Skip to main content

Author: Saratoga TODAY

Saratoga Lake Homeowners Launch Website Demanding NYS DOT Honor Six-Year-Old Promise

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

Four homeowners who lost their only safe access to their private lakefront property during a 2019 state emergency road repair have launched a website to pressure New York State to fulfill its written promise to restore their access.

The website, NYSDOT-BrokenPromises.com, details how the New York State Department of Transportation (NYS DOT) demolished the homeowners’ stairs to their docks while constructing an emergency retaining wall on Route 9P, then failed to replace them despite documented assurances.

“Six years ago, we cooperated fully when the state needed to address a dangerous road collapse,” said Peter Hopper, president of the Spruce Ridge Association, the neighbors’ HOA. “NYS DOT promised in writing to replace our stairs. Today, we still can’t safely access our own property.”

The emergency began in 2018 when large sections of Route 9P pavement broke away and slid 20 feet onto the homeowners’ docks below. After Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner alerted NYS DOT to the hazard, the agency constructed a 12-foot-high, 200-foot-long retaining wall in May 2019, destroying the existing stairs in the process.

Despite multiple meetings and correspondence over six years, NYS DOT has offered only a fraction of the replacement cost and insists the homeowners—all retirees—manage the complex engineering and construction on the steep terrain themselves.

“We’re not engineers or construction experts,” Hopper said. “The state has the expertise and resources to rebuild what they destroyed. We’re simply asking them to keep their word.”

The homeowners have contacted Governor Hochul and NYS DOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez, requesting their intervention. Those efforts generated no significant response. 

“We’ve exhausted all other options,” said neighbor Charlie Murphy. “We’re four middle-class retirees in an exhausting fight with New York State, hoping public pressure will finally make them do the right thing.”

For more information, visit NYSDOT-BrokenPromises.com.

Saratoga County Native Named Pitcher of the Year

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Sports.


Image via the Amsterdam Mohawks.

AMSTERDAM — James Redick, a Clifton Park native who pitched this summer for the Amsterdam Mohawks, has been named the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League (PGCBL) 2025 Pitcher of the Year.

Redick, a right-hander, posted a 2.14 ERA across 33.2 innings of work in his second season with the Mohawks. He was a perfect 5-0 over his 11 regular season appearances and earned 1 save. He gave up just 15 hits total, never allowing more than 3 in any appearance. Opposing batters hit just .132 against Redick, who struck out 36 and walked just 7 throughout the season.

Redick is about to enter his second year at Fordham University, pitching for the Rams and majoring in Finance.

Two ex-Mohawks that won Pitcher of the Year have reached the majors, with one debuting for the Baltimore Orioles in 2019 and the other pitching for the Athletics, Detroit Tigers, and Los Angeles Dodgers.

Saratoga Casino Hotel Foundation Grant Process Opened August 6

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Winner's Circle.

The Saratoga Casino Hotel Foundation began accepting applications for its 2025 grant cycle starting August 6. Dedicated to improving the quality of life, health, and well-being of Saratoga County residents, the Foundation supports charitable and public benefit organizations making a meaningful impact in the community.

To be eligible, applicants must be IRS-designated not-for-profit organizations providing programs or services that benefit Saratoga County. Priority consideration will be given to initiatives focused on problem gambling, youth programs, senior services, arts, recreation, and overall community enhancement.

“We take great pride in the strong partnership among the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors, the Saratoga Harness Horseperson’s Association, and Saratoga Casino Hotel,” said Foundation Treasurer Skip Carlson. “For over two decades, our grants have supported organizations offering education, senior services, family assistance, food security, disability support, and help for those facing domestic violence and addiction.”

Applications must be submitted electronically through the Foundation’s website at www.saratogacasinohotelfoundation.org. The deadline to apply is September 12, 2025.

The Foundation Board will meet on October 1 to review submissions, with applicants notified of their status by October 8. Grant recipients will be formally recognized at the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors meeting on October 21, 2025.

Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded nearly $500,000 in grants to over 200 local organizations. A list of past recipients and more information is available on the website.

