Saratoga TODAY January 17 - January 23, 2025

SARATOGA

JAZZ FESTIVAL

June 28-29 at SPAC

Gary Clark Jr. will perform Saturday, June 28 during the two-day Saratoga Jazz Fest at SPAC.

by Thomas Dimopoulos Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Readying for retirement after serving ballot-casters in Saratoga the past 15 or so years, the county’s aging voting machines will be pressed back into service one more time for a special election to place in Saratoga Springs.

Election Day is Tuesday, Jan. 28. In advance of Election Day, nine days of early voting

will get underway Saturday Jan. 18 in a citywide vote to elect a Commissioner of Public Works in Saratoga Springs.

The election will decide the DPW Commissioner/ fifth city council member to complete the regular balance of the term, which concludes Dec. 31, 2025. All five city councilmember positions – four commissioners and a mayor – will be up for new two-year terms this November.

Photo provided.

History OF SARATOGA

The Gonzalez Tragedy Revisited

by Dave Waite | Sponsored by The Saratoga County History Roundtable

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

On Western Avenue, two miles from the hamlet of West Charlton, stands a blue and gold historic marker recalling a tragedy from nearly 250 years ago: GONZALEZ HOME HERE, IN 1782, JOSEPH GONZALEZ AND SON EMANUEL WERE KILLED AND SCALPED BY ST REGIS INDIANS, HIS SON JOHN WAS TAKEN CAPTIVE

Fleeing persecution for their Protestant beliefs, Don Manuel Gonzalez brought his family to America in 1690 and settled along the Hudson River. A grandson of this early settler, Joseph Gonzalez left Dutchess County for the wilderness west of Schenectady in the early 1770s. Here he settled with his family in the southwest corner of what is now the Town of Charlton, Saratoga County. on a 1500acre tract in the Kayaderosseras Patent. This area, at that time still a part of Albany County, was known to early settlers as the “Woestyne,” or what today would be called “wilderness.”

For the next ten years, Joseph Gonzalez and his family carved a farm out of this wilderness, and until the time of the Revolution had maintained a peaceful relationship with the Native Americans in the area. Joseph’s oldest son Emanuel, a strong, well-built young man, was often seen as a threat to the natives who encountered him. One story of his prowess tells of him being attacked by twelve Indians, and though his head was severely twisted during hand-to-hand combat, he was still able to grab a fence rail and drive off his attackers.

Living in an area where many settlers were loyal to the British, Joseph Gonzalez was well known for siding with the Patriots. In early 1782, a group of soldiers were sent from Schenectady to arrest a Tory who lived in the vicinity of the Gonzalez homestead. After convincing the soldiers of his innocence, the Tory invited them to stay in his home for the night. In an amazing act of treachery, the man left his sleeping guests and proceeded to the Gonzalez

home where he told Joseph and his sons that the men were Tories and asked for assistance in murdering them while they slept. Gonzalez refused and the next morning the man was arrested.

The prisoner was taken to Schenectady, where he was tried and sentenced to be hung, with Joseph Gonzalez interceding for the man, convincing the court to grant him a pardon.

Only a few months after this incident, a band of St. Regis Indians who had spent the winter hunting in Northern New York, returned south to attack the Gonzalez family.

On an April morning in 1782, Joseph and his sons Emanuel, John, and a younger son, also named Joseph, along with a hired servant, were burning a field when the band of Indians approached. The elder Joseph, assuming that the group was friendly, extended his hand in greeting, only to be immediately cut down by a tomahawk.

John and Emanuel were quickly seized, with Emanuel fighting off his attacker and fleeing. Making it to a fence surrounding the field, he was again grabbed and shot in the hand when he finally broke free. Still attempting to escape, he was fatally shot while climbing the last fence separating him from the woods. While all of this was happening, one of the Indians, who remembered a kindness from the past, released young Joseph to escape to the

house where his mother, sister Dorcas, and eighteen-year-old brother David were hiding. Before the attackers had time to regroup, David hitched up a wagon and drove the family seven miles to Cranesville on the Mohawk River. From there the family continued their flight to safety and headed east another eight miles along the Mohawk River to Tinker Hill in Glenville, the fortified home of Militia Captain Teunis Swart. Swart immediately called the militia together to pursue the attackers. Concerned for the safety of their families, the men refused to leave that day but agreed to move out in the morning. Unwilling to wait, Captain Swart and David Gonzalez immediately returned to the scene of the attack. Here they located the lifeless bodies of Joseph Gonzalez and his son Emanuel in the field where they had fallen and brought them to the family’s log home where they kept vigil for the night.

The next morning the militia arrived, bringing with them Mrs. Gonzalez. Joseph and Dorcas. Together they buried father and son on the family farm. The pursuit of the Indians was immediately taken up in hopes of releasing John Gonzalez and the family servant who had also been taken captive in the raid. Unfortunately, after two days the trail was lost

Gonzalaz Historic Marker photographed by Dave Waite

The Gonzalez Tragedy Revisited History OF SARATOGA

continued from pg 2...

somewhere in the vicinity of Fish House on the Sacandaga River when heavy rain erased all evidence of the path the band of Indians had followed as they headed northward.

Fearful of pursuit, the band of Indians moved quickly toward Canada. For days, the group went without food, with the threat of death forcing the two captives to keep up the fearful pace. Once in Canada, John was separated from his father’s hired man, who was never seen or heard from again. On reaching a garrison of the British Army, John was forced into service of the Crown, though he was never made to actively participate in any campaign for fear he might escape. At that time, his surname was recorded in the military record as Consalus, a name that he continued to use for the rest of his life. As a captive of the British, he was required to make cartridges, though often substituting charcoal for much of the gunpowder to render them ineffective. In the spring of 1785, two years after the war was over, he was finally released and headed back to the Mohawk Valley.

When he finally made his way back home, John searched

for his remaining family, only to find that his mother had passed away from a broken heart only months after his capture. The first family member he located was his older sister, Rebecka, who had married Emanuel DeGraff and was then living in Schenectady. His brother David had also settled in Schenectady, with his sister Dorcas having married and moved with her husband to Saratoga. As there had been no way to pay on the contract for the Gonzalez homestead, the property had been taken from the family. In the years after his return, John began buying back pieces of the property on the eastern edge of the tract his family had first settled. In 1792 John married Dorcas Hogan of Albany, and together they raised 12 children. His descendants continued on the property until 1926. Today Consaul Road off of Rte. 67 in Charlton marks the location of this early farm.

Dave Waite has written many articles on upstate New York history, and has recently published two anthologies, Thrilling Attractions and Weird Wonders, and A Place called Pauley. Dave is also the videographer for the several films produced by the Saratoga County History Center, including the Forgotten Crossroads series. He can be reached at davewaitefinearts@gmail.com

“Greetings from the Great Camp: a History of the Adirondack Vacation” – Online Event Jan. 23

BALLSTON SPA — The Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum presents a virtual presentation by Connor Williams on “Greetings from the Great Camps: The History of the Adirondack Vacation.”

This presentation will take place at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 23 through Zoom.

In 1850, the Adirondack region was a blank spot on the map, largely unorganized and uncharted. But, by 1900, the Adirondacks hosted elaborate summer estates for the wealthiest families in America: Vanderbilts, Rockefellers, Carnegies, Whitneys and Morgans. Thomas Edison and Albert Einstein summered and sailed on the same mountain lake. Adirondacks were a destination. How did this happen, and why?

Join Dr. Connor Williams, scholar, teacher and the historian at Great Camp Sagamore

- where he directs their history programming - as he answers these questions, and discusses how environmentalism, opulence, industry, inequality, architecture and nature all intersected to produce the Adirondack Park. The event is open to the public. It is free for SCHC members, and $5 for nonmembers. Pre-registration is required through the website www.brooksidemuseum.org .

The History of the Adirondack Vacation, presented Jan. 23. Photo provided.

Carol Patricia Singer

GANSEVOORT — Carol Patricia Singer, 83, passed away peacefully at Albany Medical Center on January 1, 2025. Visiting hours were held at Compassionate Funeral Care, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 on January 8, followed by a memorial service to celebrate Carol’s life. For condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

George W. McInnis Jr.

GANSEVOORT — George W. McInnis Jr., 82, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 10, 2025, at Mountain Valley Hospice Care. At the family’s request, no calling hours or services will be held at this time. Condolences may be shared at www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

John Brusko

MANASSES, VA — John Brusko passed away on January 1, 2025. Visitation was held on January 10 at Compassionate Funeral Care, Saratoga Springs, New York. A graveside service will be in the spring when John will be laid to rest in Greenfield Cemetery, Greenfield Center, NY. For condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

Edward William Roy

BALLSTON LAKE — Edward William Roy, 84, passed away January 3, 2025 at Saratoga Hospital. A graveside service to honor Edward’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, located at 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville, NY. For condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

...obituaries continued on pg 19

OBITUARIES

Ralph L. “Walloper” Altieri

Ralph L. “Walloper” Altieri, age 77, of Rome, passed away October 19, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Syracuse, following complications from cardiac surgery.

He was born November 21,

John Emmanuel “Paddy” Joseph

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Born in Tunapuna Village, Trinidad, on November 24, 1942, John Emmanuel “Paddy” Joseph began his heavenly journey on January 3, 2025, at the age of 82. He passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving wife, Joanne, daughters, Stefanie and Alison, and granddaughter, Elianna.

John lived a life filled with music, love, and devotion. He celebrated 50 years of marriage with Joanne in April 2024, a relationship rooted in unwavering love and mutual respect. Their story began in St. Lucia, where Joanne served as a Peace Corps Volunteer and John worked as the musical coordinator for the Halcyon Days Hotel in Vieux Fort.

John’s musical journey began as a teenager on the island of

1946, in Saratoga Springs, a son of the late Victor S. and Grace L. Vandenburgh Altieri. Ralph earned Associate Degrees in Instructor Technology and Aircraft Maintenance Technology, at the College of the Air Force, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Resource Management at the New School of Social Research. He proudly enlisted in the Air Force in 1967. During the Vietnam War, he was stationed at Anderson AFB in Guam and Utapao AFB in Thailand, where he was a maintenance mechanic and instructor on the B-52 aircraft, preparing the planes for their bombing missions. He retired honorably in 1987. Ralph later worked at DFAS until his retirement.

Ralph is survived by two daughters, Melissa Grace Halligan and Lynn Altieri Need,

Trinidad, where he discovered his passion for the steel pan. He devoted his life to sharing this unique art form, playing with the Esso (Tripoli) and Texaco Steel Orchestras. His talents took him across the Caribbean, Europe and Japan; and eventually to the United States when he married Joanne. John passed his love of the steelpan on to his first-born grandson, Shiloh, ensuring John’s passion for the steel pan lives on through future generations.

In Rochester, NY, John joined the Trinidad and Tobago Steel Band. He started his own band, Caribbean Breeze Steelband, when he moved to the Saratoga area. His love for music extended beyond performance; John became a mentor and teacher, introducing steel pans into orchestral program, including those at Rhinebeck and Herkimer Central School Districts, as well as after-school programs at the Rome, NY YMCA and Hamilton Hills Art Center in Schenectady NY and the Devereux Adult Care program in Kingston, NY. His efforts ensured that children, including those with special needs, could experience the joy of music.

