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Election Day Preview: Meet the Candidates from Saratoga Springs

Written by Aidan Cahill on . Posted in Featured, News.


Here is a look at the candidates running in Saratoga Springs

With Election Day right around the corner, Saratoga TODAY reached out to the candidates running in competitive races in Saratoga Springs and the surrounding areas. 

Saratoga Springs has one candidate running in an uncontested election, Incumbent Public Safety Commissioner Tim Coll who is endorsed by both the Republican and Democratic Parties is running for reelection. 

Commissioner of Finance Candidate: Jo Ann Kiernan (R, One Saratoga)

With more than 25 years of experience in accounting and finance as a Certified Public Accountant, I bring a deep understanding of fiscal responsibility, transparency, and strategic planning. My professional background has provided me with the tools to ensure that financial decisions are made thoughtfully, sustainably, and always in the best interest of the community.

I currently serve as Deputy Mayor and previously spent nine years on the Saratoga Springs City School District Board of Education. Additionally, I have served as treasurer for both our homeowners association and the school PTSO. My husband, Todd, and I have proudly called Saratoga Springs home for 22 years, raising our two sons, Aidan and Will, in this vibrant and caring community. I am deeply grateful for all that Saratoga Springs has given us and honored to contribute to the city we love and proudly call home.

Now more than ever, our city’s finance office requires strong, experienced leadership grounded in accounting and fiscal management. Saratoga Springs is facing significant financial challenges due to a lack of long-term planning and accountability in the budgeting process. This has resulted in difficult decisions during the current budget cycle, including potential cuts to essential city services and reduced funding for not-for-profit organizations that so many residents depend on.

These organizations are the heart of our community, supporting families, assisting the homeless, feeding those in need, and providing opportunities for our youth and seniors. When funding is reduced, it’s not just programs that suffer, it’s people.

We must move beyond year-to-year budgeting and instead implement a transparent, forward-looking financial strategy that safeguards our city’s long-term stability. My top priority will be to evaluate the city’s financial position, strengthen forecasting tools, and work collaboratively with all departments to ensure a sustainable fiscal future for Saratoga Springs.

Commissioner of Finance Candidate: Shafer Gaston (D, Working families) 

I am Shafer Gaston, running to be your next Commissioner of Finance. I am running on the premise that a combination of technical skills and “soft” skills is needed on the City Council. There are a number of issues that we have seen in the last few months where better stakeholder management and communications would have carried the day. We’ve seen resident confusion on paid parking. We’ve heard conflicting timelines on short-term rental legislation. And just last week, we’ve seen seniors, working families, and students get the rug pulled out from under them by cancelling bus routes. Changes shouldn’t catch our residents by surprise, yet we are failing to identify who the stakeholders are and how best to reach them and bring them into the conversation. 

  As a project management professional, as well as a former Naval officer and engineering manager, I have years of experience getting everyone on the same page and making sure they walk away feeling heard and enfranchised. No one will get everything that they want, but they will understand why the City made the choice that it did. The trick is to talk to people before the decision rather than trying to walk it back after the damage is done. 

  I want to keep Saratoga Springs on a successful track and to do that we need to update our land use plans for the 21st century, plan our capital improvements such as the police station and the DPW garage in an integrated fashion that will keep our debt low, and most importantly improve our communication with residents. This will create a positive cultural and economic environment that will provide the quality of life at affordable prices our residents have come to expect. A vote for me is a vote for these objectives. 

Incumbent Candidate for Commissioner of Public Works: Chuck Marshall (R, One Saratoga)

When I began serving as Commissioner of Public Works, I pledged to uphold the integrity of the office and work as hard as possible to improve the quality of life here in our great City. I have delivered on the campaign promises I made and have done so with a deep appreciation of the trust you have given me. While there has been a great deal of turnover of the DPW seat in recent years, I believe my re-election will allow for much needed consistency and stability within the Public Works Department. 

I am the first DPW Commissioner who has served holding an Engineering Degree and Master’s Degree in Public Administration.  In addition to my formal education, I also have private sector experience as the Director of Real Estate for Stewart’s Shops.  In this capacity, I’ve participated in over 500 municipal and regulatory meetings along with frequently presenting at relevant conferences.  My technical expertise and on-the-job experience allow me to work across the table with my fellow Council members to get things done.  

