Saratoga County District Attorney Brett Eby announced recently the sentencing of Michael Blair following his convictions for Strangulation in the Second Degree and Animal Cruelty. Blair was sentenced to four years in New York State Prison, followed by five years of post-release supervision.

As part of the sentence, Blair will be added to the Saratoga County Animal Abuse Registry and will be subject to a no-animal order prohibiting him from owning, possessing, or residing with animals.

On December 4, 2025, Michael Blair, with the intent to impede the normal breathing of his then-girlfriend, applied significant pressure to her throat during a domestic violence altercation. Blair also abused the victim’s dog when the animal attempted to intervene in an effort to protect her. 

“This case highlights the well-documented connection between animal abuse and domestic violence,” Eby said. “Acts of cruelty toward animals are often warning signs of broader patterns of violence and control. By aggressively prosecuting these offenses, we not only protect vulnerable animals but also help safeguard victims of domestic abuse. The victim in this case showed tremendous courage and strength by standing up to her abuser and participating in the prosecution despite the abuse she faced. Her bravery helped ensure accountability and prevented further harm.”

The case was prosecuted by Special Victims Unit Bureau Chief Rachael Phelan and Senior Assistant District Attorney Mary T. Northrup. 

“Chief Phelan and Senior ADA Northrup demonstrated extraordinary dedication throughout this prosecution,” said District Attorney Brett Eby. “Their commitment to seeking justice for victims and holding offenders accountable exemplifies the very best of our office. Their tireless work helped secure a result that protects both people and animals from further harm.”

District Attorney Eby also thanked members of the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office for their investigative work and collaboration throughout the case, including Deputy Leah Howe, Deputy Michael Deuel, Deputy Justin Sicko, and Deputy Jakob McCasland.

The Saratoga Springs City Council has passed several changes to the Saratoga Springs City Charter — the governing document of the city. 

The changes were recommended by the Charter Review Commission which has held meetings since May 15, 2025. Over 50 changes were recommended by the Commission, the majority of which were approved by City Council. 

The changes touched upon 15 titles and appendixes in the City Charter. During the meeting over a dozen people spoke about the proposed changes to the charter, with opinion split on whether the changes should move forward. 

The proposed changes were recommended by the Commission in a report issued in December 2025 and encompassed changes that could be approved by City Council rather than a referendum.

Several members of the public said the changes were made without public knowledge and the changes should go to a referendum. In response, members of City Council and the Charter Review Commission pointed out that the meetings of the Commission were all held under New York’s open meeting laws and several public hearings on the matter were held. In addition, it was noted that City Council had discussed the changes in every pre-agenda meeting since the Commission released its initial report in December. 

Seven changes proposed by the Charter Review Commission were rejected by City Council and two were revised by the Council. One of the rejected changes was a controversial provision which would have changed language around Saratoga Spring’s number of supervisors. While the number of supervisors is determined by the county based on population, Title 2.1 of the charter had language setting the number of supervisors at two. 

The proposed change would have changed the language from “Two Supervisors” to “One or more Supervisors, as may be established by County Law.” This change caused fierce debate over whether the change in language would lead Saratoga Springs to lose representation on the County Board of Supervisors. 

Supporters of the change argued that since the number of supervisors is determined by county law, it doesn’t matter what the charter says and that the changing language would reflect that. Opponents of the change argued that the change in language would open the door for the County to reduce representation of Saratoga Springs. 

Ultimately, these concerns lead City Council to reject the change, according to Mayor John Safford. 

Another change that was removed was a provision that would have changed how vacancies City Council were handled as it was determined that the change would potentially require a referendum.

Among the changes that did pass included updates to reflect name changes of city government bodies — such as the Design review Board, updates to the assessment process to bring it in line with state law, and an updated timeline for the city’s budget process. 

The changes to the charter were passed 3-1 with Commissioner of Public Works, BK Keramati, voting against the changes on the grounds that any changes to the charter should be brought before voters as a referendum.

Shelters of Saratoga (SOS) is proud to announce Peg and Tony Mangano as the recipients of the 2026 Hope Award, recognizing their extraordinary dedication, leadership, and decades of service to individuals experiencing homelessness in the Saratoga Springs community. The couple will be honored at One Fine Day 2026, Shelters of Saratoga’s annual fundraising event celebrating hope, compassion, and community partnership.