Beyond music, John was a man of many passions. He loved cooking traditional Trinidadian dishes, which became the heart of countless family gatherings at the “Brown

sons in law, Corey Halligan and Stu Need; former wife, Judith Altieri; grandchildren, Lennon Altieri, Lainey Need, and Koa Need; and brothers, Victor Altieri, Lou Altieri and Thomas Altieri.

A message from Ralph; “To my family, I love you all so very, very much, and to all my loved ones and any others that I had hurt their feelings during my life; I’m deeply regretful for my actions”.

A celebration of life will be celebrated on January 25, at the Stanwix Veteran and Men’s Club. Burial with Military Honors will be on January 24 at 1:00 p.m. in Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street. Please offer online condolences or light a candle at: www. BarryFuneralHome.com

House,” a name lovingly given to the family home by his oldest granddaughter, Dayonna. An avid horse racing enthusiast, John found great joy at the Saratoga Flat Track, where his warmth, humor, and generosity fostered lasting friendships. A lifelong sports fan, he was a walking encyclopedia of sports knowledge.

John was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He leaves behind his beloved wife Joanne; his daughters Lisa, Stefanie, and Alison (John Brown, Sr); 10 grandchildren, two greatgrandchildren, 2 sisters and one brother and numerous nephews and nieces.

John’s warm smile, laughter, humor and generous spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the recordings of the Texaco Steel Orchestra, the Goretti Group and the Trinidad and Tobago Steel Band’s Caribbean Romance CDs.

The family extends a special thank you to Community Hospice nurses, Kelly and Amanda, Drs. Delmonte, Kondo, Drzymalski, German, NP Tessa Trigonia and their teams.

All contributions to John’s name can be made to Community Hospice.

A Celebration of Life will occur in the Spring 2025 with details to be announced.

Milton Man Charged with Failure to Report Adress Change as a Sex Offender

BALLSTON SPA — The Sheriff’s Office on Jan. 10 arrested Steven D. Thomas, 32, of Milton, for failing to report an address change within 10 days as a sex offender, a class E Felony.

It is an E felony upon conviction for the first failure to comply with any registration requirement, according to the NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services. Thomas was issued an appearance ticket pending further proceedings and returned to the Saratoga County Jail where he is being held relative to a separate matter.

City Officer Injured after Driver Hits Patrol Car

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— A Saratoga Springs officer was injured after his police vehicle was struck by a passing motorist, police said.

At 8:30 p.m. on Jan. 5, Saratoga Springs Police Officer Quinn Leffler was assisting and diverting traffic away from a personal injury car crash at the intersection of Route 9N and Kirby Road.

While sitting in his police vehicle, a grey Toyota Rav4 allegedly disregarded the emergency lights and struck the patrol vehicle in which Leffler was seated.

The officer was able to advise other police officers on

scene that he was struck and that the Toyota fled the scene on Kirby Road. Patrol Officers engaged in a pursuit which concluded in a parking lot of a business on Route 9N.

John Bidonde, 21, of Porter Corners, was charged with reckless endangerment, assault, and unlawful fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle. Bidonde was released on an appearance ticket and scheduled to appear in City Court on Jan. 23.

Officer Leffler was taken to Saratoga Hospital and released. He is expected to return to duty within several weeks, according to a press release issued by the SSPD.

Ballston Spa Man Killed in Early Morning Crash

MALTA — A 24-year-old Ballston Spa man was killed in an early morning crash Jan. 14.

The Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office reported that at 5:37 a.m. Jan. 14 deputies responded to a serious personal injury motor vehicle crash on Malta Avenue in the town of Malta, in the area of Van

Aernem Road and the Interstate 87 overpass. The victim was identified as Jeremy M. Robson of Ballston Spa. The operator of the other vehicle was treated at the scene and released, and the Sheriff’s Department said it was continuing with its investigation into the cause of the crash.

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SSPF Zoom Program Jan. 23: Unlocking Historic Tax Credits and Offsetting Rehab Costs

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Homeowners located in a historic district listed on the National Register of Historic Places may be eligible for tax credits to offset work costs on their historic home.

The Historic Homeownership Rehabilitation Credit program can provide qualifying homeowners with a 20% tax credit on eligible expenditures, up to $25,000 in dollar- fordollar tax credits.

The program aims to educate homeowners on what it means to live in a National Register historic district and how to use the program to save on home rehabilitation projects. Even for those not currently eligible, the information can be a valuable tool for future projects or for sharing with others in the community.

Eligibility for the program

requires that a building must be an owner-occupied, primary or secondary residence, of a New York State taxpayer, located in a qualifying census tract, and be identified as a contributing building to a historic district or individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Eligibility is dependent on properties being in census tracts that are at or below the median family income level.

To learn more about the tax credits and eligibility, the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation offers the virtual program “Offsetting Rehab Costs: Unlocking Historic Tax Credits,” at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 23. The program will be hosted via Zoom. To register, visit www. saratogapreservation.org or call 518-587-5030. All registrants will receive a Zoom link in advance, as well as access to the program recording.

RISE Housing & Support Services Celebrates Opening

of Newest Residential Rehabilitation Space

BALLSTON — RISE

Housing and Support Services on Jan. 7 celebrated the ceremonial ribbon cutting to officially open RISE Above, located in the Town of Ballston.

RISE Above is a residential rehabilitation space for people on their addiction recovery journey and provides a structured environment for people whose potential for independent living is seriously limited due to their substance use disorders.

The residence provides a course of rehabilitative services and on-site programming in a structured environment including monitoring, support, and case management.

The ribbon-cutting event included representatives from the Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), The Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY), and local elected officials and community members.

RISE Above will be able

to serve up to 20 people at a time, and is a co-ed facility. There will be professional staff on site overseen by a medical director. This is a voluntary program, meaning the course of treatment will be determined on an individual basis, and the length of stay would depend on the needs of the resident. The anticipated average length of stay is between 3-6 months.

While at RISE Above, residents will have access to medical staff as there will be

a registered nurse, a nurse practitioner, and a licensed practical nurse on staff. They will assist in MAT (Medication for Addiction Treatment) for those who require it. These medications help curb cravings from drugs and alcohol.

The facility will also provide holistic approaches with a CRPA (Certified Recovery Peer Advocate). For more information about RISE Housing & Support Services, visit https:// www.riseservices.org/.

581 North Broadway, where the owner of the house used tax credits to help with their rehabilitation project. Photo provided.

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2025

Now is your chance to get your photos published! Submit your “Photo of the Week” for a chance to be PUBLISHED IN PRINT in Saratoga TODAY Newspaper. Winter contest photo submissions close February 5. One photo will be chosen each week. Email your photo to: Design@SaratogaPublishing.com

2025 Ballston Spa Chocolate Fest

BALLSTON SPA —The 2025 Ballston Spa Chocolate Fest, hosted by the Ballston Spa Business and Professional Association, will take place on Friday, Feb. 7 from 5– 9 p.m.

Stroll the Village of Ballston Spa for $2 chocolate tastings from over 20 chocolate chefs/ venues. Then, vote for your favorites in 3 categories: Dessert – Savory

– Beverage. The event will also feature chocolatethemed activities, artist demos, special promotions and sales.

If your business is interested in participating in Chocolate Fest, visit www. ballston.org/ events/chocolatefest to sumbit the application form. The entry fee is $20 for members and $40 for nonmembers, and will be paid by the business.

If you are an independent chef or a business that is looking for a chef, email the Chocolate Fest committee and they can help match you up: chocolatefest@ballston.org

If you are interested in being Chocolate Fest Sponsor, email the Chocolate Fest committee: chocolatefest@ ballston.org.

“Snake Hill, Jan. 1 2025” Photo by Janet Riccitelli

SARATOGA COUNTY: Public Comment Period

Open To Jan. 24 For Draft 2025 Hazard Mitigation Plan

BALLSTON SPA, NY —

The Saratoga County Office of Emergency Management has opened the public comment period for its draft 2025 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update.

The draft Plan Update is posted on the OEM webpage on the Saratoga County website, www.saratogacountyny.gov/ oem. Public comments will be accepted until Jan. 24, 2025.

The draft Plan Update was prepared by Saratoga County, participating jurisdictions, and H2O Partners, Inc.

The purpose of the Plan Update is to protect people and structures and to minimize the costs of disaster response and recovery. The goal of the Plan Update is to minimize or

eliminate long-term risks to human life, property, operations, and the environment from known hazards by identifying risks and implementing cost-effective hazard mitigation actions.

The planning process is an opportunity for participating jurisdictions within Saratoga County, stakeholders, and the public to evaluate and develop successful hazard mitigation actions to reduce future risk of loss of life and damage to property resulting from a disaster in Saratoga County.

To read the draft 2025 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update and to submit comments about the plan, visit www.saratogacountyny.gov/oem.

Saratoga Springs to Stage SOTC Jan. 23

by Thomas Dimopoulos Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— The city of Saratoga Springs will host its annual State of The City Address 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 23 at the Anthony “Skip” Scirocco Music Hall.

The longstanding Saratoga Music Hall was renamed last February to honor the late Anthony “Skip” Scirocco, who served the city for decades as animal control officer, Saratoga County Supervisor, and as a longstanding member of the City Council as Commissioner of Public Works.

The hall is located on the top floor of City Hall.

Dolled up for the holidays, December 2022. The music hall will site the Saratoga Springs State of The City address on Thursday, Jan. 23.

Photo by Thomas Dimopoulos.

Special City Election for DPW Commissioner/Council Member Gets Underway with Early Voting Saturday, Jan. 18

...Continued from front page

City Republicans are backing Chuck Marshall for the position. Marshall, a former member of the Saratoga County Sewer Commission, currently serves as chair of the Saratoga Springs Planning Board and is employed as director of real estate at Stewart’s. Marshall’s name appears on the ballot.

City Democrats meanwhile are backing interim DPW commissioner Hank Kuczynski. Kuczynski – who had previously served as city deputy mayor - was unanimously approved by the City Council as interim DPW Commissioner on Oct. 29 and currently occupies the seat.

As Democrats did not secure a pre-marked slot on the actual ballot, voters favoring candidate Kuczynski will need to physically write his name in, in the ballot’s “write-in” box.

Machine Music

Last September, the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors approved the purchase of 241 new voting machines and associated equipment from Clear Ballot Group, Inc. at a total cost of $1.76 million to replace the aging voting machines in use. The new machines will be operational this year, but Saratoga Springs residents voting in the special election will see a return to the familiar.

“We’re using the old machines that still work. The reason is the human learning curve is a couple of months, to get everyone trained on them,” explained Saratoga County Republican Election Commissioner Joseph Suhrada.

The chain of custody of election equipment should be maintained from acceptance to proper disposal, according to The U.S. Election Assistance Commission - an independent, bipartisan commission established by the Help America Vote Act of 2002. The Commission notes there are security risks associated with the disposal, sale, or destruction of computer equipment and storage devices, and instructs

that prior to disposal, all equipment be “sanitized” – that is, the process of removing all data from a device.

The new machines will be instituted for use during the special election for the 21st Congressional District, anticipated to take place this spring.

“That’s when I expect we’ll employ them,” Suhrada said.

That special election will involve a race to fill the presumed vacancy of Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, who was selected by Presidentelect Donald Trump to serve as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. The ambassador post requires Senate confirmation and Stefanik must resign her congressional seat in the 21st District - which may happen as soon as next week - after which follows a political pinball process to set a date set for the regional special election to take place.

