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 Saratoga County Clerk to Host Passport Night on Oct. 2

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

BALLSTON SPA — The Saratoga County Clerk’s Office at 40 McMaster St., Ballston Spa, will host a Passport Night from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, October 2, by appointment only. 

The Clerk’s Office is offering these extended hours as a convenience to those whose schedules make it difficult to visit the office to apply for a passport during regular business hours. 

This is the third time the office has offered a Passport Night in the early fall. “This event is a great opportunity for busy families and individuals to come in and apply for a passport,” Saratoga County Clerk Craig A. Hayner said. “In addition to offering convenience, our office provides a comfortable environment and knowledgeable staff to guide people through the process.” 

To book an appointment, call the County Clerk’s office at 518-885-2213. 

Application forms will be available, and photos can be taken on site. Those planning to attend also can download a copy of the passport application at www.travel.state.gov and fill them out in advance. However, the applications must be signed in front of an acceptance agent at the Clerk’s Office. 

Applicants should bring: 

• An original or a certified copy of their birth certificate with a raised seal (including parents’ names on the certificate) and, if possible, a photocopy (front and back) 

• Their photo ID and, if possible, a photocopy (front and back) 

• A check or money order (one per passport application) made out to the Department of State to cover the application fee (See below for details.) 

• Cash or separate check to cover the processing fees and passport photos (if having them taken on site) 

Children younger than 18 must have both parents present when applying. 

Passport fees are as follows: 

• Passport books — $130 for adult applications and $100 for children under the age of 16. 

• Passport cards — $30 for adults and $15 for children under the age of 16. (Note that they are only good for land travel.) 

• Processing fee — $35 for each application 

• Passport photos — $10 

• Expedited service — $60 per applicant 

According to the U.S. Department of State, current processing times are about 4-6 weeks or about 2-3 weeks for expedited applications. Processing times can vary, however. 

Passport renewals for those who were issued a 10-year passport previously must be mailed by the applicant. However, the required new photo can be obtained at the County Clerk’s Office. 

Regular hours for passport services are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.

Saratoga County Adopts Animal Abuse Registry

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

The Board of Supervisors adopted legislation creating an animal abuse registry in a unanimous vote 
( Aidan Cahill)

At the most recent Board of Supervisors meeting, Saratoga County passed legislation that would create a county wide animal abuse registry. 

Under the law, someone would have to register with the District Attorney if they are convicted of one of 17 offenses related to animal abuse within 10 days of conviction or release from incarceration. Those convicted are required to provide a head shot, name, alias and address to the registry. 

For first time offenders, their name will be on the registry for 15 years while any subsequent offenses will result in permanent admission to the registry. If someone is on the registry, then they are barred from purchasing or adopting any animals in Saratoga County. Failure to follow the law can result in a $1000 fine for both the abuser and those who sell animals to them. 

The bill was passed unanimously by the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors. In his remarks, Chairman of the Board, Phillip Barrett from Clifton Park called the move a “critical first step” in addressing the issue of animal abuse and encouraged the state and other counties to adopt similar legislation. 

The registry also received heavy support from Republican District Attorney Candidate Brett Eby, one of three people who spoke during a Sept. 10 public hearing on the bill. He, alongside Mechanicville Animal Control Officer Lynn Meager spoke in favor of the legislation and talked about the issue of animal abuse. 

Meager told a heart-breaking story about finding a great dane in a moving truck that only weighed 30 pounds — far below the normal weight of between 110-175 pounds. 

The legislation comes after several high-profile incidents in Saratoga County. This year alone there have been at least seven incidents of animal abuse in the county resulting in Saratoga County residents being charged with over 200 counts of abuse. 

Saratoga County isn’t the first county to implement an animal abuse registry. 20 counties —including Albany and Rensselaer — plus New York City all maintain registries of animal abusers. 

On the state level, there is currently a bill introduced that would create a state registry of animal abusers. The bill is sponsored by Senators Pete Harckham (D, WF- 40) of South Salem and Anthony Palumbo (R- 1) of New Suffolk and was referred to committee in May. 

