Saratoga Casino Hotel Kicks Off 84th Harness Racing Season With $17 Million In Purses
Saratoga Casino Hotel announced 84th season on Sunday, February 2. The 2025 schedule at the Spa oval will consist of 150 racing programs running through mid-December.
This year, horsemen will compete for over $17 million in purses. The track will also host nine New York Sire Stakes programs featuring the best New York bred horses in the state racing for an additional $1.5 million in purses. The premier event of the season will be the 16th Annual Joe Gerrity Jr. Memorial Pace on Saturday, July 19. With a purse of $250,000 the Gerrity is expected to attract a field of top pacers.
Father and son, Mark and Brett Beckwith, will be looking to defend their 2024 training and driver titles. Mark trained 182 winners
Jr. Pace, on July 19.
in 2024, a record number of wins for a trainer in a single season, and 21-year-old driver, Brett, crossed the finish line first 306 times last year.
“We are looking forward to another great season of racing,” said Race Secretary, Peter Iovino. “The influx of young reinsmen is bringing a new level of excitement to harness racing at Saratoga Casino Hotel.”
The winter, spring and fall schedule will include matinee racing on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and select Wednesdays, post time 12pm. The summer live racing schedule will be Mondays and Tuesdays, post time 12pm and Saturday evenings with a post time 6:45pm. Go to www.saratogacasino.com for Track Announcer Mike Sardella’s race picks, racing recaps and the full live race schedule.
Leadership Transition Announced At GlobalFoundries To Drive Next Growth Phase
GlobalFoundries has announced in a recent press release, a major leadership transition set to drive its next phase of growth. Effective April 28, 2025, Dr. Thomas Caulfield will become Executive Chairman, while current Chief Operating Officer Tim Breen is named Chief Executive Officer. In addition, Niels Anderskouv has been appointed President and COO.
Dr. Caulfield, who led GlobalFoundries as CEO since 2018—steering the company through a strategic portfolio repositioning and one of the largest semiconductor IPOs in history—will now focus on forging key industry, academic, and government partnerships. Tim Breen, a vital member of the team since 2018, is expected to leverage his extensive operational expertise to drive innovation and performance amid a competitive semiconductor market.
The transition also marks the departure of outgoing Chairman Ahmed Yahia, whose over a decade of leadership helped shape GlobalFoundries into a global semiconductor powerhouse. With Breen and Anderskouv’s strong backgrounds in operations and commercial strategy, the company is well-positioned to meet evolving customer demands and enhance its worldwide manufacturing
footprint.
This strategic change underscores GlobalFoundries’ commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and sustainable growth in a rapidly evolving industry. For additional details see GlobalFoundries.com
2025 Chowderfest Celebrates Record-Breaking Event, Top Chowders, And Community Spirit
Discover Saratoga is proud to announce the winners of the 26th Annual Saratoga Chowderfest, held on Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Attendees braved the winter chill to sample an incredible variety of chowders from participating vendors and voted for their favorites. Winners were recognized in eight categories during the Annual Award Ceremony at the Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center at 5:30 p.m.
The 2025 Chowderfest winners are as follows:
• People’s Choice 500 bowls or less: Bentley’s Tavern
• People’s Choice 501-750 bowls: Ribbon Cafe
• People’s Choice 751-1,000 bowls: The Mill on Round Lake
• People’s Choice 1,001-1,500 bowls: The Wild Horse
• People’s Choice 1,501-2,000 bowls: Henry Street Taproom
• People’s Choice 2,001-3,000 bowls: Wheatfields Restaurant & Bar
• People’s Choice 3,001-4,000 bowls: Jacob & Anthony’s
• People’s Choice 4,001+ bowls: Druthers Brewing Company
2025 Chowderfest Highlights:
• 89 vendors, including 13 first-time participants
• Over 109,000 bowls of chowder served
• Attendance exceeded 30,000+ people
“Another wonderful year for Chowderfest,” said Darryl Leggieri, President of Dis-
Brookmere And Arbor Spa Host A Premiere Wedding Showcase Event March 2nd
Brookmere in Saratoga Springs, NY is hosting a premiere wedding event on Sunday, March 2 from 11am to 2pm. The new boutique-style hotel, located at 500 Union Avenue in Saratoga Springs, is opening its doors to engaged couples who are looking to explore Brookmere’s luxurious new venue and connect with a curated group of top industry wedding professionals who will offer exclusive planning resources. Brookmere celebrates their first showcase with tastings, a champagne toast, and an exciting variety of door prizes and giveaways. Entertainer Garland Nelson will be performing live at the event as the Master of Ceremonies.
In combination with the Wedding Showcase, Brookmere is offering special room rates for engaged couples who pre-register for the event. These couples can take advantage of an overnight stay on 3/1 or 3/2 and enjoy a special discounted rate. Reservations can be made by calling 1-844-2766563 and using the code SHOW.
Wedding professionals from the following categories will be present to provide their expertise to couples who are starting their planning journey or finalizing details: Beauty, Gowns/Formalwear, Cakes/Con -
fections, DJ/Entertainment, Favors/Gifts, Florists/Flowers, Health and Fitness, Invitations, Live Music/Ceremony Music, Officiant, Photobooth, Photography, Rentals, Specialty, Transportation, and Venue. The
Exciting harness racing kicked off its 84th season on February 2 at Saratoga Casino Hotel, featuring 150 race days, $17 million in purses and the 16th Joe Gerrity
Courtesy Jessica Hallett
Chowder being served at the 26th Annual Saratoga Chowderfest, where attendees consumed over 109,000 servings and enjoyed a variety of delicious chowders from over 90 local vendors.
Courtesy Discover Saratoga/IronGlass Productions
Tim Breen to Take Helm as CEO and Dr. Thomas Caulfield Named Executive Chairman. Courtesy GlobalFoundries
Discover your dream wedding at the Brookmere Wedding Showcase on March 2nd.
Personnel Briefs
Arrow Bank National Association is pleased to announce the appointment of Scott Duggleby as Senior Vice President, Director of Wealth Management.
In his new role, Duggleby will oversee the wealth management division, bringing extensive leadership experience in sales, wealth management, retirement planning and retail brokerage to the Arrow team.
“We’re excited to welcome Scott to Arrow Bank’s wealth management division,” said President and CEO Dave DeMarco. “His proven track record in wealth management, passion for community banking and growth mindset will strengthen our team and enhance our ability to serve clients across the region.”
Duggleby joins Arrow Bank, formerly named Glens Falls National Bank and Trust Company and Saratoga National Bank and Trust Company, from Community Bank, where he most recently served as Senior Vice President, Regional Sales Manager. In that role, he oversaw wealth management operations across New York, Vermont and Pennsylvania. During his career, he has developed expertise in practice management, advisor recruiting and operational excellence. His leadership will bring additional depth and strategic insight to the wealth management team of 30 employees that manages approximately $2 billion in assets.
Duggleby earned a bachelor’s degree from the State University of New York at Oswego. He holds National Association of Securities Dealers (NASD) Series 6, 7, 24, 63 and 66 licenses and is Life and Health licensed in New York state. Active in his community, he served as board president and a board member on the Central Square Central School District Board in Oswego County for 12 years. As he relocates closer to the Glens Falls area, he plans to continue serving the community.
Arrow Bank National Association is pleased to announce the promotion of Ian Williams to Senior Vice President, Director of Retail Lending and Business Banking.
In his new role, Williams will be responsible for driving growth and the expansion of retail lending and business banking across Arrow Bank, while maintaining strong, consistent credit and operations. He will ensure the continued delivery of exceptional service and financial solutions to customers throughout Arrow’s entire 38-branch network. During his tenure, Williams has played a key role in expanding Arrow’s business banking team, growing retail lending and implementing innovative operational strategies.
“We are pleased to recognize Ian’s dedication and leadership within the Arrow team,” said Dave DeMarco, President and CEO. “He has been a valued member of the Arrow team for more than 17 years and brings nearly 20 years of financial services and banking experience to this role.”
Williams earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the College of St. Rose. He is active in the community by volunteering for the South High Marathon Dance and serves on the Board of Directors for Kelly’s Angels, Inc.
ThielGroup is pleased to announce that Kathlene Thiel, owner of ThielGroup, LLC, in Albany, NY, has been elected to Chair the Board of M&A Source in 2025.
“Kathy’s M&A expertise along with her experience in previous association leadership roles will be a valuable addition to the Board as we continue to grow and increase our member value-add,” stated Lamar Stanley, 2024 M&A Source Chair of the Board and Managing Director at Highland Rim Capital. “And with her proven leadership ability we are confident she will continue to guide us on our path to being the preeminent association for the
lower middle market transaction community.”
“I am so excited to lead the esteemed group of M&A advisors and lower mid-market investors of the M&A Source in 2025,” stated Kathy Thiel. “I will continue the efforts of those before me to work on initiatives that educate members and provide a forum for the facilitators of deal making.” * * * * *
Dr. Richard Dennis of Saratoga Smiles is pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Cody Gorman to the dental team, effective March 4, 2025. Dr. Gorman brings extensive experience in restorative
treatments, surgery, implant placement, root canal therapy, and cosmetic dentistry. A Buffalo, New York, native, he earned degrees in biology and psychology, followed by a Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University at Buffalo’s School of Dental Medicine. He completed his residency at Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, gaining valuable experience at their Level 1 trauma hospital and the Syracuse Veterans Affairs Dental Clinic. Dr. Gorman has been practicing locally in Saratoga Springs for the past several years.
With Dr. Gorman’s addition, Saratoga Smiles aims to continue providing timely, high-quality dental care. Dr. Gorman will be available Monday through Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Saratoga Smiles’ dental suite and office at 6 Carpenter Lane, Saratoga Springs, New York. To schedule an appointment, please contact us at 518-584-5060.
Whiteman Osterman & Hanna LLP Launches New Healthcare Practice Area
Whiteman Osterman & Hanna LLP, the Capital Region’s largest law fi rm, is excited to announce the launch of its new healthcare practice area, led by Frank J. Fanshawe, who joins the fi rm as a partner. Th is marks an important milestone in the fi rm’s continued growth as it celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.
