, St. Peter’s Church, 241 Broadway. Burial in St. Peter’s Cemetery. Please visit www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Richard (Dick) Jackson Shaw

SARATOGA SPRINGSRichard (Dick) Jackson Shaw passed peacefully on August 13, 2025, in Saratoga Springs, just a little over a month shy of his 93rd birthday. He had been living there with his daughter, Cindy Shaw. A small, private memorial will be held in September. Memorial donations to Lustgarten Foundation (https://lustgarten.org). www. burkefuneralhome.com.

Elizabeth Lohnes

FORT EDWARD - Elizabeth Lohnes passed away August 13, 2025. Calling hours were on August 18 at Compassionate Funeral Care followed by a service. A private graveside service took place at Gansevoort Cemetery, Gansevoort, NY. Online condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

OBITUARIES

Dr. Stanley W. Docyk, MD

GALWAY - Dr. Stanley W. Docyk, MD passed away peacefully at his home on the evening of Monday, August 18, 2025.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday August 26 at St. Clement’s Church, 231 Lake Ave Saratoga Springs NY 12866.

A full obituary will be available at www. burkefuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers the family requests a gift be made to the Saratoga Hospital Foundation Emergency Department or Urgent Care c/o Saratoga Hospital Foundation, 211 Church Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Martin Pekar

SARATOGA SPRINGS –Martin Pekar, passed away on Aug 17, 2025. He was born on July 28, 1945, in Brooklyn, NY, the son of the late Abraham Pekar and Miriam Shotland. At the family’s request there will be no calling hours or service at this time. Online condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

Carol (Martin) Buckley

SARATOGA SPRINGS -

Carol (Martin) Buckley was born late December back in ‘63 — a very special time for all.

From the beginning, Carol had a sparkle — a presence that lit up a room - and stayed with people long after she left.

She grew up in Stuyvesant Town in Manhattan, where she met her beloved “StuyTownGirls” — who remained by her side throughout life. She graduated from St. Vincent Ferrer HS and earned a degree in Computers and Marketing from Manhattan College.

Her career was anything but ordinary — including Bloomingdale’s, Fashion Consultant at Liz Claiborne, Realtor, managing Saratoga Salsa and Spice, and Lighting Consultant at Wolberg Electric. She even made two TV commercials. But her favorite titles: wife to Dennis, Mom to Meghan and Patrick, mother-inlaw to Katie, and most recently, “Nani” to Harrison.

Carol appreciated the finer things — a meticulously trimmed Christmas tree, a welltailored outfit, a nice glass of Chardonnay— but what truly brought her joy was being surrounded by the people she loved. Whether it was sipping coffee in her favorite chair, singing off-tune looking for sea glass, or being delightfully goofy to make someone smile. She always made everyone feel welcome, important and loved.

If you knew her — you felt her warmth. Her spark. Her joy. That’s what we’ll all carry with us. Her family would like to thank her “team” of incredible doctors, nurses, and caregivers who accompanied her through this brave journey. They truly put the care in healthcare. We are forever grateful.

Relatives and friends were

invited to call on Monday August 18, at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Home, 628 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Tuesday August 19, at St. Clement’s Church, 231 Lake Ave Saratoga Springs NY 12866. In lieu of flowers a memorial contribution can be made in Carol’s name to Siena University - www.Siena.edu or Stepinac High School - www.stepinac.org two places near to Carol and her family.

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

Marie A. Franklin

WISCONSIN - Marie A. Franklin passed away on August 8, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Marie was laid to rest with Jim at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery on August 19. Calling hours were held at Compassionate Funeral Care, Saratoga Springs. Online condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

Eugene L. Smith

ALBANY – Eugene L. Smith passed away on Aug. 17, 2025. He was born on March 17, 1945, in Oneida, NY, the son of the late Rupert Smith and Helen Scanlon. At the family’s request there will be no calling hours or service at this time. Online condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

Sgt. Frederick W. Scheidt, Jr.

MIDDLE GROVE - Sgt. Frederick W. Scheidt, Jr. (retired) of Middle Grove, NY, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer stemming from his official deployment with the New York State Police supporting the rescue and recovery operations at Ground Zero. Fred demonstrated determination, grace, incredible courage and inspired everyone who knew him.

He was born June 15, 1958, in Greenwich, CT. Sgt. Scheidt graduated from Greenwich High

School, Norwalk Community College in 1978, and Iona College in 1982.

Sgt. Scheidt joined the New York State Police in October of 1979. After several assignments across the state, he settled in the Saratoga Springs area. He retired from the New York State Police after 30 years of dedicated service in 2009. He served as the Retiree Liaison for the New York State Trooper Police Benevolent Association and as the President of the Association of Former New York State Troopers.

In 1994, Sgt. Scheidt married Shannon in Saratoga Springs, NY. There he raised his two children, Katie-Lynn and Brandon. They built a home where they hosted massive bonfires, target shoots, cookouts and family reunions. He is survived by his wife Shannon; son Brandon (Loan); siblings Valerie Teufel, David Scheidt (Rose), and Douglas Scheidt (Martin Wimmer); grandchildren Hunter and Ella and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Frederick W. Scheidt, Sr. and Margaret Anne Scheidt, as well as his beloved daughter

Katie-Lynn Scheidt.

Calling hours were Thursday, August 21, at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing and Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway (518-584-5373).

The Order for a Requiem Eucharist will be at 10 a.m. Friday August 22, at the Bethesda Episcopal Church, 26 Washington St., Saratoga Springs, celebrated by The Rev. Charles Wallace.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tunnel to Towers at T2T.org or the NYS Troopers Benefit fund at www. signal30.org.

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

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The 9th Annual Saratoga Motorcar Auction Returns

Saratoga Springs, NY

– The Saratoga Automobile Museum is proud to announce the return of its signature fundraising event, the 9th Annual Saratoga Motorcar Auction, taking place September 18 through September 21, 2025, on the grounds of the Saratoga Casino Hotel.

Now in its ninth year, the Saratoga Motorcar Auction has become one of the Northeast’s premier collector car auctions, attracting consignors, bidders, and enthusiasts from across the country and beyond.

More than 350 consignments are expected to cross the block this year, ranging from affordable classics and enthusiast favorites to million-dollar supercars. Alongside the vehicles, attendees will find an outstanding selection of automobilia including restored gas pumps, vintage porcelain signs, neon signs, and other unique collectibles.

The weekend offers more than just the auction. Guests can enjoy an electric atmosphere filled with community spirit, food trucks serving local favorites and gourmet bites, and a wide array of automotive vendors offering parts, accessories, memorabilia, and expert services. As always, 100 percent of proceeds directly benefit the Saratoga Automobile Museum and its mission to celebrate, preserve, and share the rich history of the automobile.

Kicking things off in true style, the Thursday evening Fast Lane VIP Concert features Soul Session performing live on the grounds of the Saratoga Casino, set amongst the cars. This high-energy performance will set the tone for the weekend, combining music, engines, and excitement into one unforgettable night.

Saratoga County Seeks Volunteers for Gather & Dine Senior Nutrition Program in Saratoga Springs

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY - The Saratoga County Department of Aging and Youth Services is seeking volunteers for its Gather & Dine meal site at the Saratoga Springs Senior Center (290 West Ave, Saratoga Springs).

In the lead-up to the Auction, consignors are invited to the season’s final Drive In and Consignment event on Wednesday, August 20, from 5–7 PM at the Saratoga Automobile Museum. Prospective consignors can cruise up in their cars, meet one-on-one with an Auction specialist, sign a consignment contract, and have professional images taken of their vehicle all in one evening.

For more information about the exhibition, including ticketing and museum hours, please visit www.saratogaautomuseum.org.

Event Schedule:

Thursday, September 18: Auction Preview (12 PM – 5 PM)

The weekend begins with a chance to stroll the rows, take your time, and get an upclose look at the incredible lineup of consignments.

Thursday, September 18: Fast Lane VIP Concert with Soul Session (6 PM – 9 PM)

An unforgettable evening as Soul Session takes the stage on the grounds of the Saratoga Casino, surrounded by cars and the energy of the Auction weekend.

Friday, September 19: Auction Day 1 (2 PM)

The action launches with consignments crossing the block in a fast-paced afternoon of excitement.

Saturday, September 20: Auction Day 2 (10 AM)

Saturday brings even more horsepower and high-energy bidding, with everything from classics to supercars rolling across the stage.

Sunday, September 21: Post-Auction Sale (10 AM)

Vehicles that did not meet reserve during the live auction may still be available, offering buyers a second chance to make a deal.

Volunteers will assist the food service helper with setting up the dining room for lunch, serving meals, and clearing tables. This important program helps seniors aged 60 and older receive a delicious meal each weekday and engage with others in the community.

Volunteers can choose a

flexible schedule that meets their availability, committing to as little as once a week or as much as five days a week. Volunteer hours are from 11:30AM to 1PM, with meals served at 12PM sharp, Monday through Friday. Becoming a volunteer is easy. Interested individuals should contact Nutrition Coordinator Christopher Vesic at the Saratoga County Department of Aging and Youth Services at 518-884-4996. Training and orientation are provided to all volunteers.

Saratoga County Nominated as Best Place to Visit for Fall by USA Today 10Best’s Readers’ Choice Awards

Discover Saratoga is excited to share that Saratoga County has been nominated for the second year in a row as “Best Place to Visit for Fall” in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.

This recognition celebrates everything that Saratoga County has to offer in the fall months, from its vibrant autumn scenery to seasonal attractions that entice visitors from all around. Voting is open to the public now through 11:59 am EDT on September 8, 2025.

“We are always excited to see our beautiful home, Saratoga County, recognized on a national level,” said Darryl Leggieri, president of Discover Saratoga. “Saratoga is and has always been able to capture so much of what makes fall in a small destination special. Last year, we came in 7th in the nation; this year, we’re hoping to make the top five.”

While many know Saratoga County as a summer destination, the county comes alive in the fall with gorgeous fall foliage throughout the County’s parks and trails and scenic fall views across Saratoga Lake. Autumn visitors of all ages can partake in

classic fall activities like apple picking, corn mazes, and other farm-fresh fun. For those looking to get spooky, Haunted Saratoga Ghost Tours and Ghosts of Saratoga Guided Trolley Tours share the ghostly history surrounding Saratoga Springs.

This fall also marks an important milestone as Saratoga prepares for the upcoming Saratoga 250 commemoration. In October, visitors can step back in time to honor the pivotal Battles of Saratoga with engaging heritage events such as Siege Weekend and the Surrender Ceremony in Schuylerville— bringing history to life where it happened.

To vote for Saratoga County as the Best Place to Visit for Fall, readers can visit https://10best. usatoday.com/awards/saratogacounty-new-york/ and cast their ballot once per day until polls close at 11:59 am EDT on September 8. The top 10 winners will be announced on September 17 at noon.

For more information about the 10Best Awards and to see the full list of winners across multiple categories, please visit www.10best.com.

photo from website

A Big KUDOS

After a long bout with Borrelia Lyme & anaplasmosis, Mary Beth Delarm decided to venture out for a night at the Parting Glass.

Upon returning home she realized she had left her expensive multi-stone turquoise bracelet on the table.

Luckily for her, Lily Curpier was on duty. Mary Beth immediately returned to the Parting Glass and was greeted by Lily with a smile and her bracelet.

Great job Lily…Honesty IS the best policy!

Former Waldorf High School Becomes High-End Residences

— The Tudor-style building at 122 Regent Street that used to house the Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs High School is being transformed into five high-end residences.

Bonacio Construction recently announced The Waldorf as its newest downtown Saratoga project. The

9,760 square-foot, twostory structure will include detached garages and carports, private entryways, terraces, and gardens. Each three-bedroom condo will feature quartz countertops, an elevated appliance package, a great room with coffered ceilings, and hardwood floors throughout with a

herringbone pattern on the first floor. Prices for the units start at $2.2 million, with an expected fall 2025 occupancy. Construction is already underway.

Originally a carriage house for the Mabee family in the early 20th century, the property has also been used by Skidmore College and Verrazzano College.

photo provided

SARATOGA SPRINGS

Rendering of The Waldorf residences via Bonacio Construction.

Letters to the Editor Policy

Letters to the Editor in response to a Saratoga TODAY article or local issue are welcome. Letters should be 200 words or less. Preference is given to typed, concise letters. All letters are subject to editing for length or clarity. Writers are limited to one published letter per month. Letters must include the writer’s name, address and a daytime phone number for confirmation, but only the writer’s name and town will be printed. Anonymous letters are not accepted. Letters to the editor, opinion and editorial columns and articles submitted to Saratoga TODAY may be published in print, electronic or other forms. We reserve the right not to publish a letter. Submit to cbeatty@SaratogaPublishing.com.

TO THE EDITOR

Addressing Homelessness in Saratoga Springs Letters

Homelessness in Saratoga Springs remains a complex and pressing issue that demands compassionate and collaborative solutions. I have been personally involved in tackling veteran homelessness for over a decade as the Veterans Chairman of the Saratoga/Wilton Elks Lodge #161. Additionally, my church, located at the corner of Pine Road and Washington Street, has been dedicated to recovery and housing ministries for over 15 years. For the past eight years, I have actively supported and partnered with the Veterans and Community Housing Coalition (VCHC) in their efforts to serve vulnerable populations.

To assure balanced news coverage, it is the policy of this paper that no letters to the editor from candidates will be printed between Primary Day and Election Day.

As Mayor, I fully understand that successfully addressing homelessness requires coordinated action across multiple sectors. This includes government agencies, nonprofit organizations, faith-based groups, local businesses, and concerned citizens. I am deeply proud to serve a city whose residents instinctively respond to the needs of others with generosity and concern.

While new approaches and fresh ideas are always welcome, it is equally important to highlight what Saratoga Springs is currently doing to support its most vulnerable residents. Each year, the city allocates more than $500,000 in local tax revenue to address homelessness—more than any other municipality in our region. In addition, hundreds of thousands of federal discretionary dollars are used to expand our efforts through partnerships with community organizations.

