Saratoga TODAY October 31 – November 6 , 2025

Stewart’s Shops’ Create-Your-Own Flavor Released

by Megin Potter Saratoga TODAY

This week, Stewart’s Shops is debuting the limited-edition “Carmine’s Holiday Spumoni” ice cream, a combination of three distinct flavors; chocolate, pistachio, and cherry, named in honor of Carmine DeCrescente, former President of DeCrescente Distributing Company.

After a once-in-a-lifetime bidding frenzy that resulted in a dazzling display of generosity at the Saratoga Hospital’s 43rd Annual Gala Auction in July, the “Next Big Scoop”, an opportunity to name a new Stewart’s Shops’ limited-edition flavor and tour the plant with guests, stole the show when the live auction item soared from an opening bid of $5,000 to a final bid of $50,000 in less than a minute.

In an unprecedented display of generosity, at the auctioneer’s request, Stewart’s Shops doubled the prize, awarding it to both the winner and runner-up. Mike and Linda Toohey, and C.J. DeCrescente, (with his family there egging him on) each paid $50,000 for the auction item, one of 21 featured (ranging from one-ofa-kind experiences to adventurous getaways) that raised more than $495,000 in critical funds to support community health services for thousands across the region - making it the highest grossing live auction in Saratoga Hospital Gala history.

“It’s just a really cool idea,” said C.J. DeCrescente, the President of DeCrescente Distributing Company, who followed in his father’s footsteps and took on the role in 1997. “Stewart’s Shops and the Dake family are good customers of ours. We’re big on supporting local, and obviously, hospitals are real important for everybody. It was a really unique opportunity to honor my father, so it just all made sense - and we had some fun with it.”

Making Auction History

“It’s only natural to give back to the community supporting us,” said Stewart’s Shops President Chad Kiesow.

“It’s certainly an honor to offer a live auction item that generates

so much passion. I didn’t know it would have the horsepower it did. I underestimated it, but there was a great auctioneer there rallying the troops.”

“When it passed the $5,000 and $10,000 level, it created a little bit of a buzz around the room,” he said. That buzz hit fever pitch when the auctioneer switched from raising bids in $1,000 increments to $5,000 increments. “You felt the energy and excitement picking up,” said Kiesow. When the second-place bidder offered to match the winning $50,000 bid, however, jaws hit the ground, he added. “We’re flattered that what we do, and the involvement of Stewart’s Shops brings that much excitement to the cause.”

In addition to their donations to other local nonprofit organizations, including through their popular Holiday Match Program, donations from Stewart’s Shops and the Dake Foundation to the Saratoga Hospital and the Saratoga Hospital Foundation have totaled more than $865,000 since 2020.

Joining the Stewart’s Shops’ Ice Cream Legacy

Dreaming up the flavor was the work of five, plus DeCrescente, who chose an Italian-inspired spumoni recreated from a holiday flavor released more than a decade ago that hadn’t seen store shelves since.

The flavor is akin to the classic Neapolitan, but with the satisfying smoothness of chocolate balancing out the rich nuttiness of crunchy pistachios, and the tender tartness of maraschino cherries, in a modern twist on the beloved holiday dessert.

“I always joked with Gary (Dake) that they should have an Italian ice cream flavor,” said DeCrescente. “Now, I feel

fortunate to have the privilege to be able to do stuff like this.”

Stewart’s Shops has a long history of naming ice cream flavors to honor local teams, events, and anniversaries. Notably, this year, on October 1st, Knox Cannonball Crunch, a limited-edition cookie dough ice cream flavor created in collaboration with the Saratoga 250 Commission to commemorate the 250th anniversary of General Henry Knox’s “Noble Train of Artillery” during the Revolutionary War, was unveiled and made available at more than 40 Stewart’s Shops locations. In the past, other limited-edition flavors have, including Cookies and Cannons, recognizing Fort William Henry’s 70th Anniversary last year, and Siena Mint Madness, which debuted in 2018 to honor the college’s NCAA Division I men’s and women’s basketball teams.

Sweetening the Deal

In a move befitting the generosity of its creators and the dollar value bid, 50,000 halfgallon cartons of Carmine’s Holiday Spumoni will be distributed throughout Stewart’s Shops 400-plus locations in New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire.

Stewart’s Shops is currently making a $10 million multi-year investment in upgrading their plant and distribution center, beginning with a commissary expansion and improvements to the ice cream production area. Auction winners are invited to tour the facility through the renovations or choose to see it after they are complete.

The Tooheys have also chosen their flavor, said Kiesow, but everything has its season, and that sweet treat will be revealed next spring.

As a citizen of Saratoga Springs, a former deputy mayor, and as a former member of the Saratoga Springs Democratic Committee, I must express my abject disappointment in the political tactics employed by the City Democratic Committee, their allies, and some of their endorsed candidates this political season. They have repeatedly said that One Saratoga accepted money from Elise Stefanik, which was disproven after a review of publicly available campaign finance records. They mislead people about a city water report to make the incumbent DPW commissioner look bad. They try to scare people into thinking that One Saratoga working with republicans, independents and democrats alike somehow equates to being MAGA - a gross distortion that many of these folks would likely admit privately. Spreading disinformation for political advantage is the most MAGA thing currently happening in Saratoga politics - an irony seemingly lost on some individuals.

If you’re tired of a City Council making news for the wrong reasons or if you’re interested in advancing effective bipartisan leadership, then vote Row E for the One Saratoga candidates who will bring their qualifications, as well as their distaste for embarrassing political nonsense, to City Hall this January.

- JOSEPH OGDEN SARATOGA SPRINGS

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Letters TO THE EDITOR

I recently had the pleasure of meeting George Ehinger, running for Supervisor. After first conversing with Tamie Ehinger, a thoroughly impressive person in her own right, I was able to query Mr. Ehinger as to why he was running and where he proposed to take our community. I spoke with a man who loves this city, is well aware of its current needs, doesn’t claim to have all the answers, but is ready and willing to listen to find solutions that best reflect Saratoga Springs. He is endorsed by a mixed group of Democrats and Republicans who are willing to put politics aside, again, for the betterment of our city. In a time where derisive politics rule the news, what a bold statement to find a group willing to work together. Please get to know the One Saratoga candidates and exercise your right to vote.

- COOPERATION SOLVES PROBLEMS, SUZANNE JAGODA RN, LMT, CLT, SMALL BUSINESS OWNER AND

My Fellow Saratogians,

As your former Mayor from 2008 to 2014, I’m writing this letter of endorsement and support for George Ehinger in his campaign to become our next County Supervisor. I unequivocally can attest to his qualifications and demeanor to help lead our City at the County level, particularly when such attributes are increasingly rare in our over polarizing political arenas these days.

I have personally known George and his wife Tamie for many years, ever since they relocated to Saratoga Springs. Early on I recognized the value that George and Tamie bring to our community and, in fact, appointed Tamie to the Design Review Board while I was Mayor. Back then, George was still tirelessly involved in his successful businesses and raising their family. He now steps forward to give even more back to us with his strengths of approachable collaboration and common sense so desperately needed.

Please join with me in voting for George as County Supervisor on November 4th, to ensure we do what’s best for all of us going forward. Thank you.

SCOTT T. JOHNSON FORMER MAYOR OF SARATOGA SPRINGS

Gene Usher

SARATOGA SPRINGSGene Usher died peacefully on October 27, 2025, at the age of 97. Burial will be private. There will be a gathering, in the near future, at the Old Saratoga Reformed Church. Memorial donations to the Old Saratoga Reformed Church in Schuylerville NY. Please visit www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Karen Leigh Brown

QUEENSBURY - It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved sister, Karen Leigh Brown, aged 73, on October 29, 2025. Karen’s warmth, creativity, and quiet strength will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Online remembrances may be made at burkefuneralhome.com.

OBITUARIES

Mark A. Davenport II

GANSEVOORT - Mark A. Davenport II, 48, passed away on October 20, 2025. Visitation from 4 pm to 7 pm on Monday, November 3, at Burke Funeral Home, 628 N. Broadway. Funeral is 11 a.m., November 4, at St. Michael the Archangel Church, 80 Saratoga Ave. South Glens Falls. Please visit www. burkefuneralhome.com.

Barbara Suzanne Barden

GANSEVOORT - Barbara Suzanne Barden passed peacefully on October 20, 2025 with her sons by her side. Celebration of life is 12 – 4 pm, Sunday November 2, at Dancing Grain Farm Brewery in Gansevoort. Memorial donations to Saratoga Hospital Grateful Patient program https://www. saratogahospitalfoundation. org/giving/grateful-patient. Online remembrances may be made at www. burkefuneralhome.com.

Michael T. O’Hare

PRINCESS ANNE, MDMichael T. O’Hare, 79, formerly of Saratoga Springs, New York, died peacefully at home on October 23, 2025. Calling hours and funeral home service was on October 29, at Burke Funeral Home. Burial with military honors took place following the service at St. Peter’s Cemetery. Please visit www. burkefuneralhome.com.

Charles G. Hoffman

SARATOGA SPRINGS –Charles G. Hoffman, 68, passed away on Sunday, October 26, 2025. Calling hours are 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, Friday, October 31, 2025, at Burke Funeral Home. Online remembrances may be made at www. burkefuneralhome.com.

Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office To Implement

Text-T0-911

To Enhance Emergency Accessibility

The Saratoga County Sheriffs Office today announced the implementation of text-to-911, a vital emergency communication service that allows residents to text message 911 dispatchers when calling is not possible.

Text-to-911 provides deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speechimpaired individuals direct access to 911 and can be beneficial when it is unsafe for the caller to speak with telecommunicators. The technology also provides automatic translation for more than 200 languages, allowing both the caller and the telecommunicator to communicate in their primary language.

This new service will improve access to emergency services in Saratoga County and improve response times for those with hearing or speech impairments and non-Englishspeaking callers.

Officials stress that in an emergency, community members should continue to dial 911 as their first option, following the national guidance: “call if you can, text if you can’t.”

“The ability to text 911 in an emergency when someone may be unable to make a phone call can potentially save many lives and is particularly beneficial for those who are hard of hearing, deaf, or speech impaired,” said Saratoga County Undersheriff

Jeffrey Brown. “Not only does implementing this new technology improve service for people with disabilities, but it also helps ensure Saratoga County remains at the forefront of Next Generation 911 technology, as New York State implements the digital system statewide.”

“With the addition of textto-911 functionality, we are ensuring that every member of our community can access emergency services whenever they need them,” Steven Gordon, Director of Emergency Communications, said. “This technology provides our telecommunicators with an additional tool, helping to ensure they receive critical information when someone cannot make a voice call. The platform allows 911 to send a secure link for callers to share video and photos, providing 911 and first responders with enhanced situational awareness and more accurate information.”

Text-to-911 in Saratoga County is being implemented in collaboration with Disability Rights New York and powered by Prepared, an emergency response platform.

The technology is expected to be fully operational in approximately 90 days, and notifications will be provided to the public as various cell phone providers complete the process.

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Veterans Business Council to Host Annual Breakfast on Nov. 5

The Veterans Business Council of The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce will host its annual breakfast at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 5 at the Holiday Inn in Saratoga Springs. This yearly event celebrates area veterans and supports the vital work of the VBC in providing scholarships and career connections for veterans.

The morning of connection and camaraderie will feature recognition of the council’s yearround work along with a keynote address from retired United States Marine Command Sergeant Major Gary Smith, Founder and Chief Consultant of Smith Leadership Consulting Group, which specializes in motivational speaking, executive leadership coaching and workforce leadership development.

Smith is a retired United States Marine Command Sergeant Major with almost three decades of service, seeing and executing leadership from various vantage points both home and abroad including combat tours. He has practical knowledge for coordinating, directing and completing a full range of leadership and management activities in support of different functions within many organizations.

Smith holds a bachelor’s degree in management from Excelsior College and a master’s degree in human resource education from Louisiana State University. He is also a certified

professional counselor through the U.S. Department of Labor.

To date, Smith has trained professionals from the federal government, including the U.S. Department of Defense, along with an array of organizations among the private sector.

“The Veterans Business Council annual breakfast is an inspiring morning of connection and camaraderie where we honor the achievements of our scholarship recipients and hear from an exceptional keynote speaker,” said Joseph Juracka, Chair of the Veterans Business Council of The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.

“This year, we’re thrilled to welcome Gary Smith, retired U.S. Marine Command Sergeant Major and leadership expert, who will share valuable insights on achieving optimal performance in business and beyond. It’s a rewarding experience for everyone who attends and a wonderful opportunity to show support for those who have served our country.”

The Veterans Business Council of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce invites all who support Veterans to attend this event. Tickets are $45 per person, and proceeds will benefit the programs and mission of the Veterans Business Council. Advance registration is available online at www.saratoga.org/ vbc-veterans-breakfast.

Love Our Locals $20.25 Campaign Kicks Off

The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce is kicking off its Love Our Locals $20.25 campaign, an initiative that emphasizes the importance of supporting local businesses and non-profit organizations.

The campaign will begin on Thursday, Oct. 30 and continue throughout the remainder of the year. During this time, residents and tourists who support any business or non-profit in Saratoga County by spending or donating $20.25 or more are eligible to enter a gift card giveaway.

Individuals are encouraged to submit their receipts of $20.25 or more online at www. saratoga.org/love-our-locals to enter. Each week, the Chamber will randomly select winners for $100 in gift cards to businesses across the county.

