Saratoga Home & Lifestyle 2025

HomeSaratoga Lifestyle & ®

HomeSaratoga Lifestyle & ®

OWNER/PUBLISHER

Chad Beatty

CREATIVE DIRECTOR/ MANAGING EDITOR

Chris Vallone Bushee

MAGAZINE DESIGNER

Kacie Cotter-Harrigan

ADVERTISING DESIGN

Ana Sosa

ADVERTISING

Jim Daley

Cindy Durfey

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Colleen Coleman

Sydney Hedge

Mary Kincaid

Megin Potter

Kellye Shaw

PHOTOGRAPHY

Benjamin Moore

Susan Blackburn Photography

Kitchen and Bath World

Randall Perry Photography

Raymond Stockwell

STIHL Marketing USA

Super Source Media Studios

PUBLISHED BY SARATOGA TODAY 2254 Route 50 South Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 518-581-2480

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Saratoga Home & Lifestyle is brought to you by Saratoga TODAY, Saratoga Publishing, LLC. Saratoga Publishing shall make every effort to avoid errors and omissions but disclaims any responsibility should they occur. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written consent of the publisher.

Copyright © 2025, Saratoga TODAY Newspaper.

If interested in print publications for your next event call Saratoga TODAY: 518-584-2180.

Chris Vallone Bushee Creative Director/ Managing Editor cBushee@SaratogaPublishing.com

518-581-2480 ext. 201 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

WELCOME TO THE SARATOGA HOME & LIFESTYLE SHOW!

The first weekend of March (and this awesome event!) has always been the unofficial Kick Off to Spring! And after this long, cold winter, I’m sure we are all looking forward to this!

This yearly fundraiser held by the Rotary Club of Saratoga Springs, is now celebrating their 51st year and is a Saratoga MUST-DO event! If you’re not familiar with what Rotary does, please read all about them in the first few pages of this magazine. As always, we are honored when a local business or organization asks us to help create a publication to help them promote their business or event, and we just LOVE doing this for the Rotary Club!

With the beautifully designed and informative displays at the Saratoga Home & Lifestyle Show, and the informative content in the magazine, combined with all these ADS!!… There are ideas and vendors for every household project you could imagine! And possibly some you hadn’t even thought of!

Did I mention that admission is FREE again this year, thanks to the Adirondack Trust Company?!

Cover photo courtesy of KITCHEN AND BATH WORLD - see page 56 for the story!

 Did you hear about the new bi-annual DESIGN EXPO coming to town on September 19th?! If NOT, tell them you heard it here!

Mark your calendars for this all-day event at the Saratoga Springs City Center from 9am – 4pm. Presented by ASID, Upstate NY-Canada East.

Here are a few details to pique your interest – and ALL are welcome to attend!

 Hourly raffles

 Swag Bags at check-in

 The public is welcome to preview vendor selections including fabrics, audio visual, lighting, wallpaper, hardware, furniture, accessories, paints and more!

 For professionals, this is the opportunity to meet new vendors from all areas of interior design to increase your offerings to clients…50+ vendors in attendance!

 Ticket sales will be announced in a later magazine…

Be sure to Save The Date NOW!!

 For more information: president@nyuce.asid.org

I hope you find these articles as informative as I did… Between meeting the vendors, learning about the latest & greatest out there (robotic mowers!!) and hearing from our (Award-Winning!!) Interior Design Editor Colleen Coleman on all the latest, this magazine will be your go-to source for planning that next project!

See you at the show –stop by and say hello : )

PS… For even more inspiration, check out the H&G issue of Simply Saratoga Magazine, due out in mid-May!

Hair by Brandon Scott, The Company Salon

Photos by Super Source Media Studios

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, MARCH 1 - 2, 2025

SARATOGA SPRINGS CITY CENTER

PRESENTED BY

FREE ADMISSION COURTESY OF ADIRONDACK

TRUST COMPANY

WILLIAM BERGAN

President 2024

Rotary Club of Saratoga Springs

The Rotary Club of Saratoga Springs welcomes you to the 51st Saratoga Home & Lifestyle Show! The 2025 show is made possible by the continued major sponsorship of the Adirondack Trust Company. The club also greatly appreciates our long-term support sponsors including Granite & Marble Works Inc., Cudney's Cleaners, Sterling Manor Financial LLC, Stewart's, and Independent Contractor Supply.

Our first show was held in 1973 to connect local businesses with community members and raise funds to distribute to local charities. Past recipients of home show proceeds include the Franklin Community Center, AIM Services, Saratoga Regional YMCA, Wellspring, and the Saratoga Springs Community Center. The show's continued success has enabled us to also direct funds to international projects such as Drilling for Hope, Impactful Education, and the worldwide quest for polio eradication. The largest beneficiary of the Saratoga Home & Lifestyle Show is the Saratoga Springs Rotary Education Foundation. Your continued attendance and support from our exhibitors

allowed the foundation to award more than $88,000 to local students in 2024. These scholarships are awarded to those pursuing a degree at accredited two- and four-year colleges or vocational educational institutions.

Our club is involved in more than providing financial grants. We work to make a difference in our community by bell ringing for the Salvation Army, participating in home improvement projects with Rebuilding Together, laying wreaths at Saratoga National Cemetery, volunteering for local 5k races, and planting trees in local parks.

We were proud to celebrate our club's centennial in 2024. This represents a long history of being deeply ingrained in the Saratoga community. As a club, we are always seeking new members who share our commitment to "Service Above Self." You can contact us at wbergan50@gmail.com for more information about becoming a Rotarian. Please be sure to visit us at our Rotary booth during the show. We greatly appreciate your support of the club, exhibitors, and sponsors.

Enjoy the Show!

Photo by Super Source Media Studios

thanks

TO OUR

SHOW SPONSORS!

Thank you to our generous sponsors for their support. Once again The Adirondack Trust Company is our major sponsor making it possible to offer this show to the public admission-free.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Independent Contractor Supply

In addition to the sponsors, exhibitors and special events participants noted elsewhere, the Club thanks Clifton Park Rental, Saratoga Springs City Center and the Saratoga Springs Police Department for their participation in the show.

The Rotary Club of Saratoga Springs Home & Lifestyle Show returns to the Saratoga Springs City Center with this our 51st show! The show features a wide variety of exhibitors with expertise in everything from gardens and outdoor living to financial planning.

Whether you own your own home or rent an apartment, you’ll find something at the show that interests you. Get ideas and talk to experts about those lifestyle and home improvement projects you’ve been dreaming about. The weekend includes the annual Rotary Art Show, pet adoptions, a kid’s craft station hosted by the Saratoga Joinery, family fun and much more.

There is something for everyone, so come join us at the Saratoga Springs City Center!

SHOW HOURS

Saturday, March 1: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, March 2: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

ADMISSION is free... Thanks to our Major Sponsor, The Adirondack Trust Company.

FIND THE EXHIBITOR LIST ONLINE

Scan the QR code or visit saratogaspringsrotary.org for updated show information, including a list and map of exhibitors, photos, and show-related updates. You can also follow us on Facebook @SaratogaSpringsRotary and on Instagram @RotaryClubSaratogaSprings

SERVICE ABOVE Self

ROTARY’S MOTTO IN ACTION

The Rotary motto, “Service Above Self,” drives our membership to do good things in our own community as well as for communities around the world. Our membership shares a love of Saratoga with a strong desire to make it better for everyone who lives here. Weekly club meetings not only encourage camaraderie but provide opportunities to network with local business leaders and learn more about our community through a series of scheduled speakers. Rotary welcomes new members at any time.

The Rotary Home & Lifestyle show makes it possible for the Rotary Club of Saratoga Springs to financially support our community’s 501(c)(3) organizations as we strengthen community spirit. The Club expects to raise $80,000 from this year’s event. Over the course of the year, these proceeds are re-distributed to community organizations, educational scholarships and international humanitarian projects.

ROTARY SUPPORTS

LOCAL NON - PROFITS

The Rotary Club of Saratoga Springs makes monthly and annual financial gifts over the course of each year:

• Monthly Gifts: Every month the club makes charitable contributions to worthy non-profit organizations in amounts ranging up to $5,000. We eagerly accept letters describing your organization’s needs other than operating costs. Please include specifics about how Rotary can help. On average, Rotary supports by giving over $30,000 in local giving to over 30 charities each and every year!

• Major Gifts: The Club awards a Major Gift biennially, typically ranging from $10,000 to $40,000, to area organizations seeking to complete a specific project. Please visit our website to learn more and apply!

Criteria for these donations are explained on the club’s website at saratogaspringsrotary.org

You may also get general information at the Rotary booth on the main floor of the Home & Lifestyle Show.

Rotary Club of Saratoga Springs donating $1,000 to ShelterBox USA. Photo provided.

INTERNATIONAL RELIEF EFFORTS

Part of Rotary's mission involves donating to world disaster recovery efforts and improving life for citizens in developing countries. The Saratoga Springs Club sent Shelter Boxes for war refugees in Syria and typhoon victims in the Philippines, funded well construction in Rwanda and supported Pure Water for the World.

