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Author: Saratoga TODAY

Week of January 16 – January 22, 2026

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Blotter, Police Blotter.

Blotter Report 

January 7, 2026- January 13, 2026

January 7, 2026. 1:15 p.m.- New York State Police arrested four individuals — two residents of Champlain, one resident of Mooers Forks and one resident on West Chazy — in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree falsely reporting a crime/ catastrophe/emergency. Appearance tickets issued. 

January 7, 2026. 3:05 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Waterford resident in the Village of Waterford on 19 felony charges: six counts of 3rd degree criminal possession of an assault weapon, six counts of criminal possession of a firearm- unregistered assault weapon and seven counts of 3rd degree criminal possession of a weapon- ammunition feeding device. Appearance ticket issued. 

January 7, 2026. 8:50 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Mechanicville resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of misdemeanor 2nd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle: 3 or more suspensions. Appearance ticket issued. 

January 8, 2026. 12:40 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Bronx resident in Suffolk County for an incident that occurred in the Town of Wilton. They were charged with felony 3rd degree grand larceny. Released on own recognizance. 

January 8, 2026. 11:05 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of felony 2nd degree bail jumping. Released on own recognizance. 

January 9, 2026. 9:55 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the City of Saratoga Springs on charges of misdemeanor 2nd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued. 

January 9, 2026. 11:33 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Fort Edward resident in the Town of Moreau on charges of felony 3rd degree criminal mischief: damage to another person’s property amount over $250. Central Arraignment. 

January 11, 2026. 7:35 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the Town of Saratoga on charges of misdemeanor criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation and attempted misdemeanor 3rd degree assault. Released on own recognizance. 

January 12, 2026. 7:48 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Schuylerville resident in the Town of Malta on charges of 2nd degree aggravated unlicensed operation: 3 or more open suspensions, 3 or more separate dates. 

January 12, 2026. 9:29 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident in the Village of Ballston Spa on charges of misdemeanor resisting arrest. Appearance ticket issued. 

January 12, 2026. 9:39 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor 2nd degree criminal impersonation, attempted felony 2nd degree grand larceny: extort by public service and felony 1st degree identity theft- assume other’s identity to commit or attempt a felony. Released on own recognizance. Arrest stems from incident that occurred in the Town of Wilton on Jan. 2. 

January 12, 2026. 1:45 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Corona, NY resident in the Village of Harrison on charges of misdemeanor petit larceny. The arrest stemmed from an incident that occurred in the Town of Wilton in August 2025. Central Arraignment. 

January 12, 2026. 2:58 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Middle Grove, NY resident in the Town of Milton on charges of felony 4th degree grand larceny: property greater than $1000. Released on bail/bond. 

January 13, 2026. 3:00 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the Town of Moreau on charges of three counts of misdemeanor 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, misdemeanor 2nd degree criminal use of drug paraphernalia: scales, misdemeanor 2nd degree criminal use of drug paraphernalia: package, felony 4th degree criminal passion of a narcotic drug and felony 3rd degree criminal possession of a controlled substance: intent to sell narcotics. Released on own recognizance. 

January 13, 2026. 2:19 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park juvenile in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of misdemeanor criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation. Released to third party. Arrest stems from incident that occurred January 8 in the Town of Halfmoon. 

January 13, 2026. 2:20 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Schuylerville resident in the Village of Victory on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense, misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with bac of .08 or more- first offense, misdemeanor aggravated DWI- BAC of .18 or higher- no priors and felony aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle: committed under influence of drugs or alcohol. Appearance ticket issued. Arrest stems from crash that occurred in the Town of Saratoga in August 2025. 

January 13, 2026. 3:00 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Fort Edward resident in the City of Saratoga Springs on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree bail jumping. Held- no bail. 

January 13, 2026. 3:00 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Fort Edward resident in the City of Saratoga Springs on charges of misdemeanor 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and 2nd degree criminal impersonation. Appearance ticket issued. 

January 13, 2026. 3:22 p.m.- New York State Police arrested two Queensbury residents in the Town of Moreau on charges of misdemeanor imitation controlled substance- manufacture/sell- 1st violation and misdemeanor 3rd degree unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. The other was arrested on charges of two counts of misdemeanor 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Appearance tickets issued. 