While the campaign takes place during the holiday shopping season, it is designed to support a wide variety of businesses and organizations from the retail, dining, service, entertainment and non-profit sectors. Donations made to area charitable organizations are also eligible for entry. Spending $20.25 or more at any locally

owned Saratoga County business or non-profit gives folks a chance to win in this months-long giveaway campaign with unlimited entries, multiple weekly winners and a variety of gift card prizes!

Now in its fifth year, this campaign started during the pandemic as Save Our Locals $20.21, which resulted in more than 2,000 entries from locals whose purchases directly aided in the county’s economic rebound from COVID-19 restrictions. In 2022, the Save Our Locals program was recognized with a New York State Tourism Excellence Award from the New York State Tourism Industry Association.

Since then, the campaign was renamed Love Our Locals and remains a popular and purposeful annual effort.

“We are proud of how this initiative has grown over the past four years, and we’re thrilled to launch it once again,” said Todd Shimkus, president of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce. “Love Our Locals was created to energize our local economy and encourage area residents to shop local and donate to local causes as 2025 comes to a close.”

OF THE photo WEEK

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2025

Now is your chance to get your photos published! Email your photo to: Design@SaratogaPublishing.com This is the last week to submit photos!

Meet Gizmo

Gizmo has had a rough start to life. Although he was loved by his former owner, he did not have stability and was being moved from home to home. Luckily, his owner realized that he needed to take care of himself and found help with another rescue who unfortunately was maxed out. HOPE was contacted and we took Gizmo in, and it is now time for him to have a forever home. He is a big boy and has lived with

other cats but prefers to keep his distance from dogs. He is 16 pounds of pure love! He tested negative for FIV and FeLV and is up to date on vaccines. Gizmo is ready to meet his new family. His adoption fee is $175.

The Pet Adoption Center at Wilton Mall is open to the public Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 11-4 and by appointment. Our phone number is 518-450-7013 and adoption applications can be found at www.hopeanimalrescue.org.

Election Day Preview: Meet the Candidates from Saratoga Springs

by Aidan Cahill Saratoga TODAY

With Election Day right around the corner, Saratoga TODAY reached out to the candidates running in competitive races in Saratoga Springs and the surrounding areas.

Saratoga Springs has one candidate running in an uncontested election, Incumbent Public Safety Commissioner Tim Coll who is endorsed by both the Republican and Democratic Parties is running for reelection.

Commissioner of Finance

Candidate: Jo Ann Kiernan (R, One Saratoga)

With more than 25 years of experience in accounting and finance as a Certified Public Accountant, I bring a deep understanding of fiscal responsibility, transparency, and strategic planning. My professional background has provided me with the tools to ensure that financial decisions are made thoughtfully, sustainably, and always in the best interest of the community.

I currently serve as Deputy Mayor and previously spent nine years on the Saratoga Springs City School District Board of Education. Additionally, I have served as treasurer for both our homeowners association and the school PTSO. My husband, Todd, and I have proudly called Saratoga Springs home for 22 years, raising our two sons, Aidan and Will, in this vibrant and caring community. I am deeply grateful for all that Saratoga Springs has given us and honored to contribute to the city we love and proudly call home.

Now more than ever, our city’s finance office requires strong, experienced leadership grounded in accounting and fiscal management. Saratoga Springs is facing significant financial challenges due to a lack of long-term planning and accountability in the budgeting process. This has resulted in difficult decisions during the current budget cycle, including potential cuts to essential city services and reduced funding for not-for-profit organizations that so many residents depend on. These organizations are the heart of our community, supporting families, assisting the homeless, feeding those in need,

and providing opportunities for our youth and seniors. When funding is reduced, it’s not just programs that suffer, it’s people.

We must move beyond year-to-year budgeting and instead implement a transparent, forward-looking financial strategy that safeguards our city’s long-term stability.

My top priority will be to evaluate the city’s financial position, strengthen forecasting tools, and work collaboratively with all departments to ensure a sustainable fiscal future for Saratoga Springs.

Commissioner of Finance

Candidate: Shafer Gaston (D, Working families)

I am Shafer Gaston, running to be your next Commissioner of Finance. I am running on the premise that a combination of technical skills and “soft” skills is needed on the City Council. There are a number of issues that we have seen in the last few months where better stakeholder management and communications would have carried the day. We’ve seen resident confusion on paid parking. We’ve heard conflicting timelines on short-term rental legislation. And just last week, we’ve seen seniors, working families, and students get the rug pulled out from under them by cancelling bus routes. Changes shouldn’t catch our residents by surprise, yet we are failing to identify who the stakeholders are and how best to reach them and bring them into the conversation.

As a project management professional, as well as a former Naval officer and engineering manager, I have years of experience getting everyone on the same page and making sure they walk away feeling heard and enfranchised. No one will get everything that they want, but they will understand why the City made the choice that it did. The trick is to talk to people before the decision rather than trying to walk it back after the damage is done.

I want to keep Saratoga Springs on a successful track and to do that we need to update our land use plans for the 21st century, plan our capital improvements such as the police station and the DPW garage in an

integrated fashion that will keep our debt low, and most importantly improve our communication with residents. This will create a positive cultural and economic environment that will provide the quality of life at affordable prices our residents have come to expect. A vote for me is a vote for these objectives. Incumbent Candidate for Commissioner of Public Works: Chuck Marshall (R, One Saratoga)

When I began serving as Commissioner of Public Works, I pledged to uphold the integrity of the office and work as hard as possible to improve the quality of life here in our great City. I have delivered on the campaign promises I made and have done so with a deep appreciation of the trust you have given me. While there has been a great deal of turnover of the DPW seat in recent years, I believe my re-election will allow for much needed consistency and stability within the Public Works Department.

I am the first DPW Commissioner who has served holding an Engineering Degree and Master’s Degree in Public Administration. In addition to my formal education, I also have private sector experience as the Director of Real Estate for Stewart’s Shops. In this capacity, I’ve participated in over 500 municipal and regulatory meetings along with frequently presenting at relevant conferences. My technical expertise and onthe-job experience allow me to work across the table with my fellow Council members to get things done.

Serving as DPW Commissioner requires balancing the needs of the department with the needs of our community. The City of Saratoga Springs is upstate New York’s treasure and it’s our job to ensure it maintains that status.

During my first term as Commissioner, we’ve implemented quality of life changes such as creating a first-ever leaf pickup schedule, beginning the process of relocating the DPW garage out of a residential neighborhood, improving our sewer and water infrastructure, and bringing in new development such as Treehouse and Chipotle.

While we’ve accomplished much in a short period of time,

there’s still much to do. With early voting already underway, I humbly request your vote to continue as your Commissioner of Public Works, and to serve you and this great City.

Candidate for Commissioner of Public Works: BK Keramati (D)

The ultimate responsibility of public officials is to improve our city for the benefit of our citizens. We have had enough condos that cater to the well-off; we need more affordable housing, better sidewalks and safer streets so our children can prosper here and grow their families here.

The most urgent issue facing our city is water. The primary source of our water, Loughberry Lake, is degrading significantly in quality and quantity. This has been going on for years. Our Department of Public Works has the sole responsibility for assuring that we have a safe and plentiful supply of water. But it has failed to inform us of how critical this situation is and what we should be doing about it. We are being told that RFPs (request for proposals) have been issued to find new water! Apparently, things are happening out of the public eye. This is not acceptable.

In addition, our water infrastructure is in serious need for upgrade, a fact that DPW has not adequately addressed for over 20 years. To me, this is not acceptable either.

So, before you vote, I urge you to think about two things:

1. WATER. How important is water in your lives? And how important is it for Saratoga Springs to have a reliable, safe, and plentiful supply for years to come?

2. TRUST. Please take a look at the candidates and just ask: who is funding their campaigns? Who are they beholden to?

Two thirds of my opponent’s campaign fund come from businesses, not real people. My supporters are all real people just like you. I am beholden to you, and only you.

And if I am elected Commissioner, I will work hard to bring civility and respect to City Council proceedings.

Incumbent Candidate for Commissioner of Accounts: Dillon Moran (D, Working Families)

From his campaign website

- Dillon Moran has served as Saratoga Springs Commissioner of Accounts since January 2022. Under his leadership, the office has been modernized and his work has brought a vibrancy back to the city that we haven’t seen in a long time.

With a chemical engineering degree from Clarkson University, Dillon has over 30 years of business experience managing money, people and projects. He is also a partner in several successful local businesses that have contributed significantly to the success of our local economy. Dillon has taken on new challenges without reservation and has created innovative approaches to the issues facing our city.

Dillon’s experience in risk assessment, management and mitigation skills have helped the city tremendously during his tenure. Dillon wants to continue to serve you, the taxpayers and residents of Saratoga Springs, to continue making the city we call home the best it can be.

Candidate for Commissioner of Accounts: Jessica Troisi (R, One Saratoga) I was drawn to Saratoga Springs 32 years ago by the charm of our city, the strength of our community, and the idea of a good life for my family. I’m now running for Commissioner of Accounts because I believe our city deserves leadership that reflects those same values and leads with integrity, accountability, and civility.

The Commissioner of Accounts plays a crucial role in city operations. This office should be a model of transparency, efficiency, and ethical leadership. Recent years have brought controversy, costly lawsuits, and a breakdown of public trust. I believe we can do better — and I’m committed to proving that with action, not rhetoric.

I’ll work respectfully with every member of our city council and every resident, regardless of party, because good government begins with listening — and it succeeds through collaboration.

I hope to earn your trust, your support, and your vote on election day. Let’s move forward together.

Candidate for Mayor: Michele Madigan (D)

Serving as the City’s Finance Commissioner for a

Election Day Preview Cont...

decade, I delivered results you can see — stable or reduced property taxes, millions saved through smart refinancing, creation of the Spa Solar Park that now offsets nearly 40% of the City’s electricity costs, and conversion of every streetlight to energy-efficient LED. I set aside city-owned parcels to build three affordable homes downtown with Habitat for Humanity and partnered with New York State Parks and Recreation to fence and improve the City Dog Park for neighborhood families and their pets. As your current County Supervisor, I worked across party lines to finally secure a permanent location for our Code Blue Shelter — something our community had needed for years.

As Mayor, I’ll continue addressing homelessness with compassion and accountability by working closely with RISE and the Outreach Homeless Court, which are making real progress in connecting people with services, treatment, and stability. I’ll also focus on everyday quality-of-life issues: addressing truck traffic through our downtown and historic neighborhoods, enforcing parking and delivery rules to stop double parking, and making Broadway safer, cleaner, and more pedestrian-friendly.

We must also modernize our building and planning departments, expand affordable and workforce housing, and continue investing in sustainability and smart-city technology to position Saratoga Springs for the future.

Let’s keep Saratoga moving forward — with smart growth, clean energy, efficient government, and compassion for those in need. I humbly ask for your vote on Row A, the Democratic line, during early voting or on Election Day, November 5.

Incumbent Candidate for Mayor: John Safford (R, One Saratoga)

From his campaign website: John Safford is a veteran, a community leader, and the current Mayor of Saratoga Springs. A longtime resident and public servant, he brought civility back to City Hall and has become a steady, trusted hand in challenging times. With decades of

leadership experience in both public and private sectors, Mayor Safford is known for listening, showing up, and getting results — without political theater.

Whether it’s cutting red tape, expanding affordable housing, or supporting local nonprofits and seniors, Mayor Safford is dedicated to building a stronger Saratoga — for everyone.

Candidate for Supervisor: Minita Sanghvi (D, Working Families)

From her campaign website: Minita Sanghvi has served as the Commissioner of Finance for the last 4 years and is often called the voice of reason on the City Council.

She is a business professor at Skidmore College with an undergrad in accounting, an MBA and a PhD. She served on the Library Board for 5 years, was a founding member of the Human Rights Task Force and also served on the Charter Review Commission in 2016.

She has lived in Saratoga Springs for 11 years with her wife, son and their newly adopted 3 kittens.

As Saratoga Springs Finance Commissioner for two terms, Minita has built bipartisan coalitions to get things done.

- Maintained AA+ credit rating for the city

- Collected 12 years of delinquent taxes

- Opened a third EMS/Fire station and hired 16 new firefighters

- Established a 24/7 homeless shelter

- Added sidewalks, bike lanes, parks, and playgrounds to enhance quality of life

- Increased affordable housing

- Advanced environmental programs such as community compost and urban forestry

- Introduced Participatory Budgeting to fund citizen initiatives, such as pollinator gardens, dog watering station, and children’s literacy bus.

Candidate for Supervisor: George Ehinger (R, One Saratoga)

My name is George Ehinger, and I’m asking for your vote for Saratoga County Supervisor. I’m a 20-plus-year resident, husband and father. I built my career leading businesses across different industries and around the world. I know how to bring people

together, solve tough problems and move good ideas forward with clear thinking and measurable results, not ideology.

This year’s race is critical for the city of Saratoga Springs because, for the first time in decades we will be sending 2 new Supervisors to represent us at the county level as neither of the incumbents is seeking reelection. Our strongest, most consistent voice at the county for the past 18 years has been Matt Veitch, a longtime friend who all but hand selected me to run in his place because he knows my collaborative, problem solving approach will work well at the county level.

Phil Barrett, Chairman of the County Board of Supervisors has said of this election “if Saratoga Springs doesn’t replace Matt Veitch with another strong voice that can collaborate with other Supervisors the city will suffer as far as representation.”

In that interview on Saratoga Report Chairman Barrett went on to say—

“When it gets right down to it, it’s all about and being able to develop good ideas, speak to your colleagues, collaborate and come together on a solution. That’s how the Board of Supervisors works and those are the people that we need in office.

