Glens Falls Business Journal - January 2022

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JANUARY 2022

Expanded Teaching Classes, More Tubing Phase I Of Historic Fort William Henry Lanes Part Of West Mountain Growth In 2022 Hotel Project Begins; Includes Rebranding

After nine years of an infrastructure rebuild, West Mountain will now embark on Stage 2 of development, a luxury ski/stay resort development at the north side of the mountain.

West Mountain kicked off its 2021-22 season, opening Christmas weekend for skiing, riding and tubing.

“The progress continues at West Mountain,” said Sara Montgomery, general manager of West Mountain. “Our snow sports school continues to grow, and this year we have expanded our learning center to accommodate more skiers and riders. We are excited to welcome newcomers who will be making their first winter sports memories at West. It’s going to be a fun-filled season.”

Courtesy West Mountain

West Mountain offers beginner through advanced terrain and will be open for day and nighttime skiing, riding, and tubing. There are some additions to the mountain, as well as a continuation of West Mountain’s lesson programs.

That includes a newly expanded learning terrain/bunny hill and more snow tubing lanes added to the Tubing Park. Being continued are the individual and after school program, the Academy and Club Race Team Continued On Page 16

Fort William Henry Hotel improvements will include this three-season, wrap-around porch, portrayed in this rendering of the project, officials said.

While Fort William Henry Hotel’s charms have been cultivated over more than 166 years of history, it never ceases to evolve and remain relevant to today’s guests.

The next iteration of Fort William Henry’s continued evolution began in December with the unveiling of a new brand and the start of the first phase of a complete renovation. Phase one includes 36 annex guest rooms, a new kitchen, and the creation of an expanded outdoor three-

season porch overlooking the magnificent view at the southernmost point of Lake George.

Officials said much of the first phase of the project will be completed over the winter months and first half of 2022.

A three-year plan includes renovations of the conference center, the standard 64 units, and the Grand Hotel. The guest rooms renovations will be finished in three stages to ensure only a limited impact on Continued On Page 16

Adirondack Thunder Hockey Team Is Back Sen. Stec Wants State To Help Businesses To Having Strong Area Economic Impact Recover From Adverse Effects Of Pandemic

BY PAUL POST The Adirondack Thunder, the ECHL’s smallest-market hockey team, is outperforming many of its biggest rivals both on and off the ice this year.

The Thunder, bolstered by a solid New Year’s Eve crowd (4,111), averaged 3,448 fans through their first 11 home dates, ranked 11th in the 27-team league. And by winning seven of 10 games (7-2-1) through Jan. 2, the team had moved to within six points of first-place Newfoundland in the tightly-packed North Division standings.

“It’s been a very strong start,” team president Jeff Mead said. “Season tickets, group numbers and walk-up sales are all up and corporate support is in the league’s top 10. Obviously we had a year off last year because of COVID, so there’s a lot of pent up demand. But the community is really embracing the Thunder and quality of play.”

It’s hoped that two major upgrades currently under way at Cool Insuring Arena will be completed before the ECHL’s Kelly Cup playoffs begin in April, perhaps even in time for the state high school boys basketball tournament in March.

Rozell Industries is hard at work constructing five new luxury suites, extending out from the press box, on the north side of the building.

“Just like the rest of the world, they’ve been dealing with supply chain issues,” Mead said. “We can’t wait to see it finished.

Adirondack Thunder president Jeff Mead said the community is embracing the team.

Paul Post

All arenas have private seating areas now.

It’s a big investment, but we think the return will be great for us long term.”

The suites are expected to generate considerable extra revenue, the same as other recent improvements such as the large video scoreboard that has created new advertising potential. The suites project is being funded by the Adirondack Coalition, which is in the second year of a five-year lease to operate the building with Continued On Page 9

BY STATE SEN. DAN STEC The 2022 Legislative session in Albany marks a historic first with Gov. Kathy Hochul, New York state’s first female chief executive, at the helm.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s resignation in August, after resisting calls to do so for months, was a welcomed relief for me and I know many New Yorkers. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have been eager to turn the page and begin a new chapter that we hope is much less contentious or controversial. I wish Gov. Hochul well as our session gets underway and look forward to good conversations and productive debates with her and my colleagues.

The state budget is always our focus from January until the beginning of April. This year we have the additional early session focus of the once-a-decade process of redistricting. Following the U.S. Census, new legislative maps are drawn for all of New York’s congressional, state Senate and Assembly districts.

Unlike years past when lawmakers exercised complete control and engaged in the oft-criticized process of gerrymandering, a voter-approved amendment to our State Constitution in 2014 created an independent redistricting commission.

The commission has held hearings statewide over the past half a year to gather input from citizens and concerned groups about how best to redraw the lines. I appreciate people from our region made the effort to submit testimony.

It is very important that, in the best interests of representative democracy, the commission complete its work on-time this month and propose lines which, ideally, the State Legislature

Sen. Dan Stec’s 45th District includes Warren and Washington counties. will accept. This is something to keep an eye on as the process continues over the next several weeks.

Going back to the budget, I think it is important that Gov. Hochul set an optimistic tone. One way of achieving this is to commit to helping our businesses—big and small—recover from the impact of the pandemic. Many of our businesses showed remarkable resolve and resilience the past year and a half; others tried extremely hard but the sustained shutdown was too big a blow to their bottom line.

Continued On Page 4

2 • GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2022

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Personnel Briefs

Glens Falls National Bank and Trust Co. announced the appointment of Kasey Norton, assistant vice president and branch manager, to the South Glens Falls Office.

She was previously branch manager of both the Aviation Road and Exit 18 offices.

In her expanded role, she will oversee operations, supervise staff and develop business and personal banking relationships for the South Glens Falls Office. She brings more than 10 years of financial services experience to the position.

Norton is active in her community and serves as an advisory board member of the Salvation Army of Glens Falls, a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles - Aerie 2486, and an Auxiliary member of the American Legion Post 574.

Norton is originally from Glens Falls and currently lives in Hudson Falls. *

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The Lake George Land Conservancy (LGLC) said two staff members are the recipients of this year’s Ronald Montesi Citizen Conservation Award presented by the Warren County Soil and Water Conservation District.

LGLC communications and outreach manager Sarah Hoff man and land steward Alex Novick received the award on Dec. 13.

Named after long-time WCSWCD Board Member Ronald Montesi who died in 2019, the award “is provided to individuals who have taken the initiative to improve their environment and developed partnerships in their community. The District is committed to recognizing those people who we have worked

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Brian V. Carolan, Ph.D. has joined SUNY Empire State College as dean of the School for Graduate Studies.

He will take on a wide range of responsibilities including planning, academic development, program delivery, academic quality, enrollment management, and increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion across the school.

Dr. Carolan comes to the college from Sacred Heart University where he served as dean of graduate studies. He was associate dean and then acting dean of the graduate school at Montclair State University, where he also served as associate and then professor of quantitative research methods in the College of Education and Human Services, Department of Educational Foundations.

Prior to joining Montclair, he was assistant and then associate professor of educational foundations at the City University of New York, College of Staten Island in the Department of Education. He has research interests in social effects on educational achievement and outcomes.

Carolan earned a Bachelor of Arts in sociology from Rutgers University, a Master of Philosophy in sociology from Columbia University, and a Doctor of Philosophy in sociology and education from Teachers College at Columbia University. He holds an advanced certificate in educational administration and supervision from Hunter College, The City University of New York.

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Board Of Trustees Names Dr. Lisa Vollendorf The New President Of SUNY Empire State

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The SUNY board of trustees appointed Dr. Lisa Vollendorf as president of SUNY Empire State College.

She was interim provost and chief academic officer at the University of Northern Colorado. She replaces Dr. Nathan Gonyea, who has served as officer-in-charge at SUNY Empire since December 2020.

Vollendorf, who was selected after an extensive national search, will be SUNY Empire’s sixth president since its founding in 1971.

“I am both honored and excited to join SUNY Empire State College as its next president. I’ve spent my entire career championing the power of higher education to build a more inclusive, equitable society,” she said. “I believe deeply in SUNY Empire’s mission of meeting students where they are to help them achieve their educational dreams.

I look forward to working with the SUNY Empire college community to advance the vital work already underway, find new and innovative ways to serve today’s diverse student population, and support the faculty, staff, and alumni at the heart of this amazing institution.”

The search committee included four members of the college council, six faculty representatives, two students, an alumni representative, a campusrelated foundation representative, an academic dean, a professional employee, a support staff member, a college senate member, a member of the chancellor’s senior staff, and three non-voting representatives. Consultants from Storbeck Search partnered with the search committee.

John Maggiore, SUNY Empire State College presidential search chair and chairman of the SUNY Empire State College Council, said, “The breadth of Dr. Vollendorf’s administrative skill set, together with the depth of her academic experience and achievement, make her a compelling choice to lead SUNY Empire State College into its next half century of accessible, top-quality, innovative education for motivated adult learners. SUNY Empire is poised for strategic growth.

“Dr. Vollendorf understands the college’s opportunities and challenges, and she has the determination and ability to move us forward in accordance with our mission.”

Gonyea said the appointment of Vollendorf “comes at a critical and opportune time for the college. We are developing new programs and initiatives, and we are leading nontraditional higher education in new and exciting areas at a national level. Dr. Vollendorf’s vast highereducation experience and her enthusiasm for SUNY Empire’s unique place within the SUNY system make her an excellent choice.”

Vollendorf has more than 25 years of experience as an educator and leader. She earned a B.A. in English and Spanish at Colorado State University.

After studying abroad in Costa Rica, she pursued a Ph.D. in romance languages at the University of

Dr. Lisa Vollendorff, president of SUNY Empire State College.

Courtesy SUNY Empire State

Pennsylvania.

She has held faculty appointments at six public universities: Miami University of Ohio, Wayne State University, California State University at Long Beach, San José State University and Sonoma State University. She also directed the Hispanic Institute at the University of California, Santa Barbara.

In her career, she has been a faculty member, department chair, academic senate chair, dean, and provost.

Vollendorf previously worked for 16 years in the California State University system. During that time, she was a faculty member, department chair, academic senate chair, dean, and provost at three different CSU campuses.

Among her academic leadership highlights, Vollendorf served as dean of humanities and the arts at San José State University from 201217, where she led the efforts to revitalize the Hammer Theatre and created a faculty leadership development program. From 2017-20, she served as provost and executive vice president at Sonoma State University. In collaboration with faculty, students, and staff, she helped lead Sonoma State to reach record graduation and retention rates.

She helped lead the institution through numerous emergencies before becoming special advisor for academic continuity and operational planning at the California State University Office of the Chancellor in July 2020.

An established scholar with grants from such institutions as the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Mellon Foundation, the Newberry Library, the Huntington Library, and the William Andrews Clark Memorial Library, she has published two monographs, six edited books, and 35 chapters and articles.

Michael Horn Is Named The New Executive Director Of Lake George Land Conservancy The Lake George Land Conservancy (LGLC) hired Michael (Mike) G. Horn as its executive director.

He succeeds Jamie Brown, who served as executive director from 2015 to October of 2021.

“Jamie did a fabulous job protecting the land that protects the lake,” said Mike Horn, “while building a very strong financial foundation to support the LGLC’s ongoing efforts. I am honored and excited to be the LGLC’s new executive director and continue this positive momentum.”

For the past four years, Horn has been conservation director of Saratoga PLAN, an accredited land trust in Saratoga Springs. He also had a management career in the renewable energy field at GE. Michael O’Reilly, LGLC board president, said, “Mike’s land acquisition experience, passion for conservation, love of the outdoors and business acumen will ensure LGLC’s continued success in protecting the land that protects the lake.”

Horn received a Bachelor of Arts, Economics and Business from Lafayette College and two master’s degrees from the University of Michigan: a Master of Science in natural resource and environmental policy from the School of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and a Master of Business Administration from the Stephen M. Ross School of Business.

He and his family reside in Saratoga Springs.

“I can’t wait to get started,” said Horn. “The winter season is a perfect time to develop a close working relationship with the LGLC’s highly regarded team

Michael G. Horn, executive director, Lake George Land Conservancy.

Courtesy Lake George Land Conservancy

and to meet some of our donors and supporters.”

Jeff Brozyna, LGLC interim executive director and board vice president of development, said, “This is a critical and exciting period for land protection in the Lake George basin. Mike will be joining us at a time when there are several land protection projects underway, including Clark Hollow Bay, the largest fundraising effort in our organization’s history.”

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2022 • 3

CEG, Siena Research Report Says Supply Chain Bucks County Biscotti In Pennsylvania Plans Issues Still Bothering Area Manufacturers To Open Shop In The Airport Industrial Park Many New York manufacturers, especially those in downstate regions, are bullish on reshoring their production operations or supply chains after the coronavirus pandemic put them through upheaval.

The Center for Economic Growth (CEG) and Siena College Research Institute (SCRI) recently unveiled a survey of manufacturers statewide that found that 44 percent of them plan, or have already started, to reshore their supply chains or production operations. But among downstate manufacturers, which sustained the heaviest pandemic job losses, that planned/ implemented reshoring rate was 59 percent.

