Glens Falls Business Journal - January 2024

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JANUARY 2024

AngioDynamics Closing Its Glens Falls Plant; Significant Improvements To Lake George Phasing Out Operations Over Next Two Years Are Proposed Due To $10 Million Grant

BY PAUL POST The Glens Falls area’s third large manufacturing employer in less than a year has announced plans to cease operations, impacting 350 workers in Glens Falls and Queensbury.

AngioDynamics, a global medical device maker, says rising inflation, supply chain constraints and workforce shortages are responsible for the move, saving the company an estimated $15 million.

Early last year, Lehigh Cement Company in Glens Falls shuttered its 130-year-old plant, idling 85 workers, followed several months later by the closure of Essity’s South Glens Falls paper mill and facilities in Greenwich and Saratoga Springs, which cost another 350 jobs.

“It’s never good when one of these operations closes,” said Jim Siplon, Warren County Economic Development president. “But I’m confident this isn’t all bad news. We still have thousands of open positions in the area, not only in manufacturing, but in tourism and health care. We have to figure out how to fill those.”

“What we’re seeing is less and less big employers that are going to be the underpinning of our economy and more and more medium and smaller ones that we need to serve as well,” he said. “No factory and no product line lasts forever. Business cycles are shortening. Our job is to support Angio in whatever transition they’re in the midst of and to make sure our workforce continues to be gainfully employed. We still have a lot of opportunity to do that.”

Founded in 1988, Latham-based Angio plans to phase out local manufacturing within two years. It had already begun outsourcing most operations, taken over locally by Illinois-based Medline Industries, a global medical supplies manufacturer and distributor.

Those jobs were preserved during the transition and Siplon said he’s hopeful that Angio’s components will continue to be made locally and that workers will keep jobs “under a different banner” with Medline or some other firm. “If not, I’ll do everything to help the people that are affected,” he said. “Our role is to help people where they are, not to wish something was different.”

About 2,800 people, or roughly 8.6 percent of

AngioDynamics, in Glens Falls, announces closure, impacting 350 workers.

Warren County’s workforce, was in some type of manufacturing in 2021.

Most of the Lehigh Cement Company and Essity paper mill workers who wanted to stay employed found jobs elsewhere, Siplon said.

All three closures highlight the importance of having a diversified economy, he said.

“It’s hard to make any kind of manufactured good in the United States, let alone New York state, in these times,” he said. “We’re under a lot of cost pressures, the workforce is aging and shrinking. There’s a lot of elements that make it difficult.”

Angio employs 1,000 people worldwide with facilities in places such as The Netherlands, Hong Kong, Israel and Ontario, Canada.

Local manufacturing operations are at 603 Queensbury Avenue near Warren County Airport and Glens Falls Tech Park off Dix Avenue.

Siplon said Angio has had a “wonderful run.”

Resources such as SUNY Adirondack, strong local school systems and the area’s high quality of life are important to attracting good workers, he said.

Individuals hold a $10 million state grant check, for projects in Lake George, including seasonal workforce housing, a Farmer’s Market pavilion, Shepard Park fishing pier, and South Canada Street improvements.

BY PAUL POST Seasonal workforce housing, a Farmer’s Market pavilion, Shepard Park fishing pier and south Canada Street improvements highlight the projects proposed for Lake George with a new $10 million state grant.

A committee of public and private officials including four professional planners spent 16 months preparing an application for the state’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative program.

“The $10 million will help leverage another $20 million to $30 million in public and private investment,” said Committee Chair Dan Barusch, town of Lake George director of planning and zoning. “The town and village are going to be chipping in dollars and business owners will match any money they

get for various projects.”

“The indirect economic impact is things like job creation, construction and increased sales tax revenue,” he said.

Most of 2024 will be spent fine tuning priority projects and considering additional ideas that others may have. An open call for proposals will be issued soon.

A separate planning committee, comprised of local and state officials from various state agencies, will decide the merits of each project before money is forthcoming, with work expected to begin in 2025.

“They try to pick the best projects in terms of bang for the buck, how real are they and how close are they to being shovel-ready,” Barusch said. “They’ll pick something with Continued On Page 13

Forward-Looking Planning Has Positioned Warrensburg Supervisor Kevin Geraghty To Lake George Region To Thrive In The Future Chair Warren County Board Of Supervisors

BY GINA MINTZER, CMP, MHA Living, working, and playing in the Lake George region in 2023 proved to be a remarkable experience. As the world made strides toward returning to pre-pandemic norms, stability saw a resurgence throughout the year. Looking forward to 2024, it’s essential to acknowledge the significant preparations and developments that have transformed Lake George into a winter destination.

Lake George introduced two major winter attractions. The creators of Ice Castles adapted their spectacle to withstand winter conditions, resulting in Winter Realms. Opening at the Festival Commons in Wood Park in November, Winter Realms will enchant visitors until the end of February. Another captivating addition is Winter’s Dream, presented by Moment Factory at Fort William Henry. Launched in December, Winter’s Dream will operate until the end of March. Preliminary results indicate a promising start, attracting over 500 additional visitors daily and providing a welcome boost to local businesses operating during the winter season.

February marks the continuation of the 61st annual Lake George Winter Carnival, a cherished event for both locals and tourists. West and Gore Mountains are geared up for a robust

Gina Mintzer, executive director, Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce. winter season, featuring new equipment and programs to enhance the area’s appeal. With an abundance of winter activities in the region, a strong first quarter is anticipated.

Continued On Page 4

Warrensburg Town Supervisor Kevin Geraghty has been selected to chair the Warren County Board of Supervisors in 2024, the third consecutive year he has been chosen to sit as chair of the board. Geraghty received an overwhelming majority of votes from his colleagues on the 20-member Board of Supervisors at the board’s annual organization meeting.

“I am honored that my colleagues have selected me to chair our Board of Supervisors and I would like to thank everyone who supported me,” Geraghty said. “We accomplished many good things in 2023, a balanced budget with a reduced tax rate chief among them, and Warren County is in good shape as we head into 2024. I look forward to working with each of my colleagues on the board, and all of our great Warren County employees, to continue to make Warren County an outstanding place to live, work and vacation.”

Supervisor Geraghty was nominated to return as chair of the board by Lake Luzerne Town Supervisor Gene Merlino. 2024 will be Supervisor Geraghty’s seventh year as chair of the board, as he also spent four years as chair between 2013 and 2016.

Kevin Geraghty will chair the Warren County Board of Supervisors for third consecutive year.

Supervisor Geraghty has been Warrensburg Town Supervisor since 2007. He was elected town supervisor after a career working in management at the former International Continued On Page 10

2 • GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2024

Downtown Glens Falls’ Newest Event Space Opens Featuring An Adirondack Ambiance

Personnel Briefs •

•

The Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce (ARCC) has announced the promotion of two team members. Former Marketing Director Amanda Blanton will now serve as Vice President, Marketing & Communications; and former Events Manager Carol Ann Conover will now serve as Director of Events & Community Engagement.

These two ladies have really grown in their positions, and as the ARCC is ready to take it to the next level I am confident that Amanda and Carol Ann will continue to lead and excel in their roles,” said ARCC President & CEO Tricia Rogers.

Ms. Blanton joined the ARCC team in August of 2016, after serving as a marketing and call center representative for a credit union in Saratoga Springs. She has been responsible for all marketing and communications for the Chamber, hosts the Chamber’s weekly radio show, regularly writes for business related publications, and has successfully increased the ARCC’s social media presence. She also serves as the staff liaison to the Adirondack Nonprofit Business Council.

“Every step in my career path has certainly led me to where I am today. The past seven-plus years at the ARCC have been a rewarding and educational experience. I feel much pride and joy in the work that I do for this organization and greater community. I am truly excited to grow in my new role,” said Ms. Blanton.

Ms. Conover joined the team in January of 2021, bringing with her a diverse professional background spanning multiple business sectors. She has been active in the Adirondack region and Glens Falls community since moving here permanently in 2013. She also serves as the staff liaison for the ARCC’s Women’s Business Council, Veterans Business Network, and Leadership Adirondack.

“Growing with the ARCC and our amazing community these last three years has been nothing short of inspiring. The way our members come together to support our

mission and celebrate each other is truly a gift. I’m excited to continue the momentum and excitement this team has created in my new role as Director of Events & Community Engagement – I am grateful to my teammates for this opportunity and to our members for their constant support and encouragement.

Thank you for putting your trust in me and in the ARCC. Together, there is no limit to what we will achieve.” said Ms. Conover. *

*

*

The Lake George Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau (LGRCVB) has welcomed Stephen Magee, Group Sales Manager, as the newest addition to the sales team. The LGRCVB is a division of the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce (LGRCC) that serves all Warren County hospitality partners and focuses its sales and marketing efforts to bring year-round, weather-proof group business to the area in the form of meetings and conventions, sports events, weddings, and group bus tours.

Magee’s position involves establishing relationships with regional and national sports event planners and bus tour operators to ensure that the Lake George Area destination assets are top of mind with decision makers.

Magee’s passion for the local region is rooted in being a devoted outdoor enthusiast with more than 30 years of experience in the outdoor recreation industry, having worked with renowned establishments such as Boats

by George, Smith Boys Sea Ray, and West Mountain Ski Area among others.

“Living in Warren County is like a yearround vacation that I am excited to share with potential visitors who are looking for the perfect place to experience the seasons, the outdoors, and all that the region has to offer.”

Executive Director, Gina Mintzer, at the LGRCC & CVB adds, “Stephen’s background Continued On Page 5

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Experience the modern Adirondack charm of 21 Ridge Street Event Space, a downtown venue offering cozy elegance for gatherings of 30 to 40 people, blending rustic allure with historic vibes.

BY SUSAN ELISE CAMPBELL A new venue in the heart of downtown Glens Falls is now open for groups of 30 to 40 people for parties, corporate meetings, reunions, and small receptions. 21 Ridge Street Event Space has a “modern Adirondack feel” that marketing and sales manager Ian Quillinan said makes the space “feel homey and comfortable.”

The owner of the business, Chris Laing, purchased the building more than a year-anda-half ago. It has two apartments upstairs and more than 1,800 square feet on the first level with a full kitchen occupying nearly a third of it, Quillinan said. In the past the ground floor housed an eatery and prior to that, a brewery and other types of businesses.

“The owner was thinking of ways to use the building but was not interested in operating a restaurant,” Quillinan said. “An event space was a new idea to utilize the open spaces for rental and provide a kitchen for food preparation.”

Mike Bannon of Saratoga Signature Interiors was brought in to redesign the event area because “his strong suit is the modern, Adirondack lodge style,” Quillinan said.

Bannon had black and white tile flooring to work with and a large bar with several brass tap handles, Quillinan said. The designer brought in new rustic furniture, patterned rugs, lighting, and artwork to add to the hominess and history of the seating and standing areas, including old logging photos of the Finch, Pruyn company.

There are plenty of comfortable chairs and couches arranged into casual seating areas.

There are also tables with chairs and more than adequate standing room “so no one feels overcrowded,” he said.

Quilinan said the ideal maximum number of patrons is 40.

21 Ridge Street Event Space is conveniently located in the center of the city and near a number of restaurants and catering companies. This makes it easy for renters to bring

in food from nearby services, Quillinan said.

“We may be reaching out to some of these restaurants to see if our clients can get large orders for take-out for events,” he said. “And we are putting together a list of caterers and private chefs to contact to help clients prepare food for the events they host with us.”

Quillinan said the biggest challenge he has for the new business is getting their name out into the community.

“Once the community learns about us we will have more traffic as people consider their options,” he said. “Any place that rents space for big parties is competition for us, but many of these are large hotels, big box spaces or ‘dance halls’ that don’t have the warmth and coziness of 21 Ridge Street.”

“We want to make sure families and friends are comfortable and enjoy their time here,” he said.

The building is a brick row structure and the original construction date is unknown. A map found on the Glens Falls’ assessor’s web site indicated the building goes back to 1905 or earlier, the era when logging and paper making was thriving in the area.

“We are looking forward to seeing how people use the space as they rent it,” Quillinan said. “Each customer will have a vision of what they want.”

Quillinan will use this knowledge to serve the community’s needs going forward and will also garner more information about cleaning, pricing and other aspects of marketing the new business as the client base grows, he said.

Clients can rent for 12 hours at a time from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. seven days a week.

