Saratoga TODAY February 6 - February 12, 2026

History OF SARATOGA

Saratoga: super bowl of chips

by Bill Orzell Saratoga TODAY

Saratoga Springs has improved the American historical cultural canon through the years, especially in the area of food, which might be something to consider as you plan on attending your next Super Bowl party.

One thinks immediately of the club sandwich which Mr. Canfield developed in his casino, so players did not need to leave his Faro tables to refresh themselves.

I am not sure where you stand on the long running ‘Saratoga Potato Chip Debate,’ or whether you deem this be legend or perhaps upstate myth. The best part about folk tales is that no one will really ever know what actually happened in Moon’s Lake House.

The undeniable fact is George Crum certainly was a Saratoga Lake pioneer in many

ways, and that he was a very successful man of business, having built a “shrine of rare cooking.” One of the reasons for the chip mystery might be quintessential to chefs from the beginning of time; never reveal your secret recipe. I am not sure if any potato chip investigators have looked into “the fact that they were made from a peculiar variety of potatoes, the like of which nobody else raised,” but that quote certainly adds merit to a prodigious legend.

I have long ascribed to a deep-seated personal theory, that rather than Commodore Vanderbilt being the influence behind the creation of the potato chip, that it was instead the notorious prankster John McBain Davidson, whose rather unusual middle name is often misspelled. “Ole John McB,” built the fine cottage which still graces 203 Union Avenue, and was one of pugilist turned Congressman

Morrissey’s partners in founding the Saratoga Race Course.

Mr. Davidson was known for his mischievous sense of humor and would take practical jokes to the extreme. Mr. Crum had long been in Mr. Davidson’s employ as a wilderness guide and cook. My theory is that George Crum created a salty retribution potato chip snack on one of Mr. Davidson’s Adirondack camping trips, which would have required mass quantities of certain beverages to slake his victim’s thirst. Just a theory, which is more fun than serious, and we can all have our own. After all, Evelyn Barrett Britten in her legendary Chronicles of Saratoga wrote, “Much confusion exists in stories of the origin of Potato Chips.” She wasn’t kidding, and that’s what makes it so much fun!

Whether feeding famished fans of the Seahawks or Patriots, raise a glass and a chip and enjoy a fine tradition.

Franklin Community Center Welcomes Two New Board Members and Honors Outgoing Leader

At its recent board meeting, Franklin Community Center (FCC) proudly voted to welcome two new members to its Board of Directors. For more than 40 years, FCC has been an active force in Saratoga County, dedicated to helping to improve the quality of life in our community and to bridge gaps in community needs by providing support, services, and resources that ensure core needs are met.

FCC is pleased to welcome Cliff VanWagner, a long-time volunteer and dedicated community member. Cliff spent his professional career at The Wesley Community, where he served as a licensed pharmacist and later advanced to Director of Pharmacy, a role he held until his retirement in spring 2025.

Among his many accomplishments, Cliff led the design and implementation of a drug distribution system serving more than 350 residents. Beyond his professional

work, Cliff remains deeply engaged in the community, supporting fundraising efforts for the Saratoga Springs Police Department Canine Unit, Saratoga Springs Lions Club Foundation, and Leadership Saratoga.

“After spending the last 10 years working with FCC to assist with the food pantry expansion and fundraising for the new building, I am honored and humbled to join the Board,” said VanWagner. “My goal is to help further FCC’s mission of breaking the cycle of poverty and ensuring its continued success.”

FCC also warmly welcomes Christine Hogan Barton to the Board of Directors. An Associate Real Estate Broker at Roohan Realty, Christine has long been involved in the Saratoga Springs community through her support of events such as the North Country Festival of Trees, TouchA-Truck, and recreational sports

programs within the Saratoga Springs School District. “My board membership is deeply meaningful because it allows me to be part of a collaborative team making a difference where it matters most—right here in our local community,” said Hogan Barton. “It is a privilege I truly value.”

In addition, FCC extends heartfelt gratitude to Zackary Manz, recent past president, whose 10-year term concluded at the November 2025 board meeting. Zack’s leadership, thoughtful approach to complex conversations, and strategic vision left a lasting impact on the organization. While his contributions will be greatly missed, his warmth and positivity will be remembered most fondly. The staff and board wish Zack all the best and hope he enjoys time with his family— while keeping the door open for a future return.

Saratoga County District Attorney Brett Eby Announces Creation of New Appeals Bureau

Saratoga County District

Attorney Brett Eby today announced the creation of a new Appeals Bureau within the District Attorney’s Office, a strategic move that will significantly reduce costs to taxpayers while strengthening the office’s ability to protect convictions and deliver justice for crime victims.

By handling appeals inhouse rather than relying on outside counsel, the new Appeals Bureau is expected to save Saratoga County taxpayers six figures annually. In addition to the financial benefits, the bureau will ensure that appeals are handled by experienced prosecutors who work closely with trial attorneys from the earliest stages of a case through final resolution.

“This new Appeals Bureau is both fiscally responsible and justice-driven,” District Attorney Eby said. “By keeping appeals work within our office, we are saving taxpayers a substantial amount of money while ensuring continuity, accountability, and the highest level of advocacy for the people of Saratoga County.” The Appeals Bureau will be led by Jesse Ashdown, a veteran prosecutor with more than 20 years of experience in the Saratoga County District Attorney’s Office. Ashdown previously served as a Principal Court Attorney at the New York State Court of Appeals, the state’s highest court.

Under the new structure, seasoned appellate prosecutors will collaborate directly with trial attorneys to defend hardfought convictions on appeal, strengthening the office’s overall prosecution strategy and ensuring that victims receive lasting justice.

“Our victims deserve more than just a conviction, they deserve to know that the result will be defended at every level,” Eby said. “Having experienced appellate attorneys working hand-in-hand with our trial team gives us a significant advantage in protecting those outcomes.”

District Attorney Eby said Ashdown’s background made him the clear choice to lead the new bureau.

“Jesse Ashdown’s experience as a prosecutor, his strong leadership within this office, and his time working at the Court of Appeals make him the natural fit to lead our Appeals Bureau,” Eby said. “He understands how cases are built, how they are reviewed, and how to successfully defend them at the highest levels of the judicial system.”

“I’m honored to take on this role,” said Chief Ashdown.

“This unit will strengthen our ability to defend convictions and ensure that the work done on behalf of victims and the community is preserved on appeal. I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve in this new capacity.”

SLICFiber Launches #FiberofHope on World Cancer Day

In celebration of World Cancer Day on Feb. 4, 2026, SLICFiber officially launched #FiberofHope ™, a new community-focused initiative that will support local cancer charities across the communities it serves.

The launch was marked by the first-ever installation of custom-created pink fiberoptic cable, known as the “Pink Drop,” which took place at the Mechanicville-Stillwater Chamber of Commerce in Upstate New York, the first customer to receive this pink fiberoptic cable.

“The City of Mechanicville is proud to be the very first place to participate in #FiberOfHope,” Mike Butler, Mayor of Mechanicville said, “ We have communicated closely with SLICFiber for the past several years as they’ve built industry-leading fiber infrastructure throughout our community. We appreciate that SLIC comes here and gets to know us, gives us input into how the project should be done, and will support our community long after their network is built. You don’t always see that. It’s important. This project is also a win for our taxpayers. It has cost the City nothing, and when SLIC’s infrastructure is added to the tax rolls it will increase our tax base and provide relief to

existing taxpayers.”

Through #FiberofHope, $25 from every new SLICFiber installation beginning Feb. 4, 2026, will be donated to a local cancer charity in each community within SLICFiber’s growing service footprint. The initiative is designed to keep charitable dollars local while raising awareness and showing solidarity with individuals and families affected by cancer.

The Pink Drop fiber-optic cable was custom engineered by Sterlite Technologies Inc. (STI), a U.S. subsidiary of STL, in collaboration with SLICFiber. The bright pink color serves as a visible symbol of awareness and support and delivers the same all-fiber optic service as a traditionally colored cable. The fiber optic drop cable has a specially developed pink outer jacket. The product meets the same stringent quality, durability, and reliability standards required for outdoor network deployments as STL’s typical black fiber drop cables.

“At SLICFiber, our network is about more than speed and reliability—it’s about the communities we serve every day,”

A pink fiberoptic cable was installed as part of the new “ Fiber of Hope initiative to raise money for cancer.

Kevin Lynch, CEO of SLICFiber said. “#FiberOfHope Pink Drop cable allows us to combine world-class connectivity with a meaningful message of awareness, solidarity, and support for cancer research and patient programs. As SLICFiber continues to expand across Upstate New York and into Massachusetts, each new community we serve will help extend the reach of this initiative and its local impact. SLICFiber is dedicated to the communities we serve.”

OBITUARIES

Georgiann “Georgie” M. Pelkowski

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY

— Georgiann “Georgie” M. Pelkowski, 95, of Schuylerville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Saratoga Hospital in Saratoga Springs. She is now reunited with her husband, three sisters (whom she missed terribly), and many lifelong friends.

Originally from Flushing, NY, she was born to Monica (Bowe) Mathe and Herman “Pete” Mathe, the second child of a family of six. Georgie and her husband of almost 50 years, Alfred “Buddy” Pelkowski, lived in the same house on East Adams Street in East Islip for nearly 49 years and raised their two boys there before moving

Upstate to be with Georgie’s sister, Marilyn Vallone in 1998.

Georgie was the original “Martha Stewart.” An amazing homemaker in the truest sense, she cooked three meals a day, baked from scratch daily, and loved to decorate her home (complete with hand-sewn curtains, tablecloths and pillows to match her new color scheme!)

Georgie was a woman who loved to entertain. Upon hearing so-and-so was at the door, she would say, “The more around the table the merrier, throw another potato in the pot!” She had such a tight circle of friends and even though they lived in different states, still had a “bestie” in “Apple Alice.”

An accomplished seamstress, Georgie made most of the clothing she wore herself. She was quite proud of the fact that she was the FIRST woman in her circle of friends to be seen in a pants suit – at a bowling banquet! Georgie was an excellent bowler and was very proud of her 300 Pin (signifying she had bowled a perfect game!).

Georgie took up quilting after her two boys graduated from school and moved out of the house and was STILL quilting well into her 90s!

Georgie was an inspiration! She was an artist, a talented illustrator, and a painter who loved exchanging handwritten

correspondence with her nieces, friends, and the writing club she was a member of. An avid reader, she also loved the challenge of completing her daily crossword puzzle. Fondly known as “The Cookie Lady” by all who knew her, Georgie brought bags of homemade cookies to her neighbors and to every appointment she went to!

Georgie moved upstate with her husband Buddy, in 1998, but sadly lost him on 9/9/99. In 2011, Georgie and Marilyn were joined Upstate by their sister, Dee. Georgie’s and Buddy’s son, Bruce lives in Plattsburgh, and their younger son, Glenn, lives in Pennsylvania. Even with all she achieved in her life, Georgie always believed her two boys were her greatest accomplishment.

Georgie was quite the character, and she will be missed by all who knew her, especially her niece, Chris Bushee, who was her constant companion from summers on Long Island through her final years.

Georgie is survived by her two sons: Bruce Pelkowski, Glenn (Lori) Pelkowski, three grandsons, and two great granddaughters.

A spring memorial service will be held at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Saratoga Springs, NY.

Malcolm

Richard Brill

GLENS FALLS, NY- Malcolm Richard Brill 92, passed away peacefully January 24, 2026, with his daughter and niece by his side. He was a loving husband and a caring father, grandfather, great grandfather and uncle. Burial with Military Honors was February 5, at Saratoga National Cemetery. Please visit www. burkefuneralhome.com.

Hal (Harold Tilden) Bigelow

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY

- Hal (Harold Tilden) Bigelow, born October 10, 1952, and raised in Gainesville, Florida, passed away January 29, 2026 after a brief illness. A highly skilled and accomplished cabinetmaker, Hal brought

Mary Teresa Ryan (Rafferty)

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NYMary Teresa Ryan (Rafferty), 83, passed away peacefully January 31, 2026. Calling hours are 4 – 7 pm, February 6 at Burke Funeral Homes. Mass is 11 am, February 7 at St. Peter’s Church followed by burial in St. Peter’s Cemetery. Refreshments after at: The Divot Bar and Grille. Please visit www. burkefuneralhome.com.

Heather C. Williams

WILTON - Heather C. Williams passed away January 28, 2026. A Celebration of Life for Heather and Jerry will be held at Gansevoort Volunteer Fire Department, 1870 State Route 32N, Gansevoort, NY, 12831 at 1:00 pm on Sunday, April 12, 2026. Online condolences visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

beauty, originality, and craftsmanship to his projects. His work can be found in many local homes and businesses.

A devoted father and grandfather, Hal is survived by his wife Marian of 46 years, their two sons, and five grandchildren. Beyond his work, he was an avid bridge player and teacher, sharing his knowledge and love of the game with many. Hal found joy in fishing, listening to and creating music and many forms of art, including crafting his whimsical whirligigs. He found meaning and community in his UU congregation. Hal will be remembered for his generosity, creativity, dedication to family and community, and will be missed by all who knew him.

A celebration of life will be scheduled for May.

Scott J. Sacala

SARATOGA SPRINGSScott J. Sacala passed away January 19, 2026. A service was held on January 31, 2026 at Compassionate Funeral Care, 402 Maple Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY. Calling hours were held prior to the service at the funeral home. Online condolences visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

Ottilie M. Quidgeon

SOUTH GLENS FALLSOttilie M. Quidgeon passed away peacefully on January 29, 2026. Calling hours and a graveside service will be held in the spring and announced at a later date. For online condolences, please visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

BLOTTER

BLOTTER REPORT

Jan 28- Feb. 3.

January 28, 2026. 8:50 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Latham man in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued. Arrest stemmed from a three car accident on Route 146.

January 28, 2026. 11:09 a.m.-

Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Stillwater resident on charges of 2nd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, motor vehicle violation- no license, and motor vehicle violation- registration suspended. Arrest occurred at the intersection of West Avenue and Charles Place.