ROTARY SUPPORTS EDUCATION

The Saratoga Springs Rotary Education Foundation raises funds to give financial scholarships to deserving high school seniors who plan to pursue additional education. The Foundation (SaratogaSpringsScholarships.org) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization which partners with the Rotary Club of Saratoga Springs to award scholarships. The Saratoga Springs Rotary Education Foundation awarded $100,000 in scholarships to 15 local students. One-year scholarships ranged in amounts from $2,500 to $6,000. In addition, one high school senior is selected to receive our Presidential Scholarship. The winner of this award receives $5,000 per year for four years. The winner of the Presidential Scholarship is Elaina Jacob who will attend University at Buffalo to major in Biomedical Sciences. Miss Jacob gave an impassioned thank you after receiving the scholarship. She told the attendees that she was born in Syria, escaped the war with her family and was grateful to be in the United States pursuing her dream of going to college.

JOIN ROTARY!

Membership in the Rotary Club of Saratoga Springs offers an excellent opportunity for Saratoga area businesses and individuals to make new friends while making a positive impact on the community and the world. The more than fifty members of the Club meet three times per month and host regular social events at local Saratoga restaurants. Contact us at wbergan50@gmail.com for updated meeting times and locations!

Rotary realizes that people are busy and may not be able to attend every meeting. Obviously, the Club encourages good attendance. The more involved you are the more you will learn about all the wonderful things we do. Involvement in our Rotary-sponsored community efforts as well as participating on Club committees will further prove we believe in our motto, “Service Above Self”.

We invite prospective members to join us for a meeting or our evening gathering. Just show up and introduce yourself. Also check us out at saratogaspringsrotary.org and on Facebook. Please stop by the Rotary booth at the show to speak to a Rotarian and get your questions answered. Individual and corporate memberships are available.

The Saratoga Springs Rotary Education Foundation honored high school seniors with $100,000 in college scholarships in 2024. Photo provided.

The 2024 Presidential Award winner Elaina Jacob. Photos provided.

SERVICE ABOVE Self

Rotary International

Did you know you can travel to almost every part of the world and find a Rotary Club? Rotary is a global network of 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change across the globe, in our communities and in ourselves.

Solving real problems takes commitment and vision. For more than 110 years, Rotarians have used their passion, energy and intelligence to take action on sustainable projects. From literacy and peace to water and health, we are always working to better our world, and we stay committed to the end.

Rotary members believe we have a shared responsibility to take action on our world’s most persistent issues. Rotary International’s 35,000+ clubs work together to:

• Promote peace

• Fight disease

• Provide clean water, sanitation and hygiene

• Save mothers and children

• Support education

• Grow local economies

• Protect the environment

We provide service to others, promote integrity and advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through our fellowship of business, professional and community leaders.

Rotary Works to End Polio

For more than 30 years, Rotary has been working to eradicate polio. Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a paralyzing and potentially deadly infectious disease that most commonly affects children under the age of 5. The virus spreads from person to person, typically through contaminated water. It can then attack the nervous system.

Rotary has reduced polio cases by 99.9% since its first project to vaccinate children in the Philippines in 1979. We’ve helped immunize more than 2.5 billion children in 122 countries. Rotary has contributed more than $1.8 billion toward eradicating the disease worldwide.

Today polio remains endemic only in Afghanistan, Nigeria and Pakistan, but it’s crucial to continue working to keep other countries polio-free. If all eradication efforts stopped today, within 10 years polio could paralyze as many as 200,000 children each year.

ROTARY SUPPORTS

Your COMMUNITY

Here is a sampling of the many organizations supported by The Rotary Club of Saratoga Springs.

• Act with Respect Always

• After the Fire

• AIM Services, Inc.

• Alliance 180

• Cornell Cooperative Extension

• Dake Foundation

• Doctors Without Borders

• Drilling for Hope

• EOC Saratoga

• Franklin Community Center

• Friends Forever International

• Friends of Camp Little Notch

• Friends of Saratoga Springs Public Library

• Ladies of Charity

• Lifeworks Community Action

• Malta Veterans

• North Country Horses

• Salvation Army

• Saratoga Book Festival

• Saratoga County Agricultural Society

• Saratoga County Children's Committee

• Saratoga Little League

• Saratoga Miss Softball

• Saratoga Regional YMCA

• Saratoga Senior Center

• Saratoga Shakespeare

• Saratoga Sponsor-A-Scholar

• Saratoga Springs Little League

• Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation

• Saratoga-Wilton Soccer Club

• Prevention Council

• Salvation Army

• Saratoga County Children’s Committee

• WellSpring Saratoga

SERVICE

2024 SENIOR CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD ROTARY CELEBRATES

Annually, the Rotary Club of Saratoga Springs’ Senior Citizen of the Year award honors a Saratoga County resident, aged 65 or better, who demonstrates the Rotary principle of “Service Above Self.”

The Rotary Club selected Jean Fei as its Senior Citizen of the Year and awarded $1,000 to her charity of choice – Seven Dancers Coalition. Fei’s involvement in the community has included programs with organizations SEAD, Saratogians for Equality and Acceptance of Diversity, Annual Diversity Day Celebration for Saratoga, Respecting Difference Writing Contest for 8th and 9th Grade Students, Saratoga Day of Giving Thanks Celebration, Terrace Kids in Action, and others.

At age 17, Fei moved to Saratoga to attend Skidmore College, and her earliest jobs included waitressing at Caffe Lena’s when Lena Spencer was in charge. “I lived in Seattle, Washington where I was born, and grew up in Beirut, Lebanon, Dhaka, Bangladesh, Paris, France, Monrovia Liberia, Madison, Wisconsin and Chevy Chase, Maryland,” Fei said, in a statement. “I settled here and have never left.”

If you know a Saratoga County senior whose volunteer service is exemplary, please consider nominating them for this award. Nominations are due this spring, and forms can be found on the Rotary Club of Saratoga Springs website, at saratogaspringsrotary.org. The award, which includes a donation to the Saratoga County non-profit organization of the honoree's choice, will be given at the club's spring meeting.

Senior Citizen of the Year, Jean Fei was awarded $1,000 by the Rotary Club of Saratoga Springs to her charity of choice – Seven Dancers Coalition.

GET SHOW UPDATES ONLINE Visit saratogaspringsrotary.org to get the latest news on what’s happening at the show.

SPECIAL EVENTS

FAMILY FUN!

Sean and Christine Doolan, our Magician and Balloon Artist will be entertaining adults and children alike on Saturday from 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.! Make sure you look for all of them while attending the show!

KID’S CRAFT STATION SPONSORED BY SARATOGA JOINERY

New

Saratoga Joinery will be hosting a kids craft station Sunday, March 2nd from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. where kids of all ages can create a wooden craft that they can take home with them. From 12-3 p.m., Logan Simms will be demonstrating hand tool woodworking including hand cut dovetails, mortise and tenon, and dados. Saratoga Joinery is a nonprofit community woodworking shop with a mission to make the craft of woodworking accessible to all. Join us for some crafts, fun and sawdust!

ADOPT A PET, LEARN SOMETHING NEW

How can you resist the charms of sweet furry animals searching for their forever home? The Rotary Home & Lifestyle Show is host to several pet adoption agencies from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday that will be in residence to answer your pet questions and introduce you to adorable new friends who want to go home with you.

Representatives from agencies like Lucky Puppy, Witches Kittens, Hop on Home, and H.O.P.E. will be on hand with advice and pointers on pet adoption and ownership. Even if you aren’t quite ready for a pet adoption, there’s no harm to visit and play with our special animal guests. If you want to do more, the pet agencies will provide information on getting involved.

SEAN “THE PRANKSTER”

CRAZY CHRISTINE THE BALLOON LADY

New Entertainment

The Saratoga Rotary Home Show is back for 2025 on Saturday, March 2 and Sunday, March 3 so mark your calendars to come and check out what’s new in the world of home improvement as well as some new entertainment for you. New events for this year include two workshops by Saratoga Joinery on Sunday, March 3. From 10 a.m.-1 p.m. there will be a kid’s craft station and from 12-3 p.m. woodworking demonstrations and tool display. The Saratoga Joinery is a community woodworking shop with a mission to make woodworking accessible to all located at 69 Caroline Street in Saratoga. Through classes and membership, Saratoga Joinery provides a space for makers with varied experience levels to create and expand their woodworking skills.

WITCH WALK SOSA

Saturday, March 2, with TWO performances: 1:30 p.m. and 3:15 p.m.

Come and see what they have planned for us!

Established in 2005 in Ballston Spa, New York as a fundraiser to help raise thousands of dollars in donations to support animal organizations, Witch Walk SoSa (Southern Saratoga) has grown to over 500+ witches and includes the Witch Way Wanderers Dance Troupe. The event, now located in Saratoga Springs, is striving to reach more people and to include more activities (vendor market, raffle and year-round dance opportunities). Witch dances by the Witch Way Wanderers Dance Troupe are modeled on the dances by the Wolfshager Hexenbrut witches of Germany. We perform these as well as some that have been shared among other witch dance groups in the northeast, and some choreographed by our own members.

