Saratoga TODAY December 5 – December 11 , 2025

History OF SARATOGA

Ballston’s Colonial Inn

by Reynolds November | Sponsored by Saratoga County History Center

Contact Saratoga County History Center at: saratogacohistoryroundtable@gmail.com

There it is, sitting atop a hill, a hill known 200 years ago as Courthouse Hill, on present-day Middleline Road. It is north of the Middleline Road/Charlton Road intersection where Eliphalet Ball established his church, the center of the community. That community was to become the town of Ballston. And, yes, there it is, still standing to this day, a building then known as the Colonial Inn.

Yes, an inn and a place to relax, eat, drink, sit with friends. Right across from the Saratoga County Courthouse (and the county jail) where barristers argued their cases. A place where the likes of Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr came as lawyers. Ballston Spa’s John Taylor, who went on to become the only New Yorker to be the Speaker of the House of Representatives, argued cases there. And then visitors to the court probably spent the night or a few nights at the Colonial Inn, right across the road from the Courthouse.

But the history of the inn’s property goes back to the Watrous family. Edward Watrous came to Ballston in 1775 and, two years later, he married the “girl next door,” actually from across the road, Susannah Pierson. But their world was turned upside down in 1780 when the British raided Ballston in search of Patriots. Much of the Watrous family had been sent away to Richmond, Virginia; an earthern breastwork had even been constructed to protect the property but Edward and probably a son remained in Ballston. The British plundered the entire Middleline Road area and burned many of the structures there. Watrous’ house was ransacked but not burned. Watrous was taken prisoner and was taken to Montreal where he was held as a prisoner for over two years. He was released in November, 1782.

Several years after the raid, in 1796, the Courthouse was built for $6750 as Ballston was, at the time, the seat of Saratoga County. It was Edward Watrous who gave the land on which the courthouse was built. The building burned down in 1816 and the seat of the county was moved to Ballston Spa.

On Watrous property, across from the Courthouse, the Inn was built a year after the courthouse. Another year later, the “Saratoga

Register,” the first newspaper in Saratoga County, was published right at the Inn. That newspaper became the Ballston Journal and is still being published today (online only). The Inn was surrounded by upwards of 25 other buildings, most of them homes for the people who had come to this area with Eliphalet Ball or who had migrated to this area after the initial settlement.

There was also a store on the property. Whether it was in the Inn or as a separate building is yet to be determined but, according to an 1804 ad in a local newspaper, “The Saratoga Advertiser,” Watrous had taken over the store from a John Marvin (who moved his business to a different location) and was selling groceries, crockery, glass and hollowware (ie., vessels that can contain something as opposed to flatware) as well as cloth (broad cloths, flannels, and “cassimeres”). Brandies, wines, tea, and sugars were also available at the store. In a Saratoga County business ledger, Edward Watrous is listed as buying “sundries” and tobacco for the store during the years 1804-1805. But those are the only citations attributed to Watrous and listed in this ledger that encompasses much of southern and central Saratoga County.

It seems that Watrous was more than willing to go after debtors who owed the store money. There are legal notices in newspapers in both 1815 and 1819 about he and others trying to procure the money owed to them. In one of the cases, a man’s house and property in Greenfield were at stake!

The original building that housed the inn had low doorways and stairs in the center of the building. That was, at the time, the main hallway. There were no fireplaces but wood stoves provided heat. There was a birthing room near the kitchen; that room later became part of the kitchen. One of the rooms upstairs was extremely small and used for guests, sometimes more than two people at a time in the same room, people who did not even know each other.

The building itself has been much changed from the original. Frederick Telford, one of the owners of the property (he purchased it in 1931), bought the property from David, Loretta, and Leland Miller, all minors, who had inherited the property from Robie Miller, presumably their mother, and Dwight Harlow,

Robie’s brother. Telford removed the ballroom and the barroom which sat on the south side of the inn. Telford’s daughter, Doris Collins, writes in a 2002 letter that she well remembered the privy, a wooden building bathroom, that was a three holer: one large hole for men, a smaller one for women, and a small one (with steps!) for the children.

In the 1950’s, when Winslow and Mae Lillie owned the property, they built an apartment on the back of the building.

In the 20th century, after the creation of the Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake School District, this property was the northern boundary of the school district. As property north of the house was sold off, those new independent properties also became part of the school district, thus expanding its area northward.

In 1974, a tornado destroyed the very tall barn on the property. A new barn was constructed using the wood from the old barn but making it far shorter in height. All that remains of the original old barn is an old stable post.

As late as the 1920’s, long after the demise of the courthouse, the Schenectady Gazette was still mentioning the location “Courthouse Hill” as an identifier in some of its news articles and want ads.

Today, the past is remembered through the presence of a historical marker at the top of Courthouse Hill on Middleline Road, Ballston, New York. A building that ties the past to the present and all of our futures.

Sources:

Ye Olde Days, Katherine Q. Briaddy

Saratoga County Heritage, Violet B. Dunn, Editor Deeds, Saratoga County Clerks Office, Boyd to Lillie, 1955 and Miller and Harlow to Telford, 1931 Schenectady Gazette, June 18, 1925 and December 1, 1926

Personal Recollections from owners Jane and Parker Baum; Doris Collins, Frederick Telford’s daughter; and an unnamed descendant of Dwight Harlow

The Saratoga Advertiser, December 31, 1804

Ballston Spa Journal, April, 1975

Albany Argus, 1815 and 1819

Saratoga Ledger of local stores, stored as “Milton Ledger” at Brookside Museum, from first quarter of 19th century

Tonko Announces $5.45 Million+ in Federal Grants for Local Fire Departments & EMS Squads

Congressman Paul D. Tonko announced the awarding of 13 federal grants totaling more than $5.45 million in funding for 11 Capital Region fire departments and EMS squads. The funding announced today comes from two Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grant programs for Fiscal Year 2024 — the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program and the Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program.

The following 5 departments will receive the following amounts of funding from the FY2024 SAFER program to support the hiring of new firefighters and bolster recruitment and retention:

• City of Schenectady Fire Department: $2,008,304

• Rotterdam-Princetown Fire District #5: $821,192

• Halfmoon Hillcrest Volunteer Fire Department: $635,886

• S.W. Pitts Hose Company of Latham, NY: $426,838

• City of Rensselaer Fire Department: $237,090

The following 8 departments will receive the following amounts of funding from the FY2024 AFG program to support improvements in equipment, operations, and safety:

• Round Lake Fire Department: $295,428

• Albany Fire Department: $266,181

• City of Schenectady Fire Department: $201,933

• Ravena Rescue Squad: $191,428

• Halfmoon Hillcrest Volunteer Fire Department: $137,142

• Glenville Fire District #2: $124,936

• Cohoes Fire Department: $85,714

• Voorheesville Fire Department: $27,450

Taken together, these significant grant awards will help recipients hire more firefighters, support essential training courses, improve recruitment and retention efforts, and purchase vital equipment like new turnout gear and personal protective equipment (PPE),

turnout washer/dryer/extractors, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) face masks, and more. Last December, Congressman Tonko submitted letters to FEMA in support of the City of Schenectady Fire Department and Voorheesville Fire Department’s requests for federal funding.

“Throughout my time in Congress, I’ve made it a top priority to ensure that our Capital Region firefighters and EMS squads have the resources, equipment, and support to continue serving our communities safely and effectively,” Congressman Tonko said. “These brave men and women put their lives on the line every single day to keep our families safe, and it is up to us as elected officials to make certain they are properly equipped to safely face the monumental challenges of their jobs. I’m proud to celebrate this significant federal investment in our local emergency responders, and I look forward to continuing my efforts to ensure our local fire departments and EMS squads have the tools and training they need to succeed.”

Each year, Congressman Tonko and his staff assist numerous local fire departments and EMS organizations by writing letters of support and helping to prepare their applications for these critical grants. Today’s announcement marks the completion of the competitive rounds of Fiscal Year 2024 SAFER and AFG funding, delivering a total of $5,459,522 for Capital Region emergency responders.

Earlier rounds of AFG funding for Fiscal Years 2021, 2022, and 2023 delivered nearly $3 million for departments in Albany, Ballston Lake, Burnt Hills, Colonie, Glenville, Greenfield, Latham, Menands, North Greenbush, Saratoga Springs, Schenectady, Scotia, South Glens Falls, Troy, and Watervliet.

In total, the Fiscal Year 2024 AFG and SAFER programs distributed 1,885 awards totaling $615.6 million in competitive grants for fire departments, non-affiliated EMS organizations, and state fire training academies nationwide.

Sonny Whitney’s Mom

by Bill Orzell Saratoga TODAY

A sentimental possession, a gold pocket watch recovered from the body of Isidor Straus, a wealthy Titanic passenger, fetched £1.78m at auction this past November. Mr. Straus and his wife Ida were returning from Europe and booked first class passage on the ill-fated White Star Liner.

Isidor and his brother Nathan were pioneering retailers operating the famous New York department stores Abraham & Straus and Macy’s. Isidor Straus also had represented New York State in Congress, where, as a merchant importer, he opposed reactionary tariffs in favor of lower prices for his consumers.

Isidor and Ida Straus were among the more than 1,500 fatalities incurred when the vessel, on its maiden voyage, struck an iceberg that fractured the Titanic’s hull on its way to New York in mid-April 1912.

Some survivors were able to relate the touching events of the open-ocean evacuation, where the 67-year-old Isidor refused a seat in a lifeboat, as women and children remained aboard the doomed liner. Ida Straus and her maid had already been seated. Rather than leave her husband to meet fate alone, Ida handed her fur coat to her maid in the lifeboat and re-boarded Titanic. The maid was rescued with all the other 705 survivors, by RMS Carpathia.

The floating body of Isidor Straus was recovered from the frigid Atlantic Ocean several days after the disaster, and one of the items used to identify his remains was an eighteen carat gold Jules Jurgensen pocket watch, inscribed with his initials and the date of the occasion of his forty-third birthday. This watch, which had been a gift from Ida in 1888, had stopped at 02:20 upon immersion with Titanic beneath the waves.

The watch was returned to the family and passed down

until a great-grandson decided to dispossess himself of what might possibly be the most sentimental of any physical objects from Titanic.

Can there be a connection between the Straus timepiece and Saratoga Springs? I believe if you connect certain dots, there are some interesting aspects; enter Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney.

She was the daughter-inlaw of William C. Whitney, a presence in business, politics and the riding community of Long Island, who brought keen sense with him when he purchased the Saratoga Race Course from Gottfried Walbaum. ‘Dutch Fred’ had nearly ruined the track before selling it to Mr. Whitney in 1900, who along with his partners and competent management, revived racing.

Gertrude’s husband, Harry Payne Whitney, shared his father’s enthusiasm for horse sports, with the Whitney Stables breeding and racing many champions under their Eton blue with brown silks.

Many of Titanic’s victims would have been known to Harry and Gertrude Whitney, from equine competitions on Long Island and the annual August sojourn to Saratoga Springs. The Whitneys purchased a Saratoga residence, Cady Hill, in the geyser district, from the famed architect Samuel Adams Clark, which they had leased during August for several seasons prior.

As well-known as her spouse was a sportsman, Gertrude Whitney was equally recognized in the art world, not only as an artist herself, but also as a philanthropist and patron. She was selected to create the National Titanic Monument. Henry Bacon, the architect who planned the placement of the Spirit of Life sculpture in Congress Park, also designed the pedestal and exedra bench to support Mrs. Whitney’s creation in Washington, D.C. In viewing the Titanic Monument created by Gertrude Whitney, it is difficult not to imagine James Cameron’s inspiration for his 1997 movie epic.

