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Author: Saratoga TODAY

Skidmore Cares celebrates 20 years of community giving

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

The Skidmore College community celebrated the 20th anniversary of Skidmore Cares, a beloved annual initiative that has raised more than $225,000 and collected more than 86,000 food, school supply, and personal care items for Saratoga County nonprofits since 2006. 

President Marc C. Conner praised the effort’s legacy of generosity and impact. 

“The impact of Skidmore Cares extends far beyond the thousands of donated items and dollars. It nurtures a spirit of generosity, thanksgiving, and compassion, giving us a moment to pause, recognize the challenges our neighbors face, and reaffirm our commitment to one another,” said Conner. “For two decades, that sense of responsibility and care has shaped our community — and it remains a cherished and defining part of the Skidmore experience.” 

Associate Director of Athletics Megan Buchanan and Associate Director of Civic Engagement Michelle Hubbs co-led the effort, working with departments across campus. 

“Skidmore Cares is one of the traditions that reminds me why our community is so special,” Buchanan said. “It’s a chance to support local organizations that make a real difference, and to show through action how much we care about the community around us.” 

Skidmore Cares thrives through broad campus collaboration and signature partnerships. Volunteers — including student-athletes and members of Benef-Action, Skidmore’s student volunteer club — help organize and deliver donations each year. 

Since 2010, the annual Skidmania concert, showcasing the creativity and talents of Skidmore students, has been a key fundraising partner. This year’s sold-out Skidmania ’75 raised about $15,000 for local nonprofits. 

“I think being part of something so large and impactful gives people a real sense of pride, and Skidmore Cares offers an easy way for everyone to contribute,” Hubbs added. “Every student who steps onto the stage during Skidmania is supporting Skidmore Cares in their own creative way. Anyone can be part of this effort — and the impact on our recipient agencies is both deep and meaningful.” 

Beneficiaries include Franklin Community Center; Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren, and Washington Counties; LifeWorks Community Action; Mary’s Haven; RISE Housing and Support Services; Salvation Army; Saratoga Center for the Family; the Saratoga Springs City School District PATHS program; Shelters of Saratoga; and Wellspring. 

Launched by Marie Glotzbach and her husband, President Emeritus Philip A. Glotzbach, Skidmore Cares began as a small holiday-season effort and has grown into one of Skidmore’s most enduring and unifying traditions. 

Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park Announces Winners of 14th Annual Photography Show

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park proudly announced the winners of its 14th Annual Photography Show with a festive ceremony held on December 1 at the new Welcome Cabin at the Town of Wilton’s Camp Saratoga. The event brought together community members, photographers, friends, and families for an evening of celebration, recognition, and holiday cheer.

This year’s show featured 83 entries, each capturing the beauty and ecological diversity of the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park. Winning photographs will remain on display at the Welcome Cabin, and a virtual gallery of the entire show can be found by following this link: https://www.wiltonpreserve.org/annual-photography-show. 

The 2025 awards recognized exceptional talent across several categories. The Best in Show award was presented to Ronald Harrower for his stunning photograph, “Hairstreak on Dogsbane”. In the category of Best in Karner Blue Butterfly, Marcia Goldfeder received top honors for her captivating image, “Karner Blue on Wood”. Howard Lester was awarded Best in Education for his striking photo, “What Did We Get?” Brian Teague earned Best in Autumn for “Fall Reflections”, while Deanna Touhey was recognized for Best in Conservation with “Beautiful Wild Blue Lupine.” Best in Flora was awarded to Nancy Lyons for her photograph “Lady Slippers”, and Best in Wildlife went to Drew Monthie for “Mr. DeMille, I’m Ready for My Closeup”. Marlo May received the award for Best in Recreation for “Mushrooms on Tree.”

Three Judge’s Choice Awards were also presented. These honors went to Miranda Kent for “Perfectly Roasted”, Howard Lester for “Milkweed Starting to Bloom”, and Michael Winnek for “Full Moon”. In addition to the online gallery and the Welcome Cabin, Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park will feature the winning photographs on its social media platforms in the coming weeks. The organization extends its gratitude to all participating photographers and congratulates the 2025 winners for their outstanding contributions.

For more information, call the Wilton Wildlife office at 518-450-0321 or email info@wiltonpreserve.org. For up-to-date trail conditions or program information, visit the Wilton Wildlife website at wiltonpreserve.org or follow on Facebook or Instagram @wiltonpreserve. Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park’s mission is to provide environmental education and opportunities for outdoor recreation while supporting conservation of ecological systems and natural settings.