The healthcare team will be headed by Fanshawe and supported by four other partners who have extensive expertise in navigating the legal and regulatory complexities of the healthcare industry. Together, they will focus on providing tailored solutions to a wide range of clients, including healthcare providers, hospitals, physician groups, mental health organizations, and trade associations. With plans to expand the healthcare practice area, Whiteman Osterman & Hanna is committed to establishing itself as a trusted leader in this critical sector.
Committee. His deep knowledge and leadership will be instrumental in helping the fi rm’s clients navigate challenges such as regulatory compliance, operational issues, and policy changes.
“We are proud to welcome Frank and launch this new practice area under his leadership,” said Robert Schofield, Managing Partner. “Healthcare is one of the most dynamic and essential industries, and this expansion aligns perfectly with our vision for growth as we celebrate 50 years of service. Frank’s expertise, combined with the talented team supporting him, positions us to provide exceptional legal counsel while addressing the evolving needs of our healthcare clients.” In addition to leading the healthcare practice, Fanshawe will contribute to the fi rm’s government relations practice, focusing on legislative, regulatory, and funding issues impacting healthcare organizations.
Fanshawe brings over 30 years of experience in healthcare law, government relations, and data privacy. His career includes serving as chief counsel for government relations and policy for MVP Health Care and as counsel to Senator Kemp Hannon, the long-standing chair of the New York State Senate Health
Fanshawe earned his Juris Doctor, magna cum laude, from Albany Law School and holds a Bachelor of Science from the State University of New York at Oneonta. He is admitted to practice in New York, Connecticut, Vermont, and the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York.
Wedding Showcase
Continued From Page 1
Gift Certificate for The Regent Restaurant & Bar, and a fourth prize is listed as an overnight stay at the Lodge at Schroon Lake and dinner for two at the Brown Swan. Prize giveaway details are available at BrookmereWeddingShowcase.com
Sponsors of the premiere wedding event include Social Radiant, Saratoga BRIDE, Saratoga Report, 99.5 The River, and Mangino Chevrolet Buick-GMC. Engaged couples can register for the show online at https://www.thebrookmereweddingshowcase.com/. There is a $10 per person online pre-registration fee and a $15 per person fee at the door on the day of the event. Swag bags will be provided for the first 100 couples who attend.
complete list of 30 wedding professionals featured at the Brookmere Wedding Showcase can be found at BrookmereWeddingShowcase.com and includes the following: Arbor Spa at Brookmere, Body by Nicole, Brookmere, Caitlin Miller Photography, Cake by Alissa, Carta Bella Invitations and Announcements, Conway Entertainment, Dexter Davis Photography & Films, European Wax Center + Laser, Fawn MUA, Garland Nelson Officiant, Indulgence Bakery, Made You Look Backdrops, Mr. Formal Wear, Music Man Entertainment, Penchant for Petals, Rosewick Weddings, Saratoga Sound DJ and Acoustic, Say I Do Designs, Seraphina Divine Beauty, Smile Lounge Interactive, Saratoga Olive Oil, S. Teresa Photography, Styled by Lily Saratoga, Tania Susi Music, TBIRDS, The Lodge at Schroon Lake, The Posie Peddler, Upstate Transit of Saratoga LLC and Viscosi Photography.
A $500 Gift Certificate toward a Wedding Shower at Brookmere (minimum $2500 food and beverage spend) courtesy of Brookmere, will be given away as a Grand Prize. A second Grand Prize of a $250 Gift Certificate for Arbor Spa Treatments will be offered. A third prize includes a $250
Swag bag and prize contributors include Arrow Bank, Death Wish Coffee, Impressions of Saratoga, Mangino Chevrolet Buick-GMC, The Lodge at Schroon Lake, 99.5 The River, Saratoga Chips, Saratoga Crackers, Saratoga Water, TogaNola Snack Company, and What’s Poppin Albany.
For more information about the Brookmere Wedding Showcase, contact Network Saratoga, show presenter, at fran@networksaratoga.com or call 518-365-3459.
Familiar Creature Brings French-Inspired Wine Bar Experience To 42 Phila Street
A new chapter in Saratoga’s rich culinary story unfolds with the opening of Familiar Creature, a food focused wine bar located at 42 Phila Street. Inspired by the lively buvettes and bar-à-vin of France and Montreal, Familiar Creature combines approachable sophistication with heartfelt hospitality, offering a space where guests can gather to enjoy French- and Quebecois-inspired small plates, a curated wine selection, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Led by Executive Chef Michele Hunter and Sous Chef Alex Johnson, the menu reflects the team’s shared dedication to ingredient-driven cuisine. Hunter, a Food Network Chopped Champion, brings experience from celebrated establishments like The Adelphi Hotel and Hamlet & Ghost, while Johnson, a SUNY Delhi graduate contributes a refined approach honed over years working with top chefs that include Thomas Keller, Jenner Tomaska and Eric Leveillee.
Together, they have crafted a dynamic menu featuring standout dishes like Crispy Skate Wing served with a shaved fennel and apple, Dijon mustard and fresh herbs, Braised Pork Belly served with a rich honey-madeira au jus over celery root puree and Parisian Gnocchi made with pate choux pastry dough serve with local black pearl mushrooms, shaved fennel and parmesan. Complementing these creations are the cheese and charcuterie offerings, a celebration of craftsmanship that balances artisanal local selections with renowned European varieties. Anchoring the menu is the signature French-style Roasted Chicken, pasture raised and all natural. This dedication to quality and care reflects Familiar Creature’s commitment to serving dishes that embody hospitality and a deep respect for ingredients.
The beverage program is equally thoughtful, featuring a wine list that highlights small wineries and passionate winemakers, inventive cocktails, including a unique twist on an Aperol Spritz served on tap, and a carefully selected variety of local and crowd-pleasing beers.
Co-owners Brendan Dillon and Dennis Kiingati, known for their success with Hamlet & Ghost, collaborated with New York City-based design firm Post Co. to create a space that blends the charm of a classic French bistro with modern sophistication. The restaurant features seating for 50 indoors, including a zinc-topped bar with a classic walnut rail and a large central island, while the patio adds space for up to 30 guests during warmer months. Mosaic tile flooring, custom chrome light fixtures and burgundy velvet banquettes and an open kitchen complete the look.
“We’re creating a warm, inviting space for wine and food lovers—a place where you can discover something new and return to again and again,” said Dillon, owner, Familiar Creature. “As Shakespeare wrote, ‘Come, come, good wine is a good familiar creature, if it be well used.’”
Familiar Creature also embraces a dynamic approach to hospitality, and plans to offer wine tastings, winemaker dinners, and approachable wine classes designed for enthusiasts of all levels. This thoughtful programming complements the restaurant’s focus on community, encouraging connections among guests and staff alike.
Familiar Creature will initially open with hours Wednesday through Sunday, 4–11 p.m., with plans to expand to a six-day schedule in the coming weeks. For updates, follow on social media at @FamiliarCreatureBar or visit familiarcreaturebar.com.
Saratoga Automobile Museum's Spring Auto Show Aims For Record 1000 Entries
The Saratoga Automobile Museum’s Spring Auto Show has long marked the opening of the Capital Region’s busy car show season and has grown to be among the largest in the Northeast. But this year’s event, set for Saturday, May 10, will be even more special.
“Last year’s show brought out over 950 enthusiasts with cars, trucks and motorcycles of every type and vintage,” offered museum executive director Megan Hennessy. “For 2025, our dedicated volunteers and museum staff have set a goal of 1000 cars on our huge field adjacent to the museum in the Saratoga Spa State Park. And we would, of course, be thrilled to host even more!”
The show will run from 9 am to 2 pm, with spectators admitted free. Participants can preregister online at www.saratogaautomuseum. org before May 9th for $20, with “day of” registrations set at $25. All registrations will include admission to the auto museum.
The show will conclude with the traditional awards ceremony with MC Ron Hedger interviewing the winning owners in the nine judging categories, highlighted by the prestigious Best in Show award, on center stage.
“We continue to upgrade the event, with even more food and automotive related vendors as well as a new sound system that will deliver uniform sound around the huge display area,” offered Hedger. I’m thrilled at the prospect of seeing 1000 or more cars here for everyone’s enjoyment.
“Besides the cars, the show is an opportunity for people in the ‘car community’ to renew friendships after a long, cold winter and is always a highlight of our busy car and lawn show season.”
More information on the auto museum’s exhibits, car shows, special events and themed summer lawn shows is available at www.saratogaautomuseum.org.
Familiar Creature’s thoughtfully crafted menu and curated wine selection bring the charm of a French-inspired wine bar to 42 Phila Street.
Familiar Creature
Classic and custom cars line the grass at the Saratoga Automobile Museum's Spring Auto Show, aiming for a record-breaking 1,000 entries this year.
Courtesy Saratoga Automobile Museum
GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL
9 Broad St. Glens Falls, NY 12803 (518) 581-0600 • HarryW@saratogabusinessjournal.com • www.saratogabusinessjournal.com
Sales and Customer Service Harry Weinhagen Mary Longley
Production Manager Graphic Precision
Contributing Writers Susan Campbell Ann Donnelly Jill Nagy Christine Graf Paul Post
“Pitch-In” Initiative To Inspire Volunteerism Launched By Saratoga County Chamber
The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce is proud to introduce an expanded Pitch-In initiative, a dynamic program aimed at connecting residents with local non-profits. Built on the belief that small acts of kindness lead to big changes, this initiative seeks to make Saratoga County a brighter, stronger, and more connected place to live through volunteerism.
Volunteering plays a vital role in strengthening communities—and now, with PitchIn, it’s never been easier for residents to get involved. By lending their time and talents, individuals can make a lasting impact while reaping personal rewards along the way.
“As we saw during the Chamber’s Leap of Kindness Day in 2024, when you pitch in and volunteer, you’re not just giving your timeyou’re helping to build a community we can all be proud of,” said Todd Shimkus, president of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce. “Volunteering creates ripple effects that benefit everyone, from neighbors in need to the volunteers themselves.”
Why Volunteer?