January 13, 2026. 3:48 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Watervliet resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of 2 counts of misdemeanor reckless driving and misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle when license or registration suspended under article 7. Appearance ticket issued. Arrest stems from crash that occurred in March 2024 in the Town of Halfmoon. 

January 13, 2026. 4:39 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Troy resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of felony 4th degree criminal possession of stolen property, value exceeds $1000 and misdemeanor unlawful possession of certain ammunition feeding devices: not in home/ first offense. Arrest stems from incident that occurred in November 2025. 

Patricia A. Willson

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

BALLSTON SPA – Patricia A. Willson, 83 passed away peacefully on January 11, 2026. Calling hours are 4 – 7pm, January 21, at Burke Funeral Home. Mass is 11 am, January 22, at St. Clement’s followed by burial in St. Peter’s cemetery. Memorial donations to St. Peter’s Hospice or Gateway House of Peace. Please visit www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Cecilia Monaco

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Cecilia Monaco, 96, passed away Friday, January 9, 2026 at home. She was 96 years old. Born on January 26, 1929, in Saratoga Springs, NY. Burial will be private at St. Peter’s Cemetery, West Ave. Online remembrance may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Raymond V. Kelleher

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Raymond V. Kelleher, age 84, passed away on Monday, January 12, 2026, at Saratoga Hospital with his family by his side. At the family’s request there will be no calling hours or service at this time.  For online condolences, please visit www.compassionatefuneralcare.com.

Thomas A.  Guilianelli

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

MECHANICVILLE – On Monday January 5, 2026, at approximately 11:00 a.m. Thomas A.  Guilianelli passed away suddenly and peacefully at Saratoga Hospital after being stricken at the Wesley where he had been undergoing rehab from a recent illness that had impacted his Parkinson’s.  He was 85 years old.  

Born on May 14, 1940, in Mechanicville to Thomas and Rose Canonica Guilianelli, he was the youngest of four children.  His father was an Italian immigrant, who came to this Country for a better life where he and Rose raised their four children with love and respect for one another.  Tom’s father passed down the work ethic that he and his siblings carried through the rest of their lives, and his mother Rose provided a loving home that Tom always looked backed on with great memories, especially of Canonica Family gatherings, where great food and times were had by all.  In later years good times were spent at family functions with in-laws and friends.  Tom was a proud graduate of Mechanicville High School Class of 1958.  

In 1958 he met the love of his life, Diane F. Dwyer, who he spent the next 68 years of his life with.  They would have celebrated their 64th anniversary on February 4th.  Their union produced two sons, Thomas F. and David P. (Hoover) Guilianelli, their Irish twins.  Tom’s family was the most important thing in his life, if it was help coaching Hoover’s little league team or a father son bowling tournament with Tommy, or a school function he was always there for his two sons.  That was even more evident, when Tommy took ill and passed away on October 27, 2021.  It was a void he could never fill, but he soldiered on.  He was also a dedicated Dad to his loyal Samoyed-Maverick, who he loved very much and who was always by his side, even visiting him during his stay at Wesley.  Maverick will miss him very much.

Outside of his family, he was a loyal and dedicated employee well over 50 years for Mechanicville Price Chopper, where he was the receiver and was recognized numerous times for his stellar work.  He was well respected and considered the best at his job.  He made many friends and relationships in all those years, one of his bread vendors even nicknamed him the “Governor”.  He worked until he was almost 79 years old with illness, finally forcing him into retirement.  He also worked at Korrell Mfg. and as a teenager he also liked to help his neighbor out at G.A. Bove Fuels unloading the coal cars that came into the yard.  

