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Author: Saratoga TODAY

Donlynn Graul 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Donlynn Graul, 81, of Saratoga Springs, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2026. Donlynn was born January 5, 1945, at Saratoga hospital, to Donald and Vivian Shepherd. After Donald’s passing in WWII, she was raised by her stepfather Charles Parish. 

Donlynn graduated Saratoga Springs High School in 1962, and proudly attended St. Rose College in Albany, earning her Master’s in Education. She taught elementary at Stillwater Central School for over 30 years, taking great joy in both her students and her close family of teachers. After retiring, she continued to give of herself, volunteering at Saratoga County Mental Health, Wesley, and Mary’s Haven. 

Doni was a communicant of St. Clement’s Church, loved her Rosary, and is prayerfully remembered by the Dominican Chapter at St. Clement’s, as she made her final vows as a Third Order Dominican many years ago. Doni lived fully, guiding others to do so as well. She and Bill traveled to Eastham, Cape Cod, yearly, often encouraging both family and friends to join. Her love of the Cape lives on through the generations who continue to enjoy the peace and beauty it has to offer. There were also adventures hiking to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, rafting the Colorado River, and visiting the Black Hills and Mt. Rushmore with Bill, and further excursions with dear friend Marta Hitchen, including the Grand Old Opry and a National Parks tour.

Doni loved Saratoga as well, drinking joyfully from all the springs, and savoring her Tuesday afternoons downtown with Leslie. Home truly was her happy place, though, and she could often be found with a good history or mystery book, her family, and pink flamingos in her gardens. She was a talented quilt maker, leaving her family with many warm memories, literally! And her mac and cheese will forever go unrivaled.

Donlynn continues to be loved by her husband of 50 years, William L. Graul III, daughters Leslie Ives (Daniel) and Deborah Graul, dog JellyBear, cousins Susan Parish and Charlie Parish (Barb), grandchildren Katherine Ives (Chris), Joseph Ives (Brittany), and Frankie Rodriquez, beloved great-grandchildren Carter, Stella, Rylee, and Ryann (aka Pink).

She is remembered by her brother Charles Edward Parish, beloved nephews Chris, Pat, and Sean O’Leary, relatives Mike and Diana Graul, Jane and John Valetta, Anne and Jack Dejnozka, many beloved cousins, and all her chosen family, so many she chose to love. Doni is kicking back in the afterlife with those who went before—her sister Rosanne, father Donald, mother Vivian, Anne and William L. Graul Jr., dear friend Marta, chosen family Lisa and Gail, and fierce protector Zuni Bear.

Our family especially wants to thank those who have been such a great comfort over the last few years—Jane Valetta, Mary Troeger, Susie Parish, the Towne family, especially Molly and Susie, besties Jane Huffer, Sue Shaw and Donna Hartman, Dr. G, and the incredible friends and neighbors from the Eastside.

Family and friends are called to visit on August 11, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at William J. Burke & Sons Funeral Home, 628 N Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866. To keep Doni’s memory alive, be kind to those around you—have a cup of coffee with a friend, send a handwritten letter to a loved one, cook a meal, visit the lonely, and most importantly love deeply and unconditionally.

If you would like to honor Donlynn’s legacy of giving love, compassion, and respite to all, please consider donating to Wellspring in her name, at 2816 US 9, Malta, NY 12020.

“Come to the living waters, Sinners obey your makers call. Come ye weary wanderers home. And find his grace is free for all”

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Barbara Ann Gorrasi  

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Barbara Ann Gorrasi passed away peacefully on July 17, 2026, after a short illness. She married John Gorrasi, and together they made their home in Saratoga Springs, where they raised their family. Services will be private. Online remembrances may be made at burkefuneralhome.com.

Cheryl Pepper 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

Saratoga Springs – Cheryl Pepper (Pitney) passed away peacefully at her home in Saratoga Springs, NY, on July 15, 2026. Born on July 23, 1947, in Saratoga Springs, Cheryl was the daughter of the late John and Mary (Furey) Pitney. She was a 1965 graduate of Saratoga Springs High School and went on to the College of Saint Rose, where she earned a bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and a master’s degree in Educational Psychology.

Cheryl was an avid reader and, for much of her life, always had a book at her side and a stack waiting on her nightstand. Her love of reading led her to work at the Saratoga Springs Public Library from the late 1980s until 2002. She treasured her years at the library, not only for the opportunity to work among books, but also for the close friendships she formed with her colleagues.

