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GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • JANUARY 2026 • 1

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GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL

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Loggers Face Uncertain Future As Officials Lake George Tourism Gains Momentum Seek New Markets For Adirondack Timber With New Stage, Busy Event Calendar

A worker stands on a log trailer at Finch Paper in Glens Falls, where plans to end on-site pulp production could reshape the Adirondack timber market and logging industry across the region. BY PAUL POST Officials are scrambling to help North Country loggers save their livelihoods after Finch Paper LLC's surprise decision to cease pulp-making operations by year’s end. Founded in 1865, the company is Glens Falls’ oldest, largest and last heavy industrial employer, with approximately 600 workers. For decades, loggers harvesting Adirondack timber have supplied the mill’s on-site pulp production, a precursor to papermaking. The mill has used 600,000 tons of timber annually, representing 30%-35% of the region’s low-grade pulpwood market, not just New York state. Finch will instead obtain pulp from outside sources in a cost-saving move it says is needed to remain financially viable. “What happens when the market has way more wood than it can absorb?” said Courtney Johnson-

Courtesy Paul Post

Woods, executive director of the Empire State Forest Products Association. “It’s going to have a ripple effect. It’s not just going to be people supplying Finch. I’ve had calls from loggers saying this will put me out of business.” The impact on loggers is one of several far-reaching economic, environmental and public safety concerns. Firms that sell, service and repair their expensive equipment could be hurt, and falling timber demand would reduce income for property owners whose trees are harvested. “Even restaurants where men gather for breakfast before going out for the day will suffer,” JohnsonWoods said. “It impacts everybody. What’s going to happen to this whole ecosystem of people who are part of the fabric of rural communities?” Thinning trees also promotes healthy forests. If the practice ceases or declines, forests become more Continued On Page 2

A new performance stage at Shepard Park in Lake George is making it possible to attract a higher level of talent in addition to popular local bands. BY PAUL POST Good weather, fun attractions and a new state-of-the-art performance stage are contributing to a strong Lake George tourism season, with big things still to come heading into early autumn. “We’ve had a really healthy, event-driven summer,” said Gina Mintzer, Lake George Chamber of Commerce executive director. “There’s new people coming here in addition to regular vacation folks who have been coming for generations, and we’ve seen a big uptick in bus tours. You might see a little lighter traffic on a Monday or Tuesday as people are making shorter stays, but then it’s full steam ahead Wednesday through the rest of the week.” From Aug. 5-9, Lake George hosted Wolfsgart, the premier European automotive fes-

Courtesy Paul Post

tival, previously held in Burlington. Participants brought new and classic cars alike and used numerous local venues, including The Ed on South Street in Glens Falls, marking the first time Lake George has partnered with that facility for an event. “They stayed in hotels and motels, camped, used short-term vacation rentals and were in Shepard Park, Wood Park, and went to Northway Brewery in Queensbury and Bandstand Brew Works in Warrensburg, so they were all over,” Mintzer said. But the season’s biggest catalyst was the highly anticipated mid-July opening of a new performance stage at Shepard Park, replacing a band shell destroyed by fire just two years earlier. Lake George Arts Project and the Village of Continued On Page 11

Siena Poll Finds Online Sports Gambling Renovated South Street Building Adds Viewed Negatively Across New York State Retail, Dining And Beauty Businesses Thirty-nine percent of New York state residents say online sports gambling is bad for New York, while 22% say it is good for the state and 31% are in the middle, according to a Siena Poll released Wednesday. One in four New Yorkers said they placed a bet of any size on a sporting event in the last year. Among bettors, 84% used online sportsbooks, 54% bet with friends or family, 41% bet with casinos and 24% bet with bookies. Residents were closely divided on whether online sportsbooks should be allowed to advertise during televised sporting events, with 44% in favor and 43% opposed. Fifty-two percent said commentators discussing potential bets and odds during live games is bad for sports. Views varied by age. Half of residents 50 and older said online sportsbooks should not be allowed to advertise during televised sporting events, compared with 36% of those under 50. Sixty-two percent of those 50 and older said live betting commentary is bad for sports, while 44% of residents under 50 said the same. Among residents under 50, 27% said online sports gambling is good for New York, 33% said it is bad and 34% were in the middle. Among those 50 and older, 46% said it is bad for the state, 29% were in the middle and 16% said it is good. “We are seeing a generational gap in those who participate in and support sports betting,”

Associate Director of Data Management Travis Brodbeck said. “Not only are many young New Yorkers placing bets of their own, but they also view the issues surrounding sports betting through a different lens than older residents.” Bettors and nonbettors also differed. Fiftynine percent of sports bettors disagreed with restricting online sportsbook advertisements during televised games, while 45% of nonbettors agreed with restrictions. Forty-nine percent of bettors said commentary on live odds and bets during games is good for sports, while 57% of nonbettors said it is bad. Forty-nine percent of sports bettors said online sports gambling is good for New York, compared with 14% of nonbettors. Forty-five percent of nonbettors said online sports betting is bad for the state. Participation was higher among men than women, 37% to 14%. Fifty-three percent of men ages 18 to 49 said they placed a bet on a sporting event in the last year. Among all New York sports bettors, 84% used online sportsbooks, including 92% of male bettors ages 18 to 49. The poll was conducted July 1-8 among 814 New York state residents. It has an overall margin of error of plus or minus 3.7 percentage points, including design effects from weighting. Provided by Siena Research Institute; edited for style and length. Details at www.Siena. edu/SRI/

BY ANN DONNELLY A historic stretch of South Street is buzzing with new life following a major renovation project by developer Chris Patten. The newly restored building at 46-56 South St. is now home to five distinct local businesses, representing a significant milestone in the ongoing revitalization of downtown Glens Falls. From a vintage-inspired general store and a high-visibility hair salon to a boutique clothing merchant, an upcoming neighborhood tavern and an upscale wine and whiskey bar, these storefronts are bringing diverse offerings and foot traffic to a block that was vacant for years. Katy's Wine & Whiskey Bar (46 South St.) Since its July 11 opening, Katy's Wine and Whiskey Bar at 46 South St. has seen strong community support and a high volume of repeat business. Co-owner Katy Foster, who operates the establishment with Bill Dingman and executive chef Colin Miner, expressed gratitude for the local reception. "The amount of repeat customers we've welcomed in just one month has been truly heartwarming," Foster said. She also praised the staff 's dedication during the launch phase, noting that they have already become a close-knit group while

Five businesses now fill renovated South Street storefronts in downtown Glens Falls area. Glens Falls Business Journal

working through the initial kinks of a new dinner service. Foster admitted she never anticipated operating on this block but has embraced the area's rapid development. "Downtown Continued On Page 2

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Renovated South Street

Adirondack Timber

Continued From Page 1

Glens Falls is a true gem, and with the amount of new housing happening right here on South Street, it really feels like its own little mini city within a city," she said. She credited her husband, developer Chris Patten, for his role in transforming the neighborhood. Hometown Shop (48 South St.) The block's retail lineup includes Hometown Shop at 48 South St., which opened April 18. Owned by Kara Magoolaghan and her husband, Matt Rafferty, the idea for the shop was born after Magoolaghan saw the commercial listing through Realized Brokers, the real estate agency where Rafferty works. “The space found me before I knew what I was going to do with it," Magoolaghan said, noting the need for personality in the new apartments nearby. Magoolaghan, an engineer and lawyer, has created a cozy, vintage-inspired space selling high-quality paints, wallpaper, home goods and gifts. It also houses Vintage Purrfect, a curated vintage clothing business run by shop manager Rachel McMurtry. The shop builds community through events such as tea parties, scrapbooking workshops and puzzle-solving gatherings. Saturday mornings are especially busy as the shop welcomes crowds from the nearby farmers market. Hometown Shop will host a Balloon Fest pop-up event at the Golden Monkey on Sept. 11 from 6 to 8 p.m., featuring themed merchandise and a special cocktail. Tease Salon and Beauty Bar (50 South St.) Tease Salon and Beauty Bar relocated to 50 South St. after eight years in South Glens Falls. Owner MeLinda Stanley sought greater visibility, which has paid off with a 20% increase in business due to heavy vehicle and foot traffic. "Being more visible has been a big help," Stanley said, noting they have retained old clients while gaining new ones from nearby apartments.

