Saratoga TODAY January 31 - February 6, 2025

History OF SARATOGA Pulitzer Prize Winner Lived in Malta

by Tom Williams | Sponsored by The Saratoga County History Roundtable

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

Saratoga County has attracted more than its share of literary lights, whether they have spent time at the Yaddo retreat or taken in “health, history and horses.” One of these writing notables is a point of pride for residents of the town of Malta. Katherine Anne Porter, a recipient of the Pulitzer Prize for fiction, lived in Malta and owned a home there.

Porter is perhaps best known for having written “Ship of Fools,” the 1962 novel that was the basis for the 1965 movie of the same name. Porter received the Pulitzer for the publishing in 1965 of “The Collected Stories of Katherine Anne Porter,” a volume of her short stories she had published up to that point. Three of those stories were also published together in a separate volume in 1939 called “Pale Horse, Pale Rider.”.

The real life of Katherine Anne Porter could have easily described some colorful characters in her well-crafted stories. She was born Callie Russell Porter on May 15, 1890, the fourth of five children of a struggling farmer, in the dusty small town of Indian Creek, Texas. Her mother died when Callie was 2, so her father, Harrison, moved the family to Kyle, Texas, a more substantial community (the “pie capital of Texas”) just outside Austin. Callie’s grandmother, Catharine Ann Porter (note the spelling), helped raise the children. In tribute to her grandmother, Callie later changed her own name to Katherine Anne Porter.

After the family moved to several other cities, in Texas and Louisiana, Porter attended a private girls’ school in San Antonio. A bright youngster, she read widely and studied music, but was never educated

beyond grammar school. In 1906 at the age of 16, she married John Henry Koontz. Lasting nine years, it was the longest of her five marriages. Later in life, she half-jokingly said that she remembered only three of those unions.

In a review of a biography commissioned by Porter in her later years (“Katherine Anne Porter, A Life,” by Joan Givner), literary critic Elizabeth Hardwick wrote of Porter: “She was beautiful, a spendthrift, an alert coquette and, since she lived long, a good many of her friends, lovers and three of her husbands were younger than she was.”

In 1915 Porter traveled to Chicago to try acting for a silent film company but soon becamw interested in journalism. Through the late ‘teens and 1920s she took writing jobs and did freelance work for magazines and newspapers. In an era when women were becoming increasingly independent, she also began writing her own short stories and poems. One of her better short stories, “Flowering Judas,” was published in 1930. Her writing yielded a $2,000 Guggenheim Fellowship, which she used in 1931 to travel by steamship from Mexico to study in Germany. On that voyage, aboard the S.S. Vera, she took notes about the wide variety of passengers she met. Porter’s notes laid the groundwork for the much later publication of “Ship of Fools.” By 1939 she had gained a reputation as “one of the country’s best writers,” according to one sympathetic biographical sketch. This led to a stay during 1940 at Yaddo, the artists’ retreat in Saratoga Springs. Enter the town of Malta.

While at Yaddo, Porter and a companion took an auto ride one day in January 1941 through the rural area south of Saratoga Lake. On the ride, she spotted and fell in love with a two-story, seven-room country house on Malta’s Cramer Road. She soon bought it -- what she called her “dream house” -- for $2,000 (including a $200 down payment) and called it South Hill.

In a letter to her fifth husband, according to another biographer, Porter expressed “soulful feelings about how this special place [South Hill] would heal her hurts, inspire her creativity and ground her.” She got to work making needed repairs there. However, the task of home rehabilitation, cold upstate winters and the social isolation of World War II (despite parties she hosted there for Truman Capote, Eudora Welty and others) eventually became too much for Porter.

In 1946 she sold South Hill to George F. Willison, a writer and editor known for producing several nonfiction volumes on American history. Willison later became a speechwriter for U.S. Sen. Estes Kefauver and New York Gov. Averill Harriman. Over the years, the South Hill house on Cramer Road has been maintained in excellent condition by subsequent owners, and there is now a roadside historical marker near the house.

Throughout the 1940s, ‘50s and ‘60s, Porter remained active writing stories, teaching, lecturing, and making public appearances. A Ford Foundation grant in 1959 spurred her to complete her long-delayed novel, “Ship of Fools.”

The novel had remained dormant until 1940, when

she started writing the book using her notes from the Vera voyage. But it wasn’t published until 1962, when she was 72. When asked to explain why the publisher (Little, Brown & Co.) kept announcing, then delaying the book’s release, Porter replied, in character, “Look here, this is my life and my work and you keep out of it. When I have a book I will be glad to have it published.”

When it finally appeared, the novel received good reviews and was the bestselling fiction title of 1962.

Years later in The New Yorker, the critic Hilton Als wrote that “Ship of Fools” is “a thick book remarkable for its concision— the many plot points move along at a good clip -- [it] is less a masterwork than a piece of cinema, a detailed script about the lost and the damned and the tragedy of history that no man can escape.”

And it did become cinema. Hollywood paid Porter $400,000 for the movie rights (equivalent to about $4 million today), and Stanley Kramer produced and directed. Notable stars included Vivian Leigh (in her last film role), Simone Signoret, Oskar Werner, George Segal and Lee Marvin. Released in 1965, the movie won two Oscars (art direction and cinematography). Notably, the movie was banned in Spain

by that country’s dictator, Gen. Francisco Franco, due to its anti-fascism.

Porter achieved the pinnacle of the literary world in 1965, when her “The Collected Stories of Katherine Anne Porter” received the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award. These works of the 1960s yielded for Porter several honorary degrees, long-sought financial security and even invitations to events at the White House.

The last 10 years of Porter’s long life were marked by declining health but also by a couple of unusual projects. In one, she sought to write an essay for Playboy magazine on the Apollo 17 moon landing, but that was never finished. In 1977, she published “The Never-Ending Wrong,” a book about the Sacco-Vanzetti affair. After suffering several disabling strokes in 1977, Porter died on Sept. 18, 1980, in her 90th year.

Tom Williams is town historian for the town of Malta. A graduate of the University of Rochester, he is a retired journalist, having worked as a reporter and editor for daily and weekly newspapers, and for national trade magazines.

Beth Alvarez of the Katherine Anne Porter Society at the University of Maryland assisted with research for this article.

Malta home of Katherine Anne Porter 1941-1946 Photo provided by The Saratoga County History Roundtable.

SARATOGA CHOWDERFEST

Set for Saturday Feb. 8

New This Year: Broadway Closed to Vehicle Traffic

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

The 26th Annual Chowderfest will take place 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 8.

The family-friendly event invites attendees to sample 4 oz. servings of chowder for $2 each from more than 70 local establishments across Saratoga County.

In addition to savoring chowder, attendees in downtown Saratoga Springs will be treated to live musical entertainment and family-friendly activities for all ages.

Broadway in downtown Saratoga Springs will be closed to vehicular traffic 10 a.m. –4:30 p.m. from Lake Avenue to

Washington Avenue to prioritize safety and enhance the event experience.

“In light of recent tragic events in New Orleans, the safety and well-being of our community and visitors are our top priorities,” said Darryl Leggieri, President of festival presenter Discover Saratoga.

“At the recommendation of city officials, we’re closing Broadway to create a more relaxed and accessible environment for attendees to explore their favorite chowder vendors and activities.”

Last year’s event, which took place Feb. 10, featured 85 vendors, with 116,383 bowls of chowder served, and more than 40,000

people in attendance, according to Discover Saratoga.

Discover Saratoga, known as the Saratoga Convention & Tourism Bureau, serves as the official Tourism Promotion Agency for Saratoga County, and is hosting a promotion during Chowderfest: Attendees who download the Discover Saratoga mobile app and check in at participating establishments will earn entries into a drawing for $1,000 in gift cards to Saratoga area businesses and restaurants. The winner will be notified via email after the event. The Discover Saratoga mobile app is free to download on the App Store and Google Play.

Four free shuttles will run between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. from Saratoga Casino Hotel. Exclusive 26th-anniversary merchandise – including long-sleeve shirts ($15 or $17 for XXL), beanies ($10), and reusable spoons ($5) – will be available for purchase at the Saratoga Springs City Center and the Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center while supplies last.

Vote for your favorite charter online at: www.discoversaratoga. org/chowderfest/vote, with one vote per device accepted. Voting will close at 4:30 p.m., and winners will be announced at 5:30 p.m. at the Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center.

For more information about Chowderfest, including a list of participating locations, visit www.discoversaratoga.org/ chowderfest or call 518-584-1531.

The 26th annual Chowderfest will take place Feb. 8.

Northern Saratoga County!

OBITUARIES

Joseph Zanchelli

WILTON — Joseph Louis

“Joe” Zanchelli, 96, of Wilton, New York, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Joe is predeceased by his parents,

Barbara Ann Rose Kantscheidt

passed away last fall after a beautiful life that touched so many in small, but meaningful ways.

Antonio and Carolina (Florio), and his brothers, Pasquale and Anthony. He leaves behind his wife of 73 years, Joyce (Leavitt), children Mark (Regina Adams), Michael (Doris) and Lynn Tattersall (Robert John), eight grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his younger brother Frank (Mary Anne) and his sister, Angela Fraleigh.

Joe was born on May 22, 1928, in Germantown, NY where he graduated from Germantown Central High School in 1945. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1949 and his master’s degree in 1950 from the New York State College for Teachers (SUNY Albany). He was a high school math teacher for 5 years before beginning a career as a

Born in New York City in 1938 to Irish immigrants George Patrick Hinkley and Roseann (nee Gallagher), Barbara’s story is that of 20th Century America. The 7th of 8 children, her formative years were colored by the lingering effects of the Depression, a World War, and the passing of both of her parents by the time she was 12 years old. Raised by her siblings who were determined to keep their clan together, these experiences instilled in Barbara a keen sense of family, as well as an easy warmth and openness that would allow her to connect with myriad people throughout her journey.

In 1956, she disregarded her eldest brother’s stern warning and attended a high school

high school guidance counselor which he did for 32 years, the last 22 years serving as the Chairperson of the Guidance Department at Great Neck South High School.

Joe, Joyce and family loved connecting with people throughout the world including sponsoring a visiting SUNY Stony Brook college student from India and a young woman from Uganda and fostering two young sisters from Central America. They were involved in many church activities, the antiwar movement in the 1960’s and 1970’s, numerous social causes, and Democratic Party politics. Joe and his family combined their love of learning and travel by traveling extensively both internationally and domestically

dance. There, she met and fell in love with Richard Arthur Kantscheidt. Barbara literally never went home after the dance, married Richard shortly thereafter, and shared 40 years of life with him before his passing in 1995.