January 28, 2026. 11:14 a.m.-

New York State Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident in the Town of Ballston on charges of felony 4th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, hallucinogen, misdemeanor DWI- first offense, misdemeanor operation of a motor vehicle with BAC of .08 or higher- 1st offense, felony aggravated DWI: with a child passenger less than 16- 1st offense, and misdemeanor act to injure a child less than 17. Released on own recognizance. Arrest stemmed from a single vehicle accident on Lake RD in which one person was injured.

January 28, 2026. 5:02 p.m.-

New York State Police arrested a Fort Edward resident in the Town of Moreau on charges of misdemeanor acting to injure a child less than 17. Central arraignment.

January 28, 2026. 5:38 p.m.-

New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park resident in the Town of Clifton Park on two counts of misdemeanor acting in a manner to injure a child less than 17. Appearance ticket issued. Original incident occurred on Jan. 24.

January 28, 2026. 8:10 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Greenfield Center resident in the Town of Greenfield on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense, misdemeanor operating a vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher and misdemeanor 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Appearance ticket issued.

January 28, 2026. 11:30 p.m.-

New York State Police arrested a Grafton, VT resident in the Town of Saratoga on charges of misdemeanor 2nd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued.

January 28, 2026. 11:43 p.m.-

New York State Police arrested a Alpaus, NY resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense. Appearance ticket issued.

January 29, 2026. 2:11 a.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident on charges of 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, 5th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance- cocaine, and equipment violations. Arrest occurred at the intersection of Crecent Street and Thoroughbred Drive.

January 29, 2026. 10:35 a.m.-

New York State Police arrested a Wilton resident in the Town of Queensbury on charges of 3rd degree unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued.

January 29, 2026. 12:57 p.m.-

Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of petit larceny, 3rd degree criminal possession of a controlled substance- intent to sell, and 3rd degree criminal possession of a controlled substance- narcotic drug.

January 29, 2026. 4:05 p.m.-

New York State Police arrested a Rexford resident in the Town of Clifton Park

on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense, misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with BAC of .08 or higher- first offense, and misdemeanor aggravated DWI: BAC of .18 or higherfirst offense. Appearance ticket issued.

January 29, 2026. 5:40 p.m.-

Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of motor vehicle violation: no license, open door interfering with traffic, and 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Arrest occurred on Broadway.

January 29, 2026. 7:10 p.m.-

New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park resident in the Town of Halfmoon on two counts of misdemeanor petit larceny. Appearance ticket issued.

January 29, 2026. 10:27 p.m.-

New York State Police arrested a Porter Corners resident in the Town of Corinth on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense and misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higherfirst offense. Appearance ticket issued.

January 29, 2026. 11:52 p.m.-

New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the Town of Halfmoon on charges of misdemeanor 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Turned over to other agency.

January 30, 2026. 3:44 a.m.-

Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Fort Edward resident on charges of DWIfirst offense, operating a motor vehicle with BAC above .08- first offense and operating a motor vehicle without inspection certificate. Arrest occurred at intersection of Union Ave and Henning Road.

January 30, 2026. 3:46 a.m.-

New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of felony aggravated unlicensed

operation of a motor vehicle, misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher- first offense, and DWI- first offense. Appearance ticket issued. Arrest stemmed from a three-vehicle crash on Interstate 87 with no injuries reported.

January 30, 2026. 2:00 p.m.-

New York State Police arrested an Amsterdam resident over an incident that occurred in the Town of Day on Aug. 12, 2025. The individual was charged with three counts of misdemeanor forcible touchingtouch sexual/intimate parts of another person, misdemeanor public lewdnessintentionally expose one’s private parts in public, and three counts of acting in a manner to injure a child less than 17. Appearance ticket issued.

January 30, 2026. 3:38 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park resident in the Town of Halfmoon on charges of felony DWI: previous conviction within the last 10 years. Appearance ticket issued.

January 30, 2026. 6:40 p.m.New York State Police arrested a Mechanicville resident in the Town of Halfmoon on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree menacing. Released on own recognizance.

January 30, 2026. 11:47 p.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of DWI- first offense, failure to obey traffic control device, speed not reasonable and prudent and operating a motor vehicle

with BAC above .08- first offense. Arrest occurred at the intersection of Clinton Street and Church Street.

January 31, 2026. 2:40 a.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Gansevoort resident on charges of DWIfirst offense, operating a motor vehicle with BAC above .08- first offense, and equipment violationsubstandard lights. Arrest occurred at the intersection of Broadway and Ellsworth Jones Place.

January 31, 2026. 3:42 a.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Schroon Lake resident on charges of 3rd degree assault: recklessly cause physical injury/ hate crime and 3rd degree criminal mischief. Arrest occurred on Jefferson Street.

January 31, 2026. 3:54 a.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Schroon Lake resident on charges of DWI- first offense, operating a motor vehicle with BAC above .08- first offense, and aggravated DWI: BAC above .18- first offense. Arrest occurred on Jefferson Street.

January 31, 2026. 9:28 a.m.New York State Police arrested a Schenectady resident in the City of Troy on charges of felony 4th degree grand larceny: property value greater than $1000. Incident occurred in the Town of Clifton Park on Jan. 22. Appearance ticket issued.

January 31, 2026. 3:31 p.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of

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DWI- first offense, operating a motor vehicle with BAC above .08- first offense, and following too close. Arrest occurred at the intersection of Caroline Street and Pavillion Row.

January 31, 2026. 4:42 p.m.New York State Police arrested a Ballston Lake resident in the Town of Ballston on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense, misdemeanor 2nd degree reckless endangerment, misdemeanor 3rd degree menacing, misdemeanor 2nd degree criminal nuisance: create/ maintain conditions that endanger others, and misdemeanor reckless driving. Bail bond.

February 1, 2026. 12:39 a.m.New York State Police arrested a Glens Falls resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense and misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with BAC of .08 or higher- first offense. Released to 3rd party. Arrest stemmed from a two-vehicle crash on Saratoga RD. with no injuries reported.

February 1, 2026. 2:44 a.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Syosset resident on charges of DWI- first offense, operating a motor vehicle with BAC above .08first offense, and aggravated DWI: BAC above .18- first offense. Arrest occurred at intersection of Crescent Ave. and Jefferson Street.

February 1, 2026. 2:55

a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Schenectady resident on charges of DWI- first offense, operating a motor vehicle with BAC above .08- first offense, following to close, leaving the scene of motor vehicle accident, 3rd degree fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle, failure to exercise due care to avoid colliding with an emergency vehicle, speed in zone, moving from lave unsafely, drinking alcohol in motor vehicle on highway, and failure to yield right of way to emergency vehicle, failure to obey traffic control device. Incident occurred at the intersection of South Broadway and West Fenlon Street.

February 1, 2026. 3:34 a.m.-

New York State Police arrested a Argyle resident in the Village of South Glens Falls on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense. Arrest stemmed from a single vehicle crash on River Street.

February 1, 2026. 7:09 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Palm Coast, FL, resident in the City of Saratoga Springs on charges of 3rd misdemeanor aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued.

February 1, 2026. 7:15 a.m.New York State Police arrested a Queensbury resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor operation of a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher first offense and

misdemeanor DWI- first offense. Appearance ticket issued. Arrest stems from a single-vehicle crash on Route 9.

February 1, 2026. 9:31 a.m.-

New York State Police arrested a Hackensack, NJ, resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor motor vehicle violation: registration suspended. Appearance ticket issued.

February 1, 2026. 2:30 p.m.-

New York State Police arrested a Yonkers resident in the Town of Halfmoon on charges of misdemeanor motor vehicle violation: registration suspended. Appearance ticket issued.

February 1, 2026. 4:23 p.m.-

New York State Police arrested a Schenectady resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor motor vehicle violation: registration suspended and misdemeanor 3rd degree unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued.

February 1, 2026. 4:23 p.m.-

New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the City of Saratoga Springs on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense. Appearance ticket issued.

February 1, 2026. 10:00 p.m.-

New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense, misdemeanor operating a motor Vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higherfirst offense, and misdemeanor aggravated DWI: BAC over .18- first offense. Appearance ticket issued.

February 1, 2026. 11:38 p.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested an Albany resident on charges of 2nd degree criminal mischief. Arrest occurred on State Route 50.

February 2, 2026. 6:36 a.m.-

New York State Police arrested an Argyle resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor

third degree unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued.

February 2, 2026. 12:14 p.m.-

New York State Police arrested a Greenfield Center resident in the Town of Kingsbury on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued.

February 2, 2026. 11:05 p.m.-

New York State Police arrested a Gansevoort resident in the Town of Moreau on charges of DWI- first offense, and operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher- first offense. Appearance ticket issued.

February 3, 2026. 3:18 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Queensbury resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense. Appearance ticket issued.

February 3, 2026. 12:58 p.m.-

New York State Police arrested a Gansevoort resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor petit larceny. Turned over to other agency. Original incident occurred on Sept. 20, 2025.

February 3, 2026. 3:05 p.m.New York State Police arrested a Schenectady resident in the Town of Halfmoon on charges of felony burglary: uses dangerous instrument, felony 2nd degree criminal mischief, misdemeanor 2nd degree menacing: weapon, felony 3rd degree criminal possession of a weapon: previous conviction, misdemeanor obstruction of breathing or circulation- apply pressure and felony assault 2: cause injury to non-participant during commission of felony. Investigation pending.

February 3, 2026. 3:20 p.m.-

New York State Police arrested a South Glens Falls resident in the Town of Queensbury on charges of misdemeanor petit larceny. Appearance ticket issued.

Meet Tippy!

Tippy is a gorgeous black cat who is currently looking for her forever home. While she is initially timid in new surroundings, we are confident that she will blossom into a sweet and loving companion with time and patience.

Tippy lived as a stray for approximately six months and has a tipped ear, indicating she was part of a TNR (TrapNeuter-Return) program. She is currently in a foster home with another cat where she is gaining confidence and learning to feel secure. She enjoys the company of other animals, therefore, she would do best in a home with another cat or a calm dog. The way to her heart is with treats, other cats and lots of pets.

Tippy is up to date on all vaccinations and has tested negative for FIV and FeLV. After spending the first months of her life on the streets, she truly deserves a loving home.

Online adoption applications can be found on our website www.hopeanimalrescue.org. The Cat Adoption Center at Wilton Mall is open to the public Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 11-4, but because Tippy is in a foster home, a meet and greet would need to be scheduled.

Next week is the last week to be featured! Submit your “Photo of the Week” for a chance to be PUBLISHED IN PRINT in Saratoga TODAY Newspaper. Email your photo to: Design@SaratogaPublishing.com “World Upside Down” by Barbara Ungar

NEWS/ OBITUARIES

Patricia-Ann Lee

SARATOGA SPRINGS,

NY- Patricia-Ann Lee, 94, died peacefully January 21, 2026. A celebration of life will be held at 2 PM on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at the Woodlawn Commons Saratoga Room, 156 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs. Donations in Pat’s memory may be made to the Wesley Foundation at https:// www.thewesleycommunity.org/ wesley-foundation.

Anthony F. Oliveto

SARATOGA SPRINGSAnthony F. Oliveto passed away January 30, 2026. A Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. on February 6 at Saint Clement’s Church, Saratoga Springs. Interment with honors will be 12:00 p.m. at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville, New York following the mass. Visit www.compassionatefuneralcare. com.

Newly Established Striped Bass Working Group Discussions at the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission to Begin February 5

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today issued an update on the Hudson River’s Atlantic striped bass Juvenile Abundance Index (JAI) survey and ongoing collaborations on management of this important fishery.

DEC’s JAI determined

poor reproductive success in the river for the third consecutive year. In light of the ongoing poor juvenile reproduction and concerns about poor reproduction coastwide, DEC made the motion that initiated the formation of a working group at the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) to discuss upcoming striped bass management challenges. That motion received strong support to begin discussions of how to manage this important fishery in the 2030s when the coastal population is expected to be much smaller.

“For the third straight year, DEC’s annual juvenile striped bass survey in the Hudson River documented poor striped bass reproduction, heightening concerns about future abundance and long-term management implications for this critical resource,” Commissioner Lefton said. “The most recent findings confirm that it is more important than ever that DEC continue to engage with the interstate management process, as well as with the coastal community of stakeholders, to take a leadership role in responsibly managing the striped bass population over the next decade.”

DEC surveys striped bass juveniles and adults at their spawning grounds in the Hudson River and in the Atlantic Ocean. The 2025 value for the DEC’s Hudson River striped bass young-of-year index was 8.27 fish per haul. This value is below the long-term average, and for the third consecutive year, survey values were below the 25th percentile. The index value, which provides an estimate of annual reproduction for striped bass in the Hudson River, is generated through beach seine surveys at 13 sites in the lower Hudson River conducted biweekly from July to November. The survey can be found on

DEC’s Striped Bass webpage.

This recent poor juvenile reproduction in the Hudson River, along with consistent poor reproduction in the Chesapeake Bay over the last seven years, indicates that there will be a significant future decrease in catchable striped bass beginning in 2030. The Hudson and Chesapeake combined contribute approximately 90 percent of the coastal population of striped bass. Reproduction of migratory fish in estuaries along the Atlantic Coast is typically highly variable and is heavily dependent on environmental conditions such as precipitation, water temperature and salinity, but it remains unclear what is driving this pattern in striped bass.

The next striped bass stock assessment will take place in 2027 and the results of that assessment will inform ASMFC striped bass management decisions starting in 2028. Recognizing the concerning poor juvenile reproduction in recent years, DEC proactively proposed that ASMFC create and convene a working group to meet between now and the upcoming assessment to be fully prepared to make management decisions upon receipt of those results.

The new working group will consider how to update the Striped Bass Interstate Fishery Management Plan’s goals, objectives, and management of striped bass in preparation for the results of the 2027 assessment.

The goal of the working group is to prepare fishery managers to adapt successfully to the lower population level in the 2030s while maintaining access to striped bass and its important societal, cultural, and economic benefits. The initial step of forming the working group will occur on February 5, 2026, at the ASMFC Winter Meeting in Arlington, Virginia.

