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Saratoga TODAY March 13 - March 19, 2026

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LOCAL • INDEPENDENT • FREE Volume 20

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Issue 11

• March 13 - March 19, 2026

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saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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518- 581-2480

Election Rundown • Village Trustees in Corinth and Victory • Mayor of Waterford

INSIDE!

Pages 23 -25

All We Do Is Win • Spa Catholic girls win first-ever sectionals

Three villages will hold elections in Saratoga County on March 18.

See Story pg. 10

Saratoga Film Forum Returns

• Saratoga swimmer crowned state champ

New Saratoga Film Forum logo provided by Spencer Sherry. Photo via Saratoga Central Catholic Athletics.

See Stories pg. 39

See Story pg. 32


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History

OF

SARATOGA

Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

BSNB - Ballston Spa’s National Bank by Amy Shannon | Sponsored by Saratoga County History Center Contact Saratoga County History Center at: saratogacohistoryroundtable@gmail.com Long before it became a bank, the building on Front Street was simply a house, quietly resting on land once belonging to Johannah Hawkins, a woman whose story lingers only in the faded lines of an old newspaper notice. Her property, marked by creeks and stone heaps, was a patchwork of boundaries and memories. When the land changed hands at auction in the winter of 1833, no one could have guessed it would soon anchor one of the village’s most enduring institutions, the First National Bank of Ballston Spa. Later named Ballston Spa National Bank, it is often referred to as BSNB. Five years later, the bank’s founders purchased that modest house and set about transforming it into a place sturdy enough to hold the community’s trust. The exterior stayed familiar, but the inside became something new: reinforced vault rooms, a front parlor turned teller counter, upper floors converted into bookkeeping and office space. Through it all, the fireplaces that remain are quiet reminders that this institution began as someone’s home. In the 1800s, bank presidents and directors were not often bank professionals but rather business owners, lawyers, industrialists, and judges; men whose reputations served as the bank’s public guarantee. Their names lent credibility, their capital provided stability, and their influence shaped local politics and commerce. By the late 1830s Ballston Spa was thriving, powered by mills along the Kayaderosseras Creek, and mineral springs tourism. It was the bank’s good fortune that its first president, James Merrill Cook, was an experienced businessman and local political leader who also understood the role of financial institutions. Cook, a young man from a respected Ballston Spa family was eager to discover the world beyond his hometown and ventured to New York City, immersing himself in the bustling world of business. When Cook returned, he didn’t simply settle back in; he poured his energy into shaping the village’s future. He served multiple terms as village president and brought the same drive to the founding of Ballston Spa National Bank, while also owning and operated

cotton mills in the village. He gave the growing community a financial anchor when it needed one most. He became well regarded in the New York banking profession, and after serving as the National Bank’s president for 18 years, he became Superintendent of the State Banking Department in 1856. In 1833, he married Anna Cady, a woman who would outlive him by more than thirty years and quietly preserve the family’s legacy. Together they raised four children: James, William, Catharine, and Anna. Only Catharine would have children of her own, marrying diplomat George Sherman Batcheller and carrying the family line to Saratoga Springs where they built the well-known Batcheller Manson. Following the Presidency of Cook, the Thompson family left their own mark on the bank’s strength and growth. Judge John Thompson’s son, John Whalen Thompson, was himself the county Surrogate judge from 1834 to 1847 and was one of its original incorporators and directors. He became the bank’s longest serving leader until his death in 1892. His son and grandson, George Lee Thompson and George Lee Thompson Jr., each went on to serve as president, continuing a family tradition of conservancy. Andrew S. Booth succeeded the Thompsons as president from 1896 to 1907. A skilled telegrapher who once worked for Western Union, Booth represented the blend of technical ability and community standing that defined turn‑of‑the‑century banking. Over the years the bank’s hierarchy, presidents, vice presidents, directors, officers, clerks, and tellers, represented a wide range of respected local professionals. Their collective reputation helped build the institution’s credibility, while their work supported its daily operations and its value to the community. As the 19th century gave way to the 20th, the bank’s leadership evolved. What had once been a role reserved for prominent local figures gradually shifted to trained financial professionals, reflecting broader changes in American banking. In the modern era, presidents such as Christopher R. Dowd represent this new model; career bankers supported by

directors with expertise in finance, law, and business. In an interesting side note, for 67 years, the First National Bank of Ballston Spa issued national currency, ending in 1931. Its $1, $2, $5, $10, and $20 notes, printed by the U.S. Treasury in uncut sheets, came in various forms: brown‑back, red‑seal, and blue‑seal designs. Today, these bills are prized by collectors, tangible reminders of the bank’s long federal charter. The bank’s own story was later chronicled by Ruth W. Roerig, a Malta historian and former vice president. Her book The History of Ballston Spa National Bank 1838-1988 preserved not only the institution’s history but also the stories of the people who shaped it. Roerig herself broke barriers, becoming the first woman to serve as president of the American Institute of Banking and remaining an active community leader through her work with the Malta Planning Board and the Daughters of the American Revolution. This article owes much to Ruth’s legacy. In 2026, BSNB begins a new chapter in its history by joining forces with the National Bank of Coxsackie. The merger is a partnership - two long‑standing community banks recognizing they could serve their neighbors better together. Coxsackie kept its familiar name as a division of BSNB, while customers served by both institutions will gain a wider network and stronger resources. Much like Cook’s original vision, the merger created a larger, more resilient community bank that still holds tight to its local roots. From its humble beginnings in a converted house on Front Street, Ballston Spa National Bank grew alongside the village, quietly anchoring generations of families and welcoming newcomers. Its story is woven into the very fabric of Ballston Spa; a testament to resilience, adaptation, and the enduring spirit of a community built by those who believed in the power of local institutions. And as you walk past its doors or see its name on a street sign, you’re not just passing a bank, you’re stepping into a living piece of history, one that continues to touch lives, including yours and mine, with every passing day.


Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

March 4, 2026. 9:35 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Buskirk resident in the Town of Halfmoon on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued. March 4, 2026. 10:10 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Rensselaer resident in the Town of Colonie on charges of felony 3rd degree grand larceny: property value exceeds $3000 and felony 1st degree identity theft: assuming another’s identity to obtain goods over $2000. Held- no bail. Original incident occurred in the Town of Wilton on Jan. 23, 2026. March 4, 2026. 12:45 p.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of 2nd degree harassment- physical contact, resisting arrest, and illegal use/sale of nitrous oxide. Arrest occurred on Circular Street. March 4, 2026. 2:00 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Schuylerville juvenile on charges of misdemeanor forcible touching- touch sexual/intimate parts of another person. Original incident occurred Feb. 28, 2026. March 4, 2026. 2:23 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Voorheesville resident in the City of Saratoga Springs on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued. Arrest stemmed from accident on Exit 14 of Interstate 87. March 4, 2026. 6:58 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident in the Town of Halfmoon on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense and misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with BAC of .08 or higher- first offense. Appearance ticket issued. March 4, 2026. 11:45 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Halfmoon resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first

offense and operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher- first offense. Appearance ticket issued. March 5, 2026. 11:27 a.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and other violations. Arrest occurred at the intersection of Franklin and Washington Streets. March 5, 2026. 12:56 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park juvenile in the City of Albany on charges of misdemeanor reckless driving. Appearance ticket issued. Arrest stemmed from a traffic accident on Route 87 in the Town of Halfmoon which injured two people. March 5, 2026. 2:53 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Middle Grove resident in the Town of Providence on charges of misdemeanor 2nd menacing- weapon and misdemeanor criminal possession of a weapon: intent to use. Appearance ticket issued. March 5, 2026. 3:14 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Watervliet resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor aggravated unlicensed operation 2nd. Appearance ticket issued. March 5, 2026. 3:20 p.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of general violation of local law. Arrest occurred on Broadway. March 5, 2026. 4:15 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Gansevoort resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of felony grand larceny 4th: credit card. Released on own recognizance. Original incident occurred on Dec. 9, 2026. March 5, 2026. 5:04 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor

BLOTTER vehicle. Appearance ticket issued. March 5, 2026. 7:00 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Schaghticoke resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree bail jumping. Central arraignment. March 5, 2026. 11:21 p.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of criminal trespass: property fenced in or enclosed. Arrest occurred on South Broadway. March 6, 2026. 1:13 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Gansevoort resident in the Town of Moreau on charges of felony 2nd degree assault: intent to cause physical injury with a weapon, felony criminal possession of a weapon 3rd: previous conviction and misdemeanor act in a manner to injure a child less than 17. Central arraignment. March 6, 2026. 3:30 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Corinth resident in the Town of Moreau on charges of felony criminal contempt: violate order of protection- physical contact and two counts of criminal contempt: disobey court. Central arraignment. March 6, 2026. 11:45 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Stuyvesant resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor 2nd degree aggravated unlicensed operation. Appearance ticket issued. March 6, 2026. 2:20 p.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of DWIfirst offense, 3rd degree unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, and other traffic offenses. Arrest occurred on Congress Place. March 6, 2026. 4:13 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the Town of Ballston on charges of misdemeanor 2nd degree aggravated unlicensed operation. Released to third party.

3 March 6, 2026. 5:20 p.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, operating a motor vehicle impaired by drugs1st offense and other traffic offenses. Arrest occurred on Trottingham Road. March 6, 2026. 6:28 p.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested an individual on charges of 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Arrest occurred on West Avenue. March 6, 2026. 7:46 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the Town of Greenfield on charges of DWI- first offense and operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher. Appearance ticket issued. Arrest stemmed from a single vehicle traffic accident on Middle Grove Rd. March 6, 2026. 9:05 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the Town of Queensbury on charges of felony DWI: previous conviction within the last 10 years, felony operating a motor vehicle with BAC of .08 or higher- previous conviction within the last 10 years, felony aggravated unlicensed operation, felony aggravated DWI: with a child passenger less than 16- 1st offense and misdemeanor act to injure a child less than 17. Appearance ticket issued.

BLOTTER CONT. PG. 9

March 7, 2026. 12:44 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Northville resident in the Town of Hadley on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense and misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higherfirst offense. Appearance ticket issued. March 7, 2026. 2:59 a.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Troy resident on charges of 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and other traffic offenses. Arrest occurred at the intersection of Ballston Avenue and South Street. March 7, 2026. 5:55 a.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of drug paraphernaliapackage. Arrest occurred on South Broadway. March 7, 2026. 11:12 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Corinth resident in the Village of Corinth on charges of misdemeanor aggravated harassmentthreatened by telephone/ no legitimate purpose. Central Arraignment. March 7, 2026. 1:31 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Gansevoort juvenile on charges of misdemeanor criminal trespass: railroad right of way or yard, and misdemeanor making graffiti. Investigation pending.


OBITUARIES

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SARATOGA TODAY wants to sincerely say

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Paula C. Murray MIDDLE GROVE – Paula C. Murray, 68, passed away peacefully at her home on March 6, 2026, with her loving husband by her side. Born on December 28, 1957, in Saratoga Springs, NY, she was the daughter of the late John and Marion Zwijacz. Paula dedicated many years of compassionate service as a Registered Nurse at Saratoga Hospital before retiring. Through her work, she touched countless lives with her kindness, professionalism, and caring spirit. Outside of her career, Paula lived life with a sense of adventure. She was an avid motorcyclist who loved exploring new places, traveling with her husband, and spending time outdoors. The beauty of the Adirondacks held a special place in her heart, and she had a deep affection for animals and nature.

Paula is survived by her beloved husband, Brian K. Murray; her brother, Andy Zwijacz (Ellen); brother-in-law David W. Murray Jr. (Linda K.); sisters-in-law, Donna Emory and Sandy Donovan; niece Kathryn Mangini; and nephew Zandon Zwijacz. In addition to her parents, Paula was predeceased by her brother, Gary Zwijacz. In keeping with Paula’s wishes, no services will be held at this time. Arrangements are under the direction of Compassionate Funeral Care, Inc, 402 Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. For online condolences, visit www.compassionatefuneralcare. com.

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Saratoga TODAY • 2254 Rt 50 S, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

Sherri Lipton SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY- Sherri Lipton, 71, passed away on Friday, March 6, 2026. Sherri has been with Saratoga Bridges since 2013. Calling hours are 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m., on Saturday, March 21, at Burke Funeral Home followed by a funeral home service at 2:00 p.m. Online remembrances may be made at www. burkefuneralhome.com.

Jennifer Wilcox BALLSTON SPA, NY- Jennifer Wilcox, 53, passed peacefully March 8, 2026. Jennifer’s spirit, kindness, and the love she poured into her family will endure in the hearts of all who were blessed to share in her life. Calling hours are on March 16, 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Burke Funeral Home. Please visit www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Shirley A. Coonradt GANSEVOORT - Shirley A. Coonradt passed away February 28, 2026. A graveside service will be held at 11 am on Friday July 24, 2026, at Maplewood Cemetery, corner of Weibel and Louden Road, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Online condolences, www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.

Annette Francis Burns SARATOGA SPRINGS Annette Francis Burns passed away March 4, 2026. Calling hours are from 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. on March 14, at Compassionate Funeral Care, Saratoga Springs, followed by a service at 12:30 p.m. at the funeral home. A graveside service will follow in Greenridge Cemetery, Saratoga Springs. Online condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com.


Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

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NEWS BRIEFS

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Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

SPRING STARTS HERE! New York’s Outdoor Sports, Recreation, and Travel Expo The 20th annual Upstate Sports Summer Expo is back at the Saratoga Springs City Center on Saturday-Sunday, March 14-15 – beat cabin fever and get excited about spring and summer at the gathering of outdoor sports, recreation, health/ fitness, and travel enthusiasts! The free admission, high energy show brings Upstate Sports & Vermont Sports magazines to life with 200 exhibitors covering running, biking, paddling, hiking, triathlon, recreation, health/fitness, and travel. We have many Upstate New York regional destinations represented, including CapitalSaratoga, Adirondacks, Hudson Valley, Catskills, Central NY, 1000 Islands, Finger Lakes, and Western NY. Attendees can also speak with ultralight canoe and kayak builders, local bike shops, camps and retreats, trails and sustainability, outdoor recreation, and health and fitness professionals. Attendees can buy new clothing, gear, health/fitness and lifestyle products and services, enter to win many Expo

prizes; enjoy in-booth demos; and bring the kids of all ages for educational, entertaining and fitness activities. Activities include disc golf, paddling, rowing, a working canal lock, Sunday morning group shakeout run/walk with Neighbor Running with Mizuno shoe demos, and much more! For kids, we’ll have kids on bikes indoor riding, hands-on wildlife displays, and fun interactive games. Plus, we’ll have lunch, snack, and drink options from 9 Miles East, Broadway Coffee, Ben & Jerry’s – and get a complimentary Summer Expo photo printout from Saratoga Photobooth! The Summer Expo is an annual celebration of active, healthy living with likeminded people in an upbeat atmosphere – ideal to kickoff spring! Expo-goers can speak with local club members and join to get involved, speak with event directors and sign-up with show specials, set realistic health/fitness and wellness

photo provided.

goals, and challenge yourself to make it a great year! Plan your next vacation, adventure and travel with our many destination exhibitors representing beautiful lakes, mountains, trails, communities, lodging, attractions, and events/races. The free admission Upstate Sports Summer Expo is at the Saratoga Springs City Center,

522 Broadway, on Saturday, 10am-5pm and Sunday, 10am4pm. For more info and an updated list of exhibitors, visit: upstatesports.fun/summerexpo. For details and updates on the Summer Expo and our magazines, follow or like us on facebook.com/adirondacksports and instagram.com/ adirondacksports.


