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Author: Marisa Scirocco

Summer Goat Yoga Events for 2020 Reservations

Written by Marisa Scirocco on . Posted in Business.

MIDDLE GROVE – Come join the herd from Into The Woods Farm and NY Goat Yoga In The Woods and their yoga instructor Christine Riccio for a blend of gentle flow and vinyasa flow yoga in the warm spring
sunshine in the woods. 

Goats, yoga and nature, a triple threat to de-stress, combined together are a great way to break from a normal mindset and reap the benefits of animal and laughter therapy and yoga. Open to yogis of every skill level, Goat Yoga In The Woods NY is not a typical yoga class but still offers a relaxing form of beginner level yoga. The event is guaranteed to involve smiles and laughter. Current available dates include July 31, Aug. 7, 20, and 27.

The Nigerian Dwarf Goats are just the right size to snuggle into a lap or take a nap on a mat as you move through the certified instructor Riccio’s guidance. Goat yoga allows guests to step outside of their everyday routine and remind them to not take life so seriously. Reservations can be made online and cash will be accepted at the door. 

For more information and dates www.intothewoodsfarmny.com/goat-yoga.

To reserve your spot go to intothewoodsfarmny.com, email intothewoodsfarm@gmail.com or the link below eventbrite.com/e/goat-yoga-in-the-woods-for-everyone-tickets-107495213076.

Saratoga Center for the Family Hosts Silent Auction

Written by Marisa Scirocco on . Posted in Local News.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Saratoga Center for the Family is hosting a silent auction that began on July 27 and will run until 5 p.m. Aug. 1.

Community members and organizations donated all items that will be auctioned. All proceeds raised will support the Center for the Family.

The support helps Saratoga Center for the Family provide much needed mental health, advocacy, and educational programming to children and families who otherwise would not be able to afford these services. 

To register for the auction go to biddingowl.com. The Center for the Family is located at 359 Ballston Avenue and can be reached at (518) 587-8008 or saratogacff.org.

Stewart’s Shops debuts North Country prototype store

Written by Marisa Scirocco on . Posted in Business.

PORT HENRY – Stewart’s Shops Corp. opened its north country prototype store model Wednesday in Port Henry with an expanded lineup of beef, potatoes, fruit and frozen food. The prototype is part of a two-year, $25 million investment focused on communities with limited access to groceries and produce.

The 4,200-square-foot, $2.3 million shop on South Main Street is located on the western banks of Lake Champlain on the same property where Mac’s Market operated the community’s only grocery store until going out of business in September. The Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the need for retailers to play a bigger role in rural upstate communities where grocery stores for the past decade have been finding it harder to survive.

“We have seen the explosion of grocery, frozen foods and nonfoods,” said Chad Kiesow, Stewart’s vice president of facilities. “With what we are going through with Covid, people are relying on us more for a bigger breadth
of product than your typical convenience store.”

Stewart’s, which operated a 3,000-square-foot shop next door, purchased the former Mac’s Market site for $737,100 a couple weeks after the grocery store closed. The additional space allowed Stewart’s to add
lettuce, strawberries, mushrooms, frozen ground beef, potatoes and an extended line of frozen vegetables, lasagna, paper towels, dog food and other non-grocery products.

The Port Henry store is part of what Stewart’s Shops president Gary Dake and chairman Bill Dake have described as a prototype or laboratory to help the company determine the best way to serve North Country
communities where residents have to drive for 20 to 30 minutes to reach the nearest supermarket.

Local Pet Sitting Service Re-Invents Itself

Written by Marisa Scirocco on . Posted in Business.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – In order to keep her business surviving through the pandemic, Happy Hound Pet Sitting Service owner Kathy Lovelace completely reinvented herself and the business.

Knowing dogs love social contact more than most people do, Lovelace wanted to continue her dog sitting and walking service to her clients. To achieve this, Lovelace first became COVID-certified by Pet Sitters International. In order to become certified, Lovelace learned about COVID-19 and how to not only protect herself but those around her as well. 

“I learned all about the virus and the best ways to avoid it,” Lovelace said.  “I want to keep my clients and their pets safe. I have also educated myself on the local regulations, such as stay at home orders, to know specifically how everything can impact our local area.”

Pet Sitters International is an international educational association for professional pet sitters based in North California. The pet-sitting association represents nearly 7,000 independent professionals, Lovelace being one of them. 

