Skip to main content

Author: Saratoga TODAY

Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce Announces Save Our Locals $20.21

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the official kickoff of its Save Our Locals $20.21 campaign, which will benefit local businesses and aid in additional economic recovery across the county. 

“Whether eating out, getting a head start on the holiday shopping season, hiring a local contractor, or signing up for a gym membership, we want our local residents and out-of-town visitors to support local and participate in Save Our Locals $20.21,” said Todd Shimkus, President, Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce. “We all benefit when we support our local businesses and the local economy.” 

Initially begun during the height of COVID-19 in 2020, Save Our Locals came out of a need to counteract COVID-19 restrictions that severely impacted the county’s economy. In collaboration with local partners, Save Our Locals aims to boost sales at local businesses throughout the remainder of the year, while also promoting the services and goods they offer to residents and out-of-town visitors. 

Following the lead of prior Save Our Locals campaigns, the premise of the Save Our Locals $20.21 campaign remains the same. The Chamber invites everyone to spend at least $20.21 at any locallyowned Saratoga County business between Friday, Oct. 15 and Friday, Dec. 31. In return, each person can be entered in for a chance to win one of more than 50 $100 gift cards to a variety of businesses throughout Saratoga County simply by emailing a photo of their receipt to the Chamber at saveourlocals@saratoga.org. 

“While vaccination rates continue to trend upwards across Saratoga County, we can’t forget the impact residents and visitors can make in supporting our local businesses and ensuring they can keep their doors open for many years to come,” said Shimkus. “Thank you in advance to each participant who shops local and supports Saratoga County!” 

To learn more about how to participate and enter for a chance to win, visit www.saratoga.org/save-our-locals-20-21 or email saveourlocals@saratoga.org. 

Death Wish Coffee Company to Participate in Toys for Toga for the Sixth Year in a Row

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Death Wish Coffee Company, creators of the World’s Strongest Coffee, will be accepting donations of new and unwrapped toys at their Saratoga Springs headquarters during normal store hours, starting Nov. 1 and running through Dec. 3. The first 1,000 people who donate toys at Death Wish Coffee will receive a free pound of coffee. Additionally, those who stop by to donate toys will also be entered into a raffle for a chance to win a Death Wish Coffee prize basket valued at $500. 

To ensure children in the community have the best holiday season possible, Death Wish Coffee is partnering with local organizations around Saratoga County. The company collected more than 980 toys last year and hopes to receive more than 1,500 donations this year. This is the sixth year in a row that Death Wish Coffee has participated in Toys for Toga. 

“Since 2015, in partnership with Toys for Toga, Death Wish Coffee has collected over 6,000 toys for the children of Saratoga County,” said John Swedish, Director of Strategic Engagement and Partnerships. “With the support of the community, our goal in 2021 is to collect over 1,500 toys.” 

The 9th annual Toys for Toga drive includes DeCresente Distributing Company, Druthers Brewing Company, and more. All the money raised and toys donated are divided equally among Franklin Community Center, CAPTAIN Youth and Family Services, and Mechanicville Area Community Services. 

Anyone interested in donating new, unwrapped toys can drop them off at Death Wish Company’s HQ + retail shop. 

“We’re so excited to welcome people into the retail shop and see how many toys we can collect this year to support our community,” said Angie Bailey, Retail Manager. “Those who stop in will have the chance to score a free bag of coffee, sample our latest blends, and help support a cause we care deeply about.” 

Death Wish Coffee HQ is located at 260 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Store hours are Monday – Saturday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 11a.m. to 5 p.m. For those who want to support Toys for Toga but may not live locally, donations can be made via GoFundMe at www.gofund.me/63104287 

Arrow Reports $13 Million in Q3 Net Income, Surpasses $4 Billion in Total Assets

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.

GLENS FALLS — Arrow Financial Corporation (NasdaqGS® – AROW) announced operating results for the three- and-nine-month periods ended in Sept. 30, 2021. Net income for the third quarter of 2021 was $13.0 million, compared to $11.0 million in the third quarter of 2020. Net interest income increased to $28.6 million in the third quarter of 2021, compared to $24.9 million for the comparable quarter 2020. For the nine months ended in Sept. 30, 2021, net interest and net income were $83.2 million and $39.5 million, respectively, as compared to $72.7 million and $28.3 million for the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2020.

Annualized key profitability ratios remained strong, as measured by a return on average equity (ROE) of 14.34% and a return on average assets (ROA) OF 1.32% for the third quarter, compared to 13.55% and 1.23%, respectively, for the prior-year quarter. 

