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Veterans Business Council Scholarships Available

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

 The Veterans Business Council of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce is offering scholarships to area veterans or service members pursuing an education.

Through this ongoing VBC program, scholarships are awarded annually to veterans or service members that live in, attend college or trade school in, or work in Saratoga County.

An award of up to $5,000 in scholarship funding is available to be awarded to a veteran or service member that meets the criteria outlined in the application. Available funds are based on fundraising initiatives of the VBC. 

Dr. Joe Juracka, Chair of the Veterans Business Council of The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, is proud to present this scholarship program, and invites local veterans and service members to apply. “We love supporting the educational and professional goals of those who have served our country,” he said. “Through this program, the Veterans Business Council seeks to recognize their dedication and help provide financial assistance as they pursue college, trade school, certification programs, or other career advancement opportunities. We encourage all eligible area veterans and service members to submit an application and take advantage of this investment in their future.”

The deadline for applications is July 31, 2026.

Interested applicants can access the application here.

For further information about the VBC and its initiatives please contact The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce at (518) 584-3255 or visit saratoga.org

History Center Issues Call for 2026 Award Nominations

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

 The Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum has issued a call for nominations for its fifth annual Saratoga County Public History Award. Each year, the SCHC confers the award on two individuals who have made a significant contribution in preserving, interpreting, researching, publishing, promoting or otherwise extending knowledge and understanding of the history of Saratoga County.

William Allerdice, President of the Museum’s Board of Trustees is excited about continuing this tradition. “I am honored to head the Award committee for a second year. The impact these individuals have on our community is outstanding. This award is a testament to their legacy and ours as a community.”

The Public History Award is designed to recognize the long-standing efforts of those who share a passion for Saratoga County history, and to encourage others to become involved in local history projects and activities.

Previous winners of the Award have made significant and varied contributions to local history. Past honorees include Carol Godette and Jim Richmond (2022), Charles Kuenzel and Paul Perreault (2023) Priscilla Edwards and Pat Peck (2024), and Anne Clothier and Russ VanDervoort (2025).

Nominations for the 2026 awards should be submitted by July 25, 2026. All nominations must be submitted online via Google Form at the following link. All nominations are encouraged, including those of past nominees who were not selected.  

The Award Selection Committee will review and select winners by August 25, 2026. An award ceremony will be held in early Fall at Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum in Ballston Spa to honor the recipients. The committee consists of prior winners Carol Godette, Jim Richmond, Russ VanDervoort, William Allerdice, President of the Museum’s Board of Trustees, Dr. Anne Hollmuller, Executive Director of the Saratoga County History Center, and Michelle Isopo, Director of the Saratoga Room at the Saratoga Springs Public Library. 

Schuylerville CSD Celebrates Class of 2026 Graduates

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

The 80th Schuylerville High School Commencement Ceremony was held on Thursday, June 18 in celebration of the Class of 2026. 117 diplomas were awarded at graduation, which was held on campus at Black Horse Stadium. Musical performances were given by the Schuylerville Vocal Ensemble under the direction of Mrs. Jodi Ogburn.

Class of 2026 Top Graduates

• Valedictorian: Anika Laciokova

• Salutatorian: Hannah Yonkin

The Top Graduate recognition honors the hard work and achievement of graduating students with an average of 96 or higher. There are 16 Class of 2026 students that fall under this ranking. 

Class of 2026 Diplomas

• Advanced Regents with Honors: 15

• Advanced Regents: 45

• Regents: 49

• Local: 7

• SACC: 1

• Career Development and Occupational Studies: 19

• CTE Endorsement: 20

• Mastery in Math: 3

• Mastery in Science: 8

• Mastery in Math & Science: 13

Class of 2026 Future Plans

• Four-Year Colleges/Universities: 60 students

• Two-Year Colleges/Universities: 30 students

• Employment: 20 students

• Trade School: 2 students

• Military: 3 students

• Apprenticeship: 2 students

Historian Paul Lear to Speak on “Where the Holocaust Came to America,” Sunday, July 26, 11 am at Congregation Beth Shalom, Clifton Park

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

Saratoga Jewish Cultural Festival presents “Where The Holocaust Came To America,” a special presentation by historian Paul Lear, on Sunday, July 26 at 11 am at Congregation Beth Shalom in Clifton Park.