News & Notes: Week 6 Events at Saratoga Race Course

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Winner's Circle.

photo courtesy of NYRA
*Mondays and Tuesdays = Dark Days. No racing.

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) today announced the lineup of attractions, entertainment, and events for the 2025 summer meet at historic Saratoga Race Course.

Highlighted by the 156th edition of the Grade I, $1.25 million DraftKings Travers on Saturday, August 23, and the Grade I, $1 million Whitney on Saturday, August 2, the 40-day summer meet will open on Thursday, July 10 and run through Monday, September 1.

Following the four-day opening week, racing will be conducted five days a week, Wednesdays through Sundays, apart from the final week, when the meet will conclude on Labor Day.

First post will be 1:10 p.m. every day except Saturdays, when first post will be 12:35 p.m. The only exceptions are Whitney Day featuring a 12:05 p.m. first post and DraftKings Travers Day with first post at 11:40 a.m. Post times for Labor Day weekend will be announced at a later date.

Admission gates will open for live racing at 11 a.m. for all but Whitney Day, when gates will open at 10 a.m. and DraftKings Travers Day, when gates will open at 9 a.m.

Lustgarten Foundation and Alabama Day:

Saturday, August 16

Saratoga Race Course will honor the legacy of beloved trainer Dominic Galluscio with a day to benefit the Lustgarten Foundation, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to advance scientific and medical research related to pancreatic cancer. Many of the sport’s most popular trainers will sign autographs for fans with suggested donations to benefit the Lustgarten Foundation in Galluscio’s memory. 

New York Breds in the Spotlight:

Thursday & Friday, August 21-22; Sunday August 24

Travers Week features numerous stakes to showcase the depth of the New York breeding program with a pair of $200,000 New York-bred events taking center stage on Thursday, including the Albany presented by The Albany Distilling Company and the Fleet Indian. The state-bred action resumes on Friday with two $150,000 tilts in the Seeking the Ante and the Yaddo presented by STIHL. A pair of $150,000 state-bred races closes out the week on Sunday, including the West Point Handicap and the Funny Cide presented by Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital. 

Stake Races

FRIDAY, August 15

Smart and Fancy: F&M 4&UP, 5 1/2 Furlongs- Turf, Purse $150,000

Saturday, August 16

Alabama (G1) pres. by Keeneland Sales: F3YO, 1 1/4 – Dirt, Purse $600,000

Skidmore: 2YO,  5 1/2 Furlongs – Turf, Purse $150,000

Sunday, August 17

Bolton Landing: F2YO, 5 1/2 Furlongs- Turf, Purse $150,000

Wednesday, August 20

Jonathan Sheppard Memorial (G1): 4&UP, 2 3/8 – Turf (Steeplechase),
Purse $150,000

thursday, august 21
Albany (NYB) pres. by Albany Distilling Company: 3YO, 1 1/8 – Dirt,
Purse $200,000

SPAC Presents Bach’s Complete Brandenburg Concertos

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

SPAC Presents Bach’s Complete Brandenburg Concertos

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) announced last week that the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center (CMS) will perform Johann Sebastian Bach’s Complete Brandenburg Concertos on Saturday, Dec. 13 at 5 p.m. at the Arthur Zankel Music Center at Skidmore College.

A longtime holiday tradition at Lincoln Center, this special Saratoga appearance marks the first time in SPAC’s 12-year partnership with CMS that the full cycle of all six concertos will be performed locally by the acclaimed group. Part of SPAC’s Sounds of the Season holiday series, the evening will feature twenty world-class CMS musicians, bringing one of the Baroque era’s most iconic masterworks to life.

 Composed in the early 18th century, Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos were written for a unique ensemble of instruments—ranging from the interplay of flutes, violins, and harpsichord to the sonorities of horns and violas—offering a variety of sounds and styles.

 Part of its year-round presence in Saratoga Springs, the announcement precedes Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center’s final concert of the summer season with “Shostakovich and Dohnányi” on Aug. 17, which also marks the final performances in Spa Little Theater before it temporarily closes for renovation.

 Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos will be presented in the Arthur Zankel Music Center at Skidmore College, a longtime SPAC education and community partner. Tickets are now available to purchase at spac.org.