“I see George as somebody who understands that very clearly and I think he’ll be a strong voice for Saratoga Springs.”

So, this election, make the best choice for Saratoga Springs—vote for George Ehinger for County Supervisor.

Candidate for Supervisor: Sarah Burger (D, One Saratoga)

As I’ve listened to voters over the last several months, a few issues top their list. First, residents are very concerned about skyrocketing costs. We are feeling the squeeze in all aspects of our lives including National Grid, food and now even our city taxes are going up by an unknown amount with the prospect of essential items being cut, like the funding for the senior center.

Even though I will have no vote on the city budget, I will have one at the county level and as your next Saratoga Springs County supervisor I will fight to keep our taxes low.

City residents have also expressed a strong desire that there be civility in government. Accountability lies with the voters whom I trust to choose the best candidates to represent their interests and vow to work professionally with whomever is elected.

Residents also express deep concern about dealing with homelessness. The County has a mandate to provide a Code blue with a permanent code blue shelter. This past year the county purchased land on Ballston Avenue. The next step for the county is to negotiate a land lease with Shelters of Saratoga.

As your next Saratoga Springs County Supervisor, I will advocate that the new building be utilized for more than just code blue. The temporary measures we have now are wholly inadequate, and we need additional county resources.

My candidacy is endorsed by the Saratoga Springs

Democratic Committee, One Saratoga, the Saratoga Springs Professional Firefighters, the New York League of Conservation Voters, former Mayor and Supervisor Joanne Yepsen, former Mayor and Supervisor AC Riley, among several others. I humbly ask for your vote on November 4. You can find me on Row A or Row E. For election previews from the towns of Malta, Wilton, Milton and Greenfield as well as state and county elections please go to saratogatodaynewspaper.com/

Deputy Injured while Arresting Brunswick Woman

by Aidan Cahill Saratoga TODAY

A Brunswick woman is facing several charges stemming from an incident at a hotel in Malta which injured a Saratoga County Sherriff’s Deputy.

Michaela Mariano was arrested on charges of assault, bail jumping, obstructing governmental administration and harassment. The arrest came after Deputies received a disturbance call at the Budget Inn in the Town of Malta the night of Oct. 22.

According to the Saratoga County Sherriff’s Office, the

deputy sustained head and neck injuries after hitting their head on a table while trying to take Mariano into custody. At the time, Deputies allege, Mariano was resisting arrest. Mariano also attempted to punch a deputy in the face, however the Sherriff’s Office didn’t indicate whether the punch landed. Mariano was also found to have a bench warrant for her arrest issued in June 2024 by the Clifton Park Town Court on charges of assault. Mariano was arraigned in the Malta Town Court and is currently being held in the Saratoga County Jail awaiting court proceedings.

Claire’s Sues Capitol Region Content Creator for Defamation

by Aidan Cahill Saratoga TODAY

A local social media content creator is being sued by Claire’s for defamation and trademark infringement for posts made claiming he was fired from the company — among others.

Cooper Wright — who is known by his account name “Donny Skipper” — was sued by the Claire’s Essentials LLC for at least seven social media posts critical of the company.

In these since deleted posts, Wright claimed that he had been fired by the company for social media posts criticizing the government, showed Claire’s merchandise that depicts U.S. President Donald Trump and shows correspondence between him and representatives of Claire’s. Some of the videos appeared to be filmed at the closed Claire’s location in the Wilton Mall.

In addition, on the LinkedIn profile for the fictious Donny Skipper, the documents

allege Wright claimed that he had worked at Claire’s since 2022 at their Saratoga Springs and Clifton Park locations.

All of this, according to the lawsuit filed Oct. 7 in federal court, was fake.

“[Wright]’s actions are willful and in bad faith,” The lawsuit states “At all times relevant hereto, [Wright] knew that the content of his social media posts regarding Claire’s was false and continued to perpetuate his false narrative with such knowledge. At all times, [Wright] acted with a reckless disregard for the truth.”

Wright, who lives in Washington County, mainly posts about tenant rights, commentary on political events and issues related to affordability. In a statement to the Albany Times Union, Wright claims that the posts were satire and sought to bring attention to community job losses and the impact of private equity. He said that it was never his intention to mislead or harm the company.

Despite this, Claire’s alleges that Wright’s videos had a tangible impact on their marketing. They claim that in response to Write’s claims, their Instagram post about a recent Halloween product launch, their comment section with negative comments repeating claims made by Wright. The post — which is still on Instagram — has about 500 comments compared to others which typically garner less than 100.

As for the posts which triggered the lawsuit, those have since been deleted and as of Oct. 29, 2025 there is no mention of Claire’s on any of the ‘DonnySkipper’ accounts.

Claire’s is based in Hoffman Estates, Illinois. In August 2025, the company filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy protections and announced that over 200 stores would close as a result of bankruptcy. The next month, the company was bought out by private equity firm Ames Watson. The firm also has a controlling stake in companies such as Lids and Champion.

Although the Claire’s in Wilton Mall wasn’t on the initial closure list, things changed as the store was seen with its shutters down and lights off at the time of publication. The store also doesn’t appear on the Store Locator function of their website.

As for their political activities, while Claire’s used to employ lobbyists from the Greenberg Traurig firm, they terminated their use of the firm of 2022. The last time they were listed as lobbying on any issue, however, was in 2020 when the firm reported that they monitored cosmetic regulation and several bills related to COVID19 on behalf of the company.

Week of October 31 – November 6 , 2025

PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS

BALLSTON

John Schaffer sold property at 17 Kelly Meadow Rd to Nicholas Querques for $295,000

JKM Builders LLC sold property at 48 Lancaster Ct to Marini Land I for $630,000

Paul Lewicki sold property at 6 Pinewood Ct to Jeremiah Campbell for $430,000

CORINTH

Manuel Mizhirumbay sold property at 10 West Mechanic St to Christopher Sweet for $290,000

GALWAY

Robert Choquette sold property at 3017 South Shore Dr W to Lisa OConnor for $650,000

GREENFIELD

Scott Emmitt sold property at 825 Stone Church Rd to Zoe Shannon for $395,000

Irving Metzger sold property at Sand Hill Rd & Beaver Run to Sandhill Holdings LLC for $520,000

John Templin sold property at 265-267 Locust Grove Rd to Kevin Templin for $375,000

MALTA

Malta Land Company sold property at 3 Americas Cup Court to Steven Sullivan for $1,256,088

Malta Land Company sold property at 28 Admirals Way to Richard Erbacher for $787,745

Randall Raymond sold property at 73 Wineberry Lane to Joshua Hipwell for $425,000

MILTON

Jack Garrettson sold property at 16 Hyde Blvd to Julia Parsons for $430,000

Tyler Ruhle sold property at 21 Kaatskill Way to Nicholas Jacques for $466,900

Hunter Lane LLC sold property at 16 Hunter Court to Frank Coppola for $596,297

Mary Beth Flatly sold property at 107 Locust Ct to Donna Flatly for $134,627

George Hannah sold property at 81-83 Milton Ave to Randy Elliott for $1,100,000

SARATOGA

Lisa McKernon sold property at 28 Green St to Ronald VanAlstine for $120,000

SARATOGA SPRINGS

Brooks Remaley sold property at 4 West Circular Ct to Jillian Mayott for $459,000

Saratoga Springs Preservation sold property at 65 Phila St to Cecelia Bette for $550,000

Claudina Ashelman sold property at 50 Hyde St to Richard Clay for $615,000

Douglas Roche sold property at 4 Downton Walk Unit 6 to Matthew Jordan for $2,600,000

Madison Ave Estates sold property at 31 Madison Ave to 31 Madison LLC for $1,200,000

Adelphi Owner II sold property at 19 Washington ST Apt 460 to Mario Martinez for $950,000

WILTON

Tra Tom Development Inc sold property at 173 Traver Rd to Cobble Hill Development for $155,000

Lemanski Family sold property at 9 Rolling Hills Dr to Michael Ballard for $405,000

Gino Radovic sold property at 23 Challedon Dr to Alexander Lushkevich for $735,000

Julia Schrom sold property at 4 Farmington Ave to David Salvatore for $291,400

Courtney Barker sold property at 21 Fairmount Dr to Joseph Thrailkill for $422,000

A Frightening Family Affair: 35 Years of Double M Haunted Hayrides

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

BALLSTON SPA — Familyrun businesses usually evoke fond thoughts of kids learning a trade from their forefathers, carrying on traditions that would otherwise be lost to time. Add to this wholesome image an undead outlaw, a demented clown, and a homicidal nurse and you’ll have a better picture of what the Martin family has been working on for the past 35 years.

Leo Martin is the current owner of Double M Haunted Hayrides and he’s been developing his talent for terrifying locals since he was 19 years old, when his parents first got involved with a haunted hayrides franchise based in Syracuse in the early 90s. Now, Leo hopes that his 22-year-old son may one day take the reins.

“He loves this,” Martin said of his boy. “He was born and raised in it.”

Martin’s wife Jennifer is also involved, helping to run the entire operation. “I can’t do it without her,” he said.

As the decades have unfurled, Double M’s terror-inducing attractions have grown in both size and scale: 50 employees eventually became 140, the hayride trail has expanded exponentially, and one haunted house was joined

by six more. Plus, there are now vendors selling everything from haunted character paintings to carved foam pumpkins to apple cider donuts (courtesy of Lakeside Farms). Joining the festivities this year is a smoking, blinking “deadly drink.”

None of that should distract from the main attraction, however. Martin has been perfecting haunted hayrides for decades and he knows what separates a top-tier ride from a mediocre one.

“It’s all about the total immersiveness,” Martin said. “Some hayrides might not incorporate woods and, to me, you can’t have a good hayride without going through the woods. It’s a natural backdrop. It adds so much to it. We have sound systems on our wagon with music in the background that helps tell the story. It’s how well your actors are trained and how well you flow traffic and get people in and out. It’s a whole thing, not just one element or the other.”

The logistical and creative process for planning these haunted attractions begins in March, when Martin sits down with his staff to assess last year’s operation, come up with characters, and brainstorm new ideas. Trade shows are another source of inspiration.

“The haunted industry as a whole is much bigger than

20th Annual Restaurant Week Returns

people think it is,” Martin said. “In St. Louis in March, there’s a huge haunted trade show and there are companies that build animation and props that also have a lot to do with ideas and how you do haunts.”

Martin’s favorite original creation is Scary Harry, a ghost cowboy that has become Double M’s signature character and helps connect the business’ seasonal haunted hayrides with its year-round Western store that sells a wide selection of boots and apparel.

Double M Haunted Hayrides is open for Halloween, from Oct. 30 through Nov. 1. Buy a ticket online…if you dare.

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Discover Saratoga announced Tuesday the return of Saratoga County’s Restaurant Week, which will take place Monday, Nov. 3 through Sunday, Nov. 9.

Participating restaurants will feature a variety of prix fixe menus, including three-course dinners priced at $25 or $35 and lunch specials for $15. Prices do not include tax or gratuity, and reservations are highly recommended.

Some of this year’s participating restaurants include the Thirsty Owl Bistro, Bocage Champagne Bar, Brasserie Benelux, Coat Room, Hattie’s, Standard Fare, Brook Tavern,

and the Wishing Well.

“We’re thrilled to celebrate 20 years of Saratoga Restaurant Week—an event that continues to highlight the incredible culinary talent and creativity found throughout our county,” said Darryl Leggieri, president of Discover Saratoga, in a news release. “This week not only showcases our restaurants but also drives visitation and supports the many local businesses that make Saratoga County such a special place to dine, stay, and explore.”

For more information, visit www.discoversaratoga.org/ restaurantweek.

Saratoga Springs Lions Club Celebrates 100 Years

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Two Lions clubs — Saratoga Springs and Albany & Troy — came together to celebrate their 100th anniversaries on Oct. 11 with a dinner for about 200 people at the Gideon Putnam Hotel.

The night included a roaring ‘20s theme replete with period dress, antique cars, a dixieland jazz band, and a speakeasy feel to the night’s event.

Keller Johnson, the greatgrand niece of Helen Keller, spoke at the event. In 1925, Keller challenged the Lions clubs to be the “Knights of the Blind,” a tradition the clubs carry on today.

Jerry Gordon, a Capital District jazz advocate and president of the Albany & Troy

and honorees

combined Lions club, called the party “a good evening” and said that it was a nice way to celebrate service to the community.

While calling it clichéd, he added, “We’re looking forward to the next 100 years of serving our communities.”

Saratoga-Based Company

Sues Over “Death” Coffee

An image from Death Wish Coffee’s lawsuit that intends to show the similar brand aesthetics of Liquid Death and Death Wish products.

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Death Wish Coffee, a Saratoga-based business, filed a trademark infringement lawsuit in federal court in California earlier this month against Liquid Death, a popular water brand that may launch a new line of coffee products.

The problem, in Death Wish’s eyes, is that Liquid Death’s coffee products may confuse customers due to the two brands’ similar deathinspired aesthetics and names.

“The Infringing Coffee Products will confuse consumers, infringe the DEATH WISH Marks, and irreparably harm Death Wish and its valuable brand,” the complaint reads. “The Infringing Coffee Products will duplicate the dominant element of Death Wish’s registered trademarks – i.e., DEATH. They will likely appear in the same retailers and side-by-side with Death Wish’s products in stores, where Death Wish sells both ready-todrink canned coffee as well as other coffee beans and coffee products. And they will share similar consumer bases and advertising, distribution, and marketing channels. Liquid Death is well aware of Death Wish’s established trademark rights in the coffee market, but plans to launch the Infringing Coffee Products anyway. In short, this is a dead-to-rights case of willful trademark infringement.”