Cheryl married the love of her life and high school sweetheart, John Pepper, on March 29, 1969. Together they built a life centered around their family. Cheryl faced numerous health challenges throughout her life, and through every one John stood by her side. In her final years, he lovingly cared for her each day with incredible patience, tenderness, and selflessness, reflecting the incredibly strong love they shared for over 60 years.

Cheryl’s primary passion was her family. Her two children and four grandchildren were at the center of her world, which was well documented by her carefully crafted photo albums and walls full of framed family pictures. For nine years, Cheryl meticulously planned yearly trips to Cape Cod and treasured every moment watching her children and grandchildren enjoy that time together. The highlight of those weeks was celebrating her birthday with cake – her favorite treat. She was happiest when surrounded by family.

Cheryl was predeceased by her parents, John and Mary (Furey) Pitney. 

She is survived by her beloved husband of 57 years, John Pepper; her children, John Pepper and Debra Allen; her daughter-in-law, Cindy Pepper; her son-in-law, Patrick Allen; her cherished grandchildren, Annalise Pepper (Emily), Corinne Pepper, Lucas Allen, and Matthew Allen; her sister and best friend, Mary Brundage (Patrick); her brother, John J. Pitney Jr. (Lisa), of whom she was so proud; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family extends their gratitude to the staff at Wesley Community Healthcare Center and Woodlawn Commons for the compassionate care and support they provided to Cheryl over the past year. They also wish to express their deepest appreciation to Margaret Bishop, whose devoted care and compassion made it possible for Cheryl to spend her final days at home, where she was most comfortable and surrounded by the love of her family.

Calling hours were on Tuesday, July 21, at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY. A funeral service followed. 

Burial was in the family plot at Greenridge Cemetery, Saratoga Springs, NY.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to Hospice https://hospicefoundation.org/donate/ or to The Saratoga Springs Public Library https://www.sspl.org/about/website/support-the-library/

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Blotter Report 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Blotter, Police Blotter.

Between July 13 and July 19, the Saratoga Springs Police reported 654 incidents in their blotter report. This number includes duplicate incidents, unfounded, and non-emergency incidents. The top three listed incident types reported in this time are: 

1. 69 Traffic Stops

2. 56 Welfare Checks

3. 48 Public Assist

For the State Police, between July 15 and June 21, New York State Police reported 250 incidents that didn’t result in arrest in their daily blotter reports. The most common incident reported by State Police was a property damage accident with 43 incidents. The top three municipalities for incidents are: 

1. 50 in Clifton Park 

2. 40 in Wilton 

3. 33 in Malta

July 15, 2026. 9:00 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Hudson Falls resident on charges of 2nd degree criminal mischief. Arrest occurred on Lake Avenue.

July 15, 2026. 12:14 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a homeless/transient individual on charges of petit larceny. Arrest occurred on South Federal Street.

July 15, 2026. 5:17 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Mechanicville resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of misdemeanor aggravated harassment- cause threat to be communicated. Appearance ticket issued. Original incident occurred on May 21.

July 15, 2026. 8:18 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a homeless/transient individual on charges of criminal contempt: prior conviction within last five years, aggravated family offense – more than 1 conviction within last years and obstruction of governmental administration. Arrest occurred on Congress Street.

July 16, 2026. 1:01 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested an Astoria resident on charges of DWI- first offense, operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher first offense and various traffic infractions. Arrest occurred at the intersection of Broadway and Congress.

July 16, 2026. 6:11 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of aggravated harassment, and stalking. Arrest occurred on Wells Street. 

July 16, 2026. 9:23 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of 3rd degree assault with intent to cause physical injury and act in a manner to injure a child. Arrest occurred on Lake Avenue. 

July 16, 2026. 9:40 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Gansevoort resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of felony 2nd degree bail jumping. Held- no bail.

July 16, 2026. 4:10 p.m.- New York State Police arrested two Massena residents in the Town of Wilton. The first individual was charged with misdemeanor resisting arrest, 2nd degree endangerment, 3rd degree unlawful fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle, attempted felony aggravated assault on a police officer with a deadly weapon, felony tampering with physical evidence: conceal/destroy, 2nd degree criminal mischief, criminal possession of cannabis- more than 10 pounds, and 2nd degree assault with intent to cause physical injury. 

