Gansevoort Man Found Dead in Saratoga Springs
The Saratoga Springs Police Department has released the identity of a man found dead behind Market 32 on Ballston Avenue this week.
Michael Friday, 45, of Gansevoort, New York was found dead in a wooded area behind the supermarket on Wednesday July 30 at 6:40 am. Police were called to the scene by citizen who discovered the body. An autopsy was conducted the next day and while the results are still pending, police said no foul play is suspected at this time.
Police encouraged anyone with information about the case or Friday’s recent activity to contact Investigator Stacy Rigano at srigano@saratogapolice.org or (518)584-1800.
Walsh Hosts Eighth Annual Think Differently Day At Saratoga County Fair
Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh (R,C-Ballston) pictured at the Saratoga County Fair on Thursday, July 24, 2025 (Courtesy of Mary Beth Walsh)
Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh (R,C-Ballston) once again partnered with the Saratoga County Fair Board to host her annual ThinkDIFFERENTLY Day at the Saratoga County Fair on Thursday, July 24, 2025. The event, held from 9 a.m. to noon, featured sensory-friendly activities such as animal shows and quiet rides, creating a welcoming environment for individuals and families with different sensitivities.
Walsh was joined by her son Terry Hynes, the Saratoga County Fair Board of Directors, Fair Board President Jennifer Flinton, Saratoga County Sheriff Michael Zurlo, Undersheriff Jeff Brown, Mayor Frank Rossi of the Village of Ballston Spa, Pete Bardunius, Senior Vice President of the Capital Region Chamber, Kelly Young, Executive Director of Crossroads Center for Children, Miss Saratoga County Fair, and 4-H ambassadors.
“It’s amazing to see how this event has taken root and grown, thanks to the people it’s meant to serve, and the partnerships we’ve formed,” said Walsh. “ThinkDIFFERENTLY Day opens the door to experiences that should be accessible to all. I’m proud that our community continues to embrace inclusion, and that so many different community partners came together today to recognize that. It reflects the values of the people who live here and makes me incredibly grateful to represent them.”
Walsh thanked the Saratoga County Fair Board for its continued partnership, adding, “From day one, the Fair Board has been a driving force in making this day possible. Their support sets an example for fairs and festivals across the state. I know I can speak for all of us in saying we’re proud to offer a space where families and individuals can enjoy the excitement of the fair in a way that feels comfortable and safe.”
No Phone Zone: Saratoga Springs Implements State Mandated Phone Ban
In a July 24 meeting, the Saratoga Springs School Board approved a state-mandated restriction on cell phones and other internet connected devices.
The policy — which is new for this school year — bans all personal internet connected electronic devices during school hours and on school property except those supplied by the school for learning purposes.
Under the policy, students would not be allowed to access the device during any portion of the day — including during down periods such as lunch or study hall. Under the policy, students are discouraged from bringing devices into schools’ but if they do there are guidelines on how the device is stored.
For elementary school students, they’re required to keep the device in their assigned cubby on silent while students in middle and high school are required to keep the device on silent in their lockers.
Some exceptions to the ban were carved out for students who need the device for medical reasons or for those who need it for translations. Other students whose Individual Education Plan or section 504 plan require personal devices will be allowed to use them.
The ban is a state requirement that came into effect as a part of the budget for the 2026 fiscal year. Under the law, each school district, charter school, and board of cooperative educational services are required to implement a policy by Aug. 1, 2025. It also mandated that each school assemble an annual report on the enforcement of the policy due for first release on Sept. 1, 2026.
Cell phone bans have a long history in New York. In New York City, pagers and beepers were banned in 1988 with cell phones explicitly banned in 2005. This ban survived legal challenges and petitions calling for it to be rescinded, mostly by parents who were concerned about not being able to contact their kids during the day or in times of emergency.
These concerns won out in 2015 when the Mayor de Blasio lifted the ban in February of that year.
10 years later, Governor Cathy Hochul pushed for a new statewide ban, citing safety concerns as well as a desire to see more kids develop better face to face communications skills.