RISE Housing and Support Services

The city provides operational funding for the low-barrier shelter on Adelphi Street, operated by RISE Housing and Support Services since its launch in 2023. The Saratoga Springs Police Department has designated two Community Engagement Officers (CEOs) who collaborate with RISE’s Outreach and Engagement Services (OES) Harm Reduction team. Several days a week, this joint team canvasses neighborhoods, responds to substance-related calls, and connects individuals with essential services and resources.

Shelters of Saratoga

Shelters of Saratoga plays a crucial role by offering ongoing care management and outreach services to individuals experiencing homelessness. Their outreach team regularly visits public areas and distributes basic necessities such as food and water while assessing emerging needs. They refer individuals to clinical treatment, the Health Home program, or emergency shelter services.

The year-round Emergency Shelter on Walworth Street accommodates up to 23 individuals and provides 24-hour staff support. Each guest works with a case manager to develop a plan for independent living. On average, the shelter serves about 125 people annually.

Furthermore, in partnership with Saratoga County and the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, Shelters of Saratoga operates a seasonal Code Blue low-barrier winter shelter from November through April, which has been in operation since December 2013.

Outreach Court

The City also funds the innovative Outreach Court led by City Court Judge Francine Vero. Originally known as the Homeless Court, this program addresses the recurring cycle of incarceration experienced by homeless individuals with mental health challenges or substance use disorders. In partnership with RISE Homeless Court Coordinators, Judge Vero works to connect willing participants with critical services aimed at rehabilitation and prevention.

CAPTAIN Community Human Services

One of the most overlooked aspects of homelessness is the plight of school-aged children. In Saratoga Springs, approximately 110 children experience homelessness on a regular basis. CAPTAIN Community Human Services works to address this hidden crisis. The city supports CAPTAIN’s initiatives through Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding to ensure these children have access to housing, education, and supportive services.

A Nonpartisan Moral Responsibility

Homelessness is not a partisan issue—it is a moral and ethical challenge that requires bipartisan cooperation and a unified commitment. Our shared humanity compels us to work together in creating effective, sustainable solutions for those most in need.

As your Mayor, I will continue to champion efforts that demonstrate our city’s compassion, resourcefulness, and unwavering resolve to uplift every member of our community.

- JOHN SAFFORD Saratoga Springs

Court Docs Show Galway Man Threatened to Shoot ICE Agents

by Aidan Cahill Saratoga TODAY

The Galway man charged with threatening the family of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson allegedly threatened to shoot ICE agents in Saratoga Springs.

Shane Daley of Galway was allegedly found with emails threatening that he would shoot ICE agents in Saratoga Springs, according to court documents.

“If someone in a mask without proper law enforcement identification aggressively

approaches me anywhere in Saratoga Springs, they better have their affairs in order as they’re going to catch two slugs from a legally owned firearm,” Daley allegedly said in the email “ if you want shootouts in your city, feel free to continue doing nothing. But I’d rather leave in a body bag than in cuffs so consider the above message. Hope no one catches a stray!”

The court docs didn’t indicate who the email was sent to or whether they would lead to official charges.

The emails came as a result of a visit to Daley’s home by U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services officers. While at the

home, officers found a loaded shot gun, numerous beer cans throughout his home and vehicle, nitrous oxide containers known as “whip-it” — a means of inhaling the substance for recreational use — and quantities of marijuana.

Daley was initially charged with cyberstalking after he left four messages threatening the wife of murdered United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson. According to court documents, Daley made several graphic threats to the family, saying that Thompson deserved his death and his family deserved the same.

“You deserve to due

Wilton Leads Saratoga Lake Region in Road Salt Reduction Efforts

WILTON — In a watershed where road salt runoff is steadily degrading water quality, the Town of Wilton has emerged as a model for innovation and environmental responsibility.

Under the leadership of Highway Superintendent Mike Monroe, the Wilton Highway Department has implemented a series of first-in-the-region measures to reduce salt use — a move applauded by the Saratoga Lake Association (SLA) and environmental advocates.

Earlier this year, Wilton completed the calibration of all 14 of its large dump trucks used for winter salt spreading, with technical assistance from WIT Advisors. Each truck now has a precise chart in its cab showing the number of pounds of salt applied per lane-mile, tailored to that truck’s unique hydraulic setup. Monroe said this will allow operators to apply exactly the right amount of salt for each storm, improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact.

Wilton also equipped four trucks with “live edge” plow blades, which better conform to the road surface and allow operators to turn down the auger control on final cleanup passes. Monroe plans to install these blades on all large trucks in 2026.

In another major step, Wilton fabricated and installed a 2,600-gallon brine tank and dispenser on a straight truck. This will enable the town to pretreat main roads with brine — a strategy shown to reduce overall salt usage — during the 2025–26 winter season.

Monroe’s work comes as the Skidmore College Environmental Studies and Sciences Capstone Report, funded by the SLA, warns that chloride levels in Saratoga Lake and its tributaries are at or near toxic thresholds for aquatic life. The study found that road salt runoff from municipal and state highways is a major contributor, with chloride concentrations in some tributaries exceeding 10,000 parts per million during winter peaks.

SLA President, Dr.Jim

DeMasi, praised Monroe’s leadership, saying, “Mike Monroe has set the gold standard for municipal highway operations in the Saratoga Lake watershed. He’s proving that safety and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand. We hope every municipality in the watershed takes notice and follows Wilton’s lead.”

For Monroe, the effort is about more than technology. “Calibration, training, and brining are just tools in the toolbox,” he said. “The real goal is to keep our roads safe while protecting the lake and our drinking water. We can do both — and do it better than before.”

With winter approaching, all eyes in the region will be on Wilton’s roads — and on the results of Monroe’s forwardthinking approach.

begging for your life on the cold concrete, just like your pathetic [expletive] [ expletive] of a [ family member]” Daley allegedly said, among other threats and insults in the messages.

While Daley initially asserted that he hadn’t made the calls in interviews with FBI agents, he later said it was possible given his heavy drinking around the time the threatening calls were allegedly made.

Agents were able to match his voice with that on the calls as well as match phone records

which came from a phone Daley said he was the sole user of, according to court documents.

Daley was initially held in the Albany County jail, due to the belief that he was a danger to the public. During a hearing on Aug. 19, Daley was ordered released from the jail and into the custody of an addiction treatment facility with an electronic monitoring device attached.

Daley will next be in court upon completion of the program.

Retired State Trooper Dies from 9/11 Related Illness

by Aidan Cahill Saratoga TODAY

A retired New York State Trooper from Saratoga Springs has died from a 9/11 related illness.

Retired Sergeant Frederick Scheidt died on Aug. 13 at the age of 67 of cancer, according to his obituary.

Originally from Greenwich, Connecticut, Scheidt joined the State Police in 1979 and served for

30 years, eventually settling in the Saratoga Springs area and retiring in 2009. He is survived by his wife, son and two grandchildren.

Scheidt is one of 34 State Troopers to die from illnesses related to 9/11, according to the New York State Trooper Police Benevolent Association. This number makes it the second most common type of line of duty death experienced by Troopers since the agency’s founding in 1917 and the most common line of duty death in

the nearly 24 years since the attacks. Scheidt is the fourth Trooper from Saratoga County to die from illnesses related to the attacks.

The attacks on Sept. 11 represented the single deadliest day in US history for both law enforcement and fire personnel. 72 law enforcement officers were killed in the attacks, the majority coming from the NYPD which lost 23 members and the Port Authority Police which lost 37. In addition, four members of the New York State Office of Tax Enforcement, three members of the New York State Office of Court Administration, one fire Marshall, one member of the FBI, one member of the Secret Service, one member of the New York Fire Patrol and one member of the EPA were all killed in the attacks.

On the fire department side, 343 members of the FDNY were killed along with six onduty EMS providers and two volunteer EMTs who responded to the disaster on their own.

In the years since, however, the number of first responder deaths from 9/11 related illnesses have surpassed those from the attacks. In addition to the 34 State Troopers, NYPD lists over 370 officers who’ve died as a

A sample of the dust first responders and residents were exposed to around the collapse of the World Trade Center ( Courtesy of World Trade Center Health Program)

result of illness, the FBI lists 29 agents who died and the FDNY has lost over 360 members.

The losses are due to the toxic debris first responders and residents were exposed to while working and living near the site of the attack.

According to the CDC’s World Trade Center Health Program, the attacks exposed people to over 300 chemical hazards, 14 physical hazards and 26 hazards that could result in mental health issues down the road. Of the 400,000 potential exposures, over 145,000 have

signed up for health monitoring through the program.

The most common ailment faced by those in the program is cancer with over 48,000 certified reports. Other ailments include respatory illnesses like asthma and COPD, and mental health conditions like PTSD and depression, among other conditions.

As for Scheidt, his funeral was held Aug. 21 in Saratoga Springs. In advance of the funeral, Saratoga closed streets and restricted parking along the processional route.

PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS

BALLSTON

Daniel and Linda Doyle sold property at 7 Knottingley Place to Charles and Antonina McGrath for $575,000.

Eastline Holdings LLC sold property at 23 Tamarack St. to Nathan and Kari Duell for $674,980.

Michaels Group Homes LLC sold property at 33 MacKenna Court to Evin and Elizabeth Oshea for $734,610.

Corinna Ducharme sold property at 17 Skaarland Dr. to Kalen and Jane Morey for $425,000.

CHARLTON

Brandon Grayson sold property at 2037 Amsterdam Rd. to Rachel and Christopher Cates for $450,000.

GREENFIELD

Glenn Ziehnert sold property at 5 Clark St. to Patrick Madelone Jr. for $43,000.

Peter Vanderriet sold property at 125 Braim Rd. to Joshua Nemer for $1,799,900.

MALTA

Suzanne Daley Nolen sold property at 162 Cramer Rd. to Thomas Ostrander for $163,000.

Lois Forkey sold property at 36 Hills Rd. to 36 Hills Rd LLC for $300,000.

Marini Homes LLC sold property at 40 Landon Lane to Carlos and Kim Rodriguez for $486,795.

Victoria Shedden sold property at 16 Snowberry Rd. to Lisa Morrill for $325,000.

Richard and Kathleen Flavin sold property at 82 Knapp Rd. to Christian and Natalie for $545,082.

MILTON

John Bastolla sold property at 908 Macarthur Dr. to Brian Cross for $533,500.

Nicholas and Destiny Zubey sold property at 324 Meadowlark Dr. to James and Karen Politano for $440,000.

Hunter Lane LLC sold property at 27 Hunter Court to Burdette and Karen Loomis for $710,028.

SARATOGA

Devin Reilly sold property at 27 Morgans Run to Shawna Britt for $285,000.

SARATOGA SPRINGS

MW Hugo Properties LLC sold property at 289 Jefferson St Unit 22 to Catherine Zalewski for $412,900.

Maime Herrera sold property at 34 Orenda Spring Dr. to Marissa Mowell for $282,500.

STSOCKS LLC sold property at 264 Church St. to Erin Tom for $390,000.

Phyllis Sementa sold property at 55 Winners Circle to Dominique Sementa for $400,000.

Jan and Barbara Trypaluk sold property at 18 Marion Ave. to Mandip Joshi and Nancy Shrestha for $360,000.

Jullian and Gregory Casler sold property at 4 Lakewood Dr. to Susan Gray and George Smith for $600,001.

May Ooi sold property at 22 Winners Circle to Lisa and Alfred Dileo for $425,000.

WILTON

Forest Grove LLC sold property at 56 Daintree Dr. to Christopher and Christine Miceli for $725,360.

McPadden Builders LLC sold property at 5 Avalon Way to John and Deirdre Willson for $856,713.

Lee and Ann Marie Conklin sold property at 11 Thunder Run to James and Sara Aldrich for $470,000.

Deirdre and John Willson sold property at 10 Mayo Dr. to Maria and Tiago Dasilva for $530,000.

Jennifer and Adam Fitch sold property at 8 Cider Mill Way to Charles Walz for $949,900.

Adam and Caitlin Guillaume

sold property at 29 Highgate Rd. to Dragana and David Thibault for $430,000.

Kathleen Anderson sold property at 2 Rolling Hills Dr. to Shawn McNeil and Abigail Aldrich for $470,000.

Forest Grove LLC sold property at 9 Angeles Ave. to Denzel Ogunyase for $873,357.

Daniel and Heather Garcia sold property at 21 Cedarcrest Dr. to Nathan and Janelle Foice for $540,000.

Giant PumpkinFest Set for Sept. 27

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— NLH Property Management Services recently celebrated the opening of its new office on Route 29 during a ribbon cutting ceremony with the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.

The company offers “a

comprehensive range of commercial and home property maintenance, remodel, and concierge services” across the Capital Region.

“Our ribbon-cutting wasn’t just about a new space, it was a celebration of the people and community that made it possible,” NLH said

in a Facebook announcement. “We’re so grateful for your support and can’t wait for what’s ahead.”

NLH’s team provides a wide range of maintenance services, including HVAC systems, electrical repairs, plumbing maintenance, and general facility upkeep.

Property Management Company

Opens New Saratoga Location

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

NLH Property Management Services recently celebrated the opening of its new office on Route 29 during a ribbon cutting ceremony with the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.

The company offers “a comprehensive range of commercial and home property maintenance, remodel, and concierge services” across the Capital Region.

“Our ribbon-cutting wasn’t just about a new space, it was a celebration of the people and community that made it possible,” NLH said in a Facebook announcement. “We’re so

grateful for your support and can’t wait for what’s ahead.”

NLH’s team provides a wide range of maintenance

services, including HVAC systems, electrical repairs, plumbing maintenance, and general facility upkeep.

GlobalFoundries Expands Investment in American Semiconductor Manufacturing

MALTA — Cirrus Logic, a leading provider of high-performance audio and mixed-signal semiconductor solutions, announced Tuesday the expansion of its long-standing relationship with GlobalFoundries, one of the world’s leading semiconductor manufacturers headquartered in Malta.

Together, the companies are advancing the development and commercialization of next-generation BCD (BipolarCMOS-DMOS) process technology, which allows different functions to be combined on a single chip, making devices more power efficient and compact.

