Glens Falls Business Journal - May 2023

Common Roots Brewing To Expand With Acquisition Of CH Evans Brewing In Albany

A Full Slate Of Summer Activities Planned At West Mountain Ski Area In Queensbury

Common Roots Brewing Co. in South Glens Falls is under contract to acquire the assets of CH Evans Brewery at the Albany Pump Station.

Common Roots will purchase the building and take over the full operations at the iconic downtown Albany location this November, the company said in a statement.

In announcing the acquisition, Christian and Bert Weber, owners of Common Roots, said, “We are both excited and humbled to be continuing the CH Evans legacy while bringing this historic building into the Common Roots family”.

CH Evans owner Neil Evans made the decision to sell the operations and was looking for a buyer who would continue the tradition and help elevate the business to the next level. A mutual acquaintance brought the

brewery owners together and an agreement was reached in late March.

“We are thrilled to be able to continue the historic operations at the Albany Pump Station while expanding the Common Roots brand there,” the Webers said.

Common Roots has agreed to continue to brew some CH Evans original recipes and will supplement this with Common Roots beers and a newly revised menu after the anticipated sale is finalized in November 2023. This will be Common Roots Brewing’s first expansion outside of its original South Glens Falls locations and satisfies the company’s established goal to open a Capital Region location.

Evans noted “My family and I are grateful that Bert and Christian and the Common

Construction Companies Are Involved With Projects Large And Small This Season

BY R.J. DELUKE

Construction season this year is seeing a variety of companies in the area involved in numerous projects, sizeable and otherwise, as business moves forward in spite of concerns about the economy.

Rob Holbrook, president of V&H Construction in Fort Edward, said he is optimistic about the construction industry in the region.

“We’ve been straight out since COVID,” he said, though he noted there could be a “cooling off” period on the horizon.

Like others, he said finding qualified workers is still an issue.

“I could use more people. I can’t hire enough qualified people right now,” said Holbrook.

Dan Washburn, a partner with Hilltop Construction in Hudson Falls, hiring is a bonifide issue. “Qualified workers have decreased and are harder to find,” he said, while noting it is not a new problem, rather one that has persisted for some years.

Nonetheless, “we’ve got a really good crew,” said Washburn.

Of the general state of the industry, he said “for us, it’s very good. We have alot of irons in the fire ... It’s a very good outlook for this year and through next fall and into winter.” Projects are

already being scheduled for 2024, he said.

Jim Dawsey, president of MLB Construction Services LLC, said work is still robust in the Capital District in general and northward to the

BY PAUL POST

Snow is still melting off the slopes and West Mountain already has a full slate of summer activities planned including a brand-new Sunday farmer’s market (9 a.m. to noon) from June 4 to Labor Day Weekend.

“There’s really not a lot on this side of town in terms of grocery shopping. I know how successful the Glens Falls Farmer’s Market is and thought was a good opportunity to have one in Queensbury and another way of bringing people to the mountain,” said Sara Montgomery, who co-owns the resort with her husband, Spencer.

Vendors will offer farm, food, jewelry, art and floral goods and products.

Bread maker Rachael Lujbli currently belongs to the Lake George Farmer’s Market, but not Glens Falls—which is held Saturdays on South Street—so the West Mountain event is opening doors for her to

a whole new customer base.

Rachael’s Breads most popular items are sourdough, cinnamon buns and cookies.

“People are going to find healthier and more local products when they go to a farmer’s market,” she said. “Everything I have is organic so I feel like it’s the perfect market for me.”

West Mountain will have its own farm stand featuring King Brothers Dairy products and pies from the well-known Smith’s Orchard Bake Shop in Ballston Spa, which get shipped throughout the country.

“Our fall festival started small and has grown over the years, so I’m hoping the Farmer’s Market does the same,” Montgomery said. “It’s gotten a lot of publicity, a lot of shares on social media. People seem to be very excited about it.”

The market is the latest of several efforts West

Garnet Produced By Barton Mines Plays A Key Role In Refurbishing U.S. Aircraft Carrier

For the second time in recent years, Adirondack garnet mined from Barton Mines’ quarry in Johnsburg and processed into an abrasive blasting product at the company’s plant in Indian Lake is playing a key role in the refurbishment of a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier.

Barton Mines is a family-owned company, headquartered in Glens Falls, that has been mining garnet in the Adirondack region since 1878.

Barton Adirondack 30/60 CG garnet blast abrasive is being used to clean and prepare the entire steel exterior of the USS John C. Stennis for the application of a new protective coating. The work is being performed by Barton’s customer Mid-Atlantic Coatings, Inc. (MAC) at Newport News Shipbuilding in Virginia where the Stennis is in the midst of a four-year refurbishment.

The same Barton product was used by MAC on the USS George Washington during the surface preparation phase of that ship’s refurbishment, which began in 2017.

“Barton products are American-made by a family-owned company and we’re immensely proud and humbled to serve the brave men and women who serve our nation every day,” said Barton CEO Randy Rapple. “Whenever we see or hear about the USS Stennis or George Washington, Barton employees, many of whom

are veterans themselves, will know they played a part in keeping the ships at sea.”

Barton’s garnet blast abrasive is propelled against the ship’s steel by high-pressure air in a

V&H is building a new Hoffman’s Car Wash routes 197 and 9 in South Glens Falls.

Barton Mines crushes garnet from rocks and processes it into abrasive products.

From left, Bert Weber, Neil Evans, Christian Weber and Rowland Evans at the Albany Pump Station. The Webers are owners of Common Roots in South Glens Falls. Courtesy Common Roots Brewing

West Mountain’s five-acre Aerial Treetop Adventure Park is one of most popular outdoor recreational attractions in summer, with six high-ropes courses for all different ability levels. Courtesy West Mountain

Personnel Briefs

Glens Falls National Bank and Trust Co. announced the appointment of Christine Remington to branch manager of the Chestertown office.

Remington is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the branch and meeting the financial needs of the community. She has 16 years’ experience in banking, all of which have been with Glens Falls National Bank.

The Patchogue, N.Y., native attended Suffolk Community College. She currently lives in Brant Lake, where she can be found volunteering for many community organizations. She serves as treasurer of North Warren Chamber of Commerce, officer of Tri-Lakes Community Alliance, chair of Chestertown St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee and volunteer of the Spinal Cord Research Benefit.

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Upstate Agency, LLC has hired Rebekah Crewell as a risk advisor.

Crewell is responsible for acquiring and retaining commercial clients within the property services, healthcare, nonprofit, construction and municipality segments. In addition to her production responsibilities, she is instrumental in the marketing of complex programs and renewals for the agency throughout the greater Capital Region.

Crewell, a designated small business coverage specialist (SBCS), has nearly 20 years of local insurance, risk management and marketing experience. Prior to joining Upstate Agency, she spent her career with large global brokerage platforms and regional brokerage firms located in the Albany market. She lives in Wells, N.Y., where she serves as town supervisor. * * *

The Adirondack North Country Association (ANCA) announced the addition of North Country native and financial expert Adam Pearsall to its board of

‘Deli And Meat Store Of The North’ Gets A ‘Facelift’ But Stays A Strong Industry Presence

directors.

Pearsall is a financial advisor and senior portfolio manager in Glens Falls and was elected to ANCA’s board in March.

Pearsall worked as a geophysicist and mineral exploration geologist in the greater New York City area and western United States before entering the financial industry in 1999. He has experience with regional nonprofits, having served as trustee and chair of the Silver Bay YMCA board of trustees and founding member, president, and first board chair of the Warren County Radio Club. He is currently a member of the Lower Adirondack Search and Rescue team and a volunteer trail steward for the state Department of Environmental Conservation.

He also serves as vice president of Glenn and Carol Pearsall Adirondack Foundation, where he reviews grant proposals for projects that improve quality of life for year-round residents of the Adirondacks. Pearsall earned a bachelor’s degree in geology from Colby College and holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation. He resides in Queensbury, N.Y. with his wife Sara and their two children.

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Saratoga National Bank and Trust Co. hired Alina Serradimigni of Glens Falls as vice president and branch manager of the Saratoga main office.

Serradimigni will oversee daily operations, provide quality customer service and develop banking relationships to help individuals and businesses reach their financial goals. She brings more than 10 years of banking experience to the position.

The Republic of Moldova native attended Academy of Economic Studies of Moldova, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in banking and finance.

She is an active member in her community. She serves as vice president of St. George Orthodox Church and treasurer of Adirondack Greek Festival Committee.

The Deli and Meat Store of the North, the venerable market on Warrensburg’s Main Street, received a facelift recently but, according to its present owner, it has “the same DNA” as when it was founded more than a century ago.

“We haven’t changed, but we updated,” said Jennifer Nadler, the third generation of her family to own and operate the store.

Originally, two Syrian immigrant families, Jacobs and Toney, opened the Adirondack Fruit Market at its present location. The name was changed 10 years ago.

Each of the original families had an apartment above the store. Nadler is the granddaughter of James Toney, one of the founders. She took over the business from her father 12 years ago. He still comes into the deli a couple of hours a week to check on things.

He bought the shares of the Jacobs family and was the sole owner when he retired. Sandwiches and meats are the biggest sellers, according to Nadler, but “we sell everything.”

They also make a lot of what they sell, making sausage, grinding hamburger, cutting meat, preparing salads, offering more than 100 spices and spice mixes that they prepare, along with barbecue sauces, pickles, and cheese spreads. The store stocks local honey, maple syrup, and baked goods. Hot and cold prepared foods, including s andwiches, are featured. They also do catering for private parties.

Part of the recent renovations was addition of gas pumps in front of the store. They also have a new logo for the store. Nadler sees a slight resemblance to her

father in it.

In the summer, some 2,000 people a day patronize the store, coming “from all over,” Nadler said. Warrensburg, north of Lake George, is the last major stopping place for hikers and tourists heading north into the Adirondacks.

There are more than 26 employees, some of whom have been there 20 years or more. Ten of those employees are butchers, according to the store’s website.

With so many meat cutters and other employees at work, part of the store resembles a factory.

When things get busy, Nadler’s mother and sister also help out.

In the first half of the 20th century, the store was the main meat supplier for restaurants in the area. The wholesale branch of the business is now separate.

“I compete against Grand Union, Price Chopper, Stewarts, Cumberland Farms and a ton of restaurants and I’m still standing,” Nadler said. Maybe it is because “You can feed a family of four for under $20,” her husband, Howard Nadler, noted.

While Nadler can look back on three generations and more than 100 years of family ownership, she does not foresee a fourth generation to follow her. She and Howard have a daughter in law school and a son in high school, neither with an interest in the business.

“But,” she said, “I’m young and have a lot of years left.”

The store is located at 3872 Main Street. Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. The telephone is (518) 623-3850 and the website is www.deliandmeatstore.com.

The Deli and Meat Store of the North Country, a market on Main Street in Warrensburg for over 100 years, has more than 26 employees, some of whom have been there 20 years or more.

‘Go Play With Your Food’ Restaurant Opens In Downtown Glens Falls

Veteran-Owned Company Hinny Hard Seltzer To Provide Its Product At Minogue’s Stores

BY CHRISTINE GRAF

A mecca for game enthusiasts, Go Play With Your Food is now open at 126 Glen St. in Glens Falls. The family board game tavern opened its doors at the end of April.

Co-owner Mark Shaw, president of Queensbury-based IT consulting firm Stored Technology Solutions, and his wife, Kristen, came up with the idea for the business while living in North Carolina where they have a second residence. All it took was one visit to a local board game tavern for the entire Shaw family to be hooked.

“We went and played every other weekend, and our kids absolutely loved it,” said Shaw. “I have two boys, 9 and 10, and a daughter who is turning 13. I saw how much fun they had, and I wanted to share that fun with everyone else.”

Go Play With Your Food’s ownership group also includes Charles Ives, Kevin Malinoski, Angela Sweet and Jason Wescoat.

“A lot of them are coworkers at StoredTech,” said Shaw. “We used to do game days on weekends, and I said, ‘If we open a board game tavern, do you guys want to be part of it?’ They all said they did.”

It was out of a desire to be part of the revitalization of downtown Glens Falls that they chose 126 Glens St. as their location. The former TV-8 building was purchased by Elizabeth Miller in 2022.

“When Elizabeth Miller bought the building, she spent a significant amount of money on renovating the building,” said Shaw. “We’ve probably

invested a quarter of a million dollars ourselves.”

Although the family-friendly tavern does not serve hard liquor, patrons can choose from a large selection of craft, domestic, and draft beers. The drink menu also features mead, wine, hard seltzer, and hard cider. Food offerings include appetizers, sandwiches, salads, flatbread pizzas, and desserts. All menu items are priced at $12 or under.

“There are a lot of nice five-star restaurants in the area, and we aren’t trying to compete with them,” said Shaw. “We want our food to be fresh and reasonably priced. We want a family night out not to cost a small fortune.”

Table rentals cost $10, and patrons can stay for as long as they want. A private party room that seats 10 is also available at a cost of $50 per day.

According to Shaw, “We don’t try to push people out and aren’t looking for big turns in the tables. Yesterday, we had five tables of people who played for about four hours.”

The 4,000-square foot space can accommodate 86 patrons in the dining room and an additional 20 at the bar. There are more than 600 games to choose from, many from the Shaw family’s personal collection.

Go Play With Your Food is open 7 days a week. Hours are Monday-Thursday 3-9 p.m. and Friday-Sunday noon to 10 p.m. Reservations are recommended but not required and can be made via phone or email. An online reservation system is in the works. For more information, visit www. goplaywithyourfood.com.

Minogue’s Beverage Centers has an arrangement with Hinny Hard Seltzer to carry its variety 12-pack of hard ciders.

Hinny Hard is now available at all four Minogue’s Beverage Centers, including Saratoga Springs, Malta, Queensbury, and Wilton.

“We are thrilled to have established a partnership with Minogue’s,” said Tim Nickels, founder of Hinny Hard Seltzer. “As a fellow U.S. Army vet, Angelo and his team share similar values and a commitment to serving and supporting our veteran community.”

Hinny Hard Seltzer, which officially launched in January of this year, is now available in 70 locations, including retailers, bars and restaurants, across upstate and central New York. The company said that number is rapidly growing.

Hinny, which is being sold as a variety

12-pack at retail locations, comes now in four flavors, including blueberry mint, bourbonflavored, cranberry and black cherry. Summer flavors, including grape and pink grapefruit, will be introduced in the coming weeks.

“We are thrilled to offer Hinny Hard Seltzer,” said Angelo Malone, general manager of Minogue’s Beverage Centers. “It’s a great product and we are confident that it will be well received by our customer base.”

For more information on Hinny Hard Seltzer, visit hinnyhardseltzer.com.

Formally established in 2021 in Clyde, N.Y., Hinny Hard Seltzer is a veteran-owned business dedicated to producing seltzers in bold and distinct flavors. For information regarding sales, distribution, contact Tim Nickels, tnickels@hinnyhardseltzer.com.

MARKETING

Mark and Kristen Shaw pose in their new restaurant Go Play With Your Food, at 126 Glen St. in Glens Falls, where people can play old fashioned board games while they dine or drink.

Angelo Malone, general manager of Minogue’s Beverage Centers, left, and Tim Nickels, founder of Hinny Hard Seltzer, pose with a stack of the hard seltzer products. Courtesy Hinny Hard Seltzer

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ANCA Clean Energy Conference Will Explore Community Incentives And Challenges

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL

The Adirondack North Country Association (ANCA) announced the return of its Clean Energy Conference.

Presented in partnership with the Mohawk Valley Clean Energy Team, this year’s conference will explore community incentives, opportunities and challenges related to recent state and federal policies.

Warren and Washington counties are part of ANCA.

With a focus on how small and rural communities can help advance a statewide transition to clean energy while preserving their values and character, the conference will convene clean energy experts, advocates and contractors, as well as local community leaders.

It will be held June 1 and 2 at the Irish Cultural Center of the Mohawk Valley in Utica.

“In alignment with ANCA’s aim to elevate the voices of North Country communities, this year’s Clean Energy Conference will focus on the unique concerns and needs of our hamlets, villages, towns and counties—and how they can maximize emerging opportunities as new legislation rolls out across the state,” said ANCA energy circuit rider and conference organizer Jennifer Perry.

Through a variety of presentations, workshops and roundtable sessions, guest speakers will share success stories and address ways rural communities can benefit from recent policies like New York’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act and the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, as well as challenges that may arise as these policies are implemented across the region.

“We are honored to partner with the Mohawk Valley Clean Energy Team for this year’s conference,” Perry said. “Our extensive networks of energy partners and regional leaders will provide valuable insight for community members interested in learning more about these new policies and how we can work together to build a clean energy future that works for all.”

The Mohawk Valley Clean Energy Team is made up of staff from Mohawk Valley Economic Development District Inc. (MVEDD) and the Otsego County Conservation Association who work with communities in New York’s Mohawk Valley to help them become more energy efficient and sustainable.

“We’re excited about working with ANCA on the Clean Energy Conference,” said Amanda Kaier, clean energy communities coordinator for MVEDD. “It is a great op-

portunity to collaborate so we can better serve our communities, our region and the industry, while re-energizing the creative and innovative ideas that help move clean energy projects forward.”

Conference topics include stakeholder and partner engagement, equity and justice in project design and community outreach, community benefit from large-scale renewables, community-scale incentives and success stories, updates from government and nonprofit groups, building and transportation electrification, electric grid upgrades, carbon sequestration, localizing electricity supplies, and more.

The conference will also provide networking opportunities with contractors, service providers, nonprofits, government agencies and others working to expand clean energy initiatives across New York state.

A Thursday evening reception at the recently constructed Irish Cultural Center will feature Utica cuisine and drink. A raffle of local products and experiences will take place on Friday afternoon.

Registration costs $150. Municipal staff may attend at a reduced rate. Those interested can email events@adirondack.org for a discount code. Participants who find the cost of registration or travel to be a barrier are invited to inquire about financial support.

To learn more and register, visit www. adirondack.org/clean-energy-conference. Questions about the conference may be directed to Jennifer Perry at jperry@adirondack.org or 518-891-6200.

ANCA is an independent, nonprofit corporation with a transformational approach to building prosperity across northern New York. Using innovative strategies for food systems, clean energy, small businesses, and equity and inclusion, ANCA delivers targeted interventions that create and sustain wealth and value in local communities.

ANCA’s region encompasses 38 percent of the geography of the state and is home to 1.26 million people living in 255 small towns and 14 small cities. This northernmost part of the state benefits the whole Northeast as a renewable energy exporter: over 95 percent of the electricity generated in the region is from renewable sources; as a major food producer, with agricultural products accounting for close to $1 billion in market value annually; and its long-term globally recognized success in sustaining wild places and rural quality of life in an increasingly urbanized world.

9 Broad Street #7 Glens Falls, NY 12801

9 Broad Street #7 Glens Falls, NY 12801

Solar projects will be among the topics discussed at the Adirondack North Country Association (ANCA) Clean Energy Conference in June.

Courtesy ANCA

GlobalFoundries Buys Property It Will Need For Its Planned Expansion In The Future

State Will Award $14.2M In Grants For Travel, Tourism, And Outdoor Industries

More than $14.2 million will be awarded to 30 tourism partners through the New York state EDA Tourism Partner Sub-Awards Grant Program.

This federal COVID-19 recovery funding, made available through the U.S. Economic Development Administration, was awarded to New York state to support the post-pandemic recovery of the State’s travel, tourism and outdoor recreation sectors.

Among those receiving fund will be the Capital-Saratoga Region Tourism Association, which will receive $750,000 to highlight outdoor vacation opportunities to new domestic and international audiences, and target meetings and conventions focused on cutting-edge industries.

