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Author: Saratoga TODAY

Belmont Bash Honorary Committee Tickets Now Available 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Honorary Committee tickets for the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame’s 2026 Belmont Bash are now available and may be purchased here: https://1049a.blackbaudhosting.com/1049a/Belmont-Bash. 

The event takes place at the Canfield Casino in Congress Park on Thursday, June 4 at 7 p.m. The museum fundraiser will include an open bar featuring specialty cocktails, a buffet-style dinner catered by Mazzone Hospitality, entertainment from Garland Nelson and Soul Session, and an exclusive silent auction.

The Belmont Bash will honor the connections of 2025 Belmont Stakes winner Sovereignty, including Hall of Fame trainer Bill Mott, jockey Junior Alvarado, and owner Godolphin. Cocktails begin at 7 p.m. with dinner at 8 p.m. Valet parking will be available.

With the Belmont Stakes returning downstate to the new Belmont Park in 2027, this year’s Belmont Bash will mark the third and final time the event is held in Saratoga Springs. All proceeds from this fundraiser will benefit the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame. 

Businesses or individuals interested in becoming a sponsor should contact Maureen Pasco at (518) 584-0400 ext. 109 or mpasco@racingmuseum.net. General event tickets will be available at the end of March. 

Meet Wall-E!

Wall-E is a very affectionate 16 pound “lovebug” who thrives on human attention. He has high energy and especially enjoys playing with springs and running on a cat wheel. He is currently being fostered by the Small Animal Science students at BOCES, where he receives plenty of interaction.

Wall-E can be a bully toward submissive cats. His previous family noted that while he did well with female cats, he antagonized an older male cat in the home. For this reason, he would do best in a home without submissive or older male cats to ensure a safe environment for everyone. He is a bit shy at first but as soon as you pick him up or start petting he just melts and wants to be loved. He would do best in a home without young children. 

Wall-E is neutered, up to date on his vaccines, and has tested negative for both FIV and FeLV.

The HOPE Pet Adoption Center is open to the public Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 11-4 and by appointment. Online adoption applications can be found at our website www.hopeanimalrescue.org.

SPRING STARTS HERE! New York’s Outdoor Sports, Recreation, and Travel Expo

photo provided.

The 20th annual Upstate Sports Summer Expo is back at the Saratoga Springs City Center on Saturday-Sunday, March 14-15 – beat cabin fever and get excited about spring and summer at the gathering of outdoor sports, recreation, health/fitness, and travel enthusiasts!

The free admission, high energy show brings Upstate Sports & Vermont Sports magazines to life with 200 exhibitors covering running, biking, paddling, hiking, triathlon, recreation, health/fitness, and travel. We have many Upstate New York regional destinations represented, including Capital-Saratoga, Adirondacks, Hudson Valley, Catskills, Central NY, 1000 Islands, Finger Lakes, and Western NY. Attendees can also speak with ultralight canoe and kayak builders, local bike shops, camps and retreats, trails and sustainability, outdoor recreation, and health and fitness professionals.

Attendees can buy new clothing, gear, health/fitness and lifestyle products and services, enter to win many Expo prizes; enjoy in-booth demos; and bring the kids of all ages for educational, entertaining and fitness activities. Activities include disc golf, paddling, rowing, a working canal lock, Sunday morning group shakeout run/walk with Neighbor Running with Mizuno shoe demos, and much more! For kids, we’ll have kids on bikes indoor riding, hands-on wildlife displays, and fun interactive games. Plus, we’ll have lunch, snack, and drink options from 9 Miles East, Broadway Coffee, Ben & Jerry’s – and get a complimentary Summer Expo photo printout from Saratoga Photobooth!

