Displaying items by tag: saratoga

SCHENECTADY – When renovations are completed at Universal Preservation Hall and the 700-seat theatre-in-the-round opens its doors next year, expect to see a lot of this new Proctors Collaborative logo attached to it.

The logo depicts a new regional umbrella brand embracing Proctors and Universal Preservation Hall, as well as Capital Repertory Theatre. The brand logo was announced Aug. 28.

“Proctors Collaborative simply puts a name on what we’ve already been doing, which is bringing the arts together on a regional scale,” Proctors CEO Philip Morris said, in a statement. “Sharing resources and information, trading thoughts and ideas, is the way forward.”

UPH, a former Methodist church built in 1871 on Washington Street, is undergoing a $5.5 million renovation for its transformation into an acoustically perfect theater-in-the-round that will stage live music, Broadway cabaret and theater, among its anticipated 200 annual events. 

On Nov. 8, UPH Campaign Director Teddy Foster will deliver a presentation titled “Universal Preservation Hall:  The Road to Opening Night & Beyond,” at the Saratoga Springs Public Library.  

COURT

Joseph P. Maki, 49, of Saratoga Springs, was sentenced Aug. 20 to five years of probation, after pleading to felony DWI. 

James N. Carero, 27, of Middle Grove, was sentenced Aug. 21 to 1-1/3 to 4 years state prison after pleading to felony burglary in Greenfield. 

Dorian A. Johnson, 49, of Albany, was sentenced Aug. 21 to 1 to 3 years in state prison, after pleading to attempted disseminating indecent materials to minors in the first-degree, a felony. 

Anne E. Cummins, 39, of Saratoga Springs, was sentenced Aug. 24 to time served and five years of probation, after pleading to felony DWI in Saratoga Springs. 

Michael A. Barone, 47, of Ballston Spa, was sentenced Aug. 24 to 3.5 to 7 years in jail, following a conviction of a trial jury for burglary in the third-degree, in connection with an incident in Malta in 2017. 

Dennis Jones, 65, of the town of Saratoga, was sentenced Aug. 24 to 14 years in state prison and 5 years post-release supervision, after pleading to criminal possession of a controlled substance in the first-degree. According to the Saratoga County District Attorney’s Office, Jones was charged after his arrest for possession of approximately 3 pounds of cocaine and 26 pounds of marijuana. Additionally, “more than $250,000 in cash and illegal proceeds were seized from his property in conjunction with his arrest, which will be forfeited, as well as long guns and other drug paraphernalia,” according to the office. 

POLICE

Michael E. Gorham, age 54, Wilmington, Delaware, was charged Aug. 24 with failure to signal a turn; equipment (trucks/lighting equipment); driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; aggravated driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor. 

Tyler M. Kraus, age 20, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 24 with criminal mischief fourth degree/intent damages prop- misdemeanor. 

Major L. Adams, age 35, Corinth, was charged Aug. 22 with endangering the welfare of a child- misdemeanor; unlawful possession of marijuana- misdemeanor. 

John P. Vance, age 28, Gansevoort, was charged Aug. 22 with aggravated harassment in the second degree- misdemeanor. 

Cassandra M. Washock, age 30, West Sand Lake, was charged Aug. 21 with driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; unsafe lane change. 

Wilbur L. Pratt, age 85, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 21 with criminal contempt second degree/disobedience- misdemeanor. 

Thomas J. Dinardi, age 30, Clifton Park, was charged Aug. 21 with driving while intoxicated- 2nd offense- felony; aggravated driving while intoxicated- felony; leaving the scene of an auto accident (property).   

Charles Hollinger, age 68, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 21 with fail to signal turn; fail to keep right; driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor.

Esteban Vargassanjurjo, age 43, Flushing, was charged Aug. 21 with failure to signal a turn- 2 counts; failure to keep right; driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor.

Lisa M. Ranallo, age 48, Floral Park, was charged Aug. 20 with criminal mischief fourth degree/intent damages prop- misdemeanor; endangering the welfare of a child- misdemeanor. 

Jordan A. Jones, age 27, Ballston Spa, was charged Aug. 20 with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 2nd/three or more suspensions- misdemeanor; circumvent interlock-court order- operation without device- misdemeanor; unsafe lane change. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS – City employees were forced to set up temporary offices across the Spa City this week in the aftermath of a fire and water damage which forced the closure of City Hall. 

