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Author: Saratoga TODAY

Saratoga County Animal Shelter to Hold Open House and Adoption Event 

The Saratoga County Animal Shelter is hosting an Open House and Adoption Event from 10AM to 3PM at 6010 County Farm Rd, Ballston Spa on Saturday, June 20. No appointments are necessary! The shelter has approximately 20 dogs and 30 cats looking for loving homes.

This family-friendly event offers animal lovers of all ages a chance to interact with the animals and speak with staff about animal adoption, fostering, volunteering at the Shelter and more.

Payments can be made via cash, check, or card. Renters must provide proof of landlord approval, such as a lease agreement, if adopting.

To make the adoption process smoother, potential adopters should complete the application beforehand at the Saratoga County Animal Shelter’s website (https://saratogacountyanimalshelter.com/adopter-profile/) and bring a printed copy. This helps the staff and volunteers better understand preferences and find the ideal match. Please leave personal pets at home.

The Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit will hold a demonstration at 1PM. Friends of the Saratoga County Animal Shelter will host a bake sale and face painting. Sasquatch Soft Serve Ice Cream Truck will have treats for purchase, and the Witch Walk of SOSA will perform a dance at 1:30PM.

For more information and to see adoptable animals, visit www.saratogacountyanimalshelter.com.

Shelters of Saratoga Announces Peg and Tony Mangano as 2026 Hope Award Honorees

Shelters of Saratoga (SOS) is proud to announce Peg and Tony Mangano as the recipients of the 2026 Hope Award, recognizing their extraordinary dedication, leadership, and decades of service to individuals experiencing homelessness in the Saratoga Springs community. The couple will be honored at One Fine Day 2026, Shelters of Saratoga’s annual fundraising event celebrating hope, compassion, and community partnership.

For more than three decades, Peg and Tony Mangano have been steadfast supporters of Shelters of Saratoga and its mission. Their involvement dates back to 1991, when a group of community members came together to address the urgent need for emergency winter shelter in Saratoga Springs. Since then, both have played vital roles in helping the organization grow from a seasonal shelter into a year-round resource for individuals experiencing homelessness.

Tony Mangano has been instrumental in shaping the organization’s foundation and future. As a founding leader, he helped incorporate Shelters of Saratoga as a nonprofit organization, served on the Board of Directors, volunteered directly with shelter guests, and helped secure the Walworth Street properties that enabled expanded shelter services. He later returned to support the launch of the community’s Code Blue program in 2013 and continues to serve on the organization’s Program Committee today. 

Peg Mangano has been equally committed to serving the community. From volunteering in the organization’s earliest shelters to coordinating monthly dinners through St. Clement’s Church and supporting SOS guests through the Treasures Consignment Shop partnership, her compassionate service has helped countless individuals access basic necessities and feel welcomed and supported. 

“Peg and Tony embody the spirit of hope, compassion, and service that defines Shelters of Saratoga,” said Stephanie Romeo, Executive Director, “Their unwavering commitment over the past 35 years has strengthened our organization and transformed lives. We are honored to recognize their remarkable contributions and enduring legacy.” 

Throughout their years of service, the Mangano’s have remained passionate advocates for increasing awareness about homelessness, emphasizing that it can affect people from all walks of life. Their efforts have helped foster greater understanding, dignity, and support for some of the community’s most vulnerable neighbors. 

The Hope Award is presented annually at One Fine Day and honors individuals whose commitment to human services and community betterment exemplifies the mission and values of Shelters of Saratoga. Peg and Tony Mangano’s decades of leadership, volunteerism, and advocacy make them deserving recipients of this year’s award. 

One Fine Day 2026 will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026, and will bring together community members, supporters, and partners to celebrate hope and raise critical funds for Shelters of Saratoga’s programs and services. 

Stephen Louis Morett 

WILTON, NY- On Thursday, May 7, 2026, Stephen Louis Morett, 73, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Burial with military honors took place, 6/18/26 at the Saratoga National Cemetery.  Memorial donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Veteran organization of your choice. Please visit www.burkefuneralhome.com. 

