Saratoga TODAY July 18 - 24, 2025

Photo of the Saratoga-Wilton Youth Baseball 11U Blue Sox state championship team provided by Shawn Lescault. See Story pg. 35

Photo courtesy of Naval Nuclear Laboratory.

History OF SARATOGA

John Brotherson was Late

by Dave Waite | Sponsored by The Saratoga County History Roundtable

Contact The Saratoga County History Roundtable at: saratogacohistoryroundtable@gmail.com

A lot of things could be said about John Brotherson, but those who knew him well were unlikely to include “he would be late to his own funeral.” Yet in the middle of the day on October 17, 1887, a group of people waited patiently on a little knoll in Ballston Spa’s Village Cemetery, and he was nowhere to be found.

John had passed away two days earlier at the home of Dr. Charles Inslee Pardee, a relative with whom he spent the winter months in his later years. His death was an unfortunate accident by asphyxiation, caused by John inadvertently leaving a gas valve on when he retired for the night.

At his passing at eightyseven, John Brotherson was the senior member of the Saratoga County Bar and a practicing attorney for over fifty years. Brotherson’s career in law began in the city of Schenectady in 1821, and he practiced there until he ended his partnership with John Cochran in 1841 and relocated to Ballston Spa. During his years in Schenectady, he participated in that city’s debating club and served as the secretary of the Schenectady County Temperance Society. It was during his time in Schenectady that he published a book of interest to other attorneys, the Executors’ and Administrators’ Instructor, which contained the law and necessary forms related to the topics noted in its title.

When he found time, John enjoyed the sport of fox and raccoon hunting. Considered an expert at the pursuit of fox, after old age prevented him from following the sport, the residents of Ballston Center noted a dramatic increase in intrusions into their hen houses by these predators. His knowledge of the sport even carried into his law cases, as in one where he represented a party whose hunting dog had been shot by a farmer when it entered a sheep yard while following a fox trail. Brotherson won the case with a judgment of fifty dollars for damages plus court costs against the defendant.

Known to be tenacious when pressing his cause in the courthouse, his summations could sometimes be so abusive as to elicit

an attack from his opponents. In one instance during a Schenectady court case in 1841, Lewis Peck, said to have been “goaded into madness,” threw off his overcoat and landed two or three blows on Brotherson.

This willingness to win at all costs resulted in his pursuing cases that stretched over decades, the most notable being a lawsuit against Emmanuel Consalus to recover costs from several litigations. This suit, continued even after the death of Consalus in 1872, was noted in some obituaries as having been the sole focus of Brotherson’s legal work for the last fifteen years of his life.

John Brotherson was born in Charlton in 1806. A lifelong bachelor, beyond his law career and fox hunting, one of his main interests was spiritualism. During his lifetime, spiritualism had found a considerable following in the village, with John as the leader in the local society. Other prominent members of the village who were involved in the society included mill owner Benjamin J. Barber and Samuel Hides of the Hides-Franklin Spring.

Only this humorous story about John Brotherson’s personal involvement in spiritualism was ever recorded, published by the Weekly Saratogian on June 23, 1881:

Mr. B. is a firm believer in the Spiritualistic faith. While boarding with Mr. Brown on the hill, he was sitting one night at a basement window, which was even with the ground. Suddenly, he heard three or four thumps on the glass. John told the other inmates of the room to keep quiet, as he wished to converse with the spirits outside. He went into a trance and remained so for twenty minutes, and said he had a talk with a most beautiful creature. Upon going outside, Mr. Brown found two large sized toads flopping against the window in their efforts to catch flies that had been attracted there by the light inside.

The most well-known account of spiritualism connected to Ballston Spa is that of Samuel Hides and the discovery of his famous spring. It was during a séance that the spirit of Benjamin Franklin was said to have told

Hides that he would find an abundant mineral spring if he would only dig down 715 feet at a certain spot on his property. When the hole reached the predicted depth, a huge geyser shot high into the air and continued to provide a source of mineral water for years afterward as the Hides-Franklin Spring.

The spiritualist society in Ballston Spa, which boasted at one time as many as eighty members, gained a prominent presence in the village in 1876 when society member Benjamin J. Barber erected a 200-seat meeting place on Bath Street that was named “Centennial Hall.” By Brotherson’s death in 1887, the building had fallen into disuse and became a storehouse for the American Hide and Leather Company.

The remains of John Brotherson finally arrived in Ballston Spa on the six p.m. train and were met by his relatives and a large group of friends. His interment was held the same evening in the Ballston Spa Village Cemetery by the aid of lamps and lanterns, which presented a “weird and impressive scene,” according to the October 18th Albany Argus. Members of the Saratoga County Bar at Ballston were the pallbearers at the funeral. The services were conducted by Rev. Brooke Gwathmey White, a Protestant Episcopal minister from Jacksonville, Florida, who was in the area visiting friends.

Two weeks later, on the evening of October 30, 1887, Christian Science founder Mary Baker Eddy held a “conversation” with John Brotherson open to the public at the Saratoga Springs town hall. The results of this conversation with John’s spirit were never revealed.

In 1903, John Brotherson’s stepsister, Mrs. Anna Attocha, erected a 25-foot-tall monument on the Ballston Spa Village Cemetery Brotherson Plot in memory of her brother. Also buried in the Brotherson Plot is John’s sister Eliza, his stepmother Alice Odell Brotherson, and his stepsisters Aleta & Sarah. Anna would be laid to rest in this plot the year after the monument was erected.

TO THE EDITOR

The Good Samaritans Letters

Last Thursday, opening day at the track, we experienced thunderstorms just after 7PM. A furious little squall knocked down a tree between the Northway Exit 14 and Union Avenue. The trunk was at windshield height and blocked the merge lane and the right lane. I was driving a van and was able to stop and block the road. My flashers were blinking while I called the police. A truck with many ladders (a roofing crew?) passed me and pulled over. Another car pulled over and an immense man got out in the rain and 1/4” hail. This man tried to move the tree but it was too big. The people in the stopped truck got out and they had axes. They chopped the tree in half and helped the big fellow move it off the road. When the police arrived the road was cleared!

I say THANK YOU to these unknown men who deserve a round of applause if not a commendation from the city for clearing the road and possibly saving a life or two! The tree was at windshield height and I shudder when I think of a car or pickup hitting that trunk and breaking someone’s neck.

- H.J. SIMPSON

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SARATOGA COUNTY COURT

Clinton H. Waddell, 41, of Middle Grove, was sentenced to 1 to 3 years of incarceration after pleading guilty to felony DWI, charged August 2024 in Greenfield.

Robert Ray Spearman, 59, of Saratoga Springs was sentenced to 1 ½ to 3 years of incarceration after pleading guilty to felony criminal contempt, arrested by Saratoga Springs Police and charged April 2025 in Saratoga Springs.

Joshua D. Soden, 29, of Mechanicville was sentenced to five years of probation after pleading guilty to felony DWI, arrested by New York State Police and charged February 2025 in Malta

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

OBITUARIES

Michael Edward Foskett

BALLSTON SPA — Michael Edward Foskett passed away on July 14, 2025, after a short battle with cancer. He will be remembered with love for his sharp mind, good sense of humor and wit, and the special way he made those around him feel valued, seen and loved. For condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

Howard Cooley

GREENFIELD CENTER — Howard Cooley passed away on July 9, 2025. A celebration of life will be held July 19 from 1:00 –5:00 p.m. at 47 Fiddlers Lane, Latham, NY 12110. Additional parking across the street in culde-sac. All who knew and loved him are welcome to attend. For condolences visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

Michael P. Sullivan

BALLSTON SPA — Michael P. Sullivan passed away on July 14, 2025. Calling hours will be held Saturday, July 19 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Compassionate Funeral Care, followed by a service at 12:30 p.m. Immediately after the service there will be an interment at St. Peter’s Cemetery. For condolences visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

James “Jim” Vincent Chatfield

SARATOGA SPRINGS — James “Jim” Vincent Chatfield, 87, of Saratoga Springs, NY, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2025. A Funeral Service was held on July 15 at Church of St. Peter followed by burial in Greenridge Cemetery. Memorial donations to Youth on Course (www. youthoncourse.org). Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

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Porsche Car Show to Take Place July 19

Porsche fans, families, and auto enthusiasts, mark your calendars. The Saratoga Automobile Museum is cranking up the excitement for its annual Porsche Car Show, proudly presented by Porsche of Clifton Park, on Saturday, July 19, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Get ready for a day packed with family fun, sleek design, and pure Porsche passion as hundreds of these legendary cars surround the Museum in the heart of the Saratoga Spa State Park.

This isn’t just a car show.

Street

It’s a full Porsche experience. From iconic vintage models to the latest high-performance machines, the event will showcase a stunning lineup that is sure to excite long-time enthusiasts and inspire the next generation of car lovers. Guests can enjoy food and drinks on site, great company, and much more.

“The Porsche community shows up big for this event every year,” said Megan Hennessey, Executive Director of the Saratoga Automobile Museum. “It is such a fun day for everyone, from families to

Paving Update

Summer brings everyone’s favorite flower: the orange traffic cone. As the city continues to improve roads, here is a run down of streets that will be paved in the coming days and weeks.

Monday, July 21

Two streets are set to be milled on July 21. Brackett Lane between Greenfield Avenue and Vermont Street and Vermont Street between Clinton Street and Woodlawn Avenue will both be milled.

Tuesday, July 22

Care Lane from Church Street through the circle is set to be milled.

Wednesday, July 23

Care Lane from Church

Street through the circle will be paved. The circle will be paved at four am and reopen at seven.

Thursday, July 24

Two streets will be paved on July 24. Brackett Lane between Greenfield Avenue and Vermont Street and Vermont Street between Clinton Street and Woodlawn Avenue will both be paved. Work will begin at 6:00 a.m. and should be completed by 4:00 p.m. There is no parking of cars on the street during these hours and driveway access/ egress will be limited with potentially lengthy delays. On the day of paving, the road will be closed to all through traffic until midafternoon.

collectors to anyone who loves great cars. We are especially grateful to Porsche of Clifton Park and their GM, Christian Trujillo, for being incredible supporters of the Museum and helping make this such a vibrant, must-see experience.”

There is even more to enjoy. Visitors can explore the Museum’s feature exhibition, Speed. Style, Legacy: The Corvette Story, which highlights six jaw-dropping Corvettes from the General Motors Heritage Collection.

Want to drive your own Porsche? Enter the Museum’s

Sweepstakes for a chance to win a brand new 2025 Porsche 718 Cayman S. A small donation to the Museum could put you in the driver’s seat of your dream car. Enter now at www. saratogaautomuseum.org.

Vehicle pre-registration is $15 per car and includes two Museum admissions. Day-of registration is $20 per car. The Porsche Car Show will be held at the Saratoga Automobile Museum, 110 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs, NY. For registration and sweepstakes entry, visit www. saratogaautomuseum.org.

National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame and Amplify Horse Racing Partner on The Winner’s Circle Summer Camp

The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame and Amplify Horse Racing are partnering to launch The Winner’s Circle Summer Camp, an immersive four-day experience introducing high school students to the thrilling world of thoroughbred racing.

Taking place Tuesday, July 22 through Friday, July 25, in Saratoga Springs, The Winner’s Circle Summer Camp will give participants access to some of the sport’s most iconic locations and career opportunities. The four-day camp combines classroom-style learning at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame with exclusive behind-the-scenes tours at Saratoga Race Course and local industry partners.

From learning how a racetrack operates and exploring veterinary science to visiting the backstretch

and building their own model racetrack, students will discover how their personal skills and interests can connect to a wide variety of career paths in the thoroughbred industry.

“We’re thrilled to be collaborating with the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame as a regional partner to offer this wonderful program,” said Annise Montplaisir, Executive Director of Amplify Horse Racing. “This camp will be an incredible way for youth to learn about horse racing and experience the magic of Saratoga, including those who may not come from a horse background and want to gain hands-on experience.”

The camp is open to rising 9th through 12th graders. Enrollment is limited to 30 students, with a registration fee of $50. Museum members receive a discounted rate of $40.

Fashion Destination “The Store” Opens in Downtown Saratoga

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

The Store, a new shop offering “curated fashion,” has opened its doors at 454 Broadway in downtown Saratoga Springs.

Founded by Sophie Deshaies and her partner Kevin, The Store offers a gender-inclusive mix of apparel, accessories, shoes, jewelry, fragrances, body care, magazines, and more. Handpicked independent brands include Abel Objects, Silphium Studio, Soft Goat, Outland Denim, Miista, and TWIN, among others.

“We wanted a space where self-expression meets selfcare—shopping should be fun, inspiring and inclusive,” Deshaies said in a news release. “The Store is exactly that.”

The Store is now open Monday to Saturday (10 a.m. –6 p.m.) and Sunday (11 a.m. – 5 p.m.).

is your chance to get your photos published!

“Even the ponies need to stay cool in this heat”

Photo by Tina Marie DeVincenzo

Photo of The Store owner Sophie Deshaies provided by Roohan Realty.

