SARATOGA SPRINGS — James Alfred Poulette III was unexpectedly taken from all those who loved him on September 27, 2024. He was 44 years old. Calling hours are 1-3 p.m. on October 4 at Burke Funeral Home, service following at 3 p.m. Burial is private. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
SARATOGA SPRINGS — Thomas G. “Tommy” McTygue, 83, a beloved figure in Saratoga Springs and a pillar of the community, passed away peacefully after a prolonged illness, on September 24, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Tommy’s life was a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service, his deep love for his family, and his passion for making Saratoga Springs a better place for all.
Born on June 6, 1941, to Charles A. McTygue and Rose Lanzara McTygue, Tommy grew up with a strong sense of civic duty ingrained in his family’s tradition. This legacy of service would shape his entire life and career.
Tommy’s journey of service began in an unexpected place – behind a barber’s chair. As a young man, he started his career as a barber in Saratoga Springs, a role that allowed him to connect with residents from all walks of life. It was here, amid the hum of clippers and the chatter of patrons, that Tommy began forming the meaningful relationships that would define his life and career.
Following his time as a barber, Tommy’s commitment to his community deepened as he joined the Saratoga Springs Fire Department. As a firefighter, he demonstrated bravery and dedication, further strengthening his bonds with the city and its residents. This experience not only showcased his willingness to put others before himself but also gave him insight into the city’s operations and needs.
His path in public service then expanded beyond Saratoga Springs when he served as the Superintendent of Documents for the New York State Assembly. In this role, Tommy forged meaningful relationships with lawmakers across the state, building a network that would prove invaluable in his future political endeavors. This experience broadened his understanding of state politics and policymaking, contributing significantly to his later accomplishments as a local leader.
Tommy’s love story began in 1963 when he married his sweetheart, Sandra (Rozelle) McTygue. Together, they built a loving family that became the cornerstone of his life. Tommy’s love for his family was evident in everything he did, from his public service to his dedication to his community.
Known for his warm smile and genuine concern for others, Tommy made friends easily and kept them for life. His ability to connect with people, honed during his days as a barber, his time as a firefighter, and his work in Albany, made him not just an effective public servant but also a treasured friend to many in Saratoga Springs and beyond.
Tommy’s professional life in Saratoga Springs culminated in an extraordinary 32-year career as Commissioner of Public Works. Elected to an impressive 16 terms, he played a pivotal role in transforming the city from a seasonal tourist destination to a vibrant year-round community. His vision and hard work, coupled with the relationships he had built at the state level and his intimate understanding of the city’s needs, laid the foundation for the Saratoga Springs we know and love today.
As a lifelong Democrat elected in a then-majority Republican city, Tommy was known for his willingness to forge bipartisan partnerships to get things done. He understood that progress often required reaching across the aisle, and he worked tirelessly to build consensus among local and state leaders alike. This approach allowed him to achieve remarkable results for Saratoga Springs, even in politically challenging times. His ability to find common ground and focus on shared goals made him an effective leader and a respected figure across party lines.
As Commissioner, Tommy was a pioneer in many areas, including environmental protection, historic preservation, and urban beautification. He took pride in the city’s clean streets, efficient snow removal, and the beautiful flowers that adorned the town. His dedication often found him behind the wheel of a snowplow in the early hours of winter mornings, ensuring the streets were safe for his fellow citizens.
Tommy’s compassion extended beyond his official duties. He was known for reaching out to those less fortunate, providing employment opportunities and support to individuals struggling with various challenges. This empathy and willingness to help others in need was a defining characteristic of his leadership and his personal life.
Outside of his public service, Tommy had a lifelong passion for Standardbred harness racing. As an owner, he competed at tracks throughout New York State and beyond, achieving success with major stakes winners. In his later years, he continued to advocate for the sport, leading the Saratoga Horse Owners Association and successfully defending the industry’s interests.
Tommy McTygue’s legacy in Saratoga Springs is visible in the beautifully maintained Congress Park, the historic Canfield Casino, and the beloved Marcus Illions Carousel. But more than these physical landmarks, his legacy lives on in the hearts of those he touched with his kindness, his dedication, and his unwavering love for his community.