In the 60’s Barbara lived “Mad Men” in real life as a secretary on Wall Street, and then became a full-time Mom. In the 70’s she co-owned a bungalow colony in the Catskills (Maplewood Gardens) and took her 6-yearold son to watch John Travolta film “Saturday Night Fever,” just a few blocks away from their apartment in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. In the 80’s and 90’s, she returned to Manhattan (this time with shoulder pads, naturally) for a tenure at environmental consulting firm AT Kearney, a time she described as her

William “Bill” Lynch

CLIFTON PARK — William

“Bill” Lynch passed away January 20, 2025. Calling hours were on Jan 29 at Compassionate Funeral Care, Saratoga Springs. A funeral mass was held at The Church of St. Peter at on Jan 30, followed by a burial at St. Peter’s Cemetery. For online condolences, visit www.compassionatefuneralcare. com

and by participating in many Road Scholar adventures.

Following his retirement in 1986, Joe served in several executive positions with the Great Neck Retired Educators’ Chapter and served as an elder and deacon with the Roslyn Presbyterian Church where he was also the co-president for 20 years of the Local Causes Committee. He remained active with the Presbyterian Church after moving to Saratoga Springs, served as Chair of the Planning Committee for Young at Heart Adults (YAHA), volunteered with Yaddo tending rose gardens, was the Class Counselor since 2003 for the SUNY Albany class of 1949, for which he was awarded the Excellence in Alumni Service Award by SUNY Albany in 2014.

most rewarding professional experience. However, this would soon be surpassed by retirement, her full-time role as Grandma, and a move to Water’s Edge in Saratoga Springs. In the final analysis, Barbara shared that she viewed these as the best years of her life.

Through it all, Barbara’s ability to connect with people – from the random cashier at JCPenney’s to the closest of neighbors – led to a host of remarkable experiences. Perhaps most notably, she once ran into a woman in Hamilton, Scotland who it turned out owned the house that her grandparents lived in for a time when Barbara’s mother was born. A short chat later and three generations of her family were standing in this very living room. Another memory was made.

Barbara’s spirit lives on in those

Adam Joseph Gary

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Adam Joseph Gary passed away January 17, 2025. Services will be held February 1 at Compassionate Funeral Care, Saratoga Springs. Visiting hours are 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. followed by services at 1–2 p.m. A celebration of life will follow at the Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge until 4 p.m. Interment will be private. For online condolences, visit www.compassionatefuneralcare. com

In his leisure time Joe enjoyed playing golf, riding his bicycle, and reading, all of which he did until the last few months of his life. He was an avid fan of the New York Yankees and the UConn women’s basketball team.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at the PresbyterianUnited Church of Christ, 24 Circular Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 3:00pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Presbyterian- United Church of Christ, the Home of the Good Shepherd, Community Hospice of Saratoga and Washington Counties, or VoteBlue. To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www. HansFuneralHome.com.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Joseph Zanchelli, please visit our flower store.

that brought her everlasting joy and to whom she gave so much of herself - her son Steven, daughter-in-law Stephanie, and grandchildren Kerry Rose and Brendan Richard, all of Saratoga Springs, as well as her brother Eddie Hinkley of Brooklyn, and sister-in-law Mary Kent of South Carolina.

Barbara was predeceased by her husband Richard, his brother Robert, and her own siblings Alfred, George, John, Leo, Mary, and Joan, all of whom lived to a ripe old age and filled countless photo albums together over the decades.

In lieu of services and donations, Barbara hoped that friends and family would simply raise a glass and smile a little smile.

Lucy M. Daigler

COHOES — Lucy M. Daigler passed away on January 22, 2025. Calling hours were held January 28 at Compassionate Funeral Care, Saratoga Springs. A Mass of Christian Burial was held on January 29 at The Church of Saint Peter, Saratoga Springs. For online condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com

Barbara Ann Rose Kantscheidt (nee Hinkley)

Saratoga BLM Activist Found Not Guilty

by Thomas Dimopoulos Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Lex Figuereo was found not guilty this week in City Court regarding charges in connection with a Saratoga Springs City Council meeting in 2023.

Glens Falls City Court judge Gary Hobbs announced the not guilty verdict in court Jan. 27. The story was first reported by Aaron Shellow-Lavine of WAMC Northeast Public Radio.

The charges against Saratoga BLM co-founder Figuereo stem from an April 4, 2023 council meeting that involved a fracas during that evening’s Public Comment session. Following a commotion that continued for several minutes, the meeting resumed to conclusion.

Figuereo was subsequently charged with obstructing governmental administration –a misdemeanor, and disorderly conduct – a violation. Local resident Bridgette Barr, who unfastened a thin barrier separating members of the council and the public and approached the council table

while yelling at its members, was similarly charged.

Five Saratoga County Sheriff’s department patrols were brought in at the request of the city police department and staged on Maple Avenue during the council meeting.

Additionally, Saratoga Springs City Police officers stood in a hallway adjacent to Saratoga Music Hall where the council meeting was held. Explaining the police presence, thenPublic Safety Commissioner Jim Montagnino said afterwards that he held conversations with his deputy commissioner and the command staff of the police department “in response to significant activity on social media that indicated an intent to bring and recruit a large number of individuals to Tuesday’s City Council meeting.”

Members of the council that night expressed displeasure that they had not been made aware of the presence of officers in and outside the building prior to the meeting.

The five-hour meeting was archived on the city’s website and may be viewed at: https:// saratogaspringsny.new.swagit. com/videos/223380.

SARATOGA COUNTY COURT

Royal D. Hamilton, 43, of Corinth, was sentenced to 6 months incarceration/5 years’ probation, after pleading to felony DWI, charged October 2023 in Saratoga Springs.

Melanie L. Chaney, 51, of Castleton, was sentenced to 5 years’ probation, after pleading to criminal possession of a controlled substance, charged Augusts 2024 in Moreau.

Matthew T. Washburn, 35, of Hudson Falls, was sentenced to 1-1/2 to 3 years’ incarceration, after pleading to felony aggravated family offense,

and misdemeanor criminal contempt, charged 2023 in the town of Saratoga and the city of Saratoga Springs.

Angela N. Bullard, 43, of South Glens Falls, was sentenced to 2 years’ incarceration/2 years’ post-release supervision, after pleading to criminal possession of a controlled substance, charged November 2023 in Clifton Park.

Richard M. Bartis, 37, of Mechanicville, was sentenced to 120 days incarceration/5 years’ probation, after pleading to criminal contempt, charged Augusts 2024 in Halfmoon.

Carl F. Blasi, 30, of Mechanicville, was sentenced to time served 5 years’ probation, after pleading to criminal contempt, charged August 2024 in Halfmoon.

Tushaheem M. Banks, 30, of Albany, was sentenced to 5 years’ probation, after pleading to aggravated family offense, charged February 2024 in Mechanicville.

Stanley M. Palmer, 33, of Ballston Spa, was sentenced to 1-1/2 years’ incarceration/10 years’ post-release supervision, after pleading to sexual abuse in the first-degree, charged July 2023 in Milton.

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County Closes On Saratoga Springs Property For Permanent Code Blue Shelter

by Thomas Dimopoulos Saratoga TODAY

BALLSTON SPA — Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Chairman Phil Barrett on Jan. 23 announced the county had closed on the purchase of property for a permanent Code Blue Shelter in the city of Saratoga Springs.

The 1.4-acre parcel sits at 96 Ballston Ave. and the closing follows last August’s unanimous approval by the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors to proceed with the potential purchase of the parcel for $3 million to site a permanent Code Blue homeless shelter.

In a statement, Barrett said the purchase of the property

represents “a significant step in the county’s longstanding goal of achieving a comprehensive, sustainable solution to address homelessness in Saratoga County.”

Up next, the county will begin the site plan process with Code Blue partner Shelters of Saratoga, who will build and operate the shelter.

A memorandum of Understanding, or MOU, was unanimously approved last year in anticipation of entering into a long-term lease with the Shelters of Saratoga organization to build and operate the cold-weather shelter. Basically, the county would purchase the land, with SOS to pay for the construction and operational expenses of the

shelter, including staffing, utilities and maintenance.

S.O.S. has operated a Code Blue shelter at a variety of temporary locations in Saratoga Springs during the past several years, efforts to site a permanent shelter rejected at every turn by those living close-by or with nearby interests.

Discussing the future shelter, Barrett last year specified: “the county doesn’t want a lowbarrier shelter, neither does Shelters. The county doesn’t want a safe injection site, or anything of that sort, neither does Shelters.” He added that the goal was to have a facility open on-site by the fall of 2025. No updated timeline was provided by the county when announcing

the closing last week.

In a separate notification, Shelters of Saratoga last week announced the opening of nine new supportive housing units as “affordable apartments” nearby, and also located on Ballston Avenue.

As an emergency wintertime shelter, Code Blue protocols are activated when the temperature is 32 degrees Fahrenheit or less, including wind chill. The location of the future shelter is in close proximity to the Saratoga County Mental Health facility, RISE Housing and Support Services, and AIM Services, and on a bus line, making it easily accessible and convenient for those who may require additional services.

Shelters of Saratoga Announces Opening of 9 New Supportive

SARATOGA SPRINGS —a

Shelters of Saratoga announced the opening of nine new supportive housing units on Ballston Avenue in Saratoga Springs.

The affordable apartments are more than just housing and represent a critical step toward stability, wellness, and hope for individuals who have experienced longterm homelessness and are navigating chronic health conditions, according to the agency.

“We urge our neighbors to support the development of programs like this, as they create vital assets for our community,” Duane Vaughn, executive director of SOS, said in a statement. “You’re helping

Housing Units on Ballston Ave

to guide individuals away from hardship and into productive, stable lives, contributing to the strength of society as a whole.”

Utilizing the Housing First model, the program focuses on providing stable housing as the foundation for longterm health stabilization and personal growth. This evidencebased approach prioritizes housing as a key element for addressing homelessness, with a focus on person-centered care. While participation in case management services is voluntary, these services— ranging from resource navigation to health service coordination—are available to support residents in achieving their goals at their own pace.

For more information

about Shelters of Saratoga’s programs and their efforts to address housing for the

most vulnerable members of the community, visit www. sheltersofsaratoga.org.

The SOS hospitality house and former motel at 73 Ballston Ave. Photo provided.

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Belmont Job Fair Coming Soon

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— The New York Racing Association (NYRA) announced this week that it will host a job fair on Thursday, February 13 for those interested in employment opportunities during the 2025 Belmont Stakes Racing Festival being held at the Saratoga Race Course.

