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Saratoga Springs Removes Tax Discount for Early Payment

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

The Saratoga Springs City Council voted at its November 18 meeting to remove the 2.25% discount offered for payment in full of property taxes on or before March 1. 

The decision is expected to yield over $280,000 in additional revenue for the city. The City’s Charter Commission had looked into removing the discount as part of a broader update effort. 

2026 Taxes are due on March 1st, June 1st, September 1st and December 1st. If payment falls on a weekend or holiday, the due date will be the following business day. Payments may be made online at www.saratoga-springs.org, in person at City Hall, 474 Broadway, or mailed to the address below:

Commissioner of Finance 

P.O. Box 328 

Saratoga Springs 

NY 12866-0328

ALPIN HAUS TO HOST SARATOGA RV SHOW JANUARY 8–11 AT SARATOGA CITY CENTER

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

Alpin Haus, one of the Northeast’s largest outdoor recreation retailers, will host its annual Saratoga RV Show from Thursday, January 8, through Sunday, January 11, at the Saratoga City Center, 522 Broadway. 

The four-day event is expected to attract thousands of visitors, providing a boost to downtown restaurants, shops, and attractions during the winter season.

Admission is free. Show hours are Thursday 2–8 p.m., Friday 11 a.m.–8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.–7 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

“Our Saratoga RV Show is more than an opportunity to browse RVs; it’s a four-day event where visitors can explore the latest models, compare top brands, meet campground experts, and take advantage of show-only deals and giveaways,” said Alpin Haus President Andy Heck. “It’s a great way for families and adventure-seekers to plan their next trips while enjoying everything downtown Saratoga Springs has to offer.”

The show will feature a wide selection of new and pre-owned RVs, including top 2026 models.

Spotlight models include fifth wheels such as the Keystone Cougar Half-Ton, Grand Design Reflection 100 Series, and Grand Design Solitude, as well as travel trailers like the Forest River R-Pod Un-Mapped, Travel Lite Rove Lite Sport, Grand Design Imagine XLS, and Keystone Walkabout. 

Visitors can explore the latest designs, compare top brands, meet local campground representatives, and take advantage of exclusive show pricing and giveaways, including new RVs available for under $150 per month.

For more information about the Saratoga RV Show, visit www.saratogarvshow.com.

For more information on Alpin Haus, visit AlpinHaus.com.

Stefanik Drops out of Governor’s Race and will not run for Reelection in Congress.

Written by Aidan Cahill on . Posted in News.

Bruce Blakeman received state and national endorsements after Congresswoman Stefanik dropped out of the race for governor (Courtesy of Nassau County)
Elise Stefanik announced she was dropping out of the race for governor, citing the need to be a mom and a primary challenge 
(official portrait)

Less than 50 days into her campaign to secure New York’s top office, Republican Congresswoman Elise Stafanik has called it quits. 

Stefanik announced that she has suspended her campaign for governor of New York and that she would not be seeking reelection to Congress. 

The announcement came Dec. 19 on both social media and in a statement sent to members of the media. Stefanik cited both the need to spend time with her four-year-old son and the strain of competing in a primary election as the reasons for the suspension of her campaign. 

While Stefanik was widely seen as the Republican’s top choice for governor, receiving the endorsement of many New York politicians, including Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh, State Senator James Tedisco and New York Republican Party Chair Ed Cox, she wasn’t running unopposed for the party’s nomination. 

On Dec. 8, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman announced that he would also be seeking the Republican nod, triggering a potential primary challenge for the longtime Town of Saratoga based Congresswoman. Despite believing that she would beat Blakeman in a primary, Stefanik cited this as one of the reasons she dropped out. 

“While we would have overwhelmingly won this primary, it is not an effective use of our time or your generous resources to spend the first half of next year in an unnecessary and protracted Republican primary, especially in a challenging state like New York,” Stefanik said in her statement. 

Shortly after Stefanik’s announcement, President Donald Trump — who hadn’t endorsed a candidate to this point — posted on social media endorsing Blakeman for New York’s Governor. The same was true for Cox who also threw his support for Blakeman. 

“Bruce Blakeman has my endorsement, and I urge our State Committee and party leaders to join me,” Cox said in a statement. 

As for what comes next for the 21st congressional district, so far 11 candidates have filed to run for the vacant seat, according to records from the Federal Election Commission. On the Democratic side, dairy farmer Blake Gendebien leads in terms of fundraising with $3,669,237.32 raised as of September. On the Republican side, Sticker Mule CEO Anthony Constantino leads with $2,603,478.61 raised, the majority coming from loans he made to his campaign.

Fear of the Future

Written by Bill Orzell on . Posted in News.

This year, 2025, we have seen a lot of change, and we have had to condition ourselves to many “new norms.” Sundry “red lines” were crossed, so what might we expect in 2026?

It is difficult to predict the future; I prove this to myself, each time I visit the racetrack betting window. One certainty, which I understand about 2026, is that it will be the final publication of the venerable Farmer’s Almanac. Not many of us are farmers these days, but it always felt comforting to browse this hardcopy prognosticator. This Almanac has provided weather forecasts, astronomical data with your place in the zodiac, and gardening advice since 1818.

