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Author: Saratoga TODAY

Family Fun Planned for All Faiths At Purim Carnival March 24

Purim Festival for youngsters of all faiths March 24. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Temple Sinai will host its annual fun-filled Community Purim Carnival from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Sunday, March 24 at the Knights of Columbus Hall at 50 Pine Road.

Purim is a holiday celebrating a biblical story about overcoming racism and oppression. It is traditionally celebrated with costume and revelry and has been called “the Jewish Mardi Gras.” It’s the biggest party of the Jewish year. Families and children from the community are welcome to join this program for youngsters of all faiths.

The event will feature more than 15 interactive games and activities, dance parties, a photo-booth, crafts, snacks and carnival games with prizes. A central feature of the Purim holiday is a retelling of the story from a special Hebrew scroll called a megillah- this year’s telling runs from 9:45-10:15 a.m. The story will be told in English, and will also include many of Temple Sinai’s religious school students reading from the scroll in Hebrew.

Wristbands for unlimited games and activities are $10 each. Popcorn, cotton candy, and beverages will be available for purchase.

For further information on Temple Sinai’s Purim Carnival, contact Sylvia Bloom, Temple Sinai’s Director of Education: educator@saratogasinai.org, cell: 518-409-1800

Military Veterans Invited to Attend Rehearsals of Saratoga Veterans Chorus March 28

SARATOGA SPRINGS — All military veterans, including current and former active service, Reserve, and Guard service members are invited to learn more about the joy of choral singing in a “no audition,” informal setting. 

The Saratoga Veterans Chorus is re-grouping to begin holding rehearsals on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month, with the next rehearsal at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 28 at the American Legion Post 70, 34 West Ave. 

There is no cost to participate in any chorus activity. Prior choral experience or ability to read music is not required. Lisa Edele, a retired music educator and choral director, is the chorus’s volunteer music director.

The chorus’s primary goal is to encourage veterans to enjoy the camaraderie of choral singing in a non-judgmental, supportive environment.

Founded in 2019, the Saratoga Veterans Chorus, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization providing veterans of the United States Armed Forces with competent vocal instruction and diverse singing opportunities. Supported by the Saratoga County Veterans Peer Connection, more information about the chorus can be obtained by contacting program coordinator Erin Cassidy at 518-884-4999 or by email at ecassidy@saratogacountyny.gov.

Community Forum March 27: Physical Activity & Successful Aging in Saratoga Springs

SARATOGA SPRINGS — A conversation about the importance of physical activity for seniors and the resources available at Saratoga Hospital and the Saratoga Regional YMCA will take place at 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 27 at Saratoga Springs Public Library. 

Panelists include Jill VanKuren, CEO Saratoga Hospital, Scott Clark, CEO Saratoga Regional YMCA, Robyn Haberman, AARP New York, Associate State Director for Community Engagement, and Michael King, Transportation Planner. Owner, TrafficCalmer.com

Saratoga Springs seniors looking to stay healthy and active as they grow older will find a wealth of useful information at the free panel discussion.

The event is sponsored by Saratoga Springs’ nonprofit Bikeatoga, will explore the resources available at Saratoga Hospital and the Saratoga Regional YMCA to support seniors who want to stay physically active and independent. 

March 16 – 22, 2024

Saratoga County Court 

Kathleen M. Callanan, 62, of Saratoga Springs, was sentenced to 1 year in local jail, after pleading to felony grand larceny. 

Cassandra R. Barden, 38, homeless, was sentenced to 1-1/2 to 3 years incarceration after pleading to felony attempted assault, charged in Milton. 

Ashley Vetrano, 35, of Glens Falls, pleaded to felony robbery, charged in Moreau. Sentencing May 23. 

Gabrielle Montanye, 63, of Stillwater, was sentenced to 5 years probation, after pleading to felony attempted identity theft, charged in Ballston Spa. 

Daniel J. Koenig, III, 53, of Round Lake, was sentenced to 2 to 4 years incarceration, after pleading to felony criminal mischief, charged in Wilton in 2023.   