“Arrow delivered another quarter of solid earnings, strong profitability ratios, and asset growth to a new record of more than $4 billon,” said Arrow President and CEO Thomas J. Murphy. “I commend our team members for their dedication to continuous improvement and exceptional service for our customers during these challenging times. I am thankful for and humbled by their unwavering commitment to achieve our mission.” 

In the third quarter, Arrow advanced its focus on technology and digital experience with the launch of a new mortgage application platform and upgrades to the Business Online Banking platform. Additionally, branch network enhancement plans continued. Glens Falls National Bank announced the consolidation of two branches in Fort Edward located less than a mile apart before year-end, with the remaining full-service branch undergoing improvements; Saratoga National Bank likewise renovated a new full-service location in Wilton, which will open in the fourth quarter and replace its smaller Jones and Ballard road branches. 

The Wesley Community Announces New Director of Nursing

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Wesley Community has announced that Jenna Lord has been appointed Director of Nursing at Wesley Health Care Center in Saratoga Springs. 

In her role, Lord is responsible for leading and supervising the nursing staff and overseeing the care provided to residents at the Wesley Health Care Center. She has extensive health care experience and previously served as Assistant Director of Nursing at Wesley Health Care Center. 

Lord will work closely with Wesley administrators to develop policies and procedures to maintain a safe and efficient workplace while also bringing forth new clinical opportunities. 

Lord has been an active member of the Wesley Health Care Center team since 2008, where she previously worked as both a licensed practical nurse and as a resident nurse unit coordinator. 

Visit www.thewesleycommunity.org 

Alaant Workforce Solutions Announces Key Hires

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.

ALBANY — Alaant Workforce Solutions, the Capital Region’s leading professional workforce services firm, is strengthening its commitment to helping organizations recruit and hire top talent amid a historically challenging job market with the addition of two senior professionals to its staff. The hiring of Michelle Conn and Lauren Valentine reinforces Alaant’s ability to serve a fast-growing client base, an expansion that has been rapidly accelerated by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the workplace. 

Joining Alaant as Senior Talent Acquisition Managers, Conn and Valentine bring more than 30 years of combined experience in assisting organizations of all sizes, and across multiple industries, in building high-performing teams. With demonstrated expertise and a proven track record of success, they will be significant assets to Alaant’s expanding clientele as the firm sees 30% growth in job placements, and a 50% increase in direct hire revenue, over last year. 

Conn is rejoining Alaant following a stint at one of the nation’s leading biotechnology companies. Her recruiting experience of more than 20 years spans financial services, marketing and advertising, high-growth startups, and biopharmaceuticals. She excels in sourcing to fill mid- to executive-level positions, particularly in marketing, creative, finance, human resources, regulatory/compliance, and supply chain. She has also completed the SHRM Veterans at Work Certification, gaining unique insight into the value skilled veterans bring to the civilian workplace. 

Valentine has spent the past decade as a sales consultant and manager, working closely with business owners and leaders to help them develop and grow high-achieving sales teams. Her experience includes providing critical support during the hiring process to identify and qualify “right fit” candidates, an experience she will build on in her role with Alaant. 

CanCode Communities, Microsoft Team Up to Introduce Students to Tech Careers

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

ALBANY — Middle and high school students will receive a firsthand look at exciting careers in the technology sector when volunteers from CanCode Communities and Microsoft visit eight classrooms across the Capital Region during October. 

Held in conjunction with the Microsoft Employee Giving Program, the first-ever event will pair Microsoft volunteers with members of CanCode Communities. Microsoft volunteers will discuss their personal career journeys, sharing how they became interested in the tech field and the steps they’ve taken along the way. They will also highlight desirable tech careers to help open students’ minds to the possibilities of working in the high-tech sector. 

Meanwhile, members of CanCode Communities will discuss the organization’s innovative approach to training non-traditional talent – from coding and software courses to hands-on K-12 programs and community digital literacy workshops – to pursue growing opportunities in the technology field. 

“We’re thrilled to work closely with Microsoft to help students discover the exciting world of technology careers,” said CanCode Communities Founder and CEO Annmarie Lanesey. “We hope to inspire students to envision their own bright futures, and ensure they know that if they have the interest and passion, great opportunities await them in the tech field.” 

CanCode Communities and Microsoft initially began working together over the summer through the launch of Microsoft’s Accelerate: New York program, which provides a pathway from skilling to employment for community members in the tri-state area to bridge the digital skills divide and route people to diverse and equitable hiring and reemployment opportunities.