The fee for weekdays is $329 and for Friday through Sunday, $449, he said.

The two one-bedroom apartments occupying the upper floors were totally refurbished and are currently active short-term rentals through Airbnb. Quillinan said the owner is considering making these available as longer term leases in the future.

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GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2024 • 3

Trading Card Hub Started At The Shirt The Northeastern Retail Lumber Association Factory, Now Has Multiple Mall Locations Elects Curtis Lumber’s Ford Chairman

Chad Phinney, owner of Trading Card Hub, shown at his Aviation Mall store location with a few of the Pokemon cards he has available.

BY CHRISTINE GRAF Twenty-four-year old Queensbury native Chad Phinney was just 19 years old when he opened Trading Card Hub in the Shirt Factory in Glens Falls. At that time, he was selling sports trading cards on eBay. “I was buying cards and reselling them, and I started making a lot of money doing it out of my parents’ basement. It just grew and grew until it got to the point where I had so many cards,” he said.

“My store originally sold just sports cards, but everyone wanted Pokémon, so I started getting into that.”

After about one year in business, Phinney found himself in need of a bigger space. He relocated his store to the Aviation Mall, and the following year, he considered relocating for a second time to the Wilton Mall.

“When I was renegotiating my rent for Aviation, I was in talks with Wilton. I ended up getting a good deal at Aviation and Wilton, so I decided to keep Aviation and open a second store at Wilton,” he said.

“A lot of the people who come to our Pokémon card trading events live in Saratoga, and they had been asking for a store there.”

Trading Card Hub is an official Pokémon store, and its Aviation Mall store hosts a popular Friday night Pokémon trading event, one that typically attracts more than 100 trading card enthusiasts. Plans are in the works to establish a similar event at Wilton Mall on Saturdays.

“Our trade event is free, and we get all ages—from little kids to older collectors with high-end collections. When they come, they can trade with each other or trade with us. All of the cards we have in our store are

Courtesy Glens Falls Business Journal

available for trade,” said Phinney.

“We’ve really built a community, and a lot of kids look forward to Fridays and beg their parents to come. Parents love bringing their kids because it gets them off their electronics.”

Trading Card Hub’s 1,500-square-foot Wilton store is staffed by 3 employees. The Aviation Mall space is twice the size and has 7 employees.

“We opened at Wilton Mall on November 16th, but it’s still a work in progress,” said Phinney. “We’re putting in more shelving and waiting on our store front sign. We’re trying to fill it with more product, and right now, it’s doing about half the business that Aviation does.”

In addition to offering collectible cards for sale and trade, Trading Card Hub sells new cards in sealed packs and boxes. The store also sells video games, drinks, and packaged snacks.

According to Phinney, demand for Disney’s newly-released Lorcana trading cards has been so strong that Trading Card Hub recently added a Sunday Lorcana trading card event to its calendar.

“On release day, we had a line going through the mall of people waiting to get them. I didn’t expect that many people, and a lot of them were older females which are a different clientele for us. There are a lot of big Disney fans out there.”

When it comes to ideas for new businesses, the young entrepreneur has many projects in the works. He plans to open a donut store as well as an indoor miniature golf course.

“I always have ideas,” he said. “I’ve found

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The Northeastern Retail Lumber Association (NRLA) has announced the election of Doug Ford, of Curtis Lumber Company, as the new Chair of the association. This election occurred during NRLA’s annual business meeting, coinciding with the LBM Expo at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Conn. Ford assumes the role following the two-year tenure of Nick Kuiken from Kuiken Bros. Inc. as Chair.

As a seasoned member of the NRLA and the Lumber and Building Material Dealers Foundation (LBMDF), Ford brings a wealth of experience and understanding of the industry to his new leadership position. With a passionate commitment to workforce development initiatives, he will help set the goals to support NRLA’s mission to enhance the business success of building material suppliers spanning from Maine to Washington, D.C. Rita Ferris, President of the NRLA, expressed gratitude to outgoing Chair Kuiken.

“Nick, alongside the Executive Committee and Board of Directors, has been a driving force behind NRLA’s extraordinary journey over the past two years. His dedication to the prosperity of the NRLA will be a legacy for future generations. Combined with this year’s record-breaking education initiatives, the expansion of our federal lobbying presence through the American Building Materials Alliance (ABMA), and a steady membership, the NRLA is noticeably stronger.”

In a statement, Kuiken remarked, “While my term may be ending, my commitment to our industry and this mission remains steadfast. I am confident this association is well positioned to thrive in the future, thanks to the collective efforts of our exceptional team and under the leadership of incoming Chair Doug Ford, who will continue a deep-rooted dedication to our LBM industry.”

During Ford’s inauguration as Chair, Rich Keating of Curtis Lumber Company com-

mended Ford, expressing his sincere belief that he is the perfect person for the position. Keating highlighted Ford’s legendary participation, engagement, and numerous contributions to the NRLA while on the Executive Committee.

Ford, appreciative of the opportunity to serve as Chair, stated, “It is an honor and a pleasure to serve as your NRLA Chair for the next two years. I have had an amazing career, and I’m looking forward to giving back to an industry that has given so much to me and my family. I would like to extend a special thank you to the Curtis family and the entire Curtis Lumber organization for allowing me this opportunity to serve as your Chair. I would also like to acknowledge Nick Kuiken for his leadership over the past two years and for positioning this organization for continued growth and service to its membership.”

ways to make money since I was young.”

Phinney’s entrepreneurial spirit emerged when he was a teenager, and he made money by reselling video game promotional codes that were found on bags of Doritos and cans of Mountain Dew. He remembers a time when his mom’s kitchen was filled with

1,000 bags of Doritos and just as many cans of Mountain Dew. “I was doubling my money,” he said. “I would pay $3 for a bag of Doritos and then go on eBay and sell the code for $6.”

For more information, visit www.tradingcardcenter.com

Doug Ford is vice president of Curtis Lumber Company.

Courtesy Curtis Lumber

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4 • GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2024

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL

SPECIAL SECTION

Economic Outlook 2024 Mintzer

Continued From Page 1 Tourism plays a pivotal role in the regional economy. Ongoing efforts have strengthened collaboration across various sectors of the business community. The vitality of the tourism industry directly impacts the entire community, not just those employed in hospitality. Tourism dollars contribute significantly to offsetting local tax burdens and fostering economic sustainability and growth.

Ongoing collaborative efforts among businesses in the region have led to increased resilience, adaptability, and safety. Emphasizing customer service, the Warren County Department of Workforce Development, the Warren County Tourism Department, SUNY Adirondack, and Lake George Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau (LGRCVB), will work together to evaluate past training offerings and collaborate on future hospitality industry focused training and development, recognizing their importance in sustaining local enterprises.

Other collaborative efforts to assist the hospitality industry include increased investment in data insights to be shared for greater marketing opportunities. Zartico, an online subscription that crowd sources the mobile and credit card data of the Lake George area visitor, allows LGRCVB to empower destination partners to be better stewards of the area through improved data intelligence and decision-making. A series of “edu-seminars” will be offered as well as automated data distribution to all interested businesses.

As the LGRCVB is an extension of the Warren County Tourism Department, another joint effort includes enhanced outreach to bus tour groups and international travelers as these sectors of the tourism business are a focus to bring it back to pre-pandemic levels of visitation.

The Town and Village of Lake George recently secured a $10 million Downtown Revitalization grant from the state earmarked for projects aimed at revitalizing downtown and further boosting tourism. Initiatives include a variety of projects that will have a ripple effect of economic vitality throughout the County.

More information regarding the Lake George DRI is available on the website: https://www. lakegeorgedri.com/.

The Taste NY Market at the Adirondacks Welcome Center is operated by the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB. The Center welcomed its one millionth visitor this past year as it entered its fifth year in operation.

The high-end vending market features a variety of local and NYS state-produced products. Some perennial favorites are Just Water, Saratoga Water, Coopers Cave sodas, Martha’s Cremewiches, Barkeater Chocolates, Oscar’s cheese spreads and beef jerky, Lake George Baking Company chocolate chip cookies, Mapleland maple products and more. This past year close to $250,000 was spent on products with small business vendors to grow the awareness of their business and product offerings while growing the interest in “Buy Local, Choose NYS” products.

Warren County Positioning Itself To Combine Unique Lifestyle With Economic Prosperity

BY JIM SIPLON A wise mentor once told me, “If you can’t explain what you are doing and why you are doing it to your Grandmother, you don’t really understand your work like you think you do.” I have thought of that advice often as I am asked to help others understand the accelerating pace of change facing our business and collective communities. How would I explain to my now departed grandmother, a wise and kind woman who had lived through the Spanish Flu pandemic, the Great Depression and two World Wars by the time she was 35, what we do in our quest to position our area for long term success and have it make sense?

Perhaps by sharing the same ideas I do with our business and public leaders when I meet with them to discuss what economic development is and why it matters to them…we work together to build sustainable communities, and the economies that drive them. In this context, sustainability is a broader ambition than the somewhat more narrow environmental one that it is often used to describe. The Oxford Dictionary defines sustainability as “the ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level.” In other words, we endeavor to create working communities that have what they need to keep going, to endure and hopefully thrive.

For a long time, we associated our role in this ongoing challenge as advocates for the investments needed, such as public infrastructure and attractors of employers. The idea was that critical assets such as roads, power, water and sewer systems would attract new or entice existing employers to create jobs that would, in turn, underpin our local economy with wages and our municipalities with tax base. While that is still true, we have learned that it is only part of the work that must be done to chart a path toward long term success.

Employers need more than roads and sewers.

They need workers in a world where the overall population is aging and the workforce shrinking.

Those workers in turn need housing to move into, transportation and child care, among other things. Increasingly, our economy also needs to acknowledge and meet the emerging needs of micro-business and individuals to attract this often unseen part of our overall panorama - things like broadband and entrepreneurial support to help these newer parts of our economy and community also contribute and thrive. More deeply engaging these often unseen but vital new residents and micro businesses is a key area of investment for us.

This dynamic and ongoing process is playing out everywhere. We are not alone as we look at how to attract people as well as companies. Fortunately, we live in an area that is attractive to so many and has been for almost all of the history of the state and nation. Our natural resources, the physical beauty and richness of our area have been draws since the time of Hamilton, where the lyrics of the musical’s songs reference sum-

Jim Siplon, president, CEO, EDC Warren County.

Courtesy Jim Siplon

mering upstate around Lake George. The advent of the Adirondack Park further enhanced our appeal.

Adding these assets and the efforts to both share them and protect them as new conduits of economic development is part of our evolving role here at the EDC. We began to lay this vision out at our annual luncheon in October, in partnership with the brilliance of Dr. John Kelly, father of both IBM’s Watson and the groundbreaking Jefferson Project, and Dr. Marty Schmidt, the President of RPI and shepherd of MIT’s remarkable Kendall Square biotechnology emergence. The EDC is also now teaming with the Lake George Association in bringing the voice of business to the work they do. Together with all of them, the EDC is looking to build on the remarkable work to protect Lake George and the plethora of fresh water that is all around us.

Our role in this exciting premise is to not only build new, investable channels of economic development that will continue that work, but to also help cement our region as a leader in this emerging space in a way that leverages our unique location as an asset rather than a constraint.

As I might say to my grandmother, we seek to build, maintain and grow not only our businesses but our communities as we also work to protect what makes us special. What we do has a lot of moving parts but at its core it’s about people and the place we share. It’s about understanding and developing what both the people and the place need to thrive not only today, but tomorrow. If we do it well, we will live in a place that is sustainable in both an economic and environmental sense that can continue with unique prosperity. The challenge is big and there is room for many as we work together to build sustainable communities and an economy that works for all-come join us.

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2024 • 5

Employers Seeking Skilled Professionals As Coworking And Flexible Spaces Significant Economies Rebound And Industries Rebuild Part Of Office Trends In The Coming Year

BY RENEE WALRATH In 2024, hiring trends will shift as organizations adapt to a changing global workforce and several key themes emerge, offering employers and job seekers a positive outlook.

While 2023 started with massive layoffs and continued with that trend throughout the year to cut costs, the hiring trends for 2024 indicate a renewed sense of optimism.

Google research shows that 39 percent of hiring leaders said they plan to increase their financial commitment toward hiring in 2024, and 70 percent of surveyed U.S. job seekers were somewhat or very confident about their prospects of finding new jobs.