Empire State Development’s Division of Tourism competitively sub-awarded the funding to Destination Marketing Organizations throughout the state for tourism marketing projects based on the Division’s EDA grant focus areas: outdoor recreation, international tourism, and travel trade including meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions, amateur sports and group travel.

small businesses, creating jobs, and investing in our local economies.

“The recovery from the pandemic has spurred a newfound demand for travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation throughout the state, and this vital $14.2 million of funding that I pushed to include in the American Rescue Plan will accelerate that economic recovery and allow us to come out of the pandemic even stronger than we were before.”

State Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand said, “Every year, New York draws millions of tourists from across the country and the world. This federal funding will help us attract even more, I thank the EDA for this award and will keep working to bring home more resources to develop our tourism sector.”

GlobalFoundries Inc. has completed the purchase of approximately 800 acres of additional land adjacent to its Malta manufacturing facility.

With the purchase, which has been in process since early 2022, GlobalFoundries now owns the entirety of the approximately 1,110acre park, formerly known as the Luther Forest Technology Campus.

With this additional land, GlobalFoundries has the flexibility to add manufacturing capacity and expand its footprint in New York state in alignment with customer demand, and provide space for further development with its ecosystem partners, the company said.

The rate and pace of GlobalFoundries’s expansion in Malta will be aligned with market conditions, customer commitments, and U.S. federal funding from the CHIPS and Science Act, officials said.

“Semiconductors are essential to daily life, and are at the heart of the U.S. economy, domestic supply chains, and national defense. GlobalFoundries stands ready to play a key role in the implementation of the CHIPS Act, which will boost U.S. semiconductor manufacturing by creating a globally competitive framework,” said Steven Grasso, managing director of global government relations at GlobalFoundries.

“Th is land purchase gives us the space and flexibility we need in the near-term to service the growing market demand for secure, reliable U.S.-made chips. Th is purchase also represents GlobalFoundries’ long-term commitment to New York and growing the semiconductor ecosystem that supports both GlobalFoundries’ world-class manufacturing facility in Malta and the regional semiconductor cluster

envisioned by the CHIPS Act,” he added.

GlobalFoundries employs approximately 2,500 people in Malta and to date has invested more than $15 billion in the facility.

The company is one of the world’s leading semiconductor manufacturers.

Last year, GlobalFoundries received local approval needed to go ahead with the construction of a second major building on its Malta property. Officials said the billion computer chip factory will cost $6 billion to $8 billion. It comes as the computer chip industry worldwide has expressed the need to increase capacity to overcome a semiconductor shortage.

In another boost to the project last year, Congress passed legislation to increase U.S. semiconductor manufacturing known as CHIPS and Science Act, a semiconductor incentive, scientific research, and technological competitiveness bill to designed bring manufacturing back from overseas to places like Upstate New York.

“GlobalFoundries is redefi ning innovation and semiconductor manufacturing by developing and delivering feature-rich process technology solutions that provide leadership performance in pervasive high growth markets,” the company said in a statement. “GlobalFoundries offers a unique mix of design, development and fabrication services. With a talented and diverse workforce and an at-scale manufacturing footprint spanning the U.S., Europe and Asia, GlobalFoundries is a trusted technology source to its worldwide customers.”

For more information, visit www.GlobalFoundries.com.

“With our breathtaking views and landscapes, vibrant arts and culture, thriving business community and more, New York is proud to welcome visitors from all over the world to experience what our state has to offer,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said. “

U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer said the state’s travel and tourism industries “are the beating heart of our state, and this critical funding creates a unique opportunity for the federal government to boost tourism across New York by supporting

U.S. Rep. Paul Tonko said the awards “are a direct result of that careful, impactful planning and will help to further boost the economic strength and vibrancy of our Capital Region and state. I look forward to seeing how these deserving awards further bolster our local economy and benefit residents and visitors alike.”

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said the state “is rebuilding and revitalizing its vibrant and vital tourism industry. The funding from the U.S. Economic Development Administration will help I LOVE NY and other tourism organizations throughout the state promote targeted activities and engage new visitors, supporting tourism’s continued revival.”

Patrina Leland General Manager RNR Tire Express Reads

GlobalFoundries purchased approximately 800 acres of additional land adjacent to its Malta manufacturing facility. Plans are in the works to build a second chip fab facility at some point.

Courtesy GlobalFoundries

Education / Personal Development

Are You A Humble Sales Leader Celebrate A Job Well Done

BY ALAN VANTASSEL

In today’s business landscape, it is far too common to have bosses who yell, threaten and micromanage their way to the top—at the expense of their employees.

Anyone who has ever worked for someone who has exhibited these characteristics will tell you that it is not an effective management style. These types of leaders lose a lot of trust and potentially, their workforce.

The best sales leaders, however, are humble bosses who empower their employees, are open to feedback and inspire their team to perform high quality work. They are also aware of their own weaknesses, how those weakness fit with others’ strengths, and they want to improve.

These traits make them focused on “big picture” goals that go far beyond their own corner office.

Current research suggests that placing a spotlight on humble people might yield better business results than putting the boasters on a pedestal.

So, would you consider yourself a humble sales leader?

Quick, answer this question: which of your colleagues are humble? You will be surprised to find out that the answer you gave is likely wrong. Why? Because humble people don’t flaunt that trait. And many people, including pretentious ones, try too hard to be seen as humble and even helpful just to make a good impression on others.

A stable personality trait known as the H Factor has been identified as a consistent personality trait for humble sales leaders. It is actually a group of attributes appearing in some individuals that includes modesty, sincerity, fairness, truthfulness and graciousness. These individuals also avoid bending the rules, manipulating others or behaving in greedy ways.

Being humble doesn’t mean being gullible. There are several ways you can exercise humility to be an effective sales leader:

• Be open to others’ opinions. Humble leaders seek input from others and make decisions that are in the best interest of their team. Employees want to work for someone who values their opinions and advice rather than dismisses them.

• Tend to others’ needs. When team members believe their boss is looking out for the team’s best interest, team performance will increase. This ensures your team has everything they need to do a good job.

• Admit mistakes. Humans make mistakes. Sharing your own missteps and how you recovered from them will help you earn the trust of your team, and your

• Accept ambiguity. Some sales leaders want to control everything. You have to learn when to take charge and when to let go

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Business founders and owners are often outstanding visionaries. Being a visionary, however, sometimes comes with blind spots. You may be “the bee’s knees” at casting a vision for your company, yet unknowingly neglect certain employee needs that are vital for your vision to become a reality.

If this assertion surprises you, consider your immediate response to one question about your business.

“What does success look like?”

Your answer undoubtedly relates to the longterm vision for your business, whether that has to do with revenue goals, expansion plans, innovative product lines, or some other “big picture” results. Your image of success is crystal clear in your mind.

You can pinpoint metrics and milestones that will mark your progress. You can’t wait to celebrate when you finally see your vision played out in the real world. Given this clarity about how success looks, how it is measured, and how it is celebrated, you are motivated and engaged and know just what you need to do.

But there is something important to remember: the people who work for you may not think in such “big picture” terms. They may understand and acknowledge the grand vision for the company, but that is not their day-to-day existence and experience. They have a job to do, such as making sales, making calls, or making widgets. That is what consumes their time and attention.

As the business owner and visionary, these daily tasks most likely never cross your mind. (And rightly so, since they aren’t your job.) Yet, these short-term actions make your long-term vision possible. For example, take the accounts payable team. Processing checks to pay vendors probably doesn’t get on the agenda for your leadership meetings. But if the accounts payable team fails to send checks in a timely manner, that can jeopardize key vendor relationships.

Therefore, behind the scenes, Accounts Payable plays an important role in the success or failure of your company vision.

This is the case for every area of your company: each job, team, department, and function plays a role in how your vision succeeds or fails. Therefore, as a leader, doesn’t it make sense to ensure that

your employees have clarity about how success looks, how it is measured, and how it is celebrated for their specific roles and responsibilities? Clarity motivates and engages you; in the same way, your employees will become motivated and engaged when they have clarity about the part of the vision that they own.

Here are three ways to provide clarity for your people and, in so doing, help your vision to become reality:

1. Define how success looks. Talk with each department or team about how success looks for them, bearing in mind that success does not refer exclusively to results, but also to actions.

For example, one measure of success for the business development team would be the number of prospects converted into customers each week. But another measure of success could be the number of calls or meetings that were held, because these actions are necessary to keep the pipeline full so that a steady stream of prospects can be converted into customers. With that in

Continued On Page 13

Alan VanTassel is Chief Sales Officer at Velocity Sales

Wendy Waldron is a Professional EOS Implementer and owner of WaldronWorks.

Business Report

Managers Still Need Training

BY ROSE MILLER

I was asked to speak recently on the value of training programs. I was excited to speak on this topic because I’ve witnessed many examples of the damage caused by untrained managers, who are not self-aware nor able to embrace a culture of learning.

More managers are being asked to take on daily tasks instead of managing processes. It is a common mistake for managers who are new in the role to fall back on operational tasks because they lack the training to convert their energy into planning and directing from a strategic perspective.

Insecure managers are always in the weeds and micromanage every operational piece of the company. Unfortunately, these behaviors also demonstrate a lack of managerial training and a lack of trust with their staff.

Th ings can quickly go very badly when a manager is poorly equipped to deal with continual and relentless business issues. Signs begin to emerge. The person becomes abrasive, tends to ignore internal problems, keeps secrets, steals credit for others’ work, or passes blame for anything that goes wrong.

All these behaviors stem from a deep lack of professional training.

As insecurities rise, the person becomes very defensive, has difficulty accepting any type of constructive criticism and acts like a know-it-all. Their ego won’t let them admit to mistakes. They push decisions off to others, or worse yet, become paralyzed in committing to any decision whatsoever.

Lack of training presents itself in many negative ways. Here are some real-life stories of individuals, who exhibited self-development needs:

• A manager is screaming at an employee so loudly that the entire company hears and shudders.

• A manager secretly labeled as a bully by employees, sends a company-wide email criticizing an employee on their team.

• A manager loses his temper, picks up a chair and throws it at an employee.

• A senior manager embroiled the company in litigation due to promises he couldn’t deliver.

• A manager begins to make up lies to the Board about revenue objectives and fi res individuals who report the errors found in the revenue projections.

Luckily, some managers will have an epiphany and begin to realize their deficits are impacting the company’s ability to reach its goals. I congratulate the emergence of selfawareness. Here are some excellent ways to embed a culture of learning.

Managers can:

• Join an advisory, chamber of commerce,

Empire State University Creates New Master Of Public Administration Degree Program

Empire State University has launched its new Master of Public Administration (MPA) program, a degree designed for civil servants and others who aspire to career advancement in public service or the not-for-profit service sector.

Applications are open for the fall 2023 term.

The MPA is a 30-credit master’s degree program that involves 10, three-credit courses and a fi nal project. The program prepares students for careers such as social and community service managers in the public and nonprofit sectors.

The degree will provide students with advanced skill sets that are necessary for supervisory and managerial positions. It will also introduce students to the history of the field, as well as recent trends in public administration. By understanding the interplay of governmental interventions, political factors, and ethical implications, students will be able to analyze, evaluate, and formulate policies.

Empire State University has a new Master of Public Administration program.

or business leadership group.

• Serve on boards and volunteer for officer or committee chair roles on those boards.

• Invest in a professional coach or mentorship program.

• Read self-development books.

• Attend business courses, conferences, and executive workshops.

Some other ways to build a culture of learning are through policies that encourage coaching and professional development goals. Managers must be encouraged to allocate time for self-development and also have someone to turn to when under stress or when in need of problem solving.

A culture of learning, or learning culture, is one in which employees continuously seek, share, and apply new knowledge and skills to improve individual and organizational performance. The importance of the pursuit and application of learning is expressed in organizational values and permeates all aspects of organizational life.

An HR business partner will use culture audits and engagement surveys as a tool to determine learning needs. They implement systems for selecting, evaluating, developing, and promoting talent based on their ability to tie learning to company growth.

The culture shift can be supported with regular meetings and an idea portal for all employees to recommend innovations. Anyone remember the story of the 3M line employee who came up with the “Post-It” note idea? Allow employees to present innovative ideas to senior management.

A business environment of constant learning is today’s trend in a rapidly changing world. Th is type of environment attracts today’s workforce. It begins with the manager leading by example.

Graduates of the program qualify for director, coordinator, and management and leadership roles in public and not-for-profit organizations.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in these fields is projected to grow 12 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. The bureau projects that there will be 18,000 job openings for social and community service

A leader who shows others the benefits of being a constant learner rather a boss who is continually trying to convince everyone on how much of an expert they are. In executive coaching circles, we use the label “expert” for someone who is shut off from learning. The person will go on and on about how much they know and do. The coach will respond with, “I can see you are quite the expert.” It’s not a compliment.

Preparation is key in creating an environment for change and self-awareness. First, drop the ego. Second, stop rewarding indi-

Courtesy Empire State University

managers each year, on average, between 2021 and 2031.

The program accepts a small number of transfer credits.

For more information, visit www.sunyempire.edu/graduate-studies/graduate-degrees/ graduate-liberal-arts-and-science-programs/ mpa-in-public-administration.

viduals who suck up and rather allow, and even encourage confl ict. If you say the sky is purple- who in the room agrees with you and comments on what a nice shade of purple, it is? Are they benefiting from agreeing with you and are you removing the people who say, “Wait, what are you saying? The sky is blue, and it’s been blue all day!”

A learning culture rewards individuals who bring new ideas to your company and managers learn how to be ready for a changing workforce, changing market trends, and changing economies.

Rose Miller, SPHR, president, Suite Advice, LLC.

Construction Round Up

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be finished before the opening of the track next year.

The company is also continuing to work on the $95 million expansion of the Center for Integrated Science at Skidmore College, home of the college’s new science and learning center. The project consists of four phases. Phase 3 is expected to be completed in May 2024.

V&H Construction has been active in South Glens Falls.

Holbrook said his crews are involved in phase two of a project at Common Roots Brewery on Saratoga Avenue. His company rebuilt the business when a fire essentially put the brewery out of business. The work now involves a new outdoor pavilion and an expansion of warehouse space.

Holbrook said the brewery is looking at hosting more meetings, weddings and other such events by utilizing the pavilion. The warehouse space will allow Common Roots to buy more product in bulk, which will help the business.

The project could be completed in July.

A new Hoffman’s Car Wash is being built by V&H at Routes 197 and 9 in South Glens Falls. That project should be completed by the end of the summer, Holbrook said.

borhood, including a wrap-around porch some more elaborate finishes and decorative trim.

In Malta, Hilltop is building a completely new convenience store with gasoline pumps. Washburn said the 5,000-square-foot building will be independently owned, not part of a store chain. It will be located on Route 9, not far from Northway Exit 12 and work is expected to start this summer.

In Colonie, Hilltop will soon be doing some interior work at an office and truck depot building for Roberts Energy, which provides commercial fuel to businesses and retail fuel to gasoline stations. And in lake Luzerne, the company is building a new piano room at Luzerne Music Center.

“We also have a slew of custom-built homes,” said Washburn, including one in Brant Lake, Diamond Point and Queensbury. There are also addition and renovation projects in the area.

Plattsburgh area.

“We anticipate a very busy summer,” he said.

Mike Munter of Munter Enterprises in Middle Grove said 2023 “had a little bit of a soft start” in the Saratoga area, but “it seems like customers are seeing the growth and needing to expand.”

“There are some supply issues” he said, and the labor pool is still a problem, as companies are trying to fill staffs to meet work loads. But Munter is encouraged by the workforce development initiatives in the area, by groups like BOCES, that are aimed at getting people interested again in the building trades careers.

MLB is involved in finishing up renovation and improvement of the backstage area at Saratoga Performing Arts Center. The work includes a new commercial kitchen for touring groups. All the dressing rooms and a lobby area have been renovated. They also built space behind the facility for three more tour buses and a private entry to get to the backstage area. There were also power and data lines set up therein.

The new 3,000-square-foot medical facility on the backstretch at Saratoga Race Course is complete. It is being operated by Saratoga Hospital,

which moved staff in late April. There, care is available for the numerous backstretch workers.

“We’re pretty excited about that one,” said Dawsey of the $2 million project.

In Glens Falls, the company completed the renovation of Glens Falls National Bank, which will be the corporate headquarters. The bank had two buildings at 240 Glen St. and next door at 250 Glen St. The $17 million project creates a single 60,000-square-foot building.

It involved a complete renovation and the creation of a new lobby. During the process, staff was moved to a Queensbury office. Those staffers will return to Glens Falls, as well as some from the South Street branch, Dawsey said.

At the Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory’s Kenneth Kesselring site, MLB is building a 100foot structure costing $15 million that should be complete by march of next year, Dawsey said. Details could not be released because KAPL is a secure government nuclear site.

The company recently landed a contract to renovate the Jim Dandy bar and restaurant area at Saratoga Race Course. The work will start this fall after the 2023 race meet is completed and will

Praxis Technology— a manufacturer that produces titanium components for the medical, aerospace, consumer and sporting goods markets—is consolidating operations in a 53,500-square-foot manufacturing complex on Pruyn’s Island in Glens Falls and V&H is renovating about 20,000 square feet of that space for the company.

V&H also has a few smaller projects ongoing and keep hem busy for the season, Holbrook said. Among the projects underway for Hilltop Construction is he construction of a new office and warehouse building on Casey Road in Queensbury. That 10,000-square-foot structure —a combination of pre-fabricated steel and wood frame—will become the new headquarters for the company. Washburn said it should be finished by the end of July, after which the company staff will move in.

Hilltop is also is in the midst of a large project at Garvey Hyundai on Dix Avenue in Queensbury. Part of it is a steel-frame expansion of the building, but the company is also doing a complete renovation of the interior of the entire building.

Hilltop for many years has done many projects for Stewart’s Shops and that continues, with two new shops on the docket this year.

Washburn said one new shop will be in Utica. The other is going up on Weibel Avenue in Saratoga Springs. That shop “is a little more elegant” to match the atmosphere of that neigh-

Joe Leuci, owner of Foothills Builders in Queensbury said his company is working on a project at 80 Main St. in Queensbury. The building will have commercial space on first floor and 24 one- and two-bedroom apartments on the top three floors. They will be higher-end rental units with balconies and high-end finishes.

On the first floor it hasn’t been decided yet on how many different tenants. That is “up in the air” as they talk with potential tenants, he said. The project could be completed and for rent by the end of the year.

Leuci has built single-family homes and apartments in Corinth, Queensbury and Moreau. He said there is “high demand” in the Glens FallsQueensbury area for such apartments. He owns a couple other apartment buildings and there are no vacancies.

He is also working on approvals for a townhome development in Queensbury. Leuci is hoping to transform the former Mead’s Nursery and Garden Center on Ridge Road in Queensbury into 60-plus townhomes.

He said he envisions a “high-end residential community.” The buildings would have many amenities and possibly a community room to be used by the residents. He hopes to get approvals this summer, but did not want to speculate when his company might be able to break ground.

Foothills Builders is also seeking approvals for a housing development on a new road “just south of Corinth.” The road has yet to be named, he said. The preliminary plans call for a 39-lot subdivision and on it would be built single-family homes and some duplexes.

Leuci also wants to transform the former

Continued On Page 9

MLB Construction Services is finishing a Glens Falls National Bank headquarters renovation on Glen Street. The 60,000-square-foot project, combining two buildings, cost $17 million.

For Digital Component Systems

drb Business Interiors Uses Falkbuilt Products

Construction Round Up

Continued From Page 8

Mead’s Nursery and Garden Center on Ridge Road in Queensbury into 77 townhouses.

The single- and multi-family homebuilder filed preliminary plans to redevelop the narrow, 11-acre lot that was home to the garden center for 70 years before the second-generation business closed in 2019.

