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Author: Saratoga TODAY

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.

“It Can’t Happen Here” Book Adaptation

SARATOGA SPRINGS —iTheater Saratoga is presenting a book reading adaptation from the book “It Can’t Happen Here,” a 1930s fiction novel by Sinclair Lewis. The event will be held at Saratoga Arts on Broadway Friday, June 26, and Saturday, June 27 at 7 p.m.

“It Can’t Happen Here” is a cautionary tale about the rise of fascism in the United States. During the presidential election of 1936, Doremus Jessup, a small-town newspaper editor, observes with dismay that many of the people he knows support the candidacy of the demagogue Berzelius Windrip. When Windrip wins the election, he forcibly gains control of Congress and the Supreme Court and, with the aid of his personal paramilitary storm troopers, turns America into a totalitarian state.

iTheatre Saratoga has assembled a large ensemble cast including many capital region theatre veterans for a unique staged reading of Sinclair Lewis’ story.

A $10 donation made online guarantees you a seat. Reserve your seat at: itheatresaratoga.ticketspice.com/it-cant-happen-here-a-world-premiere-play-reading

Grant’s Cottage Community Day

Photo by Super Source Media Studios

WILTON — Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary at Ulysses S. Grant’s cottage on Saturday, June 13. The cottage is located at 1000 Mt. McGregor Road in Wilton and is a free event. 

The 5th annual community day at Grant’s Cottage is a full day of free family fun and history. Activities include live music, free cottage walkthroughs, facepainting, pony rides, a petting zoo, food trucks, raffle baskets, and much more. 

For more information visit: www.grantcottage.org/events

Summer Solstice Walk at Wilton Wildlife

WILTON — Celebrate the start of summer and the longest day of the year with Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park. On Saturday, June 20, at 8:30 a.m., Wilton Wildlife will host a summer solstice walk, where participants will learn about celestial movements that impact the natural world. The walk will take place at Camp Saratoga on Scout Road in Wilton and will cover about one mile on a trail that meanders through forest and meadow.

Registration is required at least one business day in advance. To register, or for up-to-date trail conditions or program information, please visit the website at  www.wiltonpreserve.org 

Name Your Seat at the Spa Little Theater

Rendering of Spa Little Theater. Photo: Phinney Design Group

SARATOGA SPRINGS —
Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) is launching a seat campaign for the historic Spa Little Theater, offering community members a unique opportunity to become part of the theater’s next chapter by dedicating a seat in the newly renovated venue.

As renovation work continues in the theater, supporters may honor a loved one, celebrate a family legacy, recognize a business, or commemorate a meaningful connection to SPAC with a personalized seat plaque. 

“In 1966, members of the Saratoga community came together to build SPAC. Sixty years later, that same spirit of generosity continues through the remarkable public and private support that is making the Spa Little Theater renovation possible,” says Elizabeth Sobol, Chief Executive Officer of Saratoga Performing Arts Center. “We are thrilled to invite our community to participate in this historic project by dedicating a seat in the new theater – a lasting tribute that will help ensure this treasured venue serves artists, audiences and future generations for decades to come.”

 SPAC is currently undertaking a $12 million renovation of the historic Spa Little Theater, in partnership with New York State Parks. The project marks the first major renovation of the 500-seat venue since its construction in 1935. Designed to preserve the theater’s historic character and celebrated acoustics while improving accessibility, comfort, and functionality. The renovation will transform the venue into a vibrant year-round home for artistic performances, educational programming and community events ahead of its anticipated December 2026 re-opening. 

Seat dedications are available at levels of $1,000 and $2,500 and will remain in place for a minimum of 25 years. All proceeds will support the Spa Little Theater renovation and SPAC’s Four Seasons Campaign. To learn more or reserve a seat, visit spac.org or contact seatcampaign@spac.org.