As economies rebound and industries rebuild, companies prepare for growth, creating a heightened demand for skilled professionals. This positive outlook is demonstrated by increased job opportunities across various sectors, creating a favorable environment for job seekers.

Throughout 2023, we’ve seen many companies requiring workers to go back to the office and anticipate more companies to do the same in 2024, with flexibility for remote work on an as-needed basis. Many technological roles will remain remote.

While working remote during and post the pandemic, companies noted that Millennials and especially Gen Z were lacking mentor and coaching since they were not working in an office. For us Baby Boomers, it was important for us to learn from our mentors and peers in the office to advance our career.

It’s much easier to ask a question when a colleague is sitting right next to you. Listening to other peers in the office discuss a work problem and solving it is how others learn their industry quicker.

The demand for technology-related skills like data analysis, artificial intelligence, cyber security, and software development is projected to remain high in demand for 2024.

While technical skills remained crucial, soft skills such as adaptability, communication, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence were increasingly valued by employers, especially in roles that require collaboration and interaction. The emphasis on skills over traditional qualifications like degrees is becoming more prominent. Companies might prioritize skills-based hiring practices, focusing on candidates’ abilities and potential for growth.

In 2024, it is important to engage prospective candidates throughout the recruitment process as well as create a positive employee on-boarding experience. Since Millennials make up most of the full-time workforce currently, it is important to understand their needs. Additional learning and development are important to them as well as working for an organization that prioritizes sustainability and corporate social responsibility.

Employees want good benefits such as health insurance, vacation, holiday, and sick time as well as a 401k and/or retirement plan.

All of these will assist in retaining valuable employees.

Pay transparency has made it necessary for organizations to perform a compensation

Renee A. Walrath is the president of Walrath Recruiting Inc. Courtesy Walrath Recruiting Inc.

analysis resulting in salaries increasing late 2022 & 2023. For 2024, most companies are adhering to paying employees equitably resulting in offering fair salaries and retaining employees.

Based on an article in Forbes Magazine of ongoing trends and emerging industries, here are some fields mentioned that might continue to be in demand in 2024: • AI and Machine Learning: With the increasing integration of artificial intelligence in various industries, roles related to AI development, machine learning engineering, data science, and AI ethics could continue to be in high demand.

• Cyber security: As digital threats evolve, the demand for cyber security experts is likely to grow. Roles like cyber security analysts, ethical hackers, and information security managers could remain in high demand.

• Renewable Energy: With a focus on sustainability and combating climate change, careers in renewable energy, such as solar and wind energy technicians, sustainable energy researchers, and green technology specialists, may continue to be promising.

• Healthcare and Telemedicine: The healthcare industry, including telemedicine, digital health, and personalized medicine, is expected to keep expanding, creating opportunities for healthcare professionals, data analysts, and software developers focusing on healthcare applications.

• E-commerce and Digital Marketing: The growth of online shopping and digital marketing strategies is likely to persist, leading to increased demand for e-commerce specialists, digital marketers, SEO experts, and content creators.

It’s essential to stay adaptable and continuously update skills and knowledge to align with evolving market demands, and emerging industries for a successful career in the years to come.

Looking forward to a successful and prosperous 2024!

BURGOYNE QUALITY HARDWARE & LUMBER

BY DOROTHY ROGERS-BULLIS The keyword in workspace design for 2024 is going to be “flexibility.” Employees and employers alike are looking for solutions that give them an array of design, construction, and furniture options to choose from. A few examples: Operable walls for multi-use spaces In today’s work environment, putting 22 chairs around a conference table and only using the room for that one purpose is a waste of space and ultimately money. Instead of dedicating office square footage to a single function — like a large conference room — a more cost-effective option is to find multiple ways to use that same space, and operable walls are one simple solution. These walls are easy to move and can be reconfigured to utilize a space in many ways.

Turn an area into a multifunctional space for work, meetings, dining, parties, or even a multimedia room.

Recreate your downtown office at home Few good things came out of the pandemic, but many employees would argue that there is one: the flexibility to work from home. More and more people are working remotely or in a hybrid environment where they are in the office for part of the week and working from home the remainder. Given that an increasing number of work hours are being spent in home offices, people are putting a greater emphasis on functionality. In some cases, hybrid workers are even recreating their “downtown” office at home, using the same furniture and design esthetic so that on a video call, customers wouldn’t know if they are at home or in the main office.

Coworking for the win Working from home isn’t a dream come true for everyone, however, which is why flexible coworking spaces are an increasingly popular solution for a variety of scenarios. For people who were compelled to work remotely full-time — but who don’t relish solitude — coworking offers the benefits of an in-person work community at a reasonable cost. Coworking can also be an option for companies with leases

Personnel Briefs Continued From Page 2

in customer service and direct sales along with his love of all outdoor recreation, made him an excellent choice to work with sports and tour groups that have the potential to include the Lake George Area as a destination of choice for their future event business”. *

*

*

Stewart’s Shops Chief Operating Officer Chad Kiesow worked a shift at the Round Lake shop on Monday, Dec. 18 to celebrate a Holiday Match milestone after the shop recorded

Chuck Ciaccia 30 years

Jude Gosh 35 years

Dorothy Rogers-Bullis, owner of drb Business Interiors in Saratoga Springs.

Courtesy drb Business Interiors

coming to maturity that aren’t ready to make the leap to full-remote. The flexibility of a coworking space enables them to rent only as much space as they require — perhaps even allowing two hybrid workers to share one desk on alternating in-person workdays. It’s also an ideal, economical solution for scaling a new or growing company. Learn more about Saratoga CoWorks at saratogacoworks.com.

As we head into this new year, we at drb Business Interiors are cognizant of the opportunities and challenges created by this desire for flexibility with work and office design.

Companies must design their work spaces and policies around what is best for their business but also remain mindful of how they can retain top employees and grow at the same time. It’s a delicate balance.

If you would like to discuss flexible solutions to your business’s workspace design challenges, while meeting the needs of your top asset — your employees — contact us at drbbusinessinteriors.com or call 518.306.5233. the biggest increase in donations through the first half of the 2023 Holiday Match campaign.

Kiesow, who joined Stewart’s in 1994 and was recently named COO, worked in the Round Lake shop to personally thank customers and shop partners for their generosity and support this holiday season. Customers donated more than $4,700 at the shop during the first two weeks of Holiday Match season, a 150 percent increase over the same period last year.

Stewart’s Holiday Match program has raised more than $36 million since it started in 1986.

Donations collected from customers are doubled, dollar for dollar, by Stewart’s Shops and 100 percent of the funds are invested back into the community by supporting local nonprofit children’s organizations.

Dave Weiss 24 years

Spencer Agan 26 years

Dennis Choiniere 49 years

OVER 164 YEARS COMBINED EXPERIENCE

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6 • GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2024

A Managed Service Provider May Be The Artificial Intelligence Useful Tool That Must Be Answer To Technology Requirements In 2024 Tempered With Authentic Human Connection

BY MARK SHAW I guess the recession is cancelled. Who knows, right? The world seems a little upside down, but as everyone knows life continues to go on. What we are seeing in the technology space is very interesting as we have, for most intents and purposes, been immune to the economic tides of layoffs and downsizing.

This did not hold true in 2023, and so far, 2024 is starting off with a bang. Over 24 tech firms have already had layoffs in 11 days into this year. The big companies have over-hired during the good times and are trimming now.

Technology is often the canary in the coal mine. What happens there flows down to the more stable and long-term organizations in healthcare and manufacturing.

What does this mean to you and your business? It means that the pendulum is swinging again. The rise of good economic times buoyed by the funds from PPP, EIDL, and for some, the ERC (All government programs through COVID-19) are starting to come to an end. The funds have been used and now we are back to equilibrium. As you look over your staff and study your business trends, you might also find yourself needing to reduce staffing to keep moving forward.

One area everyone worried about making any cuts is typically in the technology area.

These people have special skills that are often, in our area, hard to find. You trust your IT person to be making good choices, to be protecting you from threats, and most importantly to just make “IT” work.

But what do you do when the realization that your beloved IT person is moving on to another role, perhaps in another state or country? What if that resource is unable to grow with the big plans you have made for success in 2024. What if they need some help because the day-to-day is burying them to the point their project timelines are slipping?

I can list in the last three years alone how many businesses, from manufacturing to government, have felt the twinge of panic when the person they have relied on for years hands in the dreaded resignation letter.

But instead of considering this a time to panic, consider this a time to make a change that benefits you, your company, and your wallet. Consider the benefits of letting someone else manage your technology that isn’t one person or a small team. What if you could have 24/7 support, someone always ready to answer the call for any technology needs? What if that group could have people with a diverse set of skills that would be able to cover all your

Mark Shaw, president and CEO of Stored Technology Solutions Inc. (StoredTech).

Courtesy StoredTech

needs from A-Z in your company technology wise? What if they could run a new cable for a copier, install updates to your business applications, protect against threats, provide backups to all your mission critical data, help in the case of any security risk and act as you own personal Chief Information Officer?

This is what an MSP does. Perhaps you have heard the acronym and wondered what that means. It stands for Managed Service Provider. They handle your technology needs on a day-to-day basis and provide road maps tailored to where you see your business going in not only the next twelve months but looking beyond that horizon to say 3 to 5 years. You jointly set the pace and the plan for how your business can thrive using the technology in your organization today and dream of what the future could be.

In most cases this is at a price point lower than you could have with just a single employee or even a small team. Now that is something to consider in these more chaotic times.

What is even more powerful is if this partner MSP could work with you without contract or long-term commitments, letting them earn your business every single day. That’s how the best-in-class MSPs work.

As 2024 comes in like lion, if you are in a tough spot trying to find the best way to use technology, cannot afford an IT team to be on your payroll, or are losing your trusted IT resource maybe an MSP is right for you.

BY NEAL SANDIN Artificial Intelligence (AI) has evoked both fear and excitement in the past year over its impact on the marketplace, economy, and our everyday lives. As a market researcher, my job is to discover ways for businesses, brands, and employees to add value to their interactions with consumers. However, in the face of a tool like AI that promises to expand in scope, reach, and capability in 2024 and the years to come, this can seem to be an insurmountable challenge.

AI has moved into the popular culture and become democratic, thanks in large part to two key strengths. First, its uses and output are novel and exciting. Users now have more impact and control over this tool, with surprising, useful, and often eye-opening results. It can generate video, images, research papers and summaries, seemingly in the blink of an eye. Secondly, but perhaps even more importantly, it is convenient, as programs like ChatGPT have demonstrated. It is easily accessible and user friendly. Anyone can make something entirely novel in just a few minutes while walking down the street with a coffee in one hand and a smartphone in the other.

With these advances, there is also controversy.

In 2023, the use of AI was one of the main points of contention in the 2023 writers’ and actors’ strikes. In addition, Marvel faced backlash for using AI during the credits of Secret Invasion.

Book publishers have also been criticized for using AI for book covers, as was the case with Fractal Noise by Christoper Paolini. Much of this is depicted as not supporting creatives, and that is certainly a significant factor. However, there is more at play.

It is perhaps not coincidental that the rise in AI seems to correspond with the rise of the “Loneliness Epidemic.” More and more Americans across all ages and demographics are experiencing a sense of isolation, often with devastating effects. AI, a machine that responds to the user, may offer a sense of connection that so many need, fueling its popularity and uptake.

Within my own industry of market research, we are primarily interested in the subjective – how people perceive, understand, and react to the world around them. Facts may matter, but perceptions and emotions are what drive behavior. Several AI tools promise to write my research reports for me in a matter of minutes, a process that normally is quite time consuming. While certainly convenient, my career would come to a quick end if I did not add value by (at the very least) adding my own insights.

These all highlight the greatest weakness and shortcoming of AI - its perceived lack of authenticity. In fact, Merriam-Webster’s Word of the Year 2023 is “authentic.” This reflects the desire for something true, something that has meaning. After all, when we watch an actor on TV or in a movie, we want to believe that they are feeling the emotions they are portraying. Even an animated movie is only as good as its voice actors.

Neal Sandin, President of 643 Research is a fullservice qualitative market research company.

Courtesy 643 Research

It also shows a desire for connection, for community. It is these human connections that bring so much value to our lives, and we feel the pain of their loss, a reason why this Loneliness Epidemic is so devastating for so many.

All of this illustrates an opportunity for brands, employees, and individuals more generally – creating authentic connections.