The job fair will run from 2 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the 1863 Club. Applicants should enter through the Wright Street entrance (Gate 8) with parking available in the 1863 Club lot.

Prospective workers will be able to meet with NYRA, Dyehard Fan Supply, Integrated

Staffing, Levy Restaurants, Mazzone Hospitality, and Union Square Events, among others. Positions will include restaurant staff, mutuel clerks, cashiers, merchandise clerks, customer service, white caps. and parking attendants. Applicants must be at least 15 years of age and have New York State Certified Working Papers. Prospective security guards, cashiers, and betting clerks must be at least 18 years of age to apply. Security guards must have a high school degree or GED. All applicants must present a photo ID and Social Security card or I-9 alternative.

STATE OF THE CITY: Earlier Last Call, Charter Review Among 2025 Plans

by Thomas Dimopoulos Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— A new commission will be appointed to review the City Charter and recommend potential changes, and an earlier Last Call for local bars were among the 2025 agenda items announced during the mayor’s State of the City Address at the Skip Scirocco/ Saratoga Music Hall in Saratoga Springs on Jan. 23.

All five council members and both city supervisors were each allotted time to address the assembled crowd, which included former city Mayor Scott Johnson and current state Sen. Jim Tedisco.

Framed by a trio of flags, one each representing city, state and country, city council members and supervisors reflected upon achievements in 2024 - the opening of a new fire station among them, potential future challenges, and plans for 2025, from addressing heavy truck traffic navigating local streets to anticipating the return of the Belmont on Broadway festival.

City Mayor John Safford announced he will be establishing a commission that will be chaired by Vince DeLeonardis to review the City Charter “and make recommendations for improvement.”

Supervisor Matt Veitch spoke about a decades-long

“We celebrate the idea that our city is not just a collection of streets and buildings, but a living, breathing symphony…”

debate involving attempts to institute earlier bar closing times in Saratoga Springs, explaining that any such measure may only be achieved if first adopted on a countywide basis with county support.

“The time is right for this to be discussed with my fellow colleagues on the Board of Supervisors,” said Veitch, who serves as vice chairperson of the county supervisors board.

“I believe we will have some momentum on this moving forward in 2025.” Veitch additionally reported that in the county’s just-received yearover-year sales tax numbers for January, “we are trending negative for the first time since 2020.”

Supervisor Michele Madigan highlighted a report released by the state comptroller on Jan. 22 detailing that homelessness in New York state has more than doubled between January 2022 and January 2024, specifically increasing 138% in Glens Falls, Saratoga Springs and surrounding counties.

This year’s SOTC Address takes place during a week when Early Voting is underway for a special city election to seat an elected DPW Commissioner

for the remainder of the 2025 calendar year. The DPW department spearheaded last year’s inaugural paid parking program in the city; nothing was said during the SOTC regarding whether that parking plan may return this year.

City Finance Commissioner Minita Sanghvi confirmed that she will not seek re-election in November.

Poet Laureate Joseph Bruchac opened the evening with two poems - one named “Harmony,” another “Civility”two themes city Mayor Safford has riffed on since taking office in January 2024.

“Words spoken calmly with others in mind, like the instruments in an orchestra, they blend into a symphony that finds a good place,” said Bruchac to begin the night. It was a theme city Mayor Sanford returned to at the night’s conclusion one hour and fifteen minutes later.

“We celebrate the idea that our city is not just a collection of streets and buildings, but a living, breathing symphony… the great composition of our shared life,” the mayor said. “This year, our song continues.”

Saratoga Springs Mayor John Safford delivering his State Of The City Address at the Skip Scirocco/ Saratoga Music Hall on Jan. 23, 2025. Photo by Thomas Dimopoulos.

Delay Picking Winner: Saratoga Springs Special Election Too Close To Call

by Thomas Dimopoulos Saratoga TODAY

BALLSTON SPA — Framed by a spire-topped church erected in 1835 that heralds a letterboard reading “God’s House, All Are Welcome,” and a single-story family home where a human figure in flannel clothes is, on this day busily shoveling away a late January snowfall, stands the county Board of Election complex, where inside a sublevel vault that runs maybe 50 feet long, ballots will be counted to presumably decide the winner of Saratoga Springs’ Special Election.

Following nine days of

Early Voting, and a 15-hour Special Election Day across Saratoga Springs on Jan. 28, the contest to decide the city’s DPW Commissioner/fifth City Council member through calendar year 2025 returned no known victor.

Democrat Hank Kuczynski, the interim DPW Commissioner, ran as a write-in candidate. A total of 1,725 write-in votes were secured, although it is not yet known how many of those writeins carried Kuczynski’s name.

Republican Chuck Marshall secured 1,684 ballot votes. It is anticipated that a winner will not be known until at least next week. The counting of ballots will take place at

the county Board of Elections complex in Ballston Spa. At press time, no date for the start of the counting process had been announced.

Also of note: there are just under 300 absentee ballots yet to be returned. Regular absentee ballots need to be received at the BOE by Feb. 4; Military ballots by Feb. 10.

A total of 3,409 votes have been tallied, according to unofficial reports from the Board of Elections. That represents about 16% of all active registered voters in Saratoga Springs.

The next City Council meeting is Tuesday, Feb. 4.

In November all five city council seats will be up for vote.

The vault at Saratoga County Board of Elections, Jan. 29, 2025.

Photo by Thomas Dimopoulos.

New Report Cites Spike in Saratoga RegionHomeless Population Doubled in New York 2002-2004

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Homelessness in New York state has grown sharply, more than doubling between January 2022 and January 2024, according to a new report released by New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli.

Homelessness grew by 53.1% from January 2023 to January 2024, more than four times the rest of the nation.

The large spike was driven by New York City and the influx of asylum seekers, but the rest of the state also had doubleand triple-digit rate increases, led by Glens Falls, Saratoga and the surrounding counties, according to the 10-page report, released on Jan. 22.

“New York needs to examine how it’s using current housing resources while taking more

action to address this urgent situation,” DiNapoli said in a statement.

Homelessness decreased in New York between 2020 and 2022, but since 2022 and the end of pandemic eviction moratoriums, it has increased faster than the rest of the nation, more than doubling between 2022 and 2024 compared to only 20.7% growth in the rest of the nation. Only Illinois had a higher increase at 180%.

People who were homeless were disproportionately Hispanic or Black, and 10% suffered from severe mental illness or chronic substance abuse.

Homelessness among veterans remains low, at less than 1%. New York also had among the lowest shares of senior homelessness (2.5%) and

chronically homeless (3.6%) among other states.

The rest of the state’s regions had increases ranging from 11% in Poughkeepsie/Dutchess County to 138% in Glens Falls, Saratoga Springs and surrounding counties. Outside of New York City, Long Island had the

largest number of homeless in 2024 followed by Westchester County and counties around Buffalo and Niagara Falls.

New York is second to California in the number of permanent supportive housing units (52,462 vs. 78,758) and permanent housing beds

(21,672 vs. 26,059), but lags other large states in the number of year-round beds for rapid rehousing – 4,887. California has more than 28,000, Texas almost 11,000 and Florida 7,500. To read the 10-page report, go to: www.osc.ny.gov.

Saratoga Springs, Glens Falls, and surrounding counties tops the list for the largest increase in number of homeless at 138% over the past two-year period, according to the DiNapoli report.

PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS

BALLSTON

Nicholas Coppola sold property at 20 Pasture Pl to Ralph Emerson for $461,000

CORINTH

Rita Randall sold property at 348 Main St to Jay Jay Enterprises for $185,000

GALWAY

Ryszard Lesiak sold property at 2092 Donnan Rd to Wesley Ryan for $580,000

GREENFIELD

711 and 921 Properties LLC sold property at 541 Locust Grove Rd to Charles Dake for $240,000

MALTA

Steven Zawistowski sold property at 10 Scotch Mist Way to William Sandak for $430,000

Margaret Liburdi sold property at 2249 Rt 9 to Jet NY LLC for $150,000

Zeynep Ovacik sold property at 66 Thimbleberry Rd to Robert Atterbury for $309,000

Steven Leibiger sold property at 19 Vettura Ct to John Walsh for $466,000

MILTON

Amanda Aldrich sold property at 4 Birch Tree Lane to EFN Properties LLC for $130,000

Stephanie Snowardt sold property at 6051 County Farm Rd to Michael Suatoni for $314,000

Timothy Mundell sold property at 301 Northline Rd to Peter Buchas for $375,000

Thomas Farone and Sons Inc sold property at 44 Hoffman Rd to Digital Trust Co. for $112,500

SARATOGA

Patricia Sullivan sold property at 116 County Rt 7 to James Ching for $360,000

SARATOGA SPRINGS

Beechwood Saratoga sold property at 3 Gregory Court to Daniel Hayward for $5,347,003

Performing AssetsStrategies LLC sold property at Division St & Walworth St to Ellsworth Square LLC for $335,000

Sandra Moll sold property at 8 Heather Lane to Barry Moll for $180,000

Robert Sliwowski sold property at 71 Waterview Dr to Meghan McNamara for $1,500,000

Oklahoma Dreaming LLC sold property at 70 Mitchell

St to Brotherhood Boyz for $799,000

Adelphi Owner II sold property at 19 Washington

St Apt 357 to Patrick Lewis for $1,475,000

Adelphi Owner II sold property at 19 Washington

St Apt 257 to 257 Church View LLC for $1,425,000

Suzanne Whitney sold property at 20 Furlong St to Richard Renner for $767,900

Adelphi Owner II sold property at 19 Washington

St Apt 357 to Patrick Lewis for $1,475,000

Adelphi Owner II sold property at 19 Washington

St Apt 257 to 257 Church View LLC for $1,425,000

Robert Zacharis sold property at 5 Blueberry Way to Jeffrey Wheeler for $930,000

Angela Perrone sold property at 99 East Ave to Richard Boyle for $880,000

WILTON

Edie Road LLC sold property at 24 Cannon Royal Dr to Andrew Wise for $300,000

Forest Grove LLC sold property at 22 Angeles Ave to William Becker for $874,680

Forest Grove LLC sold property at 80 Daintree Dr to Paul Hench for $807,021

Tyler Rajeski sold property at 24 Rolling Green Dr to Kevin Grassi for $1,300,000

Scott Neverett sold property at 127 Cobble Hill Dr to Anne Nordal for $900,000

This elegant center hall Colonial at 4 Lonesome Pine Trail in Wilton was listed by Laura Creazzo from Roohan Realty and sold for $450,000

Standard Fare Joins Growing List of New Phila Street Eateries

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Phila Street. So hot right now. Phila Street.

