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Author: Saratoga TODAY

MeetKoda!!

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Neighborhood Buzz.

Koda is a handsome, large mixed-breed boy who is approximately 1.5 years old and weighs ~80 pounds. At the end of April, his family made the heartbreaking decision to reach out to H.O.P.E. Animal Rescue for help finding him a new home. They loved him dearly, but with major life changes, upcoming travel, and a downsizing of their living situation, they knew they could no longer provide him with the future he deserved.

Koda came from a home with two children and two other dogs. While there was one incident to be reported during his time with this family, it did not contribute to why he was being rehomed, and the details matter. An older male dog in the home had become increasingly irritable and one day attacked its owner. Koda immediately intervened. A fight broke out between the dogs, but both walked away with only minor injuries—and, most importantly, so did the owner. Koda’s instinct was not to cause harm, but to protect someone he loved.

Since entering foster care, Koda has continued to prove what a special dog he is. He has successfully lived with both male and female dogs and absolutely adores canine companionship. He loves people just as much and finds joy in everything from playtime to snuggle time.

Like many young dogs, Koda is still learning and benefits from structure and guidance, but he has made tremendous progress over the past few months. He’s house-trained, crate-trained, non-destructive, and eager to be part of whatever his people are doing. He loves walks, car rides, and even playing soccer. (Just don’t leave snacks unattended—he considers that fair game.) He’s also lived successfully with birds, though cats are not really his thing.

Because of his size and strength, Koda would do best with someone comfortable handling large-breed dogs and ideally a home with a fenced yard where he can stretch his legs.

Unfortunately, Koda recently hit a bump in the road. Last weekend, while resting unsupervised at home, he suffered an unexplained injury to his front leg. X-rays have so far been inconclusive, and he is currently on anti-inflammatory medication and strict rest—something this active young boy is tolerating only because he has no choice. The injury also meant he missed our recent adoption event, where we know he would have stolen hearts.

To make matters more urgent, Koda’s foster family will be leaving the country for a month in early July, and we need to find him a place to land.

Koda is looking for someone willing to take a chance on him the way H.O.P.E. did. We will continue covering his medical expenses until he is fully recovered, but what he needs most is a family willing to invest their time, patience, and love into his future.

Koda is neutered, microchipped, up to date on vaccinations, and otherwise a healthy young dog with so much life ahead of him. If you’re looking for a loyal companion with a big heart and an even bigger personality, Koda may just be your perfect match.

If you would like more information or to arrange to meet one of our pets, check out our Events page for adoption events to attend, contact us via email at hope.homes.for.orphaned.pets.exist@gmail.com or call 518-450-7013. We look forward to matching you with a new furry best friend.

Adoption fee for dogs is $250 and up. H.O.P.E has a senior to senior program.  If eligible, adoption fees will be waived. All applicants must be 21 years or older to qualify for adoption.

Albany International Airport Prepares for Busy Fourth of July Travel Period

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

Albany International Airport is preparing for a busy Fourth of July travel period, as passenger traffic at ALB continues to trend at or near record-setting levels during the nation’s 250th anniversary year.

In 2025, nearly 3.2 million travelers passed through the terminal at Albany International Airport, making it the busiest year in the airport’s history. Early passenger data shows that momentum has continued into 2026. Through May, ALB recorded 628,200 enplanements and 638,131 deplanements, putting the airport ahead of its 2025 pace through the same point in the year.

According to AAA, 72.2 million Americans are expected to travel during the Fourth of July holiday period this year, including 5.84 million by air. At ALB, more than 98,000 passengers are expected to pass through the terminal between Sunday, June 28 and Monday, July 6, making it one of the busiest travel periods of the summer. 

“This is shaping up to be another very strong year for Albany International Airport, and that continued growth reflects the confidence travelers have in ALB,” said Sam Fresina, Chair of the Albany County Airport Authority. “We are proud of the progress being made across the airport, from the complete revitalization of Concourse A to the ongoing transformation of our main terminal. These investments are all focused on creating a more enjoyable and efficient experience for local travelers.”