Serving as DPW Commissioner requires balancing the needs of the department with the needs of our community.  The City of Saratoga Springs is upstate New York’s treasure and it’s our job to ensure it maintains that status.  

During my first term as Commissioner, we’ve implemented quality of life changes such as creating a first-ever leaf pickup schedule, beginning the process of relocating the DPW garage out of a residential neighborhood, improving our sewer and water infrastructure, and bringing in new development such as Treehouse and Chipotle.

While we’ve accomplished much in a short period of time, there’s still much to do.  With early voting already underway, I humbly request your vote to continue as your Commissioner of Public Works, and to serve you and this great City.

Candidate for Commissioner of Public Works: BK Keramati (D)

The ultimate responsibility of public officials is to improve our city for the benefit of our citizens. We have had enough condos that cater to the well-off; we need more affordable housing, better sidewalks and safer streets so our children can prosper here and grow their families here. 

The most urgent issue facing our city is water. The primary source of our water, Loughberry Lake, is degrading significantly in quality and quantity. This has been going on for years. Our Department of Public Works has the sole responsibility for assuring that we have a safe and plentiful supply of water. But it has failed to inform us of how critical this situation is and what we should be doing about it. We are being told that RFPs (request for proposals) have been issued to find new water! Apparently, things are happening out of the public eye. This is not acceptable.

In addition, our water infrastructure is in serious need for upgrade, a fact that DPW has not adequately addressed for over 20 years. To me, this is not acceptable either. 

So, before you vote, I urge you to think about two things:

1. WATER. How important is water in your lives? And how important is it for Saratoga Springs to have a reliable, safe, and plentiful supply for years to come?

2. TRUST. Please take a look at the candidates and just ask: who is funding their campaigns? Who are they beholden to?

Two thirds of my opponent’s campaign fund come from businesses, not real people. My supporters are all real people just like you. I am beholden to you, and only you.

And if I am elected Commissioner, I will work hard to bring civility and respect to City Council proceedings.

Incumbent Candidate for Commissioner of Accounts: Dillon Moran (D, Working Families) 

From his campaign website – Dillon Moran has served as Saratoga Springs Commissioner of Accounts since January 2022. Under his leadership, the office has been modernized and his work has brought a vibrancy back to the city that we haven’t seen in a long time.

 With a chemical engineering degree from Clarkson University, Dillon has over 30 years of business experience managing money, people and projects. He is also a partner in several successful local businesses that have contributed significantly to the success of our local economy.  Dillon has taken on new challenges without reservation and has created innovative approaches to the issues facing our city.

Dillon’s experience in risk assessment, management and mitigation skills have helped the city tremendously during his tenure. Dillon wants to continue to serve you, the taxpayers and residents of Saratoga Springs, to continue making the city we call home the best it can be.

Candidate for Commissioner of Accounts: Jessica Troisi (R, One Saratoga) 

I was drawn to Saratoga Springs 32 years ago by the charm of our city, the strength of our community, and the idea of a good life for my family. I’m now running for Commissioner of Accounts because I believe our city deserves leadership that reflects those same values and leads with integrity, accountability, and civility.

The Commissioner of Accounts plays a crucial role in city operations. This office should be a model of transparency, efficiency, and ethical leadership. Recent years have brought controversy, costly lawsuits, and a breakdown of public trust. I believe we can do better — and I’m committed to proving that with action, not rhetoric.

I’ll work respectfully with every member of our city council and every resident, regardless of party, because good government begins with listening — and it succeeds through collaboration.

I hope to earn your trust, your support, and your vote on election day. Let’s move forward together.

Candidate for Mayor: Michele Madigan (D) 

Serving as the City’s Finance Commissioner for a decade, I delivered results you can see — stable or reduced property taxes, millions saved through smart refinancing, creation of the Spa Solar Park that now offsets nearly 40% of the City’s electricity costs, and conversion of every streetlight to energy-efficient LED. I set aside city-owned parcels to build three affordable homes downtown with Habitat for Humanity and partnered with New York State Parks and Recreation to fence and improve the City Dog Park for neighborhood families and their pets. As your current County Supervisor, I worked across party lines to finally secure a permanent location for our Code Blue Shelter — something our community had needed for years.