This program is cosponsored by Congregation Beth Shalom and Temple Sinai of Saratoga Springs, with the help of a generous grant from the Jewish Federation of Northeastern New York.

A Little Known Story

The Fort Ontario Emergency Refugee Shelter was the only U.S. camp for Holocaust refugees. Lear will describe the camp’s history, President Franklin D. Roosevelt ’s role in its creation, and efforts to preserve the site as a National Historical Park.

The Safe Haven Museum and Education Center in Oswego, NY tells the story of the 982 mainly Jewish refugees who fled Europe in the U.S. Government’s “Safe Haven” program. They came to the refugee shelter in August 1944.

“Safe Haven” was the only official U.S. Government activity to rescue Jewish refugees from the Nazi Holocaust during the war. The refugees were brought from Italy but originated from many parts of Europe.

They were placed in Fort Ontario behind barbed wire and were guarded by armed American soldiers. The U.S. granted them no official status. They were told they would be returned to their homelands after the war and would have no rights regarding re-entry into the United States.

It was crystal clear to those inside and outside government that the United States had no formal policy for the immigration of the Jewish refugees from Europe. “The local community of Oswego was openly hostile to those in the camp, and integration with the local residents was strictly forbidden and restricted by the military,” says Phyllis Wang, Coordinator of SJCF.

However, under political pressure, at the war’s end the refugees were allowed to remain in the United States. Much of the detailed history of this story was written by journalist Ruth Gruber, who spent her career fighting injustice through her journalism.

There will be a small reception prior to the program. A donation is requested of $10.

How to Register

Pre-registration is required. Click the QR code or the link below or enter the URL in your browser:

https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/f5IJqVb/HolocaustCameToAmerica

TRF Board Member Michelle Keating Establishes $25,000 Matching Gift Challenge

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.

Michelle Keating (Meredith Woolford)

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) announced that Board Member Michelle Keating has established a $25,000 matching gift challenge to support the organization’s Annual Appeal.

A respected business leader and philanthropist, Keating previously served as President and CEO of Alder Foods Inc. and as Chairwoman of Fisher House Boston. After decades of leadership and service, she was searching for a cause that aligned with her passion for creating meaningful change. She found that opportunity through the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation’s mission of caring for retired racehorses and transforming lives through its Second Chances Program.

Her introduction to the organization came during the TRF’s annual BBQ fundraiser in Saratoga Springs, where she heard firsthand from a graduate of the TRF’s Second Chances Program, a vocational training initiative that pairs incarcerated individuals with retired Thoroughbred racehorses.

Inspired by what she heard, Keating traveled to Ocala, Florida, to visit the TRF’s Second Chances Program at Lowell Correctional Facility. Seeing the program in action solidified her commitment.

“I knew I had so much more to give, and this path chose me,” said Keating.

As a longtime horse owner, Keating was already familiar with the responsibility of caring for Thoroughbreds after their racing careers end. What she discovered through the TRF was a mission that extends beyond equine welfare.

“The TRF demonstrates what is possible when compassion meets opportunity,” she said. “These horses receive the dignified care they deserve, while the people who care for them gain confidence, skills, and a renewed sense of purpose.”

To encourage additional support for the organization’s mission, Keating has pledged a $25,000 matching gift challenge. Beginning June 22, every dollar donated to the TRF Annual Appeal will be matched dollar-for-dollar until the full $25,000 challenge is met.

“Michelle’s passion for our mission was immediate and inspiring,” said Maggie Sweet, Executive Director of the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation. “She understands that our work is about both horses and people. Her leadership, vision, and generosity will help us continue providing lifetime care for retired Thoroughbreds while creating opportunities for transformation through our Second Chances Program.”

Phillip Vacchio Appointed to the Board of Directors of the Wesley Community

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.

Saratoga Springs— The Wesley Community announced Phillip Vacchio has been appointed to the Board of Directors of The Wesley Community.

Vacchio is an elder law attorney and partner at the Herzog Law Firm, with offices in Albany, Saratoga Springs, Queensbury, and Kingston, where he leads a team focused on estate planning and administration, long-term care Medicaid strategy and asset protection planning, guardianship, and special needs advocacy.

