Buy Local: Family & Locally Owned Businesses 2024

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Saratoga County 2024

Saratoga County

PUBLISHER

Chad Beatty

MARKETING DIRECTOR

Chris Bushee

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Jim Daley

ADVERTISING SALES

Jim Daley

Cindy Durfey

Chris Bushee

DISTRIBUTION

Kim Beatty

DESIGN

Kacie Cotter-Harrigan Creative Director, Graphic Designer

Kelly Schoonbeck Ad Designer, Web

Ana Sosa Ad Designer, Web & Social Media

WRITER

Megin Potter

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Super Source Media Studios Niki Rossi Photography

Even if you’ve never walked into Saratoga Signature Interiors, you probably know right where they are. Founded in 1992, their 6,000 sq. ft. showroom just off the beaten path on busy Church Street in downtown Saratoga Springs, has an exterior so uniquely (and beautifully!) decorated for every occasion, that it attracts attention from everyone passing by.

Designed by Dan Czech, the front window displays and stoop are full of flowers, greenery, and interesting accessories that hint at the abundant inventory inside.

“Dan works tirelessly on the windows,” said Saratoga Signature’s Director of Sales and Marketing Tifanie Smith. “He’s so passionate about them and loves seeing people’s reactions as they walk past. Little kids are so excited when they see them. It creates an excitement in the atmosphere and the feeling that the holidays are here.”

MAKING THEIR MARK

Seeing the beautiful job and hours of work that everyone in Saratoga puts into their holiday displays is a favorite past-time for many in the city. It is a tradition as synonymous with this community’s spirit as the iconic custom-painted lawn jockeys that this shop has made famous. As popular as they are, this business began by offering something else.

“When Nancy started this business, it was because she saw a need in the community,” said Tifanie. Nancy scours the country for an eclectic blend of traditional and contemporary pieces in shapes, styles, and textures that suit a variety of applications.

Working primarily with residential clients, through the years, Saratoga Signature has also made their mark on number of public spaces including the Batchellor Mansion Inn, Gideon Putnam Hotel, and the Amtrak train station.

“We’re going to treat you like gold because every customer who walks through our door is like gold to us,” said Tifanie.

A FAMILY AFFAIR

When you explore Saratoga Signature Interiors’ ever-changing inventory, you let the festivities begin.

Inspiration abounds with their generous selection of furniture, window treatments, area rugs, lightning, art, décor, and accessories with style.

For a low-commitment holiday transformation, create a welcome, homey atmosphere with layered lighting, comfy throws, and a few pillows strewn about, advises Tifanie. No two days in the shop are the same, she said, and she, like everyone who works here, does a little bit of everything.

“When you work with one of us, really, you’re getting all of us,” said Tifanie. Tifanie’s husband (Nancy’s son) Colby, grew up in the showroom, the family eats lunch together, and are constantly consulting with one another to achieve the best results for their clients.

“We’re going to treat you like gold because every customer who walks through our door is like gold to us,” said Tifanie.

“The community and each one of our customers is important to us and is going to be treated like family because we are a family here and are all really close. It’s just really nice.”

Saratoga Signature Interiors also teams up with other area businesses to invite clients into the store after hours for music, games, food, and wine during their annual holiday party.

“We’re not selling anything, it’s just a chance to celebrate with our customers and spend time together having fun,” she said.

WELCOME TO THE SEASON

In every season, Saratoga Signature Interiors remains committed to client satisfaction. Always selling quality pieces discounted off retail prices, you will always receive the best pricing in the area.

“For every order, we inspect everything that comes in so, if it’s not perfect, we work with the manufacturer for a replacement (which can be time-consuming for the client, especially if they don’t know the proper channels to go through),” said Tifanie.

During delivery, while other stores will just drop the furniture down and be done with it, when Saratoga Signature delivers, all you have to do is plop down, kick your feet up, and enjoy your new furniture.

In the market to refresh your space ahead of the holidays? Buy local first.