Corinth Man Arrested for Attacking Driver

by Aidan Cahill Saratoga TODAY

A Corinth man has been arrested after he allegedly assaulted the driver of a vehicle he was riding in.

Daniel Tubbs, of Corinth, was arrested by the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office on Jan. 31 in the Town of Corinth. According to Deputies, Tubbs repeatedly punched the victim in the face and abandoned them on the side of the road.

The victim, who was not

identified by the Sheriff’s Office, subsequently went to nearby residence and informed the homeowner of the assault. The victim was initially transported by EMS to Saratoga Hospital for treatment but later transferred to Albany Medical Center for head and facial injuries.

Tubbs was charged with second degree assault and 2nd degree assault and 2nd degree reckless endangerment. He was arraigned in the Corinth Town Court and is currently being held in the Saratoga County Jail awaiting further proceedings.

State Police arrest Ballston Spa man following suspicious person complaint.

On January 26, 2026, State Police of Saratoga with the assistance of the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office arrested Andrew M. Provencher, 37, of Ballston Spa, NY, for:

• Criminal Possession of a Weapon 3rd, a class “D” Felony

• Assault 2nd, a class “D” felony

• Unlawful Wearing Body Vest, a class “E” felony

• Resisting Arrest, a class “A” misdemeanor

• Obstructing Governmental Administration, a class “A” misdemeanor

On January 26, 2026, at about 12:27 p.m., law enforcement responded to the report of a suspicious person outside of the Saratoga County Public Safety Building located on County Farm Road in Ballston Spa. The investigation determined that Provencher traveled to the location and reportedly was observed wearing a ballistic vest and in possession of what appeared to be a rifle. Provencher reportedly approached an individual unknown to him in the parking

lot and became confrontational. The victim was able to get away from Provencher and notified a law enforcement official.

While notification was being made, Provencher got in his vehicle and fled the location. Troopers located and stopped him on Malta Avenue in Ballston Spa. Provencher exited the vehicle still wearing the ballistic vest. He was taken into custody after a short period of resistance during which time a trooper sustained minor injuries.

Further investigation located and seized two knives stored in Provencher’s ballistic vest and an imitation Tippman M4 Carbine assault rifle loaded and capable of discharging metal pellets within his vehicle.

Provencher was arrested and later processed on January 27, 2026, at SP Saratoga. He was then arraigned at the Ballston Spa Village Court, where he was remanded to the Saratoga County Correctional Facility in lieu of $25,000 cash, $50,000 bond, or a $250,000 partially secured bond.

Broadalbin man Injures Four in DWI Crash

by Aidan Cahill Saratoga TODAY

A Broadalbin man has been arrested after he allegedly crashed into another vehicle while driving under the influence, causing two people to need hospitalization.

The Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office said the crash

occurred on Jan. 31 at 12:39 p.m. in the Town of Galway. The driver, Timothy P. Magagnos was arrested on charges of DWI and failure to yield.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, Magagnos was traveling south on Greens Corner Road when he failed to stop at a stop sign, striking another vehicle which was traveling East on Route 29. The crash injured

four people in the other vehicle, causing two to be transported to Saratoga Hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries.

Magagnos was not injured in the collision and allegedly refused a chemical test at the scene. He was arraigned in Galway Town Court and released on his own recognizance pending further proceedings.

Saratoga County Board of Elections Open Saturday February 14th For Voter Registration and Party Enrollment Changes

The Saratoga County Board of Elections (BOE) will be open Saturday, Feb. 14, for voter registration and party enrollment changes.

Voters may visit the County BOE at 50 W. High St., Ballston Spa, from 9AM to 5PM on February 14th to either change their party enrollment or to enroll for the first time in a party.

Party affiliation allows a voter to participate in primary elections. An application to change one’s party enrollment for the primary election in any

year must be received by the Board of Elections no later than Feb. 14 of that year.

Residents may also visit the Saratoga County Board of Elections during regular business, Monday through Friday, 9AM to 5PM to register to vote or change enrollment prior to the deadline.

For more information, please contact the Saratoga County Board of Elections at 518-885-2249 or boe@saratogacountyny.gov.

Green Island Man Arrested for Assaulting Corrections Officers.

by Aidan Cahill Saratoga TODAY

A Green Island man has is facing additional charges after he allegedly assaulted three corrections officers at the Saratoga

County Jail.

Jamier Walker was charged with three counts of 2nd degree assault. He allegedly attacked the officers while being transported from one cell to another after he allegedly assaulted another inmate.

The three officers were

struck in the face. One was treated by jailhouse medical staff, one sought treatment at the Malta Med Emergent Care and the third did not require treatment.

Walker was arraigned in the Milton Town court and remanded back into custody.

Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce Launches “Pitch-In” Initiative to Inspire Volunteerism

The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce is promoting community volunteerism with its annual Pitch-In initiative.

The program, built on the belief that giving back through volunteering can lead to larger impact, is aimed at connecting residents with local non-profit organizations.

“Through our Pitch-In initiative, the Chamber is igniting a movement to make Saratoga County a brighter, stronger, and more connected place to live through volunteerism,” said Todd Shimkus, president of the Saratoga County Chamber of

Commerce. “Volunteering is a powerful way to strengthen our community—and Pitch-In makes it easy for residents to jump in and get involved. By sharing their time and talents, volunteers can spark meaningful change while discovering the personal rewards that come with giving back.”

The benefits of volunteering extend far beyond the good it does for others. It’s also a chance to connect, grow, and make a meaningful impact within one’s community.

Whether it’s mentoring a

child, supporting a food pantry, or joining an environmental cleanup, volunteers experience the fulfillment of knowing their actions matter.

Volunteers can often build relationships with like-minded neighbors and become part of a growing network working toward positive change.

Additionally, many volunteer roles offer hands-on opportunities to develop talents and experiences that can carry into career and personal goals.

With dozens of local causes to choose from, Pitch-In ensures that residents can find a volunteer experience that aligns with their interests, values, and busy schedules.

“Volunteering creates bonds that strengthen the fabric of Saratoga County,” Shimkus said. “Together, we can tackle community challenges, uplift those in need, and build a future we can all share with pride.”

Anyone interested in volunteering can explore opportunities and learn more about Pitch-In at saratoga.org/pitch-in.

Through the small but powerful act of giving back, Saratoga County residents are encouraged to come together to create positive change.

Week of February 6 - February 12, 2026

PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS

BALLSTON

Frank Garrison sold property at Brookline Rd to Katz Excavating and Construction LLC for $160,000

Jeffrey Shaw sold property at 60 Saunders Ln to Thomas Preece for $515,000

Tina Jackson sold property at 65 Cypress St to RAS Closing Services LLC for $505,000

RAS Closing Services sold property at 65 Cypress St to Christian Davis for $505,000

CORINTH

Anthony Villano sold property at 504 Main St to Colin Watkins for $284,000

GALWAY

Daniel Shelley sold property at 1624 Perth Rd to David Topino for $545,000

Jaime Porter sold property at 5218 Bliss Rd to Corey Porter for $190,000

GREENFIELD

Andrew McKnight sold property at 184 Allen Rd to Andrew Wilson for $55,000

David Middlebrook sold property at 331 Porter Corners Rd to Melody Collins for $200,000

711 & 921 Properties LLC sold property at 543 Locust Grove Rd to Guy Mastrion $220,000

MALTA

Ruth Earley sold property at 18 Lupine Dr to McKenzie Rizzo for $435,000

Jennifer Meadows sold property at 77 Blue Spruce Lane to David Ziobrowski for $435,000

Dominic Valente sold property at 18 Callaghan Blvd to Christopher Farrell for $1,175,000

McKenzie Dillman sold property at 6 Pepperbush Place to and Ryan Hogan for $293,800

Linda Jerard sold property at 14 Rt 9P to Emma Long for $675,000

MILTON

Emil Meadors sold property at 560 Victory Circle to Michael Capovani for $507,500

Megan Krause sold property at 3555 Galway Rd to Yan

Wang for $650,000

SARATOGA

James Doyle sold property at 383 Rt 32 to Jo Brennan for $310,000

Saratoga County sold property at Hayes Rd Rear to best Home Construction LLC for $126,100

SARATOGA SPRINGS

137 Maple LLC sold property at 137 Maple Ave to High Peak Holdings for $1,250,000

Shoshanna Miller sold property at 57 Thoroughbred Dr to Michael Franzone for $775,000

Thomas Grant sold property at 54 Walnut St to Kristen Scholl for $550,000

Elliott Masie sold property

at 46 Circular St to Empire State University Foundation for $2,500,000

WILTON

Mark Smitkin sold property at 80 Fieldston Dr to James Keller for $915,000

Christian Ruckert sold property at 14 Cobble Hill Dr to Kevin Betzweiser for $739,900

Forest Grove LLC sold

property at 13 Plumas Pl to Adam Gonyeau for $746,725

Kim Faiola sold property at 247 Louden Rd to Elizabeth Butler for $320,000

Raymond Roberts sold property at 10 Overlook Dr to Alyssa Whitcher for $700,000

Morvireen Smith sold property at 3 Palmer Terrace to Matthew Parisi for $375,000

Saratoga PLAN Executive Director Announces Retirement, Leadership Search Underway

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Local land trust Saratoga PLAN (Preserving Land and Nature) announced last Friday that Executive Director Robert K. Davies will retire in June 2026, following more than four years of leading the organization. As a result, Saratoga PLAN has launched a search for its next executive director, with an anticipated start date in May 2026.

“Rob’s leadership has defined PLAN’s vision for the future,” said Jessica Schwartzman, chair of Saratoga PLAN’s board of directors. “His integrity, dedication, and deep respect for landowners and local communities have built an organization that is trusted, effective, and poised for the future. We are grateful for his service and proud of the legacy he leaves behind.”

Under Davies’ leadership, the organization will have permanently protected more than 2,350 acres of farmland, forests, wildlife habitat, and scenic landscapes across Saratoga County.

Davies focused on building partnerships with private

landowners, municipalities, conservation allies, and community members. These partnerships led to the opening of the new 127-acre Curtis Preserve in the Town of Corinth, the permanent protection of Snake Hill on Saratoga Lake, and the creation of the Graphite Range Community Forest as part of the larger Palmertown Initiative.

Reflecting on his time at PLAN, Davies said, “It has been a privilege to work alongside landowners, staff, board members, volunteers, and partners who care deeply about this region and are committed to keeping it a place where people want to live, work, visit and play. Together, we’ve protected lands that will continue to define the Saratoga region for generations. I am confident Saratoga PLAN is well-positioned for its next chapter.”

PLAN’s board is seeking a mission-driven, collaborative leader with strong strategic, fundraising, and organizational management skills. More information is available at saratogaplan.org/executivedirector.

Business Leaders Optimistic About Saratoga’s Economic Future, Cite Affordability as a Concern

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Four executives representing the local institutions Arrow Bank, Adirondack Trust Company, Bouchey Financial Group, and Stifel convened last Thursday at the Excelsior Springs Event Center for an economic outlook panel.

Hosted by the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, the event aimed to provide timely analysis and projections on economic conditions affecting local businesses and stakeholders, including perspectives on national and global trends and their implications for Saratoga County’s economic climate.

“I’m bullish on our local economy,” said Charlie Wait, Jr., the president and CEO of Adirondack Trust. “I think we have a lot of resilience here, more resilience than we used to have. I think we’re not just a tourist economy anymore. I think we have some light manufacturing. We have GlobalFoundries, so we have the technology piece, and I think that bodes well for the economy.”

“I can’t see how this area can’t grow, but also grow its tax base because the [GlobalFoundries] employees that are going to be coming to this area are going to be higher salaried employees,” noted Ben Chuckrow, a senior vice president at Stifel. “The other good thing is we’re going to have lots of jobs for these kids who are graduating from our great local community colleges. So I couldn’t be more optimistic about the growth of Saratoga.”

David DeMarco, president and CEO of Arrow Bank, said he agreed with the panel’s optimistic assessment but also had concerns about housing costs.

“Not to get political, I’m not going to talk about affordability, but it’s a big impact,” DeMarco said. “It’s having an impact on our communities. The cost of housing rates are coming down, but…the 10-year yield curve, the longer end, is going up. We’re never going to see the 3% interest rates we saw in mortgages…and that’s going to have a negative impact.”

“I wish there was a little bit more transportation up here so people weren’t so worried about having to buy a house so close to downtown Saratoga; that they could go out and move to areas where the houses were much cheaper,” said Chuckrow. “But people aren’t able to buy those houses because they don’t know how they’re going to get to work because they have to have a car and everything else. Growth is a very good thing, but growth is only really good if it’s anticipated and handled properly.”

Martin Shields, chief wealth advisor of the Bouchey Financial Group, said the topic of affordability was a real concern among

his clients, but he also noted that median house prices in the Capital Region were significantly lower than median prices nationally and downstate.

“I think even from an affordability perspective, we’re in a good spot,” Shields said. “We do have one of the highest levels of college graduates compared to other upstate cities and even across the U.S. and New York State. So, [with] all these factors, it’s really hard not to be positive about this area. I think the big element too, is we don’t see the low lows and we don’t see the high highs. Living in that spot, it’s really beneficial.”

“I worry about the affordability that’s happening right now,” Wait said. “I worry about money coming out of the banking system, going to places like private credit, because that credit is opaque and so there could be a crisis building in there… But even in 2008, this area fared much better than other areas. I think because we don’t experience the high highs, but we also don’t experience the low lows. I think just keeping that steady growth is one of the benefits that we have in this area, and that’s what makes it such a great place to be.”

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Clifton Park-Based Artesian Water Brand Begins Production

CLIFTON PARK — Realm

Artesian Water, which has a bottling facility in Clifton Park, announced on Monday that it has received its New York State Department of Health certification and will thus begin full-scale production of its Adirondacks-sourced water.

From inception, Realm was designed as a fully closed-loop, vertically integrated water company. Realm owns and controls its artesian source, operates its own bottling facility, and manages its distribution network end-to-end. Realm’s water is transported directly from the source to the bottling facility, where it is bottled on site using stainless steel piping, advanced filtration, and “rigorous” quality control systems. The facility’s cleaning and sanitation processes use Realm’s own artesian water, helping to reduce exposure to outside contaminants.