The salon employs six stylists and offers a full range of hair and beauty services. To accommodate clients, the salon successfully worked with the mayor to extend street parking limits to three hours. Tease Salon is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Floro's Mercantile (52 South St.) Floro's Mercantile, which opened in May 2026 at 52 South St., has deep historical roots on the block. Owner Ali Gazetos Mineo is the great-granddaughter of Floro, founder of the legendary New Way Lunch. The boutique sits in the exact footprint where the original restaurant operated for 86 years. Gazetos Mineo curated a mix of timeless basics and trendy apparel, ranging from denim jackets to luxury handbags. "I think it's something fun that I enjoy, and I think it's something that is needed downtown," Mineo said. The boutique also hosts private shopping events and maintains hours throughout the week, including late evenings on Fridays and Saturdays. Judd's Tavern (54 South St.) The final piece of the development is Judd's Tavern at 54 South St., owned by Judd Gershen. While awaiting final permits, Gershen expects to open in September. Interior preparations, including kitchen equipment installation and dining room trim work, are nearing completion. "I'm really looking forward to adding to the great things already happening in Glens Falls," Gershen said. The completion of the 46-56 South St. building has established a cluster of complementary businesses that work together to draw customers down the street. Business owners anticipate even greater momentum as adjacent residential projects, such as the 70-unit South Street Apartments, prepare for completion in winter 2026-27.

Continued From Page 1

susceptible to invasive species and wildfire during hot, dry periods, such as those decimating the western U.S. Jim Siplon, president of the Warren County Economic Development Corporation, said Finch Paper’s announcement came as a total surprise. “We didn’t have any advance notice or warning of this decision by Finch,” he said. We weren’t aware of it until they made the announcement.” “But as soon as they did, we have a good relationship and talked with their senior management team about how we can assist with labor transitions, trying to mitigate any of the impacts,” he said. “One of the first things that came up was a discussion about where timber currently being procured by them, would go. It became clear that there isn’t a full alternative market.” Finch will continue buying some timber for its biomass cogeneration facility, which converts wood waste such as bark, sawdust and chips into high-pressure steam and electricity. The green energy powers mill equipment and provides heat to dry newly made paper. “But it won’t come close to compensating for the losses,” Johnson-Woods said. Some loggers sell exclusively to Finch Paper, while others also have contracts with other buyers. The Forest Products Association has surveyed members for data that might help loggers find new markets, perhaps in neighboring states. Possible options include a Ticonderoga mill owned by Sylvamo Corp., which spun off from International Paper in 2021, and Colorado-based Lignetics, North America’s largest residential wood pellet manufacturer, with nearly 30 plants, including two in New York state, in Schuyler and Deposit. Siplon said EDC is working with the Forest Products Association, academic institutions, businesses and nonprofit agencies to identify alternative timber markets. Logging is one of the few industries within the highly restrictive Adirondack Park that aligns with its core values and conservation mandates. “We’d like to conduct a speedy study by a reputable third-party organization to assess potential alternative uses for timber,” Siplon said. “Then we could lay out potential investment or incentive ideas the state could partner with us on, in terms of finding active markets for timber. We need to make sure that indus-

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try isn’t altered or lost.” The hope is to develop a strategy quickly enough for the state to include financial incentives in next year’s budget cycle. Officials throughout the region have cited an ongoing, almost desperate need for affordable housing, without which employers have difficulty attracting workers. “Things like housing development specific to the region and the park would allow timber to be used for building materials,” Siplon said. “That has the advantage of also sequestering carbon in the timber and keeping it in the park, as opposed to having it go someplace else.” EDC is also discussing possible microcellulose applications with business and academic leaders. “We’re going to explore all those things,” he said. Finch makes a variety of uncoated printing, writing and converting papers. Its flagship brands, including Finch Fine and Finch Opaque, are engineered for commercial printing, book publishing, digital inkjet printing and office use. In a joint statement with the Warren Washington Industrial Development Agency, EDC praised Finch for taking steps to remain solvent and a cornerstone of the regional economy. The statement says all union and most salaried employees working in pulp mill and woodyard operations will be offered jobs within the paper mill. “With improvements in its pulp handling, papermaking and energy equipment, Finch will be able to receive and process greater amounts and a greater variety of pulp, the primary raw material in paper,” they said. “This will allow Finch to broaden its mix of paper products and strengthen the long-term sustainability of a business that supports nearly 600 local jobs and pays millions of dollars in taxes.” Johnson-Woods said Finch Paper’s decision reflects nationwide pulp and paper industry trends. “It’s not just happening in New York, it’s happening all across the country,” she said. Digital printing and other forms of digital communication have sharply reduced paper sales. Global competition also has a major impact because countries with lower labor costs can sell paper at lower prices. Johnson-Woods also said newer foreign competitors have more modern, cost-efficient factories than older companies whose mills, in some cases, aren’t up to date. In such cases, buying pulp from outside sources is cheaper than spending millions of dollars to retrofit an older facility, she said.

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Plaza Draws New Investment With 7 Brew, Warren County Tourism Worker Celebration Burlington Stores and Mi Rancho Alegre Strengthens Retention And Community

7 Brew employees and supporters gather at the new Queensbury Plaza drive-thru, where the business raised $26,600 in customer donations for Double H Ranch during its soft opening in late July. BY PAUL POST The drive-thru beverage brand 7 Brew recently opened its newest store at Queensbury Plaza. The Arkansas-based company, founded in 2017, is one of the country’s fastest-growing chains, offering coffee, shakes, smoothies, teas, fizzy sodas, lemonade and energy drinks at more than 800 locations in 38 states. It emphasizes fast service from small, prefabricated drive-thru stands rather than conventional coffee shops with indoor seating. To attract local customers, the Queensbury store gave away hundreds of free cold drinks, such as flavored lemonade and iced mocha, following its soft opening in late July. An official grand opening with a full menu took place Monday, Aug. 10, and the site will hold Swag Day on Saturday, Aug. 15, giving away free Tshirts from 5:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. while supplies last. During its soft opening, the store raised $26,600 dollars in customer donations to benefit Double H Ranch in Lake Luzerne, a yearround camp for children with serious illnesses. The Queensbury store occupies a previously empty parking lot area on the left side of the plaza’s main entrance at 754 Glen St. 7 Brew now has 17 stands in upstate New York, mostly in central and western New York. Three are in Schenectady, Colonie and John-

Courtesy Double H Ranch

stown, and plans call for another store to open in September at 811 Route 146, near Clifton Country Road and Northway Exit 9 in Clifton Park. 7 Brew is one of three new businesses expected to generate significant traffic at Queensbury Plaza. Renovations are underway for a new Burlington clothing store, which will occupy the former Joann Fabrics and Crafts space, and plans also call for a Mexican restaurant, Mi Rancho Alegre, to take over the former Red Lobster site. New Jersey-based Burlington Stores has 1,150 locations in 46 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. The new Queensbury store is part of an aggressive growth plan under which the company aimed to open about 100 stores last year alone. Burlington Stores is best known as a leading off-price retailer offering brand-name merchandise at significant discounts, typically 20% to 60% below department store prices. In 2014, the company rebranded from Burlington Coat Factory to Burlington Stores to emphasize a much broader range of products. Burlington will occupy 19,000 square feet, including all of the former Joann store and a portion of the former Tuesday Morning store. Mi Rancho Alegre has restaurants in Syracuse, Rochester, Hudson and Lake Katrine. Its menu includes tacos, burritos, fajitas and other meat and seafood dishes wrapped in tortillas.

Warren County hospitality, tourism and retail workers gather aboard the Lac du Saint Sacrement during the 2025 Summer Workforce Celebration, which drew 350 workers from over 70 local businesses. Warren County’s summer workforce celebration earned an award from the New York State Tourism Industry Association. Liza Ochsendorf, Warren County’s Director of Workforce Development, was honored for Excellence in Transformational Stewardship in the Workforce Development category. The award recognizes her creation of the Summer Workforce Celebration, a thank-you and awards event for hospitality, tourism and retail workers held each September since 2022. Last September’s celebration brought together more than 350 workers from over 70 Warren County businesses for a free ride and dinner aboard the Lake George Steamboat Co.’s Lac du Saint Sacrement tour boat. NYSTIA leaders cited the event’s impact on community and worker retention.