This technology will be capable of being manufactured at GlobalFoundries’ facility

in Malta, adding a U.S.-based option to complement existing manufacturing in Singapore and Germany.

“GlobalFoundries is proud to expand our partnership with Cirrus Logic, a company that shares our commitment to driving semiconductor innovation and strengthening domestic manufacturing capabilities that are vital to national competitiveness and economic resilience,” said Tim Breen, CEO of GlobalFoundries. “Together, we’re enabling the next generation of essential chip technologies that will power tomorrow’s devices and systems. This collaboration underscores the importance of resilient, geographically diverse supply chains for our industry.”

Photo via the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.

The GlobalFoundries campus and company headquarters in Malta. Image provided.

Former Dunning Street Station Diner to Become Pizza Shop

by Jonathon Norcross for Saratoga TODAY

MALTA — The former home of Dunning Street Station in Malta is set to become a new eatery named Harvest Grain Pizza, according to a banner hung outside the location on Route 9.

Dunning Street permanently closed in June after a series of temporary closures. It was sold shortly thereafter.

Harvest Grain Pizza currently has a location open in Clifton Park, where a variety of pies are offered, including whole wheat, square pan, Sicilian deep dish, gluten free, a white “Saratoga” pizza, Hawaiian, veggie lovers, and many more.

Saboor Sekandari of

Harvest Grain told Saratoga TODAY that an opening date for the new Malta outpost has not yet been confirmed, but the pizzeria could open sometime between mid-September and early October.

The diner on Route 9 has a long history of prior owners stretching back to the early 1950s, when it first opened as the Malta Ridge Diner. In the

1970s, it was a filming location for “My Old Man,” a made-forTV drama about a horse trainer that was based on a short story by Ernest Hemingway.

The Fodero Dining Car Company manufactured many of the stainless steel, art decoinspired diners scattered throughout the country, including the famous Empire Diner on 10th Avenue in Manhattan.

Coming to Broadway: Bear’s Cup Bakehouse

by Jonathon Norcross for Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Bear’s Cup Bakehouse— an artisanal bakery and coffee shop known for its New York-style bagels, fresh-baked bread, and pastries—may soon be opening a new location on Broadway in downtown Saratoga Springs.

According to the Albany Business Review, Bear’s Cup would take over 543 Broadway, the former home of Jacobsen Oriental Rugs, which relocated to 145 Ballston Ave.

The bakery is based out of Bolton Landing, a hamlet that borders Lake George and is across from the Sagamore Resort. The company’s bagels were once featured on the “Rachel Ray Show.”

In a video posted to their Instagram account, Bear’s Cup indicated that their Saratoga location could open as soon as this fall.

Ballston Spa National Bank Names

New Senior VP

BALLSTON SPA — Christopher R. Dowd, president and CEO of Ballston Spa National Bank (BSNB), recently announced the promotion of Robert Roemer to senior vice president, information technology.

Roemer joined BSNB in 2023 as vice president of information technology. Since joining the bank’s senior leadership team, Roemer’s efforts have streamlined operations, strengthened cybersecurity measures, and positioned BSNB to adapt to the evolving demands of the financial services industry, the bank said in a news release.

“Rob’s unparalleled expertise and unwavering

commitment to BSNB’s mission make him an incredible asset to our team,” said James Dodd, executive vice president, CFO. “He is an exceptional leader who is committed to fostering collaboration and driving initiatives that position BSNB for sustained success in our rapidly changing industry. His ability to align technological advancements with BSNB’s strategic goals has been transformative.”

Prior to joining BSNB, Roemer served as senior vice president, systems delivery for CAP COM Federal Credit Union in Albany. He also served as vice president, project management and innovation, and software specialist manager.

An assortment of Bear’s Cup bagels. Photo via the bakery.

Photo of Robert Roemer provided.

Photo by Jonathon Norcross.

SSPF Presents the Upcoming Summer Sunday Strolls

Saratoga Springs, NY – On Sunday, August 24 at 10:30AM, join the Foundation’s Executive Director, Samantha Bosshart, for “Horsin’ Around North Broadway.” This engaging stroll explores the deep ties between Saratoga Springs’ famed North Broadway and the city’s rich horse racing heritage. Discover the connection between prominent racing families—like the Jeffords, Chenery, and Phipps— and the grand summer cottages of this historic neighborhood. As racing season enters the final stretch, it’s the perfect time to explore Saratoga Springs’ blend

of health, history, and horses. Take the tour in the morning, then head to the Saratoga Race Course to see racing history be made. The tour meets at the northwest corner of North Broadway and Van Dam Street, in front of Witt Construction.

Next Sunday, August 31, at 10:30AM, George DeMers leads the season’s final Summer Sunday Stroll, “Historic West Side.” Explore the diverse historic West Side neighborhood where Saratoga Springs’ Irish and Italian immigrants and Black community lived. The tour will highlight the settlement of

this neighborhood, its rebirth as an arts district, and the rehabilitations that took place in the early 2000s. In addition to highlighting the historic architecture of this area, George will discuss the history of its residents, restaurants, stores, and clubs as well as the impacts of Urban Renewal and revitalization efforts. The tour meets at the entrance of Gideon Putnam Burying Ground, located on South Franklin Street.

The Foundation is grateful for the generous support of the 2025 Summer Series Sponsors: Druthers Brewing Company, and Stewart’s Shops. All Sunday morning tours last approximately 90 minutes and require walking and standing on varied terrain. Tours are limited to 30 participants. The cost per tour is $15 for SSPF members and $20 for non-members. Foundation members with stroll passes need to contact the Foundation’s office to book their Sunday Summer Stroll before the date they choose.

Schuylerville Adopts State Mandated No Phone Ban.

by Aidan Cahill Saratoga TODAY

Schuylerville is the latest Saratoga County School District to adopt a state mandated phone ban in schools.

The policy was adopted on Aug. 18 and details both how students are supposed to store their devices and the potential consequences for violating the policy.

Under the policy, students in elementary school are required to store their devices in their lockers if they bring them to school. While the lockers don’t have locks built in, students can bring their own personal locks under the condition that they submit the key or combination to the school.

In addition to phones, students are barred from bringing in smartwatches, tablets and all headphones and earbuds — both wired, and Bluetooth enabled devices.

Students in middle and high school have a similar policy. Students are required

to keep their phones off and in their lockers during the school day. Under the policy, students aren’t allowed to use their phones during rest period including lunch, study halls and in the hallways in between classes.

Students who need to contact their parents can do so in the main offices of their respective schools. Parents can also contact the school and request to speak to their student.

The policy also laid out the consequences of violation.

• 1st Offense: Student or teacher brings phone to office where it is held until the end of the day.

• 2nd Offense: Student or teacher brings phone to office where it is held until a parent/ guardian can pick it up.

• 3rd Offense: Student or teacher brings phone to office where it is held until a parent/ guardian can pick it up, student is assigned a detention.

• 4th Offense: Student or teacher brings phone to office until parent/guardian can pick it up, further consequences are provided at the discretion of the administration.

Schuylerville Public Library Hosts Repair Café

What do you do with a broken radio? Or with a lamp that won’t work? Or with a favorite shirt that is ripped? Toss it?

No way! Schuylerville Public Library is organizing a Repair Café on Saturday, September 20th from 10am until 12pm.

At Schuylerville Public Library (52 Ferry Street) on Saturday September 20 everything centers on making repairs. Starting at 10am and ending at 12pm, various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Most tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Limit of two items per person. Small appliances, lamps, hair dryers, radios, clothes, toys... anything that is broken and small enough to carry is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.

By promoting repairs, the

library wants to help reduce mountains of waste. According to Library Director Caitlin Johnson, “By repairing instead of tossing, we lessen the strain on our environment.”

Interested in volunteering for this event, as a repairer?

Simply contact Caitlin Johnson at cjohnson@sals.edu or 518695-6641. Schuylerville Public Library wishes to organize a Repair Café on a regular basis. News about dates of up-andcoming editions will follow as soon as possible!

Repair Café Foundation

The Repair Café concept arose in the Netherlands, in 2009, and was formulated by Martine Postma, at the time an Amsterdam-based journalist/ publicist. In 2010, she started the Repair Café Foundation (see Repaircafe.org). This foundation provides support to local groups around the world wishing to start their own Repair Café. The foundation also supports the Repair Café in the Schuylerville Public Library.

Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library Trustee Candidates Announced

The Clifton ParkHalfmoon Public Library will hold its annual Library Budget Vote and Trustee Election on Thursday, September 11 at the Library, between 7 am and 9 pm. Registered voters, both renters and property owners, living in the library district are eligible to vote.

Voters must be registered at least 30 days prior to the vote. Residents of Clifton Park will also vote on three open trustee positions, and Halfmoon residents will vote for one open trustee position.

Incumbents Suzanne Dugan and Cornelia Mogor, and newcomers Rose-Robin Lamb and George Berry of Clifton Park have submitted their petitions and declared their intentions to run for the three Clifton Park trustee positions. Incumbent Jennifer Schlegel of Halfmoon has also declared her intention to run for the open Halfmoon trustee position.

Those who are unable to vote in person on September 11, can find an Absentee Ballot application online at www.

cphlibrary.org or at the Library. In order for ballots to be mailed, applications must be received by the Library no later than the close of business on Tuesday, September 2.

The Library Board consists of 11 trustees: 7 representing Clifton Park and 4 representing Halfmoon. Trustees serve a five-year term, attend monthly board meetings, serve on assigned committees, and contribute their expertise to benefit the library and the served community.

photo provided

Food

Local farms bring seasonal blooms to the farmers’ market

HIGH ROCK PARK

SATURDAYS

9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

WEDNESDAYS

3 - 6 p.m.

Atthe Saratoga Farmers’ Market, flowers and mixed flower arrangements of brilliant sunflower faces, elegant snapdragons, dahlias, and lisianthus, to name a few, adorn tables every Wednesday and Saturday. Their petals and colors brighten the market and captivate market-goers.

Beyond their beauty, locally grown flowers at the market represent many plants that are native to the area, offering biodiversity within garden and farm ecosystems.

At Old Tavern Farm in Saratoga Springs, Walt Borisenok and his staff work tirelessly to succession-plant native plants, starting seeds in the winter. This continual planting of flowers ensures that seasonal blooms are consistent for their bouquets.

“Local flowers are the best because they represent so completely the season that we are in. Our fresh flower season begins in April with thousands of tulips grown in our unheated tunnels,” says Corinne Hansch, owner of Lovin’ Mama Farm, a certified organic farm in Amsterdam.

Casey Emmett, owner of Furlong Farmhouse Lavender, explains that lavender benefits their farm in many ways. “It attracts pollinators, which help improve the overall health of our crop, and this year we partnered with Saratoga Wood & Honey to add an apiary to the farm, yielding more pounds of lavender honey than we expected!”

Ryan Holub of Scotch Ridge Flower Farm in Duanesburg shares another key aspect of locally grown flowers. “We cut our flowers a day before the farmers’ market, so they are truly fresh and long-lasting. They have no carbon footprint.”

The first frost will signal the end of the growing season for fresh flowers, but flower connoisseurs can enjoy dried bouquets and wreaths endlessly, as well as in handmade products. Halfmoon Harvest, Lovin’ Mama, Furlong Farmhouse Lavender, and Old Tavern Farm offer dried arrangements.

Aside from purchasing fresh-cut flowers at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market, many local farms provide flowers for weddings, baby showers, funerals, and special events. To place a custom flower order, please contact the farms directly.

“Flowers have become a way for us to share a little bit of joy with others. We truly love sharing flowers at the Saratoga markets and are so grateful for our weekly customers. We feel lucky to be part of a market community that values local, sustainably grown flowers,” says Lockette Blu, owner of Halfmoon Harvest.

You can also find cut flowers and arrangements from spring to fall at Burger’s MarketGarden, Gifford Farms, Kokinda Farm, and Mandy’s Nursery (Canopy).

Market News:

•La Petite Flower Fest & Taste of the MarketSATURDAY, August 23rd

•FINAL Kids Club & Book Launch with Lucky the Dog and Elizabeth Macy- Wednesday, August 27th

The Saratoga Farmers’ Market is open:

Mondays | 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Shenendehowa Methodist, Route 146 Clifton Park

Wednesdays | 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Saturdays | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

High Rock Park, Downtown 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.

Blueberry, Basil, Lemon, and Lavender Mocktail

YIELDS: 4 servings | PREP & COOK TIME: 15 min

INGREDIENTS:

*Ingredients currently available at the farmers’ market

For the mocktail:

• 1 pint fresh blueberries muddled (squished)*

• 1 cup basil chopped*

• ½ cup lemon juice, about 2 freshly-squeezed lemons

• ¾ cup Lavender Simple Syrup (recipe below)

• 1½ cup soda water (any unflavored carbonated beverage will work) For the Lavender Simple Syrup:

• 1 cup Sugar

• 1 cup water

• ½ cup lavender buds*

INSTRUCTIONS:

1.In a medium-sized pitcher add in the blueberries, chopped basil, and lemon juice.

2.Swish or muddle all the berries and basil together until they release their flavor and juices.

3.Add in the about 2 cups of ice the lavender simple syrup, and then, the soda water. Stir thoroughly.

4.Pour. Garnish with blueberries, lemon, and basil, and enjoy. Lavender Simple Syrup:

1.Add 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water to a small heavy bottomed sauce pan. Turn on medium heat. Stir 3-4 times, then add the lavender buds.

2.Let it heat until the sugar dissolves. Then turn off the heat and allow the lavender to steep and cool in the syrup until you are ready to use.

3.Use a funnel and a fine mesh strainer to get all the lavender buds out of the syrup. Lavender simple syrup can be used for drinks, pancakes, cake making, in your tea or coffee.

Spice things up by adding gin or vodka from your favorite local distillery. Yankee Distillers, Springbrook Hollow Farm Distillery, and Albany Distilling Co., and Old Tavern Farm have exactly what you need.