The 19th century building, which opened in 1871, was struck by lightning Aug. 17, resulting in fire and water related damage to the structure. No re-opening date has been set.

“It’s indefinite. Right now, we’re on a 30-day plan,” city Mayor Meg Kelly said this week. “That means our first estimate in our emergency management plan, is we’re out for 30 days. If people can get back in in 10-15 days they go, but there are a lot of departments that will be delayed.”

Most city employees were relocated to the southside city recreation facility on Vanderbilt Avenue. Public Works employees set up shop at Van Rensselaer avenue and city police, who are located in an unaffected City Hall annex, maintain their department offices on Lake Avenue.  Saratoga City Court sessions are being held at 65 South Broadway, in the Lincoln bath building house and this week’s council meeting was staged at the Saratoga Springs City Center on Broadway.

The Vanderbilt Avenue recreation facility – which had been bonded for $6.5 million - became a hot political topic in 2009, with a local community group filing a lawsuit against the facility being developed on the south side. Scott Johnson, who was eventually re-elected for a second mayoral term, pushed for the facility to be developed.  Accounts Commissioner John Franck, who held the same position on the council at the time, also was in favor of the project. The building opened in 2010.

There had been some previous debate about potentially turning the Saratoga Music Hall – located on the top floor of the City Hall building - into a new, expanded court room. It is unclear if any changes will be made however.

“There’s no plan right now,” Mayor Kelly said. “Right now we’re in the recovery stage, so we are not making any plans for the building at this time.”

Financial Report for 2017

The city released a 66-page financial report regarding an independent audit conducted through Dec. 31, 2017 by BST & Co. of Albany. Among the details cited:  Sales Tax and Hotel Room Occupancy Tax each decreased by 1 percent compared to 2016, VLT Aid remained at $2.326 million in 2017 - the same as the previous three years, and Mortgage Tax receipts increased in 2017 to $1.693 million, 15 percent higher than 2016. A full copy of the report may be downloaded here.  

POLICE

Brandon M. Bolger, age 23, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 17 with criminal mischief in the third degree- felony. 

Edward J. Brower, age 49, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 17 with criminal possession of controlled substance 5th- felony; driving while intoxicated- felony; aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 1st degree/under influence- felony; circumvent interlock-court order-operation without device- misdemeanor; refusal pre-screen test; unlawfully driving on or across sidewalk; failure to keep right; failure to comply with lawful order of the police. 

Yvonne A. Castaneda, age 52, Clifton Park was charged Aug. 17 with obstruction of breathing/blood-apply pressure- misdemeanor. 

Crystal A. Ayers, age 46, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 17 with driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; refusal pre-screen test; failure to keep right. 

Bobby E. Baker, age 32, Athol, was charged Aug. 15 with criminal trespass third degree/building or property- misdemeanor. 

Reginald D. McCorkle, age 40, Wilton, was charged Aug. 15 with failure to keep right - aggrivated unlicensed operation 2nd/three or more suspensions- misdemeanor. 

Dayshawn R. Herring, age 32, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 15 with criminal possession of marijuana fifth degree- misdemeanor. 

David D. Farr, age 36, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 13 with unlawful possession
of marijuana.

Patrick E. Sullivan, 33, of Troy, was charged Aug. 13 with public lewdness- 3 counts misdemeanor; endangering the welfare of a child – 1 count-misdemeanor. Sullivan is accused of exposing himself to adult woman and teenage girls in different neighborhoods throughout the Town Milton dating back to May. On numerous occasions Sullivan would drive up to women and young girls and ask for directions, or if they had seen his lost dog. 

Cendno Rahaman, age 28, Schenectady, was charged Aug. 13 with assault in the second degree/deadly weapon- felony; assault in the third degree/criminal negligence- misdemeanor; menacing second degree- misdemeanor/ 2 counts; criminal possession of a weapon fourth degree- misdemeanor. 
The charges stem from an incident that allegedly occurred after 4 a.m. on Caroline Street, where police found a 23-year-old male with several cuts to his face and head, and a 24-year-old-female with a cut to her wrist. Rahaman is suspected of menacing the male victim with a knife. Both victims, in fear of getting cut or stabbed, took off on foot on Caroline Street and were pursued by Rahaman, who proceeded to cut the male victim in the head and face several times until a passerby intervened, according to police. The woman received a cut to her wrist during Rahaman’s initial actions with the knife and was treated on scene by the Saratoga Springs Fire Department. The male victim was transported to Albany Medical Center. His injuries are not life threatening. Rahaman was arraigned and sent to Saratoga County Jail in lieu of $10,000 cash, or $20,000 bond.

