Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce President Todd Shimkus

Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce President Todd Shimkus joined Tom Eschen on Power and Politics this week, discussing the latest in preparations for the Belmont Stakes at Saratoga Racecourse on June 8th. Three weeks until race day, Shimkus says hotel rooms are still available for the entirety of the racing festival. Wednesday night will kick the festivities off with "Belmont on Broadway," where Blues Traveler will perform live in the city. "Hotel space is available each night, 180 bars and restaurants in Saratoga Springs alone,over 100 more in Saratoga County, they have reservations. Shops are buying more products and staffing up," he says. Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan was unable to clinch the second leg of the Triple Crown on Saturday, as Seize the Grey held off the pack, and Mystik Dan, to win. Despite that, Shimkus says they still expect a distinct clientele in town for the Belmont. During the extended interview, Shimkus also touched on Saratoga's new paid parking implementation, truck traffic on Broadway and his book "I'm Not Ready For This", which is about caring for his mother with Alzheimer's during COVID. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices