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Author: Saratoga TODAY

 LifeSong Dash 5K Returns to Halfmoon Town Park June 6

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Sports.

 LifeSong, Inc. invites the Capital Region community to the 14th Annual LifeSong Dash 5K and Family Day, happening Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Halfmoon Town Park. More than just a race, this USATF-sanctioned event has become a hallmark of local philanthropy, family fun, and community spirit. 

Event Schedule: 8:00 AM: Registration opens 9:00 AM: Opening ceremonies 9:30 AM: 1-Mile Kids Run 10:00 AM: 5K Start 11:00 AM: Awards Ceremony 11:30 AM: Post-Race Concert 

Over 400 runners and walkers are expected to converge for this United States Track and Field (USATF) sanctioned 5K, raising funds to support LifeSong’s impactful services for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Proceeds from the event will directly fund LifeSong’s new greenhouse project, a 14’ x 19’ geothermal structure being built behind LifeSong’s Clifton Park offices. The greenhouse will teach program members basic agriculture and provide fresh produce for participants and food pantries across the region. 

“This isn’t just a race—it’s a celebration,” says Dr. Darren Barkman, LifeSong’s Clinical Services Manager and Dash Director. “We love gathering the community and our agency together to honor all LifeSong does to serve our amazing participants!” 

Family Fun Meets Purpose-Driven Celebration 

In addition to the race, attendees can enjoy food trucks, a kid’s area with face painting, rock climbing wall and dunk tank, vendors and other exhibits, plus a post-race concert with the classic rock band ONYX. LifeSong Dash Gold Premier Sponsors for 2026 are Peckham Industries, M&T Bank, Stewart’s Shops, Simmons Capital, Hannaford, Cornerstone Capital Wealth Management, GTM Payroll and HR, and New Country Toyota of Clifton Park.

Free Wildlife Festival at Wilton Wildlife

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

On Sunday, May 31, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, The Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park will host its annual Wildlife Festival at the Historic Camp Saratoga on Scout Road in Wilton. This free event will feature information on Karner blue butterflies, live animals, music, nature crafts, pond exploration, food, and lots of hands-on fun for all ages.

This event is timed so that participants can enjoy the beauty of the first brood of the Karner blue butterflies and the blooming of the wild blue lupine. Activities will take place throughout Camp Saratoga to encourage people to explore the wonderful trail system and celebrate National Trails Day.

Besides seeing the endangered Karner blue butterflies, participants will be able to meet other live animals. Native raptors will be presented by Trish Marki of Silent Wings, sponsored by Ballston Spa National Bank, an observational beehive presented by the Southern Adirondack Beekeepers Association, Seeing-eye Dogs from the Guiding Eyes for the Blind Adirondack Puppy Raising Region, adoptable rabbits from Hop on Home, and so much more.

Out in the meadow, there will be a Karner blue butterfly information table to help visitors learn about the Saratoga Sand Plains Habitat Restoration area. Educators from Wilton Wildlife will share information about the efforts of New York State DEC and The Nature Conservancy to improve habitat for endangered species.

Beginning at 11:00 AM, there will be numerous nature activities taking place in locations around Camp Saratoga. From butterfly crafts to watercolor, fish printing, and pond exploration, there is something for everyone. During the festival, fire tower volunteers will be staffing the Donald A. Collins Memorial Fire Observer’s Cabin along with the Historic Cornell Hill Fire Tower for visitors to get a unique view.

Live music will be presented by Café Lena’s School of Music, Rolling Pebbles, and Jazz Modes in the pavilion located at Camp Saratoga South.

Food will be available for purchase at a volunteer-run barbecue, along with baked goods donated by Wilton Wildlife volunteers. Sip Happens will be selling Karner blue butterfly-themed sodas, teas, and lemonades.

Wilton Wildlife will be sharing information about the Larry Gordon Outdoor Education Center that they are working on for Camp Saratoga in partnership with the Town of Wilton. Maps, festival flyers, upcoming program flyers, and the first annual Wilton Wildlife Trail Challenge prizes will be available at the Information Table located on the porch of the Welcome Cabin in Parking Lot #1. Participants will also be able to pick up an activity passport at the Information Table and get it stamped as they go around the festival to win prizes and get fun giveaways!

The Wildlife Festival will take place rain or shine, with many of the activities moving under the cover of Camp Saratoga’s many pavilions, the dining hall, and the Welcome Cabin in case of rainy weather. They encourage people to carpool, bike, blade, or walk since parking, while free, is limited.