Plans call for the construction of 18 four-unit buildings, plus one building with five townhouses.

The project would be located at 361 Ridge Road just south of Quaker Road, a commercial stretch that is home to a Lowe’s home improvement store, restaurants, a Hannaford supermarket and multiple car and truck dealers.

Munter said his company is finishing up work on a 25,000-square-foot headquarters for Solar Foundations USA. They are a design and manufacturing facility of solar panel supports.

Munter Enterprises is also building a structure for the Luizzi Brothers in Watervliet. The 120,000-square-foot building will then be leased by Luizzi to Cargill, an American global food corporation based in Minnetonka, Minn. Some of Cargill’s major businesses are trading, purchasing and distributing grain and other agricultural commodities.

administrative space. The company that sells, rents and services earth moving, paving and industrial equipment.

Munter recently finished production floor upgrades and is putting finishing touches on executive offices for Nine Pin Cider in their neighboring and newly acquired 7,000-squarefoot building, expanding their footprint in Albany.

The company recently renovated the bar and dining area at Druther’s on Broadway in Saratoga Springs.

An 8,000-square-foot expansion at KPM Restoration is also being done by Munter. KPM is a damage restoration company that has been serving the greater Capital Region for over 10 years. Its headquarters is in Mechanicville.

Munter will start this fall a 24,000-square-foot expansion at the Espey Mfg. & Electronics Corp. facility at 233 Ballston Ave, Saratoga Springs. Also on the docket is an expansion project at Tymetal Corp. in Fort Edward that designs and fabricates standard and automatic gate systems.

BY CHRISTINE GRAF

It was while working to construct the interior of a third Saratoga CoWorks Space at 92 Congress St. in Saratoga Springs that owners Dorothy RogersBullis and Dan Bullis first discovered Falkbuilt, an interior digital component construction company.

They were so impressed with the company that they now operate Falkbuilt’s Northern New York branch as part of their own commercial design and furniture company, drb Business Interiors.

“Falkbuilt was the solution that we were looking for,” said Rogers-Bullis. “We wanted better acoustics, better design, and faster lead times.”

Had they not used Falkbuilt for the interior buildout at 92 Congress St., she estimated that the work would have taken four times as long.

Founded in 2019, Calgary-based Falkbuilt has 450 employees and more than 90 branches in North America, the Middle East and India. The interior construction manufacturing company uses next-generation technology to manufacture components efficiently and precisely in their factory. Falkbuilt systems are being utilized in hospitals, offices, and even a research station in Antarctica.

Described as “conventional construction on steroids,” Falkbuilt’s digital component construction combines proven interior construction methods with technology. Its ECHO software, a cloud-computing platform, connects with the technological platforms that are commonly used in conventional construction. The software also utilizes industry-standard design and engineering tools.

“Falkbuilt combines technology and construction to make a quicker, more streamlined, efficient, sustainable end result,” said Rogers-Bullis. “We’re doing prefabrication on the interior, and nobody else is doing that. It’s engineered, off-site construction.”

According to Rogers-Bullis, using Falkbuilt drastically speeds up the interior construction process.

“As opposed to, say, three months for an inside buildout, we can do it within weeks,” she said.

Falkbuilt systems typically arrive just five weeks

after being ordered, and the components are precut and manufactured offsite for easy installation.

Rogers-Bullis and her team work closely with each client during the design process which utilizes 3D modeling software. Falkbuilt is 100 percent customizable and seemingly endless design options. Customers are also able to make design modifications right up until the time of production.

“Our ECHO software is 100 percent accurate and allows us to change things in real time,” she said. “I explain to people that Falkbuilt is a platform, not necessarily a product, and we have solutions for your project.”

One of the benefits of using Falkbuilt components is that they are designed to be sound absorbing. They have superior acoustics that allows for greater privacy within an office. The components are also designed for disassembly, and wall systems can be easily reconfigured.

All components are packed flat for shipping, and installation generates almost zero waste. As a result, customers are able to save money on freight and construction material disposal costs.

As part of Falkbuilt’s focus on sustainability, they use high-density fiberboard in place of drywall for their cladding, which is the coating on a structure or material. Manufactured from recycled sawdust and wood shavings, the cladding is biodegradable, compostable, and substantially sturdier than drywall. Cladding is available in a variety of materials including wood grain and faux marble.

Since opening the Falkbuilt branch, drb Business Interiors has been working with customers from around the country.

“Everyone who has a branch can sell to customers anywhere in the world, and right now we’re working on a huge 80,000-square-feet project in the midwest,” said Rogers-Bullis. “I’m also working with contractors and architects in the Albany area that love it. I’m also working on projects in Pennsylvania, Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey.”

For more information, visit falkbuilt.com.

Another project is construction of corporate offices forfor Contractor Sales Co. in Albany. That structure is 3,500 square feet of sales and

In the W.J. Grande Industrial Park in Saratoga Springs, Soleno Inc., based in Quebec, received approval in March to build a new plant estimated to cost about $22 million, situated on 22 acres. Munter will do that work. Soleno hops to create 35 to 50 jobs with an average salary of $70,000 per year.

Since 1945 Eastern Heating and Cooling, Inc. has been serving commercial and industrial customers through Upstate New York, Western Massachusetts and Southern Vermont with designs, installation and maintenance service. When faced with difficult complex problems, experience matters

Chuck Ciaccia 29 years

Jude Gosh 34 years

Dave Weiss 23 years

Spencer Agan 25 years

Dennis Choiniere 48 years

Pictured are digitally designed and manufactured framing components created by Falkbuilt, an interior wall system construction company based in Calgary with over 90 branches worldwide. Courtesy drb Business Interiors

Local Entrepreneur Enters The Hospitality Field With Purchase Of Mohican Resort Motel

BY CHRISTINE GRAF

With the purchase the Mohican Resort Motel, local entrepreneur Chad Nims has entered the hospitality industry.

Nims purchased the 44-room resort for $1.7 million after the Lake George property, north of the Outlets at lake George and south of the lake itself, was foreclosed on.

Nims, the owner of Nims Services, established his landscaping and snowplowing company in 2003 while a senior at Hudson Falls High School. As the company grew, he began offering excavating, paving, construction, and trucking services.

“I had a lot of friends from high school who came to work with me and really helped out,” said Nims. “They played a major role in helping me grow the business during the fi rst 10 years. Over that time, I kept expanding, adding employees, and offering more services.”

“We do everything from paving parking lots to interior construction fit ups. We do demolition for a lot of the malls, and we’ve done a lot of work at Crossgates and Aviation.”

Four years ago, Nims added Tree Care by Stan Hunt and Stan Hunt Pest Control to his business portfolio. He also owns several commercial buildings and approximately 70 apartments.

Depending on the time of year, Nims has between 70 and 100 employees.

Before purchasing the Mohican in February, he oversaw operation at the property for more than a year.

“I got involved about a year-and-a-half ago when the property was going into foreclosure. I had full intentions of purchasing the property once the foreclosure was over,” he said. “The previous owners, the Starks, were great to me. With their assistance, I went in and took it over. It’s a pretty complex property, and they showed me the ropes of what needed to be done.”

In addition to suites, the resort features townhouse-style rooms. The 4.5-acre property also includes a boat storage building as well as a single-family home.

Even before purchasing the Mohican, Nims spent $400,000 on renovations.

“It was a little risky, but I was confident,” he said. “I redid the indoor pool, repainted a lot of the rooms, put in new flooring, new bedding, and new TVs. I upgraded the Wi-Fi, installed a new security system, and did tons of other things.”

Nims also renovated the single-family home located on the property. Formerly occupied by the Starks family, it is now occupied by a rental tenant. The property’s boat storage facility is rented to Boats by George.

More renovations are slated for next year, including renovation of the outdoor pool and patio as well as the hotel entrance. The parking lot will also be repaved.

According to Nims, the manager and staff hired to run the Mohican are exceeding his expectations. Five employees will staff the resort during the off season, and that number will increase to 10 during the busy summer months. The resort will be open year-round. During the off-season, the indoor pool will be available for pool party rentals. It has an attached game room.

“We have two blocks of times on Saturday, and two on Sunday,” said Nims. “One of our staff members, Kim, came up the idea for pool parties, and we were fully booked this whole winter.”

Nims said he is on the lookout for additional resort properties in the Lake George area.

“If any opportunities arise where I can get a good deal, I would like to do more and would love to get up more toward the lake. Th at’s my long-term plan,” he said. For more information, visit mohicanmotel.com.

Chris Nims, the owner of Nims Services and other businesses, has purchased the 44-room Mohican Resort Hotel in Lake George for $1.7 million. Courtesy Mohican Resort Hotel

Sembrich In Bolton Selected To Participate In National Museum Assessment Program

The Sembrich in Bolton was recently selected to participate in the 2023 Museum Assessment Program by The American Alliance of Museums (AAM), the only organization representing the entire scope of the museum community.

Since its inception in 1981, the Museum Assessment Program (MAP) has helped more than 5,000 small and mid-sized museums of all types strengthen operations, plan for the future, and meet standards. With five types of assessments available, over 60 percent of AAMaccredited museums have participated in the program.

To participate in the program, museums choose from one of five institutional assessment types: organizational, collections stewardship, education & interpretation, community & audience engagement, or board leadership.

All five assessment types are grounded in AAM’s core standards; are inclusive of diversity, equity, access, and inclusion issues as they relate to the assessment focus; help museums look at both functional and strategic aspects of their operations, and present focused learning modules and action plans for the museum to progress through; and include a peer-reviewed site visit.

Over one-third of participating museums found the experience so valuable that they returned to participate another time, museum officials said.

“We are excited to join the cohort of 2023 MAP museums,” said Caleb Eick, Sembrich director of institutional advancement. “The Sembrich will participate in the Education & Interpretation survey to help strengthen our efforts in the display and interpretation of our unique collection and historic structures. As we approach the studio’s 2024 centennial, we look

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process commonly known as sandblasting. The sharp, angular garnet crystals quickly clean and smooth the steel surface, preparing it for a new coating.