Joshua A. Salak, age 31, Ballston Spa, was charged Aug. 13 with criminal possession of a hypodermic instrument- misdemeanor. 

Sharifa D. Anderson, age 32, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 13 with criminal mischief in the third degree- felony. 

Nicholas W. Brasel, age 32, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 13 with assault in the third degree/intent physical injury- misdemeanor. 

Jasmine Casaretto-Hernandez, age 24, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 12 with following motor vehicle too closely; driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor, after being involved in a property damage accident. 

Christopher J. Shaw, age 44, Schenectady, was charged Aug. 12 with parking violations - driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor. 

Jesse R. Dakin, age 26, North Adams, Massachusetts, was charged Aug. 13 with assault in the third degree/intent physical injury- misdemeanor.

Michelle E. Riopelle, age 28, North Adams, Massachusetts, was charged Aug. 13 with assault in the third degree/intent physical injury- misdemeanor.

Sierra G. Parker, age 22, Mechanicville, was charged Aug. 12 with driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; equipment (headlights).

Ricardo P. Gauna, age 33, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 12 with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 2nd/three or more suspensions- misdemeanor; no/expired inspection certificate. 

Yvonne M. Cairns, age 46, East Greenbush, was charged Aug. 12 with falsely reporting an incident in the second degree- misdemeanor. 

Joseph F. Dirico, age 64, Mansfield, Massachusetts, was charged Aug. 12 with driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; leaving the scene of an auto accident (property); unsafe lane change; refusal pre-screen test, after being involved in a property damage accident. 

Alicia N. Ward, age 28, Schenectady, was charged Aug. 10 with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle third degree- misdemeanor. 

Nana D. Wilmot, age 29, Ballston Spa, was charged Aug. 10 with assault in the third degree/intent physical injury- misdemeanor. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS - Former White House press secretary Sean Spicer spent Wednesday in the Spa City as part of a national book tour to promote his recently published memoir, “The Briefing: Politics, the Press, and the President.”

Northshire Bookstore hosted a book-signing at their store on Broadway, where Spicer was greeted by approximately 60 people who attended the event, shared brief conversation and posed for pictures with President Trump's former press secretary.

Responding to one person who said they missed seeing him as press secretary, Spicer laughed and responded, “Ah, I’m good.” Another patron suggested they would like to see him seek political office. “I hate to let you down, but I’m not ever running for president,” Spicer said, with a smile.  

Northshire Bookstore owner Chris Morrow, who was present at the event, had earlier responded to inquiries from some patrons who disapprovingly questioned the store hosting Spicer. Morrow explained the store’s mission is to be “a bookstore for all people, with open access to books and authors as diverse as our wonderful country.” Attendees at Wednesday’s event were overwhelmingly supportive of Spicer.

“We support Trump, we support his agenda and we support Sean Spicer and everything he’s done while he was at the White House and as a Naval Commander,” said Kathy Obst, who made the drive to Saratoga Springs from Queensbury.  “There are so many people who live in our area who are not conservatives, so I think showing a unification of that is something important,” she said. “If you look at (Michael) Wolff and his book (“Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House”) and you look at Omarosa and the book she just released ("Unhinged: An Insider's Account of the Trump White House"), it’s just garbage. This book is filled with what happened at The White House and it’s all positive things.”

Meg Messitt who last November founded The Saratoga Springs High School Teenage Republicans club at the school, also attended the event. “I’m excited to read Sean Spicer’s book and learn more about the former press secretary of The White House,” said the soon-to-be 10th grade student.

In a gathering with reporters following the book-signing, Spicer was asked about the book tour, his thoughts on the current climate at the White House and whether he believed media is the enemy of the people, which he responded to with a brief and blunt “no.”

The book tour, Spicer said, has been fun.  Saratoga Springs marked the 24^th day of a tour which wound through the west coast, south through Texas and up north via Washington, D.C. “You saw a lot of folks here today who are Trump supporters, but there are also a lot of folks who come out say: I’m a Democrat, or not so much a supporter, but I’m interested in your story,” Spicer said. “It’s been fascinating to see the full spectrum of people who come out. I feel comfortable with the book that I’ve written. I enjoy being able to share my story and share some of the behind-the-scenes moments over the past couple of years.”  