As we bid farewell to Tommy, we celebrate a life well-lived – a life dedicated to family, friends, and the betterment of Saratoga Springs. His legacy of bipartisan cooperation and putting the needs of the community first serves as an inspiring example for future leaders. His impact on the city and its people will be felt for generations to come.
Tommy McTygue – a loving husband, father, grandfather, public servant, and friend – will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
In addition to his parents, Tommy was predeceased by his sister Patricia, and brothers Charles and Michael.
He is survived by his wife Sandra, his daughters Lisa McTygue Cross (Brian), Tracy Lyon (Mark), Sharon McTygue (Dave), five cherished grandsons, Brad (Bianca) and Shane (Julianne) Lyon, Colin Flanders (Courtney), Mason Wheelock (Julia) and David Hart as well as his brothers, Bill and Pete (Jackie) McTygue.
All are welcome to attend a Funeral Mass at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, October 1, at St. Clement’s Church, 231 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs. Burial will be Wednesday, October 2, in Prospect Hill Cemetery in Schuylerville.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Shelters of Saratoga online at sheltersofsaratoga.org or by mailing a check to PO Box 3089, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 or to RISE, (Healthy Housing and Support Services) of Saratoga Springs, online @riseservices.org or by mailing a check to RISE, 127 Union Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.
Arrangements are under the direction of Flynn Bros. Inc., 13 Gates Ave., Schuylerville, NY. Online remembrances can be made at www.flynnbrosinc.com
BALLSTON SPA — The Saratoga County Clerk’s Office at 40 McMaster St., Ballston Spa, will host a Passport Night from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24, by appointment only.
The Clerk’s Office is offering the extended hours for those whose schedules make it difficult to visit the office to apply for a passport during regular business hours.
The office will provide a comfortable environment and knowledgeable staff to guide people through the process, said County Clerk Craig Hayner.
To book an appointment, call the County Clerk’s office at 518-885-2213.
Application forms will be available, and photos can be taken on site. Those planning to attend can also download a copy of the passport application in advance at www.travel.state.gov and fill them out ahead of time. However, the applications must be signed in front of an acceptance agent at the Clerk’s Office.
Applicants should bring:
An original or a certified copy of their birth certificate with a raised seal (including parents’ names on the certificate) and, if possible, a photocopy (front and back)
•heir photo ID and, if possible, a photocopy (front and back)
A check or money order (one per passport application) made out to the Department of State to cover the application fee (See below for details.)
Cash or separate check to cover the processing fees and passport photos (if having them taken on site)
Children younger than 18 must have both parents present when applying.
Passport fees are as follows:
Passport books — $130 for adult applications and $100 for children under the age of 16.
Passport cards — $30 for adults and $15 for children under the age of 16. (Note that they are only good for land travel.)
Processing fee — $35 for each application
Passport photos — $10
Expedited service — $60 per applicant
Current processing times are about 6-8 weeks or about 3 weeks for expedited applications. However, processing times can vary.
Passport renewals for those who were issued a 10-year passport previously must be mailed by the applicant. However, the required new photo can be obtained at the County Clerk’s Office.
Regular hours for passport services are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.
For more information, visit the website at https://www.saratogacountyny.gov/departments/county-clerk/passport/
SARATOGA SPRINGS — A total of 66 grants have been awarded supporting community-based arts and culture programs taking place in Fulton, Montgomery, and Saratoga Counties throughout 2024.
The funded projects offer their communities year-round opportunities to experience a wide array of free or low-cost artistic events highlighting talented local and regional artists.
Saratoga Arts announced the grantees for the 2024 Community Arts Regrant Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council of the Arts (NYSCA). Overall, 74 applications were submitted this year and, due to the $100,000 increase in funding this cycle, a record number of grantees in a single year were largely able to receive full funding.
Surplus money from this year’s cycle is being allocated for mini-grants. These grants, titled “Add-an-Artist” grants, will be awarded on a rolling basis in the sum of $1,000 with the focus on bringing art into public spaces and pre-existing programming. All eligible individual artists and nonprofits are encouraged to apply to either of these opportunities and can find more information on the Saratoga Arts website.