OBITUARIES

Patricia D. Cross

SARATOGA SPRINGS –

Patricia D. Cross, 92, passed away peacefully on November 28, 2025, in Saratoga Hospital of natural causes. Born in Montreal, Canada to Charles and Ivy (Creates) Donoghue on August 23, 1933. She was the oldest of four children.

Patricia married the love of her life, Roy D. Cross, in 1955. They were married for over 33 years until his passing in 1989. She was the mother of two children, Gregory and Jeffrey.

She is also predeceased by her parents, her sisters, Irene and Ivy, brother, Charles and her son, Jeffery. Patricia is survived by her son, Gregg and his wife, Debra, their two children, granddaughter Erica Lorenzo (son in-law Stephen Lorenzo), grandson Kevin and great granddaughter Vivienne (Erica/Stephen), who brought her immense happiness in her final years. She is also survived by Jeff’s three daughters,

Samantha, Jessica and Sydney. She is further survived by her sibling’s spouses, Beryl and John, and ten nieces and nephews.

In 1965, Patricia and Roy settled in Saratoga Springs, NY where they would spend the rest of their lives.

She owned Patricia’s Card and Gift Store in the Arcade Building on Broadway (and a second location, for a number of years, on West Avenue) in Saratoga Springs. Patricia started the business in October 1966, a period in time when it was rare for women to own their own business. She had a great talent for being able to merchandise/display products and a special way of befriending her customers, other merchants and the community. Patricia ran her business for 22 years. In 1988, she sold the business to retire.

Unfortunately, Roy passed away in 1989 before they could begin to enjoy their retirement.

In the 1990’s, she started the volunteering chapter of her life. Of course, Patricia began as a volunteer in a gift shop at Saratoga Hospital. In 2010, she was instrumental in helping design and merchandise the new hospital (and current) gift shop location. She often would encourage her grandchildren to come ‘work’ with her and teach them how to make change for customers. She would go on to volunteer at the hospital for over 20 years until she was unable to continue due to disability constraints. Patricia

was recognized by the hospital for her over 23,000 hours of volunteer service time. She was also a volunteer, for over 20 years, at the annual Catholic Charities Saratoga Festival of Trees. She had a knack for creating and crafting, another thing she made sure to spread to her grandchildren, particularly around the holidays. In her free time, Patricia liked to crochet and knit and was particularly fond of reading, crossword puzzles, and Sudoku – always keeping her mind sharp.

Family was truly an important part of her life. She loved family gatherings and being updated on their lives. She liked to host gatherings and cook. We all have our favorite dishes. We still cannot replicate her brownies and cheesecake. The family has wonderful memories which will stay with us forever. She took great pride in sending greeting cards to her family members for all occasions. She tried to never miss an event.

Patrica was a devout Catholic. Her faith was a large component of her life and provided her with great strength and courage as she dealt with physical disabilities in the last years. She has been a parishioner of Saint Peter’s Church since she and Roy moved to Saratoga.

A thank you to the Doctors, nurses and staff at Saratoga Hospital for their loving care.

A special thank you to the

Emmalou Stanford McGlaughlin

BALDWIN, FL - Emmalou Stanford McGlaughlin, 77, passed away on November 25, 2025, in Baldwin, Florida, after a prolonged illness. She was born on February 2, 1948, in Saratoga Springs, New York, to Harry August Stanford and Virginia Alyce (Brusie) Stanford.

A graduate of Saratoga Springs High School, Class of 1965, Emmalou carried the spirit of her hometown with her throughout her life. She spent her early years in Saratoga Springs, later living in Connecticut and Goose Creek, South Carolina, before settling in Baldwin, Florida. A devoted homemaker, she found joy in creativity-especially through crafting.

Emmalou is survived by

staff at Home of the Good Shepherd, in Wilton, NY for your love, kindness, compassion and dedication to your residents. Your care for Patricia brought us great comfort over these past two- and one-half years. Sharon Drosky, God bless you.

Relatives and friends may call from 5 pm to 7 pm on Tuesday, December 9, at William J. Burke & Sons / Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 am on Wednesday, December 10, in The Church of St. Peter, 241 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY. Burial will follow at Saint Peter’s Cemetery, West Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY.

In lieu of flowers, Patricia contributed to cancer research causes and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Please contribute to these charities or others important to you. Online remembrances may be made at www. burkefuneralhome.com.

her daughters Kelly Anne, Theresa, and Colleen, several grandchildren, her sister Claire Jean (Stanford) Waring of 26 Spa Drive, Saratoga Springs, NY, and Mary Nichols, daughter of Theodore “Ted” McGlaughlin. She was preceded in death by her sister Virginia “Fuzzy” Alyce (Stanford) McBride.

Throughout her life, Emmalou shared many meaningful years with Theodore “Ted” McGlaughlin. The two first married in their younger years, later parted ways, and eventually reunited in a renewed chapter of companionship. Between those periods, she was married to the late Charles Tharp.

In accordance with her wishes, Emmalou will be cremated with no formal services, and her family will quietly honor her memory, treasuring the warmth, creativity, and gentle joys she brought into the lives of those around her.”

Edmund (Eddie) W. Wetherby

SARATOGA SPRINGS –Edmund (Eddie) W. Wetherby, 77, of Saratoga Springs NY, passed away peacefully at home on November 30, 2025. At Ed’s request there will be no funeral services. For online condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

Martin Schober

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Martin Schober passed away on November 28, 2025. Calling hours will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at Compassionate Funeral Care, 402 Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. For online condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

Dorothy E. Kritz

GREENFIELD CENTER –Dorothy E. Kritz passed away December 1, 2025. Calling hours will be December 8, from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at Compassionate Funeral Care in Saratoga Springs. A funeral service will follow at 1:30 pm, followed by a graveside service in Greenfield Cemetery, Greenfield Center, NY. Online condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

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Ad Sales, Classifieds, Calendar, Obituaries 518-581-2480 x204 cdurfey@saratogapublishing.com

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ADVERTISING? NEXT MAGAZINE DEADLINE: Welcome Home January 9th

Local news never looked this good!

2254 Route 50 South

Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

Phone: 518-581-2480 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

518 ELEVATED ANNOUNCES ARROW BANK SCHOLARSHIP WITH AN IMPACTFUL $10,000 GIFT

518 ElevatED (formerly Capital Region Sponsor-AScholar) announces today that it has received a transformative $10,000 gift from Arrow Bank. This contribution will establish an educational scholarship for a college-bound Schenectady High School student in the Class of 2028.

Arrow Bank selected 518

ElevatED as part of its initiative to support ten Capital Region nonprofits that deliver essential afterschool programming and youth mentorship.

Arrow Financial’s President and CEO David DeMarco and Vice President and Community Engagement Manager Kate Otis

presented the gift during 518 ElevatED’s weekly program session at Schenectady High School on Monday.

Since its founding in 1997, 518 ElevatED has supported more than 500 Capital Region student alumni through comprehensive pre-college and preemployment programming.

The nonprofit provides students with college campus visits, career-readiness workshops, and opportunities. Each participant is paired with an adult mentor for individualized guidance throughout high school, and eligible students may receive scholarships to pursue post-secondary education.

The scholarship made possible by Arrow Bank’s generosity will help ensure longterm support for a Schenectady scholar as they pursue their educational goals. Peter Gabak, Executive Director of 518 ElevatED, said, “518 Elevated raises over half a million dollars each year through mission-driven charitable giving from individuals, private foundations, and corporate supporters like Arrow Bank. This profoundly generous commitment is unique as the banking landscape changes. Arrow Bank is headquartered in Glens Falls, and their geography fuels their commitment

to support nonprofits in the Greater Capital Region.”

About 518 ElevatED Currently, 518 ElevatED supports more than eighty high school students through its weekly in-school and after-school programs across Albany, Schenectady, and Troy High Schools. The organization also maintains a cohort of 130 active college scholars who are enrolled at 92 institutions of higher education in 17 states. Notably, 80% of students in the program identify as first-generation college-bound, highlighting 518ElevatED’s critical role in expanding educational opportunity and access.

Meet Polly!

Polly was dumped outside of someone’s house which was caught on camera. She was still a nursing mother at the time, so we don’t know what happened to her kittens. She is as sweet as can be and wants all of the love and attention. We are not sure how she feels about other cats yet, but we will determine that with time. We do know that she is absolutely amazing and she definitely did not deserve to be thrown out like a

piece of garbage. It is her time to be pampered and spoiled! For some reason many people have shown interest in Polly but she seems to get overlooked time and time again.

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

Local Elks Lodge Holding Annual Memorial Service

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Saratoga-Wilton B.P.O. Elks #161 will conduct their annual memorial service on Sunday, Dec. 7 at 1 p.m. at the lodge on 1 Elks Lane in Saratoga Springs.

The ceremony will honor thirteen members that have died over this past year. The event is open to the public.

Following the service, a light reception will be hosted in the lounge. No reservations are necessary. Further information may be obtained by calling the Memorial Chairman Mark Phillips at 518-584-7464.

Image via the Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge #161.

Saratoga Springs to Hold Participatory Budgeting Vote December 6-12

The Saratoga Springs Participatory Budgeting Committee announced Cycle 4 voting will be held December 6-12.

City residents aged 18 and over may vote online using the program portal at https:// pbstanford.org/2025-saratogany or using this QR code. The program, which was introduced to Saratoga Springs by Commissioner of Finance Minita Sanghvi, has received an overwhelmingly positive response over the four years it has operated.

“I am thrilled with the project proposals we received this year. Our theme for 2025 projects is the Year of the Child, and the response has been amazing,” Sanghvi said, “Saratoga Springs is fortunate to have such creative energy around providing services and opportunities for young people.”

Participatory Budgeting Committee Chair, Jeff Altamari, stated that the Committee volunteers put in many hours this year to make ’The Year of the Child’ theme successful. He noted they took great satisfaction in their work.

The Cycle 4 ballot includes nine projects:

Caffe Lena Folk Club Kids Concert Series ($12,700) A free and weekly concert series for preschoolers and their caregivers at Caffe Lena. A professional folk trio performs interactive songs to support early childhood development, social skills, and a love of music. The program is drop-in with no barriers to participation.

Children’s Museum Revolutionary War Education ($8,050) The Children’s Museum at Saratoga will create and present educational programs about the lives of

children during the American Revolution. Programs will be offered at the museum, in Saratoga Springs classrooms, and at public spaces like the farmers’ market. It connects local history to the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations.

Division Street Elementary Paint and Sip Art Night ($800)

A “Paint and Sip” art night for students and their families at Division Street Elementary School. Led by the school’s art teacher, families will create paintings together in a fun, guided setting. The event aims to build community and connection between families and the school.

Division Street Elementary New Art Room Kiln ($5,900) A new kiln will be purchased for the Division Street Elementary School art room to replace the aged and inefficient kiln currently in use. The new kiln will allow as many as 3,000 students to enjoy pottery projects over the next ten years.

National Museum of Racing Field Trips ($7,726) Funds field trips for hundreds of local students from Saratoga Springs and the Public Library’s Afterschool Program. The money will cover the cost of bus transportation and any related expenses. This removes financial barriers, allowing students to experience the museum’s history and art collections.

Pitney Meadows Exploration Garden Expansion ($30,000) This project will expand the children’s Exploration Garden at Pitney Meadows Community Farm into Saratoga’s first public natural play landscape. It will feature interactive zones for music, gardening, and sensory exploration, all built with natural materials. The space is designed for

child-led, unstructured outdoor play and learning.

Saratoga Arts Young Writers Poetry Workshop ($8,450) A free, six-week poetry workshop for youth ages 10-18, led by the Saratoga Springs Poet Laureate, Jay Rogoff. Participants will learn writing skills and explore different poetic styles, culminating in an optional public reading at Caffe Lena. The program aims to foster creative expression and literacy in a supportive environment.