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Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

Meet Wall-E!

Wall-E is a very affectionate 16 pound “lovebug” who thrives on human attention. He has high energy and especially enjoys playing with springs and running on a cat wheel. He is currently being fostered by the Small Animal Science students at BOCES, where he receives plenty of interaction. Wall-E can be a bully toward submissive cats. His previous family noted that while he did well with female cats, he antagonized an older male cat in the home. For this reason, he would do best in a home without submissive or older male cats to ensure a safe environment for everyone. He is a bit shy at first but as soon as you pick him up or start petting he just melts and wants to be loved. He would do best in a home without young children. Wall-E is neutered, up to date on his vaccines, and has tested negative for both FIV and FeLV. The HOPE Pet Adoption Center is open to the public Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 11-4 and by appointment. Online adoption applications can be found at our website www.hopeanimalrescue.org.

Belmont Bash Honorary Committee Tickets Now Available SARATOGA SPRINGS — Honorary Committee tickets for the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame’s 2026 Belmont Bash are now available and may be purchased here: https://1049a.blackbaudhosting.com/1049a/Belmont-Bash. The event takes place at the Canfield Casino in Congress Park on Thursday, June 4 at 7 p.m. The museum fundraiser will include an open bar featuring specialty cocktails, a buffet-style dinner catered by Mazzone Hospitality, entertainment from Garland Nelson and Soul Session, and an exclusive silent auction. The Belmont Bash will honor the connections of 2025 Belmont Stakes winner Sovereignty, including Hall of

Fame trainer Bill Mott, jockey Junior Alvarado, and owner Godolphin. Cocktails begin at 7 p.m. with dinner at 8 p.m. Valet parking will be available. With the Belmont Stakes returning downstate to the new Belmont Park in 2027, this year’s Belmont Bash will mark the third and final time the event is held in Saratoga Springs. All proceeds from this fundraiser will benefit the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame. Businesses or individuals interested in becoming a sponsor should contact Maureen Pasco at (518) 584-0400 ext. 109 or mpasco@racingmuseum.net. General event tickets will be available at the end of March.


NEWS

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Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

Saratoga County Simpson Joins Bipartisan Sheriff’s Office to Rally to Demand CHIPS Participate in Statewide St. Patrick’s Day High Funding Boost Amid Inflation and EV Bus Mandate Costs Visibility Campaign Saratoga County Sheriff Jeffrey R. Brown announced today that the Sheriff ’s Office and Saratoga County police agencies will participate in special efforts to bring awareness to the dangers of impaired driving this St. Patrick’s Day holiday. The campaign begins on March 12, 2026, and runs through March 18, 2026. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the percentage of drunk passenger car drivers and motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes during the 2023 St. Patrick’s Day holiday were 31% and 43%, respectively. Young drivers between 21 and 34 years old accounted for the highest percentage (35%) of alcoholimpaired drivers involved in fatal traffic crashes during the same time period. “If you’re going out drinking during the St. Patrick’s Day holiday, plan for a safe ride now,” Brown said. “It only takes a minute to make a plan and prevent the kind of carnage that no luck of the Irish will ever overcome.” “The designated driver is not the person who’s had less to drink than everyone else,” Saratoga County Sheriff ’s Office

Captain and Saratoga County STOP-DWI Coordinator Dan Morley said. “Find someone willing to stay stone sober ahead of time and avoid becoming a percentage to be cited in years to come.” The STOP-DWI Holiday Season High Visibility Engagement Campaign is one of many statewide initiatives promoted by STOP-DWI NY and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. The Statewide STOP-DWI High Visibility Engagement Campaign also targets Halloween, Thanksgiving, the Holiday Season, Super Bowl weekend, “420 Day,” Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day/ End of Summer. Highly visible, highly publicized efforts like the STOP-DWI High Visibility Engagement Campaign aim to further reduce the incidence of drunk and impaired driving. You can help to make a difference by having a sober plan. Download the mobile app – “Have a Plan” and you will always be able to find a safe ride home www.stopdwi.org/ mobileapp. Impaired driving is completely preventable. All it takes is a little planning.

Assemblyman Matt Simpson (R,C-Adirondack) joined a bipartisan group of state legislators and highway superintendents from across New York to advocate for increased funding under the Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS) in the final 2026-27 state budget. The event highlighted the severe pressures facing local governments, including unprecedented inflation in highway construction costs and additional burdens imposed by the state’s All-Electric School Bus Mandate under the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA). Preliminary data from

highway superintendents indicates that heavier electric school buses cause faster subgrade rutting and reduce road life by about 20% (from a typical 10 years to eight years). This forces municipalities to shift from affordable resurfacing ($20,000– $50,000 per mile) to full reconstruction (around $550,000 per mile). The increased maintenance costs primarily impact towns and villages. “Local roads may be the most essential service the government offers,” Simpson said. “They connect rural communities in the Adirondacks and across Upstate New York, keep families safe, support businesses and ensure first responders and school buses can reach

every corner.” Despite record inflation driving up material and labor costs, Gov. Hochul’s executive budget maintains flat CHIPS funding with only a $50 million local add-on, failing to address an annual shortfall of $2.69 billion needed to maintain these critical assets. “Standing here with highway superintendents and colleagues from both parties makes it clear that Albany’s flat funding and unfunded mandates are dumping massive new costs onto local taxpayers,” Simpson said. “We support cleaner transportation, but the state must step up with real resources to prevent devastating burdens on our towns and villages.”

Schenectady men Arrested on Drug and Weapon Charges in Wilton Two Schenectady men have been arrested on drug and weapon charges in the Town of Wilton after they were pulled over on I-87. Stacy J. McDuffie, 52, and Eric Q. Parker were arrested after a traffic stop on Interstate

87. According to the Saratoga County Sheriff ’s Office, the traffic stop occurred during the afternoon of March 10 after deputies witnessed the vehicle making an unsafe lane change. McDuffie was charged with felony 3rd degree criminal

possession of a weapon, misdemeanor DWI, operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher and moving from lane unsafely. Parker meanwhile was charged with misdemeanor 4th degree criminal possession of a weapon and 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Both men were found in possession of stun guns and controlled substances. Mcduffie had a previous criminal conviction, resulting in felony possession. According to the Sheriff ’s Office, McDuffie failed a field sobriety test administered on scene and was later found to have a BAC of .11. The men were arraigned in the Wilton Town Court with Parker being released on appearance tickets and McDuffie being remanded into the Saratoga County Jail pending further proceedings.


Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

NEWS/BLOTTER

BLOTTER CONT. FROM PG. 3 March 7, 2026. 3:55 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident in the Town of Milton on charges of misdemeanor aggravated unlicensed operation. Appearance ticket issued. March 7, 2026. 8:26 p.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of criminal trespass: property fenced in or enclosed property, assault 2 with intent to cause injury to first responder and resisting arrest. Arrest occurred at four Adelphi Street. March 7, 2026. 11:50 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Greenfield Center resident on two counts of misdemeanor criminal contempt: disobey court. Cash bail. March 8, 2026. 1:23 a.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested an individual on charges of disorderly conduct: fight/ violent behavior. Arrest occurred on Caroline Street. March 8, 2026. 3:29 a.m.Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Mechanicville resident in charges of DWIfirst offense and operating a motor vehicle with BAC of .08 or higher- first offense. Arrest occurred at the intersection of Union Ave and Ludlow Street. March 8, 2026. 4:51 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Rexford resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense and misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higherfirst offense. Appearance ticket issued. March 8, 2026. 2:20 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the City of Saratoga Springs on charges of misdemeanor 2nd degree aggravated unlicensed operation and criminal weapon possession: previous conviction. Released on own recognizance.

March 8, 2026. 10:12 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Corinth resident in the Town of Corinth on charges of felony criminal possession of a controlled substance: narcotic drug intent to sell, felony criminal possession of a controlled substance and two counts of misdemeanor 7th degree possession of a controlled substance. Central arraignment. March 8, 2026. 10:12 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Stony Creek resident in the Town of Corinth on two counts of misdemeanor 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Appearance ticket issued. March 9, 2026. 10:06 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park resident in the Town of Halfmoon on charges of misdemeanor criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation- apply pressure and menacing- weapon. Released on own recognizance. March 10, 2026. 6:01 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park resident in the Town of Malta on charges of felony DWAI by drugs: prior conviction within 10 years and felony aggravated unlicensed operation. Appearance ticket issued. March 10, 2026. 8:29 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the Town of Greenfield on charges of felony aggravated unlicensed operation. Appearance ticket issued.

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Saratoga County Clerk Craig A. Hayner Announces 9th Annual Yellow Ribbon Day Donation Drive A simple box of snacks and personal care items can mean far more than its contents to a servicemember deployed far from home. Saratoga County Clerk Craig A. Hayner today announced plans for the ninth annual Yellow Ribbon Day Donation Drive, aimed at filling “Freedom Boxes” for local troops serving overseas. The drive will run from March 14 through April 6. Donations of individual-sized snacks and personal care items will benefit Blue Star Mothers of America NY-2, who assemble and ship the packages. The effort coincides with New York State’s Yellow Ribbon Day on April 9, a day dedicated to honoring active-duty military members and their families. Collection boxes will be located at municipal offices throughout Saratoga County, as well as at Hannaford stores across the county. County Clerk Hayner said the drive offers residents a meaningful way to show their support. “For nearly a decade, this community has stepped up to remind our deployed men and women that they are not alone,” Hayner said. “These Freedom Boxes deliver more than everyday essentials — they deliver encouragement from home. As we launch our ninth year, I’m confident Saratoga County will once again answer the call.” Donna Abare, president of Blue Star Mothers of America

NY-2, said the annual Yellow Ribbon drive plays a vital role in helping the organization meet growing demand. “What we receive through the generosity of this collection will help us send hundreds of boxes in May to troops who truly look forward to them.” Abare said the impact goes beyond the items inside. “When servicemembers receive a Freedom Box, they know someone took the time to think of them,” she said. “The reminder that they are not forgotten means everything.” Frank McClement, director of the Saratoga County Veterans Service Agency, said the impact is personal. “When you’re deployed, something as simple as a package from home can reset your whole outlook,” McClement said. “It lifts morale and reinforces that your community values your service. I hope everyone will take part in keeping this tradition strong.” Donations can include non-perishable items like cookie and cracker snack packages, microwaveable soup cups, fruit snacks, granola bars and beef jerky, as well as personal care items such as insect repellent wipes, body wash (small), lip balm, puzzle books and more. Donated goods can be dropped off at the following locations during regular business hours: • DMV offices in Saratoga County (located in Ballston Spa,

Clifton Park and Wilton) • Saratoga County Clerk’s Office, 40 McMaster St., Ballston Spa • Veterans Service Agency, 2144 Doubleday Ave., Suite 15, Ballston Spa • Saratoga County Hannaford stores • Various town and village offices in Saratoga County (Call to see if your local municipality has a collection box). Monetary donations are also accepted. As a reference, it costs $18 postage to send each “Freedom Box”. The cost to fill one box is about $45, so a $63 donation covers the cost of filling and sending one box. Checks can be made payable to Blue Star Mothers of America-NY 2 and sent to PO Box 243, Delmar, NY 12054. Please write “In honor of Yellow Ribbon Day” in the memo section. To donate through PayPal, go to www.paypal.com/fundraiser/hub and search “Blue Star Mothers of America-NY2”. All items collected during the drive will be presented to the Blue Star Mothers during a Yellow Ribbon Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. Thursday, April 9, at Halfmoon Town Hall in Halfmoon. The public is welcome to attend, and donations also can be brought to this event. For more information, please visit the Saratoga County Clerk’s Facebook page, @saratogacountyclerk, which will be updated throughout the donation drive.


NEWS

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Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

Local Election Round Up: Malta Man Arrested Who’s on the Ballot for Saratoga for Animal Abuse County’s Village Elections by Aidan Cahill Saratoga TODAY

by Aidan Cahill Saratoga TODAY

Well, it’s election day. Again. In addition to the school elections in May, primary elections in June, and general elections in November, New York will have its Village elections this Tuesday, March 18. While there are nine villages in Saratoga County, only three will host contested elections this Tuesday: Corinth, Victory, and Waterford. Of the remaining six, two villages — South Glens Falls and Galway, both have candidates running unopposed. Meanwhile, the Villages of Stillwater, Schuylerville, Round Lake, and Ballston Spa all hold their elections at different times. For those who live in the three villages with seats on the line, here is a brief guide on where to vote and who is on the ballot. Corinth Voters in one of Saratoga County’s northernmost villages, Corinth, are set to elect two Village Trustees this election cycle. The two Trustees will serve for your year terms. Three candidates are running for these positions. Here are the three candidates: Michael Bedell (Republican) incumbent. Charles Pasquarell (Republican) Jennifer W. Kietzman (Advocates for Corinth) Those who live in the Village of Corinth can vote at the Village Hall at 244 Main Street starting at noon (12:00

The Saratoga Sheriff ’s Office has arrested a Malta man after he is alleged to have abused two dogs in the Town of Malta. Joseph Landry IV, 40, was arrested on March 5. He was charged with two counts of overdriving, torturing and injuring animals, and two counts of failure to provide sustenance. All counts are class A misdemeanors. The dogs— a Maltese and Yorkshire terrier —were found on Jan. 9, 2026, at Landry’s residence on Route 9 in Malta. According to the Sheriff ’s Office, the terrier was found

Three villages will hold elections in Saratoga County on March 18.

p.m.) until 9:00 p.m. Victory Sixteen miles downriver from Corinth is where the next election will take place. Voters in the Village of Victory will vote for a single Village Trustee to a four-year term. Two candidates are running for this position. John Nazarenko (Republican) Ray J. Kemmerling (Next Victory) Those who live in the Village of Victory can vote at the Community Center at 23 Pine Street. Polls are open from noon (12:00 p.m.) until 9:00 p.m. Waterford Further down the Hudson to Saratoga County’s southernmost village is where the final contested election will take

place. Voters in the Village of Waterford will select a new mayor. The new mayor will serve for four years and succeed Mayor Bert Mahoney who has served for the last 28 years. Two candidates are running to replace the longtime mayor. Craig Falcone Michelle Cleary Polls in Waterford are open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Voters in districts 1 and 2 vote at the Waterford Senior Center located at 125 2nd Street while voters in district 1 vote at the Waterford Fire Department located at 13 8th Street. Links to candidate websites as well as a tool to find your polling place are available on our website at saratogatoday.com

with facial hair sticking to its eyes, overgrown nails, sores on its back and severe dental disease. The Maltese, meanwhile, was found with severe crusting of the eyes, ocular discharge, fur matting around its eyes, a flea infestation and a dewclaw growing on the pad of its paw. The dogs were transported to the Saratoga County Animal Shelter for treatment and Evaluation. The house was condemned by Malta Code Enforcement. Landry was arraigned in Malta Town Court and returned to the Warren County Jail where he was being held on other charges.