“I want laughter in the hallways again,” Governor Hochul said in an op-ed published on both Fox News and the state of New York Website. “I want to hear real voices in gym class. I want our kids to make eye contact and talk to each other face-to-face. I want teachers to feel free to teach again. And I want to create an environment where kids can actually learn and just be kids again.”
As for concerns about not being able to contact kids, especially in times of emergency, Governor Hochul argued that cell phones could distract students from getting to safety. This sentiment was echoed in the policy implemented in Saratoga Springs.
“In an emergency, the use of personal electronic devices can distract students from following the directions of staff or emergency responders, contribute to the spread of misinformation, create congestion in the emergency response system, and interfere with the district’s emergency response protocols,” The policy stated in its introduction.
Students who violate the policy will have their device confiscated and placed in the office. For the first offence, their parent or guardian will be notified, however the student will be able to retrieve the device themselves. Subsequent offences will result in the parent being required to pick up the device as well as the potential for the device to be held for a longer period of time.
While the policy explicitly states that it alone can’t be used as justification for out of school suspension, it did list other consequences for violators.
“The district may utilize consequences under the district’s Code of Conduct, including detention, in school suspension, and exclusion from extracurricular activities,” The Policy States. “The district may also utilize assignments on the detrimental impact of social media on mental health, smartphones in school, or other relevant topics.”
Test Drive the Future at Saratoga Automobile Museum’s Summer Auto Show–Saturday, August 2
Saratoga Springs – Get ready to shift into high gear at the Saratoga Automobile Museum’s Summer Auto Show, taking place Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. This beloved mid-summer tradition brings car lovers and families together for a celebration of automotive culture in the scenic surroundings of Saratoga Spa State Park. This year’s event also serves as the rescheduled date for both the rained-out Spring Auto Show and the rescheduled Muscle Car Show. If you pre-registered for either of those events, your registration will be honored and you are welcome to attend at no additional cost.
The Summer Auto Show will feature an outstanding mix of vehicles, including classic cars, vintage favorites, and modern showstoppers. Enjoy high-energy music from DJ Andy Narzynski, grab a bite from local food trucks, and explore offerings from a variety of automotive vendors. It’s a full morning of entertainment, food, and family-friendly fun.
Back by popular demand, guests will once again have the opportunity to test drive a wide range of Electric and Hybrid vehicles, presented by ENYCAR. Experience the thrill of eco-friendly driving with the latest models available for hands-on comparison and fun.
Inside the Museum, visitors can explore the featured exhibition, Speed, Style, and Legacy: The Corvette Story, a deep dive into the evolution of America’s most iconic sports car. The exhibit now includes one of the most legendary Corvette race cars ever built, the 1967 Corvette Grand Sport, on loan from the Revs Institute in Naples, Florida.
Vehicle Registration & Admission:
• Pre-register your vehicle for $20 and receive 2 Museum admission admissions
• Day-of vehicle registration is $25
• Spectator admission and parking are free
Mark your calendars for a summer morning of cars, culture, and connection. Whether you’re bringing your pride and joy to show off or simply coming to enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors, the Summer Auto Show is a can’t-miss celebration for car lovers of all ages.
For more information and to register your vehicle, visit SaratogaAutoMuseum.org
Hazy Shade of Summer: Air Quality Hits Unhealthy Levels
For the first time this year, summer got a little bit hazy as air quality levels in Saratoga County hit unhealthy levels.
On July 26 and 27, a monitoring station in Albany County — the closest to Saratoga County that reports to the EPA — air quality index levels above 101 for the first time this year, making the air unhealthy for sensitive groups.
These reports were backed up by private air quality monitors from the company IQAir which has seven monitors in Saratoga County. All of their monitors in the county showed air quality index levels hitting 101 or more in that time frame.
The drop in air quality comes as fire crews across North America battle several wildfires. In the US, there are currently 33 large fires being fought while Canada is seeing 109 fires, of which 56 are out of control, according to the National Interagency Fire Center and Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre as of July 30. In total forest fires have burned 15,357,733 acres in Canada and 3,141,850 acres in the US.
