Business Briefs

from Saratoga Business Journal - April 2023

by Saratoga & Glens Falls Business Journal

Clifton Park Center

The Academy for Lifelong Learning Saratoga Region continues its 30-plus year tradition of presenting educational and social opportunities for adults 55 and older by offering 35 five-week courses starting the week of April 10 and the week of May 15.

Registration is now open.

Course brochures will be available at local libraries, YMCAs and retirement communities or by request at (518) 290-6968 or Lora@allsaratoga.org.

Registrations are being accepted throughout the term until courses are full. Some courses will sell out. Annual membership is $75 and goes for 365 days from join date. Five-week courses are $50 each. Courses are held outdoors, by Zoom, or in community classrooms including at SUNY Adirondack’s Wilton location.

Topics for these volunteer-led, noncredit courses include music, literature, variety speaker series, art history and anatomy, Italian, ancient game of Go, hiking, biology of aging, farm tours, local authors, grocery shopping tips, current events, dining out, history, local media professionals, global warming, opera, poetry, local walking tours, writing, museum tours, and more.

For a brochure with registration form, go to www.allsaratoga.org. * * *

BankWise Technology has launched Customer Verify, a real-time customer authentication solution for banks and credit unions looking to enhance their customer authentication procedures.

It is an advanced and secure system that offers financial institutions a more reliable alternative to traditional methods of customer verification, such as DOB or SSN.

Customer Verify is a standalone module within the Happy Banker ecosystem that offers a simple, affordable, real-time tool to authenticate customers just before a transaction, change of address, or other uses that the bank may have. It is used when the customer is at a branch, on the phone, or via chat.

Customer Verify benefits include real-time authentication, reduced fraud, easy deployment, and an improved customer experience.

The company emphasized that Customer Verify is specifically designed as a customer authentication tool that works in real-time without requiring any additional hardware or software on the customer side. The tool is particularly useful for banks that already have a verified phone number on file and want to authenticate their customers prior to a transaction or for banks to use as a routine best practice.

To learn more, visit www.bankwisetech.com/ customer-verify.

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Saratoga Hospital, a member of the Albany Med Health System, has been named one of “The World’s Best Hospitals” by Newsweek magazine for the third year in a row.

Newsweek announced the rankings in March. With 171 beds, the hospital is the smallest New York state facility to earn the designation.

The rankings are compiled by Newsweek and partner Statista, a research and analysis service. Their 2023 World’s Best list recognizes 2,300 hospitals in 28 countries.

Dr. Daraban Becomes Medical Director, Chief Of Cardiology At Saratoga Hospital

Dr. Nicoleta Daraban, who has served as director of Saratoga Hospital’s diagnostic center for nine years, has been named medical director and chief of cardiology at Saratoga Hospital.

Daraban will oversee all inpatient and outpatient cardiology services, in collaboration with other members of hospital leadership. She will continue to lead the diagnostic center.

“Throughout her tenure here, Dr. Daraban has earned the respect of her patients and her colleagues across the organization,” said Dr. Richard Falivena, vice president and chief medical and physician integration officer at Saratoga Hospital. “She has the administrative and medical experience to lead our cardiology team in addressing heart disease and other cardiac challenges for patients in our community.”

Daraban earned her medical degree from Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Romania, and completed an internship and residency at New York – Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital. She went on to complete a fellowship in interventional cardiology at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston.

Daraban is board certified by the American Board of Cardiovascular Disease, the American Board of Internal Medicine with subspecialty cer-

Dr. Nicoleta Daraban is medical director and chief of cardiology at Saratoga Hospital. Courtesy Saratoga Hospital tification in cardiology, and the National Board of Echocardiography. She sees patients at Saratoga Hospital Medical Group – Cardiology. To make an appointment, call 518-886-5080.

Amtrak, Via Rail Canada Open Train Line From NYS - Montreal; Includes Saratoga Stop

Amtrak, in conjunction with VIA Rail Canada (VIA Rail), the state Department of Transportation and other federal agencies, resumed train service between New York City and Montreal via the Adirondack train on Monday, April 3.

It includes a stop in Saratoga Springs.

This milestone marks the return of all Amtrak and VIA Rail cross border service between the United States and Canada for the first time since 2020 and aligns with the growing demand of train travel in both countries.

Northbound Adirondack trains will depart Moynihan Train Hall at New York Penn Station at 8:41 a.m. and arrive in Canada’s Gare Centrale/Central Station in Montreal at 8:16 p.m., with southbound Adirondack trains departing Montreal at 11:10 a.m. and arriving at NYP at 10:15 p.m. Additional popular destinations on the Adirondack besides Saratoga Springs and Schenectady.