Company officials said Barton’s Johnsburg quarry is widely recognized as yielding the hardest, sharpest garnet crystals in the world. Barton garnet is also the preferred blast abrasive for many customers for its human and environmental safety, as it is 100 percent natural and free of any heavy metals.

MAC President Vincent D’Auge said the company spent months testing a wide variety of materials that met military specs for blasting. But testing showed that BARTON 30/60 CG garnet was the most productive and met all environmental, health and safety requirements.

“The things Barton did as a supplier on the George Washington project showed me that they care and that I can rely on them,” D’Auge said. “We chose 30/60 CG garnet as the best value based on the performance, consistency, cleanliness and safety of the product, and the outstanding customer support. MAC and Barton are industry leaders, and both our companies stand by our commitments. I knew we could depend on Barton.”

The Sembrich will participate in an assessment aimed at strengthening operations.

forward to improving our interpretive practices and exploring new ways to preserve the legacy of Marcella Sembrich.”

With the MAP program, museums often gain clarity on an institutional roadmap or strategic plan, see positive impacts to their visitor experience or community response to their museum, grow in their ability to identify their strengths and challenges, or gain valuable assistance with updating museum policy, successes in fundraising, and other benefits.

MAP is supported through a cooperative agreement between the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the American Alliance of Museums.

Barton garnet blast abrasives are used for the manufacture of civilian and military aircraft, the construction and maintenance of armored vehicles, the production of titanium medical implants, and many other purposes. Barton also manufactures garnet abrasives for waterjet cutting, which are used in a variety of industries, including aerospace and aviation, automotive, electronics, architecture, creative arts, medical, and defense.

The company said a Barton waterjet abrasive product was used to cut and shape the blades of the U.S. Luge team’s sleds for the 2022 Winter Olympics. Barton products have also been used in the maintenance of the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration’s aircraft fleet, and in the manufacture of electric vehicles, Broadway theater sets, bullet-resistant glass, and many other products.

Since 1983, mining and initial mineral processing has occurred at the company’s quarry and mill on Ruby Mountain in the town of Johnsburg, hamlet of North River. Final processing takes place at the company’s plant in Indian Lake.

Barton officials said the company employs approximately 125 people, provides wages and benefits of more than $15 million per year, spends approximately $7 million annually with other local businesses, and pays more than $400,000 annually in local school and property taxes.

MEMBER OF THE ADIRONDACK REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Brookfield is proud to play an active role in the greater Warren, Washington and Saratoga region.

Cultural organizations in the area have been given grant money from the state to help promote upcoming events.

The Lake George Music Festival (LGMF), an internationally recognized classical music festival, plans to use grant funds to promote a new initiative called the LGMF “Plus Pass.”

This promotion of this summer event series, presented on the grounds of the Fort William Henry Hotel in Lake George, will market a season pass valid at the Lake George Music Festival’s summer performances and events within a $40,000 grant, as well as at several other cultural and scenic tourist attractions, increasing visitation to this area and overall region.

The Glens Falls Symphony will use $25,000 in tourism grant funds to produce and promote artistically excellent orchestral and smaller chamber music concerts in the region.

The Sembrich Museum in Bolton will use $60,400 in grant funds to enhance marketing presence leading to the facilities centennial in 2024. Marketing efforts will expand in local and regional publications, social media campaigns, digital and print advertisements and new geographic targeted markets.

* * *

Southern Adirondack Independent Living (SAIL) will hold a garage sale Thursday through Saturday, June 15 -17, on its campus at 71 Glenwood Ave., Queensbury.

The sale runs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, June 15, and Friday, June 16, and from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 17.

SAIL’s annual sale includes clothing and household items, as well as a basket raffle and gift certificates from area businesses. SAIL will also be selling hotdogs and hamburgers.

Proceeds from the day’s festivities benefit

SAIL, to help cover costs associated with special projects and services not supported by grant funding. SAIL is accepting donation items to be sold at the annual garage sale. Additionally, SAIL is collecting raffle basket items.

The center provides nonresidential services to people with different types of disabilities to help them maintain independence.

Call SAIL at 518-792-3537 for information or visit www.sailhelps.org.

The Park Theater Foundation will present a variety of shows throughout May as part of its season.

The Park presents the band Corner House at 7 p.m. on May 19. Currently based out of the Portland, Maine, the band has created a sound that incorporates old time, Scottish, progressive bluegrass and folk. Tickets are $18 in advance and $20 at the door.

On May 18 at 7:30 p.m., the Park Theater Foundation presents Th ird Thursday Jazz with The Matt Niedbalski Trio featuring pianist, Ian MacDonald. Tickets are $10.

On May 25, Live & Local: Songwriters’ Showcase features some of the Capital Region’s favorite songwriters. Showtime is 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door.

On May 26 at 8 p.m., Comedy After Dark features acclaimed New York City-based independent animator, writer and stand-up comedian Jim Tews. Tickets are $22 in advance and $25 at the door.

On May 31, the foundation hosts Rochmon Record Club for a series of listening parties. Hosted by Chuck Vosganian, this listening party will focus on The Jimi Hendrix Experience. Tickets are $12 and showtime is 7 p.m.

For the full performance listing or to purchase tickets, visit www.parktheatergf.com.

Health / Community Services

Glens Falls Earth Day Celebration A Success With More Than 20 Community Exhibitors

AIM Services Opens New Facilities Offering Day Programs For Traumatic Brain Injuries

Over 20 environmental organizations and sustainably oriented businesses exhibited at the year’s Glens Falls Earth Day celebration, sponsored by Sustainable PR, the City of Glens Falls and the Crandall Public Library. They brought with them interactive learning activities that were engaging for all ages, and the variety captured the interest of over 100 community members, organizers said.

“Our Earth Day planning team has received nothing but praise for this year’s lineup,” said Tony DeFazio of Sustainable PR. “We wanted to expand our reach this year and incorporate more family-friendly exhibits to broaden our audience and that’s what we did.”

In addition to eco-conscious exhibitors, the event marked the grand opening of the city’s vertical farm. Dr. Jeff Flagg, the city’s economic development director, gave tours of the facility to more than 50 people, including representa-

Humble Sales Leader

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of the reins.

• Let your team do their job. Nothing kills morale more than micromanaging. Humble leaders allow others’ strengths to work for the good of the group without interference.

Being a humble sales leader is striking

tives from Saga City, Glens Falls’ sister city in Japan.

Crandall Library’s portion of the event also drew a significant number of participants. Their DIY, eco-friendly, household cleaner workshop was completed by 111 people, DeFazio said. The Seed Library’s grand-opening signed up 39 gardeners and 15 pallets of household electronics were collected during the E-Recycling event.

The success this year has the Earth Day planning group looking to next year’s event.

“We have already been approached by several groups wishing to get involved in the organization of the event,” said Lydia Miner, account executive at Sustainable PR who spearheaded the event planning. “Our organizers are already in conversation about how we can improve the event and expand our reach even further next year.”

a balance between leading effectively but steering clear of the limelight. While this may seem contrary to what we see in the media, humility is a core value that boosts performance from both leaders and their teams.

Don’t be surprised if humility is a trait added to HR personality tests and is screened for in the future. Get ahead of the curve and strut your H factor.

"Locally Run Since 1981"

BY PAUL POST

A new facility offering day programs for people with traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer’s and dementia is now open, after a three-year delay caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

It replaces a facility that was in Fort Edward.

STRIVE, which stands for Supportive Techniques for Rebuilding Independence & Vital Experiences, is a program of nonprofit AIM Services that supports people with developmental and intellectual disabilities, including those with traumatic brain injuries and those looking for nursing home transition or diversion.

STRIVE is for people in Saratoga, Warren and Washington counties, but participants may also come from the immediate Capital Region along with Fulton and Montgomery counties as well.

AIM is headquartered at 4227 Route 50 in Wilton, near the intersections of Old Gick and Ingersoll roads. Previously, STRIVE was housed at a somewhat remote location in Fort Edward, which presented transportation obstacles for many people.

But just down the road from its main facility, AIM found a new home for STRIVE, a former Human Society building that was renovated to provide a convenient, comfortable setting for the services STRIVE provides.

“This additional space and the expansion of these programs will not only enhance the job skills and vital life experiences for those we support, but as the programs continue to grow in

their success we’re empowering the future employees and job candidates that will bolster our community’s economy,” said Bo Goliber, AIM chief development and communications officer.

A March 22 ribbon cutting was held to mark the new site’s opening at 4255 Route 50, only a quarter-mile from AIM headquarters. Ceremonies were led by Heather Harple, AIM’s assistant director of DOH services who manages the STRIVE program; and AIM CEO Chris Lyons.

“We’re trying to get the word out to get people in the door,” Harple said. “This new location is much more central to people in the Saratoga area. It’s much easier for people using Medicaid transportation to get here. STRIVE’s goal is to help people who have had a traumatic brain injury to regain skills for independent living so they aren’t forced to go into a skilled nursing facility.

“And then we’ve also opened it to people with Alzheimer’s or dementia. The focus for those people is maintaining their cognitive skills.”

STRIVE is available to anyone faced with these challenges who are on the Traumatic Brain Injury or Nursing Home Transition & Diversion waiver under the state Health Department. But there’s also a private-pay option for short-term assistance.

For example, a family might need help caring for a loved one for just a couple of hours, while they’re out in the community doing errands and can’t bring the loved one with them. STRIVE

Continued On Page 13

Over 20 environmental organizations and sustainably oriented businesses exhibited at this year’s Earth Day where people enjoyed a variety of family-friendly exhibits.

Heather Harple, center, assistant director of DOH services at AIM Services, talks with clients at the organization’s new STRIVE facility in Wilton. ©2023 Saratoga Photographer.com

Albany Medical Center First In Region To Get Level 1 Pediatric Trauma Verification Status

The American College of Surgeons (ACS) has verified Albany Medical Center as a Level 1 Pediatric Trauma Center.

