Tech, Manufacturing, And Small Business Growth Drive Saratoga And Warren County Development
BY PAUL POST
Technology, spurred by GlobalFoundries’ massive complex at Luther Forest Technology Campus, is at the forefront of Saratoga County’s economic development.
“But there’s also the supply chain that supports advanced manufacturing,” said Greg Connors, Saratoga Economic Development Corporation president. “And life sciences, healthcare facilities, light manufacturing, distribution and logistics are all very much in high demand here. There is a level of uncertainty with respect to making one’s next investment, not just here, but throughout the nation. The economy isn’t as robust as we’d like and there’s investor uncertainty in the marketplace.”
“But I’m a glass half full individual, I’m very optimistic about the economic future here in Saratoga County,” he said. “We’re ready to help anybody who’s ready to make an investment.”
More than a dozen prime, shovel-ready development sites are available in the county, a combination of industrial property, raw land and existing buildings.
“It depends on the particular investor and their timeline,” Connors said. “If they’re interested in a greenfield site, there’s an aggressive regulatory review process in every municipality that adds time to a project. If more interested in getting started as soon as possible, they’d probably be directed to an existing building. There are many listed for sale throughout the county and region.”
A Center for Economic Growth map (viewer.mapme.com/Albany) shows all types of development sites in the Capital Region.
Through August 31, SEDC had enabled more than $275 million in new investment in Saratoga County this year alone.
“That investment contemplates the creation of approximately 500 full-time job opportunities, approximately 225 retained jobs and the creation of hundreds of temporary construction jobs,” Connors said. “That’s not just opti-
New York’s ‘Two-Apple Season’ Delivers Exceptional Flavor And Strong Yields
mism, but evidence of a great time to invest in Saratoga County.”
Greenfield-based Munter Enterprises owns several parcels in WJ Grande Industrial Park in Saratoga Springs, ranging in size with the largest about 15 acres. All parcels have access to major utilities such as water, sewer, gas and electric.
“We try to attract companies that require a large utility load due to the existing utility structure capacity, so that typically leans towards manufacturing,” said Mike Munter, the firm’s vice president. “We have steady interest and some inquiries that are presently in the process of analysis. We are well into the process of obtaining planning board approvals for a 120,000-square-foot spec industrial building on a 12-acre site on Skyward Drive in the park.”
Continued On Page 8
Empire State University Expands Military Grant Program to Include Veteran Spouses
Empire State University announced a significant expansion of its military grant program, extending comprehensive educational benefits to veterans’ spouses for the first time. Beginning fall 2025, undergraduate military spouses of active-duty personnel, National Guard and Reserve members, and veterans are eligible for a military grant that aligns tuition with the in-state rate of $295 per credit hour and provides the same covered fees previously available only to service members.
The expansion represents an evolution of SUNY Empire’s military support initiatives. Originally limited to spouses of active-duty, Guard, and Reserve personnel, the 2020 program now expands to include veteran spouses and adds coverage for the Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) fee—providing more complete financial support for military families pursuing higher education.
“This expansion for veteran spouses reflects SUNY Empire’s commitment to serving military families—removing financial barriers and empowering active duty, Guard, Reserve, and veteran members, along with their spouses, to achieve their educational goals,” says Desiree Drindak, SUNY Empire’s Veteran and Military Resource Center director.
The grant program requires verification of military affiliation.
SUNY Empire has long provided comprehensive support to military-affiliated students and serves more such students than any other campus in the 64-institution SUNY system. Nearly 20% of all SUNY degrees granted to military-affiliated students come from SUNY Empire.
Beyond financial coverage, SUNY Empire has built support systems designed for military families.
The university’s online format accommodates challenges such as irregular schedules, deployment separations, and frequent moves.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, military spouses face a 21% unemployment rate—six times the civilian rate—and often struggle to maintain career continuity due to relocations and lack of childcare. SUNY Empire’s online programs allow spouses to continue their education regardless of where assignments take their families.
With the Fall 2025 expansion, SUNY Empire’s military grant program—funded with institutional support—now offers:
• In-state tuition rate of $295 per credit hour for undergraduate military spouses
• Tuition for active-duty, Guard, Reserve, and veteran students aligned with the Department of Defense Tuition Assistance limit of $250 per credit hour
• Covered fees including the Credit for Prior Learning fee
• Eligibility extended to active-duty personnel, National Guard members, Reserve personnel, veterans, and all their spouses
The program reinforces SUNY Empire’s broader commitment to accessible, flexible, high-quality education.
“The expansion represents enhanced benefits and recognition of military spouses as essential partners in military service,” said Drindak. “They deserve educational opportunities that support their aspirations.”
BY PAUL POST
Industry leaders call it a two apple season.
“The color and flavor this year are phenomenal, where if you have one apple it’s so good you immediately reach for another one,” said Cynthia Haskins, New York Apple Association president. “If you haven’t tried a new crop apple yet, go out and buy some. They really are good.”
New York is the nation’s second-leading apple producer, surpassed only by Washington state; a $2.1 billion industry that supports nearly 12,000 jobs, a Cornell study says.
The impact is especially important to rural small towns and hamlets where farms are located, as there are 150 you-pick destinations that draw huge crowds on autumn weekends. Visitors quite often patronize other small business, too, such as retail shops and convenience stores during fun
family outings.
A recent Warrensburg Apple Festival gave a variety of local vendors a chance to market their products in this Adirondack town.
In Argyle, Washington County, McWhorter’s Orchard owner Mel McWhorter said, “We’re very, very busy. We’ve got a lot of activity. Traffic through the building here is very good. Ninety percent of our business is from Warren and Washington counties, but I always look at the address when people pay with checks. We get customers from Crown Point to the Schoharie Valley and some from Poultney, Vt.” Bowman Orchards in Rexford, southern Saratoga County, is a full-fledged agritourism destination featuring a “Stalked: Haunted Corn Maze” and extensive children’s play area with
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“Find Me in Saratoga” Leaves Kids (And Grown-ups) “Quacking Up” With Laughter
Saratoga resident and author, Patrice Mastrianni, has released “Find Me in Saratoga, Inspired by the Early History, Mystery, and Folklore of Saratoga Springs, NY.” The book was written for children ages ten and up but also receives rave reviews from adults. “Find Me in Saratoga” explains how Native residents shared their sacred mineral springs with European settlers in the 1700’s. This prompted early explorers and many of America’s founding fathers to visit the area. The old-style illustrations by artist David F. Globerson, paint a picture of how spring water and grand hotels attracted thousands of visitors to what would become the world’s most popular health resort.
The author employs two endearing residents of beautiful Congress Park to share the story of Saratoga Springs. A mallard duck named Henry provides historical “facts” while a sassy squirrel named Miles, adds colorful tales of folklore, untimely deaths, and ghosts!
Just as early resort visitors sipped and bathed in the mineral waters of Saratoga, readers can soak up the past while looking for historical sites using the “Find Me in Saratoga” map located at the back of the book. Waddling from springs to statues to graveyards makes this book a real learning adventure.
“I was unable to find a book about Saratoga’s fascinating history for my grandsons, so I decided to write one myself.” Says Ms. Mastrianni. “I have taught Art to children for years and know that a good story will hold a child’s attention.”
Using compassion and humor, she describes the
struggles and bravery of Saratoga’s early settlers.
“I hope this book helps residents and visitors of all ages appreciate what went into creating Saratoga Springs.”
With the support of a Community Arts Grant through Saratoga Arts, Discover Saratoga and Saratoga Springs Publishing, the author and illustrator have created an entertaining and informative book. visit www.FindMeInSaratoga.com.
Cover of “Find Me in Saratoga,” a humorous and historical children’s book by Patrice Mastrianni.
Courtesy Patrice Mastrianni
Rows of ripening apples at a New York orchard reflect what growers call a “two-apple season,” marked by exceptional color, flavor, and strong yields across the state.
Munter Enterprises owns WJ Grande Industrial Park in Saratoga Springs has parcels up to 15 acres.
Courtesy Munter Enterprises
Personnel Briefs
Roohan Realty is thrilled to announce that Alicia Griffin has joined the team as a Licensed Real Estate Salesperson. With several years of experience serving buyers and sellers in the Saratoga region, she brings a unique blend of market knowledge, renovation insight, and client-focused service to Roohan Realty.
A full-time REALTOR®, Alicia specializes in buyer and seller representation, first-time homebuyers, home staging, and interior design. Her real estate background includes renovating and selling eight homes with an impressive average profit margin of 38%. In addition, she owns and manages an investment rental property, giving her firsthand experience in both the investment and residential sides of real estate.
Before entering the real estate industry, Alicia spent more than 13 years as a chef and manager in Saratoga Springs. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America, earning a Wedding Cake Certification, and completed a Pastry Certificate at Schenectady Community College. This creative foundation now enhances her ability to stage and present homes in their best light, helping clients achieve maximum results.
“Real estate is not just about buying and selling homes—it’s about helping people create a space that truly fits their life,” says Alicia. “I’m excited to continue serving clients in the Saratoga area with the support of Roohan Realty.”
Discover Saratoga is pleased to announce two recent additions to its growing team: Heather LaFountain as Office Manager & Member Services and Terese
Russell as Advertising & Sponsorship Specialist. Both bring extensive experience and a deep commitment to serving the Saratoga community and its vibrant tourism industry.
Heather LaFountain joins Discover Saratoga with more than 20 years of experience in customer service, sales, and relationship building. Her professional background includes roles as a Health and Wellness Coach, Community Relations Manager, and a decade as the owner of Saratoga Bootcamp. A graduate of Castleton University with a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, Heather has lived and worked in the Saratoga region for over 30 years. In her new role, she looks forward to connecting with members and visitors while supporting the organization’s mission.
Terese Russell brings 15 years of experience in advertising, marketing, and business development to her new role at Discover Saratoga. Most recently, she worked in Napa, California, where she promoted the hospitality industry and collaborated with Visit Napa Valley and Visit California to highlight regional tourism attractions. Locally, Terese has applied her expertise at the Saratoga Automobile Museum, Saratoga Living, and Bright Sighted Studios, specializing in sponsorships, business development, and member engagement. At Discover Saratoga, she is eager to help businesses thrive, foster meaningful community connections, and maximize the value of membership through advertising and sponsorship opportunities.
