Saratoga Business Journal - September 2020

SBJ P.O. Box 766 Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL

VOL. 25 NO. 07

HH The Business Newspaper of Saratoga County HH

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GLENS FALLS, NY 12801 PERMIT #600

SEPTEMBER 2020

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NYRA Calls 2020 Race Meet Without Fans A Cuomo Gives Green Light For Casinos Success, With Handle Topping $700 Million To Re-Open Across New York State

The 2020 meet at Saratoga Race Course was conducted without spectators due to the continued impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, but all-source handle topped $700 million.

The New York Racing Association Inc. (NYRA) successfully concluded its 2020 summer meet at Saratoga Race Course without interruption and with all-sources handle topping $700 million for the second consecutive year, officials said.

The meet was conducted without spectators and with only a limited number of essential personnel, horsemen and owners on-site due to the continued impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

NYRA said all-sources handle for the 2020

Courtesy NYRA

summer meet totaled $702,535,468 compared to $705,343,949 wagered from all sources on Saratoga in 2019.

Average daily handle for the 40-day meet was $17,563,387. The 2019 meet, which was run across 39 days due to the cancellation of a day of racing due to weather, generated average daily handle of $18,085,742.

Pari-mutuel wagering funds the majority of the NYRA purse account, which is awarded to horsemen and, in turn, benefits hundreds of Continued On Page 18

Saratoga Casino Hotel has been allowed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo to reopen, with specified health rules and social distancing rules in place.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo said on Sept. 3 that casinos are able to reopen on Sept. 9 if they have enhanced air filtration systems and with capacity capped at 25 percent.

Masks and social distancing are required. There are no table games or beverage service on the gaming f loor, state officials said.

Casinos in New York, many of which are regulated by the state, have been in the dark about when they would be allowed to reopen. New York took its time to make the

Courtesy Saratoga Casino Hotel

announcement as health officials tracked what was happening at casinos that have reopened in other parts of the country.

Upstate’s four state-regulated casinos, including Rivers Casino & Resort in Schenectady, and video lottery terminal parlors, such as Saratoga Casino Hotel, have been closed since mid-March to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Officials said the closures have cost owners tens of millions in lost revenues, Continued On Page 18

With Annual Showcase Of Homes Canceled, Beth Berlin Named Officer-In-Charge To Lead Plans Are Underway For A Television Special SUNY Empire State After Maltras Departure Due to public health and safety concerns from the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s Showcase of Homes tour event was cancelled. But the Saratoga Builders Association is planning to film a onehour Showcase TV special that will air this fall.

It will include interviews, tours, and more, as we celebrate our areas finest builders, homes and developments. It will also provide a way for you to contribute to our two important and extraordinary local charities which normally benefit from ticket sales, organizers said. The show is currently in production.

The broadcast will be hosted by CBS-6 news anchor Liz Bishop and air exclusively on WRGB Channel 6.

The 12 builders being featured are: Beechwood Homes, Bella Home Builders, Belmonte Builders, Caruso Home Builders, Degraff-Bloom Custom Builders, Heritage Custom Builders, Kodiak Construction, McPadden Builders, The Earth Source Company, The West Saratoga Condos, Whitbeck Construction & Witt Construction.

There will also be a segment on the two local charities that benefit from the event: Rebuilding Together Saratoga County and Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren & Washington Counties.

Organizers said they look forward to presenting the live 2021 Saratoga Showcase of Homes tour next year as the celebrate the event’s 25th anniversary.

The Saratoga Showcase of Homes is an annual community event that has contributed nearly $1.3 million dollars to local charities. For more information, visit www.

CBS-6 news anchor Liz Bishop will host the Showcase of Homes TV special this fall.

Randall Perry Photography

saratogashowcaseofhomes.com.

The Saratoga Builders Association Inc. (SBA) is a specialized professional trade association. Its membership includes residential and commercial builders, developers, remodelers, building material suppliers, sub-contractors, financial institutions, architects, engineers, realtors, attorneys and other industry professionals.

State University of New York Chancellor Jim Malatras has named SUNY Empire State College Executive Vice President for Administration and Chief Operating Officer Beth Berlin as officer-in-charge at SUNY Empire State following Malatras’ appointment as SUNY chancellor.

Working with senior leadership at SUNY Empire, Berlin will continue the work begun under President Malatras to reform and streamline the college’s operations to enhance the student experience, increase access to higher education for more students, raise the public profile of the college, and build a solid financial foundation for future growth, college officials said.

The SUNY Empire College Council will begin planning a presidential search immediately.

Berlin brings extensive experience in education leadership, having served since 2013 as executive deputy commissioner of NYSED, before being named interim commissioner in 2019. She also previously served as acting commissioner in 2015.

In that role, she managed the day-to-day operations of the Education Department, overseeing more than 700 school districts with 3.2 million students. She joined SUNY Empire in December 2019.

“Beth is an experienced educational leader who has immersed herself in the operations of SUNY Empire, a distributed college with 16,000 students and locations in every region of the state,” said Malatras.

SUNY Empire State College has named its CEO Beth Berlin as officer-in-charge.

Courtesy SUNY Empire State

“She has my trust and the trust of the college community to continue to extend SUNY Empire’s unique, flexible, and adaptable model of higher education to more students around New York state and beyond. I look forward to working closely with her and SUNY Empire as we move the SUNY system forward.”

Continued On Page 2

2 • SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 2020

•

Personnel Briefs

Geoffrey S. Mullen has been hired as a partner at Teal, Becker & Chiaramonte (TBC).

Mullen comes to TBC with 25 years of experience working in public accounting.

He has extensive experience in real estate partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, private equity portfolio companies; technology companies; state and local taxation and tax credits; flow-through companies; consolidated corporate tax filings; international tax planning; and real estate transaction planning.

* * * The Towne Law Firm announced a major expansion of its professional team and its geographic reach to accommodate increasing client needs in multiple jurisdictions throughout the Northeast.

The firm now has 24 attorneys based in New York, Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Massachusetts and Washington, D.C., including new offices in Glens Falls; Arlington, Mass.; and Sparta, N.J. John A. Musacchio, a former associate, has become a partner in the firm. Jessica E. Stover has joined the firm as a partner.

Matthew R. Kobelski joins the firm’s real estate practice. Previously, a co-founder of Key Holdings LLC, Joshua D. Koss also joins the team, as does John P. Mastropietro joins the firm with a practice focusing on construction law.

Woman Opens Saratoga Chocolate Co. In Space In The Downtown Saratoga Marketplace •

Broadening dealership practice group, Stuart A. Rosenthal joins, providing representation and counseling to automotive dealers Focusing primarily on residential and commercial real estate transactions, wills and trusts, general business advice and guidance, Robert E. Cummings, Jr. and Thomas J. Dailey have also joined the firm.

Linda A. Peoples joins the team with her practice focusing on real estate law, business law, and litigation. Krista K. Porter, who joined the firm as a law clerk in 2018, has since been authorized by the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court, Third Judicial Department to temporarily engage in supervised practice of law at The Towne Law Firm, P.C., pending her admission to the New York State Bar.

* * * Dr. Robert Donnarumma was named chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine at Saratoga Hospital, responsible for care at the hospital’s Alfred Z. Solomon Emergency Center and urgent care centers in Wilton and Queensbury.

He also will continue to serve as medical director of Saratoga Hospital’s COVID-19 testing tent, a responsibility he took on in March when the hospital launched its pandemic-related testing services.

Donnarumma’s new responsibilities will also include serving as medical director of Saratoga Continued On Page 7

New Head At SUNY Empire State Continued From Page 1

“The chapter always seeks a productive relationship with management,” said United University Professions Chapter President Pamela Malone. “We look forward to working with the administration and importantly, being involved in the upcoming search for a new president of one of the most important campuses in the SUNY system.”

“We’ve enjoyed a close working relationship with college administration and we look forward to continuing that as we work through this transition and the decisions

we’ll face over the coming year,” said CSEA Local 641 President Debbi Staulters. “I know that we will continue to have a seat at the table to raise our concerns, be heard, and work toward productive solutions.”

“I look forward to working with our interim leadership team, building on the honest and open communication we’ve established as we carry this momentum forward and continue to serve our students and our mission,” said College Senate Chair Anastasia Pratt.

Allison Rose has opened her own retail shop, Saratoga Chocolate Co., in the Saratoga Marketplace on Broadway in Saratoga Springs.

BY JILL NAGY After four years of building a customer base through sales online, at seven area farmers’ markets and some 80 regional specialty stores, Allison Rose has opened her own retail shop, Saratoga Chocolate Co., in the Saratoga Marketplace on Broadway in Saratoga Springs.

The shop, which opened July 31, sells gourmet handmade chocolates and other sweets. “We make everything that we sell at the store,” she said.

Rose started in 2003 when she began making chocolate truffles as holiday treats for friends.

She has since branched out into other chocolate confections and prides herself on balancing the right ingredients with the right chocolate.

“Every chocolate is different,” she said. She aims for a good balance between sweet and tart.

Some of her candy bars incorporate chunky fruit or nuts and she also sells “decadent hot chocolate mixes.”

A native of Long Island, Rose moved to Saratoga Springs 12 years ago. Her first career, for 15 years, was as an attorney working on climate change and renewable energy projects, first for a private company and then for NYSERDA (New York State Electrical Research and Development).

“Part of me misses it,” she said. “But I was burned out a little.”

Her interest in environmental issues continues and she is always looking for ways to

©2020 Saratoga Photographer.com

“green up” her processes. She is proud of the fact that her Warren County production facility, a building she owns, has a solar roof and she makes an effort to reduce waste and to drive less.

The opening of her Saratoga Springs store was delayed for four months because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Plans for expansion that may include a cafe are on hold, as are plans for a tasting option.

“People can’t taste much with a mask on,” she said. For now, “Things are going well, better than expected, all thing considered.”

She sees a lot of foot traffic and many people from out of town, within three hours of Saratoga Springs, she estimated. “People are looking for something to do” and walking around downtown Saratoga Springs satisfies the need.

“I’m really excited to be in downtown Saratoga,” Rose said. She noted that sales have remained strong throughout the pandemic.

“We are encouraged by the community support we received from our customers during this pandemic time. It is that support that has given us the confidence to launch our business into this next phase of retail, rooted in downtown Saratoga Springs.”

The shop is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Thursday through Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. They can be found online art www.saratogachoclateco.com or by telephone at 518-222-5366.

SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 2020 • 3

TOGA HERITAGE Opens At New Location SUNY Empire State Offers Its First Doctoral On Broadway In Downtown Saratoga Springs Degree: Educational Leadership And Change

Deborah DePasquale is the owner of TOGA HERITAGE, a gift and home goods store that celebrates the history and spirit of Saratoga Springs, at 322 Broadway.

BY SUSAN ELISE CAMPBELL TOGA HERITAGE, a gift and home goods store that celebrates the history and spirit of Saratoga Springs, has moved to the “dream location” of owner Deborah DePasquale at 322 Broadway next to Congress Park.

Dreaming about it had little to do with the success of the transition. Good business planning did. Not only did DePasquale stick to her timeline of moving into a larger location right after her third year in business, but she did it at the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic.

“We were ready to move a year ago, but it took that long to find the right spot,” she said. “The goal was to buy something unique and possibly historic, and this was one of our top three desired locations.”

The building goes back to 1884 and was once home to Congress Theatre. The space opened up when the previous retailer, Hatsational, left the space to consolidate with another of its downtown locations.

DePasquale said the previous owner renovated the entire building interior in 2016.

TOGA HERITAGE had occupied 300 square feet while renting at 398 Broadway, but DePasquale said she could not have sustained her growing business there. The new space is approximately 1,300 square feet of storefront that takes up 322-326 Broadway.

“I got a call at the end of April, and although this really was a dream location, I did not take the decision lightly,” she said. “Everyone knew there was uncertainty ahead.”

But the virus that was shutting down so much of the local economy had also “redefined what home is,” DePasquale said. She reopened her doors on July 23.

“My company tag line is ‘love where you live’ and everything about the business encompasses

©2020 Saratoga Photographer.com

my heritage of growing up in Saratoga Springs,” she said. “I put love and energy into my brand, and it is humbling to have folks embrace and celebrate what we are doing.”

DePasquale said she supports her own mission as well as the city’s “Health, History, Horses” slogan by being “a healthy shop with dedicated space where we honor the history of the purveyors who came before us.”

All merchandise is designed, curated and handselected by DePasquale. Each of these lifestyle products carry the TOGA logo, her “modern mark and interpretation” of the city. Often she collaborates with other local artisans to bring “unique and different things into the shop,” she said.

With Broadway stores are again open to foot traffic, DePasquale said she has observed a different kind of tourist coming into the area.