Applications for the 2025 regrant program cycle is now open and remains open until Nov. 22.
The Community Arts Regrant Program is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.
With the funding awarded from NYSCA, Saratoga Arts’ Community Arts Regrant Program supports artists, non-profit organizations, and local municipalities in Saratoga, Fulton, and Montgomery Counties, in partnership with qualifying organizations and artists, to present innovative arts and cultural programs in local communities.
Saratoga Arts is a non-governmental, not-for-profit organization that relies on the support of its members, friends, and community. The annual Community Arts Celebration will take place on Friday, Nov. 1, from 6-8 p.m. at Saratoga Arts, 320 Broadway.
Veteran’s Business Counsel Career Fair
Eventgoers at this annual Career Fair can connect with more than 30 top employers from throughout the region representing diverse fields such as semiconductors, manufacturing, energy, finance, human services, health care and more. Hosted by Veterans Business Council of The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with Naval Support Facility Saratoga Springs and The Fleet & Family Support Center, this event will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, October 11 at the Naval Support Facility Field House, located at 19 JF King Drive, in Saratoga Springs. More information is available at https://chamber.saratoga.org/events/details/career-fair-hosted-by-the-vbc-42092?calendarMonth=2024-10-01.
Community Fun Fair – Vendors Wanted
October 12, Noon – 5 p.m. Rain or Shine. 4-H Training Center, 556 Middleline Rd., Ballston Spa. Vendor space only $50. Electric is an additional $25. This is a family-focused event and includes live music, craft vendors, children’s activities, and the World-Famous Cornell Recipe BBQ Chicken Dinner. Please visit, https://sc4h.org/vendors or contact Lisa at lmr283@cornell.edu or 518-885-8998
Heritage Hunters 2024 Annual Genealogy Conference
Saturday, October 19 at The Saratoga Town Hall, 12 Spring St. in Schuylerville from 8:15 a.m. to 3 p.m. At 8:45 a.m., Judith Harper, will present the program “Add PERSI, ArchivGrid, and HDI to your Family Research Toolbox!” At 10:30 a.m., Keren Weiner will speak about “Digging Deeper, Finding Our Family Roots.” At 1 p.m., Lynn Calvin will talk about “Navigating the Saratoga County Genweb Site.” At 2:15 p.m., John Cromie will cover the topics “Underused Resources at the County Clerk’s Office” and “Ask a Lawyer Your Genealogy Questions.” Light refreshments and lunch will be provided. Full details at Saratoga County Heritage Hunters on Facebook. Cost is $25. Non-members call Ginny at 518-885-9309 by October 11.
22nd Duathlon Mohawk Towpath Byway
This exciting event offers participants the chance to experience the beauty of the Mohawk Towpath Scenic Byway with a 2-mile run, a 12-mile bike ride, and another 2-mile run. Whether you’re an experienced athlete or a first-time competitor, this USA Triathlon-sanctioned event is perfect for anyone looking to challenge themselves while enjoying the scenic landscapes of upstate New York. The race begins at Riverview Orchards, where you’ll transition between running and biking amidst the fall colors and picturesque views of the Mohawk River and Erie Canal. It takes place on Sunday, October 20, at 8:30 a.m. For more information, visit https://www.mohawktowpath.org/2024/08/20/2024-mohawk-towpath-scenic-byway-duathlon/ Proceeds from this event benefit the Friends of the Mohawk Towpath Scenic Byway.
6-Hour Live Defensive Driving
Saturday October 26, 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church, 175 Fifth Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Save 10% on Auto Insurance for 3 years and reduce 4 points off record.
10-minute morning break and ½ hour for lunch – bring your own or step out. No formal testing.
Cost: $40 prepaid or $45 at door. Limited seating, please pre-register. Donation given to the church.
Call: 518-784-5009 or register online: www.facetofacecourses.com. Instructors: Victor Bujanow and Deborah Harpine.