Outside of work it was about spending time with his family and sports.  He liked nothing more than summer vacations at Hampton Beach, New Hampshire or Kennebunkport, Maine with Diane or the two of them taking trips to casinos to Atlantic City with friends or short rides to the Racino with his in-laws Nancy and Andy Burke.  He also would enjoy his summers on his front porch with his two sons and neighbors, Carmine and Anthony.  When it came to sports, he was a diehard Yankee and NY Giants fan.  He always enjoyed watching Yankee games with his family and always remarked how on his 54th Birthday he attended Dwight (Doc) Gooden’s no hitter.  His last full day on earth was watching with Hoover from his room at Wesley, his Giants beat Hoover’s Cowboys.  Hoover believes he could finally pass on now that his Giants finally beat the Cowboys – Dad see you on the other side where we can take this conversation up again.  He was also, for many years, the pitcher for the Mechanicville Police Department Softball Team, in which he liked to brag that they never lost a game.  The officers were all his buddies, and he always enjoyed playing alongside them.  He continued well into his early 50’s playing in pickup games.  He also liked telling his sons how he hit the first HR at Mechanicville-Stillwater Little League.  

In addition to Tommy and his parents; he was predeceased by his siblings, Anna and Anthony (Bubbles) Cimino, Nancy and Julius (Fatty) Marcelle, Anthony (Nookie) and June Guilianelli and his in-laws Francis (Chick) and Eleanor Donnelly Dwyer, Andrew (Andy) Burke, Colleen Dwyer Wong; his special uncle and aunt Alphonse (Fonzi) and Lil Canonica and his loyal and faithful canine companions Pumpkin, Princess, Natasha and Allie.

In addition to his wife Diane and son David and also Maverick, he was survived by his sister-in-law Nancy M. Burke.  Also surviving are in-laws, many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, way too numerous to mention.

The family would like to thank Clifton Park Halfmoon Ambulance, Saratoga Fire Department/EMT’s, the Doctors and Nurses at Saratoga Hospital both the ER and Third Floor, Dr. Stephen Sgambati, Jr., Dr. Robert Benton, Dr. Seth Cappello, Dr. Joseph Larosa and a big thank you to Dr. Era Hanspal at Albany Med Neurology, and all their family, friends, neighbors and Hoover’s co-workers at DeCrescente Distributing.

Diane and David would like to extend their most heartfelt thanks to the staff of the Wesley at 2 Hathorn who took great care of their husband and father and who were by his side when his condition took a sudden turn for the worse.  We are forever grateful knowing he was not alone.  A thank you just isn’t enough.

Calling hours were Sunday January 11, 2026, at the Chase-Smith Family Funeral Homes, 319 Park Ave, Mechanicville.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Monday, January 12 at All Saints on the Hudson South Church, (St. Paul’s), 121 N. Main St. Mechanicville.

Burial took place in St. Paul’s Cemetery, Harris Ave. where he will join his beloved Tommy in the family plot.

Memorial donations may be made in Thomas’ name to The Wesley Foundation c/o Eileen Nash, 131 Lawrence St, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 or at www.thewesleycommunity.org/wesley-foundation.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com. 

Saratoga County Launches Health and Wellness Initiative for Veterans in Partnership with Saratoga Regional YMCA

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

The Saratoga County officials today announced a comprehensive health and wellness program for participants in its Veterans Service Agency’s Peer Connection Program, in partnership with Saratoga Regional YMCA. This initiative offers a special YMCA membership focused on physical health and overall well-being in a supportive environment.

Eligibility requires veterans to be Saratoga County residents, use a Saratoga Regional YMCA at least three times a week, and attend one monthly meeting at the Saratoga Springs YMCA. This program is being offered at a 75% discounted rate for the membership.

 “On Behalf of the Board of Supervisors, I am proud to support the Saratoga County Veterans Service Agency in their initiative to promote physical health as an essential component of veterans’ overall wellbeing,” Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Chairman Phil Barrett (Town of Clifton Park) and former Army Officer said. “Those who have served our country deserve the best care and support as they embark on their journeys toward wellness. Thank you to the Saratoga Regional YMCA for their invaluable partnership in providing essential resources. Together, we are building a strong foundation for the mental and physical health of our veterans.”

“As a Navy Veteran, I wholeheartedly support the initiative of this program, which directly addresses the mental and physical health needs of our veterans,” Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Vice Chair Ian Murray (Town of Saratoga) said. “I want to emphasize the immense sacrifices our veterans have made for our country. It’s our duty to ensure they have access to the comprehensive resources they have earned and truly deserve. This offers an innovative solution to the challenges faced by those in crisis, focusing on their strengths to foster resilience.”