“I am honored to join the Board of Directors of The Wesley Community and to share my legal expertise and passion for elder care. Navigating the legal complexities of aging is not an easy undertaking for seniors and their families. I look forward to contributing to Wesley – an organization that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of its senior residents every day,” said Vacchio.

Vacchio built his career around protecting the assets, rights, dignity and autonomy of aging individuals. Prior to joining the Herzog Law Firm, he founded a Capital Region office of the Long Island law firm where he was previously a partner, dedicated to estate planning with a focus on elder law services. He has been a frequent speaker at senior centers, care facilities and nonprofit organizations – underscoring his belief in the power of public education and community partnerships to improve the quality of life for older adults.

“We are pleased to welcome Phillip to The Wesley Community Board of Directors,” said J. Brian Nealon, CEO of The Wesley Community. “His expansive legal expertise with long-term care, Medicaid strategy, guardianship and special needs advocacy, and his background guiding thousands of families through emotionally and financially complex long-term care decisions, will be great assets to our community.”

Saratoga Bridges Raises Over $190,000

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.

Jane Mastaitis (left) presents McConchies with plaque

Saratoga Bridges’ annual White Party presents Petals & Prosecco Gala raised over $190,000 to support their programs and services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Saratoga County. This year’s theme, Petals and Prosecco invited beautiful floral inspired dresses, suits, and accessories. Over 300 people came dressed in their best and ready to party for a cause at the 1863 Club at the Saratoga Race Course.

To begin the night, guests were greeted at the door with a flute of prosecco, generously donated by over 90 Cellars.  Following cocktail hour, guests made their way downstairs for dinner, auctions, and dancing. 

During dinner, Saratoga Bridges CEO, Jane Mastaitis, thanked the many sponsors, donors, and guests who support the organization’s mission year after year. Mastaitis highlighted the importance of their generosity in the face of uncertainty with cuts in state and federal funding. Mastaitis also recognized and awarded Kim & Leigh McConchie, longtime supporters of Saratoga Bridges and philanthropists, with the Community Builder Recognition Award for their impact on the greater community of Saratoga County. 

At the event, special guest Emcee & Auctioneer Chris Onorato, Anchor for News Channel 13, led a live auction. Featured in the auction were JetBlue round-trip flights and a Key West stay, box seats for the Alabama Stakes at the Saratoga Race Course, a curated private dining experience from PDT Maison, a 3-night stay at The Lodge at Schroon Lake, and a beautiful Creative Endeavors original collage, “Cosmos in a Crystal Cradle.”

Week of June 26 – July 2, 2026

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Property Transactions.

BALLSTON

Marco Cannizzaro sold property at 18 Forestbrook Dr to David Geary for $470,000

Kristin McCormack sold property at 15 Beacon St  to Christopher Tavella for $399,900

CHARLTON

Richard Martin sold property at 1 Imperial Lane to Blaze Comley for $565,000

CORINTH

Michael Bedell sold property at 414 Main St to Roger Jones for $185,000

Dreamline Group LLC sold property at 332 Main St to Jesse Catchpole for $273,195

Karen Dandrea sold property at 334 Main St to DNR Saratoga LTD for $116,001

GREENFIELD

Kathleen Veitch sold property at 4 Ivy Lane to Kevin Wendoloski for $437,000

Nicole Goodman sold property at 116 Medbury Rd  to Amanda Iannoneo for $422,000

MALTA

Michaels Group Homes LLC sold property at 12 Anson Ct  to Christine Didonado for $600,320

Stephen Kitchen sold property at 14 Canopy Lane to Andrew Pollack for $707,000

Stephen Krauza sold property at 41 Walden Glen to Gregory Chieco for $430,000

MILTON

Richard Lachance sold property at 314 Lexington St to Michael Azzaro for $516,000

Lauren Rokjer sold property at 56 Skylark Dr to Keira McLarey for $541,000

SARATOGA

Stephanie Veitch sold property at 122 Trask Lane to Paul Kalac for $895,000

Saint Francis Land Holding LLC sold property at 40 Spring St to Mitchell Family Estate Holdings LLC for $290,000

SARATOGA SPRINGS

Excelsior Property LLC sold property at 3 Gibson Ct to John Mahar for $785,000

Calvin McCloud sold property at 18 Jenee Way to Ryan Burke for $750,000

Adelphi Owner II LLC sold property at 19 Washington St Apt 557 to Pegasus Property Holdings LLC for $1,075,000