New York’s hottest club is Phila Street.

I don’t know how to put this but Phila Street is kind of a big deal. It has many leatherbound books and smells of rich mahogany.

OK, now that the pop culture references are out of the way, it is indeed true that Phila Street in downtown Saratoga Springs is bustling with new establishments set to open their doors this year.

One of the eateries is Standard Fare, a new enterprise from Bocage Champagne Bar owners Zac Denham and Clark Gale.

Located at 21 Phila Street, Standard Fare aims to deliver “upscale American comfort food,” with a menu that includes dishes like meatloaf, mozzarella sticks with caviar, double-cut Berkshire pork chops with apple sauce and potato pancakes, “big dumb milkshakes,” and over-the-top pies and cakes. It’s a restaurant that Denham and Gale said would be appropriate for both

a high school baseball team celebrating a big win and a couple in search of an evening date spot.

“The name reflects our goal: raising the bar for the kind of food we all secretly crave but often overlook,” Gale said.

Denham and Gale said the restaurant will feature a chic design that’s unlike anything else that currently exists in Saratoga.

Standard Fare will be open seven days a week, with extended late-night hours (midnight during the week and 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays). Lunch, brunch, and takeaway options will follow shortly after the initial opening, which should happen at some point this spring.

“2025 is shaping up to be a huge year for dining in Saratoga,” Denham said. “With so many exciting new openings, we wanted to create a space that cuts through the noise—something that feels timeless yet vibrant, indulgent yet accessible. Comfort food that’s nostalgic yet surprising.”

“We’ve loved being part of the Phila Street community with Bocage,” said Gale. “This area has such a unique energy, and if you’ve never ventured

off Broadway, you’re missing something special. The vibe here is unmatched, and we’re excited to contribute to its story.”

The story of Phila Street has a few other chapters being added to it this year as well. One is Familiar Creature, a forthcoming “Montreal-inspired” wine bar located at 42 Phila that was created by the team behind Hamlet & Ghost. Familiar Creature will serve local meats and cheeses, roasted chicken, French small plates, and, of course, wine. The kitchen will be led by Chefs Michele Hunter and Alex Johnson.

Then there’s Noah’s at 43 Phila, an Italian joint from Chef Noah Frese of Siro’s fame. Perhaps setting the tone, the restaurant’s first Instagram post features the cast of “The Sopranos.” The red sauce venture is billed as “your new, favorite, usual spot” where “everything [is] made with love, taking you back to the best part of an Italian’s childhood.”

Finally (for now, at least), there’s the more casual Fillies on Phila, a wood-fired pizza restaurant that, according to Saratoga Living, is set to open this winter. The owner, Micah Henzel, also co-owns the neighborhood bar/restaurant Milton Tavern,

which opened in Ballston Spa in 2023. Fillies will be located at 39 Phila, the former home of Nashville of Saratoga.

By our count, that’s at least four new restaurants opening up on Phila Street this year that will join local favorites like Harvey’s, Sweet Mimi’s, Mittler’s, Bailey’s, Bocage, Trattoria Fortunata, and

Solevo.

It’s been alleged that there are more restaurants in Saratoga Springs per capita than anywhere else in the country. It may be hard to determine whether that’s definitely true, but take a stroll on Phila Street in between Broadway and Henry Street later this year and you might believe it.

Zac Denham and Clark Gale are opening the restaurant Standard Fare on Phila Street this spring. It’s one of at least four new restaurants coming to the off-Broadway street. Photo via Standard Fare.

New Company Aims to Prevent Fires Caused by Clogged Dryer Vents & Air Ducts

by Nicholas Rodd Saratoga TODAY

MECHANICVILLE —

Having seen too many fires break out because of clogged-up dryer vents during his time with a disaster recovery group, Dan Kirchner has made it his mission to prevent as many of those disasters as possible. So he decided to start Duct Kings, a company that cleans out the air ducts and dryer vents of homes and businesses to both improve air quality for customers and protect the spaces that mean the most to them.

A lifetime resident of the Capital Region, Kirchner knows what it’s like to be a part of and serve the local community. In addition to working with the disaster recovery company KPM Restorations, he also helps run Ninja Labs in both Saratoga and Albany, providing local children with a place to feel free, challenge themselves, and have fun. And while Duct Kings is a business, Kirchner said it’s a business that exists to help people.

“We just try to be as transparent and honest as possible,” Kirchner said. “We offer free quotes and affordable pricing. We try to just be straight shooters and take care of people.”

Kirchner said that customers can be assured that they are being taken care of by expert, certified technicians who will be transparent during every step of the process. He also said that customers can feel confident that their health needs are being thought of whenever they are serviced by Duct Kings, with all products being all natural. All dust and allergens are stripped away as well, first being sanitized and then vacuumed up so the air is as clean as possible.

Located at 5 Knabner Road in Mechanicville, Duct Kings aims to meet the needs of the people in the Capital Region to help them breathe better and breathe easier. For more information on available services, area coverage, and pricing, visit ductkingsny.com, or call 518-718-3828. Duct Kings is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Stewart’s Brings Back Beer After 5-Year Hiatus

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

After staying off the shelves for five years, Mountain Brew lager is returning to Stewart’s Shops in February with a new recipe and a taller, 19.2-ounce can, thanks to a partnership with Adirondack Mountains craft brewer Paradox Brewery.

“Mountain Brew is a great example of a fun nostalgic product,” said Stewart’s Shops President Gary Dake in a news release, “and maybe the world could use a little more fun and nostalgia right now.”

To celebrate the release of Mountain Brew, Paradox hosted an event at its brewery in North Hudson on January 22, when the first batch of Mountain Brew was canned.

Mountain Brew will be available in Stewart’s Shops by February 3.

Image via Stewart’s Shops.

Duct Kings logo provided.

How Gov. Hochul’s Proposed Cell Phone Ban Would Impact Saratoga Schools

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— New York Governor Kathy Hochul is advocating for a strict, new statewide cell phone policy that could go into effect as soon as August 1, 2025.

The “distraction-free schools” legislative proposal would, among other things:

• Prohibit the unsanctioned use of smartphones and

other internet-enabled personal devices on school grounds in K-12 schools for the entire school day, including classroom time and other settings like lunch and study hall periods.

• Allow schools to develop their own plans for storing smartphones during the day

• Propose that $13.5 million in funding

be made available for schools that need assistance in purchasing smartphone storage solutions

In a January 23 Board of Education meeting, Saratoga School District Director of Program and Budget Integration Dr. Joseph Greco said that Hochul’s proposal recommends lockers be used for phone storage during school days, which means the district may not need to tap into the

$13.5 million fund set aside for storage solutions.

“We have an ample supply of lockers here, so this may not have a budgetary impact on us,” Greco said, “but it’s certainly something we’re keeping a close eye on.”

Greco said that Saratoga schools would be required to report on their enforcement of the policy, including any disciplinary action that might be necessary. Schools would also be required to provide demographic information for any students subjected to phonerelated disciplinary action.

Bobby Yusko, the district’s assistant superintendent for business, said he believed that the chances Hochul’s cell phone policies will be enacted are “pretty high.”

The governor has allowed for some exceptions to the ban, according to Greco, including the use of devices (such as laptops or tablets) sanctioned by teachers for classroom

instruction, and the use of devices needed for translation purposes. Students would also be allowed to have access to simple cell phones without internet capability, as well as internet-enabled devices that help manage medical conditions.

The “distraction-free schools” policy would be implemented in time for the upcoming 2025-26 school year.

“From parents and teachers, to social justice and law enforcement leaders, New Yorkers agree that our young people succeed when they’re learning and growing, not clicking and scrolling,” Governor Hochul said in a statement. “Using the insights from my statewide listening tour, this comprehensive proposal to restrict smartphone use in schools will ensure that New York’s statewide standard for distraction-free learning delivers the best results for our kids and educators.”

Tedisco Welcomes Saratoga

7th Graders to State Capitol

ALBANY — State Senator Jim Tedisco (R,C-Ballston Lake) welcomed 7th grade students from the Maple Avenue Middle School in Saratoga Springs to the New York State Capitol last week.

Tedisco, a former special education teacher and ranking member of the Senate Education Committee, discussed the state budget process and what it’s like to be a state representative.

“I was very impressed with the questions and knowledge of state government that the Maple Avenue Middle Schoolers showed,” said Senator Tedisco in a statement.

Schuylerville Teacher Earns National Board Certification

SCHUYLERVILLE — As

Schuylerville School District

educator Amy Steele-Whitney marked 25 years of teaching, she also achieved a prestigious honor: National Board Certification in the area of Early and Middle Childhood Literacy.

The National Board Certification process is known for its rigor and demands, requiring teachers to reflect on their practices and make

adjustments that improve student outcomes.

“For me, this opportunity was refreshing and invigorating because it ignited in me the passion I had as a student teacher to learn and grow as an educator that works to do what is best for students,” SteeleWhitney said in a statement.

“It really made me look at what I’m doing in the classroom and self-reflect.”

In New York State, only

2,378 teachers are Nationally Board Certified, and SteeleWhitney is proud to be one of them.

“It felt like a labor of love, but also a necessary step in my journey as an educator,” she said. “The process reignited my passion for teaching and learning and reminded me that no matter how long you’ve been teaching, there’s always room to grow.”

Blue Streaks Robotics Team Reaches Semifinals,

Hosting Fundraiser

by

— The Saratoga Springs High School robotics team reached the semifinals in its first tournament of the year.

The 2025 VEX V5 Robotics Competition was held on the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute campus in Troy on Jan. 20 and featured teams from across Upstate New York, Massachusetts, and Vermont.

To help support their future efforts, the robotics program will be hosting a fundraiser at the Chipotle near the Wilton Mall. 33% of the proceeds from eat-in or pickup orders placed on Tuesday, Feb. 7 between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. will go to the robotics team. Online orders should use the code HH6JVXJ. Those making in-person orders should tell the cashier that they are supporting Blue Streaks robotics.

Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

State Senator Jim Tedisco with the 7th grade Maple Avenue Middle School class on the Million Dollar Staircase at the New York State Capitol in Albany. Photo provided.

Photo via Blue Streaks Robotics.

SARATOGA SPRINGS

Food

Join the Saratoga Farmers’ Market

SATURDAYS

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

WILTON MALL FOOD COURT

by Jodie Fitz for Saratoga TODAY

TheSaratoga Farmers’ Market is actually the original farmers’ market in the Capital Region and surrounding areas. The organization, now a 501(c)3, began with a handful of farms coming together to form a market in order to bring fresh produce to the community in 1978.