In the suit, Death Wish said the two companies have been able to coexist because

Dog Obedience Training Center Opens in Greenfield

GREENFIELD — Paws, a canine obedience business with an existing location in Hudson Falls, opened a new Canine Education & Social Center campus in Greenfield last Friday afternoon.

Paws is located at 3230 Route 9N, a 12.6-acre property that was formerly the site of Greenfield Tavern, which has been vacant for more than 20 years.

they each sell different products (coffee and water), but that this coexistence is coming to an end because Liquid Death “is preparing to invade Death Wish’s market territory and infringe Death Wish’s trademarks by selling DEATH-branded coffee beverages.” Also in the suit, Death Wish said they asked Liquid Death not to launch the new coffee line but Liquid Death refused.

In response, Liquid Death published an Instagram post stating that the company has “no real plans to actually launch a coffee.”

“Perhaps the executives at Death Wish Coffee are amped up on too much caffeine to be this paranoid about the future,” read the post. “Which is why the new CEO at Death Wish (Steve Gardiner) may want to consider trying our new better-foryou energy drink (coming in January) that has zero sugar, 5 calories, essential vitamins, and a sane level of caffeine (100mg) And whether or not we ever go into coffee one day, we don’t believe any one company can legally own the word DEATH regardless of how it’s used.”

Liquid Death also took a shot at Death Wish for sharing a name with Deathwish Inc., a hardcore punk music label.

Death Wish Coffee was founded by Mike Brown in 2012 and is headquartered at 260 Broadway in downtown Saratoga Springs. The brand’s products are available in grocery stores across the country and online via Amazon.

“We are delighted to welcome this successful business to Greenfield,” said Town Supervisor Kevin Veitch in a news release. “It seems that the perfect business has found a perfect location. This beautiful and rural property has a big history and we’ve all been waiting for the right type of business to come along. I think that Paws, with its community focus, is going to fit right in.”

Paws was co-founded in 2017 by Greenfield resident and Lead Trainer Bri Rabine. The

Paws celebrated the opening of its new 12.6-acre canine education campus with a ribbon cutting ceremony last Friday.

new location is fully staffed with four full-time and four parttime employees.

The mission of Paws is to offer adventure, fulfillment, and relationship building for its canine customers, in addition to traditional lessons in obedience.

“Our entire property is being carefully designed with

a dog’s best interests in mind,” said Managing Owner Lora Bacharach. “Being outdoors with nature puts the dogs in a better state of mind. Dogs are happiest when they can sniff, run, chase sticks, and swim in a pond. We aim to be a one-of-akind resource center for owners and their dogs.”

Coming This November: Pontiac: The Dawn of Muscle at the Saratoga Automobile

This November, the Saratoga Automobile Museum will celebrate the legacy of American performance with Pontiac: The Dawn of Muscle, a major new exhibition showcasing sixteen of Pontiac’s most iconic performance machines.

Opening Wednesday, November 5, the exhibition traces the rise of the muscle car through Pontiac’s defining models—from the original GTO that started it all to the Firebird and Trans Am that carried its spirit for decades.

To mark the occasion, the Museum will host a special Exhibit Reception on Thursday, November 13, from 5 to 7 PM, where guests can enjoy light refreshments, mingle with

fellow enthusiasts, and experience the exhibition up close. At the heart of the show is a stunning lineup of Pontiac GTOs, including multiple examples of the legendary GTO Judge in its most striking factory colors: Liberty Blue, Carousel Red, Orbit Orange, Granada Gold, and Lucerne Blue. Visitors will encounter the 1964 Tempest GTO that sparked a movement, the refined 1967 model, and the show-stopping Judges of 1969 to 1971 that turned performance into pop culture.

Adding to the excitement, the Museum will feature the 1966 Pontiac GTO Monkeemobile, one of the most recognizable custom cars ever

built for television. Created by customizer Dean Jeffries for The Monkees TV show, the Monkeemobile perfectly captures the playful energy and over-the-top creativity that defined the muscle car era.

The exhibition also explores how Pontiac’s image shaped a generation. In the Museum’s Orientation Theater, guests will find digital reproductions of more than 30 vintage Pontiac advertisements by Art Fitzpatrick and Van Kaufmann, courtesy of the GM Heritage Collection. These vivid, stylized scenes helped define Pontiac as more than a car—it was confidence, freedom, and attitude on wheels.

November Nature on the Move Walks at Wilton Wildlife

On Mondays, November 3 and 17, from 10:30 am to noon, Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park will hold its bi-weekly Nature on the Move walks. These walks are led by one of Wilton Wildlife’s volunteers, Linda Hovious, along with an Environmental Educator.

These walks enable participants to explore the trails with like-minded individuals and appreciate the beauty of nature as the seasons change. These walks are geared towards gentle exercise and are appropriate for adults at basic fitness levels.

The group usually covers about 1.5 miles of trails. Nature on the Move happens every

other week, year-round. Registration is required at least one business day in advance. To register, or for upto-date trail conditions or program information, please visit the website at www.wiltonpreserve.org or on Facebook or Instagram @wiltonpreserve.

For more information, call the Wilton Wildlife office at 518-450-0321 or email info@ wiltonpreserve.org. Wilton Wildlife’s mission is to provide environmental education and opportunities for outdoor recreation while supporting conservation of ecological systems and natural settings

PEP’s 2025 Fun Run Raises $40K During Schoolwide

Parents as Education Partners (PEP) raised $40,285 during its 2025 fundraising effort — a major step toward PEP’s goal of purchasing a new full-size basketball court with multipurpose hoops. This project, totaling $72,000, will provide students with an upgrade from the current half court and create new opportunities for school and community recreation.

PEP would like to give special recognition to its Silver

Fundraiser

Sponsor, Stone Bridge Iron and Steel, Inc. for their generous donation, a contribution that helped push this year’s fundraiser over the $40,000 mark.

“On behalf of the entire PEP board, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you for helping make this year’s Fun Run such a huge success!” said PEP President Christine Barbeau. “It was an incredible day filled with smiles, teamwork, and school spirit. The new format, with

grades running together and families cheering from the sidelines, was so special.”

Barbeau added that the success of the Fun Run represents more than just dollars raised — it’s a reflection of the strong sense of connection within the school community.

“We’re so grateful for the time and effort that make days like this possible, fostering a positive, connected environment for our students,” she said.

Spirits, Stories, and a Ghost Hunt Await at Saratoga’s Haunted Canfield Casino

Saratoga Springs, NY — This November, the Saratoga Springs History Museum invites the public to step into the shadows of one of the most haunted places in America for “A Spirited Evening: A Paranormal Experience at the Haunted Canfield Casino” on Thursday, November 6, from 6:00–10:00 PM.

The Canfield Casino, famously featured on Ghost Hunters and the Travel Channel’s Most Terrifying Places in America, opens its doors for one night only, offering guests an unforgettable mix of gourmet dining, chilling stories, and

encounters with the unknown.

The evening begins with cocktails and a lavish buffet dinner provided by Salvato’s and Wandering Food Dude, followed by an interactive paranormal presentation by Dan and Lauren Perez, The Radikals. Guests will be introduced to their traveling collection of occult artifacts, each with a mysterious and often unsettling backstory. A ghost theory discussion will follow, led by Jamie Parillo, Museum Director, and Matt Derway of the Olde Saratoga Paranormal Group.

Ticket Information

• General Admission:

The Ballston Spa Education Foundation Online Holiday Auction is coming soon!

The BSEF is preparing for their annual online auction and is looking for donations from local restaurants and shops to help support innovative projects across the Ballston Spa school district. Gift cards, goods, services and experiences are welcome! Every dollar raised from the auction directly supports our district students and classrooms. Donations are due by November 18, 2025. To learn more or to make a contribution, please contact bspaedfoundation@gmail.com.

$150 per person

• Museum Members: $140 per person

Tickets are available now at https://www.saratogahistory. org/spirited-evening

• Work on a dynamic team of passionate professionals who love what

• Build positive partnerships with families in support

16

Food

The Who’s Who of the Holiday/Winter - Saratoga Farmers’ Market

HIGH ROCK PARK

SATURDAYS

9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

WEDNESDAYS

3 - 6 p.m.

by Jodie Fitz for

The Saratoga Farmers’ Market continues to celebrate its 47th year in the community serving local farms, local makers & producers, and the community as it enters the cold season with their move indoors to the Wilton Mall. The market will take place weekly on Saturdays starting November 1st and will continue indoors through April 25th in the food court area near the movie theater.

There are many returning vendors at the market for the 2025/2026 season; however, there are many new brands joining the lineup for local customers and visitors to discover.

Albany Distilling Company

Argyle Cheese Farmer

Autumn’s Harvest Vineyard

Awakened Tonics LLC

Bab-a-Dew’s Wood Fired Pizza

Bakery Suzanne

Ballston Lake Apiaries

Bella Blends

Bloom and Thread

Breakfast Nook, LLC

Daily Fresh

Euro Delicacies

Feathered Antler

Furlong Farmhouse Lavender

Gammy’s Candies

Gomez Veggie Ville

Grazin’ Acres Farm

Great Northern Pantry

Halfmoon Harvest

Hepatica Farm LLC

Holistic Wellness Therapy, LLC

Holly & Vine Farm

Jireh Organic Farm & Live Stock of New York

Journal Star Technologies

Katie Bakes GF

Kokinda Farm

La Capital Tacos

Longlesson Farm

May-k-Mark

Muddy Trail Jerky Company

Mugzy’s Barkery

Nally Coffee

Nettle Meadow

Nigh Work Break

Parchment Baking Company LLC

Pebble + Fern

Perogi, Pierogi, Pyroogi

Puckers Gourmet

Radiant Living Healing Arts & Massage

If you are a local author and/or artist and would like to join the holiday season market as a one-time guest, please email manager@ saratogafarmersmarket for an application and more information.

Consider supporting your local market by sponsoring a wooden snowflake for $5 during the month of November at the market. All proceeds support the market’s ability to offer free programming, festivals and administrative costs. Market News:

* Start of Indoor Holiday/Winter Market Saturday,

Rams Valley LLC

Saratoga Apple

Saratoga Peanut Butter Co.

Scotch Ridge Berry Farm

Seven Pines Family Farm, LLC

Sweet Treats by Jennifer, LLC

Sydney Anechiarico Jewelry

Teeny Bite Bakery

The Bull and Bee Meadery

The Mushroom Shop

Thorn + Roots

Thymeless Homestead

Tyromance Fine Snacks

Underwood’s Greenhouse/Shushan

Valley Hydro Farm

Wild Hogs Sugar Shack at Maple Milk Farm

Wonder Oral Wellness LLC

Yankee Distillers LLC

Zypours

November 1st at Wilton Mall (in the food court)

* Support the market by Sponsoring a Wooden Snowflake $5 donation (at the Saturday Market)

The Saratoga Farmers’ Market is open:

Saturdays | 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Wilton Mall, Saratoga Springs

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

Week of October 31 – November 6 , 2025

Soup Joumou

YIELDS: 8 servings | PREP & COOK TIME: 45 min

INGREDIENTS:

*Ingredients currently available at the farmers’ market

Epis Marinade & Meat

• 2 small celery ribs, roughly chopped*

• 2-3 garlic cloves, roughly chopped*

• 1 small habanero pepper, roughly chopped*

• 1 scallion roughly chopped*

• 1/2 medium onion, roughly chopped*

• 1/4 green bell pepper, roughly chopped*

• 1/4 yellow bell pepper, roughly chopped*

• 10 cups water, divided

• 2 ½ pounds butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cut into chunks*

• 2 small carrots, peeled and cut into rounds*

• 1 leek, diced and thoroughly washed*

• 1 cup thinly sliced cabbage*

• ¼ celery stalk, diced*

• ½ medium onion, diced*

• 4 - 5 garlic cloves, diced*

• ½ bunch cilantro, leaves and tender stems only, chopped*

Soup

• 1/4 red bell pepper, roughly chopped*

• 1/4 bunch flat-leaf parsley, leaves and tender stems only, roughly chopped*

• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

• 1 1/4 cups water, divided

• 1/2 pound beef cut into chunks

• 1 lemon

• 2 small sprigs thyme*

• 1 small sprig flat-leaf parsley*

• 3 whole cloves or 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon onion powder

• ¼ teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 small peeled russet potatoes, diced*

• 1 turnip, peeled and diced*

• 1 small habanero pepper*

• 6 ounces penne

INSTRUCTIONS:

To prepare marinade and meat: In a blender or food processor, combine celery, garlic, habanero, scallion, onion, green, yellow and red bell peppers, parsley, lime juice, 2 tablespoons oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 cup water. Blend or process until mostly smooth, scraping down the blender or processor as needed, about 1 minute. Place beef chunks in a small bowl. Squeeze lemon over the meat. Add 1 cup water and stir to coat the meat. Drain off the liquid, then add 1 cup of the marinade to the meat; cover and refrigerate overnight. (Reserve remaining marinade for garnish.)

To prepare soup: Place the meat and marinade in a medium pot. Add 1 cup water; cover and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally and adjusting the heat as needed, until the meat is tender but not falling apart, about 45 minutes.

Meanwhile, place squash in a large pot and add 5 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the squash is forktender, 12 to 15 minutes. Scoop out the squash with a slotted spoon and transfer to a blender (reserve the liquid). Add about 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid to the blender; blend until smooth. (Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender to puree the squash in the pot. Use caution when blending hot liquids.) Set aside.