The second individual was charged with misdemeanor resisting arrest, 2nd degree endangerment, 3rd degree unlawful fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle, attempted felony aggravated assault on a police officer with a deadly weapon, felony tampering with physical evidence: conceal/destroy, 2nd degree criminal mischief, criminal possession of cannabis- more than 10 pounds, and two counts of assault 2- with intent to cause injury to a first responder. 

Held- no bail. 

July 17, 2026. 2:23 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of DWI- first offense. Arrest occurred on Route 9. 

July 17, 2026. 10:04 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of 2nd degree assault and criminal contempt: violate order of protection- cause physical injury. Arrest occurred on Lake Avenue.

July 17, 2026. 1:58 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Wilton resident on charges of 2 counts of petit larceny and Grand Larceny: property value exceeds $3000. Arrest occurred on Lake Avenue.

July 17, 2026.5:29 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges petit larceny and 3rd degree burglary. Arrest occurred on Church Street.

July 18, 2026. 5:30 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested an Albany resident on charges of 2nd degree criminal trespass. Arrest occurred on Broadway.

July 18, 2026. 7:47 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident in the Town of Corinth on charges of misdemeanor criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation- apply pressure. Central arraignment.

July 18, 2026. 9:17 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Arrest occurred on Lake Avenue.

July 19, 2026. 1:15 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Schenectady resident on 3rd degree menacing. Arrest occurred on Sparrow Lane.

July 19, 2026. 3:27 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a New Hartford resident on charges of disorderly conduct. Arrest occurred on Lake Avenue.

July 19, 2026. 8:39 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a homeless/ transient induvial on charges of 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Arrest occurred on Ballston Avenue.

July 19, 2026. 12:19 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of petit larceny. arrest occurred on Jefferson Terrace.

July 19, 2026. 3:39 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of petit larceny. Arrest occurred on Ballston Avenue.

July 19, 2026. 5:50 p.m.- New York State Police arrested two South Glens Falls residents on charges of misdemeanor act in a manner to injure a child less than 17. Appearance tickets issued.

July 19, 2026. 9:38 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Porter Corners resident in the Town of Moreau on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense and resisting arrest. Released to third party.

July 19, 2026. 10:56 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the City of Saratoga Springs on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense, operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher and aggravated DWI: BAC of .18 or higher- no priors. Released to third party.

July 19, 2026. 11:31 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Cohoes resident in the Town of Halfmoon on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense, and operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher. Appearance ticket issued.

July 20, 2026. 7:18 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Schenectady resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Appearance ticket issued.

July 21, 2026. 5:45 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the Town of Stillwater on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree bail jumping. Held- no bail

July 21, 2026. 12:15 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Schuylerville resident in the Town of Saratoga on charges of felony 3rd degree criminal possession of stolen property: amount over $3000. Appearance ticket issued.

Saratoga County Fair Returns: Announces Lineup in Celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Featured.

The Saratoga County Agricultural Society has released the complete daily schedule for the Saratoga County Fair, running Tuesday, July 21 through Sunday, July 26, at the fairgrounds in Ballston Spa.

This year’s theme, “Liberty, Land, and Legacy,” aligns with the 250th anniversary of the United States, blending multi-generational agricultural traditions with modern entertainment.

Admission is $15 at the gate or online and includes all daily entertainment, grandstand events, family activities, and musical performances. Children 12 and under are admitted free every day. Senior discounts will be offered on Wednesday, veteran discounts will run throughout the week, and parking is free.

Day-by- day highlights include:

Tuesday, July 21 

• Opening Ceremony welcoming regional mayors, state and local representatives, supervisors, entertainers, and special guests, a militia color guard with musket salute.

• “The Printed Word,” Meet a historic bookbinder and explore the role of literature and the press in the 18th century. 

• Grandstand Event: Opening Night Demolition Derby.

• Evening Entertainment: The Flying Wallendas, the Saratoga County Fair Pageant, and live music by John Kribs and Friends followed by Beatin’ the Odds.

Wednesday, July 22 

• “The Sound of Liberty,” Learn how to load and fire a Revolutionary War cannon with the recreated 2nd Continental Artillery. 