Over the years it has evolved and grown, becoming not only a community icon, but a tourist destination within the city of Saratoga Springs. The market is also a community entrepreneurial leader, helping local growers and producers to bring their goods to market, further participating and contributing to the local economy.

The market now hosts its year-round, and primary, market on Saturdays at High Rock Park May through October, moving indoor for the cold weather months to Wilton Mall November through April. In addition, it hosts a Wednesday (mid-week) market in HighRock Park (May through October) and a satellite market in Clifton Park on Mondays (June through mid-October).

The market is currently accepting applications for vendors for the 2025 outdoor season and the application process closes at the end of January. If you are interested in becoming a vendor at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market. Visit managemymarket.com to apply.

Markets available to register at the site include:

*Monday: Market at Clifton Park (June through October)

*Wednesday: Market at High Rock Park Saratoga (May through Oct)

*Saturday: Market at High Rock Park

(May through Oct)

If you have additional questions please email sfma.manager@gmail.com. The market does provide live music; musicians can inquire about joining the market’s music program via email. In addition, the market does invite local non-profit organizations to table when space is available and those inquires can also be made through email as well.

The Saratoga Farmers’ Market is currently 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 www.saratogafarmersmarket.org, sign up for our weekly newsletter and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Bread Sausage

and Apple Hash

YIELDS: 4 servings | PREP & COOK TIME: 55 min

INGREDIENTS:

*Ingredients currently available at the farmers’ market

• 4 thick slices plain day-old bread, such as sourdough or sesame, torn into bitesized pieces*

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 8 ounces uncooked sweet Italian sausage, casings removed*

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 small green apple, halved, cored, and cut into 1/2-inch dice*

• 1/2 small yellow onion, finely diced*

• Kosher salt

• Freshly ground black pepper

• 6 fresh sage leaves, finely chopped*

• 1 clove garlic, minced*

• 3/4 cup chicken or vegetable stock

• A small handful of finely chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves*

• 4 eggs, fried*

INSTRUCTIONS:

Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and heat to 400°F. Place the bread on a baking sheet and toast, stirring occasionally, until browned and crisp, about 10 minutes; set aside.

Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Crumble the sausage into the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and the fat is rendered, about 10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a plate, leaving the fat in the pan.

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter, apple, and onion to the pan. Season with a generous pinch of salt and a few grinds of pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 10 minutes. Add the sage and garlic and cook, stirring, until the garlic has lost its raw edge and smells fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add the stock and bring to a boil, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits on the bottom of the pan. Add the reserved bread and sausage, along with any liquid that accumulated on the sausage plate, and cook, stirring occasionally, just until the bread is slightly softened, all of the liquid has evaporated, and it smells like Thanksgiving, about 5 minutes. Stir in the parsley and season with more salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately, topped with the fried eggs.

Saratoga

Recipes adapted from the Kitchn

Week of January 31 - February 6,

by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY

cooking the same dishes we fall back on. Food is a universal necessity. The food we eat is intricately intertwined with our culture.

My father-in-law came from a German background. In past holiday seasons, my motherin-law would reminisce about some of the German cuisine dishes that he enjoyed. One of

SPAETZLE POWER

Hello my Foodie Friends!

Exploring new foods in the New Year may be a way to expand your taste palette and introduce you to different cultures. We have all been there; it can be scary to try new dishes. However, it can be deliciously rewarding. You can learn more about different values and traditions, ingredients, spices, and staple dishes that are popular in different parts of the world. We can become bored in our kitchens

his favorite dishes included the side dish of spaetzle.

Spaetzle is a unique, fun, and easy German dumpling that everybody should learn how to make. It is traditionally used as a base for both sweet and savory dishes, soups, and one dish meals. Done in just minutes, these are great on their own, as part of a traditional German

Kasespatzle Spaetzle (German Macaroni and Cheese)

INGREDIENTS

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1/2 sweet onion chopped

• Few tablespoons water

• 3 large eggs beaten

• 1/4 cup plus 3 tablespoons heavy cream divided

INSTRUCTIONS

• 1 1/2 cups flour

• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 8 ounces Gruyère shredded

meal, or perfect for any dish that might use a macaroni pasta. Spaetzle, or spätzle, is a simple dumpling or small noodle that is typically associated with German food heritage. If you have ever made a simple egg noodle, it is almost identical in ingredients and easier to make. Making homemade spaetzle is a mix of a simple batter of flour,

1. In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook just until they begin to brown. Turn the heat to low and slowly caramelize the onions until they are soft, brown, and sweetly fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the pan. Add a tablespoon of water here and there if necessary to keep them from cooking too fast. When they are done, remove the onions to a bowl and set the pan aside. Do not wash it.

2. In a bowl, combine the eggs and 1/4 cup of the heavy cream, beating to mix. In another, smaller bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper, combining well. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet, stirring with a wooden spoon. Do not overmix: stop stirring as soon as the batter is smooth and the flour has disappeared into the cream and eggs. Cover the batter and let it rest for 20 minutes.

3. While the batter is resting, bring a large pot of water to boil. Once it’s bubbling madly, add a few tablespoons of salt and bring it back up to a boil.

4. Set your spätzle maker over the pot and press the dough through the holes into the boiling water. (If using a flat cheese grater, just press the dough through the holes with your fingers or a wooden spoon.) You’ll need to work in two or three batches depending on how big your pot is. Once the spätzle float to the top, let them cook for another 2 minutes. Remove them with a slotted spoon and set them to dry on a plate lined with a paper towel.

5. Once all of your spätzle are done, add them to the pan that you cooked the onions in. Turn the heat to medium and cook the spätzle for 2 minutes, tossing a few times to get them to heat evenly. Add the shredded cheese and remaining 3 tablespoons of heavy cream, stirring until all the cheese is melted. Salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, topped with a teaspoon of caramelized onions.

eggs, milk, and sale and the use of a spaetzle utensil to drop the batter into boiling water. It can be boiled in water or broth.

The spaetzle maker is a convenient device usually made of metal that’s sole purpose is for the making of small dumplings known as spaetzle. The metal plate has holes in it that you pour your spaetzle batter through directly into boiling water. The spaetzle maker nestles over a pot of water or broth. Once your batter is ready, you pour it into the sliding box onto the graterlike base. Slide it from side to side, and the little droplets slip through the holes and drip into the boiling water. Moments later, the noodles will be floating on top. The holes are specialized which enables the batter to cling and stretch into the right shape. The taste and texture of spaetzle

is comforting and can be topped with a variety of ways to suite those around your table. Be adventurous this year and try something new. It is a great way to use the cooking experience to bond with those around us and stimulate some interesting conversations about geography, different cultures, customs, and ceremonies. Expand your horizons this year. Stop by Compliments to the Chef, your Neighborhood Kitchen and Cutlery Store located at 33 Railroad Place to help you with the culinary tools you need to explore new foods. Remember my Foodie Friends; “Life Happens in the Kitchen”.

Take Care, John & Paula

This Week’s Events: JAN. 31 - FEB. 6

FRIDAY, JANUARY 31

Matilda the Musical Maple Avenue Middle School, 515 Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs | 7 – 9:30 p.m.

The Maple Avenue Musical Club proudly announces its production of Matilda! Featuring 73 talented middle school students, this heartwarming show promises to captivate audiences of all ages with its inspiring story, vibrant music, and lively performances. Additional performances: Saturday, February 1: 1 & 7 p.m., Friday, February 7: 7 p.m. and Saturday, February 8: 1 & 7 p.m. Adults $10, Students and children $5. Purchase tickets online or at the door.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1

Basic Ham Radio

Galway Public Library, 2112 East Street, Galway | 12 - 2

p.m. The library will host Basic Ham Radio to introduce using a Ham Radio. On Saturday, February 15 from 10-12 p.m., the tech license exam will be administered at a separate location. Additional instruction will be provided via Zoom between the two sessions. The manual can be purchased on Amazon for $30 (information is available at the library). The exam costs $15 ($5 under 18). There is a $20 suggested donation for the class. Call 518-882-6385 for details and registration. Presented by the Eastern Fulmont Amateur Radio Club.

Writing the Revolution

Galway Public Library, 2112 East Street, Galway | 11 a.m. –12 p.m. A program for youth and their families, “Writing the Revolution,” presented by the Saratoga County Historian’s Office. Discover the

importance of the written word and printing during the years leading up to the American Revolution. View replicas of period items, and try some of the games and tools of writing used in the 18th century. Children under 6 should be accompanied by an adult. Space is limited; call to register at 518-882-6385.

12th Saratoga Clay Arts

Chili Bowl Fundraiser

Saratoga Springs City Center, 522 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Area clay artists are busy making 2000+ bowls for the event. Buy the Bowl, eat the chili, keep the bowl! This is a fun, family event. Five “Celebrity Chefs” will compete along with the center, “To Life!” and the Wilton Food Pantry will benefit from the proceeds. Participating restaurants include Kindred (last year’s winner), THORN & ROOTS, Dizzy Chicken, Franklin Square Market & LAGO by DRUTHER’S. Music by SED and Friends. Buy your tickets early! This event sells out quickly. Pre-purchase your bowl and ticket at www. saratogaclayarts.org.

Waldorf School Open Houses

2 Locations | 9 – 11 a.m. Preschool and Kindergarten - Forest Kindergarten, 45 Kaydeross Ave. W. Saratoga Springs and Early Childhood Center, 212 Lake Ave. Saratoga Springs. For more information, visit www.waldorfsaratoga.org.