“This level of integration is uncommon, particularly in the premium water category,” said Todd Kletter, CEO of Realm. “But it’s essential if you want to deliver a product with true integrity. The only thing inside

our bottle is genuine Realm Artesian Water — nothing added, nothing compromised.”

With production now underway, Realm’s initial offering will feature a 475 mL (16 oz) still water, followed by a 750 mL hospitality format designed for fine dining and luxury service environments. A sparkling water line is scheduled to launch in Q2 2026.

An extensive sampling and placement program will begin in late February, with early distribution focused on high-end and boutique hotels, fashion houses, professional offices, wellness destinations, and premium hospitality venues.

Realm bottles exclusively in glass to preserve flavor, mineral balance, and overall quality, while reinforcing its sustainability commitments.

“We often ask a simple question — do you know where your water comes from?”

Kletter said. “We can answer that with absolute certainty.”

Pre-orders are available at www.drinkrealm.com, with shipping scheduled to begin on March 1.

Innovation Center at Saratoga Launches New Entrepreneurship Program

BALLSTON SPA — The Innovation Center at Saratoga recently announced the launch of “Entrepreneurship is Everyone’s Business,” a program designed to strengthen the local economy by helping small businesses start, grow, and succeed.

“One of the great strengths of any community is the success of its small businesses,” said Beth Moeller, founder of the Innovation Center. “This program is designed to support the businesses that shape our region’s identity and vitality— the local shops, restaurants, consultancies, and creative makers and artists that make our community special.”

“Entrepreneurship is Everyone’s Business” is tailored to support main street, hospitality, business consultancies, and creatives (including visual artists, photographers, jewelry designers, and more). Other business

types are welcome, and the program is open to both earlystage businesses and ventures that haven’t launched yet.

Unlike a traditional business boot camp, the Innovation Center emphasizes continued coaching, mentorship, and community accountability over time. The program is structured in four phases:

1) Learn (February through April) with six core business classes and then two elective tracks of three classes each serving the needs of artists and creatives, as well as the more traditional business.

2) Guide (May), where class participants are paired with mentors from SCORE or Saratoga Arts to help refine their business plan and model.

3) Pitch (June), where participants present their finalized business plans and concepts to key regional funding sources, including banks, development groups, and government sources.

4) Support (July through December): This phase focuses on building peer-to-peer support networks and a community of entrepreneurs balancing work, life, and startup growth. The program culminates in Everyone’s Business Demo Day, a public showcase where graduates can gain exposure and present to community leaders, potential customers, and investors as they take the next step toward expansion.

“What sets this program apart is that we don’t just teach you and send you off,” Moeller said. “We pair you with a mentor, we bring you together with other entrepreneurs facing the same challenges, and we stay with you for the full year. That’s the kind of support our local business owners deserve.”

Program details and registration information are available at innovationcentersaratoga. org/entrepreneur.

Saratoga Builders Association offering Two student scholarship awards in 2026!

The Saratoga Builders Association is proud to announce their continued monetary commitment to education and will be awarding two student scholarships once again in 2026. One is the $1000 SBA Scholarship award and the other is the $1000 “Bob Best” Memorial Scholarship award. The organization makes these cash scholarships available annually to students who are planning to pursue a construction related education.

These scholarships are open to any high school senior or college undergraduate who lives or works in Saratoga County who is planning to pursue a construction education at a 2 or 4-year accredited college, university, technical school or for students who would like to purchase tools and/or equipment for employment/career or to start a business in the

construction industry. Students must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher. They must demonstrate current or past involvement in the construction field, including classes taken in high school or college, to be eligible for these awards. Each applicant must also submit a high school or college transcript or list of trade classes taken plus a short essay (or video) describing why they are interested in a construction industry career. Applications for the Saratoga Builders Association Scholarship program must be postmarked on or before April 30, 2026. Only the first 25 completed applications will be accepted so please apply early.

The winners and their schools will be notified by June 1, 2026.

To receive a scholarship application, please contact Barry Potoker, Executive Director at 518-366-0946 or bpotoker@ saratogabuilders.org

Home Made Theater Brings Arthur Miller’s Powerful Masterpiece, The Crucible, to Saratoga Springs

For two weekends starting February 20th, Home Made Theater will present Arthur Miller’s classic American masterpiece, The Crucible, at the Anthony “Skip” Scirocco Music Hall in the Saratoga Springs City Hall.

Set against the backdrop of the 1692 Salem witch trials, The Crucible remains one of the most acclaimed plays in the American theatrical canon. While it serves as a gripping historical tale, the play is also a timely parable of mass hysteria and the fragility of justice. The story follows John and Elizabeth Proctor; a farming couple caught in a web of accusations spun by a group of local girls led by Abigail Williams. As the town is consumed by fear, John Proctor must face an

agonizing choice: save his life through a lie or preserve his dignity and his “name.”

The Crucible will be directed by Toni AndersonSommo, whose previous directing credits include The Wizard of Oz and The Jungle Book with Home Made Theater, A Bad Year for Tomatoes with both Glens Falls Community Theater and Schuylerville Theater, and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee also with Glens Falls Community Theater. As an English teacher, Ms. AndersonSommo has been teaching The Crucible to her students for 38 years. When asked why it is important for people, especially young people, to experience this play Ms. Sommo responded “Now, more than ever, Miller’s play, The Crucible

seems prescient. Although written as a direct response to the McCarthy Trials and the Red Scare, his themes of mass hysteria, fear, condemnation that sparks cruelty, and intolerance of others, cloaked in morality and religious fervor, is evident in all corners of our society. It is my hope that our production not only moves the audience, but enlightens them, and forces us all to confront the injustices that occur when we fail to learn from our past.”

In alignment with Home Made Theater’s mission to foster a lifelong passion for the arts, the company will host three weekday morning performances specifically for local schools, including Saratoga Springs High School, in addition to the six public performances.

Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs: Cultivating Understanding, Not Just Checking Boxes

At the Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs, learning is measured not by the speed at which tasks are finished, but by the depth of understanding that students bring to their work. Midway through the academic year, classrooms become spaces of reflection and exploration, where students revisit lessons, projects, and exercises with care, curiosity, and attention.

Whether engaged in handwork, math, literature, or science, students are encouraged to slow down, observe, and reflect on the ideas and meaning behind each assignment. Lessons are approached with the intention of nurturing both skill and insight, allowing students to connect ideas across subjects and to apply their knowledge creatively. This process builds focus, confidence, and a lasting love of learning, reinforcing the school’s commitment to teaching children how to think, not what to think.

This approach to thoughtful learning carries beyond the

The Waldorf School takes a different approach to learning.

classroom, equipping students with the patience, perseverance, and insight to meet challenges thoughtfully. Midyear reflection offers an opportunity for students, teachers, and families to recognize growth, revisit accomplishments, and discover new insights in previously explored work.

At the Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs, the measure of success is not in finished tasks, but in the understanding,

care, and engagement each child brings.

The Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs is an independent school serving children from early childhood through middle school. Rooted in Waldorf education, the school offers a hands-on, screens-off curriculum that integrates academics, the arts, and practical skills to support the healthy development of the whole child.

EDUCATION BRIEFS

State reports Increased Rates Increased Rates of Bullying in Schools.

by Aidan Cahill Saratoga TODAY

A new report has been released by the State Comptroller’s Office showing increased rates of bullying in New York State Schools.

The report, which includes data from 2017-18 school year through the 2023-24 school year, shows that while rates of violent incidents have declined since the pandemic, rates of bullying have trended upwards.

Statewide, schools reported .9 incidents of assault per 1000 students, .5 weapons offenses per 1000 students and .1 sexual offenses reported per 1000 students. This is down from 1.2 assaults, .7 weapons offenses and .3 sexual offenses.

Drug offenses, meanwhile, saw a spike post pandemic but showed year-to-year declines in the latest data. Statewide, the Comptroller’s Office reported 6.5 drug offenses per 1000 students in 2023-24, down from 7.2 in 2022-23. Alcohol offenses meanwhile went from .6 offenses per 1000 students in 22-23 to .5 per 1000 in 23-24.

While rates of drugs, alcohol and violence declined in New York, bullying did not decline. Across the State, New York reported 18.2 incidents of bullying per 1000 students in 2023-24, compared to 9.4 incidents in 2018-2019 and 17.2 incidents per 1000 in 2022-23. The Comptrollers Office noted that bullying had the highest number of total reported incidents.

In terms of how Saratoga

Springs and surrounding area did, in 2023-24 Ballston Spa reported eight incidents of bullying, nine incidents of cyberbullying, two assaults, two weapons possession incidents, one bomb threat, 35 drug incidents, three alcohol incidents and one threat of violence.

This equated to 2 incidents of bullying, 2.3 cyber bullying incidents, nine drug possession incidents, .5 assaults, .5 weapons possession incidents and .7 alcohol incidents per 1000 students.

As for Saratoga Springs, the school district reported 3 bullying incidents, 0 cyberbullying incidents, 0 assault or weapons possession incidents, 50 drug possession incidents, four alcohol possession incidents and four threats of violence in 2023-24.

Per thousand students, Saratoga Springs saw .5 incidents of bullying, 8.6 drug incidents and .7 alcohol incidents per 1000 students.

While Schuylerville saw the highest bullying incidents, it had the lowest alcohol and drug abuse incidents of the three school districts. Across all levels, the district saw 16 bullying, seven incidents of cyberbullying, two drug possession incidents and 0 alcohol incident in 2023-24. It also saw 0 assaults or weapons possession incident.

Per 1000 students, Schuylerville saw 11.9 incidents of bullying, five incidents of cyber bullying and 1.5 drug incidents.

In their report, the Comptroller’s Office noted that

data may be underreported and may not reflect current conditions at the school.

“Stakeholders should keep in mind, however, that a school reporting zero incidents through the SSEC report may have records of individual disruptive and violent incidents that are stored locally,” The report stated. “For example, records of an individual incident involving fighting or bullying would be maintained by the district if it resulted in disciplinary action, even if school officials determined the incident did not meet the threshold for SSEC reporting.”

Already the numbers have brought about calls to action from one local politician, State Senator Jim Tedisco (R-44), who called on the legislature to pass a law that would require school districts to districts to notify parents if their child is being bullied. The bill, named “Jacobe’s Law” is named for a 13-year-old boy who died by suicide in 2015 after severe bullying.

“We ask a lot of parents right now as it relates to being involved in their children’s education,” Sen. Tedisco said. “Shouldn’t parents be made aware of threats of violence to their children so they can take the action they deem appropriate and have input on decisions of how best to protect their children’s safety? Unfortunately, due to a loophole in state law, many parents are not being kept informed about incidents of bullying

taking place in the institutions we trust to educate and look after the safety and well-being of our children each day,” The bill was first introduced

in 2016 and has been reintroduced in every legislative session since 2019. To date, however, it has never made it out of committee.

Valentine’s Day Breakfast Shopping

at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market

Your Valentine’s Day Breakfast Shopping Guide at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market:

• Breads & Baked Goods

• Argyle Cheese Farmer –danish, cinnamon buns, etc

• Bakery Suzanne - assorted breads, croissants, pastries, etc

• Halfmoon Harvestassorted sourdough breads

• Holly & Vine - assorted breads, bagels, etc

• Katie Bakes Gluten Free – cinnamon buns, bagels, muffins, scones, etc

• Kokinda Farm – assorted baked breads

• Night Work Bread –sourdough, bagels, scones, babka, etc

• Parchment – brioche-style cardamom bread (excellent for French toast), pastries, etc

• Sweet Treats by Jennifer

– English muffin bread, cinnamon buns, scones, etc

• Cheeses

• Argyle Cheese Farmer

• Nettle Meadow

• Coffee & Tea Vendors

• Holly & Vine (teas)

• Nally Coffee

• Eggs

• Grazin’ Acres

• Hepatica Farm

• Holly & Vine

• Jireh Organics & Livestock of NY

• Kokinda Farm

• Thymeless Homestead

• Fruit

• Saratoga Apple (cold storage, dried & applesauce)

• Hash Browns & veggies

• Gomez Veggie Ville –potatoes, onions, kale and other vegetables

• Lovin’ Mama Farm –potatoes, onions, kale, spinach, herbs and other vegetables

• Muddy Trail Jerky Co. – spice

Valentine’s

Day is the perfect excuse to slow down and share a thoughtful, homemade breakfast with someone you love—or to treat yourself to something special. Whether you’re planning breakfast in bed, a cozy kitchen meal, or a relaxed morning together, the Saratoga Farmers’ Market has everything you need to build a memorable Valentine’s Day breakfast using fresh, local ingredients.

by Jodie Fitz for Saratoga TODAY

Photos by Pattie Garrett.

Shopping the market means your meal supports local farms and makers while bringing better flavor and care to the table.

nut butters, vanilla, and baking essentials sourced from local vendors. These finishing touches turn everyday ingredients into something truly special.

mixes to add extra flavor

• The Mushroom Shop

• Honey

• Ballston Lake Apiary –honey and honey sticks

• Meat Vendors

• Grazin’ Acres

• Hepatica Farms

• Holly & Vine

• Jeremy Organics & Live stock of NY

• Long Lesson Farm

• May-K-Mark

• Thymeless Homestead

• Pancakes & Syrup

• Argyle Cheese Farmer - buttermilk

• Muddy Trail Jerky Co. –vanilla extract and mixes

• Sweet Treats by Jennifer –pancake batter and mixes

• Wild Hogs Sugar Shack at Maple Milk Farm – locally produced maple syrup

• Toppings & Spreads

• Add the finishing touches to toast, pancakes, or pastries.

• Kokinda Farm –homemade jams and jellies

• Saratoga Peanut Butter – a variety of nut butters

• Yogurt, Smoothies & Granola

• The Argyle Cheese Farmer –smoothies, assorted yogurts

• Sweet Treats by Jennifer – granola

• Tyromance Fine Snacks - granola

• NOTE: Don’t feel like cooking

- visit the market’s ready to eat vendors for Valentine’s Day Breakfast. In addition to the market’s baked goods consider trying breakfast tacos at La Capital Tacos or Omelets (and other goodies) at Breakfast Nook or Mango Smoothies at Daily Fresh and other specialty items at Great Northern Bakery.