“We are thrilled to welcome Heather and Terese to the Discover Saratoga team,” said Darryl Leggieri, President of Discover Saratoga. “Their extensive experience, combined with their passion for building relationships and supporting our mem-
AUTUMN GIVING MATCH CAMPAIGN
bers, will further strengthen our ability to promote Saratoga County as a top destination for visitors and events.”
For more information about Discover Saratoga and its team, visit www.discoversaratoga.org.
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Empire State University is pleased to announce the appointment of Greg Connors , president and CEO at Saratoga Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) to its University Council. The appointment was made by New York State Governor Kathy Hochul.
Connors has a distinguished career spanning nearly five decades in real estate, economic development, and community and government relations. In August 2023, Connors was appointed president and CEO of the SEDC. His career highlights include a decade of leadership at GlobalFoundries’ Office of Government Relations and his tenure as town and county supervisor for Stillwater. There, he co-authored legislation that established the Luther Forest Technology Campus, now home to GlobalFoundries Fab 8. Connors also authored the only municipal tax revenue sharing agreement in New York state.
“I am honored to join SUNY Empire’s University Council and look forward to collaborating with its dedicated group of leaders,” said Connors. “I believe strongly in the power of education to create opportunities and drive economic growth, and I am excited to learn from and contribute to SUNY Empire’s ability to do both.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Greg Connors to our University Council,” said SUNY Empire President Lisa Vollendorf. “His leadership and extensive expertise in government and economic development will be incredibly valuable as we work to strengthen the workforce and communities across the state by providing affordable, flexible, and high-quality education to learners of all ages.”
for Key Private Bank in the Capital Region, leading a team of relationship and portfolio managers, planners, and strategists.
Alessi previously led the Capital Region market for Key Private Bank and earlier worked with TIAA-CREF in Latham. Miles joined Key in 2016, became a senior relationship manager in 2020, and serves on executive boards for the American Red Cross and Mohawk Hudson Humane Society.
“These promotions are well earned,” said Capital Region Market President Erica Choi.
Alliance180, a nonprofit serving veterans, first responders and healthcare workers through equine-assisted programs, has appointed Jason Collins as strategic support director. A U.S. Navy veteran and former board advisor, Collins began his new role in August.
He first experienced the program’s impact after being introduced to it by cofounder Bob Nevins while seeking help for PTSD. “This organization changed my life,” he said. “It gave me the tools to heal and reconnect.”
Collins, who holds a psychology degree earned through the Post-9/11 GI Bill, has worked in veteran and family services. Founded by Nevins and Melody Squier, Alliance180 provides no-cost, science-based equine programs for trauma recovery. Learn more at www.alliance180.org.
The Alzheimer’s Association Northeastern New York Chapter has appointed Stefanie Bastien as executive director. She succeeds Beth Smith-Boivin, who led the chapter for 13 years and will continue with the Association in a statewide role.
Bastien has over a decade of experience with the chapter, most recently serving as director of development. She also worked as director of development and communications at Unity House of Troy.
KeyBank has announced two leadership promotions in its Capital Region. Andrew Alessi has been named regional director of Wealth and Estate Planning, overseeing teams across New York, New England, Eastern Pennsylvania, and Florida. Vince Miles has been appointed market leader
Her commitment to the mission became personal when her grandfather was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and her mother became his caregiver. Bastien said she is dedicated to building on progress for the 426,500 New Yorkers living with the disease. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Russell Sage College.
Clifton Park Family Opens The Little Gym, Movement, Music, And Memories
Eric and Amanda Stockholm, parents of two and longtime Clifton Park residents, recently held a grand opening celebration for The Little Gym of Clifton Park, a franchise under the Unleashed Brands umbrella.
The couple, both passionate about education, athletics, and family, turned their shared interests into a business designed to help children grow through movement and music. The Little Gym offers gymnastics-based programs for children ages four months to 12 years, focused on physical development, confidence building, and parentchild bonding.
“Gymnastics was my first love,” said Amanda, a former Division I tennis player and academic advisor. “As a working mom, I wanted something structured that both my child and I could look forward to—and I
found that in The Little Gym.”
Eric, a Shenendehowa graduate with a master’s in teaching, said their combined backgrounds in coaching, education, and athletics made the venture a natural fit. “With my experience in youth sports and Amanda’s in gymnastics and academics, it felt like the perfect blend of our passions,” he said.
Located at 54 Crossing Blvd. in Kohl’s Plaza, The Little Gym of Clifton Park offers weekly classes, birthday parties, seasonal camps, and “Parent Survival Nights.” The Stockholms’ mission is to create a joyful, safe, and inclusive space where local children can explore, learn, and grow.
Enrollment for fall classes is now open. For details or to schedule a free introductory class, visit thelittlegym.com/new-yorkclifton-park
Allerdice Building Supply Donates $10,560 To Kelly’s Angels Over Two Years
Allerdice Building Supply proudly presented a donation of $5,585.00 to Kelly’s Angels, an organization dedicated to helping children who have lost a parent or sibling to cancer or other illness. This generous donation, representing 100% of the proceeds from Allerdice Building Supply’s annual golf outing, was presented during a check ceremony at Allerdice Ace Hardware’s Malta location.
This marks the second consecutive year that Allerdice has supported Kelly’s Angels, bringing the two-year total raised to $10,560.00 in donations to the nonprofit.
The check was accepted by Mark Mulholland, founder of Kelly’s Angels, who created the organization in honor of his late wife, Kelly. The nonprofit provides financial assistance and unique “Fun Grants” to children who have lost a parent or sibling, allowing them to experience moments of joy during difficult times.
“We are deeply honored to support Kelly’s Angels,” said Don Cox, Outside Sales Associate for Allerdice Ace Building Supply. “Our annual golf outing is a tradition that not only brings our community together but also allows us to give back in a meaningful way. We believe in the incredible work that Kelly’s Angels is doing and are proud to contribute to their mission.”
The annual golf outing, held on Thursday, July 31st, saw enthusiastic participation from many brand representatives of Allerdice Building Supply. The event included a day of golf, dinner, and raffles, all contributing to the funds raised for this worthy cause.
Allerdice Building Supply remains committed to being an active and responsible member of the Saratoga Springs community. By supporting organizations like Kelly’s Angels, the company strives to make a lasting difference in the lives of local families and children.
Eric and Amanda Stockholm celebrate the opening of The Little Gym of Clifton Park, offering gymnastics-based programs that help children build confidence, coordination, and fun memories. Saratoga Business Journal
Don Cox of Allerdice Building Supply presents a donation to Kelly’s Angels founder Mark Mulholland, supporting children who have lost a parent or sibling through the nonprofit’s Fun Grants program. Courtesy Kelly's Angels
Giant Pumpkins Steal The Show At Saratoga’s 10th Annual Pumpkinfest
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BY PAUL POST
Wayne Seelow expects to get up to $1.50 per pound for the three giant pumpkins he raised, weighing more than 1,000 pounds each.
That’s a pretty good return, but his real payoff is the smiles they put on children’s faces.
“We have an open house every year,” said Seelow, of Edinburg, Saratoga County. “I do it for the kids. They love it.”
He was among the growers from New York, Vermont, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania taking part in the 10th annual Saratoga Giant Pumpkinfest on Saturday, Sept. 27. Hundreds of people turned out on the unseasonably mild, early autumn day to join the fun and watch entries tip the scales.
“It can get pretty dramatic when the last few are weighed,” said Andy Wolf, New York State Giant Pumpkin Growers Association president. “This is very entertaining, especially when it comes down to the last few pumpkins that are separated by not very much.”
The $2,000 grand prize winner was Larry Masters, of East Nassau, whose huge pumpkin weighed in at 2,212.5 pounds. A total of $7,000 was awarded to first-, second- and third-place finishers in five different categories – giant pumpkins, field pumpkins, gourds, watermelon and giant tomatoes.
Look at the people out there,” Seelow said. “We’ve got people from all over the place. This is what it’s all about.”
Pumpkinfest was held on High Rock Avenue, just down the street from the busy Saratoga Farmer’s Market. Huge throngs went back and forth between the two venues, giving a welcome boost to the Spa City’s already vibrant downtown.
Agriculture is a major contributor to Saratoga County’s economy, especially in autumn with numerous family-oriented activities such as apple picking, corn mazes and children’s attractions at places such as Ellms Family Farm in Ballston Spa and Bowman Orchards in Rexford.
“Agritourism together with the equine industry are vital components of the Saratoga County economy,” said Greg Connors, Saratoga Economic Development Corporation president. “The Saratoga County Chamber and Discover Saratoga deserve a lot of credit for their focus on those economic sectors not typically associated with economic development. One of the many major attractions of Saratoga County both nationally and internationally is that we are a diverse and four-season economy.”
A recent report commissioned by SEDC says
more than 10 percent of the jobs created in Saratoga County, over $50 million in earnings and $210 million in sales are generated by the agriculture and equine sectors. “It’s important to note that for this analysis, the equine industry does not include the economic impact contributed by Saratoga Race Course,” Connors said.
Now that the Pumpkinfest competition is over, Seelow expects to sell his entries to a garden center in Maryland, which uses them to attract customers each fall.
While they fetch a good price, raising giant pumpkins can also be a time-consuming and costly venture. People don’t realize it costs $1,500 to $2,000 a year to grow these,” he said. “Two-and-ahalf gallons of fertilizer can run you two hundredand-some bucks.”
“You don’t buy these seeds in a store,” he said. “I go to auctions during the winter and buy off other folks. Sometimes I do keep my own.”
Seelow plants seeds in April, with visions of a bountiful fall harvest.
“I’ve got a little greenhouse,” he said. “Then I try to get plants in the ground the first or second weekend of May. It all depends on the weather. This year it was horrible, cold and wet. I didn’t put mine in until the third week of May because it was so wet.”
Giant pumpkins are so big that they have to be picked up with a forklift and transported on trailers.
“You can have white ones, orange ones, kind of orange and green,” Seelow said. “It’s all in the seed, it’s all in the genetics.”
After months of tender loving care, the huge gourds become almost like part of the family. “A lot of people name their pumpkins,” he said. “Like that one over there is Marylou.”