The Summer Expo is an annual celebration of active, healthy living with like-minded people in an upbeat atmosphere – ideal to kickoff spring! Expo-goers can speak with local club members and join to get involved, speak with event directors and sign-up with show specials, set realistic health/fitness and wellness goals, and challenge yourself to make it a great year! Plan your next vacation, adventure and travel with our many destination exhibitors representing beautiful lakes, mountains, trails, communities, lodging, attractions, and events/races.

The free admission Upstate Sports Summer Expo is at the Saratoga Springs City Center, 522 Broadway, on Saturday, 10am-5pm and Sunday, 10am-4pm. For more info and an updated list of exhibitors, visit: upstatesports.fun/summer-expo. For details and updates on the Summer Expo and our magazines, follow or like us on facebook.com/adirondacksports and instagram.com/adirondacksports.

Annette Francis Burns

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Annette Francis Burns passed away March 4, 2026. Calling hours are from 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. on March 14, at Compassionate Funeral Care, Saratoga Springs, followed by a service at 12:30 p.m. at the funeral home.  A graveside service will follow in Greenridge Cemetery, Saratoga Springs. Online condolences, visit www.compassionatefuneralcare.com.

Skidmore Baseball Squad Starts Season 3-1

Thoroughbreds’ pitcher Quinn Hocom struck out 10 hitters across five innings in a game against Baruch College last Sunday. Photo by Matt Milless via Skidmore Athletics.

FORT MYERS, FLORIDA — The Skidmore College baseball team swept Baruch College in a doubleheader last Sunday before then splitting another doubleheader against Rockford University on Monday.

The busy two days concluded with the Thoroughbreds earning a 3-1 start to their season at the Gene Cusic Classic in Florida. 

Skidmore is currently scheduled to play its first home game at the new Ferrari Field in Saratoga Springs on Wednesday, March 18.

Against Baruch, five Skidmore pitchers combined to surrender just three earned runs in two games. The Thoroughbreds won game one, 6-2, on a 10-strikeout performance from Quinn Hocom, and then won game two, 2-1, thanks to a one-hit, five-inning start by Chase Siegel.

In game one, Matthew O’Neill had three hits in his collegiate debut. He led off the bottom of the first inning with an opposite-field double and then scored on an error. He led off both the third and fifth innings with a single and a stolen base. Eddie Galvao was 1-for-3 with two walks and a two-RBI homer in the third.

In game two, O’Neill earned two more hits, wrapping up his impressive opening day with five hits, three stolen bases, and four runs scored.

Against Rockford, the Thoroughbreds dropped a back-and-forth opener, 12-11, before responding with an 8-4 victory in the second game to hand Rockford its first loss of the year.

In game one, Skidmore scored five runs in the first inning, but Rockford rallied late to snatch away the W.

In game two, the Thoroughbreds tallied 11 hits total, led by a 3-for-3 performance by Nate Vandersea. Galvao added two hits, including a double.

Jennifer Wilcox

BALLSTON SPA, NY- Jennifer Wilcox, 53, passed peacefully March 8, 2026. Jennifer’s spirit, kindness, and the love she poured into her family will endure in the hearts of all who were blessed to share in her life. Calling hours are on March 16, 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Burke Funeral Home. Please visit www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Shirley A. Coonradt

GANSEVOORT – Shirley A. Coonradt passed away February 28, 2026.  A graveside service will be held at 11 am on Friday July 24, 2026, at Maplewood Cemetery, corner of Weibel and Louden Road, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Online condolences, www.compassionatefuneralcare.com. 

Sherri Lipton

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY- Sherri Lipton, 71, passed away on Friday, March 6, 2026. Sherri has been with Saratoga Bridges since 2013. Calling hours are 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m., on Saturday, March 21, at Burke Funeral Home followed by a funeral home service at 2:00 p.m. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Paula C. Murray

MIDDLE GROVE – Paula C. Murray, 68, passed away peacefully at her home on March 6, 2026, with her loving husband by her side.

Born on December 28, 1957, in Saratoga Springs, NY, she was the daughter of the late John and Marion Zwijacz.