Spicer was also asked about Omarosa Newman – a reality television show participant who became a political aide to President Trump. The release of her new book, which is critical of Trump, was met with a presidential tweet in which Trump referred to her as a “crazed, crying lowlife,” and a “dog.” Spicer’s response to queries about Omarosa: “I find it unsettling that someone would take a position of trust like that and then go out and frankly abuse it on multiple levels.”

Spicer said he often offered Trump advice which was not always taken but was reluctant to share specific information about what that advice was.  “There were plenty of times during the campaign when we would counsel him not to do something and he would disregard it and come out better,” Spicer said. “The track record the president has is doing it his way, and for many aspects of his life being successful.”

Following an afternoon visit to Saratoga Race Course, Spicer attended a Republican Party fundraiser on Union Avenue. A spirited group of about 70 people gathered outside to stage an “anti-treason rally,” criticizing Trump, local U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik’s alliance with the president, and waving American flags and Veterans for Peace flags, while carrying signs whose slogans ranged from “Reunite Families Now” to “Spicer Go Home.”

SARATOGA SPRINGS - The David Cassidy Band returned to the stage this week to perform their first concert since the death of the singer last November. They chose to stage the show in Saratoga Springs, a place the singer himself had maintained was his favorite in the world.

The special tribute concert to honor Cassidy also acted as a benefit for the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, an organization and cause close to Cassidy’s heart. 

The six-member band gathered in Saratoga Tuesday morning and toured the TRF farm, located on Route 29, where they spent time with Bold Mon and Rock D.J. - two of the farm’s retired horses - in advance of that night’s show at Putnam Place.

The band’s 18-song set featured standard’s from Cassidy’s Partridge Family era – including  "I Can Hear Your Heartbeat," "Point Me in the Direction of Albuquerque," "I'll Meet You Halfway," and "I Woke Up In Love This Morning" – a nod to David Cassidy’s solo work (“Cherish”), and a slew of cover renditions that featured Robert Johnson’s “Crossroads,” The Beatles’ “In My Life,”  The Pretenders’ “Brass in Pocket” – with drummer Teri Coté stepping up to lead mic – and a pair of back-to-back tunes popularized by the Monkees: “Daydream Believer,” and “I’m A Believer.”

Dr. Jerry Bilinski, and Gary Contessa – two close friends of Cassidy in the horse racing industry – each took a turn at the mic. “I miss him a lot, just sitting on the porch with a cigar and talking,” recalled Bilinski, before singing a few bars of “I Think I Love You.” 

Contessa said he first met Cassidy at a Fasig Tipton horse sale 23 years ago and was amazed by the singer’s knowledge of horses. “He was a rock star who wanted to be a horse trainer.” Contessa then reversed that role when he donned a bass and joined the band for a blues jam. 

The six-piece band featured Teri Coté (drums); Craig Snider (keyboards/vocals); Dave Robicheau (guitar/vocals); Matt Sullivan (guitar/vocals); Vance Brescia (guitar/vocals) and Darrell Craig Harris (bass/vocals). They performed admirably and provided a good time for many of the 250 or so in attendance, many of whom moved together across the dance floor, or released emotions in the way of pent-up tears. Some did both.  

“This is the first time we got together and it’s a real blending of his past,” offered Craig Snider, during an interview prior to the show. “Sully (Matt Sullivan) was his guitar player before the current fellah, who wasn’t able to make it. Vance (Brescia) has been a friend of the band’s and David’s for a long time. He’s Peter Noone’s music director and a great singer. When we did the Idol Tour – which was David Cassidy, Mickey Dolenz, Peter Noone – we were the house band,” Snider explained. “So, when we thought: OK, who’s going to sing the body of these songs… Vance is a lead singer! I’m a good singer and Sully is a good singer as well, so in essence what we have are three lead singers filling in for what we had with one,” he said with a laugh. “Three divas, for the price of one.”

The rehearsal prior to the show was somewhat surreal, Snider said. “It was trippy because in my head I still hear David. It’s hard to verbalize, but when we started doing those songs, even though someone else is singing, physical memory is like musical memory so I was at times still hearing him, and kind of flipping back-and-forth.”

The event included auction items, and a meet-and-greet the band opportunity. Local artist David Hill painted a horse using the band’s live performance as inspiration. The completed painting was to be auctioned off as well.

“There’s a common thread we share, and that thread is David Cassidy. We had him come out of the TV screen and into our living rooms,” event organizer Linda de Ambrosio neatly summed up.