Beautiful Downtown Saratoga Springs has welcomed and supported our event, which continues to grow each year, allowing us to donate thousands of dollars to local animal shelters and organizations. Our goal is to entertain, make you laugh, and maybe encourage you to join in a dance or two!

Follow us on Facebook @witchwalksosa, Instagram @witchwalksosa and @witchwaywanderers

EARTHBEAT MUSIC - DRUM IN JOY!

Sunday, March 3 at 11:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.

Join EarthBeat Music founder Chelsie Henderson with Drum in Joy students for a vibrant jam at the Saratoga Home Show!  EarthBeat Music is a music education space and dynamic that is always on a mission to "build a resilient and empathic community through musical arts" with the most prominent program offerings being Drum in Joy!, Strum in Joy!, and WomenSing for Peace.

CHILD SAFETY WITH SARATOGA SPRINGS POLICE DEPARTMENT

Every child should have a New York State Safe Child Card. You can get yours at the Police Department’s information table for child safety. Receive your free child ID card as well as practical information about keeping your youngsters safe and sound.

Officer Glenn Barrett and Charlotte Flynn (10) of Saratoga Springs.

EarthBeat Music. Photo provided

Witch Walk SoSa. Photo provided

It'sBack!

ARTISAN’S SH WCASE

Join us at the City Center March 1st and 2nd for a celebration of creativity and talent. Explore a variety of booths showcasing stunning paintings, intricate woodworking, captivating photography, unique jewelry and so much more. Be sure to visit the Saratoga Springs High School Art Display, where local student artists will shine. Saratoga Arts will honor the “Best in Show” high school artist with a complimentary one-year membership. Don’t miss this inspiring community event!

Photos provided.

AT THE ROTARY HOME & LIFESTYLE SHOW

ABC WOODWORKING AND PATTY'S PETALS

#SARATOGAHOMEANDLIFESTYLEARTSHOW

HEATHER VAN DYKE

SUMIYO TORIBE

DARK MOUNTAIN ARTS

THISTLEDOWN STUDIO

ENDLESS RAINBOW GEMS

NANCY MILLER JEWELRY DESIGNS

ARTISAN’S SHOWCASE

FLICKERING FERN CANDLE

EVERYTHING RUSTIC AND UNIQUE BY ASHLEY

BARNTIQUE

1st

2nd

3rd

Place: Bianca Babcock - Grade 12 (right)

Place: Sophia Verdu - Grade 12 (left)

Place: Leah Bell - Grade 12 (middle)

BLACKBIRD STUDIO

HARNETT DESIGNS WOODWORKING

COOPER’S DAUGHTER SPIRITS

Artist Line-Up

CANDLE AND FLORAL

Flickering Fern Candle

Patty's Petals

JEWELRY

Nancy Miller Jewelry Designs

Blackbird Studio

Endless Rainbow Gems

MIXED MEDIA AND PAINTING

Dark Mountain Art

Thistledown Studio

Heather VanDyke Artist

Psycho Signs and Crafts

POTTERY

Dougherty Ceramics

WOODWORKING

ABC Woodworking

Everything Rustic and Unique by Ashley Barntique

Harnett Designs Woodworking

13 & Dyer Designs

Wildwoods Woodturning

WINE AND SPIRITS

Ledge Rock Hill Winery

Cooper's Daughter Spirits

2024 High School Art Show Winners

Saratoga Arts proudly awarded a free one-year membership to Bianca Babcock for her outstanding contribution to the 2024 Student Art Show. Each year, the High School Student Artwork display continues to amaze and inspire.

We are thrilled to welcome back the talented Saratoga Springs High School Advanced Art Class and eagerly anticipate the incredible work of the 2025 High School Student Artists. Keep an eye out for the next wave of artistic brilliance!

Looking for parking for the Home Show?

Public Parking Map

When parking, please be aware of all posted signs. While some lots may allow all day parking, many lots and parking areas are limited to two hours during certain hours.

Parking map and information compliments of the Downtown Business Association

A parking garage has been built directly behind the City Center with direct access to the Center. Other lots directly behind the City Center are available along with on street parking around the City Center. Also, there are parking garages on Woodlawn Avenue that are just a short stroll away from the City Center. Plus, you can always use a taxi, Uber or Lyft to get to the show too. There will be an Uber/Lyft stop directly in front of the City Center on Broadway for your convenience.

Woodlawn Street Garage: This 4-level parking garage on Woodlawn Street is half a block from Broadway with an easy walk to the City Center.

Walton Street Garage: Located off Church Street on Walton, this garage allows access to the northern end of Broadway and the City Center.

Spring Street Garage: This parking garage on Spring and Putnam Streets provides easy access to Congress Park, Phila Street, Caroline Street and Maple Avenue south of the City Center.

SURFACE LOTS

Broadway: This lot is on Broadway, between the Collamer and Algonquin buildings. It’s a quick walk to the City Center and downtown shops and restaurants.

Spring and Putnam Streets: This lot at Spring and Putnam Streets is near Congress Park, Phila Street, Caroline Street and Maple Avenue.

LEDGE ROCK HILL WINERY

To find specific vendors and their booth assignments, please pick up a show map when you enter the Saratoga City Center.

EXHIBITORS

Adirondack Basement Systems

Adirondack Trust Company

Allerdice Building Supply, Inc.

Amsure

Attention Pest Solutions

Bath Fitter

BDB Paving and General Contracting

Beliveau Mechanical, Inc

Bio-Fusion Designs

Brennan Landscaping, Inc.

Budget Blinds

Capital Painting Services

Caribbean Pools & Spas

Cetera Investors

Chas. G. Burch Supply Co.

Clean Green Hauling & Removal

Comalli Electric

Comfort Windows & Comfort Baths

Culligan

Custom Lawn Care & Landscaping

Cutco Cutlery

D&R Lawn & Landscaping - Sealcoating/ Shiny Bins Cleaning Service

DogWatch by Top Dog Pet Fence

Earl B. Feiden Appliance

Ehrlich Pest Control

Elite Property Care

Elite Sealcoating & Property Services

Family Danz Heating and Cooling

Floor and Décor

Form Solutions, Logix ICF

Granite & Marble Works, Inc.

Grasshopper Gardens, Inc.

Graves Bros

Green Mountain Soapstone

Groundhogs Lawn Care

Gutter Pro

Hercules Heat

Hot Water Solutions

Insurance Advisors

Islander Pools and Spas

Jordan LaMothe Blades

Kasselman Solar

Klaus Roofing

L. Browe Asphalt

Lawn Doctor

LeafFilter Gutter Protection

Leafguard Brand Gutters

Life's Great Spas

Living Outdoors Extended

Mad City Windows and Doors

Malta Development

Mandy's Spring Nursery

Mirabito Heating and Cooling

Mohawk Heating Co, Inc

MSV Heat Pump Solutions

Next Generation Roofing, Paving, Siding

Northeast Seamless Gutter Co.

Nothing Bundt Cakes

Patio Enclosures

Peak Environmental

Pella Windows and Doors

Pinnacle Roofing inc

PlugPV LLC

Prestwick Chase

Raindrop Technologies, LLC

Reimer Home Services

Renewal By Anderson

Saratoga Associates

Saratoga Kitchens & Baths, Inc.

Saratoga Quality Hardward and Lumber

Saratoga Sod Farm

Saratoga Today

Saratoga's Community

Federal Credit Union

Stone Industries

Suburban Construction

Suburban Services Group

Superior Co-Op HVAC

Sweeney Company Outdoor Living

Telescope Casual Outdoor Furniture

The Capital Team at eXp Real Estate

The Edison Club

The House Wash Company

Top Gen Roofing

Trenchless Today

Trustco Bank

Upstate Bug Busters

Vista Home Improvement

Window Depot

Yard Work and More

As of January 30, 2025; subject to change. See updated information at saratogaspringsrotary.org

WRITTEN BY COLLEEN COLEMAN, CMC DESIGN STUDIO LLC

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BENJAMIN MOORE

Color trends

CINNAMON SLATE 2113-40

GLACIER WHITE OC-37

WWith Cinnamon Slate 2113-40 being dubbed Color of The Year for 2025, let’s explore the nuance of color which softly shifts between fields of heather and a powdery cinnamon brown. If you remember the trends report from 2024, I took time to explain the LRV or Light Reflective Value of color on a scale from 1-100; 1 being most saturated and 100 being most reflective.

scan me

2024 Color Trends

Cinnamon Slate sits at 19.71, saturated yet still willing to change with the days light or ambient lighting within a room. The depth of color for all Benjamin Moore paints is rich and immersive due their use of twelve different pigments versus other paints with only nine. It’s one of the reasons I love this brand of paint and specify it on all my projects. You never get just one color... it’s an everchanging story throughout the day that awakens a home’s living environment! This is why its best to ALWAYS look at large swatches of color on each wall of your room and at different times of the day. As the sun's color and temperature changes, so do the undertones of paint colors. For Cinnamon Slate, Benjamin Moore Color Experts recommend pairing golds/brass, ambers and wood tones to bring out the heather/plum colors.