Growers are a pretty tight-knit community, with lots of good-natured camaraderie even during weigh-offs. But newcomers are more than welcome to join the fun and keep the hobby alive.
Saratoga Giant Pumpkinfest is one of many such events held throughout the U.S., Canada and Europe to determine the world’s largest pumpkin each year. Results from each competition are tabulated and may be found online at websites such as www. bigpumpkin.com and www.gpc1.org.
If you’re thinking about getting involved, though, Seeley offers a word of caution.
“There’s a lot of work into growing these,” he said. “If you’re married don’t grow ’em because you’ll be divorced!”
Falls, NY
Wayne Seelow of Edinburg shows one of the 1,000-pound pumpkins he grew for Saratoga’s 10th Annual Giant Pumpkinfest, where growers from across the Northeast competed for top honors and big prizes.
Courtesy Saratoga Giant Pumpkinfest
Innovation Center At Saratoga Opens To Support Makers, Entrepreneurs, And Artists
BY SUSAN ELISE CAMPBELL
Five years in the making, The Innovation Center at Saratoga is now open and fi lling a gap in the market for workspace and collaboration opportunities for entrepreneurs, artists, inventors, and hobbyists, according to Beth Moeller, the non-profit’s president and founder.
“They all work in silos,” she said. “But working together, ideas come out and good things happen.”
Moeller, an entrepreneur and media consultant for 30 years, conceived the idea of a resource for developing businesses and creative expressions. It allows members to use its makerspace, or open community work areas, and equipment that Moeller and her volunteers have been very successful in acquiring, she said.
As important, it is a place to share ideas. Moeller is the owner of Interactive Media Consulting, helping artists and entrepreneurs learn through collaboration to develop ideas and reach their goals. She has also coached for Odyssey of the Mind, working with students to solve problems and teaching them how to use equipment to do a project.
“You can teach someone to use a saw, but you can’t cut the wood,” she said.
At the Innovation Center, staff instruct how to use the equipment and members pay for materials as they use them. Th is allows inventors to prototype their creations and provides help in the early stages of bringing products to market, Moeller said.
"The 11,000-square-foot facility has a computer lab with all the soft ware you need, including 3D optic modeling and open source and non-open source soft ware available for graphic design,” she said.
There are four high-quality 3D printers and two or more are on the way, she said. There will be a large printer that can print multiple formats, from stickers to banners, on fabric or vinyl up to 52 inches wide. There is a large textile area with six floor looms, sewing machines and sergers, a large cutting table, and an industrial sewing machine for use with canvas and leather. The woodshop has a variety of saws, computer controlled router and laser cutter, hand tools, and much more.
“The electronics area has soldering stations and every piece of equipment you would need to design an electrical circuit and prototype it,” Moeller said. “We have applied for a grant to build out a photography studio and we have a room suitable for a darkroom, plus
the opportunity to take a class on how to use a darkroom.”
“Film is making a comeback,” she said. “Photography may be a fun hobby or a career pursuit, but why invest in all the equipment when the Innovation Center has it.”
Community education is something Moeller is passionate about and integral to her concept for the non-profit.
“We provide the tools, the classes, the guidance, and mentorship to teach people how to use them for whatever their project may be,” she said.
There are courses to help hone presentation skills, scout badge programs, homeschool and after school programs, STEAM programs, summer camps, and the curriculum that fosters business growth and development.
“Our business series includes classes on business plans, marketing, and skills the individual did not have when they started but needs now in the early stages,” she said. “After the series is completed, students are paired with a SCORE mentor who will help form a business plan each student presents to the others.”
The center is looking for sponsors specifically for this series to help with seed money for their businesses, she said.
Moeller said the bulk of revenue comes from memberships, class fees, and office space rentals. As a 501(c)(3) organization, the Innovation Center also depends on grants and on donations and gift s from the community, which has been “very generous.”
“One anonymous donor has pledged up to $500,000 as a dollar-for-dollar match,” she said.
She said there have been donations of equipment and furniture, and “corporate sponsorships are in the talking phase. Local businesses like Gloversville Sewing Center have donated some machines and given us discounts on others.
Staff and volunteers scour Facebook Marketplace and other free resources for items to use or keep for parts, she said. The previous tenant left behind some $100,000 worth of office furniture, a phone system, security system, and more. Someone donated a leather living room set where people can sit and talk about what projects they are doing and share ideas.
“Collaboration happens organically,” said Moeller.
Continued On Page 15
Saratoga Regional YMCA
The Saratoga Regional YMCA Board of Directors has announced the appointment of Allison D’Antonio as the organization’s new Chief Executive Officer. A seasoned YMCA leader with nearly 15 years of experience across multiple sectors of the organization, Ms. D’Antonio brings unmatched expertise and a proven record of impact at a critical time for the SRYMCA’s expansion.
Since joining the Saratoga Regional YMCA in 2017, D’Antonio has served in several key leadership positions, including Vice President of Operations and, most recently, Interim CEO. In these roles, she has advanced major operational improvements, strengthened member and staff experiences, and guided the organization through a period of significant transition and growth.
“Allison’s deep understanding of the YMCA mission and her proven leadership across multiple areas of our organization make her the ideal person to lead us into the future,” said Scott M. Peterson, Chair of the Saratoga Regional YMCA Board of Directors. “This is an exciting time of growth for the SRYMCA, and we are confident in Allison’s ability to expand our reach and deepen our impact across the region.”
“It’s a tremendous honor to serve as CEO of the Saratoga Regional YMCA,” said Allison D’Antonio. “The Y has been at the center of my professional and personal life for many years, and I’ve seen firsthand the impact it makes in the lives of families across our region. Now, more than ever, we are working to ensure that the SRYMCA continues to serve as a bedrock of the community where people of all ages and backgrounds come together for connection and movement. I’m excited to lead our incredible team of dedicated employees and execute on our mission to grow our reach even further.”
D’Antonio’s YMCA career extends well beyond Saratoga. She previously held roles with the Capital District YMCA and the Alliance of New York State YMCAs, where she directed the statewide healthy living portfolio. Her expertise spans operations, childcare, fundraising, facilities, membership, and health and wellness —
giving her a comprehensive perspective on how to strengthen the Y’s impact in the communities it serves.
Her appointment also marks a historic milestone as the first woman to lead the Saratoga Regional YMCA. This transition comes at a pivotal moment for the Y, which has recently acquired the Glens Falls YMCA and is preparing to launch expanded programming and capital improvements.
Deeply rooted in the community she now leads, D’Antonio lives in Saratoga Springs with her husband, Ryan, and their three children, Will, Ben, and Brooke. As both a YMCA professional and parent, she brings not only experience but also a personal commitment to ensuring the Y continues to serve families with excellence.
The Saratoga Regional YMCA looks forward to building on its strong foundation and achieving new levels of growth and innovation under D’Antonio’s leadership.
A creative workspace inside the new Innovation Center at Saratoga encourages collaboration among artists, entrepreneurs, and makers through shared tools, classes, and community programs.
Center
George Owner
Allison D’Antonio has been named chief executive officer of the Saratoga Regional YMCA. Courtesy YMCA
Entrepreneurial Women
New Salon Uses Non-Toxic Products Th at Help Clients Get Healthier Hair
BY SUSAN ELISE CAMPBELL
With a name like Consciously Curly Salon, there is little question which market Logan Spring is targeting for her new hair studio at 123 Dunning Street in Malta.
Not all curls are the same. Ninety-seven percent of people have some curl or wave in their hair, Spring said. She tells clients to respect their hair’s natural texture and not hide or change it using mainstreamed products, as the hair industry wants people to do.
“I am a rebel in the industry,” she said. “Most salons focus on short-term results with typical treatments, but hair becomes less healthy in the long term because of the toxic ingredients most manufacturers use.”
“My clients are people who want sustainable results and healthier hair,” she said. “People keep looking for a magic product, but what they need is a better way to hydrate their hair.”
So many health-conscious women are looking for solutions like these that Spring said that after only eight weeks her appointment book was already fi lled through November.
Spring offers much more than a hair cut. Every experience is an opportunity to educate how nat-ural products can make hair healthier. Her menu of services ranges from a 30-minute color consultation to wash and style with or without a haircut to a 12-week comprehensive master-course online.
She is an MBA and industrial engineer by trade. Her career involved teaching students at nanotechnology schools how to read trade journals, a skill that helped her not only research brands of hair care products, but also teach her viewership how to read product labels.
Then last year, Spring realized that since she started her online business and was cutting her own hair that no one had yet stepped in to fi ll this niche. She went to cosmetology school and then right into salon ownership.
“What happens in the beauty industry is a kind of trap, where you want a little bit more hold or defi nition or a little less tangling,” she said. “But most products are laced with synthetics, pol-ymers, plastics, and oils that coat the hair, giving you a short-term solution just long enough to think the product is working.”
“Actually the product is decimating any chances of your hair being healthy on its own
by blocking out water and keeping the hair in a chronically dehydrated state,” she said. The word “moisture” or “moisturizing” on a label doesn’t mean hydration, but oils and polymers “that cause hair to suffocate.”
Th is is the kind of knowledge “not being taught in cosmetology schools” because training is “driven by product formulations, which focus on making money through temporary results,” she said.
But Spring cares most about hair health, and by extension the health of her clients, than profit. She has partnered with Innersense Organic Beauty, a line of clean shampoos, treatments and styling products that she sells at the salon.
“Th is is the cleanest line of hair products in the world,” she said. Clean ingredients means no preservatives, harmful chemicals, or fragrance.
“Manufacturers are allowed to throw in all kinds of ingredients and call them fragrance, and these might include carcinogens,” she said.
Now Spring is helping people break free from the conventional beauty methods pro-
Jacqueline O’Donnell’s Math Refresh Pioneers Accessible Learning Across
BY ANN DONNELLY
For many, math conjures images of rigid formulas and textbook exercises. Still, for Jacqueline O’Donnell, founder of Math Refresh, it’s a canvas for creativity, mentorship, and a bit of bright pink branding. O’Donnell, who holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations and marketing, is utilizing her unique background to “rebrand math”, making it relevant, engaging, and accessible to students statewide.
