A Ballston Spa man has been sentenced to 84 months in federal prison followed by four years of supervised release on charges related to gun possession and cocaine trafficking. 

Jason Brundige, 51, of Ballston Spa was indicted in January 2025 and charged with two counts of distribution of controlled substance, use of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and felon in possession of a firearm. 

As part of a plea agreement, Brundige pled guilty to a single count of distribution of a controlled substance, use of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. All other charges were dropped. 

“This sentence reflects the seriousness of combining drug trafficking with firearms,” First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said. “Individuals who distribute dangerous drugs while armed put entire communities at risk, and our Office will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to hold such offenders fully accountable.”

According to federal court documents, Brundige is alleged to have sold drugs to an undercover member police officer on two separate occasions as well as a confidential informant on another occasion. Brundige is believed to have distributed 42.7 grams of cocaine from his home in the Town of Milton with an additional 59.67 grams recovered from a hotel room in Malta — along with drug paraphernalia, around $2,400 in cash and a loaded handgun which was found in a garbage can. 

Prosecutors allege that Brundige displayed the weapon — a pistol valued at $300 — to an undercover officer during a drug buy, telling the officer that he was nervous. 

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the investigation was conducted by both the Bureau of Alcohol, Tabacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office. 

“This sentence sends a clear message that drug trafficking and gun violence will not be tolerated in Saratoga County,” Saratoga County Sherriff Jeffrey Brown said. “I commend the collaborative efforts of the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, ATF, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in bringing this case to a successful resolution.”

On February 9, 2026, State Police of Clifton Park arrested Micah J. Woodrow, 19, of Clifton Park, NY, for:

o Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2nd, a class “C” felony

o Criminal Possession of a Firearm, a class “E” felony

o Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, 3rd, and other vehicle and traffic law violations

On February 9, 2026, at about 2:14 p.m., troopers stopped a vehicle driven by Woodrow on I-87 northbound in Halfmoon for a vehicle and traffic law violation. Further investigation discovered an illegally possessed handgun in the vehicle, which was seized.

Woodrow was arrested and transported to SP Clifton Park for processing. He was arraigned at the Halfmoon Town Court, where he was released under the supervision of the Saratoga County Probation Department.

On February 4, 2026, State Police of Clifton Park, with the assistance of the Schenectady Police Department, arrested Reginald L. Doston, 50, of Schenectady, NY, on a warrant for:

o Burglary, 2nd, a class “C” felony

o Criminal Mischief 2nd, a class “D” felony

o Criminal Possession of a Weapon 3rd, a class “D” felony

o Assault 2nd, a class “D” felony

o Menacing, 2nd, a class “A” misdemeanor

o Criminal Obstruction of Breathing, a class “A” misdemeanor

On February 3, 2026, at about 2:49 p.m., troopers responded to a disturbance on Lakeview Drive in Halfmoon. The investigation determined Doston allegedly had entered the home of a victim who was known to him without their knowledge or permission while they were not there. The victim returned home and reportedly discovered Doston inside. Doston refused to leave after being told multiple times, and a physical altercation ensued, during which Doston caused injuries to the victim. During the altercation, Doston also allegedly damaged property belonging to the victim. The victim fled the residence in a vehicle, and Doston reportedly followed them in his vehicle until they were able to evade him and contact law enforcement.

Doston was located, arrested by the Schenectady Police Department, and turned over to troopers. Doston was transported to SP Clifton Park for processing. He was then arraigned at the Halfmoon Town Court, where he was remanded to the Saratoga County Correctional Facility without bail.

The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce is bringing back its popular annual Saratoga County Restaurant Week.

Dozens of Saratoga County restaurants from Ballston Spa to Malta, Saratoga Springs, Schuylerville, Milton, Wilton and more are participating in the event, which will run from Wednesday, Feb. 25 through Thursday, March 5.

Participating restaurants will offer a $25, $35 or $45 three–course meal menu (plus tax and tip) for customers to experience and enjoy. Some restaurants will also offer $15 breakfast or lunch specials. 

“We’re thrilled to host the 2026 Saratoga County Restaurant Week and showcase the incredible dining options in our community,” said Todd Shimkus, president of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce. “This annual event invites local residents and visitors from across the region to discover new restaurants they may not have experienced before, while also supporting locally owned establishments and the people who work there during a critical time of year.”

This year, the event will once again include a gift card sweepstakes through which one lucky winner will receive a prize package of multiple $100 gift cards to restaurants throughout Saratoga County. Participants may enter the sweepstakes daily on the Chamber’s website, and the winners will be selected and notified via email after Restaurant Week.

The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce has spearheaded the well-known Saratoga County Restaurant Week for the past nine years.

“The Chamber looks forward to this week every year, as do many area residents,” Shimkus said.  “Whether dining in or ordering takeout, supporting Saratoga County restaurants helps local businesses weather the winter months and sets them up for long-term success.”

Chefs and restaurateurs all over the county are busy preparing their Restaurant Week menu selections.

“We’re excited to be part of Saratoga County Restaurant Week and give people a great deal on what we do best, a Juicy Burger, Yukon Gold fries, and a fountain drink for $15,” said Dustin Flannery, owner and operator of Juicy Burgers and More in Milton. “It’s a fun way for us to welcome new faces, support the local food scene, and share our fresh, never-frozen steak burgers with the community.”