Saratoga Torch Club to Host “An Evening with Matt Veitch” December 15 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

The Saratoga Torch Club will recognize Matt Veitch, longtime Saratoga Springs representative on the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors, for his 18 years of distinguished public service at a dinner and program on Monday evening, December 15, at the Saratoga Springs Holiday Inn.

 “The Supervisor & the City: An Evening with Matt Veitch” will open with dinner at 6:00 p.m., followed by remarks from Supervisor Veitch at 7:00 p.m. Admission is $40 per person, payable by cash or check at the door. To reserve a seat, go to Smartacus.com/events.

 First elected in 2007, Veitch has been a steady and respected presence in local government for nearly two decades. Representing Saratoga Springs on the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors, he has earned a reputation for pragmatism, collaboration, and long-term civic stewardship. During his 18 years of service, he has played a pivotal role in initiatives that improved infrastructure, expanded public safety, promoted environmental sustainability, and strengthened city–county cooperation.

 Mayor John Safford, in recognizing Veitch’s decision not to seek reelection in 2025, called it “the end of an era,” noting his consistent dedication to the city and his rare ability to “build bridges instead of barriers.”

 Among his many achievements, Veitch championed the Geyser Road Trail project that first drew him into public service and went on to found the Saratoga County Trails and Open Space Committee, which established new grant and reserve funds for conservation. He helped secure county support for the city’s third fire station and new EMS facility, led efforts to modernize government transparency through meeting livestreams, and advocated for the creation of a permanent Code Blue shelter to assist the city’s homeless residents.

 Beyond his policy work, Veitch also has emerged as one of Saratoga’s leading public historians, dedicating time to documenting the city’s experience with urban renewal and the communities displaced by it. His lectures and research have shed light on a complex period in Saratoga’s history—one that saw progress mixed with loss—and he continues to lead efforts to commemorate the neighborhoods, churches, and Black-owned businesses erased during that era.

 While Veitch is leaving elected office, he will remain in public life as the newly appointed City Historian and CEO of the Saratoga County Capital Resource Corporation. 

 The Saratoga Torch Club is a nonprofit forum that brings together professionals and citizens from across disciplines to exchange ideas, foster understanding, and promote civic dialogue. The Saratoga chapter was established in 2021 to encourage dialogue among leaders in business, education, government, and the arts throughout the Capital Region.

Ballston Spa to Celebrate the 40th Annual Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting on December 5

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

Village of Ballston Spa will sparkle brighter than ever as the Ballston Spa Business & Professional Association (BSBPA) hosts its 40th Annual Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting on Friday, December 5, along Milton Avenue. First held in 1985, this beloved tradition has grown into one of the community’s most anticipated events of the year.

For four decades, the parade has brought families, neighbors, and visitors together to celebrate the magic of the season. The 2025 parade steps off at 6:30 PM from the north side of Milton Avenue and proceeds to West High Street. The festivities culminate in Wiswall Park, where Mr. and Mrs. Claus will arrive aboard an Eagle-Matt Lee Fire Company fire truck to light the village’s holiday tree.

This milestone year also continues the event’s longstanding support of the Toys for Tots Campaign, presented in partnership with the Ballston Spa Community Emergency Corps, the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Department, and the U.S. Marine Corps. Volunteers will collect new, unwrapped toys along the parade route and during the tree lighting ceremony to help brighten the holidays for local children.

“We’ve been working hard on this event for months, and celebrating the parade’s 40th anniversary makes it even more special,” said Dana Womer, Holiday Parade Committee Chairperson. “This parade has been part of Ballston Spa’s story since 1985, and watching Santa light the tree from a fire truck never loses its magic.”

To enhance the festivities, the BSBPA’s First Friday celebration will take place the same evening. Local shops and businesses will extend their hours and offer holiday treats, hot cocoa, hot chowder, festive activities, and more. Free parking is available throughout the village.

The 2025 Holiday Parade is made possible through the generous support of The Mangino Group, Curtis Lumber, Pompa Bros., Ballston Spa National Bank, and SlicFiber. The event is free and open to the public.

For more information about the Ballston Spa Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting, visit www.ballston.org.

Thomas Edward Loya

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Thomas Edward Loya, 58, passed away on November 25, 2025, at Saratoga Hospital with family by his side. Calling hours were December 3, 2025, at Burke Funeral Home followed by burial in North Milton Cemetery.  Online remembrance may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Josephine Roselli

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Josephine Roselli (nee DiSilvestro), passed away on November 29, 2025, 100 years young. A memorial service is planned for the spring of 2026. Memorial donations to:  The Wesley Community Foundation, 131 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Please visit www.burkefuneralhome.com.