The benefits of volunteering extend far beyond the good it does for others. It’s also a chance to connect, grow, and make a meaningful impact on the community you love. Here’s how volunteering makes a difference for individuals:
Meet New People and Make Important Connections: Build relationships with likeminded neighbors and become part of a growing network working toward positive change. Learn and Grow Valuable Skills: Volunteering offers hands-on opportunities to develop talents and experiences that can carry into career and personal goals.
Feel the Joy of Impact: Whether it’s mentoring a child, supporting a food pantry, or joining an environmental cleanup, volunteers experience the fulfi llment of knowing their actions matter.
With countless causes to choose from, Pitch-In ensures that residents can fi nd a volunteer experience that aligns with their interests, values, and busy schedules.
Your Community Needs You Volunteering creates bonds that strengthen the fabric of Saratoga County. Together, we can tackle community challenges, uplift those in need, and build a future we can all share with pride.
Are you ready to make a difference? To explore volunteer opportunities and learn more about Pitch-In, visit saratoga.org/pitch-in. Th rough the small but powerful act of giving back, Saratoga County residents can come together to create positive change. Join us—make a difference in the place we all call home.
Volunteers come together through the Saratoga County Chamber's Pitch-In initiative, making a meaningful impact one act of kindness at a time.
Discover Saratoga Strategy For Boosting Tourism With Major Events And Celebrations
BY PAUL POST
Major, but short-lived events could have far-reaching impacts that promote tourism for years to come.
Discover Saratoga is doing everything possible to capitalize on them.
The Belmont Stakes is returning to the Spa Oval this summer along with an extended racing season, and numerous activities are planned for America’s 250th birthday celebration next year, in addition to observances for the 1777 Battles of Saratoga, a major turning point in the American Revolution.
“All of the amazing attributes we have in Saratoga County are what people are looking for, but we can never just rely on that,” said Darryl Leggieri, Discover Saratoga president. “We have to keep getting the word out and make sure that people know about us. We don’t want to be the best kept secret in upstate New York.”
“We must always be innovating to stay competitive,” he said. “Our main competition comes from popular destinations in the Northeast. We compete by highlighting Saratoga’s unique attractions, vibrant history, amazing art scene, world class events and leveraging digital marketing partnerships to reach a broader audience.”
The 539-member, non-profit Discover Saratoga’s mission is driving economic growth by promoting Saratoga County as a premier destination for leisure travel, meetings, conventions and events – specifically geared toward tourism and hospitality.
Members have access to sales and marketing opportunities targeting event planners and visitors including guests attending weddings, City Center conventions and exhibits. They can also take part in Discover Saratoga events, digital marketing programs and cross-selling to other members.
Saratoga County designated Discover Saratoga as it official tourism promotion agency last year. Most of Discover Saratoga’s $2.7 million budget – from membership
dues, city occupancy tax and county funds – is spent on marketing and promotional activities to attract visitors.
“Our sales team works in tandem with the hotels in our city and county to fill up future years with convention business,” Leggieri said. “So we’re booking out into 2026 and beyond. It takes a while to book larger conventions because they need the space. They have to book two or three years out. We try to understand the rotation of a lot of the New York state associations and corporate groups that have their meetings throughout the state. We try to communicate with them to plan ahead for future years. That’s really
tant,” Leggieri said. “Even if a specific hotel didn’t book the conference others hotels will reap the benefit. It’s a win-win for the entire community when we land major conferences.”
Last year’s Belmont Stakes generated priceless exposure and worldwide publicity for Saratoga County, and it’s coming back for a second year while work on Belmont Park’s massive renovation continues in New York City.
“This temporary opportunity is something we have to take advantage of for future tourism dollars,” Leggieri said. “The vignettes about Saratoga Springs that Fox Sports broadcast to the world last year was immeasurable. That’s PR you just can’t buy. We will continue to reap the benefits of that in terms of tourism and community investment.”
“We had folks who came to the Belmont that were so blown away by our county and Saratoga Springs that they asked, ‘How can we invest in your community?’ They want to bring business here because they loved it so much,” he said.
There will be even more opportunities to enjoy Saratoga racing this year. An additional fifth day has been added to the Belmont Stakes festival (June 4-8) and the July 4th Racing Festival (July 3-6) is being shifted from Aqueduct to Saratoga for one year.
“The Belmont broke attendance records,” Leggieri said. “We’re already seeing increased demand at our hotels. People are making reservations for the extended festival. It’s widely popular. Many people came to Saratoga Springs for the first time last year and fell in love with it. It just speaks to how well run the event was and what horse racing means to our community. We put on a show, people loved it and they’re coming back.”
The same type of energy and effort is being put into plans for America’s 250th birthday next year.
The Revolutionary War began 250 years ago this spring when Patriots fired the “Shot Heard Round the World” at the North Bridge in Concord, Mass. on April 19, 1775. The British defeat in the September and October 1777 Battles of Saratoga was a major turning point in the war, by convincing France to join America’s fight for independence.
The Saratoga County 250th Commission was formed in 2021 to highlight the county’s role in the war. Many events have already been held and many more are planned. (See: www.saratoga250.com).
“The goal is to educate, promote and preserve Saratoga’s revolutionary legacy for another generation,” Leggieri said. “It will appeal to families, and both casual and serious history enthusiasts with relatable stores about people in the Battles of Saratoga, with everything from video to events with living historians depicting diverse points of view in the struggle for American Independence. It’s developed for a 21st century audience.” A largescale battle re-enactment and numerous other events are planned for multiple sites throughout the county on Columbus Day Weekend 2027.
“Heritage tourism is alive and well in our destination,” Leggieri said. “It’s a great time of year for folks to visit the area with fall foliage, apple picking and a little bit of history.”
Discover Saratoga also operates the Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center on lower Broadway. High-tech informational kiosks have been placed there and at the City Center to help people make the most of their visit to Saratoga County.
“They’re looking at maps, where to eat, what to do, all the information that’s really a mirror image of our website and mobile app,” Leggieri said. “It’s a seamless way for visitors to explore our county. There’s nothing better than seeing families gather around a kiosk to plan their day. It’s super rewarding.”
Darryl Leggieri is the president of Discover Saratoga.
Courtesy Discover Saratoga
SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL
Construction Planning
New Owners Say Quality Affordable Houses Remain The Mission Of Bill Lake Homes
BY SUSAN ELISE CAMPBELL
Only 15 months since purchasing Bill Lake Homes, the new owners have started prepping an additional space for manufacturing the quality modular homes that the name “Bill Lake” has been associated with for more than 48 years.
“The modular world is fascinating,” said Jeff Knox, CEO and principal owner. Knox is a new construction residential/commercial developer who got his start buying and selling homes in the Albany-Saratoga area while a young man on Wall Street.
Partnering with Knox are his daughters, Katharine Pelletier and Abigail Sisson, sonin-law Garrett Sisson, and Christa Swistak, a non-family member. The team has a history of flipping homes together and builds modular homes on spec for residential developers, he said.
“Visiting factories in Pennsylvania showed me how quality modular homes, like the stick homes I built for decades the traditional way, can be constructed all year long indoors,” he said. “I always wanted to
build my own manufacturing facility.”
“Our initial thought was to build a factory, but the team suggested, why don’t we see what’s out there,” he said.
Knox cold-called Bill Lake and asked if he might be interested in selling.
“We had a lot in common,” said Knox. “He gave me a price, I said it was fair, we shook hands, and closed in November of 2023.”
“Bill Lake has a phenomenal reputation for quality and loyalty,” said Katharine Pelletier, chief marketing officer and coowner. “We have clients whose parents and grandparents bought a Bill Lake Home.”
For those unfamiliar with modular homes, Knox said many misunderstand the concept and think these structures are the same as mobile homes.
“The problem with 95 percent of modular home manufacturers is that they came out of the mobile home business,” he said.
“They are selling mobile homes and modular homes on the same lot, so there is a mar -
Construction Leaders Address Industry Growth, Labor Shortages, And Future Challenges
BY PAUL POST
Construction officials are optimistic about their industry’s prospects, while voicing concerns about ongoing labor shortages and the potential impact of Trump Administration tariffs on material and supplies pricing.
Several dozen business leaders turned out recently for an “Outlook for Construction 2025” panel discussion at SUNY Adirondack’s Wilton campus, hosted by Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce and Saratoga Economic Development Corp.
“Coming off a couple of roller coaster-type years, 2024 kind of evened things out,” said Kylie Holland, Curtis Lumber Company executive vice president. “It allowed us to step back, take a deep breath and plan for uncertainty of the future. The cost of everything is up; the cost of doing business, labor, everything is still running at inflationary levels. Tariffs could potentially trickle down to our level in 2025.”
But a 25 percent tariff doesn’t mean there will be a 25 increase percent locally, she said.
“We have an incredible purchasing department that studies our lumber market,” Holland
said. “We’ve been through this before. We’re always trying to get ahead of the game, be proactive.”
“Uncertainty is a word that gets thrown around pretty heavily in our industry,” said David Collins, D.A. Collins Companies president. “2024 was a good year for our company overall. We had a lot of good strong backlog work. The predictability for 2025 is a little off; trying to do more with less with regard to availability of people. We aren’t seeing a lot of talent in the market. That has been our biggest restrictor of growth.”
The Wilton-based firm does a great deal of state and federally-funded highway jobs such as its current involvement in a $2 billion, Interstate-81 project in Syracuse. But it’s also shifting gears to more privately-financed jobs. In part, this is because many state Department of Transportation employees, who started out during a 1993 hiring binge, are now retiring and being replaced by less experienced people, he said.
“There’s a massive gap in talent,” Collins said. “If you walk through the halls of DOT there are so many retirement cakes being delivered, it’s
A modular home section is being framed at the Bill Lake Homes climate controlled 140,000 square foot manufacturing plant located in Sprakers, NY.
Courtesy Bill Lake Homes
James Dawsey of MLB Construction Services, Michael Munter of Munter Enterprises, Kylie Holland of Curtis Lumber Co. and Dave Collins of D.A. Collins participate in "Outlook for Construction 2025."