As Mayor, I’ll continue addressing homelessness with compassion and accountability by working closely with RISE and the Outreach Homeless Court, which are making real progress in connecting people with services, treatment, and stability. I’ll also focus on everyday quality-of-life issues: addressing truck traffic through our downtown and historic neighborhoods, enforcing parking and delivery rules to stop double parking, and making Broadway safer, cleaner, and more pedestrian-friendly.

We must also modernize our building and planning departments, expand affordable and workforce housing, and continue investing in sustainability and smart-city technology to position Saratoga Springs for the future.

Let’s keep Saratoga moving forward — with smart growth, clean energy, efficient government, and compassion for those in need. I humbly ask for your vote on Row A, the Democratic line, during early voting or on Election Day, November 5.

Incumbent Candidate for Mayor: John Safford (R, One Saratoga) 

From his campaign website: John Safford is a veteran, a community leader, and the current Mayor of Saratoga Springs. A longtime resident and public servant, he brought civility back to City Hall and has become a steady, trusted hand in challenging times. With decades of leadership experience in both public and private sectors, Mayor Safford is known for listening, showing up, and getting results — without political theater.

Whether it’s cutting red tape, expanding affordable housing, or supporting local nonprofits and seniors, Mayor Safford is dedicated to building a stronger Saratoga — for everyone.

Candidate for Supervisor: Minita Sanghvi (D, Working Families) 

From her campaign website:  

Minita Sanghvi has served as the Commissioner of Finance for the last 4 years and is often called the voice of reason on the City Council. 

She is a business professor at Skidmore College with an undergrad in accounting, an MBA and a PhD. She served on the Library Board for 5 years, was a founding member of the Human Rights Task Force and also served on the Charter Review Commission in 2016. 

She has lived in Saratoga Springs for 11 years with her wife, son and  their newly adopted 3 kittens. 

As Saratoga Springs Finance Commissioner for two terms, Minita has built bipartisan coalitions to get things done.

– Maintained AA+ credit rating for the city 

– Collected 12 years of delinquent taxes  

– Opened a third EMS/Fire station and hired 16 new firefighters 

– Established a 24/7 homeless shelter 

– Added sidewalks, bike lanes, parks, and playgrounds to enhance quality of life

– Increased affordable housing  

– Advanced environmental programs such as community compost and urban forestry 

– Introduced Participatory Budgeting to fund citizen initiatives, such as pollinator gardens, dog watering station, and children’s literacy bus. 

Candidate for Supervisor: George Ehinger (R, One Saratoga) 

My name is George Ehinger, and I’m asking for your vote for Saratoga County Supervisor. I’m a 20-plus-year resident, husband and father. I built my career leading businesses across different industries and around the world. I know how to bring people together, solve tough problems and move good ideas forward with clear thinking and measurable results, not ideology.

 This year’s race is critical for the city of Saratoga Springs because, for the first time in decades we will be sending 2 new Supervisors to represent us at the county level as neither of the incumbents is seeking re-election.  Our strongest, most consistent voice at the county for the past 18 years has been Matt Veitch, a longtime friend who all but hand selected me to run in his place because he knows my collaborative, problem solving approach will work well at the county level.    

 Phil Barrett, Chairman of the County Board of Supervisors has said of this election “if Saratoga Springs doesn’t replace Matt Veitch with another strong voice that can collaborate with other Supervisors the city will suffer as far as representation.”  

In that interview on Saratoga Report Chairman Barrett went on to say—

 “When it gets right down to it, it’s all about and being able to develop good ideas, speak to your colleagues, collaborate and come together on a solution. That’s how the Board of Supervisors works and those are the people that we need in office.

“I see George as somebody who understands that very clearly and I think he’ll be a strong voice for Saratoga Springs.”

So, this election, make the best choice for Saratoga Springs—vote for George Ehinger for County Supervisor.

Candidate for Supervisor: Sarah Burger (D, One Saratoga)

As I’ve listened to voters over the last several months, a few issues top their list. First, residents are very concerned about skyrocketing costs. We are feeling the squeeze in all aspects of our lives including National Grid, food and now even our city taxes are going up by an unknown amount with the prospect of essential items being cut, like the funding for the senior center.  

