Saratoga Business Journal - September 2023

NYRA Says Saratoga Race Course Generated More Than $1 Million In Attendance Revenue

The New York Racing Association, Inc. announced that the 40-day summer meet at historic Saratoga Race Course generated more than 1.1 million in paid attendance for the first time since 2018 and nearly $800 million in all-sources handle.

Despite one of the wettest summers in history, which forced an unprecedented 65 races off the turf, all-sources handle totaled $799 million with paid attendance continuing its steady climb to 1,105,683.

The handle was the third largest in

Saratoga’s history while this summer also marked the eighth consecutive season with attendance exceeding 1 million fans, officials said.

“Thanks to the fans who visited Saratoga Race Course over these 40 days, and all those who watched and wagered from home, the popularity of the summer meet continues to exceed all expectations,” said NYRA President and CEO Dave O’Rourke. “The worldclass racing held here each summer is made

Fossil Stone Vineyards & Winery Is A New Establishment Operating In Greenfield Center

Fossil Stone Vineyards & Winery is a new operation at 331 Grange Road in Greenfield Center.

A Sept. 1 ribbon cutting event marked the opening of one of the only combined vineyards and winery in the area.

At the event, Fossil Stone Vineyards & Winery debuted its Amish-built, timber frame barn, a 720square foot facility that sits on the 140-acre farm, including seven acres of vineyards and a large horse farm on the property that dates back to 1802.

The winery and vineyard will have a limited calendar of hours this fall and will hold a Harvest Party that is open to the public on Sept. 23.

The event will feature grape harvesting starting at 10 a.m., followed by evening of food from Mama Mia’s of Saratoga, a cash bar and music from the Greenfield band Nymbis. The business will host a variety of other private parties throughout the year. Starting next spring, the winery will be open for business and tours with more regular hours. For more information or to book, contact 417-849-6692. The new business joins the already-established Fossil Stone Farm, an equestrian operation that opened in 2016.

“It is a dream of ours to combine locally grown wine with our history of horses to make a special place and event venue that warms the heart and calms the soul,” said Mike Spiak, who co-owns the business with his wife, Kelly. They have been working on the idea since 2009.

Spiak, who was a member of the Air National Guard branch of the U.S. Air Force for 26 years, spent many years as a flight engineer on C130s, flying in the Polar regions for scientific research. He said many stops in New Zealand inspired his love and

interest for vineyards, wine, and the grape to glass process, eventually opening his mind to having his own vineyards.

Kelly Spiak also spent more than 20 years in the Air National Guard and also is a full-time dental hygienist. The couple has two teenage daughters.

In 2014, the team received its license and produced its first commercial vintage.

Town Supervisor Kevin Veitch said the town “is pleased to add the kind of a business that captures the heart and soul of what Greenfield is about. The rural

Spring, Early Summer Weather Events Hurt Some Local Apple Growers; Others

BY PAUL POST

First a late-spring killing freeze. Then a devastating, early summer hail storm.

“I’ve heard many, many stories about lots of orchards that had total loss and won’t even be able to do anything with apples this fall,” said Michelle Wilson, business manager of Hick’s Orchard in Granville. “Some got hit double whammy with the hail storm a few weeks after that freeze. It definitely depends on where you were, your elevation and how cold it got.”

Survive

But Hick’s, like Saratoga Apple in Schuylerville, is the exception this harvest season, whose you-pick business kicked off on Labor Day Weekend, ushering in one of autumn’s most popular family-oriented outdoor activities.

“We do have a crop,” Wilson said. “I think we’re going to be okay.”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has designated 31 counties across New York state, including Washington and Saratoga,

Saratoga Economic Development Corp. Selects J. Gregory Connors As New CEO

J. Gregory Connors, a former senior government relations executive for GlobalFoundries U.S., is the new president and CEO of the Saratoga Economic Development Corp.

Connors was senior leader of government relations at GlobalFoundries in Malta for about a decade.

Longtime SEDC president Dennis Brobston retired at the end of 2022 and vice president Tori Riley headed the group in the interim. Now Connors steps into the role.

“Greg is a lifelong Saratoga County citizen, and he has the experience, professional credentials and network that makes him the right leader,” SEDC board chairman John Munter said in a statement.

Connors was involved in the family real estate business, Connors-Howard Realty, in Mechanicville for a time, followed by a career in public service.

He was Stillwater town supervisor during the time the Luther Forest Technology Park was under development.

“He understands our county and he knows economic development. He’s going to take SEDC to the next level,” Munter said.

The SEDC, founded in 1978, helped attract AMD/GlobalFoundries to Saratoga County, which is one of the largest recent investments upstate. GlobalFoundries now employs about 2,500 people.

SEDC is led by a board of private-sector

representatives and is principally funded by the private sector, with Saratoga County contributing $200,000.

“I look forward to expanding SEDC’s influence, level of interest and collaboration with our business partners, community stakeholders and elected officials as we work together to promote Saratoga County, create opportunity, retain jobs and grow our local and regional economy,” Connors said.

He

J. Gregory Connors, president and CEO of the Saratoga Economic Development Corp. Courtesy

Mike Spiak co-owns Fossil Stone Vineyards & Winery in Greenfield Center.

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Hick’s Orchard in Granville recently opened its you-pick apple business despite a late freeze and early-summer hail storm that caused major losses at many Northeast farms. Paul Post

Personnel Briefs

Arrow Financial Corp. announced the promotion of Marc Yrsha to chief banking officer for its two subsidiary banks, Glens Falls National Bank and Trust Co. and Saratoga National Bank and Trust Co.

Yrsha retains his position as executive vice president and will assume all chief banking officer responsibilities for the banks.

He joined the company in 2015 and currently oversees retail banking, which includes retail, consumer, business and municipal banking, as well as small business and home equity lending. As chief banking officer, Yrsha succeeds Dave DeMarco, who was promoted to president and CEO of Arrow in May.

Yrsha is active in the community and currently serves as chair of the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce. He is also a member of the Council of Business Advisors for the Lake George Association, Warren County Local Development Corporation and Lake George Regional Planning Board loan review committees.

He is a graduate of Castleton State University and the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce Leadership Class of 2013. Marc and his family currently live in Queensbury.

* * *

Roohan Realty announce that Megan Brenenstuhl has joined the team as a licensed real estate salesperson.

Brenenstuhl was born and raised outside of Lexington, Ky., and went on to pursue sales, marketing, and event planning opportunities in the outdoor recreation industry in places like New Zealand, Key Largo, Virginia, Vermont, and Colorado.

She and her family reside in Saratoga Springs. * * *

Saratoga National Bank and Trust Co. announced the appointment of Nick Zarrelli as assistant vice president, business banking relationship manager.

Zarrelli will be responsible for maintaining, growing and servicing the company’s small business loan portfolio and growing relationships with longtime customers.

He joined the bank in 2016 and will continue to work closely with branch staff and business partners to offer commercial banking and lending products and services to enhance the customer experience.

The Guilderland native attended SUNY Oneonta where he received his bachelor’s degree. He later earned a master’s degree from The College of Saint Rose.

Zarrelli serves as vice president of the board of directors for the Epilepsy Foundation Northeastern New York and is a board member of South Colonie Girls Softball. He is also a Capital Region Chamber Ambassador and serves on the Next Generation Leadership Council for the Eastern Contractors Association.

* * *

NBT Bank has welcomed Brendan Baxter as senior vice president for public sector business development. Baxter is based at NBT’s Capital Region Financial Center in Albany.

In this new role, Baxter collaborates with government banking, commercial banking, treasury management and other business partners at NBT Bank to serve the unique customer needs of government entities and public and private higher education institutions.

Baxter comes to NBT Bank with more than 15 years of government experience, including the last 10 years at KeyBank. During that time,

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charm of a business like this is sure to be a success.”

The vineyard features three major types of grapes that are hybrids meant to withstand winter climates that originally came from the Midwest. The variety of grapes include Marquette, La Crescent and Petite Pearl.

The winery produces Rose (blush), La Crescent (a semisweet white), Marquette (a red semi-dry), Oak-aged Marquette (semi-dry, medium-bodied red wine) and Amber (a creamy, buttery white). The bottles range in price from $13-$20.

The property features beautiful farm scenery, vineyards and the new barn with many rustic trimmings such as wine barrel chandeliers, tractor seat stools and more. Visitors can experience the rural ambiance and also get a behind the scenes view of the wine-making process during harvest, with its stainless-steel tanks, crusher/destemming equipment, barrels and more.

Fossil Stone Vineyards & Winery consists of a team of six. The property received a conservation easement from Saratoga PLAN in 2005 to protect the property from development.

Originally, a historic horse farm built by Elihu Wing, the Spiaks chose to preserve and highlight the history and authenticity of the farm by adding an equestrian operation, known as Fossil Stone Farms, featuring wooden stables, boarding and lessons for more than 20 horses at a time, with each paddock featuring its own run-in shelter, stable and nine paddock areas, ranging from 1-5 acres each.

The farm has six equestrian and hiking trails totaling three miles. The equestrian operation opened in 2016 and is managed by Born to Run Performance Horses owner Alicia Davis. The company website is www.fossilstonefarms. com. Its phone number is 417-849-6662.

Fossil Stone Vineyards & Winery recently debuted its Amish-built, timber frame barn,

New Owner Of Fingerpaint Building In Saratoga Hopes To Add Two More Stories

BY PAUL POST

A multi-billion dollar company with assets from coast to coast and the Caribbean is pursuing plans to expand and move to the former Fingerpaint building at 395 Broadway in Saratoga Springs.

Based at 85 Railroad Place since 2013, Prime Group Holdings purchased the building from Fingerpaint marketing firm owner Ed Mitzen for $11 million in late June.

The company has $5 billion in total assets and is one of the largest private owners of self-storage units, totaling more than 22 million square feet in 28 states and the islands of St. Thomas and St. Croix.

“Prime Group is proud to be a longstanding member of the Saratoga Springs community and we look forward to expanding our operations in downtown Saratoga as our business continues to grow following the (2022) close of our third flagship self-storage fund,” said Robert Moser, company founder, principal and chief executive officer.

The company website says Prime Storage Fund III, its largest commingled private equity fund, is the largest self-storage real estate fund ever raised by a vertically integrated owner-operator.

Plans call for adding two more stories to the two-story, red brick building at the southwest corner of Broadway and Division Street, increasing space from 25,000 to 45,000 square feet.

“We are excited to develop state-of-theart and energy efficient offices to best support our talented and experienced real estate investment team as we pursue value-add opportunities in private equity real estate, with a focus on fragmented asset classes,” Moser said.

In addition to its Saratoga Springs headquarters, Prime Group has a regional office in Jupiter, Fla. and investment origination offices in Denver and Hackensack, N.J. The firm has more than 600 employees including investment professionals, property managers, an investor reporting team, construction and marketing personnel and deal-sourcing professionals.

Prime Group facilities are found in dozens of major U.S. markets including, but not limited to Seattle, San Diego, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, Denver, Chicago, Miami, Atlanta, Charlotte, Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York City and Boston.

Growth has been both steady and aggressive the past few years. Notable self-storage acquisitions have included 535,000 square feet in Atlanta and 221,000 square feet in Coastal North Carolina in 2017; 119,00 square feet in Portsmouth, R.I., 126,000 square feet in Danbury, Ct. and 68,000 square feet in Bridgehampton, N.Y. in 2018; and 115,000 square feet in Fair Lawn, N.J. in 2019.

Prime was extremely busy in 2021 with

Foundation Is Taking New Grant Applications

The Saratoga Casino Hotel Foundation is now accepting grant applications for the 2023 grant cycle.

The foundation exists to support charitable and public benefit organizations whose mission is the betterment of quality of life, health and welfare of Saratoga County residents.

To qualify for a grant, organizations must be classified as a not-for-profit organization by the Internal Revenue Service and applicants must carry out services and activities that benefit the residents of Saratoga County. Activities that address problem gambling, support youth activities, senior citizens, recreation, arts and community are given priority.

“For nearly 20 years, the County has partnered with Saratoga Casino Hotel and the Harness Horseperson’s Association in running this program,” said Matt Veitch, one of two supervisors for the City of Saratoga Springs and the current chairman of the foundation board. “In that time, The Foundation has awarded over 200 organizations with more than $450,000 in grants.”