These fires have sent smoke plumes across the continent, leading to air quality alerts hundreds of miles from the origin of the smoke. The latest air quality alert advised sensitive groups — listed as those who are children, pregnant, have an underlying medical condition and/or work outside — to take frequent breaks, lower the intensity of work and to watch for symptoms such as shortness of breath and coughing.
Saratoga County wasn’t the worst place in New York to be affected by the drop in air quality. A monitoring station on White Mountain in the Adirondacks reported an air quality index of 160, a level dangerous to everyone outside.
The drop in air quality was compounded by extreme heat advisories which saw temperatures as high as the 90s.
Saratoga National Historical Park Hosting Special Events in August
Stillwater — Saratoga National Historical Park is hosting the following special events in August:
History Caravan
Saturday, August 2 | 9:30 am
Meet in the Visitor Center
Looking for a more in-depth, hands-on experience during your visit? Join a Park Volunteer for a caravan-style tour of the Battlefield! Tours will last 2.5-3 hours. Meet in the Visitor Center and follow along in your own vehicle for as long as you like. May be cancelled in the event of inclement weather.
Tinsmithing Demonstration
Saturday, August 2 | 10:00 am-4:00 pm
Visitor Center Lawn
A live tinsmith demonstration! At the time of the Battles of Saratoga, the tinsmith was an important part of both community and military life. Tinsmiths created dozens of useful items like cups, bowls, candle molds, lanterns, tea canisters, and other containers. They also provided armies with needed items such as oil flasks, canteens, document cases, cooking kettles, and even canister shot for artillery. Learn about the process and see a sampling of the many civilian and military wares a tinsmith could make! The tinsmith demonstration is weather sensitive and will be cancelled in the event of rain.
The McKrells Concert
Tuesday, August 5 | 12:00 pm
Visitor Center Lawn
The McKrells will bring their rousing brand of Bluegrass to top of the hill next to the Visitor Center. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy the exhilarating sounds along with the beautiful and historic views. Bluegrass Now magazine described our guests as follows: “Traditional suits-and-ties bluegrass The McKrells are not…Yes, it’s Grass, mostly, but there’s a lilt to the tunes, a bouncing drive to the melodies, and here and there a touch of melancholy that seems to go hand in hand with the Celtic folk persona.” Saratoga Arts made this program possible through the Community Arts Regrant Program, funded by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. This support was gained by the Friends of Saratoga Battlefield.
Fort Ticonderoga Fife & Drum Corps
Saturday, August 16 | 1:00 pm
Visitor Center Lawn
Listen to stirring tunes that eased the drudgery of a long march, or the many calls that regulated activity in a fort. Explore how drumbeats, trilling fifes, and songs created an 18th-century world of military music. Saratoga Arts made this program possible through the Community Arts Regrant Program, funded by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. This support was gained by the Friends of Saratoga Battlefield.
History Caravan
Saturday, August 16 | 9:30 am
Meet in the Visitor Center
Looking for a more in-depth, hands-on experience during your visit? Join a Park Volunteer for a caravan-style tour of the Battlefield! Tours will last 2.5-3 hours. Meet in the Visitor Center and follow along in your own vehicle for as long as you like. May be cancelled in the event of inclement weather.
Uniforming the Continental Army
Sunday, August 17 | 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Visitor Center Lawn
The American Northern Army encamped at Saratoga Battlefield in 1777 included thousands of Continental soldiers from New England, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. These soldiers wore a variety of colorful uniforms made of wool or linen, all of which needed to be hand tailored. Their leather shoes were made by hand using a careful, painstaking process. Come to the park to see an 18th-century tailor and cordwainer (not a cobbler!) make these uniform parts using authentic period techniques.
“A Most Noble Purpose”: The Civilian Conservation Corps at Saratoga Battlefield
Tuesday, August 26 | 1:00 pm
Visitor Center
Saratoga Battlefield became a National Park in 1938. So how does a new park go from minimally developed to first class…in the Great Depression? Join Ranger Bill Valosin to find out more!