“We are not seeing the world class travelers since the track closed,” she said. “But we do see New York visitors on staycation who have never been to Saratoga Springs before, as well as those from bordering states who are allowed to come in and spend a day or a couple of nights experiencing our city.”

With the nearby Visitor’s Center closed, DePasquale has turned TOGA HERITAGE into a miniature chamber of commerce with selected pamphlets and suggested tours for her guests. The shop is open seven days a week, she is on hand at all hours, and she personally greets each guest, said DePasquale.

TOGA HERITAGE opened in 2017 and DePasquale hired her first employee in 2019. With the new storefront and ample opportunity to expand, she now has three team members and will hire more this fall, she said.

Learn more at www.togaheritage.com.

SUNY Empire State College has launched its first doctoral program in the college’s nearly 50year existence.

The Ed.D. in educational leadership and change will prepare current educational leaders to advance their education and careers while learning how to lead positive change in colleges, universities and communities, officials said om Aug. 27.

As educational systems face mounting challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic and a rapidly changing workforce, the program will address both day-to-day and long-term issues confronting educators to prepare them for leadership positions in higher education institutions, college officials said.

Applied coursework will focus on educational trends, organizational issues, and policy, including rigorous training in research methodology enabling graduates to analyze challenges facing their institutions in a broader national and global context.

The 54-credit program can be completed in three years, almost entirely online.

The program is designed for working professionals, including faculty, college deans, assistant deans, and other academic administrators.

SUNY Empire’s flexible degree program will allow candidates to earn the degree on their own time, at their convenience. Candidates will receive a comprehensive learning experience that seamlessly delivers courses online, in a collaborative virtual environment.

“This is an exciting moment for the growth of Empire State College with our first-ever doctoral program in Educational Leadership and Change,” said SUNY Chancellor Jim Malatras. “SUNY Empire’s statewide footprint and robust online learning platforms will ensure educators can advance their learning and careers around the demands of their busy schedules. We are facing historic challenges in and out of the classroom that go well beyond the immediate pandemic – now is the time to drive change smartly and intentionally to build the educational systems of the future. This program will do just that.”

“Graduates will complete the program with advanced qualifications to lead academic institutions, utilizing action research methods to analyze real challenges that impact higher education,” said SUNY Empire State College Provost Meg Benke. “They will be empowered to reimagine how students learn, how educators teach, and how we communicate with our communities.

SUNY Empire’s community college partners have been particularly eager to have this flexible program available for their faculty, staff, and administrators.”

Approval of the new degree “is a defining moment for SUNY Empire,” said SUNY Empire State College Dean of the School for Graduate Studies Nathan Gonyea. “It finalizes the goal at our founding almost 50 years ago to provide opportunity to individuals across New York state to access all levels of higher education from undergraduate certificates to doctoral degrees. I want to thank all of the faculty and staff who have worked over the course of many years to make our first doctorate possible.”

SUNY Empire appointed Dr. Ali Ait Si Mhamed as associate professor and founding coordinator of the program that began Sept. 1.

He holds a Ph.D. in educational leadership and policy from SUNY Buffalo, an M.Sc. in education from D’Youville College and a Bachelor of Arts in English language and literature with a special focus on linguistics from Université Ibnou Zohr in Morocco.

He comes to SUNY Empire from the Graduate School of Education at Nazarbayev University in Astana, Kazakhstan, where he served as associate professor in the Graduate School of Education.

His principal areas of research include research methods, advance quantitative research, policy and reform in education, and higher education finance.

SUNY Empire currently offers more than 800 courses within 110 degree programs, all available online.

Additional details on SUNY Empire State College’s Ed.D. in leadership and change can be found at www.esc.edu/graduate-studies/eddeducational-leadership.

4 • SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 2020

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Momentive Performance Materials Invests $15M To Expand Work At Waterford Plant

BY CHRISTINE GRAF Momentive Performance Materials in Waterford announced plans to invest $15 million in specialized electronics materials production at its Waterford plant.

The company is investing $40 million overall as part of its global transition from commodity basics chemicals to specialty silicones.

Momentive officials also said they are moving forward with recently announced plans to sell its consumer sealants business to Henkel, a chemical and consumer good company headquartered in Germany.

Although the sale will include GEbranded consumer sealants, GE-branded construction sealants are excluded.

Financial terms of the sale were not disclosed, and Momentive will continue to manufacture consumer sealants in Waterford through 2021, the company said.

The company has been in business since 1947 and has 36 offices in 17 countries.

Its products are used in many industries including healthcare, telecommunications, electronics, personal care, construction, transportation, agriculture, and energy.

“The $15 million investment we are making is really going to augment our capabilities and our capacities in one of our most exciting, fastest growing business— electronic materials,” said Sandip Tyagi, president and general manager of formulated specialties. “This is really in line with our overall strategy of continuing to transform our company into a more specialty chemical business.”

The specialty chemical business targets several end markets that Tyagi described as “extremely exciting and fast growing.” They include telecommunications infrastructure, and e-mobility. The e-mobility market encompasses fully electric, plug-in hybrid, and hydrogen fueled vehicles as well as

other electric powered technologies.

Momentive’s products are also used in the aerospace industry and could help make space tourism possible in the not-so-distant future, according to the company.

“These are areas where we are key material suppliers and these are areas that are at their early stage of development and have long opportunities for growth,” said Tyagi.

The transition from basics chemicals production to specialty silicones will begin in 2021 and will be phased in over twoyears, he said.

Momentive anticipates that the company’s workforce will drop from 1,000 to 700 by the end of the transition. All decisions related to workforce reduction will be negotiated with IUE-CWA Local 81359, the union that represents the plant’s approximately 700 hourly workers.

Although a workforce reduction is likely, Tyagi said the company’s transition to specialty silicones is necessary in order for operations to remain sustainable.

“The technologies and the markets that we are investing in are markets for the future. They create opportunities for us, for our operations here, on a much more sustainable basis. This will create a lot of longevity in terms of opportunity,” he said. “This will lead to exciting roles for our people because they will be a part of enabling some of these new technologies.”

According to Tyagi, Momentive remained committed to the Capital Region.

“We’ve been here for a long time, and we expect to be here for years to come.

This is an exciting time in our journey as a company. We are really enhancing our footprint as well as our investment in our specialty transition and transformation.

This has led to great excitement as well as pride to our employees.”

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SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 2020 • 5

Bowling Alleys Cleared To Open, Looking Website Has Monitoring Forward To Leagues Starting Up This Fall For Home Health Groups

Rich Sheldon, owner of Saratoga Strike Zone in Saratoga Springs, said he has 30 leagues starting up this fall and his business has all the necessary COVID-19 protocols in place.

BY LISA BALSCHUNAT Patience was the name of the game for bowling centers in New York state. Some 200 lanes statewide were given the green light from the governor’s office to reopen recently with strict COVID-19 requirements in place.

“We are very excited here at Saratoga Strike Zone to be open again,” said owner Rich Sheldon.

“We’ve got 30 leagues starting up. We have all of the protocols in place: barriers between lanes, plexiglass at the desk, social distancing reminders, masks and staff temperature checks.”

He said the Saratoga Springs granted Strike Zone a variance to offer outdoor seating at its restaurant and the state’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) helped his establishment weather the coronavirus storm.

“Pre-COVID, I had 78 employees. During the shutdown I had to lay off everyone. Now all of my full-timers are back. I am extremely thankful for PPP … We still have a closed arcade and cannot host birthday parties, so we’re doing our best with what we have.”

Kingpin’s Alley, Saratoga Strike Zone Bowling Center in Saratoga Springs and Broadway Lanes in Fort Edward are operating at 50 percent capacity. Leagues started up the week of Labor Day. Doug Bohannon, owner of Kingpin’s Alley Family Fun Center in South Glens Falls and president of the New York State Bowling Proprietors Association, said many bowling centers within the association already had COVID-19 requirements in place because the original lift date for bowling centers was July 1.

“Needless to say, members of the association are thrilled to be back open. It was a long haul from March to now,” he said. “I know of two

©2020 Saratoga Photographer.com

bowling centers that have closed permanently.

Several others have not opened yet because they were waiting to see what the final requirements would be. Much changed between July 1 and Sept. 1.”

At Saratoga Strike Zone, September traditionally kicks off National Football League (NFL) events at Strike Zone. Sheldon said he is presently ironing out the details for NFL events games. The End Zone Sports Pub will be open and ready for the season.

“NFL games are a big part of our business on Sundays and will continue to be,” he said.

“Our corporate holiday party reservations obviously are down,” Sheldon said. “Hopefully in the future, if companies can’t host Christmas parties, maybe they can host a ‘Heck of a Year’ party in 2021,” he said.

The Special Olympics leagues that Kingpin’s Alley hosts on Saturdays were halted during the past six months and fundraisers like Bowl for Kids’ Sake, benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters, has been twice postponed. January to mid-March is its busy season.

“I want to let league and recreational bowlers know that it is safe to come back and bowl at KPA,” Bohannon said, “All the touch points are being cleaned and sanitized. We are operating at 50 percent, so there is more than six feet between each team of bowlers. We have masks, social distancing reminders and new sanitizing sprays.”

Bohannon and Sheldon agree that the one thing that never left the lanes due to COVID-19 is the fun.

“If you’re looking to get a bit of normalcy back into your life come back to the bowling centers.

We’re open and ready for you … and we need your support,” said Bohannon.

Brian and Mark Johnson have officially launched StayHomeNY.com, a start-up business focused on providing remote monitoring technology to home care agencies, independent, assisted living and memory care facilities.

Using 4D thermal imaging technology, nurses, staff and family members can remotely monitor a senior living at home or in a residential care community 24 hours per day, according to the owners, who are brothers.

The senior is not required to wear a bracelet or lanyard there is no video monitoring, ensuring the senior’s privacy. The technology detects all types of falls (gradual, fast and concealed) and recognizes activity of daily living patterns, such bathroom use, in bed sleeping, or wandering in the middle of the night, they said.

Fall detection technology allows for quicker response times by family members and/or staff and the behavior pattern detection can help uncover if a senior is having adverse reactions to medications, dietary complications or has a mental health concern, according to Johnson.

“This technology is a game changer in the senior living community,” said company president Mark Johnson. “Our technology has the ability to keep people either in home or in assisted living longer by proactively managing behavior patterns and detecting falls in real time.”

If a fall is detected, the facility or home care agency can be alerted instantaneously through a dashboard that monitors all active devices, he said.

For independent living or home care agencies, the alert can also go directly to a family member through a phone call or a web application installed on their smart phone. Through central monitoring this could also trigger a response by EMTs instantaneously.

Johnson said many senior living facilities have already deployed the technology and its provided differentiation in the long-term care community.

Since COVID19, StayHomeNY.com has seen increased traffic from consumers and caregivers, as this provides a safe alternative to in person welfare checks on residents and loved ones.

For more information on the product, visit www.

StayHomeNY.com

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6 • SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 2020

NYRA Donates $20,000 To Area Nonprofits Earned From The Sale Of COVID-19 Masks

NYRA officials at Saratoga Race Course Display ceremonial checks reflecting the money it donated to nonprofit groups raised through the sale of COVID-19 masks.

SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL 2002 Business Of The Year

The Chamber of Southern Saratoga County P.O. Box 766 • Saratoga Springs, New York 12866 (518) 581-0600 • Fax: (518) 430-3020 • www.saratogabusinessjournal.com Editorial: RJDeLuke@saratogabusinessjournal.com Advertising: HarryW@saratogabusinessjournal.com Publisher & Editor Harry Weinhagen Associate Editor R.J. DeLuke Editor Emeritus Rod Bacon Sales and Customer Service Harry Weinhagen Production Manager Graphic Precision Photographer Stock Studios Photography Contributing Writers Susan Campbell Jill Nagy Jennifer Farnsworth Christine Graf Andrea Palmer Lisa Balschunat Saratoga Business Journal is published monthly, the second week of each month, by Weinhagen Associates, LLC and mailed to business and professional people in Saratoga county.

Saratoga Business Journal is independently owned and is a registered tradename of Weinhagen Associates, LLC, P.O. Box 766, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866 (518) 581-0600. Saratoga Business Journal is a registered tradename in New York.

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

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

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) presented a $20,000 donation to several nonprofit organizations as a result of a joint initiative with Saratoga Springs to raise funds for the community through the sale of limited-edition Saratoga Race Course face masks.

The campaign, which launched in midJune and was immediately met with high demand from racing fans, raised a total of $20,000 which will be divided evenly between AIM Services Inc., Franklin Community Center, Shelters of Saratoga and the SNACpack Program (Saratoga Nutrition Assistance for Children).

NYRA worked with Mayor Meg Kelly to identify the program’s four beneficiaries, which provide food, shelter and other critical resources during a time of increased need resulting from the coronavirus global health pandemic. A portion of proceeds from all mask sales was donated to the nonprofits.