In addition, Sen. James Tedisco — who represents Saratoga County — also proposed several bills in January which would strengthen New York’s animal abuse law known as “Buster’s Law.” All of those bills have been referred to committee with no action taken since January.

State Police asks for Public Help in Cold Case

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

Photo of Houghton provided by New York State Police

The New York State Police are continuing their search for Stephen J. Houghton and are seeking assistance from the public.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is now involved in this investigation, and a reward of $25,000 has been offered for information leading to his whereabouts.

On August 18, 2023, Troopers responded to the Villa Motel located on State Route 9 in the town of Ausable regarding a missing person report. Family members informed the State Police that Stephen J. Houghton, from Keeseville, NY, has not been heard from or seen since February 2022. The last known sighting of Houghton was at Stewart’s gas station in Port Henry, NY, on February 20, 2022. At the time he went missing, he was 35 years old. He is a white male, approximately 6 feet 2 inches tall, weighing about 225 pounds, with black hair and blue eyes.

Multiple law enforcement agencies have been contacted regarding Houghton’s disappearance. Family and friends are cooperating with law enforcement to provide any information that may help locate him. The State Police continue their investigation, and with the involvement of the ATF, they hope to gather more information about Houghton’s whereabouts.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Stephen J. Houghton is asked to please contact the New York State Police in 518-897-2000.

23rd Annual “The Way We Were” Car Show Returns to Downtown Ballston Spa

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

The auto show will take place Sunday Oct. 12 from 9 am to 4 pm
( Courtesy of BSBPA)

Downtown Ballston Spa will once again roar to life on Sunday, October 12, from 9 AM to 4 PM as the Ballston Spa Business & Professional Association (BSBPA) presents the 23rd Annual “The Way We Were” Car Show. This community favorite will transform the village into a showcase of classic cars, live entertainment, family fun, and local flavor.

Each year, the show draws well over 400 classic and custom vehicles from across the region, lining Front Street with gleaming chrome and timeless style. In addition to the stunning cars and trucks, the day will feature food and craft vendors, live music, kids’ activities, and a trophy ceremony celebrating standout vehicles.

The show’s name pays tribute to the film The Way We Were, starring Barbra Streisand and Robert Redford. Several scenes were filmed in downtown Ballston Spa in 1972, making the title a fitting nod to the village’s place in Hollywood history.

“We’re so proud to bring back this fall tradition for its 23rd year,” said Christine Kernochan, Chairperson of the Car Show Committee. “It’s more than just a car show—it’s a celebration of community spirit that draws visitors to Ballston Spa, supports our local businesses, and raises funds for the BSBPA’s year-round programs.”

Car owners may pre-register on the BSBPA’s website through October 3 for $20. Cars can also register the morning of the event for $25 cash. Spectator admission is free. The rain date is scheduled for Sunday, October 19.

The BSBPA thanks its Checkered Flag Sponsors for their generous support: Mangino Chevrolet Buick GMC, Michael’s Automotive, Ballston Spa National Bank, MJP Heating and Cooling, Morris Ford, Pompa Bros and Friend of the BSBPA.

For event details, registration information, or vendor inquiries, please visit www.ballston.org

Argyle Man Dies in Motorcycle Crash

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

The Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office responded to a serious personal injury motorcycle crash on Peters Road in the Town of Northumberland yesterday afternoon at 4:10pm. 

Investigation into the crash indicated that a 2025 Kawasaki motorcycle operated by Daniel Perry of Argyle, NY had been travelling eastbound on Peters Road when he failed to negotiate a curve in the roadway. The motorcycle left the roadway and struck a utility pole. 

Mr. Perry was transported to Saratoga Hospital where he was pronounced dead. The cause of the crash is still under investigation by the Sheriff’s Accident Reconstruction Unit. 

The Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by Moreau EMS and the Gansevoort Fire Department.

Saratoga Remembers: Annual 9/11 Ceremony Held in Saratoga Springs.

Written by Aidan Cahill on . Posted in News.