Glens Falls Hospital is part of the Albany Med heath care system.

The Massry Family Children’s Emergency Center, which opened in 2018 as the region’s only designated pediatric emergency department, is the referral center for all seriously ill and injured children in a 25-county area of northeastern New York and western New England. Physicians in the center are fellowship-trained and board-certified in the specialty of pediatric emergency medicine.

The Level 1 verification is the highest a hospital can attain and comes after a rigorous review by the ACS Committee on Trauma to ensure the hospital is meeting all aspects of trauma care, prevention, rehabilitation, and more.

“The comprehensive and expert care provided to pediatric trauma patients at Albany Medical Center is second to none,” said Dr. Dennis P. McKenna, president and CEO of the Albany Med Health System. “As the region’s only Level 1 Pediatric Trauma Center, we are demonstrating our commitment to elevate the level of critical and emergency care provided to our youngest patients.”

“Our trauma services provide a safety net for patients who sustain serious and life-threatening injuries,” said Dr. Mary Edwards, division chief of pediatric surgery and medical director of the Pediatric Trauma Program. “In the pediatric emergency center, parents, caregivers, and families place their trust in us. Our physicians, nurses, and staff strive every day to continue to earn that trust when these serious injuries occur.”

Adirondack Regional Chamber Of Commerce To Hold A Workshop On Employee Burnout

The Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce will present a workshop about employee burnout 7:30-9 a.m. on Wednesday, May 17, at SUNY Adirondack, Scoville Learning Center, 640 Bay Road, Queensbury.

The ARCC Workplace Health & Wellness Council is coordinating “Stop, Drop and Roll: Addressing Burnout in the Workplace.” Sue McManus, executive director of Adirondack Employee Assistance Program will be the presenter.

As a follow up to the discussion from last year’s event Reclaim Your Brain, audience feedback requested further discussion around the issue of burnout in the workplace, how to identify it and how to address it, ARCC officials said.

The discussion will assist in defi ning and identifying burnout, creating mindfulness exercises, enhancing the understanding of vicarious and collective trauma, providing tips on having difficult conversations about fatigue in the workplace, and discussing what employees can do to recover.

bers, and the establishment of a comprehensive quality assessment program.

The verification makes Albany Medical Center the eighth Level 1 Pediatric Trauma Center in New York state. Albany Medical Center’s adult emergency department is also a verified Level 1 Trauma Center by the ACS and is the busiest in New York state.

McManus is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and certified employee assistance professional (CEAP). She has 40 years of experience in the mental wellness and addiction field, serving in many roles in the United Kingdom, Germany and the United States.

Event registration will run 7:30-8 a.m. It will

include a breakfast and networking session before the program begins.

The cost is $30 for ARCC members and $40 for non-members.

For more information email Ava Kanninen at akanninen@adirondackchamber.org or by phone at 518-798-1761.

Common Roots

Factors that qualify a hospital for a Level 1 verification from the ACS include 24-hour availability of care from surgeons, prevention and public education efforts in surrounding communities, continuing education of trauma program mem-

Pediatric patients seen in the emergency department have easy access to the Bernard & Millie Duker Children’s Hospital, the region’s only one. Located at Albany Medical Center, the 125-bed facility is devoted exclusively to the medical needs of infants, children, and adolescents.

The children’s hospital is staffed by over 140 physicians trained in 40 subspecialties.

AIM

Continued From Page 12

The $30,000 building renovation was done in-house by AIM’s maintenance team, funded by AIM’s organizational budget and a grant from Business for Good. This grant, which AIM obtained in 2021, was designed to bolster employment services programming and other services that enhance employment skills and opportunities.

The building that houses STRIVE is actually divided into two sides, for two different programs, with a goal of creating collaborative services for the people AIM supports.

The automatic doors at STRIVE were paid for by grants from William Gundry Broughton and Cloudsplitter.

The other side of the building is being renovated for a new career center for AIM’s Supported Employment Program. This center has office space for employment services staff, and also provides a place to hold seminars, trainings, meetings and classes for the people that AIM supports in its various Employment Services programming.

The spacious new facility has a large room for gatherings and bigger groups. There’s also an area with a television and couches; a more closed off learning area; two offices and a “zen zone” quite space that gives people a place to relax.

Activities range from simple socialization to creative workshops. Because the effects of traumatic brain injury and dementia vary greatly

from person to person, individual programs are tailored to individual needs.

Once enrolled, STRIVE attendees ultimately decide which types of programming they are most interested in. Some examples may include financial literacy, medication management, tech literacy, wellness, nutrition and creative arts. Programs are flexible and scheduled based on participant interest.

“Everything we do is participant driven,” Harple said. “If people want to come every day that’s fine. Some people don’t feel that they need that level of support and maybe only want to come one or two days per week. Participants are the ones driving the program.”

The new STRIVE facility also hosts monthly workshops that provide access to life-enriching experiences and social group gatherings. These have been well-attended and are usually in partnership with other community partners such as Saratoga Paint and Sip, and Wax ‘n Wix Candle Making Studio.

STRIVE also hosts monthly traumatic brain injury support group sessions in partnership with the Brain Injury Association of New York State.

Formed in 1979, AIM’s mission is supporting the “power of potential” in people of diverse abilities. Through community-based services, advocacy, and education, dedicated professionals focus on supporting people in achieving their personal goals, while promoting self-confidence and independence.

For more information about STRIVE visit www.aimservicesinc.org/services/strive. Harple may be contacted at (518) 450-2893 or hharple@ aimservicesinc.org.

Roots Brewing Company team are able to carry on the CH Evans brewing tradition in New York State. My family started this business back in the 1780s, and I have carried that tradition on. To see that it will be carried forward in capable hands is very exciting for my family and our CH Evans staff.”

Continued From Page 1 provides this type of support at significantly less cost than paying a private aide, Harple said.

Evans revived his family’s historic brand by bringing the operation to the original water pump station in Albany in 1999. The building was extensively renovated to accommodate the brewing equipment, restaurant, and event space. The original CH Evans brewery started operation in 1786 in Hudson, New York and the company was in continual operation up until prohibition in 1920 producing as much 65,000 barrels in 1915.

Common Roots Brewing Co. began op-

Job Well Done

Continued From Page 6

because they offer something concrete to strive for. Having defined how success looks in each area of your company, work with your leaders to put in place practical metrics to measure progress toward and the attainment of success. For instance, call center success could be measured based on the results of post-call customer satisfaction surveys.

3. Decide how success is celebrated. Celebrating short-term wins helps keep people energized because it tells them that what they do is important

erations in 2014. The company experienced growth and expanded distribution into seven states. The company experienced a fire that destroyed the original building in 2019. The Webers rebuilt and reopened on the current site in 2020 and have now expanded their South Glens Falls operation to an adjoining location.

The new space will be called Common Roots Bierhall and Barrel House and will provide increased storage, a new event and restaurant space, and a separate beer and barrel fermentation brewing operations.

That expansion will be operational in July 2023 to accommodate larger events and ease crowding during peak times at the South Glens Falls location.

Sales price and terms of the agreement were not made available.

and that they have done a great job. For example, as the business owner, you can ask your team leaders what successes they have seen in the past week and let them shine a spotlight on their team’s accomplishments. How will you then affirm what has been done and reinforce the part these successes play in reaching the company’s goals? Whatever you decide, enjoy that time of celebration together.

Here’s the bottom line: If you help your people define, measure, and celebrate the success they achieve in delivering on their specific part of the company’s vision, the overall long-term vision will take care of itself. Then you can have the ultimate celebration you are striving for.

Sue McManus, executive director of Adirondack Employee Assistance Program.

Albany Medical Center has been certified as a Level 1 Pediatric Trauma Center.

SPECIAL $40

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 & Elm is a multi-concept eatery with a gourmet market, delicatessen, and fi ne 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.

Park 26

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.

The Docksider Restaurant

Lake George, NY

Open year round on Glen Lake in Queensbury, The Docksider Restaurant features lunch and dinner with a fireplace for winter and a great deck for outdoor dining overlooking the water.

Fenimore’s Pub

Glens Falls, NY

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

Davidson Brothers Restaurant

Glens Falls, NY

Located in downtown Glens Falls, Davidson Brothers Restaurant & Brewery is a hotspot for craft beer and food in a laid-back atmosphere.

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.

Downtown Social

Glens Falls, NY

Located in the heart of downtown Glens Falls, NY, Downtown Social is a local eatery and beer hall that features multiple dining experiences, bars, and a chef-prepared menu for lunch and dinner.

Adirondack Pub & Brewery

Lake George, NY

Thanks for coming to see our little piece of the Adirondacks! At our Pub, in Lake George, you can find great American cuisine and award winning craft-brewed beer, made right here in our adjoining brewery.

Courtesy of GlensFalls.com

Owners Of The George Hotel Are Seeking To Make It A Part of The LaQuinta Chain

BY PAUL POST

The George Hotel, which reopened last July after a lengthy closure, is expected to look considerably different with a new name this summer.

Cheektowaga-based Rudra Management is seeking Queensbury town Planning Board approval for exterior changes needed to join the LaQuinta hotel chain, by Wyndham.

“We want to make façade improvements, give it fresh paint and build an accent tower,” co-owner Jay Patel said. “Once that work is completed we would be branding it as LaQuita.”

The four-story, 98-room hotel is owned by 1533 Queensbury LLC, a real estate holding company affiliated with Patel and his Rudra Management firm, which bought the five-acre site for $6.5 million in February 2022.

It was previously operated as Comfort Suites, but ran into financial trouble and was closed for two years. The new owners spent a great deal of money bringing the hotel back to life with extensive renovations.

It’s located at 1533 Route 9 adjacent to Lumberjack Pass Miniature Golf, just north of the intersection of routes 9 and 149.

“LaQuita does really well in the leisure market,” Patel said. “It’s one of the popular brands among many other hotel companies by Wyndham.”

He said Rudra Management owns 52 hotels, primarily in Western and Central New York. He owns the company with his brother, Raj, and various family members have interests in different hotels.