“We expect (Stefanik’s resignation) to occur around Jan. 20 from what we’ve been told, and with the special election anywhere from 71 to 90 days out from her resignation - that places us somewhere at the middle or end of April,” Suhrada said. “And at that stage we will use our new machines.”

The 21st Congressional District special election will be open to voters in dozens of Saratoga County polling districts from the northeast section of the county to the northwest – the towns of Saratoga, Corinth, Moreau, Hadley, and a portion of Wilton among them.

Saratoga Springs Special Election

In Saratoga Springs meanwhile, all registered city voters may take part in the special election for Saratoga Springs DPW Commissioner.

Early Voting will take place at the Saratoga Springs (Scott Johnson) Rec Center at 15 Vanderbilt Ave. and gets underway Saturday, Jan. 18 and continues for a total of 9 days, until Sunday, Jan. 26, inclusively. Those Early Voting times are: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. each day – except Monday, Jan. 20

and Wednesday, Jan. 22 when the polls will be open noon – 8 p.m.

On Election Day – Tuesday, Jan. 28 - all city polling sites will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The position of DPW Commissioner position is both departmental and legislative. The commissioner is responsible for oversight of Saratoga Springs’ street and highway maintenance, its buildings and grounds, and for ensuring that the water system provides sufficient quantities of safe potable water, among other duties.

The position also plays a role in the legislative body of city government by placing the commissioner at the City Council table. The Council proposes and enacts legislation and establishes policy for the city. The mayor and four commissioners form the five-member City Council, and having five members is key in potentially acting as a tiebreaking vote in any deadlocked city-related decisions at the table where majority rules.

There are approximately 21,000 registered voters in Saratoga Springs’ 25 voting districts, according to 2024 state Board of Election enrollment data. About 40% are registered as Democrats, 28% as Republicans, 26% as “blanks” - or those actively registered with no party affiliation, and the remaining 6% registered are with other parties.

While Republican candidate Chuck Marshall’s name appears on the ballot, residents wishing to vote for the Democratic Party backed Hank Kuczynski will need to write in his name. The exact spelling of the candidate’s name is not as much an issue as it once was, Suhrada said, when asked about the issue.

“At the end of the day, as long as it’s determined that it is him, a misspelling is no longer disqualified as it may have been 50 years ago,” he said, pointing to a ruling on the matter made approximately 20 years ago by

Sample ballot with spaces colored-in for purposes of this depiction that lists the Republican candidate on the ballot and where the write-In candidate’s name would go.

Judith S. Kaye, longtime Chief Judge of the New York Court of Appeals.

“So, if I put down Hank Kuczynski and I use a Y instead of an I, or an I instead of a

Y – they know that I mean Kuczynski,” Suhrada said. “Now that being said – they do have to put it in a certain place on the ballot. It is involved no doubt, but spellings? No.”

$42.8 Million Project on West Side to Address Affordable, Workforce Housing in Spa City with 98 New Apartments

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

A new 98-unit development targeting Allen Drive is anticipated to address the city’s workforce housing shortage.

Beacon Communities and the Saratoga Springs Housing Authority last week announced the start of work on the collaborative project that includes the demolition of six

existing but outdated fourplexes on the 3.1-acre site, located Opposite Sunnyside Gardens where Church Street veers into Allen Drive.

The fourplexes will be replaced with six, newly constructed three-story buildings that will include 98 one, two, and three-bedroom units for single adult households and small families with incomes of 50% to 80% the area’s median income (AMI) – the mid-point of income distribution in a

single year.

The median household income in Saratoga Springs was $100,485 in 2023, the most recent data available from the U.S. Census Bureau. That 50% to 80% AMI extrapolates to single adult households and small families with incomes of $50,000 to just over $80,000 annually.

Nearly 40 of the 98 units will have a workforce preference, according to a statement from the Boston-based affordable

housing developers Beacon Communities LLC.

“The Allen Street development is a crucial step in addressing the housing affordability challenges facing the local community,” state Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said.

“By creating 98 high-quality, affordable units, the Allen Street development will not only provide homes for families and workers but also

help to ensure the long-term viability of Saratoga Springs as a place where all New Yorkers, regardless of income, can live, work, and thrive. “

Once complete, the new community will be owned and managed by Springs West Apartments LLC, an affiliate of the Saratoga Springs Housing Authority.

Leasing is expected to begin in spring 2026.

The new development will feature laundry rooms in each building, a community room, gym, playground, and bulk storage spaces. Residents will have access to 92 off-street parking spaces at the rear of the buildings as well as 26 on-street spaces on Allen Drive.

The city’s main economic drivers – tourism and hospitality – rely heavily on a workforce increasingly getting priced out of the market when it comes to housing.

“With the median sales price of a home in Saratoga Springs now exceeding $600,000, our city’s sustainability relies on us building more affordable housing so the people who work here can also live here. We cannot be a ‘city in the country’ just for the rich and wealthy,” added Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce President Todd Shimkus.

The $42.8 million Allen Drive project is being financed with tax exempt bonds issued by NYS Homes & Community Renewal along with an allocation of Federal LowIncome Housing Tax Credits, NYS Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, and state subsidy loans. The tax-exempt bonds are backed by a Letter of Credit from KeyBank, N.A. Both the LIHTC and SLIHC were purchased by Key Community Development Corp.

by Thomas Dimopoulos Saratoga TODAY

Current housing on Allen Drive, facing Church Street on Jan. 9, 2025. Photo by Thomas Dimopoulos.

PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS

BALLSTON

Kathy Polubinski sold property at 28 Beacon St to Michele Strenk for $405,000

Robert Cosgriff sold property at 285 Lake Rd to Sean Newton for $695,000

Eastline Holdings LLC sold property at 9 Aspen Dr to Wentao Chen for $556,922

Eastline Holdings LLC sold property at 28 Timber Creek Dr to Scott Davidson for $703,123

Barbera Homes Kelley Farms sold property at 6 Paddock Pl to Hakan Franson for $708,000

Patrick Hedderman sold property at 24 Kingsbridge Ct to Kelly Osterlitz for $965,000

CORINTH

Martin Pozefsky sold property at 40 Heath St to 40 Heath St LLC for $115,000

GALWAY

Daniel Cooper sold property at 1901 Hermance Rd to Jeremy Bailey for $405,000

Frederick Baily sold property at 4989 Jockey St to Dean Hanaway for $600,000

GREENFIELD

Peter Sipperly sold property at 26 Mia Way to Masood Zamani for $255,000

Joshua Hepner sold property at 1731 NYS Rt 9N to Scott Manners for $400,000

Neils Blue sold property at 960 North Creek Rd to Zachary Cutler for $255,000

Philip Loftus sold property at 112 Ballou Rd to Joseph Cimmino for $650,000

MALTA

Richard Johnson sold property at 346 East Line Rd to Steven Zawistowski for $520,000

Capital Home Buyers LLC sold property at 269 Thimbleberry Rd to Kassandra Hurtado for $355,000

Henry Coshburn sold property at 19 Ames Ave to Still on the Hill LLC for $215,000

Bueonos Hill Inc sold property at 4 North Ridge to Westview Development LLC for $245,000

Linda Dunbar sold property at 2 Gates Rd to 2 Gates Road LLC for $600,000

MILTON

Laurie Simmons sold property at 16 Skylark Dr to Alex Avalos for $395,000

Robert Valentine sold property at 3 Kaatskill Way to Mackenzie Lambert for $500,000

Betul Lus sold property at 7 Van Tassel Ln to Gary Herman for $399,900

Donna Kane sold property at 13 Middle St to Deborah Bouchard for $279,000

Ahmad Raja sold property at 211 Northline Rd to Anthony Soprano for $215,000

Sharon Lapier sold property at 69 Petrified Gardens Rd to Infinity Aggregates LLC for $200,000

William Pickett sold property at 57 Edmund Dr to Diana Erno for $275,000

Village of Ballston Spa sold property at 100 Rowland St to Town of Milton for $435,000

Peter Buchas sold property at 515 Elk Circle to Ashlee Haskell for $240,000

SARATOGA

Dean Wasniewski sold property at 123 Cahill Rd to John Eaton for $1,350,000

Michael Eugair sold property at 176 Haas Rd to Martha Payson for $720,000

SARATOGA SPRINGS

Linda Solotaire sold property at 238 Nelson Ave to 238 Nelson LLC for $750,000

Steven Labate sold property at 111 Church St to Katherine Breslin for $1,200,000

Michael Engelbrecht sold property at 37 Clark St Unit 3 to Christie McVey for $675,000

Deke Johnson sold property at 505 Crescent Ave to Colin Buckhurst for $455,000

513 Broadway LLC sold property at 18 Division St 412/414 to Brooklyn 414 LLC for $1,473,000

Michael Miller sold property at 35 Lamplighter Lane to Barbara Kessler for $330,000

Lynne Dearstyne sold property at 316 Ballston Ave unit F to Richard Barnes for $427,500

EMCAM LLC sold property at 8 Aletta St to James Macagna for $375,000

Kevin McNeary sold property at 28 Elizabeth Lane to Elizabeth Woldring for $400,000

Stephen Kestler sold property at 26 State St to Francis Voigtsberger for $485,000

Sharon Lapier sold property at 69 Petrified Gardens Rd to Infinity Agrregates for $200,000

Zhang Li sold property at 284 Washington St to Zhang Li for $200,000

WILTON

Treesa Browning sold property at 23 New Britain Dr to Markus Salmiery for $250,000

293-Unit Malta Development in the Works

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

MALTA — A mixeduse development proposal that would create nearly 300 residential units is making its way through Malta’s town boards.

Located on a 127-acre parcel at 2354 Route 9, the project would include the demolition of two “unsightly” buildings on Route 9, as well as the creation of 2,800 feet of sidewalks which, along with the town’s existing sidewalk plans, would create a continuous pathway from the Dunning Street/Route 9 roundabout to the Round Lake Bypass. The new sidewalk would also connect to the Zim Smith Trail.

The development would include 40,000 square feet of commercial space on Route 9, as well as a collection of singlefamily homes, townhomes, condominiums, and multi-family buildings that would create a total

of 293 residential units.

The Malta Town Board has met with the New York Development Group several times to workshop the group’s proposal.

“Overall, I’m not unhappy with it,” Town Supervisor Cynthia Young said of the proposal at a December 23 board meeting. “I think the community benefit is reasonable.”

Young said that Malta needs additional commercial development on Route 9 and wanted to make sure it gets built. She noted that a traffic study will need to be conducted as the proposal progresses. She also thanked the developer for agreeing to scale back the initial proposal from 350 units to 293.

Councilperson Al Ricci said he opposed the project, although the remaining council members seemed open to further discussion. Supervisor Young said the issue would be revisited at a future meeting.

Saratoga Pot Shop Expands Delivery Service

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Silver Cannabis Company, which just announced earlier this month that it would be launching a delivery service, has now expanded its delivery schedule to Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The previous delivery schedule was from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday through Friday.

The pot shop said it will offer the “lowest delivery order minimums in the area” ($85 minimum with $5 delivery fee and orders over $95 incur a $0.01 fee), as well as a “seamless” online ordering process. Delivery orders can be placed online at silver-therapeutics. com/location/saratoga.

A rendering of a proposed 293-unit development at 2354 Route 9 in Malta. Image via the town’s December 23 board meeting documents.