Three Sisters Festival
Join the Saratoga County History Center for an afternoon of fun for the whole family. The Three Sisters Festival will be held at Brookside Museum, 21 Fairground Ave. Ballston Spa, on Sunday, August 17, from 2-4pm. Learn about the Native American agricultural practice known as the three sisters which encourages the growth of corn, beans and squash. The day’s events include a telling of Native American stories, an exhibit with Native American artifacts, garden tour, porch and bake sale as well as refreshments of popcorn and herbal iced tea. Joseph Bruchac will be returning this year as the special guest speaker.
Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation Seeks Award Nominations
Awards- (Courtesy of Saratoga Preservation Foundation)
On Thursday, September 25, the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation will recognize individuals and organizations that have invested significant time and resources into preserving historic properties during the 2025 Annual Meeting & Preservation Recognition Awards. The event will be held at the Saratoga Music Hall, located on the third floor of City Hall at 474 Broadway.
The Preservation Recognition Awards celebrate the dedication and hard work of those committed to being good stewards of historic buildings. These awards highlight exemplary preservation projects and recognize the positive impact they have on the community.
The Foundation is currently seeking nominations for projects that demonstrate a strong commitment to preserving, rehabilitating, and reusing historic buildings and landscapes. Nominations may be submitted for individuals, businesses, organizations, or community groups.
Projects will be evaluated by the Awards Committee based on the following criteria:
• Sensitivity of the design to the historic character and setting,
• Use of appropriate preservation techniques and practices, and
• Degree of difficulty and creativity in addressing challenges.
Projects must be located within the City of Saratoga Springs but do not need to be in a historic district. Eligible projects must involve buildings that are 50 years or older and have been completed within the past year. They may range from small-scale efforts—such as the removal of vinyl siding or restoration of original wood windows—to full rehabilitations or adaptive reuse. Additions to historic buildings and compatible new infill construction are also eligible.
To submit a nomination or ask questions about the awards, contact Sydney Hedge, Preservation & Programs Coordinator, at shedge@saratogapreservation.org. Nominations are due by Friday, August 15, 2025, and should include:
• The project address,
• A description of the work completed,
• (If possible) the name of the property owner, and
• Photographs.
Nominations can also be submitted online at https://www.saratogapreservation.org
Paving Updates for the Week of August 4
From out-of-state drivers to horses to the occasional accident, there’s a lot of things that can cause a slowdown in Saratoga Springs.
Some slowdowns can be avoided, however, just by avoiding these roads that are being torn up and resurfaced. Here is the paving update for this week.
• On Monday Aug. 4 Aqueduct Drive from the dead end to Bemont Drive will be milled.
• On Monday Aug. 4 Belmont Drive from Aqueduct Drive to Preakness Way will be milled.
• On Monday Aug. 4 Winners Circle from Belmont Drive to Preakness Way will be milled.
• On Monday Aug. 4 Preakness Way from the dead end to Winners Circle will be milled.
• On Tuesday Aug. 5 Derby Drive from the dead end to Winners Circle will be milled.
• On Tuesday Aug. 5 Winners Circle from Derby Drive to Preakness Way will be milled.
• On Wednesday Aug. 6 Preakness Way from the dead end to Winners Circle will be paved.
• On Wednesday Aug. 6 Aqueduct Drive from the dead end to Belmont Drive will be paved.
• On Wednesday Aug. 6 Belmont Drive from Aqueduct Drive to Winners Circle will be paved.
• On Wednesday Aug. 6 Winners Circle from Belmont Drive to just beyond Preakness Way will be paved.
• On Wednesday Aug. 6 Derby Drive from the dead end to Winners Circle will be paved.
• On Thursday Aug. 7 Winners Circle from Preakness Way to White Farms Road will be paved.
There is no parking of cars on the street during these hours and driveway access/egress will be limited with potentially lengthy delays. On the day of paving, the road will be closed to all thru traffic until midafternoon.