Add 4 cups water to the liquid in the pot. Add carrots, leek, cabbage, celery, onion, garlic, cilantro, thyme, parsley, cloves, garlic powder, onion powder and salt. (If going meatless, stir in 1 tablespoon olive oil.) Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium. Add the blended squash, along with the cooked meat and any remaining liquid, potatoes, turnip and habanero, if using. Simmer, uncovered and stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are beginning to get tender, about 30 minutes.

Add pasta and simmer until tender, about 15 minutes. Adjust seasonings with salt and some of the reserved epis, if desired. Serve with French bread*.

Recipe and recipe photo by Eating Well

by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY

HALLOWEEN Memories

Satisfying Chicken Noodle Soup

INGREDIENTS

• 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken thighs, 4 to 5 thighs

• 5 ounces egg noodles or pasta of choice

• 2 tablespoons butter, chicken fat, or olive oil

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 2 bay leaves

• 3 sprigs fresh thyme or use 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• 8 cups chicken stock or broth, low sodium, or use homemade stock

Hello my Foodie Friends! Take Care, John & Paula

• 2 large carrots, chopped

• 2 stalks celery, chopped, optional

• 1 heaped tablespoon minced garlic, 4 cloves

INSTRUCTIONS

Thank you to all of our foodies that read my stories every week. I sincerely appreciate how you enjoy me sharing my stories of my family and food. It’s that time of year for me to share my annual Halloween memories. Halloween is tonight with the little chefs out there having been building excitement over the past weeks. Friday night Halloween is always so much fun and a very busy night for the treaters! In looking back on my childhood on a certain Halloween night; the five Reardon children; John 8, Danny 7, Billy 6 and Patty 5, would be almost too excited to eat our dinner before we went trick or treating. My mother knew she had to prepare something we would all like and it was always her homemade pastina chicken broth soup that we could not resist. We would get our little bodies fueled up and were ready to take on the neighborhood. Also in my

childhood, it was a big thing to have homemade costumes and our moms worked overtime to have the cutest kids. Store bought costumes were a sign of no imagination. On Halloween evening, the four of us were off with orders to stay together or else. I was told that since I was the oldest it was my job to keep a count on my brothers and sisters or I would lose my candy.

My sister Patty was always the first to run out of gas followed by my brother Billy. So, we would have to get them back home and Dan and I would start out again.

My brother Dan could outlast us all but my problem was that he always had to stop and admire someone’s car or truck.

The Dads of these houses were always impressed that a sevenyear-old knew more about his car than they did. We did manage to fill our pillow cases with lots of candy and then with tired feet head home. The next two weeks were spent dipping into

our stash of candy.

As I think of those childhood Halloween nights, I can still taste and smell the soup my mother made. Chicken broth is a staple in most Italian households. You can rest assured that there will be a few quarts in the freezer at all times. You need a really good homemade broth to make pastina, vegetable soups, risottos, sauces, and chicken dishes. Fill up your trick or treaters with something that will keep them warm during the chilly Halloween evening this year. Stop by Compliments to the Chef, your Neighborhood Kitchen and Cutlery store located at 33 Railroad Place to assist with your heartwarming treats. We carry the supplies you will need to make your chilly night soups. Remember my Foodie Friends that “Life Happens in the Kitchen!”

Sauce

Mashed Potatoes

Asparagus Vegetable Medley Applesauce

• Spanish Beef & Rice Casserole

• Mixed Vegetables Warm Peach Crisp Corn Muffin Yogurt

• Chicken Parmesan Pasta w/Sauce Vegetable Trio WW Dinner Roll Pears

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

• Water or more stock, as needed

1. Melt butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring every few minutes until the vegetables begin to soften; 5 to 6 minutes.

2. Stir in the garlic, bay leaves, and thyme. Cook, while stirring the garlic around the pan, for about 1 minute.

3. Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a low simmer. Taste the soup then adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Depending on the stock used, you might need to add 1 or more teaspoons of salt.

4. Submerge the chicken thighs into the soup so that the broth covers them. Bring the soup back to a low simmer then partially cover the pot with a lid and cook, stirring a few times until the chicken thighs are cooked through; about 20 minutes.

5. If, during this time, the broth seems low, add a splash more stock or a bit of water. Turn the heat to medium-low.

6. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate. Stir the noodles into the soup and cook until done, 6 to 10 minutes depending on the type of noodles used.

7. While the noodles cook, shred the chicken into strips or dice into cubes. Slide the chicken back into the pot and then taste the soup once more for seasoning. Adjust with more salt and pepper, as needed. Stir in the parsley and serve.

Recipe courtesy of beyonddiet.com

Church at 518-581-0210.

This Week’s Events: OCT. 31 - NOV.6

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31

Bagels and Barks

Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St. Saratoga Springs | 10 – 11 a.m. What could be better than Bagels and Barks! Stop in for a bite to eat and meet and greet with several therapy dogs and their owners. Local chapter-certified therapy dogs will be in attendance. Sspl.org

Annual Fall Artisan Sale

Barn at the Bridge, 250 Lakehill Rd., Burnt Hills | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Also on Sunday 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Get a jump start on your holiday shopping or just enjoy the perfect fall day here on the farm. A great opportunity to come out and support your local artisans. Over 35 vendors featuring multimedia craftsmanship. There is truly something for everyone. Ranging from embroidery, knitting, painting, ceramics, woodwork, jewelry, basket making, baked goods, syrup, soaps, coffee, and so much more.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1

Veteran’s Memorial Park Book Walk

Veteran’s Memorial Park, 697 MacElroy Road, Clifton Park | Enjoy the book Fletcher and the Falling Leaves by Julia Rawlinson as you stroll along the Veteran’s Memorial Park walking path. This Book Walk will be available through the beginning of December. 518371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org.

Fall Craft Show

The King’s School, 6087 State Route 9N, Hadley | 10 a.m. -4 p.m. at. Join us for a festive day of shopping, studentmade treasures, delicious food, exciting raffles, and warm fellowship! Come celebrate the

season and discover something special for everyone. For more information, please email kploss@kingsschool.info.

Open Family Swim

Ballston Spa High School Pool 70 Malta Ave., Ballston Spa | Noon – 2 p.m. Ages 16 and up, under 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult. More Information and other opportunities to swim, visit https://www. bscsd.org/departments/ athletics/aquatics-program/ communityswim-lap-swim

Writing in Nature Workshops

Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton |1:00-2:30 pm

If you have wanted to try your hand at nature writing but were not sure how to start - this is for you! This FREE program is being led by Skidmore professor, Michael Marx, who will guide and nurture your inner Rachel Carson, Mary Oliver, or Henry David Thoreau. You can sign up for one, or more! These workshops are appropriate for participants older than 10. All supplies will be provided. Apply online at wiltonpreserve.org or call 518-450-0321.

Sunday, November 2

Saratoga Stryders Fall Back 5 Mile Trail Race

Saratoga Spa State Park, Saratoga Springs | 10 a.m.

Challenge yourself in the Saratoga Stryders Fall Back 5 Mile Trail at Saratoga Spa State Park, featuring rolling ridges, single track, grassy stretches and a stair climb. Enjoy a scenic, challenging course and post-race prizes. In-person registration and early bib pickup are scheduled for Saturday, November 1 at iRun LOCAL (425 Broadway,

Saratoga Springs). Day-of last-minute registration and bib pickup take place at the Roosevelt II Building in Saratoga Spa State Park. Registration is limited to 200 entries. Pre-registration is $30 plus an online processing fee; in-person and last-minute registration is $35 (cash or check only). No refunds will be issued. For more information, visit saratogastryders.org.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3

Galway Preservation Society Monthly Meeting

Galway Town Hall, 5910 Sacandaga Road, Galway | Doors open at 6:45, followed by our monthly program at 7:00. This month’s program will be on Dr. Elizabeth Gilette, presented by Michael Diana, Director of Education and Historian of the Schenectady County Historical Society. At the turn of the 20th Century, Elizabeth Gilette moved to Schenectady. At that time, she was only the second woman to practice medicine in the small American city. Over the course of her long career, Gilette would defy not just the profession but the political boundaries of her gender. The presentation details her many accomplishments and remarkable personality. Open to the public, free of charge.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4

Election Day Chili Meal

Malta Ridge Methodist Church, 729 Malta Ave. Extension, Malta | 11:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. The price is $8 for each meal (eat in or take out). All Are invited. For additional information or directions please call the

Annual Election Day

Chicken & Biscuit Dinner

Middle Grove United Methodist Church, 429 Middle Grove Rd., Middle Grove | 4 – 7 p.m. Drive Thru ~ Take Out Only. Dinner includes: chicken & gravy with peas and carrots, biscuits, homemade apple crisp. Cost $12.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5

Chicken & Biscuits Dinner

Saratoga Wilton Elks Lodge, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs | 4:30 – 6 p.m. Take out only. Call Monday or Tuesday between 10 a.m. – Noon to place an order at 518-584-2585. Menu: Chicken & Biscuits, mashed potatoes, vegetable, salad. Dinner: $15 (cash only).

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6

Genealogy Assistance

Clifton Park Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Rd. Clifton Park |011 a.m. - 1 p.m. Lisa Dougherty, a skilled genealogical researcher, will help you with your questions, roadblocks, and other stumpers. Roundtable discussion begins at noon. 518371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org

A Spirited Evening: A Paranormal Experience at the Haunted Canfield Casino

Canfield Casino, Congress Park, Saratoga Springs | 6 – 10 p.m. The Saratoga Springs History Museum invites the community to an unforgettable evening of history, dining, and the supernatural. This annual fundraiser brings together food, fun, and folklore to support the Museum’s mission of preserving and sharing Saratoga’s remarkable history. The event offers guests a one-of-a-kind experience that blends fine dining with spine-tingling storytelling. Tickets can be purchased online at https://www.saratogahistory. org/spirited-evening.

Events

Holiday Craft Sale

Join us at St. Michaels Church of South Glens Falls on Friday, November 7 from 3 to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for a wonderful Holiday Craft Show. There will be over 50 crafters, raffle baskets, a bake sale and cafe. Santa Clause is also going to be there for the children to visit. The church is located at 80 Saratoga Ave, South Glens. Phone: 518-7925859. The sale is held by St. George’s Rosary Alter Society. Stop by and do some Christmas Shopping! Great parking is available too.

Pumpkin Smash! with Community Compost

Saturday, November 8 at 2 – 4 p.m. Pitney Meadows Community Farm, located at 223 West Ave., Saratoga Springs. Let’s turn your pumpkins into something good! Join us for Pumpkin Smash — recycle your seasonal pumpkins and gourds with our Community Compost program’s vertical drum system. Bring your pumpkins, smash ‘em, and help divert food waste from the landfill.

Dan Navarro Concert

The concert will be held with Jesse Lynn Madera on November 8 at Caffe Lena at 8 p.m. followed by a songwriter’s workshop on November 9 at 1 p.m. Songwriting and the Creative Muse - a three-hour workshop with Dan Navarro, covering the foundations of creativity through songwriting, including song structures, storytelling and thematic arc, complexity vs simplicity and other useful concepts to hone and enhance your creativity. Critiques provided upon request. For all levels. For more information visit caffelena.org.

Antique Fishing Expo

NFLCC presents the Antique Fishing Expo at the Holiday Inn, located at 232 Broadway, Saratoga Springs.

The event will be held on Saturday November 9 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. $10 Admission, Veterans and kids 16 and under are Free/ Largest Fishing Show in the Northeast. Items include: Vintage Fishing Lures, Rods, Reels, Bobbers, Decoys, Files, Signs, Ephemera and more.

Monthly Indoor Craft and Garage Sale

Sunday, November 9, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. This popular Sale will be held at the Saratoga Wilton Lodge at 1 Elk Lane. Admission is free. Over 40 vendors; great parking, bargains galore. Lunch is available. Just about anything you can imagine might be offered: lightly used children’s toys and lots of Christmas craft items. A fun activity for the entire family. All proceeds go to the Elks Scholarship Fund. An 8’ table with chairs cost $15. Email Debbie at 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 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

6 Hour Defensive Driving Course

Saturday, November 22, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church, 175 Fifth Ave., Saratoga Springs. Cost $40 prepaid, $45 at door. A portion of the fee is donated to the church. 518-784-5009 or www.facetofacecourses.com.

Holiday Opera “La bohème”

Celebrate the holidays with the original RENT — a story

of young artists in love, from first blush to dying breath. This holiday season, Opera Saratoga invites you to be swept away by the romance, laughter, and heartbreak of Puccini’s timeless masterpiece, “La bohème.” In this special staged concert, the Skidmore Chorus and members of the Excelsior Vocal Ensemble joins forces with the most exciting rising stars from the Juilliard School and the Metropolitan Opera to bring to life the unforgettable arias, soaring ensembles, and rich choral moments that have enchanted audiences for generations. Single tickets are on sale now. The concert will be held on December 5 at 7 p.m. at Universal Preservation Hall 25 Washington Street, Saratoga Springs. Single tickets are on sale now at www.atproctors.org.

Visit the Amazing Islands of the Azores

The Academy for Lifelong Learning of Saratoga Springs is sponsoring a ten-day tour to the Azores May 11 - 20, 2026. Lately referred to as “the new Iceland” and “the Hawaii of the Atlantic,” a non-stop five-anda-half-hour flight from NYC transports you to this remote region of volcanic islands off the coast of Portugal. Hidden waterfalls, mythical hot springs and lush tropical gardens invite visitors to enjoy its beauty. If you love gardens, wineries, tropical floral displays and soaking in naturally heated geothermal springs, this trip is for you. Package price for land and air based on double occupancy is $5,990. Contact goedventures@gmail.com for additional information.