Housing To Be Built To Help Veteran Mothers

The Veterans & Community Housing Coalition held a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the Foreverly House on June 27. The home is at 1214 Saratoga Road in the town of Ballston.

A grassroots effort began three years ago to build Foreverly House, a two-family home to provide transitional housing for Armed Services veteran mothers and their children.

Foreverly House will be located next to Guardian House, where the Veterans & Community Housing Coalition (VCHC) provides housing and services for homeless Veteran women.

“Imagine the challenge of being homeless with children after faithful military service to your country. It shouldn’t happen to any veteran, especially to a veteran mom and her children,” the Veterans & Community Housing Coalition said in a statement.

the addition of 275,000 square feet in Florida, 152,000 square feet in Perris, Ca., and 443,000 square feet in South Carolina followed by the 2022 acquisition of 85,000 square feet in Manchester, N.H. and 124,000 square feet on Cape Cod.

The company has a strong regional presence and continues to explore local growth opportunities as well.

“We own and manage self storage properties in Wilton, Malta, Clifton Park, Glens Falls, Queensbury, Albany, Latham, Schenectady and elsewhere in the region,” Moser said. “We are always looking to add to our self-storage portfolio, including in the Capital District.”

Mitzen, a renowned healthcare marketing expert, founded Fingerpaint in 2008 and moved the company to 395 Broadway in 2012. It was originally built for and was home to a Borders bookstore. After leasing the building for several years, he bought it from a Buffalo real estate firm five years ago for $9 million.

Previously, Prime Group considered building a brand new, six-story, 160,000-squarefoot office building at a currently vacant lot at 269 Broadway, adjacent to Saratoga Central Catholic School. But with rising interest rates and the high cost of materials, these plans were shelved when the projected price tag became more than double the original $30 million estimate.

In contrast, expanding and renovating the former Fingerpaint building, including a first-floor retail space, is expected to cost about $15 million.

Moser declined comment about future plans for 269 Broadway, a half-acre property, which he purchased from prominent Saratoga Springs realtor Tom Roohan for $2.25 million in 2019.

This year, the foundation will be accepting grant applications by electronic means only. The deadline for submitting applications is Sept. 15.

The application is available on the Foundation website, www.saratogacasinohotelfoundation.org and must be submitted via e-mail to brider@SaratogaCountyNY.gov.

The foundation board will meet on Sept. 28 to decide on the grants and grant recipients will be notified by Oct. 4 as to the status of their application. Grant awards will be mailed the following week.

“The Foundation grants help organizations that provide educational programs; service to our seniors; family assistance; food pantries; assistance for those with disabilities; and help with domestic violence and alcohol abuse. We are very proud of the partnership with both the County Board of Supervisors and the Saratoga Harness Horseperson’s Association, and to the ability give back to our community in this way,”said foundation treasurer Skip Carlson.

Previous grant awards can be reviewed on the website www.saratogacasinohotelfoundation.org.

“A single veteran mom returning from service to our country often chooses between giving up custody of her children to receive the support services she needs, or foregoing these essential services while making the transition back to civilian life.”

Without proper support, these women may continue to suffer from PTSD, sexual trauma, anxiety, depression, sleep disorders and homelessness, the organization said.

Without funding from state or federal agency resources, Foreverly House will become a reality because of the generosity of major donors such as Business For Good, Stewart’s, The Saratoga Foundation, IUE-CWA Housing Corp., the American Legion, and the South Glens Falls High Marathon Dance, as well as donations from dozens of other businesses and hundreds of individuals.

Trinity Building and Construction Management Corp. is donating its services as the general contractor for the project. Several subcontractors and area suppliers are also generously donating or discounting their services or products.

VCHC hopes to complete the project and move the first Veteran Moms and their kids into Foreverly House in November.

Robert Moser of Prime Group wants to add two stories to this building on Broadway. ©2023 Saratoga Photographer.com

he was responsible for managing a portfolio of municipal clients, and navigating complex relationships across New York and New England, including major state agencies and many large cities and counties.

He earned a bachelor’s degree from Syracuse University and is a FINRA-licensed public finance banker.

* * *

aptihealth, a tech-driven behavioral healthcare provider based in Saratoga Springs, announced that Chris Betz has joined the organization as chief technology officer.

Most recently, Betz was senior director of software engineering at Brightside Health where he led a team of over 30 engineers and engineering managers—driving mental health software development, EHR initiatives, strategic technology decisions, and third-party software integration.

Prior to that, he served as CTO at New Ocean Health, overseeing the creation of a suite of software products, and playing an essential role in shaping the company’s vision and strategy.

Betz joins aptihealth at a time of significant growth, having served over 15,000 patients for leading national and regional health plans. aptihealth expects to more than double its patients in 2023, with a majority covered by value-based care contracts.

* * *

Pat McGowan has been named chief operating officer at CEFO Advisors in Saratoga Springs. Also, Kevin Bergeron has been promoted to chief financial officer and Kim Butler has been promoted to director of accounting services.

McGowan will be responsible for business development, project and client management, and

various internal initiatives that will allow for the future growth of CEFO Advisors.

McGowan joined CEFO Advisors in July 2022 as a fractional CFO. He has more than 30 years of experience as a finance and operations professional working with companies including Fidelity Investments, Informz, Six Flags Great Escape and Resort, and Construction Industry Solutions.

He earned his undergraduate degree from SUNY Cortland and his MBA from Bentley University and in 2014 was named one of the Capital District’s CFOs of the year by the Albany Business Review.

Bergeron joined CEFO Advisors in August 2022 as a controller. He has more than 13 years of professional experience in the accounting and finance fields with an expertise in construction and real estate. His experience includes CFO roles in both the real estate and hospitality industries in North Carolina.

He earned his undergraduate degree from UNC Wilmington, and his MS in Accounting, and MBA from the Cameron School of Business at UNC Wilmington.

Butler will advance the capacity and capabilities of the accounting and bookkeeping staff through enhanced professional training and process enhancements.

Butler joined CEFO Advisors in July 2021 as the manager of accounting services. She has more than 23 years of professional experience in accounting and management. Prior to working for CEFO Advisors, Butler worked for Rutnik & Co. PC, where she began as a staff accountant in 2000 and served in various positions of increasing responsibility and leadership.

as a primary natural disaster area following the late May frost-freeze event. These designations mean that impacted farmers may be eligible for assistance, including emergency loans from the USDA Farm Service Agency.

The state Agriculture Department requested the disaster designation from the USDA in a joint letter with other states that are part of the Northeastern Association of State Departments of Agriculture.

“In the days following the unseasonable frost, we visited and spoke with a number of our growers across the state to understand the extent of the damage,” said Richard Ball, New York State agriculture commissioner. “Many of them hadn’t seen frost conditions that late in the season in decades. We have been working with many partners since May to put together our request for a disaster declaration and to secure the assistance needed to help our growers overcome this challenging time.

“We encourage our farms to take advantage of the emergency loans and to continue to report losses to lessen the impacts of this damaging severe weather event.”

A recent Cornell University study said New York’s apple industry has a $2.1 billion economic impact, responsible for 12,000 direct and indirect jobs. Currently, there are approximately 600 orchards across the state growing apples on more than 50,000 acres.

New York is America’s number two apple producing state, but well behind industry leader Washington, which accounts for 60 percent of the nation’s crop. Michigan is third.

Hick’s Orchard’s successful business model has made it Washington County’s second-largest tourist destination, attracting literally thousands of people on autumn weekends. Only the recent county fair, third largest in the state after Eric and Dutchess counties’ fairs, is bigger.

“People stand in line for hours for our cider donuts, voted number one in the region,” said Wilson, unrelated to farm owner Dan Wilson. “Plus we’re going to have a lot of new barnyard attractions this fall, like tractor tours that tell the history of the farm and this area. Our fall craft fair is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 7 and we’re hosting Jeep Jam on the Farm on Saturday, Oct. 14, a fundraiser for Haynes House of Hope Hospice in Granville.”

Hick’s Ochard’s diverse revenue stream also includes the production of craft ciders at its Slyboro Ciderhouse. Recently, one of America’s most luxurious hotels, The Mark in New York City, began featuring Slyboro’s La Saint Terre cider on its menu, a major coup for this Washington County business.

Similarly, Saratoga Apple continues to

thrive in the face of Mother Nature’s many challenges by offering customers a variety of products and fun activities, too.

Founder Nate Darrow, who passed away unexpectedly last September, took advantage of his farm’s location on busy Route 29. On autumn weekends the highway is a popular thoroughfare for leaf-peepers traveling between Saratoga Springs and southcentral Vermont.

Darrow’s ancestor, Jedediah Darrow planted Washington County’s first orchard in Hebron, in 1784. Later, his grandfather planted Green Mountain Orchards in Putney, Vt., where Darrow grew up and learned the business.

Then, a group of investors hired Nate Darrow to plant and become foreman of an orchard in South Carolina. Before long, people began stopping and wanting to buy apples direct.

“It was a light bulb moment for him” said Darrow’s son, Eric, who now owns and manages Saratoga Apple with his mother, Christine.

Nate moved back north, purchased the former Bullard’s Orchard in Schuylerville, established Saratoga Apple and began selling direct to area residents and throngs of tourists anxious for fresh, tasty apples.

“So we are not wholesale at all, which is not very common for commercial apple growers,” Eric Darrow said. “We are just retail. We do that just through the orchard store here and by going to numerous farmer’s markets all year long.”

Saratoga Apple has a regular presence at about 40 farmer’s markets including those in Glens Falls and Saratoga Springs.

Eric Darrow said his orchard was fortunate to suffer “only” a 40-50 percent loss from this year’s freeze and hail. “A lot of growers are talking about 60-90 percent, some even have 100 percent loss this year,” he said.

Saratoga Apple grows about 40 different varieties.

Hick’s Orchard has the oldest, continuously running you-pick business in the state. McIntosh and Cortlands are the first ones available while Northern Spy usually wraps up the season in mid- to late-October.

The state Department of Agriculture and Markets help growers find new markets with farm-to-school initiatives and programs such as Nourish New York and New York Food for New York Families.

“These are all aimed at strengthening our food supply chain, supporting our agricultural businesses and ensuring that all New Yorkers can access fresh, local foods,” said Hanna Birkhead, department spokesperson.

Goldfish

Swim School Opens A Second Location On Route 146 In Clifton Park

Matthew Lucas Named 10th Harder Professor Of Business Administration At Skidmore

Matthew Lucas, a senior sales executive with a background in business strategy, marketing, sales, and global management, has been named Skidmore College’s 10th Harder Professor of Business Administration.

Lucas, who will begin at Skidmore in the fall semester, has held multiple senior leadership positions at leading corporations, including global vice president of consumer sales at Bose Corp., senior vice president at Samsung U.S., and senior vice president of sales at Coty Beauty U.S.

In these and other roles, officials said he has demonstrated extensive experience developing and executing strategic sales and marketing initiatives, fostering long-term business relationships, and achieving market dominance in highly competitive environments.

BY CHRISTINE GRAF

Goldfish Swim School has opened its second Capital Region location in North Country Commons at 1208 Route 146 in Clifton Park.

Franchise owners Dan, Tim, Jim, and Brian Gilbride operate a total of 11 schools including one on Wolf Road in Colonie.

Established in Michigan in 2009, Goldfish Swim School has more than 150 locations throughout the United States and Canada. They offer year-round swim lessons for children 4 months to 12 years, using a curriculum that was designed to teach swim and safety skills through guided play.

According to assistant general manager Caitlin Laviano, the Gilbride brothers opened their first location about five years ago after recognizing that there was a very high demand for quality year-round swim instruction.

“We are a perpetual swim school which means we are year-round and that we are not session based. If someone books into a class, they book a day and time and they are in that indefinitely until their child goes up a level or until they decide to no longer take lessons with us,” she said.

Laviano swam competitively for 17 years and worked in sports administration before relocating from Florida to join the team at Goldfish Swim School. The school is staffed by two full-time managers as well as 25 part time employees.