Painting your trim with Glacier White OC-37 will also anchor the heathered tones to allow those natural woods and golds to rest easily without fear of the plum diminishing. If you prefer the more neutral aspect of this color, bring in cooler lighting in the range of 3100K to 4500K, and pair with cooler colors such as blues or plum to create a sense of balance.

scan me

Illuminated

Lighting Guide

Cinnamon Slate 2113-40

Glacier White OC-37

GLACIER WHITE OC-37

Now, Leather Saddle Brown 2100-20 is one of those colors that I personally connect with. From a young adult, I’ve always loved leather. In fact, my first big purchase after being professionally employed out of college was a giant leather handbag! The smell of leather goods is intoxicating and rich… like this color! Paired with Glacier White OC-37, a versatile off-white with hushed cream undertones, it reminds me of the white convertible with saddle leather seats I’m hoping to own one day…for now, painted Leather Saddle Brown walls and a simple white bench may have to do!

LEATHER SADDLE BROWN 2100-20

Leather Saddle Brown 2100-20

In this collection for 2025, there’s another neutral, Sea Salt CSP-95, more subtle, creating equilibrium between warm and cool…a greige. This is one of the hues I prefer to specify throughout a home to provide continuity as a backdrop to all that resides within. The flow of warm and cooler rooms is grounded depending on which direction each room is situated to the sun. It allows for play of color in furniture and furnishing while not upsetting the flow throughout the home. Once again, pair it with Glacier White OC-37 on the trim, doors and ceiling to showcase the depth of this wall color!

SEA SALT CSP-95

Sea Salt CSP-95

TISSUE PINK 1163

For those of you who love period furniture and fixtures, you need to take a look at Chowning's Tan CW-195. Benjamin Moore created this hue by blending 18th century white and yellow ochre pigments. I love how a deep complimentary color such as teal comes to life amid these rich walls as well as a muted throw or rug in an analogous blush color like Tissue Pink 1163.

Versatile for the ages!

CHOWNING'S TAN CW-195

Chowning's Tan CW-195 Tissue Pink 1163

Let’s explore a few greens, shall we...

One of my favorites for this year is Rosepine 461 with hints of gray bringing versatility and depth to this forest green. Because I love to design painted cabinetry complimented by wood counterparts, this green is magnetic and naturally pairs well with any wood to create a dramatic kitchen or mudroom. Fashion an understated backdrop by painting the surrounding walls in Paris Rain 1501 to add the slightest hint of green with a grayish hue. Or... Paint an entire walk-in pantry head-to-toe in this all-inspiring touch of nature. Do you realize, if you paint a small room entirely in a medium to dark hue, it helps to expand the space by blurring the corners and ultimately creating a boundless room! I can see it now... beautifully grained oak shelves floating amid Rosepine walls, trim and ceiling!

Rosepine 461

Paris Rain 1501

PARIS RAIN 1501

ROSEPINE 461

Now, looking to a more saturated green, Ashwood Moss 1484, this color is more of a veiled forest; darker, richer, with a gray undertone. This opulent hue is dramatic on a ceiling or cabinetry in high gloss, enveloping the user as if engulfed in the canopy of the Rainforest. Contrast this perimeter with pops of complimentary colors such as reds, orange or even hints of brass. And don’t be shy about using analogous colors in muted greens to awaken a lush sense of flora within your own home.

ASHWOOD MOSS 1484

Ashwood Moss 1484

ASHWOOD MOSS 1484

Now, to end on my personal favorite in the collection, Stained Glass CSP-685. It’s a reminder of a trip my husband and I took to the tiny island of Hydra, Greece and its stunning teal and blue waters of the Saronic Gulf. To me, this color displays the teal picturesque views of the waters nearest to the shore before the deep blue mingles out to sea... It’s a color as rich and compelling as the views from that tiny island. Paired with a light wood, Stained Glass is stunning as cabinetry or painted walls succumbed by light wood shelving within... setting a tone of leisure where work needs to be accomplished.

If you haven’t taken the chance to paint a room in your home a dramatic color, now’s the time to dive in! Remember, the wall color is only the beginning of the room. The rug, furniture and accessories are what brings that color to life! Go ahead, let 2025 be the year TO GO BOLD!

Until next time my friends,

Colleen Coleman of CMC Design Studio LLC

Certified Kitchen & Bath Designer

Certified Aging in Place • True Color Expert

Contributing Interior Design Editor

Saratoga TODAY Publications

National Award Winning Designs

“Creating Environments for Life” TM colleen@cmcdesignstudio.net @cmcdesignstudiollc

Stained Glass CSP-685

STAINED GLASS CSP-685

STAINED GLASS CSP-685

WRITTEN BY COLLEEN COLEMAN, CMC DESIGN STUDIO LLC PHOTOS PROVIDED

Appliance trends

What an exciting year for appliances!

With technology digging its heels into this industry, we’re seeing advances that will revolutionize how we cook in our kitchen. Remember the Jetsons and cooking at the speed of a button?! Personally, with the renovation of our kitchen, we no longer cook our food, the appliances do the bulk of the work for us. It’s rare that I set our oven to a temperature or even a timer… but wait until you hear what’s next!

Before we get into ovens, cooktops and pans, let me share a divine recipe for Seared Pork Chops in a Honey Glaze that is to die for!! (I wish I remembered where I found this…but thank you to whoever you are!!)

Seared Pork Chops in a Honey Glaze

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 pieces boneless pork chops patted dry

• Olive oil for searing

Seasoning Rub:

Combine

• 1 tsp garlic salt (my preferred salt)

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp Thyme

• Black Pepper to taste

Honey Glaze:

• 3 Tbsp butter

• 6 pieces of thinly chopped garlic

• 4 Tbsp honey

• 5 Tbsp Chicken Bone Broth

• 2 Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar

DIRECTIONS:

Coat both sides of pork with seasoning rub. Add olive oil to pan and sear all sides. I like to cook the pork just a bit more before setting aside.

Add all Honey Glaze ingredients to pan, cook and stir until well combined.

Add back pork to pan and simmer until the glaze is the desired thickness. Turn pork occasionally and be sure to drizzle glaze at each turn. I like to heap the garlic slices on top of the pork.

Once pork is cooked, serve with rice or a potato with a side dish of garlic beans!

Ovens

To best understand these changes, I spoke with Erik Brokaw of Earl B. Feiden’s in Latham. “One of the biggest advances in the market is the Signature Kitchen Suite SKSDV3012MT Double Wall Oven with Steam-Combi and AI!” This innovative gourmet technology will identify your food, offer recipe suggestions and cooking guidance through the LG ThinQ® app. The high-definition camera allows you to monitor and share your real-time cooking experience and even creates a time lapse video for bragging rights on your favorite social media sites. LG’s ThinQ UP cloud updates will continually expand its food recognition, learn your habits and become a virtual sous chef…leaving you more time to enjoy your cooking experience for one or a gathering of friends. Hold onto your chef’s hat for this one…If you love Sous Vide cooking, this oven is capable of utilizing an internal water cartridge to generate steam. With its precise AI temperature controls, the humid atmosphere is maintained to cook your vacuum-sealed foods without the traditional immersive water experience....Magnifique!!! This oven doesn’t stop there… Other features include voice control through Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, Steam-Combi Convection, RapidHeat Roast+, Auto Cook, Air Fry and more! And to sum it up, the exterior is a Satin Stainless Steel finish with sleek, modern handles that fit right in with a contemporary kitchen design!!

Cooktops & Pans

Just a quick mention about Induction Cooktops in general. They’re gaining more and more popularity…not just among everyday users, but chefs! The efficiency of cooking is superior to gas as the magnets only heat the pan, not the surface of the cooktop first. And when the temperature is reduced, its an immediate transaction, allowing you to cook meals like a professional! And from personal experience, I must admit, investing in a few 5-ply pans took our cooking up a few notches. We love our MadeIn® Pans purchased at Compliments to the Chef in Saratoga. As the owner, John Reardon advised me, “Let the pan do the cooking for you.” And that they do! If you want to know more about induction cooking, be sure to read my article from last year’s Home & Lifestyle entitled “Induction Buzz” found here... scan me

Induction Buzz

Dishwashers

The Bosch 800 Series is one to chat about with its patented CrystalDry™ Technology in select Dishwashers. This technology isn’t new to 2025, but it’s one of those appliance need-to-know details that you may have missed when researching dishwashers. Transforming moisture into heat, it dries your dishes without the use of additional electricity. It’s the ultimate dry, even for plastics! The excess water on your dishes is collected by a pre-loaded natural mineral that transforms moisture into heat up to 176F. The warm air is evenly distributed back within the interior wash cabin, getting your dishes 60% dryer than conventional dishwashers. And so quiet…at 42 dBA, that’s like a soft whisper in the background. To keep you from opening a working dishwasher, look for the InfoLight® that shines on the floor so you know when the dishwasher is running!