Tree House Hosts Hiring Fair

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— As Tree House Brewing prepares to fully open its new Saratoga Springs location, the beer-maker hosted a hiring fair on Wednesday, January 15. The company is in search of

multiple positions, including a pizza maker, dough maker, kitchen supervisor, and general manager. A full list of openings can be found at: treehousebrew. com/join-our-team.

Tree House is currently accepting pickup can orders at 3376 Route 9 in Saratoga. An opening date for the location has not yet been announced.

Kids Invited to Saratoga Arms for First Time in Hotel’s History

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

The Saratoga Arms Hotel will be launching its first “Mommy and Me: American Girl Doll Sleepover” event for one night only on Saturday, February 1. The experience marks the first time that the adults-only boutique hotel has welcomed children.

The sleepover is billed as a girlfriends’ getaway for moms,

daughters, and their American Girl dolls. Included with the event will be a hot cocoa bar, homemade cookie and sweet treats station, friendship bracelet making, a nail polish station, a Polaroid photo booth, and matching pajamas for mom, daughter, and doll.

For more information or to book the experience, visit www. saratogaarms.com.

Arbor Spa at Brookmere Now Open

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Arbor Spa at Brookmere Saratoga (formerly known as the Brookmere Hotel) officially opened on Wednesday, January 15. The spa’s treatments are “crafted with natural ingredients inspired by the region.” Bookings are available via www.hotelbrookmere.com.

Brookmere and its Regent Restaurant opened its doors last month at 500 Union Avenue in Saratoga Springs.

Temple Sinai Hosts Annual Holiday Dinner

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

On December 25, Temple Sinai hosted their annual Holiday Dinner at the LifeWorks Soup Kitchen at the PresbyterianUnited Church of Christ in Saratoga Springs.

Temple Sinai has been

serving Christmas dinner at LifeWorks for more than 35 years. Around 50 volunteers from the Temple community and beyond cooked and served the meal, with additional funding and food support from local businesses, including Pitney

Community Farm and the Hannaford market in Milton. Additional support for the event was provided by Bread Basket Bakery, Clyde O’Scope Farms, Dehn’s Flowers, Market 32, Putnam Market, and Vashti’s Kitchen Delights.

Photo of Brookmere Saratoga’s Arbor Spa provided by the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.

Rabbi Ilana Symons and Temple Sinai congregants serving Christmas Dinner at the PresbyterianUnited Church of Christ. Photo by Shawn Banner.

Meadows

Parents Oppose Suggested Changes to Saratoga Busing Schedules

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS—

More than a dozen parents spoke at a recent Saratoga Springs School District Board of Education meeting in opposition to proposed changes to the district’s busing schedules.

The changes, which received significant pushback from board members at last month’s meeting, would, among other things, switch the high school’s start time to 7:30 a.m. and push back four elementary schools’ start times to 9:50 a.m.

The new start times would

be the result of transitioning the district from a two-tiered busing system to a three-tiered one. Doing so, suggested the results of a six-month study commissioned by the district, would help ease problems caused by the ongoing bus driver shortage.

Parents at the January 9 board meeting cited lack of available childcare, work schedules, earlier start times for teenagers, and young children arriving home in the dark as reasons to oppose altering the district’s schedules.

“It boggles my mind that this is our only best solution,” said Ana Ventre, a Saratoga resident and middle school teacher at Broadalbin-Perth.

“Schools do not exist in

isolation and neither does a single school problem,” said Erin Leary, president of the Lake Avenue Elementary PTA. “I know that everyone here and working at the district does know that, but [the proposed scheduling changes] certainly didn’t suggest that.”

Leah Grady, a Spanish teacher at Queensbury High School, said that teaching sleepdeprived teenagers at 7:30 a.m. is an “ugly” experience, with students behaving as if they are “one step up from zombies.”

Pushing back high school start times, Grady said, could be “life changing” for tired adolescents.

Maddy Zanetti, the co-owner of Impressions of Saratoga and The Dark Horse Mercantile, said she would struggle to staff her businesses if employees who are parents needed to pick up their kids in the early afternoon or drop off

their kids late in the morning.

When the scheduling changes were first proposed at a December 12 Education Board meeting, Saratoga Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Patton called them a “starting point” for conversations with the community. “This is one solution,” Patton said. “There may be other solutions out there that we haven’t even explored yet.”

Patton again emphasized at the January 9 meeting that no schedule changes had been decided upon, nor would they happen any time soon (if indeed they happen at all).

The district has been contending with logistical challenges in its transportation department for several years. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the district had 85 drivers. It now has 69 drivers

who are tasked with covering 71 routes across 112 square miles. The district has been engaged in driver recruitment efforts, but “even with those efforts in place, driver shortages continue to be a problem,” Patton said last month.

Bus driver shortages have been occurring across the country, as well. Data from the Economic Policy Institute indicates that from September 2019 to September 2023, there was a 15.1% decrease in the total number of K-12 bus drivers nationwide.

The ongoing driver shortage in the Saratoga Springs School District has resulted in several bus route cancellations, including one instance in November when buses 461 and 466 were both canceled, along with all after school late buses.

Fort Ticonderoga Educators Visit Schuylerville Class

SCHUYLERVILLE — Fort Ticonderoga educators visited Rebecca Nesbitt’s 7th grade social studies classes in Schuylerville recently to present “A Soldier’s Life,” a program that incorporates Revolutionary War-era history, geography, and math to help teach students about the daily experiences of American soldiers.

Students explored the equipment and food of Revolutionary soldiers and discussed the challenges of equipping and feeding an army in a remote location.

“The Soldier’s Life” presentation is given to hundreds of schools throughout the year in an effort to help students understand what they’re learning in their textbooks in a hands-on way.

Schuylerville students try on Revolutionary War-style clothing as part of Fort Ticonderoga’s “A Soldier’s Life” educational program. Photo via the Schuylerville Central School District.

Waldorf Students’

Artwork on Display at Saratoga Visitor Center

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— The Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs’ student art show is currently on display inside the Saratoga Springs Visitor Center downtown.

The artwork was selected from grades 1-8 and includes explorations of primary and secondary colors by the lower grades; studies of ancient

Skidmore Hosts Annual Culinary Competition, Earns Silver Medal

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Members of Skidmore Dining Services competed alongside top chefs from institutions across the country in a “Chopped”-style competition held at Skidmore’s MurrayAikins Dining Hall last Friday. The Skidmore team was awarded a silver medal for their efforts, while the University of Massachusetts and The Professional Chefs of New Hampshire both took home gold.

Each of the 10 participating teams was tasked with preparing a three-course menu and buffet platter by utilizing ingredients in a “market basket” provided to each team. The teams had an hour and a half to develop the menu and then several hours to prepare and serve the dishes. A panel of professional chefs judged the teams on originality, taste, and presentation.

The team of three Skidmore

chefs — Production Manager Tim Thompson, Senior Cook Paul Karlson, and Short Order Cook Allen Lapelle — was joined by Sommarah Whitbeck, a local high school trainee.

“The overall goal of this competition is to improve competitors’ personal culinary skills,” said Mark Miller, Skidmore’s director of Dining Services, in a statement. “In the end, you end up with chefs who are stronger, more creative, and more skilled, which only strengthens Skidmore’s culinary offerings.”

Other competing institutions included silver medal-winners Princeton University, The University of Buffalo, and the Worlds Master Chef Society from Texas; as well as bronzewinners Cornell University, The College of the Holy Cross, Middlebury College, and St. Lawrence University.

Saratoga School District Seeks Hall of Distinction Nominees

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

The Saratoga Springs City School District is seeking community input on candidates for the tenth annual Hall of Distinction. The program was designed to instill in students the concepts of achievement and excellence with the Hall of Distinction inductees serving as role models.

Potential candidates must have graduated from Saratoga Springs High School at least ten

years ago and must exemplify the district’s educational philosophy through an outstanding social contribution to the broader community and/ or outstanding professional contribution to, or achievement in, their field of endeavor.

A committee composed of community members, former and current high school administrators, and former and current high school teachers,

will review the nominations and select the honorees. Individuals will be recognized in a ceremony at the high school this spring.

Nominations are accepted through the online Hall of Distinction Form. All forms must be submitted by January 31. For more information or to access the form, visit: www. saratogaschools.org/hall-ofdistinction-nominees-acceptedthrough-january-31/.

Egyptian, Greek and Roman art by middle grade students; and observational paintings of flowers and birds, which is done at several grade levels.

The art will be on view at the Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center, located at 297 Broadway, until January 31. The Center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Photo Provided.

Gold medal-winning dishes prepared by the Professional Chefs of New Hampshire and the University of Massachusetts are displayed during Skidmore College’s annual American Culinary Federation Competition on January 10. Photos by Jonathon Norcross.

PLAYOFF GAME READY

SATURDAYS

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

WILTON MALL FOOD COURT

by Jodie Fitz for

Saratoga TODAY

The Saratoga Farmers’ Market is open Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., November through April at Wilton Mall Food Court; accessible from the mall entrance across from BJs. The CDTA’s 450 (from Schenectady) and 452 (from Skidmore College via downtown Saratoga) run to the Mall hourly Saturday mornings.

Visit saratogafarmersmarket. org, sign up for our weekly newsletter and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Visit the Saratoga Farmers’ Market to get playoff game ready! Check out the winter market vendor list and come discover how you can fill your playoff menu with all things local. There are endless possibilities with forty-five vendors representing both locally grown and produced items.

Albany Distillery

Argyle Cheese Farmer

Awakened Tonics

Autumn Harvest Winery

Back to Zero Foods

Bakery Suzanne

Ballston Lake Apiaries

Daily Fresh

Eat with Aliens

Euro Delicacies

Gomez Veggie Ville

Grazin’ Acres Farm

Great Northern Pantry

Halfmoon Harvest

Hepatica Farm

Holly and Vine Farm

Jireh Organics & Livestock

Katie Bakes GF Kokinda Farm

La Capital Tacos

Long Lesson Farm

Lovin’ Mama Farm

May-K-Mark

Spicy Thai Sauce

• 1 tablespoon canola oil

• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger root*

• 1 garlic clove, minced*

• 1 minced Thai Chile pepper* or 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

• 3/4 cup barbecue sauce

• 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons lime juice

• 2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro*

• 1 tablespoon fish sauce

• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons honey*

• 1 tablespoon cider vinegar

Buffalo Wing Sauce

• 3/4 cup Louisiana-style hot sauce

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed

• 2 tablespoons molasses

• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Muddy Trail Jerky Co.

Mugzy’s Barkery

Nally Coffee

Nettle Meadow

Night Work Bread

Parchment Baking Co.

Perogi, Pierogi, pyroogie

Puckers Gourmet

Radiant Living Healing Arts and Massage (on site chair massage)

Saranac River Ranch

Saratoga Apple

Saratoga Candles

Saratoga Peanut Butter

Scotch Ridge Berry Farm

Slate Valley Farms

Sweet Treats by Jennifer

Sydney Anechiarico Jewelry

The Bull and Bee Meadery

The Mushroom Shop, LLC

The Thymeless Homestead

Tyromance Fine Snacks

Yankee Distillers

Heat oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add ginger, garlic and Chile pepper; cook and stir until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in brown sugar and lime juice. Bring to a boil; cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in cilantro and fish sauce.

Heat prepared barbecue sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in chipotle peppers, honey and vinegar. Bring to a boil; cook and stir until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.