In order to ensure that each child receives individualized attention, the maximum student-to-teacher ratio is 4 to 1.

On average, classes cost $120 per month.

“Our class sizes are small, and are pools are kept super warm,” said Laviano. “We have shiver-free lessons, and our pool is kept between 90 and 91 degrees. It’s very comfortable for all of the swimmers, and they can be sitting on the side and not be cold as they are

waiting for their turn.”

Lessons last 30 minutes, and if a child has an excused absence, they receive a make-up token to attend a class on a different day or at a different time.

Parent/child lessons are offered, designed to provide children with life-saving skills as well as to help them improve coordination and balance and build stronger muscles.

“Parents are in the water with them getting them very comfortable as they are learning those water safety skills,” said Laviano. “We also work on building strength in fun ways. They are having fun while building their core strength and building their grip strength.”

When a child turns 2, the parent can continue with parent/child classes or enroll their child in an independent group lesson. All children ages 3 and up are enrolled in group lessons.

According to Laviano, more than 750 students have enrolled in classes during the two months that the school has been open.

“We’re very happy with the support we’ve gotten from the Clifton Park community as well as surrounding communities. We’re hoping to grow and to support this community as much as we can. We also do water safety presentations for the community that are free. We do them for schools, community groups, and Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts.”

Goldfish Swim School’s three-lane, 25yard pool can also be booked for Saturday birthday parties. Parties can be booked three months in advance.

Family swim times are offered on Tuesdays, Wednesdays between 12:15 and 1:15 p.m., as well as on Sundays from 1:15 to 2:15 p.m. The cost is $5 per person with a maximum of $15 per family, and membership is not required.

For more information, visit www.goldfishswimschool.com.

“As a globally recognized senior sales executive, Matt comes with a rich track record in defi ning brand and unique competitive positioning, establishing innovative alliances across diverse channels, and driving strategies with multicultural high-performance teams,” said David Cohen, associate professor and chair of the Management and Business Department.

“Part of what makes Matt such a valuable asset to Skidmore is his extensive experience in digital sales, where he utilizes the very latest digital tools and techniques to drive business growth and deliver superior consumer experience. Matt is also committed to our mission of providing a business education fi rmly rooted in Skidmore’s liberal arts curriculum.”

Earlier in his career, Lucas also served in various capacities at Novartis Consumer Health and Procter & Gamble.

“I’m very excited to join the Skidmore community and the opportunity to be part of Skidmore’s unique and outstanding management and business program,” Lucas said. “Over the past eight years, I have been a class-

room guest speaker and participant in Skidmore’s MB107 tradition.

“I’m especially thrilled to develop courses and other opportunities for Skidmore’s exceptionally talented and creative students that will further support them on their journey to becoming the next generation of global business leaders.”

Lucas succeeds advertising executive Guy Mastrion, who served as Harder Chair since 2017.

Established in 1984, the F. William Harder Chair of Business Administration brings to campus distinguished executives who can share their knowledge, experience, and networks with Skidmore students.

The Harder Chair also organizes the annual Harder Lecture, a chance for faculty, staff, and students to meet, talk with, and hear from national and international business leaders. The 2023 lecture was delivered by Skidmore alumna and fashion designer Barbara Tfank.

Melissa Harris, sales and service manager at Goldfish Swim School, stands poolside at the company’s new location in North Country Commons. ©2023 Saratoga

Matthew Lucas, Skidmore College Harder Professor of Business Administration.

IDA Awards Tax Incentives For Company To Create Local Office, Warehouse Facilities

An electric supply company based in Vermont will purchase a building in Saratoga Springs and convert into a distribution hub as well as offices, keeping jobs in the area and creating future job opportunities.

Green Mountain Electric Supply Inc. had expressed the desire to purchase a 143,000-square-foot office and distribution center from SKS Bottle & Packaging Inc. at 10 Skyward Drive, off Geyser Road.

The company has filed an application with the Saratoga County Industrial Development Agency seeking a tax incentive package that would help finance the transaction.

In late July, the IDA voted to award $1.56 million in tax incentives. That includes $91,000 in sales tax exemptions, $105,000 in mortgage tax exemptions and $1.4 million in property tax exemptions over five years.

The company, a lighting, cable, alarm system and electrical parts distributor, will purchase a 22.3-acre complex that contains the building. The structure would be converted into a distribution hub that also would house the firm’s financial team.

Green Mountain was founded in 1953 and is in its third generation of ownership. Headquartered near Burlington, Vt., Green Mountain has rapidly expanded its presence across upstate New York, growing to 16 branches and two distribution centers. The company expanded into New York in 2008 through the acquisition of Glens Falls Electric Supply in Queensbury.

Green Mountain is expected to employ seven people locally during its first year.

That is expected to grow to 17 by year three. According to the application submitted to the IDA, Green Mountain will use the facility for its New York headquarters, and “warehouse of electrical materials and supplies in connection with its wholesale electrical business.”

The company said it “has needed to expand the headquarters for its financial team and its New York management.” It looked at locations in western Massachusetts, Vermont and New Hampshire. The SKS packaging center could fulfill its needs, according to the application.

The company has an office and some warehouse space in Halfmoon and Clifton park, but according to its application it cannot sustain the Halfmoon office. The warehouse would continue to operate.

Green Mountain plans to invest $18.2 million for the building acquisition, installation of storage racks, rooftop solar panels and more.

The tax incentives “are imperative to make this site competitively priced and somewhat comparable to other sites being considered,” the application submitted to the IDA stated. Also, “the project, in the short term, will retain existing jobs in New York state and, as a growing company, will provide additional job creation in the next five years in Saratoga County.”

“The project will provide employment opportunities for Saratoga County residents and will support the construction industry in Saratoga with its ability to supply electrical contractors.”

Green Mountain Electric Supply Inc. wants to purchased a 143,000-square-foot office and distribution center from SKS Bottle & Packaging Inc. in Grande Industrial Park.

Mazzone Hospitality Changes Leadership Team As It Looks To Future, Promoting Th ree

Hospitality and catering giant Mazzone Hospitality is undergoing a change in leadership, the company announced.

Officials said the strategic move comes as part of the company’s commitment to strengthening its position and delivering exceptional experiences to clients and guests. The team comprises three key executives who bring extensive expertise, innovation, and passion to their respective roles.

Tim Vennard takes the helm of the company as vice president. He began his tenure with the company in 2009 when he was hired as chef manager at the PRIME Dining client, Price Chopper. Th roughout the years, his dedication and innovative approach to business has earned him several promotions, the company said. Most recently, he held the position of vice president of PRIME Dining since 2015.

Under Vennard’s leadership, the division has experienced growth, boasting a portfolio of 11 of the region’s largest employers. PRIME Dining grew to represent more than 50 percent of the company’s overall revenue.

“I am truly honored and excited to take on the responsibility of leading the Mazzone Hospitality team. Carrying on the legacy that has been built over more than 40 years is an honor. I’m here because Angelo (Mazzone, company founder) took a chance on a young chef and mentored me every step of the way,” Vennard said. “I look forward to building upon Mazzone Hospitality’s strong foundation of providing great food, great service, and exceptional experiences for our clients and guests.”

Justine Ochal moves into the role of vice president of sales and client relations. She started as a busser at the age of 16. After pursuing her education, Ochal returned to the company and soon rose through the ranks to lead the Human Resources team.

“From the very beginning, Angelo taught me that hard work is what matters and that hospitality is simple—provide great food and great service, and the rest will follow,” she said. “When I started at 16, I immediately fell in love with this industry and found a passion that continues to fuel me. I’m proud to now be a leader of Mazzone Hospitality.”

Mark Delos fi lls the role of vice president of culinary. He began his career with Mazzone Hospitality in 1989 when he was hired as beverage manager at Glen Sanders Mansion. He has held various leadership positions over the years including being general manager at The Glen Sanders Mansion and the Hall of Springs. Mark’s unrivaled creativity and passion for

food have earned him the reputation of a culinary visionary.

In his role, he will have the opportunity to train new chefs while continually striving to improve the company’s food offerings.

“I am proud to be leading the culinary team at Mazzone Hospitality,” Delos said. “Our team’s commitment to culinary excellence and unmatched service are the pillars upon which this company has been built and I’m excited to create dining experiences for our guests.”

In 2017, Mazzone sold Mazzone Hospitality to RA Associates and Compass Group.

Dean Martinus, president of Restaurant Associates’ Catering Division said, “I am honored to work with Tim, Justine, and Mark to lead Mazzone Hospitality into the next decade and beyond with the support of our collection of catering companies including, MAX Ultimate in Boston, CxRA in New York City, Occasions Caterers in Washington, D.C., and Wolfgang Puck Catering in Los Angeles”.

Mazzone Hospitality provides catering services at several of the Capital Region’s premier facilities including Glen Sanders Mansion in Schenectady, Albany Capital Center in Albany, and The Hall of Springs in Saratoga. The PRIME Dining division provides food and beverage services for employees of several of the area’s largest employers including Regeneron and GlobalFoundries. The company is headquartered at 743 Pierce Road in Clifton Park.

For more information, call 518-690-0293 or visit mazzonehospitality.com.

Tri-County United Way Saw Contributions Increase By Some 23 Percent

The Tri-County United Way announced that its allocations fund to support for partner agencies throughout Warren, Washington, and Northern Saratoga counties experienced a significant 23 percent increase this year

Tri-County United Way’s Allocation Committee will use those funds to help support agencies in 2024.

The committee includes local community leaders who reside and work within the communities TriCounty United Way supports.

After weeks of thorough review, including onsite interviews and program presentations, these individuals determine how funds raised by the organization are allocated to local partner agencies.

Kristin Chlopecki, executive director of TriCounty United Way, and Rebecca Wood board chairperson, emphasized the importance of these allocations in ensuring the sustainability of the services provided by these organizations.

“Tri-County United Way is dedicated to providing support to diverse community service organizations that offer a broad spectrum of assistance to individuals, families, and groups,” said Chlopecki. “In pursuit of our mission, we understand that a unified fundraising campaign is the most effective approach to generate funds for the agencies involved. We are excited to see a 23% increase in allocation funds, especially during our 100th year anniversary, that addresses the community’s most prominent needs.”

“It is incredibly rewarding to see our community come together through the Tri-County United Way Allocations Committee,” said Wood, Board. “Local business leaders have joined forces with our funded agencies to learn about the amazing work being done daily. The ability to fund each agency with over 20 percent more than last year is something we should all be very proud of in this financial climate. It is a true testament to this area and our people.”

Tri-County United Way expressed gratitude to the local agencies, businesses and donors, acknowledging their donations and highlighting their significant role in creating a better living environment for everyone.

The agency remains committed to providing support and funds year after year. The organization

Th is Fiscal Year

continues to work in partnership with the compassionate strength of local agencies and businesses to help promote greater welfare for all.

Officials said the increase in allocation funds signifies a milestone for Tri-County United Way as the organization celebrates its 100-year anniversary.

Tim Vennard was promoted to vice president of Mazzone Hospitality.

Courtesy Mazzone Hospitality

SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL Home / Energy

Annual Saratoga Showcase Of Homes Set For October;

Two Lake George Homes Added

Solar Power Company Officials Say Best Time To Start Planning Projects Is In The Fall

Tickets for the area’s premiere new home tour, the 2023 Saratoga Showcase of Homes, are on sale. The event is celebrating 27 years in Saratoga County.

Tickets are available at all Adirondack Trust branch locations, Curtis Lumber in Ballston Spa and Queensbury, Saratoga National Bank, Glens Falls National Bank and Roohan Realty on Broadway in Saratoga Springs.

Tickets are $25 and this year’s edition has 10 locations on display. New this year are two showcase locations in Lake George.

Tickets are conveniently available at any showcase home during tour hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. or can be purchased online through the event website at www.saratogashowcaseofhomes.com.

Each showcase ticket holder will receive a free shoe/tote bag at the first home visited.

The 2023 Saratoga Showcase of Homes is being presented over two fall weekends—Oct. 7-8 and Oct. 14-15.

Participating builders in this year’s event include Belmonte Builders, DeGraff Bloom Custom Builders, DSG Construction and Remodeling, Kodiak Construction, R & M Homes, The BDC

Group, Whitbeck Construction and Witt Construction.