Math Refresh, which celebrates its third anniversary in October, is a math education company partnering with New York State-certified teachers to provide highquality educational consulting, STEM programming, and private tutoring. Based in Saratoga, O'Donnell also resides in Glens Falls and is actively expanding her reach throughout the Adirondack region, recently joining the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce.
O’Donnell’s journey to entrepreneurship was sparked by the widespread disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic. She obtained her degree and certification in 2020, and her fi rst teaching assignment involved meeting students in person only twice before instruction moved entirely online.
After spending two years teaching geometry in the classroom, she observed significant academic fallout. "I could see a lot of the learning gaps popping up from the pandemic," O'Donnell explained, noting that students were often missing foundational algebra skills required for higher-level courses.
Recognizing that she could better facilitate change through individualized support, O’Donnell decided to leave the classroom to pursue private tutoring full-time. She built Math Refresh on the foundation of blending her marketing acumen with her teaching expertise.
All tutoring offered by Math Refresh is conducted online, primarily via platforms such as Zoom and Google Meet. Th is virtual model provides much-needed flexibility in meeting times and locations, enabling the company to serve a wide geographic area, with tutors and students connecting from New York City to Saratoga and the Ithaca area.
O’Donnell notes that this format unexpectedly enhances the learning experience. The virtual whiteboard forces students to slow down, communicate their exact steps, and analyze their own work, reinforcing conceptual understanding over simple rote
New York State
memorization.
Crucially, the one-on-one virtual setting fosters a mentorship environment where students feel safe to ask questions—a fear O’Donnell personally experienced as a student. "Working one-on-one helps to create an environment where they feel safe to take those risks with their learning and ask questions," she said.
The company currently employs two additional certified teachers who tutor alongside O’Donnell, ensuring they stay up to date with evolving standards and curriculum. While many parents seek help for students who are struggling, O'Donnell stresses that tutoring is not just for those "failing or on the cusp of failing". She fi nds great success with students in the "low to mid 80s range" who often do not receive extra services in school. She explained: "Those students are the ones that we see the most change with because we’re able to push them up into the 90s range just by giving them a space to be able to comfortably ask questions".
Creative Engagement and Community Reach
Beyond tutoring, O’Donnell has found creative ways to fulfi ll her mission of making math fun. In 2023, she published a children's book, The Ultimate A through Z Math Scavenger Hunt. The book introduces higher-order concepts such as parabolas and logarithms with simple defi nitions, encour-
Logan Spring, owner of Consciously Curly Salon in Malta, styles a client’s hair. Courtesy Consciously Curly
Jacqueline O’Donnell, founder of Math Refresh, is rebranding math education across New York. Courtesy Math Refresh
Hinman Construction Brings Modern Style And Function To Every Home
BY SUSAN ELISE CAMPBELL
Remodeling and renovating a home personalizes spaces while making them more functional, according to Kim Hinman, coowner of Hinman Construction with her husband Jami.
No longer is remodeling only for those who want a kitchen or bathroom update. Even new construction can get a complete makeover.
“We’ve had the remodeling business for 30 years, but what people are screaming for today is to make rooms more functional,” Hinman said. “It becomes a game of inches to maximize the efficiency of the space so it works for them.”
“We have a client whose parents’ house we renovated and who wanted their brand new home totally renovated,” she said. “Everything was white and we changed every room to their taste and needs, even adding a library and storage space.”
Jami Hinman started in the construction field right out of college about 40 years ago. After starting their own construction business, they quickly found they could best use Jami’s building skills and Kim’s design talent by focusing on higher-end home renovations and additions.
Today the couple’s two children are part of the team: daughter Caroline as marketing manager and co-designer and son Jesse as project manager.
“There is a huge need for the kind of company that can handle everything from start to fi nish, which is what we do,” she said.
Clients fi rst meet with Kim and Caroline to design and plan spaces, coordinate components, and set budgets. Th is team consults with the client throughout construction, installation, and completion, Hinman said.
“We have our clients retain us so that they are clear about what the costs and expectations are before signing a construction contract,” she said.
Their approach also differs by planning all cabinetry as custom orders. Ten years ago the Hinmans became a dealer for American furniture manufacturer the Corsey Group for all kitchen and bathroom cabinets, she said.
“We bring the showroom to the client with a few samples and a drawing program that shows clients our designs in 3D,” said Hinman. “The components are all custom manufactured in Indianapolis to our specifications and delivered directly to the project site.”
Bypassing storage reduces the risk of damage as products are moved, she said, adding that in all their years as a dealer there has been very little damage to deliveries.
The fi rm has long-term partnerships and, in some cases—such as Cambria countertops—a dealer arrangement with certain manufacturers and suppliers. These businesses form “a trusted team standing behind our
company,” she said.
Hinman said their design approach is, “let’s make it a better presentation but also add better features and organization. Kitchens are the heart of the house, so let’s give them a Wow factor.”
“Sometimes I’m surprised that at the price point of a new home the kitchen isn’t functioning as it should be,” she said. “We even take walls down in new construction because it’s expensive for builders to change a plan.”
Some trends in kitchen remodeling include changing style from elaborate to simple—or the other way around. People like large freestanding range hoods of mixed materials such as paint and wood or metal fi nishes, she said.
“Hoods are becoming a feature point, but the trick is making sure it vents properly,” she said. “We may have to get creative venting through the floor joists or behind a closet.”
Painted white cabinets are being replaced by oak or wood with a lime wash. Upgrading to walnut is popular too, she said.
Bathrooms are getting a makeover with custom granite or marble.
“People are staying in their homes enjoying low interest rates and accomplishing what they want to do because it makes sense fi nancially,” said Hinman. “I’ve noticed some clients are getting more daring, which makes our job fun.”
Recently, Kim Hinman was invited by Qualified Remodeler Magazine in Chicago to be one of eight to judge this year’s master design awards. She evaluated before-and-after photos of 500 submissions competing in 22 categories.
Hinman Construction aims to do one project at a time so her team can pay attention to “the little details that often matter the most,” she said. It’s a practice that has won the fi rm its own awards. Learn more at hinmanconstruction.com.
Consciously Curly
Continued From Page 6
moted in school.
“People are using 12 to 20 products every day and have to stop this cycle, because there are health consequences to layering on questionable, highly concerning ingredients,” she said. “The studies that do exist suggest many of these ingredients disrupt a woman’s hormones and reproductive system.”
The biggest challenge for Spring was getting money for cosmetology school. She was re-searching various grants and scholarships when she remembered how Innersense assisted its network of stylists with fi nancial help to support them during the pandemic.
“I drafted an email to the owners that I was in a highly underserved area, and would they know of any resources for an up-and-coming stylist,” she said. “I had a response in half an hour.”
“Innersense had just fi nished developing a scholarship fund and said I could be in the alpha class,” she said. “So within thirty minutes of deciding to go to cosmetology school, I had tui-tion.”
Spring offers much more than a hair cut. Every experience is an opportunity to educate how to natural products make hair healthier. Her menu of services ranges from a 30-minute color con-sultation to wash and style with or without a haircut to a 12-week comprehensive master-course online.
“Th is program is the culmination of everything I’ve learned,” said Spring. She has studied curly hair techniques “with the best mentors in the country” and said that her “accelerated learning came from teaching.”
“There is no way I’ll be able to keep up with demand, so I’ll take on an apprentice in a year or two,” she said. “The more curly hair specialists in the community, the better.”
Spring said that entrepreneurs distinguish themselves by enduring “even through those peri-ods when you’re feeling this is just not worth it.”
“Go back to the nine to five,” Spring said. “It’s the people who push through who make it.”
Math Refresh
Continued From Page 6
aging students (ages 7 through high school) to fi nd examples in the world around them. Th is playful approach was inspired by a scavenger hunt activity she used in her geometry class.
O’Donnell aims to change the negative stereotypes surrounding math. She sees her work as crucial for showing young people, especially girls, that they can pursue STEM fields while being "unapologetically herself".
As a business owner, O’Donnell acknowledges the challenges of entrepreneurship but cherishes the creative freedom it offers. She remains deeply engaged in networking, actively participating in groups like Pallet, Saratoga Women in Business, and the Association of Math Teachers of New York State.
Looking ahead, O'Donnell plans to continue expanding the private tutoring division to support families who feel disconnected from increasingly complex modern curricula. She is also considering writing another book, fi nding more ways to break down complex concepts into accessible ideas.
“My hope is that people have a newfound appreciation for where math exists in the world around them,” O’Donnell said, emphasizing that these foundational analytical skills are necessary for intelligent decisionmaking, even something as simple as analyzing a cell phone bill. “I just want to keep trying to break that barrier of like math being something so rigid and inaccessible for people”.
For more information on Jacqueline O’Donnell and Math Refresh, visit www. math-refresh.com.
Family-owned Hinman Construction brings craftsmanship and care to every renovation.
Courtesy Hinman Construction
Commercial Real Estate
Shovel Ready
Continued From Page 1
Two firms, Soleno and AgroChem, are currently located on Munter parcels and a third, Ambrave Corp., is currently building a 35,000-square-foot building scheduled for completion next summer. Ambrave designs and manufactures advanced tactical gear for military special operations forces and law enforcement under the brand Direct Action, and for outdoor enthusiasts under the brand Helikon-Tex.
Quebec-based Soleno, which uses recycled plastic to make large water pipes for use under roads, recently opened a $22 million high-tech manufacturing facility with 50 new jobs. AgroChem makes hygiene solutions to support the dairy industry.
Several years ago, Munter Enterprises purchased a 27-acre former golf driving range near Exit 17 in Moreau for $1.6 million. The site was expected to see rapid development once new municipal sewer service was installed, but there’s been no movement to date.
“We have received multiple inquiries, but nothing that has any merit at this time,” Munter said. “We plan to focus more on this parcel for commercial use in the near future as it has great access to and visibility from the Northway. Nothing happens overnight and an area like that will take time to develop, but it has started.”
“If you drive the (Route 9) corridor, many new businesses have popped up and older ones are investing in their properties,” he said. “As the other old properties turn over there is much greater potential for broadened uses now with the sewer in place. It may not be apparent to many yet, but the sewer undoubtedly increased the value and potential for the corridor tremendously.”
Likewise, interest in available Warren County shovel-ready sites is at its highest point in recent history. The key is matching prospective investors with the property they need.