Photos provided by Julia Howard for Saratoga TODAY

Recipe by Sweet Savor Sour

by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY

There is something about eating carbohydrates that include various sauces, and earthy vegetables that makes pasta a favorite consumption. No matter what they contain, pasta dishes must be hearty, and, above all, they must be deeply satisfying. My love for pasta stems from growing up in an Italian-American household where pasta was always a staple in many of the meals we had. I often times reflect on the joys of growing up with an Italian family such as: when your friends came over they were asked no fewer than six times if they wanted something to eat; Frank Sinatra or Dean Martin played in the background while everything was being cooked; leftovers were stored in Polly O ricotta containers; and, yes, we were all guilty of talking with our hands. One of my favorites is remembering when I was little, mine, and my four other siblings, favorite way to help was making home made pasta with Nonni (my grandmother). After we washed our hands, we were allowed to help if we were quiet and didn’t fight with each other. Very hard! The luckiest kid got to guide the pasta as Nonni rolled the pasta through the machine. Stirring her secret pasta sauce with the wooden spoon was a close second. I am certain you can visualize what the kitchen smelled and looked like during this process. Once the pasta was made, the dish created and all were seated, it was always a struggle getting Nonni to actually join the table and eat. I’ve tried to carry on these traditions with my own children.

“PASS THE PASTA,

Please”

Pasta alla Norma

INGREDIENTS

• 9 tablespoons olive oil, divided

• 2 medium globe eggplants, cut into 1-inch pieces (about 8 cups)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more for the pasta water

Making homemade pasta is a fun event to get the entire family involved with. One important tool to have when making homemade pasta is a Pasta machine. A pasta machine is used to create laminated pasta. They typically consist of two stainless-steel rollers with adjustable settings, which knead and stretch the pasta dough. Pasta machines are often sold with an additional removable cutter that creates pasta shapes such as spaghetti and linguini. There are also many different attachments available, from different-shaped cutters to attachable motors.

Consider pasta as a meal that brings you together as a family from start to finish. We’ve learned from our older generations and teach

our younger generations. No matter what you’re looking for, pasta and noodles have become entwined with culture, history, and more importantly in our lives and families. Stop by Compliments to the Chef, Your Neighborhood Kitchen and Cutlery store, located at 33 Railroad Place in Saratoga Springs. We carry all types of tools to assist you with making your pasta: Pasta machines, pasta drying racks, ravioli stamps and forms, pasta rollers, pastry cutters, pasta pots, and so much more. Remember my Foodie Friends; “Life Happens in the Kitchen”. Make those magical culinary moments happen.

Take Care, John & Paula

• 4 medium garlic cloves, thinly sliced

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper, divided

INSTRUCTIONS

TO MAKE THE BROTH:

• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes, preferably San Marzano

• 1/4 cup loosely packed torn fresh basil leaves, plus more leaves for garnish

• 1 pound rigatoni pasta

• 3 ounces ricotta shredded (3/4 cup), divided

1. Prepare to cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of wellsalted water to a boil over high heat.

2. Meanwhile, pan-fry the eggplant: Heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a large high-sided skillet over medium-high heat. Add half of the eggplant in an even layer and cook, undisturbed, until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Add another 2 tablespoons of the oil and cook, stirring occasionally, until well browned on most sides, about 6 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon of the salt.

Add 2 tablespoons of the oil to the hot skillet (still over mediumhigh heat). Repeat the cooking process once more with the remaining eggplant and additional 2 tablespoons of the oil. Transfer to the plate with the cooked eggplant and sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Set aside.

Make the sauce:

Carefully wipe the skillet clean. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet and heat over medium heat. Add the garlic and 1/4 teaspoon of the red pepper flakes. Sauté until the garlic has started to turn golden brown, about 1 minute.

Add the tomatoes and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to medium and add the torn basil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly, about 10 minutes.

1. Meanwhile, cook the pasta: While the sauce is simmering, stir the pasta into the boiling water and cook until the pasta is al dente according to package instructions, about 11 minutes.

2. Assemble the pasta: Using a spider or slotted spoon, add the cooked pasta to the thickened sauce (still over medium heat) along with 1/3 cup of the pasta water. Stir and fold to coat the pasta well in the sauce.

Add the reserved cooked eggplant and stir to combine. Add more pasta water, 1/4 cup at a time, to reach the desired consistency (keep in mind the sauce will continue to thicken off the heat).

Remove from the heat and stir in 1/2 cup of the ricotta. Garnish with the remaining 1/4 cup cheese, 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper, and basil leaves. Serve immediately.

Recipe courtesy of Laurel Randolf at simplyrecipes.com

photo provided

This Week’s Events: AUG. 22-28

FRIDAY, AUGUST 22

Weekly Pond Exploration

Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton | 10 a.m. to Noon. Discover the aquatic wildlife found at Delegan Pond! Using dipnets, you will get to search for a variety of aquatic animals while learning about their life cycles and adaptations. This is a drop-in program. Come each Friday through August 29 at any time during the hours listed above.

2025 Ghost Tours

Canfield Casino, Congress Park, Saratoga Springs 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. The Canfield Casino, one of America’s Most Terrifying Places, as featured on the Travel Channel and Ghost Hunters. This season’s tours promise to immerse guests in Saratoga’s spectral history with new stories, local legends, and chilling accounts of real paranormal encounters. Hear true tales of hauntings, mysterious events, and the spirits believed to still roam the corridors. From whispered voices to sudden chills, every tour is a chance to connect with the supernatural side of Saratoga’s rich history. Suitable for ages 10 and up. Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday through August 29. Tickets: Visit https:// www.saratogahistory.org/ghosttours-summer-2025 to reserve your spot.

Writing the Land: Song Poetry Writing

223 West Ave., Saratoga Springs | 5 p.m. Discover poetry’s musical roots and create lyrical, rhythmic pieces inspired by the land. This summer and fall, let the land speak through you. Pitney Meadows Community Farm, in collaboration with the Ndakinna Education Center, invites community members 12 years old and up to “Writing the Land,” a transformative six-part poetry workshop series led by renowned Abenaki poet, storyteller, musician, and Saratoga Springs’ Poet Laureate, Joseph Bruchac. All workshops are free. Space is limited, reserve your spot. www. pitneymeadowcommunityfarm. org/calendar/events.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 23

Saratoga

Community

and Cross Country 5K Challenge - Run and Walk

Pitney Meadows Farm, 223 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs | 9 a.m. To support a new adaptive and inclusive playground in Saratoga Springs. Event/Cost: $30 registration fee to run or walk the course; $35 if registering on Saturday; children 5 and under free. Music, Awards

and Food Truck. Hosted by: The Unitarian Universalists of Saratoga Springs. Packet Pick Up is Friday August 22 between 4 – 7 p.m. at UUSaratoga, 624 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs. Packet Pick Up on Race Day 8 to 8:45 a.m. at Pitney Meadow Farms at 223 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Extreme Weather Rain Date: August 30 at 9 a.m. For questions call Bev at 518-587-0403. Registration:

Brookside Explorers Club: School Days

Brookside Museum, 6 Charlton St., Drop in - 10 a.m. – Noon. Join us for our next meeting of the Brookside Explorers Club, a new history and learning club for kids! History Scouts will travel back in time and learn what school was like long ago. Through a pop-up exhibit, story time, learning activities, crafts, and play, kids will explore classroom life from the past in this fun, hands-on history experience. Kids of all ages are welcome. $5 per child to help cover the cost of supplies. Parental supervision is required.

Chicken BBQ Fundraiser

Knickerbocker Mansion, 132 Knickerbocker Rd., Schaghticoke | 4:30 – 6 p.m. Your friends at Knickerbocker Mansion and the Emma Foundation invite you to join us for A Day in the

Country Part 3 Chicken BBQ. We are serving a barbecued Half Chicken with Corn-on-the Cob, Pasta Salad, Dessert & More under the Pavilion or as take-out. Proceeds will benefit the Emma Foundation’s scholarships for students attending the Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs. Call 518 588-7130 or 518 248-6676 to reserve. Mansion tours will be available! The Knickerbocker Historical Society and the Emma Foundation are each 501-C3 non-profit organizations, and all proceeds will fund scholarships to the Waldorf School of Saratoga.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 24

Summer Sunday Stroll: Horsin’ Around North Broadway

Meet northwest corner of North Broadway and Van Dam Street, in front of Witt Construction | 10:30 a.m. – Noon. Join the Foundation’s Executive Director, Samantha Bosshart for this engaging stroll that explores the deep ties between Saratoga Springs famed North Broadway, and the city’s rich horse racing heritage. Discover the connection between prominent racing families—like the Jeffords, Chenery, and Phipps—and the grand summer cottages of this historic neighborhood. The cost is $15 for SSPF members and $20 for non-members. For additional information or to purchase tickets to any of the upcoming strolls and events, visit www. saratogapreservation.org, call 518-587-5030, or email Sydney Hedge, Preservation & Programs Coordinator, at shedge@ saratogapreservation.org.

Sounds of Summer Concert II: Dennis Searles and the Jazz Ambassadors

Brookside Museum 21 Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa | 5 p.m. Join Dennis Searles and the Jazz Ambassadors for an evening of music and fun on the front lawn of Brookside Museum. This event is free and all are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and a picnic dinner to enjoy. This event is sponsored by Brookside Museum, Saratoga Arts, the Music Performance Trust Fund of the American Federation of Musicians and the Village of Ballston Spa Committee on the Arts. Rain date is scheduled for August 31.

MONDAY, AUGUST 25

Pickle for Ponies

Saratoga Springs Rec Center, 15 Vanderbilt Ave., Saratoga Springs | 4 – 7 p.m. Saratoga’s favorite summertime showdown is back. The fast-paced celebrity pickleball tournament, returns, bringing racing professionals and the local community together for a fun-filled evening benefiting Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga (THS) and the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund (PDJF). Racing fans and community members will have a rare opportunity to rally alongside some of the sport’s most accomplished figures as they trade their silks for sneakers in support of two meaningful causes. Tickets are $25 per person. To purchase player or spectator tickets, or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, visit: thsaratoga.

org/picklefortheponies.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 26

2025 Grand, Gilded, and Glorious: A Saratoga Stroll Walking Tour Season

Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center, 297 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 10:30 – Noon. Participants will begin at the Saratoga Springs Visitor Center and stroll through historic Congress Park, concluding with a full tour of the elegant Canfield Casino, including admission to the Saratoga Springs History Museum (a $15 value). The tour takes place every Tuesday – Saturday, until October 18, rain or shine. Tickets are $25 Adults, $10 Youth (12–17) and Children under 12 free. Tickets can be reserved online at www. SaratogaSpringsVisitorCenter. com. For more information, call 518-587-3241.

The SHEratoga Trolly Tour

Saratoga Springs Visitor Center, 297 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 11 – 11:45 a.m. A 45-minute trolley experience that brings Saratoga’s trailblazing women to life. Far beyond the city’s famed Revolutionary War legacy, Saratoga played a pivotal role in the “Bloodless Revolution” that ultimately granted American women the right to vote. Seats are limited. Experience the stories of the women who changed the nation, right here in Saratoga. Following the trolley experience, guests are invited to visit the Saratoga History Museum in Congress Park, featuring a special exhibit on Miriam Leslie and a rich collection of artifacts highlighting Saratoga’s role in the fight for women’s equality. For tickets and more information, visit https://www.saratogahistory. org/events/the- sheratoga-trolleytour

Saratoga Summer Concert Series Congress Park War Memorial, Saratoga Springs | 7 p.m. Rain location is the back covered patio at the Heritage Area Visitor Center, located at 297 Broadway,

Saratoga Springs. A free, familyfriendly concert series. Bring your blankets and chairs, find a spot on the lawn, and enjoy some of the area’s favorite performers. This week’s concert features Tops of Trees. With a sound built upon a strong foundation of drum and bass, classic organ, blistering vocals, and an unshakeable horn section, the band continues to thrill audiences with high energy performances and a modern interpretation of soulful music steeped in early R&B, funk and soul. For more information, contact the Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center at 518-587-3241 or visit www. saratogaspringsvisitorcenter.com.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27

New Book Launch Rescheduled

Saratoga Farmers Market, Excelsior Ave., Saratoga Springs | 3 – 6 p.m. Native Saratogian and local author Elizabeth Macy is excited to announce the release of her fourth children’s book, Lucky’s Adventure: The Saratoga Rescue – the first chapter book in the beloved Lucky’s Adventures series, perfect for readers ages 7 – 11. Based on a true story that inspired the original picture book. Join us for the official book launch, part of the Kids Club series. A portion of book sales will benefit Lucky Puppy Rescue.

Meatloaf Dinner

Saratoga Wilton Elks Lodge, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs | 4:30 – 6 p.m. Take out only. Call Monday or Tuesday between 10 a.m. – Noon to place an order at 518-5842585. Menu: meatloaf, mashed potatoes, vegetables, salad, roll, gravy. Dinner: $15 (cash only).

Photography Club

Galway Public Library Community Room, 2112 East Street, Galway | 6 p.m. This month Sandra Peters will present “Interpreting the Camera’s View: What Makes it Art?” Everyone is welcome

to attend these relaxed and friendly gatherings. For more information, please contact Dave Waite at davewaitefinearts@gmail.com

Music in the Park

Gavin Park, 10 Lewis Dr., Saratoga Springs | 7 – 9 p.m. The Town of Wilton presents the 2025 Music in the Park. This week’s featured band is Nostalgia. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets, kick back, and enjoy some free, live music with friends, family, and neighbors. Whether you’re dancing or just soaking in the tunes, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a summer evening in Wilton!

Der Kleiner Klezmer Orchestra

Congregation Beth Shalom, 688 Clifton Park Center, Clifton Park | 7 p.m. The ensemble plays traditional klezmer music from the Jewish diaspora, early 20th century Yiddish theater music, and Israeli dance music. They draw on old recordings, out of print music collections, Yiddish theater compositions, and modern Israeli music to create a unique repertoire. Pre-registration is required and a $10 donation per person is requested at the door. To register, go to https:// lp.constantcontactpages. com/sl/W41mqAQ/Klezmer and complete the requested information. For any questions, email us at sjca. sjcf@gmail.com.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 28

Concert in the Park

Old Iron Spring Park, 198 Front Street, Ballston Spa | 6 – 8 p.m. This week’s concert features Protones. This free, family-friendly event brings live music every Thursday evening from June 26 through August 28, offering a perfect way to enjoy the warm summer nights with friends and neighbors. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs for seating. Food concessions will be on-site, offering a variety of refreshments.