The United States Mint has discontinued the production of our copper coin, and the shining profile of Abe Lincoln will not be part of future transactions. We will simply “round-up” or “round-down.” I’ll bet you can guess which way this will go for you and me, and all other consumers. This rounding-down has been practiced at our racetracks, on the flat or the trotters, for decades. It seems almost comical that our State Racing and Wager Board would eliminate “breakage” for punters in 2025, along with the demise of the penny.

In the illustrious past of Saratoga Springs and its gaming halls, a card game called Faro was dealt, which at one time exceeded the popularity of poker and craps. The players would bet on the next card to be drawn from the house deck. The player could also wager on which card they felt would not be drawn by placing a penny on that icon. Betting against a horse, or coppering, is still a method practiced by many handicappers in our time.

Speaking of luck and pennies, it has long been held that finding a single cent on the ground was a sign of good fortune. Unless you had bones-in-your-belly, it was a quick way to improve your individual capital. In 2026 finding a penny may take on a new dimension, as the coin becomes as rare as a 2-door pickup truck.

I have one other surprising certainty for you in 2026, Ivory Soap no longer floats! Had you realized this unexpected and, for some, unfortunate development, was foisted upon the public? Ivory Soap was developed in the late 1870’s when Mr. Proctor and Mr. Gamble took an active role in their personal products partnership. 

This buoyant feature of bar soap was important when many took their baths outdoors, and in lakes and ponds. Non-submerging became a clever marketing slogan, “lathers freely, rinses readily, it floats!” Alas, one more constant on everyday life, consigned to the past.

My advice for 2026, go forth boldly with change in your pocket, rely on the intelligence you have developed by seeing things with your own eyes and not something artificial, and watch out for what might be on the bottom of your bathtub.

Supporting Military Spouses Through Connection and Care: New York State Department of Veterans’ Services Launches Healing Haven for Military Spouses

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

The New York State Department of Veterans’ Services (DVS) proudly announced the launch of Healing Haven for Military Spouses, a first-of-its-kind statewide peer-to-peer initiative designed specifically to support the spouses of Service Members and all who served. 

Healing Haven provides a confidential, accessible, and supportive environment for Military Spouses to gather, learn, share, and strengthen their personal well-being.

The DVS program began its rollout on December 1, 2025, with a successful first session, reflecting the deep need for a safe community space geared toward Military Spouses who shoulder unique emotional and psychological burdens. 

Many experience high levels of stress, transition pressures, and caregiving responsibilities, yet often lack a dedicated setting where they can connect with others who understand their experiences. Healing Haven is designed to fill that gap.

Healing Haven is offered free of charge, supported in part through Suicide Prevention funding secured in the 2025–26 New York State Budget.

Sessions are led by Brett Cotter, a nationally respected stress-relief expert, author, and founder of the Stress Is Gone method. Mr. Cotter will facilitate two virtual sessions each month, combining evidence-based stress-reduction strategies with supportive, community-building discussion. Participation is confidential and open to Military Spouses from every region of the state.

Mr. Cotter is the author of The Stress Is Gone Method, The Suicide Prevention Family Handbook, and 3 Keys to Managing PTSD, and has worked with Fortune 500 companies, hospitals, schools, military bases, and retreat centers like Omega and Kripalu. 

As trauma expert for Meditation University, he certifies professionals and trains Vet-to-Vet Peer Specialists. His compassionate, humor-filled approach combines Eastern and Western philosophies, making him a captivating and highly sought after speaker.

To maintain regular access for Military Spouses and ensure continuity of care, Healing Haven follows a clear, dependable monthly rhythm:

• First Monday of each month: Guided Stress Is Gone session focusing on stress relief and practical emotional wellness strategies; and

• Third Monday of each month: Peer-to-peer gathering centered on connection, shared experiences, and community-building. 

The routinized structure and frequent cadence of Healing Haven sessions allows Military Spouses to participate at whatever pace best supports their needs, while also creating a recognizable statewide cadence for ongoing engagement. 

Because the program operates virtually, participation is open to Military Spouses from every county, including those who may face obstacles to in-person meetings such as work schedules, childcare demands, or transportation limitations.

Military Spouses may join at any time, regardless of whether they attended the kickoff session. Information and registration for upcoming Healing Haven sessions are available at: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/2F2lsRRhSKKGREwofkz7RQ#/registration. 

State Police arrested Mechanicville man following a menacing investigation

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

On December 6, 2025, State Police of Clifton Park arrested Norman Gifford, 61 of Mechanicville, NY for Menacing 2nd, Criminal Possession of a Weapon 3rd, and vehicle and traffic law violations.

On December 6, 2025, at about 11:06 p.m. troopers responded to the report of an altercation involving a weapon at a home in Halfmoon. The investigation determined Gifford was in a verbal altercation with the victim when he reportedly brandished a kitchen knife and threatened the victim with it.

Gifford fled in a vehicle after the altercation and was located by troopers in the area of Cemetery Road in Halfmoon where he was stopped and arrested. He was transported to SP Clifton Park for processing where he was issued an appearance ticket returnable to the Halfmoon Town Court on January 14, 2026, and released. 