Quite often, firms don’t have to be sold on features such as reliable infrastructure and high quality of life. They come because of prior familiarity with the area.
“It’s generally relationships that lead people here,” said Jim Siplon, Warren County Economic Development Corporation president. “They’re referred by somebody they do business with, they’ve been to our area or have a connection to someone in our area. For example, the medical device industry, the Sheridans and Phil Morse, they chose to build that industry here because they had some connection to the place. It’s those relationships that tend to generate the most impact, more than purely listings.”
Queensbury Industrial Park near Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport, Tech Meadows in West Glens Falls, and large privately-held parcels off Big Bay and Corinth roads near Exit 18 are prime development sites in Warren County.
“Right now we have more than 60 active business inquiries,” Siplon said. “That’s as high as it’s ever been since I’ve been on the job five years. We continue to be bullish about it. Most are from this area, but some are from other parts of the country and world.”
Last month, a prospective food-related business visited Warren County.
“It was a combination of place and access to some of the raw materials they would use,” Siplon said.
Glens Falls was once a hub of heavy industry, not only paper mills, but other large employers that have shuttered their doors, most recently the former Lehigh Cement Company that closed in 2023 after 130 years of operation. Across the Hudson River, the large former Essity paper mill lies idle in South Glens Falls.
But the days of chasing similar firms to locate here are long gone, Siplon said.
“What we have to do is go after things that have 20, 30, 40 people,” he said. “We have more than 15 breweries, distilleries and wineries in our area now. If you look at the growth of that sector against the loss of traditional manufacturing jobs they’re almost equal. That doesn’t mean that people from Lehigh are working for Northway Brewing now. But we are seeing a
The Sales And Leasing Of Commercial Real Estate Is Viable In The Capital District
BY ROD BACON
According to area professionals, the commercial real estate market in the region is, while somewhat challenging, doing well.
Tom Roohan, owner of Roohan Realty in Saratoga Springs, said that the increase in interest rates post-Covid is making it difficult for investors to purchase commercial properties.
“A lot of us were spoiled by lower interest rates,” he said. “Low interest rates mean a lower cap rate, which means higher value. That has been frustrating for many people because things they refi nanced are built at a certain interest rate that is no longer available to us. That makes it hard for us to sell the property.”
He noted that interest rates that were as low as 3.75 percent have risen to 6.75 percent or 7 percent, depending upon how much is put down and the quality of the property.
Despite that, some very desirable office space is available in the Spa City. The agency just listed a 2,100-square-foot corner office for lease in the historic Van Raalte Mill building at 125 High Rock Avenue. The $6,000- permonth lease is all inclusive except for communication and includes a reception area, conference rooms, kitchen, eating area, and substantial parking. Listing agents are Amy Sutton and Megan Brenensthul.
It is on the market because Marshall + Sterling Insurance consolidated some of its Upstate New York offices in Latham.
“It’s a nice historic building space that is very bright because it’s in a corner of the building,” Roohan said.
The agency’s listings also include an office building on Care Lane in Saratoga Springs and another in Malta.
He said that he didn’t know of anything available in the retail sector on Broadway.
“But there’s always dirt for sale,” he noted. They have a listing for 7.5 acres at the entrance of the Blue Lupine Lane Industrial Park off Ballard Road near Exit 16 in Wilton. Asking price is $609,00.
Roohan said that because of venues like the Saratoga Race Course, Saratoga Performing Arts Center, and proximity to ski areas like West Mountain and Gore Mountain the second home market is strong.
to enjoy what Saratoga has to offer,” he said.
Tom Savino, an associate at Albany-based CBRE Upstate NY, agrees with Roohan, calling the Saratoga County economy “vibrant.”
“If we have an issue at all it is sometimes the lack of inventory, both industrial and office, for purchase,” he said. “There’s a bit of a drought there, but there are leasing opportunities and for the most part they are above normal in terms of activity.”
He noted that even during Covid leasing activity in Saratoga Springs did not slow down drastically. He and fellow associate Eric Simonds were the leasing agents tasked with fi lling 85,000 square feet of office space in Congress Park Center at 321 Broadway when Goldman Sachs relocated to Latham. With the exception of 10,000 square feet that currently has a lease out for review, they met that goal.
“Location is key in real estate and downtown Saratoga Springs is a prime example of location driving demand,” said Savino.
Like Roohan, he noted that virtually no available retail space is available on Broadway.
“People can own a condo or a townhouse here and come from nearby places like New Jersey, Boston, New York City or Pennsylvania
“The first floor of Congress Park Centre is retail and it’s completely full,” he said. “If I had more space I could sell it if it was on Broad-
Continued On Page 12 Continued On Page 14
Tom Savino and Eric Simonds of CBRE Upstate NY brokered leases in Congress Park Center. Saratoga Business Journal
Schultz Construction Companies Have Been Exceeding Client Expectations For Over 50 Years
BY ROD BACON
The Schultz family has a long history of providing high quality construction services in the Capital District and beyond.
Between a company started by William J. Schultz in 1970 and another subsequently launched by his son, William M. Schultz, in 2000, clients have benefitted from their expertise for 55 years.
William J. Schultz left his family’s 30-acre vegetable farm in Colonie in 1955 to join the U.S. Navy, where he was trained as a radioman. According to his son, following his four-year hitch he decided he “wanted to do something else with dirt” and took a job with Hoffman Excavating, a utility company in Colonie. He worked there for several years and in 1961 moved to Rosen-Michaels, a precursor to The Michaels Group. The company had its own land development arm called Glenmont Development Corporation and he was its general manager.
“They would buy a parcel of land and it might be wooded or a farm field, and they would hire an engineer to design street layouts and determine the maximum number of houses permitted by zoning codes,” said Schultz. “Then Glenmont Development would do all the land clearing, utility installations, and road construction.”
There was a recession in late 1968 resulting in very little call for new housing starts. Because builders no longer wanted to develop raw land Rosen-Michaels decided not to continue with its Glenmont Development subsidiary.
Always having had an entrepreneurial spirit, he took a leap of faith and started Schultz Construction, Inc. in 1970. He purchased two pieces of equipment from Rosen-Michaels as well as a small dump truck, with which he did road construction and underground utility work for private land developers and builders as well as installing underground utility pipelines for potable water, sewer collection, and drainage systems for municipalities.
His only employee at the beginning was Robert Swartwout, who ran the road grader building roads and doing earthwork.
As his customer base increased the roster included Rosen-Michaels, The Michaels Group, Charlew Builders, Marini Homes, LLC, and Paulsen Development.
He also contracted with municipalities in the Capital District that included the Town of Colonie and the Saratoga County Sewer District. His reach extended to Western Massachusetts and Utica, New York, as well.
At its peak, Schultz Construction employed more than 150 people and had annual revenues of $25 million.
While still a teenager his son came on board. Over the years he helped maintain the heavy equipment, was a laborer on various projects, a cost estimator, project manager, foreman, and marketing manager.
“I enjoyed working for my dad and learned so much that I felt I was capable of continuing on with what he taught me and running a construction company,” Schultz said.
Which is exactly what he did.
“In 1999, my father decided to retire to North Carolina,” he said. “He asked me what I wanted to do and I didn’t hesitate for a minute. I told him I wanted to start my own business.”
He incorporated as W.M. Schultz Construction, Inc. in 2000. During 2001, his first full year in business, he employed nine people and had $2.5 million in revenue.
Between 2001 and 2008 the contracts were evenly divided between site work for local land developers and installing underground utilities for developers and municipalities.
“I call that wet utilities because they were carrying some kind of liquid, whether it was potable water, collecting sewage from housing developments or municipalities, or storm drainage catch basins,” he said. “We were repairing existing systems and installing new ones.”
This business model continued through most of 2008, when there was a housing crash. The Dow Jones Industrial Average went from a record high of 14,000 points in 2007 to 6,500 points in early 2009.
“A total of 2.9 million homes were foreclosed on and that changed a great deal of our work,” Schultz said.
In 2010 he shifted gears and the company predominantly took on public work.
Schultz said that from 2001 to 2009 the company grew from $2.5 million in annual revenue to $13.1 million. Following the 2010 shift in focus the revenue soared to $21.1 million, the next year it reached $36.3, topping out at $43 million in 2013. Revenue for 2025 is $41 million.
Continued On Page 12
Reading the Market: Why North Country Hotel Deals Are Trending Upward
BY MITCHELL MUROFF MUROFF HOSPITALITY GROUP
As someone deeply rooted in hospitality real estate—having owned and operated multiple franchised hotels across the Northeast and Canada, and now brokering and advising hospitality assets throughout New York State and New England—I’ve witnessed plenty of market cycles. My firm’s nationwide database connects regional hotel owners with serious buyers and investors. Lately, one thing stands out: while the industry has faced its share of headwinds, hotel transaction activity has remained surprisingly steady.
Market Stability and Buyer Confidence
Across much of upstate New York and New England, occupancy levels have softened slightly since their post-pandemic peaks. Still, average daily rates (ADRs) have held firm, signaling that buyers continue to value welllocated, well-run assets even as they become more selective.
Meanwhile, interest rates have started to ease after a long tightening cycle, bringing renewed attention to hotel acquisitions that show clear upside. Financing remains cautious, but deals are getting done—particularly when buyers combine traditional bank debt with other creative lending programs.
Financing and the Role of Local Lenders
In markets like Warren County, Saratoga, and the greater Lake George region, regional banks remain essential to hotel lending. Their familiarity with seasonal demand and tourism patterns allows them to underwrite transactions that larger national lenders might overlook.
Many buyers also rely on SBA 504 and 7(a) loans, which give lenders added protection and allow borrowers to secure 20- to 25year fixed-rate financing on the SBA portion at competitive rates. This structure reduces lender risk while giving buyers predictable long-term debt service—an especially attractive option for smaller or first-time investors.
Even so, banks continue to scrutinize borrowers closely and often require more equity than before. Seller financing can help bridge the gap, though not every owner is willing to extend it.
Regional Hotels Outperform Urban Assets
Since COVID, mid-sized hotels in secondary and tertiary markets have performed better than many urban properties. City and airport hotels are still adjusting to fewer corporate meetings, smaller events, and reduced business travel. In contrast, regional hotels and resorts have benefited from travelers’ ongoing preference for drive-to leisure destinations—places easily reached for short getaways. That lasting shift has been a clear advantage for markets like Lake George, Saratoga, and the Adirondacks.
