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Author: Saratoga TODAY

Saratoga County District Attorney Announces 53-Member Child Safety Review Commission

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

Saratoga County District Attorney Brett Eby recently announced the formation of the Saratoga County Child Safety Review Commission, a first-of-its-kind, multidisciplinary effort bringing together 53 dedicated professionals and community leaders committed to identifying gaps in the systems designed to protect children and developing solutions to address them.

The commission was formed following an overwhelming response from the community, with more than 250 individuals expressing interest in serving.

The 53-member commission includes District Attorney Eby and representatives from law enforcement, child advocacy, education, public policy, social services, mental health, health care, the faith community, local government, the judiciary, the State Legislature, philanthropic communities and many others. Every member is serving in a volunteer capacity.

“This commission is about bringing smart, dedicated professionals who care deeply about children into one room and giving them the opportunity to work together on some of the most difficult challenges facing our children,” said Saratoga County District Attorney Brett Eby. “We received more than 250 letters of interest from people who wanted to be part of this effort. That response demonstrates just how deeply our community cares about public safety and well-being of its children.”

The goal of the Child Safety Review Commission is to identify gaps in the systems intended to protect children, understand why those gaps exist, and develop practical solutions to close them. “This is not about pointing fingers or assigning blame,” Eby said. “It is about taking an honest look at our systems, asking difficult questions, and finding ways to make them better. We are trying to prevent future tragedies, and I am confident that bringing this group of talented and compassionate professionals together will help us develop meaningful answers to the problems facing our children.”

The commission’s membership reflects the many systems and disciplines that intersect with child safety. Members include law enforcement officers and investigators, school administrators, counselors and nurses, child protective services and social services professionals, mental health clinicians, child advocates, public policy experts, health care professionals, government and county leaders, elected officials, a retired Family Court judge, a pastor, nonprofit executives, and community leaders.

“Child safety does not fall within the responsibility of any one agency or profession. Protecting children requires all of us to work together. By bringing these perspectives  together, we have an opportunity to see problems from different angles and develop solutions that can make a real difference.” 

The Saratoga County Child Safety Review Commission is believed to be the first commission of its kind, created specifically to bring together such a broad cross-section of professionals and community stakeholders to comprehensively examine child safety systems and identify opportunities for improvement.

The commission will begin its work by examining existing systems, identifying areas where children and families may fall through the cracks, and developing recommendations designed to strengthen child safety and prevent future harm.

MeetVelo!!

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Featured, Neighborhood Buzz.

How is this big boy still at the HOPE Cat Adoption Center? Yes, he is a little overweight, however, he started at a whopping 27 pounds and is down to a svelte 23.7 pounds. We have been watching how much food he receives daily while letting him out of his enclosure to investigate and play for most of the day. Yes, we have to watch him because he roams around with 3 other kitties, and if he notices their enclosure is not locked, he will consume any food he sees. I mean, who can blame him? Every once in a while, he will chase one of the other kitties but it’s all in good fun and he mainly keeps to himself while attacking the stray crinkly ball when he sees it. He loves human interaction and although he receives limited treats, he is very food motivated. We do expect his forever family to continue his weight loss transformation so that he is as healthy as possible. Velo has joined us at multiple events such as Pet-A-Palooza, the Saratoga Public Library and Malta Farm and Garden and received so many compliments, yet he is still waiting patiently for his perfect home. Velo is ready to lay in the sun coming through the window, watch the birds in the yard and feel the comfort of a couch or bed. We have loved having him stay with us but it is his time to find his forever family. He is all ready to go but we will miss him immensely.

The HOPE Cat Adoption Center is located in the Wilton Mall and is open to the public Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 11-4. Online adoption applications may be found on our website at www.hopeanimalrescue.org and give us a call if you have any questions at 518-450-7013. 

Saratoga Springs Mortgage Officer and Real Estate Agent Helping Local Heroes Achieve Homeownership

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Neighborhood Buzz.

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y., August 6, 2026 — Heidi Ives, regional manager and senior loan officer with GoRascal Mortgage, and Wioleta (Viola) Kotulak, licensed real estate salesperson with eXp Realty, are continuing their shared mission of giving back to those who serve their communities by partnering with the Homes for Heroes program.

Homes for Heroes is a national organization dedicated to providing savings to community heroes when they buy, sell, or refinance a home. Eligible “heroes” include healthcare professionals, teachers, law enforcement officers, firefighters, other first responders, and veterans. 

Since its founding shortly after the events of September 11, 2001, the organization has helped thousands of heroes across the country by connecting them with affiliated real estate and mortgage professionals and offering “Hero Rewards” to eligible clients after closing. The program allows heroes to keep more money in their pockets while recognizing their invaluable service to their communities.