Courtesy Warren County Tourism

Ochsendorf will receive the award in September at the 2026 NYS Tourism Excellence Summit in Corning, New York. Planning is underway for the 2026 celebration, tentatively scheduled for Sept. 14 at Lake George Steamboat Co. Tourism industry donors cover expenses. Workers nominated by their employers receive thousands of dollars in prizes, including gift baskets, overnight stays and attraction admission tickets. Businesses interested in sponsoring the event may email Ochsendorf at ochsendorfl@warrencountyny.gov or send checks to the Warren County Tourism Department, Warren County Municipal Center, 1340 Route 9, Lake George, NY 12845. Provided by Warren County; edited for style and length.

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Susan Campbell Lee Coleman Carol Ann Conover Ann Donnelly Paul Post Glens Falls Business Journal is published monthly, the second week of each month, by Weinhagen Associates, LLC and mailed to business and professional people in Warren and Washington Counties. Glens Falls Business Journal is independently owned and is a registered tradename of Weinhagen Associates, LLC, 9 Broad St, #7, Glens Falls, NY 12801 (518) 581-0600. Glens Falls Business Journal is a registered tradename in New York. Glens Falls Business Journal has been founded to promote business in Warren and Washington counties and to provide a forum that will increase the awareness of issues and activities that are of interest to the business community. Subscription price is $25.00 per year. Third class postage paid at Glens Falls, New York. Rights to editorial content and layouts of advertising placed with Glens Falls Business Journal which are the creative effort of its contractors, and printing materials supplied by Glens Falls Business Journal are the property of Glens Falls Business Journal and may not be reproduced by photographic or similar methods, or otherwise, without the specific authorization of Glens Falls Business Journal.

Jointa Lime Company celebrated its 175th anniversary at The Hyde Collection with state officials and company leaders, including John Davidson and D.A. Collins Companies president Dave Collins. BY PAUL POST One of Warren County’s oldest companies is celebrating its 175th anniversary while looking ahead to its bicentennial as it continues to grow and find new markets. More than 100 employees, customers and community leaders recently honored Glens Falls-based Jointa Lime Company at a gala reception at The Hyde Collection. The event included a documentary on the company’s history and a certificate from Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner recognizing its inclusion in the New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry. “Reaching 200 years is not even a question, in my mind,” said David Collins, D.A. Collins Companies president. “It’s something we’re committed to and focused on. Rest on our laurels? If we did that the future would be questionable, but we reinvest constantly in our people and processes. We continue to explore best practices, cutting edge technology and how we can implement them in the future.” “We look at opportunities to expand the business, not just for the sake of growth, but to expand smartly,” he said. “We look for the next steps are going to carry us into the next 25 years and beyond.” Jointa Lime is a subsidiary of Wilton-based D.A. Collins, which acquired it in 1988. Irish immigrant John Keenan, an expert in quarrying, stonework and lime production, launched Jointa 10 years before the Civil War with local business leader Halsey R. Wing, a descendant of Glens Falls founder Abraham Wing. Before joining Wing, Keenan mined limestone in Smith’s Basin and burned it in kilns to produce lime shipped south on the Champlain Canal to Albany and New York City markets. In 1851, Keenan joined Wing, an attorney, to build a business around rich limestone deposits along the Hudson River near presentday Warren Street in Glens Falls. Lime was then an essential ingredient for masons. “They didn’t have ready-mix concrete so they used lime for mortar mix,” said John Davidson, Jointa Lime vice president. “Keenan and Wing had numerous kilns, bought

Courtesy Paul Post

out others and with the few they didn’t, formed Associated Lime Companies in Glens Falls, to market product in New York City. Jointa, the highest grade, was desired by all masons.” Lime also neutralized horse manure on city streets, smoothed wire during manufacturing and bleached paper. It remains an ingredient in many products, including toothpaste. By the late 19th century, however, lime had lost favor as a building material after the introduction of stronger, more reliable Portland cement, named for Portland stone from the Isle of Portland in Dorset, England. Jointa Lime adapted by founding Glens Falls Cement Company in 1893, operating it for 10 years and then selling it. The company later reinvented itself by focusing on crushed stone and aggregate production as construction needs changed. “We survived many recessions, depressions, booms and busts,” Davidson said. “With such great people in our offices and quarries we got through it.” Jointa Lime now employs more than 100 people and operates six hard-rock quarries in Washington, Saratoga, Clinton and Essex counties; gravel operations in Saratoga and Washington counties; asphalt plants in Newburgh, Plattsburgh and Saratoga; and readymix concrete plants in Saratoga and Glens Falls. The Glens Falls plant operates as Jointa Galusha on Lower Warren Street. The facilities supply D.A. Collins with materials for public and private projects ranging from major interstate highway work to hydroelectric facilities that generate clean, renewable power. At The Hyde Collection program, Collins and Davidson joined Richard Keenan, a descendant of Jointa Lime’s co-founder, for a panel discussion moderated by Hyde board Chair Mark Behan. Keenan traveled from Northern Ireland for the event. Glens Falls Mayor Diana Palmer presented Collins with a proclamation recognizing Jointa Lime’s 175th anniversary. Collins, the third-generation leader of his family-owned company, credits much of its success to the firm’s close-knit camaraderie.

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Workplace / Security Employees Want More Than A Desk, They New York Fire & Security Expands Want A Workplace Worth The Commute Protection Through Access, Camera Systems BY DOROTHY ROGERS-BULLIS For years, we designed offices around the work. Today, we have to design them around the people doing the work. That may sound like a subtle change, but it is reshaping the workplace in very real ways. Employees have experienced a different way of working. They know they can answer emails, write reports, join a video call and complete focused tasks from almost anywhere. So if we are asking people to come into an office, the office has to offer something they cannot get sitting alone at a kitchen table. The workplace now has to earn the commute. I do not believe that means making every office look like a living room or fi lling it with trendy furniture. It means thinking much more carefully about what people need during the course of a workday and giving them choices. One person may need quiet, concentrated space at 9 a.m., a collaborative project area at 11 a.m., a private room for a video call after lunch, and an informal place to meet with two coworkers later in the afternoon. A well-designed office should support all of those activities. For many years, workplace planning followed a predictable formula: private offices around the perimeter, workstations in the center and conference rooms down the hall. That model was built largely around hierarchy and assigned space. Today’s workplace needs to be built around movement, interaction and function. One of the biggest changes we are seeing is the growth of smaller, more flexible spaces. Not every conversation needs a 12-person conference room. Employees need touchdown areas, two- and four-person meeting rooms, project rooms, phone rooms, comfortable collaboration areas and places where a quick conversation can happen naturally. Those spaces make the office more useful, but they also create something much harder to replicate remotely: human connection. At the same time, we need to acknowledge where open office design went wrong. Removing walls did not automatically create collaboration. In many cases, it simply created noise and distraction. Acoustics, privacy and zoning have become critical elements of good workplace design. Collaborative spaces should feel energetic, while focused work areas should allow people to concentrate. Technology, lighting, materials, furniture and architectural elements all have to work together to create those different environments. Flexibility is equally important. Busi-

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

nesses change too quickly to build an interior that can function only one way for the next 15 years. Teams expand, departments reorganize, technology changes and work patterns evolve. We are increasingly designing with movable components, adaptable furniture and interior systems that can be reconfigured rather than demolished and rebuilt. At drb Business Interiors, our work with Falkbuilt Digital Component Construction is part of that evolution. It allows us to think about walls and interior architecture as adaptable components rather than permanent obstacles to future change. We are also seeing a stronger residential and hospitality influence in commercial interiors. Softer seating, warmer lighting, natural materials, plants, rugs and more comfortable gathering areas can make a workplace feel welcoming rather than institutional. But comfort cannot come at the expense of performance. A commercial workplace still needs excellent ergonomics, durability, technology, acoustics and easy maintenance. The workplace is also an increasingly important expression of a company’s culture and brand. Employees and clients should understand something about an organization the moment they walk through the door. Materials, graphics, color, lighting and the way spaces are arranged can communicate who a company is without turning the office into a Continued On Page 7