Yaddo Opens Its Doors for a Rare Public Tour of Mansion & Grounds

Yaddo will host a public tour of its historic Mansion and grounds on Saturday, September 27. Tours will be offered at 8:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 4 p.m., each lasting approximately 90 minutes.

Guests will explore the Mansion’s first and second floors, West House, Greenhouse Studios, and Saratoga Studio. Tours will run rain or shine, covering varied outdoor terrain and indoor

spaces, including stairs. Tickets range from $75–$85 depending on the time selected. Yaddo merchandise will be available, with a commemorative ornament and book available for pre-order online A private VIP tour and cocktail reception will be held on Friday, September 26 at 5 p.m. Tickets for this exclusive evening are $250. All proceeds directly support residencies for artists shaping the future of literature,

visual art, music, performance, and beyond. Volunteers are welcome to help bring this special event to life.

This year, Yaddo is raffling off an overnight stay in the Mansion. Tickets are $100 and available exclusively at Yaddo Saratoga Springs events: Wine & Roses, The Nature of Art, and the Open House Tour. Three winners will be announced in December 2025.

For Yaddo Open House tickets, merch pre-orders, or

to volunteer, visit: yaddo.org/ event/yaddo- open-house/.

A Rare Invitation

This fall, you are invited behind-the-scenes at Yaddo on a guided tour of the historic Mansion and grounds. Normally closed to the public, this 400-acre estate— designated a National Historic Landmark for its extraordinary contributions to American arts and culture—has offered artists time, space, and community for more than a century.

The Mansion is the storyfilled heart and soul of Yaddo. Built in 1893 by founders Spencer and Katrina Trask, this 29,000-square-foot residence was modeled on a medieval English manor. It features 55 rooms, 550 window sashes, and exquisite Victorian-era craftsmanship. Following a multimillion-dollar restoration in 2019, the Mansion has been renewed for another century of creative life.

State Police Make Arrest in Multi-State Scam

On July 10, 2025, State Police of Saratoga arrested Wei H. Li, 54, of Brooklyn, NY on a warrant for Grand Larceny in the third degree and Scheme to Defraud in the first degree.

On November 5, 2024, at about 7:00 p.m. Troopers received a complaint from an elderly Saratoga County

resident who reported being the victim of a scam. The investigation determined the victim was contacted online by a pop-up advising them their computer was compromised. The individual called the number provided in the pop-up and the answering party falsely identified

themselves as a representative of Microsoft. The victim was then instructed to transfer funds to a bank account for “safekeeping” while the online threat was “resolved”. They followed the instructions and transferred more than $30,000 into an account allegedly belonging to Li. An arrest

warrant was issued by the Malta Town Court on March 12, 2025, for Li as a result of this investigation. The investigation also discovered an additional victim out of state. Law Enforcement was contacted in Idaho and after contacting the potential victim it was

determined they had in fact been the victim of the same scam.

Li was arrested at his home in Brooklyn, NY, and transported to SP Saratoga for processing. He was then arraigned at the Malta Town Court where he was released on his own recognizance.

Speed, Building Sales and Horses: City Council Run Down

by Aidan Cahill Saratoga TODAY

Speed, building sales and horses were all up for discussion this week at the latest Saratoga Springs City Council meeting.

While it may not have been as lively as the previous one, there were many issues brought up during the meeting that will have an effect on Residents both in and out of Saratoga Springs. Here is a rundown of what was talked about and the issues facing Saratoga residents.

Concern over ICE raids

Much of the public comment part of the meeting was dedicated to concern of ICE raids taking place within the city. The concern comes after multiple social media posts show masked agents in unmarked detaining individuals near Congress Plaza in Saratoga Springs.

Speakers including representatives from the Saratoga Springs Democratic Party spoke about the raids, expressing concerns about the raids and calling on the city to do more to protect the undocumented population.

In response to these concerns, Public Safety Commissioner Tim Coll reiterated that the city doesn’t participate in ICE raids and

doesn’t have the authority to arrest people for immigration reasons. However, Coll said the city has asked ICE to give prior notice whenever they’re operating in Saratoga Springs to ensure there aren’t “blue on blue” incidents. He also encouraged residents to reach out to ICE or to their congressman if they have concerns over the raids as there is legally nothing they can do.

Concerns over the raids were also expressed by Accounts Commissioner Dillon Moran and Finance Commissioner Minita Sanghvi.

Speed

While horses may be flying on the track, for cars on the road it’s a different story.

A public hearing was set for Aug. 5 at 6:30 over a proposed ordinance that would reduce the city’s default speed limit from 30 miles per hour to 25 miles per hour — with certain exceptions such as for school zones, arterial roads and roads with shared responsibility.

The proposed ordinance comes after an engineering study recommended the change. It wasn’t until recently that Saratoga Sprins had the power to reduce its speed limit to 25 miles per hour. Prior to 2022, the minimum speed limit was 30 miles per hour statewide. However, a bill passed that

year allowed municipalities to make the change citing its effectiveness in reducing traffic fatalities in New York City and Boston.

The Aug. 5 hearing will start with a presentation on that matter and allow residents the opportunity to speak on the matter.

More Police Horse News

The Saratoga Springs Police Department is seeing further changes with its equestrian unit. During the City Council meeting, the city approved the transfer of outgoing police horse Apollo to Patricia Heneke who will take care of the 19 year old as he enjoys his retirement. Apollo did his last patrol with the department during the Silks

and Satins 5k on July 12.

As Apollo retires, his old coworkers Brady and Sly will be welcoming a new partner to their team. City Council approved the donation of Bella to the Police Equestrian unit. Bella is a 10-year-old black Shire mare who is 19 hands tall. Bella comes by way of Creekview Manor Farm in Saratoga Springs.

Building Sale

Discussions have begun on the potential sale of a city owned building at 5 Williams Street in Saratoga Springs. The building, which was the former cite of the Saratoga Senior Center had previously been proposed as the site of a homeless shelter however concerns over it’s

proximity to Saratoga Central Catholic School lead that plan to be abandoned.

During the preliminary meeting on July 14, Public Works Commissioner Chuck Marshall brought up the idea of a sale for discussion, saying that the money could potentially be used to help address the unhoused in Saratoga Springs.

While all members were open to the idea, concerns were raised about the potential of using a capital asset in order to fund operational expenses. Commissioners Moran and Sanghvi both said they would need to see the plan for how to allocate the property funds before they supported the sale. No vote was taken on the matter.

Spent Nuclear Fuel Rolls Through Ballston Spa

by Aidan Cahill Saratoga TODAY

Residents in Ballston Spa and Milton may have noticed an usual site rolling through town recently as a large container filled with nuclear fuel rolled through town on it’s way to Idaho.

The fuel came from the Kenneth A. Kesselring Site in West Milton and represented the first part of the dismantling of a nuclear reactor which had been shutdown in 2019. While most of the work took place at the site itself, given the lack of a direct rail connection to the site, a special container had to be loaded onto the back of a heavy lift truck and driven to and from the facility.

Residents had no reason to be concerned about this transportation. Since 1957, there have been 457 defueling and refueling operations

conducted by the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program including 12 at the Kesselring site itself. In it’s history, there hasn’t been any injuries to the public or dangerous releases.

“Each shipment is made in compliance with applicable Department of Transportation (DOT), Department of Energy (DOE), Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), and state regulations and poses no danger to the public,” The Naval Nuclear Laboratory said in a press release. “The containers are very robust and were rigorously analyzed and tested to demonstrate performance in a range of situations. From the first shipment of Naval spent nuclear fuel in 1957, the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program has safely shipped 924 containers of Naval spent nuclear fuel without a single injury to a member of the public or any release of radioactivity.”

The press release also said that even if one were to stand six feet away from the container for a full day, they would only receive 10 millirems of radiation — about the same as a chest x ray and much lower than the 300 millirems typically seen in a year.

Once the shipment leaves New York, it will be shipped to the Idaho National Laboratory. Planning for the project has taken place since 2023. The container itself arrived in West Milton back in April 2024.

The Kenneth A. Kesselring site is a training and research facility that has been open since the 1950. It’s named after Kenneth A. Kesselring, the former general manager of the nearby Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory. Since 1950, over 55,000 sailors and officers have trained there including future US President Jimmy Carter. In 1952, then Lt. Carter helped set up the training program for enlisted sailors who

would serve on the Nuclear Submarine USS Seawolf.

In its history, there haven’t been any incidents of releases or major security breaches at the Kesselring Site. The only one of note coming in 2009 when a truck containing debris from the site crashed outside Wilks Barree, PA. Even then, the amount of radioactivity in the debris was so small that the truck didn’t require warning

placards while soil and water in the area didn’t show any increase in radioactivity.

The remaining reactor at the site consists of a “pressurizedwater nuclear reactor, auxiliary equipment, and propulsion systems necessary for the training of naval personnel and for the testing and evaluation of design concepts,” according to the latest environmental report on the cite.

A convoy carrying the container, similar to this one from 2018, crawled through Saratoga County on it’s way to a train yard for shipment to Idaho (Courtesy of Naval Nuclear Laboratory)

PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS

This 3 bedroom home at 20 Northway Ct in Saratoga Springs was listed by Anny O’Neill and sold by Laura Creazzo from Roohan Realty. This home sold for $365,000

BALLSTON

East Line Holdings LLC sold property at 11 Appleton St to Thomas O’Connell for $609,980

Katz Excavating sold property at Route 50 to RBC Ballston Spa Development LLC for $3,300,500

GREENFIELD

Kathryn Simon sold property at 24 Cohen Rd to Brooke Macisco for $355,000

MALTA

Amy Griffith sold property at 169 Thimbleberry Rd to Taniya Brandon for $375,000

Robert Hinckley sold property at 7 Settlers Ridge South to Michael Cesta for $930,000

Barbara King sold property at 20 Lupine Dr Patrick Coyne for $425,000

MILTON

B & D Properties sold property at 613 Acland Blvd to Ryan Dantonio for $125,000

SARATOGA

David Kilventon sold property at 73 Hiller Lane to Richard Vale for $320,000

SARATOGA SPRINGS

Erin Bennett sold property at 2 Frederick Dr to James Hofrichter for $467,500

James Bradburn sold property at 88 Monroe St to Jackson Ivey for $660,000

Patricia Stickney sold property at 61 Vista Dr to Christina Kim for $1,132,500

WILTON

Kirk Emmons sold property at 5 Sydney Hill Rd to Morgan Jones for $990,000

Forest Grove LLC sold property at 27 Angeles Ave to Brent Bevier for $854,651

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Bass Pro Shops to Open in Grand Fashion on July 30

CLIFTON PARK — A massive new Bass Pro Shops, located alongside Interstate 87 in Clifton Park, has scheduled its grand opening for July 30.

The ceremony, which begins at 5 p.m. and is open to the public, will include a special “Evening for Conservation” that will feature big names in the outdoor industry, such as Roland Martin (winner of 19 Bassmaster tournaments and nine B.A.S.S. Angler of the Year awards), Jimmy Houston (a fixture on ESPN’s national fishing coverage), Kevin VanDam (the all-time

winningest angler in the history of professional bass fishing), and Chris Johnston (the reigning Bassmaster Angler of the Year), among others.

The festivities will also include a performance by country music singer/songwriter Blaine Holcomb. Following the grand opening ceremony, the celebrity guests will be available for meet and greets and autographs until 8 p.m.

The new 70,000 square foot retail location on Clifton Park Center Road will be the fourth Bass Pro Shops location in New York State. The chain brands

Water Damage Sends Northshire Events to Public Library

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

After a water leak in an upstairs apartment on July 4th caused significant water damage to the Northshire Bookstore on Broadway, the business has temporarily closed and moved all of its remaining July events to the Saratoga Springs Public Library.

In a statement, Northshire said that news of the flood generated “an overwhelmingly

itself as the nation’s leading outdoor retailer, built on a passion for fishing.

generous community response, with numerous individuals, businesses, and organizations reaching out to the Northshire staff to ask how they could help.”

“As a longtime partner in promoting books and reading, we’re happy to be able to provide our friends at Northshire a venue for co-hosting several of their upcoming author visits in their hour of need,” said library director Ike Pulver.

Schedule of Northshire events at the library:

• Thursday July 17 at 6 p.m.: Clémence Michallon - Our Last Resort – in conversation with Rachel Person

• Saturday, July 19 at 2 p.m.: Saratoga: America’s Turning Point 250th Commission and Anne Clothier - Overhearing History

• Wednesday July 23 at 6 p.m.: Jacqueline Boulden - Lies Lost and Found

• Thursday, July 31 at 6 p.m.: Representative Chris GibsonThe Spirit of Philadelphia: A Call to Recover the Founding Principles – in conversation with Ray O’Conor

Ballston Spa Barber Club Opens Second Location in Saratoga

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SPRINGS —

The Ballston Spa Barber Club, which celebrated its grand opening less than a year ago at the Carousel Village Plaza on Doubleday Avenue, has already expanded to a second location at 48 Henry Street in the Spa City.

The Saratoga Barber Club opened its doors on Tuesday morning, prompting the barbershop owners to rebrand

their entire operation as the 518 Barber Club.