An honor guard from the Saratoga Springs Fire and Police Departments place flags behind the podium at the start of the ceremony. ( Aidan Cahill)

It was a somber and reflective morning as hundreds of citizens, first responders, elected officials, veterans and sailors gathered to honor the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. 

The ceremony took place at High Rock Park in front of the “Tempered by Memory” sculpture which comprises steel from the World Trade Center. During the Ceremony, speakers recalled the events of the attack and the loss of friends who died in the wars that followed the attack. 

The event started with a moment of silence at 8:46 — the time the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center. It included remarks by Saratoga Springs Mayor John Safford, keynote speaker Saratoga Springs Police Department Sargant Christopher Callahan and Captain James R. Diefenderfer Jr. the commanding officer of the Nuclear Power Training Unit in Ballston Spa. 

In his remarks, Callahan, a retired Army Reservist, spoke of the sacrifice of those lost during the attacks and his own experience serving in the Army after 9/11. 

“I’ve yet to get through a 9/11 since 2001 without shedding more than a few tears for all those who lost their lives tragically that day,” Sgt. Callahan said. “I also can’t help but feel a sense of pride for all those who stood up and answered the call when their fellow countrymen needed them.”

Callahan also told the story of Staff Sgt. Dain Venn, a soldier from Port Henry who Callahan met while serving. Venn was killed in a roadside bomb attack in 2012 in Afghanistan.  Callahan described Venn as “instantly likable, one of the funniest, most quick-witted people I’ve ever met,” and spoke about his actions in Afghanistan which earned him a bronze star with v device for valor. 

A trumpet player plays taps at the conclusion of the ceremony
 ( Aidan Cahill)

Similar remarks were echoed by Capt. Diefenderfer who talked about being a midshipman, U.S. Naval Academy at the time of the attacks and how his computer networks professor spent time talking to them about what the attacks would mean for their military careers. 

Diefenderfer also spoke about the personal challenge of what to tell sailors who weren’t alive in 2001 about the attacks. 

“When I speak to them about the events of that day, what do I want them to remember?” Capt. Diefenderfer said.  “I want them to remember the heroes and to be inspired by them. I want them to remember the 343 firefighters and the 72 law enforcement officers who ran into harm’s way to help others, I want them to remember the passengers of flight 93.” 

Capt. Diefenderfer also spoke of the sacrifices of those who were lost during the wars that followed including the professor who gave him the lesson, Marine Lt. Col. Kevin Shea, who was killed in Iraq in 2004. 

Captain James Diefenderfer spoke about being a midshipman on 9/11 and talking to new sailors about the attacks (Aidan Cahill)

On Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist hijacked four planes and crashed three of them into the North and South Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Arlington Virginia. The fourth plane crashed in a field in Pennsylvania after a passenger revolt forced it down before it could attack its intended target. 

The attacks killed 2,996 people, the majority of them when the North and South Towers collapsed. In the years that have followed, thousands of first responders and residents near the site of the collapse have died from related illnesses. In the wars that followed the attacks, between 897,000-929,000 people were killed — among those 7,052 were US military with another 8,189 serving as US Contractors. 

Woman Killed in Early Morning Crash

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

At 4:45 on the morning of Sept. 16 the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a car versus pedestrian crash on Route 9 in the Town of Halfmoon. 

A 78-year-old woman was reportedly in the roadway when she was struck by a passing vehicle. The victim was transported to Samaritan Hospital where she succumbed to her injuries. The operator of the vehicle remained on scene and is cooperating with the investigation.

The crash is being investigated by the Sheriff’s Accident Reconstruction Unit and the Criminal Investigation Unit.

Route 9 was closed between Sitterly Road and Crossings Blvd and was reopened to traffic at approximately 9:00 am

Winter Parking Law to go into Effect Nov. 15 in Wilton.

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

“Town of Wilton residents please take notice: pursuant to Local Law No. 5 of 1985, the parking of vehicles is prohibited on all highways and roads within the Town of Wilton, including the paved portion and shoulder, between Nov. 15, 2025, and April 1, 2026.  