7th Annual Dan Provost Memorial Walk for Awareness and Recovery
Registration, fun, and games begin at 9 a.m. A 1.25-mile family-friendly walk at approx. 10 a.m. Refreshments, free Narcan training, addiction recovery resources, program information and numerous raffle items will be available. In memory of Saratoga resident Dan Provost, who passed away at age 23 from a drug overdose. The purpose of the Walk is to remember lives taken too soon, to raise awareness of addictions, educate the community about recovery services and celebrate those living in recovery. Suggested donation is $10, family donation $20. Register: https://zippyreg.com/register/danprovost. Proceeds benefit area recovery and education programs. For more information, contact Ken & Maureen Provost at 518-587-8422, danprovostmemorialwalk@gmail.com or Facebook. Gavin Park, 10 Lewis Rd., Saratoga Springs
Annual Fall Bazaar
For the Benefit of the Ballston Area Seniors. Saturday November 9, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Town of Milton Community Center, 310 Northline Rd. Ballston Spa. Come out and get into the holiday spirit. There will be vendors & crafters of all kinds. Country Café, Bake Goods, Crafter, Books & Puzzles, Thrift Room,
A Quilt Raffle & 50/50 Raffle. Raffle featuring Baskets of assorted items & gift cards, & services.
You do not have to be present to win.
SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Springs Professional Firefighters I.A.F.F. Local 343 and the City of Saratoga Springs Fire Department will be hosting a fire prevention open house from 1 – 4 p.m. on Oct. 12 at the Saratoga Springs Fire Department Station 1, located at 60 Lake Ave.
The open house provides the community with the opportunity to meet the firefighters, see the trucks, tour the fire station and to learn about fire safety.
The open house takes place during the United States Fire Prevention week. Starting in 1925, Fire Prevention Week is the longest running public health observance in the country with the goal of teaching children and adults different means on how to stay safe in case of a fire, and allows firefighters to provide valuable education with the goal of decreasing casualties resulting from fires.
Those attending the Saratoga Springs Firefighters Open House will be able view demonstrations of the department’s ladder truck, vehicle extrication using the jaws of life and other skills that firefighters are required to know for day-to-day calls. Refreshments will be provided during the open house through the support of local businesses and the Local 343.
SARATOGA SPRINGS — The 22nd annual Saratoga Hospital Golf Invitational, held earlier this month at the Saratoga National Golf Club, raised more than $191,000 in support of nursing education and professional development.
“Through this event, we aim to cultivate valuable relationships and provide lifelong professional development opportunities for our nurses,” said Toni Bishop-McWain, Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer, in a statement. “Investment in education directly enhances the quality of patient care and ensures a brighter future for the Saratoga region.”
Ballston Spa Varsity Football Obliterates South Glens Falls
The Ballston Spa varsity football team easily defeated South Glens Falls, 56 to 0 last Friday night in a homecoming matchup. The Scotties dominated throughout the contest, scoring 14 points in the first quarter, 21 in the second, and 14 more in the third before tallying one final touchdown in the fourth. Ballston’s run game carved through South Glens Falls’ defense, scoring touchdowns off of 86-yard, 70-yard, and 49-yard runs.
With this W, the Scotties improve to 2-1 on the season after defeating Brewster 22-2 in week one and then losing to Averill Park 41-21 in week two. Their next scheduled game is on Friday, September 27 at Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake.
Blue Streaks Football Wallops Queensbury
The Saratoga Springs varsity football squad defeated Queensbury 29 to 8 last Friday. The Blue Streaks’ touchdowns came via a fumble recovery, two 13-yard runs, and a 5-yard run. With their second win of the season, Saratoga improved to 2-1 on the year. In game two, they beat Schenectady 48 to 14. They fell to Christian Brothers Academy 28 to 0 in week one.
Saratoga is next scheduled to play at home against Niskayuna on Friday, September 27.
Schuylerville Golfers Break School Record
The Schuylerville varsity golf team broke the school record for the lowest score in a match (146), while defeating South Glens Falls at the par 36 Airway Meadows. The record-breaking team included Adam DeGregory (-1) 35, Ryken Riper (-2) 34, Kadin Converse (-1) 35, and Jackson Dunbar (+6) 42.