Baked Chicken Wings

YIELDS: 20 wings

PREP & COOK TIME: 75 min

INGREDIENTS:

*Ingredients currently available at the farmers’ market

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 2 pounds chicken wings*

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

• Dash cayenne pepper

• 1/4 cup baking powder

INSTRUCTIONS:

Preheat oven to 425°. Line a baking pan with parchment paper. Pour butter and oil over foil; brush to coat evenly.

Using a sharp knife, cut through the 2 wing joints; discard wing tips. In a small bowl, combine salt, onion powder, garlic powder, pepper and cayenne; sprinkle over both sides of wings, patting to help adhere. Sprinkle baking powder into a shallow dish. Add wing pieces, a few at a time, and toss to coat; shake off excess.

Place on prepared baking sheet. Bake until golden brown and juices run clear, 50-60 minutes, turning every 20 minutes.

Fried Chicken Wings

YIELDS: 4 dozen | PREP & COOK TIME: 30 min

INGREDIENTS:

*Ingredients currently available at the farmers’ market

• 4 pounds chicken wings*

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

• Oil for deep-fat frying

INSTRUCTIONS:

Using a sharp knife, cut through the 2 wing joints; discard wing tips. Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Toss wings with kosher salt. Place on a wire rack on a baking pan. Refrigerate at least 1 hour or overnight.

In an electric skillet or deep-fat fryer, heat oil to 375°. Fry wings in batches until skin is crisp and meat is tender, 8-10 minutes. Drain on paper towels.

Recipes adapted from Taste of Home

Bring hot sauce to a boil in a small saucepan. Remove from heat; whisk in butter 1 piece at a time. Stir in molasses and cayenne pepper.

• 1/2 cup sour cream*

• 1/4 cup buttermilk*

• 2 tablespoons Sriracha chili sauce

• Dash salt and pepper

In a small bowl, combine sauce ingredients. Serve with wings.

by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY

The new year is a great time to reflect on where you are, where you’ve been, and where you’d like to get to next. Reflection is the perfect way to close the old year and open the door to the new one. As I reminisce of accomplishments and changes in life, I am reminded of the time my wife and I began our adventure to Upstate New York as part of a corporate relocation. It is amazing to look back and see how quickly the many years have gone by. While Paula would travel weekly to the Rochester/ Buffalo area for work, I would often be taking our two children to dinner after work. One memory was while catching a quick dinner downtown. On the music speaker at the restaurant was a song that was very popular at the time. Our daughter Aubrey, who was almost four at the time, recognized the song and with spontaneity, jumped on the table and started singing “If it makes you happy, then why the ---- are you so sad!” by Sheryl Crow. She sang with enthusiasm as if she understood what the words meant! I had to quickly cover her mouth. Paula and I reflect on those times of when we were basically “two ships in the night” making life work while we were both working in the corporate environment. The weekends were the only times we really had as a family to sit at the table and enjoy a good, home cooked meal. We both would travel for our job and appreciated having something home cooked. Paula often stated that cooking on the weekends made her happy. It was our true family time. How does cooking make you happy? Here are some reasons:

Once you start to look at cooking the same as driving

IF IT MAKES YOU Happy

Hello my Foodie Friends!

your car, working at your career, or practicing your hobby, the things you do without thought every day, you will enjoy the same benefits of cooking that make you happy. #1) Freedom – You have the freedom to cook ANY ingredients that you can find, even if you don’t exactly know what they are. You can create fantastic meals from the items on-hand and don’t have to run to the grocery store for food that the recipe commands. Make recipes from what you already have.

2) Confidence - Have the confidence to know that meals will be a winner every single time because you can repeat a standard process on a wide variety of foods. Saute’ many different ingredients, or cook one ingredient in many different ways. Confidence makes you happy.

3) Health – You can be happy because you know you are improving your health with wholesome foods that you cook yourself. Purchase nutrient rich fresh foods and you can experience more energy, more brain power, and better sleep patterns because of good food. Learn to cook fresh foods!

4) Family - Cooking is a social skill. My family is excited when we cook because they know it will be creative and interesting. We attend more parties because of our cooking

Sweet Potato Fries

INGREDIENTS

• 1 lb. sweet potatoes (about 2)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil , avocado oil, or, coconut oil

• 2 ½ teaspoons cornstarch

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder

• ½ teaspoon ground pepper

• 1-2 teaspoons sea salt , to taste (or seasoned salt)

• ⅓ cup mayo

• ¼ cup ketchup

skills, and can talk about food topics because we have been behind the stove and seen what happens when we apply heat. Being around friends and family with a good meal can make you very happy.

Life can be hectic. Planning our meals and being able to have the time to cook is not always an ideal situation. However, spending time at the dinner table discussing life events, plans, or simply savoring your own creation can make you happy. Let us help you with your culinary needs. One of Sheryl Crow’s favorite foods is sweet potato fries. At Compliments to the Chef, your Neighborhood Kitchen and Cutlery store located at 33 Railroad Place, we stock a great French Fry cutter and other accoutrements to make your fries quickly and straight

I am not sure if the restaurant appreciated my daughter singing on their table. However, it is a story that we still laugh and talk about at the dinner table. That song is still one of our favorites! So, “If it makes you Happy” then make wonderful memories together. Remember my Foodie Friends, “Life Happens in the Kitchen”.

Take Care, John & Paula

INSTRUCTIONS

• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• ¼ teaspoon paprika

• 2 Tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional) For the dipping sauce:

1. Peel and cut sweet potatoes into “matchsticks” about ¼ inch thick, making them as uniform in size as possible.

2. Add them to a bowl and cover with cold water. Refrigerate for 30 minutes, or up to overnight. Drain and pat very dry.

3. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

4. Mix cornstarch, garlic powder, chili powder and pepper together in a bowl.

5. Add the sweet potatoes to a large resealable bag. Toss evenly with oil, then add spice mixture and toss to coat evenly.

6. Divide them onto the baking sheets, making sure they are not crowded or touching (otherwise they will steam, instead of roast). (Bake in two batches if you only have one sheet pan.)

7. Bake for 15 minutes, remove from the oven, and flip fries to the other side.

8. Return to the oven for 12-15 more minutes until crisp.

9. While the fries bake, make fry sauce by combining the ingredients in a bowl.

10. Remove sweet potato fries from oven and season to taste with salt and fresh parsley if desired. Serve with dipping sauce.

Recipe Courtesy of Tastes Better from Scratch at tastesbetterfromscratch.com

This Week’s Events:

JAN. 17-23

FRIDAY, JANUARY 17

Waldorf School Artwork Exhibit

Saratoga Springs Heritage Area

Visitor Center, 297 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 10 a.m. – 4

p.m. Art is an integral piece of the Waldorf school curriculum and accompanies every subject, including geometry, math, social studies, or science. The artwork currently on view is selected from grades 1-8 and includes explorations of primary and secondary colors by the lower grades; studies of ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman art by middle grade students; and observational paintings of flowers and birds, which is done at several grade levels. Our artwork will brighten your greyest day! The Visitor Center is open Tuesday – Saturday.

MLK Saratoga’s Annual Dr. King Celebration Weekend

Holiday Inn, 232 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. The weekend kick off!

This year’s theme is inspired by a 1967 speech Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave in Atlanta, GA. titled “Where Do We Go from Here?” Friday night Kickoff Party – a free evening of food, music and performances, hosted by Emcee Bakari Grady-Willis. There will be workshops, children’s programming, a Sunday Gospel service, exploring Restorative Justice, film screening and a special tribute to Odetta by Gina Coleman and Misty Blues at Caffè Lena, volunteer projects, and Monday afternoon’s Community Celebration, featuring a keynote address by author and Skidmore professor Dr. Tammy Owens, with inspirational music by Soulist Garland Nelson. Something for everyone. Visit mlksaratoga.org for event details and updates.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 18

Beginner Cross-Country Ski Introduction

Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton | 9 – 10 a.m. Are you looking to try a new recreational activity this winter season but don’t know where to start? Join our educators as they give you tidbits on how to cross-country ski, so you feel comfortable on the trails!

Genealogy and Local History

Town of Saratoga Town Hall, 12 Spring St. Schuylerville | 1 p.m. The book “Dear Mother…I Am the Only One Left” will be the theme of the program presented by author Russ VanDervoort, Waterford Town Historian. Charles Shepard joined the Union Army in December 1863. He fought in 7 major battles, was captured in 1864, and died in a North Carolina prison 5 months later. He had written numerous letters to family members during that time. Russ has gathered Charles’ real letters and added a fictional commentary by Charlie’s father, John Shepard, a Champlain Canal Teamster. The book shares John’s thoughts on the war and his own experiences as well as his son’s. The public is welcome. For information call 518-885-9309.

Winter Concert Series: String Theory Trio

Brookside Museum, Long Room, 21 Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa | 3 p.m. The String Theory Trio is a newly formed ensemble comprised of three friends, Brian Mooney, Dana Probeyahn-Smith, and Kathryn Tomlin who recently began exploring the repertoire that exists for two violins and a cello. The concert is open to the public and free, though donations are always appreciated, either online or at the event.

Ham Dinner

The Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church on 175 5th

Avenue, Saratoga Springs | 4 – 6 p.m. A Ham Dinner - complete with homemade pies. All are welcome! Cost: Free will donation.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 19

Two Towns – One Book Kick-off: Reid Kisselback, WNYT Meteorologist

Clifton Park Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Rd., Halfmoon | 2 p.m. Meteorologist Reid Kisselback will discuss hurricanes and other weather events to kick off this year’s Two Towns-One Book (TTOB) events. The 2025 TTOB book selection is West with Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge. 518-3718622. www.cphlibrary.org

MONDAY, JANUARY 20

Scavenger Hunt & Bonfire

Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Stop by the Winter Lodge and pick a scavenger hunt flyer to complete while walking on the trails! Bring it back to the lodge for a small prize and enjoy s’mores and hot cocoa around the fire.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 21

Outlook for Construction 2025

SUNY Adirondack - Wilton Campus, 696 US-9, Gansevoort | 8 – 9:30 a.m. Join us for an insightful and engaging panel discussion as we explore the future of construction in Saratoga County, looking ahead to 2025 and beyond. This event, presented by the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce and Saratoga Economic Development Corporation (SEDC), brings together key industry leaders to discuss the evolving landscape of construction in the region. This is a must-attend event for anyone in the construction, real estate, or development sectors, as well as local leaders, planners, and community members interested in understanding the direction

of construction in Saratoga County. Registration link: chamber.saratoga.org/events/details/ outlook-for-construction-202542119?calendarMonth=2025-01-01

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22

Prepare for Planting 2025 ReLeaf Workshop

Saratoga County 4-H Training Center, 556 Middleline Rd., Ballston Spa | 8:30 a.m. CheckIn, Program begins at 9 a.m. Join the Eastern Adirondack ReLeaf Committee for a halfday workshop on how to plan for your planting project. Attendees will learn how to find funding for planting projects, engage communities in planting trees, plant the right tree in the right place, and more. Program speakers are Christina McLaughlin – NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, Duane Dickinson – National Grid and Caroline Rothaug – Sustainable Saratoga. Register: https://nysufc.org/releafworkshops/. General public $20. Registration closes on January 17.