The performance is part of SPAC’s annual Sounds of the Season holiday series, which will be announced later this fall.

Northshire Bookstore Reopens Children’s Floor

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Northshire Bookstore announced on Wednesday that it has reopened its children’s floor, which had previously been closed due to water damage.

“The space won’t look exactly how our loyal customers remember it – we’re rocking a bit of a warehouse chic look, with bare concrete floors while we await new carpets,” Northshire said in an email sent to its customers. “Our beloved model train has also seen better days, but it will return to form along with some other minor details in the coming weeks. But the spirit of Northshire – our hospitality and bookish enthusiasm are undimmed!”

Some sections of the children’s department may be light on inventory, the store added, but missing titles can be ordered in the meantime. The Story Time in Saratoga program will remain on hiatus until further notice. 

“We are working tirelessly to return our Saratoga store to its usual standards, and we are grateful for your continued patience and understanding while we do so,” said Northshire.

August 15 – August 21, 2025

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Calendar.

This Week’s Events:   

Friday, August 15

Estate Sale

St. Peter Lutheran Church, 2776 Rte. 9, Malta (across from the Malta Drive-In) | 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Household goods, tools, jewelry, clothing, and more.

Nature Photography Exhibit

Soave Faire Art & Framing, 449-451 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. The exhibition features stunning nature photographs that capture both the unique beauty and the spirit of Saratoga’s natural wonders and will be on display until August 31. The event is open to the public and free of charge. The exhibit features photographic images of Saratoga’s breathtaking landscapes, trails, wildflowers, and wildlife.  For more information about the event, please contact Bob Wheaton, Soave Faire Arts Manager at 518-587-8448.  For more information about Louis Valenti Photography, please visit https://www.facebook.com/Louis-Valenti-Photography or LouisValentiPhotography.com. 

2025 Ghost Tours 

Canfield Casino, Congress Park, Saratoga Springs 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. The Canfield Casino, one of America’s Most Terrifying Places, as featured on the Travel Channel and Ghost Hunters. This season’s tours promise to immerse guests in Saratoga’s spectral history with new stories, local legends, and chilling accounts of real paranormal encounters. Hear true tales of hauntings, mysterious events, and the spirits believed to still roam the corridors. From whispered voices to sudden chills, every tour is a chance to connect with the supernatural side of Saratoga’s rich history. Suitable for ages 10 and up. Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday through August 29. Tickets: Visit https://www.saratogahistory.org/ghost-tours-summer-2025 to reserve your spot.

Saturday, August 16 

19th Annual Car, Truck and Bike Show

Clifton Park Elks Lodge, 695 MacElroy Road, Ballston Lake | 9 a.m. All years and makes of cars, trucks and motorcycles are welcome. We will present awards to the top vehicles. Fun, Music, 50/50 Raffles, and Great Food. Come see the contestant vehicles! The contestant entry fee is $20; Spectators are free. Proceeds benefit the Elks National Foundation and the NYSEA Major Project Fund (Cerebral Palsy Home Service Program). Registration starts at 9 AM until 12 PM and awards around 3:45 p.m. Rain Date is Sunday, August 17. For Information contact Brian Shelton at 518-956-1600.

Giant Church Yard Sale

Unitarian Universalist Church, 624 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. The church has been sold, and we are moving.  Moving Sale – Congregational donations include books, fitness equipment, sporting goods, Christmas décor, kitchen items, tools, hardware, furniture, crafts and more. Also, we’ll have a lemonade stand, bake sale and a noon-time puppet show for children. For questions call Bev at 518-587-0403.