BOSCH 800 SERIES WITH CRYSTALDRY™ TECHNOLOGY

INDUCTION COOKTOPS

MADE IN® PANS

Refrigerators

In Refrigerators, the Bosch 800 Series has elevated its place in the market by installing a Dual Compressor and Dual Evaporator this is a game changer. Much like the higher end models, separate compressors and evaporators for the refrigerator and freezer allows for precision in cooling and humidity control. It also eliminates the passage of odors from one chamber to another, such as onions to your ice cubes. Complimenting this new change, Bosch offers their exclusive FarmFresh System™ with four freshness technologies designed to work in tandem to keep your food fresher longer! Preserving your food is ultimately the intention of refrigeration over simply keeping it cool. The VitaFreshPro® system automatically balances both temperature and humidity based on food settings from meats, cheeses and produce. FreshProtect® is a filter system that absorbs the ethylene gases given off by fruits and vegetables that hurry the ripening process. With these gases removed from the refrigerator cabin, your produce will remain fresher longer! The MultiAirFlow™ creates a consistent flow of cool, fresh air throughout the entire interior; from items perched within the door bins to that leftover dinner in the back corner. Lastly, the AirFresh® filter absorbs those strong odors like fish, that announce their presence each time you open your refrigerator door. And no worries about the cost to replace this filter, it’s designed to last for the lifetime of your unit... Bonus!!

Grills

With outdoor kitchens and entertaining spaces becoming quite popular in the northern states, I went to Marcella’s Appliance to chat with Nick Madelone on the advances in this market.

“For the outdoor grill, you can’t buy a better outdoor cooking experience than the FireMagic Echelon E1060i Built-In Grill With Digital Thermometer, sold exclusively at Marcella’s Appliance” Here’s what all the buzz is about…

More like an indoor range, this grill offers a Digital Thermometer located under its modern black glass control panel with digital touchscreen. With integrated smart technology, you can monitor your grilling from a smartphone without missing out on all the fun!

Their exclusive Diamond Sear Cooking Grids with a patented design has a smooth flat top, shaped to optimally transfer heat from the burners to the cooking surface, ultimately cooking your foods more efficiently and evenly.

The included Flavor Grids allow heat to rise unobstructed from the burner to the cooking grids. They quickly disperse heat to evenly flavor your food by vaporizing juices, minimizing flare ups and grease fires.

One quarter inch thick cast 304 Stainless Steel Burners are designed with a protective lip above the ports to prevent clogging from grease…and guaranteed for life! That’s huge!

Angled Halogen Internal Lights allows you to cook into the evening without fumbling with a flashlight or the need to turn on a bright spot light. The number of lamps depends on the model.

The Digital Meat Probe allows you to read the internal temperature of your meats, much like a modern oven for an indoor kitchen. The read out is either on the face of the grill or can be accessed on your smart phone.

For best rotisserie grilling, this grill offers a Recessed Infrared Backburner crafted of stainless-steel mesh encased in a ceramic system, providing more BTU heat than traditional grilling. And no need to worry about general grilling messes either, it includes a stainless-steel cover to protect the elements when not in use!

The Chelon Drip Tray is conveniently located on the cooking side of the grill and extends with the use of ball bearings for an easy glide. To make clean up easier, try the Fire Magic Drip Tray Liners.

FIREMAGIC ECHELON E1060I BUILT-IN GRILL WITH DIGITAL THERMOMETER

DIGITAL THERMOMETER

DIAMOND SEAR COOKING GRIDS

FLAVOR GRIDS

Outdoor Kitchens

Now, I’ll say, that’s one incredible outdoor grill! And with something that spectacular, you’ll need an outdoor kitchen suite to house it in…Well, Marcella’s Appliance just so happens to also be the area's exclusive dealer of Casa Bella Outdoor Cabinets.

From simple layouts with two cabinets and a central grilling area to elaborate outdoor kitchen designs to make your house the go-to summer entertainment station!

Each of their curated designs features gasketed honey-comb doors, commercial grade leveling legs and outdoor rated handles and finish. All cabinet interiors can be customized with features such as pullout shelving or drawers along with pullout recycling and garbage. If you prefer to design your own layout, each piece can be custom ordered. Be sure to make Marcella’s Appliance your one stop shop for all your outdoor kitchen needs…bringing your dreams to reality!

With indoor and outdoor kitchens becoming smarter, it’s time to don your apron and start cooking! Well, putting the ingredients together and letting these new modern appliances do all the work for you! Perfection in the kitchen… turning you into a chef extraordinaire!

Until next time my friends,

Colleen Coleman of CMC Design Studio LLC

Certified Kitchen & Bath Designer

Certified Aging in Place • True Color Expert

Contributing Interior Design Editor

Saratoga TODAY Publications

National Award Winning Designs

“Creating Environments for Life” TM colleen@cmcdesignstudio.net @cmcdesignstudiollc

YOUR LAWN IS A PLACE TO GATHER, PLAY, AND RELAX, BUT CARING FOR IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN A WEEKLY CHORE – UNTIL NOW.

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS PROVIDED

Lawn Care THAT FITS YOUR Lifestyle

WWe’re entering a new era of smart lawn care. With robotic mowers, instead of spending hours sweating in the summer sun, everyday can feel like Friday.

“Robotic mowers are a great fit for homeowners. They are timesaving, economical, and your lawn will be so much healthier and greener,” said Tim Brennan, owner of Brennan Landscaping, Inc.

CUTTING EDGE TECHNOLOGY

For more than 35 years, Tim Brennan has been designing, installing, and maintaining residential landscapes in the Capital District. Because finding labor has become more difficult (and expensive!), two years ago, Brennan began shopping around for robotic mowers.

“When I started looking into their potential, I didn’t like how they needed a wire border. It was too labor intensive. Now that they’re plug and play, they are a much nicer, easier way to go,” said Brennan.

Now, along with traditional gas equipment, Brennan Landscaping Inc. will be utilizing wireless electric mowers to cut their customers’ lawns. They are also a Segway Navimow brand dealer, selling and leasing robotic mowing units to homeowners and property maintenance contractors from the Brennan Landscaping Inc. De-Icing Warehouse, at 451 Peek Street, in Schenectady.

MANICURED CUSTOM LAWNS

With Segway Navimow robotic mowers, you’ll get a quality cut from a quiet, ecologically-conscious machine that uses GPS guidance with vision technology to map and mow turf everywhere you want – and nowhere you don’t.

Using their three on-board cameras to enhance environmental interaction and detect sticks, rocks, or toys in the grass, these machines can mow up to 3,444 sq.ft./hour for three hours before returning to their base to recharge for an hour.

Starting at $999, the Segway Navimow I Series is ideal for small spaces (less than a quarter acre), while the mid-range Segway Navimow H Series (priced at $1,999 and due to be upgraded next year), and the new Segway Navimow X Series (costing between $2,299 - $4,999) can handle any size lawns. The Segway Navimow X Series also comes with an optional weed-whacker attachment, and can be programmed remotely by contractors wanting to fine-tune the mowing schedule and height of various areas in a fleet of machines.

UNPARALLELED CONVENIENCE

The type of grass that grows in the Capital District is often cut too short, said Brennan. Scalping lawns puts stress on the plant, making it more susceptible to disease, weeds, and pests. Segway Navimow robotic mowers from Brennan Landscaping Inc. cut 1/8” off 2”-4” tall grass daily during the growing season (even in the rain!) creating a healthy, green, aesthetically pleasing landscape that raises property values with an eye on equipment emissions, air quality, and sustainability.

Requiring minimal maintenance and very few parts, Segway Navimow robotic mowers are warranted for three years and their batteries often last more than five. Because they should be kept indoors during colder months, Brennan Landscaping Inc. also offers winter storage.

Convenient, efficient, and cost-effective, robotic mowers fit your lifestyle while giving your lawn a polished look that you’re sure to love.

Brennan Landscaping Inc. also sells The Original Magic Ice Melter, SnowEx salt spreaders, Stinger lawn equipment, and other brands for the Summer and Winter seasons.

For more information, visit Brennan Landscaping, 451 Peek Street, in Schenectady, call 518-346-8266 and go to brennanlandscapinginc.com

Modern Elegance meets Ingenious Design

Kitchen Transformation

WRITTEN BY KELLYE SHAW PHOTOS COURTESY OF KITCHEN & BATH WORLD

When homeowners Fran and Ralph embarked on their journey to revitalize their Niskayuna home, their vision was clear: a light-filled, modern kitchen that felt as expansive as it did inspiring. Enlisting the expertise of Kitchen & Bath World designer Ashleah McClain, the couple sought to breathe new life into their kitchen, moving away from the dark, traditional aesthetic of deep cherry cabinetry toward a sleek, contemporary design.

“It was very dark,” Fran recalls. “Even though we had a lot of windows in the breakfast area, the kitchen itself didn’t and there was a wall separating the kitchen from the living room. It felt closed off.”