The TRF is a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving Thoroughbred horses no longer able to compete on the racetrack from possible neglect, abuse, and slaughter. The organization said details regarding the amount of money raised during the concert will be announced next week.

COURT

Quintan L. Smith, 19, of Ballston Spa, was sentenced Aug. 10 to 2.5 to 5 years in state prison, after pleading to felony burglary in Saratoga Springs. 

Alberto DeJesus, 47, of Island Park, pleaded Aug. 10 to aggravated DWI, in Wilton. Sentencing scheduled Oct. 5. 

Joseph P. Rossi, 20, of Ballston Lake, was sentenced Aug. 8 to 5 years of probation, after pleading to attempted making a terroristic threat, in Ballston. 

Brad N. Callanan, 35, of Mechanicville, was sentenced Aug. 7 to 3 to 6 years in state prison, concurrent with another charge, after pleading to criminal possession of a forged instrument in Saratoga Springs. 

Robert B. Mosher, 42, of Wilton, pleaded Aug. 6 to sexual abuse, which occurred in Wilton between February and April 2017. Sentencing scheduled Oct. 1. 

Zachary B. Fanning, 28, of Ballston Spa, pleaded Aug. 6 to DWI, in Saratoga Springs. Sentencing scheduled Oct. 1. 

POLICE

Michael A. Hansen, age 30, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 7 with criminal mischief in the 2nd degree, a felony. Hansen is suspected of knocking over and causing damage to a 19th century fountain in Congress Park during the early morning hours of Aug. 6. 

Thomas J. Trevorah, 51, Saratoga Springs, was charged July 29 with harassment 2nd degree. 

Maeve F. Conley, 24, Saratoga Springs, was charged July 29 with aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd degree; failure to obey traffic control device. 

Satin L. Dewitt, 31, Saratoga Springs, was charged July 29 with assault in the 3rd degree/intent physical injury; criminal mischief fourth degree. 

Mario E. Martin, 28, Saratoga Springs, was charged July 29 with obstruction of breathing/blood circulation; criminal mischief 4th degree/prevent assistance. 

Haley Ann Hutchins, 24, Saratoga Springs, was charged July 29 with assault in the 3rd degree/intent physical injury. 

Amy M. Collins, age 30, Victory Mills, was charged July 10 with petit larceny- misdemeanor. 

Amanda M. Andino, age 27, Schenectady, was charged July 10 with endangering the welfare of a child- misdemeanor; criminal mischief in the 3rd degree- felony. 

Andree Shepard, age 23, Glens Falls, was charged July 9 with criminal possession stolen property 5th degree- misdemeanor. 

Michael S. Sanders, age 49, Ballston Spa, was charged July 9 with criminal contempt 2nd degree/disobedience- misdemeanor; aggravated harassment in the 2nd degree- misdemeanor; aggravated family offense- felony.

Amy J. Vincek, age 29, Gansevoort, was charged Aug. 10 with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th- misdemeanor; failure to signal a turn. 

Jennifer E. Brower, age 33, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 10 with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th- misdemeanor; unlawful possession of marijuana.

Frank T. Bagarose, age 55, Latham, was charged Aug. 9 with attempted assault in the 3rd degree/intent physical injury- misdemeanor. 

Darrick D. Conners, age 45, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 9 with criminal trespass 3rd degree/building or property- misdemeanor. 

Steven A. Murrain, age 43, Brooklyn, was charged Aug. 9 with aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd degree. 

Damian A. Peterkin, age 39, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 9 with operating motor vehicle suspended registration- misdemeanor; aggravated unlicensed operation  of a motor vehicle 2nd/based on mandatory suspension- misdemeanor. 

Breeann W. Pittman-Lewis, age 28, Ballston Spa, was charged Aug. 9 with unlawful possession of marijuana; speeding - posted zone. 

Laurent S. Murphy, age 32, Malta, was charged Aug. 9 with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th- misdemeanor; consumption of alcoholic beverages. 

Arki S. Tillman, age 45, Rensselaer, was charged Aug. 8 with equipment (signal lights); aggravated unlicensed operation 2nd/three or more suspensions- misdemeanor. 

Michelle C. Roy, age 47, Wilton, was charged Aug. 8 with driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; unsafe lane change. 

Stephanie A. Looby, age 38, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 8 with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th- misdemeanor. 

Thomas A. Hassett, age 40, Watervliet, was charged Aug. 8 with speeding; driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; failure to keep right. 