“The return of the Adirondack promotes one of many rail initiatives benefiting and connecting American and Canadian travelers and residents,” said Amtrak President Roger Harris. “We are proud to partner with NYSDOT and VIA Rail and thank Senators Schumer and Gillibrand, and Congresswoman Stefanik for championing the Adirondack’s return, as well as their shared commitment with Amtrak to bring more trains to more places and more people as we enter a new era of rail.”

“VIA Rail is excited to collaborate with AMTRAK to offer the return of this popular service for our customers on both sides of the border,” said Rita Toporowski, VIA Rail’s chief customer officer. “The return of the Adirondack for the first time since 2020 is another indication that Canadians and Americans are excited to travel again, and increasingly choosing to do so by train. We welcome our customers back and are happy to provide them connections through Montreal to all our VIA Rail trains serving Canadian communities from coast to coast.”

“The cultural riches and natural beauty along the Adirondack train route amount to an experience that is unlike anything else in the world, and it highlights the importance of this service – making it easy and fun for travelers to be able to enjoy the unique treasures of the Empire State,” said DOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez. “We are pleased to work with our partners at Amtrak on the reopening of this vital connection between New York City and Montreal, and commend them for their ongoing commitment to providing reliable, safe passenger rail service to the beautiful destinations across New York state and beyond.”

New York State and Montreal travelers and visitors can expect the same amenities onboard the Adirondack as they do on most Amtrak trains, including free Wi-Fi, the freedom to use phones and electronic devices at all times (no “airplane mode”), the ability to travel with small pets within the US, a café car, large spacious seats with ample leg room and no middle seat.

In addition to the standard entry documentation requirements, the Canadian and United States governments have several additional requirements must follow for entry into Canada and the United States.

For more information about the Adirondack route, visit www.amtrak.com/ adirondack-train.

Velocity Sales

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‘Celebrity Bartender Party’ Returns In May

After a three-year-long pause due to COVID-19, Shaken & Stirred is finally returning to benefit Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga Springs.

The Shaken & Stirred Celebrity Bartender Party is an annual fundraiser for UPH. Local businesses team up to compete against each other, bartending for the most tips. The team that raises the most during their shift wins.

This year’s event will be 5:30-9 p.m.

Thursday, May 18 at the Saratoga National Golf Course.

“We’re excited to bring back this important fundraiser. All proceeds raised go towards our education programs through the Collaborative School of the Arts, which is an incredibly important aspect of arts for youth in our area.” Teddy Foster, director of Universal Preservation Hall.

The vision of the Collaborative School of the Arts is to provide extensive performing arts opportunities with instruction by regional and national professionals. Its programs inspire and cultivate career paths for students in creative fields while developing and welcoming a diverse palette of artists.

Tuition assistance ensures student accessibility across Proctors Collaborative, including UPH’s summer program Rock Camp.

Past champions of Shaken & Stirred include DeCrescente Distributing Co, Julie & Co. Realty and Adirondack Trust Company. For more information, go to universalpreservationhall.org. There is no cover charge for this event.

SEDC Marks 45 Years At April 20 Reception

The Saratoga Economic Development Corp. (SEDC) will celebrate 45 years of economic success at its annual reception on Thursday, April 20 at Excelsior Springs, 47 Excelsior Ave., Saratoga Springs

The reception will run from 5:30-8 p.m. The event will be a cocktail-style reception with hors d’oeuvres, carving stations, dessert, and a cash bar. SEDC staff, stakeholders, sponsors, community leaders, board members, and elected officials will be on hand.

“As we reflect and recognize the pioneer’s vision for our organization, the team’s efforts and successes, and how so many professional service partners played a part in it, we look forward to celebrating with our members, colleagues, supporters, and peers,” said Tori Riley, SEDC vice president. “Th is milestone is abundant with tremendous success, and we look forward to collectively working with everyone on the next steps for future preparedness that lends to continual success and sustainability.” The cost is $150 per person, and sponsorships are available. Registration is required for the event as SEDC cannot accommodate walkins.

“We are so proud of the successes and accomplishments of our fi rst 45 years,” said Riley. “It would be our honor to have our stakeholders join us by sponsoring and attending. Regardless of your title, this event is the place for any professional looking to build, grow, and celebrate their contribution to what makes this region so spectacular.” other similar problems.

For more information, please visit www. saratogaedc.com or email events@saratogaedc. com.

“I have this huge passion for wanting to help entrepreneurs,” he said. “It’s tough running your own business and it’s lonely at the top. Most entrepreneurs who go into business don’t realize how hard it is. I know I can bring value and help them get back the quality of life they might be struggling with because they’re just pulled in too many different directions. The more people I can do it for, the most satisfied I’m going to be.”