That is what is missing from AI. It may be further refined, but it will never achieve real, human connection, only the appearance of it.

As consumers, we often prioritize clothes that are handmade and food that is traditionally prepared. We can even become emotionally connected to mass-produced electronics so long as they have a personal story behind them.

Authenticity means human, that a person stands behind and values the product or service they are offering.

A market researcher asks, “What is the story you bring to this product/service? What is your stake? What is your motivation?” - questions that consumers are increasingly asking. These answers can only come from a living, breathing human being, and they must also be communicated in an authentic way.

This is not to denigrate AI as a tool. It has already helped solve long-standing scientific puzzles and promises to help advance our knowledge far into the future. It can, and certainly will, improve services and products, but in the end, it is a tool.

Authentic human connection is something that we used to take for granted; now, it is a point of distinction. Each interaction, product, service, and touch point needs to add authentic value; something that AI alone cannot provide.

AI can help create innovative services and products, solve complex problems, ease backlogs, and streamline workflow, but it does not create or replace authentic human connection.

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2024 • 7

Businesses Are Seeking More Qualitative Those In Construction Trades Are Optimistic Results From Their Marketing Expenditures That This Year Will Be ‘Back To Normal’

BY SARA MANNIX To best predict the leading stories of 2024, we must first look at and understand what happened in 2023.

Mannix Marketing has relationships with many other digital marketing agencies. In 2023, for the first time in a decade, we saw agencies that have been in business for years simply close their doors. Web development agencies were hit especially hard. Although a number of factors contributed to this, chief among them were that the easy money policies from 2020-2022 went away. Businesses these agencies served started to demand marketing that returned results. Under the increased spotlight some agencies struggled with showing returns.

We see the need for marketing agencies to provide demonstrated proof of their value as a trend that continues into 2024. For a web design and development company, this means they need to know that their clients will no longer be satisfied with just a pretty website. Websites will have to play a vital part in generating new leads and achieving company goals.

And we have seen this firsthand. At the same time some web development agencies have been closing their doors, the demand for search engine optimization (SEO) and paid search services has increased.

Why? Because SEO and paid search marketing allow a business to be found by the customer who is searching for the exact product or service they offer.

As businesses tighten up their marketing budgets, they will be more focused on results-oriented marketing that is both predictable and reliable. SEO and paid search are easy to justify in a marketing budget as both are trackable to the return on ad spend.

Conversion rate optimization (CRO) will also be a major focus for businesses in 2024. CRO means increasing the likelihood someone will convert from a browser to a buyer. As search results now incorporate more answers to search questions in their results, it’s possible that fewer people will land on any given website in the future. This means that converting those that reach your website becomes increasingly important.

All the online data a business needs to make informed decisions about their website and their business will be tracked on marketing dashboards.

In 2023, many marketers were forced to switch to a new website analytics platform to make decisions - GA4. This is a powerful tool, but it is very different from what many people have been using for website analytics over the past 15 years. In 2024, the agencies that survive will be experts in reading and understanding the data, and possess the ability to showcase it to clients in a way they can understand and make decisions from.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) will change the way we work (you were waiting for that one, weren’t you?).

Smart companies are leveraging AI to be more efficient in most, if not all, of their departments. How your business chooses to use AI is critical. Agencies and their clients must be aware of the advantages and limitations that AI has when it comes to marketing. AI is not a copywriter. AI is not a marketer. AI is not a designer. AI is a tool. SEO companies need to work closely with their clients to create meaningful, unique and ground-breaking content. Content that AI produces simply won’t return results, as what it outputs can only incorporate what has been developed already.

Make no mistake, this is great news. SEO and marketing has changed for the better. It means higher quality websites that deliver trackable results.

Now that AI can build a website and write generic content , it means there is no need for lower quality, low cost agencies and designers that just put out a beautiful website with no marketing strategy behind it.

We can’t talk about marketing in 2024 without talking about the pivot we expect to see when it comes to social media marketing. As you may know, social media marketing drives top of mind awareness and purchase intent. In 2024, a strategy that includes influencer marketing and ‘collabs’ is key. Collabs are when two or more parties get together to promote a product or service (think Nike and Michael Jordan

Sara Mannix, president and CEO of Mannix Marketing.

Courtesy Mannix Marketing

promoting Air Jordan sneakers). Collabs are not usually cheap, but when done well the result can provide a significant impact on a business’s overall market share.

Recently, singer Rihanna’s beauty brand did a collab with her rapper husband A$AP Rocky. He rapped on Instagram about a line of lip balm. The result? The press went wild for the collab, and so did fans.

For businesses that are looking to create more value from their marketing, collabs may be the solution. On Instagram, when two parties do a collab on an Instagram reel, that reel will be shown to both of their audiences, which increases engagement and views exponentially. Meta is putting a lot of focus on making reels a force to be reckoned with for brands.

Smart marketers will find like-minded partners and produce a collab. At Mannix Marketing, we have used collabs very successfully with micro and nano influencers to build awareness for Winter’s Dream.

The results of these were millions of additional views of promotional content in our target downstate markets.

Influencer Marketing is today’s Word of Mouth marketing. When I first started in marketing clients would tell me their #1 source of new business was Word of Mouth. This is true today, just not strictly in the old-fashioned meaning of the term. In the past the control you had was to create a great product, or offer a terrific service, and ask/hope your customers would tell others. Now you can do so much more.

Social media puts businesses in the driver’s seat of Word of Mouth marketing. You can work with influencers who have a targeted audience to promote your business. You can work with partners to collab and amplify your message. Social media is an art that marketers must master to be successful in 2024.

Moving forward, another investment companies looking to grow will want to make is in video. We have become a nation of people (a world of people, actually) who want our information fast, and video is an ideal way to do that. Whether your story needs to be told through video webinars or quick clips like those popular on TikTok and YouTube, today’s technology makes it easy to produce what you need. Powerful, easy-to-use tools like CapCut have removed video production obstacles for businesses so they can now easily produce high quality videos at very little cost.

In 2024 budgets will be highly scrutinized, agencies that are not delivering high quality results will go out of business, and those that remain will need to balance the use of AI to be more efficient with their marketing expertise to generate online results.

Businesses will develop online partnerships and collaborate with influencers and other partners to further their message. Demand for SEO, paid search and CRO will increase as companies demand results for their marketing spend.

BY DOUG FORD It’s that time of year again when we look forward and do our best to make an educated forecast for the year ahead. However, before we can do that, we do need to look backwards to set the stage for the year that lies ahead.

As with many other businesses, the construction industry did not break any records nor allow for a lot of optimism, but that was expected. Unlike many other industries the construction industry benefited from people working and staying at home. A lot of unplanned money was invested to remodel, upgrade, and put in home offices to allow for an enjoyable and productive workspace at home while they waited out the COVID pandemic.

2023 was a “wait and see’ year. 2024 is lining up to be a “back to normal” affair for the housing industry. So, what does the year ahead have in store for the construction industry and those that support the trades like Curtis Lumber. I will do my best to break it down but I’m a lot more optimistic going into 2024 than the year we just completed.

However, it’s not all bright and rosy. This year will have many carry-over challenges from last year, but the recent trend indicates a more favorable outlook.

Mortgage rate volatility and uncertainty around the Fed policy along with inflation have all contributed to interest rates that were not affordable or desirable to many that were in the market for a new home. With these three forces now moving in the right direction and likely to improve they could provide additional relief to those sitting on the sidelines. Locally the medium- to lower-end home categories were impacted more than the higher end and multifamily segments, as would be expected. The forecast for housing is optimistic but hinges on continued moderation of inflation and that the Federal Reserve will continue easing its stance on interest rates.

Building material manufacturers and suppliers have benefited from the slower pace and have been able to catch up, leading to more consistent lead times and a more consistent quality. This has helped to get the build cycle for new homes and construction projects back to normal or very close. This has brought back some efficiencies that were non-existent for the past three years.

Another challenge that is impacting, but not new to the construction industry, is the lack of labor. While some cooling has occurred in the construction labor market the market remains tight. The construction industry continues to struggle to attract younger workers. While workers under the age of 25 comprised 13.6 percent of the U.S. labor force, their share in the construction industry reached only 10.0 percent in 2021.

Meanwhile, the share of older construction workers ages 55+ increased from less than 19.3 percent in 2015 to almost 22.3 percent in 2021. Around 67.7 percent of the construction workforce were in the prime working years of 25-54, compared to 63.5 percent in the overall workforce.

Unfortunately, this issue does not have a quick fix and will continue to be a problem

Doug Ford is vice president of Curtis Lumber Company.

Courtesy Curtis Lumber

for the unforeseen future. The good news is that through the efforts of organizations like the Northeast Construction Trades Workforce Coalition, students are now becoming enlightened at an earlier age about the lucrative and rewarding careers in the trades. The Northeast Construction Trades Workforce Coalition was formed six years ago as a joint effort between the Saratoga Builders Association and Curtis Lumber Company. This Coalition is now a not-for-profit organization that has grown to include over forty related organizations and interested stakeholder from across New York State and the northeast.

Early on it was recognized after considerable research that high school students were not aware of the opportunities the trades offered. Most school counselors were unprepared to speak with students about the various pathways into the trades. After wanting to blame the school counselors, we quickly realized our industry had done a terrible job connecting with the schools, counselors, parents, and students and ultimately, we are at fault. The sole mission of the coalition is to engage with the schools and help them understand the pathways into this industry which are many. We are hopeful the coalition can be an example for others to join in the effort or support the work being done by this group. If you would like more information about the Northeast Construction Trades Workforce Coalition, please reach out to Doug Ford (doug.ford@ curtislumber.com or Pam Stott at pams@ curtislumber.com.

Like any start to a new year, we can only make projections based on the data we have available to us and recent history. There are always those unknowns that can take us off course but I’m optimistic that we are on a good path to a successful year. We are very fortunate to live in the capital region which continues to be the bright spot in the economy for New York state. Let’s have a great 2024 and make great things happen in Saratoga County and the capital region.

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Glens Falls Farmer’s Market President Tom Wells says Aviation Mall has been the perfect place for the organization’s winter market, with plenty of indoor space to add more vendors.

BY PAUL POST Tom Barody finally got the break he was hoping for after several years on the Glens Falls Farmer’s Market waiting list.

January 6 was his first day doing business at the organization’s winter market, held each Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon at Aviation Mall’s food court in Queensbury.

“There aren’t a lot of winter market options around here,” said Barody, of Blackberry Hill Farm in Thurman. “Spa City market is the only other one close enough for us, compared to five markets we do in summer. That’s a big cut in your pay. Our specialty is long-fermented breads. We use certified organic flour. It takes two days to make everything. We do a lot of breads and bagels. Pretzels and English muffins are also big sellers along with frozen vacuum-sealed, wood-fired pizza.”

Barody’s opening was made possible when another bread vendor left the market.

Blackberry Hill Farm is one of nearly three-dozen firms represented at the winter market, which is in its third year at the mall. Previously located at Sanford Street School in Glens Falls, it had to leave that venue during COVID and spent one winter at Cool Insuring Arena before moving to the mall.

“It’s awesome,” said Tom Wells, market president.

“We love it because it’s such a customer-friendly place.

The mall helps us out with advertising and maintenance, and we have enough room to expand here.”

Participating vendors are from Warren, Washington, Saratoga and Columbia counties.

The arrangement also pays dividends for the mall by generating traffic, especially during slow times right after the holidays. It’s no secret that shopping malls across the country have suffered in recent years as more and more people shop online instead of visiting retail stores.

So Aviation Mall Manager James Griffith welcomed the farmer’s market with open arms.

“Right from the get-go we saw an immediate increase in foot traffic,” he said. “It’s brought people to the mall who haven’t been here in a couple years and allows us to showcase the renovations we did back in 2016 and ‘17. The whole center was done over with new white tile. We added soft seating for people to sit down and relax and updated lighting to LED lights, so the mall is a lot brighter than it used to be.”

Long-time farmer’s market vendors Tom and Gretchen Morganstern own Adirondack Aromatherapy. They like the mall setting so much that they filled one of its vacant retail spaces last March, and still take part in the winter market.

“It certainly increases traffic on Saturday mornings,” Tom Morganstern said. “There are more people here than there normally would be. Even some of the mall tenants will open earlier when the market’s going on. It was very fun the first year because it had been years since they’d seen this many people in the

food court.”