Academy for Lifelong Learning Winter Storyteller Series

Prestwick Chase at Saratoga, 100 Saratoga Blvd., Saratoga Springs | Noon – 1 p.m. Free and open to the public. No reservations required. Sponsored by Prestwick Chase. Storyteller Kate Dudding presents Helpers. Different storytellers will offer their tales every Wednesday through February 12. If Saratoga Springs city schools are closed due to weather, that presentation will be postponed until February 19. For more information on the Academy for Lifelong Learning or for a complete lineup of storytellers, visit www.allsaratoga.org or contact Academy Executive Director, Jeff Shinaman at jeff@allsaratoga.org or call 518-290-6988.

Chicken & Biscuits 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: Chicken & Biscuits, mashed potatoes, vegetable, salad. Dinner for $15.00 (cash only).

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23

America 250: The Ballston Connection Ballston Community Library, 2 Lawmar Lane, Burnt Hills | 6:30 p.m. A Documentary - A committee representing the Town of Ballston, Saratoga County has produced a documentary celebrating the Town’s role in the history of the American Revolution. The program is free and open to all. It’s an opportunity to learn about the local heroes and, yes, the villains, of Revolutionary times!

Greetings from the Great Camp: A History of the Adirondack Vacation

Zoom Presentation | 7 p.m. Join Connor Williams, scholar, teacher and the historian at Great Camp Sagamore (where he directs their history programming) as he answers questions, and discusses how environmentalism, opulence, industry, inequality, architecture and nature all intersected to produce the Adirondack Park (and the Adirondack vacations) we still connect to today. The event is open to the public. It is free for SCHC members, and $5 for non-members. Pre-registration is required through the website www. brooksidemuseum.org

To Kill a Mockingbird Panel Discussion

Zoom Presentation | 7 p.m. A panel discussion of the 1962 award-winning film. The film is rich with memorable characters and thought-provoking subject matter that has made a lasting mark on cinema history. The program is part of Saratoga Jewish Community Arts’s social justice series. The film may be viewed free on Hoopla (registration with library card required), or it may be rented from Amazon or Apple. Advance registration is required. To register for this program, go to the SJCA Home Page by visiting https:// lp.constantcontactpages.com/ cu/9HjgRFz/SJCAHomePage. A playbill and Zoom link will be sent to registrants about a day before the program, followed by a last-minute reminder shortly before the program.

UPCOMING Events

Southern Saratoga County Art Exhibits

SSAS will be hosting Art Exhibits throughout the area. The Clifton Park Senior Community Center Gallery, 6 Clifton Common Blvd., will show a “Gentlemen’s Art Exhibit” featuring artists and members of SSAS, Brian Skanes, David Mayack, Frank Coletta, John Morrette and William Daisak during the months of January and February 2025. Mechanicville Library, 190 N. Main Street, will show the artwork of SSAS member and artist, Jane Morrison, during the month of January 2025. Stop in and view these amazing artists. For further information about SSAS, visit: southernsaratogaartist.com

Art in Public Places

Various Locations in Saratoga County | Art in Public Places is a Member-Exclusive program featuring art exhibitions online and in various locations around the Capital Region. This program gives local and regional artists an opportunity to showcase and sell their work while exhibiting in publicly accessible spaces. Visit these locations to throughout the area: Friends of the Saratoga Springs Library Café, Saratoga Springs Visitor Center, Saratoga Springs Public Library, Town of Ballston Community Library, Clifton Park Halfmoon Library, Saratoga Springs Train Station, and Country Corner Café. To view online visit www.saratogaarts.org/Art-in-Public-Places All artworks are for sale and can be purchased online or over the phone at 518-584-4132.

Winterfest Celebration & 5 K Snowshoe Race

The Town of Greenfield Recreation Department will hold a Winterfest Celebration on Saturday, January 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Brookhaven Winter Park, at 333 Alpine Meadows Rd. in Porter Corners. The event will begin with a 5K snowshoe race. Families or individuals

are invited to register for $20 a person at https://www. runreg.com/brookhaven-trailssnowshoe-race. Snowshoes are available for rental for $15 for adults and $10 for kids and seniors. A free community celebration follows the race and includes free horse-drawn sleigh rides, a snowman building competition, outdoor story time, food specials, live music and more.

Monthly Indoor Craft and Garage Sale

On Sunday, January 26, from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., the popular Elks Ladies Auxiliary Indoor Craft and Garage Sale will be held at the Saratoga-Wilton Elks Club on Elks Lane, off Marion Avenue. Admission is free with over 40 vendors, great parking, crafts galore, and lunch. Lots of shopping including necklace sets, earrings, Scentsey, Baby Burp Cloths, as well as household items, knitted and hand-made items, food treats, antiques and vintage items, and just about anything you can imagine. New vendors sign-up every month. A fun activity the entire family enjoys. All proceeds go to local charities. 8’ table and chairs $15. Email Debbie deborahozolins@gmail. com for information or to sign up for a table(s). Applications are available in the Elks lobby after 3 p.m. daily.

Garden Club MeetingSave the Date

The Thymly Herb Garden Group will hold its monthly meeting Monday, January 27 at 11 a.m., at the 4-H Training Center, 556 Middleline Rd, Ballston Spa. If the Ballston Spa School District has a delay or closes that day, we will not meet. Mary Lyall will demonstrate the traditional Italian art of pasta making, incorporating herbs and vegetables. Following the presentation, there will be light refreshments and a meeting. The dues for the year to join the Thymly Herb Group are $20. First time attendance is free. Please RSVP with questions or let us know you will be joining us. thymlyherbmail@gmail.com

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Marjorie F. Bostwick (Mercer)

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Marjorie F. Bostwick (Mercer) passed peacefully at her home on January 7, 2025, after battling a lengthy illness. Services were held at Compassionate Funeral Care, 402 Maple Ave, Saratoga Springs NY 12866 on Sunday, January 12. For condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

George A. Richards III

GREENFIELD CENTER —

George A. Richards III passed away on January 5, 2025. A private funeral will be held at the discretion of the family. The son of George A. Richards Jr. and Priscilla M. Dunbar Richards, and is survived by his stepmother Vivian G. Woodard Richards. For condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

Christine Michelle Holehan (Firlit)

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Christine Michelle Holehan (Firlit), 75, of Utica NY, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2025, surrounded by her loving family, due to complications from a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Services are private. Memorial donations to Operation Smile (1-888-6776453) or Anita’s Stevens Swan Humane Society. Please visit www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Habiba Ibrahim

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Habiba Ibrahim passed away on January 5, 2025. Calling hours were held on January 13 at Compassionate Funeral Care, Saratoga Springs, NY. A funeral service followed. A graveside service was held in Greenridge Cemetery, Saratoga Springs, NY. For condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

Edith DeConno

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Edith DeConno passed away on January 6, 2025. The service was held on January 13 at Compassionate Funeral Care, Saratoga Springs. Calling hours were held prior to the service. A graveside service was held on January 14 at Gerald B.H. Solomon National Cemetery, Schuylerville, NY. For condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

Estelle Jensen

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Estelle Jensen, 86, passed away on January 5, 2025. A memorial service to celebrate Estelle’s life was held on Wednesday, January 15 at Compassionate Funeral Care, Saratoga Springs. Calling hours were held prior to the service. For condolences, visit www.compassionatefuneralcare. com.

Dean Majzoub

MECHANICVILLE — Dean Majzoub, 70, passed away on January 10, 2025. Calling hours were held on January 15 at Compassionate Funeral Care, Saratoga Springs, NY. Following the visitation, a graveside service was held in St. Peter’s Cemetery, 150 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY. For condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

Fred Astaire Dance Studios to Host Jan. 26 Student Showcase to Benefit Alzheimer’s Association

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Fred Astaire Dance Studios (FADS) in Albany and Saratoga Springs host their annual student showcase, this year themed “Everybody Dance Now,” at noon on Sunday, Jan. 26, at the Albany Marriott on Wolf Road.

The event celebrates the achievements of FADS students while sharing the joy of dance with the community— and this year’s showcase will benefit the Alzheimer’s Association, with partial proceeds supporting the organization’s efforts to combat Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

The theme, “Everybody Dance Now,” underscores the transformative power of

dance— as an art form and a scientifically proven way to enhance cognitive function, improve memory, and delay the effects of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

The Fred Astaire Dance Studios are located in Latham and Saratoga Springs. A short speaking program preceding the performances feature representatives from the Fred Astaire Dance Studios and the Alzheimer’s Association. For ticket information and event details, visit the event page- Everybody Dance Now – at Eventbrite. For more information about Fred Astaire Dance Studios Saratoga Springs, visit fredastaire.com/ saratoga-springs.

David Greenberger & The Huckleberries Perform In Exclusive Event at UPH in January

SARATOGA SPRINGS

—Area legend David Greenberger will be appearing with The Huckleberries at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 19 in an exclusive event at Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga Springs.

Greenberger, perhaps best known for 32 years of publishing his periodical – The Duplex Planet – which was borne out of his conversations with nursing home residents, beginning in 1979. The

magazine led to a plethora of recordings and performances of monologues and music.

Greenberger’s new release, “My Autobiography Vol. 1,” features music and monologues culled from Greenberger’s own life and observations, voiced by more than two dozen participants.

At Universal Preservation Hall on Jan. 19, attendees will be treated to a showcase of the magic that lies in the art of conversation. With a

specialty in sparking lively and spontaneous dialogue with all whom he meets, Greenberger’s latest artistic venture is a playground of conversation filled with knock-knock jokes, not-so-rhetorical questions and observations about the world akin to that of a child’s imagination and wonder.

For more information and tickets, go to: https://atuph. org/event/david-greenbergerthe-huckleberries-celebrateuniversal-preservation/.

David Greenberger and The Huckleberries – live in Saratoga Springs Sunday in an exclusive showcase of the magic that lies in the art of conversation. Photo provided.

SARATOGA JAZZ FESTIVAL

Lineup Revealed for June 28-29 Fest at SPAC

by Thomas Dimopoulos Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— The 48th Annual Saratoga Jazz Festival, presented by GE Vernova will return for a full two-day and two-stage weekend experience on Saturday, June 28 and Sunday, June 29 at Saratoga Performing Arts Center.

Featuring a roster of 22 musical groups and 10 festival debuts, the line-up is headlined by magnetic performers Gary Clark Jr. and Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, alongside beloved jazz vocalists Gregory Porter and Cassandra Wilson, and the next generation of jazz, funk and rock stars Cory Wong, Lettuce, DJ Logic & Friends and Veronica Swift.

The festival will also see the return of jazz icons such as Al Di Meola, Michel Camilo and Kenny Garrett in addition to new, emerging artists on the scene like Nicole Zuraitis, Brandee Younger, and Julius Rodriguez.

Founded in 1978 by jazz impresario George Wein, Saratoga Jazz Festival is the fifth longest-consecutiverunning jazz festival in North America. Initially founded as “the Newport Jazz Festival at Saratoga” the weekend event was renamed Freihofer’s Saratoga Jazz Festival in 1998.

The 2025 festival marks the beginning of SPAC’s new partnership with lead festival sponsor GE Vernova. The two organizations embark on a fiveyear partnership, with $200,000 committed from GE Vernova for each year, ensuring the vibrancy and longevity of Saratoga Jazz Festival, one of the largest jazz events in North America.

Making his SPAC debut to headline the festival on Saturday is four-time Grammy awardwinner, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and performer Gary Clark Jr. Heralded for his bold and expressive guitar playing, his music fuses blues, rock, R&B, soul and hip hop with influences and collaborations

ranging from B.B. King, the Jackson 5 and Muddy Waters to Alicia Keys, Dave Grohl and Childish Gambino. His most recent album JPEG RAW, released in 2024, represents a quantum leap displaying his versatility and demonstrating the fresh new directions he can take with his music.