Saratoga Farmers’ Market Kids Club & Nutrition Education ($29,993)

This project expands the Farmers’ Market Kids Club to run year-round and partners with Cornell Cooperative Extension to provide nutrition education at the market and in four local elementary schools. Children can earn “produce coins” at the market to spend on fresh fruits and vegetables at the market. The goal is to increase access to healthy, local food and teach lifelong healthy habits.

Saratoga Springs Housing Authority - Jefferson Terrace Playground ($31,500) A new playground will be installed at the Jefferson Terrace housing complex. It will provide a safe and dedicated space for children living there to play, socialize, and be active. The playground is intended to foster community and support child development.

The Participatory Budgeting Committee along with Finance, Public Works, and Recreation reviewed all proposals, considered cost, public benefit, feasibility, and need. The final step in the process is for the City Council to decide which projects receive funding – an item on the agenda for the council’s December 16 meeting.

No Real ID?

Pay a $45 Fee.

by Aidan Cahill Saratoga TODAY

A new rule published by the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) will make travel more expensive for those without a real ID.

Starting Feb. 1, 2026, travelers going through airport security checkpoints without a real ID or other approved document will have to pay a $45 fee under the TSA Confirm.ID program, the agency announced on Dec. 1.

Notice of the fee was first published on Nov. 20. At the time the proposed fee was $18, however it was updated due to a reevaluation of costs and historic precedent. Once the fee is paid, travelers will be able to use their ID for 10 days.

While 94% of travelers currently use a Real ID or other accepted form of ID, TSA expects those who don’t a real ID to have longer waits at checkpoints.

“Identity verification is essential to traveler safety, because it keeps terrorists, criminals, and illegal aliens out of the skies and other domestic transportation systems such as rail,” said Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Administrator for TSA Adam Stahl. “The vast majority of travelers present acceptable identification like REAL IDs and passports, but we must ensure everyone who flies is who they say they are.

Beginning February 1, travelers who do not present an acceptable form of ID at our security checkpoints and still want to fly can pay a $45 fee and undergo the TSA Confirm.ID process. This fee ensures the cost to cover verification of an insufficient ID

will come from the traveler, not the taxpayer. The security of the traveling public is our top priority, so we urge all travelers to get a REAL ID or other acceptable form of ID as soon as possible to avoid delays and potentially miss flights.”

Acceptable forms of ID include:

• REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)

• U.S. passport

• U.S. passport card

• DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)

• U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents

• Permanent resident card

• Border crossing card

• An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)

• HSPD-12 PIV card

• Foreign governmentissued passport

• Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card

• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)

• U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential

• Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

The TSA is encouraging those without a Real or acceptable form of ID to pay the fee in advance of their flight with more information to come regarding how to pay at specific airports.

The Real ID law was first passed in 2005 and started roll out in 2008 buy has faced challenges due the COVID-19 pandemic and state implementation, according to reporting from the Associated Press. TSA began requiring a Real ID in May 2025 however passengers without one only got a warning and additional screening.

Karma Desofi

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Karma Desofi, 71, passed away unexpectedly on Thanksgiving evening, November 27, 2025.

Born on June 14, 1954, in Siparia, Trinidad and Tobago, Karma moved to New York at the age of 21, bravely beginning a new chapter and building a life rooted in resilience, love, and generosity.

Karma is survived by her daughters, Karissa Desofi and her partner Paul Billings III, and Rhianna Jones and her husband Naeem Jones; as well as her three cherished grandchildren, Sofia Shea, Naiya, and Harper.

Karma found joy in everything around her. She had a remarkably big heart—always caring, always giving, and the kind of person who would offer you the shirt off her back and insist you enjoy a plate of food before leaving her home. She loved the simple pleasures: sitting outside in the sun, spending time by the water, and taking boat rides on Lake George with her family. Above all else, she was a devoted grandmother; her grandchildren

Robert Floyd “Bob” Cooley

SARATOGA SPRINGSRobert Floyd “Bob” Cooley, 78, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2025, after a brief illness. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on December 9, 11:00 AM, at St. Clement’s Church. Memorial donations to St. Clement’s Church. Online

were truly the center of her universe. Her love also extended to all her “grand-dogs”: Raya, Remi, Mia, Nalah, and Layla.

Karma was a familiar and beloved face in the Saratoga Springs community. She worked for The Saratogian for several years and later for Saratoga TODAY newspapers. Her work in advertising suited her perfectly—her warmth, kindness, and unforgettable smile made everyone feel seen. She had a gift for remembering names and greeting people as though they were old friends. After retiring from advertising, she dedicated herself to helping raise her three grandchildren, a role she embraced with effortless grace and boundless joy.

Karma will be remembered for her light, her laughter, and her unwavering love for her family and community. Her presence made the world softer and kinder, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Please join us for a visitation on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 10 am-11 am, at William J. Burke & Sons Funeral Home, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY, with a funeral home service to begin at 11am.

Burial will be private.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.

remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Josephine Roselli

SARATOGA SPRINGS

- Josephine Roselli (nee DiSilvestro), passed away on November 29, 2025, 100 years young. A memorial service is planned for the spring of 2026. Memorial donations to: The Wesley Community Foundation, 131 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Please visit www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Thomas Edward Loya

SARATOGA SPRINGSThomas Edward Loya, 58, passed away on November 25, 2025, at Saratoga Hospital with family by his side. Calling hours were December 3, 2025, at Burke Funeral Home followed by burial in North Milton Cemetery. Online remembrance may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

First Snowstorm Sees Double Digit Crashes in Saratoga County

by Aidan Cahill Saratoga TODAY

Residents were advised to stay indoors when the first major snowstorm of the 202526 winter season hit the capital region this week.

The storm started around 7 a.m. on Dec. 2, with heavy snow reported across the county. Within 24 hours, several inches of snow had fallen with one report in Clifton Park seeing 10.6 inches of snow by 11:30 that night, according to the National Weather Service. The highest total for Saratoga Springs was 7.1 inches, reported on the morning of Dec. 3.

While the snowfall total was well above the 0.3 inches usually seen on Dec. 2 historically, it falls well short of the 11.2 inches seen during a snowstorm in 2019 and far below the single day record seen on Dec. 17, 2020 when 32 inches of snow fell in Saratoga Springs.

During the storm, New York State Police responded to 49 accidents and disabled vehicles in Saratoga County, the majority of which occurred on the I-87 according to a New York State Police Blotter.

Conditions on the interstate got so bad that at 1 p.m., State Police asked drivers to avoid driving on the highway due to accidents between the Twin Bridges at the Saratoga-Albany County line and exit 16 in the town of Wilton.

The snow also prompted the Saratoga Springs Department of Public Works to declare a snow emergency in order to clean up from the storm. The emergency went into effect at 8:00 p.m. Dec. 2 and ended Dec. 4 at 8:00 p.m.

During the emergency, residents were required to move their vehicles to a cleared or plowed parking space every 12 hours or risk being towed or ticketed.

“I want to applaud the DPW workforce for their efforts today in keeping the roadways safe, and I am declaring this snow emergency to help with the snow removal efforts in the coming days,” said Marshall. “Please be courteous and conscientious of the DPW team while they work through the night and day to cleanup from this storm.”

It wasn’t all bad news. Due to the snow, school districts including Saratoga Springs, Ballston Spa and Schuylerville closed and declared a snow day for the students and teachers.

One Dead, One injured In Galway Thanksgiving Shooting.

by Aidan Cahill Saratoga TODAY

Editors Note- This story contains reference to suicide.

If you or someone you know is struggling, resources are available through the National suicide and crisis hotline by calling or texting 988. An online chat is available at 988lifeline.org.

One person is dead, and another was injured in a Thanksgiving shooting in the town of Galway.

The shooting occurred Nov. 27 at 7:41 pm on Consaul Road in the Town of Galway.

According to the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, a 54-year-old woman was shot by a 63-year-old male and fled to a neighbor’s house. Once Deputies arrived on scene, they were able to secure the victim. She was transported by Life Net

to Albany Medical Center.

The shooter, later identified as Donald Keller, 63 of Galway, was found dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

According to Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, there were conflicting reports over whether Keller had fled to the nearby woods or barricaded himself in a structure.

The Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by the New York State Police, Saratoga Springs Police, New York State Parks Police, Galway Fire, Galway EMS, Saratoga Springs Fire and Life Net.

In addition, several police agencies responded to calls for service while the Sheriff’s Office was at the scene. These agencies include the Mechanicville, Waterford and Ballston Spa Police Departments.

Ballston Spa to Celebrate the 40th Annual Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting on December 5

Village of Ballston Spa will sparkle brighter than ever as the Ballston Spa Business & Professional Association (BSBPA) hosts its 40th Annual Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting on Friday, December 5, along Milton Avenue. First held in 1985, this beloved tradition has grown into one of the community’s most anticipated events of the year.

For four decades, the parade has brought families, neighbors, and visitors together to celebrate the magic of the season. The 2025 parade steps off at 6:30 PM from the north side of Milton Avenue and proceeds to West High Street. The festivities culminate in Wiswall Park, where Mr. and Mrs. Claus will arrive aboard an Eagle-Matt

Lee Fire Company fire truck to light the village’s holiday tree.

This milestone year also continues the event’s longstanding support of the Toys for Tots Campaign, presented in partnership with the Ballston Spa Community Emergency Corps, the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Department, and the U.S. Marine Corps. Volunteers will collect new, unwrapped toys along the parade route and during the tree lighting ceremony to help brighten the holidays for local children.

“We’ve been working hard on this event for months, and celebrating the parade’s 40th anniversary makes it even more special,” said Dana Womer, Holiday Parade Committee Chairperson. “This parade has been part of Ballston Spa’s story

since 1985, and watching Santa light the tree from a fire truck never loses its magic.”

To enhance the festivities, the BSBPA’s First Friday celebration will take place the same evening. Local shops and businesses will extend their hours and offer holiday treats, hot cocoa, hot chowder, festive activities, and more. Free parking is available throughout the village.

The 2025 Holiday Parade is made possible through the generous support of The Mangino Group, Curtis Lumber, Pompa Bros., Ballston Spa National Bank, and SlicFiber. The event is free and open to the public.

For more information about the Ballston Spa Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting, visit www.ballston.org.

Saratoga Torch Club to Host “An Evening with Matt

The Saratoga Torch Club will recognize Matt Veitch, longtime Saratoga Springs representative on the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors, for his 18 years of distinguished public service at a dinner and program on Monday evening, December 15, at the Saratoga Springs Holiday Inn.

“The Supervisor & the City: An Evening with Matt Veitch” will open with dinner at 6:00 p.m., followed by remarks from Supervisor Veitch at 7:00 p.m. Admission is $40 per person, payable by cash or check at the door. To reserve a seat, go to Smartacus.com/events.

First elected in 2007, Veitch has been a steady and respected presence in local government for nearly two decades. Representing Saratoga Springs on the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors, he has earned a reputation for pragmatism, collaboration, and long-term civic stewardship. During his 18 years of service, he has played a pivotal role in initiatives that improved

Veitch”

December 15

infrastructure, expanded public safety, promoted environmental sustainability, and strengthened city–county cooperation.

Mayor John Safford, in recognizing Veitch’s decision not to seek reelection in 2025, called it “the end of an era,” noting his consistent dedication to the city and his rare ability to “build bridges instead of barriers.”

Among his many achievements, Veitch championed the Geyser Road Trail project that first drew him into public service and went on to found the Saratoga County Trails and Open Space Committee, which established new grant and reserve funds for conservation. He helped secure county support for the city’s third fire station and new EMS facility, led efforts to modernize government transparency through meeting livestreams, and advocated for the creation of a permanent Code Blue shelter to assist the city’s homeless residents.