SPAC’s “Access the Arts” Program Culminates in Spirited Performance

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

At SPAC’s “Access the Arts” performance on Dec. 1, participants twirl ribbons to the tune of “Pink Pony Club” and engage in some comedic improvisation. Photos by Jonathon Norcross.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — On Dec. 1, more than 100 students of all ages and abilities from AIM Services, Saratoga Bridges, and Community Based Services performed at the SPAC School of the Arts as part of SPAC’s “Access the Arts” educational program.

The initiative began in 2023 and is part of SPAC’s mission to provide free access to the arts and inclusive programs for people of all ages and abilities. The final performance share was the culmination of ten weeks of music, dance, and improvisational theater classes that were specifically curated for students at the SPAC School of the Arts.

“There is a palpable sense of joy and momentum in this program,” said Jess Bien, director of learning and engagement. “Our students show us every week how powerful it is to have spaces where adults of all abilities can express themselves freely, connect with others, and experience the wellness benefits of creative work. Watching Access the Arts expand has been a clear reminder of how central inclusion and shared creativity are to SPAC’s mission.”

The final performance share included participating groups from across the program, including Move On!—a Dance Alliance and SPAC School of the Arts dance group for adults of all abilities—and SPAC School of the Arts’ own Rhythm Sole, an inclusive tap class.

Robert Floyd “Bob” Cooley

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Robert Floyd “Bob” Cooley, 78, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2025, after a brief illness. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on December 9, 11:00 AM, at St. Clement’s Church. Memorial donations to St. Clement’s Church. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Karma Desofi

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Karma Desofi, 71, passed away unexpectedly on Thanksgiving evening, November 27, 2025.

Born on June 14, 1954, in Siparia, Trinidad and Tobago, Karma moved to New York at the age of 21, bravely beginning a new chapter and building a life rooted in resilience, love, and generosity.

Karma is survived by her daughters, Karissa Desofi and her partner Paul Billings III, and Rhianna Jones and her husband Naeem Jones; as well as her three cherished grandchildren, Sofia Shea, Naiya, and Harper.

Karma found joy in everything around her. She had a remarkably big heart—always caring, always giving, and the kind of person who would offer you the shirt off her back and insist you enjoy a plate of food before leaving her home. She loved the simple pleasures: sitting outside in the sun, spending time by the water, and taking boat rides on Lake George with her family. Above all else, she was a devoted grandmother; her grandchildren were truly the center of her universe. Her love also extended to all her “grand-dogs”: Raya, Remi, Mia, Nalah, and Layla.

Karma was a familiar and beloved face in the Saratoga Springs community. She worked for The Saratogian for several years and later for Saratoga TODAY newspapers. Her work in advertising suited her perfectly—her warmth, kindness, and unforgettable smile made everyone feel seen. She had a gift for remembering names and greeting people as though they were old friends. After retiring from advertising, she dedicated herself to helping raise her three grandchildren, a role she embraced with effortless grace and boundless joy.

Karma will be remembered for her light, her laughter, and her unwavering love for her family and community. Her presence made the world softer and kinder, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Please join us for a visitation on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 10 am-11 am, at William J. Burke & Sons Funeral Home, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY, with a funeral home service to begin at 11am. 

Burial will be private.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.

Library Hosts Saratoga Artist’s Superhero Pop Art Exhibit

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

Image provided by Chuck Brouillette.  

CLIFTON PARK — Saratoga Springs artist Chuck Brouillette’s superhero pop art exhibit will appear at the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library this month. The exhibit is supported by the Saratoga Arts “Art in Public Places” initiative.

Brouillette’s pop art canvases capture the iconic heroes and villains of America Comic Art Mythology who’ve sprung from the 80+ year history of sequential art storytelling. Brilliant colors and clean design highlight the power of the art form by focusing on the stories that images tell without words.

“I connected with sequential art as a compelling storytelling medium as far back as I can recall,” Brouillette said. “But it wasn’t until I graduated to Super-Hero Comics that I was hooked. The mythology, the brightly colored costumes, the good guy ethics; it all combined to engage me and introduce me to an art form and literary canon that still compel me 50 years on.”

The exhibit will be on display at the library (located at 475 Moe Road in Clifton Park) from now until Jan. 29.