SARATOGA COUNTY — Saratoga County Sheriff Michael H. Zurlo announced his agency will begin participating in the “Blue Envelope” program for Saratoga County drivers who are on the autism spectrum. 

The program aims to make routine traffic stop interactions more streamlined, less-stressful, and safer for all involved, according to a press release issued by the county last week. 

The program’s namesake is simply a 6” x 9” light blue envelope designed to hold a photocopy of the operator’s driver’s license, vehicle registration, and support person contact information. It clearly and plainly alerts the police officer that the driver is autistic and provides instructions to assist the officer in adapting their approach. Additionally, it also offers the motorist simple guidelines on what to do and what to expect during these encounters to reduce their anxiety level.

“We’re constantly seeking ways to improve and be better. This initiative will really make a difference to someone on the autism spectrum and hopefully provide them with a sense of confidence and security when dealing with law enforcement,” said Sheriff Zurlo, in a statement.

Similar programs exist in Vermont, Arizona, Massachusetts, and New York. Envelopes are available at no cost by contacting Sheriff@saratogacountyny.gov and indicating “Blue Envelope Program” in the subject line.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame will play host to the third annual “Countdown to the Triple Crown” fundraising event on Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025. The winter fundraiser will feature dozens of silent auction items and an online auction of unique items and experience packages to benefit the Museum. 

The Museum is asking for support from the thoroughbred racing industry and businesses throughout the Saratoga Springs area and nationally to help make this event a success. 

Businesses are encouraged to donate an item, experience, or gift card. Contributing businesses will be promoted by the Museum leading up to the event through the Museum’s social media channels and through database distribution. Additionally, the Museum will provide contributing businesses with two complimentary tickets to the event. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

Regarding the event itself, guests can attend the Feb. 1 fundraiser at the Museum. Cost to attend the event is $20 for museum members and $35 for non-members. Many of the auction items will be displayed throughout the Museum galleries during the event. 

To purchase tickets, visit: https://1049a.blackbaudhosting.com/1049a/Countdown-to-the-Triple-Crown or call (518) 584-0400.

For more information about the event or donating an item or experience, please contact Maureen Pasco at (518) 584-0400 ext. 109 or mpasco@racingmuseum.net. 

BALLSTON SPA — The Saratoga County Career Center in conjunction with the Greater Capital Region Career Centers will hold the following free virtual career workshops during December:

Dec. 10 at 10:30 AM: Interview Preparation – Learn how to articulate your strengths, what questions to expect, how to address difficult topics, and ace the interviewing process. Facilitated by Schenectady.

Dec. 11 at 10 AM: Goal Setting – Goals are what take us forward in life. They are the first step in every journey we take. In this workshop we will explain how goal setting works, why goals are important, and take home more helpful resources to get you started. Facilitated by Washington and Albany. 

Dec. 13 at 10:30 AM: Networking – Networking is your strategic tool for cultivating lasting relationships, fostering professional growth, and unlocking opportunities. Join for an approachable journey to understanding networking. Facilitated by Warren and Albany.

Dec. 17 at 11 AM: Overcoming Barriers – Join an informal discussion about how to overcome potential stumbling blocks to finding a job. Whether facing transportation needs, childcare needs, prior justice system involvement, inexperience, health concerns or more, this workshop will provide you with resources and strategies to help you meet your goals. Facilitated by Fulton-Montgomery-Schoharie.

Dec. 19 at 11 AM: Completing Job Applications – Statistics show approximately 50% of mid-sized companies and almost all large corporations use an applicant tracking system to screen candidates for job opportunities. Learn how to prepare anr online application to get the most visibility from hiring managers. Facilitated by Warren and Washington.

Dec. 31 at 1:30 PM: Social Media – Your social media presence can make or break your ability to find a job. Learn how to use social media to your advantage in searching for a job and marketing yourself to land the job or career you’ve always wanted. Facilitated by Schenectady.

Registration is required for all workshops. Visit https://thejoblink.org/calendar/ to register or call the Saratoga County Career Center at 518-884-4170 for more information.  The workshops are offered as part of the Saratoga County Career Center’s WorkPays! workforce education campaign.

The Saratoga County Department of Workforce Development provides comprehensive training and employment services to residents through its Career Center and works with local businesses to attract and retain the local workforce.

SARATOGA SPRINGS—The following holiday-themed events will take place at the Saratoga Senior Center, 290 West Ave. 

Holiday Shop & Taste at the Center – Monday, Dec. 9, 2 pm – 6 pm.  Second annual craft and vendor fair at the Center. Stop by and get some of that holiday shopping done early. Holiday Shops will feature art pieces, ornaments, greeting cards, books and more. 

Holiday Hints for Caregivers: Managing the Busy Holiday Season – Monday, Dec. 16, 9:30 am. This program will help caregivers understand how cognitive changes impact the holiday season, as well as provide tips on how to modify activities and traditions. You’ll even leave with a few gift ideas. This program is supported in part by a grant from the New York State Department of Health. 

by Thomas Dimopoulos

Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA – On Nov. 27, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik was informed of a bomb threat to her residence in the town of Saratoga.

Stefanik was informed of the threat as she was driving home with her husband and three-year-old son from Washington D.C. for Thanksgiving.

“New York State, County law enforcement, and U.S. Capitol Police responded immediately with the highest levels of professionalism,” Stefanik said in a statement.

“We are incredibly appreciative of the extraordinary dedication of law enforcement officers who keep our communities safe 24/7. We want to share our best wishes to the upstate NY community for a happy and safe Thanksgiving. We are especially grateful to our law enforcement officers and military families who are on duty over the holiday season.”

Stefanik was elected in November to her sixth term to represent New York’s 21st Congressional District – a district which beginning in 2025 will include eastern and northern portions of Saratoga County.

President-elect Donald Trump subsequently picked Stefanik to serve as his ambassador to the United Nations – an appointment which will require Senate confirmation in the new year.

“Last night and this morning, several of President Trump’s Cabinet nominees and Administration appointees were targeted in violent, unAmerican threats to their lives and those who live with them.  These attacks ranged from bomb threats to ‘swatting,’” said Karoline Leavitt, Trump-Vance Transition spokeswoman, in a statement on Nov. 27.  “In response, law enforcement and other authorities acted quickly to ensure the safety of those who were targeted. President Trump and the entire Transition team are grateful for their swift action.”

The president-elect and the Transition are focused on “uniting our nation by ensuring a safe and prosperous future. With President Trump as our example, dangerous acts of intimidation and violence will not deter us,” Leavitt added.