To support manufacturers’ reshoring plans, CEG earlier this year managed over $220,000 in COVID-19 Reshoring and Supply Chain grants across the state with other New York Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) centers. Five of the 23 manufacturers that received those grants were in the Capital Region, with their share totaling nearly $50,000.

They included Centrotherm Ecosystems in Albany, Free Form Fibers in Saratoga Springs, Unilux in Niskayuna, Stem Cultures in East Greenbush, and Next Advance in Troy. These funds were provided through a National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) MEP $800,000 grant from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. “Our main product line is useless without the normally ubiquitous 5-cent parts used to hold samples. Since the pandemic, these parts have been unavailable or in very short supply.

The New York state MEP grant enabled us to provide a solution so that our bread-and-butter product line is still in demand and scientists can use it to research COVID-19, cancer, Alzheimer’s, new pharmaceutical drugs, etc.,” said Ian Glasgow, president of Next Advance, a laboratory instrument manufacturer.

“Whether you’re making widgets or wafers, supply chain reliability is foundational, and the pandemic has reminded manufacturers statewide that it is something they cannot take for granted,” said Michael Lobsinger, vice president of CEG Business Growth Solutions (BGS). “That is why we see so much momentum behind reshoring in manufacturing. Reshoring can mean a lot of things but primarily it’s two things: either a company is physically moving a plant, operations, or process back to the United States, or it is replacing goods or services with new ‘domestic’ vendors and suppliers.”

To help economic development organizations and Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) centers statewide understand how the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted supply chains for New York state small and medium-

sized manufacturers and how it affected their business outlook, CEG BGS, through a state economic development sub-award, commissioned SCRI to survey the sector in May 2021, officials said. The study was supported by the NIST MEP CARES grant.

SCRI surveyed 332 manufacturers between July and October 2021. Among the manufacturer respondents, 36 percent were in New York’s North Central Region (Capital Region, Central New York, Mohawk Valley, North Country), 30 percent were from Downstate (Long Island, Mid-Hudson, New York City) and 33 percent were from the Southwest (Finger Lakes, Southern Tier, Western New York).

“Supply chain disruptions have impacted virtually every manufacturer across New York.

While nearly two-thirds saw their distribution network impacted, almost nine of 10 faced problems in their acquisition system. Turmoil in the supply chain has resulted in rising material costs, delays and product scarcity. Not surprisingly, 71 percent of manufacturers say that since the start of the pandemic business conditions in New York have worsened,” said Don Levy, SCRI director.

Since the start of the pandemic, 95 percent of manufacturers report experiencing supply chain disruptions. Supply chain acquisition disruptions were most acute, with 83 percent of manufacturers statewide describing them as very or somewhat significant, compared to 76 percent of distribution disruptions, officials said.

The single greatest supply challenge for manufacturers is rising material costs (35 percent), followed by limited availability of materials (32 percent) and transportation delays (7 percent). In response to these disruptions, 74 percent purchased materials through alternative sources and 71 percent of manufacturers statewide report increasing prices.

Forty percent report reducing operations and 32 percent turned business away. Among the manufacturers that responded to the disruptions by purchasing materials through alternative sources, 95 percent of them ended up paying higher prices.

The reshoring plans reflect the heavy economic toll supply chain disruptions took on the sector. That toll was heaviest downstate, which sustained a 12.1 percent year-overyear decline in manufacturing employment – almost double that of the upstate regions, officials said. Ultimately, 84 percent of surveyed manufacturers somewhat or strongly agree with the assertion that “reshoring will enhance supply chain predictability.”

BY CHRISTINE GRAF Bucks County Biscotti, a family-owned biscotti bakery, is moving forward with plans to relocate its Pennsylvania bakery to the Airport Industrial Park in Kingsbury.

The company was founded in 1993 by husband and wife Karen and Craig Silbert. Their son, Riley, joined the family business after working for a startup company in New York City.

“I joined about two years ago to help them grow and to eventually take over the business,” he said.

The decision to relocate the bakery occurred after the company maxed out on its production capabilities at their Hilltown Township, Pa., facility. The Queensbury area was chosen because that is where Karen and Craig plan to eventually retire. The couple purchased property in Queensbury and will be building a house there.

Bucks County Biscotti had humble beginnings, and Karen’s homemade biscotti was originally sold at farmer’s markets. It was a weekend endeavor.

After perfecting her recipe and garnering a local following, she and her husband began selling the products wholesale to coffee shops and cafes.

The business moved its operation from the couple’s kitchen, to extending and converting their home into a fully registered and certified production bakery. The company now has an online store and ships gift boxes nationwide to consumers.

“My dad originally hand delivered from Washington, D.C., to New York,” said Siebert.

“When the pandemic hit, we transitioned almost everything to shipping. In conjunction with that, we opened wholesale accounts throughout the country. We are now shipping nationwide to both retail online customers and our wholesale accounts.”

The company is in the process of purchasing land in the Airport Industrial Park. The tentative purchase price for the three-acre property is $41,000. According to public filings, the project will be funded by $915,000 in bank financing and $106,000 in equity.

Both the Warren and Washington County Industrial Development Agency and The Warren County Economic Development Corp. have been working with Siebert on his plans for the new bakery.

Chuck Ciaccia 27 years

Jude Gosh 32 years

Riley Silbert works with his parents in the family business Bucksv County Biscotti.

Courtesy Buck County Biscotti

“They have been incredibly helpful in the whole process—acquisition of the land as well as the incentives provided by the town to help bring our business there,” he said. “I expect things to go smoothly, and we are in the late stages of finalizing everything with contractors for the development.

That should be moving along very shortly.”

The company plans to build a 5,000-squarefoot bakery on the property. Although the Sieberts are currently the bakery’s only employees, the company plans on hiring between four and seven people over the course of the next three to four years. The new bakery will allow the company to increase production in order to meet the needs of its growing nationwide customer base.

“We are hopefully planning on breaking ground in late winter/early spring 2022. The entire development of the facility will probably take between five and six months,” said Siebert.

“We are excited about the opportunity to start building the business to the next level.”

The company website is buckscountybiscotti. com.

Dave Weiss 21 years

Spencer Agan 23 years

Dennis Choiniere 46 years

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4 • GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2022

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL

SPECIAL SECTION

Economical Outlook 2022

BY MARK SHAW The 2022 outlook for business is 100 percent about cybersecurity insurance. The best thing you can do for your business has nothing to do with buying technology, it’s about protecting your existing investment in exactly what you own right now.

How do you do that? By purchasing a cyber insurance plan for your business.

In doing so, you may ask any number of questions like: Why a small business like yours with so little a hacker might find valuable would need an insurance policy to cover your technology?

Why your IT technology firm wouldn’t be enough to help you?

Why your cybersecurity firm who works with your internal or external IT department isn’t enough to protect you?

These are great questions, and the answers are simple.

Your cyber and IT staff can’t protect your business all the time. Something will happen beyond everyone’s control and their insurance won’t cover you, and you will be stuck in a bad situation.

Every day we see more and more impact from cyber security. The fallout from major attacks like the Microsoft Exchange, SolarWinds, Kaseya just to name three that are recent are having major ripple effects throughout the entire technology world.

What businesses of every size are starting to learn is that there is no safe space in the modern connected world we live in. Nothing is bullet proof, and nothing can be completely secured. What is even more stark is the fact that the large software vendors like the Microsofts of the world take zero responsibility if anyone uses their product to destroy your business.

They don’t have any liability to you, your technology firm, your insurance firm, no one. They simply state that by using their software you hold them harmless for all malicious things that could happen.

This is normal in the software and technology services space. When their AWS service went down for hours, Amazon took no responsibility at all, and anyone who used those services already agreed to accept that risk. The long story short is simple: No one will care about your business more than you will. So, protect it. Buy insurance.

Insurance companies’ losses are in the billions right now. They are running scared from high-risk companies that do not do the basics to prepare themselves. The forms they are asking you to fill out to get the insurance are more complex and technical than ever.

See how many of these questions a business owner, can answer with certainty.

Mark Shaw, president and CEO of Stored Technology Solutions Inc. (StoredTech).

Courtesy StoredTech

1. Do you implement Multi factor authentication (MFA) for remote access/ for privileged accounts?

2. Do you have off site (e.g. cloud) back-ups less than a month old?

3. Can you recover all of your business-critical data and systems in 10 days?

4. What EDR Technologies are in place?

5. Do you have a written policy regarding network access?

6. Do you enforce SPF (Send Policy Framework) on incoming emails?

These are just six questions and many of the newest insurance forms asking multiple sub questions to each one of these. For example, on the off site backups, you would be asked where they are located, how many copies, are they encrypted, are they encrypted in transit and at rest and when was the last time you tried to restore.

This level of understanding where your technology risk lies is no longer sitting with the IT department. As a business owner, these are now business questions on insurance applications.

Are you ready to answer these correctly? Are you willing to go without insurance? Are you willing to pay higher premiums for the gaps in your technology? Are you ready to roll the dice with your company’s data?

Hopefully this starts you thinking beyond the technology and starts a conversation with your IT department about where you stand and what you need to do. Business is all about balancing risks.

Sometimes the risks cannot be avoided, and for these times we highly recommend getting insurance to cover those gaps.

It’s smart business, and in 2022 we all need to be smart with our businesses.

Sen. Dan Stec

Continued From Page 1 The economy is the rising tide that lifts all boats, or the receding tide that leaves some stranded. Regardless of what happens on the federal level, we all know there is a lot New York state can and should do to improve its own projob growth climate.

New York is a national leader for high taxes, out-migration and loss of businesses and jobs.

Last year, my Senate Republican colleagues and I successfully pushed back against Cuomo’s plan to delay a promised middle-class tax relief program. I am hopeful that tax relief is safe for now, but status quo isn’t going to fix the problem.

With billions coming our way in federal funds, now is the time to make smart investments in infrastructure, including repairs to roads and bridges and updating water and sewer systems.

As a former town supervisor, I know how costly these projects are and how much more costly they become when neglected.

Tax relief for businesses—as well as an honest, thorough assessment of the impact of regulations and the manner in which state government interacts with the private sector—would send the message that New York state indeed wants New York businesses to succeed.

I also will keep pushing for more broadband

and improved cellular service. The immediate switch to remote work and learning brought to the forefront the disparity we see in certain communities where access to high-speed connectivity is lacking. It’s going to take a lot more funding to close the remaining gaps, but that’s a great place to spend federal funds.

I know many businesses continue to struggle finding and retaining their workforce. Over the past couple of months, colleagues representing other parts of the state visited our region to learn about childcare. The cost and availability of childcare is a challenge that keeps some people out of the workforce.

While I am not supportive of proposals that would create universal, fully subsidized childcare, one thing we could do is to make the process of opening a childcare center more reasonable.

Childcare is a big responsibility and we want to make sure it is being done safely, but the process of opening one shouldn’t be a frustrating and unreasonable endeavor that discourages entrepreneurs.

As always, I am enormously grateful and honored to serve as state senator and hope our readers won’t hesitate to reach out for assistance and to offer some suggestions.

BY JIM SIPLON It is certainly not news to say that the last two years of COVID have reshaped our area economy and the work we do to support it.

One of the often acknowledged aspects of the COVID era is the observation that the pandemic often exposed and accelerated shifts that were already underway but perhaps not yet fully understood. Our economy and its dynamic elements , things like an aging workforce and a lack of new housing, are perhaps the greatest example of this. Constructing the framework that will underpin the post-COVID economy requires us all to lean into this together-to understand and retool around the “Economy of Now.” EDC Warren County has long been focused on the strategic work required to attracting, growing and retaining business for our community. Classically, this was a process built around enticing new business to locate here and utilize our workforce to run them.

Our programs, incentives and resources were deployed primarily in ways designed to capture transitory or relocating business ventures.

While that work continues, it is transitioning before our eyes to a model that flips the traditional approach on its head. We are now in a competition for workforce, and those areas that have it will attract and grow the most successful business and economic entities while those that do not will struggle to build a sustainable economy.

This need for workforce is not new, in fact it has been building slowly in the demographics for years. Baby boomers are aging out, birth rates have declined and flight of our young has been going on for some time. But today this problem is not limited to the North Country or other less populated areas but is now almost universal.

A recent piece from the Washington Post said “the pool of potential workers has shrunk so much that getting back to the number of people employed before the pandemic would require unprecedented success in connecting job seekers and employers. Assuming more people don’t start looking for work, it would require an unemployment rate of 2 percent, lower than at any point since the measurement began in 1948.”

So how do we address such a disconnect?

Simply working harder to recruit more businesses to locate here, or even those already here to grow, is not the answer if there are not enough workers to fuel that opportunity.

Maximizing our regions workforce participation has never been more important.

Increasingly another opportunity is shifting to mobile professionals that can live, and now work remotely, almost anywhere.

For the past year, the EDC and its many partners in the business and larger community have been stepping into this shift in an effort to understand and be visible to a new wave of professional relocation.

The things needed for someone looking to locate somewhere new and bring their job with them are the same things we all need.