The goal was to create a space that seamlessly blended with the rest of the home while opening the area to allow natural light and a better living space for movement. The transformation was nothing short of dramatic. “The new layout doesn’t just open the rooms physically—it transforms how the spaces feel and function together,” Ashleah explains.

Niskayuna

Photo: Kitchen & Bath World

BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS

The wall separating the kitchen and living room was load bearing, but that didn’t deter the Kitchen & Bath World team. Working alongside an engineer, they installed a structural beam to support the open-concept layout. The departure from arched cased openings feels more modern and timeless, creating a natural flow between the spaces.

“This is the benefit of working with a company that has both talented designers and a strong builder background,” says Sarah Bovee Hines, President and Owner of Kitchen & Bath World. With over 25 years of experience in remodeling and construction, Hines has built a reputation for making even the most complex transformations feel effortless.

A HIDDEN PANTRY, REVEALED

One of the standout features of the renovation is the hidden walk-in pantry. What was once simple storage under the stairs has been reimagined as a spacious, floorto-ceiling pantry concealed behind double cabinet doors.

“We incorporated the pantry into the cabinetry to create a seamless, full walk-in experience,” explains Ashleah.

The pantry exemplifies the careful balance of form and function throughout the design—offering ample storage while maintaining the clean, modern aesthetic of the kitchen.

A STATEMENT FEATURE WALL

Inspired by a full-room display at Kitchen & Bath World’s Albany showroom, the kitchen’s focal wall is nothing short of breathtaking. Featuring lighted glass upper cabinets, a custom Plain & Fancy white rift-cut oak hood with a translucent stain, and a striking fullheight quartz backsplash, the wall exudes elegance.

“That was the number-one priority—to create a wow factor,” says Ashleah. “Everything else fell into place around that inspiration.”

To accommodate the design, the feature wall was widened by 10 inches, a feat that required cutting into the adjacent stair rail. The extra space allowed for larger cabinets flanking the range, adding both visual balance and additional storage.

Photo: Kitchen & Bath World

Photo: Kitchen & Bath World Photo: Kitchen & Bath World

Photo: Kitchen & Bath World

COLLABORATIVE FINISHES

From the beginning, the project was a collaborative effort. Ashleah worked closely with the homeowners and their interior decorator to ensure a cohesive design across the newly combined spaces. Details such as mixing gold and iron cabinet hardware finishes, thoughtfully selected paint colors, and carefully chosen lighting fixtures reflect the collaborative spirit of the renovation.

The centerpiece of the kitchen is a large, counter-height waterfall island in a rich Black Fox painted finish. Outlets are discreetly hidden beneath the counter, and fullsize base cabinets with roll-out trays provide hidden storage. The island is as functional as it is stunning—a true workhorse of the space.

HIGH-PERFORMANCE APPLIANCES

While many of the appliances from the previous kitchen were reused, the range was upgraded to a 48-inch Miele model with an integrated microwave, air fryer, and steamer, elevating the cooking experience.

Kitchen & Bath World coordinated with Earl B. Fiden for the appliances, ensuring perfect finishes and precise accommodation for electrical and plumbing needs.

A SEAMLESS

PROCESS

The renovation, which took six to eight weeks, was completed while Fran and Ralph were away. Through virtual consultations and detailed project timelines, Kitchen & Bath World kept the homeowners informed every step of the way, ensuring a stress-free experience.

The result is a kitchen that is not only beautiful but also a deeply personal space that embodies Fran and Ralph’s vision while offering modern convenience and timeless design.

“You know you want to walk into a room and feel a little inspired about where you are,” Fran reflects. “It was fun. I love the creative process.”

With plans to continue their home remodel, Fran and Ralph are well on their way to achieving a contemporary, comfortable home that truly inspires. And if their kitchen is any indication, the results will be nothing short of extraordinary.

For more information on bringing your dream kitchen to life, visit Kitchen and Bath World, 1980 Central Ave., Albany KitchenAndBathWorld.com

Photo: Kitchen & Bath World

Photo: Kitchen & Bath World

Photo: Kitchen & Bath World

Spring Into Action:

Allerdice Ace Hardware & Building Supply is Your STIHL Source for Lawn & Garden Maintenance

WRITTEN BY KELLYE SHAW | PHOTOS COURTESY OF STIHL

MARKETING USA

As winter loosens its grip, homeowners eagerly anticipate the return of lush green lawns and blooming gardens. But before diving into outdoor projects, ensure your power tools are up to the task.

At Allerdice Ace Hardware & Building Supply, they make it easy to gear up for the season with top-tier STIHL products, expert service, and a team that lives by the motto: "Need Advice? Ask Allerdice!"

PROFESSIONAL TOOLS FOR EVERY HOMEOWNER

As an authorized STIHL retailer, Allerdice Ace Hardware puts the power of professional-grade equipment— chainsaws, trimmers, blowers, and more—into the hands of homeowners, making it your go-to destination for reliable tools, service, and repair.

With over 20 years of experience, Mark DeCota, manager of the Saratoga Springs store, leads a team of STIHLcertified technicians who specialize in maintaining and repairing battery, gas, and electric equipment. Whether you need blade and chain sharpening or small engine repairs, Allerdice has you covered.

PREVENT MID-MAY MAYHEM

“The more you do in preventative maintenance, the better off you are,” says DeCota. When outdoor equipment sits idle during winter, it can lead to issues like rough idling, stalling, or failure to start. Even durable STIHL equipment, known to last 15 to 25+ years, benefits from routine maintenance to ensure peak performance.

Allerdice simplifies the process with pickup and delivery services for Saratoga-area customers and quick turnaround times; most repairs are completed within two days. Customers who bring in their equipment early often find that simple fixes can be made on the spot. And with pro-rated service intervals as low as $40, it’s a small price to pay for a hassle-free mowing season.

WANT TO SEE WHAT’S NEW IN THE WORLD OF STIHL?

Visit Allerdice Ace Hardware at the Rotary’s Saratoga Home & Lifestyle Show, March 1-2, at the Saratoga Springs City Center. Homeowners will have the opportunity to speak with Allerdice’s knowledgeable, STIHL-trained associates and get hands-on with the latest innovations in outdoor power equipment. From chainsaws and blowers to trimmers and battery-powered tools, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re maintaining a backyard garden or tackling a large property.

Whether you’re performing spring clean-up, summer landscaping, or winter storm prep, Allerdice Ace Hardware ensures your equipment is always ready to go.

For more information, visit www.allerdice.com or stop by one of their convenient locations in Saratoga Springs, Milton, or Malta.

Staying Power

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER | PHOTOS PROVIDED (UNLESS NOTED)

Suburban Services Group celebrates 45 years in business with a HUGE giveaway.

When Craig MacDonald first founded the Suburban Services Group 45 years ago, he was looking for a way to stand out. Today, their fleet of trucks are easy to spot crisscrossing fourteen counties in New York, Vermont, and Massachusetts to help the community with their heating, air conditioning, standby generator, and plumbing needs.

Photo by Raymond Stockwell

A BREATH OF FRESH AIR

After a six-year engagement as a plumbing specialist with the U.S. Air National Guard, Craig MacDonald, a New Jersey native, moved to the area and named his fledging home improvement company after the suburban environment he would come to call home. By 1981, he was specializing in HVAC services and in 1983 the Suburban Plumbing and Heating Corporation was incorporated.

“When I started out, air conditioning for homes was just taking off. Very few homes had it and the vast majority were seeking to add it,” remembers Craig.

As technology improved and the economy expanded, it allowed homeowners to consider their indoor comfort like never before, setting the stage for an increase in home improvement exhibitions like the Saratoga Rotary’s Saratoga Home and Lifestyle Show, which Suburban Services Group has been a part of for more than 20 years.

GENERATING TRUST

By the late 1980s, concerns about overall air quality and more tightlysealed, energy-efficient homes increased the number of problems linked to indoor air quality.

The use of air conditioning became more widespread and harmful refrigerants like R-22 were replaced by more environmentally conscious choices. After the EPA discovered elevated amounts of radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, could be detrimental to human health, new programs that educated consumers about the importance of venting this cancer-causing agent from the homes (especially basements) to the air outside were instituted and the Suburban Services Group became EPA certified Radon Gas Mitigation providers.

In 2003, the Suburban Services Group added a generator division to their expanded warehouse at 852 Route 50, in Burnt Hills. Today, they’ve become the largest Generac Power Systems Pro Elite Plus Automatic Standby Generator dealer in Upstate NY.

HEATING THINGS UP

As the thermostat is increasingly being replaced by the home energy hub (with its integrated cameras, alarm systems, and energy production network) the number of technicians skilled at working on this growing technology has been declining. Suburban Services Group’s General Manager, Rob Gerard, started twenty years ago in an apprenticeship program, and now partners with local high school and college programs to educate students on advanced HVAC equipment including UV lights, ozone generators, heat recovery ventilators, and more; to heat, cool, clean, de/humidify, and improve indoor air quality.