Dominic Bradfute, 25, of South Glens Falls, pleaded to unlawful surveillance in the second-degree, charged June 2023 in Moreau. Sentencing April 25. 

Steven T. Stangle, 41, of Ballston Spa, was sentenced to 1 to 3 years in state prison, after pleading to felony DWI, charged in Clifton Park in 2023. 

Eugene R. Lavelle, 35, of Mechanicville, was sentenced to 8 months incarceration, after pleading to failure to register or verify as a sex offender. 

Andrew J. Kenyon, 41, of Galway, was sentenced to 2.5 years incarceration and 1 year post-release supervision, after pleading to criminal possession of a controlled substance. 

Bradin M. Marble, 33, of South Glens Falls, was sentenced to 2.5 to 5 years in state prison, after pleading to felony burglary, charged in Corinth in 2023. 

Michelle P. Donovan, 38, of South Glens Falls, was sentenced to 2 years incarceration and 1 year post-release supervision, after pleading to attempted criminal sale of a controlled substance in the third-degree, charged in Corinth in 2023. 

Robert F. Stevenson, 41, of South Glens Falls, was sentenced to 1-1/2 years incarceration and 1 year post-release supervision, after pleading to criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fifth-degree, charged in Moreau in 2023. 

Robert Stocklas, Jr., was sentenced to 1 to 3 years incarceration, after pleading to criminal contempt in the first-degree, charged in Mechanicville in 2023. 

Alicia L. Marcotte, 35, of Hadley, pleaded to DWAI, charged in Corinth in 2023. Sentencing May 15. 

Zachary Michaels, 29, of Saratoga Springs, pleaded to criminal contempt in the first-degree, charged December 2023 in Saratoga Springs. Sentencing May 15. 

John J. Dominy, 53, of Albany, pleaded to grand larceny in the fourth-degree, charged June 2023 in Wilton. Sentencing May 8. 

Justin L. Mayer, 41, of Schuylerville, was sentenced to 1 year incarceration, after pleading to grand larceny in the fourth-degree, charged July 2023 in the town of Saratoga. 

Danielle N. Pereira, 34, of Newburgh, was sentenced to 1-1/3 to 4 years in state prison, after pleading to grand larceny in the fourth-degree, charged 2022 in Clifton Park. 

Noah Hughes, 34, of Schenectady, pleaded to attempted criminal possession of stolen property in the third-degree, charged February 2023 in Malta. Sentencing May 2. 

New York State Police

On March 13, State Police of Wilton arrested Sandra A. Villafane, 53, of Saratoga Springs, for Endangering the Welfare of an Incompetent or Physically Disabled Person in the first-degree and Harassment in the second-degree.

On March 13, Chantal A. St. Claire, 37, of Saratoga Springs, was also arrested for Falsifying Business Records in the first-degree, Falsifying Business Records in the second-degree, and Making a Punishable False Written Statement.

On March 2, Troopers responded to a Capital District Department of Developmental Services Offices (DDSO) care facility located on Alpine Meadows Road in the Town of Greenfield, for an abuse allegation. It was alleged that an employee of the facility, identified as Villafane, was witnessed striking and causing injury to a non-verbal resident of the facility who is diagnosed with multiple developmental disabilities. Notification was made to the New York State Justice Center, and the facility administration was fully cooperative with the investigation. During the investigation, it was discovered that records were entered by St. Claire into Capital District DDSO business logs showing that the victim had sustained the alleged injury earlier in the day and not as a result of Villafane’s reported abuse. Further investigation revealed that Villafane and St. Claire were communicating regarding the allegations and St. Claire’s actions to falsify business records to conceal evidence of abuse. Villafane was arrested and processed at SP Wilton.  St. Claire was arrested in Saratoga Springs, and transported to SP Wilton for processing. 

March 22 – March 28, 2024

Vendor/Craft Show

Held at Rescue Squad Building located at Route 29 in Schuylerville on Saturday, April 6 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. There will be raffles, concessions, and lots of vendors. Come out to support your local rescue squad. For more information, contact Jennie McReynolds at 518-338-2709. 