“It was great to see this level of support for a campaign that not only serves as a unique sign of the times, but benefits the collective health of the Saratoga community in so many ways,” said NYRA President and CEO Dave O’Rourke. “We thank our fans for their enthusiasm surrounding the face masks, as well as Mayor Kelly and the City of Saratoga Springs for their continued partnership and leadership.”

“We are all grateful to NYRA and the Saratoga mask initiative for helping us ‘Mask Up’ and raise funds for four of our local non-profits,” said Kelly. “NYRA has demonstrated once again their commitment to the safety and well-being of our entire community. When we get through this, we will be able to look back with pride on the many ways the community pulled together.

NYRA’s example is just one of many that make Saratoga Springs such a special place to live, work and visit.”

The Saratoga reusable cloth face masks

Courtesy NYRA

come in a variety pack featuring three individual designs: a red mask with a white Saratoga logo; a white mask with a red Saratoga logo; and a navy-blue mask with a red Saratoga logo. The masks include a white border and stretchable elastic ear straps with an interior pocket for a replaceable filter.

Saratoga face masks are for personal use only; not a replacement for medical grade personal protective equipment.

Founded in 1979, AIM Services, Inc. provides residential and communitybased services to people with disabilities, including individuals with traumatic brain injuries and those looking for nursing home transition or diversion. The agency provides services to individuals in Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties.

Franklin Community Center is a nonprofit human service agency that has provided basic necessities and services to individuals and families in Saratoga Springs for more than 25 years. The Center serves more than 6,000 people annually through a variety of programs, including a food pantry, after school prevention, and safe and affordable housing.

Since 1991, Shelters of Saratoga has provided assistance to people who are facing homelessness by providing safe shelter, supportive services and sustainable strategies with the mission to end homelessness in the greater Saratoga region. Programs include emergency and case-managed shelters, outreach services, drop-in centers and affordable housing.

The SNACpack Program (Saratoga Nutrition Assistance for Children) provides backpacks filled with child-friendly, nonperishable, easily consumed foods to local children on weekends and when other resources aren’t available. The bags are distributed weekly to all six elementary, middle and high schools in the Saratoga Springs Central School District.

SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 2020 • 7

Personnel Briefs

Passion For Baking Results In A Booming Business For Woman On Route 50, Saratoga

Continued From Page 2

Hospital’s stroke program. In addition, he will remain medical director of the hospital’s Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners Program and Saratoga Hospital’s representative on the Regional Medical Advisory Committee.

A graduate of Cornell University, Donnarumma earned his medical degree from New York Medical College in Valhalla. He completed a residency in emergency medicine at the School of Medicine at the State University of New York at Buffalo, where his clinical rotations included a regional trauma center, a children’s hospital, community hospitals and an inner-city tertiary care center. He also has a Master of Public Health degree, with a specialization in health policy and management, from New York Medical College.

Donnarumma is board certified in emergency medicine.

* * *

Kelly’s Kitchen owner Kelly Groff had been baking and selling treats from her home, growing her business at such a fast pace that she knew it was time to bring it to a new location.

BY JENNIFER FARNSWORTH Opening a business during a pandemic could be risky business for most, but Kelly’s Kitchen owner Kelly Groff said not even a pandemic can stop a sweet tooth.

This bakery owner is not only selling her baked goods at a steady rate in her new Wilton location, she says she is selling out on a daily basis.

“I’ve only been open a few weeks now but continue to meet new customers every day.

Word of mouth has been my absolute best advertisement so far,” said Groff.

Kelly’s Kitchen opened in August at its 4300 Route 50 location, and business is booming.

She had been baking and selling treats from her home, growing her business at such a fast pace that she knew it was time to bring it to a new location. The bakery is stocked with cakes, cupcakes, cookies, pastries and all types of desserts.

“I started baking small orders for friends and family a little over a year ago. After hearing such positive feedback, I started expanding my customer base to the community. It wasn’t long before I was actually turning people away because I was getting too busy. I couldn’t keep up with the demand in my small home kitchen.

I knew I needed to find a commercial location where I had more space. I ended up finding the perfect spot and am so grateful to say it’s going

©2020 Saratoga Photographer.com

amazing so far,” said Groff.

The new location includes a commercial kitchen, a pick-up site for custom orders and seating for customers to enjoy a fresh cup of Kru coffee with a treat. She specializes in cinnamon rolls, muffins, cupcakes, cookies and cakes and pies by the slice. The bakery also serves Saratoga Tea & Honey Co. teas.

“While I’ve always loved baking, I didn’t develop such a passion for it until this past year.

It finally hit me that this is what I am supposed to be doing,” said Groff.

She said it is hard to pick just one customer favorite but noted the peanut butter cup and lemon raspberry cupcakes have been big hits.

She also makes customized cakes for birthdays, showers, rehearsal dinners and other special events. Groff is asking customers to plan ahead since the production schedule at Kelly’s Kitchen is almost booked for September and October.

“I’m just hoping to be successful and make it though this first year in business. I’m hoping to possibly expand in the near future, adding small breakfast and lunch options to my everyday menu as well as offer baking birthday parties for kids,” said Groff.

Kelly’s Kitchen is open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Monday through Saturday and 8 a.m. to noon on Sunday. Visit them online at www.facebook. com/KellysKitchenNY. The business can be at (518) 886-9794.

CAP COM Federal Credit Union ired Carin Urban as vice President of member services, overseeing CAP COM’s 11 branches, as well as its Member Contact Center.

Urban will develop and lead programs to strengthen member experience and service delivery. She brings more than 25 years of retail banking management experience to the position.

Urban joins CAP COM after five years at Berkshire Bank. She most recently served as first vice president, regional manager where she oversaw 24 branches in New York and Vermont.

Carin also served in leadership roles at KeyBank and Citizens Bank.

Urban, a longtime Clifton Park resident, has volunteered with many local nonprofit organizations in the Capital Region including Girls Inc., the Leukemia Lymphoma Society and Junior Achievement.

* * * Julie & Co. Realty announced that Angela Dross and Erin Steinbach have joined the com-

pany.

In 2010, Dross developed her own marketing business based out of Saratoga Springs. She decided to merge her two passions to become a real estate agent, one that emphasizes strategic property marketing and expert guidance in the home buying process.

She specializes in residential resales, new construction, investment properties, and agency for buyers and sellers.

Steinbach, an associate real estate broker, has extensive experience in the second-home market.

* * * Drs. Abigail and Keir Neighmond have joined Saratoga Hospital Medical Group Primary Care – Scotia Glenville.

Each has nearly two decades of experience caring for patients of all ages.

The couple comes to Saratoga Hospital from Freeman Health System in Joplin, Mo. The move is a homecoming of sorts for Keir Neighmond, who was raised in the Capital Region and has family here.

Both Neighmonds earned their medical degrees from the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. Abigail Neighmond completed an internship and residency at Des Peres Hospital, now St. Luke’s Des Peres Hospital, in St. Louis.

She is board certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians.

Keir Neighmond completed an internship and residency at St. John’s Mercy Medical Center, now Mercy Hospital St. Louis.

He is board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine.

Frank H. Alessandrini President F.H. Alexander Inc. Reads

©2020 Saratoga Photographer.com

SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL

8 • SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 2020

SPECIAL SECTION

SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL

Insurance / Employee Benefits Workers At Altek In Waterford Buy Company Via Employee Stock Ownership Plan

BY JILL NAGY Altek Energy Systems’ president is selling the company to the employees and it will not cost them a penny, he said.

Mike O’Connor, currently the owner and a co-founder of the company, created an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) that will hold the company’s shares on behalf of the employees.

As people retire or otherwise leave the company, they will receive the value of their shares.

Shares will be allocated among the employees based upon the amount of time they have been with the company and how much they earn.

Their shares will vest over a five-year period.

O’Connor said the new corporation will be what is known as a Subchapter-S corporation.

Subchapter-S corporations do not pay corporate income tax. Rather, their earnings are allocated to the shareholders and taxed as regular income.

As a conventional corporation, Altek pays $400,000-500,000 in taxes a year, O’Connor estimated.

After 40 years with Altek, O’Connor said he sees the transition as a graceful exit strategy. It will leave the company intact and allow him to remove cash from the company. He also foresees considerable tax savings.

Thanks to what he terms “very conservative” money management, Altek had sufficient cash reserves for O’Connor to receive a down payment.

For the rest, he will hold a note and the company will pay him, out of its earnings, over the five-year transition period.

He plans to stick around for a while, as an employee of the ESOP, but also plans to travel, spend more time with family, and perhaps spend part of the year in Hilton Head, SC., where taxes are lower and the winters are milder, he said.

In the meantime, he said, “I enjoy working.”

Creation of an ESOP gives employees an added incentive to keep the company prosperous. The value of the shares depends upon the financial health of the company.

While proceeds from the ESOP will constitute an important part of employees’ retirement funds—in addition to providing a nest egg for O’Connor—it will not be their sole retirement plan. O’Connor said the company already has a “phenomenal” 401-K investment plan into which both employees and the company contribute.

That will continue, he said, but the company’s matching share will decrease.

The ESOP corporation will be managed by a board of directors consisting of O’Connor, the company comptroller and an outside business person. That board can be enlarged to four or five members, but O’Connor thinks that a threemember board is large enough for a company the size of Altek.

Altek, located in Waterford, has between 60 and 70 employees, varying with the season.

They do heating, air conditioning, plumbing and construction work and have a fabrication shop, mainly manufacturing ductwork. O’Connor founded it with two other employees but has been the sole owner since 1994.

They do about $10 million worth of sales annually. He owns the building housing Altek and rents it to the company. That arrangement will continue, he said.

Planning for the ESOP conversion began about 10 years ago, O’Connor estimated. He investigated other exit strategies and consulted with a peer group of similar companies. Things were set back somewhat by the 2008-09 recession. Now that he has made the decision and set the prices in motion, “I can highly recommend it as an exit strategy,” he said.

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Business Report Is Title Insurance A Four-Letter Word?

BY DAN WADE, ESQ. We’re all familiar with auto insurance, health insurance and homeowner’s insurance, but what do you know about title insurance? Do you know if you’re covered?

Owning a home is likely the biggest investment you’re ever going to make. And like most homeowners, the “American Dream” comes with a mortgage attached.

It’s safe to bet that as the mountainous stacks of papers were being shuff led around during your real estate closing, you may not even remember that you purchased title insurance for the lender.

Lenders require this to protect their security. It’s important to note that the title insurance you purchased for the lender, sometimes called a loan policy or mortgage policy, only covers losses incurred by the lender. It does not cover you. At the closing table, you would also have been offered an owner’s title policy. As a practice, I prefer to discuss any expenses like this with my clients prior to closing day. The decision of whether or not to purchase the owner’s title policy could have ramifications for you down the road should you decide to sell someday.

So, what does an owner’s policy of title insurance cover and why is it important?

An owner’s policy of title insurance will cover any loss you might suffer as a result of the condition of title to the property you own being something other than what was insured. The owner’s policy covers you up to the dollar amount you paid for the property.

Some of standard covered title risks include public record or clerical errors not previously discovered, forgery or lack of capacity or legal authority of a party somewhere in the history of the ownership of the property, unsettled mortgages or other liens of record not previously disclosed, lack of a right of access, recorded easements not previously disclosed, and deed not being joined/executed by all necessary parties, to name a few.

So, having something “pop up” 5, 10, 15 years from now when you try to sell your home could cause a devastating delay to your deal and cost you thousands of dollars in fees trying to correct an issue if

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Daniel B. Wade, attorney with Ianniello Anderson PC in Glens Falls.

Courtesy Ianniello Anderson PC

you didn’t have an owner’s policy. With an owner’s policy, you would have the ability to make a claim and put the title insurance company and their attorneys to work correcting the issue. In some instances, the title insurance company insuring the buyers of your property may be able to seek indemnity from your title insurance company allowing the deal to proceed on schedule while they work behind the scenes to correct any title defects, saving you both time and money.

The good news is that in New York state an owner’s policy premium is a one-time fee, unlike auto, health, or homeowner’s insurance. You pay it once and you’re done.

In addition, title insurance premiums are strictly governed by the state Department of Finance, so you’ll pay the same premium rate no matter which title insurance agent you purchase your policy from. No shopping around needed. The best part is that your owner’s policy will cover you for as long as you own the insured property.

I recommend to all of my clients that they purchase title insurance. As a onetime fee that provides peace of mind for as long as you own the property, it’s a worthy investment. And yes, title insurance is a four-letter word. But that four-letter word is “gold” because it’s worth its weight should you someday need it.

SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 2020 • 9

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Business Report Insurance Concerns For At-Home Offices

BY MELISSA DAVIDSON 2020 has been unlike any year before it.