For more information, please call the Wilton Wildlife office at 518-450-0321 or email bella@wiltonpreserve.org. Celebrating 30 years of providing environmental education and opportunities for outdoor recreation while supporting conservation of ecological systems and natural settings.

Saratoga Springs History Museum and Heritage Area Visitor Center Launch “Grand, Gilded and Glorious: A Saratoga Stroll” for Summer 2026

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment.

The Saratoga Springs History Museum, in collaboration with the Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center, is pleased to announce the return of “Grand, Gilded and Glorious: A Saratoga Stroll,” a guided walking tour celebrating the rich history, glamour, and legendary stories of Saratoga Springs’ Gilded Age.

Beginning June 5 and running through October 17, 2026, the 90-minute walking tour invites visitors and residents alike to experience the fascinating world that transformed Saratoga Springs into one of America’s most celebrated resort destinations during the 19th century.

Guests will journey through historic Congress Park and downtown Saratoga Springs while hearing stories of millionaires, mineral springs, luxury hotels, socialites, scandals, and the colorful figures who shaped the Spa City’s golden era. The tour concludes with a guided exploration of the historic Canfield Casino, now home to the Saratoga Springs History Museum, with museum admission included in the ticket price.

“We’re excited to once again partner with the Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center to offer this engaging experience for both visitors and locals,” said James Parillo, Museum Director of the Saratoga Springs History Museum. “The tour is a fun and accessible way to discover the people, places, and stories that made Saratoga Springs famous around the world.”

Tours will operate on Fridays and Saturdays throughout June, excluding June 19. Beginning July 1, tours will run Wednesdays through Saturdays through October 17.

Deborah R. Braley 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

BALLSTON SPA, NY – Deborah R. Braley, 71, passed away after a courageous battle from metastatic breast cancer on May 19, 2026, with her family by her side. A graveside ceremony will be celebrated at 11am on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at Maplewood Cemetery, Saratoga Springs, NY. Please visit www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Eric Arthur Olson

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Eric Arthur Olson, 84, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2026, at the Wesley Nursing Home in Saratoga Springs, NY. Calling hours were May 27, at Burke Funeral Home, followed by a funeral home service. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Raymond Alguire

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

WILTON – Raymond Alguire, age 61, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, in the comfort of his home in Wilton, with his loving companion Lisa Marshall by his side. 

Born on July 5, 1964, in Queens, New York, Raymond’s life began with humble beginnings. At just seven months old, he was lovingly adopted and became the cherished son of Percy L. Alguire and Patricia Flaherty. Through the love and support of his family, Raymond grew into a compassionate and caring man whose life would touch countless people in meaningful ways.

Raymond possessed a brilliant mind and an extraordinary passion for the game of chess. A true master of strategy and patience, he not only excelled in the game himself but found great joy in sharing his knowledge with others. He especially loved teaching children the game of chess at Dorothy Nolan School, where he encouraged young minds to think critically, patiently, and confidently. His accomplishments in the chess world were remarkable. In 2018, he earned the distinguished title of Arena FIDE Master, a recognition of his skill and dedication to the game he loved so deeply. Even in his final days, Raymond continued to compete and thrive, most recently earning first place in an online worldwide 10/0 rapid tournament on May 9th with a perfect 5-0-0 record.

Beyond his accomplishments in chess, Raymond devoted much of his life to helping others find hope and healing. A man of great compassion and understanding, he became a selfless volunteer and dedicated advocate in Alcoholics Anonymous, faithfully serving in the AA men’s correctional program at Saratoga County Jail and at the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Station for many years. Raymond’s own journey of recovery was one he carried with humility and gratitude, proudly celebrating more than 15 years of sobriety. His testimony, encouragement, and unwavering support became a guiding light for many individuals striving to rebuild their lives.

Raymond also had a lifelong love for thoroughbred horse racing. He was fascinated not only by the races themselves, but by the rich bloodlines, history, and traditions of the sport. He could often be found studying breeders, trainers, jockeys, and racing pedigrees, always eager to share his knowledge and enthusiasm with fellow racing fans.

Above all else, Raymond will be remembered for his generous spirit, his sharp wit, his determination, and the genuine care he showed toward others. Whether teaching a child to play chess, encouraging someone through recovery, or simply spending time with those he loved, Raymond lived a life rooted in compassion, perseverance, and purpose.