“Supporting the local economy is really important, especially now, a lot of people are struggling and it’s better to stay local, buying within the community, from the supportive people that are all around you,” said Tifanie.

To make sure your home looks great when company comes, custom furniture, window treatments, and area rugs must be ordered four-to-six weeks in advance.

Get started now by following them on Facebook

@SaratogaSignatureInteriors and visiting saratogasignature.com

The Floor is Yours

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER FOR SARATOGA TODAY

PHOTOS BY SUPER SOURCE MEDIA STUDIOS

5th generation poised to join Torrell’s Carpetland, a family-owned business selling the finest floor coverings since 1946.

Kate Morrell was younger than her nephew, Jimmy James Morrell, age 14, is now, was when she started helping out at the family business.

While Jimmy hasn’t yet started tagging carpets or organizing samples, he’s looking forward to joining the company that has become like legend in the Morrell family.

“Family was my dad’s number one priority and I think he’d smile if he could see us now,” said Kate.

ROOTED IN TRADITION

Founded by Kate’s great grandfather John Morrell and her great uncles Vito and John Torani 78 years ago in Amsterdam, which was then known as the “Carpet City”, Torrell’s Carpetland remained in its original location until the early 2000’s when the Mohawk River flooded the west side of the city.

In 1972, to better serve their growing customer base, Torrell’s Carpetland expanded to 78 Church Street in the now vibrant city of Saratoga Springs. In April 2023, as they were preparing to move to their current location at 11 Aletta Street, Kate’s father, Jim, passed, and Kate, a fourth-generation owner, inherited the business. Kate’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the family business is supported by long-standing relationships with many in the community. It has been nurtured by Carol Rathburn, an irreplaceable employee of the Torrell’s Carpetland family since 1978, and an installation crew with more than two decades of experience delivering flawless floors that look beautiful and last for years.

A BITTERSWEET NEW BEGINNING

Carpetland’s success is inextricably tied with their mission: to provide quality affordable flooring products to both residential and commercial customers looking for durable, long-lasting solutions.

Seeing the construction that has commenced this year at their previous home is bittersweet, said Kate.

The transformed address, now being developed by Bonancio Construction, will be the future site of a 72,000 sq. ft. structure standing five stories tall and containing 23 luxury condominiums, two commercial units, and a covered parking area.

EXCEPTIONAL VALUE

Today, after celebrating their first year in their convenient new Saratoga Springs locate, formally the home of Napa Auto Parts, Kate said she’s received a lot of compliments on the rejuvenated multi-functional space, which now houses their inventory, office, and an expansive showroom displaying thousands of flooring samples.

Exceptional environmentally-conscious, recycled, wool, and low-tono-VOC hypoallergenic carpets and area rugs, as well as locally-milled hardwood, luxury vinyl, innovative cork, exquisite tile, and beautiful plank flooring surfaces are all on display.

Guiding you on your quest for the ideal flooring through the countless options, the Torrell’s Carpetland family takes the stress out of renovations with client-focused service that gives you the floor.

 Through the end of the year, look for deals on hardwood flooring during Torrell’s Carpetland’s new hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday 10am – 5pm, Thursday 10am – 6pm, and Saturday 10am – 2pm.

For updates, follow them on Facebook and Instagram @carpetland.saratoga and for more information, visit www.torellscarpetlandsaratoga.us

LIFe IS GOOD, AGAIN. Optimism resides on Broadway

Where once there were four independent retail shops, there are now two; Saratoga Outdoors and Life is Good, comprising the largest stretch of store frontage owned by a single person on the street.

That person is John Nemjo, an avid outdoorsman and former Florida teacher who, 31 years ago, with just $6,000, began building what he now calls “a mini empire” by selling high-quality outdoor supplies for the discerning adventurer.

NAVIGATING TOUGH TERRAIN

John, who founded Mountainman Outdoor Supply in 1993, became the largest Patagonia dealer in Upstate New York by opening six retail stores in Old Forge and Saratoga.

