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Brewseum: Craft Beer Event at Canfield Casino

Written by Nicholas Rodd on . Posted in News.


Brewseum at Canfield Casino. The 12th annual event will take place April 25. Photo provided.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — For 100 years, the Saratoga Springs Lions Club has made it their mission to support people in need across the Saratoga area, and bring awareness, education, and aid to several major causes, such as for those with vision loss, hearing loss, diabetes, youth initiatives, and food shortage.

To raise funding for these causes, the group has worked closely with the local community and will stage the 12th annual Night at the Brewseum on Friday, April 25, at the Canfield Casino in Congress Park. 

The wine, craft beer, and cider event provides participants the opportunity to sample products donated from local breweries, distilleries, wineries, and restaurants such as ADK Pub and Brewery, Druthers Brewing Co., Saratoga Apple Hard cider, Adirondack Winery, Helderberg Meadworks, and others. All proceeds go toward supporting the mission of the Saratoga Lion’s Club.

“Everybody that’s in the club is very committed to what we’re focused on, and we’re all volunteers,” said Brewseum co-chair and Lions Club member John McDonald. “We’re very focused on what we’re looking to do to support the community in the way of sight and hearing conservation, diabetes awareness, hunger, youth programs, and childhood cancer. That’s really what we’re focused on, and the community recognizes the work that we do.”

Last year, admission to the Brewseum event sold out. The 12th annual holding features drink selection and food, a silent auction for some higher-end items and several drop bucket raffles for prizes such as gift cards for local businesses. 

Several ticket options are available, from non-drinker tickets – at $30, to full VIP Experience – $65 in advance.  Attendees must be at least 21 years old, and an ID will be required to enter the Brewseum.

For more information and tickets, go to: https://www.saratogaspringslions.com/brewseum/. For more information about the Saratoga Springs Lions Club and their efforts to help the community, go to: https://www.saratogaspringslions.com/.

Saratoga Immigration Coalition to Host Meeting Feb. 26

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Immigration Coalition will host a general meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 26.  

The meeting will take place both in person and on Zoom.  

Attendance by Zoom requires registration at the link: https://us02web.zoom.us/…/register/B6aDNz-4RZGvAtOMrKAqFA. After registering, a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting will be sent. 

The meeting may also be attended in person, at the Presbyterian-United Church of Christ, 24 Circular St., Saratoga Springs. Enter the Nolan House on the church grounds from the parking lot off Park Place. For more information, email: saratogaimmigration@gmail.com, or call 518-306-1313. 

RAM Looking for Volunteers for Free Health Clinic

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

HUDSON FALLS — A two-day health clinic hosted by Remote Area Medical (RAM), will be taking place on April 12 and 13 at Hudson Falls high school, and they are looking for volunteers. The clinic is being set up to offer free, quality dental, vision, and medical care to those in need within Hudson Falls and the surrounding area. 

RAM is looking for volunteer medical, dental, and vision professionals, as well as general support volunteers to offer their time for this clinic. General support volunteers will help in the setup on April 11 and take down on April 13. Overnight parking volunteers are needed to greet patients, and interpreters can also aid patients through the process in the parking lot or during clinic operations. General support staff are not required to have any medical field experience to participate. 

Since 1985, RAM has been providing free, high-quality healthcare to those living in underserved and uninsured communities, helping over 940,000 people through more than 1,400 clinics along the way.

For more information on the upcoming clinic, including how to volunteer or donate, visit www.ramusa.org or call 865-579-1530. The clinic will be held at 80 E. Labarge Street, Hudson Falls. 

Real ID Required Starting May 7 – How To Get It

Written by Nicholas Rodd on . Posted in Featured, News.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – May 7 marks the day when all U.S. citizens will see a change to rules surrounding their ID cards as the country shifts to what is known as the Real ID. 

This new ID is more than a cosmetic change, as every person will need one if they plan to enter a federal government building, board a domestic commercial flight, or enter a nuclear power facility.

A Real ID can be recognized by the small star symbol on the card, which indicates its federal compliance with DHS regulations. 

There is another acceptable form of ID within New York State that meets the same level of criteria as the Real ID. This is known as an Enhanced Driver License (EDL), which can be identified by the flag symbol on the card. However, this enhanced license is different in just a few ways, such as using it to cross the border back into the United States by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries, which the Real ID does not permit. An EDL cannot be used for international air travel. 

To obtain a Real ID or EDL, residents are required to visit their local DMV office with a list of documents to verify identity and residency within the state. It is not possible to initially obtain either ID type online. A list of specific documents and other requirements are as follows.

One proof of identity, such as U.S. birth certificate, proof of legal presence, or a passport.

Two proofs of physical address within New York State.

A social security card if issued one, or other acceptable alternatives that show a person’s SSN such as a W-2 form, an SSA-1099 form, a non-SSA-1099 form, or a pay stub with the person’s SSN on it.

A current driver license for those looking to exchange one issued by another state.

First-time applicants will be required to take a new photo for their ID.

Those upgrading to a Real ID will not pay any additional fees other than the standard DMV license renewal fee. Those upgrading to an EDL will pay an extra $30 for making the change.

All information about the two ID types including features and payment information can be found on the New York State DMV website, along with a document guide with a checklist of everything required when securing an upgrade.

Those who have an Enhanced Driver License or a valid passport will not be required to obtain a Real ID for domestic travel. Those under the age of 18 also will not be required to obtain a Real ID, however, any adult traveling with a minor will still have to show a Real ID, EDL, or passport when going through TSA. Those who do not plan to travel or enter federal facilities also will not be required to obtain a Real ID or EDL. A Real ID cannot be used for international travel of any kind, so it is not a replacement for a passport. 

This change to the ID system has been a long time coming, with the new standards initially set by the U.S. Congress in 2005. This piece of legislation looked to increase the standard for identification verification, following the recommendations laid out in the final report by the 9/11 Commission, with enforcement initially set for 2008. However, due to numerous setbacks in integration nationwide, that enforcement has been continuously delayed, with some of the most recent of those delays coming in 2020 and 2022 due to COVID-19 disruptions, according to the Department of Homeland Security. The goal of the Real ID, according to the department’s website, is to ensure a higher standard of identification for those accessing federally run facilities and flights.

For more information about the Real ID and a detailed list of frequently asked questions, visit https://www.dhs.gov/real-id/about-real-id. 

Judge To Rule on Contested Ballots in Saratoga Springs Special Election 

Written by Thomas Dimopoulos on . Posted in News.


Saratoga County courthouse complex in Ballston Spa on Feb. 11, 2025. Photo by Thomas Dimopoulos. 

BALLSTON SPA — The immediate future of the decision-making process in Saratoga Springs likely rests in a forthcoming court ruling expected from Saratoga County State Supreme Court Judge James Walsh regarding just over 100 contested election ballots.

The contest to seat a DPW Commissioner/fifth member of the City Council through the remainder of the 2025 calendar year pits Democratic Party candidate Hank Kuczynski against Republican Party candidate Chuck Marshall.  

Marshall, whose name is on the ballot, currently serves as chair of the Saratoga Springs Planning Board. Kuczynski, whose name is not on the ballot, was supported as a write-in candidate, and has since Oct. 29 served as interim DPW Commissioner.  

At the crux of the issue:  106 contested ballots and whether those ballots were appropriately marked by voters to accurately show their intent.    

The Saratoga Springs special election to decide the seat included nine days of early voting in advance of last Tuesday’s Jan. 28 Election Day. That was followed by two days of inspecting ballots in the basement vault of the Saratoga County Board of Elections. Subsequently, 106 contested ballots found their way to Republican Saratoga County State Supreme Court Judge James Walsh. 

With just over 3,500 ballots counted in a race too-close-to-call, if Judge Walsh rules the 106 contested ballots not be counted, Marshall will emerge as the victor by about 97 votes. If the ballots are ruled to be counted, Kuczynski will secure victory by about nine votes. Subsequent to the decision, it is not known whether either side may file an appeal. 

Court was in session to debate the matter for the better part of four hours on Friday, Feb. 7. 

Candidate Kuczynski and Candidate Marshall were both present in the courtroom as were a variety of legal representatives for the Democratic and Republican parties as well as for the Board of Elections commissioners – John Sweeney among them. Sweeney, a former local congressman, was also famously involved in the counting during Florida’s presidential vote between George Bush and Al Gore in 2000.  

Attorneys submitted written arguments in support of their respective client to the court on Monday, Feb. 10. 

In addition to the 106 contested ballots, there were 25 undervotes  – that is, ballots cast but with no discernible candidate name chosen. The status of those undervotes is not known.

The date for the return of 35 to 40 outstanding military ballot votes reached its deadline this week. None of those outstanding ballots were returned, according to the county Board of Elections. 

All five Saratoga Springs City Council positions – four commissioners and a mayor – will be up for new two-year terms this November.  

James Murphy: A Lifetime of Service in Saratoga Honored

Written by Thomas Dimopoulos on . Posted in Featured, News.


NYS Court of Claims Judge Kathleen B. Hogan and James A. Murphy, III, unveil a portrait of Murphy at a ceremony in Ballston Spa on Feb. 7, 2025. Photo by Thomas Dimopoulos.

BALLSTON SPA — A ceremony celebrating James Murphy’s decades of service to the community was held at the Saratoga County Court complex in Ballston Spa Feb. 7.   

Murphy retired in December as Saratoga County Court Judge and Acting Justice of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, after 10 years of service.