“Our barbers have almost 10 years of experience, and we welcome everyone of all ages for your barbering needs,” the company said on its new website.

The shops offer a range of services, including haircuts, beard trims, head and/or face shaves, hot towel shaves, and specialty cuts. Walk-ins are welcome and customers can also book online. For more information, visit 518barberclub.com.

Rendering of the completed Bass Pro Shops in Clifton Park provided.

Image via the 518 Barber Club.

SARATOGA

Renamed Route 50 Diner to Reopen

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

BALLSTON SPA — A restored and renamed Route 50 Diner is set to reopen under new ownership as the Doubleday Diner.

The business shared several videos on its Facebook page recently, showing off its revamped interior and exterior look. Signage on the front door indicated that the eatery will be open seven days a week, from 6 a.m. until 3 p.m.

“Doubleday Diner is

working hard to reopen as soon as possible,” the company said in one post. “Our goal is to create a space where the community can come together and enjoy unforgettable moments around good food.”

Prior to closing permanently, the Route 50 Diner faced a number of issues, including a temporary closure following a health inspection on May 30, 2024 that revealed an apparent, ongoing pest control issue. The diner was also temporarily closed in 2023 by the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance due to alleged unpaid taxes.

Saratoga-Based Floral Design Company Expands to Stuyvesant Plaza

GUILDERLAND —

Stuyvesant Plaza announced this week that Saratoga Springsbased, female-owned Samantha Nass Floral Design will soon open a new location at the shopping center in Guilderland. The company joins three other Saratoga businesses (Union Hall Supply Co., Lola Saratoga, and Uncommon

Grounds) that have expanded below the twin bridges.

Founded in 2014, Samantha Nass Floral Design is known for its nature-inspired floral work and its full-service approach to events, everyday flowers, and curated home goods. The Stuyvesant Plaza location will offer a curated selection of fresh florals, seasonal arrangements, and specialty items.

“This isn’t a shift in direction, it’s a natural next step,” said Samantha Nass in a press release. “A chance to grow, connect, and create in a new space while honoring the people and places that have supported us from the very beginning.”

The new location is expected to open sometime in August.

Artistic rendering of the forthcoming Samantha Ness Floral Design location at Stuyvesant Plaza via the company.

Photo via the Doubleday Diner.

Week of July 18 -

Solomon Northup Sculpture Unveiled at Saratoga Spa State Park

A bronze sculpture depicting Solomon Northup, the former Saratoga Springs resident, author of the bestselling memoir Twelve Years A Slave, and subject of the 2013 Academy Award-winning film, was unveiled today during a ceremony at Saratoga Spa State Park.

The 13-foot-tall “Hope Out of Darkness” traveling statue will be on view in front of the Lincoln Bathhouse until October 7, 2025.

“New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is honored to host a sculpture celebrating Solomon Northup and his incredible story,” said OPRHP Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons. “Northup’s courage during his enslavement, his captivating written work and his fight to hold his enslavers accountable make him one of Saratoga Springs’ most treasured residents. It is therefore fitting to display a statue of Northup at Saratoga Spa State Park so current generations can better honor and understand his legacy.”

The bronze statue will be on display and visible from the road until Oct. 7 after which it will be installed in its permanent home outside the courthouse where

a free-born American born in Minerva, NY in 1808, lived in Saratoga Springs with his wife and children for about seven years when he was tricked into joining a traveling circus. This sinister ploy led to Northup being kidnapped in Washington, D.C. in April 1841 and sold into slavery. Enslaved in Louisiana, Northup met Canadian carpenter and abolitionist Samuel Bass in 1852. Gaining Northup’s trust, Bass facilitated getting word to Northup’s family and friends in

the North about his condition and status. Through these letters and action taken by New York Gov. Washington Hunt, Northup was emancipated and reunited with his family in upstate New York in January 1853. Northup’s incredible ordeal became national news and his bestselling memoir Twelve Years A Slave was published in July 1853.

“The life of Solomon Northup offers a powerful lens into an often-omitted chapter of New York’s history,” said OPRHP Interpreter of African

American History Lavada Nahon. “His story underscores how the legacy of enslavement in the Empire State did not end with gradual abolition but evolved to maintain systems of racism. The Federal fugitive slave laws enabled the abduction and enslavement of free Black New Yorkers, like Northrup, for profit. They were just one way racism continued to thrive. As we approach the bicentennial of the abolition of slavery in New York in 2027, we are called not only to commemorate that

milestone but to acknowledge the persistent, lingering legacy of slavery today.”

The sculpture display reflects New York State Parks’ Our Whole History (OWH) initiative, which seeks to reveal and share historically undertold stories of ordinary and extraordinary people across New York State. In 2027, New York State will recognize the 200th anniversary of the end of legalized slavery in the state

Northup,

Northup was emancipated in Marksville, Louisiana

Northup lived in Saratoga Springs as a freeman until he was tricked into traveling with a circus and kidnapped in Washington.

Photos by Aidan Cahill.

article cont. to next page...

EDUCATION

Solomon Northup Sculpture Unveiled cont...

(1827) and the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the first Africans enslaved in the former New Netherland colony (1627). In anticipation of this significant commemorative year, OPRHP is implementing a multi-year interpretive initiative called ‘Enslavement to Freedom: 16271827-2027.’ With ‘Enslavement to Freedom,’ OPRHP and relevant state historic sites are developing exhibits, public programs, and other educational resources to explore New York’s history with slavery and a pivotal period of transition for the Black community in early New York, which gives better context and understanding for later historic movements, like Abolition and the Underground Railroad.

Northup’s efforts to hold his enslavers legally accountable brought details of the illegal domestic slave trade to light but were otherwise largely unsuccessful. After his memoir was published, Northup became active in the abolitionist movement. His whereabouts later became unaccounted for, and historians believe Northup died in 1863 or 1864.

Emmy and Oscar-winning sculptor Wesley Wofford created the bronze likeness

of Northup. Wofford says the papers in Northup’s upraised hand represent the papers required to be held by free Black Americans to move about the country, the letters sent north in an effort to free Northup, the legal documents written to free him, and his own memoir. The manacles in Northup’s opposite hand represent his time in captivity and the indignities he and many others suffered during long years of enslavement. The pedestal Northup is standing on is split to represent the duality of his life. He is courageously rising up from enslavement with a posture of triumph and struggle.

The statue was unveiled at the Whitney Plantation in New Orleans in February 2025 and will continue traveling the country before being permanently installed in 2026 outside the Marksville, Louisiana courthouse where Northup was emancipated on January 4, 1853.

NYS Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is planning a series of programs and events at the Victoria Pool House and Saratoga Music Hall during the sculpture’s time in Saratoga to honor Northup, explore African American history and examine slavery.

Upcoming Events at the Brookside Museum

Here is a rundown of the upcoming events taking Place at the Brookside Museum. All events take place at Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Unless noted. For more information check www.brooksidemuseum.

org

Brookside Explorers Club: Art Show & Landmark Creations | Saturday, July 19, 10am-Noon

Join us for our next meeting of the Brookside Explorers Club, a new history and learning club for kids! Artwork from the “Artists Inspired by Their Community” program, an exciting collaboration with Ballston Spa Middle School, will be displayed in the History Hunters Hangout from JulySeptember. And on July 19th, History Scouts can join the fun by learning about some of Saratoga County’s most important landmarks through a learning activity, craft, and play in this engaging and educational event. Kids of all ages are welcome to join the fun! Parental supervision is required and there is a cost of $5.00 per child.

Summer Garden Program: The Victorian Fascination with

Plants | Sunday, July 20, 2pm

The Victorian language of flowers, floriography, was one of several nonverbal languages used by Victorians. Dr. Catherine Golden will speak more to this, using passages from Victorian literature as examples. Guests will also have the opportunity to make a tussie-mussie (flowers generously donated by Suzanne Balet of Balet Flowers and Design). Registration is required and donations are appreciated.

Twelve Years a Widow | Thursday, July 24th, 7pm

Join Yale historian and Middlebury College teacher, Connor Williams, as he sheds some light on the story of Anne, not only about her life, but also about the challenges of uncovering that story. Anyone who has done historical research knows the difficulties in tracking down the stories of women, particularly working-class women, and especially women of color. The story of Anne Hampton Northup is remarkable.

A much sought after cook, she was born free in Washington County, and is best known for being the wife of Solomon Northup, who was kidnapped in 1841 and subsequently enslaved

for twelve years. But who was Anne, and how did she manage as a single woman, bringing up three children, for twelve years until her husband’s return?

Overhearing History a Revolutionary Saratoga Story - A Reading and Book Signing with the Author | Thursday, July 31st, 1pm

Join historian and author Anne Clothier for a reading of a new children’s publication Overhearing History a Revolutionary Saratoga Story

Travel back to Revolutionary Saratoga with 12-year old Nathaniel. Living in his family’s tavern, he overhears exciting, worrying - and sometimes confusing - talk about freedom and big changes coming to his town. This graphic novel, illustrated by Alex Portal, brings Saratoga’s Revolutionary story to life for young readers. After the reading there will be a book signing with the author and the book will be available for purchase.

All events take place at Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Unless noted. For more information check www. brooksidemuseum.org

Food

SATURDAYS

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

WILTON MALL FOOD COURT

Building Better ‘Kabab, Kebab, Kabob’

at the Market

Technically

by Jodie Fitz for Saratoga TODAY

Kabab and kebab are just different spellings of the same word, traditionally referring to grilled or roasted meat dishes, often served on skewers. The term originates from the Middle East and has various spellings depending on the language and region. Kabob is a more common spelling in North America, but in the end…they all lead to a delicious bite.

The market is perfectly poised to fill your plate with delicious, fresh, locally produced kabob ingredients for every course. Yes, that’s right.

The idea of ‘Kabab, Kebab, Kabob’s’ only serving for the main dish is long gone and has been joined with a whole host of skewed ideas. Appetizers & desserts on a stick are just as fun to make and serve for summer entertaining on many levels.

This week take a peek at a few different recipes and then consider shopping the market to fill you love for food on a stick with all things local; the market has it all…the ideas are endless.

July Market News:

* Free Kids Club every Wednesday at High Rock Park with different themes, stay tuned at the website and in the market’s social media (Facebook & instagram)

The Saratoga Farmers’ Market is open: Mondays | 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. at Shenendehowa Methodist, Route 146 Clifton Park. Wednesdays | 3 p.m. – 6 p.m., Saturdays | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at High Rock Park, Downtown Saratoga Springs.

Find us online at saratogafarmersmarket.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @ SaratogaFarmersMarket. And, don’t forget to join the market’s FREE weekly newsletter.

Grilled Vegetable Kabobs

YIELDS: 6 kabobs

PREP & COOK TIME: 30 min

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 yellow squash or zucchini, cut into half moons

• 8 ounces baby Bella mushrooms, trimmed

• 1 cup grape tomatoes

• 6 ounces Brussels sprouts, halved, (it helps to microwave the Brussels briefly so they are a bit softer and will go through the skewers more easily)

For the skewers:

• 1 pound cake*

• 1 medium onion, cut into chunks

• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

• Kosher salt

• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 to 1 tsp red pepper flakes

• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

• juice of two lemons

Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers with Blueberry Glaze

YIELDS: 8 kabobs

PREP & COOK TIME: 50 min

INGREDIENTS:

For the glaze:

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

• 32 strawberries (2 lbs.) hulled*

• 2 tablespoons oil

• 2 tablespoons honey*

For the cream:

• 1 cup whipping cream

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• Zest of 1/2 lemon

• 1 tablespoon whipping cream

• 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

• 1/4 cup blueberries*

Prepare 8-10 skewers (if using bamboo or wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes).

Chop the vegetables and garlic and place them in a large mixing bowl. Add the parsley and season with Kosher salt, oregano and pepper flakes. Add the olive oil and lemon juice. Toss to combine.

Heat a gas grill to medium and oil the grates.

Arrange the skewers on the heated grill and cook for 10 minutes, turning as needed, until the vegetables are cooked and charred in some parts.

Slice the pound cake into slices, then cut each slice into cubes. In a small bowl combine the corn oil and honey until well combined.

Thread cake cubes and strawberries through skewers until they’re all gone. If using wooden skewers, be sure to soak the skewers in water for at least 1 hour before using. Brush the oil and honey mixture all over the skewers. Grill the skewers for about 2 minutes per side, or until the cake is toasted and golden and the strawberries are slightly softened.

For the cream: Beat the cream, sugar and zest in a bowl until soft peaks form. Cover and chill.

For the glaze: Combine all of the glaze ingredients; blend on high until everything is well combined and smooth. Drizzle over the skewers before serving alongside the cream.

Week of July 18 - July 24, 2025

Honey Chicken Kabobs

YIELDS: 12 servings

PREP TIME: 15 min

COOK TIME: 15 min

• ⅓ cup honey*

• ⅓ cup soy sauce

INGREDIENTS:

MARINADE: KABOBS:

• 8 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - cut into 1-inch cubes*

• 5 small onions, cut into 2-inch pieces*

• ¼ cup oil

• ¼ tsp ground black pepper

• 2 medium red bell peppers, cut into 2-inch pieces*

• 2 cloves garlic*

• 12 bamboo skewers, or as needed, soaked in water for 30 minutes

INSTRUCTIONS:

To make the marinade: Whisk honey, soy sauce, oil, and black pepper together in a large glass bowl.