Raymond is survived by his beloved mother, Patricia Alguire; his loving companion, Lisa Marshall; his aunts, Betty, Cathy, and Maureen; his cousin, Anna; and many dear friends whose lives were forever touched by his kindness and friendship.

He was predeceased by his father, Percy Alguire.

Family and friends are invited to attend a church service at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 29, at First Baptist Church, 45 Washington Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Fellowship and a gathering will immediately follow in the church fellowship hall.

A graveside service will follow the gathering at 1:00 p.m. at St. Peter’s Cemetery, 150 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Arrangements are under the direction of Compassionate Funeral Care, Inc., 402 Maple Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

For online condolences, please visit www.compassionatefuneralcare.com. 

Week of May 29 – June 4, 2026

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Calendar.

Friday, May 29

Community Blood Drive

St. Clement’s Church, 231 Lake Avenue, Saratoga Springs | Noon – 5 p.m. Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. That’s why St. Clement’s is on a mission to help save lives by hosting this blood drive.  To make an appointment or to learn more, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Summer BBQ Fundraiser

Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa | 3 – 6 p.m. Order some delicious Miller’s Backyard Barbecue for pick up. Chicken and pulled pork dinners are available for $16.00 and beef brisket dinners for $21.00 (beef brisket by pre-order only). All dinners include baked potato, coleslaw and cornbread. An 8 oz. serving of mac & cheese is also available for $5. Drive-thru pickup/take out only. Pre-order online to reserve your meal. Some chicken and pulled pork dinners will be available without pre-ordering. www.brooksidemuseum.org. 

Adirondack Bluegrass League 41st Annual Bluegrass Round-Up

Heritage Acres Campground (formerly McConchie’s), 2501 Northline Road, Galway | May 29, 30, 31. For more information call 518-221-6231. 

Saturday, May 30

Malta Spring Market: Craft and Vendor Fair

Malta Community Center, 1 Bayberry Dr., Malta | 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. This year’s event is set to make history as one of the largest spring craft fairs in Saratoga County, featuring an impressive lineup of 120 vendors both indoors and outdoors. A vibrant mix of handmade goods, local artisans, specialty products, and unique small businesses, offering something for every interest and age group. Attendees can expect a wide variety of offerings including handcrafted décor, jewelry, artwork, home goods, boutique items, and more. With over 100 vendors spread across the Malta Community Center grounds, the event promises an engaging and accessible experience, rain or shine. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to explore the full range of offerings and support local businesses.

Plant Sale 

Italian American Center, 247 Grand Avenue, Saratoga Springs | 9 a.m. – sold-out. Hosted by The Heritage Garden Club of Saratoga Springs. There will be a wide variety of perennial plants, annuals, and several herbs available.   The sale will also feature garden crafts made by members of the Heritage Garden Club.  Come early for the best selections.  

Pollinator Palooza 

Oligny’s Country Gardens, 390 Wilton-Gansevoort Rd, Gansevoort | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Join Sustainable Saratoga for a native plant sale and pollinator education event.  Native pollinators (bees, butterflies, etc.) are in drastic decline due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. Planting native plants provides essential food and habitat for native pollinators. It is often challenging to find native plants, but at Pollinator Palooza, you can shop our selection of over 30 native plant species. Rain date May 31. Cash or check only.

Share Your American Story

Galway Public Library, 2112 East Street, Galway | 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. This program is an opportunity to share a short story about your family’s American experiences and perspectives.  Storytellers are asked to register by calling 518-882-6385.  Stories should be limited to 20 minutes maximum.  The event will be videotaped and shared with the largest audiovisual archive of American stories ever created.  Even if you are not sharing a story, please come listen to what other people have to share about their American journey.

Annual BBQ Chicken Dinner Drive Thru

Saratoga BOCES Parking Lot, 15 Henning Rd., Saratoga Springs, 3 – 6 p.m. Featuring Dizzy Chicken Wood Fired BBQ. $18 includes: BBQ Half Chicken, baked potato, cold slaw, cornbread, chocolate chip cookie and bottled water. Vegetarian and Gluten free options available. To place your order email chefjw43@yahoo.com or call 518-225-0451. All proceeds to support the Kiwanis Club of Saratoga Wilton’s local programs. 

Barn Dance  

Harmony Hall Community Center, 1401 Peaceable St., Ballston Spa | 7 – 9 p.m. Come enjoy the age-old tradition of community dancing. Easy circle, square, set/line and folk dances. No experience needed! Ask anyone to dance. All dances taught, step-by-step by caller Fern Bradley. Live fiddle music by Tunefolk & Friends. All ages welcome. Bring your family, friends, and neighbors. Come swing your partner and do-si-do. Refreshments available. Donation: $8 adults, Children 6 – 12, $2. Harmonyhallcharlton.org or call 518-429-8818. 