Paula dedicated many years of compassionate service as a Registered Nurse at Saratoga Hospital before retiring. Through her work, she touched countless lives with her kindness, professionalism, and caring spirit.

Outside of her career, Paula lived life with a sense of adventure. She was an avid motorcyclist who loved exploring new places, traveling with her husband, and spending time outdoors. The beauty of the Adirondacks held a special place in her heart, and she had a deep affection for animals and nature.

Paula is survived by her beloved husband, Brian K. Murray; her brother, Andy Zwijacz (Ellen); brother-in-law David W. Murray Jr. (Linda K.); sisters-in-law, Donna Emory and Sandy Donovan; niece Kathryn Mangini; and nephew Zandon Zwijacz.

In addition to her parents, Paula was predeceased by her brother, Gary Zwijacz.

In keeping with Paula’s wishes, no services will be held at this time.

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

For online condolences, visit www.compassionatefuneralcare.com.

BLOTTER

March 4, 2026. 9:35 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Buskirk resident in the Town of Halfmoon on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued. 

March 4, 2026. 10:10 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Rensselaer resident in the Town of Colonie on charges of felony 3rd degree grand larceny: property value exceeds $3000 and felony 1st degree identity theft: assuming another’s identity to obtain goods over $2000. Held- no bail. Original incident occurred in the Town of Wilton on Jan. 23, 2026. 

March 4, 2026. 12:45 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of 2nd degree harassment- physical contact, resisting arrest, and illegal use/sale of nitrous oxide. Arrest occurred on Circular Street.

March 4, 2026. 2:00 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Schuylerville juvenile on charges of misdemeanor forcible touching- touch sexual/intimate parts of another person. Original incident occurred Feb. 28, 2026.

March 4, 2026. 2:23 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Voorheesville resident in the City of Saratoga Springs on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued. Arrest stemmed from accident on Exit 14 of Interstate 87. 

March 4, 2026. 6:58 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident in the Town of Halfmoon on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense and misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with BAC of .08 or higher- first offense. Appearance ticket issued. 

March 4, 2026. 11:45 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Halfmoon resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense and operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher- first offense. Appearance ticket issued.

March 5, 2026. 11:27 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and other violations. Arrest occurred at the intersection of Franklin and Washington Streets.

March 5, 2026. 12:56 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park juvenile in the City of Albany on charges of misdemeanor reckless driving. Appearance ticket issued. Arrest stemmed from a traffic accident on Route 87 in the Town of Halfmoon which injured two people.

March 5, 2026. 2:53 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Middle Grove resident in the Town of Providence on charges of misdemeanor 2nd menacing- weapon and misdemeanor criminal possession of a weapon: intent to use. Appearance ticket issued.

March 5, 2026. 3:14 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Watervliet resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor aggravated unlicensed operation 2nd. Appearance ticket issued.

March 5, 2026. 3:20 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of general violation of local law. Arrest occurred on Broadway. 

March 5, 2026. 4:15 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Gansevoort resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of felony grand larceny 4th: credit card. Released on own recognizance. Original incident occurred on Dec. 9, 2026. 

March 5, 2026. 5:04 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued.

March 5, 2026. 7:00 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Schaghticoke resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree bail jumping. Central arraignment. 

March 5, 2026. 11:21 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of criminal trespass: property fenced in or enclosed. Arrest occurred on South Broadway.

March 6, 2026. 1:13 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Gansevoort resident in the Town of Moreau on charges of felony 2nd degree assault: intent to cause physical injury with a weapon, felony criminal possession of a weapon 3rd: previous conviction and misdemeanor act in a manner to injure a child less than 17. Central arraignment. 

March 6, 2026. 3:30 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Corinth resident in the Town of Moreau on charges of felony criminal contempt: violate order of protection- physical contact and two counts of criminal contempt: disobey court. Central arraignment. 