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BY ROD BACON According to FBI crime data, burglary, defined as unlawful entry into a structure with the intent to commit a crime, has historically accounted for between 1.1 million and 1.4 million reported incidents per year in the United States. Commercial properties, including retail establishments, offices, warehouses and service businesses, account for approximately 35% to 40% of that total, suggesting roughly 385,000 to 560,000 commercial burglaries occur annually in the U.S. Statistics compiled by the Office of Justice Programs, a component of the U.S. Department of Justice, show that commercial buildings without security systems are 4 to 4.5 times more likely to be burglarized than those with active alarms or surveillance. Glens Falls-based New York Fire & Security has been helping entrepreneurs prevent theft from and damage to their buildings since 1946. The company provides state-of-the-art systems that address any type of security breach or fire hazard to a business. “Security has a common theme, whether it’s for an office, warehouse, or retail business,” said Vice President Seawn Eggleston. “It’s about protecting property and the people in the building.” When he does an initial assessment for a client, the vulnerability he most often encounters is door access. He said there have to be protocols in place to control who is entering and exiting a building. A very effective solution is installing a door access system consisting of card readers. A digital card can be assigned to an employee’s cell phone so they don’t have to have a physical card. That allows them access because they have credentials. The credentials can be customized to allow them access to only certain parts of the building or entry only at certain times. If an employee leaves the company, the privilege can be easily canceled. For vendors or regular visitors to the business, the cards can be tailored to allow access only during certain times or through certain doors. In all cases, a trackable record of people accessing the building is created. In addition to door access, there are cameras, which, according to Eggleston, are often the first thing customers ask about. “Cameras are an important part of a complete security installation, but they must be strategically placed,” he said. He explained that placement and elevation are key. Cameras in entryways are important, but they shouldn’t be placed too high or all they capture are the tops of people’s heads, thus not getting a good identification of the intruder. As an interesting anecdote, Eggleston said that thieves will often change articles of clothing to hide their identities, but they almost never change their shoes. “An intruder might change his shirt or put on different pants after committing a burglary but will usually keep the same shoes on, so it’s a good idea to place cameras so they will capture the feet,” he said. Eggleston recommended having all security systems checked by a professional at least once a year to ensure they are functioning properly. Camera lenses should be cleaned, the network video recorder (NVR) evaluated, door contacts

A New York Fire & Security technician services an alarm control panel for a local client. Courtesy New York Fire & Security

checked and all batteries given a load test. The price of a security system varies widely depending on the size of the building and specifically what the client wants monitored. An adequate system can be installed for approximately $6,000, but if a highly sophisticated one is required, the cost could reach $30,000. New York Fire & Security is an Underwriters Laboratories (UL)-listed alarm dealer, which means that for many of its customers, monitoring is not done locally. The company contracts with Emergency 24, a firm that has several monitoring stations throughout the country. If something happens to one monitoring station, the calls are automatically rolled over to another one without interruption. “A lot of our customers require that we have redundancy built in and this service provides that,” Eggleston said. The company also offers Total Connect on the majority of its panels, which allows the owner of the system to arm or disarm it from anywhere. In addition to business owners, this can be advantageous to homeowners. Eggleston cited the example of a customer who lives at a distance but has a vacation home on Lake George. He can access that home’s security system from his electronic device, see what is happening and control the situation. “Obviously, the police or fire department will show up but the homeowner can see what’s going on in real time,” he said. In addition to break-in protection, the company provides environmental monitoring of things like temperature, water spillage and dangerous gases. Eggleston noted that these systems are installed primarily in warehouses and medical facilities where records might be stored in a basement or vaccines in a secure room. Most of these applications are installed by the company’s fire and life safety experts. The company’s service regions include Plattsburgh, the Adirondacks, Lake George and the Albany metro area. For more information about New York Fire & Security, go to nyfireandsecurity.com.

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6 • GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • AUGUST 2026

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL

Development

West Mountain Developers Target 2027 Regional Investment Pipeline Keeps Economic Groundbreaking For Destination Resort Development Outlook Strong For 2027

An aerial view shows West Mountain Ski Area in Queensbury, where developers plan The Woods at West Mountain, a $170 million to $190 million year-round resort targeted for a 2027 groundbreaking. BY ROD BACON After five years of planning, design work and permitting — and 14 years of vision and conceptualization since the Montgomerys took ownership in 2013 — The Woods at West Mountain is on the cusp of becoming a reality. “It has always been the plan/solution for the ensured history of West Mountain,” said Spencer Montgomery, an owner and operator of West Mountain Ski Area with his wife, Sara Montgomery, and two partners. After the Queensbury Planning Board approved a zoning change for the ski area to Planned Resort Development, or PRD, in December 2025, things shifted into high gear. While the concept plan for the project has been in place for five years, those who will implement it held a two-day kickoff “envisioning” seminar last month at the ski area. “We had taken the conceptual sketch of the plan and engineering to the town and got it approved,” said Spencer. “Now we’re creating the final site plan, which involves showing them where each building and other elements of the project are going to go.” The Montgomerys wear multiple hats at the ski area. In addition to being an owner and operator, Spencer is a managing member of

Courtesy West Mountain

West Mountain Racing LLC. Sara is the general manager of the ski area and program director of West Mountain Racing. Spencer emphasized that he and Sara have two financial partners in the ski area, without whom none of this would be possible and West Mountain would be closed. The architectural firm Bull Stockwell Allen was retained in July to design the project, which is estimated to cost $170 million to $190 million. Headquartered in San Francisco, the firm has an office in Boston that is serving as the hub for the design team. Principal John Ashworth, AIA, LEED AP, and project architect and associate Jake Schirmer, AIA, are spearheading the project. Experienced in developing destination resorts, the firm has designed such prestigious ski areas as Spruce Peak at Stowe in Vermont, the Inn at Sundance in Utah, Bretton Woods in New Hampshire, Mammoth Mountain/Mammouth Lakes in California and Beaver Creek in Colorado, among others. Also brought on board are Queensburybased Van Dusen & Steves Land Surveyors; Studio A Landscape Architecture & Engineering of Saratoga Springs; and McFarland Continued On Page 7

BY PAUL POST Economic development officials are quite optimistic looking ahead to 2027 as significant private and public investment remains strong throughout the region. In Warren County, health care, tourism and the arts are extremely high priorities. Hudson Headwaters Health Network and Glens Falls Hospital together employ almost 4,000 people. “We’re supporting a number of efforts, but perhaps the most meaningful is one to support the 340B Drug Pricing Program, which is the funding mechanism that supports rural health care development not only Warren County, but throughout northern New York,” said Jim Siplon, Warren County Economic Development Corporation president. A federal initiative created in 1992, 340B requires drug makers to sell outpatient medications, such as blood pressure pills, at reduced prices to health care organizations that quite often serve low-income, uninsured or vulnerable patients. The savings allow these medical providers to stretch tight budgets and provide more services in underserved areas. “Most of Hudson Headwater’s 26 facilities were built on the back of 340B,” Siplon said. “So making sure it’s protected and sustained is a huge effort on our part.” On another front, several multiyear funding efforts are having a transformational impact in various parts of Warren County. Work is nearing completion on a major overhaul of South Street in Glens Falls, thanks largely to a state Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant the city received a decade ago. A separate DRI grant is having a major impact in Lake George, where a new high-tech performance space recently opened at Shepard Park. The facility is hosting numerous events and concerts, highlighted by top-fl ight bands known throughout the region, attracting thousands of people to the village. In North Creek, a new sewage treatment system is triggering significant business interest and investment. The town is traditionally a winter destination, thanks to Gore Mountain ski center. But thousands of visitors also pursue fun, warm-weather activities such as tubing, raft-

ing and Revolution Rail Bike rides. Plans are also in the works for a mountain zip coaster ride scheduled to open this fall or early next year. “That will make North Creek even more of a summer destination,” Siplon said. Siplon said EDC, in conjunction with Warren Washington Industrial Development Agency, is also pursuing an initiative called Mosaic to promote the local arts world, another key contributor to the local economy. There are almost 100 arts entities in Warren and Washington counties. A study is currently being done to assess their economic impact, and what best practices can be employed to secure and grow that sector. “We want to make sure they’re a sustainable part of our economy,” Siplon said. He also noted EDC’s efforts to engage the area’s “hidden economy,” composed of independent enterprises such as a multimilliondollar, home-based IT business that supports some of the biggest names in technology. “We’re trying to see what their needs are, why they chose to locate here and how we can make the area more attractive to such fi rms,” Siplon said. In Washington County, the greatest potential for economic development is Canalside Energy Park, the site of a former GE Hudson River PCB dewatering facility off Route 196 in Fort Edward. Construction is under way on infrastructure improvements with a goal of attracting light manufacturing to the property. Also, the county recently obtained $26 million from the state to upgrade its sewer district, which is expected to spur private investment including expansion plans at Irving Tissue in Fort Edward. “That district, which serves Hudson Falls and Fort Edward, is at its capacity for regular waste treatment and stormwater runoff,” said Chuck Barton, Warren Washington Industrial Development Agency chief executive officer. “There are instances where the district wants to expand capacity, but can’t because DEC won’t allow them to because of negative overflow impacts when there’s a big storm. Additional sewer capacity opens the door for a wider audience of potential buyers. It’s all about the market, so we’ll have to Continued On Page 11