“When I see opportunities, I grab them, even though they seem unaffordable at the time,” said John.

By catering to Adirondack hikers, and with no corporate board to answer to, John has developed the flexibility to react quickly to his customer’s changing needs in an ever-evolving economy.

“It becomes tougher and tougher to run a small business every day,” he said. “Managing expenses is a very tight balancing act and what happens in local government can have a big effect on business.”

DECISIVE ACTION

In 2023, John became a leading figure in the dispute over the addition of paid parking within the city limits. A consistently strong voice in local politics, back in 2010, the same year Nemjo received the Small Business Association’s Small Business of Excellence award, he was also the Green Parry’s write-in candidate for Governor.

As a local entrepreneur, John is familiar with the havoc that paid parking can cause. His business experienced a 10 percent decline in sales when the paved lot behind the building was converted to $10/hour paid parking.

“Visitors pay that, and I appreciate the tourists that come, but it chases away the locals. It is a black eye on the city of Saratoga Springs,” he said. “Parking has always been an issue, and all this did was make it worse.”

To oppose the city’s actions, John formed the “Citizens Against Paid Parking”, distributed yard signs, and funded a postcard mailing to Saratoga’s 20,000 residents proclaiming the problems with the city council’s plan.

“I found it important to get involved, not only for myself, and not just for my business, but for the whole community of businesses on Broadway. We all need to support each other,” he said.

A MESS IN THE MAKING

Despite John’s efforts, the proposal passed, and paid parking was instituted in downtown Saratoga Springs this summer.

Now, Broadway businesses are grappling with the after-effects of the council’s decision.

“Everything we brought to their attention came to fruition. They created a mess for this city,” he said.

The busiest days at the race course are the slowest days in the shop, said John.

“The track isn’t what draws people to shop in Saratoga. What draws people is SPAC and the Saratoga City Center right next door,” he said.

The store’s summer sales revenue dropped eight percent during a disappointing July and August this year, but rebounded to a record high in September (once the paid parking restrictions were lifted).

“People are proud of this city and want to tell other people, with what they wear, that they’ve been here. This is a town we all love,” said John.

LIFE IS (STILL) GOOD

In November 2023, John sold his company name and three of its locations to a former employee and renamed the downtown location Saratoga Outdoors.

Once carrying as many as 80 different brands of canoes and kayaks, they are now the country’s top seller of a single one, Swift. Remaining committed to their core values, in January, they pledged to support sustainability as a participant of 1% for the Planet project. In July, John opened Life is Good in the neighboring storefront, pledging to donate a portion of their proceeds to the cause, as well.

The Life is Good brand, has been promoting the power of optimism since its founding 1994, and is a positive message that people can relate to, said John.

“Everybody wants something positive in life,” he said.

Saratoga’s first Life is Good store opened in 2008.  Life is Good continued as an essential brand after Mountainman opened, and its sales increased, so when the current location of the new store became available, John decided, once again, to give Life is Good its own store front.

The Life is Good Saratoga store, one of only three full-scale brand partners in the state, is spreading the power of positivity in a big way, and specializing in Saratoga Springs merchandise.

“People are proud of this city and want to tell other people, with what they wear, that they’ve been here. This is a town we all love,” said John.

 Last Weekend in November Super Sale: Saratoga Outdoors and Life is Good will be offering 20 – 60 % off (and additional sales) all weekend. Open 6 am – 9 pm Black Friday, Saturday 10 am – 8 pm, and Sunday 10 am – 5pm. Stay up to date by following them on Facebook @SaratogaOutdoors.NY and Instagram @saratogaoutdoors. For more deals, subscribe at saratogaoutdoors.com

Bellatas MEDSPA

Experience EMPOWERING CONFIDENCE

In the calm and soothing environment of Bellatas Medspa, Laura Newey, a former Saratoga Hospital Emergency Room nurse practitioner, performs treatments tailored to your individual needs.

Inspired by the challenges she’s experienced with her own skin, Laura has travelled the country in a relentless pursuit of aesthetic expertise and training from industry leaders on the latest diagnostic and treatment tools.