Jim Siplon, president and CEO, EDC Warren County.

Courtesy EDC Warren County

It starts with a place to live and a broadband connection.

You can see this shift in the real estate market all around us. The Glens Falls MSA saw the ninth greatest rise in home prices in the U.S. during 2021. The EDC has developed a private-public partnership of sorts to dive into housing across the market from affordable to workforce to new formats to urban mixed use and work on the elements that will drive investment and expansion.

This will be an area of intense work for the coming year for not only the EDC but for all who have an interest in filling the thousands of open positions in the local economy.

We need to help our entire region invest their economic development efforts around ideas and businesses that build on our unique assets and will not be at odds with the realities of an economy that is largely in the Adirondack Park. These ideas helped fuel a recent effort by the timber and paper industries who invested in reducing the carbon footprint of the existing entities while developing regional applications for fiber that would reduce plastics and shorten carbon intense supply chains.

Another idea in development is investing in fresh water management and protection.

This is built around regional efforts such as the Fresh Water Institute and the Jefferson Project on Lake George. Imagine the future with a thriving ecosystem that can show the region, country and world how to implement fresh water preservation practices birthed here.

We all know now that we must find ways to accept and adapt to the major shifts the last few years have exposed in our communities and regional economy. The EDC is digging in with its weekly forums, regular community engagement events and intense focus on the new challenges of professional relocation, placemaking, housing development and broadband advocacy along with traditional business support.

We believe we can manage this period of transformation together and look forward to partnering with all who are ready to join us in stepping in to the Economy of Now.

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2022 • 5

BY GINA MINTZER A lot has changed since 1952, but there is at least one constant—the tourism sector is crucial to the Lake George regional economy.

The health of this industry affects all who live in the area, whether directly working in hospitality or not. Tourism dollars spent in the area help to offset the local tax burden by thousands of dollars each year. A robust tourism sector also means more attractions, dining, shopping and more to offer to local residents as well.

The Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB is celebrating its platinum anniversary this year—70 years since this tourism-focused Chamber was incorporated in 1952; 70 years of serving members, visitors and the community.

There is a lot to reflect on as we enter this exciting new year, as we continue to navigate some of our most challenging times. When the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020, we didn’t know where we would be nearly two years later. Because of our business community’s ability to adapt, collaborate and stay focused on keeping guests and the community safe (e.g. the Health & Safety Pledge), our area has weathered many challenges.

As COVID-19 numbers surge again and the businesses endure similar labor situations of previous years, creative solutions are top of mind.

Going into 2022, the Lake George Area has even more winter offerings than ever with Winterfest, Ice Castles, the return of Lake George Winter Carnival, as well as all the winter recreation that already exists.

Winterfest is expanding. This year its lasts through March. Already 96 percent of orders for attendance wrist bands have been from outside of Warren County, which bodes well for our economy.

Again, pandemic uncertainty has guests making last-minute reservations for their winter lodging, we’ve heard. But the typically strong booking times, such as President’s Day weekend, are already solidly booked at some properties. Lodging in many areas has had to increase the average daily rate in order to balance out offering less inventory (rooms), often due to staffing issues.

Overall, our Chamber has stood strong through the pandemic with a high retention rate of members as we strengthened our resource capabilities for businesses. Also, the need for community organizations to advocate on behalf of business needs became even clearer.

Under our organization’s umbrella, you’ll find the Chamber, which has close to 450 members, the Lake George Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau (LGRCVB), a division of the Chamber and extension of the Warren County Tourism Department, and the Taste NY program at the Adirondacks Welcome Center.

The LGRCVB’s mission is to bring yearround, weather-proof business to the area in the form of group meetings, sports events, reunions and more. The Taste NY program at the Adirondacks Welcome Center has helped grow small local and regional businesses by selling their products in the vending machines accessible to many travelers.

Looking to 2022, the Chamber continues to promote tourism. Instead of attending

Gina Mintzer, executive director, Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce. travel shows in person this year—since many have been canceled—the Chamber will carry out a strategy of targeting travelers with a distribution of 70,000 copies of our Four-Season Travel Guide, which features Chamber members exclusively.

The Chamber will also produce an updated 2022-23 Community and Business Directory Resource for people who are looking to move to the area or open a business. The Chamber operates the Adirondack Craft Beverage Trail and launched a digital passport in 2021 that continues to grow with more than 1,000 redemptions.

The LGRCVB has had to pivot several times as business and meeting travel has waned in the pandemic. The messaging to these stakeholders has never stopped, though, making the Lake George area well-positioned for when these types of meetings can resume. The LGRCVB helped bring events like the new Adirondack Jeep Invasion to the area, which is looking to return again in June with 1,500 room nights and an estimated economic impact of $3.2 million.

The LGRCVB staff is working 16 events in its convention calendar from 2022 to 2024, including some that are confidential at this point. The economic impact estimated from these events combined is more than $1 billion. That supports jobs and the quality of life in our area.

While there are still so many uncertainties related to the pandemic, community development is a constant focus of the LGRCVB. LGRCVB will continue to develop lakegeorgeishiring.com, started by Mannix Marketing as a collaborative effort.

Marketing will target potential employees in the 18-24 age range who might be interested in moving to the area for a summer adventure with a fun job. The LGRCVB also facilitates the Arrival 2 Departure Tourism Awareness Training program. To date, 160 people have completed the training, making the workforce more prepared and skilled than ever.

We’ve learned over the past two years that adaptability and collaboration are keys to our success as we move forward. The Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB remains dedicated to growing the tourism economy through its programs and divisions during this uncertain but exciting time as we celebrate 70 years.

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BY DOUG FORD There is a tremendous amount of uncertainty in what lies ahead as we embark on 2022 however, when you look at the construction and the building materials industry a few things are “for sure.” The broken supply chain, lack of available workers and fallout from COVID are all factors that will continue to challenge us.

Like many industries, the supply chain for building materials and related products is going through a very difficult period in both domestic and foreign products. Experts believe the crisis will extend beyond 2022 with no immediate relief in sight.

Current delivery delays can extend the build time on an average single-family home by three-plus months and will get worse as we enter the winter season here in the Northeast. This is extremely unfortunate since there is a lot of interest in new homes and a shortage of available homes on the market.

The fallout from lack of product and the demands on housing are in part due to the influx of millennials entering the market.

This has caused a significant increase in home pricing which adds another level of complexity. Interest rates remain low, but all other trends impacting the real estate market allow the advantage to remain with the sellers.

The lack of labor in the construction industry has been growing for decades and is now competing with many other segments for workers. A recent statistic reported by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce construction index stated that 92 percent of contractors have reported a difficulty finding workers and of those, 42 percent have turned down work as a result.

Simply put, many people aren’t aware of career opportunities in the trades. This is a topic that the Saratoga Builders Association in conjunction with many local partners have been addressing for the past three years. Until recently, schools have focused on college as the primary pathway for most students.

Recent efforts highlighting careers in the trades, compounded with issues brought to light resulting from the COVID pandemic have created new hope for the construction industry labor shortage.

Parents and graduating students are uncomfortable traveling to larger schools, remote learning does not provide the same experience for college students, and yet the fees remain the same.

This has opened the door to educate school staff, students and parents about opportunities in the trades for those who don’t find this new way of learning appealing.

The pathways to a lucrative career in the

Expert electrical service.

Doug Ford is vice president of Curtis Lumber Company.

Courtesy Curtis Lumber Co.

trades are diverse and numerous, including options directly out of high school. Parents have formed beliefs about the trades based on their growing up from many years ago – long hours pounding hammers and nails.

Work in the trades is very different today. Good starting salaries with great opportunities for advancement and high income, benefit packages, job security and tech-savvy skills are just a few examples that contribute to many options for rewarding careers.

The last thing “for sure” is that COVID has and will continue to have a significant impact in 2022. One of the biggest COVID related challenges has been the instability of the workforce. Fear of catching COVID, required quarantining, and the vaccine mandates have all lead to a lot of missed time by workers.

This has also been complicated by the lack of daycare and schools being forced to require remote learning. COVID has forced the construction industry (historically traditional in thought and slow to change) to embrace technology to a much higher degree. This brings a new attraction for younger workers, including females who have typically stayed away. According to the NAHP women only make up 10.9 percent of the construction workforce.

The timing is right, and the industry will greatly benefit from influx of female workers.

Most would agree it has been a tough time. Conflict, loss, setbacks, and challenges seem to be the norm. There are many more unknowns that we must navigate this year however, I am extremely optimistic that 2022 will be the year we emerge from the COVID pandemic. We will have the opportunity to benefit from all we have learned having gone through it, “for sure.”

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6 • GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2022

BY JANET BESHEER The year 2021 was a roller coaster in area real estate year with the best annual existing home sales numbers since 2006.

Low inventory and high demand, along with very low interest rates, had properties flying off the page all year long. Median prices were at all time highs.

Experts see the sellers’ market continuing into 2022 and with a less wild seller’s market than during 2021. Home sales prices will not advance at the same pace we saw in 2021, however, the lack of supply will mean prices will continue to grow.

It is predicted that mortgage interest rates will rise at least three times during 2022. The 30-year fixed rate, currently averaging 3.3 percent, will hit closer to 3.7 percent by the end of this year. This will affect the buying power of certain buyers.

In November, the median sales price in the Capital Region jumped to $397,700 which was an increase of more than 12 percent over the median price of $330,000 in 2020. Sales prices rose for 19 months in a row across New York state.

Home prices are predicted to continue to rise in 2022, up to 5-12 percent in most markets.

Affordability will be a challenge in 2022 with home buyers grappling with higher monthly costs due to rising prices and mortgage rates.

Inventory woes will continue in 2022. In 2021 inventory was down 23 percent compared to 2020. Typical “days on market” was only 23 days and homes sold at 99.2 percent of the original list prices. Months’ supply of inventory fell to 2.8 months in November 2021—a 34.9 percent drop from 4.3 months of supply in November 2020.

(A balanced market is considered to have 6-6.5 month supply). As a result, buyers in every price range were frustrated by not finding a home or by being outbid in multiple offer scenarios.

It’s been a trying year for all buyers. Lack of supply will continue to plague the market this year.

New homes sales declined in 2021 because of restrictions in zoning laws and supply chain issues. New construction starts are slated to be up in 2022 as builders catch up to the usual balance of already-completed vs. under-construction vs. not-yet-started homes. New homes in many cases are the only viable option for buyers who can wait for the construction process to finish.

People will continue to work from home and hybrid forms of workspaces are emerging.

Employees will be able to live farther away from the office and the suburbs will continue to grow.

The commercial apartment market is going to remain strong this year and rents will continue to

BY STEPHEN KYNE, CFP Who would have thought that we’d be starting the third year of life in a pandemic? Certainly it has had a huge impact on the economy in the last two years, and we all look forward to its influence waning. As we enter 2022, we’d like to offer our thoughts about how we see the year playing out for the economy.

In order to look ahead, we must first take stock of where we’ve been. 2021 was a fairly volatile year for the economy. Depending on which polls you read, the public was often equally (or more) concerned with the economy than it was with the ongoing pandemic. Given many of the leading economic indicators, it’s easy to understand why.

Inflation has been a primary concern. In 2020, as a response to the near-total shutdown of our economy, the government flooded the economy with trillions of dollars. In a typical year, according to the Federal Reserve, the money in circulation grows by about 6 percent.

In 2020, the money in circulation grew by about 30 percent. Meanwhile, supply chain issues, which persist today, meant that indemand goods were hard to come by. The recipe for inflation is simply too many dollars chasing too few goods. We certainly had both in spades.

As a result, inflation in 2021 ran about 7 percent - the highest in forty years, according to the Department of Labor.

For much of the year, the Federal Reserve insisted that the majority of the increase in inflation was “transitory”; a position with which we disagreed. While we think the inflation picture will improve in the years to come, we think it will be several years before we see the Fed’s target rate of 2 percent. Prepare for another year of increasing prices.

The employment landscape has been a hot topic in the past year, with what has been dubbed the “Great Resignation.” This revolves around the notion that there is an employment revolution and realignment, whereby workers are quitting their jobs en masse to pursue better opportunities, often involving working from home. According to ZipRecruiter, nearly 60 percent of workers indicate they would like a job

Janet Besheer, licensed real estate broker/ owner, Equitas Realty.

Courtesy Equitas Realty

increase. It is unlikely industrial real estate will see much change although supply-chain issues will still plague new construction.

The big question mark is the office market.

A real recovery for office buildings all over the country hinges entirely on the return of employees to the office but there’s no evidence this is happening sometime soon.

How do these things effect buyers? Buyers should carefully consider their budget before starting their search. Talking with a lender, they can ascertain how much they can afford, set a price point and run the numbers on how their monthly payment will change as interest rates rise. Buyers should make sure that the numbers feel comfortable to them when they hone in on their search of properties.

How about sellers? Home prices will continue to stay strong this year. Even as for-sale inventory starts to grow, upping competition, well-priced homes in good condition will be able to face the competition and sell quickly. And, if sellers have owned their homes for a while, when they do sell, they can expect to walk away from the transaction with a healthy amount of cash.