Adelphi Owner II LLC sold property at 19 Washington St Apt 555 to Pegasus Property Holdings LLC for $1,075,000

Adelphi Owner II LLC sold property at 19 Washington St Apt 452 to Mark Hogan for $975,000

39 Ruggles Rd LLC sold property at 39 Ruggles Rd to 5 Hibbard St LLC for $250,000

Joshua Isner sold property at 19 Washington St Unit 459 to Adelphi 459 LLC for $1,300,000

Ross Kenyon sold property at 43 Doten Ave to Joseph Deberardinis for $1,400,000

Adelphi Owner II LLC sold property at 19 Washington St Apt 458 to Joshua Isner for $1,250,000

Adelphi Owner II LLC sold property at 19 Washington St Apt 456 to Joshua Isner for $1,250,000

Adelphi Owner II LLC sold property at 19 Washington St Apt 458 to Joshua Isner for $1,250,000

WILTON

Forest Grove LLC sold property at 46 Sagano St to Scot McCloud for $892,180

James Harvey sold property at 239 Northern Pines Rd to Christopher Yoder for $600,000

Matthew Lindley sold property at 63 Hearthstone Dr to Melissa Lindler for $800,000

Eric Chew sold property at 21 Saw Mill Ct to Mark Militello for $1,050,000

Patrick Diggin sold property at 65 Hearthstone Dr to Scott Alden for $860,000

Brendon Wormley sold property at 11 Santee Dr to Andrew Murphy for $525,000

Saratoga Casino Hotel and Saratoga Harness Horseperson’s Association Announce Memorial Service Honoring 17 Horses Lost in June 16 Fire

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

Saratoga Casino Hotel and the Saratoga Harness Horseperson’s Association have announced a public memorial service to honor the 17 horses that perished in the devastating barn fire on June 16, 2026.

The horses were laid to rest in a private burial held at dusk on the morning of Wednesday, June 17, on the grounds of Saratoga Casino Hotel. Each horse was respectfully buried in its own individual plot.

To ensure their memory endures, a permanent monument bearing the names of all 17 horses will be installed at the burial site as a tribute to their lives and the impact they had on the harness racing community.

The memorial service will take place on Sunday, June 28, at 10:45 a.m. in the harness track Winner’s Circle at Saratoga Casino Hotel. The ceremony is open to the public, and community members are invited to join horse owners, trainers, drivers, caretakers, and racing fans in remembering the horses lost in the tragedy. Live harness racing will immediately follow the memorial with a first post time of noon.

Speakers at the memorial service will include Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner, Saratoga Springs Mayor John Safford, Saratoga County Supervisor Sarah Burger, and representatives from Saratoga Casino Hotel and the Saratoga Harness Horsepersons Association. Each will offer remarks in honor of the horses and recognize the profound loss felt throughout the racing community.

“The loss of these 17 horses is a tragedy that has touched every corner of the racing community,” said Sam Gerrity, Chief Executive Officer of Saratoga Casino Hotel. “This memorial service and monument will serve as a lasting tribute to their lives and offer a place for remembrance and reflection.”

“Each of these horses had a unique story and a special place in the hearts of those who cared for them,” said Henry Westbrook Jr, President. Saratoga Harness Horseperson’s Association. By laying them to rest with dignity and creating a permanent memorial in their honor, we hope to preserve their memory for generations to come.”

Horses to Be Honored at Memorial Service: Arlanda, Conquest As, Crazy Jet, Five Star Lou, Free Willy Hanover, Gimlet Hanover, Influencer, Lyons Dukey, Muscle Dynasty, Our Father Lindy, Perfect Bang, Quite Like Me, Race Me Bombshell, Shalamar Hanover, Trackstar, Tropical Cyclone, and Red. 

Photo of the Week Summer 2026

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Neighborhood Buzz.

“After the Rain”
by Steve B.

Now is your chance to get your photos published!

Submit your “Photo of the Week” for a chance to be Published in PRINT in Saratoga TODAY Newspaper.  

Contest photo submissions close August 5. One photo will be chosen each week. Email your photo to: Design@SaratogaPublishing.com