More information on Saratoga County Restaurant Week, including a full list of participating restaurants and menus, is available online at https://www.saratoga.org/live/2026-restaurant-week-winter-sweepstakes/

Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced the 2026 dates for Free Fishing Days in New York. The requirement for a freshwater fishing license is waived during the following six days in 2026: February 14–15, June 27–28, September 26 (National Hunting and Fishing Day), and November 11 (Veterans Day).  

“Free Fishing Days provide the perfect opportunity for residents and visitors to affordably explore, unplug, and get outside,” Governor Hochul said. “New York State’s waters offer some of the best fishing opportunities in the nation, hosting memorable fishing experiences that increase tourism and benefit the economy. In addition to the many health benefits associated with recreating outdoors, fishing can provide more opportunities to connect with family and friends, something that seems harder and harder to do with increasing demands on time in today’s world.” 

DEC’s Free Fishing Days program began in 1991 to give New Yorkers who might not fish a chance to try the rewarding sport of freshwater fishing at no cost, introduce people to a new hobby, and encourage people to support conservation by purchasing a New York State Fishing License. 

“A wide variety of sport fish are thriving in thousands of freshwater lakes, ponds, streams, and rivers across New York State,” Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, Recreational fishing can be an exciting, affordable, and rewarding challenge that reminds us to slow down and take time to enjoy our valuable natural resources. Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned angler, I encourage everyone to get outside and visit New York’s waters during this year’s Free Fishing Days.”  

DEC offers a host of resources for those interested in getting started in fishing. The I FISH NY Beginners’ Guide to Freshwater Fishing (PDF) provides information on everything from rigging up a fishing rod, to identifying your catch and understanding fishing regulations. There’s also a video series on DEC’s YouTube channel that complements the Beginners’ Guide. DEC’s Places to Fish webpages are a reliable source of information when planning your next fishing trip. DEC’s official mobile app, HuntFishNY, now features “The Tackle Box,” which provides anglers with one-stop shopping for fishing regulations, boating access, and stocking information within a map-based interface from the convenience of your smart phone. 

Free Fishing Days further support Governor Hochul’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative that promotes physical and mental health by encouraging New York’s children and families to put down their phones and computers, take a break from social media, and enjoy recreation and outdoor social gatherings. One of the ways teens and youth can find ideas to get offline is through DEC’s Get Offline, Get Outside Challenge, which offers 50 fun and interesting activities for youth to complete by the age of 19.  

In addition to Free Fishing Days, there are also “learn to fish” opportunities available through DEC-approved free fishing clinics. For a list of what’s currently scheduled visit DEC’s website.  

To help make fishing more affordable and help inspire the next generation of anglers, DEC has also partnered with libraries across the state to provide a Fishing Rod Lending Program. While borrowing a book, library patrons can sign out a fishing rod. This program offers an opportunity for people to try fishing before deciding to purchase their own gear. For more information and a list of the more than 80 participating libraries, visit DEC’s website. 

Free Fishing Day participants are reminded that although the requirement for a freshwater fishing license is waived during free fishing days, all other fishing regulations remain in effect. Outside of free fishing days, anglers over the age of 16 must have a valid fishing license. For more information on purchasing a license visit DEC’s website. 

The New York State Department of Health (DOH) provides advice to anglers about what fish are safe to eat and how often. Visit DOH’s website to search by waterbody location. 

The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce is promoting community volunteerism with its annual Pitch-In initiative. 

The program, built on the belief that giving back through volunteering can lead to larger impact, is aimed at connecting residents with local non-profit organizations.

“Through our Pitch-In initiative, the Chamber is igniting a movement to make Saratoga County a brighter, stronger, and more connected place to live through volunteerism,” said Todd Shimkus, president of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce. “Volunteering is a powerful way to strengthen our community—and Pitch-In makes it easy for residents to jump in and get involved. By sharing their time and talents, volunteers can spark meaningful change while discovering the personal rewards that come with giving back.”

The benefits of volunteering extend far beyond the good it does for others. It’s also a chance to connect, grow, and make a meaningful impact within one’s community.

Whether it’s mentoring a child, supporting a food pantry, or joining an environmental cleanup, volunteers experience the fulfillment of knowing their actions matter.

Volunteers can often build relationships with like-minded neighbors and become part of a growing network working toward positive change.

Additionally, many volunteer roles offer hands-on opportunities to develop talents and experiences that can carry into career and personal goals.

With dozens of local causes to choose from, Pitch-In ensures that residents can find a volunteer experience that aligns with their interests, values, and busy schedules.

“Volunteering creates bonds that strengthen the fabric of Saratoga County,” Shimkus said. “Together, we can tackle community challenges, uplift those in need, and build a future we can all share with pride.”

Anyone interested in volunteering can explore opportunities and learn more about Pitch-In at saratoga.org/pitch-in.

Through the small but powerful act of giving back, Saratoga County residents are encouraged to come together to create positive change.

The Saratoga County Board of Elections (BOE) will be open Saturday, Feb. 14, for voter registration and party enrollment changes. 

Voters may visit the County BOE at 50 W. High St., Ballston Spa, from 9AM to 5PM on February 14th to either change their party enrollment or to enroll for the first time in a party. 

Party affiliation allows a voter to participate in primary elections. An application to change one’s party enrollment for the primary election in any year must be received by the Board of Elections no later than Feb. 14 of that year. 

Residents may also visit the Saratoga County Board of Elections during regular business, Monday through Friday, 9AM to 5PM to register to vote or change enrollment prior to the deadline.

For more information, please contact the Saratoga County Board of Elections at 518-885-2249

or boe@saratogacountyny.gov.