Did you ever think that your four-legged friend would be your new co-worker? Or you’d become a full-time teacher while your children learned from home?

For many people, COVID-19 required you to work from home instead of the office. Maybe it has been more cost effective to be able to work from home, but are you sure your type of business is covered by insurance while doing so?

Setting up headquarters at your home does not necessarily mean homeowners insurance will adequately protect your operations. Actually, home-based business activities may void your home insurance.

So now, what questions do you need to ask yourself?

The answer may depend on what kind of home-based business you are operating.

Do customers or clients come to your home? What is the value of your business property? Do you hire employees? Do you use your car or other vehicles during your business operations? Do you have clients or employee records on your computer? If you had a loss that damaged your home, would you lose income if you had to close your business?

If these questions apply to you, I suggest you review your current coverages as your homeowner’s insurance might not provide enough protection for your home business needs. Let’s discuss what types of coverage you should think about.

Business property insurance would cover equipment used to run a home-based business, including computers, printers and furniture. Look around your office and do a quick estimate of how much it would cost you to replace these pieces of equipment.

Most homeowners’ policies have contents limits that could easily be exceeded by a claim. How much of your home office equipment would your insurance allow you to replace if it was stolen? What about when you leave the home for a meeting?

Business equipment may only be covered on your homeowners policy while on your premise. You’ll also want to look at your liability insurance. Do you have clients visit your home for business purposes? Let’s say a client comes to your home for a meeting and trips on the stairs. They’ve seriously injured themselves and in turn, can sue you.

Although general liability insurance covers third-party related bodily injury, property damage, and related medical and legal costs, if the client is at your home

• •

Melissa Davidson, licensed sales executive at Northern Insuring Agency’s Glens Falls office.

Courtesy Northern Insuring Agency

for business purposes, your homeowners insurance could deny this claim. Have you considered Errors and Omissions (E&O)?

Especially for those of you who provide professional services or advice for a fee, this coverage is important should you be sued for negligence or for providing advise that caused financial harm to your client.

Again, your homeowners insurance would not cover you for this. What you really need to be thinking about is what type of business am I running and what are my risks? Do I need additional business property, general liability, business auto, workers compensation, business interruption, crime, products liability or cyber, etc?

This all depends on your needs and what your risks are. This could be a simple solution. First, review your current homeowners insurance with an insurance agent. It may be as simple as adding endorsements to your policy so coverage extends to your potential risks. This may be for business owners who do not have significant liability risks or a high-value business property.

If you determine that more coverage is needed, a business insurance policy would be necessary. Every business has different factors to consider in order to make sure there is adequate coverage for liability or property losses.

We know it has been crazy and confusing time for many businesses, you are not alone. We have seen many changes in the last couple of months and we will need to continually be adjusting and adapting. It is now time to self-ref lect on how to best possibly protect yourself moving forward.

Business Briefs

Plug Power Inc., a company with an office in Clifton Park, building clean hydrogen economy, has been named to the Top Green Providers list for 2020 by Food Logistics, the only publication exclusively dedicated to covering the movement of products through the global food supply chain.

Food Logistics’ annual Top Green Providers recognizes companies whose products, services, or exemplary leadership are enhancing sustainability within the food and beverage industry. Each year, the criteria for earning a spot on the list become more stringent for applicants. For example, the editorial staff evaluates a company’s participation in such programs as the EPA’s SmartWay and other recognized sustainability programs; facilities that are LEED-certified, and/or feature solar panels, LED lighting, and other energy saving installations and retrofits that produce measurable reductions in GHG emissions, to name a few.

2020 marks the fourth year in a row that Plug Power has been named on the Top Green Providers list.

* * * Saratoga Hospital has again been awarded Magnet recognition for nursing excel-

Expert electrical service.

•

lence, the highest national honor for professional nursing practice.

It marks the fourth time the hospital has attained Magnet status.

Studies show Magnet recognition provides significant benefits, including: lower risk of 30-day mortality; lower risk of failure to rescue from complications; higher patient satisfaction with nurse communication, availability of help and receipt of discharge information; higher job satisfaction levels among nurses.

Mary Jo LaPosta, Ph.D., R.N., chief nursing officer and senior vice president of patient care and organizational excellence at Saratoga Hospital, gives much of the credit to the community and its support for Saratoga Hospital’s Nursing Scholarship Program. “Each year, community generosity helps us sustain a nursing workforce whose knowledge, skills and compassion have a direct, positive impact on patient care,” she said.

The gold standard for nursing excellence, Magnet recognition is considered when the public judges healthcare organizations. U.S. News & World Report’s annual showcase of “America’s Best Hospitals” includes Magnet recognition in its ranking criteria for quality of inpatient care.

518.389.7411 MrElectric.com/Queensbury Locally Owned and Operated Franchise

Rick Schrade

518-389-4060

1761 Central Ave. | Albany, NY

10 • SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 2020

SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL

SPECIAL SECTION

Home / Energy

After Initial Lull, HVAC Companies Are Homeowners And Businesses Are Changing Busy Installing Systems That Filter The Air Interior Design Goals Since COVID Pandemic

Ginna DeVit, a service technician with Thermal Associates, an HVAC company, sits behind the wheel of one of the company’s six service vehicles.

BY CHRISTINE GRAF The COVID-19 pandemic is causing businesses and homeowners to become increasingly concerned about indoor air quality and the spread of airborne infectious diseases. This concern is having a direct impact on the global HVAC industry.

Many Capital Region companies experienced a significant slowdown in business at the beginning of the pandemic. Some, including Superior Co-Op HVAC of Cambridge, closed during this period.

According to owner Gerald Davis, his company was closed for two months but experienced a surge in business after they reopened. He hired an additional employee and added a truck to his fleet to keep up with demand.

“When the governor closed down March 23, we closed up,” said Davis. “I laid everybody off because I didn’t know what was going to happen. In May, we were able to open back up and the floodgates opened up on us.”

Davis attributes the increase in demand to a theory that people who aren’t spending money on travel and entertainment are putting money

into their homes. Superior works exclusively with Mitsubishi renewable energy systems, and generous company rebates have prompted homeowners to switch to renewable energy.

“We had a big push for air conditioning this year. People are spending more time at home, so they want more comfort,” he said. “We work a lot with rebates, and a lot of people have also been looking to switch their homes over to renewable energy. The governor is really pushing people to go to renewable energy, and you can heat your home without using any fossil fuel. We’re now backed up through October just installing equipment” G.A. Bove & Sons of Mechanicville has experienced a similar scenario. Although the company did not shut down operations, business slowed when the governor mandated the closure of non-essential businesses.

According to CEO John Bove Jr., “As soon as everything got shut down, a lot of our customers that had work scheduled got nervous. A lot of people were getting laid off or furloughed. We also have a lot of people who get their annual maintenance Continued On Page 15

Vicki Ure, owner of Victoria’s Corner, a home furnishing and custom decorating store in Ballston Spa, has antique furniture pieces as well as supplies to refurbish the home.

BY SUSAN ELISE CAMPBELL Interior design generally follows style trends, the dominant one today being: Form really does follow function as people repurpose and refurbish their homes for office spaces, schoolwork stations and staycations.

Julie Maleski Putzel, founder of JMP Interiors in Clifton Park, said residential clients are using every square foot to create areas or zones they never needed before the pandemic.

“We are shifting the way we live in spaces, move through them and function in them,” said Putzel.

Her forté is “clean and understated but impactful design,” she said. “It’s a refined approach about contrasts, playing with opposites and blending styles that one ordinarily wouldn’t think of but somehow work.”

“It could be a closet repurposed into a study nook,” she said. “People are being very smart about spaces and furnishings.”

Many do-it-yourselfers are contacting JMP Interiors for help with projects like attic spaces that they didn’t have time to tackle until they started to shelter in place, according to Putzel.

“With a pantry now functioning as something else, clients are looking for places to store food and organize work and school supplies,” said Vicki Ure, owner of Victoria’s Corner, her flagship home furnishing and custom decorating store in Ballston Spa. “That could be a piece of furniture passed down from the family or something they already use or buy second hand.”

“Older, quality furniture was created with solid wood and dovetailed corners,” Ure said. “The drawers were made to slide on runners instead of rails as they are today, so they are deeper and provide more storage space.”

Many also need desks as never before to work from home, she said, so maybe a sofa table can become a future work space. Her shop carries an array of antique furniture pieces as well as supplies to refurbish them, including the popular claybased chalk paints.

“Before the pandemic, we gave classes on how to apply chalk paint, which comes in beautiful colors and has a soft finish,” she said. “It adheres to everything without sanding or extensive Continued On Page 14

SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 2020 • 11

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Business Report Avoiding Chimney Fires

BY JAMIE WALLACE Chimneys are like septic systems. No one thinks about them until there’s a problem.

They are especially ignored in second homes and rental properties. A chimney can be a dangerous thing to forget, one that can cost you the loss of property and/or life. There are some simple steps you can take to drastically reduce your chances of ever becoming a statistic.

Step 1: Have your chimney inspected every year, even if you hardly use it. Chimneys change like children grow. Water, settling, and time will continue to alter the flue system.

Having your chimney inspected annually, and swept when needed, is the requirement given by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 211, Standards Codes for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid Fuel-Burning Appliances.

Step 2: Hire a qualified company with certified employees from the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). There is no regulation for the chimney trade in New York state. Anyone can go and buy some brushes from a hardware store and call themselves a chimney sweep.

It is very important that the company you hire is up to date with the latest safety standards and codes, uses technology for a detailed inspection, and is held to a high standard through a reputable certified chimney safety organization.

Step 3: Have your chimney scoped with a chimney camera. We often joke with our customers asking if they have ever had a chimneyoscopy. To our surprise, very little have ever had a chimney camera inspect the inside of their flue.

Only with a camera can you find certain damages or incorrect installations that increase your chances of putting your home and family at risk. Make sure you are present for the inspection so the sweep can explain the process.

Pictures are not helpful if you don’t understand what you see.

Step 4: Stop the water, or pay the price.

Chimneys are the most exposed piece of your house to the elements. In the northeast, water will penetrate deep into cracks and freeze, enlarging the cracks, which in turn allow more water, more freezing, more cracking.

It’s a simple cycle that should be stopped early on before those small cracks turn into large multi-thousand-dollar repairs. Water will not only destroy the outside of your chimney, but also the inside, forming blockages and causing odorless carbon monoxide poisoning to back up into your home. For water protection every masonry chimney should be waterproofed with a vapor permeable solution, proper flashing, and have an outside mounted cap installed which covers the entire top of the chimney.

Step 5: Don’t forget about the chimney used for your heating system.

There are many boilers and furnaces that still

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Jamie Wallace is the owner of Chimney Heroes of Saratoga Springs.

Courtesy Chimney Heroes of Saratoga Springs

use the chimney to vent poisonous gases from your home. It’s easy to forget about them. The HVAC company will not service or inspect the chimney properly.

Chimneys serving oil appliances will have a very corrosive chemical compound called sulphur dioxide which will damage and weaken flue tiles and metal. A chimney serving a natural gas or LP furnace will have one gallon of water pumped through it per hour during the heating season.

Water is the enemy and will speed up deterioration. Checking these chimneys on an annual basis will increase your chance of catching anything before it becomes a problem.

The best remedy for this would be to ensure the chimney is structurally sound and then install a lifetime stainless steel liner which is resistant to corrosion and water damage.

Step 6: Be careful what you burn. The sage advice of burning dry, seasoned wood is paramount. This will keep your creosote levels down while giving you a much more enjoyable fire. Remember that certain woods, especially oak, take a few years to fully season after split.

Always avoid paper or cardboard with gloss or glue in it and do not burn wood with paint or varnish on it.

These products have chemicals that can accelerate corrosion in your chimney liner. Many of our chimney fire calls are from customers right around Christmas.

They had just finished opening their presents and figured it would be fun to burn the wrapping paper in the fireplace. Unfortunately, this can lead to many sparks and even ignited paper getting sucked up the flue, potentially causing a chimney fire.

While no one can guarantee a safe chimney, by following these simple steps you can drastically reduce chimney fires and other problems.

Business Report New Technology Is Changing The World

BY JEANNE DION MR. ELECTRIC OF QUEENSBURY As a consumer, both in business and for your home, there has never been a time as exciting as now. With the transition from fluorescent and filament light bulbs to LED lighting, and the evolution of the IoT (Internet of Things), the world in which we live has changed forever.

For the typical home, each and every light that is converted from a conventional one to LED consumes on average 20 percent less power; and is able to be turned on and off by a switch, or an app, and even voice. Wireless and smart technology has enabled a plethora of options to turn on, off, dim, or monitor power consumption of just a single light, receptacle, or whole home with some simple navigating within an app.