As a real estate broker, I am looking forward to a very busy and successful 2022. Realtors met the challenges of the past few years with creativity, compassion and a very high level of professionalism. We helped our clients navigate through the ups and downs of buying and selling in a wild and crazy market while navigating the constraints of the pandemic and the limitations it put on all of us. We learned a lot and that knowledge will get us through 2022 with aplomb.

Stephen Kyne, partner, Sterling Manor Financial LLC. Courtesy Sterling Manor Financial LLC

that allows them to work from home, but only 10 percent of jobs offer than option and that number is likely to shrink as we enter post-pandemic life.

The office is not dead.

What is likely true is that many of those who quit their jobs may find themselves in the same or similar sector, as the reality of experience, education, and job availability force their hand.

In other words, a person who has spent two decades in hospitality may find it difficult to find a dream job in a different sector, at least without additional training.

According to the Department of Labor, there are still 1.5 unfilled jobs for each unemployed individual, and we see the unemployment rate continuing to improve as the pandemic wanes, and many on the sidelines return to work.

Interest rates are beginning to rise, with mortgage rates at nine-month highs. If you’re someone who has not refinanced your mortgage, the days to take advantage of historically low rates may be numbered. Rising interest rates may also work to cool what is a very hot real estate market, as people have been taking advantage of bargain basement mortgages for the last two years.

The construction cost of housing is close

BY RENEE A. WALRATH In 2022, hiring, recruiting, and retaining talent will continue to rapidly transform. The unemployment rates are continuing to rise and the Great Resignation will continue on in this upcoming year. This leads us to ask what will recruiting top talent look like this year?

The Great Resignation is caused by people quitting their jobs in large amounts due to low wages, poor benefits, a lack of work-life balance, and overall unhappiness at their current role.

These employees are currently trying to find a job that is a better career fit for them and offers a better balance.

Retaining talent and recruiting in 2022 will be centered around responding to these changes in the employee or candidate’s expectations due to the pandemic.

The beginning of this pandemic forced many employees to work from home as offices shut down, which in turn caused the realization of how productive employees can be from home.

Some of these employees enjoyed the remote work and the extra time that came with working from home.

Employees now are pushing for hybrid and remote jobs where they have the ability to add flexibility into their schedule. Companies will continue to adapt to these candidate expectations in order to retain employees during a historic labor shortage by offering a workplace that fosters a better work life balance.

COVID-19 revealed to employers how important mental health is for everyone. During a time where there is a global talent shortage— the Great Resignation—employers will continue to attract top quality candidates through increasing their workforce’s health and fostering a healthy work environment both physically and mentally.

Employers will attract future employees by offering flexibility or programs intended to relieve the stress of their employees. Providing a great employee experience will increase an employee’s desire to stay at their company and lower employee turnover rates.

Another trend that will continue on in 2022 is the employers desire to promote Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within their organization.

DEI will be the forefront of many businesses recruiting and retention strategies going into the new year. Many of these organizations will be looking to diversify their leadership and management teams specifically.

This will be an interesting year for recruitment due to the fact that employers are hiring four

generations of employees at the same time.

There are vast differences amongst these generations and these generational differences have the ability to influence the success of the organization. Employers will continue to hire employees from all four of these generations and include age variations in their DEI strategies.

Vaccinations will continue to play a large role in the recruiting industry. Some employers may require their in-office employees to be vaccinated. These requirements or lack there of will greatly affect what employees’ organizations are able to attract.

Organizations that require vaccines will have to change their recruitment process to only select candidates that are vaccinated. Certain employees prefer to only work in a space where everyone must be vaccinated while others might prefer to work in a space where vaccinations are not required. These additional requirements of some organizations will impact their ability to attract top talent during the Great Resignation.

The year 2022 will require new skills for certain jobs that will replace the old. Hiring managers will have to tailor their search for qualified candidates this year to the new skills desired for each job and disregard candidates that don’t. Employers can also offer and advertise training programs for new employees that don’t have the specific skillset that they are looking for.

Employers will need to be able to adapt quickly to the upcoming changes in the job market to retain the top talent they have and be aware of this when hiring additional employees.

enough to the retail cost that we don’t see a major bubble in residential real estate. In other words, while we think the market may slow due to rising mortgage rates, we don’t feel that housing will experience a sudden drop in value.

We believe the Fed will also increase rates in a bid to help rein in inflation. Rising interest rates will have a negative effect on many types of bonds you may be holding in your portfolio.

Bonds are often considered “safer” than stocks, but in a rising interest rate environment many will actually lose value.

Consider that you if you are trying to sell a bond that pays 2 percent, and the prevailing rate in the market is 4 percent, then you will have to discount the price of your bond in order to entice a buyer. It’s important to work with your CFP to understand your exposure to this type of risk.

As for the stock markets, they performed in-line with our expectations published in this column a year ago. U.S. markets outperformed foreign markets, and we see that trend continuing throughout 2022. The U.S. has an extremely robust economy, and it has been much faster at opening and staying open than many other economies. Consider that Canada, Europe, and Asia have all tended toward stops and starts with their reopening.

While we think that many foreign emerging and developed markets have good long-term upside, partly because many are currently in a hole, we don’t expect 2022 to be their year, and are much more bullish on the outlook for the U.S. markets.

We do think it is likely that we experience a correction of 10 percent or more at some point during the year, and view that as a sign of a healthy market, as investors take the opportunity to move funds between sectors. Remember, after 100 percent of pullbacks, the U.S. markets have gone on to see new highs. While that’s not a guarantee, it’s a pretty good track record.

The political landscape in the U.S. has affected the domestic markets, as U.S. Congress can’t seem to get out of its own way in passing legislation, taking the better part of 2021 to pass a bipartisan infrastructure bill.

We don’t see that improving in the new year, as Congress remains mired fighting over the things it can’t get done, spending little time focusing on what may actually be achievable.

Given the current landscape, and Congress’ detachment from the public’s primary concerns (the economy and COVID), we see the lower house being taken by the Republicans in 2022, possibly by a wide margin. Democrats may even lose the Senate. We already see Democrats lowering expectations for their results at the polls this year, which is never a promising sign.

Personal political proclivities notwithstanding, gridlock is good. At its most basic, it forces compromise—which we’ve seen little of—or nothing. From a purely economic standpoint, one is just as good as another because it means the rules are unlikely to change, and markets like certainty.

From a fundamental standpoint, we see the outlook for the US continuing to improve, and have only a few concerns we are monitoring, which may affect our view.

Omicron showed us all how quickly a new variant can emerge and proliferate. So far, this strain appears to be mild, however a more virulent strain could emerge, which would certainly cause a ripple.

We are also eyeing certain geopolitical factors, namely China and Russia. Both seem eager to test the resolve of the west by asserting themselves in their respective spheres of influence. We feel that, almost certainly, China is watching to see how the world reacts to saber rattling by the Russians in order to determine any future course of action. Action by either country could have a short-term impact on markets, and are worth watching.

In summary, we see 2022 shaping up to be a good but volatile year for the markets. As always, our forecast contains forward-looking statements. In our view, however, there are far more tailwinds than headwinds, and you should work closely with your CFP to monitor your financial plan and ensure that you are capitalizing on the opportunities as they present themselves.

Rene A. Walrath is the president of Walrath Recruiting Inc. Courtesy Walrath Recruiting Inc.

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2022 • 7

Activities Abound At Lake George Winter Carnival On Feb. Weekends In The Village

Business Briefs

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Glens Falls National Bank and Trust Co. has earned national Bank On certification for its new checking product, Smart Steps.

The bank is one of just 166 in the country to earn this distinction from the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund (CFE) to serve the unbanked and underbanked.

The CFE works directly with national and regional financial institutions to encourage the widespread availability of safe, low-cost, transactional products within their community. The Bank On certification provides account standards and a review process that ensures everyone has access to an affordable bank account.

Smart Steps is a checking account designed to help individuals who don’t have easy access to affordable banking services and have a goal of achieving economic independence and security. The account will be available throughout the bank’s service area in early 2022. *

The Lake George Winter Carnival takes place the weekends of Feb. 5 -6, 12-13, 19-20 and 26 -27, featuring family friendly events, may of them free and open to tourists and area residents as well.

The Lake George Winter Carnival takes place each weekend throughout February, featuring family friendly events, may of them free and open to tourists and area residents as well.

For 2022, the dates are the weekends of Feb. 5 -6, 12-13, 19-20 and 26 -27.

Through the course of those weekends there are chowder, chili, BBQ, and chicken wing cook-offs. There are activities like outhouse races, ATV races, polar plunges, fireworks and more.

Events are coordinated by the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Kids can participate in children’s activities like pony rides or toast marshmallows on the beach.

Although Lake George is usually frozen solid by February, there are some years when mild temperatures cause the ice to be unsafe for normal activities. If icedependent events need to be canceled or relocated, that information will be announced on the Winter Carnival’s Facebook page or website.

There are plenty of places for tourists to stay overnight.

For more information and schedules, visit www.lakegeorge.com/winter/carnival.

Opening ceremonies are scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 5, at noon. The chili cookoff begins at 12:30 p.m. that day at the at the Shepard Park Amphitheater. There will be a fee. The event is a fan favorite. The chili if provided by various Lake George restaurants, and people vote for their favorite. Outhouse races begin at 1:30 on the ice off of Shepard Park. There is prize money for the winners and people can register at 9:30 a.m. that day at The Lagoon, which can be reached ay 518-6855009.

The carnival annual parade at 4 p.m. helps kick off the February weekend celebrations. It begins at Fort William Henry, travels north on Canada Street, and ends at Amherst Street.

Fireworks by Santore take place at 7 p.m.

Sunday events include Sundae Funday andkaraoke/open mic with free ice cream provided by Stewart’s Shops at the Shepard Park Amphitheater.

On Saturday, Feb. 12, events include an ATV poker run. Sponsored by LGWC, registration is 9-11:30 a.m. For info call 518-240-0809.

The BBQ cookoff starts at 12:30 p.m.

that day at the Shepard Park Amphitheater.

There is a fee.

A free event is S’mores in the Park at 5:30 p.m. Fireworks will take place at 7 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 13, starts with sanctioned car races on the lake, hosted by Lake George Lanes & Games. Info is available at www. icerace.com, or from Dave Burnham at 518875-6956.

Saturday, Feb. 19 activities include an ATV poker run, and sanctioned motorcycle and ATV races hosted by Fort William Henry. Call Tom Kuhn for info at 518-4957908, or visit www.electriccityriders.com.

A chowder cookoff starts at 12:30 p.m. and S’mores in the Park begins 5:30 p.m., free at the Shepard Park Amphitheater.

Also there will be a hot chocolate bar at that time, which is free. Fireworks are at 7 p.m.

On Sunday, Feb. 20, events include the Sundae Funday and karaoke/open mic, sanctioned motorcycle and ATV races, and a Glacier Golf Tournament on a 6-hole course set up on the ice in front of LGWC headquarters in Shepard Park. Teams of two or four compete for prizes. People can sign up at the souvenir tent.

From 3-4 p.m. is a build a snowman contest. People will be given a “snowman kit” and 30 minutes to build. Judging will take place and the winners will claim prizes. There is a fee. Sign up at the souvenir tent in Shepard Park.

From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. there are sanctioned car races on the ice, hosted by Lake George Lanes and Games. Info can be found at www.icerace.com. From noon to 4 p.m. are the 4x4 races on the ice, hosted by Blue Thirty-Two. The Mac-N-Cheese Cook Off is at 12:30 p.m.

This the LGWC’s first time doing a mac and at Shepard Park Amphitheater. There is a fee.

Events run throughout the day, including another S’mores in the Park, the Sundae Funday and karaoke/open mic and a free hot chocolate bar. Fireworks are at 7 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 27, includes sanctioned car races during the day and 4x4 races in the afternoon.

All events are weather and ice permitting, LGWC will not be held responsible for any canceled events or races.

Visitors are asked to adhere to all current COVID-19 guidelines while visiting the LGWC.

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The Tri County United Way is offering free tax classes to potential volunteers joining the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program.

With the stimulus payments and recent changes to the Earned Income Credit, Child Tax Credit, and Dependent Care credit more local residents may be looking for assistance completing their tax returns during the 2022 filing season.

Volunteers become IRS certified tax preparers upon successful completion of this training. They then work one or two days/evenings a week in the local communities assisting families and individuals free of charge with completing and e-filing their personal tax returns.

The local VITA team prepares tax returns throughout Washington, Warren and Northern Saratoga counties during the tax filing season of January through April. Other volunteers are needed to answer phones, make the tax appointments, and serve as greeters at the tax sites.

To learn more and/or register for these free tax classes contact Joan at 518-746-2560 or via email at tcuwvita@gmail.com or visit the website at www. tricountyunitedway.org. *

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Arrow Financial Corp. was recently named to the prestigious Piper Sandler Sm-All Stars Class of 2021, a list of 35 top-performing small-cap banks and thrifts in the country.