Beyond his policy work, Veitch also has emerged as one

of Saratoga’s leading public historians, dedicating time to documenting the city’s experience with urban renewal and the communities displaced by it. His lectures and research have shed light on a complex period in Saratoga’s history—one that saw progress mixed with loss— and he continues to lead efforts to commemorate the neighborhoods, churches, and Blackowned businesses erased during that era.

While Veitch is leaving elected office, he will remain in public life as the newly appointed City Historian and CEO of the Saratoga County Capital Resource Corporation. The Saratoga Torch Club is a nonprofit forum that brings together professionals and citizens from across disciplines to exchange ideas, foster understanding, and promote civic dialogue. The Saratoga chapter was established in 2021 to encourage dialogue among leaders in business, education, government, and the arts throughout the Capital Region.

BALLSTON

Terry Catone sold property at 118 Eastern Ave to ADOOMA LLC for $185,000

Karen Welden sold property at 14 Pasture Place to Pamela Vogel for $465,000

Michaels Group Homes LLC sold property at 35 Mackenna Ct to Andrew McDermott for $824,975

CHARLTON

Bruce Newman sold property at 2284 Cook Rd to Joseph Sala for $605,000

Matthew Diblais sold property at 1400 Division St to Catherine Todd for $450,000

GALWAY

Lawrence Kissinger sold property at 5218 Bliss Rd to Jaime Porter for $140,000

Donna Rossetti sold property at 5247 North St to Galway Lake Rental LLC for $265,100

GREENFIELD

Karen Barss sold property at 178 Squashville Rd to Nancy Hammervik for $310,000 Week of December 5 – December 11 , 2025

PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS

Bonita Anderson sold property at 3194 NYS Rt 9 to Michael Clark for $248,000

Christopher Sanita sold property at L 33.1 N End to Charles Anderson for $112,500

MALTA

Sandra Meadows sold property at 37 Ordelia Lane to Bharath Pidaparthi for $465,000

Michaels Group Homes LLC sold property at 19 Wiggins Way to Paula McCullough for $523,585

Rick Borecki sold property at 65 North Village Circle to Daniel Shelley for $696,000

Diane Whitney sold property at 20 Wake Robin Rd to Jeffrey Shein for $283,000

Skylar Dierker sold property at 20 Village Circle South to Robert Kroll for $760,000

MILTON

Patricia Fitgerald sold property at 11 Division St to Middivision St LLC for $285,000

Joshua Carpenito sold property at 109 Wood Rd to Myah Simmons for $325,900

Carson DeLuke sold property at 30 Deer Run to John Madkour for $298,000

SARATOGA

Vinny DiMartino sold property at 199 County Rd 67 to Christopher Lepkowski for $1,100,000

SARATOGA SPRINGS

David Norton sold property at 86 Ludlow St to April Gelnaw for $620,000

Scott Blasi sold property at 15 Ellis Ave Unit 8 to Robert Kretzmer for $495,000

Jerrold Starr sold property at 12 Warren St to Emily Parliman for $650,000

Lois Morris sold property at 282 Washington St to Frank Izzo for $225,000

67 West Avenue LLC sold property at 67 West Ave

to Carmella 2 LLC for $1,600,000

Michael Trimarchi sold property at 21 Cliffside Dr to Jockey Real Estate LLC for $995,000

WILTON

Patricia Whalen sold property at 2 Carefree Lane to Electric City Commercial Group LLC for $363,000

Christopher Jackson sold property at 97 Ingersoll Rd to Brigitte Jackson for $129,000

Forest Grove LLC sold property at 43 Daintree Dr to Jerry Lumia for $654,922

Forest Grove LLC sold property at 41 Daintree Dr to Maureen Lewi for $742,553

Brooks III Land LLC sold property at 2 Indigo Way to Rick Harrington for $824,500

PigliaventoAssociates

LLC sold property at 20 Eastpointe Dr to Bruce Curtiss for $645,471

Innovation Center at Saratoga Announces First Holiday Makers Market

MALTA — The Innovation Center at Saratoga will host its first-ever Holiday Makers Market on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The indoor market, held at the Innovation Center’s creative makerspace at 16 Old Stonebreak Road in Malta, will feature 27 juried local artisans and makers offering a wide variety of handcrafted gifts, including: fiber arts, woodworking, jewelry, ceramics, holiday décor, take-and-make art kits, baked goods, and more. Specialty coffee drinks will be available from Saratoga Sundry.

“We’re thrilled to bring so many talented makers together in one space,” said Beth Moeller, president of the Board of Trustees of the Innovation Center at Saratoga. “The Holiday Makers Market is about more than shopping. It is about celebrating creativity, supporting our local artists and entrepreneurs, and building community during the holiday season.”

Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy live music while they explore the Innovation

Center’s collaborative makerspace and learn more about its mission to support creators, entrepreneurs, and innovators in the region. The Innovation Center is a nonprofit that provides shared equipment, studios, classes, and business support for artists and makers of all ages.

In the spirit of the season, admission to the Holiday Makers Market is a canned or boxed good—or hygiene item—donated to Lifeworks’ Food Programs. The Innovation Center will also be raffling off products donated by participating artisans to raise additional funds to support the continued growth of the makerspace and its community programming.

“We want this event to reflect what the Innovation Center is all about—creative energy, connection, and giving back,” added Moeller. “When you shop here, you’re not only finding one-of-a-kind gifts, you’re directly supporting local makers and helping us expand opportunities for learning, making, and collaborating in our region.”

Saratoga Hospital Unveils

New Surgical

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Ushering in what it called “a new era of precision and patientcentered care,” Saratoga Hospital recently announced the addition of a da Vinci 5 surgical robot.

The robot’s “enhanced ergonomics, improved visualization, and dramatically faster energy generator” are designed to improve surgical precision, reduce operation time, and support smoother instrument exchanges, the hospital said.

“Introducing the da Vinci 5 elevates our surgical capabilities

Robot

and reinforces our dedication to delivering the highest quality care close to home,” said Jill VanKuren, president and CEO of Saratoga Hospital. “This technology

supports our surgeons with new levels of precision and control, and it opens the door to safer, more efficient procedures for patients across our community.”

New Hot Spot: Noah’s Italian Opens on Phila

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Neither snow nor sleet could stop Noah’s Italian from delivering on its opening night, which saw the new Phila Street eatery more stuffed than a conchiglioni.

Packed with a boisterous crowd, the highly anticipated Italian chophouse that features handmade pastas by Chef Danny Petrosino (of Osteria Danny fame) rolled out a menu that included early favorites like fried

mom’s spaghetti, mezzi rigatoni, K.D.’s chicken parm, and handselected USDA Prime steaks.

The dishes were served on plates that a server said were made by the same company that provides dishware to the White House.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, given Chef Noah Frese’s background at the track-adjacent

Siro’s, a few notable names in horse racing were among the opening night attendees (trainer Chad Brown, jockey Katie Davis, and former jockey Trevor McCarthy, to be specific).

Noah’s now joins several new establishments that have created something of a restaurant renaissance on Phila Street. Nearby are Familiar Creature, a wine bar from the owners of Hamlet & Ghost; Standard Fare, the latest venture from the duo behind Bocage Champagne Bar; and Fillies on Phila, a casual wood-fired pizza joint.

Noah’s is located at 43 Phila and is open Tuesday through Sunday.

Photo of Saratoga Hospital’s new da Vinci 5 surgical robot provided.

Photo via Noah’s Italian.

Boutique Bookstore Opens on Broadway

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

If you’re looking for Broadway’s newest bookstore, look up.

Botanica Books hovers above downtown Saratoga, a couple flights of stairs removed from the shoppers, drinkers, and gallivanters.

“I wanted something that felt a little bit off the beaten path, something that people might be curious about,” said Botanica’s owner and manager Carissa Mina. “The foot traffic has been great… Booklovers will go as far as they need to see a bookshop.”

The short climb is rewarded with a boutique-style store that looks more like a treehouse than Tree House Brewing: a plant’s tendrils fall between two bookshelves; a floral rug rests beneath two green cushioned armchairs; and a bird named Stevie Nicks is perched above the patrons. (Yes, Botanica has its own pet bird named after the witchy singer-songwriter.)

If the arboreal vibes aren’t enough to lure you in, the shop differentiates itself from other Broadway booksellers with its special-interest titles that cover literature, art, antiquity, botany, history, religion, politics, and more.

“I think my distinct personality would be that I love to read and I love to learn, and I really wanted to have a bookshop [where] all the books in it are books that I’m really interested

in reading or learning from,”

Mina said. “People can come in and find something that maybe they weren’t looking for and that they might have an interest in reading or learning about.”

Mina is a New York native (Niagara Falls, to be exact) who moved back to the great Upstate after living in Colorado, where she owned and operated a children’s bookshop called The Wandering Jellyfish. She’s also a writer herself and was active in Colorado’s wordsmith scene. After journeying back to New York, she hoped to recreate that community here in the Spa City. To that end, Botanica offers itself as a meeting place for writing workshops, book clubs, classes, and other small gatherings.

“Writers, we’re a lonely bunch,” Mina said. “I missed my community and [wanted] to give

writers a reason to get together.”

Although Botanica only recently opened, local authors are already drawn to it. Saratoga Schaefer—a self-described “author, poet, and graveyard dweller” who is both named after Saratoga Springs and now lives in the area—stopped by Mina’s shop with an advanced copy of the forthcoming horror novel “Trad Wife.”

“It’s fantastic,” Mina said of the Schaefer book that’ll be out in February. “I love a good horror book.”

Lovers of good books of all kinds can stop by Botanica Books at 456 Broadway, Suite 302. It’s open Thursday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Those interested in using Botanica as a meeting place for book clubs or writing workshops can contact the store at hello@botanicabooks.com.

The Still at Speckled Pig Holds Grand Opening

BALLSTON SPA — The Still at Speckled Pig held its grand opening last weekend after a sneak peek of the distillery during Oktoberfest provided a first look at the space.

The Still, located next door to Speckled Pig Brewing in the former home of Jim’s Garage, features a modern, dark, greenand-black interior with a long white bar and plenty of seating. When the weather is agreeable, two garage doors open to an outdoor patio with Adirondackstyle chairs and fire pits.

In an interview earlier this year, one of The Still’s owners told Saratoga TODAY that the new spot would offer whiskey, bourbon, cocktails (old fashioned, whiskey sour, autumn rye, martinis, Tom Collins, and a spiced pear mojito appeared on a recent menu) charcuterie boards, salads, steaks, and other small plates. The Still also served brunch on Sunday during its opening weekend.

The Still is located at 17 Washington Street in Ballston Spa. It’s open Thursday through Sunday.

Photo of Botanica Books at 456 Broadway provided.

Photo via The Still at Speckled Pig.

14 local families in need receive full Thanksgiving meals

It’s an initiative that exemplifies the kind and giving nature of Schuylerville Central School District’s faculty and staff. Through an effort coordinated by Pam Driscoll, Andrea Willson, and Ross Marvin, 14 local

families in need received a full Thanksgiving dinner delivered directly to their homes.

All of the families served are part of the district’s backpack program, which provides students with food support over weekends and school

breaks. For Thanksgiving, organizers wanted to go a step further. Thanks to generous donations from Schuylerville faculty and staff, each family received a complete holiday meal, including all the traditional favorites.

Skidmore Cares celebrates 20 years of community giving

The Skidmore College community celebrated the 20th anniversary of Skidmore Cares, a beloved annual initiative that has raised more than $225,000 and collected more than 86,000 food, school supply, and personal care items for Saratoga County nonprofits since 2006.

President Marc C. Conner praised the effort’s legacy of generosity and impact.