Remove 1/4 cup of the marinade to a small jar; seal and set aside to use while cooking.

Add chicken, onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the marinade in the large bowl. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 2 hours or overnight.

When ready to cook, preheat an outdoor grill for high heat and lightly oil the grate. Drain marinade & discard. Thread chicken and vegetables alternately onto skewers.

Place kabobs on the preheated grill. Cook, turning frequently and brushing with reserved marinade, until browned on all sides and chicken is no longer pink in the center, about 12-15 minutes.

Steak Tacos on a Stick

YIELDS: 4 kabobs | PREP & TIME: 35 min

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cloves garlic, minced*

• 1/2 jalapeño, chopped*

• 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro*

• 1 Tbsp. ground cumin

• 1/3 cup lime juice

• 1/4 cup oil

• 1/2 tsp. kosher salt

• 3/4 lb. sirloin steak, cut into 1” pieces*

• 1 avocado, cut into chunks

• 2 ears corn, sliced into 1” thick pieces*

• 1 small red onion, cut into 1” pieces

• 2 flour tortillas, cut into triangles

• Hot sauce, for serving

• Lime wedges, for serving

INSTRUCTIONS:

Make the marinade by whisking together the garlic, chopped jalapeño, cilantro, cumin, lime juice, and oil and season with salt. Set half the marinade aside and add steak to half. Toss until coated. In a large bowl, add avocado, corn, red onion, and tortillas and toss with remaining marinade.

Heat grill to high. Skewer kebabs and grill 8 minutes. Serve with hot sauce and squeeze with lime.

Recipe adapted from AllRecipes

Recipe adapted from The Mediterranean Dish

Recipe adapted from Parade Magazine

Recipe adapted from Delish

Week of July 18 - July 24, 2025

by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY

This week I will continue Part II of my infamous summer adventure story. As it ended last week, I was given the call to be part of a crew that would assist in bringing a 50-foot yacht from West Palm Beach Florida up the intercoastal waterway to Narraganset Rhode Island. The adventure included Ron (the owner of the boat), who was also my next-door neighbor and was closer to a second father to myself and Paula than just a neighbor. Ron had no sons and always called me son. I loved the man very much. One of his favorite movie lines came from the movie “The Graduate” and was by the character Mr. McGuire to Benjamin, it was one word, “Plastics!”. Ron was a genius inventor of plastic items and made very good money. The yacht was ultimately gifted the name “The Graduate”.

In planning the excursion, Ron and his wife Deedy were worried about me from the toll of the last year of my limited mobility and saw an opportunity to help me out. I can still hear Ron’s words in my head today; “Will you come and crew my boat with me and bring it up the intercoastal to Rhode Island”. I told him that I knew nothing about crewing a boat and never been on anything bigger than a rowboat. He then asked if I knew how to drink beer. I let him know that I was considered a pro in the area. He said “good then we can teach you the rest”. The crew consisted of two retired Coast Guard lieutenants, a Yacht Captain and his wife, Ron, a newly licensed boat captain and me, a cool guy who was willing to learn anything about boats. I was off on my adventure and landed in Palm Beach airport to a beautiful warm and sunny day. We taxied to the dock in West Palm Beach,

AND THE Summer Adventures CONTINUE

Hello my Foodie Friends!

and I looked at my sleeping arrangements for the next threeweeks to a month. I was in awe of this big 50-foot boat. It had a living room and a big kitchen and separate bedrooms for everyone except for me who had to share a big bedroom with one of the coast guard lieutenants, Jim, who made me laugh every time he talked. Now all of the crew was over 6’ 3” in height except for me, who stood tall at 5’7”. I was considerably lighter in weight than all the retired crew members. I am mentioning this because as all the experts were touring the boat, there was an area of concern for all of them and that was the engine room. The boat had twin 500hp caterpillar diesel engines that were tucked under the floorboards and the only people that could fit down there were myself and the beautiful wife of the Yacht captain. All eyes then looked at me. Now your favorite foodie friend had to repeat to everyone that I could cook them a great meal, but I knew nothing about engines. :No problem, John”, Ron exclaimed, “we can coach you through any situation that may arise” – and the engine room is where I spent a lot of time as situations occurred that required me to channel my way to help in the repairs as we made our way up the intercoastal waterway.

Food was our reward at the end of each day. Ron and his wife Deedy were all-time great gourmet cooks, so I was not needed in that department. Ron was a master captain in boating and came from a military background in the Navy. He was also a master chef. Ron was always very proud of serving his crew incredible seafood dishes. Clams and oysters were one of Ron’s favorite seafood items to

create delightful dishes with. Special tools that Ron would use included a clam and oyster knife and a cut proof glove. The clam knife was important for proper shucking of the clams. Once you learn the basics, shucking clams and oysters is not difficult. Practice makes perfect and the reward is delicious.

At Compliments to the Chef, we carry an assortment of clam/ oyster/ and seafood tools to assist with your seafood dishes. We also carry the Coastal Kitchen Collection and Shuckers Bundle sets from “Toadfish”. The company devotes its success to improving water quality by rebuilding oyster beds. By repeating and expanding this process through their “Put ‘Em Back movement”, they are working towards healthier coastlines nationwide. To achieve their mission, Toadfish has pledged to rebuild new oyster reefs with every product sold and has created a line of unique, eco-conscious products.

This summer, make some seafood meals to remind you of the ocean and those precious memories you have made with friends and family. Unfortunately, Ron is no longer with us to share and laugh at these stories. However, they are memories that I hold dear in my heart every day. Here’s to you Ron. Stop by Compliments to the Chef, your Neighborhood Kitchen and Cutlery store located at 33 Railroad Place for your seafood clam and oyster knives. Remember my Foodie Friends, “Life Happens in the Kitchen” with good times, friends, and great food (gathering safely).

Take Care, John & Paula

Steamed Clams with White Wine and Garlic

INGREDIENTS

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 small-medium sized shallot chopped finely

• 2-3 large garlic cloves chopped finely

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for heat

• 1 ½ cups white wine

• 2 pounds clams littleneck, or manilla clams, cleaned and scrubbed

INSTRUCTIONS

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Small bunch of fresh parsley leaves roughly chopped

1. Begin by heating a large skillet or pot over medium heat and add the butter and olive oil. Cook until the butter is almost fully melted.

2. Add the chopped shallots and saute for cook for 2-3 minutes, until shallots just change color but not browned. Add in the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring everything together.

3. Pour in the white wine and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute to reduce the wine slightly. Then add in the cleaned clams and give everyone one good stir.

4. Cover the skillet or pot with a lid, leaving a small opening so the alcohol can cook off. Cook clams until they all just open, about 7-9 minutes.

5. Once done, turn off the heat and add the fresh lemon juice and fresh herbs. Give everything one more good stir and serve with crusty bread

Recipe courtesy of beyonddiet.com

of July 18 - July 24, 2025

This Week’s Events:

JULY 18 - 24

FRIDAY, JULY 18

Family Movie Friday

Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St., Saratoga Springs | 10 – 11:30 a.m. You’re invited to a morning showing of Dog Man (2025) to drink juice, hang out, and color! Feel free to bring blankets for comfy floor seating. Open to children and their families. No registration required.

SATURDAY, JULY 19

Brookside Explorers Club: Art Show & Landmark Creations

Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa | 10 a.m. – Noon. Join us for our next meeting of the Brookside Explorers Club, a new history and learning club for kids!

Artwork from the “Artists Inspired by Their Community” program, an exciting collaboration with Ballston Spa Middle School, will be displayed in the History Hunters Hangout from July-September. And on July 19th, History Scouts can join the fun by learning about some of Saratoga County’s most important landmarks through a learning activity, craft, and play in this engaging and educational event. Kids of all ages are welcome to join the fun! Parental supervision is required and there is a cost of $5 per child. For more information, visit www. brooksidemuseum.org.

Celebrate Family Day

Congress Park, Saratoga Springs | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Join us for a FREE fun day in Congress Park. There will be games, crafts, face painting, activities, a toddler play area, free snacks and live music. We will even have free tokens for the Carousel! All this is just to bring the people of Saratoga together for some free fun and entertainment. Come join us, bring along whoever you consider family and let’s celebrate!

Heritage

12 Spring St., Schuylerville | 1 p.m. Bobbi Reno, historian for the town of East Greenbush, will present the program “The Illegal Execution of Pvt. Samuel Helms.” Samuel Helms, stationed in Ulster County during the War of 1812, was arrested and charged with desertion in 1813 and brought to the U. S. Army post, the Greenbush Cantonment, to face a court martial. His execution took place later in 1813. Bobbi’s 15-year research shows that he should only have been charged with going AWOL. She is determined to have his name cleared and to locate his grave. Public is welcome. For information call 518-885-9309.

Frances Day 2025

Tang Museum, Skidmore College, 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 2 p.m. Celebrate the Tang’s 25th anniversary at our annual summer open house with art, artmaking, tours, music, food and more. This year’s event is extra special: the Tang is turning 25 in 2025, and Frances Day marks the first celebration of the milestone year. At 5 p.m., guests are invited to a concert on the lawn with the Albany-based indie-rock band Dan Carr and the Cure for Asthma. All events are free and open to the public. For more information, visit http://tang.skidmore.edu or call the Visitors Services Desk at 518580-8080. Light refreshments will be offered during the day. During the concert, more substantial food will be available; beer and wine will also be available for purchase.

SUNDAY, JULY 20

Summer Sunday Stroll: Down in the Valley: Exploring the Gut

Meet: Northwest corner of Putnam and Spring Streets at the Hathorn Spring, Saratoga Springs | 10:30 a.m. – Noon. Join Alexandra Morgan for the Summer Stroll, “Down in the Valley: Exploring the Gut.” Alexandra explores the area behind Broadway known as “The Gut,” which was home to

many working-class and Jewish families who made important contributions to the community. The cost is $15 for SSPF members and $20 for nonmembers. For additional information or to purchase tickets to any of the upcoming strolls and events, visit www. saratogapreservation.org, call 518-587-5030, or email Sydney Hedge, Preservation & Programs Coordinator, at shedge@ saratogapreservation.org.

Summer Garden Program: The Victorian Fascination with Plants

Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa | 2 p.m. The Victorian language of flowers, floriography, was one of several nonverbal languages used by Victorians. Dr. Catherine Golden will speak more to this, using passages from Victorian literature as examples. Guests will also have the opportunity to make a tussie-mussie (flowers generously donated by Suzanne Balet of Balet Flowers and Design). Registration is required and donations are appreciated. For more information, visit brooksidemuseum.org.

Tradition in Ink: The Art of Rabbi Linda Motzkin

Temple Sinai, 509 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 3 – 5 p.m.

Rabbi Linda Motzkin is one of a handful of women in the world trained as a Hebrew scribe, a role traditionally reserved for men. She is unique among female scribes in that she is the only one who makes her own parchment. Rabbi Motzkin will discuss how she repurposes pieces of parchment into original works, incorporating Hebrew calligraphy drawn from Jewish sacred texts, including the Bible. She also will explain her specific process for making these pieces. Several of her artworks will be available for sale, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting Temple Sinai. A wine and cheese reception follows. Preregistration is required at https:// lp.constantcontactpages.com/ sl/PLAszag/TraditionInk. A $10 donation is requested at the door or by mail to Temple Sinai, 509 Broadway, Saratoga Spring, NY 1266.

MONDAY, JULY 21

2025 Ghost Tours

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

Saratoga Parkinson’s Support Group

The Saratoga Senior Center, 290 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs | 2:30. The meeting will cover how occupational therapy can help those living with Parkinson’s. All are welcome. We look forward to seeing you there. Please contact us with any questions: Leader Gordon Blyth, gordonsblyth@ gmail.com 917- 887-7980 or Co-Leader Marie Thorne, softballmom300@yahoo.com 518-810-8483.

Blacklight Bingo

Clifton Park Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Rd., Clifton Park | 4 p.m. It’s Bingo, but in the dark! Wear your best black light attire--white and neon work best. Prizes will be awarded to the winners. For grades 6-12. Registration required. 518-3718622. www.cphlibrary.org.

The Camp Saratoga 5K Trail Series

Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton | 6:15 p.m. Park in Lots #1 & 2 near Restroom. Adults register online for $10 each race; 13-18 $5/race; under 13 free. Stryder discount 25% off. To minimize trail erosion, entries are capped at 75. Day-of entries will only be accepted if there is room. This is a low-key, all-outdoors event topped off by light refreshments and unusual raffle prizes. Please bring your own water. Proceeds

benefit the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park. Additional dates remaining are August 4 and August 18. For more information, call Laura Clark at 518-581-1278 or visit www. saratogastryders.org.