UPCOMING Events

5th

Annual Tunnel to Towers Fundraiser

On Saturday, August 30 the annual benefit will be held at 2117 Barrett Rd. in Ballston Spa at 6 p.m. The benefit will include a comedy show by Colin Quinn, live music by Skippy and The Pistons, food and exciting raffles. Tickets are $75 per person (including 1 raffle ticket). Since 9/11, T2T has been helping America’s heroes by providing mortgage free homes to Gold Star and fallen first responders’ families and by building specially adapted smart homes for catastrophically injured veterans and first responders. We are also committed to eradicating veteran homelessness and helping America to Never Forget September 11, 2001. Donate today – https://dogood.t2t.org/ SaratogaFundraiser2025. Call for reservation 518-542-3731, rain or shine. Tunnel2towers.org.

Southern Saratoga Art Society Exhibits

Artists and members of SSAS will be exhibiting throughout the area during August. Landscape artist Frank Coletta will be showing a collection of his new drawings and paintings. His artworks depict the beauty of the Hudson River Valley. Mr. Coletta is known for his ability to capture the beauty of the iconic geography of the Adirondack area. He will be exhibiting at the Clifton Park Senior Community Center, 6 Clifton Common Blvd. Clifton Park. Cheryl Jenks is exhibiting at the Mechanicville Library, 190 N. Main Street, Artist David Mayack is exhibiting at the Town of Clifton Park Lobby, 1 Town Hall Plaza, Clifton Park and Artists Pat Posillico, Pam Malson, Anup Sood and Denise Kornak are exhibiting at Bella Lucias, 1218 Rte 146, Clifton Park.

Dine to Donate

Gateway House of Peace is holding a Dine to Donate event at the Speckled Pig Brewing Co.,

11-13 Washington Street, Ballston Spa on Thursday, September 4 from 5 – 9 p.m. A portion of the sales from this evening will be donated to support Gateway’s mission of providing end-of-life care for those in our community. Gateway House provides for those who have been diagnosed as terminally ill and have less than three months to live. Gateway provides free 24-hour comfortable care for those who cannot stay safely at home. No insurance or public funding is received. Gateway relies on fundraising and public support.

Meet the Breeds

This event gives dog lovers the unique opportunity to meet with more than 25 different breeds. Learn about each breed’s historical purpose/function, traits, and attributes as a family pet, all while learning about responsible dog ownership and which breeds may be right for your family. Meet with local canine businesses including trainers and veterinarians. There will be trainer demos, concessions, and free dog treats while they last. This free event will be held at the 4-H Training Center, located at 556 Middleline Rd., on Saturday, September 6 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Open to the public. For more information, call 518-885-8995.

15th Annual Curtis Lumber Car and Truck Show

Join us at Curtis Lumber located at 885 State Route 67, Ballston Spa Sunday, on September 7, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. for a fun, family-friendly day at one of the largest car and truck shows in the Capital Region. Free to spectate, free parking! All makes and models welcome, no cut-off year. Day of registration for show vehicles is $20. Registered vehicles receive a goodie bag, wooden dash plaque, and t-shirt. You’ll be in the running for over 45 unique awards and trophies! Enjoy music (DJ), complimentary face painting, balloon twisting, trivia with prizes, a 50/50 raffle benefiting the WTEN/Steve Caporizzo’s Pet Connection, tasty food trucks, and more. Well behaved, leashed pets welcome! For full details visit www. CurtisLumberCarShow.com.

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: Scull, Skull

Scull is an oar used by a rower.

Dan and Ben are propelling their new canoe with heavy sculls Skull is the bone that protects the brain and face. You can get a slight skull fracture and sometimes not realize it.

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

Prodigal

Saratoga Book Festival Announces 2025 Lineup

SARATOGA

SPRINGS —

The lineup for the fifth annual Saratoga Book Festival (SBF) have been revealed. The citywide event will take place from Thursday, Oct. 2 until Sunday, Oct. 5, and will feature more than 50 presenters, 30 author sessions, the Literary Night Market, Sunday KidZone, a film screening, and live music. Events are free, except when noted.

Headline Events

• Béla Fleck, the nineteen-time Grammy-winning banjoist; Edmar Castañeda, the jazz harp trailblazer; and Antonio Sánchez, the visionary drummer open this year’s SBF with a blend of jazz, classical, Latin, and world rhythms that defies categorization. Co-presented with Universal Preservation Hall.

• Kate DiCamillo, twotime Newbery Medalist, and two-time Caldecott Medalist Sophie Blackall discuss their new novel “Lost Evangeline,” an original fairy tale set in the world of The Puppets of Spelhorst and The Hotel Balzaar. Co-presented with Northshire Bookstore.

• Tom Piazza, a celebrated author, Grammywinning music writer, and TV scriptwriter delivers an evening of songs and stories inspired by his new memoir, “Living in the Present with John Prine.”

• Ruth Reichl, awardwinning chef, food journalist, and bestselling author, speaks about her culinary life and her newest book “The Paris Novel” with Tiina Loite, fashion editor for Saratoga Living.

• Amity Gaige,

acclaimed author of “Heartwood,” an instant national bestseller with Halimah Marcus, interlocutor, author, and executive editor of Electric Literature.

• Chris Bohjalian, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of twenty-five books, will talk about his newest historical fiction novel “The Jackal’s Mistress,” a Civil War “Romeo and Juliet” with WMAC Radio’s Joe Donahue.

AI Focus Sessions

• “AI Impact on Education & the Arts,” moderated by Robert Lippman

• “AI: Living in a PostHuman World” with speaker and futurist Sam Rad, author of “Radical Next”

• “AI Keynote–What Comes Next” with Gary Rivlin and Matthew Lucas: Rivlin, a Pulitzer Prize–winning investigative reporter and author of “AI Valley” and Matthew Lucas, professor of business and the vice chair of AI strategy at Skidmore College, discuss the latest breakthroughs of generative AI and developments that are changing the way we live and work.

Festival Beyond the Book Events

• Literary Night Market: more than 60 local authors of fiction and nonfiction for teens and adults, literary-themed live music, light bites, and a cash bar.

• KidZone Arts and crafts: performances and other hands-on fun presented by local children’s authors, illustrators, publishers, and performers.

• Not An Ordinary

House–Making a Home with Love and Purpose: Elizabeth and Ethan Finkelstein, founders of the HGTV show and viral Instagram feed “Cheap Old Houses,” and authors of “Cheap Old Houses: An Unconventional Guide to Loving and Restoring a Forgotten Home” join Chloe Barcelou and Brandon Batchelder, authors of “Tales of a Not So Tiny House” about creating a home you love when money is tight.

• Lit Night Presents “Teatime at Pemberley: A Celebration of Jane Austen in Words and Music”: Enjoy an immersive exploration of Austen’s life and works, curated by host and Lit Night Founder Kristina Kulin in Caffè Lena’s storied listening room. October 4, 2:30 pm at Caffè Lena.

• Screening of TV Pilot “BOOKS”: Discussion with filmmakers Tim Cahill, Kristina Libby, Nicole Ihasz (co-owner of Northshire Bookstore), and Matt Witten about adapting books to screen, writing for TV, their newest projects, and why they love independent bookstores.

More Festival Sessions

• Friends with Secrets: Historical Fiction Panel with Juliette Fay, Marjan Kamali, and Kim van Alkemade

• Ties That Bind: Crime Fiction Panel with Saratoga Shaefer, Jennifer Fawcett, Cleyvis Natera, and Emily Layden

• YA Fantasy Session with Allyson Dahlin and Katherine Harbour

• Rogues and Witches: Fantasy Panel with Shannon Chakraborty, Mai Corland, and

Sydney Shields

• Family Saga Fiction with Serena Burdick, Jessica Shattuck, and Jack Rightmyer

• True Crime Panel with Jerry C. Drake and Ron Hughes

• Thrills and Chills: Horror Panel with Victoria Dalpe, Eric LaRocca, Michael J. Seidlinger, and Paul Tremblay

• Rom Com Happy Hour with Nicolas DiDomizio and London Sperry Friday Matinee Sessions

• Margaret Pearson (I-Ching)

• Dr. Catherine J. Golden (Jane Austen, Incorporated)

• Steve Stern (A Fool’s

Kabbalah) with Melora Wolff (Bequeath: Essays)

• Mason Stokes (All the Truth That I Can Stand) with Marcus Kwame Anderson (Big Jim and the White Boy)

• Lauren Cobello, founder and CEO of Leverage with Media PR, renowned national media personality and 3x author (Marketing and PR for Authors)

• Author Open House hosted by Vicki Addesso Dodd, founder of Saratoga Springs Publishing Check saratogabookfestival.org for the complete schedule of events after Labor Day.

Doobies and Reefer Blaze at SPAC

by Jonathon Norcross for Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Yacht rockers, parrotheads, and a whole lot of boomers stormed SPAC on Monday night for a double-header of Jimmy Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band and the legendary Doobie Brothers, featuring the one-of-a-kind Michael McDonald.

The Reefer Band— Buffett’s backing group that has continued touring after the “Margaritaville” singer’s death in 2023—delivered exactly what was expected of them. With images of cheeseburger palm trees and dancing spring breakers behind them, they cranked out Buffett’s signature tunes in the same style as their former band leader. “License to Chill,” “A Pirate Looks at Forty,” “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere,” “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” and “Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes” were all part of the predictable repertoire.

One of the Reefer singers seemed to incorrectly identify SPAC’s host city as “Sarasota Springs,” though, in a sense, this was not entirely inaccurate given the band brought a taste of Florida to Upstate New York.

The headlining Doobie

Brothers then took the stage, playing a setlist that spanned from classic 70s hits to cuts off their new, well-reviewed 2025 album “Walk this Road.”

Towards the end of their set, the group strung together a series of tracks that blended seamlessly into one another. The presence of both yacht rock god/ keyboardist McDonald and sax player Marc Russo was more than welcome, offering a richness of sound that culminated in a seemingly improvised piano and sax solo during the encore. This jam led into a rousing edition of “Takin’ It to the Streets,”

proving the Doobies still got it after 55 years in business.

Some of their latest offerings, such as “Walk this Road,” “Angels & Mercy,” and “Call Me” were surprisingly good, defying the cliche that aging rock bands can’t put out decent new material. “Listen to the Music” was the fitting final encore song that sent the nearly-full amphitheater crowd to the exits.

The SPAC show closed out the summer leg of the Doobies/ Coral Reefer tour. They’ll be takin’ it to the streets once again on Sept. 4 for a show in St. Louis.

Free Jazz Performance in Ballston Spa on Sunday

BALLSTON SPA — The Ballston Spa Sounds of Summer Concert series is celebrating its five-year anniversary on Sunday with a concert featuring the Jazz Ambassadors, who are performing under the leadership of Dennis Searles.

All of the participating

musicians are from the Greater Capital Region. The Ambassadors will be performing a variety of jazz genres and showtunes from the newly-restored front porch of the Brookside Museum in Ballston Spa. Admission is free. The performance is scheduled for Sunday, Aug. 24

Fred Astaire Dance Studios Hosting Summer Party Benefit

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Saratoga Springs is hosting a Saratoga Summer Social on

Friday, Aug. 29 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Guests are encouraged to don their finest summer cocktail attire and dance the night away.

The evening will also feature live demonstrations, light refreshments, and a curated atmosphere that celebrates all things Saratoga. Tickets will be available at the door for $32, with all proceeds benefiting the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation.

“This city is known for its rich history, fashionable spirit, and love of tradition, and we wanted to honor that in the most Fred Astaire way possible,” said John Mandia, co-owner of Fred Astaire Dance Studios - Saratoga Springs. “The Saratoga Summer Social is our love letter to the season. Whether you’ve danced for years or just want to twirl around the floor for the first time, we welcome you to celebrate with us in style and support a Saratoga institution that means so much to this community.”

Image via Live Nation.

Image provided.

New Music Venue Planned in Town of Saratoga, Locals Push Back

by Jonathon Norcross for Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA — A new music venue called the Mostly Modern Arts Center is being planned in the Town of Saratoga near the intersection of County Route 68 and Burke Road.

According to a proposal dated June 2025, the project site would encompass 18.5 acres spread across three parcels located southeast of the intersection. The site is bordered by single-family residential properties and vacant wooded land. Included on the site would be a 10,000 square-foot, three-story “music barn” that would host performances, art shows, and community events. A parking lot with 51 paved spaces would be created adjacent to the venue, along with additional overflow parking of 39 grass spaces along the entrance road.

Two existing single-family homes on the project site will be renovated and used as residences for the project owners and/or as accommodations for guests, musicians, and artists visiting the center. As many as five cabins would also be built, with each one varying in size between 2,000 to 5,000 square feet. Each cabin would be accompanied by parking spaces

for up to two cars, bringing the total number of parking spaces to around 100. 7 or 8 acres of wooded or open fields would be preserved for walking trails and sculpture exhibits. Primary access to the center would be on Burke Road, with secondary access on County Road 68.

The proposal was prepared for Robert and Victoria Paterson, co-founders of the Mostly Modern Festival that’s hosted at Skidmore College’s Arthur Zankel Music Center. The Patersons have been looking for a new home for the festival, as well as a venue for small concerts, community events, and art exhibits. Their representatives on the project include the Phinney Design Group and the Environmental Design Partnership.

According to the proposal, “the proposed project has been designed to maximize the distance from the music and art venue to the existing dwellings while also maintaining existing wooded buffers… The proposed music venue is designed to hold small concerts in a building that is designed to dissipate and absorb sounds. The small outside venue area is designed [for] more small and intimate performances and will be positioned to prevent the projection of sounds to neighboring residences.”

had 53 members.