“The impact of Skidmore Cares extends far beyond the thousands of donated items and dollars. It nurtures a spirit of generosity, thanksgiving, and compassion, giving us a moment to pause, recognize the challenges our neighbors face, and reaffirm our commitment to one another,” said Conner. “For two decades, that sense of responsibility and care has shaped our community — and it remains a cherished and defining part of the Skidmore experience.”

Associate Director of Athletics Megan Buchanan and Associate Director of Civic

Engagement Michelle Hubbs co-led the effort, working with departments across campus.

“Skidmore Cares is one of the traditions that reminds me why our community is so special,” Buchanan said. “It’s a chance to support local organizations that make a real difference, and to show through action how much we care about the community around us.”

Skidmore Cares thrives through broad campus collaboration and signature partnerships. Volunteers — including student-athletes and members of Benef-Action, Skidmore’s student volunteer club — help organize and deliver donations each year.

Since 2010, the annual Skidmania concert, showcasing the creativity and talents of Skidmore students, has been a key fundraising partner. This year’s sold-out Skidmania ’75 raised about $15,000 for local nonprofits.

“I think being part of something so large and impactful gives people a real sense of pride,

and Skidmore Cares offers an easy way for everyone to contribute,” Hubbs added. “Every student who steps onto the stage during Skidmania is supporting Skidmore Cares in their own creative way. Anyone can be part of this effort — and the impact on our recipient agencies is both deep and meaningful.”

Beneficiaries include Franklin Community Center; Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren, and Washington Counties; LifeWorks Community Action; Mary’s Haven; RISE Housing and Support Services; Salvation Army; Saratoga Center for the Family; the Saratoga Springs City School District PATHS program; Shelters of Saratoga; and Wellspring.

Launched by Marie Glotzbach and her husband, President Emeritus Philip A. Glotzbach, Skidmore Cares began as a small holiday-season effort and has grown into one of Skidmore’s most enduring and unifying traditions.

Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park Announces Winners of 14th Annual Photography Show

Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park proudly announced the winners of its 14th Annual Photography Show with a festive ceremony held on December 1 at the new Welcome Cabin at the Town of Wilton’s Camp Saratoga. The event brought together community members, photographers, friends, and families for an evening of celebration, recognition, and holiday cheer.

This year’s show featured 83 entries, each capturing the beauty and ecological diversity of the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park. Winning photographs will remain on display at the Welcome Cabin, and a virtual gallery of the entire show can be found by following this link: https://www.wiltonpreserve. org/annual-photography-show.

The 2025 awards recognized exceptional talent across several categories. The Best in Show award was presented to Ronald Harrower for his stunning photograph, “Hairstreak on Dogsbane”. In the category of Best in Karner Blue Butterfly, Marcia Goldfeder received top honors for her captivating image, “Karner Blue on Wood”. Howard Lester was awarded Best in Education for his striking photo, “What Did We Get?” Brian Teague earned Best in Autumn for “Fall Reflections”, while Deanna Touhey was recognized for Best in Conservation with “Beautiful

Wild Blue Lupine.” Best in Flora was awarded to Nancy Lyons for her photograph “Lady Slippers”, and Best in Wildlife went to Drew Monthie for “Mr. DeMille, I’m Ready for My Closeup”. Marlo May received the award for Best in Recreation for “Mushrooms on Tree.”

Three Judge’s Choice Awards were also presented. These honors went to Miranda Kent for “Perfectly Roasted”, Howard Lester for “Milkweed Starting to Bloom”, and Michael Winnek for “Full Moon”. In addition to the online gallery and the Welcome Cabin, Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park will feature the winning photographs on its social media platforms in the coming weeks. The organization extends its gratitude to all participating photographers and congratulates the 2025 winners for their outstanding contributions.

For more information, call the Wilton Wildlife office at 518-450-0321 or email info@ wiltonpreserve.org. For up-todate trail conditions or program information, visit the Wilton Wildlife website at wiltonpreserve.org or follow on Facebook or Instagram @wiltonpreserve. Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park’s mission is to provide environmental education and opportunities for outdoor recreation while supporting conservation of ecological systems and natural settings.

Holiday Guide

Holiday Guide

Holiday Guide

Food

The Art of the Charcuterie Board at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market

HIGH ROCK PARK

SATURDAYS

9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

WEDNESDAYS

3 - 6 p.m.

by

Jodie

Fitz for Saratoga TODAY

Charcuterie boards have become a staple of modern entertaining. They are beautiful to look at, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. But what truly elevates a charcuterie board from simple snacking to an unforgettable experience is the quality and character of the ingredients. At the Saratoga Farmers’ Market, you’ll find everything you need to craft a board that’s as stunning as it is delicious, drawing inspiration directly from local farms, artisans, and seasonal abundance.

board built from local offerings, you’re sharing more than flavors, you’re sharing a connection to the community.

Saratoga Farmers’ Market Holiday Shopping Guide

Artisans, Holiday & Hostess Gifts: Bella Blends, Feathered Antler, Furlong Lavender Farm, Halfmoon Harvest, Holly & Vine Farm, Pebble + Fern, Sydney Anechiarico Jewelry, Thymeless Homestead

Breads, Baked Goods and Desserts: Argyle Cheese Farmer, Bakery Suzanne, Goodway Gourmet, Halfmoon Harvest, Holly & Vine Farm, Katie Bakes GF, Night Work Bread, Parchment Baking Company, Sweet Treats by Jennifer, Teeny Tiny Bite Bakery, Seven Pines Family Farm

Baking & Seasoning: Muddy Trail Jerky Co., Argyle Cheese Farmer (buttermilk + yogurts), Saratoga Apple, Saratoga Peanut Butter

Start with a Foundation of Local Flavor

A great charcuterie board begins with thoughtfully chosen essentials. At the market, local cheesemakers offer a variety of cheeses.

Artisan breads and crackers from market bakers provide the perfect base. With options like rustic sourdough, seeded loaves, small-batch crackers, your board instantly gains texture and character.

Add Seasonal Color and Freshness

One of the greatest joys of shopping at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market is the vibrant seasonal produce. Charcuterie boards shine when they’re balanced with fresh, colorful elements—and the market delivers with crisp apples, fresh vegetables, local pickles and hummus, along with. Jams, honey and maple syrups.

Each item adds a new note of sweet, savory, spicy, or tangy which enhances your board’s story.

Add a touch of sweetness

The market is filled with beautifully baked goods and a variety of desserts that can add a finishing touch to a board, or, help you create a delicious dessert charcuterie board display that will wow guests.

Think Breakfast

If you are hosting overnight guests or the family is in town, consider putting together a breakfast charcuterie board. Incorporate pastries, yogurt, granola bites, honey, bacon, sausage, eggs, and baked goods.

A Board that Tells a Story

What makes a Saratoga Farmers’ Market charcuterie board special isn’t just the food—it’s the story behind it. Every ingredient has a source, a maker, a farm, and a season. When you gather around a

So next time you’re hosting, gifting, or simply treating yourself, take a stroll through the market. Let the colors, aromas, and conversations inspire you. With just a basketful of local goodness, you can create a charcuterie board that celebrates the spirit of Saratoga and it’s local vendors.

Market News:

• Family Activity Table with Saratoga Springs Mobile Library December 6 and 20th

• LIVE Cooking Demo ‘Fresh Eats with CDPHP’ December 13th with Brenna Kavakos from Cornell Cooperative Extension

• Yoga Saturdays at the Market with Himanee & Yoga Mandali located in the movie theater foyer at 10 am

• Comfort Food Community is on site with CDPHP Market coupons

• Holiday Guest Vendors on site December 6, 13 and 20

• Sponsor a snowflake to benefit the market $5

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

• Ugly Sweater Day/Party at the Market + Stories with Santa December 20th

Upcoming Music:

* December 6: Coldy Alvord

* December 13: Bruce Blinn-Knapp

* December 20: Kate Blain

* December 27: BurnsMoore Bridg

NOTE: CALLING all local crafters, artists & authors to apply to be a guest for the holiday season (email manager@saratogafarmersmarket.org)

Cheese/Dairy: Argyle Cheese Farmer, Nettle Meadow, Tyromance Fine Snacks

Cleaning Supplies: Furlong Lavender Farm

Cocktails & Spirits: Albany Distillery, Ballston Lake Apiaries, Bull & Bee Meadery, Saratoga Apple, Yankee Distillers

Coffee & Tea: Holly & Vine Farm, Nally Coffee

Cutting Boards: Journal Star Technologies

Eggs: Grazin’ Acres, Hepatica Farm, Holly & Vine Farm, Jireh Organic Farm and Livestock of NY, Kokinda Farm, Thymeless Homestead, Seven Pines Family Farm

Flowers: Halfmoon Harvest, Lovin’ Mama Farm, Scotch Ridge Farm

Fresh Produce: Gomez, Veggie Ville, Leaning Birch, Lovin’ Mama Farm, Owl Wood Farm, Saratoga Apple, Scotch Ridge Farm, Shushan Valley Hydro Farm/Underwood’s Greenhouse

Health & Wellness: Awakened Tonics, Bella Blends, Wonder Oral Wellness

Holiday Greens: Scotch Ridge Farm

Jarred Goods: Kokinda Farm, Lovin’ Mama Farm, Puckers Gourmet, Muddy Trail Jerky Co., Saratoga Peanut Butter, Tyromance Fine Snacks

Honey (and products): Ballston Lake Apiaries

Maple Syrup: Wild Hogs Sugar Shack

Meats: Grazin’ Acres, Hepatica Farm, Holly & Vine Farm, Jireh Organic Farm and Livestock of NY, Longlesson Farm, May-K-Mark, Thymeless Homestead

Mushrooms: The Mushroom Shop

Pup Treats: Mugzy’s Barkery

Ready to Eat Foods: Bab-a-Dew Pizza, Eurodelicacies, Daily Fresh, Great Northern Pantry, La Capital Tacos, PerogiPierogi-Pyroogi, Ram’s Valley, Thorn + Roots, Tyromance Fine Snacks

Photos by Pattie Garrett.

by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY

HOLIDAY GIFT from the Heart

Hello my Foodie Friends!

During the holiday season, what do you most look forward to? For many of us it is big family meals, sharing family stories, visiting those we love, and creating lasting memories. During the holiday season, I find that it reminds of what I am grateful for. The holiday season is the time of year when we give, share, reflect, and express appreciation for the life that we have been given.

The holidays are filled with the warmth of family, friends, decorations, food, and traditions. It can be a stressful time of year when planning seasonal foods, desserts and gathering events. When you think of the holiday season, what do you envision? It could be a house full of family and friends, a dining room table filled with a holiday feast, and the sounds of holiday music in the background. The holiday season offers a time to celebrate cultural food traditions. It gives us an opportunity to get into the kitchen and prepare old family recipes, try new recipes, and celebrate through the rooted culture and tradition of food. One of our favorite things to do during the holidays is to share our traditions and favorite foods with those that we visit throughout the season. There is no better gift than to share one of your favorite recipes by bringing a baked good to a family member or friend when visiting. Bringing a favorite baked good is always a welcomed gift.

Bundt cakes are a very delicious gift to give when going to see family or a friend. The bundt pan has become America’s best selling cake pan (according to Nordic Ware) to create a no-fuss cake. It is a perfect cake to serve a crowd and easy to slice.

Bundt cake pans are cake pans that are usually 10” – 12” in diameter and are 5” deep with a hole in the center. This ensures that deep cakes can bake evenly. They usually have fluted or ridged designs to make your cake look impressive. A bundt pan has decorative sides and tops. It is usually used for pound cake and other dense moist cakes such a coffee cakes. The bundt pan allows more of the cake to be in contact with the edges of the pan, and therefore the heat is transferred more evenly. The hole in the middle of a fluted pan allows air and heat to rise through the center of the cake, and to cook evenly. Embrace your love of food this holiday season. Show your love and thanks for what others do. Show gratitude during family meals and help clean the dishes; give lots of hugs; cook a surprise meal for a significant other; eat food that makes you feel good from the inside out.