Fun And Games Puzzle

A Guide to October Mischief

FESTIVALS, CORN MAZES, SPOOKY TOURS AND MORE

HAUNTED SARATOGA GHOST TOURS

Come walk with us and hear the stories of Haunted Saratoga. Hear the stories that have lived on in our city for hundreds of years. They will enchant, entertain, and perhaps even scare you. Our 90-minute long walking tour will take you in search of the countless ghosts rumored to haunt the city. Total walking distance is less than a mile, covered at a very leisurely pace so that you can enjoy Saratoga’s many infamous ghosts and haunted locations. The tour covers parts of Congress Park and downtown Saratoga Springs. Specific meeting instructions will be sent by email when the tours are booked. Friday and Saturday through October. Cost is $22 adults, $10 kids under 12. HauntedSaratogaTours.com

HAUNTED CORN MAZE

The Haunted Corn Maze at Schuyler Farms is Back! Dare to enter the Schuyler Farms Haunted Corn Maze, where your worst nightmares lurk around every corner. As the sun sets over the fields, the maze transforms into a twisted trail of terror filled with horrifying surprises, creepy creatures, and spine-chilling screams. Friday & Saturday Nights in October with live actors, special effects, and all-new scares for 2025! Food, drinks & fun await before and after the fright! Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just love a good scare, the Haunted

Maze at Schuyler Farms is the must-visit Halloween event in the Capital Region. But beware... once you enter, there’s no turning back. Schuyler Farms, Route 29 –Schuylerville. Visit schuylerfarms.com for more details.

NIGHTMARES AT LIBERTY RIDGE FARM

As the sun sets over Liberty Ridge, the Farm turns into a haunted nightmare. Featuring 5 haunted attractions, all at 1 location. Each attraction is scarier than the one before, sure to leave everyone who enters trembling with fear. Nightmares is a journey into the heart of darkness, where the only way to survive is to keep moving forward…For more information, or to buy tickets, visit LRFnightmares.com.

HAUNTED HAYRIDES

This year’s walk-through attractions include Brutality, Blood Moon Farm, Dead Root Dwelling, The Last Inn, Doom County FEARgrounds and Martin’s Memorial Hospital. Enjoy our midway Feartainment featuring interactive creatures, music, concession stand, souvenir stand, and photo booth. Book your reservation now online or by calling 518-8849122. Last 2 nights October 31 - November 1. For more Information, visit https:// doublemhauntedhayrides.com/ reservations/

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

Social Media Stars Wage War: Two Buttons Deep vs. Agent Aaron

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— Public feuds tend to be a nasty bit of business. Usually, one might be tempted to ignore them for the sake of all involved, but it’s been difficult to turn away from the ongoing and rather shocking battle between digital media company

Two Buttons Deep and its exemployee Aaron Madej (formerly known as Intern Aaron, and more recently known as Agent Aaron).

For those who don’t spend too much time online, here’s an explanation of the unhappy events.

Two Buttons Deep is an influential Capital Region company that runs social media accounts you may be familiar with, especially Around Saratoga Springs, which currently has more than 32,000 Instagram followers. Two Buttons Deep (sometimes referred to as 2BD) hired Madej back in 2023 as one of their interns. At the time, Madej was a student at the University at Albany looking for a fun and flexible opportunity. An internship at Two Buttons Deep seemed like a natural fit.

After joining as an intern, Madej was later promoted to content producer. In this role, he appeared on the Buttonista Show podcast, met with clients, and curated social media

content. Madej didn’t initially expect to become an on-camera personality, but his charisma and sense of humor soon saw him appearing in front of the camera on a fairly regular basis, making him a familiar face to followers of Two Buttons Deep. Madej even appeared in a video alongside New York Governor Kathy Hochul.

But then, seemingly out of the blue, he was gone.

“The rumors are true, Intern Aaron has left Two Buttons Deep; he quit,” announced the company’s co-founder Jack Carpenter in a May 8 video. “I speak for the team when I say that we’re bummed. We didn’t see this coming, and I felt he had a lot more potential here in our world, but alas, he’s got new opportunities coming his way and he’s doing what’s best for Intern Aaron, and really that’s all that matters.”

“When my departure happened,” Madej told Saratoga TODAY in an interview in May, “it came to a certain point where I realized that I needed to prioritize myself and my mental health and go forward and take new opportunities that also align with my personal, careerdriven mission.”

As the weeks and months after his departure wore on, Madej posted a number of references to his time working for Two Buttons Deep, most of which seemed to cast the company in a negative light. After

landing a job with the North Greenbush-based Core Real Estate Team, Madej began hyping a new podcast called the “Agent Aaron Show,” which Core would seemingly produce and/or host.

The first episode of the podcast went up earlier this month. After floating the idea of moving to Saratoga Springs to enjoy a “hot girl Saratoga life,” Madej made a number of accusations against Two Buttons Deep. “Girls, buck up,” he said. “This is going to be insane.”

Madej said he was not trying to destroy anyone and that he cares deeply about the people he used to work with, but nonetheless felt a need to tell his story. He said he wasn’t necessarily asking the audience to side with him and saw his story as a learning opportunity.

According to Madej, things began to change for him at Two Buttons Deep following “transgate,” a nickname for a 2023 incident in which a transphobic remark could be heard in a video posted by 2BD. In the video, a bar patron said that transgender people should “get the f— out” of his county. After the remark was made, the video cut to Two Buttons Deep personality Taylor Rao (a.k.a., the Buttonista), who quipped, “I guess we’re not in Saratoga anymore.” The controversy cost the media company significant advertising revenue.

Madej said that “transgate” should’ve been “a really good

lesson [for] them but they really never actually learned from it.”

He suggested that the owners of 2BD “only care about themselves” and “don’t really see the bigger picture of other people’s employment struggles.” He also added that the alleged “toxic” work environment at the company made his mental health worse, citing at least one incident in which he seemed to struggle with thoughts of suicide.

Soon after its publication, Madej’s podcast episode was deleted from all platforms, with the Core Real Estate Team publishing a statement calling Madej’s remarks “inappropriate.”

The company also fired Madej.

“This content was not approved, authorized, or posted by Core Real Estate Team and was uploaded independently by the individual to our platforms,” the statement read. “Upon learning of the video, we took immediate action, terminating their association with Core Real Estate Team. We have great respect for Two Buttons Deep and the positive impact they make in our community.”

The episode sparked an even harsher response from Carpenter, who posted a video titled “The Unfortunate Truth About Intern Aaron” to 2BD’s social media accounts.

In the video, Carpenter said that Madej sent 2BD demands that “look like, sound like, and feel like extortion.” A screenshot of an email sent from Madej to

Two Buttons Deep included a request for a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) regarding his time of employment with the company (Madej had also mentioned the NDA in his podcast).

“We have no interest in an NDA because first and foremost, there’s nothing we don’t want disclosed,” Carpenter said. “If there was, we would’ve had him sign an NDA on his way out, not six months later. So, we’ve decided as a team to break our silence on what we have been dealing with all year with him.”

Carpenter then accused Madej of making “countless, baseless accusations” against Two Buttons Deep and its employees. In response to accusations that Carpenter bullied Madej, Carpenter showed a clip from a podcast recording in April 2025 in which Madej appeared to be bullying the offscreen Carpenter.

“Maybe you should do some meditation because clearly you need it,” Madej can be heard telling Carpenter. “Maybe some psychological evaluation, as well. I don’t know, maybe you can get a therapist to meet up with you here because you clearly need it, you narcissist.”

Carpenter also alleged that Madej would say “awful things” about the children of 2BD employees, showing a screenshot of a text message exchange in which Madej appears to suggest that one employee’s child may be autistic.

But perhaps the most shocking allegation was that after quitting the company, Madej (according to Carpenter) duplicated an office key without permission, entered the Two Buttons Deep office, disabled its security system, and then “ransacked the place.”

Carpenter said that despite all of this, he was willing to “take the high road” and “sweep this under the rug” but six months of “relentless defamation” by Madej resulted in the company breaking its silence.

As of publication time, Madej had not issued a public response to either Carpenter’s video or news of his termination by Core Real Estate Team. A request for comment from Saratoga TODAY also went unanswered.

Saratoga Comic Con Expands

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Comic Con will return to the Spa City on Nov. 22-23 with an expanded event that will now be housed in both the City Center and the Saratoga Hilton.

The two-day convention will feature a lineup of performers and artists, including:

• Steven Ogg, voice of Revor Phillips in “Grand Theft Auto V” and Simon in “The Walking Dead”;

• Ned Luke, voice of Michael De Santa in “Grand Theft Auto V”;

• Shawn Fonteno, voice of Franklin Clinton in “Grand Theft Auto V”;

• Jay Klaitz, voice of Lester Crest in “Grand Theft Auto V” and played The Whizzer in “Jessica Jones”;

• Blake Foster, Blue Turbo Power Ranger in 45 episodes of “Power Rangers Turbo”;

• Daniel Pesina, Johnny Cage, Scorpion, Subzero, Reptile from “Mortal Kombat”;

• Guest artists Robert Bruno, Daniel Khanna, and Jay Mooers;

• Cosplay guest artists Haunted Cosplay, Resident Evil Cosplay Troop, THE LAST BLACK MOON, Jennard Cosplays, GMX Cosplay, Harley Nox Cosplay, James Cosplay, Venus Nebulous, Breadbite Cosplay, Sydstar Cosplays, Julia Rose Cosplays, Curling Cosplays, Slime Enigma Cos, Kieth Jackson, and Hudson Valley Ghostbusters.

The show floor will include more than 290 vendor and artist tables, Super Smash Bros. tournaments, cosplay contests, panels, events, tattooing, and more.

For additional information, visit www.saratogacomiccon.com.

& Arts Cake Coming to SPAC

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Cake, a rock band best known for their hits “The Distance” and “Short Skirt/Long Jacket,” will perform at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC)

on June 1, 2026. Tickets go on sale Friday, Oct. 31 at 10 a.m. Cake’s last studio album, “Showroom of Compassion,” was released in 2011, but the group will reportedly release a new album (perhaps as soon as this year) that will include their 2024 song

“Billionaire in Space.” Cake is now the second act already announced for SPAC’s 2026 summer lineup. The first was country star Riley Green, who will perform with special guests Justin Moore and the duo of Drake White and Hannah McFarland.

Best of the Saratoga SHOWCASE OF HOMES

2025 Saratoga Showcase of Homes Award Winners; People’s Choice Awards; Over 3,000 Tour the Homes!

The area’s premiere new home tour, the 2025 Saratoga Showcase of Homes was proudly presented over two beautiful fall weekends this year on October 4-5 and October 11-12. This year’s edition featured 12 extraordinary homes from 10 award-winning builders on display. Participating builders in this year’s event; Abele Homes, Beechwood Homes, Bella Home Builders, Belmonte Builders, DeGraff

Bloom Custom Builders, Green Springs Companies, Heritage Custom Builders, Kodiak Construction, Urvalek Builders and Witt Construction.

Thank you to the many generous corporate & media sponsors, showcase builders and suppliers, showcase committee, volunteers and especially the over 3000 visitors who purchased tickets to tour these amazing homes in support of this spectacular fall tradition.

All the builder awards were announced at the Showcase Awards Presentation & Celebration held on October 8. This year’s “People’s Choice” awards went to Abele Homes for Classic Home; DeGraff Bloom Custom Homes for Executive Home; Urvalek Builders for Luxury Home; Witt Construction for Estate Home. Thank you to all the builders for your dedication and congratulations to

the 2025 Showcase of Homes Award Winners!

The announcement and presentation of the donations to our two local charities from the proceeds of this annual event will be held in early November.

Celebrating its 29th year, this annual community event has contributed over $1.6 MILLION DOLLARS to our local charities. Proceeds from the Saratoga Showcase of Homes benefit Rebuilding Together Saratoga

County (www.rtsaratoga.org) and Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties (www. glensfallshabitat.org). For more details on the recently concluded 2025 Saratoga Showcase of Homes event and to view virtual tours of the homes, visit www. saratogashowcaseofhomes.com.

SAVE THE DATES for the 2026 Saratoga Showcase of Homes scheduled for October 3-4 and October 10-11.