Cornhole Tournament Fundraiser

Grant Cottage, 1000 Mount McGregor Rd., Wilton | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Calling all competitive cornhole players and fans! Help us raise funds to build a pavilion in the new historic site property (former prison ballfield).  The event is free and open to the public for spectators. Tournament participants can use the link below to register. Bring your pop-up canopies, lawn chairs, and picnics, and have some fun enjoying the breathtaking views while cheering on the competitors. Unique trophies will be awarded to the winning competitors. To register visit https://www.grantcottage.org/events/2025cornhole

2025 Horse Farm Tour 

Various Farms throughout Saratoga County | Noon – 4 p.m. Saratoga County Cornell Cooperative Extension is partnering with horse farms in Saratoga County for the Annual Horse Farm Tour. This is a free opportunity for the public to visit and learn about the horse industry in the county. The farms are located throughout Saratoga County from Schuylerville to Galway. The participating farms include Mill Creek Farm, McMahon of Saratoga Thoroughbreds, Saratoga Glen Farm, Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga, Alliance 180, Cross Timbers Ranch, and DeLuca Equine. For any questions about the event contact Nicolina Foti at nvf5@cornell.edu or call the CCE office at 518-885-8995. For information on the Farms visit, ccesaratoga.org. 

Erie Canal’s 200th Anniversary

Halfmoon Town Park, 162 Route 236, Halfmoon | 3 p.m. Town of Halfmoon will Celebrate Erie Canal’s 200th Anniversary with Music and Community Event and will highlight the canal’s rich history and local impact. The free public event will feature “The Remarkable, Irresistible Erie,” a live musical performance that brings the canal’s story to life through songs and narration. The program includes a mix of original and newly composed music, framed with historical storytelling that reflects on the people, events, and communities that shaped the Erie Canal’s storied history and proud legacy, locally and across the state. Admission is free, and light refreshments will be available. For additional details, contact the Town of Halfmoon Supervisor’s Office at 518-371-7410 or visit www.townofhalfmoon-ny.gov.

Casino Night at the Museum

191 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs | 6 – 9:30 p.m.  Join us for an unforgettable evening of high-stakes fun — all for a great cause! The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame presents Casino Night, an exciting benefit event supporting both the National Museum of Racing and the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund. Enjoy a lively atmosphere featuring: Celebrity Dealers, Buffet and cocktail-style fare, donated by Mama Mia’s (limited seating), 50/50 Raffle, Silent Auction, Door Prizes and Giveaways, Cash-only gaming tables. Whether you’re playing for the thrill or the cause, your bets help preserve the legacy of horse racing and support the dedicated athletes of the sport. For inquiries: info@racingmuseum.net. 

Sunday, August 17

Summer Sunday Stroll: Greenridge Cemetery and the Civil War

Meet at the Sackett Gate entrance of Greenridge Cemetery located on Lincoln Avenue, Saratoga Springs | 10:30 a.m. – Noon. Join Gloria May as she strolls though the Greenridge Cemetery telling the “yarns and tales” of those who answered President Lincoln’s call to save the Union during the Civil War. The cost is $15 for SSPF members and $20 for non-members. For additional information or to purchase tickets to any of the upcoming strolls and events, visit www.saratogapreservation.org, call 518-587-5030, or email Sydney Hedge, Preservation & Programs Coordinator, at shedge@saratogapreservation.org.

Van Schaick Mansion Open House

1 Van Schaick Avenue, Cohoes | 1 – 4 p.m. The historic mansion will be open to the public. Admission to the grounds and cemetery is free. Guided tours of the mansion will be available at 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m., with a $ 5 donation. The Embroiderer’s Guild of America stitching group will be onsite working on an embroidery panel which will be used as part of Celebrate America 250. For more information about the Mansion please visit http://www.vanschaickmansion.org 

or visit our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/VanSchaickMansionProject/about

Three Sisters Festival

Brookside Museum 21 Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa | 2 – 3:30 p.m. An afternoon of fun for the whole family. Come and learn about the Native American gardening technique known as the three sisters which encourages the growth of corn, beans and squash. The day’s events include a telling of Native American stories, garden tour, porch sale, bake sale as well as refreshments of popcorn and herbal iced tea. Joseph Bruchac will also be returning this year as the special guest speaker. 

Monday, August 18

Saratoga Parkinson’s Support Group Meeting

The Saratoga Senior Center, 290 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs | 2:30 p.m. Our speaker, Dr. Erik Carman of Altamont Physical Therapy will talk about the LSVT BIG program. All are welcome. We look forward to seeing you there. Please contact us with any questions: Leader Gordon Blyth,  gordonsblyth@gmail.com 917-887-7980 or Co-Leader Marie Thorne softballmom300@yahoo.com 518-810-8483. 