Investment banking firm Piper Sandler Companies, evaluated 386 publicly traded banks and thrifts with a market cap below $2.5 billion based on eight metrics, including: growth, profitability, credit qual-

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ity and capital strength. The field was then narrowed to the top 35.

Arrow Financial Corp. is one of just five New York financial institutions on the list and the only one headquartered locally. *

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Tully Rinckey PLLC and Price Chopper/Market 32 distributed 250 free turkeys to Capital Region active duty and retired military personnel during the 12th annual Turkeys for Veterans initiative in November.

Over the last 12 years, Tully Rinckey PLLC has donated thousands of free turkeys to veterans across New York state in an effort to strengthen their bond with the veteran community.

Officials from Tully Rinckey PLLC hand delivered approximately 3,500 pounds of turkey to military personnel and veterans. To ensure safety during the COVID pandemic, turkeys were distributed via a drive through process, whereby veterans pulled up to the distribution area in their car and had their turkeys loaded by a Tully Rinckey volunteer.

Since 2009, the Turkeys for Veterans initiative has provided the Thanksgiving centerpiece for the families of more than 1,700 active duty and retired military personnel in the greater Capital Region. The firm has also provided turkeys to veterans in Binghamton, Syracuse, Buffalo and Rochester. *

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Grant Cottage State Historic Site in Gansevoort has won an Excellence in Environmental Stewardship award, one of nine projects and one individual recognized with a 2021 New York State Preservation Award for their efforts to preserve the state’s history.

The Grant Cottage won the award for installation of a 30-kilowatt hybrid photovoltaic system. The installation allows the site to operate completely off the grid and keeps the cottage and its physical inventory in a climate-controlled environment without interruption to help maintain the items for decades to come.

“The 2021 New York State Historic Preservation Awards are an opportunity to highlight projects and people who contribute to preserving the heritage of the state for the benefit of our current residents, visitors, and for future generations,” State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said. “The diversity of the projects being recognized demonstrates that preservation begins with passionate local individuals expanding their advocacy into productive partnerships. We are proud to be one of those partners and congratulate all of the individuals and groups for their extraordinary efforts to preserve these historic places.”

8 • GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2022

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Vermont-Based Product Supplier To Convert Warehouse Into Storage And Assembly Plant

BY CHRISTINE GRAF Vermont-based electrical product supplier Green Mountain Electric Supply, which has a facility in Queensbury, is moving forward with plans to convert a 64,000-square-foot warehouse at 823 Main St. in Clifton Park into a wire cutting, storage, and assembly plant.

The Saratoga Economic Development Corp. assisted the company in applying for tax incentives which have been awarded in the amount of $338,329. In addition to a $33,000 mortgage tax exemption, the company was awarded a $57,400 sales tax exemption and a payment-in-lieu-of-taxes agreement that will amount to $247,929 over 10 years, officials said.

Green Mountain Electric Supply, a thirdgeneration family-owned company, has been in business since 1953. Since that time, it has grown to include 20 locations throughout Vermont, New Hampshire, and New York, and 280 employees.

“We distribute electrical products meaning that we buy material from manufacturers or rep agencies and sell it mostly to commercial contractors,” said Luc Choquette, vice president of operations.

Among its products are large reels of copper wire that are cut and repackaged on smaller reels.

“We take that 5,000 feet, and a contractor may need only three runs of 50 feet on a reel. So, we will take it from the master reel and put it on smaller reels for a contractor,” said Choquette.

The company is not new to the area and currently has facilities in Halfmoon, Queensbury, and Albany. They plan to purchase the Main Street property for $5.2 million from developer Mark Rekucki, owner of M.J. Properties.

“It’s a building that was pretty old and decrepit, and from my understanding, we are purchasing it from someone who has flipped it,” said Choquette.

Unlike the majority of the company’s other locations, Clifton Park will not be a branch location.

“This is just going to be a distribution and storage solution for us. Contractors aren’t going to be able to come through the door and ask for things like they do at other locations,” he said.

The company hopes to have employees in the building within the next several weeks.

Employment is expected to grow at a steady rate in the coming years.

“We will have anywhere from five to 30 or 50 employees down the road as things continue to grow,” said Choquette.

He doesn’t rule out future expansion in the Capital Region.

“There’s always potential for future growth.

We’re hoping at some point that something may line up and make sense for us to grow within the greater Saratoga County area as well. We are looking forward to being part of the local community.”

Foothills Builders Planning To Construct 77 Townhouses On Former Garden Center Plot

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL 2000 Business Of The Year

Adirondack Regional Chamber Of Commerce P.O. Box 766 • Saratoga Springs, New York 12866 (518) 581-0600 • Fax: (518) 430-3020 • www.glensfallsbusinessjournal.com

Editorial: RJDeLuke@glensfallsbusinessjournal.com Advertising: HarryW@glensfallsbusinessjournal.com Publisher & Editor Harry Weinhagen Associate Editor R.J. DeLuke Editor Emeritus Rod Bacon Sales and Customer Service Harry Weinhagen Production Manager Graphic Precision Contributing Writers Susan Campbell Jill Nagy Jennifer Farnsworth Christine Gaf Andrea Palmer Lisa Balschunat Glens Falls Business Journal is published monthly, the second week of each month, by Weinhagen Associates, LLC and mailed to business and professional people in Warren and Washington counties.

Glens Falls Business Journal is independently owned and is a registered tradename of Weinhagen Associates, LLC, P.O. Box 766, Saratoga Springs, New York l2866 (518) 581-0600. Glens Falls Business Journal is a registered tradename in New York.

Glens Falls Business Journal has been founded to promote business in Warren and Washington counties and to provide a forum that will increase the awareness of issues and activities that are of interest to the business community. Subscription price is $25.00 per year. Third class postage paid at Glens Falls, New York.

Rights to editorial content and layouts of advertising placed with Glens Falls Business Journal which are the creative effort of its contractors, and printing materials supplied by Glens Falls Business Journal are the property of Glens Falls Business Journal and may not be reproduced by photographic or similar methods, or otherwise, without the specific authorization of Glens Falls Business Journal.

BY CHRISTINE GRAF Foothill Builders, a family owned residential construction company, is pursuing plans to build 77 townhouses on Ridge Road in Queensbury.

The property was the former home of Mead’s Nursery and Garden Center. The garden center closed in 2019 after 70 years in business.

Joe Leuci and his father, Joe, established Foothill Builders in 2013. Since that time, they have built close to 100 homes including two subdivisions in Queensbury and numerous homes in Corinth and Moreau.

The Ridge Road property is currently zoned commercial. Leuci and real estate lawyer Jeffrey Meyer recently appeared before the town Planning Board to present a rezoning proposal. During the meeting, town officials raised concerns related to traffic on Quaker Road but were told that main access roads for the townhouses would be on Ridge Road and Meadowbrook Road.

“It’s located in kind of a buffer area between the heavy commercial area on Quaker Road and the neighborhoods on the other side of the property,” said Leuci. “We view this as a nice transitional project between the commercial and the residential areas and we feel the town understands our concept.

No one wants the commercial aspect to be developed there.”

The 11-acre property is under contract for purchase and is pending approval.

Foothills Builders plans to build 18 four-unit buildings and one five-unit building on the land. Leuci is working with Studio A Landscape Architecture + Engineering of Saratoga Springs and Meyer, Fuller & Stockwell attorneys of Lake George on the project.

“We met with the Planning Board and still have a ways to go on amending the zoning, but we thought it was a step in the right direction,” he said.

Foothill Builders also discussed with town officials their plans to construct 22 apartments and 8,000 square feet of commercial space at 78-80 Main Street. The proposed one- and two-bedroom, highend apartments will measure between 600 and 900 square feet, and the two-bedroom units will have balconies.

“We have designed that project around the Main Street zoning and what the town is looking for along that corridor with a mixture of commercial and residential usage. They are trying to promote pedestrian traffic along that corridor. We would have parking in the rear with storefronts on the first floor, closer to the road,” said Leuci. “We see it as an area that can be developed to kind of connect Glens Falls to Exit 18.”

Because that project requires no zoning changes, Leuci is hopeful the process will move quickly and that his company will receive final approvals this winter. If that happens, they will break ground in the spring, he said.

In the meantime, Foothills Builders is also working on a proposal for another subdivision in Queensbury.

“We have a lot of projects in the pipeline right now,” he said.

The company continues to be impacted by pandemic-related supply chain shortages and is placing material orders as far in advance as possible.

“It’s been a constant adjustment over the past year-and-a-half,” said Leuci. “Delays are kind of inevitable at this point, but we are doing our best to stay on track.”

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GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2022 • 9

Adirondack Thunder Continued From Page 1

its owner, the City of Glens Falls. Mead, who is also the arena’s general manager, declined to cite the job’s price tag.

Separately, the 43-year-old arena is also getting a brand new roof, paid for by the city ($1.8 million).

“When it rains outside it leaks inside, which is not a great experience for our guests, so it’s very exciting to get both of these things done,” Mead said.

Cool Insuring Arena reopened last August after being closed since March 2020 when the pandemic struck, also bringing the Thunder season to an abrupt halt. Business rebounded slowly at first, starting with ice rentals and a two-week private event last September.

In addition to the current Thunder campaign, the arena hosted the state high school girls volleyball championships and the Adirondack Stampede rodeo this past fall.

“There were 3,000 people here for the two-day volleyball tournament and 8,000 fans turned out for the rodeo, the most ever since I’ve been here,” Mead said.

Pro wrestling returned to the arena with a WWE Supershow on Jan. 8.

Looking ahead, there’s a possibility of a concert or two this winter and the arena is slated to host both the Section II wrestling and boys basketball tournaments, followed by a return of the state high school boys basketball tourney in March, for the first time in five years, officials said.

Depending on how many local teams participate, the state tournament could draw more than 30,000 fans to Glens Falls, which hosted it from 1981 to 2017 when Binghamton won the next three-year

contract. Last year’s tourney, scheduled for Glens Falls, was canceled by COVID. “Once we get to April hopefully we’ll be able to do a circus and a few other nonhockey events,” Mead said.

The pandemic continues to pose a challenge for the Thunder and overall arena operations. Four home hockey games were postponed in December followed by a fifth on Jan. 2.

Four of the five games have already been rescheduled for Thursday, Jan. 27 along with Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, Feb. 22, 23 and 25. “Replacing a Saturday with a Wednesday hurts financially, but it’s part of the COVID world we live in right now,” Mead said. “We’ll get through it, we’ll manage our best.”

Except when eating or drinking, visitors are required to wear face coverings at all times inside the arena. The state and Warren County mandate is in effect until mid-January when it will be reevaluated.

Mead said the Thunder simply can’t afford to ban concessions, a major source of team revenue. “If we don’t sell food and beverage it doesn’t make sense for the arena to open,” he said.

Of course, this presents another challenge to Thunder attendance, but Mead said he’s confident fans will continue to support the team, especially if it keeps winning as playoffs approach.

“There’s always going to be a small number of people who won’t come because of a mandate or will voice their displeasure with it,” he said. “But as we have since day one, we’re going to follow the mandates.

Hopefully the team continues to play well on the ice and fans continue to come out.”

Granville Community Foundation Reaches $1 Million Fundraising Goal For 2021 The Granville Community Foundation announced that it has met its $1 million fundraising goal for 2021.

“It’s been an incredible fi rst year,” said Michael Freed, chair of the Granville Community Foundation (GCF). “We’ve created a mission to invest in the future of Granville, a vision to raise $5 million toward that investment by 2030 and a brand summary to assist in an expanded awareness of who we are.

“We’ve done all this while soliciting donations from a lot of people with ties to Granville and preparing for our fi rst grant awards in 2022. On behalf of my fellow board members, I’d like to thank everyone who has donated in some way to the Granville Community Foundation this year.

It’s impossible to thank each of them, adequately, for what they’ve enabled us to do. However, their commitment in helping us achieve this

fi rst milestone is something we all will never forget.”

He said the foundation looks forward to building on those relationships, and forming new ones, as it develops a plan for raising $5 million for the GCF by the end of the decade.

The next step for the GCF will be to plan for two grant-making cycles in 2022, the fi rst of which starts with the submission of proposals on Feb. 1 and is expected to result in grants awarded in late April.

The GCF is a donor-advised sub-fund of the Glens Falls Foundation with a seven-member advisory board. Its goal is to evaluate local needs and opportunities and to fund projects, managed by nonprofits, which address broad areas of community development, education, art & culture, environment, health or social needs.

For more information, visit www. glensfallsfoundation.org/granville.

Several Area Arts Organizations Get Funds From New York State Council On The Arts Gov. Kathy Hochul announced $45 million in grant awards through the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA), including several local projects.

Grants administered by NYSCA this year will provide critical aid to bolster nonprofit arts and culture organizations and artists as they embark on a dynamic multi-year recovery process.

In June 2021, NYSCA rolled out a reimagined grantmaking process to increase access to state funds through expanded eligibility that embraced a vast range of artmaking in New York State, and led to a nearly 40 percent increase in applications for FY2022 to date. Following a streamlined application process, the agency will continue to support those severely impacted by the ongoing effects of COVID-19 through flexible funding accommodations.