Andrew Joseph DeGregorio Jr.

 SARATOGA SPRINGS, NYAndrew Joseph DeGregorio Jr., 79, lifelong resident of Saratoga Springs, passed June 9, 2026. Calling hours and service were June 15, at Burke funeral home. Burial with military honors was at Saratoga National Cemetery. Memorial donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in honor of Madison DeGregorio. Please visit. www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Maureen Catherine Tanchyk 

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY- Maureen Catherine Tanchyk passed away on June 12, 2026 at the age of 73 after complications of pancreatic cancer.  No calling hours. Celebration of life is 12-3pm, for close family and friends June 28, at 247 Grand Avenue in Saratoga Springs. Please visit www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Michael J. Eagan

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY- Michael J. Eagan, age 52, of Saratoga Springs, NY passed away at his home on June 13, 2026. 

Born on October 31, 1973, in Saratoga, Michael was the son of Elizabeth (Betty) Eagan- née Perosi, and the late Bob Eagan.

Michael grew up in Saratoga Springs. As a young boy, he enjoyed horseback riding, fishing and played baseball for the Elks- who captured the Saratoga National Minor League Championships in 1983. As a teen, he was very enthusiastic about hunting and looked forward to going hunting with his father.

Michael worked as an electrician in NYC and later on established Eagan Electric in Saratoga. He was a skilled electrician and never hesitated to help family and friends with various projects.

Outside of work, Michael had many hobbies. He especially enjoyed fishing and hunting with his friends. He was an avid NY Giants fan as well as the NY Yankees.

Michael was also an enthusiastic equestrian and was passionate about horses. He had a deep love for dogs as well and is surely being joyfully greeted by his beloved dogs Ruger and Sam.

Michael is survived by his mother Elizabeth (Betty) Eagan (née Perosi), his aunts, uncles, and many cousins and relatives. He is predeceased in death by his father, Robert (Bob) Eagan and his sister Megan Eagan.

Relatives and friends may call from 11am-1pm, Friday, June 19, at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518-584-5373). A funeral home service will take place that day at 1pm.

Burial will follow in the family plot at St. Peter’s Cemetery, West Ave. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital (stjude.org/donatetoday).

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

John James Sanders 

ESPERANCE, NY – John James Sanders, 60, passed away at his home in Esperance, New York, on June 5, 2026. His wife, Vanessa, was by his side.

John was born in Ilion, New York, on July 29, 1965, to Luke John Sanders and Mary Ellen (“Kitty”) Gerling. He was raised in part by his grandmother, Florence H. Sanders, whose influence helped shape the man he would become. He was also blessed by the love and support of the Reid family throughout his life.

John learned the value of hard work at an early age, beginning at just nine years old, and carried those lifelong lessons with him throughout his life. One of his first employers told him that if he could be 15 minutes late, he could be 15 minutes early, and he never forgot those words. By the age of 15, he had learned to drive a truck and later traveled across the country during his years as a truck driver.

After completing High School in Frankfort, John moved to Saratoga Springs in 1984, where he met his dearest friend, Billy James.

In 1988, he met the love of his life, Vanessa Sanders. Together they shared a remarkable and enduring love story that will continue beyond his lifetime. They were officially married on December 9, 2012, at the Gideon Putnam in Saratoga Springs.

John began his career in the automotive industry in 1991 and steadily advanced to become Service Manager at New Country Lexus of Latham. During more than two decades there, and throughout his many years in the industry, he formed lasting friendships and earned the respect of colleagues and customers alike. He was a mentor and father figure to many and took great pride in knowing he had made a positive difference in their lives.

John loved the outdoors and shared countless adventures throughout New York and across the country with Vanessa and his stepdaughter, Samantha Rosenbaum. Together they created memories that will be cherished forever. His favorite journeys included trips to Oregon to see his daughter, Samantha Ablott, and his granddaughters; visiting Italy with his wife; and going to London with his wife and son, Luke.