Celebrate the holiday season through your family, friends, and drawing upon the traditions that have been handed down for generations, or build new ones for future generations. Gift a gift from the heart with sharing a favorite baked good. Stop by Compliments to the Chef, your Neighborhood Kitchen and Cutlery store located at 33 Railroad Place. Pick up the culinary gifts, and tools that can help you celebrate with food. Consider the gift of new cookware, knives, or a much needed gadget that someone needs. Maybe offer the gift of having their knives sharpened. Let us assist you with your culinary needs. Remember my Foodie Friends, “Life Happens in the Kitchen”. Happy Holidays

Take Care, John & Paula

Old Fashioned Southern Sugar Plum Cake

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ cups sugar

• 3 eggs

• 1 cup vegetable oil

• 1 tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 tsp allspice

• 2 tsp cinnamon* or 1 tsp cinnamon and 1 tsp nutmeg

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup dried plums chopped

• 1 ½ cup chopped nuts. I used walnut

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Grease and flour a bundt or 9x13 cake pan. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Combine all cake ingredients in a large bowl. Beat with an electric mixer until well combined. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for one hour.

2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups sugar, 3 eggs, 1 cup vegetable oil, 1 tsp baking soda, ½ tsp salt, 1 tsp allspice, 2 tsp cinnamon*, 1 cup buttermilk, 1 tsp vanilla extract,1 cup dried plums, 1 ½ cup chopped nuts.

3. Just before the cake is done, place all the sauce ingredients into a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly, and continue boiling gently until sauce is thickened, or about two minutes.

1 stick butter, 1 ½ cups sugar, 2 tsp vanilla extract, ½ cups buttermilk, ½ tsp baking soda

4. Remove the baked cake from the oven and poke holes all over the top with a fork. Pour the hot sauce over the hot cake. Allow the cake to sit in the pan until the sauce is absorbed.

Recipe courtesy of southernplate.com

This Week’s Events: DEC. 5-11

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5

Stretch Your Budget Sale

Old Stone Church, 159 Stone Church Road (town of Milton) Ballston Spa |10 a.m. - 3 p.m. On Friday and Saturday December 5 and 6, the Old Stone Church will hold its Stretch Your Budget sale from new and next to new items will be available for a cash donation. Some new items will be priced. For additional information call the church number 518-5831002. A parking lot is available behind the church.

Brookside Museum Holiday Market

Brookside Museum, 6 Charlton St., Ballston Spa |The Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum is celebrating the 25th year of our annual Artisan Market, which will be open until December 24, 2025. The opening of the market, on Small Business Saturday, will feature holiday music performed by the Ballston Spa High School Orchestra, from 12 - 1:30 p.m. This annual market features exclusively handmade and handcrafted products created by local artisans. Items featured at the market will include soaps, lotions, ornaments, jewelry, syrups, scarves, ceramics, hats, and much, much more! The 2025 hours are: Tuesdays-Thursdays, 12 – 4 p.m.; Fridays 12 -5 p.m., Saturdays & Sundays, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Tang Baazar

The Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery at Skidmore College, 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 3:30 to 6 p.m. This event brings student creativity into the marketplace, with more than 50 students selling wares,

including art, jewelry, clothing, and pottery. Free to attend and open to the public. While each student vendor will have their own payment system, visitors should expect most students to accept payments via Venmo. Tang publications will also be discounted for in-person sales. The book sale runs through Friday, December 5; discounts apply to purchases made in the Museum, with no shipping available. For more information, contact the Visitors Services Desk at tang@ skidmore.edu or 518-580-8080, or visit the Tang website at https://tang.skidmore.edu.

40th Annual Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting

Milton Ave., Ballston Spa | 6:30 p.m. For four decades, the parade has brought families, neighbors, and visitors together to celebrate the magic of the season. The festivities culminate in Wiswall Park, where Mr. and Mrs. Claus will arrive aboard an Eagle-Matt Lee Fire Company fire truck to light the village’s holiday tree. BSBPA’s First Friday celebration will take place the same evening. The Toys for Tots Campaign, presented in partnership with the Ballston Spa Community Emergency Corps, the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Department, and the U.S. Marine Corps will have volunteers collecting new, unwrapped toys along the parade route and during the tree lighting ceremony to help brighten the holidays for local children. For more information, visit www. ballston.org.

Holiday Opera “La bohème”

Universal Preservation Hall 25 Washington Street, Saratoga Springs | 7 p.m. Celebrate the holidays with the original

RENT — a story of young artists in love, from first blush to dying breath. This holiday season, Opera Saratoga invites you to be swept away by the romance, laughter, and heartbreak of Puccini’s timeless masterpiece, “La bohème.” In this special staged concert, the Skidmore Chorus and members of the Excelsior Vocal Ensemble joins forces with the most exciting rising stars from the Juilliard School and the Metropolitan Opera to bring to life the unforgettable arias, soaring ensembles, and rich choral moments that have enchanted audiences for generations. Single tickets are on sale now at www.atproctors. org.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6

Barnes & Noble Bookfair for the Academy for Lifelong Learning

Barnes & Noble, Wilton Square, 3029 Route 50, Saratoga Springs | 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Enjoy early holiday shopping for books, music & movies, stationary & gifts, toys & games - something for everyone on your list. Academy greeters will be on hand with vouchers and a free raffle. By presenting the voucher to your cashier, A.L.L. will receive a percentage of your purchases. For more information on the Academy for Lifelong Learning, visit www.allsaratoga.org or contact Academy Executive Director, Jeff Shinaman at jeff@ allsaratoga.org or call 518-2906988.

Annual Holiday Market

Balet Flowers & Design, 5065 Nelson Ave Ext, Malta | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday & Sunday, December 6 and 7. Start your

holiday shopping at our festive open house featuring local artisans, tastings from area vendors, snacks, and hot cider. Our holiday arrangements are handmade including wreaths, kissing balls, and boxwood trees. There will be local pottery, jewelry, soaps, gifts, sale items and so much more! Please bring a canned good to donate to a local food pantry. The event will be held in our Flower and Arts Barn as well as in our heated greenhouse. Call 518-584-8555 or email baletflowers@gmail.com with any questions! We are open every day.

Christmas Pop-Up Shop

The Town of Greenfield Lions Club is hosting a Christmas Pop-up Shop on Saturday Dec 6 at the Greenfield Community Center, 25 Wilton Road, Greenfield Center, NY from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Event is free and is open to the public. The Greenfield Lions will be selling fresh baked goods, homemade soups/chili and coffee. The public is invited to pick up some beautiful handmade Christmas Gifts from local vendors.

Elks Hoop Shoot

Saratoga Springs Recreation Center, 15 Vanderbilt Avenue, Saratoga Springs 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge No. 161 will hold its annual Hoop Shoot basketball free throw shooting competition. This event is free and open to boys and girls ages 8 -13. Boys and girls compete in separate divisions and by age groups of 8–9-yearolds, 10–11-year-olds and 12–13-year-olds. Participants’ eligibility will be determined as of their age on April 1, 2026. Pre-registration is not required. Local winners will advance to the District Championship, and have the opportunity to advance to Regional, State and National Championship competitions.

Holiday Events

Old Saratoga Reformed Church, 48 Pearl Street, Schuylerville | 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Holiday Sale - holiday themed items for sale, raffle baskets

December 6, Community Christmas Concert - free will donation, December 7, 3 p.m. and December 1-24: “Here for You” Advent Open Sanctuary - An opportunity for peaceful, self-guided prayer. Open Monday & Friday 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. and Saturday 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Also, a Red Cross Blood Drive on December 20, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7

Holiday Craft Fair

Greenwich Central School JR. High Fundraiser, 10 Gray Ave., Greenwich | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Join us to celebrate the season, support local makers, and find that perfect holiday gift. The craft fair will offer unique handmade holiday gifts, beautiful decorations, and festive fun for all ages. There will be festive holiday food, treats and cozy beverages made and served by students and parents, basket raffle drawing held at 2 p.m. and a specialty item raffle. The school is located at.

Holiday Art, Craft & More

Wilton Mall, 3065 Route 50, Saratoga Springs | Fairs with over 50 amazing vendors attending along with live music. Free admission. Hosted by Friends & Families Muscular Disorders Foundation. We are also seeking community support for a non-perishable food drive to benefit the local food pantry; please drop off your donations at any of our upcoming events. For more information call or text Mark at 585-519-1917.

Memorial Service

Saratoga-Wilton B.P.O. Elks # 161, 1 Elk Lane, Saratoga Springs | 1 p.m. The ceremony will honor thirteen members that died this past year and is open to the public. All are invited to attend and following the ceremony, a light social will be held for all. No reservations are necessary. Further information may be obtained by calling Memorial chairman Mark Phillips at 518-584-7464.

Historical Society’s Holiday Open House

440 Middle Grove Road, Middle Grove | 1 – 3 p.m. Stop in to the museum to visit with your neighbors. Bring a copy of your family’s traditional holiday recipe (will be shared in our January Newsletter), bring some cookies to share, if you wish and at the end of the time you can take a variety home – (for a donation). Check out the two-story museum all decorated for the holidays.

Repair Café

Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St., Saratoga Springs | 1 – 4 p.m. Toss it? No way! Bring an item that needs repair and work with a Repair Café coach to fix it. Saratoga Springs Public Library and Sustainable Saratoga are excited to host our 15th Repair Café. We will have coaches available to help you fix your lamps, small appliances,

computers, leather, jewelry, or sew/hem your favorite item of clothing or beloved stuffed animal. We can’t wait to see you! Questions? Call 518-5847860, ext. 242.

Christmas Tree Decorating Party

Presbyterian United Church of Christ Church, 24 Circular St, Saratoga Springs | 6-7:30pm. Crafts, food and carols--fun for all ages. Free--all are welcome. 518-584-6091.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 8

Beginning English Learning – Online

Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St., Saratoga Springs | 3 – 4:30 p.m. In this beginning level English class, students will learn English grammar, new words and phrases,

and practice speaking and understanding each other. This class is offered online through Zoom. Please register online. For the best learning, please attend all classes. Registration is required at www.spl.org.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9

Chanukah Concert

Congregation Beth Shalom, 688 Clifton Park Center Road, Clifton Park |7 p.m. The Shir Chadash Trio headlines Saratoga Jewish Community Arts Annual Chanukah Concert. The trio, whose name in Hebrew means “to sing a new song,” is a spirited folkrock ensemble who blends traditional and original Hebrew and Jewish liturgical music. They will welcome the warmth and wonder of Chanukah, the Festival of Lights. The Shir Chadash Trio’s members are familiar faces in the Capital

region’s jazz and Jewish music scenes. There is no admission fee, but a voluntary donation of $10 is appreciated and may be mailed to Temple Sinai, 509 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Pre-registration for the concert is required at https://lp.constantcontactpages. com/sl/raWLcmd/ ShirChadash.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10

Baby Back Ribs Dinner

Saratoga Wilton Elks Lodge, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs | 4:30 – 6 p.m. Curbside pickup only. Call Monday or Tuesday between 10 a.m. – Noon to place an order. 518-584-2585. Menu: baby back ribs, baked beans, cold slaw, corn bread. Dinner $15 (cash only).

Green Drinks!