“The arts have long been a critical sector in our economy, and as we continue to rebuild a stronger New York, it’s essential we do all we can help this industry thrive once again,” Hochul said. “These awardees represent the best of what New York’s vibrant communities have to offer and with this funding in hand, they will be able to not only continue their creative and inspiring work, but help spur revitalization in their own backyard as well.”

NYSCA’s Round Three grants include Support for Organizations, Support for Artists, Special Opportunities, and Recovery Grants. All four categories of funding provide organizations and artists with vital dollars to boost their recovery process in response to the devastating economic impact of the last year and a half. More than 60 percent of NYSCA’s FY2022 grantees have organizational budgets of $1 million or less.

Round 3 award recipients include: Lower Adirondack Regional Arts Council (LARAC) Warren Capital Region NYSCA Recovery Fund $10,000.

Park Theater Foundation, Inc. Warren Capital Region NYSCA Support for Organizations $49,500.

The Hyde Collection Trust Warren Capital Region NYSCA Support for Organizations $49,500.

Adirondack Folk School Inc. Warren Capital Region NYSCA Recovery Fund $10,000.

Glens Falls-Queensbury Historical Association Warren Capital Region NYSCA Support for Organizations $49,500.

Lake George Arts Project, Inc. Warren Capital Region NYSCA Recovery Fund $10,000.

Lake George Arts Project, Inc. Warren Capital Region NYSCA Support for Organizations $49,500.

Lake George Music Festival, Inc. Warren Capital Region NYSCA Recovery Fund $10,000.

Lake George Opera Festival Association Inc Saratoga Capital Region NYSCA Support for Organizations $49,500.

In Saratoga County, projects include: The Creative Place International, Inc. Saratoga Capital Region NYSCA Support for Organizations $25,000.

Children’s Museum at Saratoga Saratoga Capital Region NYSCA Recovery Fund $10,000.

Children’s Museum at Saratoga Saratoga Capital Region NYSCA Support for Organizations $49,500.

Home Made Theatre, Inc. Saratoga Capital Region NYSCA Support for Organizations $49,500.

Saratoga Arts Inc Saratoga Capital Region NYSCA Recovery Fund $10,000.

Saratoga Arts Inc Saratoga Capital Region NYSCA Support for Organizations $49,500.

Saratoga Arts Inc Saratoga Capital Region Rehearsal and studio space for performing arts $25,000.

NYSCA Executive Director Mara Manus said his organization “would like to express our immense appreciation to Gov. Hochul and the State Legislature for their responsive investment of $105 million for the arts during a time of profound economic need and hardship.

Our goals for this transformative year included creating greater access, offering flexible funding solutions, and eliminating barriers to NYSCA’s funding. Our extraordinary field’s input has been instrumental in redeveloping our process.

We are grateful for every artist, cultural worker, and organization for participating in our process as NYSCA continues to evolve and rise to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.”

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Health

State Re-Opens Mass COVID Vaccination Site Commission On Collegiate Nursing Gives To Help Combat Rising Area Case Numbers SUNY Empire Program Accreditation A state mass vaccination site in Queensbury, reopened on Dec. 1 to combat the rising COVID-19 infection rate in the area.

The location— at Aviation Mall, where it was successful in vaccinating tens of thousands of people earlier this year—will also provide COVID-19 testing.

“With the arrival of winter when more people are traveling and gathering indoors, and the emergence of the Omicron variant, we are reminded that we cannot let our guard down in our fight against COVID-19,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said. “Vaccinations and testing are the best tools we have in preventing further spread of the virus and its variants. If you feel sick, get tested and stay home. If you have yet to get your vaccine, go out and do so as soon as you can and if you’re due for your booster, doses are readily available across the state. Wear a mask, wash your hands, and stay safe as we head into the winter season.”

The addition of “a much-needed testing component at this site makes this a fi rst for New York state and we are so proud to be able to welcome these vital services right here,” said Warren County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Rachel Seeber.

“Our bi-county vaccine educational campaign with Washington County Board of Supervisors Chairman Sam Hall and his staff, working closely with the state Association of Counties and chairs of counties and public health directors all over our region, highlights the need for a dedicated team effort,” she said. “Th is team effort is generating real results that we desperately need during these troubling times, and we are thankful to Gov. Hochul for recognizing this gap in services, for listening to our concerns and for her quick response in helping our North Country.

We have heard every day from our residents that the need for accessible vaccinations and

testing is growing, and we are very happy to say we have listened and together we are responding as quickly as possible.”

Washington County Board of Supervisors Chairman Sam Hall said while public health teams “continue to diligently hold vaccination clinics, having vaccination and testing more widely available in our immediate area is key to not only enhancing access to vaccination and testing, but allowing our public health team to focus on those who struggle to get out or our more intimate community clinics throughout the county.”

All state mass vaccination sites are open to eligible New Yorkers aged 5 and older, with walk-in vaccination available at all sites on a fi rst-come, fi rst-serve basis for people aged 12 and older. Information on which sites require appointments for children in the 5-11 age group is available on our website.

People who prefer to make an appointment at a state-run mass vaccination site can do so on the Am I Eligible App or by calling 1-833-NYS-4-VAX. People may also contact their local health department, pharmacy, doctor or hospital to schedule appointments where vaccines are available, or visit vaccines.gov to fi nd information on vaccine appointments near them.

New Yorkers looking to schedule vaccine appointments for 5 to 11-year-old children are encouraged to contact their child’s pediatrician, family physician, county health departments, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), rural health centers, or pharmacies that may be administering the vaccine for this age group.

Parents and guardians can visit vaccines. gov, text their ZIP code to 438829, or call 1-800-232-0233 to fi nd nearby locations.

Make sure that the provider offers the Pfi zerBioNTechCOVID-19 vaccine, as the other COVID-19 vaccines are not yet authorized for this age group.

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The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) has granted 10-year accreditation to SUNY Empire State College’s master’s program in nursing, a recognition that reinforces the program’s quality and integrity.

CCNE accreditation is a nongovernmental peer review process that helps ensure a nursing program meets nationally recognized standards of excellence. It signals that a nursing program optimally prepares its graduates for the workforce.

SUNY Empire’s graduate nursing program offers two specialty tracks, nursing education and nursing administration. SUNY Empire’s BSN program, which received CCNE accreditation in 2015, is due for its next accreditation visit in 2025.

The accreditation comes amid a growing demand for nurses across the nation and in New York state. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that 11 million additional nurses are needed to avoid further shortages in the healthcare industry. Employment opportunities for nurses are projected to grow at a rate of 15 percent—faster than all other occupations— through 2026. According to the American Journal of Medical Quality, there will be a shortage of more than 39,000 registered nurses in New York

by 2030.

The accreditation further enhances opportunities recently created by the State University of New York establishing a $3 million SUNY Nursing Emergency Training Fund, which will help SUNY campuses expand program capacity so more students can enroll.

SUNY Empire School of Nursing and Allied Health Dean Kim S. Stote said the undergraduate and graduate nursing programs “have long been the gold standard in online nursing education.

We continually assess the healthcare landscape and our students’ needs and continually adapt and improve our programs accordingly. CCNE accreditation at the graduate level underscores and validates the quality of the full continuum of programming we offer, from the bachelor of science in nursing degree to the master of science in nursing degree.”

Rebecca Hegel, SUNY Empire School of Nursing and Allied Health Program director said, “This wonderful achievement demonstrates the cumulative efforts of all faculty and staff in the School of Nursing and Allied Health. This accreditation lends itself to shaping our future nursing workforce.”

Albany Med Financial Aid Program Applies To Glens Falls And Saratoga Hospitals The Albany Med Health System has developed a financial assistance program (FAP) that it says will benefit patients receiving care at any hospital within the system or from any provider employed by any of its facilities, including Albany Medical Center Hospital, Albany Medical College, Columbia Memorial Health, Saratoga Hospital and Glens Falls Hospital.

“The Albany Med Heath System is committed to minimizing the financial barriers to health care that exist for some members of our community and to ensuring that patients do not forgo necessary care due to worry about cost,” said Dr. Dennis McKenna, president and chief executive officer of the Albany Med Health System. “This program is another example of how the hospitals within our system are working together to make access to high-quality care easier for everyone in our communities.”

FAP helps uninsured and underinsured patients with a gross household income up to 400 percent of the federal income poverty guidelines, which is calculated based on annual income and number of persons in household. Eligibility is based on the federal income poverty guidelines in effect at the time of application.

Patients seeking access to the FAP will be

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required to complete a signed application and provide documentation to verify income. Financial assistance will only be applied after all insurance coverage has been exhausted or for uninsured self-pay patients. Once approved, assistance will be available for all services provided at any facility within the system or from any of its providers.

The Financial Assistance Program is one step in the Albany Med Health System’s ongoing efforts to make access to health care easier for patients. In the future, the system will offer coordinated or fully integrated care in a wide variety of specialties.

Patients can expect more collaboration in additional service lines. Work will soon begin on a system-wide electronic medical record (EMR) and enterprise planning resource process (ERP).

With one EMR, providers at any system location may securely access patient information for quicker connections to coordinated care. A team is also planning for a central patient engagement center that will offer system patients one number to call for scheduling physician or hospital services, checking eligibility and benefits, financial information, referrals, and authorization management. It will open first at Albany Med and expand to affiliate hospitals in the coming years.

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2022 • 11

Johnsburg Wastewater Project Gets Funds Reservation Of State Campsites Hit Record From Regional Economic Development Unit Highs As People Sought COVID-Safe Trips New York state has awarded over $81 million through its Regional Economic Development Council initiative to support 97 priority projects across the state.

This year, $150 million in grant funds from Empire State Development was made available on a continuous and competitive basis to support the immediate needs of applicants. Additionally, projects within each region are eligible for a share of $75 million in Excelsior Jobs Program Tax Credits to help attract and grow business in their region.

In Warren County, one project received funding.

“The pandemic toll touched every corner of the state and every sector of New York’s economy, and as a result we must ensure that our recovery does the same,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said. “As we move forward from the pandemic we are using the rolling grant process to build New York state back better by supporting shovel-ready projects with the potential to accelerate new investments and catalyze economic growth in every community.”

“Through a collaborative, bottom up, and regional approach to economic development, these projects were chosen for their innovation, impact on their communities and potential for positive change coming out of the pandemic,” said Lt. Gov. Brian Benjamin. “Whether it is workforce development, tourism, green investments or domestic manufacturing, we are moving forward to foster a strong and prosperous economy in New York state.”

In Warren County, the Lake Champlain/Lake George Regional Planning Board received $1.6 million for the town of Johnsburg to construct a new wastewater collection and treatment system in the downtown business district of North Creek.

The lack of a public sewer system has inhibited business expansion and infill development for decades. This project will reinvigorate and remove barriers to downtown business activity, provide greater opportunity for industry diversification, and improve employment opportunities for lowincome households.

The application for ESD Grant funds remains open, and applications are being reviewed on

an on-going basis until funds are exhausted.

Applicants with strong, shovel-ready projects that align with the state and region’s economic development priorities can apply through the Consolidated Funding Application.

Empire State Development Acting Commissioner and President and CEO-designate Hope Knight said, “The COVID pandemic has had a devastating impact on our state, and this is especially true for the businesses and organizations that are the foundation of our economy. The Regional Economic Development Councils, made up of people who know their own communities best, have recommended innovative projects that will help their regions rebuild, and reemerge stronger and smarter for the future.”

The initial round of priority projects was recommended by each Regional Council because of their project readiness and alignment with each region’s strategic plan.

The Consolidated Funding Application was created to streamline and expedite the grant application process. The CFA process marks a fundamental shift in the way state resources are allocated, ensuring less bureaucracy and greater efficiency to fulfill local economic development needs.

The CFA serves as the single-entry point for access to economic development funding, ensuring applicants no longer have to slowly navigate multiple agencies and sources without any mechanism for coordination. Now, economic development projects use the CFA as a support mechanism to access multiple state funding sources through one application, making the process quicker, easier, and more productive.

The Regional Economic Development Council initiative is a key component of the state’s approach to state investment and economic development.

In 2011, 10 Regional Councils were established to develop long-term strategic plans for economic growth for their regions.

The councils are public-private partnerships made up of local experts and stakeholders from business, academia, local government, and nongovernmental organizations. Learn more at regionalcouncils.ny.gov.

Overnight reservations at campgrounds operated by the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (State Parks) and the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) climbed to record highs this year as visitors embraced safe, healthy, and affordable recreation during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Th rough Columbus Day in October, campsites, cabins and cottages at State Parks campgrounds were occupied for 787,103 nights, surpassing the previous 2019 record of 684,820 nights by 15 percent, according to state data. DEC campgrounds were occupied for 394,401 nights, surpassing the previous 2016 record of 354,521 nights by more than 10 percent.

“The numbers don’t lie,” said Gov. Kathy Hochul. “People have shown how much they appreciate all that our state campgrounds have to offer, especially as the pandemic made outdoor recreation more desirable than ever.

Not only are our campgrounds, affordable, clean, and safe, but with these sites being so vital to New York’s tourism economy, my administration will continue to do all we can to ensure New York remains a top destination for campers.”