After becoming certified, she made some modifications to her daily routine as well as her business. Previously, Lovelace would meet and great clients and their pets inside. However, she recently changed the meet and greet to be outdoors with masks and staying socially distanced. 

“For home visits, if the client is home they will stay social distanced with a mask or they agree to go into a separate room into their home. Sometimes they’re home because, well, they’re working from home. While I’m in the home, I wear a mask and while walking the dogs, I simply stay socially distanced,” Lovelace said. 

She now enforces a strict hand washing routine as well and asked all clients to complete a COVID-19 form, asking recent travel, contact and quarantine questions. Her clients only have to fill it out once, and will sign to agree to report any changes on the form. Despite making those multiple changes, Lovelace still faces a challenge: clients working from home. 

“I feel that the challenge is that I have established some nice clients who I really miss. Now, more and more people are working from home, so I’m not seeing my clients as much. I would see their dogs up to five times a week sometimes and I have became attached to them,” Lovelace said. 

She believes that if other independent businesses adopt similar methods, they can be successful as well. However, one benefit to owning a professional dog service is that adoption rate has increased these past months. 

“Pet adoption and dog ownership has gone way up. Adoption has helped bring sunshine into homes and it’s a great to see,” Lovelace said. “At the end of the day we are all in this together and we’ll make any and all changes as we need to.”

Lovelace can be reached by phone at 518-583-6561 and is located at 72 Waterview Drive in Saratoga Springs. To learn more about Lovelace and her business, visit www.petsit.com/pet-sitter-saratoga-springs-ny-happy-hound-pet-sitting-service-llc

Marylou Whitney Gravesite Honored

Written by Marisa Scirocco on . Posted in Local News.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) Saratoga Chapter honored Marylou Whitney today by placing a NSDAR marker at her gravesite. Whitney loved the Daughters of the American Revolution. She was proud to be a member and was an avid supporter.

Michael Dubb built 7,500 downstate homes. Why he sees opportunity in Saratoga Springs

Written by Marisa Scirocco on . Posted in Local News.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Mike Dubb and his Beechwood Organization spent 35 years building 7,500 downstate homes.

For the first time in his career, Dubb is starting to build homes in Saratoga Springs, less than three miles from Saratoga Race Course, the thoroughbred racetrack he has been visiting since he was 17-years-old.

Dubb and Beechwood outlined details of the 53 homes they are building at the Oak Ridge development between the track and Saratoga Lake. Homes will range in size between 2,200 square feet and more than 6,000 square feet. They will be priced in the $850,000 to $2 million-plus range.

Now, Dubb is looking at other properties around the city for future projects.

He is convinced the Covid-19 pandemic will only increase the number of downstate New York and New Jersey residents who are interested in moving to or building a second home in Saratoga.

“I know people prior to Covid who were saying, ‘I want a better life or I want a town and something not so dense as New York City and the surrounding suburbs,’” Dubb said. “Home has taken on a new importance with people because of Covid.”

The founder of Beechwood Organization secured the remaining 53 lots at Oak Ridge from Jeffrey Snyder and Oak Ridge Development in April after looking at the 135-plus acre site on a whim in October.

“I really wasn’t looking to develop in Saratoga,” Dubb said.

The pastoral setting off Meadowbrook and Dyer Switch roads and the ability to construct four-, five- and six-bedroom homes with large porches, high-end finishes and garages tucked behind the houses caught his attention. Dubb sees the Oak Ridge by Beechwood project as a way to recreate what he describes as the “old Saratoga” architecture that exists along North Broadway and Union Avenue.

He expects the 53 homes will sell over the next three to four years, and he is not worried that the coronavirus pandemic and economic slowdown will jeopardize the project.

“Covid and the economic effects cannot take away the beauty and desirability of Saratoga,” Dubb said. “We may lose some restaurants and hotels. A few individuals may struggle. Long term, Saratoga is too strong … One or two economic rough years does not a town make.”

Dubb, 64, started visiting Saratoga Springs as a teenager and became heavily involved in thoroughbred racing over the years. He is a seven-time leading owner at Saratoga Race Course and serves on the board of the New York Racing Association, the nonprofit that manages the track.

Dubb and Beechwood also are currently building a daycare center in Saratoga Springs that will be donated for use by children of the backstretch workers at Saratoga Race Course. They constructed and donated a similar facility at the Belmont Park thoroughbred track nearly 20 years ago.