For more than three decades, Peg and Tony Mangano have been steadfast supporters of Shelters of Saratoga and its mission. Their involvement dates back to 1991, when a group of community members came together to address the urgent need for emergency winter shelter in Saratoga Springs. Since then, both have played vital roles in helping the organization grow from a seasonal shelter into a year-round resource for individuals experiencing homelessness.

Tony Mangano has been instrumental in shaping the organization’s foundation and future. As a founding leader, he helped incorporate Shelters of Saratoga as a nonprofit organization, served on the Board of Directors, volunteered directly with shelter guests, and helped secure the Walworth Street properties that enabled expanded shelter services. He later returned to support the launch of the community’s Code Blue program in 2013 and continues to serve on the organization’s Program Committee today. 

Peg Mangano has been equally committed to serving the community. From volunteering in the organization’s earliest shelters to coordinating monthly dinners through St. Clement’s Church and supporting SOS guests through the Treasures Consignment Shop partnership, her compassionate service has helped countless individuals access basic necessities and feel welcomed and supported. 

“Peg and Tony embody the spirit of hope, compassion, and service that defines Shelters of Saratoga,” said Stephanie Romeo, Executive Director, “Their unwavering commitment over the past 35 years has strengthened our organization and transformed lives. We are honored to recognize their remarkable contributions and enduring legacy.” 

Throughout their years of service, the Mangano’s have remained passionate advocates for increasing awareness about homelessness, emphasizing that it can affect people from all walks of life. Their efforts have helped foster greater understanding, dignity, and support for some of the community’s most vulnerable neighbors. 

The Hope Award is presented annually at One Fine Day and honors individuals whose commitment to human services and community betterment exemplifies the mission and values of Shelters of Saratoga. Peg and Tony Mangano’s decades of leadership, volunteerism, and advocacy make them deserving recipients of this year’s award. 

One Fine Day 2026 will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026, and will bring together community members, supporters, and partners to celebrate hope and raise critical funds for Shelters of Saratoga’s programs and services. 

SARATOGA COUNTY —The Saratoga Farm Showcase is a unique opportunity to get to know local farms and farmers in Saratoga County. Returning June 20 for its third year, the event is hosted by Saratoga PLAN (Preserving Land and Nature), a local nonprofit conservation organization whose mission is to steward and protect the farms, forests, and waters of the Saratoga region and the southern Adirondack foothills – now and forever.

This year’s showcase will feature participating farms located throughout Wilton, Moreau, Northumberland and neighboring communities. The self-guided tour offers fun for all ages, featuring tastings, farm tours, animal interactions, educational demonstrations, hands-on activities and opportunities to purchase fresh, local products directly from farmers.

“The Saratoga Farm Showcase is a great way for folks to experience firsthand the local farms that help sustain our communities and produce many of the foods and products we enjoy every day,” said Saratoga PLAN Executive Director Jamie Brown. “We’re incredibly grateful to participating farmers for welcoming visitors during one of the busiest times of the year.”

Upon arrival, attendees will receive a canvas “bounty” tote bag, event bracelet, printed guide and map to help plan their day. Participants can create their own itinerary, spending as much time as they wish at each stop.

Just a few of the participating farms this year include:

Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supporting second careers for retired racehorses in leading safe and meaningful lives. Visitors can tour the property and meet the organization’s therapy horses.

Woodland Meadow Farm will also welcome guests to explore its alpaca breeding operation, home to approximately 50 alpacas as well as pigs, chickens, peafowl and rabbits. Attendees are encouraged to explore, meet the animals and stop by the farm store, where alpaca yarn, socks and other items are available for purchase. Attendees receive a 5% discount on all goods.

Greenfields Forever Farm, one of Greenfield’s earliest homesteads dating back to 1792, will offer visitors the opportunity to learn about its history and current operation as an organic fruit and vegetable farm. Guests can tour the property, meet owner Tabor “Farmer T” Ellsworth and purchase specialty products made on-site.

“We’re looking forward to having community members learn about our farm and processing business,” said owner Tabor Ellsworth. “We’re excited to share the benefits of supporting local businesses and choosing organic, minimally processed foods.”

The event serves as both a celebration of local agriculture and a fundraiser for Saratoga PLAN, an organization that has protected more than 14,000 acres across the Saratoga region, including more than 30 farms.