To view an interactive map and to scan a QR Code of the home locations, directions and much more, visit the mobile friendly website.

This annual community event has contributed nearly $1.5 million to local charities. Proceeds from the Saratoga Showcase of Homes benefit Rebuilding Together Saratoga County (www.rtsaratoga.org) and Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties (www.glensfallshabitat.org).

The Saratoga Builders Association Inc. 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. SBA is committed to the continued growth, prosperity and quality of life in Saratoga County. For more information, visit saratogabuilders. org or contact Barry Potoker, executive director at 518-366-0946 or bpotoker@saratogabuilders. org.

BY PAUL POST

The sun rises and sets every day. In these times, some use it—solar energy—as a major source of power to heat homes and otherwise power utilities in the home.

The best time to buy a roof-mounted system that converts its energy to cost-saving electricity is now, say those in the industry.

In the Northeast, solar electric systems generate about 70 percent of their energy for the entire year between April and September, so they need to be operational in March. But it takes several months to design, obtain various approvals and install them.

“So the best time to start thinking about solar, getting quotes to make a decision so we can get a contract in place, obtain permits, secure materials, get the system inspected, permitted and turned on by a utility company, is this fall,” said Peter Kronau, senior project manager at Queensbury-based Apex Solar.

“I always tell residents and business owners, ‘It’s not when you go solar, it’s that you go solar’,” he said. “The sun is always coming up and going down. Time is always moving. There is a ‘Goldilocks’ window to have a solar system installed, commissioned and turned on to maximize the benefit from day one. If you miss that window you’re playing catchup until the system has been operational for 365 days because of how the offset works with net metering and the utility company.”

From spring to early fall, systems produce more energy than a home or business needs. With net metering, the utility acts as a virtual battery bank storing up kilowatt credits on your account. By late fall, when a system

produces less than a home or business is consuming, you draw from those credits.

“As you go through winter, surplus kilowatt hours are allocated to the balance of usage in a month and offsets the whole bill,” Kronau said.

That’s why it makes sense, to maximize a system’s effectiveness and achieve full savings next winter, to start shopping now.

And going solar has never been more attractive as America’s unquenchable thirst for electricity keeps escalating. Nationwide electric usage is on an upward trajectory, driven by everything from millions of small cell-phone chargers to new electric vehicles hitting the road every day.

Rick Irizarry is director of sales and business development for SunPower by New York State Solar Farm. The Ulster County-based firm, with offices in Glens Falls, has installed more than 8,000 systems in a service area stretching from the lower Hudson Valley to Lake George.

“The only thing that’s gone up higher than interest rates is electricity,” Irizarry said. “Even with higher interest rates we’re still showing customers significant savings on their electric bills.”

Solar really took off around 2005, experts say. Back then, however, systems cost double what they are now and were quite often purchased by people who could afford them for their environmental benefits. During the past decade as appliances became more energy efficient, many people installed electric heating and cooling systems, water heaters and boilers and now electric cars.

Continued On Page 9

It takes several months to design, obtain various approvals and install solar energy panels, either free-standing like this, or on building rooftops.

©2023 Saratoga Photographer.com

This is one of the homes, built by Witt Construction, that will be part of the 2023 Saratoga Showcase of Homes being presented over the weekends of Oct. 7-8 and Oct. 14-15. Courtesy Saratoga Builders Association

Designers Say Be Personal, Be Professional To Be Productive Within A Home-Based Office

BY SUSAN ELISE CAMPBELL

A home workspace that lets a person work the way they want to in surroundings they enjoy will contribute directly to an employer’s bottom line, and interior designers say there are a few recommendations for making the space successful.

“I have business people working out of their homes come into my showroom and say, ‘I don’t want my space to be more office-like, but I want it to be professional,’ which is how the term ‘resimercial’ came into the design vernacular,” said Dorothy Rogers-Bullis of drb Business Interiors.

“Workers need to mentally disconnect from the residence in the work space,” said Katelyn Moskos of Lake George Design. “The office has to flow with the home but at the same time, when you walk in you forget about any chaos and clutter behind you.”

The office need not be a separate room. Designers are finding creative ways to repurpose part of a bedroom, take over a closet, or add a desk in an alcove or wide hallway. If it’s dedicated and professional, it can be productive.

“Most of my home office clients had been working in a building where they might have brought in a wall hanging or a box of knick-knacks,” said Moskos. “I need to remind them, you’re at home now. There are no limits.”

“Residential design is at its root very emotional,” said Julie Maleski Putzel of JMP Interiors. “But there are both an emotional and a functional aspect of what the work space has to do.”

“Every client has a different priority but most want a clean-lined, updated space that is also homey,” said Ronni Rosenfeld of Ronni Rosenfeld Interiors.

“You are what you surround yourself with, so keep it simple and minimal,” Moskos said.

“If I don’t design and deliver a project that hits who they are, they are never going to be comfortable in the space,” Putzel said.

“Many people have no idea what their style is,” Rogers-Bullis said. “I ask then questions like, what do you want to see in your desk? Some want everything out in front of them, others stark and simple.”

“A client I am working with now is an accountant and he needs to work from two monitors,” said Rosenfeld. “Not only do you need to proper size desktop, but all the wires and outlets he needs for the internet and must be in the right places.”

A related technical question is where will the router be, and Rosenfeld said she is the one who would bring in and direct the electrician on projects like these.

Putzel said she aims to give clients the tools they need to have a useable space they can succeed in as both the work zone and also the command center for the home to pay bills and store important papers. A home office can evolve functionally to become more of a library or a place to sit and unwind, as well as become a guest space, Putzel said.

“That is when you pull out from the client, if this was not an office, what would you want it to be,” she said. “Then I can come up with a plan that makes all these things work together.”

Acoustics are probably the number one concern

for employee and employer, according to RogersBullis.

“Hearing your refrigerator running in the background is not professional,” she said. “We encourage those without a closed-off office to mitigate all noise.”

The experts say that even if the employee doesn’t have a lot of Zoom meetings to be prepared that what viewers can see is uncluttered and business-like.

“Create a niche with a backdrop or screen or use a Zoom filter at video conferences,” Rosenfeld said. Rogers-Bullis said many young people have their office in an apartment bedroom but the bed should never be visible on video.

Lighting in a home office need not be just an overhead fixture and lamp on the desk, and Moskos said to have fun with it.

“Try having a couple of floor lamps,” she said. “Lighting can also help separate the workspace and help set a calm mood.”

Open shelving is popular today because it is more light and airy than traditional bookcases. Moskos said these units are also useful for separating spaces, but “you don’t want to walk in and see storage on the shelves. Storage is for storage.”

Rogers-Bullis said there is an interesting trend she’s seeing in her business. She is now redesigning at office buildings so employees’ spaces are as up-to-date there as they are at home. Employers still have long leases and are hoping to lure some workers back.

“We are bringing in high-end coffee makers, air fryers, you name it,” said Rogers-Bullis. “I have designed areas where employees can make sandwiches together or shoot a game of pool and communicate effectively.”

Putzel said another aid to work productivity is bringing nature indoors.

“Our bodies respond at a molecular level to nature,” said Putzel. “The more we can bring in with organic fabrics and natural materials, the better we produce.”

But as usage has risen, the price of solar systems has gone down thanks to a 30 percent federal tax credit and a state tax credit up to $5,000. In addition, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority has incentive programs for both residential and commercial users.

So a typical 10 kilowatt hour system priced at $33,000 might only cost $17,000. New York already has the 10th highest domestic electricity costs, paying 43 percent more than the national average and utility rates keep rising.

When purchasing a solar electric system, customers lock into a set price for 25 years. Even if financed, monthly payments are still less than what they’d be paying a utility for electricity.

“That’s not going to change whereas electric rates are going up at a ridiculous rate every year,” Irizarry said. “People are looking for long-term protection and getting away from utility companies. If they can do it without taking any money out of their pocket, just swapping one bill for a lower bill, once they understand that, it’s like how fast can I get the solar panels on my roof?”

“Then on top of the savings you have the impact you’re making on the environment and local economy by creating jobs, which give people a paycheck and they’re helping paying taxes,” he said. “There’s a larger component to it.”

The process of buying a system is quite straightforward.

“We start out with a copy of your electric bill for the past year, which kind of gives us a base line of your usage,” Irizarry said. “Next a consultant does a discovery call with the home owner asking how long you’ve lived there, and do you expect to make any changes that would drastically increase your electric usage.”

“Are you planning to add a pool or heat pump? Are you switching from fossil fuel to an electric device to heat and cool your home, or buying an electric vehicle? We’re looking at where they’re going. Our goal is to get as close to 100 percent of their electric

usage, either currently or in the future, as possible.”

As demand for electricity has grown, the average size of solar electric systems has increased, too. In 2016, most Apex Solar installations were nine kilowatt hours. Now the average size is 12 kilowatt hours, priced at about $23,500 after state and federal incentives.

“One thing about solar is you don’t have finite electrical usage, but you do have finite space,” Kronau said. “Especially with the advent of geothermal and electric vehicle charging stations, now it’s really becoming almost impossible to offset 100 percent of someone’s electricity. For every electric vehicle you get, you don’t get another half of roof. Now and in the future, what’s most likely is that solar will offset a portion of your electrical usage, not all of it.”

Irizarry’s firm, New York State Solar Farm, recently achieved NYSERDA 2023 Gold Status and SunPower Master Dealer status. SunPower makes the systems and New York State Solar Farm installs and services them, similar to a local car dealership’s relationship with Ford, Chevrolet or Honda.

“SunPower works on the same business model,” Irizarry said. “All of the product we sell is made by SunPower. When it comes to actually designing and financing the system and any warranty work that may come up, you’re going to deal with the local dealer, which we are.”

Kronau estimated that only 3 percent of homes and businesses suited for solar, with southward facing roofs, have taken advantage of this money-saving option. “It’s still a drop in the bucket compared to the number of roofs out there and the number of people who have gone solar,” he said. “

Technology is always improving, but with solar “it’s not like a computer where the minute you buy it, it’s out of date,” he said. “If you wait to get the greatest and latest you won’t have anything because it’s always changing. You’ve got to jump in the pool sometime whether it’s for a car, a computer, cell phone or solar electric system.”

Chuck Ciaccia 29 years

Jude Gosh 34 years Dave Weiss 23 years

Agan 25 years

Julie Maleski Putzel of JMP Interiors gives clients the tools to have a useable work space. ©2023 Saratoga Photographer.com

Health / Fitness

Albany Medical Center Gets Award For Work With Patients That Have Heart Conditions

Albany Medical Center, a member of the Albany Med Health System that includes Saratoga Hospital and Glens Falls Hospital, has received the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines - Heart Failure Gold Plus quality achievement award for its commitment to improving outcomes for patients with heart failure, meaning reduced readmissions and more healthy days at home.

About six million adults are living with heart failure (HF) in the United States, a number that is expected to increase to more than eight million by 2030. Despite the name, HF doesn’t mean that the heart has stopped working. It means the heart is having a hard time pumping blood and oxygen throughout the body.

Officials said that while there’s no cure for HF, patients can live a quality life by working with their health care team to create and stick with a plan that may include medication, symptom monitoring and lifestyle changes.

The Get With The Guidelines - Heart Failure quality achievement award is earned by hospitals that demonstrate a commitment to treating patients according to the most up-to-date guidelines as outlined by the American Heart Association.

Get With The Guidelines puts the expertise of the American Heart Association to work for hospitals nationwide, helping ensure patient care is aligned with the latest research- and evidencebased guidelines. The program aims to increase healthy days at home and reduce hospital readmissions for heart failure patients.

“Albany Medical Center is committed to improving patient care by adhering to the latest treatment guidelines,” said Dr. Edward Philbin, chief of cardiology at Albany Medical Center. “Get With The Guidelines makes it easier for our teams to put proven knowledge and guidelines to work on a daily basis, which studies show can help patients recover better. The end goal is to ensure more people in our region can experience longer, healthier lives.”

Each year, program participants qualify for

the award recognition by demonstrating how their organization has committed to providing quality care for HF patients. In addition to following treatment guidelines, Get With The Guidelines participants also provide education to patients to help them manage their HF at home.