One of the most interesting devices we installed to date was a water leak detection system for a second home for a customer. They had experienced a ruptured water line in the winter months that nearly destroyed their property, so they purchased a system that detected moisture in pre-determined areas, and a water shutoff valve that was operated if moisture was detected on their main water line coming into their home.

This allowed them to have complete peace of mind while away from their investment.

Home automation can also be coupled with GPS to create a “scene” that allows devices in your home to turn on when you leave or arrive within a geographical range of your home or place of business. You can have driveway or accent lighting turn on when within 1,000 feet of your home, or even turn lights off when leaving your home.

The options are really endless. For your heating and air conditioning, you can set schedules for the temperature of your home or office. Again, with the help of an app, you can program the temperature you wish to maintain in your space while there or away, and even incorporate GPS technology to control the desired temperature you desire before you arrive.

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In the Adirondacks, many homes are vacation spots, so people will set the desired temperature for while away, saving energy, and then set it to the perfect comfort level for when they arrive. This allows for the perfect scenario, energy savings while away, and not having to wait until arrival to turn the furnace/AC unit on.

Some of the more interesting developments are having the ability to preheat your oven prior to arriving at home, or taking a peek into your refrigerator while at the grocery store to see if you need milk or eggs. All this is made possible from very small integrated chips embedded in our appliances, and small cameras. They interface with your wireless network within your home, and then communicate through your internet service provider to talk to your smart phone, tablet, PC. All of this occurs at speeds unimaginable not so long ago. Another emerging technology has been the integration of solar panels and large storage batteries in the home with inverters making your home a stand-alone power plant.

With the amount of companies providing this service, many consumers can enjoy the feeling of not paying for a electric bill, and even in some cases get paid for producing more power than you consume, and selling it on the open market.

Another application that has become pretty sophisticated is home security. Door locks and doorbells can now provide remote access, again coupled with an app you can allow someone access to a property by seeing them at the door, and unlocking the door for them.

Smart devices and PCs can allow the user to see live streaming video to monitor property remotely.

This technology has allowed for a sense of security for small neighborhood watch communities, and the local law enforcement community. When working with clients, it is such an exciting time discussing the endless options available. Literally there is an endless amount of home automation, and energy saving options out there for the consumer.

12 • SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 2020

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SPECIAL SECTION

Health / Fitness

YMCAs And Other Gyms, Now Open, Used Roosevelt Bathhouse In Spa State Park Set Creative Ways To Keep Clients Engaged To Reopen With Health Safety Precautions

Connar Trombly, Saratoga YMCA senior childcare coordinator, seated, and Scott Clark, CEO, talk with children at the facility, which was recently allowed by the state to re-open.

BY LISA BALSCHUNAT Use of online classes and parking lots kept some clients of local gyms and fitness centers participating in their exercise routines, but the lack of social connection was an important element that was lacking during the shutdown caused by the coronavirus.

The state recently allowed gyms to reopen in late August. They had been closed since March 16.

“We are very excited about our reopening.

We’re trying to help people find their new normal,” said Saratoga Regional YMCA Interim CEO Scott Clark. “During the past five months, our Malta location offered a full-based pre-school for 175 kids for parents who were essential workers, and operated our summer Care program for 92 kids per week.“ “The kids had an opportunity to get outside and run around,” he added. “We had to be flexible and fluid to meet state regulations, but we wanted kids to be kids whenever possible.”

“Our members are coming back to the Y to get back into their daily routines, but in addition to the exercise, they are back

©2020 Saratoga Photographer.com

because they’ve missed their friends and the socialization that happens here everyday,” said Brian Bearor, CEO of the Family YMCA of the Glens Falls Area.

In the summer, some 300 people interacted in with the Glens Falls Y at the children’s summer or gymnastics camps or through online classes, and some 220 employees were furloughed during the five month freeze.

“The Payroll Protection Program (PPP) carried us through until September and 50 percent of our members shifted their monthly membership to a donation status during that time to help the Y financially,” Bearor said.

He indicated that the success of the Y’s annual fundraising campaigns this fall and winter will be crucial this year.

With the startup of school in September, the Glens Falls Y will shift its after school programs back to the Glen Street facility and Adirondack Center in Brant Lake. Previously the staff was dispersed to 11 sites in the region.

“It is the best way to manage a safe environment for our children,” Bearor said.

Continued On Page 20

The historic Roosevelt II Bathhouse at Saratoga Spa State Park, first opened in 1935 by former New York governor and President Franklin D. Roosevelt and closed since falling into disuse in the 1980s, is ready to re-open.

The renovation Georgian revival-style building was part of a $2.3 million transformation.

Under the NY Parks 2020 initiative, the bathhouse’s historic lobby has been restored, new restrooms installed, new heating, ventilation and plumbing systems added, toxic asbestos removed, and programming space added for a planned artistic and wellness center.

State officials said future plans include use of a portion of the 18,000-square-foot facility by the nonprofit group COESA, which will use 2,700 square feet to offer retreat experiences and classes in personal well-being, leadership, meditation, professional wellness training, and work-life balance. The facility will open once state regulations aimed at preventing spread of COVID-19 allow.

Until then, COESA will continue the momentum of its video series with focused online offerings and a collaboration with SPAC presenting outdoor classes, executive director Wendy Page said.

“This bathhouse will be returning to its original purpose - the enjoyment, well-being and relaxation of those who visit,” State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said.

“The Roosevelt II Bathhouse is a living piece of New York history that once provided a natural luxury experience to everyday New Yorkers, and by breathing new life into the facility visitors will once again find themselves enjoying the peace and beauty of Saratoga’s natural springs,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said. “New York’s parks are a national treasure and we will continue our hard work across the state to not only maintain them, but make them better than ever and true must-see destinations.”

Saratoga Springs Mayor Meg Kelly said the project “represents another link in the chain of progress happening in Saratoga Springs: continually building and rebuilding without ever losing sight of our past or heritage ... I look forward to working with our new patterns, COESA, and our existing ones, and wish everybody involved with this project the best of luck in the future.”

President and CEO of Saratoga Performing Arts Center Elizabeth Sobol said, “SPAC treasures

The Roosevelt II Bathhouse at Saratoga Spa State Park was first opened in 1935 . its location in the Spa State Park, surrounded by exquisite nature and historic architectural gems.

Seeing Roosevelt II begin to come to life is truly one of the most exciting things I have experienced here since beginning my tenure at SPAC. We are so delighted to welcome our new Parks Partner, COESA, onto the campus and look forward to all the wonderful new health and wellness programming they will be bringing into the Park.”

A new coffee shop, Wired Coffee, is operating within the building.

“As an innovative wellness and leadership center, COESA is mindful about opening our doors when it is safe to do so. During the pandemic, we quickly mobilized to create a video series, Rising Together, collaborating with local, national and international practitioners to assist our community in this uncertain time,” said Page.

The COESA facility is across from the Roosevelt Baths and Spa, and is part of the Roosevelt Campus, which includes Parks administrative offices and the Spa Little Theater, as well as two mirror-image mineral water public bathing facilities, and the magnificent Hall of Springs.

Officials said there is 12,000 feet remaining in the renovated bathhouse to be redeveloped in the future.

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SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 2020 • 13

•

Business Report Healthy Habits Help People Do Their Best

BY LORI VANDERVEER Chances are, if you are reading this newspaper, then you are someone who is driven and business oriented.

Probably somebody who is an entrepreneur or someone who is committed to achieving the highest levels in their profession. I understand that mindset completely. I am that person too.

That is why I am so passionate about helping people achieve their best selves. It all starts with your health.

Oftentimes, it is the most driven people who tend to be the most unhealthy. Working as a physical therapist for over 30 years has exposed me to disease and illnesses that result from poor nutrition, stress and unhealthy habits.

Over the last 15-20 years, the population of people I treat has increasingly shifted from simple orthopedic injuries to more complicated cases of patients who are simply “sick” with obesity-related medical illnesses and physical dysfunctions.

Illnesses and disease states that are completely preventable can creep up on you when you least expect it. Illnesses like diabetes( is your A1C rising?), heart disease( do you need to take just a “little” bit of blood pressure meds?), GI problems (reflux?), sleep apnea (do you snore?) can result in chronic pain, neuropathy, heart surgery, COPD, kidney failure and more.

There is a direct correlation between health and performance in the workplace. It is one of the reasons why so many workplaces now have their own health clinics on site.

I have also experienced the stress-cycle that results in weight gain, joint pain, and chronic fatigue. When I got my nutrition in check, everything else followed: increased energy, quality sleep, weight loss and clarity of mind.

That is why I decided to become a certified health coach. I discovered I could significantly impact lives by helping people regain their health and eliminate preventable disease states.

As I dove further into coaching, I witnessed clients eliminate their diabetic meds, blood pressure meds and more. Clients began to get back to living their best lives free from the constraints and limitations of poor health.

Quality sleep, weight loss, mental clarity, and increased energy translate into every aspect of our lives including our workplace.

My role as a certified health coach is to provide support, education, and structured information to clients. I love teaching simple healthy habits that amount to big changes

•

Lori VanderVeer, certified health coach, owner/founder of HEALthyLife.

Courtesy HEALthyLife

long term. My goal is not just for clients to lose weight, but to empower them to live their best lives. I am able to impact people as a health coach in a way I am not able to as a PT, because I am able to help prevent clients from limiting disease states.

Here are some simple healthy tips. Try to add at least one of them to your day so that over time, it will become a healthy habit: 1. Start your day with a big glass of water.

Your body will crave the first thing you give it, so if you have a glass of water first, you’re off to a good start. Also, when you wake up, your body is dehydrated and needs the water for cells to function efficiently 2. Eat every two to three hours. This will help prevent blood sugar levels from dropping which can result in cravings.

3. Manage stress. Mental health has a direct effect on physical health. Find an outlet for managing stress. It can be as simple as taking a walk with a friend. Or seek counseling. There is no shame in talking with a professional that can give you effective tools for managing your stress.

4. Get enough sleep. When we are lacking sleep, cortisol levels increase and this increases cravings.

5. Make a point to move every hour if you sit at a desk. Try parking in the last spot of the grocery parking lot. Take the stairs instead of the elevator.

6. Reach out to a health coach to help you on your quest.

Doctor Of Osteopathic Medicine Opens A Practice On Broadway In Saratoga Springs

BY JENNIFER FARNSWORTH After 19 years of practicing emergency medicine, Dr. Clara Somoza felt the time was right to start her own practice. As a doctor of osteopathic medicine, Somoza offers a patient-focused approach to health care that looks into a patient’s physical, personal and spiritual well being.

Somoza said not only were her emergency room patients wanting her to offer a place to continue care, but her colleagues were hoping she would do so as well.

“My children are getting older, and I could see there was a true need from those around me for what I can offer them. The time seemed right for me to be able to do this, and so far the response has been really positive, people seem happy to now have the option to come and see me,” she said.

Osteopathy on Broadway is located at 340 Broadway, Suite 1, Saratoga Springs, and is available by appointment only.

She said people trust in her ability to provide them with care that is tailored to them, and not just a generic plan. Even in the midst of a pandemic, Somoza has managed to create a welcoming space where people know they can safely visit and receive the care they need. She manages the entire practice on her own, making it as paperless and efficient as possible.

“People who I have treated know what I can do. There have been some challenges with the virus but I have worked to try and make the run as seamless as I can.

My son has helped me with the website where people can book online. I work here alone, so that limits the amount of unnecessary contact. I really am a onewoman operation,” said Somoza.

Osteopathic physicians assist the patient’s innate capacity to heal by acknowledging and addressing the interrelationship of the body’s nerves,

Dr. Clara Somoza has a new practice, Osteopathy on Broadway, in Saratoga Springs. ©2020 Saratoga Photographer.com

muscles, bones and organs. Somoza said what she practices helps to counteract relying on unnecessary opioids.

“With gentle hands-on techniques while recognizing nature’s laws and the body’s inherent capacity for recovery, osteopathy can help restore your health and ease your pain,” said Somoza.

Somoza continues to work part-time in emergency medicine at Ellis Hospital’s Medical Center of Clifton Park and Albany Medical Center/Saratoga Hospital’s Malta Medical Urgent Care.

She is a resident of Saratoga, which was part of the reason she decided to open her practice in the city.

Learn more about Dr. Somoza and osteopathic medicine at www. osteopathyonbroadway.com or by calling 518-290-0840.

14 • SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 2020

Tanski Construction & Development Is Planning Projects In Stillwater, Halfmoon

Bruce Tanski, owner of Bruce Tanski Construction & Development, says he sees a lot of pent-up demand for housing in the Saratoga County area.

BY JILL NAGY Bruce Tanski Construction & Development, already a major player in southern Saratoga County, has plans in the works for several more projects.