At any given time VanTassel works with three to four different clients, primarily in the Capital Region and North Country where he developed a broad business network over the years. Clients are in many types of business, from insurance to executive recruitment.

“I like working with customers in the community where I live and giving back that way, but I have no boundaries,” he said. “I’m currently consulting with one client in Wisconsin. The beauty of why I chose this is that I’m doing what I like, but at my own pace.”

President Of Empire State University

Continued From Page 1 importance of a forward-focused institution whose advancements in academics, scholarship, and workforce development, such as the nursing simulation opportunity for students, its designation as an Autism Supportive College, and its commitment to lifelong learning show SUNY’s essential place in the landscape of higher education,” said King.

State Public Service Commissioner and Chairman of the College Council, John Maggiore, said Vollendorf’s presidency “marks a significant milestone in the history of our institution, and we are happy to have her at the helm. Her visionary leadership will continue to drive Empire State University forward and ensure that our students receive a highquality, flexible, and affordable education. The council looks forward to working with her to build a vibrant and inclusive community that celebrates excellence, diversity, access, and innovation.”

“I am deeply honored by the opportunity to serve as the sixth president of SUNY Empire State and the fi rst president of Empire State University,” Vollendorf said. “SUNY Empire has, from the very beginning, been devoted to the singular—and singularly challenging— mission of serving learners who otherwise would not have the opportunity to attend college. We stand alone in our ability to educate individuals at all stages of life, many of whom believed their chance to attend college had vanished when they took a job or had a child or moved away or joined the military. I have never worked at an institution that has such a clearly distinctive role to play in helping public higher education be more accessible, more flexible, and more inclusive.”

Get Your Brunch On at These Top-Rated Restaurants in Saratoga

Featuring all of your breakfast and lunch favorites, along with some specials, brunch is arguably the best meal of the week. It’s the ideal time to meet up with family or friends, enjoy a mix of sweet and savory dishes, and brighten up the day with mimosas or a Bloody Mary. If you’re ready to plan your next brunch outing, then check out these 12 great spots in Saratoga.

The Hideaway: Serving Up Food & Drink Specials With a View

Start the day off right with a spectacular view of Saratoga Lake Golf Club when you dine at The Hideaway. Open for brunch on Saturday and Sunday, The Hideaway features a unique mix of menu items for every member of the family, such as avocado toast, chicken and waﬄes, sugar pearl waffles with berry compote, and an omelette station with various cheeses and fillings to pick from.

Adults can indulge in one of their brunch cocktail specials too, such as the Ultimate Bloody Mary (topped with a fried chicken slider, mozzarella stick, shrimp cocktail, bacon, olives, and celery!).

The Country Corner Cafe: A Cozy Dining Spot in a Historic Building

Head over to The Country Corner Cafe in Saratoga Springs and munch on all of your favorite brunch items in a comfortable dining space. This top-rated cafe welcomes diners for breakfast, brunch, and lunch, and one Google reviewer had the following to say in their 5-star review: “Everything we ordered was hot, fresh, delicious, and well seasoned. It was such an enjoyable experience to sit down and unhurriedly enjoy a nice simple brunch.”

Check out their “breakfast sammies,” eggs Benedict dishes, buttermilk pancakes, and specialty sandwiches like The New Englander (bacon, tomato, and cheese with American or Jalapeno Pepper Jack).

Sweet Mimi's Café & Bakery: Bring Your Appetite to This Local Favorite

From the cozy atmosphere to the excellent selection of sweet and savory menu items, Sweet Mimi's Café & Bakery in downtown Saratoga has everything you could want in a brunch spot. The restaurant changes up the brunch menu monthly, but you can expect to find specials like pistachio pancakes, a strawberries and cream waﬄe, a grilled banana bread platter, and even smoked salmon “toast” with Norwegian smoked salmon, pickled red onions, and capers. All of their items are either made from scratch or locally sourced, so you’ll be able to taste the freshness in each bite.

The Local Pub and Teahouse: See Why People Rave About This Neighborhood Pub

Whether you’re a fan of coffee, freshly brewed organic tea, or a mimosa with your brunch, The Local Pub and Teahouse has you covered. Located in Saratoga’s historic Dublin neighborhood, The Local is popularly known for offering traditional English and Irish dishes and personal pots of tea to enjoy.

Some of their weekend brunch items include an Irish breakfast (two eggs any style, Irish bacon and sausage, grilled tomato, and toast), eggs Benedict, corned beef hash, and more. In describing their experience, one Google reviewer stated, “Came by for brunch and loved it…First time...Great friendly staff and great food...Defi nitely looking forward to going back.”