“We are pleased to recognize the leaders and teams at Albany Medical Center for a strong commitment to caring for people with heart failure,” said Dr. Clyde W. Yancy, national chairperson of the American Heart Association Heart Failure systems of care advisory group and chief, division of cardiology at Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine. “Hospitals that participate in Get With The Guidelines quality improvement programs often see better patient outcomes, fewer readmissions, and lower mortality rates—a win for health care systems, families, and communities.

Albany Medical Center is also recognized on the American Heart Association’s Target: Heart Failure Honor Roll. Hospitals on the Honor Roll meet specific criteria that improves medication adherence, provides early follow-up care and coordination, and enhances patient education. The goal is to further reduce hospital readmissions and help patients improve their quality of life in managing this chronic condition.

Albany Medical Center’s team of heart specialists, electrophysiologists, cardiac interventionalists, and surgeons work together to diagnose and treat the specific cause of heart failure.

The Albany Med Heart Failure Program has been certified by The Joint Commission, collaboration with the American Heart Association, as an Advanced Heart Failure program since 2010.

The certification requires the hospital demonstrate excellence in program management, clinical information management, delivering or facilitating clinical care, supporting self-management, and measuring and improving performance.

This is Albany Medical Center’s 18th year of recognition by the American Heart Association for its heart failure care.

Consistent Workouts Are Better For Maintaining Fitness Than Sporadic Activities

BY CHRISTINE GRAF

When it comes to working out, consistency is key. A person reaps more benefit from exercising regularly over a long period of time than from performing periodic extreme exercise routines.

“Many people have this all or nothing mindset,” said Mike Sirani, co-owner of Capital District Sports and Fitness in Round Lake “They think that if they start working out that it has to be five days a week for an hour every time and that they have to go really hard every workout. But, when you have a busy schedule, that can be difficult to stay consistent with.”

It is for that reason that Sirani said it is important to be realistic when setting fitness goals.

“It’s about finding a routine that fits into your schedule and one that you can consistently do every week. You need to do an honest assessment of where your life is at. The most important thing in order to see progress is being consistent.”

Taking that scary first step is something Ryan Carpenter, owner of Simple Strength and Conditioning in South Glens Falls, experienced firsthand. The former Marine started going to the gym in 2015 at a time when he weighed 335 pounds.

“I got sober in 2012, and when I stopped drinking, I replaced the alcohol with sugar and food,” he said. “I was super heavy, had aches and pains, and was feeling like crap. That’s when I decided to make some serious lifestyle changes.”

During his first workout, he walked for just 10 minutes on the treadmill, and over time, he lengthened his workouts and added weights into his fitness routine. When a friend suggested he try a kettlebell workout, Carpenter was hooked.

“I absolutely fell in love with it because it doesn’t bang up your joints, and it increased my strength tremendously,” he said. “It’s also great because you can use one bell and it can basically be your whole gym.”

In order to achieve results, Sirani recommends performing full-body strength training at least two days a week.

“As you age, you are going to lose bone density. You are also going to be more prone to losing muscle mass and therefore losing the strength and power in your body. When you strength train, you can improve your functionality and the quality of your life,” he said. “You should also try to do a little something every day that is aerobic.”

At Capital District Sports and Fitness, lowimpact aerobic exercises are incorporated into each client’s personalized strength and conditioning routine.

“All of our programs for adults have a condi-

tioning piece at the end that has low stress on the joints. We will either have them push the sled or do the bike or put together circuits of exercises where they can train aerobically and work on their cardio,” said Sirani.

Both Sirani and his partner, Dan Jones, have degrees in exercise science and specialize in writing customized programs for their clients. Many of their members are recovering from injuries or surgery.

“As a new client, the first thing you would do is the strategy session. We discuss your goals, health history, and injury history. We also bring you through a movement assessment to see how well you move,” said Sirani.

The gym offers semi-private personal training with one-hour time slots that accommodate between eight and 10 members. A coach is on the floor at all time, supervising members as they perform their customized workout.

“Being at a gym with trainers is super important because you have this layer of accountability that you may not have if you are trying to do something on your own,” said Sirani.

He acknowledged that it can be intimidating for someone who is out of shape to come to the gym for their first workout.

“It’s going to be scary to take the first step, but once we can get somebody in here, it’s about making them feel comfortable by building a relationship with them. I feel like our staff does a really good job of meeting people where they are at.”

In July 2021, after receiving his level one and level two StrongFirst Kettlebell certifica-

Continued On Page 18

Kettlebell workouts are a staple at Simple Strength and Conditioning, South Glens Falls. Courtesy Simple Strength and Conditioning

Queensbury Business Sells Velotric E-Bikes That Help Riders Manage Difficult Slopes

BY PAUL POST

John Jacobs has just the thing for Baby Boomer cycling enthusiasts who fi nd uphill climbs a bit more daunting than they used to be.

Velotric e-bikes allow people to keep pedaling their way to health and fitness with help from modern technology that takes the strain off tired muscles and achy joints.

Inside Edge in Queensbury has three different models that have been leaving the store as quickly as Jacobs can stock them, he said.

"I had no expectation that we'd be selling these as fast as we have," he said. "A lot of 'snowbirds' with second homes up here have been coming in. They live up around North Creek where there's hilly terrain. They like to ride, but they're getting older. These bikes are all designed to assist you. What they really do is smooth out the hills. It allows you to go somewhere fairly quickly, still getting some exercise but not struggling against a big headwind or steep hill. You're going to go right through."

Jacobs is director of sales and development for Inside Edge's parent company, Reliable Racing Supply, an industry leader in ski racing equipment founded by his late father, Tom, a 1952 Winter Olympian and National Skiing Hall of Fame member.

The company currently offers three different e-bike models. They are the Discover 1 (26inch wheel), the Nomad 1 (26-inch fat tire) and the T1 ST (700 centimeter wheel) urban commuter. All three models are available in stepthrough and step-over frame designs.

"The step-through frames are by far the most popular as they accommodate anyone from 5-foot-1 to 6-foot-4," Jacobs said. "The T1 ST weighs only 35 pounds, which is incredibly light for an E-bike."

All three models may be ridden by pedal power alone or by pedaling with an electricpower assist, up to 20 miles per hour. Riders select the level of assistance they want.

But the Discover 1 and Nomad models may

be driven by electric power alone, without pedaling, similar to a motor scooter.

Discover 1's tires and wheels are light enough that it can be taken almost anywhere. Th is model is ideal for commuting, for example from one of the small towns surrounding Glens Falls into the city.

"It's not meant to be off-road, but you can certainly take it on the Feeder Canal Trail, Champlain Canal or dirt road," Jacobs said.

The Nomad's fat tire makes this bike wellsuited for more adventurous exploring.

"The fat tire was originally designed for winter cyclists," Jacobs said. "You used to see a ton of them out in Aspen and places like that. But slowly they've become popular everywhere because you can take them so many places. They're great for people who want to go out on a logging trail or mountain biking."

Jacobs described the T1 ST model as fast and efficient. "If you run out of juice, it has eight speeds and you do have a climbing gear to ride like a bicycle," he said.

Business Report

Fitness Nutrition, GI Health Can Decrease Stress

BY MARY BETH MCCUE

Healthy life-style and trauma work are simply “life work.” Where have we been, where do we want to be, what are the options to getting there?

Preferably all for the better of humanity, and the best path for ourselves. We all interconnected with these factors in the human quest for a peaceful purposeful and joyful existence. It can and should be achieved from within.

When we experience trauma, a series of neurological events occur in the body leading to negative mental and physical impact. Trauma is our unique response to experiencing a stressful event. Depending on how we process it, or not, will determine health, and everything in our lives.

The amygdala area of the brain can (generationally) hold events, including the intensity and impulse of emotion that comes along with these memories. Many neurological series of reactions connect to the GI, but potentially all areas in the body. Discovering the areas of stress and trauma, and how they feel in the body are significant to lifestyle changes and healing.

A colleague and teacher of mine psychiatrist James Gordon, MD, founder of The Center for Mind Body Medicine (cmbm.org), shares great points in his many teachings and trainings on the role of nutrition and healing trauma. The mental and conventional health fields have generally been slow to recognize the role nutrition can play in every persons life.

Th is all has been changing over the last couple of decades as more and more research and clinical practice’s like functional nutrition become widely accepted and demanded from the consumer. The Smiles trial and the Helfi med study are two of many examples of how diet plays a significant role in treating depression, which is based in unresolved trauma.

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Many studies have found that a functional nutrition approach to eating is foundational to health and healthy aging, along with nutritional supplements which have been proven to significantly reduce or resolve anxiety, depression, PTSD symptoms, and support the recovery of addictions.

Functional nutrition is a practice of leading an authentic life which can only be realized with health, restoration and vital living. A personalized approach includes:

1. Learning and integrating all of whom you are and reflecting this in your life choices. “Owning the good, bad and ugly” and providing grace to your human. Meditative practice is an exercise my clients experience in sessions and it supports this.

It never fails to provide people words of wisdom that create goals for restoration and a healthier life. Th is is one example of many

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John Jacobs owns Inside Edge that sells three different models of Velotric e-bikes. Paul Post

Exciting development opportunity in Saratoga Springs! Located in a busy location with plenty of foot traffic. This beautiful and visible corner lot offers 1.32 acres with frontage on both West Ave and Washington St. T5 zoning allows for a variety of residential and commercial users. Some deed restrictions apply.

Located in Saratoga, this +/-2,500SF space consists of private offices wrapping the perimeter, a center conference room, kitchenette and two bathrooms. Corner offices each have large window walls, and there are two open work areas as well. High ceilings and sidelight glass at each office door create a comfortable work environment. All this with downtown Saratoga right at your fingertips.

Mary Beth McCue of Saratoga Nutrition, RD, CDN, IFNCP.

Courtesy Saratoga Nutrition

Insurance / Employee Benefits

Business Report Business Report

Care For The Long Term Employers Scramble To Meet Health Care Costs

BRIAN M. JOHNSON, MBA, CLTC

When it comes to where and how you live, and what you do with your money, you want the freedom of choice and confidence that you’re making the right decisions.

The same is true with your long-term care strategy, helping you set the stage for the future and the legacy you have planned.

Long-term care is quite simply assistance with simple everyday tasks, even as simple as eating or getting dressed. The need for care could arise from an accident, illness, cognitive impairment, or the aging process. You may never need it.

But, the best time to start thinking about it is before the need arises and while you’re still able to take control. Many Americans work hard, save diligently for retirement, yet fail to address the single biggest risk to their portfolio and families: extended healthcare.

When it comes to long-term care, do not be swayed by common misconceptions such as:

• “It won’t happen to me.”

People unrealistically downplay their personal risk. Seventy-nine percent of people put off discussions about long-term care, but 98 percent of financial professionals say they have clients who have needed it. In fact, being healthy presents even a higher risk of needing long-term care services than someone who is managing chronic a condition.

• “Medicare or Medicaid will cover me.”

If qualified, Medicare will likely be insufficient for long-term care needs and Medicaid does not account for your choices or preferences, and one must financially qualify for benefits.

• “That’s what my savings are for.”

Many Americans significantly underestimate long-term care costs. Home care, assisted living and nursing care can run between $40,000-$150,000 per year in today’s dollars.

• “My family will take care of me.”

This might not be a misconception. However, do you really want to put the burden

on your loved ones?

Interestingly women and adult children are more likely than men to become family caregivers. Due to life expectancy rates, women are also more likely to need care.

With an aging population, that contradiction means it’s more important than ever for women to be open and honest about the expectations for the future. 87 percent of caregivers surveyed say emotional challenges are among the most difficult aspects of providing long-term care.

When should you begin planning? Clients tends to wait until they age 60 before beginning their long-term care planning, but financial professionals suggest moving that timeline up a decade or more.

The earlier we start, the more options we will have. Planning ahead not only protects our assets and loved ones, but it also gives us peace of mind. Long-term care is in the back of all of our minds and dealing with it up front can be extremely freeing.

When planning, we should consider:

• Caregiving. Let your loved ones know your preferences. Do you want to be home, in assisted living, etc?