Throughout his life, he carried on the fishing tradition that he shared with his father from a very young age, and thoroughly enjoyed time spent on the Salmon River fishing with his dear friend, Kevin Clarke.

John was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren: his daughter, Samantha Ablott, her husband, Mike Ablott, and their children, Emma, Annabelle, and Bexley; his son, Luke Sanders; his daughter, Julia Sanders; and his stepdaughter, Samantha Rosenbaum.

Above all else, John valued love and family. His final wish was that those he loved keep him in their hearts.

His legacy will live on in the lives he touched, the lessons he shared, and the love he gave so completely. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

His funeral will be held Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 4:00 PM in the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes (628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY)

Calling hours will be Saturday 1-4 PM at the funeral home.

His funeral arrangements have been entrusted to his childhood friend, Vincent Iocovozzi of the V.J.Iocovozzi Funeral Home, Inc. Frankfort.

Expressions of sympathy may be placed on John’s online memorial page by going to www.iocovozzifuneralhomes.com.

Blotter Report Week of June 19 – June 25, 2026 

Between June 8 and June 15, the Saratoga Springs Police reported 597 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. 81 Traffic Stops

2. 39 Welfare Checks

3. 21 Public Assist Calls

For the State Police, between June 10 and June 16, New York State Police reported 214 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 42 incidents. The top three municipalities for incidents are 

1. 64 in Clifton Park 

2. 40 in Wilton 

3. 30 in Malta

June 10, 2026. 5:23 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Gansevoort resident on charges of felony 2nd degree criminal mischief. Arrest occurred on High Rock Ave.

June 10, 2026. 12:39 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Clifton Park resident on charges of felony 3rd criminal mischief: damage to another person’s property- amount > $250. Arrest occurred on Church Street.

June 10, 2026. 7:20 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a homeless/transient individual on charges of 5th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance: cocaine 500 milligrams. Arrest occurred on South Broadway. 

June 10, 2026. 7:20 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a homeless/transient individual on charges of 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Arrest occurred on South Broadway. 

June 11, 2026. 9:49 a.m.- New York State Police arrested an Albany resident in the City of Albany on charges of misdemeanor torturing or injuring animals/failure to provide sustenance. Appearance ticket issued. Arrest occurred as a result of an incident in the Town of Halfmoon on Sept. 8, 2025. Also arrested in this incident was a Schenectady resident who was arrested on Oct. 7, 2025.

June 11, 2026. 2:31 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Watervliet resident in the City of Watervliet on charges of misdemeanor 2nd degree menacing and felony 3rd degree criminal possession of a weapon: previous conviction. Appearance ticket issued. Arrest stemmed from an incident on April 25 in the Town of Clifton Park.

June 11, 2026. 4:03 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a homeless/transient individual on charges of 3rd degree criminal trespass: property fenced in or enclosed. Arrest occurred on Broadway.

June 12, 2026. 3:43 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident on charges of criminal mischief: intent to damage property and act in a manner to injure a child less than 17.

June 12, 2026. 12:35 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the City of Saratoga Springs on charges of felony – directing a laser at an aircraft- seriously disrupting safe travel. Appearance ticket issued.

June 12, 2026. 10:52 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Stillwater resident in the Town of Saratoga 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 13, 2026. 12:15 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Mechanicville resident in the Town of Halfmoon 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 13, 2026. 1:22 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a homeless/transient individual on charges of 2nd degree criminal trespass- enter or remain unlawfully in a dwelling. Arrest occurred on Ballston Avenue.

June 13, 2026. 1:22 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a homeless/transient individual on charges of resisting arrest- police officer executing warrant of arrest. Arrest occurred at the intersection of Ballston Avenue and New Street.

June 13, 2026. 1:49 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Troy resident on charges of 3rd degree assault with intent to cause physical injury and criminal mischief: intent to damage property. Arrest occurred on Church Street. 

June 13, 2026. 6:02 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Glens Falls resident in the Village of South Glens Falls on charges of misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher- first offense, DWI- first offense and aggravated DWI- BAC of .18 or higher- no prior. Appearance ticket issued.