This education is rare. “There’s been a shift in training, most other companies are now training technicians to sell, not to recognize, diagnosis, and repair,” said Craig. “They have the concept but not the capabilities.”

As conglomerates and private equity firms increasingly buy up small businesses, Suburban Services Group prides itself on remaining a familyowned and operated company working to preserve a culture that is fair, honest, and moral, said Craig.

As costs increase, this NYSERDA certified company is keeping their consumers happy and as a Mitsubishi Diamond Dealer, they are pleased to be able to offer customers a chance to celebrate their 45th Anniversary and win a ductless mini-split system, a $5,500 value.

For more information, visit their home show booth or go to suburbanservicesgroup.com

ENLIGHTENED

LEDs & The Future of Lighting

WRITTEN BY COLLEEN COLEMAN, CMC DESIGN STUDIO LLC

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Technology is changing all around us, whether we like it or not…and lighting is no exception. To keep up with this ever-changing industry, let’s go over some terminology of the lighting world, in particular LEDs, to better equip you with the right tools when you’re working on your next home improvement or new construction project.

What’s the Difference Between Retro Fit, Dedicated & Integrated LED Light Fixtures?

Let’s start with the basics... The Retro Fit option. Here, your existing light fixture (Table top lamp, ceiling fixture, chandelier, etc.) can be converted from an incandescent light source to an LED just by replacing the light bulb with the correct LED option. Did you know “Bulb” is more of a common word, with the proper term in the industry being “light fittings” or “lamps”?

I’ll use a variety of these terms interchangeably so you can start to become more familiar with them. You see, LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) are made up of many diodes, so to call it a singular “bulb” would be incorrect…it’s MANY tiny diodes. There are a few notables when swapping out your incandescent light fittings for LEDs:

1 Don’t mix light bulb types in the same fixture, meaning incandescent in one socket and an LED in another. You won’t get the full life out of your LED bulb. Be sure to replace all the light fittings in your fixture at once.

2

If you’re light fixture is controlled by a dimmer, be sure to upgrade your dimmer switch to a Trailing Edge Dimmer or better known as an ELV Dimmer. These are specifically designed for low voltage, reducing flickering and providing a smoother dimming experience.

3 Flexibility! With LEDs, the options are endless -with connectivity to dim or change the color of your bulb right from your phone. You can even set up a program to wake you in the morning or create a schedule of light more responsive to your circadian rhythm.

Dedicated LED Lamping requires the use of only LED light fittings and does have the capability of swapping out the LED lamp if necessary. In some cases, the whole fitting might need to be changed if the LED failed.

Simply put, instead of replacing the light bulb, you may have to replace the entire light housing, but not the entire fixture.

Integrated LED Lamping means the LED lights are built directly into the fixture with no need to replace the lamping for the lifetime of the fixture. Typically, integrated and dedicated LED fixtures last for 50,000 hours or around 18 years when used on an average of five hours per day. Yes, you’re thinking correctly…no light bulbs to change for almost 20 years!! Can I get a WooHoo!!

Seriously, this is a game changer all around. For the design industry, the engineering and overall design of the fixtures are becoming more light, airy, sleek and artistic. For the consumer, you’re no longer looking to buy a light fixture to illuminate your home; you’re looking for a piece of artwork with the proper lighting output for your particular space.

Form and Function Must Work Hand-In-Hand

Here’s where you have to hone your knowledge to be sure the form of the LED light fixture doesn’t overpower the function you need that fixture to deliver.

First, you need to be sure the light you’re looking for is the proper scale for your room. Typically, you should measure the length and width of your room in feet, add those two measurements together and convert to inches… that’s typically the correct width for a fixture in that space. For example, if your room is 10’ by 8’, you would look for a fixture around 18” wide. With LED integrated and dedicated fixtures being so streamlined, interior designers have been pushing the limits on this rule with great success. But you just might want to leave that to the professionals!

Next, you’ll want to pay attention to the Lamping Specifications as noted by the arrows in the specifications above. Because you can’t change out the lightbulb, you have to be sure the delivered amount of light and color are what you’re looking for. In this example, the Chandelier has 5100 delivered lumens or brightness, perfect for a large room around 25’L x 15’W or 375 sqft. The Kelvin rating is 3000. You should look for 2700-3000K for a typical home. If you live in a modern residence with clean lines and all white walls, you may want to experiment with a cooler temperature, as high as 5000K before investing in a more permanent fixture.

The CRI, or Color Rendering Index, is basically the measurement of how well an artificial light source can reproduce color. Typically, you’ll find most light fittings are 90CRI…Excellent! If you’d like more information about these details, see my “Illuminated” Article here…

Now that your equipped to take the reins, have an “ENLIGHTENED” journey on your search for the perfect treasure! If you need a little help, you know I’m always here at your service!

Until next time my friends,

Colleen Coleman of CMC Design Studio LLC

Certified Kitchen & Bath Designer

Certified Aging in Place • True Color Expert

Contributing Interior Design Editor

Saratoga TODAY Publications

National Award Winning Designs

“Creating Environments for Life” TM colleen@cmcdesignstudio.net @cmcdesignstudiollc

scan me

Illuminated Lighting Guide

Green Care:

Tired of the endless cycle of mowing, watering, and fertilizing? Frustrated with noisy equipment and harsh chemicals?

Peak Environmental's Green Care Services offer a revolutionary approach to landscaping – one that prioritizes sustainability, eco-friendliness, and your peace of mind.

GREEN CARE: A LIFESTYLE, NOT JUST A SERVICE

Green Care isn't simply lawn maintenance; it's a lifestyle transformation. It's about reclaiming your weekends, reducing your environmental impact, and enjoying a beautiful, healthy outdoor space without the hassle. Our innovative approach combines cutting-edge technology with sustainable practices to create a serene and environmentally responsible landscape.

SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPING: THE BEDROCK OF GREEN CARE

We start with sustainable landscape design, incorporating robotic mowing, native plants, permeable pavers, and efficient irrigation systems. This minimizes maintenance, conserves water, and supports local ecosystems.

The FUTURE of Landscaping is Here.

Transform Your Outdoor Space

OUR COMPREHENSIVE GREEN CARE SERVICES INCLUDE:

• Robotic Mowers:

Embrace effortless lawn maintenance with our state-of-the-art robotic mowers, reducing noise pollution and emissions.

• Eco-Friendly Landscape Transformations: Reimagine your property with sustainable designs that enhance beauty and functionality.

• Natural Pesticide-Free Lawn Care: Keep your lawn lush and healthy without harsh chemicals, ensuring a safe environment for your family and pets.

• Property Naturalization:

Restore your landscape to its natural state, fostering biodiversity and creating a haven for wildlife.

• Grounds Maintenance:

Our professional team provides meticulous care to keep your property looking its best year-round while using electric equipment!

Benefits of Green Care

• Reduced Environmental Impact: Our sustainable practices conserve water, reduce waste, and support local ecosystems.

• Healthier Outdoor Spaces: By eliminating harmful chemicals and promoting biodiversity, we create a safe and healthy environment for you and your family.

• Increased Property Value: Eco-friendly landscaping is not only beautiful but also adds significant value to your property.

• Peace of Mind: Our concierge-level service and commitment to excellence ensure a worry-free experience.

EMBRACE THE FUTURE OF LANDSCAPING

Peak Environmental's Green Care Services represent a new era in landscaping – one that's quieter, greener, and more aligned with nature. Contact us today to discover how we can transform your outdoor space into a sustainable oasis that enhances your lifestyle and benefits the environment.

HEALTH & WELLNESS:

Space Clearing for a Healthy Vibe

WRITTEN BY MARY KINCAID

What Space Clearing is

According to Denise Linn, author of Sacred Space, and the award winning, Feng Shui for the Soul, “Space Clearing is the art of cleansing and harmonizing the energy within your environment.”

Any Space Clearing practitioner will tell you that Space Clearing is not new. In ancient cultures around the world, shamans, feng shui practitioners, and medicine men and women regularly practiced Space Clearing. Some of our ancestors believed that stagnant, negative, or stressed energy can be the cause of illness, unsuccessful relationships, and consistent patterns of bad luck. Today, with a renewed interest in this ancestral wisdom, Space Clearing is being practiced globally to produce remarkable, positive influences in homes and offices. From a modern-day Space Clearing practitioner’s perspective, it’s all about re-establishing a harmonious flow. Healthy energy (also known as chi, qi, or prana) is meant to flow freely through the front door then through the rest of the house. When this flow becomes blocked by the build-up of mental and emotional stress, your living space can’t breathe. And, like stagnant water, blocked energy can promote disease and disharmony.

But once the blockages are released and the energy flow renewed, the cleared space vibrates at a frequency that welcomes health, abundance, and well-being into your life. Your revitalized environment, the space you live in and/or work in, can now support your ability to accomplish your goals and dreams!