LeChase Nears Completion Of Transformative Dormitory Project At The Charlton School
BY SUSAN ELISE CAMPBELL
LeChase Construction Services, LLC is nearing completion of five new buildings at The Charlton School in Burnt Hills, a project that has proven to be both unique and a favorite among the building team according to Mike Corey, regional director of business development at the Schenectady office.
The Charlton School is a non-profit therapeutic learning community and accredited year-round boarding school for high schoolaged girls. Founded in 1895, its cottage residences were cinder block construction dating back to the 1950s, and the school asked for bids to replace these with a quad of new dormitory structures with a more modern aesthetic and better amenities, according to Erica McCarthy, project manager for LeChase.
In addition, the school had obtained enough grant money to also erect a new maintenance building to consolidate the equipment and tools that have been spread out at various locations around campus, she said.
These improvements make up Phase I of a multi-tiered master plan that began “boots on the ground” in April of 2024, said Eric A. Coburn, Sr., the fi rm’s director of field operations.
“LeChase Construction has a portfolio of schools, academies, and colleges and is a national leader in K-12 construction management,” Coburn said. “The reputation of the company goes a long way in winning projects, and pricing is also very important.”
Coburn said the design of the new buildings by Balzer & Tuck Architecture in Saratoga Springs had been approved by the time the school short-listed the project and that LeChase and Balzer & Tuck have worked on many projects.
A therapeutic school provides struggling youth with emotional, behavioral, and mental health support, according to the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs.
“Our students have a range of anxieties and emotional issues,” said Bo Goliber, chief strategy and impact officer for The Charlton School.
She said that many students come from New York City or Long Island and aren’t used to nature or having such space to grow. The school sits on 275 acres of treed countryside at 322 Lakehill Road in Burnt Hills.
“The campus is unique because of the sheer beauty of where we are located and natural resources that we incorporate into our holistic approach,” said Goliber.
“Here students can enjoy recreation, individual and family therapies, and still focus on education with a structured classroom environment,” she said. There is one teacher and one teacher’s aide for every six students.
The school offers equine therapy as one part of its curriculum. An immediate challenge for the LeChase team was to clear an area for three paddocks and to undergo construction without disturbing the horses or the students and their routines, McCarthy said.
For LeChase, that meant taking feedback from the school’s facilities team and equine therapist so that the horses could get used to the noise and changes around campus, as well as their temporary relocation, according to Goliber.
“We determined even before the interview process that we would panelize all of the buildings off site to reduce the disruption from hammering and nail guns,” said Coburn.
Goliber said there were even times when the construction teams tweaked their schedules to work around what the school was planning with visitors or other activities.
“The LeChase team treated our project with such care and importance,” she said.
“They took time to understand the population we serve and they 100 percent put the needs of our students fi rst, and that means the needs
Construction Leaders
Continued From Page 6
crazy. The mass exodus of talent within departments is concerning.”
Similarly, there’s a shortage of skilled trades people in the industry, he said.
“If there was a better pipeline of quality, qualified people to build New York and Vermont we would probably would have gotten more work and gotten more opportunities,” Collins said. “But we’re being very selective in what we go after now. We used to jump on bids. Now it’s, what resources do we have that we can bid it and bid it responsibly?”
“Historically in our industry you recruited farm kids,” he said. “They know how to fi x and operate equipment, they know how to work long hard hours. Now those farms aren’t around like they used to be. It’s difficult recruiting people. Now someone who was a line cook at Chili’s yesterday wants to be a carpenter tomorrow. That’s great, we like the attitude, but there’s risk and liability with someone who isn’t familiar with the work. A lot of danger goes with it. It takes training and safety to get people ready for jobs in our industry. It’s a challenge.”
Also, as minimum wage goes up, the difference between a fast-food worker’s pay and a construction laborer’s salary isn’t as much, which makes it hard to attract people who would rather flip burgers than hammer nails on a cold, winter day.
James Dawsey, president of Malta-based MLB Construction Services, said he’s “very optimistic” about the year ahead with a $100 million backlog of projects to work on.
“We’ve had a fairly good five- to 10-percent growth rate over the past several years,” he said. “We’ve done some incredible projects.”
The list includes Skidmore College’s Center for Integrated Sciences, a 10-story building at the Navy’s West Milton nuclear submarine training site, and a new Jim Dandy bar at the lower clubhouse of Saratoga Race Course. The firm is also working on a major project at Albany International Airport that will continue till spring 2026, and it got the job to upgrade Lake Placid’s Olympic bobsled run.
“But we are a union contractor,” Dawsey said. “A lot of union negotiations are coming up this year. Laborers are making more than carpenters. I’m worried about wage rates. Carpenters will want more. We have an aging workforce and we aren’t getting the same caliber of people we did 10 to 20 years ago.”
In addition, Project Labor Agreements that mandate union workers are “eliminating a lot of great (non-union) sub-contractors … diluting the base of what you need to get work done,” he said.
Large-scale projects such as Champlain Hudson Power Express that will deliver Canadian hydropower to New York City, and GlobalFoundries’ proposed new facility also strain an already thin workforce. GlobalFoundries announced plans last month to create a new center for advanced packaging and testing of U.S.-
made essential chips within its Malta plant at Luther Forest Technology Campus.
Chamber President Todd Shimkus said that while Saratoga County’s overall population is growing, a survey of all local school districts revealed a 10 percent decline in student numbers, from kindergarten through 12th grade, during the past decade.
“That funnel is not headed in the right direction in terms of employment (future employees),” he said.
But Michael Munter, vice president of Greenfield-based Munter Enterprises, Inc., said efforts to attract more young people to construction trades are starting to pay off.
“BOCES is stepping up and getting more involved,” he said. “The CTE (career and technical education) pipeline is showing young adults there is a world out there other than going to a university or two-year school. It’s the best we’ve seen in a long time. Labor has always been a challenge for the construction industry. We’re finally bringing some new light into our world.”
Curtis Lumber executive Doug Ford is founder and president of the Northeast Construction Trades Workforce Coalition, which has undertaken numerous steps to expose and attract young people of all ages, starting at the elementary school level, to good-paying and rewarding construction industry careers.
“A lot of kids in school don’t know about the trades, counselors don’t know how to talk to kids about trades,” he said. “Getting into grammar schools is making a huge difference. Our industry is at fault. We haven’t coordinated with schools. College and military recruiters, other businesses are in there. We need to be, too.”
Curtis Lumber has nearly two dozen stores in northern New York and Vermont. Holland said construction firms could benefit by welcoming more women to their payrolls and helping young people see there are other jobs available, such as design and accounting, in addition to trades.
“We’re not the most progressive industry in the world,” she said. “We’ve done things the same way for a very long period of time. There’s nothing wrong with that when it works, but there’s so much change happening in the world that we need to step up to the plate and offer a different culture, attract different people into our industry and provide different products and services to customers to better support our communities.”
“We’re putting a lot of effort into recruiting,” Holland said. “Recruiting is going to be really heavy this year.”
“We need to give kids more of a view about what we actually do,” Dawsey said. “In a room like this, one person does carpets, another lights, sprinklers, dry wall, acoustical panels. We need to give kids a basis for wanting to get into this business and try to excite them about its opportunities. Hopefully it will pay dividends in the future.”
A rendering of the transformative new dormitories at The Charlton School, designed to provide comfort, community, and a fresh start for students.
Courtesy LeChase Construction / WHLA
Stewart’s Shops Expands With $70 Million Investment And Jolley Store Rebranding
BY PAUL POST
Stewart’s Shops is spending $70 million this year to build new stores and rebrand some of the 45 Jolley convenience stores it recently acquired.
With the acquisition, completed on Dec. 16, the Malta-based company’s footprint now covers a territory from Oswego to Lebanon, N.H., and the Hudson Valley to the Canadian border including its fi rst-ever entry into northern Vermont.
“We’re going to rebrand the stores within the geographic area we currently service fi rst, from Central New York to southern Vermont,” Chief Operating Officer Chad Kiesow said. “Once that’s done, we’ll go north from Rutland into Burlington, St. Albans and northern Vermont.”
There are 48 Jolley stores in Vermont, two in New Hampshire and five in New York including three in Queensbury, one at 777 Upper Glen Street, another on Aviation Road near Northway Exit 19 and a third on Route 9 near Exit 20 across from Lake George Outlets. Albany Business Review has reported that Stewart’s paid $9.6 million for the five New York stores alone.
But under terms of the acquisition, the Federal Trade Commission has required Stewart’s to divest itself of five Jolley stores to prevent unfair competition. Th is includes the ones on Aviation Road and Route 9, which Stewart’s paid more than $2.9 million and $3.2 million for, respectively.
Stewart’s already has shops in close to proximity to each of those Jolley stores.
“We are currently in discussions with a dozen interested parties, all of which are good operators,” Kiesow said.
Some potential buyers want to buy all five Jolley stores, others just one. The sales are expected to be completed late this spring, he said.
Stewart’s will have 402 shops when the five Jolley’s are sold, retaining its 2024 ranking as America’s 23rd largest convenience store chain, close behind No. 21 Global Partners LP/ Alltown Fresh (405) and No. 22 United Refi n-
ing Co. (404), which operates the Kwik Fill/Red Apple and Country Fair brands.
Industry leader 7-Eleven has 13,000 stores, almost double second-place Alimentation Couche-Tard (Circle K) Inc.
Cumberland Farms, one of Stewart’s primary local competitors, is owned by No. 7 EG America LLC, which has 1,578 stores, according to cspdailynews.com.
An online January 2023 Stewart’s Personnel Manual says Stewart’s has more than $1.5 billion in sales annually.
Kiesow said all 450 Jolley employees will be retained by Stewarts, giving it a total workforce of 5,500 people. “We have plenty of stores to put anyone,” he said. “No one is left without an employment opportunity.”
Each shop typically employs about 15 people.
Th is year’s $70 million capital expense budget is $20 million more than Stewart’s normally spends, due largely to the multi-year Jolley rebranding.
On December 31, Stewart’s opened a new store at Wellness Way and Route 9 in Colonie and plans call for opening another new Colonie shop on Central Avenue, at the site of a former well-known Grandma’s Pies restaurant.