“We recognize that physical health is a vital protective factor in suicide prevention of veterans,” Frank McClement, Director of the Saratoga County Veterans Service Agency said, “By focusing on minimizing risks and enhancing the protective factors for our veterans, we aim to foster an environment that supports personal growth and goal setting. We are committed to prioritizing physical health and wellbeing for our veterans, ensuring they have access to the resources they need to succeed.”

“Through this partnership with Saratoga County Veterans Service Agency, the Saratoga Regional YMCA is proud to support those who have served by providing greater access to programs that foster health, connection, and belonging,” Allison D’Antonio, CEO of the Saratoga Regional YMCA said. “This initiative is about more than just access — it’s about honoring veterans with opportunities to thrive as part of our community.”

Membership to the Veterans Health and Wellness Program begins upon application approval, submission of financial details, and issuance of a YMCA card, lasting until December 31, 2026. The YMCA will cover 50% of the membership costs, while the Peer Connection Program will contribute an additional 25%. Veterans will be responsible for the remaining 25%.

The Saratoga County Veterans Service Agency assists Veterans and their families with securing earned benefits and services. The Saratoga County Veterans Service Agency office will be having an informational session and presentation tabling event on January 27th from 1:30-5:00pm at the Saratoga Regional YMCA location and on February 25th from 2-5pm at the Glens Falls YMCA location.

The Peer Connection Program is a New York State-funded Private First-Class Joseph P. Dwyer program, that provides opportunities for local veterans who have readjusted to civilian life to form relationships with veterans in need. It provides one-on-one mentoring, learning opportunities, social events, presentations, entertainment, volunteer/service opportunities, and more.

For more information, interested veterans should contact Peer Connection Program Coordinator Erin Cassidy at 518-605-2899 or visit www.veteranspeertopeer.org

Week of January 9 – January 15, 2026

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Local Briefs.

4-H Party for a Cause 

The Winter’s Edge Party for a Cause fundraiser will be held on January 17, from 6 – 10 p.m. at The Hideaway at Saratoga Lake Golf Course. Tickets for this event are $20 and include music by Electric Rodeo, 5 Raffle tickets & Light Refreshments (veggies, cheese, crackers, pepperoni). There will be a Silent Auction, Raffle Baskets, and a whole lot of fun. We will also have an open cash bar and a limited menu for additional purchases. Additional raffle tickets will be available as well. Many thanks to Harmony Veterinary Center for being our signature sponsor.  For tickets, visit https://cce.sc4h.org/party/ If you have any questions, contact Greg Stevens at the 4-H office at 518-885-8995 or grs9@cornell.edu.

Beginner Maple Syrup Course

Have you ever wanted to make your own Maple Syrup? Join the Milton Grange and Corell Cooperative Extension of Saratoga County on January 24 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Located at the 4-H Training Center, 556 Middle Line Rd., Ballston Spa, NY 12020. We will be teaching the basics on how to make maple syrup on a small scale geared toward beginners. This hands-on class will cover identifying trees to tap, how and when to tap a tree your trees, a basic at home set up, syrup grades and products, including a taste test. 

Class size is limited, and early registration is encouraged. Total cost is $30, $45 for two people, which includes a pancake lunch with your choice of meat and beverage along with a sample size bottle of syrup to go home with you. Contact Jessica Luse at jmh452@cornell.edu for more information or questions. Registration is due on January 16.

Monthly Indoor Craft and Garage Sale

Sunday, January 25, from 11 – 3 p.m. the popular Saratoga Wilton Elks Indoor Craft and Garage Sale will be held at the Lodge at 1 Elk Lane, Saratoga Springs. Admission is free with over 40 vendors, great parking and lunch available too.  Just about anything you can imagine might be offered.  There are lightly used children’s toys available and craft items too; as well as anything garage sale.  It’s a fun activity the entire family enjoys.  All proceeds go to the Elks Scholarship Fund.   An 8’ table with chairs is $15.   Email Debbie @ deborahozolins@gmail.com or call 518-226-5595 for information or to sign up for a table(s).  Applications are available in the Elks Lobby after 3 pm Monday through Saturday.  Next sale is February 22, 2026, March 15, 2026, and April 26, 2026.