Draped in black judicial robes, Murphy was gracious with his comments toward all who packed into the courtroom and came to celebrate him, as well as those who played a role alongside his development. Included among the list were teams of court attorneys and secretaries, county workers and court system members past and present, justices, and his wife and two daughters.  

“I take a minute to say all of those things because every single one of those people have meant so much to me,” Murphy said, as 12 justices wearing black robes looked on from their seats in the jury box. Several dozen other people filled the public gallery of the Saratoga County Supreme Court Courthouse.     

During the ceremony, Murphy also singled out for gratitude Saratoga County Bar Association President and Saratoga Springs City Court Judge Francine Vero “for her leadership of the bar association and her generosity in commissioning this portrait and organizing such a meaningful unveiling ceremony,” as well as NYS Court of Claims Judge Kate Hogan “for her years of friendship and support throughout my career.” The Saratoga County Bar Association sponsored the ceremony. 

Prior to his election to the bench, Murphy served 25 years as a prosecutor – elected to the post of Saratoga County District Attorney in 1997 and re-elected to subsequent 4-year terms in 2001, 2005, 2009 and 2013.

“The first minute I met Kate, I knew that I had found a friend. You know how some people you just click with? She was that person for me, and that was many, many years ago,” Murphy said of Hogan. ‘We shared lots of discussions about lots of cases – sticky situations, how do we do this? What are your suggestions? We lobbied the legislature for meaningful justice reform,” he added. “Judging can be an isolating event. You only really have your core attorney to discuss cases with – and it’s nice to have somebody else to bounce things off. When Kate joined the bench and became a member of the judiciary, it was wonderful for me. When asked who I wanted to unveil the portrait with me, Kate Hogan was the only answer. She’s like family.”  

Together, they lifted the blue draperies covering the free-standing frame and revealed the portrait of Murphy. 

“I Just want to say…I don’t think my head is actually that big!” he quipped, eyeballing the portrait, his commentary met with much laughter. The portrait will be displayed in the Saratoga County Courthouse, joining the esteemed ranks of past jurists who have shaped the Court’s history. 

“This portrait is not just a personal honor but a tribute to the institution we serve. Serving the people of the state of New York and Saratoga County has been the privilege of a lifetime. I have worked alongside some of the most dedicated and talented people – many of whom are here today and all committed to making our community better always remembering service above self,” said Murphy as he begins the next chapter of his life with Behan Communications, Inc., helping to oversee business development efforts and working directly with crisis communication and public affairs clients.

“I’m honored that my portrait will hang in the courtroom where I spent so many years as D.A. and as judge. And I hope, when you see this oversized head looking down at you – you’ll know I’m right there in the trenches with you, cheering you on as you continue to do the great work you do. “          

Longtime Spa City Resident, Tuskegee Airman Clarence Dart Celebration Feb. 20

Written by Thomas Dimopoulos on . Posted in News.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Longtime local resident and Tuskegee Airman Clarence Dart will be celebrated by daughter Cynthia Providence in a Saratoga Springs Preservation program on Thursday, Feb. 20.

Dart, who died in 2012 at the age of 91, flew 95 missions overseas during World War II. Twice, he survived being shot down by the enemy. 

The Tuskegee Airmen were a group of African American military pilots and support personnel who served during World War II. Trained at the Tuskegee Army Air Field in Alabama, they were part of the U.S. Army Air Corps, which later became the U.S. Air Force. 

The accomplishments of the Tuskegee Airmen are credited with influencing President Harry Truman to officially desegregate the U.S. military in 1948. It was the same year Dart relocated to Saratoga Springs. He married his wife, Mildred, in June 1950 and the couple raised their family of seven daughters and two sons in the Spa City. 

For his service Dart received two Purple Hearts for injuries sustained during air combat, the Air Medal, Distinguished Flying Cross with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, the WWII Victory Medal, and the American Defense Medal, the NYS Conspicuous Service Cross, and the NYS Conspicuous Service Star.

While he fought for President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s four freedoms, when Dart returned home from the war there was no heroic welcome, and no job that was available to him to fulfill his dream of being a commercial airplane pilot.

It took more than 60 years for recognition to come. In 2007, Dart was awarded a Congressional Gold Medal, alongside other Tuskegee Airmen in the Capitol Rotunda.  

Providence will share her perspective on her father’s remarkable achievements, personal journey, and the challenges he faced within a unit that, while highly esteemed today, may not have been fully valued at the time. She will also reflect on the lasting impact of his legacy on future generations. 

The virtual program – “Tuskegee Airmen: Lt. Col. Clarence Dart” – will be hosted via Zoom for a donation of $10 or more, at 7 p.m. on Feb. 20.  To register, visit www.saratogapreservation.org or call 518-587-5030. All registrants will receive a Zoom link in advance, as well as access to the program recording. 