TUESDAY, JULY 22

The Winner’s Circle Summer Camp

National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, 191 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs | 8 a.m. – Noon. The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame is partnering with Amplify Horse Racing to deliver a one-of-a-kind summer camp experience, right in the heart of Saratoga Springs! The Winner’s Circle Summer Camp will allow students to go behind-the-scenes of Saratoga Race Course and get a firsthand look at what makes it tick. Meet industry professionals, talented riders, and of course, the incredible animals that make thoroughbred racing what it is. Students can expect a four-day intensive course jam-packed with unique experiences. https://1049a.blackbaudhosting. com/1049a/The-Winners-CircleSummer-Camp

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

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

AI Voice & Video Generators

Clifton Park Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Rd., Clifton Park | 1:30 p.m. Learn how artificial intelligence programs can turn scripts and even just ideas/a few sentences into realistic voices and videos in a

Hunters Town of Saratoga Town Hall,

matter of minutes. We’ll explore AI voice and video generators, their common features, and the wide range of content they can produce. Registration required. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary. org

Community Compost Workshop and Tour

Pitney Meadows Community Farm, 223 West Ave., Saratoga Springs | 5:30 p.m. If you’re looking to divert waste from the landfill by turning your food scraps into compost this is the event for you! Come join us on the farm as we dive into the world of compost by learning about household and neighborhood-scale composting methods. We will go through different methods of starting a backyard composting system followed by a tour of the vertical drum composting system happening at Pitney Meadows Community Farm! This program

UPCOMING Events

Upcoming Lawn Sale

Old Stone Church, 159 Stone Church Rd, (town of Milton) Ballston Spa is looking for gently used or new items for their lawn sale to be held July 25 and 26 and August 1, 2, 8 and 9, from 9 a.m. till 3 p.m., Items can be placed on the ramp located in back of the church. Not accepted is exercise equipment, skies, car seats, mattresses. For more information call the church at 518-583-1002.

Moving Wilton

Forward: Campaign Kickoff Fundraiser

Friday July 25, 6 - 8 p.m. at Artisanal Brew Works, 617 Maple Ave, Wilton. Meet three great candidates for Wilton Town Offices in this November’s election! Please join us to support Dr. Toni Sturm for Town Supervisor, Joe Keneally for Town Board and Connor Rohan for Town Board. This is a chance to hear about their vision, ask questions and share your ideas for Wilton’s future. Food provided, cash bar. For information and tickets (order by July 19): https://secure.actblue.com/

is free and open to the public. In the event of inclement weather, this event will be canceled.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 23

Stuffed Shell Dinner

Saratoga Wilton Elks Lodge, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs | 4:30 – 6 p.m. Take out only. Call Monday or Tuesday between 10 a.m. – Noon to place an order at 518-584-2585. Menu: stuffed shells, meatballs, sweet sausage, tossed salad, garlic toast. $15 (cash only).

East Galway Cemetery Association Annual Meeting

Galway Public Library, 2112 East St., Galway | 7 p.m. All lot owners, descendants and anyone interested in the cemetery are welcome to attend.

donate/2025w3artisanal Can’t make it but want to support the candidates? Donate: https:// secure.actblue.com/ donate/2025wdc3candidates-1

2025 AFS Summer Festival

The Adirondack Folk School’s Summer Festival is full of live music, food trucks, artist demos and activities for the whole family to enjoy! First, start at the regatta of Wee Lassie canoes made at the school at Wayside Beach, located at 286 Lake Ave (Rt. 9N), Lake Luzerne, at 9 a.m. Afterwards, the rest of the festival is at the folk school located at 51 Main Street, Lake Luzerne. It’s free to attend, so stop by to see what we’re all about. Saturday July 26, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Exclusive Trunk Show

One of America’s most iconic and beloved women’s fashion designers, Jude Connally Zimmermann, is coming home. Known for her bold prints, effortless silhouettes, and commitment to comfort, Jude launched her American Made first collection in Saratoga Springs in 2011. Now, she returns for a special trunk show at Saratoga Saddlery Boutique, located at 392 Broadway, Saratoga Springs on August 1, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. in time for Whitney

THURSDAY, JULY 24

Ulysses S. Grant Reflects

Grant Cottage, 1000 Mt. McGregor Rd., Wilton | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. A Remembrance Day Living History presentation by Dr. Curt Fields. Join Ulysses S. Grant (portrayed by Dr. Curt Fields) as he looks back on his incredible life and career during his last days on Mt. McGregor. Find out how the support of fellow veterans, a grateful nation, and his loving family made a difference as he raced death to finish his Memoirs for the sake of his family. As part of our Literary Landmark Author Series Dr. Fields will be signing copies of Grant at 200: Reconsidering the Life and Legacy of Ulysses S. Grant and his recently published book Unconditional Surrender: Ulysses S. Grant in the Civil War.

4-H Leaders Chicken BBQ Fund Raiser

4-H Training Center, 556 Middleline Road, Ballston Spa OR at the Saratoga County Fair’s Snack Bar | 4 – 7 p.m. This year, we’re bringing the sizzle with the world-famous Cornell BBQ chicken that’s sure to make your taste buds dance! For just $17, you’ll get a mouthwatering dinner featuring ½ BBQ Chicken, a perfectly baked potato, coleslaw, a dinner roll, Smith’s pie slice, and a refreshing non-alcoholic drink.

Don’t wing it, call the 4-H Office at 518-885-8995 to pre-order your meal today! or go to www. sc4H.org.

Concert in the Park

Stakes weekend. This exclusive event will showcase Jude’s latest collection, designed with all women in mind. Jude’s pieces are a staple for confident, stylish living. Guests will have the rare opportunity to meet Jude in person, explore limited-edition pieces, and learn how summers in Saratoga inspired her fashion journey.

Fifth Annual Lemonade Stand Benefit

Ballston Spa Sunshine Kids Host a family-friendly fundraising event to support Oliver (“Ollie”), a 5-year-old from the Saratoga area who is currently undergoing treatment for leukemia, diagnosed on Christmas Day. This year’s benefit features free kids’ activities, including: a bounce house, face painting, live music, fire trucks to explore, crafts, raffles, food and lemonade. Plus, local organizations and groups are joining in support, including Ballston Spa Fire Department, Ballston Spa EMS, Ballston Spa Wrestling & Football Teams, Boy Scouts, The Saratoga Children’s Museum, Local performances, and much more. Saturday, August 2, 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. at The Ribbon Café, 11 Prospect St., Ballston Spa. All proceeds go directly to Oliver’s care and to support his family during this difficult time. Link to donate: https://gofund.me/831e36a8

week’s concert features The Heavenly Echoes Gospel Band. The concerts continue each week through August 21.

Oh Deer!

Galway Public Library, 2112 East Street, Galway |6:30 p.m. Oh Deer!, an informational program about the most common and commonly misunderstood animal in our backyard – deer. What is their life cycle? How can you know how old they are? Join us to learn fact from fiction. This program is appropriate for teens and adults. Registration is not required but is appreciated; please call 518-882-6385 to register.

Twelve Years a Widow

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

Upbeat on the Roof

Tang Teaching Museum, Skidmore College, 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 6 p.m. To mark the museum’s twenty-fifth anniversary year, some of the favorite acts from previous years will return. This

Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa | 7 p.m. Join Yale historian and Middlebury College teacher, Connor Williams, as he sheds some light on the story of Anne, not only about her life, but also about the challenges of uncovering that story. Anyone who has done historical research knows the difficulties in tracking down the stories of women, particularly working-class women, and especially women of color. The story of Anne Hampton Northup is remarkable. A much sought after cook, she was born free in Washington County and is best known for being the wife of Solomon Northup, who was kidnapped in 1841 and subsequently enslaved for twelve years. But who was Anne, and how did she manage as a single woman, bringing up three children, for twelve years until her husband’s return?

Saratoga County Fair Returns: WRESTLING,

KANGAROOS, AIR RIFLES, MAGICIANS, & MORE

by Jonathon Norcross for Saratoga TODAY

BALLSTON SPA — There aren’t many places on earth where you can see a kangaroo, professional wrestling match, beauty pageant, magician, and a waterskiing squirrel all in one day. But you can do it at the 2025 Saratoga County Fair, which returns to Ballston Spa on July 22 and runs until July 27.

This year, the fair will be open 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. from Tuesday through Saturday, then from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. on Sunday. Parking is free in the fair parking lots, with shuttle buses available for those in lot D. Admission costs $15, but is free for kids 12 and younger. Tickets are still available online at www. saratogacountyfair.org/home.

Amusements of America will be providing the rides, games, and food offerings in the carnival section of the fair every day from noon until 10 p.m. Rides include adult attractions like the Crazy Mouse; Starship 3,000; Pharaoh’s Fury; Free Fall; Sky Fall; Orbiter; and Top Gun. Family-friend rides include two Ferris wheels; the Wacky Worm roller coaster; bumper cars; a carousel; and a Tilt-A-Whirl. As for food, expect everything from deep-fried favorites to local

gourmet food trucks. The fair’s itinerary is packed with activities, shows, exhibitions, and events. For a full list, you can view the fair’s calendar on its website. But we at Saratoga TODAY have prepared this curated schedule of some of the most exciting, unique, and just plain weird things to do at the 2025 fair. We’ve also bolded some special headlining events for each day. No matter what your interests or hobbies, there’s something for everyone, even if it’s just snacking on a funnel cake and riding some rides (though, we recommend having the funnel cake after the rides, not before).

TUESDAY, JULY 22

• County Draft Horse Show (10 a.m. at the Adirondack Trust Company Horse Show Ring)

• 4-H shooting sports booths (archery, air rifle, and laser from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m.)

• Drive a robot at the 4-H Center (10 a.m. until 10 p.m.)

• Niagara Down Under (kangaroos and more from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m.)

• 4-H Goat Show (1 p.m. in the Small Animal Show Ring)

• Dialed Action Sports BMX bicycle stunt show (at The

Point/Gardiner Walk at 12, 4, and 7 p.m.)

• Twiggy the Water Skiing Squirrel (shows at 1:30, 3:30, and 5:30 p.m. at the Grandstand Meadow Stage 2 Area)

• Magician Alyx Hilshey (performances at 1 and 3 p.m. in the Talent Building)

• Saratoga County Fair Pageant (4 p.m. in the Talent Building)

• 4-H Swine Show (6 p.m.)

• Beatin’ the Odds concert (7 to 10 p.m. at the Jeff Townsend Live Music Pavilion)

• Demolition Derby (7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Grandstand)

WEDNESDAY, JULY 23

• County Draft Horse Show (9 a.m. at the Adirondack Trust Company Horse Show Ring)

• 4-H Dairy Cattle Show (10 a.m. at the Stewart’s Dairy Show Ring)

• 4-H shooting sports booths (archery, air rifle, and laser from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m.)

• Drive a robot at the 4-H Center (10 a.m. until 10 p.m.)

• Niagara Down Under (kangaroos and more from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m.)

• Open Draft Horse Show (1 p.m. at the Adirondack Trust Company Horse Show Ring)

• Twiggy the Water Skiing Squirrel (shows at 1:30, 3:30, and 5:30 p.m. at the Grandstand Meadow Stage 2 Area)

• 4-H Sheep Show (3 p.m. in the Small Animal Show Ring)

• Dialed Action Sports BMX bicycle stunt show (at The Point/Gardiner Walk at 3, 5, and 8 p.m.)

• Saratoga’s Got Talent (6 p.m. in the Talent Building)

• The Dynasty professional wrestling (7 p.m. at the Grandstand)

• River Country Band concert (7 to 10 p.m. at the Jeff Townsend Live Music Pavilion)

THURSDAY, JULY 24

• 4-H Western Horse Show (10 a.m. at the Adirondack Trust Company Horse Show Ring)

• 4-H shooting sports booths (archery, air rifle, and laser from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m.)

• Drive a robot at the 4-H Center (10 a.m. until 10 p.m.)

• Magician Alyx Hilshey (performances at 12, 2, and 4 p.m. in the Talent Building)

• Niagara Down Under (kangaroos and more from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m.)

• Magician Alyx Hilshey (performances at 12, 2, and 4 p.m. in the Talent Building) 4-H Alpaca

Show (1 p.m. in the Small Animal Show Ring)

• Twiggy the Water Skiing Squirrel (shows at 1:30, 3:30, and 5:30 p.m. at the Grandstand Meadow Stage 2 Area)

• Dialed Action Sports BMX bicycle stunt show (at The Point/Gardiner Walk at 3, 5, and 8 p.m.)

• Stewart’s Ice Cream Eating Contest (3:30 p.m. in the Townley Building)

• Goat Show (4 p.m. in the Small Animal Show Ring)

• 4-H Beef Show (4 p.m. in the Stewart’s Dairy Show Ring)

• Tractor Pull (6 p.m.)

• Saratoga’s Got Talent (6 p.m. in the Talent Building)

• County Draft Horse Show (7 p.m. at the Adirondack Trust Company Horse Show Ring)

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Saratoga County Fair Returns: WRESTLING,

KANGAROOS, AIR RIFLES, MAGICIANS, & MORE

Posters provided.