Language Exchange Café

MochaLisa’s Caffe’, 22 Clifton Country Rd., Clifton Park | 6 p.m. Interested in practicing a language? Join other language enthusiasts at MochaLisa’s Caffé for an hour of conversation. Pair up with a partner who is proficient in your target language and get practicing. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org. 

The Camp Saratoga 5K Trail Series

Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton | 6:15 p.m. Park in Lots #1 & 2 near Restroom. This is the last race in the series. Adults can register online for $10; 13–18-year-olds $5/race; under 13 free. Stryder discount 25% off. To minimize trail erosion, entries are capped at 75. Day-of entries will only be accepted if there is room. This is a low-key, all-outdoors event topped off by light refreshments and unusual raffle prizes.  Please bring your own water. Proceeds benefit the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park.  For more information, call Laura Clark at 518-581-1278 or visit www.saratogastryders.org.

Tuesday, August 19

2025 Grand, Gilded, and Glorious: A Saratoga Stroll Walking Tour Season

Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center, 297 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 10:30 – Noon. Participants will begin at the Saratoga Springs Visitor Center and stroll through historic Congress Park, concluding with a full tour of the elegant Canfield Casino, including admission to the Saratoga Springs History Museum (a $15 value). The tour takes place every Tuesday – Saturday, until October 18, rain or shine. Tickets are $25 Adults, $10 Youth (12–17) and Children under 12 free. Tickets can be reserved online at www.SaratogaSpringsVisitorCenter.com. For more information, call 518-587-3241.

Backyard BBQ 

Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital, 63 Henning Road, Saratoga Springs | 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. Please join the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) for a summer evening of BBQ, music, and celebration—Saratoga style! Your ticket includes a delicious BBQ dinner and one complimentary drink. All proceeds directly support the TRF and the lifelong care of over 400 retired Thoroughbred racehorses. Tickets are $100 for adults; $25 for children. This special night brings together leaders and friends from across the racing and equine world for great food, live music, silent auction, and exciting raffle prizes. Enjoy a fun, family-friendly evening that supports a truly meaningful cause. For tickets, visit  https://trfinc.org/event/trf-backyard-bbq-2025/. 

Saratoga Summer Concert Series

Congress Park War Memorial, Saratoga Springs | 7 p.m.  Rain location is the back covered patio at the Heritage Area Visitor Center, located at 297 Broadway, Saratoga Springs. Gather your friends and family, bring your blankets and chairs, find a spot on the lawn, and enjoy some of the area’s favorite performers. This free, family-friendly concert series is a program of the Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center in partnership with Discover Saratoga and the City of Saratoga Springs. This week’s concert features Garland Nelson and Soul Session – A Soul Session, a high energy musical ensemble that will make you dance, scream, and jump around all night long with entertaining command. For more information, please contact the Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center at 518-587-3241 or visit www.saratogaspringsvisitorcenter.com.

Wednesday, August 20

New Book Launch

Saratoga Farmers Market, Excelsior Ave., Saratoga Springs | 3 – 6 p.m. Native Saratogian and local author Elizabeth Macy is excited to announce the release of her fourth children’s book, Lucky’s Adventure: The Saratoga Rescue—the first chapter book in the beloved Lucky’s Adventures series, perfect for readers ages 7–11. Based on the true story that inspired the original picture book. Join us at the for the official book launch, part of the Kids Club series. A portion of book sales will benefit Lucky Puppy Rescue.

Roast Pork 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: roast Loin of Pork, mashed potatoes, vegetable, stuffing, applesauce, gravy and roll, tossed salad. Dinner: $15 (cash only). 

Pickin’s   

The Milton Community Center, 310 Northline Rd. Ballston Spa | 6 p.m. Open to the public, free admission & ample free parking. All acoustic musicians who enjoy playing country/western, folk, gospel & bluegrass are welcome to participate. If you don’t play, become part of the audience and enjoy the music. Bring a snack to share. Beverages provided. Call 518-885-4229 with questions.