March 6, 2026. 11:45 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Stuyvesant resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor 2nd degree aggravated unlicensed operation. Appearance ticket issued.

March 6, 2026. 2:20 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of DWI- first offense, 3rd degree unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, and other traffic offenses. Arrest occurred on Congress Place.

March 6, 2026. 4:13 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the Town of Ballston on charges of misdemeanor 2nd degree aggravated unlicensed operation. Released to third party.

March 6, 2026. 5:20 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, operating a motor vehicle impaired by drugs- 1st offense and other traffic offenses. Arrest occurred on Trottingham Road.

March 6, 2026. 6:28 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested an individual on charges of 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Arrest occurred on West Avenue.

March 6, 2026. 7:46 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the Town of Greenfield on charges of DWI- first offense and operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher. Appearance ticket issued. Arrest stemmed from a single vehicle traffic accident on Middle Grove Rd.

March 6, 2026. 9:05 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the Town of Queensbury on charges of felony DWI: previous conviction within the last 10 years, felony operating a motor vehicle with BAC of .08 or higher- previous conviction within the last 10 years, felony aggravated unlicensed operation, felony aggravated DWI: with a child passenger less than 16- 1st offense and misdemeanor act to injure a child less than 17. Appearance ticket issued.

March 7, 2026. 12:44 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Northville resident in the Town of Hadley 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.

March 7, 2026. 2:59 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Troy resident on charges of 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and other traffic offenses. Arrest occurred at the intersection of Ballston Avenue and South Street.

March 7, 2026. 5:55 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of drug paraphernalia- package. Arrest occurred on South Broadway.

March 7, 2026. 11:12 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Corinth resident in the Village of Corinth on charges of misdemeanor aggravated harassment- threatened by telephone/ no legitimate purpose. Central Arraignment.

March 7, 2026. 1:31 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Gansevoort juvenile on charges of misdemeanor criminal trespass: railroad right of way or yard, and misdemeanor making graffiti. Investigation pending. 

March 7, 2026. 3:55 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident in the Town of Milton on charges of misdemeanor aggravated unlicensed operation. Appearance ticket issued. 

March 7, 2026. 8:26 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of criminal trespass: property fenced in or enclosed property, assault 2 with intent to cause injury to first responder and resisting arrest. Arrest occurred at four Adelphi Street.

March 7, 2026. 11:50 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Greenfield Center resident on two counts of misdemeanor criminal contempt: disobey court. Cash bail. 

March 8, 2026. 1:23 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested an individual on charges of disorderly conduct: fight/ violent behavior. Arrest occurred on Caroline Street.

March 8, 2026. 3:29 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Mechanicville resident in charges of DWI- first offense and operating a motor vehicle with BAC of .08 or higher- first offense. Arrest occurred at the intersection of Union Ave and Ludlow Street.

March 8, 2026. 4:51 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Rexford resident in the Town of Clifton Park 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. 

March 8, 2026. 2:20 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 and criminal weapon possession: previous conviction. Released on own recognizance. 

March 8, 2026. 10:12 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Corinth resident in the Town of Corinth on charges of felony criminal possession of a controlled substance: narcotic drug intent to sell, felony criminal possession of a controlled substance and two counts of misdemeanor 7th degree possession of a controlled substance. Central arraignment. 

March 8, 2026. 10:12 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Stony Creek resident in the Town of Corinth on two counts of misdemeanor 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Appearance ticket issued.

March 9, 2026. 10:06 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park resident in the Town of Halfmoon on charges of misdemeanor criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation- apply pressure and menacing- weapon. Released on own recognizance.

March 10, 2026. 6:01 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park resident in the Town of Malta on charges of felony DWAI by drugs: prior conviction within 10 years and felony aggravated unlicensed operation. Appearance ticket issued.

March 10, 2026. 8:29 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the Town of Greenfield on charges of felony aggravated unlicensed operation. Appearance ticket issued.