As passenger traffic continues to grow, ALB is also making significant progress on several major improvements designed to enhance the travel experience. Concourse A has been fully remodeled, providing updated gate areas, improved seating, and a more modern experience for passengers. In the main terminal, approximately 40 percent of the new Departure Hall opened to the public in April, creating additional space and a more comfortable experience for travelers waiting in line at the TSA security checkpoint.

New passenger amenities have also opened over the past year, including a Children’s Play Area, Sensory Room, Business Center, and Nursing Mothers’ Room.

“Fourth of July is one of the great travel weekends of the summer, and we’re looking forward to welcoming thousands of passengers through Albany International Airport,” said Peter Stuto, Chief Executive Officer of the Albany County Airport Authority. “Our team is ready, and with a little planning, travelers can help make their airport experience smooth and stress-free. We encourage passengers to arrive early, give themselves extra time, and follow the guidance of airport staff as we continue making improvements throughout the terminal.”

To accommodate the busy holiday travel period, ALB is working closely with its airline partners, TSA, parking and ground transportation teams, concessionaires, and airport staff to help maintain a smooth and efficient experience for travelers.

Passengers flying out of ALB are encouraged to plan ahead and follow these important travel tips:

• Arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure to allow time for parking, check-in, security screening, and reaching your gate.

• Travelers using the Economy Lot should allow at least 20 additional minutes beyond the recommended two-hour airport arrival window.

• Extra shuttle service is operating to and from the Economy Lot during the holiday travel period.

• Check in early using your airline’s website or mobile app

• Review TSA travel guidelines at www.tsa.gov before packing to avoid bringing prohibited items in carry-on or checked luggage.

• Have your ID and boarding pass ready before reaching the TSA checkpoint.

• Make sure you are REAL ID compliant. Travelers can learn more at tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification.

• Consider enrolling in TSA Precheck for a faster and more convenient screening process.

As construction continues at ALB, passengers and those picking up or dropping off travelers should also keep the following in mind:

• Construction is active in front of the terminal. Some traffic lanes and vestibules are temporarily closed. 

• Curbside parking is not permitted. Follow instructions from security personnel for all drop-off and pick-up activity. 

• Use the free cell phone/observation lot on Albany Shaker Road to wait until your passenger is ready for pickup. 

The first hour in all parking areas is free, allowing convenient drop-off without curbside congestion.

Brookside Museum to Celebrate Bastille Day

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

The Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum will host A  Bastille Day Celebration on July 14, 2026, from 6 to 8 PM. This ticketed gathering will be a celebration of the French national day, featuring creative, themed activities and French vibes. 

Guests will enjoy a cheese plate featuring fine French cheeses, and can sample a variety of sweets, including French macarons. Throughout the night, attendees will have the opportunity to make their own lavender sachets, browse travel guides and photo books about France, and learn about French history and traditions. The event will also feature the sounds and songs of a Parisian cafe, including classic chansons by Edith Piaf, Charles Aznavour, and more. At the end of the night, guests can select a sticker or postcard to commemorate their trip to France, all without leaving Brookside! 

Tickets are $12 for non-members and $8 for members at SCHC, and are available on their website at brooksidemuseum.org.

New York State Office of Parks Announces Renovated Peerless Pool Complex Opens at Saratoga Spa State Park

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

The Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) today announced the opening of a renovated Peerless Pool complex at Saratoga Spa State Park. The $3.6 million renovation has transformed the “kiddie pool” area utilizing specialized designs to emphasize the park’s natural beauty and promote mental and physical wellness of young park goers.   

“The Peerless Pool at Saratoga Spa State Park has welcomed generations of people seeking wellness, recreation and an escape from the summer heat,” OPRHP Commissioner Kathy Moser said  “This renovation expands the park’s excellent pool offerings and adds new creative amenities and experiences for thousands of parents and their children. The nature-inspired design has transformed the complex into an accessible, vibrant space where young New Yorkers can get offline and get outside.”    