• Health-related decisions. Designate

BY RENEE WALRATH

Open enrollment is around the corner and employers are scrambling to accommodate the rising cost of health insurance.

The annual premium for individual coverage has risen more than $225 per year on average, and family coverage has risen more than $700 per year on average from 2010 to 2022. Statistically speaking, prices for healthcare grow much faster than inflation and that combined with increasing employee demands has companies, both small and large, forced to make difficult decisions.

The specific reason for increasing healthcare costs can be attributed to a variety of factors including the following:

• Continuing research and new, innovative technology leading to more expensive procedures and products.

• Labor shortages, physician consolidation, and contract renewals are amplifying the already aggravated industry.

• Chronic healthcare conditions, catastrophic health claims and rising prescription drug prices add to the sizeable hike for 2024.

This is the second year in a row that employers have projected a 7 percent-plus hike and confronting affordability and disrupting costs are among the top obstacles for employers in 2024.

Organizations must reshape their strategies and business models to allay the drastically different costs. Nearly two-thirds of large employers (500-plus employees) are planning to make enhancements to their health offerings in 2024 to support employee needs.

While smaller organizations may be forced to have their employees consume a (larger) portion of the inflated cost.

While many employers plan to consume the additional charge, other companies may consider offering a variety of coverage options to their employees rather than a “one-size-fits-all”

who has authority to discuss your medications and treatment and inform your physicians.

• Finances. Find out what the costs of different types of services may be where you retire. Take inventory of your assets, income, legacy planning goals, and any debt obligations.

• Legal matters. Make sure you have a living will, a trust, a durable power of attorney and healthcare proxy and be sure your at-

approach. Offering a high deductible plan with an HAS (Health Savings Account) for healthy employees who are seeking a low-cost option, while also offering a low deductible plan with an FSA (Flexible Spending Account) for employees with greater medical needs.

Over 80 percent of employees note that health benefits are a main factor in deciding their place of work.

Employers should use this as an opportunity to identify the current healthcare solutions within their organization that give their employees the best overall experience and invest their money accordingly.

Taking steps to implement cost-effective healthcare benefits into your organization will help ease your economic burden and assist your employees as they navigate through an increasingly challenging healthcare system. In addition, it will likely make your organization more attractive to future qualified candidates.

torney is also in tune with your wishes and desires.

Above all, planning starts with a conversation. Some of the most important conversations about your care are not the easiest, however, the easiest time to discuss the topic is when you’re healthy and not yet in need of long-term care.

Remember, it’s never too early to address long-term care and the sooner you do it, the sooner you’ll have that peace of mind.

Brian Johnson, director, business development at Advisors Insurance Brokers.

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

Life Insurance Awareness Month Is Time To Be Aware Of Benefits, Perils Of Not Having It

BY ROB SNELL

It’s probably not on your calendar, but September is Life Insurance Awareness Month. And that means it’s a good time to become more aware of the benefits of having life insurance—and the dangers of not having it.

Unfortunately, confusion about some of the basic elements of owning life insurance may be keeping people from getting the protection they need. More than half of uninsured Americans say they have put off purchasing coverage because they don’t know what to buy or how much they need, according to Life Happens and LIMRA, two nonprofit organizations that provide research and education about life insurance.

Yet, while this confusion may be understandable, a delay in acquiring appropriate insurance can be costly in more ways than one. From a strict dollars-and-cents perspective, it’s generally much more affordable to buy life insurance when you’re younger. But there are potentially much greater costs involved in not having insurance when it’s needed — and these costs are personal.

To be specific, what is it worth:

• To know your family could stay in your home if something happened to you?

• To know your children could continue their education plans?

• To know your debts could be paid without burdening your family?

Clearly, if you were to assign these benefits a “price tag,” it would be pretty high.

And that’s the value of owning sufficient life insurance.

So, let’s return to the issue of people putting off buying insurance because they don’t know how much they need, or what type they should have:

How much is enough? You might hear that you need life insurance equal to about seven to 10 times your pretax annual salary. That’s not a bad “ballpark” figure, but not everyone is playing in the same ballpark.

To get a true sense of how much of a death benefit you require from your life insurance, you’ll need to consider a variety of factors, possibly including your current income, spouse’s income, the size of your mortgage (in addition to other liabilities), number of

children, educational expenses and final expenses for funeral arrangements.

What type? You can essentially choose between two basic types of life insurance: term and permanent. As its name suggests, term insurance is designed to provide coverage for a designated period, such as 10 or 20 years. Generally speaking, term insurance is quite affordable for most people, especially when they buy policies as young adults.

On the other hand, permanent insurance, such as whole life or universal life, is usually considerably more expensive than term insurance. This is because permanent insurance premiums, in addition to providing a death benefit, help build cash value, which you can typically access through loans or withdrawals, giving you additional flexibility should your financial needs change over time.

In choosing between term and permanent insurance, you’ll want to evaluate several issues, such as how long you think you’ll need coverage and how much you can afford to pay in premiums.

Finding out about the benefits, costs and types of life insurance can help you make informed choices to help protect your family for years to come. So don’t delay learning what you need to know.

New York State To Educate College Students On Health Insurance Coverages

NY State of Health, the state’s official health plan marketplace, will conduct a statewide college campaign, with informational events taking place on campuses as students return.

Certified enrollment assistors will be available in popular spots on campus to educate students about affordable, quality health insurance through the marketplace, and help current enrollees renew their coverage.

“College can be an exciting but stressful time in a young person’s life, and it’s so important that they make their health a priority as well as stay informed about their health insurance options,” state Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said.

“Many students are eligible or currently enrolled in public health insurance, and we want to ensure a seamless process to newly enroll or stay covered,” NY State of Health Executive Director Danielle Holahan said. “By partnering with SUNY and CUNY, we can help direct students to renew their coverage and find a health plan that best fit their needs and their budget.”

Officials said that as of May, almost 9.6 million New Yorkers—nearly half of the State’s population—were enrolled in Medicaid, Child Health Plus and the Essential Plan. Many students may qualify for free or low-cost health insurance coverage through Medicaid, Essential Plan, or Qualified Health Plans with financial assistance.

Enrollment is currently open for all programs.

With federal COVID-19 continuous coverage provisions that allowed individuals to stay enrolled in Medicaid, Child Health Plus, or the Essential Plan without renewing ending this year, redeterminations for these public health programs are resuming for the first time since 2020.

Renewal notices are being mailed based on individual enrollment end dates and began with enrollees whose coverage ended June 30. The state is monitoring enrollment during this process with a Public Health Emergency Unwind Dashboard, which tracks renewal status, demographics, and state program transitions every month.

All redeterminations are required to be completed by May 2024. Enrollees have been encouraged to make sure their contact information is up to date with their local Department of Social Services, the New York City Human Resources Administration (HRA) or NY State of Health. The Department of Health will continue to promote the public health enrollment unwind through targeted outreach activities, including a robust public education campaign and close partnership with healthcare providers to ensure they are equipped to help consumers through the process.

College students can sign up for NY State of Health text alerts to receive important health insurance updates, including when it’s time to renew, by texting START to 1-866-988-0327. Current consumers are encouraged to update their NY State of Health account information (mailing address, phone, email) so they know when to renew.

For more information or questions about redeterminations and the renewal process, consumers should reach out to the NY State of Health Customer Service Center at 1-855-355-5777 or to their local Department of Social Services office, or learn more on the NY State of Health website and the Department of Health’s Medicaid website. Both sites are updated regularly. Information about New York State of Health can be found at nystateofhealth.ny.gov.

Rob Snell, financial advisor, Edward Jones Financial in Saratoga Springs. Courtesy Edward Jones Financial

REGIONAL STOCKWATCH

PROVIDED BY: ROBERT SCHERMERHORN, CFP

18 DIVISION ST.-SUITE 305, SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY 12866 (518) 584-2555

SECURITIES OFFERED THROUGH: LPL FINANCIAL / MEMBER: FINRA AND SIPC

Arrow Financial Corp. CEO David S. DeMarco Sees The Value Of Building Relationships

BY PAUL POST

The Digital Age has made communication faster and more far-reaching than ever with email and various social media platforms.

But it's also led to a breakdown of face-toface, interpersonal relations that a strong community bank needs to serve customers most effectively.

That's one of the biggest challenges Dave DeMarco sees in his new role as president and CEO of Arrow Financial Corp., and its subsidiaries Glens Falls National Bank and Trust Co. and Saratoga National Bank and Trust Co.

"Technology has changed the banking industry dramatically," he said. "We're in the relationship building business. It's hard to do that with someone who's taking a picture of a check and banking on their cell phone or computer instead of coming to the bank. You couldn't do that when I joined Glens Falls National 35 years ago."

"We don't see customers as much as we used to," he said. "So we basically have to get out of the office to meet people and build relationships."

DeMarco, 61, a Saratoga Springs resident, has been intimately involved with many facets of the evolving industry during his lengthy banking career.

A Niskayuna High School graduate (1980), he earned a degree in finance from the University of Texas at Austin (1984) and started out as a commercial lending officer for a large bank in Dallas before returning home to join Glens Falls National, in 1987, as manager of its commercial loan department.

From there he was put in charge of branch offices and marketing, and in 2004 was responsible for building the bank's insurance operation, The Upstate Agency.

"New banking laws allowed us to get into that business," DeMarco said. "We finance homes, cars and businesses. They all need insurance and businesses need health insurance. It was a real nice complement to our banking services and it continues today."

In this regard, branch offices have taken on new roles, too, including wealth management, which Arrow Corp. also provides.

"Branches are becoming more like consulting or financial advisory centers," DeMarco said. "You can now go into one of our branches and not only make a deposit or get a loan, you can get insurance and talk to your investment advisor. We've tried to create a one-stop-shop over the past 15 years. That's been a real change."

With Glens Falls National, his retail banking territory stretched north all the way to Plattsburgh. But in 2012, DeMarco was named president and CEO of Saratoga National Bank and Trust Company, following the retirement of Raymond F. O'Conor, who continues as bank chair.

*DatasourcedfromMorningstar

**Stockinvestingincludesrisks,includingfluctuatingpricesandlossofprincipal.Thisisforinformationalpurposesonly andnotintendedtoprovidespecificadviceorrecommendationforanyindividual.

Consistent Workouts Are More Productive

Continued From Page 11

that supports us to center ourselves to whom we are, and fi lter out who we are not. Walking in nature, floating on a body of water, sitting in silence and appreciating a sunset are examples to centering.

2. Gut and immune health. The GI was once considered the “second brain,” and now “Thebrain” because everything that informs the brain comes from this root-case area. More than 60 percent of the immune system also lives here. Stress, past unresolved trauma and lifestyle create imbalance in the GI, leading to imbalance of viruses, bacteria, yeast, and parasites that live there and which we need -in balance.

Harmony in our lifestyle can be achieved and personalized nutrition must be addressed as part of this artful equation. Common support with probiotics and other personalized nutrients can provide what is needed and many times not included in a diet for restoration and healing.

3. Decrease in Inflammation. When we increase activity, decrease stress, medica-

tions, toxins from foods and certain highinflammatory proteins in foods, we decrease the burden of too much inflammation in the body. Common proteins that add in too much inflammation for many are casein, and gluten. Night shade vegetables may also need to be decreased. All imbalances in the body, including excess fat stores and any mental wellness challenges, are caused and maintained by too much inflammation,

4. Too many toxins create havoc in all our metabolic pathways, and decrease overall nutritional status in the body. Your body naturally desires high nutritional value organic foods that have little to no toxins or pharmaceuticals. The body was not designed for the amounts that mainstream America takes in.

5. Nutritional vibrancy can be realized through a food as medicine /functional medicine and nutrition, plant based, clean and organic, non-diet approach. Enjoying great tasting foods is very realistic and does not include stress from trying to make “perfect choices” when it comes to eating and drinking.

DeMarco oversaw a major expansion of the Saratoga bank's territory into the Greater Capital Region with new branch offices in Clifton Park, Colonie, Troy, Schenectady, Rotterdam and Latham. There are now 37 Glens Falls National and Saratoga National branch offices from Albany to Plattsburgh.

COVID and unfavorable economic trends have slowed such growth.

