Skip to main content

Author: Saratoga TODAY

Elizabeth “Bette” Mullan

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Elizabeth “Bette” Mullan, 94, of Saratoga Springs, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 19, 2026, at Saratoga Hospital with family members by her bedside. Born on August 6, 1931, in Saratoga Springs, NY, she was the daughter of the late Roy and Amelia Clark.

Bette was a proud graduate of Saratoga High School, Class of 1951, where she was involved in numerous extracurricular activities. She carried that Blue Streak pride throughout her life and remained actively involved with her class reunion committee for decades, cherishing the friendships and memories it brought.

Following graduation, Bette attended nursing school and worked for a short time as a nurse at Child’s Hospital in Albany, NY. It was during this period that Elizabeth “Bette” Clark met the love of her life, Tom, at a youth center. In true Bette fashion, she asked him to dance at a Sadie Hawkins dance, and the rest is history. Bette and Tom shared 62 steadfast years of marriage before his passing in 2014.  Bette was also a devoted homemaker, known for her unwavering love, selflessness, and dedication to her family.

Bette was a member of St. Clement’s Church in Saratoga Springs and Holy Spirit Church in Nalcrest, Florida, where she and Tom spent their winter months for 37 years. She enjoyed her time in Florida, embracing every moment with joy and energy. Her days were often filled with tennis, water aerobics, bocce ball, shuffleboard, poolside relaxation, and lively community dances shared with many dear friends. Bette also had a deep love for Schroon Lake, NY where she enjoyed reading books and continuing to soak in the sunshine.

An animal lover with a special place in her heart for dogs, Bette’s kindness toward all animals reflected the love and compassion she showed to everyone she met. Yet her compassion did not compromise her competitiveness when a card deck came out. No matter the game, no matter her age OR yours, you were bound to lose.

Above all else, Bette treasured her family. Known for her positive energy, constant encouragement, and warm presence, she was the heart of every gathering. She took immense pride in her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, never missing an opportunity to cheer them on at sporting events, performances, or support their many activities. Family traditions were especially meaningful to her, from vast holiday celebrations filled with laughter to cherished dinners that brought everyone together.

In addition to her parents and husband, Bette was predeceased by her sister, Dorothy Richmond. Survivors include her children: Colleen (Jeff) Becktoft, Thomas Mullan, Jr., Daniel (Doranne) Mullan, all of Saratoga Springs, and Kathy (Brad) Pickert of Colorado; ten grandchildren; and twenty great-grandchildren.

Affectionately known to many as “GG, Gram, and Mom,” Bette will be deeply missed. She was the beloved matriarch of her family, a devoted wife, sister, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her contagious laugh and compassionate heart will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Calling hours were Thursday, January 22, 2026, at William J. Burke & Sons / Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518-584-5373). 

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 23, 2026, at St. Clement’s Church, 231 Lake Avenue, Saratoga Springs. 

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

B-Spa Baseball Bash on Feb. 7

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Sports.

BALLSTON SPA — Ballston Spa Junior Baseball is holding an offseason social event on Feb. 7 in support of the league.

The night will feature live music (courtesy of The Bootleggers), food, beverages, a 50/50 raffle, and up-for-grabs raffle baskets.  

Tickets are available at www.ballstonspabaseball.org.

The Ballston Spa Junior Baseball league offers a range of recreational and competitive travel baseball options for players throughout the Ballston Spa Central School District, including Malta, Milton, Ballston Spa, Rock City Falls, and surrounding areas. It offers spring, summer, and fall seasons. The program is also considered a pathway for young players to eventually join their middle and high school teams.

Robert W. English

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Robert W. English, 77, died on January 20, 2026, of respiratory illness. 

Known variously as Robert, Bobby, Bob, Igor, Bingle, Dad, Pop, and Grandpa, he leaves behind a vast tribe of friends, colleagues, and family members who will miss his irascible cheer and love of good conversation.

 Proud graduate of Brooklyn Prep and Syracuse University and a Sigma Chi, much of Bob’s career was behind the scenes of News Channel 6 producing the news, and, for many years, the well-known Melodies of Christmas, often sneaking in cameos of friends and family in the audience. He left CBS 6 to start his own production company, Luzerne Productions. He had a deep passion for producing long form videos for tourism and charitable causes. When the otherwise affable Bob was in production mode, it was best to do as he said or get out of the way. 