“We’ve always had an interest in Lake George,” Patel said. “It’s a seasonal leisure market.”

After purchasing The George, Rudra Management also bought the Clarion Inn & Suites at the Outlets of Lake George, from owner-operators Dave Kenny and his daughter, Laura Kohls, for $6.4 million last October.

The Clarion is located about a half-mile south from The George, at 1454 Route 9, behind a Starbucks store across from French Mountain Commons.

Patel said The George, which has an indoor pool, kiddie pool and jacuzzi rooms, has a slightly higher price point.

“We felt we could be more efficient with two hotels,” Patel said. “Both properties have potential. The Clarion is in great shape, but needs upgrades, which are planned for 2024. We’re committed to doing a sizeable renovation.”

Exact plans haven’t been determined, but the firm will be hiring a consultant to assist with the makeover.

The company website says Rudra Hotel & Property Management’s hotel portfolio includes IHG, Hilton, Wyndham Hotel Group, Choice Hotels Group and Best Western International. In addition to upstate New York, the website says Rudra owns hotels in Baltimore and Rome, Georgia.

“A perfectly balanced portfolio of new build hotels, along with a mix of acquired limited service properties with ‘turnaround opportunities’ continues to show our consistent growth pattern in a highly competitive marketed industry,” it says. “An important facet of our company is the ability to be developers of our own properties assisting in the identification of future endeavors.”

West Mountain

Continued From Page 1

Mountain has taken to become more of a yearround destination, helping boost the area’s tourism industry and drive the local economy.

A Music on the Mountain summer concert featuring Jukebox Rebellion is set for 6-10 p.m. on Saturday, July 1, including a large fireworks display. Scenic chairlift rides will also be available in addition to cornhole games and children’s activities.

Admission tickets are required and advance purchases are recommended.

West Mountain’s five-acre Aerial Treetop Adventure Park is one of most popular outdoor recreational attractions in summer, with six high-ropes courses for all different ability levels, from beginners to advanced. The experience begins with a chairlift ride to the mountaintop park where guests are outfitted with helmets and harnesses and take part in a safety clinic before tackling the treetop courses comprised of features such as rope spider webs, zip lines and log waves.

Tickets include two hours in the park and chairlift rides up and down the mountain, about three hours total.

Once again, West Mountain is also hosting three- and five-day Outdoor Adventure Camps for children and young teens ages 6-15 during July and August. Activities are held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day, with a Camp Care add-on option from 3-4 p.m.

Kids take part hiking, climbing and organized games designed to strengthen their bodies and minds under the guidance of camp counselors. Early registration is encouraged because space is limited. It can be done online at westmountain.com/ camps.

NEWLISTING

People of all ages are welcome to take part in other special activities such as mountain biking, hiking and mountaintop yoga classes.

The bike park has over 25 cross-country and downhill trails to try out. Guests may bring their own bikes or rent them, which can be done online. Protective gear is also available. There’s an option for buying a picnic lunch as well.

Scenic chairlift rides begin operating on Monday, June 5, giving people a chance to hike numerous mountaintop trails such as Crow’s Nest that leads to the Hudson River Valley Overlook. Hikers are welcome to hike on ski trails. The summit affords panoramic views from Lake George and the Southern Adirondacks to Vermont’s Green Mountains. Picnic options are available.

Beginning on Sunday, June 4, Hot Yoga Queensbury is offering 60-minute Vinyasa Flow classes at the mountain summit.

West Mountain will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends through July 2 and seven days per week beginning July 3 through September 3. For information go to www.westmountain.com or call (518) 636-3699.

This winter’s with little natural snow was a major challenge for ski operations.

“It definitely was slower than the two previous COVID years, but despite the weather we persevered and it was still a strong season,” Montgomery said.

West Mountain is still going through the approval process for a proposed $85 million mixed-use development called Woods at West Mountain. Plans call for a 60-80 room hotel, 64 condominiums, 32 two-unit duplexes and 52 custom homes surrounding a new high-speed chairlift in a village-type setting with a full-service ski store, coffee shop and restaurant.

746 & 740 East River Drive | Lake Luzerne, NY

9-15 Broad Street, Glens Falls

For Sale - $2,350,000

Union Square - 48,000 SF restored mixed use building with 85 parking spaces. Home to multiple businesses and unfinished space with approvals for 6 apartments to be built. A must see!

JoAnn Potrzuski Cassidy Lic. Assoc. RE Broker

c: 518.470.3281

Valerie M. Napoli Lic. RE Salesperson c: 518.248.4191

Amazing year-round Lake Luzerne property with 2 homes, 5 total bedrooms & 4 full baths, set on 1.37 acres & over 344 ft of usable Hudson River waterfront. Perfect Family Compound or Investment Property with strong rental history. Tri-level A-frame, large open living area, 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, bunkroom, game room & breathtaking views, wraparound decks, a hot tub, dock & float for water toys. The Cabin, purchased in 2022, with 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, sweeping views, huge decks, waterfront dock & float, make this a perfect retreat. Two outbuildings for storage. Property equipped for off grid living with eco-friendly solar panels, Tesla energy storage batteries, modern heat pump for high efficiency heating, central air & 2 pellet stoves. Furnishings included & so much more!

Michelle Mebert

Real Estate Salesperson (c) 518.248.9446 mmebert@roohanrealty.com

Rudra Management is seeking approval for exterior changes to the George Hotel.

Courtesy The George

$1,200,000

New Field At SUNY Adirondack Will Draw Activites And Be A Boost To Local Economy

munity for various sports and recreational activities.”

The project was funded by the college ($1,050,000), the Foundation ($800,000), the Faculty-Student Association ($500,000), SUNY Adirondack Housing Association ($500,000), Stewart’s Shops and the Dake Family, a fund of the Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region, the estate of Thomas Ross and Adirondack Trust Company with matching funds provided by the state ($2,850,000).

“Recently, the Warren County occupancy tax committee approved our request to allocate $500,000 to the project,” Duffy said. “It will be voted on by the full board on May 19. If approved, the SUNY Adirondack Foundation will collect the funds as part of their fundraising efforts. The foundation continues to seek donations for naming opportunities and field maintenance funding.”

Most money for the project was secured a few years ago, but construction didn’t get under way until last June following a lengthy delay caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Latham-based Bette & Cring Construction Group was the contractor.

“We are proud of this amazing new facility and excited by the possibilities it brings to the college and our region,” said Rachael Hunsinger Patten, the school’s chief advancement officer and SUNY Adirondack Foundation’s executive director.

BY PAUL POST

SUNY Adirondack’s $5.7 million new turf field is a game-changer for its athletic program and could boost the local economy with major activities that attract teams from outside the area.

“That’s a big part of it,” Athletic Director Zach Schwan said. “This is a resource not just for the college. It should draw all kinds of tournaments and events here as well.”

School administrators, tourism professionals, elected officials and financial backers took part in a May 4 ribbon cutting to dedicate the facility, which includes synthetic fields for softball, baseball, soccer and lacrosse.

College President Dr. Kristine Duffy said economic development was a key factor behind the project’s consideration. “We believe that we not only bring sales tax revenue into

the community every time we host a SUNY Adirondack game, but we also expect to rent out the facility to sports organizations for tournaments that can be played in our region,” she said. “This will bring out-of-town guests to our region who would stay in local hotels and eat at local restaurants.”

Attracting fans to the area also helps local tourism officials promote the region to guests for future events and vacation stays.

“This substantial investment elevates the opportunities to bring new sports tournaments and events to the area and showcase the college to new athletes, fans and families,” said Gina Mintzer, Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce executive director.

“SUNY Adirondack is an asset for our entire region as these facilities are used by the college’s athletic teams as well as by the com-

The complex, located behind the gymnasium, is the latest upgrade to SUNY Adirondack’s athletic facilities, which has included refurbishing the gym floor; repurposing space adjacent to the gym with batting cages; sport-specific strength equipment and space for small-group training; and creation of a space for student-athletes to socialize and study.

Schwan said the new turf field will greatly enhance the school’s ability to attract highcaliber athletes from both the Greater Capital Region and out of state. This year’s baseball roster already has players from Texas and Canada.

The baseball team held its first outdoor practice on Valentine’s Day, when weather was unseasonably mild. This wouldn’t have

been possible on a muddy or frozen earth field.

Dugouts are heated and lights allow for night games and practice sessions. The baseball field has seating for about 200 fans behind home plate, and bleachers hold the same number of people for soccer.

The synthetic surface allows the spring season to begin earlier and include more games, which is also important to recruiting efforts.

“It’s going to be huge,” Schwan said. “We’re an extension of Enrollment and Student Affairs. As the athletic department our objective is to expand our recruiting. We want to attract top local talent and draw players in from all over as well.”

Of course, this should improve an already strong baseball team that won more than 20 games this spring.

Previously, the Timberwolves practiced and played home games at East Field in Glens Falls. Now players can literally walk across the parking lot from their dorm to the field, which saves time and expense. Twenty-two of the baseball team’s 32 players are housed in dorm rooms facing the new complex.

“I love East Field, but taking care of the field was a challenge,” baseball coach Casey Jobe said. “It was really exciting seeing this whole thing being built.”

“I’m kind of speechless about it,” assistant coach Cameron LaBarge said. “What it does for the community and school is limitless. It’s going to bring everybody together and build on the winning culture we’ve had here the past eight years. It’s huge.”

Finishing touches are still taking place and logistics for handling outside events are still being established, so no tourneys or events are expected this summer. But the site could become quite buy after the SUNY Adirondack spring season concludes a year from now.

Schwan said the state has helped fund similar projects at several other two-year schools recently such as Finger Lakes (Canandaigua), Cayuga (Auburn) and Jefferson (Watertown) community colleges, which are all part of the SUNY system.

“But ours is the nicest,” Jobe said.

SUNY Adirondack’s $5.7 million new turf field will be a resource not just for the college, but is expected to host tournaments and events that will be an economic boost to the area.