• Grandstand & Nightlife: Wild West Wednesday featuring the Painted Pony Rodeo, line dancing with the County Liners, and country-rock music by Electric Rodeo.

Thursday, July 23

• “A Declaration of Freedom,” A public reading of the Declaration of Independence as colonists would have experienced it 250 years ago.

• Evening Entertainment: Annual 4-H Chicken BBQ, Saratoga’s Got Talent, and live rock by Tame the Rooster. 

Friday, July 24 

• “Revolutionary Rhythms,” Explore the instruments, songs, and cultural impact of 18th-century music. Free kids Heritage Trail and Horseshoe Challenge.

• Grandstand Event: NYTPA Championship Tractor Pulls.

• Evening Entertainment: Bands, The Dambreakers and 2096, alongside Saratoga’s Got Talent. 

Saturday, July 25 

• “Clothing the Army,” Discover the clothing styles and logistical challenges of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. 

• Agricultural Spotlight: 4-H Rabbit, Poultry, and Sheep/Goat Obstacle Courses. Educational exhibits and demos in the Agricultural and Culinary Building.

• Special Highlights: The high-energy 4-H Young Farmers Olympics and the live Chainsaw Carving Auction.

• Grandstand Event: 4-Wheel Drive Truck Pulls.

• Evening Entertainment: Hill Country Cloggers and headline rock band MaddHaus. Archery and Shooting Sports open to.

Sunday, July 26 

• “The 18th-Century Milliner,” Meet a historic seamstress and explore women’s fashion, textiles, and trades during the American Revolution. 

• Agricultural Spotlight: 4-H Master Showman Finals, ADGA Open Goat Show, Open English Horse Show, and Open Western Horse Show.

• Grandstand Event: Championship Demolition Derby finale 

• Evening Entertainment: “Best of Fair” Saratoga’s Got Talent Finals and closing concert by The Refrigerators

Women in Business Golf Mixer

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Sports.

(Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce)

The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Women in Business Group for a relaxed and social casual golf outing at local woman-owned course Airway Meadows on Sunday, July 16. Designed to mix networking, fresh air, and a little friendly competition. 

The event will kick off with a networking hour starting 4 p.m. allowing time to connect, mingle, and grab a drink before heading to the course. Tee-off is at 5 p.m., with golfers playing in pre-assigned foursomes. The cost to participate is $32 per golfer, payable directly to the course.

Registration at the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce website is used to create balanced golfing foursomes. Be sure to indicate your golf experience level when registering: Occasional Golfer, Somewhat Experienced Golfer, Experienced Golfer

Golfers can expect a fun, low-pressure atmosphere with lighthearted competitions on the greens, like Most Accurate Drive, and plenty of encouragement all around!

Please note: no outside alcoholic beverages are permitted on the course. A cash bar will be available during the networking hour, and a beverage cart will be available on the course during play.

Whether you’re an avid golfer or just enjoy getting out on the green, this outing is all about connection, conversation, and having a great time together

Annual Jockey Versus Horsemen Charity Basketball Game

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Sports.

Irad Ortiz Jr.
(courtesy of   NY Race Track Chaplaincy)

The 17th annual jockeys-versus-horsemen charity basketball game will take place Wednesday, August 5, at the Saratoga Springs Recreation Center at 7 p.m. The event benefits the programs of the New York Race Track Chaplaincy as well as the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund (PDJF).

The jockey team will once again be coached by Hall of Fame jockey Ángel Cordero Jr., and the horsemen team will be coached by retired New York-based trainer Rick Schosberg for the second consecutive year.

Mitch Levites of the NYRA TV department will once again serve as the announcer and provide lively commentary in his inimitable style.

“We are very grateful to all the players, coaches, sponsors, and fans who make this such a special event each August,” said Humberto Chávez, the Executive Director and Lead Chaplain of the New York Race Track Chaplaincy. “Their enthusiastic support ensures both the continuation of our wide-ranging backstretch programs as well as the assistance provided by the PDJF.”

The Saratoga Springs Recreation Center is located at 15 Vanderbilt Avenue in Saratoga Springs, and admission is free. 

The New York Race Track Chaplaincy serves the New York backstretch and farming community with children’s enrichment, teen mentoring, women’s programming, social service, recreational, and educational programming as well as non-denominational religious services.

The PDJF provides financial assistance to approximately 60 former jockeys who have suffered catastrophic on-track injuries.