Zachary M. Santomassimo, age 22, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 7 with possession of marijuana; possession of controlled substance 5th- felony. 

Cree E. Arruda, age 26, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 6 with false personation- misdemeanor. 

Brian J. Farrell, age 47, Ballston Lake, was charged Aug. 6 with unsafe lane change; refusal pre-screen test; driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor. 

George W. Paige, age 49, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 6 with menacing 2nd degree- misdemeanor; criminal possession of a weapon 4th degree- misdemeanor. 

James J. Altamirano, age 37, Ballston Spa, was charged Aug. 6 with petit larceny- misdemeanor.

“In a place not too far from here, something happened. It was called Woodstock.”
– Melanie, on stage at Caffé Lena Aug. 2, 2018.

SARATOGA SPRINGS - On that August evening in 1969, Melanie Safka Schekeryk sat by herself inside of a country tent, fearful about what awaited her outside.

Her new album, simply titled “Melanie,” contained the song “Beautiful People,” which had given her a modicum of success. Still, an estimated half-million people sat in an open field outside her tent in anticipation of what the 22-year-old aspiring actress-turned-singer could bring.  

“I listened to Richie Havens in his 50th minute of ‘Freedom (Motherless Child),’ and I heard Ravi Shankar. Then Wavy Gravy went on and announced that his collective was passing out candles and that everyone should light their candles, because it had started to rain,” Melanie explained to a sold-out house at Caffe Lena last week.    

“I was in such terror that as I walked out onto the field, walked over that rope bridge – it was like a plank - I was (sure I was) walking to my certain doom. How can I possibly entertain 500,000 people with three chords, and my one song?”

Fair or not, she is often linked to her performance at the Woodstock music festival. Many have taken to tagging her as “the voice of her generation.”

“I was walking and walking and… I left my body,” she continued. “I watched myself take the stage. I hovered over my shoulder. I watched myself sit down and when I started singing ‘Beautiful People,’ I came back. I had this real-life experience. At that moment 500,000 people granted me beingness, granted me who I was. And I reciprocated. It wasn’t a musical moment, it was a spiritual moment. And it was real. I can’t tell you how life-altering that moment was,” she explained, before launching in to “Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)” – which anthemically captures her Woodstock moment – mated with an appropriately collaborative medley with a rendition of the John Lennon song, “Give Peace A Chance.”

At Caffé Lena, Melanie performed two sold out shows accompanied on vocals, guitar and occasional cello by her son, Beau Jared Schekeryk. Collectively, the evening featured 3-1/2 hours of music that covered a half-century of songwriting.

“I was just here - but somehow you all look different,” she quipped, acknowledging the café audience when taking the stage for the evening’s late show. The second set featured 14 songs which included “Animal Crackers” - dating to her 1968 debut, her love-‘em-and-leave-‘em ode “Any Guy” - released in 1969, and songs from the early ‘70s (“Babe Rainbow,” “Someday I’ll Be A Farmer”) to the 1990s (“Under Cool Cover of Night).”

Affected perhaps by the back-to-back sets, her voice wore rough early on, but when tackling “Ruby Tuesday,” any hoarseness majestically dissolved and the power of simple acoustic guitars and THOSE VOCALS were on full-on display.

“Ruby Tuesday” signaled one of three Rolling Stones songs performed during the night; a tasteful instrumental rendition of “Paint it Black,” and a version of “Wild Horses” – “we should do this because this is Saratoga Springs, it’s all about the horses,” she announced – were the others.

Melanie alternated between English, French, German, and Korean during the choruses of “Look What They’ve Done to My Song Ma,” inspired an audience sing-a-long on her Freudian ditty “Psychotherapy,” and delivered convincing performances of her songs “Beautiful People,” “Angel Watching Over You,” and her biggest chart-topping hit, “Brand New Key” – a song she admits she hated for a long time.

”When it became a hit, I went from playing nice, small cuddly places to big stadiums, where people wanted to hear 90 minutes of "Hump, Ha-HA, Hump, Ha-Ha,” she explained, pointing the song’s background chorus. “Here’s the clincher, all these years later, I’m OK with the whole song,” she admitted. “It’s a damn cute song.”

COURT 

Nicole P. Vacchio, 34, of Galway, was sentenced July 30 to nine months in jail, after pleading to criminal possession of a controlled substance in Malta. 

Corrina L. Cayea, 30, of Saratoga Springs, pleaded July 30 to aggravated DWI with a child. Sentencing scheduled Sept. 24. 