He leaves behind son Ryan, and his family, Allison, Brooklyn, and Julian; son Trevor, and his family Declan, and Spencer; a plethora of close cousins, many of whom shared with him the pleasures of his beloved Lake Luzerne; and long-time partner “the lovely Joan,” (Taub) with whom he shared a rich life, whether it be catching the first lift at Gore, or sipping champagne on the Champs-Élysées; and many friends who valued his good company.

 A celebration of his life will be held in the Spring where we will gather to share memorable and humorous stories, celebrating a life well lived. Donations may be made to Columbia Presbyterian Hospital at cuimcgiving.org/LungTransplant, the Adirondack Folk School, Lake Luzerne, NY or the ACLU. In these moments of remembrance, we encourage you to share your memories of Bob and upload photos to his memorial page at www.flynnbrosinc.com.

Association for Community Living Responds to Governor Hochul’s Executive Budget Proposal

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

The Association for Community Living (ACL) today acknowledged Governor Kathy Hochul’s Executive Budget proposal and expressed appreciation for her continued support of mental health and supportive housing programs, even as the State confronts a challenging fiscal year marked by expiring funding sources and overall spending constraints.

Among the proposals most impactful to ACL and its member agencies are a 1.7 percent Targeted Inflationary Increase (TII) for Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Services, and $71 million in funding to increase rates for Office of Mental Health (OMH) and Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) supported housing programs.

ACL views this investment in supported housing rates as a positive and meaningful signal of the Governor’s recognition of the growing financial pressures facing mental health housing providers. The Association anticipates these funds will support long-needed updates to Scattered Site Supportive Housing rates, as well as stipend increases for community residence and supported program single-room occupancy, (CR-SRO and SP-SRO) programs.

“Governor Hochul has long been a champion for mental health and supportive housing, and we are grateful for her continued commitment during a difficult budget cycle,” said Emil Slane, Executive Director of the Association for Community Living. “The proposed $71 million for supported housing rates is an important step toward strengthening programs that serve some of New York’s most vulnerable residents.”

The Governor’s proposed 1.7 percent Targeted Inflationary Increase, which would apply broadly across provider budgets, represents a shift from prior years when increases were partially restricted to specific cost categories, such as staffing. ACL noted that while this proposal offers helpful flexibility, it falls short of the 2.7 percent increase tied to the Consumer Price Index that ACL and behavioral health advocates have urged to fully reflect current inflationary pressures.

“While a 1.7 percent increase is certainly preferable to no increase at all, it still represents a gap relative to inflation and the real-world costs of operating these essential programs,” Slane added. “Providers continue to face outdated funding models, significant workforce shortages, and an urgent need to offer wages that reflect the complexity and intensity of care being delivered every day.”

ACL emphasized that it remains hopeful that, as budget negotiations continue, the Governor and Legislature will be able to close the remaining gap and make additional adjustments in the final enacted budget.

“We look forward to continuing to work with policymakers ahead of our advocacy day on March 4, to ensure that New York’s mental health housing system is adequately resourced, sustainable, and able to meet the growing needs of individuals and communities across the state,” Emil said.

With more than 100 member agencies supporting nearly 50,000 individuals with serious mental illness, ACL remains committed to strengthening New York’s mental health housing system through advocacy, partnership, and community engagement. 

For more information about ACL visit, https://aclnys.org/. 

Discover Saratoga Announces 27th Annual Chowderfest

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Featured, News.

Discover Saratoga is proud to announce the return of its signature winter event, the 27th Annual Chowderfest, taking place on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in Saratoga County.

Presented by DeCrescente Distributing Company, Coors Banquet, Saranac, and Surfside, this beloved community event invites locals and visitors alike to sample 4 oz. servings of chowder for $2 each from roughly 80 Saratoga County restaurants and businesses.

“For nearly three decades, Chowderfest has been one of those events that truly defines winter in Saratoga,” said Discover Saratoga President Darryl Leggieri. “It brings people together during the quieter season, supports our local businesses, and reminds visitors that Saratoga County is vibrant year-round. We’re excited to welcome everyone back for another unforgettable day.”

“Chowderfest is one of the best days of the year to go out with friends and enjoy some great tasting chowder and beverages,” said Vice President of DeCrescente Distributing Company Carmine DeCrescente. “Saranac Brewery will be kicking off its seasonal Blueberry Blonde Ale at this year’s event, and you can find it, along with Surfside and Coors Banquet, at bars and restaurants throughout Saratoga County. Cheers to drinking responsibly and may the best chowder win!”  