A classic Valentine’s breakfast often begins with savory staples like bacon, sausage, steak and farmfresh eggs. Local meats and eggs provide rich flavor and quality you can taste, making them perfect for omelets, breakfast sandwiches, or hearty plates served alongside toast and potatoes.

While winter is quieter in the fields, local producers still offer apples from cold storage, dried apples, and applesauce, all perfect for simple sides or baking. Pair them with crispy hash browns, roasted vegetables, or seasoned potatoes made from locally grown produce for a comforting addition to your meal.

No Valentine’s breakfast is complete without something sweet. Pancakes, waffles, and French toast are winter favorites, especially when topped with local maple syrup or honey. These ingredients add warmth and sweetness while keeping your meal rooted in the region.

For a lighter option, create breakfast parfaits using local yogurt, granola, and fruit. Smoothies and yogurt bowls are simple to assemble and make a beautiful addition to a Valentine’s morning spread.

Fresh bread and baked goods are the heart of any special breakfast. From artisan loaves and sourdough to croissants, bagels, cinnamon buns, and gluten-free options, market bakers offer plenty of ways to serve breakfast ready-to-enjoy or as the base for homemade recipes.

Complete your Valentine’s breakfast with jams, jellies,

SATURDAYS

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

WILTON MALL FOOD COURT

When you shop for Valentine’s Day breakfast at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market, you’re doing more than preparing a meal—you’re supporting local farms, small businesses, and the community. It’s a delicious way to celebrate love, connection, and local flavor all in one place.

What’s happening at market:

February 7:

Live music with Crispin Catricala

Valentine’s Kids Craft with Saratoga Springs Mobile Library (woven hearts)

Free yoga 10:30 am to 11:30 am with Yoga Mandali

February 14:

Live music with Hudson River Ceili

Free yoga 10:30 am to 11:30 am with Yoga Mandali

February 21:

Winter Kids Craft with Saratoga Springs Mobile Library (Snow Globes)

Free yoga 10:30 am to 11:30 am with Yoga Mandali

February 28 - Mini Winter Fest! MORE info next week…

Saratoga Farmers’ Market is open Saturday’s, 9:30 am to 1:30 pm, at the Wilton Mall food court. Find us online at SaratogaFarmersMarket. org, follow us on Facebook and Instagram (@ saratogafarmersmarket).

Sign Up for our free weekly newsletter.

YIELDS: 2 servings | PREP & COOK TIME: 35 min

INGREDIENTS:

*Ingredients currently available at the farmers’ market

• 4 slices bacon*

• 2 slices Swiss cheese*

• 4 large eggs*

• 2 tablespoons sour cream

INSTRUCTIONS: Eggs Lorraine

• 1/8 teaspoon salt

• 1/8 teaspoon pepper

• Minced chives*, optional

Preheat oven to 350°. Coat 2 shallow oval 1-1/2-cup baking dishes with cooking spray. Line with bacon; top with cheese. Carefully break 2 eggs into each dish.

In a small bowl, whisk sour cream, salt and pepper until smooth; drop by teaspoonfuls onto eggs.

Bake, uncovered, until eggs are set, 25-30 minutes. If desired, sprinkle with chives.

Week of February 6 - February 12, 2026

by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY

Hello my Foodie Friends!

Super Bowl Sunday is this weekend. It is never too early to begin your party prep. Over the years I have attended and hosted many Super Bowl house parties. As I reflect on the number of Super Bowl’s I have watched, I have to admit there have been a lot that were over before half time. If the game is bad then the party better be great! The first Super Bowl party I hosted was with my best friend and roommate Fred in our first bachelor pad apartment. This past year, I lost my dear friend unexpectedly. However, our first Super Bowl party is one for the “archives” as Fred would say. We invited at least fifteen young ladies and informed all our male friends that we were going to have an epic party. Fred and I made a Super Bowl Feast fit for 100 people with the little wieners wrapped in a blanket, pulled pork, and baked ziti just to name a few and we used lots of spices and rubs to kick it up. As the guests started to arrive, we noticed that there were no males walking in, only female guests. The party was going well with all our great food and rocking music playing over the turned down TV. As I looked across the room at Fred, we both smiled a knowing smile that our male friends thought our party would be lame. Now we had to entertain a host of young ladies who stayed for the whole game and after. Who played in the game? I don’t remember. It was the gathering of company and great foods that I remember. Along with the festivities that surround Super Bowl, I also love all the hype that accompanies this annual event. We now

SCORE BIG AND KICK IT UP a Notch with Spice Madness

have the time-honored tradition of commercials featuring croaking frogs slinging beer, singing cowboys slinging beer, battling beer bottles slinging beer and little kids magically starting a car by using the “force”. I won’t even mention half time wardrobe malfunctions, lip-syncing superstars and reunions of some great ‘70’s rock bands.

At Compliments to the Chef, your Neighborhood Kitchen and Cutlery store located at 33 Railroad Place, we have wonderful spices to kick up your Super Bowl creations a notch. Consider spices such as Cajun Rub, Pulled Pork Seasoning, Bear Can Chicken Rub, Smokey Garlic & Onion

seasoning, and other fun spices. Have fun and good luck with your Super Bowl parties. Give your food creations some spice and a kick with our Spice Madness spices.

As for my Super Bowl party with all women; to this day our male friends still do not believe anyone came to our party! When you stop in, ask about the “Tom Petty” pic I have with my friend Fred in it. Another epic moment. Remember my Foodie Friends; “Life Happens in the Kitchen”.

Take Care, John & Paula

Sheet Pan Pulled Pork Quesadillas

INGREDIENTS

• 1 batch of Pulled Pork spice seasoning. Try our Spice Madness pouch

• 10 burrito-sized (10- to 12-inch) flour tortillas

• 4 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese

• Nonstick cooking spray

INSTRUCTIONS

• Optional Toppings:

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt

• Salsa or pico de gallo

• Sliced pickled or fresh jalapeños

• Chopped scallions or cilantro

1. Prep the Sheet Pan: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Lightly coat a large baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Arrange Tortillas: Place 8 tortillas around the perimeter of the sheet pan, with half of each tortilla hanging over the edge. Place one more in the center, overlapping slightly, to completely cover the bottom of the pan.

3. Layer the Fillings: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly over the tortillas. Next, add an even layer of your prepared Spice Madness pulled pork, making sure to strain any excess liquid so the quesadillas don’t get soggy. Finish with the remaining cheese.

4. Fold and Top: Place the remaining tortilla on top and fold the tortilla halves from the perimeter over the filling.

5. Bake: Place another baking sheet of the same size on top to weigh down the quesadillas. Bake for 20 minutes.

6. Finish Cooking: Remove the top baking sheet and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

7. Serve: Let the quesadillas cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings for the ultimate game day snack.

Recipe courtesy of spicemadness.com

Chili Cook-Off

This Week’s Events: FEB. 6-12

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6

Pub Nights

The Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs | 5 – 9 p.m. Some Friday “Pub Nights” will be expanding the 5 - 7 p.m. hours to include entertainment from 6 - 9 p.m. Enjoy music from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s including Rock, Country, Swing, Pop and Motown. Presenting “The Classics” with the popular Wayne & Joey performing for your listening pleasure on Friday, February 6 and 20, Friday, March 6 and 20. Beat the winter blues by coming out to enjoy great food, fun and first-rate entertainment. Food available for purchase until 7 p.m. or until gone, cash bar available all evening. For information call Tom at 518312-9859. Public Welcome.

11th Annual Chocolate Festival

Various locations throughout the Village of Ballston Spa | 5 – 9 p.m. The Ballston Spa Business & Professional Association (BSBPA) invites the community to indulge at the 11th Annual Chocolate Fest This beloved pre-Valentine’s Day tradition transforms the village into a chocolate lover’s paradise, with local businesses and culinary talents serving up mouthwatering chocolate creations while shoppers stroll, taste, and vote for their favorites.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7

6 Hour Defensive Driving Course

Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church, 175 Fifth Ave., Saratoga Springs | 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Cost is $40 prepaid, $45 at door (a donation is given

to the church). Call: 518-7845009.

27th Annual Chowderfest

Various locations throughout Saratoga County | 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Discover Saratoga is proud to announce the return of its signature winter event. Presented by DeCrescente Distributing Company, Coors Banquet, Saranac, and Surfside, this beloved community event invites locals and visitors alike to sample 4 oz. servings of chowder for $2 each from roughly 80 Saratoga County restaurants and businesses. For event details, participating vendors, hotel specials, and shuttle information, visit DiscoverSaratoga.org/ Chowderfest or call 518-5841531.

Winter Fun Days Scavenger Hunt & Bonfire

Wilton Wildlife Preserve, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Enjoy s’mores and hot cocoa around the fire! Stop in the Welcome Cabin for a scavenger hunt sheet to complete while on the trails to claim your prize! Registration is required for most of our programs at least one business day in advance. Register on our website or by calling the office at 518-450-0321. Our programs are weather dependent and may be cancelled due to inclement weather or poor trail conditions.

Chowderfest Reuses

Phila St., Saratoga Springs | 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Join the Sustainability Initiative on Phila Street. Sustainable Saratoga will offer clean, free, reusable cups at Bailey’s, Fillies, Hattie’s, and Sushi Thai Garden – bring your own spoon or use one of our bamboo spoons! https://

sustainablesaratoga.org/event/ chowderfest-reuses/.

Family Saturday

Tang Teaching Museum, Payne Room, Skidmore College, 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 2 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. Suitable for children aged 5 and older, accompanied by their adult companions. No registration required; supplies provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

Countdown to the Triple Crown Fundraiser

The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, 191 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs | 4:30 – 7 p.m. This winter fundraiser will feature more than 100 silent auction items and an online auction of unique items and experience packages to benefit the Museum. Guests can attend the event in person or bid on special packages online. The early-bird event at the Museum will feature beer, wine, light refreshments courtesy of Mazzone Hospitality, and a 50/50 raffle. Cost is $25 for Museum members and $40 for non-members. Tickets will be available for purchase at the door. To purchase tickets, visit: https://1049a. blackbaudhosting.com/1049a/ Countdown-to-the-TripleCrown or call 518-584-0400.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8

Souper Bowl of Caring Chili Fest

Middle Grove United Methodist Church, 429 Middle Grove Rd. Middle Grove | 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. We have a wide variety of homemade Chili for $7 per quart. Proceeds to benefit Blessing Box (24/7 Food Pantry located outside the church).

VFW Post # 420, 190 Excelsior Ave, Saratoga Springs | 4 p.m. Enter your best Chili and watch the Super Bowl on our new wide screen TVs! Chili is $5 to enter. $2 samples of chili. 50% of proceeds go to the Post and Auxiliary, 50% to the winner. Bring your friends! We open at 4 p.m. Kick-off is 6:30 p.m. Enjoy a great time at the Post! For more information, call 518-584-9686, leave your name and call back number.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 9

The Heritage Garden Club of Saratoga Springs Meeting

Knights of Columbus,50 Pine Street, Saratoga Springs | Noon. The guest speaker for the meeting will be Dianna Goodwin, from Sustainable Saratoga presenting a program on “Pollinator and native plants for your garden.” Interested in joining a garden club, come join us as new members are always welcome - you don’t need to have a green thumb to join our club. Follow us on Facebook at Heritage Garden Club of Saratoga Springs or visit, heritagegardenclubss.org.

Saratoga Parkinson’s Support Group Meeting

The Saratoga Senior Center, 290 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs |2:30 p.m. Our speaker is Chrissy Stack who works for MedRhythms. She will be talking about a medical device, MOVIVE, which is indicated to support gait rehabilitation and motor function for those of us living with Parkinson’s disease. All are welcome. We look forward to seeing you there. Please contact us with any questions: Leader Gordon Blyth, gordonsblyth@ gmail.com 917-887-7980 and Co-Leader Marie Thorne, softballmom300@yahoo.com 518-810-8483.

Improv Spaces

Presents: Jaap Blonk & The Schanzer/Speach Duo

Saratoga Arts Theater. 320 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 7 – 9 p.m. Join us for an evening celebrating experimental sounds, improvisation, and collaborations. The program will feature Dutch self-taught composer, performer, poet and visual artist Jaap Blonk performing his project Dr Voxoid‘s Next Move, ranging from sound poetry, invented languages to other unexpected soundscapes. The Schanzer/ Speach Duo is comprised of Upstate New York-based composer/guitarist Jeffrey Schanzer and pianist/composer Bernadette Speach, who have been working together in the experimental music scene with new music, improvisation and performance since the mid1980s NYC. Tickets $20. https://www.saratoga-arts.org/ event-6533415.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10

Ballston Creek Preserve Walks

409 Eastline Rd., Ballston Lake | 10 a.m. Learn about one of Saratoga PLAN’s newest preserves and how old farm fields have grown into a beautiful mixed conifer and hardwood forest, with occasional older growth trees.

MS Support Group

ZOOM Meeting | 5 – 7 p.m. Contact Lou Ann to join. The next meeting will be held Thursday, February 26, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. by Zoom or in person at SAIL, 71 Glenwood Ave., Queensbury. Contact Lou Ann 518-793-9506 for more information.

Whole Grain: Family Letters Tang Teaching Museum, Skidmore College, 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 6 p.m. Experiments in Film & Video screening of two short video works by artist Jess T. Dugan: Letter to My Father (US, 2017, video, 14 min., 54 sec.) and Letter to My Daughter (US, 2023, video, 16 min.). This screening is a public

of February 6 - February 12, 2026

program of the exhibition Family Forms, which celebrates multiple modes of living and relationships and challenges visitors to reflect on their own definitions of “family.” Corinne Moss-Racusin, Professor of Psychology at Skidmore and co-curator of the exhibition, will introduce the screening. Free and open to the public. For more information and other events, visit https://tang. skidmore.edu/calendar.