“Countdown to the Triple Crown” Fundraising Event

National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, 191 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs | 5 - 7:30 p.m. This winter fundraiser will feature over 150 silent auction items and an online auction of unique items

ancient Roman mikvah leads a “wandering Jew” to feelings of pride and connection, even in times of fearsome antisemitism. Additional performance on February 6 at 7 p.m. To register, go to https:// lp.constantcontactpages.com/ cu/9HjgRFz/SJCAHomePage

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 3

and experience packages to benefit the museum. Guests can attend in person or bid on special packages online. The early-bird event at the museum will feature beer, wine, light refreshments, a 50/50 raffle and a showing of Mill Reef: A Legacy of Heart in the Hall of Fame. The cost to attend the event is $20 for museum members and $35 for non-members. Tickets will be available for purchase at the door. The auction items will be displayed throughout the museum galleries during the event. To purchase tickets to the event at the Museum, visit: https://1049a. blackbaudhosting.com/1049a/ Countdown-to-the-TripleCrown or call (518) 584-0400.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2

The Saratoga Winterfest 5K Snowshoe Run/Walk Saratoga Spa State Park, 19 Roosevelt Dr., Saratoga Springs |11 a.m. Opposite Administration Building. Snowshoe Hikers and Runners Welcome. Register online: www.runsignup.com

Traveler’s Prayer

Performed Live on Zoom | 2 p.m. A new work of true stories full of surprise and transformation. As the children of Israel travel from home and scatter throughout the world, they still bring their Jewishness with them in these recollections: Explore heartfelt reflections of a Jewish writer seeing Hiroshima after visiting the sites in Israel of the Oct. 7 attacks. Laugh along as a young author journeys to a Michigan farm only to encounter a very unexpected crop growing there. Feel the thrill as an activist escapes persecution in South Africa. Be captivated as an encounter with an

Catholic Daughters of the Americas Monthly Meeting

Galway Preservation Society Program

Galway Town Hall, 5910 Sacandaga Road, Galway | 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. Alan Maddaus author of Wright Peak Elegy: A Story of Cold War, Nuclear Deterrence and Ultimate Sacrifice will speak about his book detailing the story of a US Air Force B-47 jet bomber that crashed into Wright Peak in the Adirondacks in January 1962. Open to the public, free of charge. If you choose, annual family or household memberships are available for $10 per year. Please join us for some fun and to learn more about Galway’s history.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4

Virtual Author Talk with Sabrina Sholts

Zoom Presentation | 2 p.m. Smithsonian curator Sabrina Sholts will talk about her book The Human Disease: How We Create Pandemics, From Our Bodies to Our Beliefs, in which she travels through history and around the globe to examine how and why pandemics are an inescapable threat of our own making. Registration required. Contact Clifton Park Halfmoon Public Library at 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org

Windshipped

Skidmore College Gannet Auditorium, 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 5:30 p.m. Jon Bowermaster’s Film Screening, Windshipped. Charismatic Captain Sam Merrett sails his sail-freight “Schooner Apollonia” up and down the Hudson River, delivering goods to a dozen ports sans fossil fuels, powered only by the wind and the sun. https:// sustainablesaratoga.org/event/ jon-bowermaster-film-screening/

Knights of Columbus, 50 Pine Road, Saratoga Springs | 5:45 p.m. Court McLaughlin #422 will hold its monthly meeting. Members gather for a recitation of the Rosary, followed by refreshments until the start of meeting at 6:30 p.m. All are welcome to attend and if you have any questions, please contact our Regent Dawn Weber at CDA422Saratoga@ gmail.com or by phone 518226-5641.

Winter Arts Workshop Series

Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park, 80 Scout Rd., Gansevoort | 6 – 8 p..m.

Looking to channel your inner artist? Each month, on Tuesdays, we’ll have a different nature themed-art project where staff will help you explore different art mediums while relating it back to the Saratoga Sand Plains. February - Botanical Drawing. To register, visit https://www. wiltonpreserve.org/education/ public-programs

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5

Academy

for

Lifelong Learning Winter Storyteller Series

Prestwick Chase at Saratoga, 100 Saratoga Boulevard, Saratoga Springs |12 noon – 1 p.m. Free and open to the public. No reservations required. Sponsored by Prestwick Chase. Storyteller Margaret French presents As Time Goes By. 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 518-2906988.

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Salisbury Steak 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: Salisbury Steak, mushroom burgundy gravy, mashed potatoes, vegetable, salad, roll dinner, $15 (cash only).

Poetry Reading

Caffè Lena, 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs | 7 p.m. Caffè Lena will present a poetry reading by Adonis Richards. An open mic poetry reading will follow. Doors open for sign-ups at 6:30 p.m. The host for the event will be Carol Graser and the cost is $5 general, free for students. The featured reading will also be livestreamed. You can find a link for the livestream at caffelena. org, 518-583-0022.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6

Hooked on Nature

Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park, 80 Scout Rd., Gansevoort | 67:30 p.m. Do you love crafting? Do you love being outdoors? Why not put them together! This biweekly fiber arts meetup is a great chance to bring your WIPs and meet some new natureloving friends! Materials will not be provided, but an educator with crochet experience will be available to help. (We will be gathering indoors for the winter season.)

Beetlejuice JR.

Ballston Spa High School Auditorium, 220 Ballston Avenue, Ballston Spa | 7 p.m. Ballston Spa Middle School’s drama club, Launching Pad Productions, performs Beetlejuice JR. on February 6, 7, and 8 at 7:00 p.m. with matinees on February 7 and 8 at Noon. Based on the blockbuster motion picture turned Broadway musical, Beetlejuice JR. The performance is sure to leave audience members laughing and singing those catchy tunes for hours after they leave the theater. Tickets are $5 for students and seniors and $10 for adults. Tickets will be sold up to one hour before each performance at the main entrance of the high school.

UPCOMING Events

Waldorf School Open House

Lower and MIddle SchoolFriday, February 7, 62 York Avenue, Saratoga Springs | 4 - 5:15 p.m. For more information, visit www. waldorfsaratoga.org.

10th Annual Chocolate Fest

Treat yourself to an evening of chocolate delights, hosted by the Ballston Spa Business & Professional Association (BSBPA)! This event will take place on Friday, February 7, from 5 - 9 p.m. throughout the Village of Ballston Spa. Participants will prepare small, sample-sized offerings for festivalgoers to taste and vote on as they explore the village. Whether you’re a restaurant, bakery, or culinary artist, this is your chance to showcase your chocolateinspired creations in one of three delectable categories: Dessert (Sweet), Savory, and Chocolate Beverage. Entries from local chefs, bakers, chocolatiers, and businesses to be part of this year’s event are invited to participate. For more information, check us out at our website www.ballston.org.

Carnegie Hall

Ensemble Connect Residency Performance

Ensemble Connect, a group of the finest young professional classical musicians based out of Carnegie Hall, celebrates its 18th year at Skidmore at Helen Filene Ladd Concert Hall, Arthur Zankel Music Center. Friday, February 7, 7:30 p.m. performance. Concert Program: SCHUBERT |”Quartettsatz” in C Minor, D. 703, KATHERINE BALCH | musica spolia (arr. for chamber ensemble; NY Premiere, commissioned by Carnegie Hall), KATHERINE BALCH | musica nuvola (NY premiere, commissioned by Carnegie Hall), LUCIANO BERIO | Ricorrenze for Wind Quintet, BEETHOVEN | Septet in E-flat Major, Op. 20. Visit the Arthur Zankel Music Center website for ticket details.

Book Fair

St. Paul’s Christian Childhood center is holding an early childhood book fair, from I55 Book Fairs. Come shop a large selection of popular titles for the youngest book lovers. Proceeds from the fair go directly towards books for our classrooms. There will be a Used Book Sale running simultaneous, hosted by St. Paul’s Missions Team. Shop a large selection of donated books for adults and students alike. Proceeds from the Used Book Sale will benefit efforts to assist local service organizations. Both events will be held on Saturday February 8 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 10 a.m. -4 p.m. 149 Lake Ave. Saratoga Springs.

Camp Saratoga 8k Snowshoe Race

Saturday, February 8 at the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park at 10:30 a.m. If there is no snow, and is at all possible, we may have a trail race instead. Go to www.saratogastryders. org to download an application or link to online registration at www.runsignup.com. A limited supply of Dion Snowshoes will be available at a $5 rental charge. Email Laura Clark at laura@saratogastryders. org to reserve a pair or phone 518-581-1278. For information about the entire Dion Snowshoe Series and for snow updates visit www. dionwmacsnowshoe.com or on Facebook Dion WMAC Snowshoe Series

Winter Concert Series: Lark Strings

Led by Distinguished Artist-inResidence at Skidmore College, Michael Emery, and including Jessica Belflower, Stephani Emery and André Laurent O’Neil. Lark Strings plays composers like Bach, Vivaldi and Mozart alongside the rock musicians they influenced. Each member excels in their own careers as musicians, from professionally training students to performing at world-renowned venues. They will be performing in the Long Room at The Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum on Saturday, February 8 at 3 p.m. Open to the public and free, though donations are appreciated, either online or at the event. Registration

is strongly encouraged as we anticipate a high attendance rate for this event and seating is limited. www. brooksidemuseum.org

Big Game Party

Join us on February 9 at Gurtler Bros. VFW Post 420 for the 59th Championship Game between the AFC and NFC football conferences! The fun starts at 3PM and features, potluck dishes, drink specials and more. Brink a dish to share. We are located at 190 Excelsior Ave, Saratoga Springs. For more information, call VFW Post 420 at 518-584-9686, Bertha at 347-661-1251 or Louise at 518796-4066.

Windows into Waldorf

Wednesday, February 12, 9 – 10 a.m. at the Lower and Middle Grade School, located at 62 York Ave., Saratoga Springs. Learn about the unique Waldorf approach from a seasoned teacher, see student presentations, and tour our school.

February Break Drama Camp

Join Elyse Young for Drama Camp at the Malta Community Center, located at 1 Bayberry Rd., Malta. For ages 10-15. Activities include

acting exercises, theater games, improvisation, vocal techniques, creative movement & dance, character analysis and arts projects! Campers will also rehearse and perform, complete with costumes and set pieces, on the last day of camp. Tuesday - Friday, February 18 – February 21; 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. www.maltaparksrec.com or Malta Park & Recreation 518899-4411.

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

Week of January 31 - February 6, 2025

Dave Matthews Band Saratoga Shows Slated July 18-19 at SPAC

Dave Matthews Band returns to Saratoga Springs for two shows this summer.

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Dave Matthews Band announced their 2025 Spring/Summer Tour, including a stop at Saratoga Performing Arts Center on July 18 and 19.

The tour kicks off April 27 at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Fest, plays regionally at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts on May 24, Boston Calling Festival May 25 and Amphitheater at Lakeview in Syracuse on May 27.

This summer, Dave Matthews Band continues its long-term partnerships with The Nature Conservancy and REVERB. Since 2005, Dave Matthews Band and REVERB

have partnered to make the band’s tours more sustainable and empower fans to take action for people and the planet at shows.

Additionally, in conjunction with their return to Southern California, Dave Matthews Band has pledged $500,000 to support California wildfire relief efforts through their Bama Works nonprofit.

An online ticket presale for members of the DMB Warehouse Fan Association began Jan. 28 (davematthewsband.com/warehouse). General onsale for tickets begins Friday, Feb. 21, at 10 a.m.