As the Homes for Heroes Team Upstate NY, Ives and Kotulak have spent the past seven years helping local heroes in New York’s Capital District achieve homeownership. Through their combined efforts, the pair have helped program participants in their community realize more than $200,000 in Hero Rewards.

“From healthcare professionals and teachers to first responders and military veterans, supporting those who dedicate their lives to serving others is at the heart of everything we do,” said Ives. “Helping these heroes save money on one of the biggest financial decisions they’ll ever make is incredibly rewarding.”

Locally, Ives and Kotulak have become passionate advocates for ensuring eligible heroes know these savings are available before beginning the home buying or selling process. Too often, they meet eligible professionals who have already committed to another lender or real estate agent and unknowingly miss out on the financial rewards available through Homes for Heroes.

“We regularly hear from heroes who tell us they wish they had known about this program sooner,” noted Kotulak. “Our goal is simple: We want every eligible hero in our community to know these benefits exist before they begin buying, selling, or refinancing a home. Once they’re already under contract with someone else, it’s often too late to take advantage of the program.”

About Homes for Heroes Team Upstate NY

Homes for Heroes Team Upstate NY is led by Heidi Ives of GoRascal Mortgage and Wioleta (Viola) Kotulak of eXp Realty. As affiliated Homes for Heroes specialists, Ives and Kotulak help community heroes buy, sell, and refinance homes while providing meaningful Hero Rewards to eligible program participants. Over the past seven years, they have returned more than $200,000 to local heroes and have supported local nonprofits through additional charitable giving. Learn more at https://www.facebook.com/homesforheroesupstateny/. 

Contact: 

Heidi Ives

518-791-4595

homesforheroesupstateny@gmail.com 

Fire Hydrant Struck and Several Injured in Crash in Ballston

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

The Sheriff’s Office responded to a two-car motor vehicle crash with entrapment Aug. 10 at 7:43 a.m. on State Route 50 at Kasey Pass in the town of Ballston. 

Preliminary investigation indicated that a 2014 Honda CRV had been traveling south on Route 50 when it attempted to make a left turn onto Kasey Pass and caused a collision with a 2004 Ford Explorer that had been traveling north on Route 50. 

The Ford Explorer struck a ground wire then overturned several times and came to rest in a ditch. The operator was trapped and needed to be extricated from the vehicle. He was transported by ambulance to Albany Medical Center for evaluation and treatment of potentially serious injuries. There were no other people in the vehicle. 

The Honda CRV also struck a fire hydrant. The operator of the Honda CRV was transported by ambulance to Saratoga Hospital for evaluation and treatment of apparently minor injuries. There were no other people in the vehicle. 

The Sheriff’s Collision Reconstruction Unit responded to the scene and is currently investigating the cause of the crash. National Grid responded to the scene due to the ground wire having been struck and the Ballston Water Department responded due to the fire hydrant having been struck.

Gertrude Schultz

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

STILLWATER, NY- Gertrude (Trudy) Myrtle (Chubb) Schultz passed on August 10, 2026 at home surrounded by her loved ones. 

Trudy was born on July 1, 1936, in Fort Edward, NY to the late Clayton and Gertrude (Hall) Chubb. She attended Mildred Elley College. Trudy enjoyed reading, knitting, watching her favorite TV programs and spending time with her great-grandchildren. She retired from C.R. Bard in Queensbury.

Trudy is survived by her children Deborah Becktoft (Stillwater, NY), Sandy Schultz (Milton, NY), Robin Schultz (Milton, NY), John (Lisa) Schultz (Stillwater, NY), Lori Carman Schultz (Lakeland, FL), Christine Schultz (Milton, NY), Trudy (Gerald) Weatherwax (Mulberry, FL), and Steven (Bonnie) Schultz (Stillwater, NY); 11 Grandchildren; 8 Great-Grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Along with her parents Clayton and Gertrude (Hall) Chubb Sr., Trudy is predeceased by her loving husband John Edward Schultz, whom she married November 6, 1954; son Michael Joseph Schultz; brother Clayton (Junior) Chubb, Jr.; Grandson Patrick John Weatherwax; Great Grandson Ethan Levi John Weatherwax; nieces Amy Chubb, Beth (Chubb) Roberts; and nephew Christopher Chubb.