Dubb, who has owned a home in Saratoga Springs for 10 years, remains bullish in the track and Saratoga Springs despite the fact that the pandemic is preventing Saratoga Race Course to operate without fans for the first time this year.

Saratoga Celebrates Anniversary of Americans With Disabilities Act Signing, Aim Services

Written by Marisa Scirocco on . Posted in News.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – State representatives and local leaders alike gathered to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act, and the work of AIM Services at the Garden Tent at the Adelphi Hotel on July 27.

The Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA, was signed into law on July 26, 1990 by Pres. George H.W. Bush and prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, and gives civil rights protections to those individuals – similar to those provided to individuals on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, and religion.

“The ADA is a dramatic renewal not only for those with disabilities but for all of us,” June MacClelland, senior director and chief compliance officer of AIM Services, Inc., told the crowd assembled for the gathering. This historic act was the world’s first comprehensive declaration of equality for people with disabilities.

A table adjacent to the speaker’s podium displayed a handful of signed citations, proclamations and certificates marking the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act and recognizing the work by AIM Services.  Formed in 1979, the non-profit organization provides residential and community-based services to people with physical and intellectual disabilities, including those with traumatic brain injuries and those who are
looking for nursing home transition or diversion. 

 “It has become one of the largest agencies providing support and services to individuals with diverse abilities in upstate New York,” MacClelland said, adding that the goal is in “supporting people in reaching their own personal goals and their own personal dreams.” One-third of all families in the United States are impacted by disability, according to the organization. 

“We as a city and as a community have done so much, but we still share the responsibility to eliminate all barriers – physical, emotional, health-related and spiritual, to ensure all of us have the opportunity to live as enriched members of our own community,” MacClelland said. “AIM Services is committed to this challenge and it is a challenge every single day.”  The event launched the organization’s weeklong “Croquet Off the Green” – a reimagined fundraising activity to comply with the realities and rules of the COVID19 pandemic runs through Aug. 2 and secured the participation of more than 30 Saratoga Springs businesses. For more information about those activities, go to: aimservicesinc.org/events/croquet/. 

Planning today for tomorrows retirement

Written by Marisa Scirocco on . Posted in News.

The economic collapse of 2008 taught harsh lessons about the potential for portfolio losses and how that could derail one’s retirement plans. When there’s volatility in the market, it’s natural to worry about your retirement nest egg. Actions taken today can affect your financial security tomorrow, so let’s map out a strategy that includes guarantees that may help ease concerns despite fluctuations in the stock market. Annuities can help. 

When used correctly annuities can be powerful long-term retirement planning tools by helping to create an income stream for life. Annuity payments can be received monthly, quarterly, annually or in a lump sum, and have tax deferral benefits. Variable annuities allow investors to potentially grow assets in the market, with the opportunity to add optional guarantee features for an additional fee that provide  downside protection. Younger investors planning for retirement may be interested in the growth potential of a variable annuity. Some providers like New York Life offers certain variable annuities with an option called an  accumulation benefit rider which provide principal protection over a chosen holding period. This means that at least the initial premium is guaranteed at the end of the holding period, helping to address volatility concerns. 

Income annuities are known for their efficiency in generating guaranteed lifetime income. Other than a pension and Social Security, a guaranteed income annuity can also produce a lifetime payment stream.  It is like getting a “paycheck” for life.  With a guaranteed income annuity, you can have peace of mind with the knowledge that you’ll have a steady retirement income to help with basic expenses in retirement, while weathering market volatility.

While investors may react differently to fluctuations in the market, many can benefit from working with a trusted financial professional to support the retirement planning process. Let’s schedule a meeting to talk through worst case scenarios, your tolerance for risk and any other changes to your financial picture that necessitates refining your current approach. Together we can put a plan in place that will help you live out the retirement of your dreams.

Important disclosures: 

Guarantees are based on the claims‐paying ability of the issuer. For variable annuities, guarantees do not apply to monies allocated to the variable investment options as they are subject to market risk and will fluctuate in value.