Community Gardening

If you love to garden but don’t have the space join us at the community garden. If you are new to gardening, there are many knowledgeable gardeners there who are happy to offer advice. There are 52 raised beds on the Wesley campus, with a mix of Wesley residents, Skidmore community members and residents who grow healthy organic vegetables and beautiful flowers to improve their diet, brighten their lives and make new friends. Monthly gatherings at the garden and a very fun harvest dinner at season’s end. If you would like an application, send an email to Susanbokan@gmail.com.

Malta Spotlighter’s Theatre Troupe Auditions

Auditions for the first production of Spotlighter’s Theatre Troupe’s 35th season ‘The Masterpiece’ are April 8 and April 10. Looking for ages 7-adult. There are many roles for all ages. ‘The Masterpiece,’ an original musical comedy, is a look back at the 1970s with the audience involved in figuring out the tangled web of characters. Originally written in 1999, this show is being revived for performances on June 22 and 23. Auditions are by appointment only. Contact Elyse Young, Artistic Director at theater@malta-town.org or 518-899-4411 x 305 for additional information, or to set an audition appointment.

Seeking 2024 Sustainability Fair Exhibitors

Sustainable Saratoga and Skidmore College invite sustainability-minded for-profit businesses and non-profit community organizations to apply to be exhibitors at the third annual Saratoga Sustainability Fair. The event will be held at Skidmore College, located at 815 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs on April 13 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Saratoga Sustainability Fair is an exciting opportunity for community members to discuss sustainability, connect with local sustainable businesses and organizations, and learn about innovative climate solutions and ways to get involved. To apply for your non-profit organization or for-profit sustainable business to participate in the exhibit hall visit sustainablesaratoga.org/projects/saratoga-sustainability-fair/. 

Volunteer Tree Planters Needed

On Saturday, April 27, Sustainable Saratoga’s Urban Forestry Project will hold its 10th year of TREE TOGA planting event, adding an expected 35 shade trees to the urban forest. Volunteer Tree Planters are needed. Volunteers will check in at Pitney Meadows Community Farm at 9:30 a.m. on April 27 and get a lesson in tree planting before heading off in small teams. Once the trees are in the ground, Tree Host homeowners and other volunteers provide the care that is critical to tree survival and the success of Sustainable Saratoga’s mission to preserve and expand Saratoga’s urban forest. To get involved in this family-friendly community event, sign up at sustainablesaratoga.org/tree-toga

Color Pop!

Saratoga Clay Arts Center presents COLOR POP!, a national juried exhibition of 60 functional and decorative works by 42 clay artists. Juried by prominent potter and artist, Didem Mert, this exhibition features ceramic works that utilize color theory to express thoughts, ideas, and emotions. The exhibition runs through April 27. The Schacht Gallery is open Monday – Saturday from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. and by appointment. Located at 167 Hayes Rd., Schuylerville. Visit saratogaclayarts.org, call 518-581-2529 or email info@saratogaclayarts.org for more information.

23rd Annual Maple in April Festival

An outdoor, one day family-fun event on April 27. A French toast breakfast at the Hadley Senior/Community Center, 24 Maple St. at 8 a.m., maple sampling, a Backyard Sugar Makers Tasting Contest, Lil’ sugar dust-off Car, Truck and Vintage Tractor Show at the Hadley-Smead Park on Stony Creek Rd. Food trucks, craft vendors, music, horse drawn wagon rides, the Roaming Railroad, street performers, Smokey the Bear, turn-your-own wooden wands with the Wizard, Farm Pets and activities for children including games, inflatables, face painting and pony rides. For more information email: info@hadleybany@gmail.com or vendors.hadleynyba@gmail.com for vendor application. 