Wendy L. Cook, 48, of Saratoga Springs, was sentenced July 30 to 1-3 years in state prison, after pleading to vehicular assault in the second-degree.

Larry E. Baldwin, Jr., 48, of Saratoga Springs, pleaded July 31 to attempted criminal possession of a controlled substance. Sentencing scheduled Sept. 25. 

Joshua B. Reed, 25, of Saratoga Springs, was sentenced July 31 to four years in state prison, after pleading to criminal possession of a controlled substance. 

Quintan L. Smith, 19, of Ballston Spa, pleaded Aug. 2 to attempted promoting of prison contraband. Sentencing scheduled Aug. 10. 

Sean C. MacDonald, 31, of Corinth, was sentenced Aug. 3 to time served and five years of probation, after pleading to criminal possession of stolen property in Malta. 

Emmanuel Philippe, age 23, of Brooklyn, was convicted Aug. 7 of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, possessing a firearm and ammunition as a felon, and possessing and intending to distribute crack cocaine. Evidence presented during the 4-day trial established that on March 17, 2017, at about 3 a.m., Philippe was the subject of a routine traffic stop, for speeding, on West Avenue near the YMCA in Saratoga Springs. While searching the car’s trunk, a Saratoga Springs Police Officer found a plastic bag containing a loaded rifle magazine and rounds of .223 caliber ammunition.  Philippe fled and was quickly and safely apprehended in the YMCA parking lot, and he was found in possession of 35 baggies containing crack cocaine, according to police.    Officers also located a Windham Weaponry semi-automatic rifle, loaded with a 30round magazine and with its safety turned off; another loaded, 30-round magazine; a total of 165 rounds of Federal .223 caliber ammunition; and 22 rounds of Federal 9-millimeter ammunition. In Philippe’s possession, officers also located $1,610 in cash, 2 digital scales, and drug packaging materials. According to police, Philippe faces at least 5 years and up to 25 years in prison when he is sentenced on Dec. 6 by U.S. District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino.  As a lawful permanent resident and citizen of Haiti, Philippe may also face immigration consequences as a result of his convictions.  The case was investigated by the ATF and Saratoga Springs Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Barnett.

POLICE

Tyler D. Larson, age 18, Galway was charged Aug. 5 with speeding - posted zone; equipment (rear license plate light); criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th- misdemeanor; unlawful possession of marijuana.

Kirk P. Beeche, age 54, West Chester, Pennsylvania, was charged Aug. 5 with unsafe lane change; driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; refusal of pre-screen test. 

Gabriel A. Avilespadilla, age 28, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 5 with unlawfully dealing with a child first degree- misdemeanor/ 3 counts.

Jonathan J. Hammond, age 23, Poughkeepsie, was charged Aug. 5 with criminal possession of controlled substance 5th- felony.

Kyle M. Burke, age 25, Burlington, Massachusetts, was charged Aug. 4 with assault in the third degree/intent physical injury- misdemeanor; criminal trespass third degree/building or property- misdemeanor; resisting arrest- misdemeanor; disorderly conduct. 

Dustin T. Hernandez, age 23, Watervliet, was charged Aug. 3 with assault in the third degree/recklessly- misdemeanor. 

Mark B. Sherman, age 49, Glens Falls, was charged Aug. 3 with grand larceny fourth degree/exceeds $1,000.00- felony aggravated unlicensed operation 2nd/three or more suspensions- misdemeanor.

Mindy L. Coleman, age 40, Saratoga Springs, was charged Aug. 2 with registration plate display violation; aggravated unlicensed operation third degree. 

Leon G. Nadeau, age 33, Burnt Hills, was charged Aug. 2 with making a terroristic threat; assault in the second degree/prevent police; resisting arrest. 

Allen S. Chrysler, age 24, Gansevoort, was charged Aug. 2 with criminal mischief in the third degree; driving while intoxicated; aggravated unlicensed operation first degree. 

Kyle R. W. Brown, age 29, Schuylerville, was charged Aug. 2 with obstructing governmental administration -second. 

Warren F. Nelson, age 61, Saratoga Springs, was charged July 31 with petit larceny. 

John Michael Hoin, age 23, Saratoga Springs, was charged July 31 with speeding - posted zone; driving while intoxicated. 

Braden A. Symansky, age 21, Albany, was charged July 30 with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle third degree; failure to signal a turn. 