“It’s indoors, there’s lots of parking and it’s close to the Northway,” he said. “It’s definitely having an impact.”

The location helps the farmer’s market attract some people who don’t visit its summer home, on South Street in downtown Glens Falls.

“It’s more centrally located along the Northway corridor, so they’re seeing different people,” Griffith said. “It gives them more exposure. The whole symbiotic approach is great. The more people come to the farmer’s market, the more people come to the mall, and it helps grow their summer market as well.”

Aviation Mall hosts the winter market from November through the end of April. “A lot of people going up the Northway to winter camps stop here to get whatever they need,” Wells said. “Almost every week we get lots of customers who didn’t know we were here. They come to the mall for Target, and say, ‘Oh! There’s a market. Let’s stop and see what it is’.”

Market patron Cheryl Wolfe, of Queensbury, said she likes the winter market’s convenient location.

“It’s nice and warm, too, especially on a day like today,” she said. “I like to shop local. I think it’s better for you to eat foods grown here. I definitely like the fresh lettuce.”

First opened in 1975, Aviation Mall is owned by Syracuse-based Pyramid Management Group, which owns 13 centers, 11 in upstate New York and two in Massachusetts. Its flagship property, Destiny USA in Syracuse, is the sixth largest shopping mall in the country. Its next three largest ones are Crossgates in Albany, Palisades Center in Nyack and Walden Galleria near Buffalo.

All four of these malls are ranked in the Top 25 for square footage out of more than 800 centers throughout the U.S. Aviation Mall’s largest tenants are JC Penney, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Target and Ollie’s Bargain Outlet. However, the list includes a wide variety of firms from Regal Cinemas to Adirondack Axe Throwing and two new tenants, The Gym and Bash It! -- where people can let out their frustrations by smashing things such as old electronic equipment.

A sign in the food court says a new taco eatery will open soon.

Griffith said plans are in the works for larger stores to join the mall this year. He declined comment on specifics until an official announcement is made.

Wells said the winter market’s move to Aviation Mall has benefited everyone involved.

“The biggest thing is how much of a need there is in this community for our market,” he said. “It’s not just a place to come and get your vegetables. It’s a place to sit and chat, enjoy a favorite vendor or catch up with what’s going on at the market. We all work for each other. We’re almost like a family. We do the best we can to take care of each other and help each other out.”

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2024 • 9

More Land Will Remain Forever Wild With Adirondack Pub & Brewery Is Recommended Donation To Lake George Land Conservancy for a $50,000 Grant to Fund Improvements EAST BROOK ADDITION SEE DETAIL ABOVE

MCPHILLIPS PRESERVE LGLC CONSERVATION EASEMENT OWNED BY THE TOWNS OF LAKE GEORGE AND QUEENSBURY

LAKE GEORGE SCHOOL PROPERTY

LGLC EAST BROOK PRESERVE A 4.4-acre parcel, named the East Brook Addition, has been donated to the Lake George Land Conservancy so that it will remain forever wild.

4905 Lake Shore Dr

the Craft Beverage Micro Grant Program, ESD is tion of key areas like streams, shoreline, and 1250 Adirondack Pub & Brewery, Inc. has announced PO Box that it has been recommended for a grant of up to helping New York’s craft beer and spirits producers sensitive, steep slopes that are susceptible to Bolton Landing, NY 12814 $50,000 through the Empire State Development grow and thrive. As Adirondack Pub & Brewery exerosion. For this reason, the LGLC’s South LGLC.org Beverage Micro Grant Program. pands production of its distinctive craft beverages, Basin Conservation Initiative518-644-9673 focuses on key | Craft The funding will help the Brewery build a it will encourage new opportunities and generate lands such as the East Brook Addition as im-12/21/2023 Map Prepared nearly 3,000-square-foot addition and purchase regional economic growth.” portant for long-term protection of the lake’s equipment necessary to expand its brewing operaIn addition to a variety of beers, the brewery has water quality. tion to meet increasing demand for a variety of craft introduced a selection of beverages beyond beer To date, the LGLC has protected a total of beverages including hard cider, hard seltzer and including canned hard lemonades and teas, hard 2,736 acres within the south basin. In addition ready-to-drink canned cocktails. The expansion ciders made with all New York State apples, hard to its important water quality protection, these will bring Adirondack Pub & Brewery’s square seltzer and the popular Bear Wizz Root Beer. properties provide significant recreational footage to approximately 15,000-square-feet.

Adirondack Pub & Brewery is a microbrewopportunities. The LGLC plans to open a trail John Carr, owner of Adirondack Pub and ery located in the heart of Lake George at 33 on the East Brook Preserve which will include Brewery said, “We’ve seen a rise in demand for this Canada Street serving up fresh craft beverages and educational signage. Once completed, this selection of beverages and we’re excited to have the all-American comfort food. Established in 1999, trail will link to the Lake George Elementary chance to provide even more for our customers. the Brewery continues to brew fresh craft beverSchool’s extensive nature trails. A crosswalk Currently we’re bursting at the seams. We make ages including ales and lagers, hard cider, seltzers, on Bloody Pond Road will ultimately connect everything ourselves, fresh and on site.” lemonades and teas, and its non-alcoholic offering, the East Brook Preserve to the McPhillips Empire State Development President, CEO Bear Wizz Root Beer. Adirondack Brewery strives Preserve. The Town of Lake George is workand Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Through to use the finest local ingredients. ing to create a multi-use trail system on the McPhillips Preserve. The fi nished trail system is expected to include several miles of challenging trails for hiking and mountain biking, and offer a clear view of Lake George’s south basin, including Prospect Mountain on the opposite side.

The LGLC is an accredited, non-profit land trust dedicated to working with willing landowners and other partners to protect the world-renowned water quality of Lake George and to permanently preserve the natural, scenic, historic and recreational resources of the Lake George region.

Since its inception, LGLC’s land protection program has worked directly and with partners to permanently protect 12,194 acres of Lake George wilderness and more than seven miles of shoreline, and owns and/or manages 15 featured parks and preserves that are open to the public year-round with nearly S. Broadway Land NY-9 | Saratoga Springs, NY 40 miles of trails for hiking, snowshoeing, $5,950,000 cross-country skiing, and, at some preserves, Exciting development opportunity in a fantastic location across from the Saratoga State hunting and snowmobiling. More informaPark and just minutes to Downtown Saratoga Springs! Zoning of the 59.12 acres allows for tion: lglc.org.

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COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES

FO R

The Lake George Land Conservancy (LGLC) has been given a donation of 4.4 acres of undeveloped land in the Town of Lake George.

This property borders the LGLC’s 12-acre East Brook Preserve and includes more than three acres of wetlands and 600 feet of forested steam corridor that help to naturally protect water quality.

The “East Brook Addition” donation was gifted to the LGLC by Karen Azer and her late mother Helene Horn.

“I am glad the parcel will remain forever wild,” said Karen Azer, “not only benefitting water quality but also protecting habitat for wildlife.”

LGLC Executive Director Mike Horn (no relation to Helene Horn) said, “We are incredibly grateful to Karen and Helene for their generous donation of land for conservation.

Their gift creates a legacy that will forever work to protect Lake George.”

In total, the newly expanded East Brook Preserve includes more than 1,100 feet of East Brook, one of the top ten tributaries of Lake George, and is heavily forested with some impressive hemlock, white pine, ash and sugar maples scattered throughout.

The original 12-acre East Brook property was protected in 2018 with a bargain sale from the McPhillips family, who desired to see the land protected. Around the same time, the LGLC helped to protect the 317-acre McPhillips Preserve on neighboring French Mountain, in partnership with the Towns of Lake George and Queensbury. More than 2,000 feet of seasonal streams flow down the steep slopes of the McPhillips Preserve and join with East Brook far below.

Since Lake George flows north, protection of its headwaters in the south, including tributaries like East Brook, is imperative to its overall health. This region of Lake George is also facing intense development pressure, creating all the more urgency for conserva-

John Carr (right), owner of the Adirondack Pub & Brewery, reviews plans with a contractor to build a 3,000-square-foot addition and purchase new equipment.

many different uses and includes 1394.49 of frontage as you are driving into Saratoga.

Possibilities are endless! Call Amy and set up an appointment to tour the property today!

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10 • GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2024

REGIONAL STOCKWATCH

PROVIDED BY: ROBERT M. SCHERMERHORN, CFP SARATOGA FINANCIAL SERVICES 18 DIVISION ST.-SUITE 305, SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY 12866 (518) 584-2555 SECURITIES OFFERED THROUGH: LPL FINANCIAL / MEMBER: FINRA AND SIPC

Stock Name

Albany International Corp.

Arrow Financial Corporation AT & T Inc. Ball Corporation Ballston Spa Bancorp, Inc Bank of America Corporation Best Buy Co., Inc Citizens Financial Group, Inc. Espey Manufacturing & Electronics Corp General Electric Company Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. The Home Depot, Inc. International Paper Company KeyCorp Lowe’s Companies, Inc. Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. M&T Bank Corporation McDonald’s Corporation National Grid Plc NBT Bancorp Inc. Plug Power Inc. Quad/Graphics, Inc. Starbucks Corporation Sysco Corporation Latham Group, Inc. Target Corporation The TorontoDominion Bank Trustco Bank Corp NY Verizon Communications Inc. Walmart Inc.

Closing Price 12/15/2023

Closing Price 12/22/2023

Closing Price 12/29/2023

Closing Price 01/05/2023

Closing Price 01/12/2024

95.34

97.32

98.22

92.28

91.58

27.99 16.52 58.43

28.66 16.55 57.20

27.94 16.78 57.52

27.38 17.47 57.39

26.12 16.48 56.36

52.00

52.00

52.00

52.00

50.45

33.60 77.32

33.43 76.14

33.67 78.28

34.43 75.83

32.80 73.86

33.56

33.06

33.14

33.37

31.64

18.00

18.27

18.70

18.89

18.62

123.23

126.69

127.63

126.29

129.79

177.23 354.00

181.51 348.59

182.09 346.55

180.50 342.94

182.16 355.71

37.43 14.32

36.64 14.29

36.15 14.40

37.27 14.64

37.67 14.20

225.59

223.00

222.55

212.51

218.91

489.94 142.76

496.38 136.52

498.91 137.08

486.80 138.19

495.88 133.08

287.27 67.82 41.46 4.71 5.35 96.75 73.54 2.82 138.37

291.70 68.62 42.56 4.52 5.60 95.28 75.53 2.73 140.20

296.51 67.99 41.91 4.50 5.42 96.01 73.13 2.63 142.42

288.99 69.28 40.50 4.25 5.23 92.99 75.65 2.43 140.75

293.47 68.68 39.74 3.44 5.08 91.98 75.75 2.35 140.91

62.40 30.72

64.18 31.60

64.62 31.05

64.42 30.24

60.05 29.42

37.37 152.74

37.49 156.65

37.70 157.65

40.20 156.71

38.56 161.32

*Data sourced from Morningstar **Stock investing includes risks, including fluctuating prices and loss of principal. This is for informational purposes only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendation for any individual.

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Beware Of Prognosticators; Investors Should Set Goals According To Long-Term Risk Tolerance

BY KENNETH J. ENTENMANN, CFA Happy New Year! And that means it is prognostication time. Economists, Chief Investment Officers, your plumber and neighbor announce their bold predictions for the economy and the financial markets for the coming year. Beware! These predictions will likely be wrong, regardless of the level of the forecaster’s sophistication. And yes, that includes your humble blogger!

Look back at 2023. The overwhelming consensus called for a recession. It never happened.

More importantly, the gloom associated with a recession also didn’t materialize. The labor market did not falter, ending the year with an unemployment rate of 3.7%. The Fed did not increase interest rates to “infinity and beyond!” as they hit the pause button in September and have been there ever since. The equity markets didn’t collapse, with the S&P 500 ending the year at 4765, up 25.83 percent for 2023. That is a far cry from the doom forecast of an S&P 500 price level of 3000. If you followed the pessimistic forecasts for 2023, it was a very expensive mistake!

The forecasts for 2024 are quite optimistic.

As discussed in the last blog, the ferocious year-end rally in both stocks and bonds has priced in a perfection. In general, the consensus for 2024 is: • The economy avoids recession and maintains growth around the trend of 2 percent.

• Inflation continues to trend toward the Fed’s 2 percent target.

• The labor market remains stout, with unemployment ticking marginally higher but remaining below 4 percent.