Any vehicle parked on a highway or road during said restricted period may be removed and stored at the owner’s expense. 

Please also be mindful that your garbage cans are curbed even with your mailbox on pick up days. 

Your cooperation in this regard will be greatly appreciated.” 

Michael Monroe 

Highway Superintendent. 

Saratoga Oktoberfest Returns September 20

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

 The Saratoga Oktoberfest Downtown Block Party, hosted by Druthers Brewing Company and Franklin Square Market, returns on Saturday, September 20, from 12–5 p.m. right off Broadway in the Saratoga Central Catholic School parking lot. 

This year’s celebration is set to be bigger and better than ever, featuring: 

• Live music from local favorite No Latency 

• Craft beverages from Druthers Brewing Company 

• Delicious bites from Franklin Square Market 

• A commemorative Saratoga Oktoberfest stein for every ticket holder 

The entire community is invited to enjoy an afternoon of music, food, and camaraderie. Tickets are $50 per person and include admission plus access to all craft beverages throughout the event. Food and merchandise will also be available for purchase. 

All proceeds from Saratoga Oktoberfest will directly support capital improvements at Saratoga Central Catholic School. The event is proudly supported by Druthers Brewing Company (an SCC alumni-owned business) and Franklin Square Market (an SCC family-owned business). 

Tickets are available now at: 

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/saratoga-oktoberfest-2025-sponsored-by-druthers-franklin-square-market-tickets-1599063906189?aff=oddtdtcreator / saratogacatholic.org/oktoberfest

Bidding Now Open for the 9th Annual Saratoga Motorcar Auction, September 18–21, 2025

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

The countdown is over. The full run list for the 9th Annual Saratoga Motorcar Auction is officially set, and bidding is now live on Proxibid. Collectors and enthusiasts can begin placing their pre-bids today, securing their chance to own one of more than 250 remarkable motorcars and 120+ pieces of rare automobilia and collectibles.

Hosted on the beautiful grounds of the Saratoga Casino Hotel, the Auction kicks off this Thursday, September 18, from 6PM-9PM with the Fast Lane VIP Concert featuring Soul Session, an electrifying start to a weekend of horsepower, heritage, and high-stakes bidding.

This year’s roster is nothing short of world-class, spanning Italian supercars, American muscle, British luxury, and historic collectibles. From the adrenaline of a Lamborghini Aventador SVJ and Ferrari 458 Speciale to the legacy of a concours-restored 1964 Pontiac GTO, bidders will find once-in-a-lifetime opportunities crossing the block. Beyond the cars, a dazzling array of neon signs, vintage gas pumps, and rare automobilia will also be up for grabs.

And you don’t need to be a bidder to enjoy the excitement. The Saratoga Motorcar Auction is also a fantastic spectator event. Bring the kids, take in hundreds of incredible cars, explore unique automotive memorabilia, and enjoy an awesome selection of food vendors. Whether you’re here to place a bid or simply soak up the atmosphere, you won’t want to miss it.

How to Bid:

• In Person: Experience the thrill live under the auction tent.

• Phone Bidding: Let the Museum team place your bids in real time.

• Pre-Bidding on Proxibid: Place your bids now from anywhere in the world.

“The excitement is building as we head into Auction week,” said Megan A. Hennessey, Executive Director of the Saratoga Automobile Museum. “With over 350 consignments, bidders have more ways than ever to participate, whether they’re joining us in Saratoga, bidding by phone, or competing online from their living room.”

The Saratoga Motorcar Auction is the Museum’s premier fundraising event. All proceeds benefit its educational programs and world-class exhibitions.

Event Schedule:

• Thursday, September 18: Auction Preview (12 PM – 5 PM)

• Thursday, September 18: Fast Lane VIP Concert with Soul Session (6 PM – 9 PM)

• Friday, September 19: Auction Day 1 (2 PM)

• Saturday, September 20: Auction Day 2 (10 AM)

• Sunday, September 21: Post-Auction Sale (10 AM)

For tickets, bidder registration, and the complete run list, visit www.saratogaautomuseum.org.