Each year Microsoft dedicates the Month of October to helping charities through its annual Giving Campaign. Microsoft matches times that its employees volunteer in the community, donating an annually designated amount per hour to the eligible organizations they serve. Through this effort, they are helping nonprofit organizations – in this case, CanCode Communities – to educate students about essential technology and skills. 

For more information, visit www.cancode.org. 

Pack 4016 Lions Box Car Derby

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Cub Scout Pack 4016’s Kindergarten Lions Den held their “Box Car Derby” on Sunday, Oct. 24 at High Rock Park. The boys designed their own cars and feet-powered them around the parent-developed grass oval track. During the race there were pit stops for tire air, fuel, windshield washing, driver refreshments, and a game of Red Light, Green Light. An unexpected visitor was Saratoga Springs Mounted Patrol’s King Tut.

From exploring nature year-round to racing Scout-built cars at the January Pinewood Derby to summer outdoor activities, elementary grade Cub Scouts have year-round fun with friends while learning a wide range of skills. For more information about Pack 4016, contact Unit Commissioner John Koch (saratogascouter@kochny.com, 518-644-4438) or visit www.beascout.org to see all of the local units. Youth can join Scouts at any time of the year. Adventure Awaits – start your Scouting journey!

SSCSD Board of Education Workshop (Oct. 26)

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

SARATOGA SPRINGS —Saratoga Springs City School District held a Board of Education workshop on Oct. 26 to discuss the ongoing Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI) efforts in the district. 

District-Wide DEI Committee 

The District-Wide DEI Committee meets once a month for one hour. All meetings are open for the public to watch via WebEx. 

The Committee is divided into subcommittees to focus on the following: curriculum and instruction, culture and climate, communications, hiring and retention practices, policy, and a steering committee. 

There are four open community spots on the committee. If you are interested in applying for a spot, please visit the District’s website at www.saratogaschools.org to fill out the SSCSD Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee Interest Form by Friday, Oct. 29. 

Examples of SSCSD Past and Present DEI Work

The Board of Education was presented with examples of past and present work done by the committee aligning with the DEI framework. This includes, but is not limited to, the following: the school website and school messenger has a language translation feature for multiple languages; PSAT costs are offset by the district for all students, with 800 sophomores and juniors taking advantage of that this past year; AP classes are open enrollment, meaning no prerequisites; the district has Best Buddies and Unified Sports programs; the teacher-run Community SnackPack Program provides meals to students and their families in need over the weekend; review of hiring and retention practices; and curriculum renewal with an equity lens, meaning textbooks and materials are reflective of the student population. 

Demographics 

Leading into BEDS Day demographics, in which enrolled students and staff self-identified themselves into cohorts, from 2012 to 2021 there was a significant increase in multiracial students. There was also a 2% increase in economically disadvantaged students. 

From 2018 to 2021, there was increase in graduation rate of all students, regardless of self-identified cohort, from 91.1% to 93.8%. There was also an increase from 57% to 64.9% of students who graduated with an Advanced Regents Diploma. 

Looking at the demographics, the committee should be able to determine trends and track what programs, intervention, support, and other DEI efforts are successful. 

Generation Ready Partnership

The SSCSD had partnered with Anna Muñoz from Generation Ready to guide their work and align them with the NYSED (or NYS Board of Regents) DEI and CR-S Framework that came out in the spring. It is recommended that schools in our state adopt the NYSED framework, but it is not required. 

Some elements the district has taken from the NYS Board of Regents framework is: governance, the 1st step, to establish a DEI Committee; teaching and learning; family and community engagement; workforce diversity; diverse schools and learning opportunities; and student supports, discipline, and wellness. To view the complete framework, visit www.regents.nysed.gov/common/regents/files/421brd1.pdf. 

In the workshop, Muñoz led the board members through an activity about the power of labels and how perspective influences how we interpret and respond to situations, and the implications that has as an educator. 

What’s Next? 

During the 2021-2022 school year, the DEI Committee will continue to work on aligning the district with NYSED/NYS Board of Regents DEI and CR-S Framework. 

Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Michael Patton said they are willing to have an open forum with community members to address their concerns about the DEI policies, but that it will most likely be scheduled for the spring of 2022. 

It was also brought up that several 2nd grade teachers have concerns with two unnamed books in the current curriculum. Administrators are aware and working to address the concerns. If a teacher has any DEI concerns regarding their curriculum or teaching materials, they should address it with their respective principal. 

Eat, Drink, & Be Scary: Halloween at the Farmers’ Market

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Food.