Chicago bluesman to Perform at The Parting Glass Sunday

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Award-winning Chicago bluesman Toronzo Cannon and his band The Chicago Way will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 2 at The Parting Glass, located at 40-42 Lake Ave. Cannon is on tour to

promote his latest Alligator Records release, “Shut Up & Play!” Cannon’s Alligator Records debut, “The Chicago Way,” won the Living Blues magazine Critics’ Award for New Recording/Contemporary

Blues Album Of The Year and the Readers’ Award for Best Blues Album. Cannon’s second Alligator Records release, “The Preacher, The Politician Or The Pimp,” secured the #2 Best Blues Album Of 2019. Tickets are $20-$30.

Schick Art Gallery hosts the 2025 Juried Skidmore Student Exhibition Feb. 6

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Schick Art Gallery presents the Juried Skidmore Student Exhibition, a perennial favorite showcasing the imagination and skill of Skidmore College art students, with an opening reception from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday,

Feb. 6, AND remaining on display through March 4.

Each year, students submit works in a range of materials ––including prints, photographs, graphic design, painting, drawing, animation, fibers, jewelry, and ceramics –– for

consideration by a juror unaffiliated with the Skidmore Art Department. The final exhibition features a selection of works from over 250 submissions.

The 2025 student exhibition juror is Wassaic Project Director of Artistic Programming Will Hutnick. Hutnick received his master’s degree in fine art from Pratt Institute in 2011. His work has been featured in The New York Times, among other publications, and he has been an artist-in-residence at Yaddo.

The Schick Art Gallery is located on the second floor of Saisselin Art Building, and is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

The 2024 Juried Skidmore Student Exhibition at Skidmore. Photo provided.

SPAC Announces 2025 New York City Ballet Season

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Saratoga Performing Arts Center has announced its 2025 New York City Ballet season will be staged July 9-12 as part of its 59th season in Saratoga.

The residency will feature full-length story ballet Coppélia, which held its world premiere at SPAC in 1974; Jerome Robbins’ The Four Seasons, an audience favorite set to Verdi’s vibrant melodies; George Balanchine’s masterpiece Stravinsky Violin Concerto and Justin Peck’s newest work for NYCB, Mystic Familiar, which will have its world premiere as part of NYCB’s 2025 Winter Season.

New York City Ballet will bring its roster of more than 90 dancers under the direction of Artistic Director Jonathan Stafford and Associate Artistic Director Wendy Whelan, accompanied by the New York City Ballet Orchestra, led by Music Director Andrew Litton.

“As we approach our 60th anniversary, our historic partnership with New York City Ballet continues to be a remarkable source of pride and inspiration,” Elizabeth Sobol, president and CEO of Saratoga Performing Arts Center said in a statement. “Nowhere else in the world outside of New York City does the full company of dancers and musicians present a robust week of repertoire, every single year. SPAC is unique and incredibly fortunate to be able to bring these world-class artists to our community.”

Returning for the first time since 2019 is Coppélia, the

delightful tale of a mad inventor and the life-like doll he creates. Coppélia is considered one of the greatest comic ballets of the 19th Century and has remained one of the best-loved classical works in the ballet repertory. The lavish production, featuring scenery and costumes by Rouben TerArtunian, additional costumes by Karinska, and lighting by Mark Stanley, is slated for four performances as part of the season. It will feature a large cast of children, including many from the Capital Region.

Highlighting the season are two performances dedicated to works by Jerome Robbins, George Balanchine and NYCB Resident Choreographer Justin Peck. The program opens with The Four Seasons by Robbins, an audience favorite set to Verdi’s vibrant score. Returning to SPAC for the first time since 2017 is Stravinsky Violin Concerto, one of Balanchine’s signature works featuring two of his most ingenious pas de deux.

Closing the program is the SPAC premiere of Justin Peck’s Mystic Familiar, his 25th work for New York City Ballet. Mystic Familiar is set to an original score by composer, recording artist and performer Dan Deacon, who also provided the score for Peck’s heralded 2017 ballet The Times Are Racing. The set design will feature a backdrop by the Los Angeles-based visual artist Eamon Ore-Giron, whose work was featured in the 2024 Whitney Biennial. The costumes will be designed by fashion designer and co-founder of

Opening Ceremony Humberto Leon, who has previously worked with Peck on costumes for The Times Are Racing and several other projects; with lighting design by frequent Peck collaborator Brandon Stirling Baker.

In an effort to increase access to these performances, SPAC also announced that it has launched new promotional ticket offers exclusive to the New York City Ballet residency. As part of this initiative, a new “$40 under 40” ticket offer, inviting individuals up to 40 years old to enjoy $40 tickets inside the amphitheater. To make access to world-class performance more affordable for families, SPAC has introduced two special promotions including a new Family Four Pack, including four amphitheater seats for $99, and an expansion of its “Kids in Free” program. The program, which currently allows children 12 and under free access on the lawn with an accompanying adult and 50% off amphitheater tickets will extend to children ages 16 and under for New York City Ballet performances. Visit the Ways to Save page on spac.org for all offers, discounts and exclusions.

Tickets will be available beginning at 10 a.m. on Jan. 30 for members (tiered by level) and at 10 a.m. on Feb. 7. for the general public.

The New York City Ballet season in Saratoga will take place July 9-12. For tickets, and information about specific dates and performances, go to: spac. org.

NYCB season in Saratoga will be staged July 9-12 at Saratoga performing Arts Center. Photo: Erin Baiano.

Nacre Dance Group Announces

Choreographer Submissions for Sip, Savor, and Swirl 2025

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Nacre Dance Group is accepting choreographer submissions for the Sip, Savor, and Swirl, a oneof-a-kind event celebrating the fusion of dance and wine.

The immersive event will take place on Aug. 16 at Universal Preservation Hall and will showcase choreographed dance pieces inspired by wines from around the world.

Each choreographer will be assigned a specific wine and tasked with interpreting its essence—whether through its origins, characteristics,

or cultural significance—by creating an original dance piece. The selected wines will be thoughtfully paired with cheese, offering guests a multi-sensory experience that pairs the artistry of dance with the refined tastes of wine and cheese.

How to Apply: Nacre Dance Group invites choreographers (ages 21 and up) to submit their applications (https://forms. gle/Bb2AyrLDwMnV33xJ7) by March 30, 2025. All selected applicants will be invited for a video interview, and the chosen

choreographers will have the opportunity to present their work at the Sip, Savor, and Swirl performance on Aug. 16 at 7:30 p.m.

Stipend: All accepted choreographers will receive a $400 honorary stipend upon completion of their performance. Additionally, the winning choreographer will be commissioned to create a new piece for the Nacre Dance Group’s 2026 season.

For more information, go to: nacredance.org, or email at info@nacredance.com.

Chicago Returns to SPAC This Summer

band Chicago will make their summer 2025 appearance at SPAC on Aug. 10.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Chicago announced they will stage a show at Saratoga Performing Arts Center Aug. 10.

Last year saw the band release the 26-track live collection “Chicago At The John F. Kennedy Center For The Performing Arts, Washington, D.C. (9/16/1971),” covering all three studio albums from their 1969 debut to 1971.

Chicago have toured every year since the beginning, and 2025 marks the band’s 58th consecutive year of touring.

Tickets: go to livenation.com.

BTTUNY

“Once On This Island” Opens Feb. 6 at Capital Repertory Theatre

ALBANY — The Black Theatre Troupe of Upstate NY hosts its first musical production, the second show in its 2024-2025 season “Once On This Island,” by Lynne Ahrens with music by Stephen Flaherty, Feb. 6-16. The show will be directed and choreographed by Hettie Barnhill with musical direction by Emily Rose Rivera.

“Once On This Island” is a Caribbean retelling of “The Little Mermaid” story, set in a fictionalized version of Haiti. This one-act musical is a love story and a coming-of-age tale appropriate for the whole family.

This show features 24 local BIPOC actors and is BTTUNY’s first musical production. It is a milestone for the company, both in scope and talent. The cast contains a combination

of both seasoned and newer performers, including five local children.

The Black Theatre Troupe of Upstate NY’s goal is to foster cross-cultural understanding and to create more diversity on stage and in theatre by highlighting, producing and promoting performance and theatre arts by marginalized artists in upstate New York.

Performances will be at the MainStage at theREP, 251 N. Pearl Street in Albany. Performances are Feb. 6-16, 2025, 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. To purchase tickets, visit attherep.org or blacktheatretroupeofupstateny. org. Groups of 10 or more can get tickets by calling 518- 3823884 x 139.

The

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: Wane, Wax

Wane means to gradually decrease in strength or size. Their enthusiasm for our idea is definitely beginning to wane.

Wax means to increase in size or strength.

Our interest in the house started to wax when we saw the huge kitchen, but it subsided when we saw the moldy basement 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 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 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 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. 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 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

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 of formation of Sovereign Self, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 12/16/2024. 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: 41 State Street, Suite 112, Albany, NY 12207. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/24, 1/31, 2/07, 2/14, 2/21, 2/28/2025. 14417

LEGALS

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: RACING CITY RECIPS, LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on January 21, 2025. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, 281 Burke Road, Stillwater, New York 12170. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 1/24, 1/31, 2/07, 2/14, 2/21, 2/28/2025. 14441

Notice of Adoption of Local Law

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN THAT THE Board of Supervisors of the County of Saratoga, State of New York, at its regular meeting on January 21, 2025, duly adopted the following resolution.

RESOLUTION 26-2025

ADOPTING A LOCAL LAW IDENTIFIED AS INTRODUCTORY NO. 5, PRINT NO. 1 OF 2024, RELATIVE TO AMENDING THE 2025 SARATOGA COUNTY COMPENSATION SCHEDULE TO PROVIDE A SALARY AND COSTOF-LIVING INCREASE FOR CERTAIN COUNTY OFFICIALS

A full copy of the local law can be found at www.saratogacountyny. gov. This Local Law is subject to a permissive referendum as provided in Municipal Home Rule Law §24.

Therese M. Connolly, Clerk Board of Supervisors 01/24, 01/31/2025, 2X 14443

Notice of formation of Adjaciant LLC. Articles of Organization filed with New York State Dept. of State on 01/05/2025. The County within this state in which the office of the limited liability company is located is in 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 24 Maxwell Drive #1019, Clifton Park, NY 12065. Company is organized for engagement in any lawful act or activity. 1/31, 2/07, 2/14, 2/21, 2/28, 3/07/2025. 14455

Notice of formation of BIBBY’S BLURBS PUBLISHING LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 1/03/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 16 DENHELDER DR., BALLSTON LAKE, NY 12019. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/31, 2/07, 2/14, 2/21, 2/28, 3/07/2025. 14457

Notice of formation of Northway Meals LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 01/16/2025 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 7 Spencer Street, Clifton Park NY, 12065. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/31, 2/07, 2/14, 2/21, 2/28, 3/07/2025. 14459

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

The Department of Central Services of Saratoga County will receive sealed bids in person or electronically through the Empire State Purchasing System Website until 11:00 a.m. on the following dates at which time bids will be publicly opened and read aloud: February 11, 2025 Defibrillators, specification 25-OESD-1 February 12, 2025 Ammunition/ Simunition, specification 25-SDAS-1

Bid forms and instructions are available at the Department of Central Services, 50 W. High Street, Ballston Spa, NY between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (telephone - 518885-2210) or at the Empire State Purchasing Group website (www. empirestatebidsystem.com). Saratoga County, through its Department of Central Services, reserves the right to reject parts of any or all bids.