• Corporate earnings will accelerate, with the consensus growth of 12 percent.

• The Fed begins to cut interest rates in March and rates will be 160 basis points lower by year-end.

Each of these consensus forecasts seem to be reasonable in isolation. However, it is hard to reconcile all of them occurring at the same time. Perfection rarely occurs.

Let’s assume the forecasts are correct. The economy does sustain positive growth around 2 percent. Unemployment remains below 4 percent and wages continue to grow at 4 percent. A December employment read showed the unemployment rate at 3.7 percent and wage growth of 4 percent. The labor market shows no sign of imminent collapse. This would bode well for consumer spending and strong earnings growth would likely come to fruition.

Great! But, given this rosy outlook, is it reasonable to expect the Fed to cut interest rates by 160 basis points?

What if the optimistic forecasts are wrong and the economy does enter recession?

Economic growth, by definition, is negative.

Unemployment is likely to increase meaningfully. This would stretch the consumer and spending would come down. Corporate earnings would contract. In this case, the Fed would certainly be forced to cut rates, but for the wrong reason!

Fed interest rate policy creates the greatest uncertainty for the first half of 2024. The market is calling for 160 basis points of rate cuts in 2024, with over a 50 percent probability of the first cut occurring in March. Yes, the core inflation data continues to trend lower, but remains well above the Fed’s 2 percent target. In addition, the Fed has repeatedly stated it wanted to see the labor market cool.

As a recent employment report demonstrates, it has not happened. Therefore, I think interest rate expectations are overly optimistic, and it would take a much weaker economy to justify the current expectations.

It has been a long, arduous road back to interest rate policy “normalization.” After all, 0 percent interest rates are not “normal.” The last

Supervisor Geraghty Continued From Page 1

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In addition to his time as chairman, Supervisor Geraghty previously served as Warren County Budget Officer for six years, and acting Warren County Administrator for

Kenneth J. Entenmann, CFA, Chief Investment Officer and Chief Economist, NBT Bank.

Courtesy NBT Bank

12 years of interest rate policy compelled by the Great Financial Crisis and COVID pandemic were abnormal. What does “normal” look like.

One measure is the yield spread between the inflation rate and the yield of the 10-year Treasury note. Historically, the yield of the 10-year note is roughly 200-250 basis points above the inflation rate. Let’s give the optimistic inflation forecasts the benefit of the doubt and assume inflation will soon be 2 percent. That would put the 10-year yield at 4 percent. Where is the 10year note today? 4.04 percent. Not much room for improvement there. In just a few months, the market’s interest rate forecast has gone from “higher for longer” to “remaining high for longer” to rate cuts in March. That is a fast change in sentiment!

The Ghost of Arthur Burns haunts the Fed. He was the Fed Chair in the 1970s when the Fed fought inflation, and then cut rates too soon. Inflation returned with a vengeance and the Fed had to reverse course. This Fed cannot and will not let that happen again. It will be cautious. As such, and the current economic performance will have to be perfect for the Fed to cut rates as aggressively as the market suggests.

Financial market forecasts suffer from the same hubris as economic forecasts. Recall that the S&P 500 lost nearly 20 percent in 2022. For 2023, market prognosticators were generally bearish. They extolled the virtue of cash with a 5 percent+ yield. You would be paid to wait.

Stocks would continue to suffer due to the imminent recession. Bonds would plunge in an inflation fueled, rising rate environment.

Boy, was that wrong! Yes, cash paid 5 percent.

But the S&P 500 was up 25.83 percent and the aggregate bond index was up 5.5 percent. Both asset classes outperformed cash. A simple, dull and boring 60 percent Equity/40 percent fixed income “balanced” portfolio, left for dead after 2022, posted a remarkable 18 percent return.

Once again, the market proved the folly of market timing.

As we begin 2024, beware the prognosticators. There is no doubt that some will nail their forecast and be hailed as heroes, at least for a fleeting moment. But consistently forecasting the economy and markets is incredibly hard, and the data clearly demonstrates that.

Therefore, it is more important that investors properly access their long-term risk profile and set their investment allocations accordingly.

Investing is a long-term game, and it requires patience. In the long run, market prognostication (yes, including mine) are for entertainment purposes only!

1-1/2 years between 2016 and 2018.

Warren County Clerk Carrie Black, sworn into office as county clerk at the meeting, administered the oath of office for Supervisor Geraghty. Six new county supervisors were sworn in along with 14 returning supervisors for 2024.

The board’s meetings at Warren County Municipal Center are open to the public, and also livestreamed and video archived here on the Warren County YouTube page.

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2024 • 11

SPECIAL SECTION

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL

Retirement Planning

Experienced Certified Public Accountant Has Opened His Own Firm In Queensbury •

Business Report

•

How would you handle forced early retirement?

Brian Stidd, a certified public accountant with almost 20 years experience, has opened his own practice in Glens Falls.

BY CHRISTINE GRAF Certified public accountant Brian Stidd has opened his own firm at 11 South Street in Glens Falls. Prior to opening Stidd CPA, PLLC, the Siena College graduate worked for Whittemore, Dowen & Ricciardelli LLP in Queensbury. He has almost 20 years of experience working in public accounting and the private sector.

“I have an entrepreneurial spirit and always wanted to open my business,” said Stidd. “I enjoy working with clients, and I also enjoy the technology piece of the business.”

Stidd specializes in business and individual tax planning, advisory and preparation, and general business accounting and advisory. He also provides outsourced accounting services to small businesses that don’t have accountants on staff.

“A lot of small businesses need more than

just bookkeeping but aren’t quite ready for or in need of a CFO for hire,” he said. “My clients have anywhere from $100,000 in revenue to $2 million-$3 million in revenue.”

On the tax preparation side of his business, Stidd prepares tax returns for small businesses as well as individuals with complex tax issues.

Clients have convenient access to their tax returns via a secure portal .

Unlike most CPA’s, he does not bill by the hour.

“I offer fixed-fee, value based pricing with package options to meet the client’s needs,” he said.

Although Stidd has no employees, he said he anticipates expanding his firm.

“I’m looking to add people in by the fall of 2024.”

For more information, visit stiddcpa.com

Washington County New Business Registrations DECEMBER Action Services Enterprise 194 Coach Rd. Argyle, NY 12809

The Bryant Group 114 Oak St. Hudson Falls, NY 12839

Naveen Mohan MBA EA 451 River Rd. Eagle Bridge, NY 12057

Enchanted Evergreens 5582 State Route 22 Salem, NY 12865

Sawyer Douglas Construction 12 Thornwood Dr. Fort Edward, NY 12828

Hills of Hebron Pulling 4304 County Route 30 West Hebron, NY 12832

Bobcatdave’s Handy Man Services 88 Dodge Hill Rd. Granville, NY 12832

Curran Ranch and Farm Route 197 Argyle, NY 12809

DCD Services 176 Hicks Rd. Granville, NY 12832

Bright Vibrations 4 East Main St., Apt. B Cambridge, NY 12816

Bald Mountain Farm 222 Cottrell Rd. Greenwich, NY 12834

Hometowne Taxes 54 Hill St. Greenwich, NY 12834

Hundred Acre Wood 3343 State Route 40 Greenwich, NY 12834

Dr Goodtree 179 Main St., Apt. 6 Hudson Falls, NY 12839

PROVIDED BY MEGHAN MURRAY, CRPC® When you plan to retire at a certain age, you can follow a strategy that incorporates your investment moves, your health insurance and other factors. But what happens if you’re forced to retire earlier than you anticipated?

Unfortunately, this situation is not that uncommon. About 40% of Americans say they have been forced into retirement, according to a recent survey from Edward Jones and Morning Consult, a research firm. If this were to happen to you because of a layoff, company downsizing or a health issue, would you be prepared to maintain your lifestyle today — and in the future?

Everyone’s situation is different. If your forced retirement happened only a short time before you actually expected to retire, you might not need to take any steps at all.

But if it was a matter of a year or more, you may need to look into the following areas: • Cash f low – Obviously, a sudden, unexpected loss of employment will affect your cash f low. And if yours was the only source of income for your household, the situation could be especially concerning.

Still, you may well have options that can help. You might find a part-time job, for one thing — many employers hire seniors for various types of service-oriented work.

And if you’ve built an emergency fund containing several months’ worth of living expenses, now might be the time to tap into it. You also might need to start withdrawing funds from your IRA and 401(k), though, ideally, you’d like to delay this move as long as possible, as these withdrawals may be taxable.

• Health insurance – Health insurance can be a major concern if you face an unexpectedly early retirement. Once you’re 65, you’ll be eligible for Medicare, but what if you haven’t reached that age?

Through the COBRA legislation, you might be able to remain on your employer-based health insurance for a while — typically 18 months after your job ends. However, COBRA is expensive: If you’re qualified, you might have to pay the entire premium for coverage, up to 102% of the cost of the plan, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. If you’re married, you might be able to get on your spouse’s health insurance,

Meghan Murray is a financial advisor with Edward Jones Financial in Glens Falls.

Courtesy Edward Jones

but if this option isn’t available, you could explore a Marketplace plan by visiting the healthcare.gov website.

• Social Security – A forced early retirement could affect your decision on when to start taking Social Security. You’re eligible to begin collecting payments at 62, but your checks will be considerably bigger if you wait until your full retirement age, which is likely between 66 and 67, depending on when you were born. If your sudden retirement puts you in a real cash crunch, you might have to start taking payments regardless of your age, but if you have enough in savings, or your spouse’s income is enough to keep you af loat, you may want to wait as long as possible so you can get the larger checks. Of course, if your retirement comes while you’re still several years away from Social Security eligibility, you won’t have to make this now-or-later decision right away.

Being forced to retire before you planned can certainly be challenging. But by looking at the options available to you, in terms of finances and health insurance, you may well find choices that can help you minimize the disruption to your life.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Edward Jones, Member SIPC

63 Putnam Street, Suite 202 Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

www.rpmcapitalregion.com Jason George Owner

518-290-1448

12 • GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2024

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL

SPECIAL SECTION

Health & Fitness

Fort Hudson Nursing Center Receives Grant Significant Upgrades To Glens Falls Hospital To Increase Training Capacity In Its Facilities Means Improved Health Care For Residents

The Fort Hudson Nursing Center has received a New York State grant that will allow it to further health care careers during the next two years.

Fort Hudson Nursing Center will receive $800,000 through a New York State grant to increase training capacity in healthcare facilities. This highly competitive program was open to all nursing homes, hospitals, and diagnostic and treatment centers in New York. Only a small percentage of applications were approved for a portion of the $22.5 million available statewide over a two-year period.

Fort Hudson’s successful grant application provides two opportunities for furthering health careers during 2024 and 2025. The first provides funding for current Fort Hudson certified nursing assistants to pursue their nursing degree. In addition to covering tuition and fees, selected students will have a reduced work schedule during the program with supplemental financial support The second program will provide paid training for new certified nursing assistants just entering the field. Fort Hudson has offered free training and currently offers several classes throughout the year. This grant extends the training opportunities to evening programs, with all trainees paid during the training period. In addition, there is substantial investment in post-training mentor oversight and support for both certified nursing assistants and licensed practical nurses as they begin their new careers Amanda Waite, Nursing Center Administrator, stated “Fort Hudson is committed to supporting its talented workforce and creating opportunities for those who wish to pursue advancement. Our goal is to open doors for those

who might otherwise be unable to take this step and be a partner in their future success at Fort Hudson.

According to Kayla Winsman, Fort Hudson Health System’s Director of Human Resources, “The healthcare workforce crisis has taken a toll on employees and providers. Fort Hudson is proud to offer yet another path for highly qualified individuals to pursue their career goals and directly benefit those in our care.”

Fort Hudson accepts applications for its nurse aide training program on a rolling basis.

Currently certified nurse aides and licensed practical nurses are invited to apply for current positions. Tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness programs are available for eligible candidates Fort Hudson Nursing Center has 196 beds and is the only not-for-profit nursing home in Washington and Warren Counties. It offers short term rehabilitation, specialized dementia care, subacute clinical services, and long term care.

It is an affiliate of Fort Hudson Health System, a non-profit multilevel senior health care and housing provider located in Fort Edward. Other programs include two adult day care programs; licensed and certified home care; care management; and a senior retirement community. Fort Hudson home and community services cover over 10,000 square miles from Saratoga County to the Canadian border. For more information, call (518) 747-2811 or visit www.forthudson. com.