Whitman Brewing Company, 20 Lake Ave, Saratoga Springs

| 5 – 7 p.m. Green Drinks! A “green gathering” for those who work, volunteer, or have a passion for promoting the environment, conservation, and sustainability. Food, alcoholic, and non-alcoholic drinks are available for purchase. https://sustainablesaratoga.org/ event/green-drinks-24/.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11

World Cinema: Jimmy’s Hall (2014)

Clifton Park Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Rd., Clifton Park | 6:30 p.m. Jimmy returns home to Ireland during the Depression--after 10 years of exile in America. Seeing the levels of poverty and oppression, he looks to re-open the dance hall that led to his deportation. Rated PG-13; 104 min. Period Drama. 518-3718622. www.cphlibrary.org.

UPCOMING Events

Christmas Trees and Wreath Sale

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

Bus Trip to Wilderstein Manor

Olde Saratoga Seniors are hosting a bus trip to Wilderstein Manor in Rhinebeck with a lunch at Everready Diner. On Friday, Dec 12. Cost will be $70 per person. For more information contact Pat Temple at 518-3382329 or patty61349@yahoo. com.

Photos With Santa

St. Peter Lutheran Church will be hosting its annual “Photos With Santa” event on Saturday, December 13, from noon to 2:30 p.m.. Free photos will be provided. Storytime with Santa. Live llamas dressed as elves! Annabelle’s food truck will be there. The church is located at 2776 Rte 9, Malta, across from the Malta Drive-In Theater.

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: Facetious, Factious, Factitious

Facetious means humorous or flippant. Cathy was being facetious with her stories and meant no harm. Factious means causing internal dissension or opposition. A factious attitude can hinder any workplace. Factitious means artificial or unnatural. Speculation caused the factitious value of those stocks. The doctor ruled out malingering or a factitious disorder.

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

SPAC’s “Access the Arts” Program Culminates in Spirited Performance

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

On Dec. 1, more than 100 students of all ages and abilities from AIM Services, Saratoga Bridges, and Community Based Services performed at the SPAC School of the Arts as part of SPAC’s “Access the Arts” educational program.

The initiative began in 2023 and is part of SPAC’s mission to provide free access to the arts and inclusive programs for people of all ages and abilities. The final performance

share was the culmination of ten weeks of music, dance, and improvisational theater classes that were specifically curated for students at the SPAC School of the Arts.

“There is a palpable sense of joy and momentum in this program,” said Jess Bien, director of learning and engagement. “Our students show us every week how powerful it is to have spaces where adults of all abilities can express themselves freely, connect with others, and

experience the wellness benefits of creative work. Watching Access the Arts expand has been a clear reminder of how central inclusion and shared creativity are to SPAC’s mission.”

The final performance share included participating groups from across the program, including Move On!—a Dance Alliance and SPAC School of the Arts dance group for adults of all abilities—and SPAC School of the Arts’ own Rhythm Sole, an inclusive tap class.

Library Hosts Saratoga Artist’s Superhero Pop Art Exhibit

CLIFTON PARK —

Saratoga Springs artist Chuck Brouillette’s superhero pop art exhibit will appear at the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library this month. The exhibit is supported by the Saratoga Arts “Art in Public Places” initiative.

Brouillette’s pop art canvases capture the iconic heroes and villains of America Comic Art Mythology who’ve sprung from the 80+ year history of sequential art storytelling. Brilliant colors and clean design highlight the power of the art form by focusing on the stories that images tell without words.

“I connected with sequential art as a compelling storytelling medium as far back as I can recall,” Brouillette said. “But it wasn’t until I graduated to SuperHero Comics that I was hooked. The mythology, the brightly colored costumes, the good guy ethics; it all combined to engage me and introduce me to an art form and literary canon that still compel me 50 years on.”

The exhibit will be on display at the library (located at 475 Moe Road in Clifton Park) from now until Jan. 29. Image provided by Chuck

At SPAC’s “Access the Arts” performance on Dec. 1, participants twirl ribbons to the tune of “Pink Pony Club” and engage in some comedic improvisation. Photos by Jonathon Norcross.

Brouillette.

Will “Bring Me to Life” Bring You to

SPAC? Evanescence

Coming to Saratoga

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Grammy-winning goth-rock group Evanescence unveiled their 2026 world tour plans on Monday, and they’ll stop at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) on June 23 alongside Spiritbox and Nova Twins.

Evanescence’s 2003 record “Fallen” is ranked the sixth bestselling album of the 21st century (just behind Lady Gaga’s “The Fame” and ahead of Coldplay’s “A Rush of Blood

to the Head”). The album’s hit singles, including “Bring Me to Life,” broke the Top 10 in more than 15 countries and topped Billboard’s Mainstream Top 40 and Alternative Airplay charts.

“My Immortal” was a Top 10 hit in over ten countries, including the US, UK, and Australia.

Evanescence joins a rapidly growing 2026 lineup for SPAC.

Last week, Motley Crue and Guns N’ Roses were added to the mix.

SPAC Unveils Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center’s 2026 Summer Season

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

The Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) will welcome the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center (CMS) back to the Spa City for a 2026 summer residency from July 12 to 26.

Curated by Artistic Directors David Finckel and Wu Han, the season features five programs that traverse a spectrum of chamber music that includes works by Mozart, Marsalis, Dvořák, Beethoven, Barber, Villa-Lobos, and more.

“We are delighted to bring the finest chamber music programs specifically designed for our cherished SPAC audiences performed by some of the greatest musicians from around the world,” said CMS Artistic Directors Finckel and Han. “With music ranging from Mozart to Marsalis, and in celebration of this summer’s 250th anniversary of American independence and musical identity, we are deeply grateful for our enduring partnership with SPAC. We look forward to sharing this remarkable summer with you.”

Guest artists for the 2026 summer residency include Stella Chen, Danbi Um, Matthew Lipman, Sterling Elliott, Evren Ozel, Michael Stephen Brown, Sahun Sam Hong, Orion Weiss, Aaron Boyd, Sean Lee, Lawrence Dutton, Milena Pájaro-Van De Stadt, Mihai Marica, Juho Pohjonen, Demarre McGill, James Austin Smith, Romie De Guise-Langlois, Marc Goldberg, Nathaniel Silberschlag, and the Calidore String Quartet.

All 2026 CMS events will take place in the Helen

Filene Ladd Concert Hall in Arthur Zankel Music Center at Skidmore College while the Spa Little Theater undergoes renovation. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit spac.org.

JULY 12 | Dvořák’s Quintet in A Major

Wu Han, piano

Evren Ozel, piano

Stella Chen, violin

Danbi Um, violin

Matthew Lipman, viola

Sterling Elliott, cello

Mozart: Trio in E major for Piano, Violin, and Cello, K. 542

Ravel: Sonata for Violin and Piano

Gershwin: Three Preludes for Violin and Piano (arr. Heifetz)

Dvořák: Quintet in A major for Piano, Two Violins, Viola, and Cello, Op. 5

JULY 15 | From Haydn to Copland

Michael Stephen Brown, piano

Sahun Sam Hong, piano

Lun Li, violin

James Thompson, viola

Nicholas Canellakis, cello

Ian David Rosenbaum, percussion

Haydn: Trio in C major for Piano, Violin, and Cello, Hob. XV:27

Mendelssohn: Quartet in C minor for Piano, Violin, Viola, and Cello, Op. 1

Brahms: Selected Hungarian

Dances for Piano, Four Hands

Bernstein: Three Meditations from Mass for Cello and Piano (1971, arr. 1977)

Copland: El Salón México for Piano and Percussion (arr. Bernstein)

JULY 19 | Burleigh, Dvořák and Beethoven

Orion Weiss, piano

Aaron Boyd, violin

Sean Lee, violin

Lawrence Dutton, viola

Milena Pájaro-Van De Stadt, viola

Mihai Marica, cello

Burleigh: Southland Sketches for Violin and Piano

Dvořák: Trio in G minor for Piano, Violin, and Cello, Op. 26

Beethoven: Quintet in C major for Two Violins, Two Violas, and Cello, Op. 29

JULY 22 | Winds Around the World

Juho Pohjonen, piano

DeMarre McGill, flute

James Austin Smith, oboe

Romie De Guise-Langlois, clarinet

Marc Goldberg, bassoon

Nathaniel Silberschlag, horn

Beethoven: Sonata in F major for Horn and Piano, Op. 17

Barber: Summer Music for Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, and Horn, Op. 31

Villa-Lobos: Trio for Oboe, Clarinet, and Bassoon

Taktakishvili: Sonata for Flute and Piano

Jongen: Rhapsody in D minor for Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Horn, and Piano, Op. 70

JULY 26 | Calidore String Quartet

Franklin: Quartet No. 2 in F major for Three Violins and Cello

Haydn: Quartet in E-flat major for Strings, Hob. III:38, Op. 33, No. 2, “The Joke”

Mozart: Quartet in B-flat major for Strings, K. 589, “Prussian”

Wolf: Italian Serenade for String Quartet

Marsalis: At the Octoroon Balls for String Quartet

Image via Live Nation.

Photo of the Calidore String Quartet provided by the Saratoga Performing Arts Center.

Saratoga Springs Youth Ballet to Perform “The Nutcracker” in Albany

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— The Saratoga Springs Youth Ballet will present its 5th annual production of “The Nutcracker”—featuring over 125 local dancers ages 5 to 18—on Dec. 20 and Dec. 21 at the University at Albany Performing Arts Center.

The show will feature new costumes, props, and choreography. Special guests include Sarah MacGregor and Jethro Paine (courtesy of Boulder

Ballet) and Andre Malo Robles as Herr Drosselmeyer.

Tickets are now available at www.ticketleap.events/ events/ssyballet/the-nutcracker-2025-1945883007.

All ticket proceeds directly support the Saratoga Springs Youth Ballet, a nonprofit dedicated to providing quality professional dance training to pre-professional students throughout the Saratoga region.

Skidmore Lecturer Uncovers Underground Chinese Protest Films

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Scenes of deadly demonstrations, dog fights, and collapsed schools provided glimpses of social problems in post-Mao China that underground filmmakers hoped to spotlight.

The images were presented by Paul Pickowicz—a professor of history and Chinese studies at the University of California, San Diego—at Skidmore College on Monday night as part of a lecture designed to “challenge the assumption that all early 21stcentury Chinese films were government-produced.”

Pickowicz certainly achieved his objective, showing a wide array of excerpts from independent films produced by non-state filmmakers that explored themes of identity, migration, and protest. Many of these filmmakers aimed to expose government wrongdoing and push back against statesanctioned narratives.

“In 1953, shortly after the revolution, the Mao state nationalized all filmmaking,” Pickowicz explained in his lecture. “No more private sector filmmaking was allowed after 1953. All films were made by the state, and so only the voice of the state could be heard. That went on for multiple decades.

But with the post-Mao reforms, something called independent, non-state films could be made… This began around 1990 and it peaked in the early

Fun And Games Puzzle Solutions

2000s… I think it was the high point of this particular moment in the history of Chinese filmmaking. Lots of very remarkable stuff was made.”

Among the topics explored in the films were the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests (known in China simply as “June 4th”), the Sichuan schools corruption scandal, child trafficking, and extreme academic pressure.

Although filmmakers were successful in creating these movies, their work doesn’t exist on official websites or streaming services in China, Pickowicz said. It’s been the task of younger, tech-savvy cinephiles to upload the films to the hidden corners of the internet. Today, independent Chinese filmmakers still face

many obstacles. Last month, according to an NPR report, a New York-based film festival that showcased Chinese filmmakers was abruptly canceled. The festival’s organizer blamed the Chinese government, saying it pressured participating filmmakers to back out of the festival.

But at Skidmore, independent Chinese protest films could be viewed by anyone curious enough to drop by Palamountain Hall.