Clifton Park Woman Arrested for Hitting a Child A Clifton Park woman has been arrested after she allegedly hit a child with part of a vacuum. Lakiesha DeVaughn, 45, was arrested by the Saratoga County Sheriff ’s Office on March 6 and charged with felony 2nd degree assault and misdemeanor endangering the welfare of a child. The incident occurred on Huntridge Drive in the Town of Clifton Park.

According to the Saratoga County Sheriff ’s Office, DeVaughn allegedly hit a sevenyear-old child with a plastic vacuum component on the night of March 5. The child suffered several bruises and swelling on their arm as a result of the alleged assault. DeVaughn was arranged in the Clifton Park Town Court and released on her own recognizance.

Milton Man Arrested for Rape of a Child A Milton man has been arrested after he allegedly raped a child. Chad Walco, 48, of Milton was arrested by the Saratoga County Sheriff ’s Office on March 6 and charged with felony 3rd degree rape, misdemeanor first degree unlawfully dealing with a child and misdemeanor endangering the welfare of a child.

Walco is alleged to have had sexual contact with someone under the age of 17 and providing alcohol to those under 21. The incident is alleged to have occurred at the Kayadeross Acres Mobile Home Park in Milton on Nov. 28, 2025. Walco was arraigned in the Milton Town Court and placed in the Saratoga County Jail pending further charges.


Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

BALLSTON Richard Guyer sold property at Hollister Way to Robert Solan for $320,000 Camille DiLorenzo sold property at 1211 Rt 50 to Moya Holdings LLC for $110,000 Timothy Welch sold property at 200 Scotchbush Rd to Drew Ziehnert for $420,000 Timothy Hall sold property at 400 Devils Lane to Caitlin Welch for $641,000

CORINTH Muhammed Akhtar sold property at 86 Fuller Rd to Wu Fan for $144,000

GREENFIELD Linda Murray sold property at 1707 Rt 9N to Wesley Hills for $155,000

MALTA Heather Mahoney sold property at 163 Arrowwood Pl to Lewis Schree for $320,000 Nikki Parks sold property at 25 Dino Dr to Alexander Chandler for $356,235 Elizabeth Binney sold property at 115 Plum Poppy North to Mark Bufolini for $348,000

PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS

Donna Portigiani sold property at 26 Northwood Dr to Ann Mahoney for $335,000 Ronald Benoit sold property at 183 Northline Rd to Banhar Mouhsine for $190,000 Carol Rosen sold property at 44 Thimbleberry Rd to Matthew Kowalski for $255,000

MILTON Roberta Berg sold property at 53 Hyde Blvd to Robert Scott for $340,000 Matthew Tebaldi sold property at 40 Deer Run to James Hokanson for $305,000

SARATOGA Christopher Corrigan sold property at 3 Ashleigh Lane to Diana Santiago for $790,000 Matthew Bell sold property at 26 Burgoyne St to Shannon Turner for $190,000 Elizabeth Grebe sold property at 54 Morgans Run to Ian Sheridan for $303,000 Albert Staley sold property at 100 Point Breeze Rd to Meghan McNamara for $407,000

SARATOGA SPRINGS

Jeffrey Pfeil for $1,200,000

Buff Rd LLC sold property at 25 Buff Rd to Shane Diamond for $210,000

WILTON

Tracy Hassan sold property at 11 Worden Lane to Glen Del Russo for $425,000 Orpha Stiles sold property at 68 Monroe St to Denise Degregorio for $399,900 Beechwood Saratoga LLC sold property at 31 Aurora Ave to Joseph Latif for $450,000 Shoshanna Miller sold property at 9 Avery St to Jordan Woods for $850,000 Paula Costanzo sold property at 4 Iroquois Dr to Brian Brumley for $550,000 Michael Quinn sold property at 82 Lincoln Ave to John Coffey for $400,000 Charles Pritchard sold property at 4 Seward St to

Weygand Enterprises LLC sold property at 4265 Route 50 to Nowe LLC for $475,000 Cottage Hill Townhomes LLC sold property at 18 Eastridge Dr to 711 & 921 Properties LLC for $283,000 Christopher Hayes sold property at 16 Peach Tree

11 Lane to Nicholas Reali for $4990,900 Dale Charbonneau sold property at 4205 Rt 50 to DMTG Development LLC for $550,000 Michelle Silvestri sold property at 1 Newington Ave to Cycora Kropp for $209,900 Stephanie Cowser sold property at 24 Lonesome Pine Trails to James Partlow for $825,000


BUSINESS

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Woodworkers Showcase Returns to City Center

Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

A New Podcast Joins the Saratoga Scene by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

Photo provided.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The 33rd annual Northeast Woodworkers Association (NWA) Woodworkers Showcase will return to the Saratoga Springs City Center on March 28 and 29. The showcase will feature over 500 exhibits highlighting the artistry of woodworking. Attendees can expect to see an array of displays, including fine furniture, intricate turnings, carvings, intarsia, scroll work, sculptures, toys, and accessories, as well as musical instruments. Exhibitors, ranging from amateurs to seasoned professionals, will vie for NWA award ribbons in various categories, including Best of Show and People’s Choice. Throughout the two-day event, attendees can participate in lectures and demonstrations highlighted by nationally known master craftsmen Logan Wittmer, Tom McLaughlin, and Libby Schrum, among others.

In addition to the exhibits, numerous national and regional trade vendors will be on-site, offering a diverse selection of wood and woodworking tools and accessories for all skill levels. Sunday is Family Day, where children can learn about woodworking at the Toy Factory, and can build a toy to take home with the help of NWA members. Additionally, children and parents can try their hand at turning and creating a pen on a lathe, guided by NWA members. Part of the Woodworkers Showcase is the Totally Turning Symposium, dedicated to the art of turning wood on a lathe. This symposium requires a separate registration fee, and all attendees must pre-register. The turned creations of the artisans will be on display as part of the overall show. For additional information or tickets, visit www.woodworker.org.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — There is an air of mystery to creating a successful podcast. The conversations and content have to be interesting, of course. But the hosts also need a special rapport, an “it” factor, a je ne sais quoi (if you will) to keep their listeners engaged. Former WTEN/News10 ABC anchor Noel McLaren and restaurateur Zac Denhan (coowner of Standard Fare and Bocage Champagne Bar) had been friends for a year or two before they launched the “Off Track Saratoga Podcast” earlier this month. McLaren has a boatload of experience being on camera and mic’d up. Denham is a selfdescribed “recovering musical theater performer.” United, the two easily weave their way through conversations that can begin with a debate over the spelling and pronunciation of “kerfuffle” to a sincere chat about the realities of doing business in the Spa City. “I think Zac and I are used to, in our lives, having some kind of script or some kind of, at least, an outline for how things are going to go,” McLaren told Saratoga TODAY. “We’ve found that what works best for us is to literally just go off on tangents, and we talk about things that are going on and each other, and that’s how we get our best material.” The “Off Track” hosts exhibit a gift for gab that is hard to replicate. The conversations are meant to feel inviting and casual, as if you, the listener, have just stumbled across two friends conversing over cocktails and pulled up a chair to join them. That friendly vibe is partly achieved by producing episodes outside of a formal studio space. (One day, Saratogians might even spot an episode of “Off Track” being recorded on a front porch on Broadway.) The podcast’s informal aura was matched on its first episode by guest Daniel Chessare, the owner of Saratoga’s Broadway

“Off Track Saratoga Podcast” logo provided.

Deli and Bibulous. Chessare unexpectedly found himself at the center of town gossip recently after a public exchange on Facebook with Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce President Todd Shimkus. In between some censored vocabulary, Chessare, Denham, and McLaren discussed everything from dealing with tourists to the impact of the Saratoga Race Course to Spa City “propaganda” (Chessare’s term). “As soon as everything went down with Dan and the County Chamber, we were like, ‘Let’s jump in on this and get it while it’s relevant,’” Denham said. “The second I saw people caring about something in the community, sirens went off, light bulbs went off, and I said, ‘Well, we’ve got to talk about this,’” McLaren said. “Everything we talk about on our show is going to be newsworthy. It’s going to be stuff that is impacting people in our area, and that was something that is impacting people.” Although the second episode’s guest was Trinity Mouzon (whose family owned the Mouzon House restaurant), the pod won’t only feature local business owners. One future guest, for example, was a contestant on “America’s Next Top Model.” Potential future or dream guests could include Saratoga socialite Michele Riggi (“Where did she go?” wondered McLaren), Opera

Saratoga’s Mary Birnbaum, and track WAGs (the wives and girlfriends of horse trainers). But some episodes won’t have any guests at all, and, ultimately, the hosts hope that their podcast becomes part of the community, which means incorporating the voices and ideas of their listeners. “As long as people tune in and stay engaged, I’m willing to be engaged as well,” Denham said. “I would love to see [the podcast] reach as far and wide as it can. We want to keep this podcast rooted in Saratoga, but we definitely are talking about things that are culturally relevant.” “I feel like something that got exhausting as a journalist to hear was, ‘Oh, the media just spins things’ and ‘The big bad media’ and ‘Big bad journalists,’” McLaren said. “I feel like my gift as a reporter has always been [that] I’m approachable. I want this to feel like a table that everybody can pull a chair up to… If I successfully create something that everybody feels like they can come to and have fun with and enjoy, and I’m also informing them and giving them information about the community, then I have succeeded in continuing the important work of reporting.” The first two episodes of the “Off Track Saratoga Podcast” are currently available on Spotify and Apple.


Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Audiologic Solutions Opens in Spa City

Audiologic Solutions celebrated the grand opening of its new hearing center at 125 High Rock Ave. in Saratoga Springs during a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce. Audiologic Solutions provides personalized hearing and healthcare services designed to ensure that each person’s unique hearing needs are met with precision and empathy. More information is available at www.audiologicsolutions.net. Photo provided by the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.

West Ave Pizza Celebrates 5 Years

West Ave Pizza owner Mario Cardenas listens to Saratoga Springs Mayor John Safford read a proclamation celebrating the pizzeria’s five-year anniversary. Photo by Aidan Cahill.

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Springs Mayor John Safford officially proclaimed March 10 (stylized as Mar10 or “Mario”) to be West Ave Pizza Day in a small ceremony held at the pizzeria on Tuesday afternoon. Safford read from a proclamation written in honor of the pizza shop’s owner, Mario Cardenas. “West Avenue Pizza has achieved tremendous popularity in our city and across our region, offering

its enthusiastic customers a menu that now includes pizza, chicken, Guatemalan dishes, and other specialties,” the mayor said. “It is just as well known for its charitable and philanthropic efforts and support of many organizations in our community. It’s a great example of a local pizzeria and restaurant gaining wide exposure and a wide following through dedication and initiative.” West Ave Pizza has been owned and operated by Cardenas and his family since June 2021.

13

Wesley Community Appoints New Board Members SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Wesley Community recently announced that Alison Abbey and Aura Englese have been appointed to the Board of Directors of The Wesley Community. Abbey is vice president of personnel at Stewart’s Shops and brings 20 years of human resources leadership experience to her role. She oversees a human resources team responsible for payroll and benefits administration for more than 5,500 partners across New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire. Additionally, Abbey works closely with shop operations to address personnel matters, analyze workforce trends, and develop strategies designed to strengthen partner retention and engagement. Englese serves as the director of human resources and corporate compliance officer at AIM Services, a nonprofit that provides residential and community-based services and care

Photos of Alison Abbey and Aura Englese provided by the Wesley Community.

for individuals with disabilities and traumatic brain injuries in Saratoga, Warren, and Washington counties. Englese provides leadership in human resources, corporate compliance, quality assurance and agency operations. She plays an important role in guiding organizational initiatives, strengthening operational effectiveness, and ensuring regulatory integrity across the agency in close collaboration with the executive team.

“We are pleased to welcome Alison and Aura to The Wesley Community Board of Directors,” said J. Brian Nealon, CEO of The Wesley Community. “Their leadership roles and individual strengths will be great assets to our community. Both are seasoned professionals with strong backgrounds in Human Resources and will be instrumental in helping Wesley develop new and innovative ways to offer the best services to our residents.”


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Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026


Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

15


EDUCATION

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Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

Wilton Wildlife Accepting Entries for Annual Earth Day Essay Contest Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park is seeking submissions for their 11th Annual Earth Day Essay Contest. Earth Day, celebrated on April 22 since 1970, brings environmental awareness to the forefront. Earth Day promotes increased environmental consciousness, community participation, and protection of the planet worldwide. The mission of Wilton Wildlife includes environmental education as a priority, and for more than a decade, the Essay Contest has given schoolaged children in the community a chance to express their views, do research, and engage

in ecological topics related to the climate crisis. The theme for 2026 is “We Are One”. Students are invited to write their essays on the Earth being the home that all living things share, and how people can come together to share the valuable resources the Earth provides. Students can write about what they can do to help their communities protect the planet in any capacity. We may be different, living in different countries and cultures, but we are all here together, along with all living things that depend on clean soil, water, and air. We are all together, living on our one

planet, Earth. A panel of judges from Wilton Wildlife will review the essays and select winners in lower elementary, upper elementary, middle school, and high school levels to receive a cash prize and recognition. Runner-up and judges’ choice categories will also be chosen. High school entries must be no longer than 650 words; middle school entries must be no longer than 500 words; and elementary school entries must be at least 10 sentences. Accompanying illustrations are also encouraged. The contest winner from each of the four grade categories

will receive a $50 cash prize! The deadline for entries is on Earth Day, Wednesday, April 22, 2026. Winners will be announced in May, and prizes will be awarded at the Annual Wildlife Festival on Sunday, May 31. Submissions may be mailed to Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park at 80 Scout Road, Wilton, NY 12831, or emailed to info@ wiltonpreserve.org by the deadline. Please include the student’s name, the name of the school, the student’s grade, and their teacher’s name. In addition, please include an email and a phone number, with each student’s entry.

The Annual Earth Day Essay Contest was initiated in 2016 by Wilton Wildlife with the support of two local educators, Betty McCanty and Jane Adams Wait, who helped serve as judges and who funded the prizes for the first years of the contest. For more information, please visit the Wilton Wildlife website at wiltonpreserve.org, email info@wiltonpreserve.org, or call (518) 450-0321. Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park’s mission is to provide environmental education and opportunities for outdoor recreation while supporting conservation of ecological systems and natural settings.


Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

EDUCATION BRIEFS

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Saratoga Rec Skidmore College Dining Department Hosts Services named “Best Choice Inaugural Theater Restaurant” by Monterey Bay Program - Spring 2026 Aquarium Seafood Watch Skidmore College Dining Services has been named a “Best Choice Restaurant,” by the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch, becoming the first collegiate dining program in the country to join the Best Choice Restaurant Program and be recognized for its commitment to sourcing and serving sustainable seafood. The recognition reflects Skidmore’s ongoing commitment to responsible action toward environmental sustainability and climate stewardship. “Skidmore aims to lead by doing,” said Tarah Rowse, director of sustainability and environmental initiatives. “We are demonstrating our leadership and legitimately advancing our sustainability performance. We hope our efforts to be change agents ourselves can inspire others, within and beyond higher education, to support and accelerate a transition to a just and sustainable world.” Through this partnership, Seafood Watch will guide sustainable sourcing efforts and work with Dining leadership to improve purchasing practices and ensure vendors meet responsible standards. Skidmore will label qualifying menu items with the Seafood Watch “Best Choice” mark to identify dishes that meet the program’s highest sustainability standards. “When we choose sustainable seafood, we’re protecting the ocean and people who depend on it. Ordering a Best Choice marked item on the menu is an easy, delicious way to help protect the ocean and support environmentally conscious restaurants,” says Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Vice President of

Skidmore College Executive Chef Michael Hinrichs prepares a meal. Courtesy of Skidmore College.

Global Ocean Conservation, Jennifer Dianto Kemmerly. “The Best Choice Restaurant Program will have tremendous impact because chefs and restaurateurs create culinary experiences that shape diners’ food tastes and their cooking at home, driving demand for sustainable products beyond commercial kitchens.” Aligning with Foundation Five of Skidmore’s Strategic Plan, the program supports the College’s commitment to sustainable food practices, climate action, waste reduction, and environmental stewardship. “Sustainability is not a single initiative for us — it’s embedded in how we think about menus, vendors, and student engagement,” said Michael Hinrichs, executive chef of Skidmore Dining. “This recognition reflects years of intentional work around sourcing, education, and culinary standards.” Beyond sourcing, the partnership advances the College’s goal of building sustainability

literacy. In collaboration with the Office of Sustainability, Dining Services will engage students, faculty, and staff with educational material, including pocket guides, that empower students, faculty, and staff to make informed seafood choices. By earning this designation, Skidmore joins a select group of respected organizations and food industry leaders, including establishments such as The Market Place in Asheville, N.C., and restaurants at Four Seasons properties. “Colleges have a unique opportunity to influence food culture at scale, and this designation affirms that institutional dining can lead to responsible, value-driven purchasing,” said Hinrichs.

The City of Saratoga Springs Recreation Department is excited to announce its inaugural youth theater program, launching April 14, 2026. The program will be directed by Anna Bonner, a senior at Saratoga Springs High School with years of drama experience and a deep passion for the performing arts. She’ll be joined by fellow high school drama club volunteers Finley Armstrong (Stage Manager) and Dante DePaulo (Choreographer). Together, they aim to create a supportive and inspiring space where local youth can step into the spotlight, build confidence, and discover more about themselves through theater. The program’s first production will be Beauty and the Beast. “Theater has always been an important part of my life, and I fell in love with it through a Rec Center program,” says Anna Bonner, Saratoga Rec Theater Director. “I want to give kids that same chance to fall in love with theater the way I did — in a healthy, supportive environment — while also coming full circle in my own love for the arts.” The addition of a theater program marks an exciting expansion for the Rec Center. While the department has traditionally focused on sports programming, this new offering opens the door

to creative arts opportunities and welcomes a broader group of participants. The program is open to youth ages 8–14, and no prior theater experience is required. City and non-city residents are welcome, and every participant will receive a role. Auditions will take place on the first day in a low-stress, fun format that includes theater games and reading lines from favorite characters. “We’ve been wanting to expand our offerings beyond sports for years,” says John Hirliman, Recreation Department Director. “We were waiting to find the right person to lead it, and Anna came in with both a plan and a purpose. She’s working closely with Hannah Hertik, our newest Program Coordinator and Camp Saradac Director, to get this program off the ground. With the two of them leading the way, it’s sure to be a program the community will remember for years to come.” Event Details Date: Tues & Thurs, April 14 – May 15 Time: 4:00-6:00PM Show Dates: Thursday, May 14 & Friday, May15 (participants will meet 4:00-8:00pm on show days) *There will be a Tech Week 5/11-5/15 to prepare for the shows at the end of the week. Location: Saratoga Rec Center, 15 Vanderbilt Avenue


Food

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Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

Spring into Spring SATURDAYS 9:30 A.M. - 1:30 P.M.

WILTON MALL FOOD COURT

End-of-Winter Composed Salad

by Andrea Grom for Saratoga TODAY Photos by Pattie Garrett.

I

t’s been a long, hard winter and if you’re anything like me, you might find yourself in a bit of a food rut. The stews, braises and casseroles that were so delicious in January now seem heavy and dull. As the days lengthen, it only feels right to nourish the body and spirit with refreshing dishes that welcome spring. This transition doesn’t have to be complicated. The main idea is to begin combining cooked foods with raw ingredients and focus on lighter, brighter meals. Here are some ideas: Incorporate seasonal proteins: Hens start laying additional eggs as the days lengthen, so you’ll see more dozens at the market from Kokinda Farm, Jireh Organic Farm & Livestock, and Hepatica Farm. Try hard boiled eggs on salads or in egg curry and poached eggs on a bed of spinach or in shakshuka. Eat the rainbow: Greens from Lovin’ Mama Farm and Gomez Veggie Ville will become more abundant as March progresses. Storage vegetables add color and depth. Try warm, roasted root vegetables on kale salad with a lemony vinaigrette, roasted beet salad with blood oranges, lettuce, and pan-fried salmon from Coleman’s Catch, and a carrot ginger soup with microgreens and sourdough bread. Steam, sauté, stir-fry: Turn off the slow cooker and opt for a quicker cooking style. How about pan-seared pork chops from May-K-Mark or Grazin’ Acres or lamb chops from Thymeless Homestead? This would pair nicely with German potato salad and a carrot-cilantro slaw. Or perhaps try Pad Thai or a stir-fry with steak from Longlesson Farm and shredded cabbage, carrots, radishes and scallions.

Heap on the herbs: Parsley, dill, cilantro, chives, and mint, especially combined with citrus, refresh the palate in spring dishes. Visit Lovin’ Mama Farm for fresh herbs and Muddy Trails Jerky Company for a variety of dried herb blends. Finesse with ferments: Fermented foods and tonics aid in digestion and help to detox. Try Puckers Gourmet kimchi or sauerkraut and a tahini yogurt dressing in a colorful Buddha bowl. Or sip on a spritzer with an offering from Awakened Tonics. Share the treats: There is no need to forgo treats at the market, just remember to share. Invite your friends for a dessert charcuterie board with selections from Katie Bakes Gluten Free, Parchment Baking Company, Bakery Suzanne, and Sweet Treats by Jennifer. I like to cut the larger goodies into bite-sized pieces. Or visit homebound neighbors and enjoy a treat with them. Happy spring! The Saratoga Farmers’ Market is open on Saturdays from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. in the Wilton Mall Food Court. Find us online at www.saratogafarmersmarket.org, where you can sign up for our weekly newsletter, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @ SaratogaFarmersMarket.

YIELDS: 4 servings | PREP & COOK TIME: 20 min

INGREDIENTS: *Ingredients currently available at the farmers’ market • *Ingredients currently available at the farmers’ market • 2 cups leftover grain of choice (e.g., farro, barley, wild and/or brown rice) • 3 cups salad greens* (e.g., lettuce, mustards, arugula, microgreens and/or kale) • 1-2 cups leftover roasted root vegetables* (e.g., beets, carrots, potatoes, butternut squash, and/or parsnips) • 4 oz smoked salmon or cooked chicken breast, cut

into bite-sized pieces* • 3-4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and quartered* • 2 Tbsp. kimchi or sauerkraut* • 4 oz Chèvre (goat cheese), crumbled* • 2-3 chopped scallions* • 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, dill, cilantro)* • ¼ cup toasted sunflower seeds • 2 Tbsp. white wine or balsamic vinaigrette

INSTRUCTIONS: Compose this salad in a large flat bowl or on a platter. The bottom layer should be the grains, then top with the salad greens, roasted root vegetables and your choice of protein. Add a few dollops of kimchi or sauerkraut. Sprinkle on the herbs, cheese, scallions, and seeds and drizzle on the dressing. An artful arrangement is key here, so take your time putting this salad together. Excellent for lunch or dinner. Note: To roast root vegetables: cut into rough 1-inch chunks, drizzle with olive oil and add salt and pepper. Toss evenly to coat and spread in an even layer on a roasting pan. Roast at 425 degrees for 30 minutes or until tender and caramelized. Recipe and recipe photo by Andrea Grom


Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

Food

BRING ON THE Corned Beef and Cabbage

by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY

Hello my Foodie Friends ! The upcoming week includes a very fun holiday; it is St. Patrick’s Day. My mother, who was Italian, used to say “Everyone is Irish on St. Patty’s day”. My father, who was Irish, always agreed because if he didn’t, he ran the risk of not getting her delicious Corned Beef and Cabbage. So, here is to all of our “Irish” lads and lassies. Preparing Corned Beef and Cabbage does require some essential tools. As you look for tools to use to make your Corned Beef and Cabbage; you may need a Dutch oven or a stock pot, and a good chef (cook’s knife). The chef ’s knife (sometimes called a cook’s knife) is the most important knife to have in your kitchen and within your knife collection. A chef ’s knife is the go-to tool for more than 90 percent of daily kitchen tasks including most slicing and dicing of fruits, vegetables, meats, and fish. And while a chef ’s knife may be the “king of the kitchen,” it should not be used to butcher or carve poultry, to remove the skin of large vegetables such as butternut squash, or, as some people have tried, to puncture a hole in cans. The broadness of a chef ’s knife blade makes it unwieldy for tasks better suited to a smaller knife. Many of our customers ask me what is the best brand knife to have. Choosing a chef ’s knife “is like choosing a dance partner.” A knife that feels comfortable and graceful in your hand might feel klutzy to someone else. When you start shopping for that perfect chef ’s knife—one that will make slicing, dicing, chopping, and mincing more pleasurable, precise, and effortless—it’s important to identify

your personal preferences, and to realize that there isn’t one knife that’s right for everyone. Finding your ideal knife might take a little time, but you’ll know it when you’ve found it. Once you’ve got a knife in your hand you should immediately get a sense of its fit. It should feel comfortable, like a natural extension of your hand. It should inspire confidence, not instill fear. If it feels wrong, move on. If it feels pretty good; start chopping (or mock chopping), noting how you respond to the knife’s physical characteristics. Weight: You’ll need to try several knives to find your ideal knife weight. One school of thought believes a hefty chef ’s knife cuts through foods easier because it “falls” with more force. Another thinks a lighter chef ’s knife flows more freely and lets you maneuver the knife more skillfully. Bottom line: Choose the style that feels right to you. Balance: “Perfect balance” is in the palm of the beholder. Judge balance by gripping the knife by its handle. If it feels uncomfortably weighted toward the back of the handle or toward the blade, then it probably isn’t for you. An unbalanced knife will make you work harder. Side-to-side balance is also important. When you come down on the blade, the knife shouldn’t feel unstable, as if it

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Here is a classic St. Patrick’s Day Recipe: Corned Beef and Cabbage INGREDIENTS • For the corned beef

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

• 1 flat-cut corned beef brisket (about 4 pounds)

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

• 1/4 teaspoon mustard seed

• Dijon or grainy mustard, for serving

• 1/4 teaspoon coriander seed • 1/8 teaspoon whole cloves wants to teeter toward one side or the other. Size: An 8-inch chef ’s knife is the most popular among home cooks because of its versatility. A 10-incher’s longer blade can cut more volume but may feel intimidating. A 6-inch chef ’s knife can offer an element of agility, like that of a paring knife, but falls short when working with volume or when slicing through something large, like a watermelon. As you prepare for your St. Patrick’s Day celebration events; Stop by Compliments to the Chef, your Neighborhood Kitchen and Cutlery store located at 33 Railroad Place and let us help you choose the best knife for you. We carry some of the best knives made in the world. As you celebrate, be sure to compliment the chef and the host. Remember my Foodie Friends “Life Happens in the Kitchen!”.

Take Care, John & Paula

• 1/8 teaspoon whole peppercorns • 2 to 3 bay leaves • 1 large onion, peeled and quartered • 6 Yukon Gold potatoes (about 1 pound), halved, or quartered, if large

• For the horseradish sauce (Optional) • 1 cup sour cream • 3 tablespoons whole milk • 1 tablespoon lemon juice, or more to taste • 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish in brine, or more to taste

• 1 small head cabbage (about 1 3/4 pounds), outer tough leaves removed and cut into 6 wedges

• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 12 slender carrots (about 1 pound), peeled and left whole

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

• 1/4 teaspoon salt • 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Make the horseradish sauce (optional): In a bowl, stir the sour cream and milk together until blended. Stir in the lemon juice, horseradish, and mustard. Add the salt, pepper, and parsley, and taste. Add more horseradish or lemon juice, if you like. Cover and set in the refrigerator until ready to serve. 2. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F. 3. Prepare the meat for braising: Discard the spice packet that came with the beef. In a Dutch oven or other large, heavybottomed pot, place the brisket, mustard seed, coriander seed, cloves, peppercorns, bay leaves, and onion quarters. Add enough cold water to just cover the meat. 4. Braise the meat: Over medium heat on the stovetop, bring the water to a boil. Cover the pot and place in the oven for 3 1/2 hours, or until the beef is very tender when pierced with a fork. Remove the meat from the broth with tongs and transfer it to a shallow baking dish or baking sheet. 5. Brown the meat: Increase the oven temperature to 425°F. Place the corned beef in the oven with a ladle of stock, and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the top browns. Transfer the meat to a cutting board, cover with foil to keep warm, and let rest while you cook the vegetables. Turn off the oven. 6. Strain the stock, cook the vegetables, and slice the meat: In a fine mesh strainer, strain the stock and return it to the pot. Add the salt. With a ladle, skim the fat that rises to the top. Bring it to a boil. Add the potatoes and adjust the heat to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes. Add the cabbage wedges and carrots, cover and bring to a simmer again. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes, carrots, and cabbage are tender. Transfer them to a deep platter, cover with foil, and keep them warm in the turned-off oven. 7. Slice and serve the corned beef: Slice the beef across the grain into 1/4-inch thick slices. Transfer them to the platter with the vegetables, and spoon a few ladles of stock over the meat and vegetables. Sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve with mustard and/or horseradish sauce. Recipe courtesy of Simply Recipes at simplyrecipes.com


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This Week’s Events: MAR. 13-19 FRIDAY, MARCH 13 Call for Local Folk or Irish Performers Malta Community Center, One Bayberry Dr., Malta | Come audition for an opportunity to showcase your talent during “Café Malta”, an intimate coffee house. It’s lucky Friday the 13th right before St. Patrick’s Day! We are looking for talented musicians, vocalists, and small acoustic bands, storytellers and/or dancers. Each acoustic act selected will play a short 10–15-minute set. Auditions are by appointment only. Contact Elyse Young, Artistic Director, at 518-899-4411 x 305 or theater@townofmalta.gov for more details or to schedule an audition.