BY SUSAN ELISE CAMPBELL Looking into the year ahead, Glens Falls Hospital is expanding or introducing several services designed to help improve the experience of being a patient in, or a visitor to, the hospital, according to President and CEO Paul Scimeca.

“We are very proud of the care we provide,” said Scimeca. “We are a safety net for a very large service area, which covers 6,000 square miles of the Adirondacks.”

Many patients funneling down to Glens Falls Hospital from this large region need care for age-related medical conditions, reflecting the demographics of the general population.

Others have behavioral issues to address and few places to go. To benefit this segment of the community, Scimeca said the hospital is in the process of relocating its Behavioral Health Crisis Unit so that it can be expanded from seven beds to 13.

“This unit is part of our emergency department and is moving into an under-utilized space adjacent to the emergency room,” he said. “We have a significant number of patients, particularly pediatric and adolescent patients, who need crisis care.”

The expanded unit will accommodate that influx of patients who come through the ER with non-medical issues and that are behavioral in nature.

“They may have an acute crisis or some other behavioral health issue to address,” said Scimeca. “The crisis unit brings together the professionals, the social workers, physicians and psychiatrists, who work with that patient to develop a plan to support their care.”

At times a patient has both medical and behavioral issues and in such a case, Scimeca said, the hospital is committed to “making sure we treat the whole patient.”

Another recently relocated program that Scimeca is pleased to announce is the Hearing Center for those who need diagnostic care or hearing aids to be prescribed or fitted, he said.

“This program is now at 101 Ridge Street, a space we rent and which will better serve our growing senior population,” he said. “It’s important to note that our region is primarily a Medicare population. In fact, we are one of the oldest regions in the country, demographically.”

Thus, the Hearing Center is geared toward patients aged 65 years and older. It is centrally located in the heart of downtown, near the hospital, and accessible by public transportation, he said.

“But more importantly, it provides a larger space for accommodating the growing number of patients,” said Scimeca. “This should meet the needs of the region for quite a while.”

Another service the community can access is the relocation and expansion of a community pharmacy within the main campus.

“Right here in the lobby of 100 Park Street we have a pharmacy available as a convenience for patients at the hospital,” he said. “Now anybody can use it and have continuity of care by a pharmacist whether you’re a patient of Glens Falls Hospital or not.”

“The newest piece is that pharmacy hours are expanded to Saturday mornings starting January 6th,” said Scimeca.

“There is not only public transportation straight to the front door, but also, Monday through Friday, valet service can park your car for you while you pick up a prescription or speak with a pharmacist,” he said.

President and CEO Paul Scimeca is leading Glens Falls Hospital’s plan to expand its services.

Courtesy Glens Falls Hospital

“Again, it makes it easier for our elderly patients to access a pharmacy,” he said.

In the areas of technology and equipment, Scimeca said “we are regularly improving and updating, especially in oncology and cardiology and surgery, reflecting on our community as an aging population.”

The hospital is undergoing a system change with the entire Albany Med Health System as it transitions to a single electronic medical record later this year, he said.

“If you’re a patient anywhere in the Albany Med system you will be able to have a single medical record that will go with you and make it easier for caregivers to see your entire profile,” said Scimeca.

“All affi liates have to convert data from existing EMRs into the new format, and our hospital has been working on this for well over a year,” he said. “Albany Med will first go live in March and the other three hospitals in the system will follow in October.”

Scimeca said Glens Falls Hospital has made significant progress in recruitment, despite industry-wide challenges.

“We have been very successful with our nurse residency program, especially within specialty areas of nursing, which allows us to develop the next generation of caregivers,” he said.

“Recruitment is a long-term problem that won’t be solved quickly, but we have had great success and will continue down that path,” he said.

To make the patient experience better, Scimeca said a new café was opened in the hospital lobby in December. The Park Street Bistro is open seven days a week and provides a place for staff, patients and visitors to get food in an atmosphere different from the hospital cafeteria.

“It has been very well received, has a wonderful menu, and people are really enjoying it,” he said.

In 2023 Glens Falls Hospital brought back its therapy dog program and there are now 20 specially trained and certified dogs supporting patients and staff, said Scimeca.

“These are volunteers throughout the community and the program continues to expand by word-of-mouth,” he said. “The puppies are such a great addition to the team.”

More To Read . . . More Leads For You.

(518) 581-0600 GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2024 • 13

The Conkling Center Celebrates 125 Years Of Supporting 55+ Community Members

The entrance on Warren Street for The Conkling Center, as well as one of their On-The-Go vehicles used to provide transportation for 55+ community members.

BY ANN DONNELLY The Conkling Center, which offers senior-directed programs and services for community members 55+, is preparing for its 125th anniversary celebrations in 2024. The organization started as The Glens Falls Home and was incorporated in 1899 to provide residential services for aging women. In 1999, the adult home closed. The Glens Falls Home partnered with The Eddy, the residential division of Northeast Health (currently the Continuing Care division of St. Peter’s Health Partners), and founded the Glen at Hiland Meadows in the Town of Queensbury.

The Glens Falls Home relocated the remaining residents to lovely new quarters at the Terrace in the Glen complex.

After the Glen at Hiland Meadows opened in the early 2000’s, The Glens Falls Home began operating and providing senior directed programs and services, including On-The-Go Transportation that started up on November 1, 2012. In 2014, the board decided to change the name to The Conkling Center in honor of Mary Conkling, who contri buted her family home for the original Glens Falls Home.

“Our mission is to enhance the quality of life of seniors in the community directly and indirectly by providing services, programs, and opportunities to meet their ever-changing needs,” says Executive Director Joan K. Tarantino.

Programs offered by The Conkling Center include the On-The-Go Transportation Program, the Ice Melt Program, and various programs touching on topics within the areas of Community Awareness, Health and Safety, Legal, Educational, and Inter-Generational. They often collaborate with individuals and organizations to offer programs and services to the community.

“In the past, and we anticipate we will again in 2024, we held an Elder Law Summit and worked with local elder law attorneys to put that together,” says Tarantino. “We also do a veteran’s breakfast with the Greater Glens Falls Senior Center.”

Program Manager Tricia Golden, researches topics of interest to seniors and develops, markets, and oversees in-person and virtual programs.

The On-The-Go Transportation Program, run by part-time Transportation Coordinator Michael Gleason with one full-time and two part-time drivers, provides door-to-door transportation to community members 55+ via two accessible

vans, Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. This service transports users to medical and rehabilitation appointments, banks, grocery stores, hairdressers, restaurants, and other destinations within a 20-mile radius of Glens Falls. Since 2012, the program has transported more than 2.300 riders over 378,355 miles.

As many older adults live alone and need help in maintaining a safe outdoor walking surface during the winter months, The Conkling Center’s Ice Melt program distributes ice melt to the senior centers and other senior service organizations in Northern Saratoga, Warren, and Washington counties at no charge to any senior in need of ice melt. The goal is to keep seniors safe and prevent as many falls as possible due to snow and ice melt buildup around their homes.

The Conkling Center also provides valuable resources and information, including a Legal Resource Guide for the Elderly, Memory Loss, Alzheimer’s and Dementia Communication DVD, and Housing Directory for Local Counties.

“Our focus is on seniors, but we also get a lot of questions from family members on resources or to get questions answered, so we also serve as a resource hub for a variety of things,” said Tarantino, who is a valuable resource herself with over 40 years of not-for-profit leadership, management, and direct program experience.

Many programs are available at no cost to participants or only with a fee to cover the cost of materials. You can support the work of The Conkling Center in several ways. Community members may volunteer to help with various projects and programs. Individuals and organizations may make gifts and donations on a one-off, annual, quarterly, or in-memory or to support a specific program or event.

The Judge J. Timothy Breen Golf Tournament occurred for the first time in May 2023 and was a huge success, drawing 100 golfers. The tournament will occur this year on May 23, 2024, at the Hiland Park Golf Course. Sponsorships are available at various levels.

A 15-member Board of Directors governs The Conkling Center. Four members and one elected community member serve on the Board of The Glen at Hiland Meadows.

The Conkling Center is located at 79 Warren Street in Glens Falls. For further information go to https://www.theconklingcenter.org/.

Mary Longley 131 River Street Hudson Falls, NY 12839

518-744-7791

adirondackcloset@yahoo.com

Lake George

Continued From Page 1 design plans and someone who has money in hand versus an idea. It will probably take us about a full year to go through that entire process and get everything lined up. Once they come back and tell us, ‘Here’s what we’re going to spend the $10 million on’, that’s when we hit the ground running, starting to move on all those projects.”

Four proposed “anchor” projects are those deemed to fill the biggest need and provide the most benefit. Two are in the village and two are in the town, just outside downtown.

Affordable housing for seasonal workers is high on Gov. Kathy Hochul’s list.

The Lake George tourism and hospitality industry relies heavily on such people, quite often drawing from foreign countries in summer. But it’s hard to attract workers without adequate places for them to live,” she said.

Local officials are in discussions with International Residence Hall, a subsidiary of Wisconsin-based Holtz Companies to build such facilities.

South Canada Street is a second highpriority project. Plans call for improving sidewalks and installing street lights -- there currently aren’t any -- from the corner of Route 9 and Beach Road south to the townvillage line. About 15 years ago, a $10 million Gateway Project created a boulevard-type entrance to Lake George from Northway Exit 21. New improvements would fill a gap from there to Beach Road, providing greater pedestrian connectivity to the village.

A third project, advanced by Mayor Raymond Perry, would create a mini-park within Shepard Park. A small part of the park’s beach, in front of the bathhouse, is closed to swimming because of a sharp drop-off into deep water, deemed unsafe for children.

Plans call for extending a nearby L-shaped pedestrian pier a bit farther north and having it loop back to shore, creating a wheelchairaccessible facility, from which the public could also fish. The area on land would be raised and an underground storm water collection system installed to keep roof runoff, road salt and pollutants from entering the lake. Picnic tables and benches would be placed above for a relaxing, park-like setting.

“A seawall would separate this area from the main beach,” Perry said. “To me that’s the most valuable real estate, right on the waterfront in the center of the village. Why not make it a park and address the storm water issue we have there?”

A fourth “anchor” project would move Lake George Farmer’s Market from Canada Street to a currently vacant lot on Route 9 between Boats By George (formerly The Forum ice rink) and Lake George Chamber of Commerce headquarters.

The property is owned by the Macchio family.

The town would buy or lease the site and create a park called Macchio Square including construction of a large Farmer’s Market pavilion, similar to one in Saratoga Springs.

“The main reason for the project is to get the Farmer’s Market out of the village, enlarge it

and repurpose that lot,” Barusch said. “There would also be an open space component that’s large enough for an (outdoor, unrefrigerated) ice rink in winter.”

The $10 million grant would help fund many other projects including some developed by the private sector. For example, Adirondack Brewery owner John Carr would like to create a craft beverage campus behind his business at 33 Canada Street where educational brewing, wine and cheese making classes could be held.

Perry said $600,000 would hopefully be set aside for merchants to make street-side façade improvements with 50 percent matching funds.

“There’s so many great ideas,” he said. “We had so many great minds working with us to achieve this goal. A lot of work went into the application. We’re very happy with the result.”

Lake George is the second Warren County community in recent years to obtain a large Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant.

In 2017, the City of Glens Falls obtained $10 million from the program. Much of this money is being used to improve South Street including construction of a 6,000-squarefoot, multi-purpose Market Center that’s expected to open later this year and become Glens Falls Farmer’s Market’s new home.

In addition to Lake George, Hochul’s office announced that Schuylerville and Hoosick Falls would get $4.5 million each from the DRI program to improve their downtowns.

Barusch believes substantial public and private investment in Lake George factored heavily in the state’s decision to approve its $10 million grant application, called “Lake George Forward: Transforming Downtown for Tomorrow.” Local government and private entities have spent about $117 million on various projects during the past decade.

“A more than $20 million water treatment plant is just a small piece of the pie,” Barusch said. Several years ago, a new sixstory Courtyard by Marriott hotel opened on Canada Street and Fort William Henry Hotel has spent several million dollars renovating its historic Carriage House into a multi-use event space.

Joined by state and local officials, Hochul announced the DRI program award and presented a check during Dec. 27 ceremonies at the Carriage House.