Conchetta Y. Keith, age 30, Newburgh, was charged July 30 with unauthorized use of a vehicle third degree/rental.

POLICE 

Kevin S. Cuva, 45, Saratoga Springs, was charged July 29 with aggravated criminal contempt; aggravated family offense. 

Joseph J. Carey, 56, Saratoga Springs, was charged July 29 with fail to keep right; speeding - posted zone; driving while intoxicated; aggravated driving while intoxicated. 

Andrew Michael Lewis, 21, Rexford, was charged July 29 with obstruction of breathing/blood-apply pressure. 

John J. Flick, 51, Warrensburg, was charged July 28 with equipment (headlights); operating motor vehicle suspended registration; aggravated unlicensed operation third degree; no/expired insurance. 

Andrew K. McMullin, 32, Ballston Lake, was charged July 28 with failed to signal a turn; improper lane use; driving while intoxicated. 

Christopher J. Iula, 46, Saratoga Springs, was charged July 27 with criminal mischief fourth degree/intent damages property. 

Steven W. Harris, 47, Saratoga Springs, was charged July 27 with forcible touching.

Dylan T. Taylor, age 22, South Glens Falls, was charged July 27 with failure to signal a turn - aggravated unlicensed operation third degree- misdemeanor. 

Harlan M. Holt, age 32, Saratoga Springs, was charged July 27 with harassment second degree - physical contact. 

Harrison T. Blackington, age 22, Saratoga Springs, was charged July 25 with assault in the third degree/intent physical injury- misdemeanor. 

Patricia L. Pike, age 25, Saratoga Springs, was charged July 25 with aggravated harassment in the second degree second- misdemeanor. 

Bradley M. Robarge, age 22, Greenfield Center, was charged July 25 with criminal possession of marijuana fifth degree- misdemeanor; operating unregistered motor vehicle on highway. 

Luis E. Rodriguez, age 27, Elmont, was charged July 25 with aggravated unlicensed operation third degree- misdemeanor; equipment (signal lights). 

Edward J. Purvee, age 51, Saratoga Springs, was charged July 24 with criminal contempt first degree- felony; criminal contempt second degree/disobedience- misdemeanor. 

Mary J. Samach, age 59, Saratoga Springs, was charged July 23 with driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; aggravated driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor. 

Cody J. Ogilvie, age 27, Schenectady, was charged July 23 with robbery in the third degree- felony; criminal contempt first degree- felony; endangering the welfare of a child- misdemeanor/ 3 counts.

Duane A. Hallock, age 24, Saratoga Springs, was charged July 23 with criminal mischief fourth degree/intent damages property- misdemeanor. 

Megan S. Gardner, age 50, Albany, was charged July 23 with aggravated unlicensed operation third degree- misdemeanor; equipment (headlights); operating motor vehicle suspended registration- misdemeanor. 

Benjamin L. Norero, age 37, Ballston Spa, was charged July 23 with improper lane use; driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor. 

Abbi C. Gailor, age 21, Porters Corners, was charged July 22 with criminal mischief fourth degree/intent damages property- misdemeanor. 

Michelle L. Krause, age 43, Greenfield Center, was charged July 22 with driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; fail to keep right; unsafe lane change; failed to signal a turn - last one hundred feet. 

Stephen B. Pellegrino, age 58, Brooksville, Florida, was charged July 21 with aggravated driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; failed to stop at stop sign; fail to signal - turn, change lanes, parked; unreasonable speed; fail to keep right. 

Frances A. Vafiadis, age 48, Corinth, was charged July 21 with assault in the third degree/intent physical injury- misdemeanor. 

Connor K. Dunn, age 24, Stillwater, was charged July 21 with attempted criminal trespass 3rd degree/building or property- misdemeanor; resisting arrest- misdemeanor; disorderly conduct. 

Jordan M. Myers, age 23, Ballston Spa, was charged July 21 with harassment second degree - physical contact; unlawful possession of marijuana; harassment second degree - follows public place. 

Phillip G. Iovino, age 52, Scotia, was charged July 20 with driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; unreasonable speed, after being involved in a property damage accident. 

Lynn M. Grabowski, age 63, Saratoga Springs, was charged July 20 with criminal trespass third degree/building or property- misdemeanor.

Jamie D. Faye, age 36, Saratoga Springs, was charged July 10 with obstructing governmental administration second- misdemeanor; criminal mischief fourth degree/intent damages prop- misdemeanor; aggravated family offense- felony.