Why Owners Sell—and What Buyers Seek
Hotel owners sell for many reasons: upgrading from independents to franchised
hotels, retiring, or redirecting capital into new ventures. Operational factors also matter. Owners who manage several hotels within driving distance can better control staffing and expenses, while those relying on thirdparty management firms often face higher overhead and reduced margins. In smaller markets, direct or closely supervised management typically yields stronger NOI and a healthier bottom line.
Market Experience and Perspective
Over the years, I’ve represented numerous hospitality owners throughout the Lake George region and the Adirondacks, guiding them through transactions of all sizes. Beyond Lake George, I’ve handled hotels and resorts across New York, Massachusetts, and Maine, reflecting the diversity and resilience of the Northeast’s lodging market.
Our firm is also involved in larger projects, including the Hudson Yards Hotel in New York City, a 105-room “urban resort” currently offered for sale, and an 1,140-acre mountain resort under agreement near Whiteface Mountain—one of the largest mixed-use hospitality opportunities in the Adirondacks.
Because I’ve been both an operator and an advisor, I evaluate properties through an operational lens. I look beyond stabilized NOI to analyze expense structure, capital needs, and management efficiency, along with comparable sales, revenue-per-room multipliers, and cap rates—key indicators of a property’s true potential.
While I don’t represent clients in a legal capacity, my background as an attorney helps me guide them through the complexities of hotel transactions with greater confidence. I assist in reviewing Letters of Intent, Purchase & Sale Agreements, and deal structures, working closely with counsel to ensure clarity and efficiency.
Looking Ahead
Buyers today are focusing on fundamentals—consistent cash flow, sound operations, and potential for performance improvement. Many successful deals include creative financing or some level of seller participation, while properties with strong management and clear upside continue to attract the most attention. Overall, the regional hospitality investment market remains active, particularly for wellrun assets with realistic pricing. With interest rates trending downward and buyer confidence returning, both sellers and investors have reason to be optimistic about the months ahead.
Mitchell Muroff is the founder and principal of Muroff Hospitality Group LLC, a boutique real estate brokerage and advisory firm specializing in the sale, acquisition, and valuation of hotels, inns, resorts, and hospitality assets throughout the Northeast.
Visit www.muroffhospitality.com or contact mitch@muroffhospitality.com for more information.
W.M. Schultz Construction specializes in complex water and wastewater infrastructure projects.
Courtesy W.M. Schultz Construciton
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
Dennis Choiniere
Wellness Year End Tax / Financial Planning Holiday Gift Guide
Publication Date: November 13,
Publication Date: December 10, 2025
BY CHRISTOPHER CONKLIN VICE PRESIDENT, CHIEF INFORMATION SECURITY OFFICER
Capital Bank, a division of Chemung Canal Trust Company
Cybersecurity Awareness Month is here once again. Most organizations with an existing awareness program will likely focus on password complexity, phishing and social media concerns. These topics continue to be the foundation of a good cyber security program. However, the sudden influx in the popularity of artificial intelligence (AI) has changed the game for cyber security due to the evolution of AI-born cyberattacks. AI has gained prominence due to its ability to solve problems, reduce workloads and enhance customer experience. Opposite those benefits, artificial intelligence has concerns related to privacy issues, misinformation and enhancing existing cybersecurity threats. Related to existing threats, adversaries have learned to effectively weaponize AI to attack organizations. To better understand the threats, we first need to examine the benefits of utilizing AI.
Businesses today face a variety of challenges such as cost control, eroding customer confidence, and political and economic volatility, to name just a few. AI can change the way businesses address those issues. An article published last year by the Harvard Business Review indicated that more than 70 percent of U.S. businesses have already begun to utilize AI in some form. A common benefit of using AI is streamlining repetitive or mundane tasks such as data entry or customer support, which then frees up staff for more valuable tasks. AI can also provide analytical tools to process vast amounts of data and deliver actionable results for decision making. AI chatbots and virtual assistants can help provide 24/7 support by answering common questions, thereby improving response times and enhancing customer satisfaction.
Situations regarding volatility can be addressed by using AI to analyze data from various sources such news feeds, economic indicators, financial reports. The result is an analysis that could alert the business to potential warning signs. Forbes Magazine published an article in May further articulating the position that AI can assist leaders’ approaches to volatility. In it, the author cites that AI has the potential, if used correctly, to stay ahead of the challenges. While these benefits can help organizations, the use of AI comes with some concerns.
There exist several concerns regarding the utilization of AI. Some of those include data leakage/privacy issues, lack of oversight, deepfakes and adversarial cyber-attacks. The key element in the previously mentioned benefits is the access to data that’s required for an AI platform. It’s that access that generally creates the concern of data leakage for businesses. For an AI model to be effective it needs access to large amounts of data, including sensitive organizational data.
model works. Many see this as protecting their platform, but it often leaves organizations not knowing how the model works. The concept of a deepfake is another growing concern. It seems like a week doesn’t go by where there’s a story or posting regarding a deepfake being used. More concerning, threat adversaries have found ways to use AI tools to impersonate executives or create fake voice mail messages.
A popular use of a deep fake is impersonating an executive to transfer large amounts of money to an outside account. Adversaries are also using AI to create better phishing emails, more potent malware and bypass mechanisms for human-verification tools. If we take a closer look at phishing, we know in the past that most phishing emails often contained poor grammar or misspelled words. With AI tools, that’s no longer the case. AI-enhanced phishing attempts are extremely convincing and often appear to be from legitimate senders.
Artificial Intelligence is neither good nor bad. Organizations should weigh the value of utilizing AI and be on the lookout for when it is being used against them. As a first step, business leaders should ensure a governance mechanism is in place to evaluate when and how AI-based platforms are being used. Further, organizations opting to use AI to solve business problems should have a clear goal in mind for what they want to achieve. With a clear goal in mind, organizations can then ensure the proper controls are in place to protect limited amounts of data used by AI tools. Focusing on governance and oversight can help combat privacy and data leakage concerns.
Consider a use case where a healthcare provider uploads patient information into an AI tool to diagnose or recommend treatment based on a vast set of already collected patient data and outcomes. If that AI tool is not properly protected, that patient information could be exposed to the Internet. Another possible scenario could be a financial institution looking to improve their credit-risk forecasting or channel optimization. To be successful, the AI tool would need access to a large amount of internal data, some of which could be considered confidential. The leaking of this data could potentially expose an organization’s strategic planning efforts or sensitive details relating to client data.
The risk of data leakage then leads us to the concern of lack of oversight with AI in an organization. Most vendors offering an AI-based platform don’t provide details as to how exactly the
An important step is to train employees in the appropriate use of artificial intelligence. Employees need to understand the possible benefits and pitfalls. Another consideration to be mindful of relates to contracts with vendors providing AI solutions. Organizations should ensure appropriate language is included in the contract to protect sensitive business data and outline consequences should that data be exposed impermissibly.
Whether a business chooses to adopt an artificial intelligence platform or not, the threat of AI being used against them remains. Organizations should update their educational efforts to include spotting AI-enhanced emails or other social engineering techniques. Some educational tips to include are looking for an unusual tone in the message or unexpected requests (i.e. the purchase of gift cards). With the consideration of benefits and threats in mind, businesses are better poised to safely and effectively utilize artificial intelligence solutions to achieve business goals.
Christopher Conklin, Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer at Capital Bank. Courtesy Capital Bank
Two-Apple Season
rides.
Continued From Page 1
Its popular Farm Store has a wide variety of goods from donuts, kettle corn and candy to fresh produce, baking mixes and country-themed ornaments.
“It’s open till Christmas, then we take a short break and are back up in mid- to late-January,” owner Kevin Bowman said. “There’s a big push on the hard cider side this year. People seem to really be enjoying that.”
This fall’s statewide harvest is expected to total about 30.5 million bushels, similar to last year. The apple industry has a direct economic impact through farming and indirectly through processing, packaging, storage and the growing craft cider sector.
In July, the state awarded the Apple Association $1.5 million for two promotional initiatives. The first focuses on consumer marketing through social media, digital advertising and media outlets. A second program supports in-store promotions, merchandising, cooperative advertising and retailer engagement to drive increased sales and visibility of New York apples.
One of the entire agriculture industry’s major concerns, not just apple producers, is the impact of Trump administration immigration enforcement. All kinds of farms rely heavily on foreign workers to handle tough, physically-demanding jobs that many Americans refuse to do.
Increased enforcement may cause labor shortages, resulting in higher labor costs, crop losses and increased food prices for consumers. Supply chains are also disrupted and farm profitability is threatened.
While there’s a long-term push for automation, it cannot fully replace the current labor force.
Bowman said he might eventually use robotic apple picking machines to harvest some of his orchard. “We’re headed in that direction,” he said. “We’re not ready yet.”
For robotics to work, farms have to replace older tall trees with shorter, high-yielding trellistype trees.
But Clifton Park, where Bowman’s is located, is so heavily developed that there’s very little available land to expand and plant more trees.
“So we need to grow a little bit taller trees,”
Bowman said. “This year our workers are picking the tops of trees with platforms. Our you-pick customers don’t need ladders. It’s easier for them. They just pick the lower branches.”
Bowman’s has six workers under the H-2A program, a temporary visa program that allows farms to fill seasonal jobs with foreign help if there aren’t enough domestic workers available.
“We have zero concerns with ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) because we do it the legal way,” Bowman said. “I don’t understand why other people don’t. If everybody did it the legal way there wouldn’t be any concerns. It costs a lot of money. That’s why some people don’t do that. But some things are more important than just the money.”
“We have a friend who’s an ICE agent,” he said. “We ask him how they know which farms to go to. He said, if they don’t have legal workers, that’s where they go. It’s all on the computer.”
Haskins, the Apple Association president, said she hasn’t heard of any cases in New York where immigrant apple pickers have been late arriving for this year’s harvest.
“That doesn’t mean that it hasn’t happened,” she said. “I just haven’t been notified.”
But some immigrant workers, both undocumented and legally authorized, are now hesitant to work and stay home following news of raids, which has shrunk the pool of available and reliable labor.