In addition to chowder tastings, attendees can enjoy live entertainment and family-friendly activities throughout Saratoga. To enhance the experience and ensure pedestrian safety, Broadway will be closed to vehicular traffic from Lake Avenue to Washington Avenue from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Free shuttle service will once again be provided, with four shuttles running continuously between Saratoga Casino Hotel and downtown from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Official Chowderfest merchandise—including long-sleeve t-shirts, knit beanies, and the Chowderfest spoon—will be available for purchase at the Saratoga Hilton Lower Lobby and the Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center.

Voting will take place through the Discover Saratoga mobile app, with one vote permitted per device. Voting closes at 4:30 p.m., and winners will be announced at 6:00 p.m. at the Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center.

Participants who vote in the app will be entered to win $1,000 in Saratoga-area gift cards, redeemable at local businesses and restaurants.

“We encourage visitors to turn Chowderfest into a full weekend experience,” Leggieri added. “With special hotel rates, dining, shopping, and winter activities, there’s so much to enjoy beyond the event itself.”

For event details, participating vendors, hotel specials, and shuttle information, visit DiscoverSaratoga.org/Chowderfest or call (518) 584-1531.

Special thanks to our sponsors, including DeCrescente Distributing Company, Coors Banquet, Saranac, Surfside, Westminster Bakers Co., Saratoga Springs City Center, T-Shirt Graphics, Saratoga Hilton, The Daily Gazette, Graves Brothers Home Improvement, Market 32 by Price Chopper in partnership with Old Bay, iHeartMedia, Yankee Home, Nemer CJDR of Saratoga, Upstate Transit of Saratoga, Saratoga Casino Hotel, Saratoga Bridges, Renewal by Andersen, Romeo Ford & Subaru, Saratoga.com, DePaula Auto Group, Townsquare Media, Purdy’s Discount Wine & Liquor, Saratoga Today, Albany Broadcasting, Another Day Another Diner, Reliable Onsite Services, Saratoga Automobile Museum, Julie & Co. Realty, LLC, Saratoga Escape Rooms, Mostly Modern Festival, Adirondack Trust & Amsure, and Impressions of Saratoga.

DMV Offices to Close for Statewide Technology Upgrade

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

The Saratoga County Department of Motor Vehicles, along with all DMV offices in New York state, will undergo a large-scale system upgrade next month that will require its three locations to alter their operating hours.

In February, the New York State DMV is implementing the initial phase of a multi-year project to replace and modernize its aging technology systems. To bring the first part of the new system online, the three Saratoga County DMV locations — Ballston Spa, Clifton Park and Wilton — will close early on Friday, February 13, as all DMV operations statewide must cease by 2 p.m. The Saratoga County offices will adjust their closure times according to customer volume that day to ensure the last transaction is complete prior to 2 p.m.

The offices will remain closed Monday, which is the Presidents Day holiday, and Tuesday (February 16-17).

During this time, the state DMV will migrate about 30 million records to the new system and complete the transition to bring the first phase of the upgrade online. No DMV transactions will be able to be completed during this period, including through the state DMV website.

The state DMV’s implementation timeline calls for offices to be operational and open for customer transactions beginning Wednesday, February 18. Saratoga County DMVs plan to open at 8 a.m. that day. Any changes to that will be posted on the county website and the Saratoga County DMV Facebook page.

“While it’s not ideal to close to the public, we look forward to the positive outcome these changes are expected to bring in the long-term for our customers and our hardworking DMV clerks,” Saratoga County Clerk Craig A. Hayner said.

Walsh Honors Cottrell Paper Company’s Inclusion on the Historic Business Preservation Registry

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh presented a proclamation celebrating the inclusion of the Cottrell Paper company in the Historic Business Preservation Registry (Courtesy of Mary Beth Walsh).

Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh (R, C-Ballston) presented a New York State Assembly proclamation to Cottrell Paper Company yesterday to celebrate its induction into the New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry following Walsh’s nomination. 

Receiving the awards were owners Jimmy Cottrell and Josh Cottrell. During her time in office, Walsh has recognized numerous local businesses and organizations, including Morris Ford, Curtis Lumber Co., Stewart’s Shops, Bowman Orchards and Ballston Spa National Bank.