Tanski has already built more than 2,000 single-family homes and apartments. New ventures include the first development under Halfmoon’s cluster zoning law, as well as a new townhouse development, also in Halfmoon, and senior housing in Stillwater.

Hank’s Hollow, the cluster development, if approved, would consist of 106 single-family homes on Staniak Road, he said. The houses would be in a cluster of 12,000-square-foot lots.

According to Tanski, between 40 and 50 percent of the land would remain as open space.

The cluster development ordinance requires a minimum of 10,000-square-foot lots. The homes would range from 1,400 square feet to 4,000 square feet, with a minimum of three bedrooms and two and a half baths, he said, and would sell at prices in the $300,000s.

Tanski said he sees a lot of pent-up demand for housing in the area and predicts that the smaller

Courtesy Bruce Tanski Construction

lots will appeal to empty nesters.

“What I’m finding is that a lot of grandparents want to live close to their kids but they don’t want a situation where it’s right across the street,” he said.

For seniors, Tanski is seeking approval for King’s Isle in neighboring Stillwater, a development of 125 apartments and 88 unrestricted apartments. That development, on Route 67, already has 309 apartments. “I have no vacancies,” Tanski said. “People want to get out of the cities. People have got to have a place to live.”

Back in Halfmoon, Paar Estates, is “just getting off the ground. That development, when completed, will consist of 130 units.

While concentrating on residential development, Tanski, also built a par 3 golf course and restaurant at the intersection of Routs 9 and 146, also in Halfmoon. He added a brew pub about a year ago.

Tanski has been building housing developments for 35 years, he said, including projects in Scotia, Saratoga, Wilton, Clifton Park, Brunswick and Halfmoon. He has 128 employees, mainly doing construction work.

Interior Design

Continued From Page 10 preparation.”

Her customers are trending toward an updated farmhouse style, mid-century modern among the younger crowd, and neutrals with a pop of color, she said.

“Home is supposed to be a restful place, but now we are trying to cram an office into the same four walls,” said Katelyn Moskos, founder of both Lake George Design and Northern Living NY, a vacation rental management company.

“People don’t know how to solve their design issues,” said Moskos. “They just know they are stuck in a bubble and want to be inspired and comfortable in the spaces where they live and work.”

Moskos said her trademark is working with textures, “such as having a soft material next to a heavy or dense one just for change.”

A more comfortable, functional home is the desire of anyone whose residence is now also their vacation spot.

“COVID shook up luxury spending,” said Putzel. “People who used to spend on vacations cannot travel, so this will lead to more renovations at home. Homeowners like tropical and coastal styling, ocean-inspired and a Palm Beach feel and are decorating their homes like the areas they would otherwise visit.”

“We may see more people installing salt water fish tanks, for example, because that reflects where they like to vacation,” she said. “Or people who like visiting national parks may bring in bark, wood and moss and create a micro-climate until they can get on a plane and travel there.”

Whatever their interests are, when people’s decorating reflects themselves and their personality, they create happier places to thrive in, the experts said.

Moskos’ challenge is decorating homes to be stylish and practical not only for the homeowner, but also for the vacationers who rent their property.

“Homeowners here in the Adirondack area usually go with a mountain theme, but I am more French country with a twist of modern,” she said.

“Travelers come from all around and I prefer a lessis-more approach with clean lines, not gadgets and trinkets. The vacation homes we manage are not all natural wood, but maybe we would design one element to give it character from its North Country roots.”

At the least she might relocate a few pieces of furniture for more freedom of movement within the space, she said. And Moskos is not in agreement with anyone who says couches and chairs have to match. In fact, her style mantra is “the more texture the better.”

“Maybe mixing the textures of metal and rock becomes a curiosity that is different,” Moskos said.

“Your brain tells you that you will want to touch it, so you are actually being invited to sit there.”

The experts have found that the way people are thinking about their homes will likely have lasting impact.

“People who are not investing in office or formal attire are reinvesting in their homes and looking at

their spaces in a new way,” Putzel said.

“Employees making the shift to virtual work on camera are spotting that bookcase in back of them and thinking, is that how it looks? Maybe I should be looking at it differently,” she said.

Corporate design is another competitive field and the experts have faced a litany of challenges not experienced prior to the pandemic.

“There has been a major design trend in terms of the use of space,” said Sandra Fox, founder of Sensory Six, which emphasizes an “elegant, luxurious and simple style” for residential and commercial clients.

“Clients are seeking flexibility with multifunctional spaces that have multipurpose, movable, lightweight elements,” said Fox. “Additionally, office spaces are becoming more private and personalized.”

“We are helping client companies pivot and evolve by employing a variety of trends into interior design and redesign, many of which we believe will be permanent,” she said.

“Corporations want to advance morale and collaboration among employees while providing a warm and welcoming aesthetic that gives the feeling of home,” she said. “Regardless of the industry or the building’s use, they need the materials, space configuration and technology that keep employees and customers healthy.”

She said “we have upped our game considerably by concentrating on better air filtration systems and recommending smooth surfaces that are easier to clean, versus textured or porous ones.

We are designing with new materials that prevent organisms from adhering to them, like those that mimic sharkskin.”

Another way buildings can be designed for better health is with plants, which not only scrub the air of toxins like formaldehyde but also “give an emotional sense of well-being for most people,” according to Lanette Akerson who founded Plant Doctor, LLC, now located in Glens Falls.

“An interior landscaper accesses the environment created by the designer architect and adds that extra sparkle that brings the interiorscape to life with plants,” she said. “We are the last ones to come onto a design project.”

Akerson’s corporate accounts stuck with her plant design, installation and maintenance service, which was deemed essential, throughout the pandemic. As a result, Akerson was able to realize a goal that was very important to her personally as well as professionally.

Plants are used in offices spaces to cover outlets and extension cords, soften corners or hard edges, improve the flow of traffic, and call attention to certain elements while oxygenating and purifying the air.

“Especially during these trying times, we really need beauty,” she said. “It’s not about money but about turning things around.”

“If there is a silver lining to these very difficult times, it is adding wellness as a core design requirement along with aesthetics and functionality,” Fox said.

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Richard Kessinger Owner

P.O. Box 187 Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

(518) 944-0359

saratogalawnmaintenance@gmail.com

SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 2020 • 15

•

Business Report What You Don’t Know Can Be Costing You

BY WARREN EVANS During the lockdown, there is some good news.

Pollution levels during the height of the pandemic lockdown fell dramatically because of the lack of economic activity and the interruption of worldwide travel.

The question is this: As we recover from the pandemic, is there anything we as individuals can do to maintain these low pollution levels with little or no sacrifice?

We believe the answer is yes, it is possible.

On a personal level, while you were locked down you probably noticed many great things about your home, on the other hand, if you’re like me you also saw a lot of things you needed to fix or change. You can start out by getting a home comfort and energy assessment and completing the recommended solutions. That’s the way each of us can begin to lock in some of the benefits of the low pollution levels we saw during the lockdown and help to achieve an overall sustainable and resilient global recovery.

At the start of the pandemic lockdown, we realized that our home solar panels weren’t producing as much electricity as we expected.

Under normal circumstances we would’ve been too busy to even noticed the difference, but like most everyone else we were in lockdown so we had extra time to take a closer look at our home.

We decided to bring in a solar system maintenance team to inspect the entire system and get everything back in working order. Once the team removed the roof top solar panels they discovered something very surprising as you can see in the pictures below, squirrels had chewed a hole right through our rooftop and into our attic.

This discovery was quite a shock, we were obviously unaware that our attic was this exposed to the elements, this wasn’t the type of ‘solar power’ we had in mind. As an additional consequence of this exposure, the three feet of cellulose insulation that was blown into our attic several years ago to improve our energy efficiency had disintegrated, it’s gone.

Now thinking back, this actually made sense to us, when the insulation was installed years ago the house became instantly more comfortable, now that these issues were uncovered it explained why the upstairs had gradually changed for the worse; it had grown warmer in the summer and colder in the winter.

In retrospect it’s clear that the comfort of our home declined over the last couple of years as our heating and cooling energy bills increased to compensate for the wasted energy due to the hole in our roof. Hopefully the lessons that we learned are clear, what you don’t know can cost your bank account, your family’s comfort and

HVAC Companies Busy Continued From Page 10

•

Warren Evans is a partner with the ReWire Group LLC. Courtesy ReWire Group LLC

your impact to the environment, the answer for us, and maybe for you, is an upgrade to the “clean energy life.”

The clean energy life is a journey, and there are people who are further along on that journey than us. We all know and enjoy our first world lifestyle, but the lifestyle is very carbon intensive especially in the U.S. While the average worldwide carbon footprint is five metric tons/year while the average U.S. carbon footprint is over three times larger at 16-plus metric tons/year.

There is hope however, as sustainable and renewable energy technologies improve and are supported by breakthrough economic thinking, we can use these accelerating advancements to lower our large first world carbon footprint, upgrade our lifestyle and save money all at the same time. That triple win is what we call the “upgrade to the clean energy lifestyle.”

It’s an upgrade because the clean energy life can improve your health, comfort and convenience while reducing your waste, costs and carbon footprint. It is a journey, so as you go, your life gets better, less expensive and more environmentally friendly.

The takeaways: You can minimize the carbon footprint of your home, or business, by using less energy and if possible supply the energy you do use from lower cost renewable energy resources.

Next actions: Measure your carbon footprint, set goals to lock in the benefits of the upgrade to the clean energy life (carbonfootprint.com); get a free home energy audit and assess your opportunity to save money at NYSERDAEnergy-Audit-Programs; community solar allows an easy sign up for a home or business for lower cost clean electricity at ampion.net/ energybrothers.

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and inspection in the spring. They didn’t want us in their homes—especially the senior citizens. We went through all of the protocols. We had masks and sanitizer and followed the six-foot rule, but we understood. April was a bad month for us. In May, things started opening up a little bit. And in June, what we saw is that things really took off for replacements. A lot of that was because of the stimulus money.”

Even though business has rebounded, the pandemic continues to impact Bove’s operations.

Manufacturing shutdowns and trucking issues have caused long waits for HVAC equipment orders.

“Everything is just delayed right now,” said Bove.

“And there is an incredible demand. Our demand is up at least 25 or 30 percent.”

Bove didn’t furlough any employees, but some opted out for medical reasons. Because of the supplemental unemployment employees were receiving, Bove faced a challenge that has been common for many industries. It was difficult for him to get some employees to return to work because they were making more on unemployment.

Davis experienced a similar situation in his business.

Although Glens Falls’ Thermal Associates experienced a slight slowdown in service at the height of the pandemic, partner Marj DeVit said the new construction side of the business remained strong. The company hired two additional employees to help meet demand.

“We had a slowdown in service in the beginning, but we were still quite busy because there are so many people building homes up this way. We also work in the Adirondacks, and we found that we had work coming out of our ears. I think that is very common with the construction industry. We are really, really busy. We’ve also seen a lot of demand for the MERV-13 filters.”

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers and the CDC recommends the use of MERV-13 filters. They are able to filter extremely small particles out of the air and may help minimize the spread of COVID-19.

“Any places that have large gatherings have been seeking us out to get MERV 13 filters, but they are

in really short supply and we are having problems getting them,” said DeVit. “We also have to be careful that it’s not going to damage the heating system because it puts constriction on the air flow.

So people have to be certain that their system is applicable for it and that they aren’t going to cause a bigger problem.”

Potential problems are serious and could lead to carbon monoxide leaks. For that reason, DeVit said it is important that MERV-13 filters are only installed by HVAC professionals.

“That’s why we’ve never pushed the MERV-13 filters. With commercial equipment, it can be much more useful. But for homeowners, we recommend that they get proper HEPA equipment instead of just changing your filter.”

DeVit said some customers have asked to have UV lights installed into their ductwork. Although the use of UV lights has a proven track record of killing various microorganism, it is unknown if it can kill the coronavirus.

“There again, you have to have them properly installed and your system has to be appropriate for it,” said DeVit. “Going forward, I think we are going to see more people putting in UV lights and HEPA filter systems which don’t restrict the air flow and don’t compromise your system.”

Bove said he has had few residential customers express interest in UV lights, but he has received inquiries from some small restaurant owners in the North Country. Although his company has installed the lights, he said they are now virtually impossible to find. Before COVID, supply far exceeded the limited demand for the product.

Davis has not had any customers request UV lights, but he said customers are expressing concern about air quality. He recommends air scrubbers, which can be installed on the Mitsubishi HVAC systems he sells. These scrubbers filter contaminants such as allergens, viruses, and bacteria from the air.

Although COVID concerns will eventually pass, local professionals expect air quality concerns to persist. It is likely that the next generation of HVAC equipment will be designed to help combat the airborne spread of infectious diseases.