• Family Bingo (7 p.m. in the Lewis Building)

• Skeeter Creek concert (7 to 10 p.m. at the Jeff Townsend Live Music Pavilion)

FRIDAY, JULY 25

• 4-H English Horse Show (10 a.m. at the Adirondack Trust Company Horse Show Ring)

• Dairy Cattle Show (10 a.m. at the Stewart’s Dairy Show Ring)

• The Children’s Museum at Saratoga (10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Lewis Building)

• 4-H shooting sports booths (archery, air rifle, and laser from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m.)

• Drive a robot at the 4-H Center (10 a.m. until 10 p.m.)

• Niagara Down Under (kangaroos and more from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m.)

• Magician Alyx Hilshey (performances at 12, 2, and 4 p.m. in the Talent Building)

• The Dambreakers concert (1 to 4 p.m. at the Jeff Townsend Live Music Pavilion)

• Twiggy the Water Skiing Squirrel (shows at 1:30, 3:30, and 5:30 p.m. at the Grandstand Meadow Stage 2 Area)

• Dialed Action Sports BMX bicycle stunt show (at The Point/Gardiner Walk at 3, 5, and 8 p.m.) Taste of Saratoga County (local culinary delights in the Townley Building from 4 to 6 p.m.)

• Draft Horse Obstacle Course and Games (5:30 p.m. at the Adirondack Trust Company Horse Show Ring)

• Saratoga’s Got Talent (6 p.m. in the Talent Building)

• Family Bingo (7 p.m. in the Lewis Building)

• • Electric Rodeo concert (7 to 11 p.m. at the Jeff Townsend Live Music Pavilion)

SATURDAY, JULY 26

• 4-H Rabbit Show (9 a.m. at the Small Animal Show Ring)

• 4-H shooting sports booths (archery, air rifle, and laser from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m.)

• Drive a robot at the 4-H Center (10 a.m. until 10 p.m.)

• Niagara Down Under (kangaroos and more from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m.)

• Magician Alyx Hilshey (performances at 12, 4, and 6 p.m. in the Talent Building)

• The Bennett Brothers concert (12 to 3 p.m. at the Jeff Townsend Live Music Pavilion)

• Twiggy the Water Skiing Squirrel (shows at 1:30, 3:30, and 5:30 p.m. at the Grandstand Meadow Stage 2 Area)

• 4-H Poultry Show (2 p.m. in the Small Animal Show Ring)

• Dialed Action Sports BMX bicycle stunt show (at The Point/Gardiner Walk at 3, 5, and 8 p.m.)

• Taste of Saratoga County (local culinary delights in the Townley Building from 4 to 6 p.m.)

• 4 Wheel Drive Truck Pull (7 p.m.)

• 4-H Young Farmers Olympics (7 p.m. in the Stewart’s Dairy Show Ring)

• Family Bingo (7 p.m. in the Lewis Building)

• Big Sky Country concert (7 to 11 p.m. at the Jeff Townsend Live Music Pavilion)

SUNDAY, JULY 27

• 4-H Master Showman (9 a.m. to 12 p.m.)

• 4-H shooting sports booths (archery, air rifle, and laser from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m.)

• Drive a robot at the 4-H Center (10 a.m. until 10 p.m.)

• Niagara Down Under (kangaroos and more from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m.)

• Magician Alyx Hilshey (performances at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m. in the Talent Building)

• Dialed Action Sports BMX bicycle stunt show (at The Point/Gardiner Walk at 12, 4, and 7 p.m.)

• Country line dancing lessons (from 12 to 2 p.m. at the Jeff Townsend Live Music Pavilion)

• Cosplay costuming construction (12 to 3 p.m. in the Lewis Building)

• 4-H Dog Show (1 p.m. in the Stewart’s Dairy Show Ring)

• Twiggy the Water Skiing Squirrel (shows at 1:30, 3:30, and 5:30 p.m. at the Grandstand Meadow Stage 2 Area)

• Saratoga’s Got Talent: Best of Fair (4 p.m. in the Talent Building)

• The Down Home Boys concert (4 to 8 p.m. at the Jeff Townsend Live Music Pavilion)

• Demolition Derby (6:30 p.m. at the Grandstand)

Vocal Ensemble to Perform in Saratoga

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Excelsior Vocal Ensemble will present “Celestial England” at the Bethesda Episcopal Church at 26 Washington Street on July 19 at 3 p.m.

Excelsior will perform English choral music from across the centuries, including Herbert Howells’ “Requiem,” William Byrd’s “Mass for Five Voices,” five spirituals from “A Child of Our Time” by Michael Tippett, and selections from Gustav Holst’s “Choral Folk Songs.” Special guest organist Derek Stannard will also perform.

For tickets, visit www.saratoga-arts.org/events.

New Food and Beverage Offerings at the Track

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Last week, the New York Racing Association (NYRA) announced a variety of new additions to its food and beverage lineup for this year’s Saratoga Race Course summer meet.

Saratoga Sunrise, the official cocktail of Saratoga Race Course, has undergone a change: lemonade has replaced orange juice in a recipe that includes Belvedere vodka, grenadine, and a lemon garnish.

Five newly redesigned food carts will debut trackside, including: Union Ave Grill (sweet sausage with roasted tomato and onion piperade), Toga Gyros (a vegetarian favorite with crispy falafel bites paired with a refreshing cucumber yogurt sauce), Taco Republic (chicken carnitas tacos, slow-braised and pulled, layered with pico de gallo, salsa verde, and cilantro on warm flour tortillas), Capital Q (slow-smoked BBQ brisket panini with barbecue sauce, crispy onions, and pickled jalapeños), and the Carnegie

Hot Dog Cart (a spicy all-beef sausage dressed with classic toppings: Dusseldorf mustard, relish, sauerkraut, chopped raw onions, and a NY pushcart onion sauce).

The new Subourbon Life canned cocktail line features non-carbonated, Bourbonbased drinks, including Bourbon and Pink Lemonade; Bourbon Iced Tea and Lemonade; and the Bourbon Margarita, comprised of Bourbon, lime and a touch of

citrus. Each option is available at the Subourbon Beverage Express adjacent to the Finish Line Bar and Grill.

The list of new and returning spirits and wines includes: Bulleit Bourbon; Casamigos and Tres Agaves Tequila; Hendrick’s Gin; Mount Gay Rum; Moët & Chandon Champagne; Mionetto Prosecco; Josh Cellars, Ruffino and Joel Gott Wines, including a light pinot grigio from Ménage à Trois; and Albany-based ALB Vodka.

Local Youth Dancers Vie for Coveted Roles in New York City Ballet Production

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

More than 250 kids from across the Capital Region auditioned earlier this year for roles in the New York City Ballet (NYCB) production of “Coppelia” at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC). Of those tiny dancers, less than 40 made the cut. It was, said NYCB Children’s Repertory Director Dena Abergel, an alltime record for the most young auditioners.

“Usually we get 60, 70 kids,” Abergel told Saratoga TODAY. “It was unbelievable. I came into the room and the whole thing was full.”

“Coppelia,” which was performed at SPAC from July 9 to 12, included 24 children’s roles with 8 understudies, plus a few teenage roles. Whittling down the list of candidates entailed both technical and practical considerations; being able to do the steps properly was clutch, but height requirements also came into play. Once the select few were chosen in March, Abergel returned to Saratoga in late June for a “Coppelia” intensive that included daily, four-hour rehearsals.

“They were learning a tremendous amount of choreography each day,” Abergel said. “This is actually the most dancing that there is for a children’s role. It’s real ballet. It’s not like stand on the side and jump and move your arms. This is real technique, real ballet. So, we need a lot of time to teach them [George] Balanchine’s beautiful choreography.

Two kid dancers from the Saratoga area, Bryn Gowan and Madeline Del Prete, had to rehearse for around 30 hours, in addition to practicing at home. But they seemed to thrive in the midst of this demanding schedule.

“It’s like the best thing I’ve ever done in my life,” Del Prete said of the experience.

“It’s a little exciting but also a little nerve-wracking because you’re around a bunch of really good dancers,” added Gowan, who studies at the Saratoga Springs Youth Ballet.

Gowan also performed with the NYCB last year, while Del Prete made her debut this summer. Both said they intend to keep dancing well into adulthood.

“It’s really fun to move your body in a different way,” Del Prete said. “It’s technically hard but it’s just so fun to do.”

Photos of highlighted food options at Saratoga Race Course by Aidan Cahill.

Local youth dancers rehearse on the SPAC stage for “Coppelia.”

Photo by Jonathon Norcross. by Jonathon Norcross for Saratoga TODAY

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: Kamikaze, Hara-kiri

Kamikaze is Japanese suicide by crashing an aircraft on the enemy, and Hara-kiri is Japanese suicide by slitting the belly.

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

Inuit,

Yupik peoples

Publication Day: Friday

Notice of formation of Amy Nistico Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry, PLLC. Articles of Organization file with New York State Dept. of State on 11/04/2024. The County within this state in which the office of the limited liability company is located in is Saratoga. The Secretary of State is designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. The address to which the Secretary of State shall mail process is to the limited liability company at Amy Nistico Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry, PLLC, 82 Thimbleberry Road, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Company is organized for Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry. 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08/2025. 15179

Notice of formation of ABC Personal Planning Strategies LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 05/28/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 38 Woodthrush Court, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6/13, 6/20, 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18/2025. 15260

Notice of Formation of Limited Liability Company Pursuant to New York Limited Liability Law, Section 206(c). The name of the limited liability company is 683 Ventures LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York on April 30, 2025. The office of the limited liability company is to be located in Saratoga County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process may be served. The post office address to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process served is c/o Michael Blaauboer, 3790 Albatross Street, San Diego CA 92103. The purpose of the business is to

engage in any lawful activity for which limited liability companies may be organized under the Limited Liability Company Law. 6/13, 6/20, 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18/2025. 15263

Notice of formation of Uncommon Online LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 6/10/25. 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: PO Box 1349, Bronx, NY 10471. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6/13, 6/20, 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18/2025. 15272

Notice of formation of CONSCIOUSLY CURLY LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 06/10/2025 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 8 Foxhall Dr. Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/01/2025. 15269

Notice of formation of Saratoga Fishing Charter and Boat Tours LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 05/05/2025 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: 26 Springwood Meadows Dr., Ballston spa, NY 12020Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6/13, 6/20, 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18/25/2025. 15277

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: 20 Sheldon LLC. Articles of organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 06/05/2025.

LEGALS

Office location: Saratoga County. Matthew W. Hardt has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. Matthew W. Hardt shall mail a copy of the process to the LLC at 20 Sheldon Drive, Mechanicville, NY 12118. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 6/20, 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25/2025. 15291

Notice of Formation - LMNOP Advisors, LLC (“LLC”) filed Articles of Organization with the NY Sec. of State (“SSNY”) on 6/3/25. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to Lynda M. Niemeyer, 83 Vischer Ferry Road, Rexford, NY 12148. Purpose: any lawful activity. 6/20, 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25/2025. 15297

Notice of Formation - Flair Pot, LLC (“LLC”) filed Articles of Organization with the NY Sec. of State (“SSNY”) on 6/6/25. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to Susan Waterman, 606 Riverview Road, Rexford, NY 12148.

Purpose: any lawful activity. 6/20, 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25/2025. 15299

4 Bells Lane, LLC. NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Notice of Formation of 4 Bells Lane, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 9/27/2024. Office Location: Saratoga County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 4 Bells Lane, Waterford, NY 12188. Purpose: any lawful activity. 6/20, 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25/2025. 15300

Editsweet Holdings, LLC filed

Art. of Org. with the Sec’y of State of NY (SSNY) on 06/16/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent for the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: Editsweet Holdings, LLC, 333 Jatski Drive, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 Purpose: any lawful act. 6/20, 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25/2025. 15335

Notice of formation of AMERICAN CUSTOM DECKS AND MORE LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 6/17/2025. 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: 622 Rock City Rd., Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6/27, 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/1/2025. 15339

Notice of formation of THE EDIT 79 LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 06/08/2025Office: 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: 79 Washington St. Saratoga Springs NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08/2025. 15359

Notice of formation of AMANDA NICOLE LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 06/18/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 8 Olympia Ct Mechanicville NY 12118. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08/2025. 15373

Notice of formation of Thomas Construction Group LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 06/25/2025. 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: 137 Ashdown Rd, Ballston Lake NY 12019. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08/2025. 15375

Notice of formation of Light & Roots LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 05/30/2025 Office: Saratoga County. United States Corporation Agents, Inc 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: 7014 13th Ave, Suite 202, Brooklyn, NY 11228. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08/2025. 15386

Notice of formation of Capital District Auto Detailing LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 04/28/25. 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: 4436 NY 30, Unit #1, Amsterdam, New York 12010. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08/2025. 15378

Formation of a New York Limited Liability Company. The name of the limited liability company is 23 ELIZABETH STREET LLC (The LLC). The date of filing of the Articles of Organization with the Department of State was 06/24/25. 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 245 Washington Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08/2025. 15380

Notice of formation of Tribute to Trinket LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 03/05/2025 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: 385 Caroline Street Saratoga Springs, NY. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08/2025. 15381

Formation of a New York Limited Liability Company. The name of the limited liability company is 236 MAIN STREET LLC (The LLC).