With Halloween quickly approaching, it’s time to start planning your spooky snack spreads. Candy and desserts are the stars of this holiday, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables in a fun way too. The farmers’ market is the perfect place to get your shopping done to incorporate fresh, local produce into your Halloween celebrations this year. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just a small gathering, here are a couple of festive recipes that are sure to impress.

Jack-O’-Lantern Stuffed Peppers 

Cut off the tops of 3 orange bell peppers and set them aside. Remove and discard the cores and seeds. Carve a Jack O’ Lantern face into each pepper using a sharp knife. Drizzle the inside of each pepper with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Set the peppers in a baking dish along with the pepper tops. 

In a large skillet, stir together 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice, one diced bell pepper, one diced onion, 2 medium to large diced tomatoes, 2 ½ cups vegetable broth, and 2 tbsp of taco seasoning. Stir and bring to a simmer—cover and cook for 20 minutes on low. Once cooked, add in one can of black beans and one cup of corn. 

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Fill peppers with rice mixture and top with shredded cheese. Cover the peppers in the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove cover and bake for 10 more minutes until peppers are tender. Place the tops on the peppers and enjoy your Jack-O’-Lantern stuffed peppers! Adapted from the recipe by Ayla Rianne.

Chocolate Covered Mummy & Ghost Apples

Wash your apples of choice and pat dry. Slice thinly into ¼” slices and remove any seeds/stem. Insert popsicle sticks. 

Add chopped dark or milk chocolate and 1 tbsp of coconut oil to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each time. In another bowl melt white chocolate.

To make ghost apples, dip your apple slices into the white chocolate and place on a parchment paper-lined tray. Then use the dark chocolate to make your ghost’s face.

To make a mummy, dip your apple slices into the dark chocolate, then use a spoon to drizzle the white chocolate and add eyes. 

You can also add a variety of other toppings as desired like melted peanut butter, nuts, chopped candy, caramel and more! Adapted from recipe by Pastry & Beyond.

However you choose to spend this Halloween, we hope you can enjoy some sweet treats such as these. You can stop by the market this Saturday, October 30, from 9 a.m. -1 p.m. at High Rock Park to pick up some supplies. This week marks the end of our outdoor summer season so we will be celebrating with some extra fall fun on Saturday. These markets will include children’s activities, a “guess the weight” pumpkin contest, giveaways, live music, trick-or-treating, and more!

The Saratoga Farmers’ Market is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Wednesdays from 3 to 6 p.m. at High Rock Park through the end of October. The market will be open on Saturdays from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. in the Wilton Mall Food Court starting November 6. Find us online at www.saratogafarmersmarket.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. 

Halloween Memories

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Food.

Hello my Foodie Friends! 

It’s that time of year for me to share my annual Halloween memories. Halloween is only a few shorts days away and for the little chefs out there, the excitement is building. In looking back on my childhood on a certain Halloween night, the four Reardon children, John 8, Danny 7, Billy 6 and Patty 5 would be almost too excited to eat our dinner before we went trick or treating. My mother knew she had to prepare something we would all like and it was always her homemade pastina chicken broth soup that we could not resist. We would get our little bodies fueled up and were ready to take on the neighborhood. 

Also in my childhood, it was a big thing to have homemade costumes and our moms worked overtime to have the cutest kids. Store-bought costumes were a sign of no imagination. On Halloween evening, the four of us would set off with orders to stay together or else. I was told that since I was the oldest it was my job to keep a count on my brothers and sisters or I would lose my candy. My sister Patty was always the first to run out of gas followed by my brother Billy. So, we would have to get them back home and Dan and I would start out again. My brother Dan could outlast us all, but my problem was that he always had to stop and admire someone’s car or truck. The Dads of these houses were always impressed that a seven-year-old knew more about his car than they did. We did manage to fill our pillow cases with lots of candy and then with tired feet head home. The next two weeks were spent dipping into our stash of candy. 

As I think of those childhood Halloween nights, I can still taste and smell the soup my mother made. Chicken broth is a staple in most Italian households. You can rest assured that there will be a few quarts in the freezer at all times. You need a really good homemade broth to make pastina, vegetable soups, risottos, sauces, and chicken dishes. 

Fill up your trick or treaters with something that will keep them warm during the chilly Halloween evening this year. 

Stop by Compliments to the Chef, your Neighborhood Kitchen and Cutlery store located at 33 Railroad Place to assist with your heartwarming treats. We carry the supplies you will need to make your chilly night soups. Remember my Foodie Friends that “Life Happens in the Kitchen!” 

Take Care,
John & Paula