On January 21, a relocated new Stewart’s opened in Hoosick Falls.
Th is year’s projects call for new-to-market stores on Highbridge Road in Rotterdam and in Cicero, near Syracuse. In addition, several existing stores will be replaced by new larger shops at Sherman Avenue in Glens Falls, Curry Road in Rotterdam and Watervliet-Shaker Road in Colonie along with others in Mayfield, Oswego, Watertown, Massena and North Plattsburgh.
Stewart’s corporate offices are on Route 9 in Malta, near Exit 13.
Its milk bottling plant, commissary and distribution facilities are off Route 9N in Greenfield, just outside Saratoga Springs.
“Part of that $70 million is for growing support systems in the plant,” Kiesow said. “Th is year we’re doing phase one of multi-phase improvement, expanding our cross dock where trucks come and go after they deliver to shops. We’re going to improve our ability to work more efficiently there and then expand our central kitchen. As we become more and more of a diner the demand for prepared foods continues to grow. A good chunk of that comes out of our central kitchen.”
“We really are expanding on that word, convenience, on being a multi-service stop,” Kiesow said. “We’re the social spot, the coffee shop, the ice cream shop, the diner. We’re fi lling the gap as a small grocer versus making a trip to a big supermarket. We’re also the place you can fi ll your gas tank or charge your car. The piece that’s growing the most is the diner aspect of it.”
“People continue to be grazers,” he said. “Not everyone’s doing that three squares a day any more. Everyone’s eating when their schedule allows them to eat. With the expansion of our central kitchen, the variety of breakfast, lunch and dinner items continues to grow. We’re always trying to fi nd something new for lunch or dinner.”
Stewart’s will distribute product to the farthest reaches of its new territory the same way it does now. At present, for example, fully load-
ed trucks are sent from Greenfield to a district office in Watertown. The empty trailer returns home, while drivers in the local market make deliveries to shops in that area. The same thing will be done to former Jolley stores in northern Vermont.
Kiesow said the acquisition of Jolley stores was a result of good timing and similar philosophies between the two companies.
“We are always looking for markets we aren’t in,” he said. “The Jolley opportunity presented itself as it was a family-owned and run business that didn’t have the next generation in place, ready to take over. As we connected, one of the greatest assets that brought us together was that our origin stories are very similar and that we both care about people.”
Stewart’s was founded by the Dake family in 1945. Bill Dake, a second generation family member, is chairman of Stewart’s and his son, Gary, is company president.
Jolley Associates was founded 51 years ago by brothers Bruce and Robert Jolley.
“I think the Jolleys realized their folks would be taken care of with Stweart’s,” Kiesow said. “Being an ESOP (employee stock ownership plan) company we’re all in it for the betterment of everyone who works here.”
An ESOP company is one that allows employees to own part or all of the company, which typically helps motivate workers, increases productivity and improves retention.
Like many fi rms, the labor market was somewhat challenging for Stewart’s in recent years. But Kiesow said, “We’re in a pretty good spot right now with both the quality and quantity of workers out there. Everyone went through a work-from-home phase during the pandemic, then realized they wanted to be in more of a social environment. Our shops are a bit of a social spot.”
One of the company’s biggest challenges is burdensome new state regulations, he said.
“New York State always likes to raise the bar on regulation,” he said. “While they’re often looking for the right intent on fi xing a problem, sometimes how we go about it has some unintended consequences and makes doing business or doing it efficiently more difficult. We’re always looking for efficiencies. The more simple we can making running a business, the better product we can put forward.”
Curtis Lumber Acquires JAY-K Independent Lumber
Corp. In New Hartford, NY
Curtis Lumber is excited to announce the acquisition of JAY-K Independent Lumber Corp., located at 8448 Seneca Turnpike in New Hartford, New York.
JAY-K has served its local community for 87 years through three generations. Being familyowned and operated, providing quality products and professional services, makes them a great fit to join the Curtis Lumber team. Curtis Lumber and JAY-K have had a friendly and mutually respectful relationship for years, which will aid in a smooth and successful transition for employees and customers alike.
Kylie Holland, Executive V.P for Curtis Lumber states: “Our Curtis team is looking forward to expanding our business with JayK’s well-established foundation. Both companies share similar values with a focus on the employee experience, customer experience, and our commitment to our communities, so we are confident that this acquisition will be
very successful.”
The inclusion of JAY-K into the Curtis Lumber footprint also allows the Company to make a strategic consolidation with one of its existing, nearby locations. Curtis’s Waterville, NY location, located just 15 miles south of what will be the New Hartford store, will be closing amidst the acquisition.
“Th is is a strategic decision to consolidate two stores located in close proximity. Th is will allow us the opportunity to be more efficient with our inventory, fleet, and our staffi ng,” says Holland. All employees at the Waterville location will have the opportunity to join the New Hartford store or another Curtis Lumber location if they wish.
The transaction is expected to close on or about February 28th, 2025 with the New Hartford location opening for business as Curtis Lumber the following Monday. The Waterville location is expected to close on April 1, 2025.
Saratoga Builders Association Offering Two Student Scholarship Awards In 2025
The Saratoga Builders Association, Inc. is proud to announce their continued monetary commitment to education and will be awarding two student scholarships in 2025. One is the SBA $1000 Scholarship award and the other is the $1000 “Bob Best” Memorial Scholarship award. The organization makes these cash scholarships available annually to students who are planning to pursue a construction or industry education.
These scholarships are open to any high school senior or college or undergraduate in Saratoga County who is planning to pursue a construction education at a 2 or 4-year accredited college, university, technical school or for students who would like to purchase tools and/or equipment for employment/career or to start a business in the construction
industry. Students must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher. They must demonstrate current or past involvement in the construction field, including classes taken in high school or college, to be eligible for these awards. Each applicant must also submit a high school or college transcript or list of trade classes taken plus a short essay (or video) describing why they are interested in a construction industry career.
Applications for the Saratoga Builders Association Scholarship program must be postmarked on or before April 25, 2025. Only the fi rst 25 completed applications will be accepted so please apply early. The winners and their schools will be notified by June 1, 2025. To receive a scholarship application, please contact Barry Potoker, Executive Director at 518-3660946 or bpotoker@saratogabuilders.org.
45 Jolley convenience stores recently acquired by Stewart's Shops will be rebranded.
Maria College Launches Surgical Technology Program To Meet Growing Healthcare Demand
Maria College will launch an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Surgical Technology this fall to meet the rising demand for skilled professionals both regionally and nationally.
The 68-credit program, developed in partnership with St. Peter’s Health Partners, fast-tracks students into the high-demand field of surgical technology, which is projected to grow 7% by 2032.
“Surgical technologists set up equipment, help prepare patients for surgery, assist the surgeon throughout the procedure,and maintain sterile conditions in the operating room,” explained Dr. Lynn Ortale, president of Maria College. “Our program will equip students to meet the increasing demand for skilled workers in the Capital Region and beyond, providing healthcare facilities with essential support while offering rewarding career opportunities for our graduates. With this degree, Maria College continues to honor the legacy of the Sisters of Mercy and their commitment to excellence in healthcare and service to members of our community.”
The program offers flexible options with both day (four semesters) and evening (six semesters) formats. The curriculum blends courses in anatomy, microbiology, and psychology with specialized surgical technology training, involving preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases of surgical case management.
Students will also benefit from advanced VR technology, enabling them to practice realistic scenarios and improve their skills before entering real operating rooms. This approach ensures students develop technical proficiency and remain calm and focused under pressure.
“What truly sets our program apart is the handson experience at St. Peter’s Hospital,” said Dr. Wendy Trevor, vice president for strategic innovation
and partnerships at Maria College. “By practicing in a fully equipped surgical suite, students gain firsthand experience in a live hospital environment.”
“We are excited to partner with Maria College to provide access to a state-of-the-art surgical suite,” said Meredith Robison, chief nursing officer, St. Peters Health Partners Acute Care. “The suite, complete with operating tables, scrub sinks, and space for simulation equipment, will help train the next generation of surgical technologists. By addressing the region’s surgical tech shortage, this program will not only shape future professionals, but also strengthen the skilled workforce needed to deliver exceptional patient care.”
Dr. Trevor said the AAS degree will equip students to take the National Certification Examination administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). “It’s an excellent career path for those looking to be part of a collaborative healthcare team, working alongside surgeons, anesthesiologists, and registered nurses to deliver patient care during surgeries,” she said.
Upon graduation, students will be ready to enter the workforce as surgical technologists in hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, and other healthcare facilities. Salaries for surgical technologists range from $43,000 to $80,000+, depending on experience, location, and certifications.
“The AAS in Surgical Technology supports the college’s mission to offer accessible, high-quality education while promoting the health and well-being of the community,” concluded Dr. Ortale. “This program strengthens Maria College’s role as a leader in healthcare education in the Capital Region.”
For more information or to apply, prospective students can visit mariacollege.edu/surgtech or call 518-438-3111.
The Wesson Group Grants Wishes For Two Children With $20,000 Donation
Two critically ill children in Northeast New York will soon have their wishes granted thanks to a $20,000 donation presented this morning by The Wesson Group. The Johnstown-based construction company presented the check at MakeA-Wish Northeast New York’s J. Peter McPartlon Wishing Space in Saratoga Springs.
“Every child deserves to experience the transformative power of a wish,” said Scott Lewis, Chief Operating Officer of The Wesson Group, during the presentation. “We’re proud that our contribution will help create life-changing moments for these children and their families, bringing them hope when they need it most.”
The donation builds on The Wesson Group’s significant impact in the region. In 2024 alone, their support helped grant four wishes, including a Walt Disney World Resort trip for a twelve-yearold with cystic fibrosis, an accessible swimming pool for a five-year-old with epilepsy, a shopping adventure for an eight-year-old with cystic fibrosis, and college-tuition assistance for an eighteenyear-old with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia.
“The Wesson Group’s continued generosity demonstrates their deep commitment to our mission,” said Jamie Hathaway, President & CEO of Make-A-Wish Northeast New York. “Their support has helped transform the lives of six local children facing critical illnesses, creating moments of joy and hope that extend far beyond the wish itself.”