“This investment in Lake George will be transformative, making what is already a beautiful community even better,” Hochul said. “This commitment highlights our dedication to fostering vibrant communities for residents and visitors, alike. With an additional $100 million pledge this year for both the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward, the state has now proudly invested a monumental $1 billion in reshaping and revitalizing our downtowns, ensuring a brighter and more prosperous future for all New Yorkers.”

Town Supervisor Dennis Dickinson said, “The Town of Lake George is very appreciative of the Downtown Revitalization Award.

We thank the governor and her staff and look forward to implementing our plans that will make significant improvements to the town.

This will help us with municipal parking and housing along with some of our environmental preservation efforts.”

14 • GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2024

Glens Falls Area Restaurants

Glens Falls and surrounding towns have a variety of casual dining opportunities for every taste, budget and occasion. Find a Glens Falls NY restaurant from the list below.

Park & Elm Glens Falls, NY

Park 26

Park & Elm is a multi-concept eatery with a gourmet market, delicatessen, and fine dining restaurant located in walkable downtown Glens Falls. Enjoy an elevated dining experience, grab a breakfast or lunch to go, or shop the market for local goods.

Fenimore’s Pub

Glens Falls, NY Fenimore’s Pub in the heart of downtown Glens Falls is open daily for lunch and dinner.

Glens Falls, NY Park 26 is an innovative restaurant that offers locally-inspired, modern American cuisine that’s perfect for a date night, business dinner or family celebration. Located inside The Queensbury Hotel in Glens Falls.

O’Toole’s Restaurant Pub

Queensbury, NY Whether you’re looking for a relaxed meal or a night of fun and excitement, you’ll want to come to O’Toole’s. We’ve got the best food,

drinks and entertainment in the area! Come on in and experience dining at it’s best. We look forward to seeing you.

Jack’s American Bistro

Queensbury, NY Jack’s American Bistro was the culmination of a lifetime spent in the restaurant business.

After several months of planning in June 2004 the doors were open to a new dining experience in the Glens Falls/Queensbury area.

Morgan & Co. Restaurant

Glens Falls, NY Experience fine American dining in downtown Glens Falls at Morgan & Co. Every dish offers a unique and innovative twist on original recipes. Morgan & Co. also caters events from weddings to reunions and more!

The Grateful Den

Glens Falls, NY The Grateful Den offers a different take on traditional pub grub, as well as classic favorites

like chicken wings, burgers, and salads. Their menu also includes specialty appetizers, sandwiches, and plenty of craft beer options on tap.

The Log Jam

Lake George, NY An authentic log cabin serving lunch and dinner daily. Featuring signature sandwiches at lunch and succulent prime rib, juicy hand cut steaks, live lobsters, fresh seafood, chicken,and more at dinner. All entrees include our bountiful salad bar.

Mint

Glens Falls, NY Enjoy seasonally fresh fare and exquisite cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere at Mint in Glens Falls. The upscale yet casual restaurant works with around 50 local farms and businesses to be able to use fresh, thoughtfully raised, in-season ingredients.

Courtesy of GlensFalls.com

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GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2024 • 15

Building On Past Successes, LARAC Anticipates Strong Support For Its Arts Programs •

Available Commercial & Residential Properties We’d like to promote your commercial or residential property. Call us, 581-0600.

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270 Hall Hill Road | Lake Luzerne, NY $215,000 The Lower Adirondack Regional Arts Council, which is housed in this restored carriage house in Glens Falls, anticipates an exciting year for the local arts scene.

Courtesy LARAC

BY ANN DONNELLY 2023 was an eventful year for the Lower Adirondack Regional Arts Council, more commonly known as LARAC, whose mission is to enrich the quality of life in Warren, Washington, and Northern Saratoga Counties by supporting arts and culture through promoting, developing, sponsoring, networking, coordinating, and providing arts activities and services. The organization undertook a revamp of its branding and the development of a more user-friendly website and had significant additions to its offerings.

In June 2023, LARAC held its 52nd annual Arts Festival, featuring local, regional, and national artists offering various products such as jewelry, home goods, food items, fine art, textiles, etc., and live entertainment by local musicians. The 2023 show included 165 artists, compared to the five to ten artists participating in the first festival in 1972. That year, Executive Director Phil Casabona says, “A group of people passionate about the community and understood the importance of art and the number of artists in the area founded the organization.”

LARAC introduced a new arts festival for local artists under 40 in August 2023. According to Casabona, “For the first time since LARAC’s founding, the staff is primarily under 40, so we decided to actively support our counterparts, younger artists that are getting started and may not be able to afford to participate in the main June festival.”

The second LARAC Locals Under 40 Fine Arts Festival occurs on Saturday, August 5, 2024, in Glens Falls’ City Park.

2023 also saw the opening of the LARAC Mountain Gallery on the corner of Maple and Bay Streets. The organization is working hard to raise the $40K needed through their annual fund and community and business sponsorships to keep the doors open through 2024. The Mountain Gallery’s yearly schedule of eight exhibits concludes with an additional Members Show during the holiday season. The Mountain Gallery is also a workshop space, meeting, and event venue.

The Lapham Carriage House, a beautifully restored Victorian carriage house in the historic district of downtown Glens Falls, houses the main gallery and gift shop. The LARAC Lapham Gallery holds seven shows a year, each

featuring two to three artists. The gift shop offers handmade local arts and crafts. Six weeks before Christmas, the entire gallery turns into a holiday shop. In 2023, the holiday shop included the work of approximately 75 new and returning artists.

In 2024, LARAC will give away approximately $100K in New York State Council on the Arts funding to artists and organizations in Warren and Washington Counties through three categories: Program Support for Organizations Grants, Individual Artist Grants, and Arts Education Grants. Alyssa O’Neill, Community Outreach and Grant Director, facilitates this program.

“I feel that we are standing on the shoulders of giants,” says Casabona. “We truly believe in the impact that art makes on people and the community, the cultural impact that has. We wouldn’t be here this long if it wasn’t for strong community support year after year. We are only here because of that and will always continue to do our part.”

Casabona, an artist with a Fine Arts degree, started as a volunteer at LARAC approximately 20 years ago when he first moved to the area.

He then went from working one day a month to part-time and then became the full-time Festival Coordinator. In addition to Executive Director, Casabona also has the roles of Festival Director and Gallery Curator.

Current programs at LARAC include: LARAC Lapham Gallery, 7 Lapham Place, Glens Falls.

Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Thursdays 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Current Show: LARAC Members Show at the LARAC Lapham Gallery Featuring over 100 works by LARAC members January 19 - February 21, 2024 Opening Reception: Friday, January 19th, 5 p.m.

LARAC Mountain Gallery, 21 Bay Street, Glens Falls.

Wednesday-Saturday 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Current Show: NCA Members Show at LARAC Mountain Gallery Featuring over 50 works by members of North Country Arts January 12 - February 14, 2024 Opening Reception: Friday, January 19th, 6 p.m.

Find more information on the LARAC website: https://www.larac.org/

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16 • GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2024

Hoffman Car Wash Seeing New Competition As Other Companies Establish Sites In The Region

BY PAUL POST The area’s oldest, most well-known car wash company is suddenly facing stiff competition from a Georgia-based firm that’s entered the market as part of a campaign to double in size, with 500 locations in nearly two dozen states by the end of 2025.

Family-owned Hoffman Car Wash, founded in 1965, currently has 30 centers including a new one on Route 9 near Exit 17 in Moreau and plans to add more sites in Glens Falls, Halfmoon and Bennington, Vermont, this year.

Each new site costs about $7 million to develop including property purchase.

But Tidal Wave Auto Spa recently opened a new facility on Quaker Road, Queensbury, a short distance from a Hoffman Car Wash.

And in July 2022 it launched a South Glens Falls site and plans to add another one on Route 9 in Queensbury, where Uno Pizzeria & Grill is currently located.

Founded in 1999 in Thomaston, Ga., Tidal Wave plans to add 19 new sites in New York state including five now under construction at Colonie Center, Poughkeepsie, New Hartford near Utica, Auburn and Niagara Falls.

Tidal Wave founder and CEO Scott Blackstock is close friends with Chick-fil-A executives and models its business practices after the popular chain restaurant’s, said Brandi Michal, operator and managing partner of Tidal Wave’s new Queensbury facility.

“We pride ourselves on Chick-fil-A service or better so we always have someone greeting you with a smile and give you a perfectly clean car in a most attractive business setting,” she said.

But Hoffman’s CEO Tom Hoffman Jr. said his Albany-based company welcomes the challenge. “It makes us a better company,” he said. “Competition always makes you think about serving customers better. To differentiate yourself from competitors is really the American way.”

Hoffman’s new Moreau car wash building has the same Adirondack-type design as

Tidal Wave Auto Spa has opened several car washes in the area.

Courtesy Paul Post

one first introduced at the corner of Route 50 and Northline Road in Saratoga Springs.

The handsome style, developed by Phinney Design Group of Saratoga Springs, has lighted rooftop cupolas.

“We like to make our places bright and colorful,” Hoffman said. “We have a landscape crew and grow our own flowers in greenhouses in Albany.”

In 2020, Hoffman’s moved into a $5 million new corporate headquarters in Albany. Its territory is from Queensbury to Kingston and in Central New York from Utica-Rome to Binghamton including an Oneonta facility.

A Hoffman-owned subsidiary, innovateITcarwash, writes the software to control the wash process, builds motor control centers and makes the dispensing systems for washing solutions. Hoffman’s also uses a water purifying system to reduce spotting, softens water to help solutions dissolve, and builds its own water recycling equipment.

Conveyor systems are built by Glens

Falls-based Miller Mechanical Services.

“We do the final assembly,” Hoffman said.

Tidal Wave’s website says it’s one of the top five conveyor car wash companies in the country and has made the Inc. 5000 list for America’s fastest-growing companies since 2020. In addition to New York, it plans to expand in Alabama, Tennessee and Pennsylvania this year as well.

“A Tidal Wave recruiter contacted me and within two weeks I was on an airplane down to Georgia, did training, came up here and have been running the ship ever since,” Michal said.

She started out as managing partner of the South Glens Falls car wash and made the lateral transfer to Tidal Wave’s new Queensbury site, which opened Dec. 6.

Those two sites were previously called Smart Wash, owned by Beatrice and Michael Greenough, the new owners of Mr. Bill’s Carhop in South Glens Falls. Tidal Wave completely gutted and remodeled both locations inside and out.

But Hoffman’s and Tidal Wave aren’t the only ones vying for a slice of the car wash pie. Yates Scott Lansing and brothers Ken and Dave Jersen recently opened Buster’s Car Wash near the corner of Route 9 and Stonebreak Road in Malta, a main entrance to GlobalFoundries’ huge semiconductor plant.

The Jersens own Waterford-based Jersen Construction Group. Lansing owns Lansing Engineering, located in the Bluth Building, a short distance from Buster’s, which he and the Jersens developed 13 years ago in the their first business venture together.

The Bluths were a dysfunctional family that developed properties in the popular sitcom, “Arrested Development,” which appeared on Fox and Netflix from 200308. Buster’s Car Wash is named for Byron “Buster” Bluth, one of the show’s characters.

Unlike Hoffman’s Adirondack-type architecture, the $4 million Buster’s facility was designed with Tech Valley in mind, giving it a more modern look.

After considerable research, equipment was purchased from industry leader Sonny’s The Car Wash Factory, and the building was done by Modernwash, which has projects

Hoffman’s CEO Tom Hoffman feels competition is good for the industry.

Courtesy Saratoga Business Journal

throughout the country.

All three companies’ new car washes opened for business in December, and all three firms offer unlimited wash packages and fund-raising opportunities for local non-profit groups and charitable organizations.

Hoffman’s currently employs 636 people.

Hiring quality help is one of the firm’s biggest challenges when opening new sites, Hoffman said.

“We primarily hire from within,” he said.

“Through training and education we’re able to develop staff.”

In Glens Falls, a proposed new Hoffman’s is slated for the Steve’s Place restaurant site at 194 Broad St. A spring ground-breaking is anticipated.

A second facility in Halfmoon will be a bit farther south of the current one on Rout 9.

“We look at all kinds of different factors when choosing a location, but mainly a heavy commercial area where there are big box stores, restaurants, grocery stores, population and traffic,” Hoffman said. “It helps to have the experience of owning all these locations, to know what areas work well and which ones don’t. Fortunately we’ve had more winners.”