Even though I will have no vote on the city budget, I will have one at the county level and as your next Saratoga Springs County supervisor I will fight to keep our taxes low.

City residents have also expressed a strong desire that there be civility in government.  Accountability lies with the voters whom I trust to choose the best candidates to represent their interests and vow to work professionally with whomever is elected. 

Residents also express deep concern about dealing with homelessness. The County has a mandate to provide a Code blue with a permanent code blue shelter. This past year the county purchased land on Ballston Avenue. The next step for the county is to negotiate a land lease with Shelters of Saratoga. As your next Saratoga Springs County Supervisor, I will advocate that the new building be utilized for more than just code blue. The temporary measures we have now are wholly inadequate, and we need additional county resources.  

My candidacy is endorsed by the Saratoga Springs Democratic Committee, One Saratoga, the Saratoga Springs Professional Firefighters, the New York League of Conservation Voters, former Mayor and Supervisor Joanne Yepsen, former Mayor and Supervisor AC Riley, among several others. I humbly ask for your vote on November 4. You can find me on Row A or Row E.

Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office To Implement Text-T0-911 To Enhance Emergency Accessibility

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


The Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office has announced that Text-to-911 will be coming to the county over the next 90 days (courtesy of National Emergency Number Association)

The Saratoga County Sheriffs Office today announced the implementation of text-to-911, a vital emergency communication service that allows residents to text message 911 dispatchers when calling is not possible. 

Text-to-911 provides deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speech-impaired individuals direct access to 911 and can be beneficial when it is unsafe for the caller to speak with telecommunicators. The technology also provides automatic translation for more than 200 languages, allowing both the caller and the telecommunicator to communicate in their primary language. 

This new service will improve access to emergency services in Saratoga County and improve response times for those with hearing or speech impairments and non-English-speaking callers.

Officials stress that in an emergency, community members should continue to dial 911 as their first option, following the national guidance: “call if you can, text if you can’t.”

“The ability to text 911 in an emergency when someone may be unable to make a phone call can potentially save many lives and is particularly beneficial for those who are hard of hearing, deaf, or speech impaired,” said Saratoga County Undersheriff Jeffrey Brown. “Not only does implementing this new technology improve service for people with disabilities, but it also helps ensure Saratoga County remains at the forefront of Next Generation 911 technology, as New York State implements the digital system statewide.”

“With the addition of text-to-911 functionality, we are ensuring that every member of our community can access emergency services whenever they need them,” Steven Gordon, Director of Emergency Communications, said. “This technology provides our telecommunicators with an additional tool, helping to ensure they receive critical information when someone cannot make a voice call. The platform allows 911 to send a secure link for callers to share video and photos, providing 911 and first responders with enhanced situational awareness and more accurate information.”

Text-to-911 in Saratoga County is being implemented in collaboration with Disability Rights New York and powered by Prepared, an emergency response platform.

The technology is expected to be fully operational in approximately 90 days, and notifications will be provided to the public as various cell phone providers complete the process.

Stewart’s Shops’ Create-Your-Own Flavor Released

Written by Megin Potter on . Posted in Featured.

This week, Stewart’s Shops is debuting the limited-edition “Carmine’s Holiday Spumoni” ice cream, a combination of three distinct flavors; chocolate, pistachio, and cherry, named in honor of Carmine DeCrescente, former President of DeCrescente Distributing Company.

After a once-in-a-lifetime bidding frenzy that resulted in a dazzling display of generosity at the Saratoga Hospital’s 43rd Annual Gala Auction in July, the “Next Big Scoop”, an opportunity to name a new Stewart’s Shops’ limited-edition flavor and tour the plant with guests, stole the show when the live auction item soared from an opening bid of $5,000 to a final bid of $50,000 in less than a minute. 

In an unprecedented display of generosity, at the auctioneer’s request, Stewart’s Shops doubled the prize, awarding it to both the winner and runner-up. Mike and Linda Toohey, and C.J. DeCrescente, (with his family there egging him on) each paid $50,000 for the auction item, one of 21 featured (ranging from one-of-a-kind experiences to adventurous getaways) that raised more than $495,000 in critical funds to support community health services for thousands across the region – making it the highest grossing live auction in Saratoga Hospital Gala history.