“I always struggled with my own skin growing up and into adulthood. It wasn’t until after my first Botox treatment that someone actually complimented me on my skin,” said Laura

“I want to help people on their own journey to feeling better about themselves and in their own skin,” she said.

RADIATING WELLNESS

Today, in the U.S., med spas are more popular than ever. Patients with a desire for a more radiant complexion and youthful appearance have fueled the explosion of the nearly six-billion-dollar med spa industry in North America with their growing interest in non-invasive cosmetic procedures, skin care, and well-being.

In 2019, when Laura and her husband, Dave, founded the Bellatas Medspa office in Clifton Park, it was one of the first healthcare facilities of its kind in the area to offer more affordable, less-invasive procedures performed in the ease of a pleasing environment.

Laura, a graduate of the University of North Carolina, began her career as a registered nurse at a busy level-one trauma center in North Carolina. Eleven years ago, she and her family moved to Saratoga Springs and Laura earned her Nurse Practitioner Master’s degree from Sage College. She continued her career until recently, in the emergency room at Saratoga Hospital, but is now practicing aesthetics full-time while also raising two children.

A BEAUTIFUL STATE OF BEING

Bellatas Medspa provides an opportunity for you to take time for yourself and indulge in some self-care for a more confident and beautiful state of being.

Although their family was already living in Saratoga, moving the Bellatas Medspa office downtown in 2022 was a scary prospect, said Laura. Saratoga has a reputation as vibrant, healthy community, and similar practitioners were already established here. Before long, however, Bellatas Medspa found a way to stand out.

“I try to get to know all my patients, learn about their lives, and what they’re really like,” said Laura. “It’s a more personalized experience in a more comfortable setting.”

Chatting about patient’s lives, work, and kids puts everyone at ease. “It’s a very tight-knit community and I feel very much at home here now,” Laura added.

“I take a conversative approach and take my time with each patient,” said Laura.

EMPOWERED AND AT EASE

As improvements in technology and a heightened knowledge of aesthetic treatments led to more seamless procedures and faster recovery times, more patients in upstate New York have turned to Bellatas Medspa for treatments that just 15 years ago had been almost solely under the purview of doctors (and still are in many states). In New York, experienced Nurse Practitioners are recognized for the expert care they provide to the community and have been granted the ability to operate their own medical practices. By providing state-of-the-art treatments from properly trained and licensed providers, Bellatas Medspa is committed to safely handling any complications that may arise.

Empowered by cutting-edge microneedling technology that uses radiofrequency energy to improve the skin’s appearance, and rejuvenating LED phototherapy using light to target facial pigmentation, age spots, freckles, and sun damage, people are finally getting the skin they’ve always dreamed about.

“When people feel better about themselves, they are more positive and can live as better versions of themselves, and that makes for a stronger community,” said Laura.

ENHANCING COMMUNITY WELLBEING

Whether applying restorative sea salt facial resurfacing treatments; utilizing injectables and dermal fillers that target wrinkles; or performing IV infusion therapy to help replenish the body to optimum health, Bellatas Medspa does not take unnecessary risks.

“I take a conversative approach and take my time with each patient,” said Laura.

Providing a safe and fulfilling aesthetic experience is just one of the ways that Bellatas Medspa helps to enrich the community.

“I enjoy supporting local businesses and I do feel better spending money when I know it will help others in the community,” said Laura.

Already a supporter of local and school grassroots fundraisers, as well as a contributor to national organizations including the American Cancer Society, as a North Carolina native growing up just an hour east of Ashville, Laura was devastated by the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene and will also be donating to their relief efforts this holiday season.