Graveside service took place on Wednesday, August 12, at St. Peter’s Cemetery, Clinton Ct, Stillwater, NY 12170.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Trudy’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

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

Judith L. Walker

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

COHOES – Judith L. Walker, 87, formerly of Saratoga Springs passed away Sunday August 2, 2026, at Eddy Village Green. Born in Utica, she was the daughter of the late George and Rita Mitchell Wiley. She moved to Saratoga in 1960.

Judith was a Registered Nurse and had been employed at both Skidmore College and the Saratoga Hospital, retiring in 2004. She had volunteered at St. Peter’s Church in Saratoga Springs and at the Dominican Retreat House in Niskayuna.

She was a member of the Ballston Spa Senior Citizens. She enjoyed traveling and going to casinos and was an animal lover who rescued many animals from the shelters.

She is predeceased by her husband Leroy Walker who died in 2015. She is survived by her daughters, Rita M. McCormick (David) of Halfmoon and Karen A. Presnell (Richard Beaver) of Cohoes. She is the sister of Timothy Wiley (Joanne) of SanJose, CA, Patricia Dinardo of Newport, NY and the late Kenneth Wiley. 2 Step grandchildren, 6 great step grandchildren and several nieces and nephews also survive.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday August 22, at 1 pm at The Church at Newtown Rd., 142 Lower Newtown Rd., Halfmoon, NY. Relatives and friends may visit at the church from 12 – 1 pm prior to the service.

Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, 3 Oakland Ave., Menands, NY 12204 or the Alzheimer’s Association at www.donorservices.alz.org.

In Loving Memory of William O’Dwyer, M.D.

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

Saratoga Springs – William “Bill” O’Dwyer, born December 30, 1936, in Brooklyn, New York, passed away peacefully at his home on August 9, 2026. He was surrounded by his loving wife, family, and familiar sounds of his favorite traditional Irish music.

Bill grew up in Manhattan and spent weekends at the family country home in Montgomery, where he met the love of his life, Carole Backofen.

After graduating from the High School of Music & Art, Bill completed his undergraduate degree at Pace University in 1959. That same year, he and Carole married and set sail for Ireland. Bill attended The School of Medicine University College Cork (UCC) from 1959 to 1965. During those years, they welcomed their first daughter, Kerry. Bill, along with two classmates, established the UCC Medical School Alumni Association, helping to build connections between graduates from different countries.

Upon graduating from medical school, Bill completed his residency at Albany Medical Center, specializing in pediatrics. In 1966, he and Carole welcomed their second daughter, Deirdre.

Bill entered the U.S. Navy in 1968 and was stationed in Beaufort, South Carolina, caring for the families of the Naval community.

In 1970, Bill joined the practice of Dr. William Boland and Dr. William Petersen, forming Boland, Petersen & O’Dwyer, M.D.s, later known as Shaker Pediatrics.

Bill and Carole raised their family in Loudonville, where they made many friends through the Troy Country Club. In 1976, they built a second home in Chestertown, where they enjoyed year-round Adirondack activities and countless meals, holidays, and adventures at Brant Lake.

For more than 30 years, Bill cared for children and families throughout the Capital Region. He was a founding member of the Irish and American Pediatric Society, a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, past president of the Whitney Young Health Center, and a founding member of Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan (CDPHP).

Bill remained deeply connected to his Irish roots and was active in organizations both in New York and Ireland, including the Irish American Heritage Museum in Albany and the O’Dwyer Cheshire Home and Forestry in County Mayo.

In 2003, Bill retired from pediatrics and moved with Carole to Chestertown. He was an avid skier and a proud member of the Backwoods Ski Club at Gore Mountain. Recognizing the need for greater healthcare access in the North Country, Bill was integral to the success of the Hudson Headwaters Health Network. In later years, he and Carole spent winters on Hilton Head Island, where they looked forward to visits from their children and grandchildren.

Bill’s commitment to caring for others extended well beyond medicine. He loved connecting with people, gave generously of himself, and asked little in return beyond their companionship. 

In recent years, Bill and Carole moved closer to family in Saratoga Springs, where they enjoyed a new community and new friends.

Bill was predeceased by his parents, Paul and Kathleen (Rohan) O’Dwyer, and his sister, Eileen (Tom) Hughes. He is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 70 years, Carole; his daughters, Kerry (Chip) Marrano and Deirdre (Michael) Ladd; his brothers, Rory (Kathie) O’Dwyer and Brian (Marianna) O’Dwyer; six grandchildren, Ryan (Kelsey), Connie, and Ricky (Ali) Marrano, Jack, Patrick, and Declan Ladd; and two great-grandchildren, James and Will Marrano.

Bill’s greatest pride was the family he and Carole created. He took enormous joy in watching his family grow, learn, and give back, and was a beacon of guidance throughout their education, careers, relationships, and life choices. 