WHEN TO HAVE A SPACE CLEARING

Space clearings are beneficial at the beginning of or after a major life change, such as:

• Moving into a new home

• Selling your home

• Building a new home

• Starting a new project or habit

• After a divorce

• After an illness

• After the death of a loved one

• A new relationship

• A new job

• A new baby or family member

• If you simply need a lift

HOW TO FIND A SPACE CLEARER

Once you start imagining the benefits awaiting you and your space, and begin wondering how to find a Space Clearer, you will be opening an energetic pathway to connect you with the right practitioner. Most Space Clearers have websites and can be found through a web search or maybe someone you know has had their space cleared and can offer a recommendation.

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT

Your environment will immediately provide a healthier, more vibrant space that will seem to sparkle. A store or office may experience an increase in sales and a boost in employee morale. A home will feel lighter and brighter to its residents and guests.

To quote Albert Einstein, “Everything is energy and that’s all there is to it. Match the frequency to the reality you want, and you cannot help but get that reality. This is not philosophy. This is physics.”

After a Space Clearing the energy in your environment will noticeably have a fresher vibe, and so will you. Your house or office space will be thankful!

more at MKClearing.com.

Mary Kincaid is a skilled practitioner of Energy Clearing for people, animals, and spaces. Find out

Headshot Photo by Susan Blackburn Photography

The author's opinions are their own and do not represent the views of Saratoga TODAY or Simply Saratoga.

OFFSETTING REHAB COSTS:

Unlocking Historic Tax Credits

WRITTEN BY SYDNEY HEDGE | PHOTOS PROVIDED

581 North Broadway, where the owner of the house used tax credits to help with their rehabilitation project.

DID YOU KNOW

New York State offers tax incentives for the rehabilitation of historic residential properties? The Historic Homeownership Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program provides a financial incentive to encourage the preservation of historic structures, ensuring their maintenance and longevity. Subsequently, preserving New York State’s historic resources supports local economic growth, environmental sustainability, and community revitalization.

TO QUALIFY

for the Historic Homeownership

Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program, a property must meet specific eligibility requirements. The property must be an owner-occupied primary or secondary residence of a New York State taxpayer and located in a qualifying census tract where the median family income is at or below the state average. Additionally, it must be identified as a contributing building within a historic district or individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The rehabilitation expenses must be $5,000 or more with a minimum of 5% of that being exterior work. All work must be approved before work begins. Saratoga Springs is fortunate to have nearly 1,000 buildings that are eligible for the program.

The program provides a 20% tax credit on eligible rehabilitation expenses, up to a maximum of $25,000 in dollarfor-dollar tax credits. Eligible projects include repairs and maintenance to improvements designed to preserve historic character while enhancing functionality. Homeowners can use the credit for repairs or in-kind replacement of wood, masonry, plaster, and other finishes, as well as for floors, ceilings, windows, doors, chimneys, stairs, and roofs. The program also covers upgrades to heating, central air-conditioning, plumbing, electrical systems, and even solar or geothermal systems. However, certain projects, such as additions, landscaping, and garage renovations, typically do not qualify.

The simple application consists of three parts. Parts 1 and 2 are submitted together before work begins on the property, and Part 3 is submitted after work is completed. Part 1 provides baseline information about the applicant and the property, allowing the Division for Historic Preservation (DHP) of NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to determine if the property meets the qualifications. Part 2 outlines the proposed work, breaking it down into categories such as roof, masonry, kitchen rehabilitation, plumbing, and more. It requires brief descriptions of the existing conditions, the proposed work, estimated costs, and photos. Note that final contractor estimates are not required for Part 2 submission. Part 3, submitted after the work is completed, requires a description of the work, final project costs, and photos. While the DHP does not require copies of invoices or receipts, applicants need to retain these for their records.

TO LEARN about this program and other available tax credit programs for income-producing historic structures and barns visit parks.ny.gov/shpo/tax-credit-programs. The DHP staff wants more people to take advantage of these programs and is eager to assist applicants through each part of the process. The Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation also is a resource for property owners of historic buildings. It has helpful information available on its website, including a recording of a recent virtual exhibit about the tax credit program. Contact saratogapreservation.org, to speak with a staff member who is willing to provide guidance.

Sydney is the Foundation’s Preservation and Programs Coordinator. She was born and raised in Saratoga Springs, NY. Sydney attended the College of Charleston where she earned her degree in Historic Preservation and Community Planning. She studied in France at the University of La Rochelle, where she received a certificate in French and Francophone studies.

Capital Region Send Me a Pro Opens

WRITTEN BY MEGIN

POTTER

FINDING

TRUSTED

PROS

for your home improvement jobs just got easier.

Beginning on March 1st, the first New York branch of the nationwide Send Me a Pro home services platform opened at 2254 Route 50 South in Saratoga Springs (just above the Saratoga TODAY offices).

Michael Cesta

QUALITY WORK FROM TRUSTED PROFESSIONALS

After a successful 30-year career in accounting and finance, Cesta is launching Send Me a Pro to serve Wilton, Gansevoort, Saratoga, Burnt Hills, Ballston Spa, and Ballston Lake area residents.

Simply state on the online form what you need done and when (as well as any other relevant details) and you’ll be contacted within an hour by Send Me a Pro. After a quick conversation, they’ll match you with a fully vetted technician with the right skills for your project.

Offering the convenience of online booking with the personalized approach of a local expert, the franchise, owned by Michael Cesta, simplifies the process of home care by connecting you with qualified home service professionals. Send Me a Pro does the legwork for you, saving you time and the hassle of searching for, and negotiating pricing, when you have a job to get done.

“I have a passion for helping people and want to be that provider for the homeowner to make their life easier,” said Cesta.

Send Me a Pro only invites experienced, insured professionals, who have passed a background check, and come highly recommended, onto their platform, giving you peace of mind that you’re hiring someone you can trust. Because they offer only fully transparent, fair, and upfront pricing, you’ll never be surprised by your bill.

With house cleaning and lawn care services being added in the future, Send Me a Pro builds relationships you can count on during your home care journey.

Whether you’re a homeowner in need of a handyman for a single job, want the security of routine maintenance, or you’re a home improvement specialist that would like to be included on the Send Me a Pro platform, contact them today!

For more information visit capitalregionny.sendmeapro.com

PHOTOS BY RANDALL PERRY PHOTOGRAPHY

Photo by Susan Blackburn Photography

Celebrate the Harvest NYS Maple Weekend Returns

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER | PHOTOS PROVIDED

Founded in 1995, the New York State Maple Producers’ Association’s Maple Weekend has become an agricultural tradition celebrated across sugarbushes both big and small.

Thousands visit Maple Valley Farm, at 84 Harris Road, in Corinth, each year to taste pure, fresh, local products in their natural form harvested from the Greenfield area and the 85 acres of forests that the Monica family has been cultivating here since 1971.

Abby Monica, the sixth generation to carry on a tradition that stretches back to the 1800s in this family, said she can remember ferrying five-gallon buckets of sap through snow at the tender age of five or six.

It’s a heartwarming story made all the sweeter by the loyal customers that come year after year to speak with the producers, learn about the land, and how the weather influenced that year’s maple production.

In 2023, for instance, the Monica family produced 1,000 gallons of syrup. Last year’s early season had them boiling by Valentine’s Day, but the warmer weather resulted in a below average harvest - their 2,400 taps yielded only 600 gallons of syrup - so hopes are high that this year will bring the freezing nights and warm days that drive an abundance of sap to flow through the trees.

“It’s always a guessing game,” said Kathy Monica. Because her family keeps a healthy, resilient sugarbush, they maximize maple production sustainably and carry on a tradition seeped in love.

“We just love doing it and try to portray that to everybody we can,” said Tim Monica.

Maple Valley Farm will be open March 22nd & 23rd from 10am –4pm. Visitors are invited to enjoy a pancake breakfast, a variety of lunch items, and creative confections including maple sugar, candy, cream, and the enormously popular maple cotton candy. Pony rides, vendors, and candle-making will be on-site. The whole family can also delight in wagon rides, tour the sugarhouse, and hear live bluegrass music from Keanen Stark and Orion Kribs.

THREE WEEKENDS OF MAPLE DAYS IN THURMAN

Taking place over three weekends in March, Maple Days returns to Thurman. Beginning on March 15th-16th, visitors can experience a unique selection of maple products and experiences across 10 sites, including Mud Street Maple, which will be offering maple coffee, maple donuts, French toast sticks, and “walking waffles.” For a savory twist, try their maple chili, hot dogs, and slaw dogs. The sugarhouse will be open and visitors can warm up by the fire while roasting maple s’mores, pick up souvenirs, and learn about the process with maplemaking demonstrations.

Expand your agricultural adventure beyond the world of maple with eggs, meats, and baked goods from Rustic Farm and Bakery, a visit to Martin’s Lumber Artisan Market, and the Thurman Town Hall for the 2nd Annual Maple Days Craft Fair. For a taste of something different, stop at the Nettle Meadow goat and sheep farm for hot ham and cheese sandwiches, and at TEF Manufacturing to learn about 1900’s lace braiding machinery. For more information, visit visitthurman.com/maple-day and www.mapleweekend.com