To meet Bellatas Medspa and learn more about their services, follow them on Facebook and Instagram @Bellatasmedspa and visit www.bellatasmedspa.com

PHOTO BY NIKI ROSSI PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY NIKI ROSSI PHOTOGRAPHY

Absolute Alignment

n 1970, Dr. James Byrne, DMD, first moved to Saratoga Springs and opened Byrne Orthodontics by Saratoga Hospital. His son, Brian, was born just two years later, one of the family’s six children. While Brian was growing up, his father opened a second office, in 1978, thirty miles away in Greenwich. Brian graduated from Albany Academy, then Cornell University in 1995, on the veterinary and then pre-med tracts, before following in his father’s footsteps and pursuing dentistry. Once he did, he found that he loved it.

Like his father before him, Brian is a graduate of the Temple University dental program and completed his orthodontic residency at the University of Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, where he received a Certificate in Orthodontics, as well as a Master’s Degree in Oral Biology. When Brian came back home to Saratoga and started working at his father’s practice, it was the beginning of an amazing 22-year partnership.

A TREASURED EXAMPLE

Infused with Brian’s fresh perspective, Byrne Orthodontics grew quickly. By 2006, they moved to their current location on Maple Avenue in Wilton (which was further expanded three years ago).

Dedicated to improving the look and function of patients’ teeth, together, father and son helped thousands bite, chew, and speak more comfortably and effectively.

Dr. Byrne was a mentor and teacher to his son at the practice, and with his family (which includes 17 grandchildren) until just four months before he passed away from an illness in October 2021. The enduring heritage Dr. James Byrne left to his son was the treasure of his example.

“His 40 years of experience prior was essential. He had treated every different type of case that came up, so that, even after I was no longer in school, I didn’t stop learning. I continued to learn from him, and he learned from me,” said Dr. Brian Byrne.

TAKING UP THE MANTLE

Now, three years later, Dr. James Byrne’s legacy lives on within Byrne Orthodontics. From the moment you walk into the office, it looks and feels like home.

Through the years, Dr. Brian Byrne has introduced modernizations to the patient care centered practice. Through his influence, Byrne Orthodontics delved into digital technologies for patient charting, photos, x-rays, and cat scans.

In the last two decades, these advancements, along with computeraided design and three-dimensional (3D) resin printing, have revolutionized orthodontic applications. The use of removeable clear plastic alignment technology has also evolved drastically.

Because every patient is different, the team, which now also includes Dr. Natalie Pinckney, use their combined knowledge and full range of tools to diagnose, prevent, and correct issues with personalized treatment plans individualized to each patient’s unique needs.

MASTERING MULTIGENERATIONAL CARE

Today, Byrne Orthodontics is a fully multigenerational office, transforming the smiles of kids, teens, and adults while enjoying the rewarding experience of building fulfilling relationships with patients over their years of treatment.

Because advancements in the field now enable Byrne Orthodontics to treat children at a younger age than was once possible, they catch problems earlier and often avoid pulling permanent teeth.

Byrne Orthodontics is also using their education, experience, and expertise to improve smiles and patient confidence with customized solutions for more adults than ever before.

When Brian began working with his father 22 years ago, just two percent of their patients were adults. With the advent of cameras on every phone and computer, the number of adults wanting to look their best in photos has skyrocketed, leading them to boost their dental hygiene with orthodontic care. Adults now comprise half of Byrne Orthodontics’ entire patient load.

A LEGEND IN ONE’S OWN TIME

Vigorous supporters of their community, Byrne Orthodontics donates to many of the activities the children they treat are involved with, including the Saratoga Springs middle and high school sports and drama clubs. They also have patients return to their office for mentorship in the profession themselves.

Of all the extraordinary work that they do at Byrne Orthodontics, one of their most appreciated skills is their regard for patient schedules. By effectively staying on task, they ensure a patient is seen within minutes of their scheduled appointment time.

This respect for patients’ time translates into being open during school holidays and the weeks of Christmas and New Year’s (often the times that are most convenient for working parents to bring their children to the office).

And, although Dr. Byrne encourages them to avoid too many Halloween treats, his experience has taught him to leave several appointments open in the days following the holiday for the emergency adjustments bound to be caused by the orthodontists’ toughest of adversaries: the errant hard candy.