June 13, 2026. 8:28 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Clifton Park resident on charges of 5th degree criminal possession of stolen property, petit larceny, and 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Arrest occurred on Railroad Place.

June 13, 2026. 8:41 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested an Albany resident on charges of DWI- first offense, DWAI combined influence of drugs or alcohol and drugs- no priors, moved from lane unsafely, 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Arrest occurred on New Scotland Avenue.

June 13, 2026. 9:48 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Waterford resident in the Town of Halfmoon 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 14, 2026. 12:03 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a homeless/transient individual on charges of 3rd degree criminal trespass. Arrest occurred on Excelsior Avenue.

June 14, 2026. 12:38 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Clifton Park resident on charges of 2nd degree criminal use of drug paraphernalia: package. Arrest occurred on Circular Street.

June 14, 2026. 12:53 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the Town of Milton 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 14, 2026. 7:23 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident in the Town of Milton on charges of felony 2nd degree bail jumping. Cash bail.

June 14, 2026. 5:42 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of 3rd degree criminal tampering. Arrest occurred on Church Street.

June 14, 2026. 11:49 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a homeless/transient individual on charges of two counts of general violation of local law. Arrest occurred on Woodlawn Avenue.

June 15, 2026. 8:52 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Gansevoort resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor unauthorized use of a vehicle: without owner consent and misdemeanor 2nd degree criminal contempt: disobey court. Central arraignment.

June 15, 2026. 10:57 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Mechanicville resident on charges of 2nd degree assault with intent to cause physical injury to officer/fireman/EMT/Nurse/crossing guard, 3rd degree assault: with intent to cause physical injury and criminal mischief: intent to damage property. Arrest occurred on Church Street.

June 15, 2026. 6:50 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Gloversville resident in the Town of Mayfield on charges of petit larceny. Released on own recognizance. Original incident occurred in the Town of Wilton on Feb. 24, 2025. 

June 16, 2026. 9:43 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Stillwater resident in the Town of Stillwater on charges of misdemeanor aggravated harassment- threaten by telephone/ no legitimate purpose. Central arraignment.

June 16, 2026. 10:46 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Slingerlands resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense. Appearance ticket issued.

June 16, 2026. 11:31 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of DWI- first offense, aggravated DWI: BAC of .18 or higher- no priors and operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08- first offense. Appearance ticket issued.

Saratoga Springs History Museum to Host “Discovering George Foster Peabody” with Author and Historian Glenn Underwood

SARATOGA SPRINGS —The Saratoga History Museum is hosting “Discovering George Foster Peabody” presented by historian Glenn Underwood on June 18, at 7 p.m. 

Underwood will present information found in his new book that explores the life and legacy of George Foster Peabody. Peabody’s vision and generosity contributed to institutions and preservation efforts that continue to impact our region today, including Saratoga Spa State Park, Yaddo, public libraries, and numerous conservation initiatives.

Drawing from archival materials, rare photographs, and personal letters, Underwood reveals Peabody’s connections with prominent figures of his era, including Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Spencer and Katrina Trask, Edward Morse Shepard, and other influential leaders who helped shape New York’s cultural and civic landscape.

“This program offers a unique opportunity to discover one of the most influential and often overlooked individuals in our region’s history,” said James Parillo, Museum Director of the Saratoga Springs History Museum.

Admission is free for museum members, and ten dollars for general admission. The Saratoga History Museum is located in the Canfield Casio in Congress Park. 

Craft & Antique Fair at Brookside Museum

BALLSTON SPA —Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum will hold their annual, county-wide Craft and Antique Fair Saturday, June 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Guests will be able to shop from dozens of vendors with a wide variety of locally handcrafted collectibles, gifts, antiques, farm products, and food. 

“We are very excited to hold this annual event to showcase what upstate artisans have to offer! This is a great way to support small businesses and enjoy a wonderful day of shopping,” remarked Shop Manager Beth Silvestri.