Sunday, May 31

Annual Ladies of Charity Garage and Bake Sale

Italian American War Veterans, 247 Grand Ave., Saratoga Springs | 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. A variety of items and baked goods will be available. Rain or Shine. 

Spring Antiques Festival & Flea Market

Clifton Park Elks, 695 MacElroy Rd, Ballston Lake | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Spring vendors will be offering antiques & collectibles, crafts, and flea market items. Outdoor vendor spaces are still available. Food will be offered by the Elks and several vendors. There will be vendors inside and outside. This is a rain or shine show with free parking and no admission fee. For more information or to receive a vendor application, please email jshinaman@nycap.rr.com Facebook.com/fallantiquesfestival. 

Annual Wildlife Festival

Camp Saratoga, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton | 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Our annual Wildlife Festival is a time to enjoy the spectacular bloom of the wild blue lupin flowers while observing the first brood of the endangered Karner blue butterfly. Learn about other native wildlife and get out and enjoy the local trails in the town of Wilton. Enjoy nature crafts, pond life exploration, Silent Wings Live Raptors, the historic Cornell Hill fire tower, search and rescue dogs – LASAR, live reptiles, rescue rabbits – Hop on Home, seeing eye dogs, observation beehive exhibit, face painting, cornhole, life music, live plant potting demonstration, refreshments. For more information visit, www.wiltonpreserve.org. 

9th Annual “Adirondack Trust Company Festival of Young Artists

Saratoga Performing Art Center, 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs | 2 – 5:30 p.m. Following the theme Seasons, this year’s event will celebrate cycles of growth, transformation, reflection and renewal, while also commemorating 60 years of SPAC and its blossoming into a vibrant, year-round organization. The festival will celebrate the collaborative creativity of more than 700 of the Capital Region’s brightest young dancers, musicians, singers, poets, and visual artists all in support of SPAC’s mission to provide free and accessible arts programming for local youth. This event is free to the community; however, registration is required for admission. Visit spacfoya.org for details.    

Monday, June 1

Annual Potluck Dinner

Galway Town Hall, 5910 Sacandaga Road, Galway | 6 p.m. Members and new members – bring a dish, meet new friends and join the Galway Preservation Society.  Membership is $10 annually per family or household.  The program at 7 p.m. follows and is open to the public, free of charge. This month’s program, “Galway Pottery Works, a Historical Perspective” will be presented by Arlene Rhodes and Sue Wemple. At least two generations of the Hodgson/Hudson family produced salt-glazed stoneware in the Town of Galway from the 1830s to 1860s.  Members of the Galway Preservation Society have conducted an inventory of existing pieces of Galway stoneware, organized public exhibits and arranged for reproductions of the local pottery.  Anyone who has pieces of stoneware from the Galway factory is encouraged to bring them to the program.  

Tuesday, June 2

Catholic Daughters of America Meeting

Knights of Columbus, 50 Pine Road, Saratoga Springs | 5:45 p.m. Court McLaughlin #422 Members will gather at 5:45 p.m. for recitation of the Rosary. We will be honoring past Regents and membership Anniversaries and Decon Gilbert will be installing our 26-27 officers. This is our last meeting until September. If you are a practicing Catholic woman interested in joining or learning about CDA you’re welcome to attend.  Please contact Dawn Weber, Regent, with questions, at 518-226-5641 or

CDA422Saratoga@gmail.com.

Wednesday, June 3

Accepting Donations Annual Yard Sale

Gateway House of Peace is accepting ready-to-sell donations for their annual yard/tent sale from June 3-June 10, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at 479 Rowland Street, Ballston Spa. Please be considerate: If you can’t sell it, neither can we! Items in bad condition take volunteer time and fill our dumpsters at our expense. Items not accepted: No clothes, TVs, computers, car seats, cribs, mugs, books, large appliances, upholstered furniture and mattresses. Yard sale runs from June 12 and 13, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.  and June 14, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. All proceeds benefit our end-of-life comfort care house.