For updates follow @byrneorthodontics on Facebook. For more information and to schedule a free consultation go to byrneorthodontics.com

looking GOOD AT VAUGHN VISION

LIFE-CHANGING EYE CARE IN A new location.

In 2011, when Vaughn Vision opened their first office in Saratoga at 170 S. Broadway, they transformed the last independent video store into a designer optometry practice. This year, they have moved again. Vaughn Vision is now conveniently located in a recently renovated circa 1930 brick building at 58 Church St. The beautifully bright space is wellsuited to examining, treating, monitoring, and managing your vision and ocular health.

“We couldn't be happier with it.  Our new office is centrally located with plenty of parking.  We remodeled the space so that it is very comfortable and welcoming with a ton of natural light,” said Dr. Chad Vaughn.

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER • FOR SARATOGA TODAY | PHOTOS BY SUPER SOURCE MEDIA STUDIOS

A CLEAR GOAL

Within easy reach whether you need a basic vision test, a comprehensive eye exam, or the latest treatment for ocular disease, Vaughn Vision’s personalized approach, wide range of services, and experience with the latest diagnostic equipment and technology ensures each patient receives eyecare tailored to their specific needs.

Dr. Vaughn’s goal at Vaughn Vision is to help you optimize your vision.   “My staff and I strive to provide a high level of service and care that commercial practices just can't provide,” he said. “We care about our patients and want them to leave knowing that all their needs have been met, and that they are happy with the care we provided.”

BEYOND APPEARANCES

Treating the eye begins at Vaughn Vision with listening and learning about you - how you work, play, and use your sight.

Creating a customized solution starts with listening to your patients to truly understand their needs and concerns, then addressing their concerns with clear communication, said Dr. Vaughn.

“I believe this process fosters trust in the patient-doctor relationship and puts the patient at ease (knowing they are getting the best care possible),” he said.

OVERARCHING EYE CARE

Even in their new location, Vaughn Vision remains dedicated to continuous eye care in the community. In addition to attracting new clients, on Wednesdays, Dr. Vaughn continues to visit their second location, which opened in Guilderland in 2017.

“It is nice to build a relationship with the same doctor every time you go instead of seeing someone different every time.  Seeing the same doctor allows you to build a strong doctor-patient relationship that only improves the quality of eyecare you receive,” he said.

Dr. Vaughn, a Gloversville native, is a graduate of the College of the Holy Cross, who received his Doctorate from the New England College of Optometry. Now, as Saratoga Springs residents, he and his family are happy to be living and contributing to the health of a community rated one of the nation’s healthiest cities to live in by US News and World Report. Since 2011, Vaughn Vision optometrists and opticians, which provide comprehensive eye care, including exams, glasses, contact lens, the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases and dry eye, as well as LASIK co-management (all with the latest in diagnostic equipment and technology) have been voted as among the Best in the Saratoga Region by Saratoga TODAY readers.

THE RIGHT FIT

In addition to providing expert eyecare, Vaughn Vision also has a great selection of curated designer eyewear and sunglasses in a wide range of styles and price points.

Durable, fashionable, and providing you with a great fit for your vision and personal lifestyle, this is a collection that, unlike impersonal online shopping, comes with the added benefit of local expert advice, and the ease of seeing what you’ll be wearing - all during hours that accommodate your schedule, making Vaughn Vision a welcome sight for sore eyes.

For special promotions and substantial discounts, follow @VaughnVision on Facebook. To find out more and schedule an appointment, visit www.vaughnvision.com

ALLIANCE

Jiu-Jitsu Saratoga

ELITE MARTIAL ARTS DOJO OPENS IN WILTON MALL

Train in a style to

be proud of.

Six days a week at Alliance Jiu-Jitsu Saratoga in the Wilton Mall, an army of athletes wearing a uniform that has remained relatively unchanged for a century, use strategy and leverage techniques to control their opponents on the mats.