Back by popular demand to headline the festival on Sunday is Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue. Since 2010, Shorty has released five chart topping studio albums (his most recent being 2022’s Lifted); toured with everyone from Jeff Beck to the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and has collaborated across genres with Pharrell, Bruno Mars, Mark Ronson, Foo Fighters, ZHU, Zac Brown, Normani, Ringo Starr, and countless more. Beloved for his onstage charisma, Shorty’s appearance marks his fourth Saratoga Jazz Festival performance.

In addition to two nonstop days of great music on two stages, fans can also enjoy a host of amenities including new and diverse food offerings, a fine arts and crafts fair, and artist merchandise signings. Guests are welcome to bring in their own food and beverages, as well as lawn chairs, blankets, tents and lawn umbrellas. Parking for the event is free. Performances will begin at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 28 and at 11:45 a.m. on Sunday, June 29.

Tickets go on sale beginning on Jan. 21 to SPAC members (tiered by level) and on Jan. 24 to the general public.

Tickets for the festival start at $85. Members will also receive a discount of 15-20% (depending on level) on their ticket purchase. Two-day passes are also available. Children 12 and under receive 50% off tickets in the amphitheater and are free on the lawn. Full-time students with a school issued ID receive 25% off tickets in the amphitheater, or $28 on the lawn (student ID must be presented at will call).

Visit spac.org for more details.

2025 SARATOGA JAZZ FESTIVAL

SATURDAY, JUNE 28

Amphitheater: Gary Clark Jr., Gregory Porter, Lettuce, Veronica Swift, Michel Camilo Trio, Kenny Garrett.

Charles R. Wood “Discovery” Stage: Artemis, Nicole Zuraitis, Keyon Harrold, Julius Rodriguez, C.J. Chenier & The Red Hot Louisiana Band, The String Queens.

SUNDAY, JUNE 29

Amphitheater: Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Cory Wong, Cassandra Wilson, Al Di Meola Acoustic Band, DJ Logic & Friends featuring Vernon Reid, Cyro Baptista, Emilio Modeste, James Hurt, Felix Pastorius & Terreon Gully.

Charles R. Wood “Discovery” Stage: Gary Bartz, Bria Skonberg Quintet, Brandee Younger Trio, La Excelencia, Skidmore Jazz Institute Faculty All-Stars Celebrate their Heroes feat. Clay Jenkins, Jimmy Greene, Steve Davis, Dave Stryker, Bill Cunliffe, Todd Coolman & Dennis Mackrel.

Trombone Shorty will perform Sunday June 29 during the two-day Saratoga Jazz Fest at SPAC. Photo provided.

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: Historic, Historical

Historic refers to something improtant or memorable.

The opening of the wing is a historic occoasion for the hospital Historical means concered with or relating to history.

Margaret Mitchell’s “Gone with the Wild” is a historical novel.

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

Notice of formation of KIM GENDRON NURSE PRACTITIONER IN PSYCHIATRY, PLLC. Articles of Organization filed with New York State Dept. of State on 11/18/2024. 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 13 Blue Jay Circle, Schaghticoke, NY 12154. Company is organized for any lawful purpose. 12/06, 12/13, 12/20/2024, 01/03, 1/10, 1/17/2025. 14113

Legal notice of formation of a New York State Limited Liability Company, NEVERWASTE ENERGY, LLC. Articles of organization filing date with secretary of state (SSNY) was November 15, 2024. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to LLC at: 807 Ulysses Drive, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Purpose of the LLC is to engage in any and all lawful business activities. 12/06, 12/13, 12/20/2024, 01/03, 1/10, 1/17/2025. 14121

Notice of formation of J PROCK TRUCKING AND EXCAVATING LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 08/22/2024. 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: 515 Ormsbee Rd Porter Corners, NY 12859. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 12/06, 12/13, 12/20/2024, 01/03, 1/10, 1/17/2025. 14125

Notice of formation of Capital District Couriers LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York

on 08/07/2024. 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: Capital District Couriers, 972 Hudson Ave., Stillwater, NY 12170. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 12/06, 12/13, 12/20/2024, 01/03, 1/10, 1/17/2025. 14126

Notice of formation of The Nook Café, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 06/24/2024. 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 Tyler Drive, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 12/06, 12/13, 12/20/2024, 01/03, 1/10, 1/17/2025. 14128

Notice of formation of Limited Liability Company. NAME: ECDCPleskovic LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/29/2024. 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 process to the LLC, 21 Willis Way, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Purpose: for any lawful purpose. 12/06, 12/13, 12/20/2024, 01/03, 1/10, 1/17/2025. 14133

Notice of formation of 92 Main Corinthians, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of N.Y. (SSNY) on 12/04/24. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon which process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC, 5177 Route 9N, Corinth, NY 12822.Purpose: Any lawful activity. 12/06, 12/13, 12/20/2024, 01/03, 1/10, 1/17/2025. 14139

Notice of formation of Oaracle Rowing LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 11/17/2024. 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: 136 Thimbleberry Rd., Malta, NY 12020. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 12/13, 12/20/2024, 01/03, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24/2025. 14154

Notice of formation of Racoon Laundromat, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of N.Y. (SSNY) on 12/04/24. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon which process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC, 5177 Route 9N, Corinth, NY 12822. Purpose: Any lawful activity. 12/13, 12/20/2024, 01/03, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24/2025. 14156

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: EDAL Ventures LLC (LLC). Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on November 19, 2024. 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 process to: EDAL Ventures LLC, 110 Henry Street, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 12/13, 12/20/2024, 01/03, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24/2025. 14195

Notice of formation of Wagner Small Engines LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 10/26/2024 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: 494 Coy Road, Greenfield Center NY 12833.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 12/20/2024, 01/03, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31/2025. 14211

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Under Section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Law. Name: Grove on Sisson, LLC, Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on December 12, 2024. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: c/o “LLC”, 536 Bay Road, Suite 2, Queensbury, NY 12804. Purpose: Any lawful act or activities. 12/20/2024, 01/03, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31/2025. 14225

Notice of formation of Ballston Lake Properties, LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on November 21, 2024, 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: 14 Ironwood Street, Ballston Lake, Saratoga, NY 12019. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 12/20/2024, 01/03, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31/2025. 14228

Notice of formation of NamastEsthetics LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 12/04/2024. 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: 128 Wooley Rd., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 12/20/2024, 01/03, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31/2025.14243

Notice of formation of Village Automotive LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 12/04/2024. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom

saratogapublishing.com 2254 Route 50 South Saratoga Springs

process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 166 Broad St Schuylerville, NY 12871. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 12/20/2024, 01/03, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31/2025. 14245

Notice of Formation of CAMP BYWATER/LAKE CLEAR, LLC. The name of the limited liability company is “CAMP BYWATER/ LAKE CLEAR, LLC” (the LLC). The Articles of Organization were filed with the New York Department of State on December 6, 2024. The Secretary of State is designated as the agent of the LLC upon whom process against the company may be served. The principal office of the LLC is in Saratoga County and the address to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC is 23 Hilton Drive, South Glens Falls, NY 12803. The purpose of the LLC shall be to conduct any lawful business as permitted by applicable law and as determined from time to time by its members. 1/03, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07/2025. 14257

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

NAME: 36 Rolling Brook Drive, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/23/2024. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to the LLC c/o Michelle H. Wildgrube, Esq., Cioffi Slezak Wildgrube P.C., 1473 Erie Blvd., 1st Fl., Schenectady, NY 12305. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 1/03, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07/2025. 14289

Notice of formation of Amy Nistico Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry, PLLC. Articles of Organization filed with New York State Dept. of State on 11/04/2024.

Week of January 17 - January 23, 2025

LEGALS

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, 82 Thimbleberry Road, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Company is organized for Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry. 1/03, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07/2025. 14292

Notice of formation of Anderson Family Acres LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 09/15/2024 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: 43 Homestead Road Saratoga Springs NY 12866 Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/03, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07/2025. 14296

Notice of formation of Hawthorn Photography LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 12/15/2024 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: 43 Homestead Road Saratoga Springs NY 12866 Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/03, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07/2025. 14297

Notice of Formation of Limited Liability Company. Name: Integrity EHS & Home Services, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/23/2024. 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 process to the LLC, 65 York Ave., Saratoga Springs, 12866. Purpose: for any lawful purpose. 1/03, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07/2025. 14298

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY; Name of PLLC: KDN LAW PLLC. The county within this state in which the office of the professional service limited liability company is to be located is SARATOGA. The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the professional service limited liability company served

upon the Secretary of State by personal delivery is C/O THE PLLC, 480 BROADWAY, STE 250, SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY 12866. Purpose of PLLC: Any lawful purpose. 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07, 2/14/2025. 14302

Notice of formation of Recover Windows LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 11/26/2024 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: 315 Stone Church RD #17, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07, 2/14/2025. 14332

Notice of formation of Barbara Vaughan, Mental Health Counseling, PLLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 11/21/2024 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 PLLC at: 16F Crown Circle, Mechanicville, NY 12118. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07, 2/14/2025. 14354

Notice of formation of MDKN Properties, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 12/31/2024. 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: 9 Whitney Road South, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07, 2/14/2025. 14357

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

The Department of Central Services of Saratoga County, 50 West High Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 will receive sealed bids until 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 30, 2025 at which time bids will be publicly opened and read aloud for Coons Crossing Road over Anthony Kill Bridge Replacement in the towns of Halfmoon and Stillwater, Saratoga County, New York BIN 2202750; PIN 1761.78 as per specification 25-PWCCRAKBR-2. No pre-bid conference will be scheduled. Bid documents may only be obtained on or after Thursday, January 9, 2025 from The Empire

State Bid System at no cost from the following website: www. empirestatebidsystem.com Saratoga County, through the Department of Central Services, 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 01/10, 01/17/2025, 14360

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

The Department of Central Services, 50 West High St., Ballston Spa, NY 12020 will receive sealed bids in person until 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 6, 2025, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read aloud for Recycling Center Structure Rehabilitation at the Clifton Park Transfer Station, as per specification 25-PWCPTSR-1. Bid documents may be examined at the following locations:

Saratoga County Public Works Facility, 3654 Galway Rd., Ballston Spa, NY 12020, 518-885-2235. Saratoga County Department of Central Services, 50 West High St., Ballston Spa, NY 12020, 518-885-2210.

Bid forms and instructions are available only 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 01/17/2025, 12364

Notice of formation of Beverly Farm LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 1/7/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 12 Beverly place Ballston Lake NY 12019. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07, 2/14, 2/21/2025. 14370

Notice of formation of Southern Franklin Hospitality L.L.C. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 12/28/2024 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: 50 Waterbury St, Saratoga Springs, NY. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07, 2/14, 2/21/2025. 14371

Wilton Mall Development I LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/09/2025. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 22 Clifton Park Road, Suite 79, Clifton Park, NY 12065. Purpose: General. 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07, 2/14, 2/21/2025. 14374

Wilton Mall Development II LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/09/2025. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 22 Clifton Park Road, Suite 79, Clifton Park, NY 12065. Purpose: General. 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07, 2/14, 2/21/2025.