Christian Business Men’s Connection Luncheon

VFW Post 420, 190 Excelsior Ave., Saratoga Springs | noon – 1 p.m. CBMC Saratoga Springs Luncheon, a highly anticipated in-person event that brings together business professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders from various industries. Tinney’s Tavern will be catering for the event. Our guest speaker will be Daniel Marek, a health teacher in one of the largest and most acclaimed school districts in the capital region. Doors open at 11:45 a.m. For more information and to get your ticket, visit https://events.cbmc.com/register/saratoga-luncheon/28MNZS44N. 

Chicken Marsala Dinner

Saratoga Wilton Elks Lodge, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs | 4:30 – 6 p.m. Curbside pickup only. Call Monday or Tuesday between 10 a.m. – Noon to place an order. 518-584-2585. Menu: Chicken Marsala, 

Linguini, vegetable, salad, roll. Dinner $15 (cash only).

Pickin’s    

The Milton Community Center, 310 Northline Rd. Ballston Spa | 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Open to the public, free admission and ample free parking. Doors open 6 p.m. All acoustic musicians who enjoy playing country/western, folk, gospel & bluegrass are welcome to participate. If you don’t play, become part of the audience and enjoy the music. Bring a snack to share, Beverages provided. Call Earl 518-248-9922.  with questions.

Thursday, June 4

Genealogy Assistance 

Clifton Park Public Library, 475 Moe Rd., Clifton Park | 11 a.m. Genealogical researcher Lisa Dougherty will help you with your questions, roadblocks, and other stumpers. Drop in with questions from 11 a.m. -12 p.m., then stay for the round table discussion starting at noon. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org. 

L’Chaim America!

Live on Zoom | 7 p.m. Saratoga Jewish Community Arts and the Jewish Federation of Northeastern New York are pleased to present the World Premiere performance of L’Chaim America!, from The Braid, America’s leading salon theater company. To commemorate America’s 250th birthday, L’Chaim America! features The Braid’s professional actors performing true stories of gratitude and possibility in American Jewish life. Register: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/Ow4csY4/BraidJune4Evening. 

Schuylerville FFA Members Earn State Honors and National Qualifications at 2026 Convention

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

Schuylerville FFA members earned numerous honors and recognitions at the 2026 New York FFA Convention, including individual state titles, team awards, and national qualifications.

Timothy Cox elected NY FFA State Vice President, will compete at national convention

Schuylerville High School senior, Timothy Cox, earned two of the highest honors awarded at the 2026 New York FFA Convention: being named the New York State winner in Employment Skills and elected the 2026-27 New York FFA State Vice President. Cox will represent New York at the National FFA Convention and serve more than 16,000 FFA members statewide during the coming year, traveling throughout New York to represent the New York FFA Association at conferences, conventions, leadership events, chapter visits, and agricultural industry functions. In his role, he will help lead workshops, advocate for agricultural education, inspire FFA members, and work alongside fellow state officers to support the future of FFA in New York.

“From the moment he began his FFA journey, Timothy has demonstrated an incredible passion for agriculture, leadership, and service,” said Schuylerville FFA Advisor, Mary Foote. Watching him take the stage and accept the honor of serving over 30,000 FFA members across New York was truly a moment we will never forget.”

Agricultural Issues Team earns first place in NYS, advances to nationals

Schuylerville’s Agricultural Issues Team, consisting of team members Shane Barraclough, Bella Buettner, Kyla Brady, Peyton DeLisle, Ella Eichorst, Juliet Letzring, and Anika Laciokova earned first place in New York State and will advance to nationals.

“These members have spent countless hours researching, presenting, practicing, and refining their issue,” said Schuylerville FFA Advisor, Mary Foote. “We are so proud of the dedication, professionalism, and passion this team has shown throughout the year.”

Four students earn individual state titles and advance to nationals

• Shane Barraclough — Equine Science Entrepreneurship State Winner

o Barraclough’s family operation, Saratoga Glen Farm, specializes in breeding and marketing thoroughbred horses. The farm manages 50–85 horses annually and foals approximately 35–40 mares each season. Through his own breeding and sales enterprise, Barraclough has gained hands-on experience in horse management and business operations while working toward his goal of one day owning and managing the farm himself.

• Emily Gingrich — Equine Science Placement State Winner

o Emily works for Jaymes McAssey Racing Stable in Saratoga Springs, a Standardbred harness racing operation that trains and cares for client-owned racehorses. The stable manages 25–30 horses each season, and Emily helps maintain the horses’ health, conditioning, and performance while also assisting with travel and competition logistics throughout the Northeast.