The newly renovated kiddie pool reduces the amount of concrete and introduces nature-inspired design elements, including a replica of the park’s famous natural Geyser Island Spouter. This replica spouter flows into a stream which leads into the kiddie pool. Encompassing the children’s area are a new garden, sitting area, and gazebos. Additional improvements include an ADA-accessible zero-entry kiddie pool and multiple spray features for children, as well as refurbished and reconfigured water slides and plunge pool. Basic pool infrastructure such as circulation pumps and disinfection systems has also been upgraded.

“Public pools are a staple of summer, but they can be incredibly frustrating to navigate if you use a wheelchair or have mobility challenges,” Kimberly H. Ridley, New York State Chief Disability Officer, said, “An ADA-accessible, zero-entry wading pool means kids can just focus on being kids, without the physical barriers. I’m thrilled to see New York State prioritizing this kind of thoughtful, accessible design so that all families can enjoy Saratoga Spa State Park together safely and independently.”

The Peerless Pool complex at Saratoga Spa State Park, originally built in 1962, hosts on average 75,000 people from June to September every year. The kiddie pool and waterslides were last renovated 30 years ago in 1996. The complex also includes an Olympic-size pool.

The park also offers the historic Victoria Pool, a smaller pool surrounded by arched promenades located near the Saratoga Spa State Park Golf Course.

The Peerless Pool renovation builds on Governor Hochul’s commitment to expanding green spaces across New York State to provide children and families opportunities to be outside, unplug and play, and spend time with loved ones. The FY 2026-27 Enacted Budget includes $340 million for OPRHP to invest in enhancing and improving state parks and historic sites. This substantial level of funding will aid the ongoing transformation of New York’s flagship parks and support critical infrastructure projects throughout the park system. The budget also includes $20 million for NY SWIMS, the governor’s initiative to expand access to safe swimming and invest in State parks and pools.

The Peerless and Victoria Pools are open daily from 10am-6pm through September 7, 2026. Entry to the Peerless Pool is free. The vehicle use fee for this section of the park is $10 between the hours of 8:30am and 4:30pm through September 7. Both pool areas include food and beverage services, showers, locker rooms and restrooms. 

James Michael Sullivan 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY- James Michael Sullivan, 82, passed Wednesday, June 24, 2026, surrounded by family. Mass was July 1 at St. Clement’s Church followed by burial in the Peaceful Meadows Natural Burial Ground at St. Peter’s Cemetery. Memorial donations to the Backstretch Employee Service Team, 267 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Please visit www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Lawrence Michael “Lary” Opitz 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY- Lawrence Michael “Lary” Opitz, 77, passed away in his home of 51 years on June 22, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Funeral service and burial were June 26,  at Congregation Shaara Tfille. Memorial donations to Congregation Shaara Tfille or Skidmore Theater. Please visit www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Thaddeus “Ted” S. Obloy 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – Thaddeus “Ted” S. Obloy, 84, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2026, at Albany Medical Center.

Ted was born in Cleveland, Ohio on December 31, 1941, to the late John and Mary (Baciak) Obloy. After graduating from St. John Cantius High School in 1959, Ted went on to Ohio University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in education. Then, after proudly serving in the United States Army as a First Lieutenant, he returned to Cleveland to teach, while also serving in the 107th Armored Calvary National Guard Unit and attending Case Western Reserve University, where he earned a master’s degree. He then returned to Ohio University where he earned his doctorate in 1971.

Ted then began a career of over 45 years doing what he loved – teaching and learning. In 1971 he came to New York’s Guilderland Central School District to be the project manager of an ESEA Title III initiative, and he later served as Assistant Superintendent of the district. In 1980 Ted became the Superintendent of the New Lebanon Central School District in New York and served in that role until retiring in 1996. He then joined the Education Management Group, a consulting firm, that same year.

In 1998 Ted was asked to assist St. Clements Regional Elementary School through a transition, and that led to his becoming the school’s principal, a role he served in until 2007. During his tenure, he led the school in its earning official accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Elementary Schools, and he also worked with the faculty to bring technology into the classroom.