In June, ICE raids on farms in California and Pennsylvania led to significant crop losses as workers stopped showing up for work.
Bowman said other types of government intervention are more of a concern to his operation. “The biggest thing is increased regulations from every angle,” he said. “That is probably more of challenge than the weather.
Several years ago, the state enacted new overtime pay requirements for farmworkers. But if farms can’t afford to pay such higher wages, laborers don’t work as long and earn as much as they used to.
Much of this year’s crop has already been harvested, but later apple varieties such as Melrose, Jonagold, Northern Spy, Red Delicious, Ida Red and Spy Gold are still available. “Everybody seems to have their preference and navigate to their favorite apple, for either eating or cooking,” MacWhorter said. “We stay open till the crop is gone and we don’t have any problem getting rid of them.”
Herzog Law Firm Expands Into Queensbury With New Fourth Office Location
Herzog Law Firm PC has opened a new office at 719 Bay Road in Fowler Square, its first permanent location in Warren County. The expansion adds to the firm’s existing offices in Albany, Saratoga Springs, and Kingston.
Managing Partner David Kubikian said the new office strengthens Herzog’s ability to serve the North Country. “For years, we have given educational lectures at senior centers and helped hundreds of families through our Saratoga Springs office,” he said. “Being in the community day in and day out will be a game changer. Every day we help neighbors preserve their assets and ensure their life’s work passes according to their wishes.”
The firm specializes in estate planning, elder law, and real estate. Kubikian said Herzog attorneys will continue to provide guidance on Medicaid planning, wills, trusts, and other matters important to families planning for the future.
Gina Mintzer, executive director of the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB, welcomed the firm’s expansion. “Herzog Law Firm’s decision to open in Queensbury reflects their long-standing commitment to the region and the strong demand for their services,” she said.
With Queensbury, Herzog now operates four offices across upstate New York.
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Shultz Construction
Continued From Page 9
Clients during this period included the New York State Department of Transportation (NYDOT), the New York State Office of General Services (NYOGS), and various municipalities in the Capital District and Western Massachusetts..
Due to the labor-intensive nature of the work the number of employees swelled from 90 to 160.
In 2015 the company underwent what Schultz describes as a “strategic marketing shift” toward what he calls “complex and demanding work.”
“Opportunities presented themselves to reconstruct and expand wastewater treatment plants and potable drinking water facilities, and we’ve been doing that since 2015,” he said. Th is type of work requires fewer workers than were previously needed so the number of employees has shrunk to 26 in the office and 47 in the field.
Among the company’s core values, worker safety is very high on the list. Schultz shared a story that illustrates this. An engineer who was working with a company crew witnessed something that he said he hadn’t ever seen in his 25-year career. A crew installing an underground utility was digging a ditch to a depth of nine or 10 feet. To do this an excavator drags a trench box behind it to ensure the earthen walls don’t collapse. As the excavator
Shovel Ready
Continued From Page 8
move from large, concentrated industrial entities to smaller more craft-oriented businesses.”
Prime Arrow, one of many new cannabis fi rms to locate locally, recently purchased a parcel near Queensbury Business Park.
And more than a half-dozen coffee shops are doing brisk business in Glens Falls and Queensbury. Kru Coffee, which has a retail shop near Centennial Circle in Glens Falls, has plans for a coffee roasting and canning facility at Tech Meadows where it recently bought property.
“They’re working diligently to begin construction as soon as possible,” said Jeff Flagg, City of Glens Falls economic development director.
About 30 acres of land are still available at Tech Meadows, which is owned by the City of Glens Falls Local Development Corporation. The city is considering a zoning change there, to expand potential uses at the property.
moved forward a worker noticed a tool had been left behind in the trench. Rather than allowing the worker to get into the unsupported section of the trench, the excavator operator backed the machine up so the worker could safely retrieve the tool while standing in the trench box. Th is took approximately 15 minutes but the safety of the worker made the delay worthwhile.
Th is is just one example of why the company has achieved Safety Training and Evaluation Program (STEP) Diamond status from Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) National. It has also been recognized by the Northeastern Subcontractors Association (NESCA) with a Gold Safety Award for achieving 86,580 man-hours worked in 2024 with no lost workday incidents.
Community involvement includes participation in the Franklin Community Center’s snack-pack program as well as its backpack program before school starts. They are also working with Sleep in Heavenly Peace to build 20 beds in their shop.
To address what many consider a growing problem, they support the Building Hope Th rough Action (BHTA) program of the New York State Office of Mental Health. They collaborate with industry partners Harrison & Burrowes Bridge Constructors, Pike Construction Services, Laborers Union Locals 157 and 190, and the Plumbers & Steamfitters Union Local 7 to promote best practices in suicide prevention and mental health support.
For further information about the company go to wmschultz.com.
Warren-Washington Industrial Park, near Queensbury Industrial Park, is a separate entity owned and marketed by Warren-Washington Industrial Agency. It has been mostly developed and has a few remaining smaller lots.
The two largest privately-held shovel ready development sites in Warren County are those owned by the Barber family surrounding the former Native Textiles building off Corinth Road, and another by Gross Electric owner Joseph Gross on Big Ray Road. Brookfield Power built its operations center at the latter.
Siplon said Warren County EDC helps the owners market such properties.
“Sometimes we fi nd them, sometimes they fi nd them themselves,” he said.
Both Warren County EDC and SEDC partner with many other agencies including Empire State Development to market and promote sites for development.
“There’s many opportunities throughout the Capital Region of sites ready to be developed,” Connors said. “Anybody searching the web would be directed to our website or any of our collaborators.”
Business Report
What Recent Federal Reserve Decisions Mean for Housing
BY STEVEN LUTTMAN
September’s decision by the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates marked the first adjustment to the closely watched benchmark since late 2024. Today, we’ll cover why a cut was made, the impact seen so far, and what we should expect moving forward.
Why Cut
Private sector hiring has fallen off a cliff in 2025. While the official unemployment rate remains sub 4.5%, persistent negative revisions to prior monthly job reports, paired with lackluster household survey data points to a much softer economy. Following the cut, we heard it straight from the horse’s mouth: “Labor demand has softened, and the recent pace of job creation appears to be running below the ‘breakeven’ rate needed to hold the unemployment rate constant.” Not blunt enough? “While the unemployment rate remains low, it has edged up, job gains have slowed, and downside risks to employment have risen.”
Jerome Powell appears to be coming around to the idea that the risk of tariff-induced inflation should now take a backseat to what’s transpiring in today’s job market. To stimulate the economy, borrowing rates must be lowered.
Reaction
Changes to the Fed Funds Rate impact shorter-duration credit such as home equity lines and credit cards. While important, residential mortgage and business loan rates more closely track longer-term benchmarks—mainly the 10 year Treasury. Interestingly, longer-term yields actually rose in the days immediately following the decision to reduce rates by 25 basis points (0.25%), as they did after the last cut in December 2024.
Zoom out a few days, however, and you’ll see that a rate drop was already priced in leading up to the Fed meeting. Some experts pointed to dovish comments by Chairman Powell suggesting a less aggressive than anticipated rate cutting cycle as the reason for the brief rise. Fast forward to today, and long-term yields are nearly identical to where they stood before the Federal Reserve meeting. From a consumer standpoint, the national average 30 year fixed rate mortgage is as low today as it’s been for nearly the entire past twelve months.
Similar, But Di erent
There is no economy like that of the United States. Its size and composition are uniquely American, making comparisons with other major economies largely immaterial. That said, several other high profile nations have recently cut their version of overnight borrowing rates, perhaps providing some insight into where we can expect rates to head next.
The Bank of England cut its benchmark rate to 4.00% in August 2025, a reduction of 25 basis points. Since then, the UK’s 10-year and 30-year gilt yields have climbed, with the latter reaching its highest level in decades before modestly retreating. Meanwhile, Japan (the world’s fifth largest economy by GDP) has seen long term yields rise
this year despite efforts to rein in borrowing costs. More to Come
While the Fed is a single entity, its members by no means think as a monolith. Once a quarter we get a glimpse into each FOMC voter’s expectations for the future—albeit anonymously. Looking at projections for year end 2025, we see a majority of members anticipating two additional cuts to the Fed Funds Rate.
But here’s where things go off the rails: one member foresees a rate increase, effectively canceling out September’s cut. On the other end of the spectrum, another member is forecasting a 2.75%–3.0% policy range, which would require a “slash and burn” type of approach to get that low that quickly. While names are withheld, if that latter member isn’t President Trump’s hand picked appointee Stephen Miran, then I’ll be a monkey’s uncle.
Outcome
Additional cuts to the Federal Funds Rate remain the most likely outcome, but the path to lower mortgage rates is far less clear. Analysts view reductions at the final two Fed meetings of 2025 as a near certainty. Deficit spending will continue to put upward pressure on yields, as will decreased demand from certain foreign buyers of U.S. Treasuries.
President Trump has spoken often about his desire for lower mortgage rates. The administration could get creative in achieving this, potentially through renewed Federal Reserve purchasing of mortgage backed securities. As outlined by Jerome Powell during last month’s press conference, all focus is now on jobs. Significant weakness in employment (not further cuts by the Fed) is likely the most direct path to meaningfully lower mortgage rates.
Steven Luttman, broker/owner of SJ Lincoln Realty, host of The Expected Returns podcast.
Courtesy Steven Luttman
New Hattie’s Culinary Lab Serves Up Dining And Hands-On Training For Young Professionals
BY STAFF WRITER
The first week of service at Hattie’s Culinary Lab, powered by the Social Enterprise and Training (SEAT) Center, marked an enthusiastic start for a new culinary venture that combines workforce training, community engagement, and the enduring legacy of one of the Capital Region’s most iconic restaurant names.
Located in the historic Hattie’s Albany space on Madison Avenue, the lab officially opened to the public on Oct. 9, launching a new chapter for both Hattie’s and SEAT. The innovative partnership transforms the restaurant into a hands-on classroom where students receive comprehensive training in both back-of-house and frontof-house hospitality operations while serving guests during live dinner service.
Hattie’s Culinary Lab operates every Thursday and Friday evening with two seatings—5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.—offering a prix fixe menu priced under $40 per person. The menu combines Hattie’s beloved Southern classics with globally inspired dishes designed to broaden studentchefs’ culinary education.