Mini-Golf in the Library Clifton Park Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Rd., Clifton Park | Adults: 6:15-6:45 p.m., All ages: 6:45-8:30 p.m. Celebrate nine Novel Holidays with a round of mini-golf. Putt your way through Squirrel Appreciation Day, Lost Sock Memorial Day, and more. The last round of golf begins at 8 p.m. All participants will be entered into a prize raffle. 518371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org.

SATURDAY, MARCH 14 The 20th Annual Upstate Sports Summer Expo Saratoga Springs City Center, 522 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Beat cabin fever and get excited about spring and summer at the gathering of outdoor sports, recreation, health/ fitness, and travel enthusiasts! The free admission, high energy show brings Upstate Sports & Vermont Sports magazines to life with 200

exhibitors covering running, biking, paddling, hiking, triathlon, recreation, health/ fitness, and travel. For more info and an updated list of exhibitors, visit: upstatesports. fun/summer-expo. For details and updates on the Summer Expo and our magazines, follow or like us on facebook. com/adirondacksports and instagram.com/ adirondacksports.

Rummage Sale and Chowder and Soup Sale Charlton Freehold Presbyterian Church, 768 Charlton Rd. Charlton | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Free Community Lunch Malta Ridge Methodist Church, 729 Malta Ave. Ext. Malta | 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. The lunch includes soup, sandwich, beverage and dessert, and is served at no charge. All are welcome. For questions or directions call the church on the lunch date, after 10 a.m. 518-581-0210.

4:30 – 6 p.m. Cost: Free-will donation. Come Join us!

Ready, Set, Glow Saratoga YMCA, 290 West Ave., Saratoga Springs | Help Bikeatoga Raise Funds for the Dake Foundation. Bikeatoga is riding in a relay-style stationary bike fundraiser to support the Dake Foundation, and we need your help to make a real impact. The Dake Foundation provides grants to local children with disabilities, helping cover equipment and services not paid for by insurance and supporting the nonprofits that serve them. Every donation, no matter the size, moves us closer to that goal. Event & fundraising deadline: Saturday, March 14. If you’ve been looking for a way to support local kids in a tangible, meaningful way, this is it. Help us show up strong for the Dake Foundation. Donate here: https://givebutter. com/bikeforkids2026/ bikeatogaorg.

SUNDAY, MARCH 15

Escape to the Leprechaun Limited!

All You Can Eat Country Breakfast

Corinth Station, 9 Railroad Place, Corinth | 12 p.m. A 1.5-hr vintage train ride aboard the SC & H Railway offering heated cars, scenic views & a lucky green ribbon wish. Spot mischievous Diesel McGreedy in the pines & enjoy a magical day! Visit Corinthtrain.com to learn more and purchase tickets.

Gansevoort Fire House, 1870 Route 32N, Gansevoort | 8 – 11 a.m. Menu includes: eggs cooked to order, omelets, pancakes, hash, French toast, home fries, biscuits with sausage gravy, orange juice, milk, and coffee. Donation: $12 adults, $10 Seniors 55+ and Military and 1st Responders, $10 children age 6-12, children under 6 yrs. old are free.

Pastor Installation Ceremony Presbyterian United Church of Christ, 24 Circular Drive, Saratoga Springs | 3 p.m. Ceremony and Service to install new settled pastor. All are welcome. 518-584-6091, puccchurch.org, @puccchurch.

Corned Beef Dinner The Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church, 175 5th Avenue, Saratoga Springs |

Monthly Indoor Craft and Garage Sale Saratoga Wilton Elks Lodge, 1 Elk Lane, Saratoga Springs | 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Admission is free with over 40 vendors, great parking, bargains galore, and lunch available too. Just about anything you can imagine might be offered: soaps, body creams, Scentsy and craft items; as well as anything garage sale. It’s a

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fun activity the entire family enjoys. All proceeds go to the Elks Scholarship Fund. An 8’ table with chairs is $15. Email Debbie @ deborahozolins@ gmail.com or call 518-226-5595 for information or to sign up for a table(s). Applications are available in the Elks Lobby after 3 pm Monday through Saturday.

& non-members) if there are any supplies left. Payments can be in checks or cash. Following the presentation, there will be light refreshments and a meeting. Dues for the year to join the Thymly Herb Group are $20. The first meeting is free. Please RSVP if you are attending or have questions to thymlyherbgroup1@gmail.com.

Tang Guide Tour with Juliet Young ‘28

Saratoga Parkinson’s Support Group Meeting

Tang Museum Atrium, Skidmore College, 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 2 p.m. A tour of the Museum and current exhibitions with Tang Guide Juliet Young ’28. This event is open to the public, and visitors are invited to stay after the tour and look around the galleries. For more information, visit tang.skidmore.edu.

The Saratoga Senior Center, 290 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs | 2:30 p.m. Our speaker is Sue Lipscomb, who is the Group Exercise Director at the Saratoga branch of the SRYMCA. She will speak not only about the Parkinson’s classes provided at the Y but other suitable exercise classes as well. Look forward to seeing you there. 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, Co-Leader Marie Thorne softballmom300@yahoo.com 518-810-8483.

Doing Our Part Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa | 2 – 3 p.m. Learn from Nancy White as she describes the development and purpose of her many gardens within The Healing Garden - a unique property certified as a United Plant Savers Botanical Sanctuary, with an environment rich in biodiversity, including endangered native medicinal plants and wetlands. The house was built with a focus on sustainability, i.e., to conserve fossil fuels and water, and with great attention to clean air and renewable materials. Nancy will share practical and economical ways we can enact environmental improvements in our own backyards. Reservations for tours will be available on the day of the presentation.

MONDAY, MARCH 16 Thymly Herb Group Meeting 4H Training Center, 556 Middleline Rd, Ballston Spa | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. We will not meet if the Ballston Spa Schools are closed. Carol Atwater will teach us the ins and outs of grafting fruit trees so they can thrive in this region. Please note there is a fee for nonmembers for supplies. Cost for non-members will be $15 and members are free. A second graft set will be $5 (members

Experts Next Door: American Women and Expatriate Life in Interwar Paris Live on Zoom | 7 p.m. This discussion will consider an important segment of expatriates to Paris post-WWI: American women. What drove so many American women out of their own country after 1918, and what did they hope to find in Paris? To what extent did American women who felt constrained and limited by life at home find freedom in expatriation? Through tracing the lives of women such as the Harlem Renaissance poet Gwendolyn Bennett, and the founder of the Shakespeare and Company bookstore, Sylvia Beach, this presentation will explore the gendered experience of expatriation in this new, modern era of mobility. Register: brooksidemuseum.org.

TUESDAY, MARCH 17 Pierogi Sale Christ the Savior Orthodox Church, 349 Eastline Rd., Ballston Lake | 11:30 a.m. –


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12:30 p.m. Pick up. Potato/ cheese, sauerkraut, and farmer’s cheese will be available. You can call 518-363-0001 to place an order.

Town of Greenfield Historical Society Meeting Town of Greenfield Community Center, 25 Wilton Rd, Greenfield Center | 7 p.m. We’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day during Woman’s History month. We will explore the storied life of Chauncey Olcott as told by his wife Rita O’Donovan Olcott in her book “Song in His Heart.” The Olcotts resided on Clinton Street in Saratoga Springs for many decades. Mary Ann Fitzgerald, recently retired city historian, will take us back to the path of Chauncey Olcott, becoming a renowned American musical stage actor, singer and songwriter of many tunes including “My Wild Irish Rose,” and “When Irish Eyes are Smiling.”

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18 Pickin’s The Milton Community Center, 310 Northline Rd. Ballston Spa | 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. Open to the Public, Free Admission & ample free parking. Doors open 1 p.m. All acoustic musicians who enjoy playing

UPCOMING

Events

Saratoga Men’s Baseball League Seeking Players The Saratoga Men’s Baseball League is looking for players age 28 and over for the upcoming season. The season runs from May through August. For more information, call or text 518-470-7894 by March 20.

A Fun Night of Line Dancing Join us Friday, March 20 from 6-9 pm for a fun night of line dancing at Murray’s Fools Distilling Company, 7152 Amsterdam-Glenville

country/western, folk, gospel & bluegrass are welcome to participate. If you don’t play, become part of the audience and enjoy the music. Bring a snack to share. Beverages provided. Call Earl 518-3489922 with questions.

Chicken and Biscuits 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: chicken and biscuits, mashed potatoes, vegetables, salad. Dinner $15 (cash only).

Free Community Meal Maplewood Parkway Methodist Church, 15 Maplewood Parkway, S. Glens Falls | 5 – 6 p.m. This month’s meal is Shepherd’s Pie. The meal is held on the third Wednesday of each month.

Winter/Miller Lecture: Christopher Myers Tang Museum Payne Room, Skidmore College, 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 6 p.m. Join us for the ninth annual Winter/Miller Lecture featuring acclaimed multidisciplinary artist Christopher Myers. Myers is a visual artist, children’s book author and illustrator, textile artist, and has worked in both

Road, Glenville, in support of Gateway House of Peace. Dance the night and winter blahs away with Allison Drapeau, Board Vice President of Gateway House of Peace and line dancing instructor, as she leads beginner-friendly lessons followed by open dancing—NO experience needed. We’ll also have a 50/50 raffle and themed baskets. Food will be available for separate purchase. $10 cover charge with 50% of all cover proceeds will automatically be donated directly to Gateway House. Come dance to donate and give back to this incredible mission. We can’t wait to see you there. Dance your winter blahs away and have a lot of fun.

Genealogy and Local History Heritage Hunters will meet Saturday, March 21, at 1

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CALENDAR theater and film. Through his many mediums he answers, and asks questions, about how storytelling can change lives. Free and open to the public. For more information, visit tang.skidmore.edu

Henry Knox: Resolve Forged by Revolution Brookside Museum 21 Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa | 6 p.m. In the winter of 1775–1776, hope for a free America was nearly frozen by the British occupation of Boston. One patriot—Henry Knox—answered the call, leading a dangerous, expedition through snow, mountains, and doubt to move the legendary Noble Train of Artillery. This is a story of courage, conviction, and resolve—one that helped liberate Boston and forged an enduring legacy of Americans’ resolve. This event is presented by Saratoga County History Center and the Campaign for Saratoga 250, Inc.

Nature Art Workshop: Landscape Painting Wilton Preserve and Park, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton | 6 – 8:30 p.m. Looking to channel your inner artist? Each month will feature a nature-themed art project. Explore different art mediums while learning about the Saratoga Sand Plains. Register online, www.wiltonpreserve.org or call 518-450-0321.

p.m. at the Town of Saratoga Town Hall, 12 Spring St. in Schuylerville. Town of Waterford Historian, Russ VanDervoort will discuss his adventures in unearthing his family’s surname story. A shotgun wedding, Civil War Service, a nasty court case, and a maverick family member telling his family’s story, all influenced the evolution of his family name. Russ had been told several versions of his ancestors’ stories. He will explain the process that helped him determine the truths of how the changes took place. Russ has held many positions in Waterford and has written several local history books. For information, call 518-885-9309.

Seed Starting Lesson and Workshop Join the enthusiastic and knowledgeable Madison Blodgett

Astronomy Club Galway Public Library, 2112 East Street, Galway | 6:30 pm. The presentation is entitled Charles Messier and His Beginner Targets List. The Club is open to adults and teens (middle school and older). Registration is requested, but not required, by calling 518-882-6385. New members are welcome.

Science on Tap Common Roots Brewing Company, 58 Saratoga Ave., S. Glens Falls | 7 p.m. Admission is free and all ages are welcome. Come early to get a bite to eat. Speaker: Kelsey Jensen, Measuring What Matters: Turning Soil Data into Climate Solutions. https:// sustainablesaratoga.org/event/ science-on-tap-11/.

THURSDAY, MARCH 19 Academy for Lifelong Learning Open House Knights of Columbus, 50 Pine Rd, Saratoga Springs | 2 - 3:30 p.m. Free and open to the public. No reservations required. Find out what the Academy is all about and hear from some course leaders about their 20 spring course offerings. Light refreshments will be served. For more information on the Academy for Lifelong Learning, visit www.allsaratoga.

for an exciting hands-on workshop where you’ll discover the essential skills needed to start seeds indoors. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to cultivate your green thumb while embracing sustainability and environmental stewardship. Join us and become part of a vibrant community of local residents passionate about gardening and healthy living—register today. Cost of event is $25, pre-payment and registration required, all funds go to the Unlimited Garden Fundraiser. Pre-registration can be made by emailing Jessica Luse at jmh452@ cornell.edu. Registration deadline is March 13.

The Windermere Children Saratoga Jewish Community Arts, with a generous grant from the Jewish Federation of

org or contact Academy Executive Director, Jeff Shinaman at jeff@allsaratoga. org or call 518-290-6988.

Historian Tea Talk: Women of Schuyler Mansion Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa | 3 p.m. The “Schuyler Sisters” cause quite a stir in the Broadway musical Hamilton: An American Musical, but did you know that there were really five sisters? Born and raised in Albany, they were the daughters of Revolutionary War General and United States Senator, Philip Schuyler, and his wife, Catherine Van Rensselaer of patroon lineage. George and Martha Washington, Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, Benedict Arnold, Horatio Gates, and Dolley Madison were just a few of their friends, associates, and adversaries. Learn what it was like growing up as a Schuyler with an indepth look at the history of the Schuyler sisters and the life of their mother, Catharine. Register: brooksidemuseum. org.

Lenten Vespers Service Presbyterian United Church of Christ, 24 Circular Drive, Saratoga Springs | 7-8pm. 518584-6091, puccchurch.org, @ puccchurch.