JOHN T.

WARMT

Director

of Purchasing Saratoga County 01/31/2025, 14463

Notice of formation of S&M Upstate Properties, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 01/21/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed

to: The LLC, 5192 Bliss Road, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/31, 2/07, 2/14, 2/21, 2/28, 3/07/2025. 14465

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY (LLC). Name: 313 Vischer Ferry Road, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 1/15/2025. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: 904 Grooms Road, Rexford, New York 12148. Purpose: to engage in any lawful act or activity for which a limited liability company may be formed under section 201 of the Limited Liability Company Law. 1/31, 2/07, 2/14, 2/21, 2/28, 3/07/2025. 14468

Notice of Formation of KSAM Properties LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on January 27, 2025. Office location: 4137 South Shore Road, Corinth, Saratoga County, NY. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 4137 South Shore Road, Corinth, NY 12822. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 1/31, 2/07, 2/14, 2/21, 2/28, 3/07/2025. 14470

NOTICE OF ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION OF 518KOLAB, LLC. The name of the limited liability company is 518KOLAB, LLC (the “LLC”). The Articles of Organization for the LLC were filed with the Department of State on December 17, 2024. The office of the LLC is located in Saratoga County at 41 Rustic Bridge Road, Rexford, NY 12148. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address in the State of New York to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC is 41 Rustic Bridge Road, Rexford, NY 12148. The purpose of the business of the LLC shall be to conduct or transact any business or other activities which a limited liability company may lawfully conduct or transact under the laws of the State of New York. 1/31, 2/07, 2/14, 2/21, 2/28, 3/07/2025. 14471

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CA-CHING: Belmont Day General Admission Ticket Prices Increase 50%

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

If you plan on buying a general admission ticket to this year’s Belmont Stakes Day, prepare to pay up. Ticket prices have

increased by 50%, according to a news release from the New York Racing Association. In 2024, general admission to Belmont Stakes Day was $50. This year, it’s $75. Despite that increase, general admission prices have held steady for the remaining

days of the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival. In 2024, a general admission ticket for Friday was $30. This year, it’s still $30. And in 2024, general admission for both Thursday and Sunday was $10. This year, it’s still $10.

Baseball Begins at Skidmore

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

It’s only January but baseball activity has already begun in Saratoga Springs.

Skidmore College’s pitchers and catchers reported for duty on Monday, just a day before the team’s 2025 captains were announced. First Baseman Sam Kornet, Catcher/Infielder Trey Bourque, and Pitcher Peter

Martin have been named this year’s leaders. All three players are seniors.

The 6’6” Kornet had a slash line of .308/.448/.567 last season in 104 at-bats. Bourque hit .310/.395/.507 last year in 142 at-bats. He was also selected to the American Baseball Coaches Association Region 3 AllDefensive Team. Martin had a career-best 4.26 ERA in 2024, striking out 13 batters in 19 innings.

Skidmore’s first game of the season is on Feb. 23, when they take on SUNY Old Westbury in the first of 13 straight away games that include 8 games at the Gene Cusic Classic in Fort Myers, Florida. Their first home game, in which they are expected to play at their brandnew $3.4 million turf baseball field on Daniels Road, is against Vassar College on Mar. 21.

The Thoroughbreds have won 4 Liberty League championships, their most recent being in 2012. In 2023, Catcher Jackson Hornung became the first Skidmore athlete to be drafted by a professional team when he was selected in the 16th round (484th pick) by the Toronto Blue Jays. Hornung was named to the Northwest League All-Star Team last year after completing his first full season with the Vancouver Canadians, Toronto’s High-A affiliate.

The Skidmore College baseball team announced its 2025 captains this week. Image via the team.

Belmont Tickets on Sale Feb. 13; Presale Policies Adjusted Due to 2024 Issues

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— The New York Racing Association (NYRA) announced on Monday that general admission tickets, hospitality offerings, and reserved seats for the 2025 Belmont Stakes Racing Festival at the Saratoga

Race Course will go on sale to the general public at 10 a.m. on Thursday, February 13 at BelmontStakes.com/tickets.

NYRA also announced that it has adjusted this year’s presale “to ensure the most equitable opportunity for fans.” Beginning January 28, and continuing through January 31, prospective ticket buyers can enter a drawing

at BelmontStakes.com to secure access to various presale opportunities. Those prospective buyers will then be selected at random and directed to select ticket preferences based on available inventory.

NYRA said that entering the presale drawing does not guarantee an opportunity to purchase tickets prior to the general public on-sale, nor

does it preclude fans from participating in the general public on-sale.

Last year, some prospective presale buyers said that when they tried to buy specific tickets, the Ticketmaster website suddenly said the tickets were no longer available. Others reported they were unable to buy tickets at all, despite having access to the presale.

Also, an advertisement on the Belmont Stakes tickets website fooled some buyers by featuring a green “Continue” button that linked to another site asking for credit card information. A message above the advertisement that read “paid banners below are not related to Belmont Stakes Ticket Sales” appeared to have been added later.

Saratoga Saints Cruising Through Stellar Season

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Can anyone beat Saratoga Central Catholic’s boys varsity basketball team?

The short answer to that question is “yes.” The Saints lost by 5 points to Berne-KnoxWesterlo on Dec. 8. But that’s Spa Catholic’s only loss of the year so far, and that loss was in a close contest with an undefeated team.

The Saints’ record is currently 15-1 overall and a perfect 9-0 in the Wasaren League, where Spa Catholic is well ahead of the competition. The boys b-ball squad has won 13 games in a row. Of the 85 teams listed in the Section 2 boys basketball rankings, Saratoga is #7. The New York State Sportswriters Association has them ranked #6 among Class C teams. So it’s safe to say that this season is shaping up to

Fun And Games

be one of the program’s best in recent memory.

The Saints are a relatively short team, relying on speed and three-pointers to accumulate points. But the secret to their sauce this season, according to Coach Shea Bromirski, has been their defense.

“We hold our opponents to around 38 points per game, which is one of the best in the section,” Bromirski said. “The kids have really bought into competing and putting forth a ton of effort on that end of the floor, which is really unselfish; it’s not an easy thing to do.”

Recent games have added compelling evidence to the claim that the Saints have one of the best defenses in town. On Jan. 28, the boys held Cambridge to only 35 points. On Jan. 17, they limited Hoosic Valley to 39 points. On the offensive end, Tyler Hicks led the way with 18 points while Ryan Gillis contributed an 11-point, 11-rebound doubledouble. On Jan. 14 against Waterford-Halfmoon, the Saints

won 78 to 42, again excelling on both sides of the ball. In that game, Gillis netted 12 points and Hicks added 11. Before that, Hicks scored 19 in a 54 to 39 victory against Tamarac. Hicks, said his coach, has emerged as a “complete player” this season, averaging more than 14 points per game and contributing on the defensive end as well. The senior guard has “a bunch of colleges that are poking around and looking at him because he’s turned himself into a really good player,” Bromirski said.

Gillis is a “throwback” who “doesn’t care about scoring,” Bromirski said. “He’s the backbone of our team. He’s quiet but he’s such a leader. He leads by example.” Gillis only has 9 turnovers all season. “He does all the little things that don’t show up in the box score, but then he does the stuff that shows up in the box score too,” said Bromirski.

Another big contributor this season has been David

Redgrave, the team’s assist leader. Redgrave’s ball handling abilities have allowed Hicks to move off the ball, which Bromirski said better suits his skill set. “David is one of the biggest gym rats I’ve ever been around,” the coach said. “He’s playing somewhere all the time

and when he’s not playing, he’s shooting and working on his game. He just loves basketball.” Next up for the blessed Saints is a Friday home game on Jan. 31 against Greenwich at 7:30 p.m. Then they’ll take on Stillwater and Hoosick Falls to wrap up their stellar regular season.

The Saratoga Central Catholic boys varsity basketball team defeated Cambridge on Tuesday, 63 to 35. Image via the Saints Facebook page.

More Honors for Schuylerville State Champs

State Senator Jim Tedisco (R,C-Ballston Lake) and Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner (D-Round Lake) welcomed the New York State Class C Football Champion Schuylerville Black Horses to the state Capitol earlier this week, honoring them with legislative resolutions passed in the Senate and Assembly. In December, the Horses defeated Salamanca 26-20 at the JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse to win their first state football championship in program history. Photo provided by Tedisco’s office.

Racers Ranked #3 in Division as Playoffs Approach

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA

SPRINGS

— The Saratoga Racers of the American Basketball Association (ABA) held on to their third-place ranking in the East Conference White Division after beating the Herkimer Originals last weekend, 130 to 115. The Racers have a little less than a month before the end of the regular season. Singleelimination playoff games will begin in March.

Against Herkimer, Saratoga’s Tobias Holmes netted an eyepopping 42 points, draining 6 three-pointers and dishing out 7 assists. RJ Rosa added 27 points, John Ryals contributed 21, and both Isiah Grandison (16 points, 15 rebounds) and Shaheem Sanders (14 points, 16 boards) had double-doubles in the contest.

The Racers managed to win in convincing fashion despite losing a few regulars. TJ Jenkins was sidelined with an injury, while Joey Harden and Todd Spotswood both missed time due to deaths in their families.

The Racers are currently ranked #23 in the country and have an 11-5 record on the season. Their next game will be this Saturday against the 518 Ballers in Albany.

Saratoga Racers logo provided.

Harness Racing Returns This Sunday

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— After a brief hiatus, harness racing will return to the Saratoga Casino Hotel for its 84th season on Sunday, February 2nd. Post time is 12 p.m.

The season will last until December 14, 2025, with most weeks featuring three to four days of racing. Most post times will be at noon, with 6:45 p.m. post times on Saturday evenings in July and August.

The tradition of harness racing in Saratoga dates back to June 26, 1941.

Skyway Victor enters the winner’s circle on the 2024 opening night of harness racing at the Saratoga Casino Hotel. Photo by Jonathon Norcross.