The Saratoga Winery & Tasting Room: Cheers to Marvelous Mimosas

The Saratoga Winery & Tasting Room is more than just a fun spot to discover new wines. They also offer an outstanding brunch on Saturday and Sunday with cheese boards, housemade Belgian waﬄes, Rosemary’s Biscuit Sandwich, woodfired pizza, and other delicious options. In addition, you can bring your brunch to the next level by getting a full-size Bloody Mary, a full-size mimosa, or a mimosa flight featuring five different mimosa creations. The mimosa flight is perfect for sharing around the table.

Prime at Saratoga National: Chill Out with a Sunday Jazz Brunch

Make your next brunch a memorable one at Prime at Saratoga National, which offers a fantastic Sunday jazz brunch with tons of great menu items. Looking for something sweet?

Check out the crème brûlée French toast with warm maple butter. Craving fresh seafood instead? Order a colossal lump crab cocktail or a surf and turf tempura roll with lobster and steak. When the weather is nice, you can eat outdoors on the patio overlooking the beautiful golf course.

The Merc: A Go-To

Spot

for Hearty Brunch Fare and Craft Cocktails

The Merc in downtown Saratoga is one of the city’s hottest brunch spots, and for good reason! Brunch is served every day the restaurant is open, and it includes a massive menu of small plates like truﬄe fries and crispy Brussels sprouts, salads, buttermilk pancakes and brioche French toast, breakfast burritos and biscuits and gravy, hearty sandwiches, and more. The Merc’s bar can mix you up a craft cocktail too, such as a Bloody Mary, a mimosa (bottomless option is available), an Irish coffee, and other specials.

“The best brunch spot in town,” says one Google reviewer. “Everything on the menu is an incredible value. The food is amazing and the service staff is always on point.”

Hattie’s Restaurant: Satisfy Your Cravings for Fried Chicken and Waﬄes Done Right

When it comes to fried chicken in the Saratoga Springs area, Hattie’s Restaurant is the place to be. Since opening in 1938, Hattie’s has become famous in the Spa City for serving authentic Southern and Louisiana cuisine in a friendly atmosphere. One of the best times to visit the restaurant is during weekend brunch, as diners can enjoy a wide array of items from the griddle and skillet, as well as house specialties like biscuits and gravy, shrimp and grits, and of course, fried chicken and waﬄes.

As one Google reviewer notes, “They are known for the chicken and waﬄes so I ordered that and it was delightful! The fried chicken was crispy and left a crunch into the juicy white meat.”

The Whistling Kettle: Sip Tea & Feast on High-Quality Brunch Items

If you’re in the mood for sweet crepes, savory crepes, or even “scone-wiches”, then you’ll want to stop by The Whistling Kettle for brunch. With locations in Ballston Spa, Schenectady, and Troy, The Whistling Kettle is one of the Capital Region’s best places for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Over the years, Google reviewers have spoken positively about this cafe and tearoom’s eye-catching decor, friendly staff, and tasty menu items. When paired with one of their Tea Quenchers, such as the Pineapple Green Quencher (golden starfruit green tea, pineapple puree, and lemonade), you have the recipe for a perfect meal.

Iron Roost: Meet Up for Sweet & Savory Gourmet Waﬄes

Take a trip to downtown Ballston Spa for a wonderful waffle-fi lled brunch at Iron Roost. Founded in 2012 by owner Linnaea DiNallo, Iron Roost is a cozy 45-seat restaurant featuring natural lighting, stylish brick and industrial details, and the area’s best selection of gourmet waffles made with the freshest ingredients. Choose from sweet waffles like Lemon Berry (lemon mascarpone, house-made lemon curd, strawberries, and whipped cream) or go the savory route with Okey Dokey Artichoke (scrambled eggs, artichoke hearts, spinach, mozzarella, parmesan, and a waffle wedge).

Note: Iron Roost is open Tuesday - Saturday, and closed Sunday - Monday.

The Flats Restaurant & Tavern: Treat Yourself to Tasty Cuisine and Morning Libations

Located on Grooms Road in Clifton Park, The Flats Restaurant & Tavern offers a delicious Sunday brunch with menu items for every palate. Share a plate of Breakfast Nachos with your group, and then take a look at all the great specials like steak and eggs, chocolate chip pancakes, a French Toast Bake, shrimp and grits, and more. The Flats serves plenty of morning libations too, so you can celebrate this get-together with a classic Bloody Mary, a Paloma Mimosa, a Pear Cosmo, or even a Brunch Sangria.