Despite such assurances regarding noise pollution, some locals are resisting the proposed project. As of Aug. 18, a petition on Change.org opposing the music venue had garnered 89 signatures, and a Facebook group called “Keeping Burke Road Peaceful”

New Mural Unveiled at Galway Nature Preserve

“While we applaud the development of the arts and economic development, this commercial project does not belong in our quiet neighborhood,” stated the Facebook group’s “about” section.

A flyer shared with Saratoga TODAY said the project would

bring “loud music and noise pollution,” “large crowds into our quiet, rural neighborhood,” “increased traffic,” and “a constant flow of strangers close to our homes and children.” The flyer also encouraged attendance at a public meeting scheduled for Sept. 8 at 7 p.m. at the Saratoga Town Hall.

The land on the southeast corner of the County Route 68/Burke Road intersection, which may be the future site of the Mostly Modern Arts Center. Photo by Jonathon Norcross.

Saratoga PLAN recently unveiled a new, nature-inspired mural created by local artist Sallie Way and art students from Galway High School at the Galway Nature Preserve. The mural is on the side of a building near the preserve’s entrance and parking lot. Photo by Jonathon Norcross.

Notice of formation of Stream Home LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 03/13/2025 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: 1216 NYS Rt 9N Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22/2025. 15407

Notice of registration of PEO Blueprint LLC. Authority filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 05/06/2025 . 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. 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22/2025. 15427

Notice of formation of Skool of Fish LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 06/27/2025. 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: 100 Saratoga Village Blvd., Suite 52, Malta, NY 12020. Any lawful purpose. 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22/2025. 15435

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.

NAME: Inner Roots Leadership LLC Articles of organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 3/31/2025. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to the LLC 2 Loughberry Road, Saratoga Springs, NY, Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22/2025. 15443

Notice of formation of 51 Kent Street, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 07/08/2025. 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: 51 Kent St., Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Any lawful purpose. 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22/2025. 15444

Notice of formation of 2 Hearn Road, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 07/08/2025. 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: 51 Kent St., Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Any lawful purpose. 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22/2025. 15445

8 Center Street Holdings LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 07/07/2025. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 104 Trask Lane, Stillwater, NY 12170. Purpose: General. 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22/2025. 15450

Notice of formation of Dranoki Enterprises LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 05/30/2025. 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: 2015 St. Paul Dr., Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Any lawful purpose. 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29/2025. 15449

Notice of formation of Empower Vocal Wellness Speech Pathology, PLLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 07/10/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the PLLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the PLLC at: 22 Sherwood Trail, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Any lawful purpose. 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29/2025. 15462

Notice of Formation of Innersuits LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the New York Department of

State on July 16, 2025. Office location: Saratoga County. The New York Secretary of State is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process to: United States Corporation Agents, Inc., 7014 13th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11228. Purpose: Any lawful purpose, including but not limited to the design, sale, and distribution of custom and fashionable blazers and related apparel. 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29/2025. 15469

Notice of formation of 15 N Mohawk LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 07/15/2025. 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: 7G Kingdom Way, Mechanicville, NY 12118. Any lawful purpose. 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29/2025. 15470

Notice of formation of Perry’s Lakeridge, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 07/17/2025 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: Burke & Casserly, P.C., 255 Washington Ave. Ext., Suite 104, Albany, New York 12205. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29/2025. 15474

Notice of formation of Limited Liability Company. NAME: Artful Souls LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/18/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC at: 5 Balsam Lane, Gansevoort, NY 12831. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29/2025. 15484

Notice of formation of Just Craft It Now LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New

York on 07/13/2025 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: 12 Woodlawn Avenue, South Glens Falls NY 12803. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29/2025. 15491

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Under Section 206 of the Limited Liability Company Law. Name: Stahl Wealth Advisory Group LLC, Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on July 23, 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, 9 Stoney Heights Ct., Clifton Park, NY 12065. Purpose: Any lawful act or activities. 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29, 9/05/2025. 15494

Notice of Formation of ANF Properties, LLC, Arts of Org. filed with NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 07/28/25. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to The LLC at c/o John Fortune, 206 North Second Ave, Mechanicville, NY 12118. Purpose: any lawful activity. 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29, 9/05/2025. 15499

Notice of formation of George’s House of Pizza, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 07/24/2025 Office: Saratoga County. The Secretary of State 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: 139 Saratoga Avenue, South Glens Falls, New York 12803. Purpose: Any and all business activities permitted under the laws of the State of New York. 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29, 9/05/2025. 15506

Notice of formation of The Ivy Saratoga LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 7/29/2025. 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: 3257 US-9, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29, 9/05/2025. 15507

NOTICE OF APPLICATION OF AUTHORITY of DELTA MX LLC d/b/a SOCCER SHOTS CAPITAL REGION & HUDSON VALLEY. Application of Authority filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on July 23,2025. Office location: Saratoga County. Designated agent: United States Corporation Agents, Inc. is designated as agent upon whom process may be served. Please mail service of process to 3600 N McColl Rd McAllen, TX 78501. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29, 9/05/2025. 15505

Notice of formation of RevOps HQ LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 05/01/2025 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: 3 Franklin Square, Ste 3 Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 8/08, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29, 9/05, 9/12/2025. 15500

Notice of formation of Limited Liability Company (LLC). Name: STARCOURT ENTERPRISES LLC. Articles of organization filed with NY Secretary of State, July 22, 2025. Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity. Office: in Saratoga County. Secretary of State is agent for process against LLC and shall mail copy to 1073 Dean Street, Schenectady, NY 12309. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 8/08, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29, 9/05, 9/12/2025. 15508

Notice of formation of East Coast MX L.L.C. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 07/19/2025 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: 5 Waverly Place, Clifton Park NY 12065.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose. . 8/08, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29, 9/05, 9/12/2025. 15509

Notice of formation of Blackpoint Impact, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 07/23/2025 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 Paddington Drive, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 8/08, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29, 9/05, 9/12/2025. 15522

Notice of formation of Hermit’s Harvest LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 08/04/2025 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: 185 Gurn Springs Rd., Gansevoort, NY 12831 Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 8/08, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29, 9/05, 9/12/2025. 15525

Notice of formation of STYLES BY AURORA LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 07/28/2025. 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: 3935 North Shore Rd., Hadley, NY 12835. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.. 8/08, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29, 9/05, 9/12/2025. 15528

Notice of formation of SKYEDGE GLOBAL LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 07/18/2025 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: 12 WASHINGTON LN, HALFMOON, NY 12065. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 8/08, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29, 9/05, 9/12/2025. 15532

Notice of formation of NOTA SOU LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 06/30/2025 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: 5 ABEL ROAD STILLWATER, NY 12170. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 8/22, 8/29, 9/05, 9/12, 9/19, 9/26/2025. 15521

Notice of formation of APA28N LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 08/04/2025 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: 27 Summerfield Lane, Saratoga Springs NY 12866 . Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 8/08, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29, 9/05, 9/12/2025. 15550

Notice of formation of Saratoga Coffee Company LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on July 29, 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: 60 Berkeley Way, Saratoga Springs NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 8/15, 8/22, 8/29, 9/05, 9/12, 9/19/2025. 15580

Notice of formation of BG Mobile Welding & Fabrication LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 6/12/25. 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: 84 Clothier Rd, Corinth, NY 12822. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 15581

Notice of formation of B3 COLLECTIVE, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 08/04/2025 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: 27 Carpenter Avenue, Middletown, NY 10940. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 8/22, 8/29, 9/05, 9/12, 9/19, 9/26/2025. 15578

Notice of formation of Aardvark Pet Sitting, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on June 9, 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: 85 Edie Road, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 8/15, 8/22, 8/29, 9/05, 9/12, 9/19/2025. 15589

Articles of Organization for Sustainable Wealth Advisors, LLC. were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on August 12, 2025. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to the LLC at 112 Spring St., Suite 302, Saratoga Springs, NY. Purpose: for any lawful activity for

LEGALS

which limited liability companies may be formed under the law. 8/15, 8/22, 8/29, 9/05, 9/12, 9/19/2025. 15596

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Saratoga County Department of Central Services, 50 West High Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 will receive sealed proposals until 5:00 p.m. Thursday, September 4, 2025 for Saratoga County Raise the Age, as per specification 25-RFP-SCRTA-1. Bid documents may only be obtained on or after Friday, August 15, 2025 from The Empire State Bid System at no cost from the following website: www.empirestatebidsystem.com Saratoga County, through its Central Services Department, reserves the right to reject parts of any or all bids. All work shall be subject to equal opportunity in employment, State wage rates and all other requirements in accordance with applicable law.

JOHN T. WARMT

Director of Purchasing

Saratoga County 08/22/2025, 15605

Notice of formation of AAC Getaways LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 08/01/2025 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: 76 Tamarack Trl, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. . 8/22, 8/29, 9/05, 9/12, 9/19, 9/26/2025. 15610

Notice of formation of Oak & Willow Mobile Coffee Bar LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 08/07/2025 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: 8 Tudor Street, Clifton Park, NY 12065. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 8/22, 8/29, 9/05, 9/12, 9/19, 9/26/2025. 15621

Publication notices for Neigh-bors Stable LLC. Neigh-bors Stables LLC filed with the New York State Department of State on August 14, 2025. The office of LLC is in Saratoga County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The address to which the Secretary of State should mail a copy of any process against the LLC is: 1330 Route 9P, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in the business of boarding and racing thoroughbred horses. 8/22, 8/29, 9/05,

9/12, 9/19, 9/26/2025. 15634

Notice of Formation of Limited Liability Company. NAME: Amoreena O’Bryon Design, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 8/7/2025. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to the LLC c/o Michelle H. Wildgrube, Esq., Cioffi Slezak Wildgrube P.C., 1473 Erie Blvd., 1st Fl., Schenectady, NY 12305. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 8/22, 8/29, 9/05, 9/12, 9/19, 9/26/2025. 15638

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Resolution 242-2025 the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at 4:40pm p.m., in the meeting room of the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors, 40 McMaster Street, Ballston Spa, New York 12020, for the purpose of conducting a public hearing upon a proposal to increase the maximum estimated cost of constructing a biosolids digester facility (the “Project”) by Saratoga County Sewer District No. 1 (the “District”). Pursuant to Resolution 143 - 2023, adopted May 16, 2023, the Board of Supervisors previously approved construction of the Project at an estimated maximum cost of $68,550,000 and an estimated annual net cost of $6.67 to the typical property in the District. Due to changes in the Project scope and other factors, the estimated maximum cost of the Project has increased to $97,630,000, and the estimated maximum annual net cost of the Project to the typical property in the District is now estimated to be $22.72.

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 September 10, 2025 at 3:40 p.m.

Copies of the updated Project budget and the engineer’s map, plan and report for the Project are available in the Office of the Clerk of the Board and online at www.saratogacountyny.gov. The environmental review of the Project, as modified, pursuant to the New York State Environmental Review Act, has not yet been completed. Therese M. Connolly, Clerk Board of Supervisors 08/22/2025, 15642

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Resolution 230-2025 the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 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, 40 McMaster Street, Ballston Spa, New York 12020 on a proposed Local Law establishing the Saratoga County Animal Abuser Registry.

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 September 10, 2025 at 3:30 p.m. Copies of the 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 08/22/2025, 15643

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.

NAME: 3 Winners Circle, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on May 2, 2025. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to the LLC c/o Michelle H. Wildgrube, Esq., Cioffi Slezak Wildgrube P.C., 1473 Erie Blvd., 1st Fl., Schenectady, NY 12305. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 8/22, 8/29, 9/05, 9/12, 9/19, 9/26/2025. 15648

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.

NAME: 14D Pointe West Drive, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on May 2, 2025. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to the LLC c/o Michelle H. Wildgrube, Esq., Cioffi Slezak Wildgrube P.C., 1473 Erie Blvd., 1st Fl., Schenectady, NY 12305. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 8/22, 8/29, 9/05, 9/12, 9/19, 9/26/2025. 15649

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News & Notes:

WEEK 7 EVENTS AT SARATOGA RACE COURSE

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) today announced the lineup of attractions, entertainment, and events for the 2025 summer meet at historic Saratoga Race Course.

Highlighted by the 156th edition of the Grade I, $1.25 million DraftKings Travers on Saturday, August 23, and the Grade I, $1 million Whitney on Saturday, August 2, the 40-day summer meet will open on Thursday, July 10 and run through Monday, September 1.

Following the four-day opening week, racing will be conducted five days a week, Wednesdays through Sundays, apart from the final week, when the meet will conclude on Labor Day.

First post will be 1:10 p.m. every day except Saturdays, when first post will be 12:35 p.m. The only exceptions are Whitney Day featuring a 12:05 p.m. first post and DraftKings Travers Day with first post at 11:40 a.m. Post times for Labor Day weekend will be announced at a later date.

Admission gates will open for live racing at 11 a.m. for all but Whitney Day, when gates will open at 10 a.m. and DraftKings Travers Day, when gates will open at 9 a.m.

NEW YORK BREDS IN THE SPOTLIGHT:

DRAFTKINGS TRAVERS DAY:

THURSDAY AND FRIDAY, AUGUST 21-22, AND SUNDAY, AUGUST 24, 2025

Travers Week features numerous stakes to showcase the depth of the New York breeding program with a pair of $200,000 New York-bred events taking center stage on Thursday, including the Albany presented by The Albany Distilling Company and the Fleet Indian. The state-bred action resumes on Friday with two $150,000 tilts in the Seeking the Ante and the Yaddo presented by STIHL. A pair of $150,000 statebred races closes out the week on Sunday, including the West Point Handicap and the Funny Cide presented by Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital.

SPECIAL FIRST POST TIME OF 11:40 A.M. – SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, 2025

DraftKings Travers Day features five Grade 1 races headlined by the $1.25 million DraftKings Travers and including four additional $500,000 races - the Personal Ensign, Forego, H. Allen Jerkens Memorial and the Resorts World Casino Ballerina.

FAN APPRECIATION WEEK:

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27 TO MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

NYRA will thank its fans with special offers on tickets, food and beverage, and hospitality during the final week of the season at Saratoga Race Course. admission, while supplies last.

photo courtesy of NYRA *Mondays and Tuesdays = Dark Days. No racing.