Northeastern New York and the sponsorship of Temple Sinai of Saratoga Springs, presents a panel discussion of the PBS drama, The Windermere Children. The program is scheduled for Tuesday, March 24 at 7 p.m. on Zoom. Several books and films have chronicled the 10,000 children rescued out of Europe during World War II on what became known as Kindertransport, the trains that carried the children to safety in Great Britain. Lesser known is the smaller, postwar British mission to rescue Jewish orphans who survived the concentration camps and give them a chance to reclaim their lives. Pre-registration is required. To register, https:// lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/ kVG1OUi/WindemereChildren


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Puzzles Across 1 “Such a pity!” 5 Caramel custard 9 Championship game 14 Quick meal 15 Country great McEntire 16 “Feliz año nuevo” month 17 Ballpark figures 19 Adulated ones 20 Climactic beginning? 21 Challenge for 64-Down students 23 Garden vessel 24 Chromebook maker 26 Reclusive one 28 Mythological event depicted in a 2017 “Thor” film 32 Share on social media 35 “Xanadu” rock gp. 36 Saintly ring 37 Baghdad currency 38 Heaps and heaps 40 Gross figures 43 __-switching 44 Gold-loving king 46 Courtroom entry 48 Home of the world’s tallest building, briefly 49 Blind dates, e.g. 51 Enhances 53 Different 55 California wine region 56 __ choy 58 Like some change 60 JD-to-be’s hurdle 63 Dogpatch name 65 Headwear featured four times in this puzzle 68 Baggy 69 Like one of Picasso’s periods 70 Trickster of Asgard 71 Cries like a kitten 72 Barely noticeable 73 All those in favor Down 1 Civil War POTUS 2 “Abbott Elementary” actress __ Ann Walter 3 Memo abbr. 4 Staple of some plant-based diets 5 Title for a monk

See puzzle solutions on page 39

See puzzle solution on page 39 6 “Time to go!” 7 One of Eve’s sons 8 Sounding congested 9 Pretended 10 Third-party abbr. 11 Self-identifier such as “ze” or “hir” 12 “My Soft Machine” singer Parks 13 Played scissors against rock, say 18 Book between Jonah and Nahum 22 Neither partner 25 Notable times 27 Awesome 28 Paper orders 29 Classic TV’s “Kate & __” 30 “Thanks for the info” 31 Turtlelike Mario Bros. foe 33 Nobelist Anwar 34 Forest denizens

39 Not slack 41 Hairstyle with a uniform length 42 Streets of Rage game company 45 Baseballs and basketballs, but not rugby balls 47 Substantial 50 Health class topic 52 Nabe south of Pasadena 54 Bar mitzvah figure 56 Application to chapped lips 57 Clarinet kin 59 Fringe group 61 Nautical call 62 Swipe 64 Subj. for some citizenship applicants 66 __ lime pie 67 Poetic contraction

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: Defective, Deficient Defective means faulty. The scanner’s defective circuit board can easily be replaced. Deficient means lacking completeness or a key ingredient. Tests proved her diet was deficient in calcium and magnesium. 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


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Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

SCAN TO VOTE NOW!

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com/Best-Of-2026

It’s time for the annual

BEST OF THE SARATOGA REGION

Local business will go head-to-head in

100 CATEGORIES as they vie for THE BEST in their field.

Voting Ends April 9, 2026 Winners will be announced in May.

Nominate and Vote for your favorite local restaurants, shops, businesses, hangouts and more! Please allow 24 business day hours for nominations to go live.

VOTE TODAY: SARATOGATODAYNEWSPAPER.COM/BEST-OF-2026


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Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

SCAN TO VOTE NOW! saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com/Best-Of-2026

It’s time for the annual

BEST OF THE SARATOGA REGION

Local business will go head-to-head in

100 CATEGORIES as they vie for THE BEST in their field.

Voting Ends April 9, 2026 Winners will be announced in May.

Nominate and Vote for your favorite local restaurants, shops, businesses, hangouts and more! Please allow 24 business day hours for nominations to go live.

VOTE TODAY: SARATOGATODAYNEWSPAPER.COM/BEST-OF-2026


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Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

SCAN TO VOTE NOW!

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com/Best-Of-2026

Voting Ends April 9, 2026


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Families

TODAY

Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

The Global Seesaw: Why Oil Prices Still Rule Our World

by Stephen Kyne, CFP Sterling Manor Financial

for Saratoga TODAY When we think of oil, most of us picture the numbers ticking upward at the gas pump. But in the grand machinery of

the global economy, oil is less like a simple fuel and more like the blood in the veins of modern commerce. Whether you’re buying a head of lettuce or a high-tech laptop, its journey to you was paved with petroleum. As we’ve seen in the past few weeks, the “price of a barrel” isn’t just a stat for Wall Street; it’s a pulse check for global stability. The Middle East remains the heart of global oil production. However, it’s not just about the oil under the sand; it’s about the narrow stretches of water through which that oil must travel. The Strait of Hormuz, a tiny chokepoint between Oman and Iran, handles roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply. When tensions flare— as they did recently with the military strikes involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran—the

market doesn’t wait for a physical shortage to happen. It reacts to uncertainty. This is known as a “risk premium.” Traders start betting that supply might be cut off, which sends prices skyrocketing. In early March, we saw Brent crude leap toward $120 a barrel almost overnight simply because the world held its breath. High oil prices act like an “invisible tax” on everyone. Here is how that spike at the source ripples through your life: • The Grocery Bill:

Farmers use diesel for tractors and petroleum-based fertilizers. Truckers need fuel to deliver the food. When oil goes up, the price of your morning avocado toast follows. • The Amazon Effect: Shipping and logistics companies face massive fuel surcharges. To protect their profit margins, they pass those costs down to the consumer. • The Inflation Headache: Central banks (like the Federal Reserve) watch oil closely. If energy costs stay high,

it drives up overall inflation. To fight this, they might keep interest rates higher for longer, making your mortgage or car loan more expensive. The true danger of Middle Eastern uncertainty isn’t just the price of a gallon of gas; it’s the paralysis of investment. When CEOs don’t know if energy costs will double next month, they hesitate to build new factories or hire more staff. This “waitand-see” approach can slow down the entire global engine, leading to stagnation. While the world is sprinting toward a “green” future, we aren’t there yet. For now, we are still tethered to the geopolitical winds of the Persian Gulf. A single drone over a refinery or a closed shipping lane can still dictate whether the global economy grows or grinds to a halt. Stephen Kyne, CFP® is a Partner at Sterling Manor Financial, LLC Sterling Manor Financial, LLC is an SEC Registered Investment Advisor and does not provide tax or legal advice, nor is it a third-party administrator. Consult your attorney or accountant prior to implementing any tax or legal strategies.


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TODAY

Electronic Wills Are Coming to New York What does this mean for your estate planning?

by Anna R. Myers Norton, Esq. for Saratoga TODAY Beginning in June 2027, the execution of a Last Will and Testament may be completed electronically under New York law. Historically, the execution ceremony for a Will has taken place in an attorney’s office, with the client physically signing their Will in the presence of at least two witnesses. The New York Electronic Wills Act, which became law late last year, expands on this process by allowing Wills to be signed and witnessed electronically, with the assistance of computers, smartphones, and other digital technology, provided specific statutory requirements are met. Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about what this change may mean for you and your loved ones. What is an Electronic Will? An Electronic Will is a Will executed in compliance with law using the assistance of computer technology. This includes electronic signatures, and witnesses who are electronically present through live video conferencing. Who benefits from this new law? The ability to execute a Will electronically may particularly benefit individuals who do not currently have a Will because it is impractical or impossible to meet with an attorney in person. This includes individuals with limited mobility, those who live

far from their attorney, or individuals who are temporarily located outside of New York. Must an Electronic Will be signed on a computer? No. While an Electronic Will can be executed entirely online, it may also begin as a paper Will that the client signs, with computer technology used to complete other execution requirements. Are Electronic Wills witnessed? Yes. Whether the client signs a physical or electronic document, two disinterested witnesses must observe the client signing their Will, or the client must acknowledge their signature to the witnesses, in real time. The witnesses then have thirty days to attest to the client’s signature and sign their names at the end of the Electronic Will. Are Electronic Wills notarized? No. Like traditional paper Wills, the client’s signature on an Electronic Will is not required to be notarized. However, to complete self-proving documents that typically accompany a Will as proof of its proper execution, the client must complete an acknowledgment in the physical or electronic presence of a Notary Public. What technology is needed? Generally, the client and witnesses will need a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or computer equipped with a camera and microphone, along with the ability to connect to the internet and access email. Can an Electronic Will be signed outside of New York? Yes. An Electronic Will may be executed by an individual who is physically located outside of New York State at the time of signing. How is the integrity of an Electronic Will preserved? A true and complete electronic copy of an Electronic Will must be filed with the New York Unified Court System within thirty days of its execution together with audit trail data. The Electronic Will then remains in the court’s custody

until it is withdrawn in accordance with the law. Must all Wills be filed with the court? No. Only Electronic Wills must be filed with the court. Filing a traditional paper Will that was signed by the client in the physical presence of two disinterested witnesses remains at the client’s discretion. Can Electronic Wills be revoked? Yes. An Electronic Will may be revoked at any time by executing a subsequent Will or separate writing that clearly indicates the client’s intent to revoke all or part of the Electronic Will. An Electronic Will may also be revoked by requesting that it be removed from the New York Unified Court System. Can Electronic Wills be probated? Yes. If properly executed in accordance with New York law, an Electronic Will has the same legal effect as a traditional paper Will and can be considered by a court for its admission

to probate. Is an attorney needed for an Electronic Will? No. However, as with traditional Wills, there are specific legal formalities that must be followed during the execution of an Electronic Will. If these formalities are not properly observed, the Electronic Will may later be found invalid during the estate administration process. For this reason, having an

experienced estate planning attorney supervise the execution of your Will, whether electronic or traditional, is highly recommended to ensure it complies with all statutory requirements. Anna R. Myers Norton is an associate attorney with O’Connell and Aronowitz, One Court Street, Saratoga Springs, New York. Anna’s practice focuses on trust and estate law, including estate planning, estate administration, and guardianship.


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Families

Lent with little (and big) boys

by Kate Morna Towne for Saratoga TODAY I hope you enjoy this reprint from a few years ago! Several of my boys have given up screens this year, which has resulted in some really nice family time (but also more time to bother one’s brothers, sigh). We observe Lent in our house, which refers to the six weeks before Easter, starting with Ash Wednesday. It’s meant to be a time of fasting and prayer in preparation for celebrating the most holy time of our faith calendar, thus mirroring the forty days Jesus spent in the desert praying and fighting off temptations as told in the books of Matthew, Mark, and Luke in the Bible. We are currently finishing up the second (sic) full week of Lent. (Note: That was back when I first wrote this; we are now finishing up the third full week.)

Catholics traditionally give up certain things that we enjoy during Lent, as you might give up unhealthy foods if you’re training to run a marathon, or give up watching late-night TV the week before a big test. These self-imposed restrictions help us turn our minds and hearts toward Easter; they help us “get healthy” spiritually. For children, the idea of “giving something up for Lent” has predictable and often hilarious results. Are there any Catholic children who haven’t joked (in all seriousness!) that they’ve decided to give up school this Lent? Or homework? Or doing their chores? Each child thinks they’re the first one to think of this, and each child just about dies laughing over it. My four-year-old understands more this year than he ever has and thinks his brothers’ crazy ideas about giving up eating vegetables and giving up going to bed early on school nights are the funniest things he’s ever heard. Then there are the children who take the idea of Lenten sacrifice very seriously and try to make it as hard as possible for themselves and tell me that they’ve decided to

TODAY

Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

“MOTHERING BOYS” give up their very favorite things. Except, when your very favorite thing is milk, I’m not going to let you give it up! Nor when you want to give up reading or going outside to play. Even things like “giving up movie night with the family” aren’t okay with me — things that are good and healthy for the mind, body, soul, and relationships are, in general, not included in the list of the things that children should be giving up, as far as I’m concerned. As long as they don’t want to give up good and healthy things, though, I don’t generally mind if my big boys decide to make Lent extra Lent-y. I’ve had boys decide to give up all TV, for example, and video games, and non-school computerrelated stuff, and it’s definitely hard for them! I admire their struggle and find it inspiring for my own efforts. It’s always interesting, though, that with these hard decisions come extra considerations: if you give up TV, does that mean *all* the things that are on the TV screen? Or just shows on cable? What about movies? Does Netflix count? What about YouTube? Can you sit in the room with the TV on as long as you don’t

look at it? (My four-year-old, after he’d finished guffawing at his brothers’ jokey ideas, told me he’s giving up TV. I told him *absolutely not*.) Even when the kids give up the “normal” things for Lent, I still find them tweaking their chosen sacrifices throughout the first week or two. Does giving up dessert mean all dessert? Or maybe just candy? (They always seem to figure this out just at dessert time — especially when cookies are on the menu.) But then, does giving up candy mean all candy? Or maybe the boy really meant non-peanut butter candy? (This is always figured out just when Reese’s are being passed out, amazing.) But after the first week or two, things settle, and the boys are resigned to the fact that there will be times over the next few weeks until Easter that their chosen sacrifice is extra hard — which is the whole point. Then there are Sundays, which are a little bit controversial. Some people believe that Sundays are not technically a part of Lent; as a result, many Catholics will have what they gave up for Lent on Sundays. Others, however, find this to be

terrible! Weak! In this, there is no teaching (other than the Sundays of Lent are, indeed, part of Lent), so to each his or her own. But I will tell you that in my house we’ve always done “the Sunday thing” — had the thing we gave up on Sundays — so on Sundays there is a lot of “I can have dessert today, whee!!” and trying to finagle extra dessert because of it: “But I haven’t been able to have any dessert all week and everyone else could!” Or, “I can play video games today, so I should have the first turn, since everyone else was able to play yesterday and Friday!” I don’t really mind the search for loopholes and the tweaks — it’s so human! And I so appreciate the willingness to grapple with this hard thing and find a way to do it, rather than refuse to do it at all. It’s like that saying attributed to G.K. Chesterton: “If a thing is worth doing, it is worth doing poorly.” And in doing it, over and over, one will get better at it! Or so I remind myself as I break up yet another squabble over whether or not it’s unfair to have the TV on at all when one member of our household has given it up for Lent. Sigh. Kate and her husband have seven sons ages 21, 19, 17, 16, 14, 11, and 7. Email her at kmtowne23@gmail.com.


Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

Families

TODAY

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Avoiding “Text Neck”: Tips for a Healthier Neck and Spine

by Dr. Matt Smith, DC for Saratoga TODAY In our modern digital age, many of us spend hours each day hunched over our smartphones, tablets, and laptops. This habit can lead to a condition commonly known as “text neck,” characterized by neck pain, stiffness, and discomfort due to poor posture. As technology continues to play a significant role in our daily lives, it is essential to take proactive measures to prevent text neck. In this article, we’ll delve into the causes of text neck, its symptoms, and practical tips for avoiding this increasingly common issue. Understanding Text Neck Text neck is primarily caused by poor postural habits while using mobile devices. When we lower our heads to look at screens, the strain on our neck can be significant. The human head weighs an average of 10 to 12 pounds, and for every inch the head leans forward from an upright position, that weight on the neck increases significantly. Research suggests that the strain can increase to 20 to 30 pounds when the head is tilted at extreme angles. This excessive pressure can lead to pain, discomfort, and even longterm changes in spinal structure. Symptoms of Text Neck Individuals suffering from text neck may experience the following symptoms: - Chronic neck pain - Stiffness or tightness in the neck and shoulders - Headaches - Upper back pain - Reduced range of motion in the neck - Muscle spasms - Numbness or tingling in the arms and hands

If you recognize these symptoms, it’s time to make some changes to your habits and routines. Tips for Avoiding Text Neck 1. Maintain Proper Posture When using your smartphone or tablet, try to hold the device at eye level. This positioning helps maintain the natural curve of your spine and reduces strain on your neck. - Standing or Sitting: Stand or sit up straight, with shoulders back and relaxed. Your ears should be aligned with your shoulders, and your back should be straight. - Changing Positions: Alternate between sitting and standing while using devices to change the posture and reduce strain. 2. Take Frequent Breaks Adopt the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This helps reduce eye strain and encourages you to change your posture frequently. 3. Incorporate Stretching and Strengthening Exercises Regular stretching and strengthening exercises can help alleviate tension and improve posture. Some effective exercises include: - Neck Stretch: Gently tilt your head towards one shoulder until you feel a comfortable stretch on the opposite side. Hold for 15-30 seconds and switch sides. - Shoulder Shrugs: Raise your shoulders towards your ears, hold for a few seconds, and then release. Repeat 10 times. - Chin Tucks: Bring your chin toward your chest and hold for a few seconds. This exercise helps strengthen neck muscles. 4. Adjust Your Workspace If you’re working on a laptop or desktop, ensure that your screen is at eye level. Use adjustable chairs and desks if possible. Consider the following adjustments: - Monitor Height: Your monitor should be at eye level, allowing you to look straight ahead. If necessary, raise your monitor with books or an adjustable stand. - Keyboard Position: Keep your keyboard at a comfortable height to prevent straining your shoulders and wrists.

5. Limit Screen Time While it’s often unavoidable to use electronic devices, consider minimizing screen time when possible. Make a conscious effort to engage in offline activities. - Physical Activities: Engage in outdoor activities, exercise, or hobbies that don’t require screens. 6. Use Ergonomic Accessories Investing in ergonomic devices, such as a wrist support or a phone holder, can significantly improve your posture while using technology. 7. Seek Professional Help if Necessary If you experience persistent pain or symptoms related to text neck, consider consulting a healthcare professional. Smith Chiropractic can provide personalized exercises and recommendations tailored to your specific needs. Preventing text neck requires conscious effort and awareness of your daily habits. By maintaining proper posture, taking regular breaks, engaging in corrective exercises, and being mindful of screen time, you can protect your neck and overall spinal health. Addressing these issues

not only enhances your physical well-being but also promotes a more enjoyable and productive relationship with technology. Remember: a few small changes can lead to significant improvements in your health and comfort!

Dr Matt smith has been a chiropractor in Saratoga Springs for forty years, He and his daughter, Dr Kevy Smith Minouge practice at 50 Seward Street. Online appointments can be made at WWW. MySaratogaChiropractor.Com


Arts & Entertainment

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Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

Rock Doc About Saratoga-Based Upcoming Author Group Screening at Putnam Place Events at Northshire SARATOGA SPRINGS — A documentary about Blotto, a rock band with its origins at Saratoga’s 17 Maple Ave nightspot (later the Metro, now the Night Owl), will screen at Putnam Place on March 19. The award-winning “Hello, My Name Is Blotto: The Movie” is described as an inside look at the “curious arc of the beloved laughrock band Blotto,” whose story serves as a case study in the highs and lows of the music business. Blotto’s hits included “Metal Head,” “Goodbye Mr. Bond,” “My Baby’s the Star of a Drivers Ed Movie,” and “I Wanna Be a Lifeguard.” The band’s live shows celebrated “the feelgood vibe of the 80’s music and party scene,” according to a press release. The screening is scheduled for 7 p.m. Band members and the film’s director will be in attendance. A warmup mixmeet-mingle hour is hosted by acoustic Americana trio Lost

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Ithaca-based writer Christopher Gonzales will read from and discuss his new memoir, “Return of the Lost Son: Memories of a Wayward Father” at the Northshire Bookstore on Thursday, March 19 at 6 p.m. The event, moderated by Saratoga Springs Poet Laureate Jay Rogoff, is free and open to the public. A book signing will follow.

Movie poster provided.

Radio Rounders, which includes Bowtie Blotto. Admission is $20

at the door or $10 in advance via the Putnam Place website.

Gonzales’ book seeks to discover and understand his father, who left his MexicanAmerican family and strove to make his life a work of art. The memoir recalls Gonzales’ early memories, before the early onset of Alzheimer’s disease erased much of his father’s memory. Gonzales recounts his travels to Texas, Mexico, and elsewhere, as well as his research into reconstructing this mysterious man’s surprising biography. Along the way, he makes discoveries about his father, his family, his ethnic heritage, and himself. Gonzales, who grew up outside of Saratoga Springs, said that “A key theme of my book is carving out a Latino identity in Saratoga Springs. Nearly half

of the chapters include some aspect of this theme, and several of my sources and literary influences also have ties to Saratoga. And, of course, a major thrust of the book is understanding my father’s life and why he chose to move to this area.” Also coming soon to Northshire: Eileen Flanagan, who will be speaking at the bookstore on April 15 while on a national tour for her new book, “Common Ground: How the Crisis of the Earth is Saving Us from Our Illusion of Separation.” One of the stories included in “Common Ground” is about how New York State achieved one of the strictest climate laws in the country, partly spurred by coalition building that occurred after Hurricane Sandy. Another story is about the protection of the Adirondack Park in the late nineteenth century, which includes lessons that could be relevant to readers today. Flanagan is a Philadelphiabased author whose daughter graduated from Skidmore College. For more information about these and other Northshire events, visit www.northshire. com/upcoming-events.

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Arts & Entertainment

Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

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Saratoga Springs History Saratoga 250 Film Makes Museum Presents “A Song of Broadcast Premiere on PBS Yaddo: Music of Katrina Trask” SARATOGA SPRINGS — “Henry Knox: Resolve Forged by Revolution,” a 30-minute film produced by the Campaign for Saratoga 250, made its broadcast premiere Tuesday night on local PBS station WMHT. The film prominently features a number of locals, including Saratoga County Historian Lauren Roberts, Town of Saratoga Historian Sean Kelleher, and Siena University History Professor Jennifer Dorsey. A mix of interviews, archival material, and filmed recreations retold the tale of General Henry Knox’s dramatic Noble Train of Artillery, which passed through Lake George, Glens Falls, Schuylerville, Saratoga, and Albany.

Image via Campaign for Saratoga 250.

Additional footage highlighted the Campaign for Saratoga 250’s collaborations with WSWHE BOCES students, who recreated the sleds Knox used hundreds of years ago, and Stewart’s Shops, which will rename one of their ice cream flavors after Knox.

Scenes were also shot at Knox Fest, which took place at Fort Hardy Park in Schuylerville. Those who missed the broadcast premiere can view the film on either the WMHT PBS Media App or on the Saratoga 250 YouTube channel, which will upload the film this weekend.

Schick Art Gallery at Skidmore College Unveils New Ceramic Exhibition SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Schick Art Gallery will unveil “Earthbound,” an exhibition of ceramic work by 11 contemporary artists, with an opening reception from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 19. An artists’ talk will take place at 5:30 p.m., and the exhibition will remain on view through April 19. The full list of artists includes Bekah Bliss, Pattie Chalmers, Judy Fox, Brett Freund, Arthur Gonzalez, Brian Harper, Benjie Heu, Kyle Johns, Linda Lopez, Chris Staley, and Shoko Teruyama. Fox and Heu will visit campus to participate in the artists’ talk. The Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery is

Image provided by the Saratoga Springs History Museum.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Springs History Museum will present “A Song of Yaddo: Music of Katrina Trask,” a special musical program celebrating the life and creative legacy of Yaddo founder Katrina Trask. The performance—scheduled for March 19 at 7 p.m. at the Canfield Casino—will feature soprano Eileen Egan Mack and pianist Michael Clement, who will present a program highlighting Trask’s musical work as a composer and lyricist. While widely known as a philanthropist and cultural patron, Trask was also an accomplished writer and musician whose artistic contributions are less recognized. The evening’s program will include several songs written by Trask, as well as works created through collaborations with composers of her era. In many of these collaborations, Trask served as lyricist for musical settings composed by fellow musicians, including R. Nathaniel

Dett, a pioneering Black composer and musical innovator. The program will also feature music by Trask’s contemporaries, including Victor Herbert and Sergei Rachmaninoff, providing context for the musical landscape of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Interwoven throughout the performance will be biographical reflections on Trask’s life and artistic circle, offering audiences a deeper understanding of the beliefs and personal experiences that shaped her work. The program is made possible through the research of Rumara Jewett, whose work has uncovered a wealth of historical material about Katrina Trask’s musical contributions. The performance will last approximately 50–60 minutes. For tickets and additional information, visit: https:// w w w. s a r at o g a h i s t or y. or g / events/a-song-of-yaddo-musicof-katrina-trask-with-eileenmack-and-michael-clement.

Shoko Teruyama, “Flower Bowl.” Photo provided.

concurrently featuring the work of ceramics artist Kathy Butterly through July 26. All Schick Art Gallery exhibitions and events are free

and open to the public. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

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Arts & Entertainment

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Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

Pink Floyd and Led Cinephiles Rejoice: Saratoga Film Zeppelin Tribute Bands Forum Returns Next Month Coming to SPAC by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

Image provided by Live Nation.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Two tribute bands, Brit Floyd and Get the Led Out, will perform back-to-back at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) on Saturday, Aug. 1. Since their formation, Brit Floyd has put on more than 1,500 shows in more than 40 countries, bolstering their claim to be the definitive live Pink Floyd experience. Accompanied by a light show, lasers, video projections,

inflatables, and theatrical staging, “The Moon, The Wall and Beyond” is being billed as Brit Floyd’s “most ambitious and immersive production to date.” Get the Led Out consists of six veteran musicians who utilize multi-instrumentalists to re-create songs with studio overdubs that Led Zeppelin themselves never performed live. Tickets will go on sale Friday, March 13 at 10 a.m. at LiveNation.com.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Film Forum is being revived and will return to Saratoga Arts on April 9. This means that for the first time since the early days of the pandemic, locals will be able to munch popcorn and gaze at independent films here in the Spa City. They’ll do it inside a newly-renovated theater replete with an updated projector and sound system. They might even, to paraphrase Nicole Kidman’s famous AMC ad, witness dazzling images on a silver screen with sound they can feel. Every Thursday night for at least 12 weeks, an independent film will be screened inside Saratoga Arts’ 110-seat theater. One of the first films will be A24’s “Sorry, Baby,” the Sundance-premiering, Golden Globe-nominated tale of a reclusive college professor that was helmed by, written by, and stars Eva Victor. “I heard stories about the [Saratoga Film Forum] and people were kind of clamoring for it,” said Spencer Sherry, who works at Saratoga Arts, runs the Saratoga Film Showcase, and presides over the 518 Film Network. “Ever since working [at Saratoga Arts], I’d get questions about it all the time, then decided to figure out how to get it back up and running with a structure that works and makes sense.” The first iteration of the Saratoga Film Forum began in 1993, when an alliance of Saratogians decided their hometown needed a theater that would screen harder-tofind indie flicks not already viewable at multiplexes. Today, with Hollywood forever altered by the rise of streaming services, enticing moviegoers to actually leave their homes can be a tall order. But the success of the recent Saratoga Film Showcase (also held at Saratoga Arts) proved there’s an appetite for both independent films and locally produced work. One unique way the revamped Film Forum will hope to sell tickets is by collaborating

New Saratoga Film Forum logo provided by Spencer Sherry.

Photo of Saratoga Arts’ newly renovated theater via the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.

with Joseph Masher, the CEO of Scene One Entertainment, which owns the movie theater inside the Wilton Mall. Sherry described Masher as a “friend” who has been “really, really good to the local film scene.” Scene One will be a promotional partner with the Film Forum, Sherry said. The two cinemas will advertise each other’s screenings, and at each Film Forum event, two free tickets to Scene One will be raffled off. The partnership works, in part, because the two theaters will screen different types of films. “We both agree that we have kind of different audiences between the mall and downtown,” Sherry said. “So, if there’s any way that we can help each other get each other’s audiences to maybe favor Scene One over AMC, make that little extra trek and support someone local instead of a giant chain, then [I’d] just love to help any way I can.” In addition to Sherry and Masher, some of the other local film fans working behind the scenes to resurrect the Forum include Amy Godine, who served on the Forum’s board from 1993 to 2016; Field Horne, an acting director/curator for the Saratoga County History Center; Amy Bloom, executive director of Saratoga Arts; and

Susan Bokan, who made a sizeable donation. “The support seemed to really be there, and we had a team of people that were saying, ‘We’ll form a programming committee. We will volunteer on the day. We’ll do the popcorn.’ So, it felt like we had enough support to give it a swing,” Sherry said. With a team and theater in place, expect to see an array of narrative films, foreign flicks, documentaries, and perhaps locally made shorts. The Film Forum will also aim to book inperson appearances, from either people who worked on the films being screened, or from experts and academics who can speak about the topic of a documentary being screened. Those interested in the Film Forum’s offerings can purchase a $100 membership pass that’ll be good for the first 12 films/weeks of programming. Individual tickets for each screening will be $10 apiece. For these tickets and future film announcements, keep an eye on the Saratoga Arts website and Facebook page. “I think that this is a huge step in service of bringing back a film culture here, making this a really great place to live and to see independent stuff,” Sherry said.


