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Author: Saratoga TODAY

French Cannon from Revolutionary War on Display at Saratoga National Historical Park Visitor Center

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

On April 26, the National Park Service will unveil the newest attraction to the Saratoga National Historical Park Visitor Center. It will remain on display for the next two years as the park observes the 250th anniversaries of the Declaration of Independence in 2026 and the Battles of Saratoga in 2027. 

The 266-year-old French Cannon, named La Poesie (Poetry), is one of 31 cannons of its type, a 4-pounder à la suèdoise (of the Swedish style), which arrived as part of a secret French arms shipment in Portsmouth, N.H. in April 1777 along with large amounts of other weapons and supplies. Ten were sent to the Northern Department, where they played an important role in setting the stage for the Battles of Saratoga. 

An unveiling program will begin at 1 p.m. with three speakers taking the stage. Historian Dr. Robert Selig will present “The Politics of Arming America, or:  “Why are there no Vallière 4-lb Cannons in France?,” a look at the political environment in France which led to hundreds of cannons arriving just when the United States needed them the most. Park Ranger Eric Schnitzer will share how ten of the recently arrived French cannons came to the American Northern Army and their impact on the Battles of Saratoga. 

Curator Christine Valosin will describe the process which brought La Poesie to Saratoga. She will announce another important project, in partnership with the Friends of Saratoga Battlefield, to ensure the French cannons will have a presence on the battlefield itself. Room for the lecture portion of the event is strictly limited. Reservations must be made via email SARA_Reservations@nps.gov. No reservation is required to view the cannon in the Visitor Center. 

For more information about Saratoga National Historical Park, please call the Visitor Center at (518) 670-2985, visit www.nps.gov/sara, or find the park on Facebook or X (formerly Twitter) @SaratogaNHP. 

SSHS Science Research Students Excel at Regional Competition

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

The Science Research program at Saratoga Springs City School District provides students with a unique opportunity to engage in original, college-level scientific research through mentorships with professional investigators. This three-year program guides students through the full research process. 

During their sophomore year, students explore topics of interest, develop research skills, and design an experimental plan. In their junior year, they collect and analyze data, and as seniors, they draw conclusions and present their findings to a variety of audiences.

Recently, thirteen Saratoga Springs High School students competed at the Regeneron Greater Capital Region Science and Engineering Fair, where more than 100 students in grades 9–12 presented original research projects. This highly competitive event serves as a qualifier for the prestigious International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), the world’s premier science competition.

Saratoga students delivered outstanding results. Senior Ava Otte earned the Grand Prize (1st Place Overall), and junior Isabella Bonitatibus received 2nd Place Overall. Both students were awarded ISEF Finalist honors and will represent Saratoga Springs High School at ISEF in Phoenix, Arizona this May, where they will compete alongside approximately 1,800 students from more than 80 countries and territories.

In addition to her second-place finish, Isabella Bonitatibus was awarded a $50,000 scholarship to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, recognizing the exceptional quality of her research.

Several students also received special awards for their work:

• Ava Otte (Grade 12) – Stockholm Water Prize, recognizing excellence in research related to water quality and environmental protection

• Isabella Bonitatibus (Grade 11) – Momentive Performance Materials Award and SI Group Smart Chemistry Award for innovative and environmentally focused research

• Rose Janicke (Grade 12) – American Society for Microbiology (Eastern New York Branch) Award

• Maxwell Vogel (Grade 12) – U.S. Metric Association Award for excellence in quantitative measurement

These achievements reflect the dedication, curiosity, and hard work of Saratoga Springs’ student researchers, as well as the strength of the district’s Science Research program. The district congratulates all participants and wish Ava and Isabella the best of luck as they advance to the international stage.

Murder, Gambling, and Corruption: Saratoga’s Dark Past Revealed in New Museum Program

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

The Saratoga Springs History Museum invites the public to an evening of intrigue, crime, and captivating storytelling with More Gangsters of Saratoga, presented by former Saratoga Springs Police Chief Greg Veitch, on Thursday, April 16, 2026 at 7:00 PM at the Canfield Casino.

Saratoga Springs is widely celebrated for its elegance, culture, and historic charm, but beneath that polished surface lies a lesser-known past shaped by crime, corruption, and vice. In this engaging program, Veitch brings to life the city’s shadowy underworld through a collection of true stories drawn from his acclaimed books, All the Law in the World Won’t Stop Them and A Gangster’s Paradise.

From murder cases and bootlegging operations to illegal gambling networks and fixed horse races, these stories reveal a time when Saratoga was as notorious as it was glamorous. With a unique perspective shaped by his years in law enforcement, Veitch combines historical research with firsthand insight to deliver an evening that is both informative and entertaining.

“This program offers a fascinating look at a side of Saratoga’s history that many people have never encountered,” said James Parillo, Museum Director. “It’s a reminder that behind the city’s reputation for refinement lies a complex and compelling past.”

The event is open to the public and is ideal for history enthusiasts, true crime audiences, and anyone interested in uncovering the hidden stories of Saratoga Springs.