The check presentation took place at the newly opened Dr. J. Peter McPartlon Wishing Space, located at 92 Congress Street in Saratoga Springs. The space features interactive elements including the Wishing Woods, a reading room, and a 180-degree immersion theatre, all designed to inspire wish kids and their families.
The Wesson Group specializes in sustainable solutions for wind, solar, marine, infrastructure, heavy civil, and transportation projects, maintaining a strong tradition of community support throughout Northeast New York. For questions, please contact Make-A-Wish® Northeast New York Director of Communications Emily Malley at emalley@neny.wish.org.
Meredith Robison, Jeffrey Stone, and Dr. Lynn Ortale in the operating room at St. Peter’s Hospital, dedicated to advancing healthcare and education.
Courtesy Maria College
Rich Coluccielo, CFO, left, joined by Scott Lewis, Kevin Butler, Sean Kempf, and Kevin Murray Wesson Group management personnel present $20,000 donation to Make-A-Wish NE NY.
Courtesy Wesson Group
Lions, Tigers and Tariffs, Oh My
BY KENNETH J. ENTENMANN, CFA® 2/12/2028
For better or worse, the first three weeks of Trump 2.0 have been fast and furious! A bit of an understatement! Overall, the financial markets have shown some volatility but have remained stable in the New Year. So far, the S&P 500 is up 4.06% this month and 3.1% year-to-date. That is a great start to the year, despite all the vitriol coming out of our nation’s capital, particularly as it relates to the potential impact of tariffs.
It is easy to fear tariffs. Economists of all stripes will tell you that tariffs are bad; they are inflationary and invite retaliation and distort world trade. They are correct! But they most often fail to include the second part of the full tariff comment… Tariffs are bad in a free and fair global market. Unfortunately, there is little evidence that there are many “free and fair” markets. Indeed, when tracking trade reciprocity, every major industrial country in the world except the U.K. and Australia is offside, meaning tariffs on U.S. goods are significantly higher than U.S. tariffs on our imports. Even our friends, the EU, Canada, and Mexico, are way offside and have significant protectionist tariffs. In some cases, entire industries are precluded from participating in a trade partner’s economy. The U.S. auto industry is priced out of Europe by tariffs that are ten times higher than U.S. tariffs on E.U. cars. Same for U.S. agriculture. U.S. banks are prohibited from doing business in Canada. Hardly “free and fair.” And then, there is China. China was permitted to join the World Trade Organization in December of 2001. The hope was China would evolve into a great global trade partner. It has certainly helped the Chinese economy become the second largest in the world. Sadly, they have been cheating global trade rules ever since. The debate over TikTok operating in the U.S. is interesting as U.S. software companies are prohibited from doing business in China. Yes, tariffs are bad, but global trade is hardly a “free and fair” market. Yesterday, President Trump announced 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum, including on Canada and Mexico. This set everyone’s hair on fire! Mexico and Canada are our friends and our largest trading partners. How could we possibly pick this fight? True, we import large quantities of steel and aluminum from Canada and Mexico and this action has the potential to raise prices in the U.S. However, many of those commodities are made in China and shipped to the two countries to avoid direct China tariffs and exploit the friendly USMCA (U.S., Mexico and Canada Free Trade Agreement) tariff policies. Global trade gamesmanship at its worst, especially from our “friends” North and South of the border! Not exactly “free and fair!”
With all of the doomsday tariff talk, it is interesting that the markets have held up so well. This indicates that the markets don’t believe in the
worst-case scenarios. Perhaps some perspective on tariffs is warranted. The U.S. GDP closed in 2024 at nearly $28 trillion. Total goods imports were roughly $3.2 trillion. Let’s assume that after all the dust settles there will be a permanent 10% tariff on all goods from all countries. That would be $320 billion. As a percent of the total GDP, that is about 1%! Yes, on the margin, tariffs have the potential to reduce GDP growth and increase inflation. GDP could be reduced by .5-1% and inflation may rise by .5%. That is why economists do not like tariffs! But that is likely the worst case, which is far from catastrophic for a $28 trillion economy. But economists also love “free and fair” markets. And maybe, just maybe, the tariffs could begin to alter the trading behavior of our global trade partners. After all, having access to the world’s richest and largest economy is valuable. In fact, our trading partners need us more than we need them. U.S. global exports are just 11% of U.S. GDP, while exports represent nearly 27% of Mexican GDP and 20% of Canadian GDP.
For long-term investors worried about the impact of tariffs, take a deep breath! No one has any idea where the trade ward will end, including President Trump. Even if the negative aspects of tariffs prove true, they can be counter-balanced by more favorable tax policy, reduced government spending, onshoring of manufacturing, an improved regulatory environment and even “freer and fairer” global trade. That is a lot of moving parts! It is far too early to jump to dramatic conclusions. For the moment, the markets seem to be taking the Trade Wars in stride. The equity markets are off to a great start, and the bond markets have yet to price in any trade-induced inflation spike. As always, patience is a virtue of the longterm investor.
Kenneth J. Entenmann,chief investment officer & chief economist with NBT Bank.
Business Report Business Report
BY JEFFREY B. SHAPIRO, ESQ.
New York State has enacted the Salary Transparency Law (S.9427/A.10477), now in effect since September 17, 2023. Th is legislation requires employers with four or more employees to disclose the compensation or range of compensation in all advertisements for job, promotion, or transfer opportunities.
Employers need to be aware of the new salary transparency requirements to avoid fi nes and other legal consequences. There might be small businesses, especially those without regulatory compliance support, who might not be fully aware of these new requirements.
What Needs to Be Disclosed?
New York State Pay Transparency Law mandates private employers with four or more employees to disclose a salary or pay range in all advertised job, promotion, or transfer opportunities. Th is applies to positions performed wholly or partly in New York State, and even to remote roles that report to a New York-based supervisor or office. The law covers advertisements across various platforms, such as newspapers, social media, or job-listing websites. The pay range should be a good faith estimate of the employer’s offering, with a defi ned minimum and maximum, and if it’s a fi xed rate, that rate should be specified.
Draft ing the Pay Range
The New York State Pay Transparency Law outlines that a pay range, reflecting the minimum and maximum annual salary or hourly rate, must be included in job advertisements. If a fi xed rate like $30 an hour is to be offered, it must be listed. Pay ranges can’t be open-ended (e.g., “$20+ an hour”) and should only reflect monetary compensation, not other benefits like insurance or paid leave, though these can be disclosed separately. For commission-based pay, it must be clearly stated in the advertisement. Employers are required to make a good faith effort in determining and presenting the pay range.
What Are the Consequences of Noncompliance?
If an employer fails to comply with the New York State Pay Transparency Law for reasons other than failing to pay due wages, benefits, or wage supplements, they may be subjected to civil penalties. The penalty amounts are structured as follows:
• First violation: Up to $1,000
• Second violation: Up to $2,000
• Th ird or subsequent violation: Up to $3,000
The exact penalty amount is determined by the commissioner, considering various factors including the size of the employer’s business, the employer’s good faith belief that they were complying with the law, the severity of the violation, any history of previous violations, and in cases involving wages, benefits, or supple-
ments violations, the failure to adhere to recordkeeping or other non-wage requirements.
What Is Retaliation?
The New York State Pay Transparency Law prohibits retaliation against any applicant or employee who engaged in protected activities. Retaliation in this context could include, but is not limited to, refusal to interview, hire, promote, employ an individual because that individual exercised their rights under the law.
What is a Good Faith Pay Range?
In the context of the New York State Pay Transparency Law, a “good faith” pay range refers to a compensation range that an employer genuinely believes they are willing to pay at the time they post an advertisement. When determining this range, employers are advised to consider various factors including the current job market, existing employee pay levels, the allocated hiring budget, and the level of experience or education they are willing to accept from a candidate. There is flexibility for employers to adjust the advertised pay range as they gather more information during the hiring process.
Job Description Requirements
The New York State Pay Transparency Law mandates that all postings for a job, promotion, or transfer opportunity must feature a job description when available. However, there is an exception to this rule in scenarios where the job title itself succinctly conveys the nature of the job duties. For instance, if a job title like “dishwasher” clearly outlines the role’s duties, the employer is exempted from creating a detailed job description.
Other Potential Pitfalls Emails sent to multiple applicants count as
BY NICHOLAS A. MARRICCO, ESQ.
As New York Gov. Kathy Hochul continues to lay out proposals in her Fiscal Year 2026 budget, she recently announced a proposal to reduce what Governor calls “distracted learning” in classrooms across New York State.
The Governor proposes that districts ban smartphones and smartwatches on school grounds. There are exceptions for the use of devices to manage a medical condition, language translation, specific educational purposes, and the use of devices as part of a child’s IEP or 504 plan. The plan, according to current reporting, is expected to pass both the Senate and Assembly. The law would only apply to public school districts, charter schools, and BOCES schools. Private schools and higher education institutions are not covered by the law.
The Governor’s proposed smartphone ban would prohibit unsanctioned use of smartphones and other internet-enabled personal devices on school grounds in K-12 schools for the entire school day. Districts will be the ones to create their own plans for storing smartphones and other devices.
The Governor’s proposal includes $13.5 million in funding for schools who need to purchase storage solutions. While the Governor’s proposal requires that schools provide parents a way to contact their children during the day when necessary, it is currently unclear how Districts will ensure that is possible.
Over the next few months, parents can attend their district’s board of education meetings to request information from their board on how the board intends to apply the Governor’s smartphone ban. Parents can also request information from their superintendent. Parents are also encouraged to attend Board meetings to voice their concern on their District’s plan to allow Parents to contact their children during the school day.
If the law gets adopted, it’s going to become necessary to address the use of technology on a student’s IEP or 504 Plan. There is already significant litigation over the funding of devices and technology on IEPs, and it is expected that this litigation will increase with the Smartphone ban. Additionally, it is expected that this ban will
significantly impact the duration and frequency of suspensions and detentions over smart phone usage. Parents are encouraged to review their district’s code of conduct to learn about their district’s smartphone discipline policy.