"We do plan to expand going forward, but I doubt it will happen this year," he said. "We're evaluating communities we might move into, which is interesting because some banks have been closing and we've actually consolidated where we've had two branches in the same community a mile part. But we still believe and the

industry still proves that in order to do business in a community you have to have a presence. We're looking at surrounding communities, primarily outside the Capital District, as we continue to expand outward."

DeMarco said the Capital Region's diverse, stable employment base with a large state government, nearly two dozen colleges and universities and numerous private-sector firms is a major asset that offsets the worst effects of economic volatility.

"We tend to be isolated to some degree from recessions, not completely, of course," he said. "We don't have the high highs or the low lows we read about nationally in some of the bigger cities. I think the rest of the year will be stable with no significant downturns. We aren't seeing the growth of our loan portfolio we have the past couple years, but we're seeing modest growth. I think that will continue."

"At some point the Fed's (Federal Reserve) going to stop raising interest rates," he said. "They're talking about a pause, potentially this month or in July. I'd like to think as we get into 2024 that they will have leveled off. If the economy slows a little further they'll probably be forced next year to start lowering rates, which hopefully will spur some more economic activity."

DeMarco believes the challenging current economic environment is an advantage for Arrow Corp., as a long-time local institution.

"Our company's been around since 1851," he said. "We've been through ups and downs in the economy and industry. Because we've been around so long, we're one of the top performing banking companies for a bank our size in the country. We have very strong capital, very strong liquidity, a very safe loan portfolio. At a time when there's been a lot of headlines about bank failures, feeling comfortable about your hometown bank is what our two banks are all about."

"I'm not looking to change our path," DeMarco said. "My job is to support them and lead them in the direction that fulfi lls our mission of providing community banking services. When you have a company that's 172 years old, you can walk in anywhere and people know what you stand for. You're able to build relationships much faster."

Arrow Corp. employs approximately 500 people.

An ongoing labor shortage crisis is another big challenge he's faced with as the company's new leader.

Continued On Page 17

David S. DeMarco is the new CEO and president at Arrow Financial Corp. Courtesy Arrow Financial Corp.

State-Of-The Art Fire Detection, Suppression System Installed At Historic Grant Cottage

Area Health Institutions Work To Have Access To OB/GYN Services Continue

A group of area health organizations are working to ensure strong access to comprehensive OB/GYN services in Glens Falls and Saratoga in the wake of the impending closure of Women’s Care, an obstetrics and gynecology practice with offices at 45 Hudson Ave. in Glens Falls and 6 Carpenter Lane in Saratoga Springs.

Officials said the practice will close permanently on Aug. 30.

Saratoga Hospital and Hudson Headwaters Health Network are working in close collaboration with Glens Falls Hospital and Women’s Care to ensure access to services continues.

“It has been an honor taking care of our patients and their families,” said Dr. Diana Sustar, a physician and partner of Women’s Care. “While closing the practice is a difficult decision, we are heartened that Glens Falls Hospital, Saratoga Hospital and Hudson Headwaters have engaged in critical conversations and planning to ensure our community has access to comprehensive OB/ GYN services. We also thank our patients for their support throughout the years.”

OB/GYN and midwifery (call 518-587-2400 to establish, www.saratogaobgyn.org).

“We are appreciative that the leaders of Women’s Care have engaged in thoughtful dialogue with Glens Falls Hospital, Saratoga Hospital and Hudson Headwaters Health Network to ensure OB/GYN access continues in our community,” said Dr. William Borgos, chief medical officer of Hudson Headwaters Health Network.

“Dr. Bashant and Dr. Sustar are joining a knowledgeable and passionate team at Women’s Health, and we are pleased they will continue to provide patient care in our region,” he said.

“We’re delighted to have Drs. Bradford and Doyle join the OB/GYN and midwifery practice at Saratoga Hospital,” said Scarlet Clement-Buffoline, vice president of operations at Saratoga Hospital. “We welcome this opportunity to collaborate with them to ensure continuity of care for their patients and the continuation of high-quality obstetrical and gynecological services for women in our communities.”

A $1.5 million state-of-the-art fire detection and suppression system has been installed at Grant Cottage State Historic Site, funded by the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

The cottage, in Gansevoort, is the Saratoga County retreat where Civil War General and U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant spent his final days.

“This new equipment will better protect this National Historic Landmark, and its irreplaceable collection of historic furniture, floral arrangements and President Grant’s personal items from potentially devastating loss,” state Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said. “It is a crucial investment in innovative technology to help preserve the cottage and its collection for the future generations of visitors.”

The new system deploys a mixture of nitrogen and water mist, rather than streams of water, when sensors detect a fire. In the event of a blaze, the mist rapidly lowers fire temperatures while the nitrogen displaces oxygen, depriving the fire of the fuel it needs to continue. Mist systems also deploy much less water than traditional fire sprinkler systems, reducing the risk of widespread water damage to rooms and contents in the aftermath of a fire.

Friends of Grant Cottage President Tim Welch said, “Fire has been our greatest worry for this 140-year-old wooden cottage, and now we can rest easier as we preserve this time-capsule from the summer of 1885.”

While a water mist fire suppression system was installed at the Olana State Historic Site in Colombia County in 2007 and John Jay State Historic Site

in Westchester County in 2022, this nitrogen-based system is the first of its kind in the State Park system. The Grant Cottage system also includes highly sensitive state-of-the-art detection systems, officials said.

Funding for the project included a $250,000 contribution from the Friends of Grant Cottage, with the balance provided through the State Parks capital program.

Grant Cottage State Historic Site is cooperatively managed with the Friends of Grant Cottage. The Friends offer tours and programming while State Parks manages the facilities and infrastructure.

The grounds and the Visitor Center are currently open. The Friends of Grant Cottage are offering guided history hikes on the grounds while the Cottage is being refurnished. Visit www.grantcottage. org to book a tour.

Today, officials said the cottage and its furnishings remain essentially the same as during the Grant family’s stay for six weeks in 1885. Guests may visit the spacious porch, tour the four rooms, and view floral arrangements that remain from Grant’s funeral.

The state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, which in 2022 were visited by record 79.5 million people.

For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit www.parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer mobile app or call 518-4740456.

Four Women’s Care physicians will be joining existing OB/GYN practices following Women’s Care’s closure.

Dr. Jennifer Bashant and Dr. Diana Sustar, will join Women’s Health at Hudson Headwaters Health Network in Glens Falls (call 518-792-7841 to establish, www.hhhn.org/ locations/womens-health).

Dr. Susan Bradford and Dr. Ali Doyle will join the Saratoga Hospital Medical Group-

Patients should expect a letter from the practice within the next week. Their providers are working closely with prenatal patients with due dates near the planned Aug. 30 closure to discuss individualized needs. Further updates concerning the transfer of medical records and future plans of Women’s Care midwives and nurse practitioners will be listed on the Women’s Care website, www.womenscareny.com, as they become available.

Funded by the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, historic Grant Cottage in Gansevoort has a new fire detection and suppression system costing $1.5 million. Courtesy NYS Parks and Recreation

Office Technology / E-Commerce

Commercial / Residential Real Estate

Entrepreneurial Women

Publication Date: October 5, 2023

Wellness

Year End Tax / Financial Planning

Holiday Gift Guide

Publication Date: November 2, 2023

SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL

The Academy for Lifelong Learning Saratoga Region continues its 30-plus year tradition of presenting educational and social opportunities for adults over 55 by offering 20, six-week courses starting the week of Oct. 2. Registration is now open. For the fall course catalog and mail-in registration form, go to www.allsaratoga.org

Course brochures will also be available soon at local libraries, YMCAs and retirement communities or by request at (518) 290-6988 or jeff@ allsaratoga.org. Registrations are being accepted throughout the term until courses are full.

Annual membership is $75 and goes for 365 days from join date. Six-week courses are $50 each. Courses are held outdoors, by Zoom, or in community classrooms including at SUNY Adirondack’s Wilton location.

Topics for these volunteer-led, noncredit courses include music, literature, variety speaker series, biology of aging, Feng Shui, hiking, local business tours, history, theater, global warming, opera, poetry, Ukraine, writing, and more.

Founded in 1992, the Academy is a nonprofit, membership organization whose members share a love of learning. A self-funded entity, A.L.L. is designed to offer lifelong learning and camaraderie among seniors, A.L.L. also offers winter and spring courses, special interest groups and special events that are held throughout the year.

For more information, contact the Academy at (518) 290-6988, email jeff@allsaratoga.org, or go to www.allsaratoga.org.

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Franklin Community Center will conclude its year-long 40th anniversary celebration with a Cheers To 40 Years anniversary event on Sept. 28, from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at 550 Waterfront by Druthers on Saratoga Lake.

The event invites attendees to commemorate and honor all who contributed and partnered with FCC over the years to create a lasting impact in the Saratoga County community. Tickets are $75 and are available online at www. franklincommunitycenter.org.

To learn more about how Franklin Community Center has helped to shape Saratoga Springs visit www.franklincommunitycenter.org.

Established in 1983, Franklin Community Center, the Saratoga Springs-based organization has provided programs and services to individuals and families in the Saratoga County area. The mission of the nonprofit is to work collaboratively with individuals and other agencies to provide services that will improve the quality of life and foster a sense of neighborhood, community and family for all people.

* * *

The Dake Foundation for Children raised over $180,000 to support local children with disabilities at its recent annual Child’s Play fundraiser. Founded by Gary Dake, president of Stewart’s Shops, the Foundation has provided grants to local children with disabilities since 2009 with a focus on inclusion, independence,

and fun.

In addition to the individual grants the foundation has provided for the past 14 years, it will now offer assistance to local 501c3 nonprofit organizations seeking to make their spaces or programming more accessible and inclusive.

The foundation said the first recipient of the community grant program will be the Saratoga Springs Children’s Museum, providing it with up to $25,000 towards building an inclusive playground. To apply, donate, or to learn more about the Dake Foundation for Children, visit their website at www.dakefoundation.org.

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The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce announced the return of its mixer series on Sept. 14. at Dancing Grain Brewery in Moreau.

Orientation will be from 4-5 p.m., where members and potential members can learn about the current Chamber campaigns and ways to enhance and utilize a membership. The mixer held from 5-6:30 p.m.

There will be food and beverages and scenic views of the working farm. Pure Perspective Consulting

To register visit chamber.saratoga.org/events.

* * *

Franklin Community Center’s core program, Project Lift, received a $15,000 grant from KeyBank and KeyBank Foundation to assist in the funding of the center’s free after-school program.

Project Lift, initially launched in 1984, focuses on addressing the growing need for youth to have prevention-based conversations as well as the opportunity to enhance their social and emotional skills. The funding assistance will support the impactful program as well as provide for the ancillary services offered to the Project Lift students and their families, such as the Back to School Backpack program, Adopt A Family Holiday Assistance, Food Support and Camp Scholarships.

Project Lift works directly with students in grades 1 through 6 in the Saratoga Springs City School District. The program serves up to 175 children and their siblings in all six elementary schools and the middle school, with support to the students’ families. Services include Camp Assistance, which offers scholarships for participants enrolled in Project Lift the experience of attending summer camp.

The goal is to offer students a place where they may learn about and better understand themselves in a safe, supportive, and relaxed natural environment. Providing camp opportunities to children from financially disadvantaged backgrounds helps the students to constructively learn independence and safe risk-taking, build relationships with peers and reap the benefits of connecting with nature.

Community members interested in learning more about supporting the program and the services provided, can find more information on our website at www.franklincommunitycenter.org.

Northshire Books In Downtown Saratoga Springs Celebrates Its 10th Anniversary

Charlie’s Stay & Play In Malta Will Be Site To Train, Board And Provide Canine Daycare

Northshire Bookstore celebrated 10 years in its Saratoga location of 424 Broadway in August.

The store is an award-winning independent bookstore, founded by Ed and Barbara Morrow on Main Street in Manchester Center, Vt., in 1976. The Saratoga Springs location opened in August of 2013.

Both Northshire Bookstore locations are now owned and operated by sisters Cathleen Ihasz, Nicole Ihasz and Ashley Ihasz-Austin.