Since September, Alliance Team champions and Northeastern Brazilion Jiu-Jitsu (NEBJJ) founders James and Jesse Bruchac, along with a cadre of more than a dozen highly-experienced certified instructors, have been using the 4,800 sq. ft. refurbished space across from Old Navy to create a safe, supportive environment to train students in the Alliance method - a martial art, combat sport, and self-defense system that focuses on ground fighting.

“We’re in the public eye in a space that really feels like the right place to prepare people for competition,” said James.

A LIVING HERITAGE

James was introduced to the mats when he was just four years old, his brother, Jesse, at age six, by their father, Joseph Bruchac, now 82, an award-winning local author, who was also a wrestler in the early 1960’s while attending Saratoga Springs High School; a varsity heavyweight wrestler at Cornell University; and who later returned to serve as Saratoga Springs’ Assistant High School Wrestling Coach.

While living in Buffalo, Jesse, co-founder of the Western New York Mixed Martial Arts (WNYMMA) academy, discovered the Alliance method of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the fastest growing martial art in the nation, which combines the ancient arts and wrestling in a beautiful way, he said.

Since its founding in 1993 by Romero “Jacare” Cavalcanti, an 8th degree Master, the Alliance Team has grown into one of the most successful teams in the world, taking home a record-breaking 14 International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation World Championship titles.

RELENTLESS RESPECT

After 13 years, the Saratoga Academy of Elite Martial Arts outgrew their rural location in Greenfield Center at the Ndakinna Education Center, where students learn the martial arts, survival skills, and facets of native American culture.

While they continue to offer instruction in other disciplines including Judo, Muay Thai, and Kyokushin Karate at that dojo, their second branch, Alliance Jiu-Jitsu Saratoga, is dedicated entirely to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a minimalistic urban setting, focused on producing exceptionally talented athletes, and making a significant contribution to promoting the art in the wide-open expanse of a more industrial setting.

“It’s brought real balance to what we do,” said Jesse. “It’s like the yin and yang of training,”

Pictured from left to right; Jesse Bruchac, Joe Bruchac, Leonardo Noguiera, and James Bruchac. Photo provided
“It teaches you to feel comfortable in uncomfortable situations and to turn them to your advantage. That’s a skill that translates to success throughout your entire life,” said Jesse

EMPOWERED, CONFIDENT, DISCIPLINED

The quality of the top-notch, family-friendly, Alliance curriculum shines when tested internationally at the highest levels of competition.

Structured around unifying core principles, it is an activity for youths and adults taught by experienced instructors (adding their own flare) that can easily be adapted to your own body, age, and skill level.

“It teaches you to feel comfortable in uncomfortable situations and to turn them to your advantage. That’s a skill that translates to success throughout your entire life,” said Jesse, who in addition to being a 3rd degree blackbelt (like his brother) since 2020, has been the Director of the School of Abenaki at Middlebury College.

A HOLISTIC EXPERIENCE

Grappling on the mats at fitness centers like Alliance Jui Jitsu Saratoga makes going to the mall a more holistic experience. As shopping centers evolve into more than just a place to buy consumer goods, they become hubs of reinvention and social connectedness.

Practicing Alliance Jiu-Jitsu takes your mind off what’s going on and teaches you to focus on the present, while toning the body and improving mental agility.

“There’s no more common New Year’s Resolution than to get in better shape and no better gift than to have a wonderful experience,” said Jesse.

See what Alliance Jiu-Jitsu Saratoga is all about at the Wilton Mall, off Interstate 87 exit 15, in the town of Wilton; and beginning at 9am on November 30th, at the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gi and Nogi Round Robin Grappling Industries Tournament, held at the Saratoga Springs City Center, 522 Broadway, in Saratoga Springs.

 Alliance Jiu-Jitsu Saratoga offers open enrollment for kids, teens, and adults, with a free one-week trial and free one-onone private lesson with a certified black-belt instructor. Register now for a 20% off Early Bird Discount that lasts for the life of your membership.

Discover additional discounts for families, military, and law enforcement by visiting saratogajiujitsu.com

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