CLASSIC HOMES AWARDS

Category

Landscaping:

Belmonte Builders Chris Gennoy –CPI Services

Workmanship: Belmonte Builders

Primary Bath: Abele Homes

Exterior

Architectural Design: Belmonte Builders

Belmonte Builders 2,477 Square Feet • 3 Bedrooms • 2.5 Bathrooms

Runners Up

LANDSCAPING: Abele Homes Dylan Helo - Heloscaping

WORKMANSHIP: Abele Homes

PRIMARY BATH: Belmonte Builders

EXTERIOR ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN: Abele Homes

CLASSIC HOMES AWARDS

Category

Interior Floor Plan:

Abele Homes

Kitchen:

Abele Homes

Nikki Stelling – Builder’s Kitchens

Interior Decorating

Belmonte Builders Denise Rappazzo –Plum & Crimson Fine Interior Design

People’s Choice

Abele Homes

Runners Up

INTERIOR FLOOR PLAN: Belmonte Builders

KITCHEN: Belmonte Builders Michelle Bucciero – Builder’s Kitchens

INTERIOR DECORATING: Abele Homes

EXECUTIVE HOMES AWARDS Winners by Category

Landscaping:

DeGraff Bloom Custom Builders Jeff Heck –

JH Property Services

Kerby Loukes – Pro Cut Landscaping Services

Workmanship:

Kodiak Construction

Primary Bath:

Kodiak Construction

Exterior

Architectural Design:

Kodiak Construction

Runners Up

LANDSCAPING: Kodiak Construction Jesse Marco – Brookside Nursery

WORKMANSHIP: DeGraff Bloom Custom Builders

PRIMARY BATH: DeGraff Bloom Custom Builders

EXTERIOR ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN: DeGraff Bloom Custom Builders

DHC Drafting and Design

EXECUTIVE HOMES AWARDS Winners by Category

Interior Floor Plan:

Kodiak Construction

Kitchen:

Kodiak Construction

Heather Lust – Curtis Lumber

Interior Decorating

Kodiak Construction

Kaitlynn Johnson – Old Brick Furniture

Denise Rappazzo – Plum & Crimson Fine

Interior Design

People’s Choice

DeGraff Bloom Custom Builders

DeGraff Bloom Custom Builders

Runners Up

INTERIOR FLOOR PLAN: DeGraff Bloom Custom Builders

KITCHEN: DeGraff Bloom Custom Builders Jay Legere – Curtis Lumber

INTERIOR DECORATING: Heritage Custom Builders

Lynn Ricci – Classic Interiors

LUXURY HOMES AWARDS

Winners

by Category

Landscaping:

Belmonte Builders Dylan Helo - Heloscaping

Workmanship: Bella Home Builders

Primary Bath: Urvalek Builders

Exterior

Architectural Design: Urvalek Builders Edmund’s Design

Runners Up

LANDSCAPING: Bella Home Builders Matt Baker – GSL Landscaping and Nursery

WORKMANSHIP: Belmonte Builders

PRIMARY BATH: Belmonte Builders

EXTERIOR ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN: Belmonte Builders

LUXURY HOMES AWARDS

Winners

by Category

Interior Floor Plan: Belmonte Builders

Kitchen: Urvalek Builders

Interior Decorating Urvalek Builders

People’s Choice

Urvalek Builders

Runners Up

INTERIOR FLOOR PLAN: Urvalek Builders

KITCHEN: Belmonte Builders Heather Lust – Curtis Lumber

INTERIOR DECORATING: Belmonte Builders Kaitlynn Johnson –Old Brick Furniture

ESTATE HOMES AWARDS

ESTATE HOMES AWARDS

Notice of formation of MSL CONCRETE AND CONSTRUCTION LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 07/02/2025. 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: 133 County Route 10, Corinth, NY 12822. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 9/26, 10/03, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31/2025. 15751

Notice of Formation of O’Malley’s Log Grill LLC, Arts of Org. filed with NY Secy of State (SSNY) on September 16, 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 35 Main St, South Glens Falls, NY 12803. Purpose: any lawful activity. 9/26, 10/03, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31/2025. 15788

Notice of formation of Absolute Brows LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 09/09/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 21 Thistle Dr, Malta, NY 12020. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 9/26, 10/03, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31/2025. 15795

Notice of formation of ASNM LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 06/28/2024 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 35 Woodin Road, Unit A, Halfmoon, NY 12065. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 9/26, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07/2025. 15823

Notice of formation of Sharks Property LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 09/11/2025 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: 35 Woodin

Road, Unit A, Halfmoon, NY 12065.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/03, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07/2025. 15824

Notice of formation of RED DEER, LLC, a New York limited liability company. Name: RED DEER, LLC.

Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York on March 23, 2015 under Section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Law. Office location: 14 Adirondack Road, Hadley, New York 12835, Saratoga County. Secretary of State of New York designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. Secretary of State of New York shall mail a copy of the process to: RED DEER, LLC, 14 Adirondack Road, Hadley, NY 12835. Purpose: Any lawful business activity not otherwise prohibited by the laws of the State of New York. 10/03, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07/2025. 15844

Notice of formation of EARL REIB, LLC, a New York limited liability company. Name: EARL REIB, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York on March 23, 2015 under Section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Law. Office location: 7 Adirondack Road, Hadley, New York 12835, Saratoga County. Secretary of State of New York designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. Secretary of State of New York shall mail a copy of the process to: EARL REIB, LLC, 7 Adirondack Road, Hadley, NY 12835. Purpose: Any lawful business activity not otherwise prohibited by the laws of the State of New York. 10/03, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07/2025. 15845

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. Name: 1617 West River LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on September 23, 2025. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: The LLC, 1617 West River Road, Gansevoort, NY 12831. Purpose: Any lawful act or activities. 10/03, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31,

LEGALS

11/07/2025. 15843

Notice of registration of Grove Insurance LLC. Authority filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 09/10/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to: c/o 3H Legal Services, PLLC, 36 Long Alley, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/03, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07/2025.15858

Notice of formation of AURORA M COMMERCIAL LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 08/26/2025Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 3935 North Shore Road, Hadley, NY 12835. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/03, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07/2025. 15863

Notice of formation of Vault Lacrosse LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 08/06/2025 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of the process should be mailed to the LLC at:152 B Woodin Rd, Halfmoon, NY 12065. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/03, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07/2025. 15865

Notice of formation of Before The Bell Trading LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 10/2/2025. 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: 163D Eastwood Dr., Halfmoon NY 12065. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07, 11/14/2025. 15878

Notice of formation of Adirondack Fabrication Services, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 10/01/2025 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: 2 Commerce Park Drive, Gansevoort, NY 12831. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07, 11/14/2025. 15882

NOTICE OF FORMATION of LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.

NAME: New Heights Academy at Summit LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/1/2025. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC. 440 Moe Road, Clifton Park, New York. 12065. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07, 11/14/2025. 15888

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.

NAME: The Flat Society, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 9/15/2025. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to the LLC c/o Michelle H. Wildgrube, Esq., Cioffi Slezak Wildgrube P.C., 1473 Erie Blvd., 1st Fl., Schenectady, NY 12305. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07, 11/14/2025. 15889

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF PROFESSIONAL LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY (PLLC).

Name: Strength Therapy LCSW, PLLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 9/8/2025. 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 PLLC-STRENGTH THERAPY, c/o Herzog Law Firm, P.C., 7 Southwoods Boulevard, Albany, New York 12211. Purpose: for all legal purposes. 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07, 11/14/2025. 15892

Notice of formation of CORY MOELIS RACING, LLC. Articles of

Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 09/29/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to: C/O ERESIDENTAGENT, INC., 1 ROCKEFELLER PLAZA, SUITE 1204 NEW YORK, NY 10020. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07, 11/14/2025. 15891

Notice of formation of BTT Enterprises LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 10/01/2025 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: 462 BROADWAY SUITE 200, SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY, 12866, USA. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07, 11/14/2025. 15883

Notice of formation of Service Lead Solutions, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 10/2/2025. 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: 256 Colebrook Road Gansevoort, NY 1283. 1 Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07, 11/14/2025. 15902

Notice of formation of GRADE ONE LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 09/29/2025. 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: 170 East Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21/2025. 15912

Notice of Formation of Equinox Exteriors, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 9/23/25. Office Location: Saratoga County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC

upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 25 Whitney Rd Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: any lawful activity.

10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21/2025. 15914

Notice of formation of The Boundary Books, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 08/31/2025 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: 3 Carpenter Way, Clifton Park, NY 12065. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21/2025. 15921

Notice of Formation of SG Real Property LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 08/30/2025. Office Location: Saratoga County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 7 Union Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Purpose: any lawful activity.

10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21/2025. 15918

Notice of formation of In Balance Bookkeeping LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 09/02/2025. 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: 1818 Bellmore Avenue, Bellmore, NY 11710. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21/2025. 15927

Sutton IT Services LLC. Arts. Of Org. filed with the SSNY on 10/4/25. 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, 1044 Cascade Creek Trl. Ballston Spa, NY, 12020. Purpose: IT Consulting. 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21/2025. 15930

FORMATION OF A NEW YORK LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.

The name of the limited liability company is Crosspoint LLC (The LLC). The date of filing of the Articles of Organization with the Department of State was October 16, 2025. The county in New York in which the offices of the LLC are located is Saratoga County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process may be served, and the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any such process served against the LLC to Scott Cross, 32 Tamarac Drive, South Glens Falls, NY 12803. The business purpose of the LLC is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under the laws of the State of New York. 10/24,

10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28/2025. 15955

Notice of registration of TIGKS INSURANCE AGENCY, LLC.

Authority filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 10/15/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to: c/o 3H Legal Services, PLLC, 36 Long Alley, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/24, 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28/2025. 15964

Notice of formation of SAVOR TIME LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 10/17/2025 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 4444 RT 9N PORTER CORNERS, NY 12859. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/24, 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28/2025. 15963

Notice of formation of Axionix, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 10/16/2025 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 17 Springfield Dr., Mechanicville, NY 12118. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/24, 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28/2025. 15965

Notice of formation of KONSTRUCT, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 07/28/2024. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the Registered agent: STEVEN SARGENT; 20 SOUTH CHURCH ST; SCHENECTADY, NY 12305. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/24, 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28/2025. 15969

Notice of Formation of Backus Property LLC. Articles of Org. filed with Secy. Of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/16/2025. Office Location: Saratoga County. Principal Office is located at 20 Russell Street, Unit 2, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 20 Russell Street, Unit 2, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/24, 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28/2025.15996

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF FOREIGN PROFESSIONAL LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY (PLLC). Name: WW Architecture and Engineering, PLLC. Authority

was filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/7/2025. Office location: Saratoga County. The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the foreign professional service limited liability company upon whom process against the company may be served. The address to which SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the company is: 127 Nationwide Drive, Lynchburg, VA 24502. Purpose: for all legal purposes. 10/24, 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28/2025. 16003

SPRIINKL, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/09/25. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Nikita Valcik, 206 Thimbleberry Road, Malta, NY 12020. Purpose: General. 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/05/2025. 16032

FORMATION OF A NEW YORK LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

The name of the limited liability company is GSL FOUR LLC (The LLC). The date of filing of the Articles of Organization with the Department of State was October 23, 2025. The county in New York in which the offices of the LLC are located is Saratoga County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process may be served, and the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any such process served against the LLC to GSL Four LLC, 17 Carey Road, Hadley, NY 12835. The business purpose of the LLC is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under the laws of the State of New York. 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/05/2025. 16038

Notice of formation of JLF Ventures LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 09/30/2025 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 18 Logging Trail Ln. Brookfield, CT 06804. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/05/2025. 16039

Notice of formation of H&H Custom Woodworks LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 09/30/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 20 Hillview Terrace, Waterford NY 12188. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/05/2025. 16040

Notice of formation of Aava, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 08/29/2025. 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: 27 Liz Ann Drive, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/05/2025. 16045

Notice of formation of Shrestha Global EPG Advisory LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 10/08/2025. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 27 Liz Ann Drive, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 10/31, 11/07, 11/14, 11/21, 11/28, 12/05/2025. 16046

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO WILLIAM SALADA, Distributee of decedent Patricia Driscoll a/k/a Patricia Anne Driscoll, the places of residence, post office addresses or whereabouts of WILLIAM SALADA being unknown and which cannot, after due diligence, be ascertained,

A petition having been duly filed by Jonathan E. Jarnot, Executor of the Estate of Patricia Driscoll a/k/a Patricia Anne Driscoll, who died on March 2, 2025 a resident of Washington County, New York. YOU ARE HEREBY CITED TO SHOW CAUSE before the Surrogate’s Court, Washington County, 383 Broadway, Fort Edward, New York, on November 14, 2025, at 10:15 A.M., why a decree should not be made in the Estate of Patricia Driscoll a/k/a Patricia Anne Driscoll, domiciled at 81 Salem Street, Greenwich, New York, Washington County, New York 12834, United States, admitting to probate a Will dated May 17, 2006 as the Will of Patricia Driscoll a/k/a Patricia Anne Driscoll, deceased, relating to real and personal property, and directing that Letters Testamentary issue to Jonathan E. Jarnot. 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31/2025, 15884

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Saratoga County Department of Central Services located at 50 West High Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 will receive sealed proposals until 5:00 p.m. on the following dates: November 18, 2025 Legal Services Program Department of Aging and Youth Services, specification 26-RFPLS-1 November 19, 2025 Senior Transportation, City of Saratoga Springs specification 26-RFPSTSS-1 November 19, 2025 Senior Transportation, Towns of Ballston, Greenfield, Malta, Milton,

Northumberland, and Wilton, specification 26-RFPST6-1

Specifications and proposal forms may be obtained at the Central Services Department, 50 West High Street, Ballston Spa, NY between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (telephone - 518885-2210) or download at no charge from the Empire State Purchasing Group website at The Empire State Purchasing Group website @ www. empirestatebidsystem.com.

Saratoga County, through its Central Services Department, reserves the right to reject parts of any or all Proposals.