He cherished his time with loved ones, his red wine at happy hour, and political discussions. But most of all, he loved his wife.

He leaves behind a legacy of lived values – family, education, service, generosity, community, and unshakable loyalty. He will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bill’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Saratoga County Veterans Service Agency.

A private burial for immediate family only will be held at Saratoga National Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to Compassionate Funeral Care, Inc., 402 Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.compassionatefuneralcare.com.

Paving Update: Week of August 17.

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

Driving through Saratoga Springs can be a challenge between large events, out of state drivers, and the inherent realities of going from a city of 30,000 people normally to 100,000 in the summer. 

While those problems can’t be helped, avoiding areas of construction can be. Here is the paving update for the week of August 17. 

• Monday, August 17: Trottingham Road will be milled from Hathorn Boulevard to Tamarack Trail — phase one of the project. 

• Tuesday, August 18: Trottingham Road will be milled from Hathorn Boulevard to Tamarack Trail — phase one of the project.

• Tuesday, August 18: White Birch Path will be milled from Trottingham Road to Curt Boulevard.

• Wednesday, August 19: Trottingham Road will be paved from Hathorn Boulevard to Tamarack Trail — phase one of the project.

• Thursday, August 20: Trottingham Road will be paved from Hathorn Boulevard to Tamarack Trail — phase one of the project.

• Thursday, August 20:  White Birch Path will be paved from Trottingham Road to Curt Boulevard.

Work on these days begins at 6:00 a.m. and is completed at 4:00 p.m. There is no street parking or through traffic on those days.

Week of  August 14 – August 20, 2026

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Blotter.

Blotter Report

Between August 2 and August 10, the Saratoga Springs Police reported 912 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. 147 Traffic Stops

2. 83 Welfare Checks

3. 62 911 open line incidents

For the State Police, between July 29 and August 4, New York State Police reported 191 incidents that didn’t result in arrest in their daily blotter reports. In addition, State Police arrested 26 people on 55 charges and identified 54 people as being involved in vehicle accidents. The most common incident reported by State Police was a property damage accident with 28 incidents. The top three municipalities for incidents are: 

1. 43 in Clifton Park 

2. 28 in Wilton 

3. 23 in Halfmoon

Note: the blotter report issued on Aug. 8 was unavailable at time of publication

August 5, 2026. 3:37 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident on charges of 3rd degree assault with intent to cause physical injury and resisting arrest. Arrest occurred on Union Avenue.

August 5, 2026. 5:51 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of 3rd degree assault with intent to cause physical injury and act in a manner to injure a child less than 17. Arrest occurred on Vanderbilt Terrace.

August 5, 2026. 11:05 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident in the City of Saratoga Springs on charges of felony aggravated DWI: with a child passenger less than 16- first offense, misdemeanor act in a manner to injure a child less than 17, misdemeanor 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle impaired by drugs- first offense. Appearance ticket issued.

August 6, 2026. 01:11 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Delmar resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of felony aggravated unlicensed operation: permanent revocation, felony criminal possession of stolen property- value over $3,000, misdemeanor 3rd degree unlawful fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle, misdemeanor 2nd degree reckless endangerment and misdemeanor reckless driving. Central arraignment.

August 6, 2026. 2:05 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of 2nd degree harassment: physical contact, and act in a manner to injure a child less than 17. Arrest occurred on Lake Avenue.

August 7, 2026. 10:17 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Syracuse resident on charges of 3rd degree grand larceny: property value exceeds $3000. Arrest occurred on I-87 South. 

August 7, 2026. 9:29 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a homeless/transient individual on charges of 3rd degree criminal possession of a weapon- previous conviction, and 3rd degree assault: with intent to cause physical injury. Arrest occurred on Circular Street.

August 8, 2026. 12:28 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Clifton Park resident on charges of 3rd degree assault: with intent to cause physical injury. Arrest occurred on Caroline Street.

August 8, 2026. 3:13 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Glens Falls resident in the Town of Moreau on charges of felony 3rd degree robbery.

August 8, 2026. 9:47 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of DWI- first offense and operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher- first offense. Arrest occurred on Lake Avenue.

August 9, 2026. 11:41 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident and a Corinth resident in the Town of Moreau. The Saratoga Springs resident was charged with felony tampering with physical evidence: conceal/destroy, felony 4th degree criminal possession of a narcotic drug, misdemeanor 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and misdemeanor obstruction of governmental administration- prevent official function. The Corinth resident was arrested on charges of misdemeanor 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Released on their own recognizance.