This year’s showcase will conclude with an after-party at Dancing Grain Farm Brewery. Nestled on 300 acres in Moreau, the brewery offers a true field-to-glass experience featuring New York-grown ingredients, including malted barley grown on-site and fruit sourced from nearby orchards. 

The after-party is free and open to the public (not just Farm Showcase ticket holders). Attendees can enjoy live music by Rusticator, food for purchase from Big D’s BBQ food truck, free samples from Taste NY and meet the people behind inspirational organizations giving back to our community including Comfort Food Community, Grassland Bird Trust and Saratoga PLAN. 

Tickets are $10 for adults and free for children under 12. Proceeds support Saratoga PLAN’s efforts to conserve farmland, natural areas and community connections throughout the region.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit saratogaplan.org/2026farmshowcase. 

Day-of tickets will also be available for $15 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Canopy of Saratoga and King Brothers Dairy.

SARATOGA COUNTY —
Saratoga County District Attorney Brett Eby today announced the launch of a new online Traffic Ticket Reduction website, providing residents with a convenient and efficient way to apply for a reduction of eligible traffic ticket offenses without the need to spend hours appearing in court.

The Saratoga County District Attorney’s Office handles tens of thousands of traffic tickets each year. The new online system is designed to streamline the process for motorists while reducing administrative and financial burdens on local town courts and county government.

“This new website will make the traffic ticket reduction process more efficient and accessible for drivers,” said District Attorney Brett Eby. “By allowing individuals to submit applications online, we can significantly reduce courtroom appearances, administrative costs, and the amount of time citizens must spend away from work and family obligations.”

The online application system is expected to generate substantial savings for both town courts and Saratoga County by reducing expenses associated with postage, envelopes, paper processing, and other administrative costs. The initiative will also help alleviate courtroom congestion, reduce courtroom time, and allow court personnel to focus on criminal matters.

Importantly, the website was developed entirely by Saratoga County’s Information Technology Department at no additional cost to taxpayers.

The Traffic Ticket Reduction Application website can be accessed through the Saratoga County District Attorney’s Office website and through the Saratoga County website. Please see the link here: www.saratogacountyny.gov/plea/

District Attorney Eby expressed his sincere appreciation to the Saratoga County Information Technology Department for their outstanding work in developing the platform, specifically recognizing Scott Monheimer, Chris DuBois, Sara Thibodeau, William Smolinski, and Carl Forshey for their dedication and expertise.

District Attorney Eby also extended special thanks to Assistant District Attorney Tahnya Grazulis for her leadership and assistance in helping bring the project from concept to reality.

“This project demonstrates what can be accomplished when county departments work together to create innovative solutions that improve services for the public while saving taxpayer dollars,” Eby said. “The new website will provide a more convenient experience for citizens while creating efficiencies that benefit our courts, our county, and our taxpayers.”

HALFMOON — Two people have been arrested after a dog was found dead in their vehicle in the Town of Halfmoon.

Allison Fisher, 23 and Livia L.A. Boddie, 21, both of Halfmoon were arrested and charged with three counts of misdemeanor overdriving, torturing and abusing animals; failure to provide sustenance. 

The two were arrested after the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office received an animal complaint at 10:56 p.m. on June 3, according to the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office. On June 3, Fisher reportedly found the dog, identified as a husky mix, dead in their vehicle. Deputies also found two cats at the scene as well. 

The two cats were voluntarily surrendered to the Halfmoon Animal Control Officer and taken to the Saratoga County Animal Shelter for treatment and evaluation. The cause of death on the husky is under investigation.

Fisher and Bodie were both issued appearance tickets pending further proceedings in town court.

CORINTH — The Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office has announced the identity of a body found in a Corinth apartment.

Jennifer A. Randall, 52, was found dead inside a Walnut Street apartment on June 1, according to the Saratoga County Sheriff ‘s Office.

The former resident of the

apartment, Roy Cheyenne, 49, of Corinth has been arrested and charged with felony con- cealment of a corpse.

Randall’s body was found concealed under blankets in the apartment. The Sheriff’s Office said that Cheyenne is a accused of having “a reasonable expecta- tion that a human corpse would be produced at an autopsy for a criminal investigation”

The investigation of the inci- dent remains under investigation.