“It’s just a really cool idea,” said C.J. DeCrescente, the President of DeCrescente Distributing Company, who followed in his father’s footsteps and took on the role in 1997. “Stewart’s Shops and the Dake family are good customers of ours. We’re big on supporting local, and obviously, hospitals are real important for everybody. It was a really unique opportunity to honor my father, so it just all made sense – and we had some fun with it.” 

Making Auction History

“It’s only natural to give back to the community supporting us,” said Stewart’s Shops President Chad Kiesow. 

“It’s certainly an honor to offer a live auction item that generates so much passion. I didn’t know it would have the horsepower it did. I underestimated it, but there was a great auctioneer there rallying the troops.”

“When it passed the $5,000 and $10,000 level, it created a little bit of a buzz around the room,” he said. That buzz hit fever pitch when the auctioneer switched from raising bids in $1,000 increments to $5,000 increments. “You felt the energy and excitement picking up,” said Kiesow. When the second-place bidder offered to match the winning $50,000 bid, however, jaws hit the ground, he added. “We’re flattered that what we do, and the involvement of Stewart’s Shops brings that much excitement to the cause.”

In addition to their donations to other local nonprofit organizations, including through their popular Holiday Match Program, donations from Stewart’s Shops and the Dake Foundation to the Saratoga Hospital and the Saratoga Hospital Foundation have totaled more than $865,000 since 2020.

Joining the Stewart’s Shops’ Ice Cream Legacy

Dreaming up the flavor was the work of five, plus DeCrescente, who chose an Italian-inspired spumoni recreated from a holiday flavor released more than a decade ago that hadn’t seen store shelves since. 

The flavor is akin to the classic Neapolitan, but with the satisfying smoothness of chocolate balancing out the rich nuttiness of crunchy pistachios, and the tender tartness of maraschino cherries, in a modern twist on the beloved holiday dessert. 

“I always joked with Gary (Dake) that they should have an Italian ice cream flavor,” said DeCrescente. “Now, I feel fortunate to have the privilege to be able to do stuff like this.”

Stewart’s Shops has a long history of naming ice cream flavors to honor local teams, events, and anniversaries. Notably, this year, on October 1st, Knox Cannonball Crunch, a limited-edition cookie dough ice cream flavor created in collaboration with the Saratoga 250 Commission to commemorate the 250th anniversary of General Henry Knox’s “Noble Train of Artillery” during the Revolutionary War, was unveiled and made available at more than 40 Stewart’s Shops locations. In the past, other limited-edition flavors have, including Cookies and Cannons, recognizing Fort William Henry’s 70th Anniversary last year, and Siena Mint Madness, which debuted in 2018 to honor the college’s NCAA Division I men’s and women’s basketball teams. 

Sweetening the Deal 

In a move befitting the generosity of its creators and the dollar value bid, 50,000 half-gallon cartons of Carmine’s Holiday Spumoni will be distributed throughout Stewart’s Shops 400-plus locations in New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire. 

Stewart’s Shops is currently making a $10 million multi-year investment in upgrading their plant and distribution center, beginning with a commissary expansion and improvements to the ice cream production area. Auction winners are invited to tour the facility through the renovations or choose to see it after they are complete. 

The Tooheys have also chosen their flavor, said Kiesow, but everything has its season, and that sweet treat will be revealed next spring. 

Saratoga Girls Tennis Team Captures Section 2 Crown

Written by Jonathon Norcross on . Posted in Featured, Sports.


Photo of the Section 2, Class AA girls tennis champions via Section 2 Athletics.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Springs varsity girls tennis team won the Section 2, Class AA championship last Friday, defeating the previously undefeated Guilderland 6-3. It was the Blue Streaks’ first sectional title since 2013.

To reach the championship game, Saratoga bested Colonie 9-0 in the quarterfinals before dispatching Shaker 8-1 in the semifinals.

Following their victory against Guilderland, Saratoga was next scheduled to face off against Class A champs Queensbury for a shot at regionals.