August 10, 2026. 1:33 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Guilderland resident in the City of Saratoga Springs on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense, misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher- first offense and aggravated DWI- BAC of .18 or higher- no priors. Appearance ticket issued.

Appearance ticket issued. Arrest stemmed from a single vehicle accident in which one person was injured. 

August 10, 2026. 5:30 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Fort Edward juvenile in the Town of Malta on charges of felony 4th degree criminal possession of stolen property: motor vehicle not motorcycle, felony 5th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance: cocaine 500 milligrams, misdemeanor 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, misdemeanor 3rd degree unlawful fleeing a police officer in a  motor vehicle, and resisting arrest. 

August 11, 2026. 3:35 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident in the Town of Milton on charges of misdemeanor criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation- apply pressure, and misdemeanor 3rd degree assault with intent to cause physical injury. Released on own recognizance.

August 11, 2026. 2:22 p.m.- New York State Police arrested an Albany resident in the Town of Malta on charges of felony identity theft: assume another’s identity- cause financial loss >$500. Appearance ticket issued.

August 11, 2026. 11:02 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Queensbury resident in the Town of Malta on charges of felony criminal contempt and aggravated family offense. Appearance ticket issued.

Summer-Smooth Confidence: A Naturally Refreshed Look with Dysport at Complexions Med Spa

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Featured.

Summer has a way of inviting us into the light—more outdoor gatherings, more photos, more moments where we want to feel effortlessly radiant. It’s also an ideal season to soften expression lines while preserving what matters most: your natural beauty, your unique facial movement, and a rested, refreshed appearance that never looks “done.”

At Complexions Med Spa, we approach aesthetic care the way we approach wellness: thoughtfully, sustainably, and with an unwavering commitment to personalized results.

Why Summer Is the Perfect Time to Refresh Expression Lines

Warm weather often means brighter days and more squinting—hello, crow’s feet. Add in summer stress, travel, and busy schedules, and expression lines can start to look more pronounced.

Dysport is a refined, trusted neuromodulator designed to soften the look of dynamic lines—the lines created by repeated facial movement—while keeping your look authentically you.

Common areas we treat with Dysport include:

Forehead lines (horizontal lines from lifting the brows)

Frown lines (the “11s” between the brows)

Crow’s feet (fine lines around the eyes)

The goal isn’t to erase your expression—it’s to gently smooth and soften so you look like you’ve had a beautiful rest… not a dramatic change.

Dysport: Smooth, Subtle, and Beautifully Natural

Whether you’re new to neuromodulators or simply maintaining results you already love, Dysport can be an elegant way to refine your look.

What many guests love about Dysport:

  • A refreshed, relaxed appearance without losing natural facial character
  • A polished look that pairs beautifully with summer skincare (think glow, hydration, and SPF)
  • A treatment that fits seamlessly into a busy lifestyle—quick, professional, and tailored
  • At Complexions, we focus on results that feel as good as they look: soft, balanced, and harmonious with your features.

The Complexions Difference: Personalized, Expert-Led Aesthetics

True beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all—and neither is Dysport. Your facial anatomy, muscle movement, and aesthetic goals are uniquely yours, which is why every visit begins with an individualized plan.

During your complimentary consultation, our expert team will:

  • Assess your facial movement and expression patterns
  • Discuss your goals (natural softening, maintenance, first-time treatment, etc.)
  • Design a customized approach to help you look rested, refreshed, and beautifully you
  • We believe confidence starts with healthy skin and a wellness-forward mindset—where aesthetic treatments complement your natural vitality.

A Luxury Experience with an Eco-Conscious Heart

At Complexions Med Spa, luxury and responsibility go hand in hand. From the way we thoughtfully curate your experience to our commitment to mindful practices, our goal is to provide care that supports both personal well-being and conscious beauty values.

You’ll feel the difference in the details: calming energy, meticulous technique, and a serene environment designed to help you exhale.

Limited Summer Availability + A Subtle Invitation to Save

Summer appointments tend to fill quickly—and if you’ve been considering a refresh, this season offers a particularly lovely opportunity.

For a limited time, enjoy 20% OFF Dysport—a perfect way to step into the season looking smooth, rested, and quietly radiant.

Appointments are limited throughout the summer.

Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation and reserve your preferred time.

Ready for a Natural, Summer-Soft Refresh?

If you’re craving a look that feels lighter, smoother, and effortlessly polished—Dysport may be your perfect match. Let’s create a personalized plan that enhances your features, supports your confidence, and lasts well beyond the season.

Call now to book your complimentary consultation and enjoy 20% OFF Dysport while summer availability lasts.

Spa Specials