Wilton Mall Development III LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/09/2025. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 22 Clifton Park Road, Suite 79, Clifton Park, NY 12065. Purpose: General. 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07, 2/14, 2/21/2025. 14376

Wilton Mall Development IV LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/09/2025. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 22 Clifton Park Road, Suite 79, Clifton Park, NY 12065. Purpose: General. 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07, 2/14, 2/21/2025. 14377

Wilton Mall Development V LLC

Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/09/2025. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 22 Clifton Park Road, Suite 79, Clifton Park, NY 12065. Purpose: General. 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07, 2/14, 2/21/2025. 14378

Wilton Mall Development VI LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/09/2025. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 22 Clifton Park Road, Suite 79, Clifton Park, NY 12065. Purpose: General. 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07, 2/14, 2/21/2025. 14379

Wilton Mall Development VII

LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/09/2025. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 22 Clifton Park Road, Suite 79, Clifton Park, NY 12065. Purpose: General. 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07, 2/14, 2/21/2025. 14380

Wilton Mall Development VIII

LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/09/2025. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 22 Clifton Park Road, Suite 79, Clifton Park, NY 12065. Purpose: General. 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07, 2/14, 2/21/2025. 14381

Notice of formation of Mingtu LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 09/18/2024 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: 43 Timbira Drive, Gansevoort, NY 12831. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/07, 2/14, 2/21/2025. 14383

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

The Department of Central Services, 50 West High St., Ballston Spa, NY 12020 will receive sealed bids in person until 11:00 a.m. Thursday, February 6, 2025, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read aloud for Recycling Center Structure Rehabilitation at the Clifton Park Transfer Station, as per specification 25-PWCPTSR-1. Bid documents may be examined at the following locations: Saratoga County Public Works Facility, 3654 Galway Rd., Ballston Spa, NY 12020, 518-885-2235.

Saratoga County Department of Central Services, 50 West High St., Ballston Spa, NY 12020, 518-885-2210.

Bid forms and instructions are available only 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 01/17/2025, 14388

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Where Are All the Bike Lanes?

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Much happened in the city of Saratoga Springs in 2024: the first Belmont Stakes Racing Festival, the first Republican mayor in a decade, and the approval of a massive new Tree House Brewing location. But one thing missing from this list, according to a local organization, is the construction of new bike lanes.

There is support for the lanes, and some funds as well. Yet, in 2024 not a single new bike lane was created in the Spa City. This, says the nonprofit advocacy group Bikeatoga, is “extremely disappointing.”

For Union Avenue, a final plan to create bike lanes does exist but hasn’t yet been presented to or discussed by the city council.

“It simply fell off the table,” said Bikeatoga’s Advocacy Chair Ed Lindner. “We would’ve liked to have seen them move forward on actually building the final recommendation.”

Bikeatoga says that the city spent $40,000 on consulting and engineering fees to design improved pedestrian crossings, slow down traffic, and extend

bike lanes from East Avenue to Congress Park. Hired consultants produced a final plan that maintained the current four travel lanes and on-street parking, improved pedestrian crossings, and included a paint-only bike lane. But the city has yet to do much of anything with it.

There’s also the Downtown Connector, which currently ends at Lake Avenue. A 2020 Henry Street Pilot Project study recommended that the connector be extended to Congress Park, where it could link up with the proposed connection to the West Side and Railroad Run. But again, little progress has been made.

“It’s these connections that we’re missing,” Lindner said. “Until you have a connected network, you don’t have anything. We now have a half of a bike lane on Union Avenue, a half a bike lane on Lake Avenue; we need to connect those.”

Despite the lack of new lanes, there are some “rays of hope,” according to Bikeatoga.

The city’s Complete Streets Advisory Board (which Lindner called “excellent” and “extremely well qualified”) presented the city council with some project ideas that Bikeatoga says the council should support. The

“The issue here is some sort of leadership to actually follow through and get these projects done.”

city is also currently applying for grant funding to build the Crescent Avenue bike lane, and may be moving ahead with the Grand Avenue multi-use path.

“The issue here isn’t expertise,” Lindner said. “The issue here is some sort of leadership to actually follow through and get these projects done.”

The creation of new bike lanes is designed to aid those who’d like to bike around town but don’t feel safe riding in traffic. A network of connected

lanes could increase ridership, according to at least one study published in the American Journal of Public Health. Data analyzed from ten American cities that worked on improving and connecting their bike networks showed that all ten cities had both increased ridership and decreased accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

Another study of 74 U.S. cities found that dense bike networks with direct connections were the most likely to increase bike commuting. A third study from

Portland State University also asserted that bike lane networks are especially valuable for women and low-income families.

For those reasons and others, Bikeatoga’s principal advocacy goal is for Saratoga Springs to build a functional bike lane network.

“We have a lot of good ideas. We have a lot of studies and plans. It’s time for the city to commit,” Lindner said. “If you talk to people in City Hall, they’ll tell you that it’s happening, but the results speak for themselves.”

A rendering from the Henry Street Pilot Project shows a 2020 plan for new bike lanes in Saratoga Springs. Image via the final report prepared by Barton & Loguidice, D.P.C.

Black Horses Named to All-State Team

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SCHUYLERVILLE

— Eight members of the Schuylerville varsity football team that captured its first-ever Class C State championship in December have been selected to the 2024 Class C All-State team by the New York Sports Writers Association.

Ollie

and running back Landen Cumm, both seniors, were named co-players of the year. Offensive lineman Josh Bowen and linebacker Chase DeLisle made the first All-State team, while placekicker Silas SchulteLindhorst was selected to the second team. Defensive end Luke Griffen, offensive lineman Emajie White, and linebacker

The accolades further cement the Schuylerville football program’s stellar reputation. Under Coach John Bowen, the Horses have won more than 100 games and captured five sectional championships (including three in a row from 2019 to 2021), before securing their first state title in 2024.

Local Assemblywoman to Head Racing and Wagering Committee

SARATOGA SPRINGS — New York State Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner, whose district includes Saratoga Springs and other parts of Saratoga County, was appointed the new chair of the Assembly Racing and Wagering Committee last week by Speaker Carl E. Heastie.

“The racing and wagering industry is deeply woven into the fabric of my district and plays a vital role in the economies of both our local communities and the entire state of New York,” Woerner said in a news release.

“The potential for growth in this sector is immense, with farreaching benefits that include supporting small businesses, providing equine therapy for veterans and others in need, and channeling wager revenue to fund education for our children. I look forward to showcasing how this powerful

economic engine positively impacts so many individuals and communities.” Woerner previously served on the Racing and Wagering Committee and currently represents both the Saratoga Race Course and the Saratoga Casino Hotel’s harness track.

Other members of the committee include Scott Bendett, Michael Durso, Jeff Gallahan, Paula Elaine Kay, Stacey Pheffer Amato, Angelo Santabarbara, Nader J. Sayegh, Michaelle C. Solages, Clyde Vanel, and Jordan J.G. Wright.

Quarterback

Bolduc

Jameson Brownell all received honorable mention.

The Schuylerville varsity football team poses after winning the 2024 Class C New York State championship. Photo provided by the Schuylerville Central School District.

New York State Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner was recently appointed to the Assembly’s Racing and Wagering Committee. Photo provided.

5K Snowshoe Race Coming Soon to Brookhaven Winter Park

PORTER CORNERS

— The Town of Greenfield Recreation Department will hold a Winterfest Celebration on Saturday, January 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Brookhaven Winter Park (333 Alpine Meadows Road, Porter Corners).

The event will begin with a 5K snowshoe race. Families or individuals are invited to register for $20 a person at

https://www.runreg.com/ brookhaven-trails-snowshoerace. Snowshoes are available for rental for $15 for adults and $10 for kids and seniors.

A free community celebration following the race will include horse-drawn sleigh rides, a snowman building competition, outdoor story time, food specials, live music, and more.

Spa Catholic Dominates

Berlin-New Lebanon in Bowling Sweep

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Saratoga Central Catholic’s varsity bowling team continued their winning streak with an emphatic 5-0 victory over Berlin-New Lebanon at Saratoga StrikeZone last Thursday.

The Saints were led by Jason Pescetti, who achieved a seasonhigh 644 series, with games of 221, 223, and 200. Mark Mahay also delivered a standout performance, recording a season-high 584 series, including a 215 in Game 3.

Berlin-New Lebanon had strong efforts from Myra Snyder, who rolled a 493 series, and Avyn Capasso with a 480 series. However, Saratoga Central Catholic’s consistency across all three games proved insurmountable.

The Saints won all three games with scores of 1069967, 1105-868, and 1064-949, culminating in a total pinfall of 3238 to Berlin-New Lebanon’s 2784.

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New Websites for Race Course and Skidmore Sports

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— The online homes of both the Saratoga Race Course and Skidmore Athletics underwent renovations recently, launching redesigned websites this week and last.

as streamlined navigation, an improved user experience, a greater focus on events, an updated facilities page, and easier access to live game coverage. Skidmore partnered with SIDEARM Sports for the project. The new site can be seen at: SkidmoreAthletics. com. it

takes you to start the trend.

According to the New York Racing Association (NYRA), its new site features “easier navigation for players,

visitors, and horsemen; a unified racing command center with live video, picks, entries, and results; and an improved mobile experience.” NYRA’s revamped Saratoga Race Course page can be viewed at: www.nyra.com/saratoga.

Skidmore College said that its athletics site features “a bold, modern design” as well

Screenshots of the redesigned Saratoga Race Course and Skidmore Athletics websites.

Saints Basketball Team Nearly Undefeated in Strong Start Schuylerville Runner Smashes

School Records

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS —

Schuylerville High School’s Meaghan Lynch broke two school records at the Beantown Winter Classic in Boston last month, recording a 7.48 in the varsity girls 55-meter dash (6th place overall) and a 35-03.25 in the triple jump (4th overall).

Last year, Lynch was a Section 2 Division III individual champion in the 55 meter and the long jump.

Additional Black Horses with strong showings in Boston included Campbell Bailey (7th in the girls high jump), Adeline Ballou (14th in the girls 1,000meter run), and Willem Foster (18th in the boys high jump).

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

The Saratoga Central Catholic boys varsity basketball team won its tenth straight game on Tuesday, defeating WaterfordHalfmoon 78 to 42. The victory improved Spa Catholic’s season record to 12-1, with an undefeated 7-0 record in the Wasaren League. As of press time, the Saints were first in their league standings, with the 5-2 Hoosic Valley in second.

Against WaterfordHalfmoon, Ryan Gillis led the Saints with 12 points, while Tyler Hicks added 11. Last Friday, Hicks led Spa Catholic with 19 points in a 54 to 39 victory against Tamarac. Gillis contributed 9 points and 13 rebounds in the contest.

Saratoga’s only loss thus far came on December 8, when they fell to Berne-Knox-Westerlo, 55 to 49. Since then, their tengame win streak has seen them beat Hoosic Valley, Greenwich,

Stillwater, and Corinth. Their two most dominant victories came against Berlin/New Lebanon (71 to 17)

Friday, January 17 at 7:30 p.m.

The Saratoga Central Catholic boys varsity basketball team beat Tamarac last Friday to improve their season record to 11-1. Photo via SCC Saints Athletics.

Schuylerville girls varsity runner Meaghan Lynch poses with her medals after breaking two school records in Boston. Photo via the Schuylerville Central School District.

Schuylerville,

and Hadley Luzerne (81 to 32). The Saints will have a home rematch against Hoosic Valley on