Event Details:

What: More Gangsters of Saratoga

Who: Greg Veitch, former Saratoga Springs Police Chief and author

When: Thursday, April 16, 2026 | 7:00 PM

Where: Saratoga Springs History Museum, 1 E. Congress Street (Canfield Casino)

Admission: Free for Museum Members | $10 for non-members

Saratoga Independent School Names New Head of School, Kristen Mariotti

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.


Kristen Mariotti will take over as head of the Saratoga Independent School (Courtesy of SIS)

The Board of Trustees at Saratoga Independent School has announced the next Head of School. Following a thoughtful, inclusive, and comprehensive national search, Kristen Mariotti has been appointed to lead Saratoga Independent School effective July 1st, 2026. 

“As SIS looks ahead, we’re excited about the energy and ideas Kristen brings,” said Michael Buckley, SIS Board of Trustees President. “She will build on what already makes SIS strong while helping us continue to improve how we teach, support every student, and stay connected as a community. We’re confident that, with her leadership, SIS will remain a place where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to succeed. We also want to thank our current Head of School, Bob Ahrens, for his leadership at SIS. His commitment and stewardship have helped shape the school into the community it is today.” 

Kristen brings nearly three decades of distinguished leadership in independent schools, with deep expertise in enrollment management and community building, and a steadfast commitment to equity, student growth, and mission-driven education.  Kristen holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Southern Connecticut State University, a K-8 Teaching Certification from Prescott College, and a Masters of Education in Independent School Leadership from George Mason University. 

For the past five years, Kristen has served as Head of Enrollment Management at Emma Willard School in Troy, NY. In this role, she oversaw admissions, financial aid, and enrollment strategy and served as a key member of the senior leadership team. She partnered closely with school leadership and the Board across a range of areas, including marketing, development, communications, academics, and student life. 

 “I’m inspired and honored to join the Saratoga Independent School community,” Kristen said. “Great schools are built on authentic relationships, shared values, and an unwavering belief in every child’s potential. I look forward to growing alongside students, families, and faculty in this next chapter.” 

Prior to Emma Willard, Kristen served as Assistant Head of School at Stoneleigh-Burnham School in Greenfield, MA, where she played a central role in strategic planning and operations. Throughout her leadership career, she has also been central in launching equity and inclusion initiatives and providing leadership development programs for students, faculty, and staff.  

Kristen is widely recognized as a leader in her field. In 2024, she received the Values & Vision in Leadership Award from the Association of Independent School Admission Professionals (AISAP). She currently serves as a Trustee at Cheshire Academy, an Advisory Council member for The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS), and as a faculty member and cohort leader for AISAP. She is also a mentor with the Enrollment Management Association (EMA).

Her work is defined by a collaborative spirit and a remarkable ability to connect with students, families, and colleagues from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Kristen’s leadership philosophy centers on cultivating school communities where every student feels known, valued, and supported.

“Beyond her extensive experience and education in independent school leadership, Kristen brings a wholehearted love of learning and an enthusiasm for growth and challenge,” Erica Fuller and Jayne Kirber, Search Committee Co-Chairs, Trustees said. “She is energetic, thoughtful, kind, and genuine, qualities that will serve SIS well in the years ahead. We are thrilled to welcome her to Saratoga Independent School and look forward to all that we will accomplish together.”

Saratoga Bistro & Bar Closes

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.

Photo via Three Vines Bistro & Bar.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Three Vines, an Italian bistro and bar located in Congress Plaza, closed its doors on March 28 after more than a decade in business.

Originally opened in Oct. 2014, the eatery weathered a number of storms, including the sudden death of its chef/owner Serafino Zaccone on Jan. 18, 2018. Zaccone, who was only 35 when he passed, launched Three Vines with his brothers-in-law Joe Krason and Alex Nikola.

“This was not an easy decision,” Three Vines said in a social media post. “In fact, it’s one of the hardest we’ve had to make. But sometimes life calls you in a new direction, and it’s time for us to move on to the next chapter. This isn’t goodbye forever — just goodbye for now.”

Three Vines prided itself on serving handcrafted Italian classics and creating a familial atmosphere.

Get a Job! Belmont Job Fair & Saratoga Job Showcase Offer Employment Opportunities

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — On Wednesday, the New York Racing Association (NYRA) announced it will host its second and final Belmont Stakes Racing Festival job fair at the Saratoga Race Course on April 22 from 2 to 7 p.m. 

The job fair will be held on the ground floor of the 1863 Club at Saratoga Race Course. Applicants should enter through the Wright Street entrance (Gate 8) with parking available in the 1863 Club lot.

Prospective employees will be able to meet with representatives from NYRA, Integrated Staffing, and Levy Restaurants, among others. Positions will include restaurant hosts and staff, premium experience team, mutuel clerks, cashiers, merchandise clerks, customer service, maintenance and grounds crew, white caps, parking attendants and security guards.