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • AUGUST 2026 • 7

West Mountain

Continued From Page 6 Johnson, engineering consultants of Saratoga Springs. Legal services are being provided by Thomas West, founding partner of the West Firm in Albany, and Jonathan Lapper, a principal with Bartlett, Pontiff, Stewart & Rhodes in Glens Falls. According to Spencer, the project has been approved for “512 doors.” As plans currently stand, that will include approximately 300-340 condominiums, a 60-80-room boutique hotel with 30 associated “Tree House” ski-in-ski-out executive two-bedroom suites, a fitness club/ spa and 60-80 single-family homes. Spencer noted that things will change as the project moves forward. Construction will start in the middle of the project and build out from there. The first phase will include Hotel West and Club West, adjacent parking lots, the tree houses and some of the single-family homes. The next phase will be the village, which will offer shops, a restaurant, an organic grocery store, some condominiums, and walking paths around a pond and throughout the resort. Spencer said they have already received some letters from parties interested in exploring opportunities in the village and resort. Subsequent phases will include a new base lodge adjacent to the existing one that will accommodate 300 skiers, more single-family homes and an improved buffer park along West Mountain Road. They are also installing a new high-speed detachable chairlift. Spencer explained that the buffer park will provide a “woods experience” as skiers enter the resort and head toward what is termed the “Holy Grail,” the bullwheel at the bottom of the new high-speed primary ski lift, The Woods Flyer. “Bull Stockwell Allen wanted the flow to come from West Mountain Road,” he said. “Patrons will drive through and there are spokes off the road as they go and they end up at the bullwheel.” The ski area encompasses 1,565 acres, 365 of which are in the ski center, with the remainder

across the top of the mountain. According to Spencer, The Woods at West Mountain will occupy only 53 acres, 80% of which are on the flat section at the bottom. “There will be some houses meandering up through the woods but they’re designed to be built in that environment” he said. “They will go up the mountain about a third of the way, camouflaged with filtered views and largely invisible from town.” Both Montgomerys are fully involved with the design and permitting process. “I’m constantly on conference calls with the design team and they’ve done multiple site visits,” said Spencer. “Once a week we have an owners’ call and a design call. We’re definitely moving the process forward quickly and are close to the finish line of approvals.” He added that Sara has “assisted in the development with the ‘touch and feel’ and genre of the resort and its features.” The developers are confident they will have the full site plan completed and ready to present to the planning board by October. “We could work through each phase individually but we’re going for full plan approval, which makes more sense for West Mountain and the Town and adheres to State regulations” said Spencer. “We don’t want to segment the development. We want to have everything comprehensively laid out because in the long run that saves time and money. West Mountain needs this sooner than later and that is what the State regulations dictate..” They hope to break ground on the first phase in summer 2027. “This is going to be an amazing, familyfocused, year-round resort and a community ‘watering hole,’” said Sara. “It will be a place where families can build memories for a lifetime and locals can connect with their neighbors by walking, hiking, over coffee, having a meal, and of course skiing.” For more information about West Mountain Ski Area and progress on The Woods at West Mountain, go to westmountain.com.

Office Design

Sweet Rice & Noodle Bowls Finds Early Success With New Glens Falls Location BY ANN DONNELLY Exactly one month after its highly anticipated July 10, 2026, opening, Sweet Rice & Noodle Bowls at 199 Warren Street is already reshaping the Glens Falls dining landscape. The new venture, located in the former home of Scratch Kitchen, now on Ridge Street near Constitution Circle, has kept its doors busy from day one, drawing a loyal wave of customers from its sister location, the popular Sweet Rice Thai Sushi on Dix Avenue. For owner Siriluk Siraroj, a native of Thailand who has lived in the U.S. for nearly 20 years, the new restaurant represents a targeted expansion designed to fill a distinct culinary gap in the community. “The area didn’t have any place for noodle bowls or poke bowls,” Siraroj said of her decision to open the new location. “I saw this as a great opportunity to expand our business and bring something new to Glens Falls.” While the restaurant is now running very smoothly, the launch was not without its challenges. The culinary team faced a steep learning curve during a demanding opening week, primarily because of the rigorous preparation required for its signature broths. “Our first week was definitely frustrating because of the time it takes to prepare the soup for the bowls, which takes at least seven hours of slow prep,” Siraroj shared. “But we have worked through those early challenges, and the restaurant is now running very smoothly.” The restaurant serves a diverse Asian fusion menu, blending culinary influences from Thailand, Korea, Japan and Vietnam. Among the standout favorites are starters such as crab rangoon, yasai korokke (vegetable croquettes served with fried sweet potato) and soft steamed buns, specifically the highly popular pork cha-shu bun. For main courses, patrons are gravitating toward the sweet rice poke bowl, the spicy bimimbap bowl and hearty stewed beef noodle soup. Ramen enthusiasts can choose the rich tonkatsu ramen, which features a choice of cha-shu pork, karaage chicken or katsu chicken. The restaurant also caters to vegetarian diners with several ded-

Sweet Rice & Noodle Bowls brings Asian fusion dining to Warren Street in Glens Falls. Glens Falls Business Journal

icated options, including popular yasai ramen. To finish the meal, guests can order sweet taiyaki, a famous Japanese fish-shaped cake filled with sweet red bean paste and served alongside a scoop of matcha or vanilla ice cream. The beverage lineup is equally diverse, featuring fruit tea, milk tea with boba (chewy tapioca pearls), a refreshing lychee rainbow soda and a wide selection of matcha drinks, teas and sodas. Sweet Rice & Noodle Bowls offers three distinct dining methods: dine-in, takeout (with online ordering directly through its website) and delivery via DoorDash. According to Siraroj, diners have embraced all three channels equally. “All three dining options, whether customers choose to eat in our dining room, order takeout online, or have their meals delivered through DoorDash, are proving to be equally popular,” she noted. For more information, online ordering and opening hours, visit sweetriceandnoodlebowl. com.

Continued From Page 5 showroom. Wellness has moved into the same conversation. Natural light, access to daylight, movement, comfortable seating, healthier materials and places to decompress are no longer simply amenities. They affect how people feel during the workday and, ultimately, how they perform. The most successful offices I see today are not trying to compete with working from home. They are offering something different. They give employees access to coworkers, ideas, mentoring, energy, collaboration and

a sense of belonging. They provide spaces for both concentration and connection, and they allow people to choose the environment that best supports the task in front of them. The future of the workplace is not about one new product, one new color palette or one new trend. It is about designing spaces that are more responsive to people and more adaptable to change. When we get that right, the office becomes more than a place employees are required to go. It becomes a place that helps them do their best work - and a place they actually want to be.

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8 • GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • AUGUST 2026

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL

SPECIAL SECTION

Senior Living / Retirement Planning Understanding Investment Risk Can Independent Living Gains Appeal Among Help Investors Reach Long-Term Goals Capital Region Seniors Planning Ahead PROVIDED BY MEGHAN MURRAY One of the most significant risks investors face isn’t losing money in a market dip; it’s failing to reach their long-term financial goals. Many people focus heavily on short-term losses in the stock market and try to protect their savings by investing conservatively or avoiding stocks altogether. But that runs the risk that their savings won't grow enough to keep up with inflation or support future needs. Understanding what investment risk really means helps you make smarter financial decisions, considering these three key aspects. Risk tolerance describes your emotional comfort with risk. If you'd want to pull your money out of the market during a downturn, that reveals something about your tolerance. Many financial advisors use questionnaires to help clients understand how they might react in different market conditions. Risk capacity refers to how much risk you can afford to take. Your timeline matters. A 35-year-old saving for retirement has decades to ride out market swings. A retiree drawing income from their portfolio doesn't have that same cushion. Required risk describes how much risk you may need to take to reach your financial goals. Higher returns generally come with higher risk, though higher risk does not guarantee higher returns. If you need strong growth to retire comfortably, you may need to accept more short-term volatility. Sometimes these elements don’t line up. You might be uncomfortable with risk but need strong growth to meet your goals. Balance and diversification matter: Finding the right balance matters more than you might think. A small difference in your annual rate of return, from 5% to 7% for instance, doesn't just add up a little. It multiplies. That's the power of compound-