16 • SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 2020

REGIONAL STOCKWATCH Stock Name

Closing Price 08/14/2020

Albany Int’l

53.11 49.73 52.66 51.12

Closing Price 08/21/2020

Closing Price 08/28/2020

Closing Price 09/04/2020

Arrow

28.54 28.50 28.21 28.49

AT & T

30.01

Ball

75.36 76.48 80.12 82.46

29.69

30.04

29.43

Ballston Spa National Bank

41.50 41.50 41.75 41.75

Bank of America

26.29 24.81 26.12 26.53

Best Buy

109.49 114.00 111.23 106.30

Citizens Bank

25.90 24.19 26.29 27.36

Espey

17.83 17.68 17.30 16.90

General Electric 6.66 6.31 6.61 6.41 Hilton

86.00 87.35 91.73 90.91

Home Depot

279.08 281.74 284.79 269.81

Int’l Paper

37.27 35.18 36.93 39.02

Key Corp

12.57 11.78 12.59 12.89

Lowe’s

154.34 161.72 165.51 156.43

Martin Marietta

218.73 209.08 206.75 215.08

M&T Bank

108.08 101.40 105.30 105.94

McDonald’s

205.83 210.34 213.66 211.74

National Grid

58.35 57.44 56.55 55.61

NBT Bancorp Inc.

31.70 30.10 30.89 31.113

Plug Power

11.40 12.93 13.07 11.76

Quad Graphics

3.67 3.44 3.64 3.41

Starbucks

78.37 77.07 85.00 86.27

Sysco

59.54 57.46 61.89 60.17

Target

135.86 153.63 150.85 147.18

The TorontoDominion Bank

47.90 47.16 50.20 48.56

Trans World

8.67 6.66 7.14 7.95

Trustco Bank

6.14 5.72 5.79 5.94

Verizon

58.79 58.99 59.26 60.47

Walmart

132.60 131.63 140.30 142.83

This list of quotations is provided through the courtesy of Robert M. Schermerhorn, CFP®, Saratoga Financial Services, Securities offered through LPL Financial /Member FINRA & SIPC, located in Saratoga Springs, NY. www.SaratogaRetire.com

Business Registrations •

•

Crafty Interrupted Meghan Bunio 47 Hopeful Lane Wilton 12831

Excessively Diverted Press Heather Moll 44 Orchardview Drive Clifton Park 12065

Hoop House Calls Blaine Goverski 39 Battery Boulevard Mechanicville 12118

Capital Region Carpet Installation Latchmi Narayan 149 Wood Dale Drive Ballston Lake 12019

Kosmetics with Kate Kaitlyn Woodcock 903 Old Harbor Drive Halfmoon 12065

Light and Dark L and D Susan Daloia 21 Lakewood Drive Saratoga Springs 12866

Saratoga Art N Craft Patricia Rosenbauer 91 King Road Saratoga Springs 12866

Uncle J’s Services Joshua Bezona 862 Hudson Ave. Stillwater 12170

Galusha Reporting And Analytics Gail Galusha 15H Crown Circle Mechanicville 12118

Healing Presence Counseling Melissa Chaput 2023 Route 9 Round Lake 12151

Extreme Electric William Bell 154 West Milton Road Ballston Spa 12020

Mind Body Spirit Center Christine Seebold 629 Plank Road Clifton Park 12065

Mobil Masseur Glenn LaPorte 93 Woodin Road Halfmoon 12865

Green Services Adam Janis 212 1/2 Regent St. Saratoga Springs 12866

Indigo Puzzles Tony Guarino 50 Lakewood Drive Ballston Lake 12019

Angel Hair at Haven Angela McCarty 14 Low St. Ballston Spa 12020

Unearthed Woodworks Joshua Carpenito 208 Nelson Ave. Saratoga Springs 12866

Twisted Timber Co. Jodi Peterson William Moos 5209 Armer Road Ballston Spa 12020

F nd D Enterprises Todd Cooper 35 Tamarach Trail Saratoga Springs 12866 Concierge Cleaning Louann Garafalo 9 Hillcrest Lane Saratoga Springs 12866 Beehive Saratoga Justin Kane 12 Lake Ave. Saratoga Springs 12866 Grant’s Services Robert Grant 579 County Road 24 Corinth 12822 Clifton Park Contractor Thomas Cronin 1764 Route 9 Clifton Park 12065

Snyderscope Matthew Snyder 11 Hampstead Place N. Saratoga Springs 12866 Topofthehill Construction Patrick Colson 288 Foxhill Road Edinburg 12134 Jennifer Claire’s Traveling Paint And Sip Jennifer Hockford 89 Dubois Lane Rexford 12148 Rock City Family Child Care Michelle Taylor 3290 Shaw Hill Road Rock City Falls 12863 Shakti Room Jeanette Fultz 376 Broadway Saratoga Springs 12866

SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 2020 • 17

Business Registrations •

New York State Has Funds For COVID-19 Tracing And Flu Prevention For Fall Season •

The Honest Handyman Robert Mander 730 Hudson River Road Mechanicville 12118

Over the Rainbow Childcare Kaitlin Briner 18 Barbara Mac Drive Corinth 12822

Food Insecurity Solutions Buffa Benore 209 Wilton Commons Drive Gansevoort 12831

Olympic Pest Control James Crocetto 21 Woodmint Place Malta 12020

Kaydeross Performance Solutions Donald Conn 958 MacArthur Drive Ballston Spa 12020

Lacar Electrical Larry Carter 376 Charlton Road Ballston Spa 12020

Happy Willow Designs Hillary Wendell 3 Clerion Ave. Clifton Park 12065

LD Daily Golf Laura Daily 24 Mohawk Trail Clifton Park 12065

Quinn Educational Consulting Pamela Quinn 35 Quail Court Saratoga Springs

Nothing Fancy Catering Dennis Bailey 485 Lakeside Ave. Northville 12134

TLW Roadside Assistance Ted Whitelaw 1 Tamarack Lane Clifton Park 12065

Moonstone Forest Amanda Lomanto 275 Angel Road Greenfield Center 12833

Malta Coin and Collectibles Frederick Bader 30 Miller Road Ballston Lake 2019

Full Throttle Wood Carving Johnathan Acors 3 Sequoia Drive Ballston Spa 12020

Rockwell Photography Gillian Rockwell 547 Sherman Road Ballston Spa 12020

Toga Tile and Stone Emil Onzo 7 Kaatskill Way Ballston Spa 12020

Cletus’s Cleans Clinton Beyers 109 Wall St. Schuylerville 12871

Whymzworks Deborah Leahey 16 Deerfield Place Ballston Spa 12020

Carlini Construction Services Christopher Carlini 125 Shippee Road Corinth 12822

Melissa Ferguson Image Artistry Melissa Ferguson 133 Schuyler St., Apt. C Victory Mill 12884

Advance Tech Service Corey Hall 155 Wood Road Ballston Spa 12020

Ronda’s View Storage Facility Scott Salvatore 10 Park Ave. Stillwater 12170

Sofia Grace Craftspirations Teena Shields 42 Brickyard Road Mechanicville 12118

Absolute Painting And Restorative Services Salvatore DaBiere 11 Worden Drive Saratoga Springs 12866

Backwoods Charm Christopher Gerard 22 North High Street Ballston Spa 12020

Always on the Glow Amanda Neron 4372 Route 9N Porter Corners 12859

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New York state has more than $30 million to enhance COVID-19 contact tracing and flu prevention in advance of the fall flu season.

The majority of funds, available to counties in the form of grants, will be used to increase local health department staffing capacity for enhanced detection, surveillance and prevention of COVID-19, state officials said.

The state also announced $2 million in additional immunization funds to expand flu vaccination rates statewide to prevent overwhelming the healthcare system in the event of a severe flu season.

Funding to the area includes $520,735 for Saratoga County, $261,379 for Warren County and $260,345 for Washington County.

“As we continue to battle the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we are also preparing for the upcoming fall flu season,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said. “We are making $30 million dollars in grant funding available to counties to increase their contact tracing - which has worked very well for us - and to expand flu prevention and vaccinations to help ensure counties are ready to provide both flu and COVID-19 testing to residents.”

The NYS Contact Tracing Initiative, in partnership with counties, uses the NY Communicable Disease Management System or CommCare. To ensure consistency throughout the state, counties receiving this funding will be required to use CommCare for all COVID-19 investigation and tracing activities. Awards are based on county populations plus a supplemental award for the percentage of statewide COVID-19

cases in each county.

State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker said New Yorkers “have worked hard over the past several months, through these difficult times, to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Initiatives like this, that strengthen contact tracing efforts throughout the state, will be the key to maintaining this hard-fought success, by stopping local outbreaks before they get out of control. With the possibility of COVID-19 cases resurging in the fall and winter, I encourage everyone stay healthy by getting a flu shot this year and to be prepared to receive a COVID-19 vaccination when one becomes available.”

The funding has been made available through a CDC-sponsored cooperative agreement for Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity for Infectious Diseases.

In addition to contact tracing funding, the governor announced $2 million provided by the CDC to be distributed to local health departments throughout the state in advance of the flu season to make sure everyone gets their flu shot.

Officials said the COVID-19 emergency strained the state’s healthcare system. A severe influenza season combined with another wave of COVID-19 could easily overwhelm it. Influenza is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, responsible for preventable healthcare visits, hospitalizations and deaths.

Over 22,000 New Yorkers were hospitalized with laboratory-confirmed influenza during the 2019-2020 influenza season.

18 • SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 2020

Track Handle Tops $700 Million Continued From Page 1

TOP SPOTS FOR CHEAP EATS UNDER $15 IN SARATOGA SPRINGS

BY ERIN NUDI Dining out doesn't have to break the bank. In fact, some of the best restaurants in Saratoga Springs offer incredible food at reasonable prices. Whether you're making room in the budget for a spa day or don't feel like cooking, the local restaurants on this list have you covered.

Parameters: Cheap in Saratoga is not the same thing as cheap in New York City or Boston, so we've outlined our main parameters for this list: • The dinner menu had to have plentiful options under $15 • Specials and happy hour deals were not taken into consideration in making the list

RAVENOUS

Crepes aren't limited to breakfast and dessert. Ravenous in Saratoga Springs features a wide variety of savory and sweet crepes that cost under $15 a plate, such as the Monterey Short Rib, the Chicken Parm, and the Lemon Blossom crepes. If you can spare a few more dollars, spring for the Ravenous Classic Prix Fixe meal. For $18.99, you get a full three-course meal that includes a small pommes frites with dipping sauce, your choice of a classic crepe, and a petite sweet crepe.

DIZZY CHICKEN WOODFIRED ROTISSERIE

Dizzy Chicken Woodfired Rotisserie has brought some unique and flavorful eats to the Spa City.

Their specialty, as implied by the name, is rotisserie chicken, but they also serve up smoked meats like pulled pork, brisket, turkey, and meatloaf. The majority of their entrees, which include a meat plus two sides, will set you back less than $15, and they offer a wide selection of affordable paninis, sandwiches, and salads to choose from.

THE LOCAL PUB & TEAHOUSE

Head down to The Local Pub & Teahouse in Saratoga's historic Dublin neighborhood for some delicious budget-friendly food. On the dinner menu, you'll find English and Irish pub fare like traditional bangers & mash and homemade shepherds pie, as well as burgers and sandwiches. Best of all, only a few entrees on the menu will set you back more than $15. For other great food deals, visit The Local earlier in the day for brunch or lunch.

CANTINA

In the mood for some tasty Mexican cuisine in Saratoga? Check out Cantina, which is located right on Broadway. They have a variety of fresh Mexican dishes that cost under $15, but the most impressive might be the SF Mission Burritos (charro beans, red rice, chipotle salsa, lettuce, queso blanco, and your choice of meat get wrapped up in a tortilla). You can also try the tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas, and small bites for under $15 too.

THE BARRELHOUSE

Known for their impressive beer selection, The Barrelhouse is an excellent spot to visit for cheap eats in Saratoga. Many of the items on their pub-inspired menu cost less than $15, including some hearty sandwiches and quesadillas with salsa. As of August 19, 2020, they are offering an altered menu that is subject to change. You can visit their Facebook page for the latest menu.

BEER WINE PIZZA

Beer Wine Pizza (BWP) is a local bar and grille located inside The Springs Apartments on Weibel Avenue in Saratoga. When you're craving jumbo wings, hand-tossed pizza, and all natural burgers for under $15, then you need to stop by BWP. They offer a wide array of budget-friendly items for both lunch and dinner.

SUSHI THAI GARDEN

If you'd like to sample a few items and still come in under $15, Sushi Thai Garden is a great choice.

This Japanese-Thai restaurant features a la carte sushi and sashimi that you can mix & match and still come in under budget. The rice and noodle dishes tend to fall in the $12-$14 range and often leave you with leftovers for later. Browse the whole menu and look forward to enjoying authentic Japanese and Thai cuisine.