12th Annual Matthew M. Neugroschel

Evening of Jewish Storytelling

Temple Sinai, 509 Broadway, Saratoga Springs or Zoom | 7 p.m. Annually, Saratoga Jewish Community Arts brings together a group of talented storytellers who make us smile and touch our hearts. There is a captivating gift for storytelling. It is an enthusiastic interpretation of a tale so that the listeners are transported through time and to places they have never been. The love for storytelling is what storytellers have in common. This year’s storytellers include some longtime favorites, including Sylvia Bloom, Beth Sabo Novik, Sandy Schuman, Rabbi Ilana Symons, and Martina Zobel, as well as some new voices. $10 donation is required at the door or by mail. Preregistration required. https://lp.constantcontactpages. com/sl/0OG0VHQ/ Storytelling2026.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11

All Abilities Art Club

Clifton Park Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Rd., Clifton Park | 11 a.m. Join us for an open studio-style hour of artmaking and community. Adults of all ages and abilities are welcome to come together to create using a new material and theme each month. 518371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org.

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 Favorite Stories. This is the last storytelling in the series. If Saratoga Springs city schools are closed due to weather, that presentation will be postponed until February 18. For more information on the Academy for Lifelong Learning, to register for winter courses, 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.

Historian Tea Talk: Koka Nola, Argentine Seltzer, and Dutch Squats: Letting Bottles Tell Their Stories

Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave. Ballston Spa | 3 p.m. Chris Leonard, Executive Director of the National Bottle Museum and Schenectady City Historian will reminisce on his first year as Executive Director of the nearly 50-year-old National Bottle Museum. His talk will cover stories of some of his favorite bottles from the museum’s collection, including one dating to the early 18th c. These 10-15 bottles will be on site and part of the discussion allowing attendees to get a close-up view of the technologies, embossing, and other details involved in creating these works of art. Register online at https:// brooksidemuseum.org/events/.

Baby Back Ribs Dinner

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

Green Drinks!

Whitman Brewing Company, 20 Lake Ave, Saratoga Springs | 5 – 7 p.m. A “green gathering” for those who work, volunteer, or have a passion for promoting the

environment, conservation, and sustainability. Food, alcoholic, and non-alcoholic drinks are available for purchase. Green Drinks – Saratoga Springs is held monthly. https:// sustainablesaratoga.org/event/ green-drinks-26/

Soroptimist Dinner Meeting

Holiday Inn, 232 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 6:30 p.m. Soroptimist means Best for Women. Please join us where members and guests come together to advance our shared mission of empowering women and girls. Enjoy a meal while networking with passionate individuals, participating in meaningful discussions, and learning about upcoming community service projects. Our organization offers a wonderful opportunity to connect, collaborate, and make a difference in the lives of others. Please RSVP to connectsisc@gmail.com by February 9, 2026.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12

Curator’s Tour of All These Growing Things

Tang Teaching Museum

Atrium, Skidmore College, 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs | Noon. This tour will be led by Izzy DeSantis, the Kiki Pohlad ’13 Curatorial Assistant. Following the tour, we invite visitors to enjoy the other Tang exhibitions on view. Free and open to the public.

Do the Right Thing

ZOOM, 7 p.m. Saratoga Jewish Community Arts and the Jewish Federation of Northeastern New York are pleased to present live, a powerful Jewish story from The Braid, America’s leading salon theater company. To mitzvah or not to mitzvah, that is the question! Funny, heartwarming and unbelievable stories reveal the moments we choose to do right... or maybe not. Register: https:// lp.constantcontactpages. com/sl/ql5oCMd/ BraidFeb12RightThing.

UPCOMING Events

Ensemble Connect Performance

Friday, February 13, 7:30 p.m. at Skidmore College, Arthur Zankel Music Center, located at 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs. Ensemble Connect, a group of the finest young professional classical musicians based out of Carnegie Hall, celebrates its 19th year at Skidmore!

GEORGE LEWIS | Broke (World Premiere, commissioned by Carnegie Hall)

VALERIE COLEMAN | Portraits of Langston BARBER | Adagio for Strings IVES | String Quartet No. 1, “From the Salvation Army” Suite

JOPLIN | The Entertainer, arr. Franz Beyer

JOPLIN | Paragon Rag, arr. William Zinn

This event is free and open to the public; tickets are required. https://www.purplepass.com/ events/341637-ensembleconnect-feb-13th-2026. Call 518-580-5321 or email: zankel@skidmore.edu.

Valentine’s Day on the Rails

Enjoy a romantic, southern Adirondacks 1.5-hour train ride with Fossil Stone Vineyards wine (cash bar) & free Saratoga Candy Co. chocolate on February 14 at 3 p.m. Cozy up in our heated cars or hit the open-air car and enjoy the crisp winter breeze. Perfect for couples or friends!

Train departs from Corinth Station, 9 Railroad Place, Corinth. Visit Corinthtrain. com to learn more and purchase tickets.

Annual Sweetheart Dinner Dance

Saratoga Wilton Elks Lodge #161 is holding the dance on Saturday, February 14 at the lodge at 1 Elks Lane in Saratoga Springs. The popular band

Skippy and the Pistons will be our entertainment for the night. Cocktails from 5:30 –6:30 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m. and entertainment from 8 – 11 p.m. There will be raffle baskets. Entrée choices are prime rib, baked salmon, or eggplant parmesan, served with herb roasted potatoes, tossed salad, roll, and veggies. A cupcake tower with a variety of flavors will be offered for dessert. Cost is $60 per person. Reservations first come first serve. RSVP to Barb Ash at 518-955-4588 with entrée choice, number of guests and payment. Reservations are due February 6.

February Break Drama Camp with Elyse Young Town of Malta Parks and Recreation will hold a Drama Camp Tuesday through Friday of the February school break for ages 8-14. The camp will run from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. each day. Activities will include acting exercises, theater games, improvisation, vocal techniques, creative movement and dance, character analysis, arts projects and more! Each camper will also rehearse and present a short performance at the end of the last day of camp, Friday, February 20. Our show will have costumes, set pieces, props, lights, sound and will be performed on the Malta Community Center Stage for invited guests! For additional information please call 899-4411 or visit maltaparksrec.com.

Lung Cancer Benefit for Kurt Haas Sr.

Hosted by Gansevoort Volunteer Fire Department, located at 1870 Rte. 32 N. Gansevoort, on Saturday February 21, 2026, from 4 - 7 p.m. All you can eat Spaghetti Dinner, $10 Adults, $5 Kids (4-12), Free for children 3 and under. Raffle baskets and 50/50 Raffle. Kurt has been serving the community for 51 years as a Fire Department Member. Help us as a community give back to Kurt. Every Dollar raised will help Kurt and his family with medical bills and expenses. For questions or pickup arrangements, please text/call Jonna Freeman 518-598-2804 or Stephanie Rosa 518-502-4325.

Grammy Awards Honor

Caffe Lena Fixture

by Jonathon Norcross

Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Joel Moss, the Caffe Lena broadcast and sound technician who passed away last year, was honored during the Grammy Awards’ “In Memoriam” segment on Sunday night.

Moss’ long and illustrious career in the music business earned him 6 Grammy wins and 11 nominations.

“From working with music legends to championing artists and music education close to home, Joel’s impact reached far beyond any single stage,” said Caffe Lena in a social media post. “We are grateful for all he gave to our community and to the world of music.”

Moss’ final award at the Grammys came in 2015, when he won Best Musical Theater Album for “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.” His previous wins also included Best Musical Show Album for “In The Heights” in 2009, and Album Of The Year for “Genius Loves Company” in 2005.

Moss was a record producer, sound engineer, and mixer who recorded albums for artists such as Ray Charles, The Beach Boys, Little Richard, and Joe Cocker. His life and career began in Detroit, where he led a Hebrew folk quintet called The Hi-Liters that played at Lena in 1963. In the Saratoga area, he recorded and produced several albums for charity, including “A Saratoga Christmas Wish,” which raised $70,000 for MakeA-Wish Northeast New York.

Flurry Festival to Bring Thousands of Music and Dance Enthusiasts to Spa City

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

The 38th annual Flurry Festival returns to downtown Saratoga Springs on Feb. 13–15, filling the Saratoga Springs City Center and surrounding venues with traditional music and dance. More than 3,000 people are expected to attend the festival, which features 222 sessions.

The Flurry is distinctive for the range of genres it brings together in one place. Programming includes styles such as contra, swing, Cajun and Zydeco, Balkan and Scandinavian dance, Irish, tap, Latin, English country dance, and many more. Saturday evening will include a Mardi Gras–themed track, while late-night offerings feature technocontra, squares, blues and balfolk parties, and DJ-driven fusion dancing.

“For one winter weekend, downtown Saratoga Springs fills with music from all over the world,” said Jonathan Greene, program curator of the Flurry Festival. “The Flurry

brings energy into the city at a quiet time of year and invites the whole community to be part of it.”

In addition to dancing, participants can attend concerts and showcases, instrument workshops, singing sessions, presentations and discussions, jams, storytelling, and family programming, and visit food and craft vendors.

The Flurry welcomes beginners and people of all ages and abilities, with no partner required and instruction offered at multiple levels. “This is a festival where participation really matters,” said Greene. “You don’t need a partner, special equipment, or years of experience. Really just a willingness to try something new.”

A newcomer orientation at 5 p.m. Friday will offer tips and guidance, followed by a 6 p.m. “Discovery Hour” of introductory sessions designed to help participants sample new styles. For those seeking a deeper dive, four Friday

afternoon pre-festival Intensive workshops provide focused instruction in Swing Dance, Latin Dance, Waltz Dancing, or Vocal Harmony.

Saturday family programming will be free and open to the public at the Saratoga Springs Public Library from 9:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. and will include songs, stories, crafts, movement games, and a family dance. Children’s, family, and teen programming continues throughout the weekend, with intergenerational participation being a hallmark of the Flurry experience.

Full or partial weekend tickets are available at a discount online through Feb. 6, with tickets for all days also available at the door. Special rates are offered for seniors and attendees under 26, scholarship tickets are available, and children 12 and under attend free. Full schedule details, ticketing information, and updates are available at www.flurryfestival.org.

Tim McGraw Coming to SPAC

Saratoga Jazz Festival Returns: Lineup, Info, Headliners, Under-the-Radar Acts

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— The annual Saratoga Jazz Festival will hold its 49th iteration at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) on Saturday, June 27 and Sunday, June 28.

Overall, the fest will feature 22 musical acts (13 of whom will make their Saratoga Jazz Festival debuts), headlined by the “Godmother of Soul” Patti Labelle and multi-platinum rock collective The Revivalists. Labelle last performed at the festival in 2009. The Revivalists will make their Saratoga debut this summer.

“We have been thinking about [Labelle] on and off over the last couple of years,” festival producer Danny Melnick told Saratoga TODAY. “Last year, she did this really big arena tour with Gladys Knight and Chaka Khan, and she closed all those shows. The reports were amazing and the videos that I saw online were amazing. When thinking about this year and the fact that we’re at the 49th festival, we really wanted to have a legendary artist who has a history with the festival.”

Labelle sharing headlining duties with The Revivalists speaks to the festival’s ability to reach across generations and genres.

“The Revivalists are a new, really hot band right now that have been growing and growing, particularly coming out of the pandemic, becoming bigger and bigger, playing much bigger places and selling tickets,” Malnick said. “We really wanted to get a band that we felt would be exciting for the audience and new to the festival.”

Saratoga Jazz Fest’s roster of performers is diverse and deep, with acts performing everything from soul to funk to roots rock to, of course, jazz. A few highlights include blues guitar virtuoso Christone “Kingfish” Ingram; Afro-Cuban funk group Cimafunk; soul-inflected rhythm and blues band The Dip; jazz vocalists Dianne Reeves and Cécile McLorin Salvant; contemporary jazz leaders Terri

Lyne Carrington and Lakecia Benjamin; and Cuban piano master Gonzalo Rubalcaba with his First Meeting Quartet featuring Chris Potter, Larry Grenadier, and Eric Harland.

The festival will also commemorate two musical milestones. The Miles Electric Band, making their SPAC debut, will celebrate Miles Davis’ centennial. And the returning Skidmore Jazz Institute Faculty All-Stars will salute the centennial of John Coltrane.

“As we approach nearly 50 years of this storied festival, we remain committed to presenting a vibrant, wide-ranging line-up that honors jazz traditions while amplifying bold new voices,” said Elizabeth Sobol, the CEO of SPAC. “From legendary performers and centennial celebrations to festival debuts and cutting-edge artists, this year’s Saratoga Jazz Festival offers so much to discover.”

Two of Melnick’s picks for under-the-radar acts and upand-comers include Eddie 9V (“He could be the next Tom Petty”) and Tyreek McDole (“I think the audience is going to be super surprised and knocked out to hear this young guy sing the way he does”). Both will perform on the Charles R. Wood “Discovery” Stage.

In addition to two non-stop days of music across two stages, festival attendees can also enjoy a host of amenities including new and diverse food offerings, a fine arts and crafts fair, and artist merchandise signings. Guests are welcome to bring in their own food and beverages, as well as lawn chairs, blankets, tents, and lawn umbrellas.

Parking for the event is free. Performances will begin at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 27 and at 11:45 a.m. on Sunday, June 28. Tickets go on sale beginning on Feb. 6 at 10 a.m. to SPAC members (tiered by level) and on Feb. 13 at 10 a.m. to the general public. Tickets start at $89 and will be available online at www.spac.org.

2026 SARATOGA JAZZ

FESTIVAL LINEUP:

SATURDAY, JUNE 27

Amphitheater:

Patti LaBelle

Miles Electric Band: Celebrating Miles Davis’s Centennial

Cécile McLorin Salvant

The Dip

Gonzalo Rubalcaba First Meeting Quartet with Chris Potter, Larry Grenadier & Eric Harland

Terri Lyne Carrington + Social Science

Charles R. Wood

“Discovery” Stage: Bill Frisell Trio featuring Thomas Morgan & Rudy Royston with special guest Gregory Tardy

Orrin Evans Trio

Luques Curtis & Mark Whitfield, Jr.