Ted continued to pursue his love of learning and teaching, as well as a commitment to community service. From 2007 to 2020, he was the Coordinator of the Leadership Institute at Saratoga Bridges. Ted also served on the Saratoga Springs City Ethics Board from 2009 to 2011.

Ted was devoted to several pastimes. He was a voracious reader and a particular fan of Stephen King. Ted’s copy of Stephen King’s Danse Macabre, signed by the author, was a prize possession. Ted also collected coins and art, and he especially loved stained glass. While a poor student in southern Ohio, he found six stained-glass church windows in a farmer’s hay loft, purchased them, and kept them wherever he moved, except for a few he gave away to friends over the years.

Ted’s personal signature included pride in his Polish heritage, Brooks Brothers polo shirts, and creased slacks. Ted also liked his cigars, but more importantly, he was tremendously grateful for the friends he made at the cigar shop, James & Sons in Saratoga, when he finally retired for the last time.

Ted was predeceased by his parents John and Mary Obloy; his brother John (Connie) Obloy; his stepbrother Stanley; and his stepsisters Ceclia, Wanda, and Joan.

Ted is survived by his beloved wife Carol (Mastroianni) Obloy; his stepdaughter Barbara (Stewart III) Scott; stepson Michael J. Smith; step-grandsons Stewart IV (Annika) Scott, Traxler Scott, and Thaddeus (Rebecca) Scott; brother Edward (Nancy) Obloy; godson Nicholas Obloy; brother-in-law Fred (Carol) Mastroianni; several nieces and nephews; and his many compatriots at the cigar shop.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 11am at St. Clement’s Church at 231 Lake Avenue in Saratoga Springs. A private burial with military honors will be held at the Gerald B.H. Soloman Saratoga National Cemetery.

The family wishes to thank all those who have expressed condolences and who have extended many kindnesses during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Clements Regional Elementary School Tuition Fund, 231 Lake Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866, or to Saratoga Bridges Foundation, 16 Saratoga Bridges Blvd., Ballston Spa, NY 12020.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com 

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit our flower store.

Week of July 3 – July 9, 2026 – Blotter Report. 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Blotter.

Between June 22 and June 29, the Saratoga Springs Police reported 605 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. Traffic stops: 80

2. Welfare Checks: 39 

3. 911 open line: 37

For the State Police, between June 24 and June 30, New York State Police reported 259 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 56 incidents. The top three municipalities for incidents are: 

1. 68 in Clifton Park 

2. 37 in Halfmoon 

3. 33 in Malta

June 24, 2026. 2:27 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Pittsfield, MA resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense, misdemeanor aggravated DWI- BAC .18 or higher- no priors and misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher- first offense. Appearance ticket issued.

June 24, 2026. 3:36 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of 3rd degree assault with intent to cause physical injury and fourth degree criminal mischief: disable equipment to prevent request for emergency assistance. Arrest occurred on Sparrow Lane. 

June 24, 2026. 5:42 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and misdemeanor 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued.

June 24, 2026. 12:34 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Gansevoort resident in the Town of Wilton on charges felony 4th degree grand larceny: property value greater than $1000. Appearance ticket issued. Original incident occurred on June 23, 2026 in the Village of Corinth.

June 24, 2026. 1:52 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Troy resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of misdemeanor prostitution and felony 4th degree criminal possession of a narcotic. Appearance ticket issued. 

June 24, 2026. 2:34 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident on charges of 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and circumvent interlock- subject to court order/operate motor vehicle without device. Arrest occurred on Walton Street.

June 24, 2026. 11:51 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Fort Edward resident in the Town of Moreau on charges of felony DWI- previous conviction within 10 years. Appearance ticket issued.

June 25, 2026. 12:38 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ticonderoga resident in the Town of Moreau on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense and misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher- first offense. Appearance ticket issued.

June 25, 2026. 3:16 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a North Haven CT resident in the City of Saratoga Springs on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense, misdemeanor obstructing governmental administration- prevent official function and resisting arrest. Appearance ticket issued. Arrest stemmed from single vehicle accident on Exit 15 of interstate 87. 