The date of filing of the Articles of Organization with the Department of State was 06/24/25. 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 245 Washington Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08/2025. 15387

Bang & Bloom LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on July 2, 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 any process to: 13 Fawn Drive, Ballston Spa. NY, 12020. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08. 8/15/2025. 15398

Notice of formation of Stim City LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 6/30/2025. 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: 6 Crocus Ct., South Glens Falls, NY 12803. Any lawful purpose. 7/04, 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08/2025. 15405

Notice of formation of WALKER’S AND SON CONTRACTING, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the

Secretary of State of New York on 03/07/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 16 LAKESIDE AVENUE, MECHANICVILLE, NY 12118. Any lawful purpose. 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15/2025. 15408

Notice of formation of LIVE NOW THERAPY LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 03/13/2025 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 24 Bog Meadow Run, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15/2025. 15410

Notice of formation of Stream Home LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 03/13/2025 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 1216 NYS Rt 9N Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22/2025. 15407

NOTICE 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. Thursday, July 24, 2025, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read aloud for Rock Salt, as per specification 25-PWS-10R. 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 - 518885-2210) 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 07/18/2025, 15424

Notice of registration of PEO Blueprint LLC. Authority filed with the Secretary of State of

LEGALS

New York on 05/06/2025 . Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to: c/o 3H Legal Services, PLLC, 36 Long Alley, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22/2025. 15427

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Saratoga County Department of Central Services, 50 West High Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 will receive sealed bids until 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 5, 2025 at which time bids will be publicly opened and read aloud for the Jail Roof Replacement, as per specification 25-PWJRRP-6.

A pre-bid conference will be held at the Saratoga County Jail located at 6010 County Farm, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 on Tuesday, July 17, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. Prospective bidders are advised to visit the site and become familiar with existing conditions. All questions should be directed to the consultant engineer Kaitlyn Coldwell with Greenman Pedersen Inc., @ kcoldwell@gpinet.com.

Bid documents may only be obtained on or after Thursday, July 10, 2025 from The Empire State Bid System at no cost from the following website: www. empirestatebidsystem.com

Saratoga County, through its Central Services Department, reserves the right to reject parts of any or all bids. All work shall be subject to equal opportunity in employment, State wage rates and all other requirements in accordance with applicable law.

JOHN T. WARMT

Director of Purchasing

Saratoga County

07/18/2025, 15428

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. Thursday, August 7, 2025, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read aloud for Microwave Radio System Maintenance, as per specification 25-ESMSM-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 - 518885-2210) 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 07/18/2025, 15429

Notice of formation of Skool of Fish LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 06/27/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 100 Saratoga Village Blvd., Suite 52, Malta, NY 12020. Any lawful purpose. 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22/2025. 15435

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

Notice of formation of 51 Kent Street, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 07/08/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 51 Kent St., Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Any lawful purpose. 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22/2025. 15444

Notice of formation of 2 Hearn Road, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 07/08/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 51 Kent St., Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Any lawful purpose. 7/18, 7/25, 8/01, 8/08, 8/15, 8/22/2025. 15445

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

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

The Department of Central Services of Saratoga County will receive sealed bids in person or electronically through the Empire State Purchasing System Website until 11:00 a.m. on the following dates at which time bids will be publicly opened and read aloud: July 28, 2025 Vehicle Computers/Hardware, specification 25-SDVCH-1 August 7, 2025 Leased Copiers/Maintenance, specification 25-CML-2 Bid forms and instructions are available at the Department of Central Services, 50 W. High Street, Ballston Spa, NY between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (telephone - 518885-2210) 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 07/18/2025, 15452

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Saratoga County Department of Central Services, 50 West High Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 will receive sealed proposals until 5:00 p.m. Friday, August 15, 2025 for Engineering Services for Collection System I & I Study, as per specification 25-RFP-SDCSS-1. Bid documents may only be obtained on or after Thursday, July 17, 2025 from The Empire State Bid System at no cost from the following website: www. empirestatebidsystem.com

Saratoga County, through its Central Services Department, reserves the right to reject parts of any or all bids. All work shall be subject to equal opportunity in employment, State wage rates and all other requirements in accordance with applicable law.

JOHN T. WARMT

Director of Purchasing Saratoga County 07/18/2025, 15454

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News & Notes:

WEEK 2 EVENTS AT SARATOGA RACE COURSE

Photo: NYRA

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

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

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

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

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

SARATOGA HAWAIIAN SHIRT GIVEAWAY:

SUNDAY, JULY 20

Say “Aloha” to the ultimate summer statement with a red-and-white floral Saratoga Hawaiian shirt. The t-shirt will be available in two sizes: medium and extra-large. Available free with paid admission, while supplies last.

FIRST RESPONDERS DAY:

THURSDAY, JULY 24

Saratoga Race Course will pay tribute to first responders with free admission (ID required). Presented by Albany Med, First Responders Day will include a series of ceremonial events and feature the New York State Troopers Pipes and Drums. Presented by Albany Med

News & Notes:

WEEK 2 EVENTS AT SARATOGA RACE COURSE

FAMILY SUNDAYS AT THE FAMILY FUN ZONE:

EVERY SUNDAY BEGINNING JULY 13

Family Sundays will feature a wide variety of free family-friendly activities, games, attractions, and educational activities each Sunday inside the Family Zone, located near Gate A at the Top of the Stretch.

INTRODUCTION TO HANDICAPPING:

EVERY SUNDAY BEGINNING JULY 13

Offered every Sunday in the Paddock Suite, fans can learn betting strategies and tips from an expert handicapper. Tickets start at $85 and include admission, Post Parade program book, seasonal light fare, and a table seat for the day within the climate-controlled, shared suite overlooking the historic saddling area. Tickets can be purchased online by clicking here.

SUNDAY BRUNCH AT THE RAIL OF THE 1863 CLUB:

EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY BEGINNING JULY 12

Fans are invited to enjoy a brunch buffet while experiencing The Rail at the 1863 Club, the first-floor banquet space at the 1863 Club. Tickets start at $110 and include admission, a table seat for the day, brunch buffet, soft drinks, Post Parade program book, tax, and gratuity. Reservations are available by calling the NYRA Box Office at 844-NYRA-TIX or online at Ticketmaster.com.

HORSE SENSE:

EVERY SUNDAY BEGINNING JULY 13

Fans of all ages can pet a retired thoroughbred every Saturday and Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. at Horse Sense located inside Gate A. The educational exhibit includes fun facts about the life and career of a thoroughbred.

STAKE RACES

*Mondays and Tuesdays = Dark Days. No racing.

FRIDAY, JULY 18

Shuvee (G2): F&M 4&UP, 1 1/8 - Dirt, Purse $200,000

SATURDAY, JULY 19

Coaching Club American Oaks (G1): F3YO, 1 1/8 - Dirt, Purse $500,000

Alfred G. Vanderbilt (G2): 4&UP, 6 Furlongs - Dirt, Purse $400,000

Caress (G3): F&M 3&UP, 5 1/2 Furlongs - Turf, Purse $175,000

SUNDAY, JULY 20

Honorable Miss: F&M 3&UP, 6 Furlongs - Dirt, Purse $200,000

WEDNESDAY, JULY 23

A.P. Smithwick Memorial (G1): 4&UP, 2 3/8 - Turf (Steeplechase), Purse $150,000

THURSDAY, JULY 24

Curlin pres. by Casamigos (NW GSS 1 mile or over in 2025): 3YO, 1 1/8 - Dirt, Purse $135,000

HIGH NOON AND BELMONT JEWEL SAMPLING:

FRIDAY, JULY 18

Fans 21 and over will have an opportunity to sample High Noon and Lucky one at the High Noon Clubhouse Grill; as well as the Belmont Jewel, the official cocktail of the Belmont Stakes, at the Jim Dandy Bar presented by Redemption Bourbon. Samples will be available from noon to 4 p.m., while supplies last.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH BOOTH:

SATURDAY, JULY 19

Great Strides Equestrian will occupy the Community Outreach Booth raising support to provide polo and horseback riding lessons to underfunded, inner city teens and to encourage them to become lifelong equestrian enthusiasts.

A Determined Trailblazer

by Bill Orzell

for Saratoga TODAY

The first week of the 2025 race meet at Saratoga saw trainer Michelle Nevin notch a victory, and Linda Rice win four. Also the two-year-old bay colt named for the late veterinarian, Dr. Bob Agne, and trained by Cherie DeVaux, achieved a storybook win.

Saratoga has proven a fortunate location for women trainers with an interesting and early example being Suzanne Zinser. She certainly had a fascinating trip on her way to the saddling paddock, having been born in Stuttgart, Germany where her father was an art collector and merchant.

When the Second World War broke out in 1939, following the invasion of Poland and prior to US involvement, her father Richard H. Zinser was in New York on business. Fourteen year old Suzanne and her mother fled to Belgium, staying ahead of the Nazis by moving to France, Spain, Portugal and North Africa before the family was reunited in Forest Hills, New York, a suburban section of Queens.

At high school during the War, a girlfriend took her to Belmont Park, not for the races but because they could visit and pet the horses along the backside

there. Trainer Frank Moore saw Suzanne’s enthusiasm for the animal and handed her the lead shank. Soon after that, she began walking hots for Mr. Moore, before and after school. Eventually she joined his string, via city bus, at Gotham’s other two racetracks, Jamaica and Aqueduct. Following her high school graduation at Forest Hills, Suzanne continued her education at Skidmore, where she graduated with the Class of 1949.

By time she arrived at Skidmore, or perhaps due to the unbelievable influence of the Spa, Suzanne knew she wanted a career in the equine industry. She studied English and Journalism in college with the notion of becoming a turf writer. She worked hard in Saratoga, correcting papers and doing office work, as well as working mornings around what had been the old Beverwyck Stable on East Ave, where some owners wintered their horses. Suzanne built a savings account while away at school.

The press box of the 1950s was an all-male domain, with powerful guilds in place to protect their membership.

The New York Turf Writers Association would find temporary positions for outof-work scribes as parimutuel clerks, in the publicity department, as ushers or hotwalkers, to keep these guys on the track and their hand

in the game. Their editors were reluctant to introduce a pretty young woman into that cloistered environment.

Suzanne Zinser exercised an option no one could prevent; she bought a thoroughbred, a brown filly named Give Thanks, price $1,000. An amazing bit of irony and coincidence regarding female conditioners needs to be noted here, Give Thanks was a daughter of Thanksgiving, who won the 1938 Travers Stakes for trainer Mary Hirsch, the very first female trainer. Give Thanks ran well for Suzanne, and she made a profit, retiring the mare when she detected her maternal desire taking over.

Suzanne’s next step in 1952 was to take out a trainer’s license and condition for clients on the New York circuit, supplementing her income by also striding the sales floor of B. Altman. Suzanne owned horses most of her life and was one of just a few female thoroughbred trainers in America in the 1950s.

She appeared on the popular TV shows What’s My Line and Wide World of Sports because she was performing an unusual occupation at the time for women, which also opened unique advertising opportunities for her. Returning to Saratoga Springs to conduct her professional duties, Suzanne frequently roomed at the venerable Race View structure

on Nelson Avenue, directly across from the Wilson Chute.

Suzanne married Rutger Rosenborg in 1957 and they operated Pennfields Farm in Stockton, New Jersey for many years. Suzanne Zinser Rosenborg died of lung cancer at her farm July 9, 2005, but only weeks before, on May 29, 2005 wrote in the New York Times:

“To the Sports Editor: I resisted commenting until now on Bill Finley’s article (“A Good Rider’s Looks Can Get in the Way,” May 18) elevating a girl jockey on the basis of harassment without ever establishing what abilities she brings to the sport. I speak from personal knowledge because I was a horse trainer in 1952 - one of at most three female trainers before women were accepted in the game. But I found that when I established my abilities and desire to work in that maledominated field, I received respect and never heard a derogatory word spoken in my presence. I think we dwell on harassment and never mention that it is our own attitude that brings these things to pass. Let’s ask jockeys Julie Krone, Donna Barton and others how they managed to succeed. When I returned as a horse owner in 1988, my trainer and I never hesitated using girl riders based on their abilities in handling a horse.”

One of the all-time legends had time for an interested pupil

photos provided

In the Press

An income supplement for the horse trainer

Rain Spoils the Party

by William G. Gotimer, Jr. for Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Opening week (for the third time this year) was a party that was largely spoiled by rain. Heavy localized downpours each night over Saratoga Race Course resulted in numerous races being moved off the two turf courses onto the main track (many run out of the dreaded Wilson Chute). It’s an all-toofamiliar routine.

When the rains come, fans who salivate over the large juicy turf fields are disappointed to see them dramatically reduced due to the surface switch. The outcome is unappetizing racing and a significantly reduced betting handle. There is also frustration for all involved. The tension between wanting to keep races on the grass and wishing to protect the grass courses from damage done by running in wet conditions is palpable. The New York Racing Association fears damaging the grass courses, thereby risking additional cancellations or unsafe conditions for the bulk of the meet, but fans and horsemen bristle at seeing racing moved to

the main track on sunny days.