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

ing — returns earning their own returns, year after year, building on an ever-growing base. Over 30 or 35 years, that can become significant. You needn't choose between playing it so safe your money barely keeps up with inflation and taking on more risk than you’re comfortable with. Instead, a balanced mix can fit your comfort level and still help grow your money over time. The age factor: You’ll want to adjust your approach to risk as you get older. If retirement is years away, your portfolio may lean toward growth investments like stocks and stock mutual funds; you have time to absorb short-term losses and benefit from long-term gains. Lower risk investments like bonds still play a role because they can help smooth out changes in your portfolio’s value. Continued On Page 11

BY CAROL ANN CONOVER Nearly 80% of adults 50 and older want to remain in their own homes and communities as they age, and that same principle of choice — not obligation — is shaping how and when Capital Region seniors move into independent living, according to a regional advocacy group and two local providers. “People overwhelmingly want to age in place, and they deserve the supports to make that possible,” said Cam Cardinale, director of external affairs for Southern Adirondack Independent Living, known as SAIL, a Glens Falls-based nonprofit serving older adults and people with disabilities across 17 counties. “At the heart of independent living is consumer choice. Every person has the right to decide where and how they live.” SAIL served more than 7,000 people across 17 counties last year, providing more than 20,000 services that help people remain independent, Cardinale said. That same emphasis on choice is showing up locally, where Warren and Saratoga county providers say more residents are moving in deliberately and early rather than waiting for a crisis. About 25.9% of Warren County residents were 65 or older in 2024, compared with 21.3% in Saratoga County and 18.9% statewide, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates compiled by USAFacts. At The Glen at Hiland Meadows in Queensbury, an Eddy Senior Living community, executive director Andrea Hebert said residents entering every level of care — independent living, enhanced assisted living and memory care — have been arriving older over the community’s 25 years. “People are just waiting longer to get to each level of care,” Hebert said, “and people are healthier longer, which is a positive thing.” More residents are also planning ahead instead of waiting for a crisis. “We’ve had people move in and say, ‘I do not know why I didn’t do this sooner,’” she said, “and we have people who tell others who are considering residency: Do it now, don’t wait.” The reasons residents give for moving vary, Hebert said, but often center on “the home maintenance piece of it” along with “wanting to stay as independent as possible, wanting to stay healthy and wanting to socialize.” She recalled a couple who moved into one of the Glen’s cottages together after the wife began experiencing memory loss and later transitioned to memory care. Her husband still lives in a private independent living cottage. “He goes to see her every day in her memory care space, has breakfast with her,” Hebert said, then returns to “tinker with his old car.”

At Prestwick Chase in Saratoga Springs, a 55-and-older rental community with no entrance fee or endowment, director of sales Kellie Postlethwaite said the waiting list keeps growing. “Active adults are realizing they would like to be living maintenance-free than with the burdens of owning a home,” she said. Residents increasingly are moving to be closer to family and to make the decision themselves. “I have more and more residents realizing they do not want to wait until someone is forcing them,” she said. “They would like to make the decision.” Giving up home maintenance is often the biggest relief, she said. “It has become increasingly hard to find people to do handyman work and are reliable,” Postlethwaite said. “Kids today are not helping out their neighbor with snow removal or mowing.” Cottages tend to draw couples and residents still working, while apartments attract residents who want to be close to the community’s activities, she said. Prospective residents often arrive with misconceptions, Postlethwaite said. “The biggest misconception is that the general public does not understand the difference between independent living, assisted living, enhanced care and nursing home care,” she said. “They often think it will be more like assisted living, when in reality it is more like college: a meal plan, activities, housekeeping and maintenance, and an apartment to escape into.” Building those social ties is activities director Amy Tichenor’s focus. The best-attended offering, she said, is a dinner group that heads out to local restaurants. “It gives residents an opportunity to meet new people, socialize in a relaxed setting, and enjoy a meal together outside of the community,” Tichenor said. “I think it resonates because it encourages friendships.” New residents are welcomed with a breakfast and a standing Friday Social, Tichenor said, while resident-led games including mahjong, poker, bridge, bingo and contract rummy have become anchors of daily life. “These regular gatherings bring residents together to enjoy friendly competition, share conversations, and build lasting friendships,” she said. As incoming residents skew younger, she added, interest has broadened beyond card games to outings and events “that encourage connection and an active lifestyle.” At The Glen, Hebert said the appeal of independent living remains rooted in autonomy. “People are going to make a change,” she said. “Don’t wait for something to happen. Be proactive.”

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • AUGUST 2026 • 9

RLGC Law Group Explains How Families White Glove Laundry Service Finds Can Prepare Secure Access To Digital Assets Growing Customer Base Among Seniors BY DEBRA A. VERNI We live our lives on computers and online, storing assets digitally. If you died tomorrow, could your family get into your physical and online accounts? If your funeral needed to be planned tomorrow, how would they do that? Are all your photos on your phone or computer? Who knows your passwords? Cellphones can help or hinder loved ones trying to access personal and financial accounts. Some cellphones offer facial recognition or biometrics, such as fingerprints, to sign in, and some applications can use those methods instead of a password. What happens when “facial access” or biometrics are no longer available? The best thing you can do for your loved ones is give them a list of your assets and passwords, or at least tell them where to find the information they need after you die or become incapacitated. When my mom passed away, my sister and I flew to Missouri to wrap up her estate. My sister asked if I had the garage code because my aunt had locked the house and taken the keys after my mom’s death. Luckily, my mother had given me the garage code, so we were able to get into the house. We collected all of mom’s electronics, computers, cellphone, iPad, etc., and then looked blankly at each other because neither of us knew how to access them. As you know, the devices only give you a few attempts at the passcode and then they lock you out. We decided that the code from the garage was the key. We tried various combinations of the numbers from the garage code, and luckily for us, they worked. We were able to access all my mom’s accounts and personal information and contact account holders, friends and family. As I said, we were lucky; most people are not. For those who think there is a website where you can find a list of all your loved one’s assets and digital information, or that you can access their information with a Power of Attorney if they are incapacitated or a death certificate after they die, that is simply not true. However, your loved one’s email account is an important tool for discovering assets and accessing accounts. Password reset links, financial notices and subscription billing all flow through email, making it a hub for identifying and managing services. Your loved ones will need access to your financial and utility accounts, such as your Cable TV, Cell Phone, Google account and streaming accounts, so they can shut them down after

Debra A. Verni, senior counsel at RLGC Law Group, advises families on estate planning. Courtesy RLGC Laaw Group

your death. Most, if not all, of these accounts will not let you discontinue them without the password. Some will let you discontinue them with a death certificate if the person is deceased or a Power of Attorney if the person is incapacitated, but most companies will not. There are ways to prepare for the unexpected. Apple and Facebook offer a digital legacy contact option, and Google has an inactive account manager option. Facebook and Instagram offer memorialization or removal. Gmail, Outlook and Yahoo each maintain a formal next-of-kin process requiring a death certificate and documentation of the relationship. Google Photos, iCloud and Amazon Photos often hold irreplaceable images, but they are tied to device authentication and two-factor codes, making unauthorized access difficult. Make sure the backup account that the devices will send the two-factor code to is an up-to-date email address or cellphone. When someone dies, their digital footprint does not disappear. Email inboxes, social media profi les and cloud photo libraries hold identity, memory and financial information. It is our job to help those we leave behind. Making a list of passwords and accounts to be shared at the appropriate time will help your loved ones manage your accounts quickly with less stress and grief. Provided by RLGC Law Group; edited for style and length.