23rd Annual Golf Classic

Hosted by the Saratoga County Cornell Cooperative Extension 4-H Leaders Association. This year’s event will take place on June 1, at Fairways of Halfmoon Golf Course. Join us for a day of friendly competition with fellow golfers, all while supporting a great cause. Sponsorship opportunities range from $1200 to $130, and individual players can join for just $140. To register, visit ccesaratoga.org/4-h-youth-development/4-h-annual-golf-classic 

Craft Fair at Brookside Museum – Vendors Wanted!

The Saratoga County History Center is seeking vendors of handmade crafts, antiques, and farm products for the annual craft fair on Saturday, June 22, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. No mass-produced or commercially made items will be permitted. Spaces are available outdoors, with limited spaces available indoors. This is a rain or shine event. Visit brooksidemuseum.org/event/2024-craft-antique-fair/ for more information, or contact Beth Silvestri at bsilvestri@brooksidemuseum.org.

James R. Wimet 

MIDDLE GROVE — James R. Wimet (Jim), 77, died 3/15/2024. He was a loving husband and wonderful dad to his two daughters. The family would like to thank The Community Hospice of Saratoga. Services will be private at a later date. Memorial donations to Tunnel To Towers Foundation (T2T.org). burkefuneralhome.com 

Karen (Bush) Barrett 

CLIFTON PARK — Karen (Bush) Barrett died March 19. A funeral service will be held on March 23 at Compassionate Funeral Care in Saratoga Springs, NY. Calling hours are from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. with a celebration of life set for 3:00 p.m. Condolences may be shared at www.compassionatefuneralcare.com

Timothy Scott Barber  

WILTON — Timothy Scott Barber died March 12. As per the family’s request, there were no calling hours or formal service. The interment was conducted privately at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville, NY 12871. Condolences may be shared at www.compassionatefuneralcare.com

Benita Kay Roberts  

WILTON — Benita Kay Roberts died March 18. As per the family’s request, there were no calling hours or formal service. Condolences may be shared at www.compassionatefuneralcare.com

Saratoga County Announces 7th Annual Yellow Ribbon Day Donation Drive Underway

BALLSTON SPA ­— For U.S. troops serving overseas, getting a care package can be a bright spot amid difficult conditions. To help the local Blue Star Mothers of America fill and ship boxes to deployed military members who call the Capital Region home, Saratoga County Clerk Craig A. Hayner announced the seventh annual Yellow Ribbon Day Donation Drive.

The collection of individual-size personal care items and snack foods will run through April 7 and will be donated to the Blue Star Mothers of America NY-2 to put together and send “Freedom Boxes” to local troops serving abroad. 

The donation drive is held in conjunction with the annual celebration of New York State’s Yellow Ribbon Day, which takes place April 9 and is designated as a day to honor active-duty troops and their families.

Donations can include non-perishable items like cookie and cracker snack packages, microwavable soup cups, fruit snacks, granola bars, and beef jerky, as well as personal care items such as insect repellent wipes, body wash (small), lip balm, puzzle books, and more.

Donated goods can be dropped off at the following locations during regular business hours:

• DMV offices in Saratoga County (located in Ballston Spa, Clifton Park and Wilton)

• Saratoga County Clerk’s Office, 40 McMaster St., Ballston Spa

• Veterans Service Agency, 2144 Doubleday Ave., Suite 15, Ballston Spa

• Saratoga County Hannaford stores

• Various town and village offices in Saratoga County (Call to see if your local municipality has a collection box.)

Monetary donations are also accepted. As a reference, it costs $18 postage to send each “Freedom Box.” The cost to fill one box is about $45, so a $63 donation covers the cost of filling and sending one box. Checks can be made payable to Blue Star Mothers of America-NY 2 and sent to PO Box 243, Delmar, NY 12054. Write “In honor of Yellow Ribbon Day” in the memo section. To donate through PayPal, go to www.paypal.com/fundraiser/hub and search “Blue Star Mothers of America-NY2.”

All items collected during the drive will be presented to the Blue Star Mothers during a Yellow Ribbon Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 9, at the Veterans Memorial, 162 Route 236, Halfmoon.