“We had a good turnout — every reservation built the students’ confidence even more,” said Jennifer Lawrence, founder and CEO of the SEAT Center. “The community is thrilled to see an establishment dedicated to training young professionals. Guests love the opportunity to support young people and their future while dining out. Many people raved about the food, service, and overall energy inside the restaurant.”
The SEAT Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming lives through education, workforce development, and social enterprise. Through its Culinary Lab program, the organization provides students with both technical and soft skills that prepare them for careers in restaurants, hotels, and other areas of the
hospitality industry.
Lawrence said 12 students are enrolled in the inaugural training cohort, including eight working in the kitchen who had never worked in the industry before. “They are rising to the occasion,” she said. “As soon as the first guest walks in, all of their training and preparation become evident. At the end of each night, you can hear the back of house erupt in a celebratory ‘we did it’ cheer when the last ticket is fulfilled.”
Property owners Ed and Lisa Mitzen, who purchased and restored the Hattie’s Albany property, share that vision. “We’re thrilled to see this space come alive in a way that both honors Miss Hattie’s legacy and supports the next generation of talent,” said the Mitzens. “The Culinary Lab is a powerful example of how community partnerships can create meaningful impact.”
Lawrence said the partnership honors Hattie Austin Moseley’s original spirit of generosity and inclusion. “In 1938, Hattie stepped off a train in Saratoga Springs with just $33 in her pocket. It wasn’t just the food that made her famous — it was her compassion,” she said. “Nearly a century later, her legacy of generosity and opportunity lives on through SEAT Center. Together, we’re honoring her spirit by training and employing young people launching their careers in culinary and hospitality.”
Looking ahead, SEAT hopes to expand service to include lunch and additional evenings. “Local business and partner support as customers is vital,” Lawrence added. “Every reservation helps students gain real-world experience and supports a program that builds our region’s future workforce.”
Reservations for Hattie’s Culinary Lab can be made through Resy, and program details are available at www.theculinarylab.org.
Maria College Awarded $5M From NYS To Enhance Student Support
Maria College has been awarded a fi veyear, nearly $5 million grant from the New York State Department of Health to enhance student support services and address the region’s critical nursing workforce shortage.
The funding, awarded through the department’s new Healthcare Education and Life-skills Program (HELP), will provide $999,587 annually from Jan. 1, 2026, through Dec. 31, 2030, totaling $4,997,935.
Th is is one of the fi rst major initiatives of the newly established state office, which aims to ease training obstacles and expand healthcare access in underserved areas — key steps in rebuilding and retaining the healthcare workforce after the pandemic.
“Th is funding embodies Maria College’s mission of transforming lives through education,” said Maria College President Dr. Lynn Ortale. “It enables more students to stay enrolled, graduate, and begin successful careers in healthcare.”
The purpose of the HELP grant is to increase the number of students entering healthcare professions by offering comprehensive wraparound services that address the academic, fi nancial, and personal barriers many face. By doing so, the initiative aims to strengthen the healthcare pipeline across New York state, especially in regions with identified workforce shortages such as the Capital Region.
To support these goals, the grant provides a variety of resources designed to promote student success and retention. These include an alumni nurse mentorship program, academic coaching, enhanced advising, emergency fi nancial aid, stipends, and new professional development connections with Maria alumni working in healthcare. These resources are designed to support students as they balance school with full-time jobs, parenting, and fi nancial challenges.
“Th is is about more than just helping students to achieve their academic goals,” added Maria College Provost Dr. Wendy Trevor.
“It’s about providing the tools, support, and mentorship they need to become practiceready professionals, who stay in the field, especially during those critical fi rst years.” Healthcare workforce shortages are well documented both nationally and across the Capital Region. Contributing factors include an aging population, particularly in the northeast, as well as the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to widespread burnout and attrition among healthcare workers. These shortages have intensified competition for qualified candidates and made retention increasingly difficult. By identifying regional healthcare needs and directing support to students committed to fi lling those gaps, this initiative positions Maria College to play a key role in stabilizing and growing the local healthcare workforce.
Maria College currently enrolls more than 610 nursing students, most of whom live and work in the Capital Region. Alumni often take positions in local hospitals, longterm care facilities, and primary care settings. By incorporating alumni mentorship into the program, the grant strengthens the pipeline from education to employment and beyond.
“Our students are committed and capable, but they face real challenges,” noted Dr. Wendy Parker, director, community health programs. “Th is grant lets us support them academically and fi nancially, so they can fi nish what they started and make a difference in their communities.”
The grant also provides Maria College with the capacity to hire new student success coaches and advising staff to ensure every student receives personalized guidance from the moment they arrive on campus through graduation and into their professional career.
For more information about Maria College’s nursing programs and student services, visit mariacollege.edu.
A student chef at Hattie’s Culinary Lab in Albany practices sautéing techniques during dinner service. The program, powered by the SEAT Center, trains young professionals in the culinary and hospitality industry.
Courtesy Hattie's Culinary Lab
Commercial Real Estate
Continued From Page 8 way.”
In suburban markets there has been some redevelopment of the larger malls that has resulted in increased activity. He said this is at least partly due to quick-serve restaurants opening.
He has seen a softening in the industrial sector due to the absorption of space. Quad Graphics was purchased by biotechnology company Regeneron and Cascades Tissue by scrap metal recycler NHKelman Inc., removing these buildings from the market.
“In that sector we don’t have a lot of inventory for purchase,” he said. “There is some inventory for lease but we’re seeing it slow down in favor of purchase.”
In Glens Falls, there has been a significant resurgence of activity in the commercial real estate market. Projects by Bonacio Construction on South Street and one in conjunction with the Galesi Group on Hudson Avenue have led the way but other development has contributed as well. Developers like Chris Patten and Tim Barber have helped shape the look of the area.
Craig Darby, another associate with CBRE
Upstate NY, has brokered deals in Glens Falls for years.
On September 30, Behavioral Health Services North Inc. closed on a +/-8,800-squarefoot office building at 25 Willowbrook Road in Queensbury.
Native Partners’ owner Tim Barber sold approximately 10 acres at 377 Corinth Road in Queensbury to F.W. Webb Company, which is constructing +/-90,000-square-foot showroom/office/warehouse facility.
Barber is building an addition to the former Native Textiles facility at 24 Native Drive. The building houses multiple warehouse tenants.
Currently on the market for $2,900,000 is 3 Highland Avenue in Queensbury, a property zoned commercial/light industrial being offered by F.W. Webb. According to Darby, who is representing the seller, multiple commercial/industrial uses are permitted.
“All of this activity is very positive for Glens Falls and the region in general,” said Darby.
“We are defi nitely experiencing an improving economy and a renewed interest in developing viable projects in the area.”
e Saratoga Area Abounds With Great Food & Drink Options
Salt & Char
Saratoga Springs, NY
Salt & Char is a Modern American Steakhouse with an inviting and stylish atmosphere that creates the perfect dining experience. Step inside or join us on the veranda for second to none views of Broadway while dining for lunch or dinner.
e Brook Tavern
Saratoga Springs, NY
Just a short walk from the Saratoga Race Course and walking distance from Congress Park, The Brook Tavern is a favorite neighbor-
hood gathering spot nestled at the intersection of Union and Nelson Ave., right in the heart of historic Saratoga Springs.
Lake Ridge Restaurant
Round Lake, NY
Only minutes away from Saratoga Lake, we're the food critics' choice (4.5 out of 5 stars), offering first-rate Continental cuisine in an elegant setting. Exceptional food, great prices and friendly service will keep you coming again and again.
e Wishing Well Restaurant
Gansevoort, NY
The Wishing Well is an award-winning restaurant in Gansevoort, serving the region's finest selection of premium steaks, live lobsters, fresh seafood, and wines. Stone fireplaces, a piano bar, and attentive service are hallmarks of this dining spot.
e Diamond Club Restaurant
Saratoga Springs, NY
The Diamond Club Restaurant at Embassy Suites is where the world meets in Saratoga to discover a premier dining experience, the region's best happy hour, and top-notch service in a setting you'd never expect.
Morrissey's Lounge & Bistro
Saratoga Springs, NY
Morrissey's Lounge & Bistro in Saratoga Springs is located within The Adelphi Hotel and is the perfect place for good food, drinks, and conversation. They offer an all day menu and three unique dining areas.
Harvey's Restaurant and Bar
Saratoga Springs, NY
At Harvey's Restaurant and Bar, we are proud to be at the forefront of hospitality in the downtown Saratoga region! We are strongly committed to providing only the freshest ingredients, the highest quality of customer service, and daily specials that you won’t find anywhere else.
Wheat elds Restaurant
Saratoga Springs, NY
You can't go wrong with freshly made pasta prepared right on-site using local ingredients! But Wheatfields is much more than pasta: Patrons rave about the hand-stretched pizza, the salmon entrée, and the fried calamari appetizer, to name a few.
e Hideaway
Saratoga Springs, NY
The Hideaway at Saratoga Lake Golf Club is open to the public seven days a week and features a menu with something for everyone. Indoor and outdoor seating is available, and they offer a banquet space for weddings and events.
Innovation Center
Continued From Page 5
The Innovation Center has three paid staff, including a
technical director, a two-thirds time community coordinator who helps volunteers with events, and a front desk specialist who doubles as a wood captain.
Moeller has attracted dozens of volunteers to donate their time and expertise. She said she reached out to a mailing list of 19 and invited them to come to her office one January Saturday morning to learn more about the new concept.
“All 19 people came and some brought their friends,” she said. “We were pulling chairs from everywhere. Then every Saturday for two months, we had eight to 10 people helping clean up and get the facility ready.”
Volunteers are welcome to help with fac-
wear a
ulty, fundraising, and marketing, as well as be captains to take the lead in specific areas.
The Innovation Center at 16 Old Stonebreak Road in Malta is open seven days a week to members and anyone who wishes to purchase a pass for the day. There are several levels of membership, including senior and student rates, and membership is not required to take a course or participate in events such as mixers and marketplaces. There is a full class schedule through December online.
The community is invited to take a virtual or in-person tour of the facility and can learn more at innovationcentersaratoga.org. To apply as a volunteer or make a tax-deductible donation, fi ll out contact information on the site.