June 25, 2026. 6:08 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested the same individual as the prior listed incident on charges of 3rd degree burglary: illegal entry with intent to commit a crime, petit larceny, 3rd degree criminal trespass, and 5th degree criminal possession of stolen property. Arrest occurred on South Broadway.

June 25, 2026. 7:34 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested an Averill Park resident on charges of 2nd degree criminal mischief. Arrest occurred on Lake Avenue. 

June 25, 2026. 8:34 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Wilton resident on charges of 3rd degree criminal mischief: damage to another person’s property- amount over $250. Arrest occurred on Lake Avenue. 

June 25, 2026. 4:07 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Schenectady resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued.

June 25, 2026. 6:47 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Mechanicville resident in the Town of Ballston on charges of felony DWI: 2 previous convictions within 10 years and felony aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Held- no bail.

June 26, 2026. 12:50 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested an Albany resident on charges of DWI: three prior convictions within 15 years, 1st degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle: commit offense while using drugs or alcohol, drinking alcohol or using cannabis in a motor vehicle on highway, circumvent interlock- subject to court order/operate motor vehicle without device. Arrest occurred on Lake Avenue.

The same individual was arrested at 2:04 a.m. on Lake Avenue on charges of 3rd degree criminal tampering and again at 2:34 a.m. on charges of 3rd degree criminal tempering and 2nd degree harassment: physical contact. 

June 26, 2026. 2:13 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Troy resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of misdemeanor petit larceny. Appearance ticket issued. 

June 26, 2026. 2:13 p.m.- New York State Police arrested two Troy residents in the Town of Clifton Park. The first was charged with misdemeanor petit larceny, misdemeanor 6th degree conspiracy and misdemeanor 2nd degree criminal impersonation: other person. The second was charged with misdemeanor 6th degree conspiracy. Appearance tickets issued.

June 26, 2026. 4:34 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of 7th degree possession of a controlled substance. Arrest occurred at the intersection of Clinton Street and Church Street.

June 26, 2026. 5:40 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of 2nd degree burglary: illegal entry- dwelling and criminal mischief: intent to damage property. Arrest occurred on Maple Avenue.

June 26, 2026. 10:49 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a homeless/ transient individual on charges of 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Arrest occurred on Circular Street. 

June 27, 2026. 10:36 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Medford resident in the City of Saratoga Springs on two counts of felony 2nd degree possession of a forged instrument. Appearance ticket issued.

June 27, 2026. 8:20 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Troy resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor petit larceny. Appearance ticket issued. 

June 28, 2026. 3:13 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Castleton on Hudson resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense and misdemeanor operation of a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher- first offense. Appearance ticket issued. 

June 28. 2026. 9:42 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Corinth resident in the Village of Corinth on charges of misdemeanor 2nd degree obstruct governmental administration- prevent official function and misdemeanor 2nd degree criminal impersonation: other person. Appearance ticket issued.

June 28, 2026. 10:17 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Prevost, Quebec resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued.

June 28, 2026. 7:48 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park resident on charges of misdemeanor 2nd degree criminal contempt- disobey court. Central arraignment. Original incident occurred on June 26 in the Town of Halfmoon.

June 28, 2026. 9:10 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Johnstown resident in the Town of Galway on charges of misdemeanor DWI-first offense. Appearance ticket issued. Arrest stemmed from a single vehicle crash on Galway Road.

June 29, 2026. 2:21 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Gansevoort resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor 2nd degree contempt: disobey court and misdemeanor 2nd degree criminal trespass- enter or remain unlawfully in a dwelling. Investigation pending.

June 29, 2026. 2:22 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Schenectady resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of felony 1st degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle: 10 or more suspensions. Appearance ticket issued.

June 29, 2026. 2:30 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Gansevoort resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle impaired by drugs- 1st offense. Appearance ticket issued.

June 30, 2026. 9:20 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Mechanicville resident in the town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor petit larceny. Appearance ticket issued.

June 30, 2026. 7:32 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Louisville, KY, resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense and misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher- first offense. Appearance ticket issued.