THE PARTING GLASS

The Parting Glass is a Saratoga staple and one of the best Irish pubs in the Capital Region. They have everything you need for a fun time - great food, local and imported brews, and live music. Everything on their dinner menu, from the Irish fare to the pub grub favorites, costs under $15, making them a very budget-friendly dining option.

Provided courtesy Saratoga.com

small businesses operating at NYRA tracks and others dependent on the thoroughbred racing industry.

“NYRA thanks the horsemen and women as well as the entire backstretch community whose professionalism and dedication in adhering to our COVID-19 protocols enabled us to conduct our summer meet without interruption,” said NYRA President and CEO Dave O’Rourke. “We would also like to thank city and county leaders for their efforts in working with us to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants, and the Saratoga community for welcoming us without reservation.

“While the 2020 Saratoga meet was a success in many ways, it will most be remembered for the absence of our passionate fans and the irreplaceable energy that they bring to Saratoga each summer. Despite not being able to attend in person, horseplayers watched and wagered with tremendous enthusiasm, and we thank them for their continued support.”

NYRA said a total of 409 races were run this summer including 226 on dirt and 183 on the turf. 32 races were taken off the turf due to weather. Average field size over the 409 races was 7.4. This compares to 403 total races run in 2019, including 225 on dirt and 178 on turf. 38 were taken off the turf due to weather.

Klaravich Stables was the meet’s leading owner with 13 wins. Trainer Todd Pletcher claimed the H. Allen Jerkens training title for the 14th time in his illustrious career with 32 wins. The Ortiz brothers battled down to the final race of the meet as Irad Ortiz, Jr. edged out Jose Ortiz 59 to 58 to claim the Angel Cordero Jr. riding title.

NYRA Bets, the official betting partner for Saratoga Race Course, experienced significant growth during the meet. NYRA and locallybased Stewart’s Shops partnered this summer to unveil a new method for fans to fund their NYRA Bets accounts through the introduction of NYRA Bets Gift Cards. NYRA said horseplayers responded enthusiastically and purchased

more than 12,000 gift cards at Stewart’s Shops between Opening Day and Labor Day. During this season without spectators, fans turned to Saratoga Live, NYRA’s awardwinning television program, in greater numbers than ever before. Average viewership of Saratoga Live on FS1 totaled approximately 120,000, while just under 1.3 million viewers watched the Runhappy Travers on FOX, according to NYRA. Overall time spent viewing Saratoga Live increased by 300 percent during the more than 210 hours of live programming broadcast on FOX Sports throughout the meet.

NYRA was active on the charitable front to help support the Saratoga community during the pandemic. NYRA Cares generated $13,380 for the Adirondack Trust Co. Community Fund which will distribute the money to locally-based charities and non-profit organizations impacted

by COVID-19. The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce raised the funds through an online auction of items provided by NYRA as well as through donations from fans.

NYRA donated $20,000 to four Saratoga Springs charities through the sale of Saratoga Race Course-branded face masks. NYRA worked closely with Saratoga Springs Mayor Meg Kelly in selecting the beneficiaries which provide food, shelter and other critical resources. The funds were divided evenly among AIM Services, Inc.; Franklin Community Center; Shelters of Saratoga and the SNACpack Program (Saratoga Nutrition Assistance for Children).

“NYRA has not only been an outstanding partner from a philanthropic standpoint, but also as a leader in the continued effort to keep our community safe,” said Kelly. “For months, we have worked closely with NYRA to ensure this year’s meet would be a success despite the challenging environment.”

Live racing returns to Belmont Park on Friday, Sept. 18, for the 27-day fall meet, which includes 38 stakes worth $5.58 million in purse money. The meet runs through Sunday, Nov. 1.

For more information, visit NYRA.com.

Casinos To Re-Open Continued From Page 1

resulted in layoffs or furloughs of more than 4,100 people and deprived the state and localities of millions in tax revenue.

Across the country, 114 casinos remain closed due to the coronavirus pandemic while 876 are open, according to a COVID-19 tracking map published by the American Gaming Association, a trade group in Washington.

Most casinos were proactive and had already installed new high-efficiency air filters similar to those Cuomo required at indoor malls.

In August, both the City of Saratoga Springs and the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors passed resolutions at their respective meetings in support of reopening Saratoga Casino Hotel. Each cited the support of the casino’s “safe bet” reopening plan and urged state authorities to give their fullest possible consideration to the reopening of the casino.

“We cannot underestimate the value that Saratoga Casino Hotel brings to the City of Saratoga Springs,” said Saratoga Springs Mayor, Meg Kelly. “They have been working diligently to establish and implement safety procedures that are in line with NYSDOH and CDC guidelines which ensures all patrons and staff are safe. I support the reduced capacity reopening of Saratoga Casino Hotel to get people back to work and for their patrons to safely resume normal activities in our community.”

The casino closed on March 16 following the state stay-at-home mandate. Over the last several months, Saratoga Casino Hotel developed a plan to implement physical modifications as well as policy and procedural changes to protect the health and safety of team members and guests.

The “safe bet” plan focuses on preventing the spread of the COVID-19 virus through heightened standards in cleanliness and

sanitation; installation of MERV 13 air filters; enforcing social distancing with the use of f loor guides, plexiglass barriers and taking every other machine out of service; requiring masks at all times while on property except when seated in a restaurant; and conducting temperature checks and asking screening questions upon entry.

The casino is also prepared to provide contact tracing through the use of ID scanners if required by the state.

“I’m happy the county was able to support the reopening of the Saratoga Casino Hotel. After reviewing their “Safe Bet” plan I am convinced they can do it safely and securely,” said Matt Veitch, Saratoga County Supervisor, representing the City of Saratoga Springs “We graciously thank our locally elected officials for their show of support in unanimously passing the resolution in favor of reopening the casino,” said Alex Tucker, Saratoga Casino Hotel general manager. “We appreciate the confidence that the Saratoga Springs City Council and the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors have that the casino can safely reopen as so many others have done across the country.

Reopening the casino is vital to the local economy and will bring hundreds of team members back to work, while producing revenues to aid education, sustain harness racing beyond September, and will shore up the tax base of the city and county in these uncertain times.”

Saratoga Casino Hotel, located on Crescent Avenue in Saratoga Springs, NY, features slot machines, a 117-room luxury hotel, electronic table games, Vapor, Morton’s The Steakhouse, two full-service restaurants with buffets, a casual dining restaurant, three full-service bars, deli and a variety of guest services including valet parking and coat check.

SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 2020 • 19

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20 • SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 2020

State Has Plan To Fix Home Of Suffragette Susan B. Anthony In Washington County On the 100th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment, which gave women the right to vote, the state is involved in an effort to stabilize and preserve the childhood home of prominent 19th century women’s rights activist Susan B. Anthony in Washington County.

The work at the 1832 two-story brick home on Route 29 in Battenville, where Anthony lived from ages 13 to 19, includes repairs to the roof, masonry and drainage, as well as mold remediation and water damage.

“New York has been the birthplace to many of the progressive movements that have left an indelible mark on our society while pushing the nation forward and particularly for women’s suffrage, which began at Seneca Falls and included legendary New Yorkers such as Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton and so many more,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said. “As we commemorate the 100th anniversary of women gaining the right to vote, we must also recognize there is more work to be done.”

“On the anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment, this development will stabilize Susan B. Anthony’s childhood home in Washington County, allowing for the reuse of the property,” said Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul. “While the Susan B. Anthony House and Museum in Rochester showcases the history of one of the world’s greatest revolutionaries, this project will further preserve Anthony’s legacy in New York state. As the birthplace of the women’s rights movement, New York was the first major state to grant the right to vote in the country, leading the way for the 19th Amendment.”

This year is also the 200th anniversary of Susan B. Anthony’s birth, in 1820. The child of a Quaker family that promoted abolition and temperance, she lived in Washington County, in Battenville and later in Center Falls, from 1826 to 1845 between the ages of 6 and 25 before her family moved to Rochester.

The state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is managing the $695,000 stabilization project. It has also reached a purchase agreement on an adjoining four-acre site that contains a former historic tavern dating to the period when the

The home on Route 29 in Battenville, where Susan B. Anthony lived for a time.

Courtesy New York State Parks and Recreation

Anthony family lived next door.

Supported by the state Environmental Protection Fund, the $130,500 purchase will allow for future creation of adequate parking for the Anthony home and serve as a staging area for continued phased redevelopment of the building for an as-yet undetermined future use, officials said.

State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said, “Part of our mission is the preservation of our state’s historic legacy. The home where Susan B. Anthony spent her formative years has a story to tell and we want to get the home in the proper condition, so it one day is able to tell it.”

The stabilization project is supported by a $250,000 grant obtained by state Assembly Member Carrie Woerner and the remainder from New York Works. Support was also obtained by State Sen. Betty Little.

The Battenville home was built in 1832-33 by Anthony’s father who had moved the family from

Gyms, YMCAs Re-Open Continued From Page 12

With COVID-19 protocols in place the facility is clean. “It has never been a question of the Y not being a safe environment for our members pre-pandemic,” he said. “Now we have an additional critical cleaning regimen in place.”

Beginning March 15, virtual classes and outside exercise programs kicked into gear at the Saratoga Y. With just under 600 employees, Clark said the organization did not qualify for PPP, but had to furlough employees.

The Saratoga Y had 15,000 family memberships, representing 28,000 individuals pre-pandemic and 15 percent donated their membership draft during the shutdown.

“We launched a Summer to Remember campaign that raised $100,000 to underwrite summer care,” Clark said.

Businesses including Stewart’s Shops, Munter Enterprises, Airosmith Development, Hill and Markes, GlobalFoundries and Fingerpaint Marketing contributed.

“We invested in a Clorox 360 degree electrostatic spray machine, purchased the necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for the safety of our staff and members taking our cleaning efforts to a new level,” said Clark. “The printing costs for signage and floor decals added up. We have signs on everything for social distancing and washing hands. We conducted training for the new protocols. We’re following the guidelines and we are excited to get members back to here at the Y to help them find their new normal.”

Tara Silzer, owner and personal trainer of Fit City in Queensbury said, “I survived the shutdown with outdoor classes under a big tent in the parking lot. PPP saved my business.”

She shortened Fit City’s hours and now sanitizes throughout the day. There is also an evening cleaning crew in place.

“Some members chose on line classes through our Facebook Live page. I actually had people in Canada, Arkansas and other places that signed on, too,” she said. “I have a loyal group of members. They don’t mind the mask thing. They were just elated to get back into their exercise routines.”

Fit City has been open for five years at 959 Route 9 and presently have 600 members.

Nicholas Galuardi, owner and exercise physiologist at Saratoga Health and Wellness, on Maple Avenue in Saratoga Springs, said the re-opening is “going pretty well so far.”

“We are not your typical gym. My partner, Michael Lapolla, and I worked for a local cardiology group for 10 years. We pick up where rehabilitation leaves off,” Galuardi said.

“We assist baby boomers who want a total fitness and nutrition program, the high school college athlete looking for a better fitness experience, or anyone who wants to improve their core, flexibility or cardio-physiology.”

During the past five months, Galuardi and Lapolla offered one-on-one coaching programs live from their basements.

“COVID-19 was a huge disruption in our clients lives,” he said. “Some choose outdoor regiments and some did virtual to get by, but some have been rather sedentary since March.

We want to get them moving again.”

Saratoga Health and Wellness, on average has 400 clients each year. The company has been in operation since 2009 and currently employs one full-time and three part-time workers.

Adams, Mass., to manage a cotton mill on the nearby Battenkill River. At the age of 13, Susan joined the Easton Society of Friends. The Anthonys lost their home in 1839 due to financial setbacks caused by a national financial recession in 1837. The former family residence was in a state of disrepair

by the time State Parks purchased it at foreclosure for $1 in 2006.

Anthony, who died in 1906 at age 86, worked for decades to advance women’s rights, but did not live to see the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920.

She is buried in Rochester.

You will want to TUNE IN to the Saratoga Showcase of Homes Show

We are very excited to announce our Showcase TV Special that will be airing this fall on WRGB CBS-6, hosted by News Anchor Liz Bishop. Check our website for dates and times.

What you’ve come to love from our home builders, now from the comfort of your home!

Participating Builders Beechwood Homes Bella Home Builders Belmonte Builders Caruso Home Builders Degraff-Bloom Custom Builders Heritage Custom Builders Kodiak Construction McPadden Builders The Earth Source Company The West Saratoga Condos Whitbeck Construction Witt Construction

• Donate to our charities at SARATOGASHOWCASEOFHOMES.COM/DONATE • Showcase proceeds benefit:

saratogashowcaseofhomes.com

SHOWCASE STRONG