The Astronomy Club 

Galway Public Library, 2112 East Street, Galway | 6:30 p..  Bring your telescope to the library and have our experienced astronomers help you understand how to use all the features on your equipment.  This group meets monthly on the third Wednesday and is open to adults and teens (middle school and older).  Registration is requested, but not required, by calling 518-882-6385.

Music in the Park

Gavin Park, 10 Lewis Dr., Saratoga Springs | 7 – 9 p.m. The Town of Wilton presents the 2025 Music in the Park. This week’s featured band is Skippy and the Pistons. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets, kick back, and enjoy some free, live music with friends, family, and neighbors. Whether you’re dancing or just soaking in the tunes, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a summer evening in Wilton!

Thursday, August 21

Saratoga Senior Center’s 70th Anniversary Luncheon

Fasig-Tipton Pavilion, 153 George St., Saratoga Springs | Noon – 2:30 p.m. The exclusive event will feature an intimate fireside chat between Jim Nantz and his CBS colleague and golf icon Dottie Pepper, offering guests an unforgettable experience filled with personal stories, career insights, and heartfelt moments. This milestone celebration honors legendary CBS sportscaster Jim Nantz as the Center’s Man of the Year for his impactful work in Alzheimer’s advocacy. Includes: Gourmet buffet lunch, The Calling Wines (co-founded by Nantz), valet parking, and the fireside chat. Tickets: Available now at saratogaseniorcenter.org. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Center’s mission to enhance the quality of life for local seniors through health, wellness, and enrichment programs.

Concert in the Park 

Old Iron Spring Park, 198 Front Street, Ballston Spa | 6 – 8 p.m. This week’s concert features “An Evening with Elvis” Tribute Artist Joe Ramsey.  This free, family-friendly event brings live music every Thursday evening from June 26 through August 28, offering a perfect way to enjoy the warm summer nights with friends and neighbors. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs for seating. Food concessions will be on-site, offering a variety of refreshments.

Upbeat on the Roof

Tang Teaching Museum, Skidmore College, 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 6 p.m.  To mark the museum’s twenty-fifth anniversary year, some of the favorite acts from previous years will return. This week’s concert features Hot Club of Saratoga. The concerts continue each week through August 21.

Health, History, and Horses Charity Gala

Saratoga Wilton Elks Lodge., 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs | 6 – 9 p.m. Presented by Ladies of Charity, Saratoga Chapter. Funds raised are distributed annually to established charities in Saratoga & Warren/Washington Counties: Catholic Charities, food kitchens, shelters, and tuition support programs. Complimentary beer & wine the first hour, hot and cold food stations, cash bar, live music, silent auction, 4 seasons basket raffle, 50/50 raffle, race track t-shirt quilt. The cost is $80 per person payable to Ladies of Charity. Tickets: www.ladiesofcharitysaratoga.com. Contact Claudette at 518-584-7592. Attire: summer festive. 

Celebrating the Power of Perseverance: HSE Graduation 2025

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

WSWHE BOCES held its annual graduation ceremony on Thursday, August 7, 2025, to celebrate students who earned their High School Equivalency (HSE) diplomas.

The graduating class included both adult and youth learners who completed the requirements to pass the GED exam.

Nearly 100 people attended the event, including graduates, their families and friends, as well as WSWHE BOCES administrators, board members, instructors and staff.

District Superintendent Dr. Turina Parker addressed the graduates and commended their determination and resilience.

“Every step you take from here is a step toward that future,” said Dr. Parker. “Keep learning, keep growing, and don’t be afraid to take risks. The world needs your talents, your ideas, and your unique skills.” 

Graduates’ future plans include entering the workforce, enrolling in college and pursuing additional certifications in the career fields they aspire to join. Among this year’s class, one graduate will join the United States Navy, two will attend SUNY Adirondack, and one will begin studies at Siena College. Several other graduates are pursuing college opportunities and finalizing their next steps.

The WSWHE BOCES HSE Preparation Program provides students with a supportive and flexible path toward earning a high school equivalency diploma. Students learn at their own pace with individualized instruction depending on their needs.