Saratoga Springs Department of Public Safety Announces Citywide Speed Limit Reduction to 25 MPH

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

The Saratoga Springs Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced that speed limit signage throughout the City of Saratoga Springs has been fully updated to reflect a new citywide speed limit of 25 miles per hour.

The change is intended to improve safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists and follows a comprehensive traffic safety review.

The review found that lower vehicle speeds significantly reduce the severity of crashes and greatly increase survival rates for pedestrians. Research shows that a person struck by a vehicle traveling at 25 mph is far more likely to survive than at higher speeds.

 “This change moves us toward a safer, more walkable community and reflects our commitment to protecting all residents, especially children, seniors, and those who walk or bike,” Public Safety Commissioner Tim Coll said.

Full enforcement of the 25-mph speed limit will begin in January 2026.

Two Arrested in Domestic Incident

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

The Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office responded to an active domestic incident call Sunday at 12:37 p.m. on Reynolds Road in the town of Moreau. Investigation into the complaint led to the arrest of Mark N. Sabo, 60, and Tamera H. Sillero, 59, both of Moreau, N.Y. 

Sabo was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the 2nd degree (class A felony), two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the 3rd degree (class B felonies), four counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the 3rd degree (class D felonies), criminal possession of a firearm (class E felony), menacing in the 2nd degree and assault in the 3rd degree (class A misdemeanors). 

He is accused of knowingly and unlawfully possessing four or more ounces of a narcotic drug with intent to sell it and a narcotic drug weighing one-half ounce or more. 

Sabo is also charged with possessing a firearm having previously been convicted of a crime, possessing armor piercing ammunition with intent to use it unlawfully against another and possessing large capacity ammunition feeding devices. He allegedly pointed a so-called ghost gun at the victim and threatened to shoot them during the incident and intentionally caused physical injury to them by striking them to their face with a closed fist. 

Sillero was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the 2nd degree (class A felony) and two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the 3rd degree (class B felonies). 

She is accused of knowingly and unlawfully possessing four or more ounces of a narcotic drug with intent to sell it and a narcotic drug weighing one-half ounce or more. 

Both were arraigned before the Honorable Jeffrey B. McCabe in the Moreau Town Court and remanded to the Saratoga County Jail pending further proceedings.

Online Transaction Ends in Robbery

Written by Aidan Cahill on . Posted in News.

A Schenectady teen has been arrested after an online transaction ended in an attempted robbery in the City of Mechanicville. 

Mechanicville Police say Natalia Adair, 18, was arrested Dec. 15 in Schenectady in connection with a robbery that occurred the day prior. 

The robbery occurred on South Central Avenue on Dec. 14. Police say a 21-year-old man was assaulted by three people as they attempted to rob him. The man told police that two of the individuals wore ski masks and at least one struck him in the head with a handgun. 

The robbery occurred after the victim arranged a meeting online with someone he thought was a customer looking to purchase a watch. 

The next day, police located the vehicle and arrested Adair. She is charged with 1st degree attempted robbery, 4th degree attempted grand larceny,4th degree conspiracy, and 2nd degree assault.

Police say more arrests are expected as they continue to try to identify others involved in the attempted robbery. 

“This incident highlights the very real dangers associated with meeting unknown individuals through online marketplaces,” said Chief William Rabbitt. “We strongly encourage residents to take precautions when conducting in-person transactions. Meeting in public, well-lit locations and avoiding private residences can significantly reduce risk.” 

Hospitals Restrict Visitors as Influenza Rates Spike

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

Albany Med Health System has become the latest hospital system to restrict visitors to patients in their facilities. 

The new guidelines went into effect on Dec. 15 and impacted Saratoga Hospital, Glens Falls Hospital, Albany Medical Center and Columbia Memorial Hospital. 

Under the new restrictions, children under 12, visitors with flu-like symptoms, rashes and diarrhea are all prohibited from visiting patients.  In addition, only two visitors are allowed to visit a patient’s bedside at one time. 

In a press release, the hospital said the restrictions were put in place to help limit transmission of illnesses to protect visitors and staff. 

Albany Med isn’t the first local hospital to implement visitor restrictions. Ellis Medicine implemented similar restrictions on Dec. 3 and Trinity Health System — which includes St. Peter’s Hospital in Albany and Samaritan Hospital in Troy — implemented the restrictions on Dec. 8. 

The restrictions come amid a spike in flu cases across New York. As of Dec. 6, there have been 24,287 lab confirmed cases of flu in New York State this season resulting in 1,399 hospitalizations for the virus, according to the Department of Health. Saratoga County alone has seen 134 lab confirmed cases, a rate of 55.75 cases per 100,000 residents. These cases have resulted in 5 hospitalizations. 

Downstate has been hit hardest by the virus with Kings County (Brooklyn) seeing 4,314 cases — the most anywhere in the state. Meanwhile, Westchester County has seen the highest rate of cases 184.91 cases per 100,000 residents. In terms of hospitalization, Bronx County has seen the most with 197 hospitalizations at a rate of 14.23 per 100,000 residents.