Applicants must be at least 15 years of age and have New York State Certified Working Papers. Prospective security guards, cashiers and betting clerks must be at least 18 years of age to apply; security guards must have a high school degree or GED. All applicants must present a photo ID and Social Security card or I-9 alternative.

Local residents in the market for a new career can also attend the upcoming Saratoga Job Showcase on Thursday, April 16 from 10 a.m. to noon. The event at Empire State University (113 West Ave.) is set to feature nearly 50 employers representing industries such as construction, manufacturing, energy, finance, banking, technology and more. 

The showcase is open to the public and admission is free. Attendees are encouraged to bring copies of their current resume.

Free professional headshots will be offered on site, along with a LinkedIn training session for job-seekers. The morning will also include a networking reception prior to the event for attendees to mingle and get ready for the job showcase.

More information, including a full list of participating employers, is available at www.saratoga.org/jobshowcase.

Restaurant at Saratoga National Golf Club Rebrands

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.

New Heritage at Saratoga National logo via the restaurant.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Prime restaurant at the Saratoga National Golf Club has unveiled a new name and identity: Heritage at Saratoga National.

Located on the 18th hole, the American contemporary eatery “brings together elevated flavors and an easygoing, welcoming feel,” the business said in a press release.

Patrons will notice some physical changes to the space: The restaurant’s bar and lounge has been expanded into the dining room, and the fine dining area is now separated by a floor-to-ceiling curtain. (“Everyone’s go-to spot is the bar and lounge; therefore, we wanted to make it larger,” said Tim Vennard, vice president of Mazzone Hospitality.)

Prime was originally created in 2012 as a high-end dining experience. In 2020, the food and beverage operations at Saratoga National transitioned, with Mazzone Hospitality ultimately taking over and continuing the concept for several years.

Menus are available at HeritageAtSaratogaNational.com and are led by Executive Chef Dan Beltran in collaboration with Brian Molino, director of culinary for Mazzone Hospitality. Beltran previously served as executive sous chef at Salt & Char before joining Saratoga National in early 2025.

Heritage opened for the season on April 2. Dinner will be served Wednesday through Saturday from 5 to 9 p.m. Beginning April 8, Heritage will offer lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday, along with Sunday lunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Saratoga National Golf Club opens for the season on Friday, April 10.

Week of  April 10 – April 16, 2026 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Property Transactions.

BALLSTON

Bo Andersen sold property at 179 Lake Rd to Erik Andersen for $261,376

CHARLTON

Ryan Telford sold property at 305 Ash St to Alexis Slater for $150,000

MALTA

Michael Stagl sold property at 8 Raspberry Dr to William Allman for $453,000

MILTON

Anita Kayastha sold property at 14 Lancaster Place to Agnieszka for $270,000

April Payne sold property at 254 Emigh Rd to James Myers for $250,000

SARATOGA SPRINGS

Beau Milo sold property at 52 Sherwood Trail to Thomas Schlett for $925,000

Angela Belic sold property at 42 Seward St to Ross Polansky for $412,000

WILTON

Toomey Property Management LLC sold property at 7 Trolley Bed Lane to Katherine Klein for $310,500

Forest Grove LLC sold property at 2 Plumas Pl to Bruce Kuhn for $727,351

Devin Palmer sold property at 2 Norland Ct to Michael Renfroe for $425,000

Eric Tatko sold property at 15 Timbira Dr to Lynne Montano for $492,000

Hadley man arrested for defrauding county

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

A Hadley man has been arrested for allegedly defrauding the county of over $1000 in benefits. 

Oscar Bogran, 46, was arrested on April 2 on two counts of felony 2nd degree criminal possession of a forged instrument, felony 1st degree offering a false instrument for filing and felony 4th degree welfare fraud, according to the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office.

Bogran is alleged to have filing two forged childcare statements to the Saratoga County Department of Social Services. The first of the statements was delivered to the Department on July 9, 2025 and the second was delivered on Oct. 27, 2025. In addition, Bogran filed an online SNAP recertification on Oct. 12 that concealed his household composition. As a result of the false statements, Bogran is accused of receiving benefits he wasn’t entitled to. 

Borgan was arraigned in the Ballston Spa Village Court and released on his own recognizance pending further proceedings 

State Police Arrest Saratoga Springs Woman for Facilitation Following Extensive Fraud Investigation

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

On March 30, 2026, State Police of Brunswick arrested Caroline R. Garrity, 31, of Saratoga Springs, NY, for Criminal Facilitation 4th, a class “A” misdemeanor.

Over several months, Investigators identified a vehicle being repeatedly used in a counterfeit check scheme across Albany, Rensselaer, and Schenectady counties. 

Garrity initially denied it, but the investigation determined that the vehicle had been rented by Garrity in her name, on January 30, 2026, from the Albany International Airport. Garrity reportedly was compensated for renting the car in her name and then turned the vehicle over to the individual who later utilized it to commit multiple crimes.

Garrity was arrested and processed at SP Latham. She was issued an appearance ticket returnable to the Colonie Town Court on April 22, 2026, and released.