Tyreek McDole

Ana Popovic

Avishai Cohen Big Vicious Brass Queens

SUNDAY, JUNE 28

Amphitheater: The Revivalists

Dianne Reeves Christone “Kingfish” Ingram Cimafunk Lakecia Benjamin

Charles R. Wood

“Discovery” Stage: Eddie 9V

Alexa Tarantino Quartet

Kyle Roussel

Sasha Dobson

Skidmore Jazz Institute

Faculty All-Stars

Celebrate John Coltrane’s Centennial featuring Jimmy Greene, Clay Jenkins, Steve Davis, Dave Stryker, Miki Yamanaka, Todd Coolman & Quincy Davis

Ensemble Connect Returns to Skidmore for February Residency Program

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Ensemble Connect—a group of young professional classical musicians from Carnegie Hall, The Juilliard School, and the Weill Music Institute— will return to Skidmore College for a February residency.

The public is invited to attend a culminating concert on Friday, Feb. 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the Arthur Zankel Music Center that highlights notable American composers and includes the world premiere of “Broke” by George Lewis, composer-in-residence with

Ensemble Connect.

The program also features Valerie Coleman’s “Portraits of Langston”; Barber’s “Adagio for Strings,” performed with Skidmore student musicians; two works by Joplin, including “The Entertainer,” arranged by Franz Beyer, and “Paragon Rag,” arranged by William Zinn; and Ives’ “String Quartet No. 1, From the Salvation Army.”

The performance on Feb. 13 is free and open to the public, but tickets are required. For more information, visit www. skidmore.edu/zankel.

Saratogian Battles the Elements in FOX Survival Competition Show

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

In everyday life, Katie Kratovil is a 29-year-old administrative assistant who lives in Saratoga Springs. But on TV, she’s a rugged survivalist building shelters, rationing food, and keeping an eye out for bears—all while competing for a grand prize of $250,000.

On season two of “Extracted,” a FOX reality series currently airing on Monday nights, Kratovil is tasked with braving the elements while her two sisters, Carly and Emily, observe her via 24-hour camera feeds and try to send her provisions delivered by drones.

For Kratovil, who said she’s “definitely not a survivalist type person,” some training and preparation was necessary.

“I definitely trained more physically than mentally,” Kratovil told Saratoga TODAY. “I built a shelter in my backyard. I practiced my firemaking. I watched a lot of YouTube videos, specifically Luke from the Outdoor Boys. I upped my step count to 15,000 steps a day. I knew I was going to be walking around in the woods, so I wanted to make sure that my body was used to taking that many steps. Really, [I did] as much research as humanly possible that I could to figure out the best way to live out in the wild.”

Kratovil’s sisters also had their own preparations to make before appearing on the show. From the (relative) comfort of an indoor studio, Carly and Emily competed against the

family and friends of other survivalists to secure valuable supplies. Some family and friends chose to take a more cutthroat approach to the competition, while others utilized their diplomatic skills. Kratovil and her siblings prepared by expecting the unexpected.

“Our main strategy was to be really strong,” Kratovil said. “We wanted to be really strong competitors, but we’re kind of limited in how much we can talk about because you don’t really know what to expect. You think you know what to expect from watching season one, but at the same time, you know you have no idea what’s going to happen. So you kind of have to strategize for everything and plan for everything.”

While Kratovil slept outside, hoping to avoid any encounters with rats or snakes, her sisters were forced to keep an eye on her via the camera feeds. Unable to directly communicate with their sister, Carly and Emily at times feared for their sibling’s wellbeing.

“I was afraid to watch [Katie] struggle because she

can’t talk to us or see us, so I was scared that she really needed help,” Carly said.

But despite some intense moments, the sisters all agreed that appearing on “Extracted” served as a familial bonding experience

“We’ve never experienced anything like this,” Emily said. “It brought us a lot closer, not just the three of us, but our entire family and our friends.”

“It’s really such a once-in-alifetime experience,” Carly said.

“One of my personal hopes, coming out of this whole experience, is inspiring people to put themselves out there and just apply for it and do it,” Katie said. “I mean, we’re three relatively normal people. I just stumbled upon an Instagram ad and thought, ‘You know what, I might as well apply. I have nothing to lose.’ So, I think anyone could do it if they really put their mind to it. I totally would recommend it. I hope they call us again.”

“Extracted” season two airs on Mondays at 8 p.m., with episodes available for streaming the following day on Hulu.

Local Author Explores Trad Wife Trend in New Horror Novel

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Is social media more terrifying than a monster?

In “Trad Wife,” the latest horror novel from author Saratoga Schaefer, that question lurks beneath the story’s surface.

Camille, the novel’s main character, incessantly seeks validation from social media as she tries to manifest the “perfect” homemaker lifestyle. But when she struggles to get pregnant, she calls upon sinister forces for aid.

“I think one of the fun things about this book is that there’s the obvious horror,” Schaefer told Saratoga TODAY, “But the real horror is the social horror that comes through the relationship and the power imbalance [Camille] has with her husband, and then also the obsession she has with social media and needing to present a certain way online and needing people to like her. That, I think, is more frightening than the overt horror.”

A traditional wife or “trad” wife is a recent phenomenon that has seen young women reject

much of the modern world to revert back to a simpler and, they contend, happier existence. Instead of spending all day in an office hunched over a keyboard, they spend the day cooking, taking care of kids, and maintaining an impeccably designed home— all for the benefit of their social media followers.

A number of studies have been conducted in an effort to better understand this trend.

According to researchers at King’s College London, “the glamorization of domesticated roles for women is less a genuine embrace of tradition and more a plea from younger generations, reflecting what they describe as the impossible balance demanded by modern work and family life.” Two researchers at the University of Pennsylvania posit that mainstream feminists and trad wives are both “responding to the same broken system, but in very different ways. While each is rooted in women’s rage, the direction and consequences of that rage diverge sharply.”

Schaefer’s portrayal of Camille is complex. In some ways, Camille is sympathetic. In other ways, she’s profoundly

unlikeable. But for much of the story, she seems to be under the spell of social media, which results in Camille doing things she knows are wrong.

“She is actively deluding herself for a good portion of the book,” Schaefer said. “I really wanted to get into the mindset of somebody who is a younger person who is attracted to this lifestyle.”

Camille chooses to discard facts and critical thinking in favor of agreeing with social media personalities who can bestow upon her more followers and fame. Camille’s obsession with portraying herself as the perfect influencer leads to horrendous consequences, some real and others supernatural. Trapped in a “Rosemary’s Baby” scenario in which she is pregnant with a creature that is less than human, Camille continues to post through the pain, pretending that her life is perfect when, in fact, it’s spiraling towards disaster.

To reveal more of the plot would spoil the fun. Though “Trad Wife” explores real issues, it’s also a spooky story with elements reminiscent of “Midsommar,” “The Witch,” and, of course, “Rosemary’s Baby.”

Schaefer’s new novel will be released on Feb. 10. Two days later, they’ll be in person at the Northshire Bookstore for a conversation with fellow author Dennis Mahoney. It’ll be an event in Saratoga featuring a person named Saratoga. Yes, it’s a bit unusual, and yes, Schaefer

was named after the Spa City.

“I love my name,” Schaefer said. “I understand that people do a little bit of a double take when I say it.”

They’ll be doing a double take when they read the shocking yet thoughtful “Trad Wife” too.

Northbound Capital LLC

Auth. filed w/ SSNY 12/15/25. Off. in Saratoga Co. Cert. of Form filed w/ SSDE 7/24/25. Process served to SSNY - desig. as agt. of LLC & mailed to Accumera LLC, 911 Central Ave, #101, Albany, NY 12206. The reg. agt. is Accumera LLC at same address. Add. maintd. in DE: 3500 S. Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901. Name & add. of auth. officer in DE where Cert of Form filed: SSDE, Div. of Corp, 401 Federal St, Ste. 4, Dover, DE 19901. Any lawful purpose. 1/2, 1/9, 1/16, 1/23, 1/30, 2/6/2026. 16332

Notice of formation of Creekside Estate and Service LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 12/14/2025. 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: 15 Trieble Ave. STE 5 Ballston Spa NY 12020. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/2, 1/9, 1/16, 1/23, 1/30, 2/6/2026. 16349

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Notice of Formation of Amperella, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/18/2025. Office Location: Saratoga County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Amperella, LLC: 25C Sylvan Trail, Ballston Lake, NY 12019. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/9, 1/16, 1/23, 1/30, 2/6, 2/13/2026. 16348

831 Schultz, LLC filed Art. of Org. with the Sec’y of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/22/2025 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent for the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: 831 Schultz, LLC, 831 Route 67, P.O. Box 2409, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 Purpose: any lawful act. 1/9, 1/16, 1/23, 1/30, 02/6, 2/13/2026. 16371

Notice of formation of Queirolo Consulting, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 11/03/2025. 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: 21 Guideboard Rd., Waterford, NY 12188. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/9, 1/16, 1/23, 1/30, 2/6, 2/13/2026. 16402

Notice of registration of EVERBRIDGE INSURANCE SERVICES, LLC. Authority filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 01/09/2026. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to: c/o 3H Legal Services, PLLC, 36 Long Alley, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/16, 1/23, 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20/2026. 16471

Notice of Formation of Professional Limited Liability Company. Name: Back

Again Chiropractic, PLLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/12/2025. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the PLLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the PLLC 325 Ushers Road, Ballston Lake, NY 12019. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 1/16, 1/23, 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20/2026. 16472

Notice of formation of Ride Like A Girl LLC. Articles of organization filed with the secretary of state of New York on January 12, 2026. 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: 23 Ruggles Rd., Saratoga Springs, New York 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/16, 1/23, 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20/2026. 16475

Notice of formation of Sacred Return, LLC . Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on October 7, 20205. 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: 120 West Ave, Suite 211 Saratoga Springs NY, 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/23, 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27/2026. 16509

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY

COMPANY NAME: Otto & Sanders Holdings, LLC.

Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 1/7/2026. 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. 1/23, 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27/2026. 16513

Notice of formation of HIGH ROCK VENTURES LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 01/12/2026 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: 73 SPRING ST APT 7 SARATOGA SPRINGS NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/23, 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27/2026. 16527

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: WhoDoYouLike Stable III, LLC. Articles of organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 1/12/2026. 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, 10 Plumas Place, Saratoga Springs, New York, 12866. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 1/23, 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27/2026. 16533

16 CAROLINE HOSPITALITY LLC

Arts of Org filed with SSNY 12/14/2025. Office: SARATOGA Co. SSNY designated agent for process and shall mail copy to LLC at 7014 13TH AVE, #202, Bklyn, NY, 11228. Purpose: any lawful act. 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6/2026. 16553

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: Northern Elm Mentoring Group, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/29/2025. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to the LLC c/o Laurie S. Keniry, Esq., Cioffi Slezak Wildgrube P.C., 1473 Erie Blvd., 1st Fl., Schenectady, NY 12305. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6/2026. 16555

Notice of Formation of Wray WinterShield Sprinklers LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 1/24/2026. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC at: 27 Mallard Drive, Rexford NY 12148. Michael Wray, 27 Mallard Drive, Rexford NY 12148, is the registered agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6/2026. 16552

Notice of Formation of VCHC Lofts at Littauer Park LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 1/22/2026. Office location: County of Saratoga. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: LLC, 20 Prospect St, #313, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Purpose: any lawful purpose. 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6/2026. 16562

Notice of formation of Buck Run Services, LLC, a domestic limited liability company (the LLC). Articles of Org. filed with the NY Dept. of State on January 24, 2026. Office of the LLC: Saratoga County. The Secretary of State of NY (the SSNY) has been designated as the agent upon whom process may be served. The SSNY shall mail a copy of any process to the LLC at: P.O. Box 48, Gabriels, NY 12939. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful purposes. 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6/2026. 16563

Publication Notice of Organization of Limited Liability Company. The name of the Limited Liability Company is: Cornerstone Business Solutions, LLC (hereinafter referred to as the “Company”). The Articles of Organization of the Company were filed with the New York Secretary of State on January 23, 2026. The County within New York State in which the office of the Company is to be located is SARATOGA. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent upon whom process against the Company may be served. The post office address to which the Secretary of State shall mail process is: Cornerstone Business Solutions, LLC, P.O. Box 172, Round Lake, NY 12151. The purpose of the business of the Company is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which limited liability companies may be organized under the New York Limited Liability Company Law. 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6/2026. 16559

Notice of formation of Walsh Tax Services, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 08/04/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 6 Liberty Dr., Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6/2026. 16564

MT2onPaper, LLC filed on December 17, 2025 operating in Saratoga County, PO Box 126, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. The Secretary of State is designated agent, registered agent is Michelle Tetu, POBox 126, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Online Stationery Supplies. 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13/2026. 16527

Notice of formation of VITTORIANO & JOSEE LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 12/22/2025 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 5 Benedict Ct Ballston Spa NY 12020. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6/2026. 16569

Notice of formation of West Saratoga Ventures LLC . Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2/1/2026. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY designated as an agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail a copy of the process to West Saratoga Ventures LLC: 147 Washington Street, Saratoga Springs NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13/2026. 16584

Brookford Partners WA LLC filed w/ SSNY 1/27/26. Off. in Saratoga Co. Process served to SSNY - desig. as agt. of LLC & mailed to the LLC, PO Box 20088, Brooklyn, NY 11202. Any lawful purpose. 2/6, 2/13,

LEGALS

2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13/2026. 16586

Notice of formation of JCM Home Inspections LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on January 20, 2026 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 8 Michael Dr., Mechanicville, NY 12118. The LLC is organized for the purpose of providing home inspection services and any lawful business permitted under New York State law. 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13/2026. 16585

Notice of formation of Regency Domestic Services, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 10/12/2025. 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: 32 Timber Trace, Malta, NY 12020. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13/2026. 16592

Notice of formation of Limited Liability Company LLIVE, LLAUGH, LLOVE, LLAMA LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 11/13/2025 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: PO Box 3392 Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13/2026. 16593

Notice of Formation of Elevated Drone Perspectives, LLC, Arts of Org. filed with NY Secy of State (SSNY) on January 30, 2026. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to The LLC at c/o Conway, 3 Yandel Yard, Gansevoort, NY 12831.