Despite not winning sectionals in more than a decade, Saratoga’s girls tennis program has produced a number of success stories in recent years. Last year, the doubles team of Clare Dooley and Addison Jones competed in the state championships after a strong showing at sectionals. The previous year, that same tandem brought home the Section 2 doubles title.

Thrift Store for Fabric and Fabric Arts Opens in Ballston Spa

Written by Jonathon Norcross on . Posted in Business, Featured.


Photo via Sew Something Creative.

BALLSTON SPA — A new thrift store specializing in fabric and yarn opened at 154 Milton Avenue in Ballston Spa earlier this month.

“The idea is simple,” Louise McAndrew, owner of Sew Something Creative, told Saratoga TODAY. “Take all the fabric and yarn that might otherwise end up in a landfill and put it in one place so all those creative souls can come buy it.”

McAndrew said that after Joann Fabrics closed all of its stores earlier this year, locals are looking for a new way to get the sewing, knitting, and crocheting products they need. The shop carries all kinds of fabrics, including cottons, fleece, flannel, satin, and upholstery

“I want shopping at my store to be a fun and reasonably priced experience,” McAndrew said. “Keeping prices low is my top priority.” 

Customers who donate from their stash of yarn and/or fabrics will in exchange receive a discount on items purchased from the store. The discount doesn’t expire, and its quantity varies depending on the size of the donation (with a cap of 25%). 

McAndrew also said that her business will eventually offer sewing, knitting, and crocheting lessons for both adults and children. The shop has a room in the back suitable for classes. 

Sew Something Creative is open Thursdays (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.), Fridays (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.), Saturdays (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and Sundays (1 p.m. to 4 p.m.).

Sports Memorabilia and Trading Cards Store Opening in Wilton Mall

Written by Jonathon Norcross on . Posted in Business, Featured.

Vintage Sports Club logo via the company.

WILTON — Vintage Sports Club is scheduled to celebrate its grand opening at the Wilton Mall on Saturday, Oct. 25.

The shop will have vintage and signed sports memorabilia, trading cards, man cave items, a sports lounge with a TV, and a “nostalgic” candy and snack bar.

The company was co-founded by Leejay Pollacchi, a graduate of both Saratoga Springs High School and Skidmore College. Pollacchi played on the Thoroughbreds baseball team from 2010 through 2013, finishing with a career batting average of .313. His accolades included Second Team All-Conference in 2013 and Liberty League Tournament MVP in 2012.

Pollacchi also serves as the VP of marketing at Dimer UVC Innovations, the company that created GermFalcon, a device that uses ultraviolet light to sanitize airplane interiors.

Therapy Practice Opening in Ballston Spa

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


Photo of the new Performance Sanctuary therapy office provided.

BALLSTON SPA — The Performance Sanctuary—a therapy practice and wellness center designed to meet the needs of high-performing professionals, caregivers, athletes, and purpose-driven individuals—announced that it will open next month in downtown Ballston Spa. An open house is scheduled for Nov. 8 and the official opening will occur on Nov. 11.

The Performance Sanctuary bills itself as “a modern-day refuge for mind, body, and soul” that blends “clinical expertise, trauma-informed care, and cutting-edge performance strategies.”

Services will include individual therapy; performance coaching; a spa with infrared sauna, cold plunge, red light therapy, vibration plate, salt booth, ceragem beds, massage chair, meditation training headsets and audio programs, and vibroacoustic meditation cushions; group classes such as yoga, pilates, and therapy; and community workshops and retreats.

The space is curated with calming aesthetics, cozy nooks, high-tech recovery and wellness tools, and nature-inspired details to support nervous system safety and holistic well-being.

Community members, local professionals, and wellness seekers are invited to experience the space firsthand at the open house on Nov. 8 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Old Saratoga Mercantile Wins Farm of the Year Award, Opens Dispensary

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


Photo of Old Saratoga Mercantile & Farm via the business. 

SCHUYLERVILLE — The Saratoga County Soil and Water Conservation District has named The Farm at Old Saratoga Mercantile the 2025 Saratoga County Agricultural Environmental Management Farm of the Year.

The award honors farmers who have gone above and beyond in the management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land. 

The husband and wife team of Tim and Christina Myers have operated the farm since 2017, growing vegetables year-round. They use organic methods with a focus on winter greens and offer their produce at their grocery store on the farm. 