“Saratoga Springs understood the value of a downtown bookstore and effectively lobbied, invested and supported us,” said Nancy Scheemaker, general manager of the Saratoga store. “We are of course deeply grateful for this passion and vision. We are grateful also for a decade of support that we could only have dreamed of prior to experiencing the real thing.”

Over the last decade, Northshire has presented

more than a thousand author events in Saratoga Springs, hosted children’s programming and brought authors into area schools, partnered with local not-for-profits, and has worked with our customers to provide free children’s books to area children via our Book Angels program.

In the spring of 2018, the store was honored with the Pannell Award from the Women’s National Book Association, a prestigious national award for excellence in children’s bookselling. The award jury cited the store’s “passionate staff and year-round schedule of creative programs and events.”

Northshire Bookstore Saratoga is the Capital District’s largest family-owned independent bookseller. For more information on the store and its events program, visit www.northshire. com, follow us at @northshirebooks, or call 518682-4200.

CEO David DeMarco

Continued From Page 14

"It's absolutely affecting our company," he said. "We've always had some turnover in the teller position, primarily, but many people changed their thought process about working during COVID. We have some remote business, but with those 37 branch offices you've got to be there to serve your customer.

"We have been challenged, like all industries, finding people," he said. "We're trying to remain competitive on salary. We have an internal program that rewards employees for referring their friends. We have a phenomenal benefit program. We're doing everything we can to be an employer of choice, but it's not easy."

Prior to his recent promotion, DeMarco had been Arrow Corp.'s chief banking officer and senior executive vice president.

As the new president and CEO he succeeds Thomas J. Murphy who terminated his employ-

ment, his director's position and all other positions with the company, a press release said.

"As chairman of the Saratoga National Bank board I've worked closely with Dave and have no doubt that he will do a superb job in his new role," O'Conor said.

Active in the community, DeMarco is a board member and treasurer of the Saratoga Hospital Foundation and Greater Capital Region United Way; is treasurer of the Center for Economic Growth (part of Capital Region Chamber of Commerce); is on the Independent Bankers of New York State Board and the CAPTAIN Advisory Council.

Arrow board Chairman William L. Owens said, "Dave has dedicated his career to the company, understands community banking and he is well-known throughout our organization and the communities we serve."

BY SUSAN ELISE CAMPBELL

There is a new 11,000-square-foot building going up behind Mahogany Ridge Dog Training and Daycare’s original leased location at 2983 Route 9 in Malta.

When the last details are finalized, the entire staff and their furry guests will move into a clean, modern space under the new banner, Charlie’s Stay & Play.

The project started to take shape three years ago when founder and former owner Jennifer Weis began talks with her friend and client Lisa Mitzen, a fellow animal lover who is known in the area for her business acumen and philanthropy.

“We have a farm with lots of animals,” said Mitzen. “Twelve years ago we got a yellow lab puppy named Charlie and brought him to Mahogany Ridge for daycare.”

Mitzen “fell in love with the place” and grew fonder of Weis as she trained her dog, she said. Later the Mitzens added another lab and a mixed breed to the family and again Weis helped train them.

In 2021, the Mitzens bought Mahogany Ridge for their personal portfolio and Weis agreed to stay on to manage day-to-day operations and training. The next step was to buy five acres of land from Stewarts Corp. behind the doggie daycare just south of Northway Exit 13.

Mitzen hopes to break ground on the new building very soon, keeping business going as usual from the existing space. She said eight to 10 months from now, when the new business is unveiled, it will carry the name of the pampered pooch who inspired Mitzen and Weis to work together.

Charlie’s Stay & Play has kept all its programming the same, including daycare, boarding, and training classes. Mitzen said dog owners must commit to one day a week to participate in day care and

that overnight boarding is available only to those dogs.

“Each dog must be evaluated so that we create a safe environment for all,” said Mitzen.

Her goal is “to slowly grow the dogs and staff ” and add more services, such as grooming, a cat sanctuary, and ultimately a small veterinary practice.

“If the supply chain and weather cooperate, we can move over in February or March,” she said.

Then she will be closer to her dream of owning a doggie daycare that “cares about the well-being, safety and happiness of the dogs,” she said. “We would like to help so many more animals. Not all dogs are so fortunate.”

The Mitzens donate all profits from Charlie’s Stay & Play to their Business for Good, a public foundation which will in turn direct funds to animal-related charities.

Mitzen and her husband Ed founded Business for Good in 2020. BFG has distributed $7 million to date, but it does much more. It invests in people and stronger communities by supporting entrepreneurship and small business as a partner. Profits are then returned to the community to improve food insecurity, housing instability, animals and other issues that many communities face.

Hattie’s Chicken and Bread Basket Bakery are also businesses that the Mitzens are operating for a profit and that, like Charlie’s, are BFG businesses. More enterprises are in the planning stages for the Capital District.

Mitzen said Balzer & Tuck of Saratoga is the project architect and The LA Group is helping navigate the Town of Malta regulations. She said she is in the process of considering different financing options. Visit www.bfg.org to learn more about how Business for Good is helping business in the Saratoga area.

Northshire Bookstore recently celebrated 10 years in its Saratoga Springs location of 424 Broadway. location opened in August of 2013.

Courtesy Northshire Book Store

This is a rendering of what will be Charlie’s Play & Stay, a business in Malta that will provide daycare, boarding, and training classes for dogs.

Courtesy Lisa Mitzen

"Locally Run Since 1981"

Maintaining Fitness

Continued From Page 10

tions, Carpenter opened Simple Strength and Conditioning. His wife, Cara Cogan-Carpenter, also received her certification and now teaches classes at the gym where their students range in age from 14 to 70.

“Anyone can do it, and we have people of all shapes and sizes and from all fitness backgrounds. Our classes only have five people at a time, so you get maximized attention. I also offer an introductory class so that people don’t feel intimidated,” said Carpenter, noting that modifications are available for those who are suffering from injuries or who are recovering from surgery.

“The biggest appeal is that it doesn’t bang up your joints. You aren’t jumping around, but you’re still getting a cardio workout and building strength. As we get older, it’s important to build muscle and maintain muscle mass.”

According to Carpenter, kettlebell workouts are perfect for people who don’t have a lot of time to exercise.

“We keep everything simple—we don’t do anything super fancy—and this is probably one of the more efficient workouts you can do. Most of workouts last 35 to 45 minutes, so you can get a full-body workout in a short period of time. You are going to benefit even if you just come one time a week because you are building muscle.”

For those who are nervous about trying a kettlebell workout, Carpenter encourages them to take that first step and come to the gym to try out a free class.

“The hardest part of any program is the first step of going through the door,” he said. “Stop the excuse making, and just get through the door and invest in yourself. I guarantee you will come back.”

For more information, simplestrengthconditioning.com and capitaldistrictsportandfitness. com.

Manhattan Exchange Restaurant Opens 2nd Location, The

BY CHRISTINE GRAF

Beth and Doug Davis, owners of Manhattan Exchange in Schenectady, have opened a second restaurant in Jonesville, east of Ballston Spa.

The Exchange opened its doors at the end of June at 857 Main St. in a space previously occupied by the Main Street Grill.

Beth Davis is a baking and pastry graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, and her husband, Doug, is a Schenectady native with extensive restaurant experience.

“He worked for the Malozzis, he worked at the Pentagon (restaurant in Schenectady), he was the opening chef of Duke’s at the casino,” said Beth Davis.

Davis worked at Villa Italia for a decade before the couple opened Manhattan Exchange

in January 2020. That restaurant serves upscale pub food and seats 100.

“We were working so hard for other people, and we wanted to give ourselves the opportunity to work that hard for ourselves,” she said.

The Davises own both buildings that house their restaurants. They purchased the 1.64acre Jonesville property in 2022 for $545,000. The property includes the building that houses the restaurant as well as a second smaller building and a barn.

“We were up and running well in Schenectady, and we felt like we could handle a second location,” said Davis. “We went to see the property in Jonesville, and it was just such a great opportunity. We had heard so many people saying that they were looking for another neighborhood restaurant in that area.”

After purchasing the property, they spent more than a year renovating the space, which now seats 80.

“We added an outdoor patio, and we opened up the space a little bit,” she said. “We moved the bar so that when you walk in it’s more open. We weren’t able to do anything structurally because it’s an historic building, so we tried to lighten it up and brighten it up while keeping the charm of the building.”

The property’s second building will be used for storage, and the owners are brainstorming to come up with possible uses for the barn.

The Exchange has a menu that is broken up between small plates and large plates with prices ranging from $14 to $30. Customer favorites include the seafood risotto and calamari, and the menu also features a variety of offerings including salads, burgers, chicken, and desserts. A small children’s menu is also available.

Since opening their doors on June 29, Davis said the restaurant has been busy every night.

“It’s been great. People are excited to have a restaurant at that location back again.”

The Davis’ have a total of 24 employees split evenly between their 2 locations. Despite the labor shortage in the hospitality industry, they have had no trouble fi nding employees.

Future plans include adding live music next spring and summer and offering family style takeout options.

“Now that we have our feet under us, we will be looking forward to fi nding ways to make the restaurant even better and servicing the community and the neighborhood the best we can,” said Davis. “We’re super excited and appreciative of the reception we’ve gotten.”

For more information, visit www.theexchangecliftonpark.com.

Manhattan Exchange in Schenectady has opened a second restaurant, The Exchange, in Jonesville, east of Ballston Spa. Owners of the eatery, which seats about 100, are Beth and Doug Davis.

Courtesy Manhattan Exchange

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Track Paid Attendance Climbs

Continued From Page 16

possible by the owners, trainers, jockeys and backstretch community who collectively dedicate so much to the horses and the sport.

“At the same time, the continued success of Saratoga depends upon our ability to continuously enhance equine safety through science and technology,” said O’Rourke. “In the coming months, NYRA will make significant investments in PET scan imaging to identify pre-existing injuries; finalize the path forward regarding the adoption of synthetic surfaces at each venue; and expand the use of biometric wearable devices. Horses, fans and the racing community deserve nothing less.”

Throughout the 2023 summer meet, Saratoga and the surrounding communities appeared on the national stage more

prominently than ever before thanks to an unprecedented broadcast partnership with FOX Sports. FOX and NYRA debuted a new programming series called FOX SARATOGA SATURDAY which featured live national coverage for six consecutive Saturdays from Saratoga Race Course on FOX, beginning on July 22 and culminating with the Travers on Aug. 26.

Prior to the start of the season, the Saratoga County Industrial Development Agency released the findings of an independently commissioned study which attributed $371 million in economic activity and more than 2,900 jobs to the annual Saratoga summer meet. The report found that the overall economic impact generated by Saratoga Race Course has increased by 57 percent since the

previous study conducted in 2014.

Klaravich Stables was the meet’s leading owner. Chad Brown and Linda Rice shared the H. Allen Jerkens training title; and jockey Irad Ortiz, Jr. captured the Angel Cordero, Jr. riding title.

Trainer Jena Antonucci made history as only the second woman to train a Travers champion when Arcangelo captured the 154th edition of the Grade 1, $1.25 million Travers. Earlier this spring, Antonucci entered the record books as the first female conditioner to win a Triple Crown race with Arcangelo in the Grade 1 Belmont Stakes. Hall of Fame Jockey Javier Castellano added a seventh Travers to his growing collection of victories in Saratoga’s most celebrated race.

NYRA celebrated the opening of the new Saratoga Backstretch Clinic in collaboration with Saratoga Hospital and BEST to expand on the existing healthcare services offered to

members of NYRA’s backstretch community. Funded by John Hendrickson as a tribute to his late wife, Marylou Whitney, the backstretch clinic replaced a temporary structure that previously housed on-site healthcare services at Saratoga Race Course.

Two of Saratoga’s most popular concessions, The Finish Line Grill and Modelo Finish Line Bar, received significant renovations and enhancements as NYRA continued to reinvest in the venue with a series of upgrades to improve guest amenities.

Saratoga marked the 10-year anniversary of New York State’s celebrated Taste NY program with an expanded menu of New York craft beer, hard cider, wine, spirits, cheese, chocolate and gelato from Long Island to the Adirondacks and the Capital Region to Western New York, as a showcase of the state’s robust food and beverage industry. For additional information, visit NYRA. com.