News & Notes:

WEEK 7 EVENTS AT SARATOGA RACE COURSE

GIVEAWAY #6:

SARATOGA QUARTER ZIP SWEATSHIRT – SUNDAY, AUGUST

31, 2025

Labor Day weekend ushers in the final premium giveaway with a Saratoga quarter zip sweatshirt. With summer in its final stretch, fans can stay warm with this red, medium-weight quarter zip featuring a white embroidered Saratoga logo. Available free with paid admission, while supplies last.

BACKSTRETCH TRAM TOURS

Fans can go behind the scenes with a free, guided backstretch tram tour. Tram tours depart from the clubhouse entrance beginning at 7:30 a.m. with the last one leaving at 9 a.m. and running every 30 minutes. Tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are approximately 45 minutes in length. Tours are available every live racing day with the exception of DraftKings Travers Day and Labor Day.

GIVEAWAY #5: SARATOGA TOTE BAG:

FRIDAY, AUGUST 22

Functional and fashionable, this 14”x16” tie-dye cotton Saratoga tote bag is the ideal trackside accessory available on the eve of the DraftKings Travers. The Saratoga tote is perfect for stashing racing forms, sunscreen, or Spa souvenirs. Available free with paid admission, while supplies last.

STAKE RACES

FRIDAY, AUGUST 22

Yaddo (NYB) pres. by STIHL: F&M 3&UP, 1 1/16 Turf, Purse $150,000 Seeking the Ante (NYB): F2YO, 6 Furlongs, Dirt, Purse $150,000

SATURDAY, AUGUST 23

DraftKings Travers (G1): 3YO, 1 1/4, Dirt, Purse $1,250,000 Resorts World Casino Ballerina (G1) (BC): F&M 3&UP, 7 Furlongs, Dirt, Purse $500,000 Forego (G1) (BC): 4&UP, 7 Furlongs, Dirt, Purse $500,000 Personal Ensign (G1) (BC): F&M 4&UP, 1 1/8, Dirt, Purse $500,000 H. Allen Jerkens Memorial (G1): 3YO, 7 Furlongs, Dirt, Purse $500,000 Lake Placid (G2): F3YO, 1 Mile, Turf, Purse $400,000

SUNDAY, AUGUST 24

West Point Handicap (NYB): 3&UP, 1 1/16, Turf, Purse $150,000 Funny Cide (NYB) pres. by Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital: 2YO, 6 Furlongs, Dirt, Purse $150,000

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27

P.G. Johnson pres. by Snap-on: F2YO, 1 1/16, Turf, Purse $150,000

THURSDAY, AUGUST 28

With Anticipation (G3): 2YO, 1 1/16, Turf, Purse $175,000

Call To Post WINNER’S

by Bill Orzell

for Saratoga TODAY

Carson Gambaro and his father Tony provide the call to the post before each event at Saratoga Race Course, and have done so since 2022. Many have held this role prior to the father-son duo, in a tradition of sounding the very recognizable tune borrowed from the cavalry, First Call.

Thoroughbred racing at Saratoga began before the treaty was signed at Appomattox when horsemen in blue and gray rode to commands issued across the battlefields with the brilliant tones of a bugle. Yet the call to post, and post horn, was not an original component on the race grounds.

In 1885, the management of Monmouth Park race track in New Jersey recognized an issue with declining attendance at their events. Realizing they had been lax in conducting their contests in a timely manner, and being slow to call races, causing spectators and plungers transportation difficulties in returning home to New York.

As an experiment, the Monmouth Park management defined a rigid schedule for judges, the clerk of scales and their assistants to follow. They also instituted the old military bugle “call to post” as a happy inspiration and which proved to be a great service to trainers, riders and the public. The bugle’s musical signal rose

Fun And Games

above the din of the race crowd and informed participants that in five minutes the horses would reach the post, and the public that there were only five minutes left for them to bet.

David Dunham Withers, one of the best-known turfmen in the United States who competed as Brookdale Stud in allblack silks, was also in charge at Monmouth Park. Mr. Withers, in the nepotistic custom still prevalent in thoroughbred sport, had an in-law named F. A. Heckler who was a professional musician, with his specialty instrument of fame being the bugle.

The sharp notes of Mr. Heckler’s highly-polished valve-less brass bugle made that first ever call to post and many thereafter, bringing horses from the paddock where they had stripped and saddled, onto the track.

As with its use in military operations, the bugle had an admirable ability to rise above the tumult of confused sounds, as found on the field of battle, or a race track.

So effectively did the trial system work that many races during Monmouth’s meeting were started at the precise minute fixed, with a timely conclusion. The success of the experiment spread to all other thoroughbred tracks, and First Call sounded by a bugle became a standard communication in each race.

The New York Sun in midAugust of 1891 published this

humorous account,

“While the jockeys were waiting for the bugle to summon them to the post they were photographed in a group near the door of the secretary’s office. The photographer had two or three snaps at the bunch of color when Heckler’s bugle scattered them like chickens in a thunder shower.”

On occasion, Bugler Heckler, would use the traditional military bugle call “Boots and Saddles,” historically used to signal mounted troops to assemble and prepare to ride, for his call to post, rather than First Call.

In late June of 1892 the New York Times reported on Suburban Day at Sheepshead Bay race track while the rain fell.

“The saddling bell rang out its welcome peel and Bugler Heckler sounded the “Boots and Saddles” call on his bugle. The betting ring was deserted and the grandstand became packed.”

Promptly, with the call of the post horn came the field onto the track, ready to compete. Keeneland Race Course, in Kentucky, continues to use Boots and Saddles as their call to post

All through the 1890’s Bugler Heckler, at the big building of the Riding and Driving Club at Prospect Park, would summon the exhibitors with his post horn for the Brooklyn Horse Show and also the National Horse

Show in New York at Madison Square Garden.

In 1902, the season which the rebuilt Saratoga Race Course had proved itself the great success that we enjoy to this day, for the final race on the last day the bugler sounded Taps to call the horses to post, as Saratoga Association President, William C. Whitney looked on from the Judges Stand.

Some of the buglers who

have provided the Saratoga call to post in the past include; Bill Gray, Karl Rissland, Vincent Castelli, R. Shields Bruce, Sam Koza, Andy Cusumano and Sam Grossman. In thoroughbred sport and in Saratoga Springs in particular, it is satisfying to witness how procedures have morphed into traditions, which we look forward to enjoying with appreciation.

David Dunham Withers, often called “the Solon of the track.” Citation: Harper’s Weekly May 31, 1890.

Bugler Heckler making the call to post at Morris Park in the Bronx during the 1890’s. Citation: The American Turf An Historical Account of Racing In The United States 1898.

A Brighter Week

by William G. Gotimer, Jr. for Saratoga TODAY

My column last week was admittedly somewhat grim, so for a change of pace and in honor of Travers Week, this week’s column will be decidedly upbeat. The Travers will have a small field as Sovereignty’s dominance, freshness, and home court advantage chased most challengers away. This race has always been the target for his connections and while it appears more of a coronation than a race, Saratoga Race Course is known as a spot where champions are upset. We shall see.

Last week’s running of the Alabama Stakes saw Nitrogen, a filly that heretofore had excelled on grass, master the mile and a quarter distance on the dirt in a handy, if not pretty, victory. Entered exclusively in grass

races, Nitrogen tried the dirt course earlier in the meet when rains forced her race off the grass. She excelled in that effort, convincing trainer Mark Casse to try the Alabama Stakes—and he was rewarded. Having proven her effectiveness on dirt, Nitrogen will now aim for the Breeders’ Cup Distaff to seek the threeyear-old filly of the year title. A quirky set of circumstances leads to a Grade 1 victory.

Jockeys - Tough as Nails

Jockey Luis Rivera suffered a serious spill earlier in the week and left the course on a stretcher with a ride to the hospital. In a show of determination, grit, and physical toughness, he returned the next morning for a workout of champion Thorpedo Anna and fulfilled his mounts later that afternoon.

In shows of mental toughness, both Katie Davis and Lane Luzzi found themselves winless for the meet going into Saturday’s card. Perseverance paid off as fan favorite Katie Davis won the final race on the Saturday card to “get off the duck,” which is racetrack parlance for getting your first win. When congratulated earlier the next beautiful morning by me and a friend, Katie Davis, always pleasant and always personal, reminded me to mention that her friend Lane Luzzi also “got off the duck” on the same card via disqualification. Congratulations to all three.

Friends

That interaction and much of the weekend reminded me again that Saratoga in August is truly about seeing friends, new and old, with the racing as a backdrop. It’s simply special.

Disqualifications

As predicted by this column a few weeks ago, disqualifications have become far more frequent in the past weeks (at least partially due to the use of drone cameras).

A number of those disqualifications caused heartburn for horse players, as in some instances, it appeared that the disqualified horse would have prevailed despite the foul. An astute horse player and longtime fan has suggested a new bifurcated process where the betting results stand yet the purse is redistributed. It would be a break of longstanding tradition but there are instances when the betting and purse results are divorced from each other and it’s a proposal worth considering.

Mike Venezia Memorial Award- Irad Ortiz Jr.

The 2025 Mike Venezia Memorial Award will be presented to this year’s recipient Irad Ortiz, Jr. on Friday Aug. 22. The award is named in honor of jockey Mike Venezia who tragically succumbed to injuries suffered in a spill at Belmont Park in 1988.

Each year the award is presented to a jockey who evidences the sportsmanship and citizenship that personified Mike Venezia. The award honors Venezia’s legacy of charitable

works and accomplishments off the track in supporting those in need. He is widely remembered as a mentor to younger riders and served as the President of the Jockeys’ Guild.

The Venezia family has remained active in racing and his daughter Alison McGowan told me, “We thank NYRA, as well as Richie Migliore, for continuing to acknowledge my father for his kindness to others. Our family is proud to present this award each year and heartily congratulate this year’s recipient, Irad Ortiz, Jr.”

Ali McGowan and her husband Jim—who run Ternary Farm in Cambridge, New York— have another rider in the family in their daughter (Venezia’s granddaughter), Helena, who is an accomplished equestrian at a young age.

Helena McGowan competes in equestrian events through the Battenkill Pony Club. The club, which currently has 15 members aged 8-21, just celebrated its 25th

anniversary under founder and mentor Denise Film, and educates and instructs young riders in all equestrian disciplines. Most of its members, including Helena McGowan, actively compete in riding events throughout the country.

Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation

The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation held a barbeque at Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital this week and highlighted its TRF Second Chances Program where incarcerated individuals build life skills participating in a vocational training program providing supervised care to retired racehorses. The program offers participants, human and equine, a second chance to advance after an initial stumble. It’s a worthwhile and unique program. Contact Meredith Woolford, the head of donor engagement, to lend your support.

Photo of jockey Katie Davis by William G. Gotimer, Jr.

Giving Back through the Backstretch and a Quarter Pole

by Tony Podlaski for Saratoga TODAY

Mary Lou Doyle knows the importance of that as she shares her experiences of being an owner, breeder, and even a co-creator of her latest venture in making miniature quarter poles through her personalized backstretch tours.

Most mornings, Doyle gives people – both in and outside of Saratoga Springs – an opportunity to learn about the backstretch by introducing them to an experience most have never had.

“I started doing tours more

The quarter pole is an important marker for all horses who compete at Saratoga Race Course. Not only does the quarter pole set up the last stage of the race, it is also a reminder for the horse and jockey that there is 440 yards to the finish, especially if it is that horse’s last race before retirement.

because I met too many owners who didn’t know where the test barn was or had never seen the walking path to the paddock,” she said. “Then I met people who had never seen a horse up close, but they were huge racing fans. That was a disconnect to me, and I wanted to close that gap.”

For about an hour, the Saratoga Springs native gives her guests aspects of the track

that many people do not see during the day, whether it is the pathway that each horse takes from the stable to the paddock for a race, watching the race around the three-eighths pole where people can hear the jockeys encouraging their horses and the thunderous sounds of the hooves on the track, or driving past barns to view horses such as Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes winner Sovereignty, who is the strong favorite in Saturday’s Travers Stakes.

Doyle also introduces

including those through partnerships. The first trainer who welcomed one of her first tours years ago was H. James Bond and his wife Tina.

“A new CEO was in town for almost a year and hadn’t been to the track yet and hadn’t even thought about the backstretch,” she said. “They were so impressed when the Bonds invited them to see their barns, they whispered, ‘If I ever buy a horse, those are the kind of people I want to train it!”

Doyle emphasizes the need for trainers who are ambassadors for new or potential owners and first-time “backstretchers.” Other trainers who are part of Doyle’s tour include Carlos Martin, Michelle Nevin, Tom Morley, and fellow Saratoga native Jen Paragallo.

any jockey who has ridden for her, if they are available: Javier Castellano, Kendrick Carmouche, and Irad Ortiz, to name a few. Her guests see how the jockeys are part of the backstretch, too.

“They ride their own golf carts or with their agents and they understand the PR value of their brand,” she said. “Most are super friendly anyway and always stop for a quick hello and photo.”

Doyle’s guests also get to meet many trainers who know her or have trained her horses,

As part of the tour, many guests are surprised by all that goes on behind the scenes. They offer to pay Doyle, but she does not accept any payment. Though, she does ask them if they would make a donation to Thoroughbred aftercare or the Double H Ranch.

“We donate a lot,” Doyle said. “We give a percentage to aftercare. It has been important to us since we first started buying horses. You have to be thinking about it when you buy a horse.”

Along with aftercare, Doyle believes in the

Giving Back

importance of a trainer managing a smaller stable for her horses. She appreciates Nevinis giving individualized attention and care to her horses. In return, Doyle gives back to many backstretch workers, including security, by making breakfast treats such as blueberry and banana muffins, as well as a French toast bake.

“I’m really supportive of small stables,” Doyle said. “I really stand up for them because they’ve great horses, and we need those opportunities in races. They’ve got the time for them and they’re hands on, literally.

“We try to bake about 100 mini-muffins every week and hand them out to grooms I see on the tour,” she added. “Some I know, some I don’t. But anyone who waves with a smile to my guests, they get muffins as a thank you.”