Purpose: any lawful activity. 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13/2026. 16597

IAAII, LLC filed Art. of Org. with the Sec’y of State of NY (SSNY) on 2/3/2026. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has

been designated as agent for the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: IAAII, LLC, 1147 Ballston Lake Road, Ballston Lake, NY 12019. Purpose: any lawful act. 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13/2026. 16600

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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: Baluster, Banister

A baluster is a short pillar that supports a handrail. The balusters on the deck were secured with small screws.

A banister is the handrail on a staircase. We slid down the banister when we were children.

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

Saints Basketball Teams Battle as Season Nears End

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

With just a couple games left in their regular seasons, the Saratoga Central Catholic boys and girls basketball teams hope to end things on a high note with the postseason in view. As of Feb. 4, the boys’ record stood at 11-5, bolstered by a 7-game winning streak that stretched nearly the entire month of January. The girls’ record stood at 9-8 as the squad split about half their games following a tough 4-game losing streak.

On Feb. 2, the girl dispatched Duanesburg 50-28. In

that contest, standout Sophia Ryan led the Lady Saints with 21 points, while Addison Whitbeck added 12. The victory followed a rough 77-37 loss to Greenwich on Jan. 29. Before that, the Saints cruised to a 59-29 win against Cambridge on Jan. 24. Ryan again led with 25 points, and nearly secured a triple-double with 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Whitbeck secured a convincing double-double with 19 points and 14 rebounds.

On Jan. 30, the boys’ win streak was snapped with a brutal 82-51 loss to Stillwater. But prior to that, they nabbed a 57-38 victory against Stillwater on Jan. 27. In that game, Jasyn

Thompson led the Saints with 15 points, while David Redgrave Jr. added 13 and Kihl Kelly reached double digits with 10. On Jan. 24, the boys mounted a comeback victory, 55-53 over Burke Catholic. In that close contest, Thompson led his squad 13 points, Kelly added 12, and Redgrave posted a double-double with 10 points and 10 assists.

Next up for the boys: Two road games on Feb. 8 and 10 against Berne-Knox-Westerlo and Greenwich, respectively. The girls hope to add a couple more W’s to the win column when they face Stillwater at home on Feb. 5 and Hoosick Falls on the road on Feb. 9.

Jr. NBA Scores Jr. NBA Scores

WARRIORS VS. BULLS

Warriors-24: Shepard Allen-12pts

AJ Pollak-6pts

Bulls-9: Samuel Graney-4pts, Easton Mylott-3pts

WARRIORS VS. HORNETS

Warriors-29: Sebastian Reed-10pts, Matthew Boucher-9pts

Hornets-16: Oscar Peterson-4pts, Leo Purtell-4pts

CELTICS VS. SIXERS

Celtics-26: Tommy Farrelly-8pts, Luke Longo-8pts

Sixers-10: Aiden Tierney-10pts

PISTONS VS. CELTICS

Pistons-35: Chase Jackson-8pts, Quinn Keigley-6pts

Celtics-21: Carter Marsh-14pts, Marshall McDowell-5pts

HEAT VS. BUCKS

Heat-25: Boden Pileckas-8pts, Dane Wright, Harrison Khoury- 5pts

Bucks-17: Kayden Klippel-13pts, Gavin Huestis-2pts

BULLS VS. PISTONS

Bulls-31: Shiloh Parker-9pts, Lucas Lysyczyn-7pts

Pistons-19: Brody Gerard-5pts, Brady Gaul-5pts

MAVS VS. CELTICS

Mavs-18: Grayson Chartrand-10pts Jake Borman-2pts

Celtics-9: Finn Redner-7pts, Matthew Hudson-2pts

NUGGETS VS. SPURS

Nuggets-25: Grayson Knox-8pts, Vincent DiFusco-7pts

Spurs-19: Tague McFadden-4pt, Henry Robinson-4pts

Jr. NBA Scores Jr. NBA Scores

BULLS VS. CELTICS

Bulls-13: Easton Mylott-9pts, Samuel Graney-4pts

Celtics-9: Finn Redner-7pts, Brady LaCasse-2pts

NUGGETS VS. SIXERS

Nuggets-40: Grady Nemith-14pts, Owen Ghilardi-Walker-8pts

Sixers-3: Aiden Tierney-2pts, Rory Grassi-1pt

WOLVES VS. CELTICS

Mavs-23: Kage Hazel-17pts, Dylan Lynch-4pts

Celtics-15: Luke Longo-6pts, Michael Tuminaro, Robert Turner, Tommy Farrelley, Brayden Kane- 2pts

MAVS VS. WARRIORS

Mavs-24: Grayson Chartrand14pts, Jake Borman-6pts

Warriors-13: AJ Pollak-8pts, Cooper Davis, Cade Cole, Shepard Allen-2pts

HORNETS VS. SPURS

Hornets-20: Oscar Peterson, Malcolm Grant- 6pts, Levi Rawert-4pts

Spurs-10: Baron Balsamo4pts, Austin Davis, Bryce Letourneau, Evan Lofink-2pts

MAVS VS. WARRIORS

Mavs-29: Harper Brodie-10pts, Ben Roberts-6pts

Warriors-21: Boe Bishop-8pts, Jack Lawson-5pts

GRIZZLIES VS. MAVS

Grizzlies-44: Enoch Huang-12pts

Joseph Trimarchi-10pts

Mavs-13: Colin Beane-6pts Liam Donnarumma-4pts

BUCKS VS. WARRIORS

Bucks-23: Jayden Collins14pts, Gavin Huestis-4pts

Warriors-18: Jack Lawson6pts, Danny Harms-4pts

CELTICS VS. HEAT

Celtics-38: Solomon Rucinski-20pts, Marshall McDowell-8pts

Heat-31: Boden Pileckas15pts, Camden Conley-4pts

GRIZZLIES VS. BULLS

Grizzlies-45: Owen Verrigni13pts, Kyle Harness-13pts

Bulls-33: Shiloh Parker-12pts, Lucas Lysyczyn-10pts

MAVS VS. PISTONS

Mavs-27: Hayden Pallas12pts, Harper Brodie-6pts

Pistons-20: Quinn Kiegley7pts, Chase Jackson-5pts

PISTONS VS. MAVS

Pistons-23: Brady Gaul-6pts, Joseph MacArthur-5pts

Mavs-21: Lawerence Cephas7pts, Jayden Oliver-7pts

Harness Racing in Saratoga Returns for 85th Season

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Live harness racing returned to the Saratoga Casino Hotel on Feb. 1, marking the sport’s 85th season in the Spa City. The 2026 schedule at the Spa Oval will consist of 150 racing programs running through mid-December.

Horsemen will compete for over $17 million in purses during the season. The track will also host eight New York Sire Stakes programs featuring New York-bred horses for an additional $1.5 million in purses.

“I expect a very strong season of racing,” said Race Secretary Peter Iovino. “The horse population has been abundant the last few years and this gives us the ability to offer a high-quality product for our fans.”

Saratoga Casino’s premier event, the Joe Gerrity Jr. Memorial Invitational Pacing

Series, will kick off on Saturday, July 11 with a new format. This year, competitors will vie for points in the $20,000 invitational over seven consecutive Saturdays, with the top point earners advancing to the $100,000 final on Saturday, Aug. 29. Total purses for the Gerrity Invitational series are $240,000.

Defending their 2025 titles this season are leading trainer Melissa Beckwith and top driver Jim Devaux. Beckwith trained 174 winners in 2025, while Devaux crossed the finish line first 288 times last year.

Saratoga Casino will partner with the Saratoga Harness Horsepersons Association to offer several promotions in the month of February. Highlights include a long-sleeve shirt giveaway to the first 400 customers on Saturday, Feb. 14, as well as a wheel spin drawing on Saturday, Feb. 7 and Sunday, Feb. 15,

where all customers in attendance can enter for a chance to spin the prize wheel to win a $25-$100 free bet.

This season will also feature an expanded wagering menu that includes two pick 5’s with carryovers, two Pick 4’s with carryovers, $1 minimum wagers, 20-cent superfectas, and $1 triples in every race, plus a $3 minimum late daily double.

The winter, spring, and fall schedule will include matinee racing on Saturday, Sundays, Mondays, and select Tuesdays, with a 12 p.m. post time. The summer live racing schedule will be Mondays and Tuesdays at 12 p.m., along with Saturday evening programs beginning at 6:45 p.m.

For Track Announcer Mike Sardella’s race picks, racing recaps, and the full live race schedule, visit www. saratogacasino.com.

NYRA Implements New Guardrails for Computer Assisted Wagering

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— The New York Racing Association (NYRA) recently announced the implementation of a new policy designed to reduce late-stage odds volatility by establishing guardrails around Computer Assisted Wagering (CAW) activity within NYRA’s pari-mutuel wagering pools.

Beginning Feb. 5, NYRA requires CAW activity to cease at one minute to post in all wagering pools not previously subject to high-speed wagering restrictions.

CAW activity is defined by

NYRA and its peer tracks according to the speed of wager execution. NYRA considers wagering to be CAW activity when that speed exceeds six bets per second.

“This policy reflects the importance of modernizing pari-mutuel wagering to address the technology-driven evolution of high-speed wagering,” said David O’Rourke, NYRA’s president and CEO. “Reducing odds volatility will increase pricing transparency and improve the wagering experience for horseplayers in New York and across the country.”

In 2021, NYRA became the first racing organization in the United States to establish a timing restriction for CAW activity specific to the win pool. The measure, which prohibits CAW play into the win pool later than two minutes to post, has eliminated dramatic late odds fluctuations while providing NYRA with a foundation of relevant data and information.

The current NYRA win pool policy will remain in effect and NYRA will continue to offer its Late Pick 5 and Pick 6 as retail-only wagers.

Weaver Returns to Ravens

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Saratoga Springs native and Blue Streak Hall of Famer Anthony Weaver will become the Baltimore Ravens’ next defensive coordinator.

News of the hire broke on Monday.

Weaver had been a hot commodity this offseason, interviewing with the Buffalo Bills, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Arizona Cardinals for their head coaching positions. Ultimately, though, he’ll return to Baltimore, where he played as a defensive end from 2002 to 2005.

In 2021, the Ravens named Weaver their defensive line coach and run game

coordinator. In 2022, they promoted him to assistant coach.

Weaver spent the 2024 and 2025 seasons as the Miami Dolphins’ defensive coordinator.

“Myself and my entire family [are] ecstatic,” Weaver told WNYT’s Rodger Wyland on Tuesday. “If there’s a coordinator job you want in the National Football League, it’s to be the coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens. It means a little bit more there, in my eyes.”

Weaver began his football career with the Saratoga Springs Blue Streaks in 1995, when he was in 9th grade. The next year, he was brought up to the varsity team, where he played offensive guard. By the time he was a senior, he was being actively recruited by colleges with elite football programs.

Sports Spotlight: Isabella Barrett

Isabella Barrett is a senior at Saratoga Springs High School. She just finished her second year on the varsity swimming and diving team.

Coach Rich Johns, a former Saratoga Springs teacher and tennis coach for nearly four decades, asked Isabella about her accomplishments and future plans as part of the “Act With Respect Always” (AWRA) spotlight series.

Q: How did you meet Coach Rich Johns?

A: I met Coach Johns many years ago through my previous dance teacher. Coach was giving out his book, “Purpose Discovered,” as well as Jon Gordon’s book called “The Positive Dog.” After reading the story of Bubba, the positive dog, and Matt, the negative mutt, I reached out to Coach in hopes to learn more about the AWRA mission.

Q: How has the Act With Respect Always mission affected you personally?

A: As an eldest daughter, I strive to exceed expectations; it’s instinctual! However, throughout my years, I’ve learned that no matter the circumstances, treating others with respect is key. There will always be someone that doesn’t like you, doesn’t

agree with you, doesn’t like what you have to say…but using your voice to promote honest communication and fairness is invaluable. This lesson has made a profound impact on my approach at my job as an afterschool childcare and summer camp counselor at the YMCA. Especially YMCA’s 4 core values. I never want a child to feel “less than” because it’s simply unnecessary. Caring for others, being honest at all times, treating others with respect, and showing responsibility costs nothing.

Q: What kind of modeling do you try to do to be a good leader and teammate?

A: Along with my job, I try my best to encourage my family members at home, my friends at school, my teammates while in and out of the pool, to Act with Respect Always. Even at the Dunkin Donuts drive thru, I carry myself in a way that I hope inspires others. I’ve noticed that the people I surround myself with always push me to be my best self, and vice versa. I attribute that to my experiences with AWRA and Coach Johns.

Q: What are your future career plans and goals?

A: Beyond high school, I

plan to major in either nursing or social work, helping children and young adults advocate for themselves when they feel unseen or unheard. My job as an afterschool childcare and summer camp counselor at the YMCA, has ignited my dedication to empower youth in the community. Coach Johns’ message about demonstrating a positive mindset is something I feel everyone should be aware of and incorporate into their daily lives, especially during these darker times. I’m so proud to be able to spread his message, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for AWRA and everyone involved.

See " Grammy Awards Honor Caffe Lena Fixture" pg. 20

SARATOGA WINE BAR RECEIVES

PRESTIGIOUS AWARD

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Familiar Creature, a Montrealinspired wine bar on Phila Street, recently won a Best Short List award (a wine list with fewer than 200 listings) from the Star Wine List.

Familiar Creature was one of only four establishments across the globe to receive the Short List honor.

“We were among some amazing wine bars from Brazil to Canada for the finals,” Familiar Creature stated in a

social media announcement.

“Just a little wine bar in Upstate New York that’s got a lot of heart! Just in time for our oneyear anniversary.”

Star Wine List bills itself as the “Michelin guide of wine,” bestowing various honors upon restaurants and wine bars throughout the world. Familiar Creature is a “white star venue,” which means its wine offerings have been vetted and approved by Star Wine List.

Familiar Creature opened its doors in February 2025 and is owned by the team behind Hamlet & Ghost. Miles Merton is the bar’s wine director.