Pickowicz’s lecture was sponsored by the Central Humanities New York Corridor, as well as Skidmore’s History Department and The Frances Young Tang ‘61 Program in Asian Studies. Like many Skidmore events, it was free and open to the public.

Image provided by the Saratoga Springs Youth Ballet.

Day: Friday

SPRIINKL, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/09/25. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Nikita Valcik, 206 Thimbleberry Road, Malta, NY 12020. Purpose: General. 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/05/2025. 16032

FORMATION OF A NEW YORK LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. The name of the limited liability company is GSL FOUR LLC (The LLC). The date of filing of the Articles of Organization with the Department of State was October 23, 2025. The county in New York in which the offices of the LLC are located is Saratoga County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process may be served, and the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any such process served against the LLC to GSL Four LLC, 17 Carey Road, Hadley, NY 12835. The business purpose of the LLC is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under the laws of the State of New York. 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/05/2025. 16038

Notice of formation of JLF Ventures LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 09/30/2025 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: 18 Logging Trail Ln. Brookfield, CT 06804. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/05/2025. 16039

Notice of formation of H&H Custom Woodworks LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 09/30/2025. 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: 20 Hillview Terrace, Waterford NY 12188. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/05/2025. 16040

Notice of formation of Aava, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 08/29/2025. 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: 27 Liz Ann Drive, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/05/2025. 16045

Notice of formation of Shrestha Global EPG Advisory LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 10/08/2025. 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: 27 Liz Ann Drive, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/05/2025. 16046

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Daddo Properties LLC a domestic LLC. Art of Org. filed with NY Sec. Of State on 11/3/2025 Office location: SARATOGA County. NY Sec.

LEGALS

of State is designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail service of process to 20 LEONARD RD, SARTOGA SPRINGS NY 12866. There is no registered agent. Purpose is any lawful purpose.11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/05, 12/12/2025. 16067

NextPhase Beverage Solutions, LLC filed w/ SSNY 10/31/25. Off. in Saratoga Co. Process served to SSNY - desig. as agt. of LLC & mailed to the LLC, 18 Computer Dr. E, Ste. 202, Albany, NY 12205. Any lawful purpose. 11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/05, 12/12/2025. 16072

Notice of formation of Best Home Saratoga LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 08/02/2025 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 81 Beekman St. Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025. 16096

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

Notice of formation of WHITE

SERVICE RIGHT NOW LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 8/10/25. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 5 Southside Dr., Suite 11-158, Clifton Park, NY 12065-3870. Purpose: Any lawful activity. 11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025. 16112

Notice of formation of WHITE PLUMBING 101 LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 8/10/25. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 5 Southside Dr., Suite 11-158, Clifton Park, NY 12065-3870. Purpose: Any lawful activity. 11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025. 16113

Notice of Formation of LLC.

Articles of Organization for LGM LANDSCAPING LLC were filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 11/12/2025. Office located in Saratoga County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent upon which process may be served and a copy shall be mailed by the Secretary of State to the LLC at 40 A Horseshoe Circle, Halfmoon, NY 12065. Purpose: for any lawful activity for which limited liability companies may be formed under the law. Under Section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Law. 11/21, 11/28, 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2/2026. 16143

WhalenMcPartlandCompany, LLC, filed articles of organization with the NY Secretary of State on 4/6/2022. Office: [Saratoga COUNTY]. [Kelsey McPartland] is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. NY Secretary of State shall mail copy of process to [Kelsey McPartland] at [147 Braim Road, Greenfield Center NY 12833]. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 11/21, 11/28, 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2/2026. 16156

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

Brookford Partners MMF SPV LLC filed w/ SSNY 11/5/25. Off. in Saratoga Co. Process served to SSNY - desig. as agt. of LLC & mailed to the LLC, PO Box 20088, Brooklyn, NY 11202. Any lawful purpose. 11/21, 11/28, 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2/2026. 16159

Notice of formation of Philipi Beer Garden LLC. Arts. Of Org. filed with the Secretary of State New York on 11/18/2025. Office location: Saratoga County. DOS has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process

Week of December 5 – December 11 , 2025

against it may be served. DOS shall mail a copy of process to Dino Papoutsis, 489 Broadway Saratoga Sp NY 12866. For any lawful propose. 11/21, 11/28, 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2/2026. 16167

NOTICE Of FORMATION OF A NEW YORK LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.

The name of the limited liability company is 10 E Washington St LLC (The LLC). The date of filing of the Articles of Organization with the Department of State was November 20, 2025. The county in New York in which the offices of the LLC are located is Saratoga County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process may be served, and the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any such process served against the LLC to The LLC, P.O. Box 3029, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. The business purpose of the LLC is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under the laws of the State of New York. 11/28, 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2, 1/9/2026. 16183

Notice of Organization of City Center WiFi, LLC. Authority filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 11/24/2025 . Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to: c/o 3H Legal Services, PLLC, 36 Long Alley, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 11/28, 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2, 1/9/2026. 16189

Notice is hereby given that a license, #NA-0370-25217373, for beer, liquor and/ or wine has been applied for by the undersigned to sell beer, liquor and/or wine at retail in a tavern under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 63 Putnam Street, Saratoga Springs, Saratoga County for on premises consumption. 63Putman LLC D/B/A Hi-Note Bar Brady Dillon, Member Ryan Reed, Member Cory Melancon, Member Raymond Melancon Jr., Member

Robert Rezin, Member 12/5, 12/12/2025, 16197

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: Wilcox Psychology, P.L.L.C.. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/20/25. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom processes against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, PO Box 1470, Halfmoon

NY 12065. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2, 1/9, 1/16/2026. 16206

Notice of formation of J. Dennis Enterprises LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 9/17/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 4 Vandenburg Ln. Halfmoon,

NY 12065. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 12/05, 12/12, 12/19/2025, 1/2, 1/9, 1/16/2026. 16219

113-Public Notices NOTICE TO BIDDERS

The Department of Central Services will receive sealed bids in person or electronically through the Empire State Purchasing Website until 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 19, 2025, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read aloud for Fine Paper, as per specification 26-FP-1.

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

JOHN T. WARMT Director of Purchasing

Saratoga County 12/05/2025, 16209

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To Be and Not to Be: Saratoga Heads to State Championship, Schuylerville Falls in Semifinals

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

MIDDLETOWN — For only the second time in the team’s history, the Blue Streaks football squad is headed to the JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse to compete in a state title game.

Saratoga Springs will vie for the Class AA championship against the undefeated, Syracusebased Christian Brothers Academy (CBA) on Saturday.

To earn their shot, the Blue Streaks first had to vanquish Mamaroneck in the semifinals. They did it, with a final score of 28 to 14, by earning three touchdowns in the first quarter, creating a deficit the Tigers couldn’t overcome. In that contest, quarterback Bobby Morris completed all 5 of his pass attempts for 94 yards and a touchdown. On the receiving end of the 55-yard touchdown completion was junior wideout Gavin Lafrance.

The run game, per usual with standout back Benjamin Coryea, was exceptional. Coryea rushed for 172 yards and 2 touchdowns on 19 carries. Morris added 5 carries, 35 yards, and a rushing touchdown of his own. Also clutch in the contest, nailing all four extra point attempts, was kicker Olivia Mancini, who is currently ranked 13th in the state in PAT kicks made and 20th in total kicking points.

The next hill to climb will be a steep one for Saratoga. CBA Syracuse hasn’t lost a game since

Nov. 13, 2023. They are 12-0 this season and finished 14-0 the past two seasons. A Blue Streak victory would be unexpected, but then again, the team’s entire season has been one big, successful surprise.

Elsewhere in high school football postseason play, the reigning Section 2 Class C champion Schuylerville Black Horses were felled by the Bronxville Broncos, 49 to 16, in the state semifinals. The Horses mounted a fourth-quarter comeback attempt, racking up 16 points in

the final stanza, but it was too little too late for a team overwhelmed by Bronxville’s steady stream of touchdowns.

For Schuylerville, quarterback Ben VanVegthen tossed for 126 yards and a touchdown, adding 42 rushing yards. On the ground, junior Blake Cumm led his team’s rushing efforts, scooping up 52 yards and a touchdown on 9 carries.

The loss to Bronxville snapped the Horses’ 22-game win streak. Their season ended with an 11-1 record.

Saratoga Springs celebrates its 2025 Section 2 Class AA football championship, while Schuylerville repeats as 2025 Section 2 Class C champs. Photos via Section 2 Athletics.

Former Skidmore Coach Hired by Kansas City Royals

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Mike McFerran, a coach for Skidmore College’s baseball team from 2017 to 2020, was named the Kansas City Royals’ new assistant pitching coach last week.

For the past two seasons, McFerran had been with the Athletics, first as a pitching performance coach in 2024 and then in the role of minor league pitching coordinator in 2025.

“Mike’s track record is a good one,” the Royals’ general manager J.J. Picollo told MLB. com. “The way he was able to express his ideas and the way he thinks about pitching really made a lot of sense to us.”

Prior to working in the majors, McFerran was also the pitching lab coordinator and director of player development at Wake Forest University from 2021 to 2023.

At Skidmore, McFerran served in a few different roles, including assistant coach and pitching coach. He’s credited

with mentoring a number of All-Liberty League pitchers, including Andrew Aikins, Spencer Anderson, Jay Gamboa, and Will Potter.

“Mike is a phenomenal coach and an even better human being,” Skidmore’s head baseball coach Ron Plourde told Saratoga TODAY last year. “He’s one of the

Saintly Spa Catholic B-Ball Squad Starts Season 2-0

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

The Saratoga Central Catholic basketball team launched their 2025-26 season with two decisive victories last weekend, earning the Mike Beson Memorial Tournament crown.

First, in a Nov. 28 contest against Galway, the Saints walloped the Golden Eagles 72 to 27, dominating early with a 28-4 first quarter. The route in the first round of the Beson tournament featured five Saratoga players with double-digit point totals; Bryce Peterson led with 13, while Kingston David, Thomas Zayac, Kihl Kelly, and David Redgrave all added 10 apiece.

In the decisive round two on Nov. 29, Spa Catholic capitalized on a 21-2 third quarter to

obliterate Loudonville Christian 72 to 44. Redgrave earned a team-high 20 points, while Peterson poured in the buckets, totaling 17.

The Saints are now an undefeated 2-0 to start the season. They’ll next play against Rutland on Friday, Dec. 5.

Skidmore Riding Team Victorious, Heading to Tournament of Champions

SARATOGA SPRINGS

brightest coaches that I’ve had the pleasure of working with.”

McFerran is a Capital Region native, spending his youth in both Albany and Lake George. He attended Catholic Central High School in Troy. His local ties also include a stint as the Amsterdam Mohawks’ pitching coach.

— The Skidmore riding team finished its regular competition for the fall semester with a win at home, scoring 40 points over reserve champion SUNY Cobleskill (36 points). The team also added six blues to their Blue Ribbon Challenge Fundraiser.

Although the Open riders had smooth trips, the first win of the day went to Ian Gaudio in the Intermediate Fences. Laura Hess won her Limit Fences, followed by Lucy Beacher winning her Limit Fences in her first IHSA competition.

The first blue in the

afternoon’s flat classes went to Lillard Preschlack in the Intermediate Flat. Ellie Hoyt won her Limit Flat, and Catherine Epstein finished the day with a win in the Introductory Equitation.

Skidmore’s James was awarded the judge’s choice for Horse of the Show for his participation in the Intermediate and Limit Fences, as well as Limit Flat and Novice Equitation.

Select team members will travel to Centenary University for a Tournament of Champions on Dec. 6, the team’s last outing before winter break.

Image via the Kansas City Royals’ X account.

Image via Saratoga Central Catholic Athletics.

Image via Saratoga Central Catholic Athletics.