The New York state education law attorneys at Tully Rinckey can help you achieve your goals when it comes to your child’s academic well-being and future. If you have questions about IEPs or transition planning, our team of attorneys is available to assist you today. Please call (888) 9704076 to schedule a consultation or schedule a consultation online.
Nicholas A. Marricco, Esq. is an associate in Tully Rinckey PLLC’s Manhattan office, where he focuses his practice on federal employment and education law. Prior to joining Tully Rinckey, Nicholas was a prosecutor for a prominent District Attorney in the City of New York, a civil rights attorney for families of disabled students, and an associate attorney for a boutique law firm. He can be reached at info@tullylegal.com or at (888)-529-4543.
Jeffrey B. Shapiro, Esq., Associate Attorney at Bartlett, Pontiff, Stewart & Rhodes, P.C.
Nicholas A. Marricco, Esq. is an associate at Tully Rinckey PLLC’s.
Bartlett, Pontiff Stewart & Rhodes, P.C.
Office / HR / Employment
Finding Reliable, Qualified Child Care Is A Significant Issue For Working Parents
BY ROD BACON
The difficulty working parents have finding reliable child care has been an issue for decades. Various government and private sector programs have attempted to solve the problem to no avail. Now that many employers are requiring employees to return to the office, at least part-time, following the COVID-19 pandemic, many in the social services field are calling it a crisis.
According to Abbe Kovacik, executive director of Brightside Up, Inc., a child care resource center that serves Albany, Fulton, Montgomery, Rensselaer, Schenectady, and Saratoga counties, the child care issue is multi-faceted.
“Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic it was a challenge for families to find and afford regulated high quality child care in Saratoga County
as well as across the state and country,” she said. “The pandemic had a significant impact on child care centers with two-thirds of working parents changing their child care arrangements.”
She explained that as parents shifted to working at home many disenrolled their children from formalized child care. As a result, income to centers was drastically reduced making it difficult to keep qualified, experienced staff working at the sites. When parents returned to work, child care centers found it difficult to find qualified staff. While most child care centers have returned to full operation, some still have unopened classrooms due to staffi ng shortages. While some family child care homes reduced their numbers, they were less likely to close
Continued On Page 13
2025 Job Market: An Employer’s Market Dominated By Competition And Caution
BY RENE A. WALRATH
As we move into 2025, the job market has experienced a significant transformation, evolving into what many are calling an “employer’s market.” Th is shift is characterized by increased leverage for employers during hiring, a wider pool of candidates, and heightened competition among job seekers. It is essential for both employers and employees to understand the factors driving this change and its implications in the current landscape.
Global economic challenges, including infl ation, rising interest rates, and geopolitical tensions, have led many companies to adopt more cautious hiring practices. Layoffs in certain sectors, particularly in tech, have created a surplus of skilled professionals competing for fewer job openings. Although the pandemic initially expanded opportunities for workers through remote work, companies are now recalibrating their operations by consolidating roles, enforcing stricter returnto-office policies, and reevaluating workforce needs, which has resulted in fewer available positions.
With more individuals re-entering the workforce post-pandemic—including retirees, part-time workers seeking full-time positions, and international talent—employers now have access to a larger and more diverse talent pool.
Job seekers are facing greater competition, which means they need to distinguish themselves through specialized skills, certifications, and personalized applications. Generic resumes and cover letters are no longer adequate. Candidates must showcase proficiency in emerging technologies and industry-spe-
cific tools. Continuous learning has become essential rather than optional. As more individuals compete for jobs, employers have greater leverage over setting terms, resulting in less flexibility in salary negotiations, benefits, and remote work arrangements. While current job market dynamics favor employers, this balance is not permanent. Economic recovery, technological advancements, and shift s in worker expectations could change the landscape once again. For now, both employers and job seekers must adapt to the realities of 2025: a competitive, fast-paced, and ever-evolving employment environment.
Elevate Your Management Skills With The Saratoga County Institute Of Management (SCIM)
Empire State University, in partnership with the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, is relaunching the Saratoga County Institute of Management (SCIM). This program, designed for emerging and new managers, provides the essential skills and strategies needed to succeed in today’s workplace.
SCIM offers six-week programs that sharpen technical and soft skills and address common challenges faced by new managers. In track one, participants learn strategies to boost team dynamics, improve communication, and engage in effective leadership. Track two covers finance, legal, human resource and resource management.
Empire State University President Lisa Vollendorf said, “The SCIM program is an important investment in our community. It helps strengthen the capacity of emerging leaders
across sectors in our region. Empire State University is proud to be part of this impactful initiative.”
“The Saratoga County Institute of Management reflects our commitment to cultivating management excellence across all sectors of our economy,” said Todd Shimkus, president of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce. “SCIM is an incredible opportunity for local organizations to invest in their greatest asset— their people.”
The SCIM program was launched as a pilot before the COVID-19 pandemic. The original program was also a collaboration between the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce and SUNY Empire was funded and with financial support from the Saratoga County Capital Resources Corporation (SCCRC). For more information go to www.saratoga.org/scim.
Rene A. Walrath is the president of Walrath Recruiting Inc.
Courtesy Walrath Recruiting Inc.
Brightside Up’s Regularity Services Team had the distinction of being honored in 2022 as one of the Great Places to Work in the Capital District.
during the pandemic.
According to Brightside Up’s 2024 report entitled Picture of Child Care in the Capital District, child care centers in Saratoga County can currently accommodate 383 infants, 689 toddlers, 1,778 three-to-four-year-olds, and 414 school-age children. Family child care providers can cater to 198 children aged 6 weeks to 5 years old and 66 school-age children. Group family providers have the capacity for 600 children aged 6 weeks to 5 years and 196 school-age children. School-age programs can accommodate 2,151 children.
This results in approximately 6,257 potential child care slots, serving only 16.5 percent of the population. Since not all families require child care outside the home the need for child care is generally calculated at 80 percent of the population. Based on this percentage, which is 30,248 children, only 21 percent of the child care needs are being met in Saratoga County.
In addition to the lack of reliable child care there is the high cost. Brightside Up’s report noted that the average weekly cost ranges from $165.50 for a school-age child to $339.90 for infants and toddlers.
Renee Walrath, president of Walrath Recruiting, Inc., with offices in Albany and Saratoga Springs, said that when her son and daughterin-law were trying to place their 2-1/2-year-old daughter in a facility there was a waiting list. And later when their son was born there was a six-month wait to enroll him in a center.
Walrath noted that she recently had a candidate call her and say her current employer had told her she had to return to the office three days a week. She was given less than two weeks to comply. She has a 3-year-old at home and has no idea where she will find reliable child care in such a short time.
Dorothy Rogers-Bullis, owner of drb Business Interiors and co-founder of Saratoga CoWorks, said that rising costs affect child care providers as well.
“If you don’t own the building where you have your child care center you have to pay rent
and those rents go up every year,” she said. “It’s very difficult for parents to pay three, four or five percent more every year.”
Rogers-Bullis said that one option to address child care needs might be some sort of co-op that would be subsidized by area businesses. She also said the state has to start thinking outside the box and come up with creative solutions for the problem.
Maddie Tesch, director of Creative Sprouts Childcare Center in Saratoga Springs, agrees that child care is a huge problem not only locally but nationwide.
The center cares for 70 children ranging in age from infants to preschool/pre-k. There are 20-25 staff members, depending upon the need at a given time.
The center is at full capacity and has a waiting list. Because of demand in the region there will soon be a second Creative Sprouts center in Clifton Park.
The child care situation in Warren and Washington counties is much the same. According to Colleen Maziejka, executive director of the Southern Adirondack Child Care Network, the organization received 274 requests for child care referrals last year. They operate in conjunction with nine day care centers and 14 in-home programs in Warren County. Washington County has no day care centers but does have 35 in-home programs.
The day care centers in Warren County can accommodate 765 children. The in-home programs in both counties combined can care for 608 children.
A problem across the spectrum is finding qualified staff for day care centers because of low pay, long hours, and lack of benefits. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for child care workers in May of 2023 was $14.60 per hour, putting them in the lowest 4 percent of wage earners.
“There is an increased awareness of this problem,” Maziejka said. “Last year we received a workforce retention grant from the state so providers were able to pay themselves and their staff a one-time bonus, but that was short-term. There is no long-term solution at this time.”
“We are definitely in a child care desert,” she concluded.
Showcase Of Homes Announces 2025 Dates
The 2025 Saratoga Showcase of Homes Committee has begun planning for this year’s edition of the area’s premiere new home tour. Celebrating its 29th year, this annual community tradition has contributed over $1.6 million dollars to our local charities.
We are excited to announce this year’s dates and look forward to presenting an outstanding line-up of magnificent homes on display for you to tour. The 2025 Saratoga Showcase of Homes event will be held on 4 days over two spectacular weekends this fall on October 4-5 & October 1112 featuring the regions’ finest, award-winning builders showcasing their new construction.
Be a part of the area’s premiere new home tour!
The Showcase of Homes Committee will have an extensive marketing and promotional campaign, which will include official media sponsors in newspapers, magazines, television, online, social media and more! If you are interested in entering a new home in the event or becoming a showcase sponsor, please contact Barry Potoker, Executive Director at 518.366.0946 or bpotoker@saratogabuilders.org.
The 2025 Saratoga Showcase of Homes event will benefit Rebuilding Together Saratoga County and Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties. Last year $60,000 was raised for these two important organizations. Through this event, the Saratoga Builders Association has now contributed over $1.6 million to our local charities. For more information, please visit www.saratogashowcaseofhomes.com. Follow us this year on our BLOG & FACEBOOK for all the details and updates!
Deal Structure
In the sale of a business, deal structure is equally as important as price. Typically it is outlined in a written document, agreed to by both parties. These can take the form of a letter of intent, memo of understanding, expression of interest, or term sheet.
Typical terms include: The agreed-upon amount the buyer will pay for stock or assets of the business; Whether or not working capital will be included in the sale; How and when the purchase price will be paid (such as cash at close, installments, seller notes). It outlines how liabilities and risks are divided between the buyer and seller, and it also identifies conditions that must be met for the deal to close (such as regulatory and financing approvals, transfer of customer and employment contracts).