This problem has grown with increased popularity of grass races (and the seasonal weather patterns in Saratoga Springs). There is no easy solution to this conundrum, but solutions are worth exploring. Each suggestion has its drawbacks and limitations.

Among them:

- Replacing one of the turf courses with a synthetic course. This leaves turf racing more vulnerable to damaged course conditions as more races will be run over the remaining course while providing no guarantee that trainers will run over the synthetic course rather than scratch (and that bettors will bet). There is also the aesthetics damage of removing lush green acreage.

- Carding actual substitute races as opposed to taking “Main Track Only” entries. Each grass race would be cancelled when the course was unavailable and replaced with a completely new race with different entries. While better than the hodgepodge remainder in these races, this is a logistic and practical nightmare which may cause even smaller fields and more frustration.

- Install/use a tarp system to cover the grass courses to protect the courses - like what is done in baseball. The dimensions and cost of equipment and manpower makes this impractical as does the speed with which storms develop in the area, but it should be studied for some instances.

- Run grass races only in the second half of the meeting when damage to the course would have less of a lasting impact. Obviously, this

is self-defeating – promoting grass racing by not having grass racing for much of the meet – but it might provide some consistency with the first half promoting dirt racing and the second half turf racing.

- Stop carding an inordinate number of grass races on a particular card. Last Sunday’s card had six of ten races on the grass course which seems unwise, particularly early in the season. Balance would seem to be the key.

- Promote dirt racing. The dirt races are difficult to fill with trainers and owners preferring the grass races. However, incentives to run on the main track and the prospect of fewer grass races could be the impetus to change that. Grass racing is popular with horsemen and betters, but it cannot be ignored that Oaklawn Park in Arkansas has seen large fields and healthy mutual handle each year without a turf course.

Grass trips

Speaking of grass races… two weekends in a row, odds-on grass favorites were narrowly beaten after wide trips with no cover. When riding the best horse, the cautious approach is to make sure the runner has clear sailing. But as the connections of Nitrogen in the Belmont Oaks Invitational Stakes and She Feels Pretty in the Diana Stakes can attest, lost ground can prove too taxing. Both fillies were gallant in defeat but were asked to do too much.

Journalism to the Haskell Saratoga will share the racing spotlight this weekend with Monmouth Park, where Preakness winner Journalism returns in the Haskell Stakes to face Gosger and Goal Oriented,

both of whom he defeated in the Preakness. Journalism “dances every dance” and his connections are to be commended for racing him while he is fit, but history has shown very good horses are vulnerable after a taxing triple crown campaign. Let’s hope a rematch with Sovereignty later in the year is in the offing.

Live music in SaratogaKiah Saxe

Top line professional music fills the Saratoga Performing Arts Center each year but live music in bars and downtown clubs has been a staple of the racing season for a century. The

quality varies (which is what makes it fun). One high-energy crowd-pleasing band is The Hey Nows. The Hudson Valleybased cover band led by vocalist Paul Serrao has often played in the area. The group now features an extraordinary young female vocalist – Kiah Saxe from New Paltz. The enthusiastic crowd at The Ice House was treated to a powerful, enthusiastic, and talented performance by Ms. Saxe that was worthy of many repeats and portends a bright future. The Hey Nows return to The Ice House on Aug. 22. Mark your calendar to see this woman perform.

Photo courtesy of NYRA

A Shocking Saratoga Result for Maury Povich

Written by Tony Podlaski for Saratoga TODAY

Maury Povich had been known to deliver shocking results to his guests on his syndicated television show.

However, the retired longtime television personality had his own shocking results on Friday when My Flicker gave him, trainer Phillip Capuano, and jockey Carlos Lopez their first winner at Saratoga Race Course.

Coming from Laurel Park, My Flicker stalked the pace from the outside through the first quarter before jockey Lopez made his move going into the far turn, then cruised to a four-length victory in a $50,000 claiming race for fillies and mares.

“When I saw that race in the book at Saratoga, if there was a race that I could win for Maury, even as competitive as it is up there, then this would be it,” Capuano said. “It reaffirmed me when I saw the form and the perfect post position. She has good tactical speed to break

sharp. From there, she can go on the front end or she can sit just off the pace. She ran a great race.”

“When he was a kid, his father used to bring him to Saratoga a lot,” Capuano added. “More than anything, we wanted a win at Saratoga. I’m happy for him.”

Povich and his wife Connie Chung, a journalist and news anchor, have been involved in Thoroughbred racing over the last six years on the Maryland circuit with their Mopo Racing Stable. Dale Capuano, who won 3,662 races during this 41-year career, had been their trainer before his retirement in 2022.

During their time, they had the multiple stakes-winning gelding Alwaysinahurry and the undefeated Moquist.

At the latter part of Dale Capuano’s training career, his

nephew Phillip Capuano helped him. Simultaneously, Phillip Capuano had been working for his father Gary Capuano, who trained Captain Bodgit to win the Florida Derby and Wood Memorial before finishing second in the Kentucky Derby and third in the Preakness in 1997. Phillip Capuano assisted his uncle for a couple of months before taking over his horses, which included Povich’s horses.

“I worked for my father for years,” Phillip Capuano said. “I learned a lot from him. He has been a fantastic trainer. He is continuing to have a lot of success in the mid-Atlantic region, especially with young horses and 2-year-olds. He’s fantastic in developing and

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Photo of My Flicker via Adam Coglianese/NYRA.

A Shocking Result for Maury Povich

In this game, there are so many things that have to go your way. “

keeping horses going. My only regret is not working long enough with Dale before he retired.”

Over the last couple of years, Povich and Chung have raced just five horses that make up the Mopo Racing Stable. With the help of Phillip Capuano, they are hoping to build on that, especially with horses like My Flicker, who they claimed in April for $40,000, and a pair of 2-year-olds who were bought at this year’s Fasig-Tipton Midlantic Sales at Timonium in May.

“We had talked back in December. His stable was dwindling down and he wanted to get a couple of horses,” Phillip Capuano said. “A mare like [My Flicker] who has proven to win or be right there and be ultra-competitive, those are the kind of horses that Maury is looking for. He doesn’t mind buying horses out of the sales or claiming.”

“Maury and Connie are such great people,” Phillip Capuano added. “Even when things are down, they are always optimistic. I couldn’t ask for better connections to work for. I couldn’t ask for a better opportunity after my uncle Dale

retired. They had no problem bringing their horses to me. It means the world to me. I’ll do anything and everything that I can to provide them success and fun.”

Before the Saratoga meet comes to an end on Labor Day, Phillip Capauano is hoping he can continue that success in bringing two more of Povich’s horses for ideal races: Mopo and Miss Notion – both purchased as yearlings at the 2023 Fasig-Tipton Midlantic Eastern Fall Sale.

Since her impressive debut in November, Miss Notion continues providing hope for Phillip Capuano and Povich, even with some setbacks and challenges that include losing her rider in the Maryland Juvenile Filly Stakes.

Sold for $52,000, Ms. Notion had been consistently posting good workouts at Laurel Park since her return to Capuano’s barn in April, then she was given a break starting in early June.

“She’s very talented. I have been high on her when she was a 2-year-old,” Capuano said.

“I gave her a little bit of time. I brought her back and had her ready to run, then she ran into another setback. The good

thing about Maury and Connie is they are very patient people. The last thing they want to see is something happen to any of their horses. They are more than willing to give their horses time.”

Mopo, a Maryland-bred who Povich bought for $65,000, has been showing gradual improvement in her five career starts, including her maiden win in May followed by a close second-place finish in an allowance race last month –both on the turf.

“I am hoping that if I can get MoPo up here, I think she could be competitive,” Phillip Capuano said. “She can run all day on the turf.”

With My Flicker now returned to Maryland following her win, Phillip Capuano is satisfied with the way everything came into play, especially because he can still keep the mare since no one claimed her.

“I’m glad this worked out,” Phllip Capuano said. “In this game, there are so many things that have to go your way. I was happy with the way everything lined up. Hopefully, I can have a little more success up there this summer; pick the right spots and win a couple of more races and keep everyone happy.”

Saratoga Race Course Welcomes 175+ Youths at 4-H Open House

SARATOGA RACE

COURSE — Last week, more than 175 4-H youth, volunteers, and families from across New York State gathered at the historic Saratoga Race Course for the first-ever 4-H Open House at the Track, hosted by the New York Racing Association (NYRA) and the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association.

Participants spent the day enjoying reserved picnic tables and grandstand seating, paddock tours, and even a special moment in the Winner’s Circle during the 4-H New York Race on July 3, which was won by Iron Orchard.

Throughout the day, the 4-H community booth welcomed attendees with free giveaways, games, and crafts (including “draw your own jockey silks” and horseshoe painting). Youth and families also heard from Jenna Antonucci, the first woman trainer to win a Triple Crown race; Davis Klein, NYRA’s Equine Biometric Specialist; and other professionals such as track veterinarians and race horse owners.

The inaugural event was a celebration of New York’s equine industry and 4-H’s longstanding commitment to youth development.

NYRA Breeding Farm Tour Reveals Industry Inner Workings

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Old Tavern Farm owner Walt Borisenok gave a crash course in the horse breeding industry last Friday morning while a colt that could one day fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction munched absent-mindedly on his breakfast.

The peek behind the curtain of how horse breeding

works in New York State was part of the New York Racing Association’s (NYRA) breakfast and breeding farm tour program, which will continue Thursdays through Sundays until the end of this year’s summer meet.

At Old Tavern, Borisenok said that Saratoga County has more than 30 breeding farms, making it the “hub” of the industry in New York. He also explained what buyers look for in a yearling, how horses are evaluated to ensure they’re

healthy enough to race, why horses that win on the track are not always successful breeders on the farm, and why fillies in the same enclosure can get along fine, but colts…not so much.

Trainer Dale Romans also stopped by the tour, about seven hours before his horse Gallo de Fuego won the 8th race at Saratoga that afternoon. For more on the NYRA breakfast and breeding farm tours, visit www.nyra.com/ saratoga/visit/tours/.

4-H members pose alongside Iron Orchard, the winner of the 4-H New York race on July 3 at the Saratoga Race Course. Photo provided.

(photo) A chestnut colt sired by Omaha Beach snacks on some food at Old Tavern Farm. Photo by Jonathon Norcross.

Saratoga Baseball Excellence Continues: Youth Team Crowned State Champs

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— In an unprecedented year that has seen two high school baseball teams win state titles on the same day, the City of Saratoga Springs’ diamonddwelling athletes continue to accumulate accolades.

The Saratoga-Wilton Youth Baseball league’s 11U Blue Sox team captured the Cal Ripken Eastern New York State Championship last week, punching their ticket to the Mid-Atlantic Regional Tournament in Pennsylvania, where they will represent New York State. Should they prevail in the tourney, they’ll advance to the Cal Ripken World Series.

The Blue Sox notched victories over Clifton Park,

North Colonie, Guilderland, and Highland in the state championships, improving their overall season record to 26-8.

“This group has been locked in all summer,” said Geoff Hunter, the squad’s head coach. “They’ve worked hard, supported each other, and stayed focused in every game.

I’m incredibly proud of their growth, grit, and how they represent our community on and off the field.”

“This has been a banner year for baseball in Saratoga,” said Shawn Lescault, president of Saratoga-Wilton Youth Baseball. “Both Saratoga Springs and Spa Catholic winning state championships this spring, and now our hometown 11U Blue Sox adding a Cal Ripken state title; it’s clear that the love for the game runs deep in our

community. We’re incredibly proud of what this team has accomplished. Baseball is alive and well in Saratoga.”

The 2025 Saratoga-Wilton Blue Sox 11U roster includes Logan Ercole, Madden KingO’Keefe, Grady Hirning, Grayson Hunter, Ryan LaCasse, Tucker Lescault, Liam Muller, Jack Ramsdill, Sammy Rodriguez, Joseph Sevi, Michael Windelspecht, and Camren Woods.

Another Saratoga-Wilton team, the 10U Blue Sox, defeated Guilderland in the quarterfinals of the Eastern New York State Championship tournament, but later fell in the semifinals to Poughkeepsie. The 10U team’s season will continue, however, as they compete in additional tournaments in South Glens Falls and Queensbury in the coming weeks.

Spa Catholic Pitcher Headed to Duke

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Saratoga Central Catholic pitcher Carson Moser (class of 2026), one member of the Saints state champion varsity baseball team, has accepted a scholarship to pitch for the Duke University Blue Devils.

“I am so proud of this young man who worked hard to earn

this great opportunity,” wrote Saints Coach Alphonse Lambert in a social media post announcing the news. “Great pitcher, even better person. We’re proud of you, Car!”

This spring, Moser pitched for 11 innings in 4 starts, striking out 25 of 53 batters faced. He allowed 6 earned runs for an ERA of 4.91, while limiting his opponents’ batting average to .140. According to a Prep Baseball scouting profile, his fastball can hit 92 m.p.h.

Photo of the 10U team provided by Barry J. Bruno.

Photo of the Saratoga-Wilton Youth Baseball 11U Blue Sox state championship team provided by Shawn Lescault.