Annuities contain certain fees, risks, limitations and restrictions. Investors should speak to a financial professional for costs and complete details

This educational article is provided as a courtesy by Barry J. Bruno, CLU(CA Insurance Lic. # OB65966)  and ChFC, and Daniel D. Bruno, Agents, New York Life Insurance Company (NY, NY) and Registered Representatives of NYLIFE Securities LLC (member FINRA, SIPC) 7 Court Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866, (518)587-9295, a Licensed Insurance Agency and New York Life Company.  To learn more about the information ortopics discussed, please call Bruno & Bruno Financial Services LLC and ask for Barry or Dan at 518.587.9295 or email: barry@brunofs.com or dan@brunofs.com. Bruno & Bruno Financial Services LLC is not owned or operated by New York Life Insurance Company or NYLIFE Securities W. 

Together we can address your market volatility  concerns with these simple steps:

• Do a portfolio check

• Look for ways to optimize spending

• Balance the need for cash reserves with the opportunity for growth

• Discuss how Social Security could impact retirement income 

• Add guarantees to the portfolio

Dr. Timothy Brooks, Transformative Force in Emergency Medicine, Retires

Written by Marisa Scirocco on . Posted in Local News.

Two months before Dr. Timothy Brooks was set to retire as medical director, chair and chief of emergency medicine at Saratoga Hospital, COVID-19 struck New York City. “We saw what was happening—and that it could happen here,” Dr. Brooks said. “I couldn’t in good faith walk away.”

Instead, he stayed for what would become some of the most challenging months of his more-than-30-year career. As he’d done so many times since coming here in 1987, Dr. Brooks helped lead the hospital and community response.

Now, with COVID-19 numbers down throughout the region and systems in place to identify, treat and protect patients and staff, Dr. Brooks can move ahead with his plans. He retires July 31 with the respect, admiration and gratitude of patients, medical and emergency response professionals, organizations and officials throughout the region.

Those who know Dr. Brooks weren’t surprised that he put the community first.

“In many ways, Dr. Brooks is a rock that we built the hospital on,” said Dr. Richard Falivena, vice president and chief medical and physician integration officer at Saratoga Hospital. “He has been instrumental in helping us launch almost every clinical program we offer. We can’t overstate his impact.”

Making a difference for millions If you’ve received emergency medical care, been an inpatient at Saratoga Hospital, or visited one of its urgent care centers, Dr. Brooks has made a difference in your care. He’s also informed public health policy and
decisions in Saratoga Springs and Saratoga County, and he’s been instrumental in bringing people together to improve emergency preparedness.

“After 9/11 we realized we had to change our approach,” Dr. Brooks recalled. “We formed a countywide committee and developed plans for managing mass-casualty situations, including biological warfare and pandemics. We’ve been meeting quarterly ever since.”

The committee, which Dr. Brooks chaired from its inception until his retirement, included dozens of health and safety officials. It also caught the attention of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which asked Dr. Brooks to serve as a consultant on educating physicians on bioterrorism.

“He is so respected, within and outside the hospital,” said Ann Marie Cross, MS, RN, administrative director for emergency and urgent care services at Saratoga Hospital. “People know who he is, what he’s done, and how much he cares about everyone.” 

Ms. Cross and Dr. Brooks were “a tag team” for 11 years. She attributes his impact to a combination of exceptional clinical skills and bedside manner, a genuine love of teaching and mentoring, and a fundamental belief in collaboration.

“He knew that what we did in the Emergency Department would affect other providers and departments, so he always involved them in the decision-making,” Ms. Cross said.

“He set the stage for so much of what we do,” she added. “He was constantly striving to improve care, and that affected the way we develop protocols, learn from every experience, and collaborate to do what’s best for our patients.

“That’s not going to change,” Ms. Cross said. “It will be his legacy.

2020 Saratoga Balloon and BBQ Festival Canceled

Written by Marisa Scirocco on . Posted in Local News.

BALLSTON SPA – With a sense of resignation at the inevitability of no mass gatherings during pandemic of COVID-19, the organizers of this fun, family festival have reluctantly cancelled this years event. 

Initially scheduled for June 19 to 21 at the Saratoga County Fairgrounds, the event was pushed to August 14 to 16, hoping for a break from the onslaught from the coronavirus. However, there was no such luck.

While the promoters regret the circumstances surrounding the cancellation, they are optimistic about hosting the event in 2021 at the Fairgrounds. They hope for a vaccine to pave the way back to a semblance of normalcy by next spring.

According to Todd Monahan, the balloon meister, “we already have 30 balloons lined up for 2021. They are all psyched to come to Saratoga to fly here again.”

To keep informed about the Saratoga Balloon and BBQ Festival, check on the website www.balloonandbbq.com.