• Peyton DeLisle — Nursery Operations Placement State Winner

o Peyton’s award-winning SAE takes place at Grasshopper Gardens, her family’s landscaping and nursery production business. The operation includes three nurseries totaling 150 acres and six greenhouses. Through her work, Peyton has developed skills in nursery production, plant care, landscaping operations, and equipment use.

• Timothy Cox — Employment Skills

Additional state convention recognitions

• The Food Science Team, consisting of team members Shane Barraclough, Jordan Battle, Peyton DeLisle, and Anika Laciokova placed third in New York State among more than 40 teams.

• Henry Peck: 4th place, Junior People in Agriculture

• Anna Schwerd, Gracie Wood, and Kyla Brady: Marketing Plans competitors

Supervised Agricultural Experience

The Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) project is a hands-on, student-led agricultural business or work experience that allows FFA members to apply classroom learning in real-world settings while developing career and leadership skills. Shane Barraclough was selected as one of just 12 statewide finalists to present his SAE project in a “Shark Tank”-style competition. Shane received grant funding to support “Dean’s Delicious Dog Treats,” a business he co-owns with his brother.

10 Saratoga County Students Receive $500 from School Boards Association 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

10 Saratoga County students have been awarded $500 from the Adirondack Area School Boards Association as part of their community service award.  

The 10 students were nominated by their home districts for the award to the organization. The award recognizes students who demonstrate “exceptional commitment to community service and making a positive impact both in and out of school.” 

In total, 32 students received the award from the organization. 

The 10 students from Saratoga County are as follows: 

• Vincent Rossetti, Ballston Spa CSD 

• Aiden Pavlick, Corinth CSD

• Kara Ferguson, Galway CSD

• Emma Summers, Mechanicville City SD

• Sydney Balzer, Saratoga Springs City SD

• Arden Talmage, Schuylerville CSD

• Isaac Goldstein, South Glens Falls CSD

• Thomas Mulderry III, Stillwater CSD

• Bayly Beauregard, Waterford-Halfmoon UFSD

• Nayeli Alikonis, WSWHE BOCES.

AASBA is an educational organization in upstate New York that represents and supports school districts across the Adirondack and Washington-Saratoga-Warren-Hamilton-Essex (WSWHE) BOCES region. The organization provides advocacy, training, and recognition programs that celebrate educational excellence and student achievement.

Saratoga Hospital Volunteer Guild Awards Scholarship to Five Area Students

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

Saratoga Hospital Volunteer Guild has awarded college scholarships of $2,000 each to five Saratoga County high school seniors who plan to pursue careers in healthcare. 

The recipients were selected for sharing the Guild’s dedication to education and community involvement. 

Three of the students have volunteered at Saratoga Hospital.

Scholarship recipients are:

• Sydney Balzer, a senior at Saratoga Springs High School planning to major in Pre­Medicine at the University of Tennessee. When Sydney began volunteering at Saratoga Hospital in her junior year, she realized that her true purpose was to help people. She also serves as an intern at Saratoga Dermatology.

• Arissa Gillani, a Saratoga Springs High School student, is planning to major in Biology/Pre-Med at Adelphi University. She has volunteered in hospice care at Glens Falls Hospital and homes for the elderly, connecting with patients who remind her that compassion is an essential skill and medicine is an act of humanity.

• Arden Talmage, a student at Schuylerville High School, plans to major in Psychology at SUNY Geneseo. Her community experiences include sorting donations at The Way, working as a camp counselor at Double H Ranch, and running the children’s theater program at the Schuylerville Public Library.

• Daniel Weed is a senior at Ballston Spa High School and will be attending Desales University and majoring in Physician Assistant Studies. His first-hand experience includes volunteering in the Emergency Department at Saratoga Hospital, as well as seasonal cleanups at St. Mary’s Church, distributing food at the Northeast Regional Foodbank, and being a recycling handler at the Schuylerville American Legion.

• Margaret Zito, another Ballston Spa senior, plans to major in Biology at SUNY Geneseo. Margaret volunteered in the SSOAR Program at Saratoga Hospital, a student summer volunteer program at Saratoga Hospital, and solidified the fact that she wanted to dedicate her future to helping patients and working with others in the medical field.

Since 1990, Saratoga Hospital Volunteer Guild has awarded yearly scholarships to help support the next generation of healthcare providers. 

The 2026 scholarships were announced last week at the Guild’s annual Scholarship and Recognition Dinner, which honors both the recipients and Guild volunteers. Each year Guild members donate thousands of hours in service to the hospital and the community. The Guild also has provided millions of dollars to support Saratoga Hospital facilities, technology and program