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Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

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LEGALS 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 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, 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 Notice of formation of Hallenbeck & Co. LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on January 27, 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: 112 Fonda Rd., Waterford, NY 12188. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20/2026. 16615

SSNY 2/9/26. Off. in Saratoga Co. Process served to SSNY - desig. as agt. of LLC & mailed to the LLC, 8 Heron Pl, Rexford, NY 12148. Any lawful purpose. 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27/2026. 16633

Notice of formation of, Lockwood Hypnotherapy & Integrative Wellness, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 01/30/2026. 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: Andrea Martin 143 Route 4 N Schuylerville, NY 12871. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20/2026. 16619

Notice of formation of East Paddock Gate Management LLC. Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 1/25/2026. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of the process should be mailed to the LLC at: 7 Pleasant Dr., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27/2026. 16647

Notice of formation of Green Haven Landscapes LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 02/06/2026 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: 26 Mia Way, Porter Corners NY 12859. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20/2026. 16616 Baker Brothers Fabrication, LLC. Article of Organization filed with the SSNY on February 09, 2026. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 45 Putnam Road, Gansevoort, NY 12831. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20/2026. 16622 90 BALLARD RD LLC. Filed 2/9/26. Office: Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process and shall mail to: c/o Trevor McCarthy, 43 Marvin St, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: General. 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27/2026. 16623 Boomkin Enterprises LLC filed w/

Notice of formation of AIAF 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: 1066 Palmer Road, Broadalbin, NY, 12025. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27/2026. 16646 Notice of registration of NavSav Holdings II, LLC. Authority filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 02/12/2026. 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: c/o 3H Legal Services, PLLC, 36 Long Alley, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27/2026. 16659 Rajeski Consulting Services LLC filed w/ SSNY on 2/12/26. Off. in Saratoga Co. 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. Any lawful purpose. 2/27,

3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3/2026. 16669 Notice of Formation of SAS Saratoga Hospitality Group LLC, Arts of Org. filed with NY Secy of State (SSNY) on November 6, 2025. 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 61 Granite St, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: any lawful activity. 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27/2026. 16665 Notice of formation of HI-TECH AUTO SERVICE LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 2/9/2026. 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: 431 PALMER AVE, CORINTH, NY, 12822. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27/2026. 16670 Notice of Formation of Ritter Consulting Services LLC, Arts of Org. filed with NY Secy of State (SSNY) on January 6, 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 PO Box 1313, Halfmoon, NY 12065. Purpose: any lawful activity. 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27/2026. 16672 JM DeVito Consulting LLC filed Art. of Org. with the Sec’y of State of NY (SSNY) on 02/18/2026. 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: Couch White, LLP, 540 Broadway, P.O. Box 22222, Albany, NY 12201 Purpose: any lawful act. 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3/2026. 16679 NOTICE OF FORMATION OF


34 LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: BURKES BOAT WORKS LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 02/18/2026. 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 process to the LLC, 144 S Hudson St, Mechanicville, NY 12118. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3/2026. 16750 Notice of Formation of Limited Liability Company. Articles of Organization for Loarca Lumber, LLC (“LLC”) were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (“SSNY”) on February 9, 2026. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY may mail a copy of any process to the LLC at 268 Grange Road, Greenfield Center, NY 12833. LLC does not have a specific date of Dissolution. Purpose: All legal purposes. 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3/2026. 16713 NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Under Section 206 of the Limited Liability Company Law. Name: Gatterson Family Holdings, LLC, Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on February 19, 2026. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: c/o The LLC, PO Box 604073, Bayside, NY 11360. Purpose: Any lawful act or activities. 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3/2026. 16728 Notice of formation of 4LSNM LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 10/21/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 410 Greenfield Ave, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3/2026. 16737 Notice of Formation of Mcwain Transport LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 03/04/2025 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: 27D Skylark Dr. South Glens Falls NY 12803.

Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026 Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3/2026. 16741 Notice of Formation of Toohill Energy and Property Holdings LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on January 1, 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 any process to: Bradley Toohill, 4 Columbine Avenue, South Glens Falls, NY 12803. Purpose: Any lawful act or activity.3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10/2026. 16736 Notice of formation of STACKZ SIX LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 2/17/20206. 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: 77 Ushers Rd. Mechanicville, NY 12118. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3/2026. 16754 Notice of Formation of Saratoga Capital Group LLC. Arts of Org. filed with New York Secy of State (SSNY) on November 25, 2025. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Saratoga Capital Group LLC, PO Box 321, Mechanicville, NY 12118. Purpose: any lawful activity. 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3/2026. 16757 Notice of Formation of ATMAssist, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on February 25, 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 process to: 4 Peabody Place, Gansevoort, NY 12831. Purpose: Any lawful activity. 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10/2026. 16773 Notice of formation of HALFMOON SPORTS CENTER LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 01/22/2026. 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: 227 ALEXANDER AVE, SCOTIA, NY, 12302. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10/2026. 16774 Notice of Formation of “Irving

Industries LLC”. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on February 24th, 2026. Office location: Saratoga County, New York. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against LLC to: United States Corporation Agents, Inc. 7014 13th Avenue, Suite 202 Brooklyn, NY 11228, USA. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which limited liability companies may be organized in New York. The duration of the LLC is perpetual. 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10/2026. 16783 Notice of registration of CARVE UNDERWRITING SOLUTIONS LLC. Authority filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 02/27/2026. 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. 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10/2026. 16787 Notice of formation of Sunrise Executive Solutions LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 02/26/2026. 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: 2 Pine Bark Place, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. Sunrise Executive Solutions LLC. 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10/2026. 16790 Notice of Formation of The Cleaning Society LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 3/1/26. Office in Saratoga County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to c/o the company, PO Box 75, Victory Mills, NY 12884. Purpose: Any lawful act or activity under the New York LLC Law. 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10/2026. 16794 Notice of Formation of Shelter Connect, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 2/27/2026 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 Raven Ct, Rexford, NY 12148. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10/2026. 16792 Notice of Formation of Capital Region Vapor LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 2/27/26. 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: 32B Suncrest Drive, Waterford, NY, 12188. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10/2026. 16796 Notice of formation of High Cut Golf LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 02/25/2026 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: 4303 Ellsworth Blvd Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10/2026. 16809 Zia Dynamics, LLC, Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on March 3, 2026. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: c/o The LLC, 14 Rose Terrace, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful act or activities. 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10/2026. 16814 Notice of Formation of CALLI HOLLEY CONSULTING, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 01/28/2026 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: 4 ASHLEY PLACE, SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10, 4/17/2026. 16824 Notice of formation of A Joyful Alternative, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 02/06/2026 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: 27 Angeles Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10, 4/17/2026. 16833 Notice of Formation of Through The Trees Records LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 3/2/2026. 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: 18 Coronado Way, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10, 4/17/2026. 16834 Notice of formation of PIPER 787 HOLDINGS LLC, a domestic LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with SSNY on 3/9/2026. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served and the SSNY shall mail a copy of any process to: PIPER 787 HOLDINGS LLC, 1825 Tarpon Lane, H-304, Vero Beach, FL 32960. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10, 4/17/2026.16856 ME PROFESSIONAL SOLUTIONS, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed on the 30th day of January, 2026. The office is to be located in the County of Saratoga. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent for service of process and shall mail such process to ME Professional Solutions, LLC, c/o Couch Dale Marshall P.C., 14 Corporate Drive, Halfmoon, New York 12065. This LLC is formed for every legal purpose. 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10, 4/17/2026. 16850 Notice of Formation of Moving With Mik LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 03/02/2026. 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: 17 Baker Drive, Gansevoort NY 12831. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10, 4/17/2026. 16859 Notice of Formation of New Business Creator LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 11/06/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 380 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10, 4/17/2026. 16864


35

Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

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NOTICE TO BIDDERS The Department of Central Services will receive sealed bids in person or electronically through the Empire State Purchasing Website until 11:00 a.m. Thursday, March 26, 2026, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read aloud for Dish and Laundry Products, as per specification 26-SDL-1. Bid forms and instructions are available at the Department of Central Services, 50 W. High Street, Ballston Spa, NY between 9:00 a.m. & 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (telephone - 518885-2210) or at the Empire State Purchasing Group website (www. empirestatebidsystem.com) Saratoga County, through its Department of Central Services, reserves the right to reject parts of any or all bids. JOHN T. WARMT Director of Purchasing Saratoga County 3/13/2026, 16825

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Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

Sports

37

Hayden Receives Skidmore Baseball Coach of the Squad Starts Season 3-1 Year Honors

Photo of the 2025 Saratoga Springs High School football team at the JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse via the Saratoga Springs City School District.

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

VERONA — The New York State High School Football Coaches Association presented Saratoga Springs’ Eric Hayden with its Section 2 Class AA Coach of the Year award at a banquet last Friday. The event was held at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Oneida County. “This does not happen without my assistant coaches,” Hayden said in a social media post. “I’m lucky to be in a

school district that supports our football program. Thank you to all the great players I’ve had the pleasure to coach as you made this award come true. Special thanks to my wife Danielle for being the rock at home and supporting me in my coaching journey.” In 2025, Hayden’s varsity football squad competed in a state championship game for only the second time in program history. The Blue Streaks finished the season 11-3, their best record in years. Hayden joined Saratoga as its new head coach in 2023.

FORT MYERS, FLORIDA — The Skidmore College baseball team swept Baruch College in a doubleheader last Sunday before then splitting another doubleheader against Rockford University on Monday. The busy two days concluded with the Thoroughbreds earning a 3-1 start to their season at the Gene Cusic Classic in Florida. Skidmore is currently scheduled to play its first home game at the new Ferrari Field in Saratoga Springs on Wednesday, March 18. Against Baruch, five Skidmore pitchers combined to surrender just three earned runs in two games. The Thoroughbreds won game one, 6-2, on a 10-strikeout performance from Quinn Hocom, and then won game two, 2-1, thanks to a one-hit, five-inning start by Chase Siegel. In game one, Matthew O’Neill had three hits in his collegiate debut. He led off the bottom of the first inning with an opposite-field double and then scored on an error. He led off both the third and fifth innings with a single and a stolen base. Eddie Galvao was 1-for-3 with two walks and a two-RBI homer in the third. In game two, O’Neill

Thoroughbreds’ pitcher Quinn Hocom struck out 10 hitters across five innings in a game against Baruch College last Sunday. Photo by Matt Milless via Skidmore Athletics.

earned two more hits, wrapping up his impressive opening day with five hits, three stolen bases, and four runs scored. Against Rockford, the Thoroughbreds dropped a backand-forth opener, 12-11, before responding with an 8-4 victory in the second game to hand Rockford its first loss of the year.

In game one, Skidmore scored five runs in the first inning, but Rockford rallied late to snatch away the W. In game two, the Thoroughbreds tallied 11 hits total, led by a 3-for-3 performance by Nate Vandersea. Galvao added two hits, including a double.


38

Sports

Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

Saratoga Racers Advance to 2nd Round of ABA Playoffs by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

BARRE, VERMONT — After emerging from the first quarter with a five-point deficit, the Saratoga Racers rebounded in their first game of the East Region Blue Division playoffs, finishing with a 148 to 114 victory against the Vermont Coyotes. The Racers will now advance to the second round of the ABA postseason, where they’ll face the New England Lightning on Sunday afternoon. In Vermont, Saratoga point guard and All-Star nominee Donovan Williams led his squad with 35 points, 8 boards, 6 assists, and 4 steals on 12-for-17 shooting. Cam Thomas netted 31 points, draining a whopping 8 of 10 attempts from beyond the arc. Saratoga standout John Ryals also added 20 points and 8 rebounds to help secure the W.

Photo via the Saratoga Racers.

Horse Racing News: Kentucky Derby Party & Belmont Toast the Turn Return, Summer Meet Tickets on Sale SARATOGA SPRINGS — The New York Racing Association (NYRA) announced Tuesday the return of Belmont Toast the Turn, a hospitality experience during the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival on Friday, June 5, and Saturday, June 6 at Saratoga Race Course. Featuring a capacity of up to 200 guests per day, the Belmont Toast the Turn tented hospitality area will be located along the Clubhouse turn to provide fans with a premium vantage point of horses rounding the first turn. Each ticket will include general admission to Saratoga Race Course, admission to Belmont Toast the Turn, and two alcoholic beverages, with additional drinks available for purchase throughout the day. The area will also feature food trucks offering a variety of options for purchase during the afternoon. The hospitality space will also include mutuel

bay terminals, televisions, and restrooms. Tickets may be purchased at gofevo.com/group/ BSRFtoastturnG. NYRA also recently announced ticket and hospitality on-sale dates for the 2026 summer meet at Saratoga, which will open on Friday, July 3 and continue through Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 7. Season tickets will go on sale on Thursday, March 12 for the 46-day summer meet and include reserved seating in the Clubhouse, Grandstand, and Michelob Ultra Stretch. Season ticket holders can enjoy the same guaranteed seat throughout the summer, including Whitney Day and Travers Day. Season tickets and season passes may be purchased online at NYRA.com/Saratoga/Tickets. Full-space group hospitality reservations will be available beginning at 10 a.m. on Thursday, March 5 for 1863 Club Suites, as well as for the Paddock Suite

and Spa Verandas presented by Casamigos. Reservations may be made by phone at 855-NYRA123 or by email at premiumsales@nyrainc.com. Tickets are also now on sale for the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame’s 10th annual Kentucky Derby Party on Saturday, May 2. From 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., the Derby-themed fundraiser will feature samplings of local brews and spirits, as well as signature bites from local restaurants. While exploring the Museum and its exhibits, guests can enjoy entertainment in the Hall of Fame before a live airing of the Kentucky Derby. An award for the most fashionable-themed attire will be presented before post time. There will also be a photobooth, live music, a sticker machine, a race-day-inspired 50/50 raffle, and a silent auction. Tickets may be purchased at: https://1049a.blackbaudhosting.com/1049a/10th-AnnualDerby-Party-Fundraiser.


Sports

Week of March 13 - March 19, 2026

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Saratoga Swimmer Lady Saints Make History, Crowned State Capture First Sectional Title Champ

Photo via Saratoga Central Catholic Athletics. Anderson Baird at the state meet in Ithaca. Photo provided by Elizabeth Baird.

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

Games

Fun And

ITHACA — Saratoga Springs High School swimmer Anderson Baird had a spectacular showing at the state championships in Ithaca last weekend. Baird returned home as the New York State public and federation title holder in the 200 individual medley, earning him automatic All American status with a winning time of 1:48:81. The Section 2 sportsmanship winner also placed fourth overall in the 100 breaststroke with an All-America consideration time of 55:73. Four additional Blue Streaks competed at states.

Preston Arnold swam the 100 butterfly individual event. The 200 medley relay team of Baird, Loic Goffioul, Jordan Nyatome, and Arnold earned a spot in the bonus final and placed 24th overall in the state. The 400 freestyle relay team of Baird, Arnold, Goffioul, and Magnus Lohse placed 20th overall in the bonus final. The Saratoga Springs boy’s varsity swim team is coached by Bill Asay. At last year’s state championships, Baird placed fourth in the 200 individual medley with a school record-breaking time of 1:50:72. He also placed seventh in the 500 freestyle with another school record-breaking time of 4:38:70.

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS — It was never a sure thing. The Lady Saints basketball team had a .500 winning percentage when they fought for their first-ever Section 2 Class D championship. The team had suffered misfortunes that included bouts with the flu, an injured ankle, and mono. But those obstacles weren’t enough to stop a squad determined to make history. “We were clearly the underdog in a lot of ways, but we didn’t let that affect us going

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in,” Coach Athena DiLorenzoRyan told Saratoga TODAY. “You’re on a high when you’re winning, but then when you go on some type of losing streak, I think the important thing is to look ahead to better days and keep working hard in the gym, keeping your head held high. I try to instill that in them. This isn’t over. We’ve got to keep pushing through. And that’s what happened.” On March 7, Saratoga Catholic narrowly defeated the two-time defending champions Northville, 43 to 41, in a game that was decided in its final moments. The victory clinched the Lady Saints’ first sectional title in program history. Sophia Ryan, who broke

her school’s all-time scoring record earlier this season, led with 30 points. In other words, she netted almost 70% of her team’s point total. It was a dominant performance but an unsurprising one from a standout who once told Saratoga TODAY that she most admires players who can maintain their composure in big moments. To secure the W, Lady Saints Leanna Scaperrotta, Lily Norton, Madison Norton, Maggie Durfee, and Margaret Crowe all added digits to the scoreboard. “I just told these girls, look what you’ve done, it’s totally amazing,” DiLorenzo-Ryan said. “They deserve it. They really do.”


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