BY CAROL ANN CONOVER White Glove Service, the Queensbury-based cleaning company known locally for its “Grime Fighters,” has opened a stand-alone laundry service, and owner Kris Brunelle said seniors have quickly become some of its most loyal customers. White Glove Laundry Service opened at the end of June at 309 Bay Road, though Brunelle has owned the building since last October and spent months designing the space before opening to the public. The business operates as a wash-andfold service only — there are no public washers or dryers available on-site — and offers drop-off, pickup and delivery options. “I realized that as a cleaning company, I needed a laundry service,” Brunelle said, adding that he once spent more than $2,000 a year running loads at a laundromat, sometimes three times a week, before deciding to open his own facility. The laundry business is one of three DBAs now operating under the White Glove Service name, alongside White Glove Janitorial Service and White Glove Residential Service. Brunelle said he originally expected the laundry operation to serve primarily Airbnb hosts and cleaners who needed to turn over properties quickly. Instead, seniors have emerged as a significant share of the client base. “A lot of our clients are the senior citizens, and they really just don’t want to be a burden,” Brunelle said. “It’s not something that they have the capacity to do, and they also don’t want to bug their children to do laundry all the time.” Warren County’s population skews notably older than state and national averages. About 25.9% of the county’s residents are 65 or older, compared with 18.9% statewide and 18% nationally, according to 2024 estimates from USAFacts, drawing on U.S. Census Bureau data. County planning officials have said Warren is now the fourth-oldest county in New York by median age. Brunelle said stairs and mobility limitations often factor into seniors’ decision to use the service, particularly for those living in apartments without in-unit laundry facilities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that more than one in four adults 65 and older falls

each year, and mobility aids such as walkers can make carrying loaded laundry baskets especially difficult. “Going up and down stairs is certainly a challenge for those who are living in apartments that may not have laundry service or may not have laundry facilities in house in their units,” Brunelle said. “I think also it’s kind of a nice thing for them to get out a little bit, you know, just something to do, an errand to run to, to fill up their time.” Some senior customers also use White Glove’s residential cleaning service, Brunelle said, which allows staff to pick up and drop off laundry during regular cleaning visits for those clients. Others rely solely on the laundry service, dropping off items at the Bay Road facility or scheduling a pickup. The business can handle bulk items such as comforters in addition to standard loads, Brunelle said. Brunelle, a five-year U.S. Navy veteran, said he has also been surprised by the number of senior clients using the residential cleaning service for reasons beyond the cleaning itself. “It’s kind of like a companionship,” Brunelle said. “It’s a weekly or every other week checking in with somebody who will chat and listen while they clean.” The laundry facility includes a folding area, several washers and dryers, and a break room for staff. Brunelle said he plans to stock a small library there for employees to enjoy during downtime between loads. White Glove Service currently employs 13 people and is accepting job applications on a limited basis, Brunelle said. The company also remains active in the community, sponsoring local events including a hot dog eating contest at Saints Mary and Alphonsus and a golf tournament benefiting the Tri-County United Way. Brunelle serves as fundraising chair for Cub Scout Pack 6016 and volunteers with Kiwanis. He and his family are also foster parents for respite care. Those interested in the laundry service or White Glove’s cleaning offerings can find more information at 518wgjs.com, where customers can fill out a form describing their needs.

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10 • GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • AUGUST 2026

Glens Falls Restaurants Dining & Nightlife Guide Welcome to the Glens Falls Region Dining & Nightlife Guide! With so many great restaurants, Glens Falls NY dining is a not-to-be-missed experience! Search for cafes, coffee shops, bakeries, lunch spots, nightlife spots, restaurants offering nearly every type of cuisine, and more. Looking for casual dining in Queensbury? Check! To-die-for cafe treats? Check! Restaurants serving fresh and delicious seafood in Glens Falls? Check! MORGAN & CO. RESTAURANT 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! Described as “comfort food with a Mediterranean-Bohemian flair,” Morgan & Co. offers a mouthwatering menu with options for every palate. Explore their unique flavors and see why this cozy establishment won OpenTable's Diners' Choice Award in 2017. PEPPERMILL FAMILY RESTAURANT Classic American Comfort Food in South Glens Falls For more than 35 years, the Peppermill has been serving up affordable family dining, hearty American comfort foods, and excellent service in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, dinner, or daily specials, guests return again and again for the generous portions and warm hospitality. Beer, wine, and mimosas are also available to complement your meal. They're proud to be a place where multiple generations, family celebrations, and special moments are shared. With a family-friendly ambience, large parking area, and wheelchairaccessible entrance, everyone feels at home. Reservations are accepted for parties of five or more. Guests to the Peppermill love the restaurant for the friendly team that treats diners like family, the prompt service and the fact that they don't try to rush you out, and the cozy, diner-style vibes. MINT Fresh, Local & Delicious Mint specializes in high-quality, grass-fed meats and wild-caught seafood, but you'll find anything from beet burgers to a winter roots

pasta on their robust menu. Plenty of options are available for vegetarians, vegans, and those who are gluten free. Because Mint sources from local producers whenever possible, the menu is subject to change with the seasons and what's currently available. They also offer a variety of craft cocktails and elixirs (mocktails). Enjoy a meal inside the inviting restaurant, or dine outdoors in warm weather on their spacious patio. PARK 26 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. Experience Downtown Dining at it’s best at the newly renovated Park 26 in downtown Glens Falls. Park 26 features locally inspired American cuisine served in a comfortable but elegant setting. Breakfast and lunch are served daily and dinner is served Wednesday – Saturday. From rehearsal dinners to birthday celebrations, Park 26 can also help host your next special event. Plus, enjoy piano and jazz entertainment Thursday-Saturday nights before or after dinner! FENIMORE'S PUB Fenimore's Pub in the heart of downtown Glens Falls is open daily for lunch and dinner. Fenimore's Pub (located within The Queensbury Hotel) is at the corner of Ridge and Maple Street and offers 180 degree views of downtown Glens Falls and City Park. Enjoy local brews, specialty cocktails and a Gastro Pub menu with weekly entertainment and live music. PLUS outdoor dining on the Patio & Courtyard! Courtesy GlenFalls.com

730 Upper Glen Street Queensbury NY

Wed - Sat 4:30 - 9pm Reservations recommended

Started back in 2004 by Jack Gates, former manager of the Red Coach Grill/Coachman Restaurant and his two sons David & Christian. Currently in it’s 22nd year of good food, old fashioned service with a smile and attention to details.

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SERVING THE FINEST CUTS OF MEAT & FRESH SEAFOOD

(518) 798-1797

www.jacksamericanbistrony.com

GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • AUGUST 2026 • 11

Lake George Tourism Continued From Page 1

Lake George have partnered to book a variety of top-flight talent in addition to popular local bands and musicians. “This is a dream come true, a generational project that’s going to be around for 50, 100 years,” Mayor Ray Perryt said. “I’m very excited about the way it came out. We’re going to be able to draw a higher level of talent. At the same time I want to retain our original people who got us here, like Stony Creek Band.” The facility has potential for year-round use for events such as Winter Carnival, too, he said. Perry said increased parking meter revenue and more water and wastewater use indicate that more people are visiting Lake George this summer. “And Canadians are back for sure,” he said. “I’ve seen more Canadian license plates than I’ve seen for two years.” The performance stage opening was attended by a variety of local and state officials who cited its economic impact potential and fasttracked construction. “Oftentimes government doesn’t move as quickly as people would like,” said Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, D-Bronx. “This was a tremendous job. What a nice way to give back to the people of Lake George.” “From a business perspective, it’s a great amenity for our guests,” said Holiday Inn owner Vincent Crocitto, who’s also town supervisor. “This is something our guests will enjoy for years to come. They always look forward to Shepard Park. It’s really the center of the village and the community.” Assemblyman Matt Simpson, R-Horicon, said, “Lake George is one of New York’s greatest treasures. Each year countless people from around the world and across the nation come here, creating jobs and supporting the North

Country economy. While buildings can be lost, the memories they create and the people who cherish them will always endure.” Jim Siplon, Warren County Economic Development Corporation president, said he’s not the least bit surprised at this summer’s strong tourism, following last year’s somewhat soft season. “That sector is remarkably resilient,” he said. “We have a great reputation here. The opportunity for us is to figure out how to produce even more value out of it.” “We continue to work, looking for ways to expand the tourist season in Lake George and other places such as North Creek, a traditional winter market that’s becoming increasingly popular in summer,” he said. “Thousands of people go rafting, tubing and take Revolution Rail bike rides each year. When we add ORDA’s new zip coaster it will be even more of a summer destination.” The mountainside thrill ride is scheduled for completion this fall or next spring. But Mintzer pointed out that the 2026 season is far from over. Upcoming events such as the Adirondack Nationals Car Show (Sept. 10-13) and Jazz at the Lake (Sept. 18-20) bring huge throngs to Lake George, and Mintzer said the village might once again host a “moon glow” during the Adirondack Balloon Festival (Sept. 17-20). This is followed by the World’s Largest Garage Sale in Warrensburg (Oct. 3-5), Lake George Oktoberfest (Oct. 9-11) and Harvest Fest at Gore Mountain (Oct. 10-11). Mintzer said the Warren County Tourism Department is planning a summit in late October, bringing together government, tourism business owners and related stakeholders to assess the 2026 season and begin making plans for next year.