Schuylerville Boys Soccer Team Earns Three Shutout Victories
The Schuylerville High School boys soccer team won three games recently, beating Scotia-Glenville 4-0 on September 18, defeating South Glens Falls 1-0 on September 20, and then earning another shutout victory, 6-0, against Corinth on September 23.
Against Scotia-Glenville, Alex Renner and Nate Lanfear each tallied a goal and an assist to lead the Black Horses. Colden Harrison and Dom Letzring also found the net.
Against South Glens Falls, Renner scored the lone goal with an assist from Justin Nolazco-Lopez.
Against Corinth, Nolzco-Lopez recorded a hat trick in the first 25 minutes. Willem Foster, Renner, and Lanfear also scored for the Black Horses.
Saratoga Lacrosse Players Commit to UConn and Longwood
Saratoga Springs varsity lacrosse junior midfielder Sarah Berls has committed to the University of Connecticut (UConn). Berls plays with the Salt City Snipers lacrosse club in Syracuse. She’s also played soccer and basketball.
Saratoga’s senior defender Averill Zimmer has committed to Longwood University, located in Farmville, Virginia. Zimmer is from Ballston Spa and plays lacrosse with the Lake Effect Storm Elite club. In addition to lacrosse, she also plays field hockey and has a black belt in Tae kwon do.
Skidmore Alum Drafted by National Lacrosse League
The Saskatchewan Rush of the National Lacrosse League (NLL) have selected recent Skidmore College graduate Charlie McFadden in the third round of the 2024 NLL Draft with the 37th overall pick.
McFadden is the first Thoroughbred to be drafted by an NLL franchise. The NLL is a professional box lacrosse league comprised of 15 teams, including nine in the United States and six in Canada.
In 2022, McFadden helped lead his Miners Lacrosse Club team to the Minto Cup final. In 2023, he played for the Coquitlam Adanacs of the Western Lacrosse Association. This past summer, he played for the Edmonton Miners Sr. B team and won the Rocky Mountain Lacrosse League championship and reached the President’s Final.
One of the most prolific scorers in program history and a two-year team captain, McFadden finished his Skidmore tenure ranked fourth all-time in career scoring with 179 points and fifth with 117 goals. He became the seventh player to reach the 40-goal plateau when he did it as a junior in 2023. As a senior, McFadden scored 33 goals and made it to 50 points for the second year in a row.
With one season of NCAA eligibility remaining, McFadden is attending (Division I) Fairfield University where he will play with Stags next spring. The Saskatchewan Rush will retain his NLL rights.
POTSDAM — John J Sweeney, age 57, of West Stockholm, NY passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at the Canton Potsdam Hospital. Arrangements for cremation are with the Garner Funeral Service. Condolences for the Sweeney family can be shared at www.garnerfh.com.
John is survived by his wife Sharon Sweeney of West Stockholm, NY, his mother Jane Welch of Queensbury, NY, brother Brian Sweeney of Clifton Park, NY sister Patricia Sweeney of Brattleboro, Vermont, stepsons David, Michael and Robert, stepdaughter Malinda, 8 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. He is predeceased by his father Edward Sweeney.
John was born in Rochester, NY on June 22, 1967 to Edward and Jane (Welch) Sweeney. He was a graduate of Saratoga Springs High School in 1986. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 13 years. He was married to Sharon Bickford on November 28, 2001.
John was a kind and gentle soul and a generous person to everyone. He loved spending time with his dearly loved family. There will be a celebration of life for John to be held at a later date and time yet to be determined.
SARATOGA SPRINGS —Merle Bonthuis, 98, passed away at home on September 16, 2024. Calling hours are 1 – 3 p.m., October 3, at Burke Funeral Home. Merle will be laid to rest with his late wife Margo at the Saratoga National Cemetery. Memorial donations to Saratoga Springs Lions Foundation, P.O. Box 759, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. www.burkefuneralhome.com