NYS Department of Veterans’ Services Hosts Virtual Program Feb. 19 Honoring Black Veterans 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

Albany — The New York State Department of Veterans’ Services will host a special virtual program titled “From Combat to Community: The Continued Impact of Black Veterans,” from 10 a.m. to noon on Wednesday, Feb. 19, in honor of Black History Month.

The virtual event will be hosted online to reach a broad audience. To register, go to: https://bit.ly/3QflZCQ 

. The webinar will honor the legacy of Black Veterans and their profound contributions to both military service and society. The program will highlight the remarkable ways Black Veterans have transitioned from serving on the frontlines to driving change in their communities through leadership, advocacy, and innovation. 

The event aims to celebrate the enduring impact of Black Veterans, explore the challenges they face, and inspire action by showcasing their leadership in shaping education, workforce development, social justice, and civic engagement. 

Featured Speakers include: Rev. Viviana DeCohen, U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, Commissioner, New York State Department of Veterans’ Services; Dr. Kimberly A. McClain, U.S. Air Force Veteran, Former Assistant Secretary Congressional and Intergovernmental Relations; Toni Holland, U.S. Navy Veteran, Retired Director, Charter Communications, as well as others.  

The New York State Department of Veterans’ Services, which has served as the state’s advocacy agency for Veterans, Service Members, and Military Families since 1945, maintains an agencywide commitment of serving all Veterans, Service Members, and Military Families in a wide range of practice areas. For more information, contact the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services at 518-419-4206, joshua.fitzpatrick@veterans.ny.gov. 

Guilty Plea In Lola Saratoga 2024 Smash-And-Grab Burglary

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

BALLSTON SPA — Two Washington, D.C. residents pleaded guilty to felony burglary charges in connection with an August 2024 early-morning smash-and-grab burglary of Lola Saratoga in downtown Saratoga Springs. 

Saratoga County District Attorney Karen Heggen announced on Feb. 10 that 24-year-old Jowan A. Plummer and 22-year-old Mustafa Lewis-Hampton both pled guilty in Saratoga County Court before the Hon. James R. Davis to burglary in the third-degree. 

Heggen said the defendants gained entry by smashing the front window of the Saratoga Springs store, quickly stole thousands of dollars’ worth of merchandise and fled in a getaway vehicle. After eyewitnesses contacted law enforcement, police located the fleeing vehicle and pursued it at a high rate of speed, ultimately taking Plummer and Lewis-Hampton into custody in Clifton Park. 

It is anticipated that each defendant will receive two-to-six years in State Prison as well as pay full restitution to the owner of Lola Saratoga when they are sentenced on April 28, Heggen said. Both were also issued full Stay Away Orders of Protection from both the downtown business and its owner.  A third co-defendant remains incarcerated in a Washington D.C. jail in connection with similar charges and will be appearing in County Court later this week. 

Malta Man Facing Multiple Charges Following Shotgun Incident in Saratoga Springs

Written by Thomas Dimopoulos on . Posted in News.


Police cruiser on Lake Avenue on Feb. 7, 2025. Photo: SSPD. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — A 76-year-old Malta man was taken into custody Feb. 7, suspected of firing “several rounds from a shotgun” that resulted in the battered chassis of a city police cruiser resting outside of the Lake Avenue stationhouse, as well as a vehicle struck by gunfire on nearby Division Street. 

Police said the incident began at 6:55 pm Friday, Feb. 7 when dispatchers received a call about a man believed to be firing a gun on Division Street, just west of Broadway.  Almost an hour later, at 7:43 p.m., the sergeant assigned to Lake Avenue police headquarters heard a gunshot at the station, looked outside, and observed a man pointing a long gun at the building. 

Officers inside the station promptly exited the building and pointed their guns at the alleged shooter who “at this point had entered a vehicle and was driving away,” according to police. The suspect fled down Route 9 with officers in their vehicles in pursuit, eventually pulling into the parking lot at the Market 32 in Malta and taken into police custody. 

No officers or members of the public were injured and none of the officers fired their weapons, police said. 

Following their questioning of the man, identified as 76-year-old Paul Trinci of Malta, authorities said: “indications during interviewing the suspect allude to his desire to create a deadly force engagement with the police.” 

Trinci’s statements, documented as “spontaneous utterances” according to court documents, admitted to “drinking a lot,” and confirmed police reports of his desire to create a deadly force engagement with them. 

Trinci was arraigned in Saratoga Springs City Court and remanded to the custody of the County Sheriff without bail, according to a police statement. No future court date was announced. 

Trinci was charged with six felonies – attempted assault, criminal possession of a weapon, criminal use of a firearm, reckless endangerment and two counts criminal mischief; numerous misdemeanors including: DWI, reckless endangerment, reckless driving, criminal possession of a weapon and unlawful fleeing a police officer, as well as various traffic infractions.