The backstretch tours evolved from Doyle’s car tours at the MacMahon of Saratoga Thoroughbreds Farm, where she has stabled and bred her horses over the past eight years, including one of her mares being mated to her favorite horse Bucchero, the sire of Book’em Danno, who is competing in Saturday’s Grade 1 Forego; her other mare bred to Grade 1 winner Americanrevolution.

WINNER’S CIRCLE

With the guidance and support from founders Joe and Anne McMahon, as well as general manager John McMahon, and marketing, sales, and office manager Jane McMahon, Doyle gave wellinformed tours at the farm.

“They have been so open to me going there, and I had a lot of questions,” Doyle said. “The relationship with them has been fantastic, and they’re great for learning about horses. I learned about aftercare from the McMahons. They take back any horse sold and give it a forever pasture. They’re the gold standard.”

Since her home was not far from the Saratoga Race Course, Doyle entertained the idea of bringing small groups to the backstretch, especially since she felt the responsibility as an owner to share that experience.

“It was just very important to me that people see the backstretch,” she said. “Because when I was a kid, you could ride your bike through here. It was all open to the public. So when it started closing, I felt a responsibility as a horse owner to be sharing this with people who could see what’s back here.”

As a second-generation Saratogian with a link to Major League Baseball (her grandfather, Judd Bruce “Slow Joe”

Doyle, pitched from 1906 to 1910 for the New York Highlanders and Cincinnati Reds), Mary Lou Doyle and her family had an indirect connection to horse racing.

Along with selling hot dogs before becoming a supervisor for Harry M. Stevens, Inc. at Saratoga Race Course, she was also a babysitter for several jockeys and trainers during the late 1970s, which helped pay for her Western riding lessons. At 14, she got to meet Marylou Whitney and enjoyed sharing a conversation with her.

Doyle and family also had two Hollywood stars rent their house for the week during the Fasig-Tipton sales in 1980: Jack Klugman and John Forsythe.

While Doyle and her family spent the week at a camp in Lake George, Klugman and Forsythe attended the fourday event. When Doyle and her family came home, they found steaks in the freezer that Klugman and Forsythe left, and the ability to have central air conditioning in the house.

“We were so happy to have steaks. We were just so excited and they were so nice,” Doyle said. “When our house was

built in 1970, there was no central air conditioning. Basically, Klugman and Forsythe paid for our central air conditioning.”

As Doyle got older, she wanted to leave the Saratoga Springs area. After graduating from Hudson Valley Community College in 1983, she went to Philadelphia and worked full-time while going to Temple University during the evening for a bachelor’s degree in journalism.

For decades, she worked in communications, marketing, and government relations. She also worked as a lobbyist, and worked for two governors and two presidents, demonstrating a unique ability to connect people at a high level on issues.

Traveling back and forth for years from Chester County, Pennsylvania to Saratoga Springs, she got the call to come back home. She bought her parent’s retirement home after her father’s passing and developed a five-year plan to come back to Saratoga – for good.

“All the old timers told me I had to come back,” she said. “I didn’t get it, but now that I’m here, I get it.”

Doyle’s husband James, who recently retired as vice president of Penske Corporation, is the detailed woodworker behind the quarter poles.

“He’s meticulous,” Doyle said. “You know the quality immediately, from the craftsmanship to the anodized gold ball on top. Saratoga Quarter Poles is our business name.”

The quarter poles come in two sizes: 16 inches and 5 feet. When they started in September, the first orders were shipped throughout the country within 30 days. Since then, the quarter poles have gained interest – including at the international level from Japan and Australia –especially during the holiday season.

“I had a line out my door on Christmas Eve with people wanting it for Christmas presents. Then I was shipping it,” she said. “It just exploded. It’s great. It’s been really fun. It’s absolutely gorgeous. Nobody’s ever done it before.”

Nobody has done the quarter poles before in America, especially since they are made in Saratoga Springs.

Horse Racing Celebs Party at Backyard BBQ, For a Cause

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

On Tuesday night, Saratoga’s hottest club was an equine hospital.

The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) hosted its annual Backyard BBQ event at Rood & Riddle, where horse racing celebs like Maggie Wolfendale, Miguel and Acacia Clement, Katie Davis, and Zoe Cadman convened in support of TRF and its Second Chances Program, which offers incarcerated individuals hands-on vocational training in equine care.

The event’s guest speaker, Lauren Vanucci, shared her experiences with the program.

“Thirteen years ago yesterday, just one year out of high school, I was arrested for a DUI accident that severely injured a man,” Vanucci said. “My judge told me that my victim was serving a life sentence, while I only had to serve five years. Hearing those words changed me forever. I went to prison at 20 years old, confused, angry, and lost. I had no idea what my future would look like… I kept holding on to hope that somehow I could turn my life around. I knew I couldn’t wallow in my mistakes forever. I needed to make a change and I needed a way to do it. Then I found out about the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation’s Second

Celebrity Pickleball Tournament Returns to Saratoga Rec Center

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

A whopping 11 baseball players from Saratoga Springs and Ballston Spa were recently named to the 2025 NYSSWA All-State teams, including Saratoga Catholic’s Hunter Fales, who was named the Class C Player of the Year.

Fales was a senior last season who was part of the state championship-winning Saints. He was team captain and played catcher, outfield, and second base. He will attend St. John Fisher University.

Chances Program.”

Vanucci credited the program with teaching her valuable skills and giving her a viable path forward in life. She launched a career as an exercise rider before earning a Bachelor’s degree in Equine Business Management from the College of Central Florida. Today, she runs her own horse photography business, Figure 8 Media.

The BBQ bash was TRF’s biggest and final event of the summer. In addition to live music, food, drinks, and a silent auction, tours of the equine hospital were also offered.

Other Saints named to AllState teams included senior Ronan Rowe and pitcher Pierce Byrne (both first team), junior outfielder Kihl Kelly (third team), sophomore catcher and third baseman Brian Selig (fourth team), and senior utility player Ryan Gillis (fifth team).

In Class AAA, three Blue Streak juniors (who were also crowned state champs last season) earned All-State honors: outfielder Alex Landau (first

team), catcher Brady Mills (second team), and shortstop Raul Rodriguez (fourth team).

In Class AA, Ballston Spa junior pitcher Jameson Hotaling made the second team, and senior shortstop James Haughton was named to the third team.

For the first time in Saratoga’s history, the Blue Streaks and Saints both won state titles in their respective classes last season. They were honored with a downtown parade and were recognized prior to games at Yankee Stadium.

Barstool Broadcast Returns to Saratoga Race Course

by Jonathon Norcross for Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Barstool Sports founder and part-time Saratoga Springs resident Dave Portnoy announced Monday that he and his broadcasting crew would return to the Saratoga Race Course on Saturday for Travers Day. The Barstoolers will be covering races throughout the day from a booth set up near the paddock area.

“Myself, Elio, Big Cat, Megan Makin’ Money, [and] Rico will be broadcasting live right outside the paddock all day on Saturday, so that’ll be fun,” Portnoy said in a video posted to his X account.

In 2024, Portnoy and company spent about 7 hours covering Travers Day races at

Saratoga, drawing a sizable crowd of in-person fans and spectators. The livestream also netted 54,000 views.

Portnoy has long been a fixture in Saratoga, purchasing a house here in 2023. His Barstool-stamped Saratoga merchandise rapidly became a common sight at the track when it went on sale earlier

this summer. He’s also reviewed roughly a dozen local pizza shops as part of his “One Bite Pizza Reviews” YouTube series. Barstool’s 2025 broadcast on Aug. 23 will likely be livestreamed (as it was last year) via the company’s Barstool Gambling YouTube account at www.youtube.com/@ barstoolgambling.

Image provided.

Barstool Sports’ Dave Portnoy and his co-hosts enjoy Shake Shack while broadcasting from the backyard of the Saratoga Race Course on Travers Stakes Day in 2024. Photo by Jonathon Norcross.

FOX Sports analyst Maggie Wolfendale speaks to attendees of the Backyard BBQ event at the Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital on Tuesday evening. Photo by Jonathon Norcross.

50 Years of Saratoga Ice Hockey

by Jonathon Norcross for Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— The Saratoga Springs High School ice hockey program is looking back, and forward. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the program, which hopes to celebrate the occasion with a new LED sign outside the rinks on Weibel Avenue.

Rick Cobello was a 22-yearold teacher in Saratoga when he was asked if he’d be interested in launching an ice hockey team. The first two years were a bit rocky. In 1973 and ‘74, the newly-formed team could only play a few games because there was no refrigeration in the ice rink, and a warm winter meant no ice.

Luckily, things improved

in the program’s first official year, 1975, when refrigeration was added and the ice rink actually became ice.

The inexperienced team traveled across the northeast in search of competitors while also attempting to nail down the basics of the sport.

“It was rough in the beginning,” Cobello said. “We had to teach people the game, right from scratch. But we rapidly got better.”

When Saratoga Youth Hockey began, it served as a feeder program for the high school team, adding more players who had already learned hockey 101. But before that, more unique recruiting efforts were required.

“I had a core of kids who were hockey players and I told them, ‘Go out and find your friends who are football players

and tell them they can hit people,’” Cobello said. “We had a lot of football players the first couple years. I taught them how to play hockey.”

The team’s first tournament in Rome, New York was a bit of a massacre, with Cobello describing the squad as “utterly humiliated.” But in year two, Saratoga managed to earn a few wins. By year three, remarkably, they were state champions. Then they repeated the title-winning feat again in year four.

Flash forward several decades later, and the puckslapping Blue Streaks are in need of some help (though, perhaps not as much help as that first tournament in Rome).

A new LED sign is being planned for the Weibel Avenue Ice Rink, home of Saratoga’s hockey team. The sign, which

11 Local Ballplayers Named All-Staters

by Jonathon Norcross for Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

A whopping 11 baseball players from Saratoga Springs and Ballston Spa were recently named to the 2025 NYSSWA All-State teams, including Saratoga Catholic’s Hunter Fales, who was named the Class C Player of the Year.

Fales was a senior last season who was part of the state championship-winning Saints. He was team captain and played catcher, outfield, and second base. He will attend St. John Fisher University.

Other Saints named to AllState teams included senior Ronan Rowe and pitcher Pierce Byrne (both first team), junior outfielder Kihl Kelly (third team), sophomore catcher and third baseman Brian Selig (fourth team), and senior utility player Ryan Gillis (fifth team).

In Class AAA, three Blue Streak juniors (who were also crowned state champs last season) earned All-State honors: outfielder Alex Landau (first team), catcher Brady Mills (second team), and shortstop Raul Rodriguez (fourth team).

In Class AA, Ballston Spa junior pitcher Jameson Hotaling made the second

would be installed at the entrance of the rink, would serve as both a tribute to the program’s legacy and a modern communication tool for fans, players, and visitors. It will highlight upcoming games, player achievements, special events, and community announcements.

“This new sign is more than just an upgrade — it’s a symbol of our proud history and a beacon for the future,” Cobello said. “We’re honoring everyone

who’s worn the jersey over the past five decades — the players, coaches, parents, and supporters who built this program.”

In order to be ready for a fall unveiling, the sign needs to be ordered this summer. But funds still need to be raised in order to make this plan a reality. Online donations can be made through The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region at www.cfgcr.org. All donations should be directed to “Saratoga Springs Friends of Rec.”

Autism Acceptance Race Returns to AlbanySaratoga Speedway

MALTA — The 4th annual Upstate Chevy Dealers Autism Acceptance Race will return to the Albany-Saratoga Speedway on Friday, Sept. 5, transforming the track into a high-octane celebration of community and inclusion.

team, and senior shortstop James Haughton was named to the third team.

For the first time in Saratoga’s history, the Blue Streaks and Saints both won state titles in their respective classes last season. They were honored with a downtown parade and were recognized prior to games at Yankee Stadium.

The event, hosted by local nonprofit Racers 4 Autism, raises funds for two organizations: The Autism Society of the Greater Hudson Region and Bring on the Spectrum (BOTS). These organizations deliver hands-on programs, sensory-friendly spaces, and advocacy for individuals and families navigating life on the spectrum.

At the heart of it all is Jordan Modiano, a Capital Region entrepreneur, pro stock racer, and proud dad to Rachel, who is on the autism spectrum.

Last year’s race raised more than $13,700, helping to fund tools like BOTS’ vibro-acoustic lounger and ninja blocks, as well as other resources that support sensory regulation and therapeutic play.

Grandstands for the event open at 5 p.m., with racing beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, and $2 for children 11 or younger.

“When I started this race, I just wanted to create something that honored my daughter and gave back to a community that has given us so much support,” said Modiano in a press release. “Every year, I’m blown away by how it’s grown, not just in size, but in heart. This is about showing what’s possible when we rally together for acceptance, inclusion, and love. We’re building a better track towards a better world.”

CAFFE LENA TO HOST SPECIAL MUSIC DOCUMENTARY SCREENING

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Caffè Lena will host the 45th anniversary screening of “Gospel,” a landmark concert documentary directed by Fred Ritzenberg and featuring music recorded and mixed by 7-time Grammy winner Joel Moss, co-producer of Lena’s Jazz series.

Originally released in 1980, “Gospel” captures traditional gospel music at its height. The film features performances by five of the 20th century’s most notable gospel acts: James Cleveland & His Choir, The Mighty Clouds of Joy, Twinkie Clark & The Clark Sisters, Rev. Shirley Caesar, and Edwin

Hawkins & The Hawkins Family.

After the screening, there will be a live Q&A with Ritzenberg and music producer Moss. The duo will share stories behind the film and reflect on its legacy 45 years later. (In a convenient coincidence, Ritzenberg’s brother is a decadeslong resident of Saratoga Springs.)

“I know I’ve got a reputation as the ‘king of superlatives’, but this is one of the best concert films ever,” Moss wrote in an email.

The screening and Q&A will take place at Caffe Lena on Sept. 7 at 2 p.m. Ticket proceeds will be donated to support Lena’s programming.

See " Galway Man Threatened to Shoot ICE Agents" pg. 9

See " Saratoga Book Festival" pg. 23

Poster for “Gospel” via IMDb.