Officials said that over the last decade, as improvements were being made statewide under the NY Parks 2020 capital program, total overnight stays at campgrounds have risen nearly 45 percent.

State Parks operates 68 campgrounds, featuring 8,179 campsites, 825 cabins, 18 yurts, and 136 full-service cottages with amenities like power, kitchen, bath, beds, living room, and outdoor living space.

State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said, “It is gratifying that the public has again given State Parks a vote of confidence. Providing places for safe and healthy recreation has been critical as we continue to emerge from the pandemic, and people obviously enjoy the many

improvements made under the NY Parks 2020 initiative. People have many choices today on how to spend their recreational time, and we are grateful that so many are choosing to spend it at our Parks. We intend to keep this progress going.”

DEC operates 52 campgrounds and five day-use areas in the Adirondack and Catskill forest preserves that provide a wide variety of experiences, including island camping, tent and trailer camping, boat launching facilities, hiking trails, beaches and day use areas with picnic tables and grills.

The camping season runs through the summer, with some facilities remaining open during fall foliage and hunting season. Under the Adventure NY and other initiatives, DEC continues to make improvements at DEC camping facilities, including several for the 2021 season to provide new showers and comfort stations, power and water systems, and equestrian-specific improvements at the Frontier Town campground.

In 2021, New York State rolled out a new Loyalty/Reward program for campers where they earn points for every dollar spent on overnight accommodations at all state-owned and -operated campgrounds for both State Parks and the Department of Environmental Conservation. More than 55,800 people have enrolled so far. Campers can start earning points on new reservations as soon as they are enrolled. For more information about the program and to register, visit https://bit. ly/3Ek7Hsp. Reservations for State Park campgrounds are available through ReserveAmerica, which provides online and phone reservations for campsites throughout New York. Reservations are accepted for campsites and cabins, from one day to nine months in advance of the planned arrival date. Visit the website or call toll free 1-800-456-CAMP. For more information on any of the recreation areas, call 518-474-0456 or visit www.parks.ny.gov.

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12 • GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2022

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Business Registrations •

Office / Human Resources Employment

Legal / Accounting Construction Planning Publication Date: February 10, 2021

J&M Elite Roofing Willis Mason & Jonathan Johnson 47 Smith St. Warrensburg 12885

Cornucopia Distribution Carissa Gagliano 16 Hudson Ave. Glens Falls 12801

Devine Floral Melinda Ryzuk 71 Lawrence St., Suite 207 Glens Falls 12801

Trek 46 Jeffrey Vargas 11B Birdie Drive Queensbury 12804

2020 Optical Mary Anne Westfall & Paul Westfall 43 South Western Ave. Glens Falls 12801

We Move You Lamar Ervin 6 Herrick Circle Queensbury 12804

Frank Morehouse Heating and Plumbing Frank Morehouse 169 Thissel Road Bakers Mills 12811

Cedar and Pearl Stephanie Lendrum 10 Caitlyn Drive Queensbury 12804

Maiello’s Barbershop 2 Chris Maiello Tamara Coward Roberto Colon 34 Montcalm St. Lake George 12945

Black Sheep Quilts Adam Hoffman 16 Flandreaux Ave. Glens Falls 12801

Four Sail Kent Sante 10 Pinion Pine Lane Queensbury 12804 Inedshead Designs Edward Deso 9 Fourth Ave., Apt. B Warrensburg 12885 Kiki’s Sweets Kimberly Smith 272 Main St. North Creek 12853 Red Raven Ashley Foss 13 Thornberry Drive Glens Falls 12801 Harmony Renovators Daniel Wolfield 2 Joques Farm Road Lake George 12845

Bank / Asset Management Women In Business Economic Development Corp Publication Date: March 10, 2021

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Carissa Ceremonies Maria Pelton 28 Davis St. Glens Falls 12801 OCDetailing and Reconditioning Kasey Clark 34-B Hunter Brook Lane Queensbury 12804 ADK Stump Removal Ryan Carrow 40 Lambert Drive Queensbury 12804 Lake House Painting and Residential Design Michele Hart 21 Pine St., #4 Chestertown 12817 Daley Paint & Patio John Daley 54 Walnut St. Glens Falls 12801

Hands of Light Massage Therapy Crystal Denton 21 Cooper Ave., Suite 109 Glens Falls 12801

R&J Property Maintenance & Waste Removal Kayla Arnold 13 Meadow Lark Lane Warrensburg 12885

A. Frac Glass Alexandra Fracchia 153 Maple St. Glens Falls 12801

A&M’s Surprise Treasures Michael Deuter 149 River St., Apt. C Warrensburg 12885

RB Enterprise Rachel Hayslette 289 Ralph Road Lake Luzerne 12846

Rebecca’s Creations Rebecca Ann Lowry 9 Wing St. Glens Falls 12801

Greewald Aesthetics Lisa Greenwald 16 W. Notre Dame St. Glens Falls 12801

H and C Graphic Shop Christopher Combs & Heather Combs 6 Glens Falls Tech Park Drive Glens Falls 12801

Maids and More Shelli Cameron-Mott Jamar Henriquez 11 South St., Suite 104 Glens Falls 12801

JD Services Dale Kellison 11 River Road Lake Luzerne 12846

R&R Motors Rino Longhitano 369 Bay Road Queensbury 12804 Surepro Interior Painting Vincent Scicutella 30 Vanderheyden St. Glens Falls 12801 Jewel’s Books Penelope Jewel 132 Horicon Ave., Box 1571 Bolton Landing 12814 MT Returnables Jade Eddy 71 Ohio Ave. Queensbury 12804

Insights Kim Monroe 56 Hampton Court Queensbury 12804 The ‘N’ On Mountain Spring Lake Edith Moyse 105 Nichols Road Pottersville 12860 Summit Lawn Care Stephen Anoe & Dylan Noe 233A Burke Drive Queensbury 12804 Alexis Gordon Fitness Alexis Gordon 756 Glen St. Queensbury Plaza Queensbury 12804

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GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2022 • 13

Saratoga Eagle Expands By Acquiring Hoffman Car Wash Sells Its Jiff y Lube Stores, Distributorships In Oneonta And Elmira Will Continue To Expand Rest Of Operations

BY SUSAN ELISE CAMPBELL Saratoga Eagle Sales & Service is in the process of acquiring two companies that will expand its reach distributing beer, wine, soft drinks and water to an additional eight counties upstate, according to president and chief operating officer Jeff Vukelic.

With roots stretching back to Buffalo in 1928 with parent company Try-It Distributing, what started as a beverage bottling business by the late Stephen Vukelic is now a multi-generational family company. With the most recent acquisitions the company will hold exclusive distribution rights to such brands as Budweiser, Rolling Rock and Michelob in a total of 21 counties in upstate New York.

According to Vukelic, the new acquisitions are Northern Eagle Beverages Inc. out of Oneonta and Seneca Beverage Corp. of Elmira, both Anheuser-Busch distributors.

Both will operate under the Saratoga Eagle name.

Saratoga Eagle has been in a growththrough-acquisition model since 2004-2005.

This is the time frame when Try-It expanded into the Saratoga and Glens Falls areas with a new distribution hub subsidiary out of Saratoga Springs and grandson Jeff Vukelic took on the role of COO. “Typically we are purchasing the rights to distribute beverages in the territories of the companies we acquire,” said Vukelic.

“Occasionally we acquire a brick and mortar facility, but it is more typical to lease the space where the trucks are loaded for delivery to customers.”

The company will take on 60 stakeholders, which is what the company calls their employees, who have jobs in warehousing, delivery, sales and administration.

Total staff will be around 260 once the transactions are finalized and the new companies absorbed.

Vukelic said the beverage industry is one of many that has seen an acceleration in consolidations, especially since the pandemic.

He said there was no break in serving regional chains like Price Chopper and Stewart’s Shops who are among their customers. He did note higher than usual turnover among warehouse staff.

Jeff Vukelic is president of Saratoga Eagle Sales & Service. ©2022 Saratoga Photographer.com

Saratoga Eagle has about 40 delivery trucks on the road and Vukelic said the two purchases will add another 10 to 15, depending on the season.

The number of cases sold annually is expected to increase from less than 6 million to 8 million.

He said, “We have grown up with the people who run the other beverage distributors in New York. They are family businesses like ours. We all know each other, go to the same conventions, and have the same suppliers, so they know we have been acquiring. When someone is ready to retire or decides it’s time to get out of the business, they approach us.”

As with other acquisitions, there is process of assimilating new stakeholders into their culture, which Vukelic describes as one of loyalty, teamwork, accountability and a “will to win.”

Vukelic said the company has “generational employees in all its operations.

There are fathers and sons working with us. One delivery driver has been with the company more than 30 years, another stakeholder for about 45 years,” he said.

“I am excited about this latest opportunity, to continue to grow, and to take care of our stakeholders,” he said.

The Hoffman chain of car washes has sold its Jiffy Lube stores to Premium Velocity Auto LLC based in Pennsylvania. Tom Hoffman plans more expansion of his car wash operation.

BY JILL NAGY Premium Velocity Auto LLC has purchased nine Jiff y Lube franchises that were part of the the Hoffman Car Wash chain. The sale closed Dec. 15.

This is the first venture into New York state for the purchaser, which operates 55 Jiff y Lube franchises in 10 other states.

The car wash chain decided to get out of the Jiff y Lube business and concentrate on expanding the car wash side of thingss, according to owner Tom Hoffman Jr. His last new Jiff y Lube franchise opened in 2004.

Meanwhile, other companies were aggressively expanding their Jiff y Lube portfolios.

Hoffman recently opened a 23rd car wash in Yorkville, a suburb of Utica. Plans for 2022 include outlets in Rome, Gloversville, Cohoes, and Queensbury. When Hoffman opens a new car wash in Oneonta, they will be joined by a Premium Velocity Jiff y Lube franchise.

The newly purchased Jiff y Lube franchises “fit our network,” said Don Hill, president of Premium Velocity. The new owner purchased all of the assets of the Hoffman Car Wash Jiff y Lube outlets and plans to continue operating

all of them. Seven of the nine franchises are in buildings owned by Hoffman. The new owners will lease the buildings from Hoffman.

“So, we are now landlords,” Hoffman said.

All 145 employees will keep their jobs and benefits.

Hoffman said customers will not notice much of a change in service.

Hoffman is pleased his former employees stay with the Jiff y Lube outlets. He termed it the “silver lining” of the ownership change. They will be working for a larger company, actively expanding, including in New York state. Hill also pointed to added opportunities for the employees as his company expands its holdings.

Both Hoffman and Hill reported that, like nearly everyone else, they are having trouble finding qualified employees. He said the company had to raise pay rates to keep their outlets adequately staffed.

Hill has headed Premium Velocity Auto since April 1. Before that, he was a national accounts manager for Shell Oil Co., which owns Jiff y Lube.

Neither party was willing to disclose the terms of the sale.

14 • GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2022

Celebrate Our

23rd Anniversary

Wallie’s Of Greenwich Is Open For Business Again Following A Complete Restoration

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• Fried Scallops • Prime Rib • Shrimp Scampi • Strip Steak • Cajun Salmon w/Hollandaise • Grilled or Breaded • Crab Cake w/Remoulade Sauce Chicken Cutlet

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I-87 Exit 20, Rtes. 9 & 149, Lake George, NY

Glens Falls NY Restaurants

Glens Falls and surrounding towns have a variety of casual dining opportunities for every taste, budget and occasion. Find a Glens Falls NY American restaurant from thelist below.

Courtesy of GlensFalls.com

Park 26

Glens Falls, NY Park 26 is an innovative restaurant that offers locally-inspired, modern American cuisine that’s perfect for a date night, business dinner or family celebration. Located inside The Queensbury Hotel in Glens Falls.

Jack’s American Bistro

Queensbury, NY Jack’s American Bistro was the culmination of a lifetime spent in the restaurant business.

After several months of planning in June 2004 the doors were open to a new dining experience in the Glens Falls/Queensbury area.

O’Toole’s Restaurant Pub

Queensbury, NY Whether you’re looking for a relaxed meal or a night of fun and excitement, you’ll want to come to O’Toole’s. We’ve got the best food, drinks and entertainment in the area! Come on in and experience dining at it’s best. We look forward to seeing you.

The Silo Restaurant

Queensbury, NY We hate to brag, but The Silo has a reputation for being one of the best places in the region for breakfast, lunch and delicious cider donuts.

Looking for jewelry and gifts? The Silo is also the area’s largest retailer of Ed Levin Jewelry

Wallie’s of Greenwich owner Ted Bearor said the restaurant and pub has gone through a complete restoration on both the interior and exterior of the building at 52-54 Main St.

BY JENNIFER FARNSWORTH After decades of sitting vacant, Wallie’s of Greenwich is once again open for business.

Owner Ted Bearor said the restaurant and pub has gone through a complete restoration on both the interior and exterior of the building at 52-54 Main St., while still maintaining the charm for which it was once known.