Sow You Want to Be an Ecological Gardener?! 

Join us for this free workshop and leave with the tools to plant your own native plant garden come spring. Thursday, January 29, 5 – 7 p.m. Come by any time between 5 and 6:30 p.m. Skidmore College Center for Integrated Sciences. Plant seeds this winter and have seedlings to plant or pot on in spring. Knowledgeable volunteers will be on hand to answer questions and guide you in winter sowing best practices. To register: https://forms.gle/aTT2CD632AufXcX4A. Visit, https://sustainablesaratoga.org/event/community-winter-sowing-workshop/

Recently Engaged? 

Let us assist you in your Wedding Plans! The Daily Gazette is hosting our 26th Annual Capital Region’s Premier Wedding Show! This event is held at the Saratoga City Center on February 1st from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Register to win thousands of dollars’ worth of door prizes from our attending exhibitors. Plus…. The Daily Gazette gives away a $1,000 gift certificate to put towards your big day with any of the participating exhibitors. Don’t miss out on our Backyard Experience that we once again bring to you. Food trucks, picnic area, wine and beer sampling along with live music during the day. Registration is free – Capital Region’s Premier Wedding Show 2026. The Daily Gazette looks forward to assisting you with planning your big day!

Call for Local Folk or Irish Performers  

Come audition for an opportunity to showcase your talent during “Café Malta”, an intimate coffee 

house at the Malta Community Center on Friday evening, March 13. It’s lucky Friday the 

13th right before St. Patrick’s Day! We are looking for talented musicians, vocalists, and small acoustic 

bands, storytellers and/or dancers. Each acoustic act selected will play a short 10–15-minute set. 

Auditions are by appointment only.  Contact Elyse Young, Artistic Director, at 518-899-4411 x 305 or 

theater@townofmalta.gov for more details or to schedule an audition.

Week of January 9 – January 15, 2026

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Calendar.

Friday, January 9

Saratoga RV Show

Saratoga Springs City Center, 522 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Alpin Haus’ annual Saratoga RV Show; showcasing a variety of campers and motorhomes for families to tour. Exclusive raffles, giveaways, and local campground representatives will be featured as well! Raffles and giveaways are all outdoors and camping related, and the local campgrounds will be providing info on camping stays at their facilities. We’ll have a range of campers, from lightweight trailers to luxury motorhomes, all available to walk through. Saturday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.  Free admission.

Saturday, January 10

Cabin Crafts

Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park, 90 Scout Rd., Wilton | Drop In 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays during January, February, and March. Check the website for craft, wiltonpreserve.org. No registration is needed. Drop in at the Welcome Cabin in Parking lot #1.

Free Lunch

Malta Ridge Methodist Church, 729 Malta Ave. Ext. Malt | 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. The lunch includes soup, a sandwich, beverage and dessert – at no charge.  All are welcome. Due to the time of the year this is a “WEATHER PERMITTING” event. If there is snow or Freezing Rain the lunch will be cancelled and the next lunch will be on February 14.  The Church is located about 1/4 mile from RT 9 (go towards Saratoga Lake at the light on RT 9.  The light is about 1/3-mile South of Exit 13S of Interstate 87 on RT 9. For directions or questions call the church on the lunch date, after 10 a.m., 518-581-0210.

Tech Talk with Kristen 

Ballston Spa Public Library, 21 Milton Ave., Ballston Spa | 1 p.m.  This informative, hands-on program is designed to help patrons access the library’s digital resources, Libby and Hoopla, with ease. During this session, patrons will learn how to link their personal devices—such as smartphones, tablets, Kindles or laptops—to the popular apps Libby and Hoopla. Kristen will guide attendees step-by-step through the setup process and demonstrate how to borrow and enjoy digital materials including eBooks, audiobooks and more! This program is ideal for beginners or anyone who wants a refresher on using digital library services. Open to the public; no prior tech experience required. Registration is required, limit of 10. To register, call 518-885-5022 or stop in to reserve your spot. 