The Myers are also licensed growers of cannabis and opened a dispensary on site on Sept. 26.  Called the Roots Farm Dispensary, the business says it grows cannabis “with the same care and dedication we bring to vegetable growing, organic methods, sustainable practices, and nothing but good vibes.”

Capital Region to Get Metro North Line

Written by Aidan Cahill on . Posted in Featured, News.

The MTA’s Metro North Line will be extending up to Albany as the state looks to strengthen the rail link between the Capital Region and Big Apple

The question of where Upstate New York begins just got a little harder as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) extends to Albany. 

The extension of the MTA’s Metro North Line comes after three daily trips on the Empire Service were cut due to track repairs. In addition to the MTA extension, Amtrak is bringing back one of the round trips cut and capping costs to riders. 

The new changes were announced Oct. 20 by New York State, Amtrak and the MTA. Starting Dec. 1, 2025, Amtrak trains 235 and 238 will restart service with the MTA service starting in spring 2026 following non-passenger tests in late 2025.  

The MTA line will run a round-trip service that will connect Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan and Albany-Rensselaer Station in Rensselaer. While the Metro-North Line has never extended to the Capital Region, its predecessor, the New York Central Railroad’s Hudson line, ran service between Grand Central and Albany until 1967.

“Restoring Amtrak service and debuting Metro-North service to Albany is a huge win for riders,” Governor Cathy Hochul said. “While Amtrak’s repairs to the East River Tunnels are necessary, riders from Albany to New York City have had to endure sold out trains and higher fares for the past five months. I’ve been clear from the moment this plan was proposed that New Yorkers deserve better. This new plan will provide more travel options and lower fares for over two million annual riders, saving them time and putting money back in their pockets.”

 The service changes come after Amtrak had to cut service in order to repair the East River Tunnels that were damaged by Hurricane Sandy. The reduced service started in May — leading to increased ticket prices and crowded trains. To combat this, Amtrak is also set to cap economy service between Albany and NYC at $99. 

Beyond just increasing service to NYC, service to Boston will improve as starting Dec. 1 direct rail service between Boston and Albany will be restored after having to run using a connecting bus. 

“New York State residents’ and visitors’ passion and patience are paying off, as additional, affordable, and improved train service between New York City and Albany is on its way,” Amtrak President Roger Harris said. “Thanks to Governor Hochul for her leadership and commitment to New York State, and NYSDOT and MTA for their partnership in helping meet the high demand of train service we have throughout the state.”

As to whether this change will impact the definition of where Upstate New York begins, the Governor’s Office was quick to dispel any discussion of it. 

“UPSTATE BEGINS NORTH OF WESTCHESTER COUNTY AS IT ALWAYS HAS,” the Governor’s Press Office posted on X in response to a post by a reporter discussing the matter. 

K-9 Leads to Drug Bust in Saratoga Springs

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

The K-9 identified as “J” reportedly found 18 pounds of drugs in Saratoga Springs 
( New York State Police)

The New York State Police have announced a major drug bust in Saratoga Springs. 

Joseph Warren, 43, of Playa Del Carmen, Mexico was arrested for criminal possession of a controlled substance in the first, second and third degree as well as traffic violations. 

Warren was allegedly stopped on Interstate 87 in Saratoga Springs for traffic violations; during the stop, several vacuum sealed packages were located in the vehicle by a State Police K-9 named “J.”

In total, 18 pounds were found by the Troopers with 16 of them being comprised of Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) also known as Molly or Ecstasy. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, MDMA is a synthetic drug similar to methamphetamine that is sometimes considered a psychedelic drug as it can mildly alter perception of time and vision. 

The other two pounds were Fluorofentanyl (fentanyl). Fentanyl is powerful synthetic opioid used in treatment of severe chronic pain — like that which comes from cancer treatments, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. It is highly dangerous with mere milligrams potentially causing an overdose and is sometimes mixed with other illicit drugs without the user’s knowledge. 

Warren was processed at the State Police Station in Saratoga and arranged at the Saratoga Springs City Court. He is currently being held without bail at the County Correctional Facility. According to State Police, the investigation is ongoing.