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Investment Risk Continued From Page 8

As you near retirement, your portfolio may shift toward a more even mix of stocks and bonds to limit exposure to large market swings. The goal is to protect what you’ve built while still generating enough growth to fund a retirement that could last decades. Investing well isn’t about eliminating risk; it’s about taking the right amount of it. Too little risk can be just as damaging as too much. A financial advisor can help you find the balance that matches your comfort level, your financial situation and your

long-term goals. Investors should understand the risks involved with owning investments, including interest rate risk, credit risk and market risk. The value of investments fluctuates and investors can lose some or all of their principal. ## This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC

Regional Investment

Elsewhere, GlobalFoundries recently named a new general manager for Fab 8, and new capital investment has been under way at the Malta-Stillwater site for the past 18 months. Also, $300 million under the federal Chips and Science Act will expand GlobalFoundries’ development of photonic semiconductor chips, critical to the future of AI and high-performance computing. “We are also working daily under nondisclosure agreements with several companies and capital investors on projects contemplated in Saratoga County, all focused on our major economic development sectors,” said Greg Connors, Saratoga Economic Development Corporation president. The study was prepared for SEDC by Camoin Associates and considered the direct, indirect and induced impacts of 54 projects approved by Saratoga County Industrial Development Agency, Clifton Park IDA and Mechanicville-Stillwater IDA. Other 2025 highlights included county IDA approval of 146 Marketplace, a 20acre mixed-use, neo-traditional project in Halfmoon featuring retail, office and restaurant space alongside 328 workforce-priced apartment units; and construction of a new 125,000-square-foot beverage distribution center in Halfmoon for the largest independent Coca-Cola bottler in the U.S. Also, Clifton Park IDA approved 26 Woods Road DCG, composed of three speculative flex office-warehouse buildings totaling 57,360 square feet just east of Northway Exit 10. Buildings range from 7,200 to 26,400 square feet.

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see how it unfolds.” In Saratoga County, a five-year (2020-25) study identified 54 approved projects representing $2.9 billion in private investment that created or retained more than 5,100 jobs. Most recently, the city of Saratoga Springs granted Phase 1 site plan approval for Regeneron’s $2 billion project at Grande Industrial Park. The Tarrytown-based fi rm, a global biotechnology leader, is converting the former Quad/Graphics plant at 56 Duplainville Road into a major drug manufacturing facility. Primary contractors are Munter Enterprises of Middle Grove, building out the industrial park workspace; and Wainschaf Associates, a Rensselaer-based construction fi rm handling portions of the massive site overhaul. The more than 1 million-square-foot facility is scheduled for completion in June 2033, creating 1,000 new full-time jobs in addition to employment for 500 design and construction workers. The project will more than double Regeneron’s manufacturing capacity in the state and represents the latest in a series of major life sciences investments across New York, reinforcing the state’s position as a national leader in pharmaceutical innovation and manufacturing.

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GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL

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12 • GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL • AUGUST 2026 Artist Christopher Smith of West Rupert, you’ll see kids heading inside to roll up their The Hyde Collection Strengthens Warren Vermont, said he visits The Hyde several times sleeves, to get messy and have an art-making sometimes combining trips with a experience with an art educator.” County’s Tourism And Creative Economy aThyear, under hockey game and a stop at Spot Cof“You’re going to see artists honing their craft

C.L. Elias is one of over 30 artists who took part in the inaugural Glens Falls Plein Air Festival hosted by The Hyde Collection, a major contributor to Warren County’s economy. BY PAUL POST Tourism drives about one-third of Warren County’s economy and one of its most important, often-overlooked contributors is The Hyde Collection, a world-class art museum featuring the likes of Rembrandt, Picasso and Degas. Hundreds of people turned out recently to view paintings created by more than two dozen participants in the inaugural Glens Falls Plein Air Festival. “It supports the local economy and arts district here,” said artist Fred Holman of Brant Lake. “We come down here and stay overnight and go out to eat, so that’s part of it. But it also brings people to The Hyde to see its works. Put it together with other things going on and all of a sudden you have a big venue to go to, a destination.” A retired landscape architect, Holman has

Courtesy Paul Post

taken part in numerous plein air festivals in places such as Saranac Lake, Ticonderoga, Keeseville and Canandaigua. Plein air is a French term meaning outside, on location. It’s a style of painting, tied directly to 19th-century French Impressionism, made famous by Claude Monet, who was dedicated to capturing natural light. It’s done entirely outdoors to catch changing sunlight and weather patterns, which can be challenging for artists. The Hyde’s July 27-Aug. 2 event gave artists a chance to paint a variety of scenes, from urban downtown Glens Falls to sites on beautiful Lake George. “I personally love landscapes,” said Anthony Richichi. “I’m right from the Adirondacks so the nature is a really exciting subject. Places like The Hyde and Lake George are world-class locations. It’s a match made in heaven.”

fee on Glen Street. “The Hyde is an incredible resource for folks up here in the North Country,” he said. “It’s always on the radar. My wife and I come to Glens Falls all the time. It’s kind of right in our wheelhouse.” In addition to tourism, The Hyde is the kind of cultural “quality of life” feature that corporate executives consider when deciding where to locate a business. Jim Siplon, Warren County Economic Development Corporation president, said, “Our community is filled with assets that go well beyond what a community like ours would traditionally have. The one that exemplifies that most is The Hyde Collection.” “The combination of world-class art and the organization that supports it and engages the community, is not only one of the treasures of our place, but an economic driver of its own,” he said. The EDC, Hyde Chief Executive Officer John Lefner and museum staff feel so strongly about this that they’ve engaged the entire Warren and Washington counties’ arts community in an initiative called Mosaic, which seeks to promote the industry and raise its profile locally. “The Hyde is the centerpiece because it’s one of the centers of gravity for the cultural and creative economy here,” Siplon said. “We’re in the process of trying to figure out how significant that is. We believe it to be one of the great economic assets of the community. This community and this collection is not only an unusual combination, but a unique combination that we continually have to invest in.” The Hyde is currently pursuing a $5 million fundraising goal for an ambitious project called the Hyde Center for Arts Education. Hoopes House, on the north side of the museum, has been vacant for decades. Suggestions for its use have ranged from a restaurant, hotel and bed-and-breakfast to razing it for more parking. “We’re now at a place financially and programmatically to utilize the building to its best ability – expansion of academic program space,” Lefner said. “When we cut the ribbon,

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in front of you; art historians offering lectures and workshops to the public. What that will hopefully do is break down some of the hesitation and reservations some people, like myself prior to working here, have about fine art. Hopefully that’s going to ignite a lifelong love of art. For those already indoctrinated in fine art, it’s an opportunity for them to make their own art, further their studies and encourage scholarly colleagues to visit The Hyde.” A current exhibit, “Wings and Wilderness: Birds and Landscapes of the Northeast”, runs through Oct. 11, featuring more than 40 paintings, sculptures and works on paper from the Museum of American Bird Art at Mass Audubon in Canton, Massachusetts. Each piece, from John Audubon engravings to Andy Warhol silkscreens, is paired with a landscape painting from The Hyde’s vast collection, by American artists such as Winslow Homer. The exhibit is organized by habitats such as grasslands, water and forests. Presentations about bird calls, bird-watching field trips and nature walks are also planned. Two other exhibits will open this month. “Form and Function: The Beauty of Shaker Designs” (Aug. 22-Jan. 10, 2027) will spark regional interest because of the well-known Shaker Village historic site in Hancock, Massachusetts. Shaker furniture is recognized globally today for its simplicity and elegance. The exhibit also explores who the Shakers were, their beliefs and lifestyle. Also, “Tanya Marcuse: Book of Miracles” (Aug. 15-Jan. 10, 2027) features about 25 works ranging from 10-foot-wide apocalyptic landscape photographs to miniature vignettes of flora and fauna. This fall, The Hyde will present “Scandinavian Home” (Nov. 7-Feb. 28, 2027), the first exhibition to examine the entangled notions of home and homeland that were central to the art and material culture of Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland in the second half of the 19th century. For more information, go to hydecollection. org.

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