Family Saturdays

Tang Museum, Skidmore College, 815 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 2 – 3:30 p.m. This event features a project inspired by work on view in the exhibition Sheila Pepe: Where and When We Rest. Family Saturday: The Pillows Where We Rest gives participants the opportunity to explore the exhibition, discuss tools we use for rest, and create their own pillows from tote bags, ribbons, Velcro, and batting. Family Saturday programs emphasize creative cooperation through looking at artwork, discussing it, and engaging in a hands-on art activity. Programs are suitable for children ages 5 and older, accompanied by their adult companions. No registration is required; supplies are provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

Sunday, January 11

Free Day at the World Awareness Children’s Museum

89 Warren St., Glens Falls | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Visit the museum for free during our monthly Free Day, thanks to Stewart’s Shops and Stewart’s Holiday Match, and all who contributed! Donations are appreciated but not required. Free Days are generously sponsored by Stewart’s Shops and Stewart’s Holiday Match.

Monday, January 12

The Heritage Garden Club Meeting

Knights of Columbus, 50 Pine Street, Saratoga Springs | 12 Noon.  The guest speaker for the for the meeting will be Stacey Simmons from Bob’s Trees and Garden Center, Galway, presenting a program on the ”Planting of Perennial Plants, Shrubs and Trees.”  The meeting is open to the public.  Interested in joining a garden club? Come join us, new members are always welcome.  You don’t have to have a green thumb to join our garden club.  Feel free to contact us at HeritageGardenClubSS@gmail.com or follow us on Facebook at Heritage Garden Club of Saratoga Springs.  

Tuesday, January 13

Ballston Creek Preserve Walks

409 Eastline Rd., Ballston Lake | 10 a.m. Learn about one of Saratoga PLAN’s newest preserves and how old farm fields have grown into a beautiful mixed conifer and hardwood forest, with occasional older growth trees. Registration is required for most of our programs at least one business day in advance. 

Register on our website or by calling the office at 518-450-0321. Our programs are weather dependent and may be cancelled due to inclement weather or poor trail conditions.

Getting to Know Your iPhone 

Clifton Park Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Rd., Clifton Park | 10 a.m. Don’t let your smartphone’s settings stump you. We’ll explore some of the common features of iPhones in this hands-on workshop. You’ll learn ways to interact with the touch screen, access important controls, and search for specific settings. We’ll also cover some tips and best practices for securing and maintaining your device. Registration required. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org.

Wednesday, January 14

Soroptimist Dinner Meeting Holiday Inn, 232 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 6:30 p.m. Soroptimist means Best for Women.  Please join us where members and guests come together to advance our shared mission of empowering women and girls. Enjoy a meal while networking with passionate individuals, participating in meaningful discussions, and learning about upcoming community service projects. Our organization offers a wonderful opportunity to connect, collaborate, and make a difference in the lives of others. Please RSVP to connectsisc@gmail.com by January 12.

Academy for Lifelong Learning Winter Storyteller Series

Prestwick Chase at Saratoga, 100 Saratoga Boulevard, Saratoga Springs |12 noon – 1pm. Free and open to the public. No reservations required. Sponsored by Prestwick Chase. Storyteller Kate Dudding presents Laughing Fits: Tales to Tickle Your Funny Bone. Different storytellers will offer their tales every Wednesday through February 11. If Saratoga Springs city schools are closed due to weather, that presentation will be postponed until February 18. For more information on the Academy for Lifelong Learning, to register for winter courses, or for a complete lineup of storytellers, visit www.allsaratoga.org or contact Academy Executive Director, Jeff Shinaman at jeff@allsaratoga.org or call 518-290-6988.

Roast Pork 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: roast loin of pork, mashed potatoes, vegetable, stuffing, applesauce, gravy and roll, tossed salad. Dinner $15 (cash only).

Green Drinks!