Horsemen, individuals, or organizations who would like to sponsor the game may do so via the NY Chaplaincy website at www.rtcany.org.

Saratoga Jewish Cultural Festival Presents a Panel Discussion of the Film “Imaginary Witness: Hollywood and the Holocaust”

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

The Saratoga Jewish Cultural Festival is hosting a virtual panel discussion of the film “Imaginary Witness: Hollywood and the Holocaust,” a 2004 documentary on Sunday, August 7 at 7 pm. The film is directed by Daniel Anker and narrated by Gene Hackman.

The film examines the treatment of the Holocaust in Hollywood films over a period of 60 years and the impact of the films on public perception and thinking and vice versa.

The panel discussion on Zoom is sponsored by Temple Sinai of Saratoga Springs and supported by a generous grant from the Jewish Federation of Northeastern New York and will be held on August 9 at 7 pm. Watch the film on YouTube before the panel discussion.

Pre-registration is required at, https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/VnUZBi4/HollywoodandtheHolocaust

iTheater Saratoga Summer Youth Theater Camp

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

Registration is currently open for iTheater Saratoga’s summer youth theater camp at Saratoga Arts. The camp welcomes children aged 10 and up and sets out to explore a variety of social issues, push the boundaries of theatre, and incorporate the insights of iTheatre’s young collaborators. 

Camp rehearsals run Monday through Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. from August 17-21 & 24-28. The camp culminates in a student showcase including a concert reading of the musical “Every Other Thursday.”

The musical is based on Helmi Seppala, a Finnish maid working for the Mawson family on New York’s Upper West Side in 1927. She has one day off, every other Thursday. When the Mawsons ask Helmi to change her plans, she refuses, leading to conflict and confusion in the household, and an exploration of the importance of cultural heritage to an immigrant population.

Students are encouraged to wear loose fitting clothing or athletic wear and should pack plenty of water and a lunch. Reach out to itheatresaratoga@gmail.com with any questions or concerns.

To register for the camp, go to https://www.itheatresaratoga.org/youth-workshop

Equine Eyes Interactive Exhibit to Open at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.


Equine Eyes Interactive Exhibit
(Courtesy of the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame)

The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame will debut the one-of-a-kind interactive experience, Equine Eyes during an open house at the Museum on Thursday, July 23, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Equine Eyes is a hands-on, research-driven interactive, playful experience designed to simulate how horses perceive the world. 

Equine Eyes is rooted in extensive research by Dr. Alan Hook of Ulster University and aims to foster empathy, care, safety awareness, and interspecies connection. The Equine Eyes experience was made possible through essential funding by the Thoroughbred Education Research Foundation.

Utilizing a specially developed headset with mounted cameras, Equine Eyes provides visitors with an immersive visual and sensory perspective of equine vision. This technology highlights key differences in field of view and color spectrum compared to human vision, offering a deeper understanding of how horses navigate their environment.

“We are excited to collaborate with Dr. Alan Hook to implement Equine Eyes as an innovative educational experience at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame,” said Cate Masterson, the Museum’s director. “This immersive technology will allow visitors to see the world from a horse’s perspective, fostering a deeper understanding of equine vision, behavior, and interspecies relationships. This interactive exhibit will be integrated into our education and outreach programs, contributing to our mission of engaging audiences with the history, science, and culture of horse racing.”

Dr. Hook and Dr. Jennie Carlsten will lead a demonstration of the Equine Eyes technology at the Museum during the open house at the Museum on July 23 at 10 a.m.

Dr. Hook is a researcher, designer, and educator from the North Coast of Northern Ireland, and a Senior Lecturer in Interactive Media at Ulster University. His research explores how people can use playful, immersive, and participatory experiences to rethink our relationship to the world and connect in new ways with plants, animals, and each other. Dr. Hook has exhibited his media and design work across Europe, the United States, and China. He created Equine Eyes as an experimental design to explore how people connect with and understand horses in new ways, leading to building new types of kinship with them.

Dr. Carlsten is a researcher and lecturer at Ulster University. Her research explores metamodern screen aesthetics, analogue practice, polycrisis, and emotional affect. Her previous audience engagement projects include community cinema research for the British Film Institute Film Audience Network and community workshop delivery for the Heritage Lottery-funded Prisons Memory Archive.