The New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry program is administered by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation and highlights businesses that have been in operation for at least 50 years and have contributed to their community’s history.

“It was an honor to celebrate this well-deserved achievement with Cottrell Paper, especially as they marked their biggest week in sales history this week, too,” said Walsh. “They are customer focused with everything they do. They say it themselves—they’ll design exactly what you need.”

Cottrell Paper continues to innovate, including working to develop paper straws and unveiling a new brand, Mill 26, under which they sell products made fully from hemp. They are the only business in the industry to produce 100% heavy hemp paper bags.

“Having held a record of excellence for nearly 100 years and still going strong—now operating seven days a week with 51 employees producing 100,000 to 250,000 pounds of paper per week—is nothing short of remarkable. I wish them all the best and continued success,” concluded Walsh.

Racing Museum Offering Free Giveaway on Jan. 19

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Sports.

Photo provided by the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame will give its first 25 visitors a free, commemorative, packable museum blanket with paid admission on Monday, Jan. 19, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The museum will be open on the holiday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

The Museum, which is otherwise closed on Monday and Tuesday from January through May and Sept. 8 through December, will be open on the following Monday holidays in 2026: 

• Feb. 16, Presidents’ Day, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (featuring “The Forgotten Foundation: How Black Equestrians Helped Build American Thoroughbred Racing” lecture at 11 a.m.)

• May 26, Memorial Day, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

• Sept. 7, Labor Day, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

• Oct. 12, Columbus Day, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Additional Monday giveaways and special programming on those dates will be announced soon.

Racers Road Games Yield Mixed Results

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Sports.

Team photo via the Saratoga Racers.

MECHANICVILLE — The Saratoga Racers rang in the new year on the road, splitting a pair of contests on Jan. 3 and 11. The American Basketball Association (ABA) squad will wrap up its away series with two more games this weekend against the Hudson Valley Rivermen and Herkimer Originals, before returning home on Jan. 24.

On Jan. 3, against the Binghamton Bulldogs, Saratoga fell 127 to 109 in a game that featured 11 lead changes. It was the Racers’ second-straight loss, dropping their season record to 4-3. All three of the Racers’ losses this season have come at the hands of teams ranked in the top 20 of the ABA’s weekly power rankings.

John Ryals III collected 24 points to lead all Saratoga scorers. The Racers poured in buckets at will in the paint, shooting 38-65 from inside the arc and 9-26 (35%) from beyond the arc. Saratoga pressured the ball all game, collecting 17 steals. Tobias Holmes led his team with 3 swipes. Joey Harden led Saratoga with 7 rebounds. Holmes finished with 19 points, RJ Rosa added 13, and Isaiah Grandison and Luke Perez both netted 11.

On Jan. 11, the Racers fared better, beating the Boston Sharks 161 to 124. The victory improved Saratoga’s season record to 5-3. Donovan Williams scored 15 points, grabbed 11 rebounds, and dished out 13 assists, earning the first-ever triple-double in Racer’s history.

Holmes led all scorers with 39 points, and every other Racer who played in the contest finished with a double-digit scoring performance.

Saratoga controlled the game from the opening tip, never giving up the advantage. The lead reached a peak of 48 points at 106-58.

The Racers again scored at will in the paint. They went 48-77 from inside the arc. They controlled the glass, collecting 66 total rebounds, with Isaiah Grandison leading the team with 16 boards. Williams led his squad with 13 assists and 7 steals. Additional top scorers for Saratoga included Rosa (32 points), Wheelings (25), Cam Thomas (19), Grandison (18), Williams (15), and Perez (13).

Snowshoe Events Scheduled for February

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Sports.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Two snowshoe events organized by Saratoga Stryders, an affiliate chapter of the Road Runners Club of America, are planned for next month.

The Saratoga Winterfest 5K Snowshoe Run/Walk will be held on Sunday, Feb. 1 at 11 a.m. in the Saratoga Spa State Park. There will be no indoor facilities and participants will meet in the quadrangle near the restrooms.

The Camp Saratoga 8K Snowshoe Race will be held on Saturday, Feb. 7 at 10:30 a.m. at Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park. 

Registration for both events can be done online through www.runsignup.com with day-of onsite. A limited supply of Dion snowshoes will be available to rent for $10 on a first come/first serve basis.  

For more information about these events, visit www.saratogastryders.org. Questions? Call Laura at 518-581-1278 or laura@saratogastryders.org.