Whitman Brewing Company, 20 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs | 5 – 7 p.m. A “green gathering” for those who work volunteer, or have a passion for promoting the environment, conservation, and sustainability. Food, alcoholic, and non-alcoholic drinks are available for purchase. https://sustainablesaratoga.org/event/green-drinks-25/

Soroptimist Dinner Meeting

Holiday Inn, 232 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | Soroptimist means Best for Women.  Please join us where members and guests come together to advance our shared mission of empowering women and girls. Enjoy a meal while networking with passionate individuals, participating in meaningful discussions, and learning about upcoming community service projects. Our organization offers a wonderful opportunity to connect, collaborate, and make a difference in the lives of others. Please RSVP to connectsisc@gmail.com by January 12. 

Thursday, January 15

Writers Group

Galway Public Library, 2112 East Street, Galway | 6 – 8 p.m. This group is a resource for individuals who want to explore and share their talents and aspirations as writers.  We provide advice and encouragement through constructive critique of complete or partial works shared with the group.  Writers of all skill levels and genres are welcome.  The group meets on the third Thursday of every month, and interested new participants are welcome.

How Waldorf Classrooms Help Children Rebuild Focus and Rhythm After the Holiday Break

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

Courtesy of the Waldorf School

As students across the region return to school after the holiday break, many families notice familiar challenges: disrupted routines, trouble with focus and self-regulation, and difficulty easing back into routines.

Waldorf education emphasizes predictable daily and seasonal rhythms as a foundation for learning. Students at the Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs return to familiar routines that include movement, storytelling, artistic work, hands-on academic lessons, and outdoor activities that support self-regulation and sustained attention, particularly during the winter months.

Rather than immediately increasing academic demands, teachers focus first on reestablishing connection: to classmates, to teachers, and to the classroom. Lessons often begin with movement or music before transitioning into more concentrated work such as writing, math, science, or handwork.

This thoughtful return helps children feel grounded and capable as they resume school life, supporting not only concentration in the classroom but a healthy rhythm for learning overall.

The Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs serves students and families from early childhood through 8th grade

SJCA Announces a Panel Discussion of the Critically Acclaimed Film Hidden Figures, Wednesday, January 21 at 7 pm on Zoom

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

Saratoga Jewish Community Arts, with a generous grant from the Jewish Federation of Northeastern New York and the sponsorship of Temple Sinai of Saratoga Springs, is pleased to present a panel discussion of the critically acclaimed film Hidden Figures, on Zoom, Wednesday, January 21 at 7 pm.

The film is part of SJCA’s Social Justice series. The film Hidden Figures is a 2016 American biographical drama, co-produced and directed by Theodore Melfi and Allison Schroeder. It is loosely based on the book Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly.

The film follows three actual African American women mathematicians – Katherine Goble Johnson, Dorothy Vaughn and Mary Jackson — who challenged stereotypes and racial barriers at NASA during the Space Race.

The National Board of Review chose Hidden Figures as one of the top ten films of 2016.

Johnson is hired at Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia in 1961. She becomes a pivotal figure among a small group of African American women colleagues, including Jackson and Vaughan. These talented women start out with two strikes against them: their race and their gender. They work in segregated facilities, are assigned menial mathematics calculations, and receive no respect from male colleagues.

Segregation shapes their daily experiences, particularly for Johnson. When her skills in analytic geometry are finally noticed, Johnson joins the Space Task Group that plots critical flight paths. Her white male engineers dismiss her contributions. However, when discrepancies arise in the IBM’s computer calculations, Johnson’s unparalleled mathematical skills become evident and indispensable. Her resolve, precision and diligence help ensure the success of the Friendship 7 mission with John Glenn aboard.

“Hidden Figures,” says Phyllis Wang, Coordinator of the SJCA series, “reveals the personalities and relationships among the three, presents their skills, and portrays continuing examples of their tough experiences, but never undercuts the broader fears and oppressions of this era.”

In real life, the three women continued to excel. Mary Jackson earned her engineering degree to become NASA’s first African American female engineer, while Dorothy Vaughn blazed trails as NASA’s first African American supervisor. Katherine Goble Johnson co-authored reports with the lead engineer and calculated crucial trajectories for the Apollo 11 and Space Shuttle missions.

In 2015, Johnson received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and in 2016, NASA honored her enduring legacy by naming the Computational Building at Langley Research Center for her, a testament to her profound influence in mathematics and beyond.