JOHN T. WARMT

Director of Purchasing Saratoga County 10/31/2025, 16027

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Saratoga County Department of Central Services, 50 West High Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 will receive sealed proposals until 5:00 p.m. Friday, November 14, 2025 for Behavioral Health Consultant, as per specification 25-RFP-DSSBHC-1. Bid documents may only be obtained on or after Monday, October 27, 2025 from The Empire State Bid System at no cost from the following website: www.empirestatebidsystem.com

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

JOHN T. WARMT

Director of Purchasing Saratoga County 10/31/2025, 16028

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

The Department of Central Services of Saratoga County will receive sealed bids in person or electronically through the Empire State Purchasing System Website until 11:00 a.m. on the following dates at which time bids will be publicly opened and read aloud: November 13, 2025 Foam Disposal, specification 25-OESFD-1

November 14, 2025 Visitors Center Interior Doors, specification 25-DPWVID-1

November 19, 2025 Guide Railing, specification 25-PWGR-24R2 Bid forms and instructions are available at the Department of Central Services, 50 W. High Street, Ballston Spa, NY between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (telephone - 518-885-2210) 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 10/31/2025, 16041

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Saratoga Swim & Dive Team Earns First Undefeated Season in Decades

Skidmore’s Successful Season Openers

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— In the past 20 years, the Saratoga Springs varsity girls swim and dive team has achieved some impressive regular season records, including going 7-1 in 2006. But all of those seasons were surpassed this year when the Blue Streaks won every single one of their meets.

The unbeaten streak was solidified last week when Saratoga bested Shenendehowa for the second time this season.

“Shen has historically been great and they are this year too,” said Coach Joshua Muldner. “I was probably as surprised as anybody when we pulled ahead at that first meet.”

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

In the past 20 years, the Saratoga Springs varsity girls’ swim and dive team has achieved some impressive regular season records, including going 7-1 in 2006. But all of those seasons were surpassed this year when the Blue Streaks won every single one of their meets.

The unbeaten streak was solidified last week when Saratoga bested Shenendehowa for the second time this season.

“Shen has historically been great, and they are this year too,” said Coach Joshua Muldner. “I was probably as surprised as anybody when we pulled ahead at that first meet.”

The Blue Streaks launched their season with back-toback victories against Shen and Niskayuna, another school that has long been a tough challenger for Saratoga. Muldner called those meets and the final rematch against Shen “super intense.”

The successful season is due, in no small part, to a lethal combination of experienced, record-setting seniors and a freshmen class that exceeded expectations.

Among the veterans, senior Gianna DiMaggio broke multiple pool records (at Albany and Schenectady) as well as a school record, solidifying her place among the best divers both in Section 2 and in Saratoga Springs history. Muldner called

her “a force to be reckoned with on the boards.” DiMaggio and another Blue Streak diver, sophomore Amelia Covey, have qualified for the New York State Championship meet scheduled to take place next month. (The last time Saratoga sent two divers to states was in 2019.)

Meanwhile, the rookie team of Victoria Lill, Maeve Moynahan (an 8th grader), Skylar Panetta, and Catherine Kim broke all three freshman relay records this season.

“We have eight seniors this year and their leadership has been amazing,” Muldner said. “But it’s really the combination of the two forces: My new girls, who joined the team and meshed really well, and my seniors who set the tone for the team and carried on traditions… It’s like a very cool perfect storm of seniors who lead by example and are great role models at both ends of the pool, diving and swimming, and then new girls who are coming in who are not afraid to step outside their comfort zone and work really hard to get better.”

Next up for this talented group is the Section 2 Division I Championship, scheduled to take place Nov. 6-8 at the Shenendehowa Aquatic Center in Clifton Park. The state championship in Webster, New York is set for Nov. 21 and 22.

“This was a very special season with a lot of great girls and I’m just excited to be on this journey with them,” Muldner said.

The Blue Streaks launched their season with back-toback victories against Shen and Niskayuna, another school that has long been a tough challenger for Saratoga. Muldner called those meets and the final rematch against Shen “super intense.”

The successful season is due, in no small part, to a lethal combination of experienced, record-setting seniors and a freshmen class that exceeded expectations.

Among the veterans, senior Gianna DiMaggio broke multiple pool records (at Albany and Schenectady) as well as a school record, solidifying her place among the best divers both in Section 2 and in Saratoga Springs history. Muldner called her “a force to be reckoned with on the boards.” DiMaggio and another Blue Streak diver, sophomore Amelia Covey, have qualified for the New York State Championship meet scheduled to take place next month. (The last time Saratoga sent two divers to states was in 2019.)

Meanwhile, the rookie team of Victoria Lill, Maeve Moynahan (an 8th grader), Skylar Panetta, and Catherine Kim broke all three freshman relay records this season.

“We have eight seniors this year and their leadership has been amazing,” Muldner said. “But it’s really the combination of the two forces: My new girls, who joined the team and meshed really well, and my seniors who set the tone for

the team and carried on traditions… It’s like a very cool perfect storm of seniors who lead by example and are great role models at both ends of the pool, diving and swimming, and then new girls who are coming in who are not afraid to step outside their comfort zone and work really hard to get better.”

Next up for this talented group is the Section

2 Division I Championship, scheduled to take place Nov. 6-8 at the Shenendehowa Aquatic Center in Clifton Park. The state championship in Webster, New York is set for Nov. 21 and 22.

“This was a very special season with a lot of great girls and I’m just excited to be on this journey with them,” Muldner said.

Tonko Advocates for SAFE Bet Act After NBA Gambling Scandal

by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY

WASHINGTON, D.C. —

Congressman Paul Tonko, who represents Saratoga County, has renewed his push for the SAFE Bet Act following a gambling scandal that rocked the NBA and allegedly involved members of the Mafia.

On Thursday, Portland Trailblazers Head Coach Chauncey Billups, Miami Heat player Terry Rozier, and a number of alleged organized crime figures were arrested after being accused of participating in rigged, illegal poker games.

According to an indictment filed in the Eastern District of New York, victims of these poker games believed they were competing against other players on equal footing. But the games were allegedly rigged using wireless technologies that enabled the defendants to read the cards dealt in each hand and relay that information to coconspirators. According to the indictment, the victims of these card games were cheated out of millions of dollars.

Former NBA player Damon Jones was also embroiled in the wide-ranging scandal after he was accused of selling insider information for the purpose of placing illegal bets prior to at least two Los Angeles Lakers games.

The scandal has sparked a discussion about the increasing influence of sports betting, which is now legal (in some form) in 38 states. Evidence shows that gambling addiction rates have increased significantly in the last few years since sports betting became legalized across much of the country. Virginia saw a 973% increase in the

number of problem gambling helpline callers, while Florida saw a 138% increase and New Jersey reported a 277% increase.

In response to all this, Congressman Tonko has renewed his call to pass the SAFE Bet Act, which he introduced last year.

“Scandals like this are an inevitable consequence of the unchecked explosion of the sports betting industry,” Tonko said in a statement issued on Oct. 23. “The constant, unfettered access to sports gambling destroys public trust in the game, while having dire consequences for countless persons across our nation struggling with problem gambling. Now more than ever, we need to pass my SAFE Bet Act to address the public health implications of gambling and protect the integrity of our sports. It’s past time for the NBA and other professional leagues to support establishing these minimum federal safety standards and meaningfully show that they value the trust of their fans and the integrity of their sport.”

Among other things, the Supporting Affordability and Fairness with Every Bet (SAFE Bet) Act would:

• Prohibit all proposition bets featuring college and amateur athletes;

• Prohibit sports betting advertising from being broadcast between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m.;

• Prohibit sports betting advertising during live sporting events;

• Prohibit sports betting advertisements designed to induce gambling with “bonus,” “no sweat,” “bonus bets,” or odds boosts, or similar promotions;

• Prohibit reckless or purposeful targeting of problem gamblers, individuals suffering from gambling disorder, or individuals ineligible to place a bet, including those under 21 years of age;

• Prohibit operators from accepting more than 5 deposits from a customer in a 24-hour period;

• Prohibit operators from accepting deposits via credit card;

• Require operators to conduct ‘affordability checks’ on customers before accepting wagers in excess of $1,000 in a 24-hour period or $10,000 in a 30-day period and verify that proposed deposits do not exceed more than 30 percent of the individual’s monthly income through the application of a reasonable lender standard;

• Prohibit the use of artificial intelligence to track individual player’s gambling habits;

• Prohibit the use of artificial intelligence to create individualized offers and promotions to customers.

Tonko first introduced the bill at a Washington, D.C. press conference on Sept. 12 of last year. He also previously authored the Betting on our Future Act, which would have banned all online and electronic advertising of sports gambling.

Week of October 31 – November 6 ,

THE BREEDERS’ CUP CLASSIC..RATING THE FIELD

by Joe Raucci

With Michael Veitch Saratoga TODAY

This weekend all roads lead to southern California and beautiful Del Mar Racecourse for the 42nd rendition of the Breeders’ Cup. It is the pinnacle event of the horse racing season. The two-day extravaganza showcases the best thoroughbreds in the world competing in 14 races with a mind-boggling 30 million dollars in purse money.

The grand finale of the weekend is the Breeders’ Cup Classic. The mile and quarter event brings together the best in the three-year-olds and up category. The rivals will compete for a seven million dollar purse and probable Horse of the Year honors. No less than an astounding 17 of the 41 winners have gone on to claim that title.

This year’s field has all the earmarks of becoming “One for the ages.” The race is absolutely loaded with talent. The top contenders include: SOVEREIGNTY…2025

Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes, Travers Stakes. SIERRA LEONE…2024 Breeders Cup Classic, Whitney Stakes. FIERCENESS..2024 Travers Stakes, Jim Dandy Stakes, 2025 Pacific Classic. FOREVER YOUNG…2024 Japan Dirt Classic, 2025 Saudi Cup. JOURNALISM...2025 Preakness Stakes, Haskell Stakes. BAEZA…Pennsylvania Derby. MINDFRAME…2025 Stephen Foster Stakes. Grade 1 winners NEVADA BEACH and ANTIQUARIAN round out the field.

One may have to look back to the 1973 Marlboro Cup to find a more accomplished field. It showcased the likes of the great Secretariat and his brilliant stablemate Riva Ridge. The supporting cast included fellow Hall of Fame champion Cougar 2nd, 1972 Three-year old champion Key to the Mint and 1973 Canadian Horse of the Year Kennedy Road.

Comparing previous Classics, the 1998 version has aged like a bottle of 1959 Lafite Rothschild. The Canadian star Awesome Again defeated the great champions Silver Charm

and Skip Away, along with a host of Grade 1 winners. It is considered one or the greatest fields ever assembled.

I have reached out to Saratoga’s own Michael Veitch to analyze the race for our readers. He needs no introduction here. His resume speaks for itself. Mike will guide us through the entries and their chances of winning the race. He will also present a short history of the Breeders’ Cup. Without further interruption, the Maestro can take it from here.

The Breeders’ Cup was created to increase the exposure of racing on a national scale and to help determine national champions with a year-end program of rich races. Owner and breeder John Gaines is credited as one of the driving forces in its creation, which for several years saw the races held at such tracks as Gulfstream Park, Lone Star in Texas, and Woodbine in Toronto. Hollywood Park hosted the 1984 inaugural, with Aqueduct Race Track hosting the second edition in 1985. Over the decades, the program itself has grown from a single day of six races to a two-day event of 14.

Its importance is such that many of the old barometers of titles, races such as the Travers, Champagne, Jockey Club Gold Cup, Arlington Million and others, have now become stepping stones to the Breeders’ Cup.This was upsetting to racing traditionalists at the time.

The Jockey Club Gold Cup for many years was known as “Racing’s Crowning Event.” Not anymore. It is the Breeders’ Cup that frequently anoints divisional champions.The Cup races bring together many, if not most, of the divisional leaders. Its timing in late October or early November puts the finishing touch on championship campaigns.

Now it’s time for Mike’s assessment of the field:

BAEZA is my pick to win the Classic. I think he has finally attained the composure and professionalism that goes with his considerable talent, much of which remains untapped in my opinion. He is trained by the masterful John Shirreffs, who

handled the immortal Zenyatta. He finally earned his Grade 1 victory in the Pennsylvania Derby last out.

FIERCENESS has done little wrong in his career. Second in this event last year, he won the Pacific Classic this season at Del Mar after nearly bolting through the inner rail at the start. He will be hard to handle in his best.

This fabulous field also contains SOVEREIGNTY, and all he has done is capture the Kentucky Derby, Belmont, and Travers, which in all likelihood assures him the division Eclipse Award, regardless of his performance in the Classic. He is training for this event with his Hall of Fame conditioner Bill Mott at Saratoga’s Oklahoma Training Track.

SIERRA LEONE won this event last year. He is a confirmed closer who loves 10 furlongs and has never been out of the money. He does need help with a strong pace, but nonethe- less has a lot going for him as he returns to Del Mar.

Third in the 2024 Classic was FOREVER YOUNG , who last year was third to Mystik Dan and Sierra Leone in the Kentucky Derby, just a head short of winning. He was bred in Japan, whose runners are increasingly prominent on the world stage.

MINDFRAME is yet another with a terrific resume and he holds a victory over Sierra Leone in the Grade 1 Stephen Foster this past summer. He had horrible luck in the Jockey Club Gold Cup at Saratoga when he lost jockey Irad Ortiz when bumped at the start. Having said that, please note that he ran the distance and thus, presumably, got something out of it.

JOURNALISM is a solid member of the sophomore class of 2025. He won the middle jewel of the Triple Crown, the Preakness Stakes, and owns Grade 1 victories on both coasts. Thanks to Mike for his analysis and history of the event, Most of you that read this will surely be watching the Breeders’ Cup. For those who have a passing interest or none at all, this one is worth watching. Tune in and see what makes horse racing

such a grand sport. Seldom do we get a chance to see this many accomplished thoroughbreds enter the starting gate with such great expectations. Post time

for the race is Saturday at 6:25 pm EDT. It will be televised on NBC and its affiliate, Peacock TV. Article submitted before any late scratches might occur.

Saratoga Racers Release Season Schedule