The program empowers learners of all ages to pursue further education or career training, helping them build confidence and achieve their goals.

For more information about the High School Equivalency Preparation Program, visit https://www.wswheboces.org/apps/pages/HSE

Upbeat on the Roof presents Hot Club of Saratoga on August 21

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

Tang Museum Celebrating 25th Anniversary with Returning Acts

The Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery at Skidmore College announces the final concert of the 2025 Upbeat on the Roof concert series with Hot Club of Saratoga on Thursday, August 21, at 6 pm.

Hot Club of Saratoga, Upstate New York’s premier gypsy swing ensemble, specializes in the timeless sounds of Django Reinhardt and the vibrant atmosphere of 1930’s Paris. Their music brings the magic of hot swing to life, and they are known for their captivating performances. Whether you’re a fan of gypsy jazz or simply looking to experience something unique and delightful, the Hot Club of Saratoga is sure to deliver an unforgettable musical experience.

This summer, the Upbeat series will be celebrating the Tang’s 25th anniversary with a slate of all returning acts. Hot Club of Saratoga also performed at the Upbeat on the Roof in 2014, 2016, and 2023.

Before each concert, Tang Museum educators will offer Crafts on the Grass: art-making kits for kids starting at 5:30 pm. A different kit with a craft project will be available each week. All projects are suitable for children aged 5 and up, with adult supervision. Materials will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Upbeat concert series began in summer 2001 on the roof deck of the Tang building. The series became so popular, however, that the concerts came off the roof and onto the lawn. The Upbeat on the Roof name remains. Visitors are invited to bring blankets, camping chairs, food, and drink to picnic on the lawn; plenty of parking is available in the lot adjacent to the museum.

The Tang galleries will be open before and after the concerts. In the case of inclement weather, the art-making activities and concerts will be held inside the museum.

Admission is free. The Tang is on the campus of Skidmore College. The main entrance is at 815 N. Broadway in Saratoga Springs. For more information, please call the Visitors Services Desk at 518-580-8080 or visit https://tang.skidmore.edu/visit.

SARATOGA COUNTY EXTENDS DEADLINE FOR YOUTH PROGRAM FUNDING

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

BALLSTON SPA, NY – The Saratoga County Department of Aging & Youth Services has extended the deadline for applications for Youth TEAMS Programming funding to August 19, 2025. Municipalities, nonprofit, and community-based organizations with programs that provide team sports programs for youth may be eligible for funding.

Youth Team Sports (YTS) is grounded in the principles of positive youth development. It is intended to provide support to local team sports programs across New York State in communities where such programs may be scarce or under-resourced.  YTS has a sole focus on team sports.  For the purposes of YTS, a “team sport” is defined as an organized physical activity in which groups of two or more individuals compete with two or more opposing individuals. 

 Programs eligible for funding must meet the criteria below:

• Provide team sports activities for youth under age 18 in under-resourced communities.

• Operate in New York State.

• Demonstrate basic competency in the areas of governance, monitoring and evaluation, partnership, and financial stewardship.

• Have a child protection policy in place that includes adherence to local city, agency, school district, and state child protection guidelines.

• Have the ability to collect registration data, including participant demographic information, as required by OCFS in a manner that allows for accurate reporting of anonymized aggregate data.

 Organizations, expenditures, and activities not eligible for funding are the following:

• For-profit organizations or businesses.

• Private foundations, as defined in section 509(a) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code.

• Organizations that discriminate based on age, ethnicity/race, political affiliation, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, physical or other disability, national origin, or any protected characteristic under local, state, and/or federal law.

• Research or project-planning activities.

• Elite or private sports camps, programs, or teams.

• Endowments, memorials, budget deficits, or fundraising activities.

• Religious organizations whose sports programs do not have a secular and community focus.

• Lobbying, political, or fraternal activities.

• Capital projects.

Funding is made available through the New York State Office of Children and Family Services. 

Required forms and additional information about funding eligibility requirements and grant eligibility criteria are available on saratogacountyny.gov/youth. For more information, please call (518) 884-4100.