Bearor said renovating and re-establishing the business was something he felt confident in taking on because of his industry related background. Taking his experience in the restaurant business, Bearor said, and opening up his own place with a silent partner, felt risky at times, but it was well worth the wait.

“I have been director of food and beverage at the Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid as well as the director of operations at the Lodge at Six Flags. Following my hotel work, my business partner and I have been involved in other area restaurants, notably the iconic George’s in Lake George from 2013 to 2020, and finally opening Wallie’s. We have been challenged, along with many other businesses, during this time due to the pandemic, however we have been fortunate to have great staff and community support,” said Bearor.

First-floor renovations included taking out apartments to make room for what is now the pub area. He said during the demolition phase, the building was discovered to have had five

Fenimore’s Pub

Glens Falls, NY Fenimore’s Pub in the heart of downtown Glens Falls is open daily for lunch and dinner.

The View Restaurant at Dunham’s Bay Resort

Lake George, NY Join us in The View Restaurant at Dunham’s Bay Resort, the Best Kept Secret in Lake George!

The Docksider Restaurant

Lake George, NY Open year round on Glen Lake in Queensbury, The Docksider Restaurant features lunch and dinner with a fireplace for winter and a great deck for outdoor dining overlooking the water.

The Grateful Den

Glens Falls, NY The Grateful Den offers a different take on traditional pub grub, as well as classic favorites like chicken wings, burgers, and salads. Their menu also includes specialty appetizers, sandwiches, and plenty of craft beer options on tap.

Bogey’s Pub & Grill

Queensbury, NY Bogey’s Pub & Grill at Bay Meadows Golf Course, in Queensbury NY, is not just for hungry golfers! The Grille offers fine Queensbury dining at casual prices!

to six additions over the past century or so.

Other renovations included replacing the roof, kitchen, bathrooms, ventilation equipment, along with adding in a separate walk-in cooler that can hold up to 12 kegs “Other than a wall-mounted bottle opener, no equipment was salvageable. However, maple dining chairs made in Vermont were restored with new upholstery and wood finishing,” he said. “Each demolition day brought a new surprise. Although, some pleasant surprises, like newspapers from August 1914 reporting on the opening days of WWI, were found, along with other neat finds,” said Bearor.

The dining room decor is centered around a 1940’s theme with dark floors, white walls, and red curtains.

The restaurant is permitted to seat 150, spanning over several different spaces throughout the dining and pub area. They also plan to have outdoor seating in the warmer months.

The menu is currently pub fare, including chili nachos and fried cheese curds, soups, salads and entrees including sandwiches, fish and chips, and hamburgers. The pub area, Bearor said, will have an sports pub vibe.

Wallie’s is open 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., Wednesday to Sunday. Seating is first-come, firstserved, and there is also take-out. For more information, visit walliesofgreenwich.com or call 518-531-4573.

Davidson Brothers Restaurant

Glens Falls, NY Located in downtown Glens Falls, NY, Davidson Brothers Restaurant & Brewery is a hotspot for unique craft beer and delicious food in a laid-back atmosphere.

Raul’s Mexican Grill

Glens Falls, NY Enjoy everything Mexican at Raul’s Mexican Grill in downtown Glens Falls, where the ingredients are always fresh and the margaritas always flowing! From the tortilla chips to the tacos to the churros, everything on the menu is created with care.

Doc’s Restaurant

Glens Falls, NY Doc’s Restaurant is an upscale restaurant and cocktail bar in the historic Park Theater in Glens Falls, NY. They offer a delicious modern take on classic dishes, along with a hand-picked selection of wines, craft beers, and creative cocktails!

The Bullpen Tavern

Glens Falls, NY The Bullpen Tavern in downtown Glens Falls offers a sports bar atmosphere with a state-of-theart entertainment system and some of the best wings you can find in the North Country.

Gourmet Cafe

Glens Falls, NY Chef-Owner Francis Willis and his wife Tracy continue the Gourmet Cafe tradition of bringing you the very best in creative cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2022 • 15

Available Commercial & Residential Properties

Country Cottages & Motel Sold To Same People Who Bought Lake George Suites •

•

N

EW

LI ST IN

G

We’d like to promote your commercial or residential property. Call us, 581-0600.

27 Liz Ann Drive, Saratoga Springs $899,000

Country Cottages & Motel in Diamond Point was sold for $2.75 million. It has 17 private fully winterized cottages, four motel rooms, and a 3,600-square-foot private residence.

Courtesy Muroff Hospitality Group

BY CHRISTINE GRAF Country Cottages & Motel in Diamond Point has been sold to Country Cabins LLC for $2,750,000.

Sellers Ceaser (Charlie) and Virginia Portes enlisted Mitch Muroff of Muroff Hospitality Group to handle the sale. The real estate firm specializes in the brokerage and sale of hotels, motels, resorts, campgrounds and inns throughout New England and New York state.

The transaction closed on Dec. 28, just over two months after the property was listed for sale.

“The Country Cottages is an extremely wellbuilt property,” said Muroff. “When Charlie and Ginny Portes acquired the property 30 years ago, there was a three-bedroom log cabin on the property and not much else. He and his father built each of the cabins by hand by themselves over the course of the last 30 years.”

The 3.38-property has 17 private one-, two-, and three-bedroom fully winterized cottages, four motel rooms, and a 3,600-square-foot private residence that was owner occupied by the Portes.

There is also a heated swimming pool, children’s play area, fitness center, and veranda.

“As it turns out, the buyer of the Country Cottages & Motel is the individual who I sold Lake George Suites to in June,” said Muroff. “The properties are very close to each other—probably a quarter or a third of a mile away from each other.”

The buyer, an executive from Long Island, has already made investments to improve the Lake George Suites property, which includes a marina with 17 slips and three moorings.

Muroff said it is likely the new owners will make additional investments at Country

Cottages and that both properties will share management staff. Although the owner is a new player in the local hospitality industry, he has been vacationing in Lake George for many years and is a boating enthusiast.

Muroff also sold another local resort, the Flamingo Resort on Lake George, at the end of November. In addition to having 59 one-, two, and three-bedroom units, that resort has 17 docks as well as five charter boat licenses.

“There’s a great deal of interest in Lake George and other drive-to resort locations,” he said.

“COVID was a factor in curtailing travel abroad and to other parts of the country where people have to get on a plane to go on a vacation.”

“The desire to vacation in more local, friendly, safe environments like Lake George and the Adirondacks have hastened the interest of opportunistic investors from throughout the northeast. Lake George is a hot market, especially desirable are lakefront properties,” he said.

Muroff Hospitality is seeing similar demand in the other markets they serve including the Berkshires and Southern Maine. The opposite is true in cities where larger franchise hotels depend on conferences and corporate functions for revenue.

“I don’t see that improving in the next year or two,” said Muroff.

Although he has several properties in and around Lake George Village that are currently listed for sale, Muroff is seeking additional inventory.

“I have a shortage of inventory and a great deal of interested prospective buyers,” he said.

For more information on his real estate group, visitmuroffhospitality.com

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Listing Agent: Kate R. Naughton | 518.441.8527 knaughton@roohanrealty.com

16 • GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2022

West Mountain

Fort William Henry Hotel Project

Continued From Page 1 membership offerings for athletes ages 6-19, and continuation of events like Fire on the Mountain, Slush Cup and more.

Officials said during non-holiday periods, West Mountain will offer ticket promotions such as Monday and Tuesday $35 for a fourhour ticket specials and breakfast or lunch plus lift ticket specials.

West Mountain’s Bar and Eatery will be open at full capacity with daily specials such as Burgers, Beers and Bands Wednesdays, Fiddlehead and Fettuccine Fridays and Bloody Mary Sundays.

After nine years of a complete ski area infrastructure rebuild, West Mountain officials aid they have completed its Stage 1: Ski Area Infrastructure. West will now embark on Stage 2: A Luxury Ski/Stay Resort Development at the north side of the mountain.

The completed Stage 1 includes new chairlifts, 40,000 feet of new snowmaking pipeline, a new snowmaking pump house, a new cafeteria, a new rental ski and snowboard fleet, new LED trail lighting, 100 percent snowmaking and night skiing, a new tubing conveyor lift, an expanded Bunny Hill and a remodeled Northwest Lodge.

The resort built in Stage 2 will consist of a suite-style hotel and conference center, a West Athletic Club and Spa, fractional-share and full-share condos, as well as duplexes, apartments and custom homes, according to officials.

“The northwest side is an idyllic setting, set on an old farm property with beautiful locust tree groves and rows of cobblestone fences,” said Spencer Montgomery, co-owner and operator of West Mountain. “The walking paths have views of the ski mountain as well as the Green Mountains of Vermont. It’s a total getaway for the mind and soul, while being only two miles off I-87.”

There are many promotion programs at West Mountain scheduled for the season, including live music and special appreciation days. There are also teaching and trainings programs, as well as racing programs.

Among them is the mogul freestyle development program. This six-week program is designed for intermediate/advanced skiers ages 9-17 who have an interest in learning the Olympic disciplines of mogul skiing and slopestyle skiing. The program is offered on Tuesday evenings with a coaching staff that includes World Cup mogul freestyle champion John Witt. It will teach technique on a new dual mogul freestyle line that will be built on Go-Go

Continued From Page 1

Sara and Spencer Montgomery operate West Mountain, which is open for the season.

Courtesy West Moutain

trail and run into the Banister Terrain Park.

The program will focus on technique including turns, airs and speed as well as slopestyle skill building.

The Academy and Club team programs, led by head coach Steve Lathrop, are for available for U12-U19 alpine ski racers. The Academy program is customized for U12-U19 racers who are looking to advance or have advanced to post season competition and beyond. For more information, visit westmountain.com/ racing.

For all program and promotion details, as well as hours of operation,details, visit westmountain.com.

Officials said several health measures are in place and they are asking guests’ cooperation to meet the state recommendations, as they are a priority. West Mountain remains attentive to changes in the state’s health and safety guidelines, and operations could vary rapidly depending on the situation, officials said.

More about West Mountain’s Mountain Safety initiatives can be found online at www.

WestMountain.com/safety.

An established ski and outdoor activities year-round community with a family-friendly atmosphere, West Mountain provides an authentic upstate experience on the mountain.

Family-owned and operated, it continues to evolve to meet the needs of families as well as skiing and riding loyalists and year-round outdoor enthusiasts.

the guest’s stay.

The hotel’s lobby and room corridors now have a warm and luxurious atmosphere. A timeless palette of soft creams and pewters offers a seamless transition in mood from day to night, welcoming guests into a social space that is a destination in and of itself within the hotel. All of it has a nod to Fort William Henry’s historic past and deep connection with the outdoors.

“For over a century, The Fort William Henry has stood as a storied landmark in our area,” says Sam Luciano, president of Fort William Henry. “We will draw inspiration from its origins to incorporate into the design of the interior spaces of this grand hotel, while linking it to the draw of the beautiful Adirondack Mountains and crystal-clear waters of Lake George. It is important to us that The Fort William Henry Hotel serve the needs of today’s guest, but also that its original charm is felt at every turn.”

The improvements will continue outside as well, none more evident than the threeseason wrap-around porch, officials said.

For decades, Fort William Henry’s guests have retreated to the sweeping views circling the hotel property, soaking in the sights and sounds and the pine-scented air that make the Adirondacks of New York so unique. Steps off the veranda and adjacent to the hotel is the village of Lake George and Lake George itself.

There will be outdoor fire pits and soft seating.

The three-phased $3.5 million renovations are being led by BBL Construction Services, Design and Supply Interior Designers, and HBT Architects.

Accompanying the renovations is a new brand reimagining a bolder future.

“While our original brand has served us well, over the past several years we developed a feeling that we needed a brand that would better communicate what we are all about; better encompass the feeling of Lake George, the Adirondacks, and the role The Fort William Henry plays in this community,” said Luciano.

In early 2021, Fort William Henry Hotel commissioned long-time partners from Behan Communications, based in Glens Falls, to help develop the new brand image.

The new logo with clear typography

This rendering shows an aerial view of planned renovations at Fort William Henry Hotel. and a natural color palette features a view from the hotel that visitors recognize from the property. Said Luciano, “I think our new logo truly represents what we’re all about. It says, ‘The View is Just the Beginning,’ join us and relax while you take in the beauty of Lake George and the Adirondacks.”

“We’re committed to doing everything we can to give our guests the very best experience they can possibly have at Fort William Henry Hotel,” said Luciano says.

“Once they stay with us, they come back again and again. Our reimagined hotel and new brand convey just that.”

Fort William Henry Corp. is pumping money back into its main campus after selling its 87-room Best Western Hotel in Lake George to a downstate investment group for $4.6 million in June. Selling the Best Western on Route 9N near Exit 21 of the Interstate 87 Northway freed up cash and gave hotel management more time to position its main campus for the future.

Fort William Henry Corp. is pumping money back into its main campus after selling its 87-room Best Western Hotel in Lake George to a downstate investment group for $4.6 million in June. Selling the Best Western on Route 9N near Exit 21 of the Interstate 87 Northway freed up cash and gave hotel management more time to position its main campus for the future.