The deal can also include contingent notes or earn-outs, which are becoming increasingly common as a way to mitigate risk to the buyer, and provide an upside to the seller.
Once the terms have been negotiated, an M&A attorney incorporates them into the closing documents, with the buyer’s attorney usually writing the first draft. By clearly defining terms, conditions, and contingencies, you are on your way to a smooth and successful M&A transaction.
ThielGroup is a business advisory service providing brokerage, M&A, and valuation services in upstate New York and New England. Interested in discussing how we can help you sell your business? Give me a call. I have been selling companies for over 20 years!
mergers & acquisitions, valuations, advisory
kthiel@thielgroup.com www.thielgroup.com
Kathlene Thiel, MBA, CVA M&A Master Intermediary
cover Saratoga. “It’s incredible to see how this event continues to bring our community and visitors together in the heart of winter. From the creative chowders to the fantastic energy downtown, this year was unforgettable. We’re deeply grateful to our vendors, volunteers, sponsors, and the thousands who turned out to celebrate with us. A special thanks to the city officials, police, fi re, EMS, DPW, and Department of Accounts—your dedication makes this event possible year after year.”
For more information about Saratoga Chowderfest and upcoming events, visit DiscoverSaratoga.org.
Special thanks to our sponsors, including DeCrescente Distributing Company, Saranac,
Happy Dad, Surfside, Westminster Bakers Co., Saratoga Springs City Center, T-Shirt Graphics, The Daily Gazette, Graves Brothers Home Improvement, Saratoga Bridges, Saratoga. com, Saratoga Automobile Museum, Saratoga Casino Hotel, Upstate Transit of Saratoga, Renewal by Andersen, Nemer CJDR of Saratoga, Lia Nissan of Saratoga, DePaula Auto Group, Bath Fitter, SEDC, KPM Restoration, Purdy’s Discount Wine & Liquor, Saratoga Today, Saratoga Maps, Townsquare Media, Albany Broadcasting, iHeartMedia, Reliable Onsite Services, She’s Yar Lash & Beauty Bar, Julie & Co. Realty, Adirondack Trust, WEQX, Jumping Bean Party Rental, Foote’s Amish Sheds, and Franklin Community Center.
Transformative Dormitory Project
of the animals, too.”
McCarthy said the team’s interest in the students extended to giving them hardhats and short tours of the structures that were to become their home away from home. The crew was confident that “the new dormitories will improve the overall experience of the students,” she said.
The four new one-story dormitory buildings are shaped into a quad with a common area in the middle, McCarthy said. Each ranch style dormitory has a large porch and a view of green space, and Goliber said they “may build a fi re pit or something to create a gathering place.”
Each sleeps nine students and offers five bathrooms and a great room with exposed beams, a gas fi replace, and large windows. These amenities give students a more intimate space to gather than the former cottages had, while adding to a feeling of comfort, home, and community, McCarthy said.
The exteriors are traditional horizontal clapboard with tongue and groove porch ceilings and exposed Douglas Fir beams, and McCarthy said the outside has “a very residential feel.” The buildings were designed and built to be long lasting and maintenance free, Coburn said.
For McCarthy, the project took on special meaning after a family gathering, during which she mentioned her involvement with
Salt & Char
Saratoga Springs, NY
Salt & Char is a Modern American Steakhouse with an inviting and stylish atmosphere that creates the perfect dining experience. Step inside or join us on the veranda for second to none views of Broadway while dining for lunch or dinner.
The Charlton School project. Her great uncle revealed that his sister, her great aunt Dorothy, had worked at the school in the 1950s1960s as a house parent, or what is called a resident assistant today.
McCarthy learned there were old photo albums on site at the administration building and she found a picture of Dorothy on the front porch of Holly Cottage with an associate greeting a new student.
Later the facilities director of the school pointed out the window where the house parent would have lived, and McCarthy said she could imagine her great aunt looking out of her room to the exact spot where she was now standing.
“It’s a real full circle moment,” McCarthy said. “I always bring dedication to my projects, but it defi nitely means a lot to contribute to this one and impact the lives of so many students.”
“I consider this project a favorite in the 40 years I’ve been doing this job,” said Coburn.
“At LeChase, construction is not just about sticks and bricks,” said Corey.
The Charlton School project is on schedule for a ribbon cutting to mark Phase I completion on June 12, 2025, exactly one year from its ground breaking ceremony. Students will move into their new dormitories immediately following June graduation. Visit lechase.com for more information.
The Brook Tavern
Saratoga Springs, NY
Just a short walk from the Saratoga Race Course and walking distance from Congress Park, The Brook Tavern is a favorite neighborhood gathering spot nestled at the intersection of Union and Nelson Ave., right in the heart of historic Saratoga Springs.
Lake Ridge Restaurant
Round Lake, NY
Only minutes away from Saratoga Lake, we're the food critics' choice (4.5 out of 5 stars), offering first-rate Continental cuisine in an elegant setting. Exceptional food, great prices and friendly service will keep you coming again and again.
The Wishing Well Restaurant
Gansevoort, NY
The Wishing Well is an award-winning restaurant in Gansevoort, serving the region's finest selection of premium steaks, live lobsters, fresh seafood, and wines. Stone fireplaces, a piano bar, and attentive service are hallmarks of this dining spot.
The Diamond Club Restaurant
Saratoga Springs, NY
The Diamond Club Restaurant at Embassy Suites is where the world meets in Saratoga to discover a premier dining experience, the region's best happy hour, and top-notch service in a setting you'd never expect.
Morrissey's Lounge & Bistro
Saratoga Springs, NY
Morrissey's Lounge & Bistro in Saratoga Springs is located within The Adelphi Hotel and is the perfect place for good food, drinks, and conversation. They offer an all day menu and three unique dining areas.
Harvey's Restaurant and Bar
Saratoga Springs, NY
At Harvey's Restaurant and Bar, we are proud to be at the forefront of hospitality in the downtown Saratoga region! We are strongly committed to providing only the freshest ingredients, the highest quality of customer service, and daily specials that you won’t find anywhere else. Courtesy of Saratoga.com
Bill Lake Homes
Continued From Page 6
keting mindset that the two are the same.”
“There needs to be a better understanding of the distinct differences between the two products,” said Knox.
A modular home is like a mobile home only in the sense that it is portable and can be delivered just about anywhere. Specifications such as for framing and plumbing are unique to mobile homes and codes are different from a traditionally built home. Modulars are more comparable to stick homes in terms of the codes and standards to which they are built, according to Knox.
“Bill Lake was never a mobile home builder, he was a traditional builder who just thought he’d rather not be building out in the cold,” said Pelletier.
“What he did was set up a factory to essentially make the components of new houses indoors, where the materials and the crew are protected in a climate controlled environment,” she said.
“That is what we are continuing to do and why we kept the Bill Lake name,” Pelletier said. “There is a lot of equity in the name and an unmatched reputation for quality.”
“His method is to build a house the way he would if he were building on the lot, with attention to detail,” Knox said.
“That’s the one thing that impressed us and the one thing we told Bill we were not going to change,” he said. “I always regarded modular homes as stick homes built in a factory, and it’s just a better way to build a home.”
Knox and Pelletier said the company is committed to preserving the quality of the modular home product line. Upgrades such as granite or quartz countertops and higher grade cabinetry have become standard in all models. There are a few economy floor plans and new models are in the design phase now.
Pelletier is launching marketing and social media campaigns that appeal to the company’s targets, who are traditional residential builders and developers. Some 50 contacts connect to them from all over the Saratoga area and Capital District to collaborate on residential projects.
Salary Transparency
Continued From Page 11
covered advertising. The same goes for thirdparty postings if you’ve given consent to that third-party to post on your behalf. Additionally, lack of “space” in an advertisement is not considered and is an excuse for noncompliance. Employers should also stay diligent with the rest of their employment practices given that pay transparency can open the door to other employment-related claims. What Should Employers Do?
Employers should review their current ad-
“Ours is a business to business model rather than selling direct to consumers,” Pelletier said.
But Knox added that most prospective home buyers come to Bill Lake Homes first, and then find a builder to prepare the lot and foundation and to partner with the modular company.
“Generally the end customer has land to put a home on but if not, and they are looking for a lot in this area, we can direct them to a broker at Sterling Real Estate Group,” Knox said.
Sterling Real Estate Group was started in 1999 by Jeff Knox and he remains the firm’s principal broker.
The partners have taken on 45 employees and a 140,000-square-foot manufacturing space. In the past year, the company fielded about 1,600 prospective buyer requests. Leads are still coming in from people who were raised in a Bill Lake Home or had a family member who owned one, Pelletier said.
There is a second structure on the property in Sprakers, NY that is close to 50,000 square feet and which Lake was using for personal storage. Pelletier said that has been cleaned out and will be dedicated to manufacturing.
With the added facility, the business will be able to deliver homes to an expanded geography. Knox and Pelletier said the market for their homes is strong because many models are in the 1,200 to 2,100 square foot range and modular construction affords some economies of scale unavailable to most developers.
For example, cabinetry, flooring, and countertops can be purchased in greater quantities and the savings passed on to the homebuyer, Pelletier said. With no disruptions due to weather, the time frame for building essentially 85 percent of the home indoors and completing it on site is reduced to only five or six months on average, versus 12 to 18 months for a stick house, Knox said. Inspections go faster, too.
Interested ones are encouraged to tour the facility at 188 Flanders Road in Sprakers, NY. Learn more at billlakehomes.com.
vertisements, and if necessary, update their job advertisement practices ensuring compliance with the new requirements. It would be prudent for employers to consult with legal professionals to understand the full extent of the law and its implications on current operational practices.
In light of these new legal requirements, the BPSR Small Business Practice Group offers dedicated support to help businesses navigate the complexities of the Salary Transparency Law. The team is well-equipped to provide the necessary guidance and expertise to ensure that your business remains compliant with this and other employment laws. Please contact us to discuss further.
