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Dog Obedience Training Center Opens in Greenfield

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.


Paws celebrated the opening of its new 12.6-acre canine education campus with a ribbon cutting ceremony last Friday. Photo provided by the Town of Greenfield. 

GREENFIELD — Paws, a canine obedience business with an existing location in Hudson Falls, opened a new Canine Education & Social Center campus in Greenfield last Friday afternoon.

Paws is located at 3230 Route 9N, a 12.6-acre property that was formerly the site of Greenfield Tavern, which has been vacant for more than 20 years.

“We are delighted to welcome this successful business to Greenfield,” said Town Supervisor Kevin Veitch in a news release. “It seems that the perfect business has found a perfect location. This beautiful and rural property has a big history and we’ve all been waiting for the right type of business to come along. I think that Paws, with its community focus, is going to fit right in.”

Paws was co-founded in 2017 by Greenfield resident and Lead Trainer Bri Rabine. The new location is fully staffed with four full-time and four part-time employees.

The mission of Paws is to offer adventure, fulfillment, and relationship building for its canine customers, in addition to traditional lessons in obedience.

“Our entire property is being carefully designed with a dog’s best interests in mind,” said Managing Owner Lora Bacharach. “Being outdoors with nature puts the dogs in a better state of mind. Dogs are happiest when they can sniff, run, chase sticks, and swim in a pond. We aim to be a one-of-a-kind resource center for owners and their dogs.”

Saratoga-Based Company Sues Over “Death” Coffee

Written by Jonathon Norcross on . Posted in Business.


An image from Death Wish Coffee’s lawsuit that intends to show the similar brand aesthetics of Liquid Death and Death Wish products. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Death Wish Coffee, a Saratoga-based business, filed a trademark infringement lawsuit in federal court in California earlier this month against Liquid Death, a popular water brand that may launch a new line of coffee products.

The problem, in Death Wish’s eyes, is that Liquid Death’s coffee products may confuse customers due to the two brands’ similar death-inspired aesthetics and names.

“The Infringing Coffee Products will confuse consumers, infringe the DEATH WISH Marks, and irreparably harm Death Wish and its valuable brand,” the complaint reads. “The Infringing Coffee Products will duplicate the dominant element of Death Wish’s registered trademarks – i.e., DEATH. They will likely appear in the same retailers and side-by-side with Death Wish’s products in stores, where Death Wish sells both ready-to-drink canned coffee as well as other coffee beans and coffee products. And they will share similar consumer bases and advertising, distribution, and marketing channels. Liquid Death is well aware of Death Wish’s established trademark rights in the coffee market, but plans to launch the Infringing Coffee Products anyway. In short, this is a dead-to-rights case of willful trademark infringement.”

In the suit, Death Wish said the two companies have been able to coexist because they each sell different products (coffee and water), but that this coexistence is coming to an end because Liquid Death “is preparing to invade Death Wish’s market territory and infringe Death Wish’s trademarks by selling DEATH-branded coffee beverages.” Also in the suit, Death Wish said they asked Liquid Death not to launch the new coffee line but Liquid Death refused. 

In response, Liquid Death published an Instagram post stating that the company has “no real plans to actually launch a coffee.”

“Perhaps the executives at Death Wish Coffee are amped up on too much caffeine to be this paranoid about the future,” read the post. “Which is why the new CEO at Death Wish (Steve Gardiner) may want to consider trying our new better-for-you energy drink (coming in January) that has zero sugar, 5 calories, essential vitamins, and a sane level of caffeine (100mg).⁣ And whether or not we ever go into coffee one day, we don’t believe any one company can legally own the word DEATH regardless of how it’s used.”

Liquid Death also took a shot at Death Wish for sharing a name with Deathwish Inc., a hardcore punk music label.

Death Wish Coffee was founded by Mike Brown in 2012 and is headquartered at 260 Broadway in downtown Saratoga Springs. The brand’s products are available in grocery stores across the country and online via Amazon.

Saratoga Springs Lions Club Celebrates 100 Years

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.


Speakers and honorees at the 100th anniversary of the Lions clubs of Saratoga Springs and Albany & Troy included Saratoga Lions President Tom Boghosian, speaker and former Lions Club International Director Gary Brown, Barb Brown, and Barbara Bentley. Photo provided.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Two Lions clubs — Saratoga Springs and Albany & Troy — came together to celebrate their 100th anniversaries on Oct. 11 with a dinner for about 200 people at the Gideon Putnam Hotel. 

The night included a roaring ‘20s theme replete with period dress, antique cars, a dixieland jazz band, and a speakeasy feel to the night’s event.

Keller Johnson, the great-grand niece of Helen Keller, spoke at the event. In 1925, Keller challenged the Lions clubs to be the “Knights of the Blind,” a tradition the clubs carry on today.

Jerry Gordon, a Capital District jazz advocate and president of the Albany & Troy combined Lions club, called the party “a good evening” and said that it was a nice way to celebrate service to the community. While calling it clichéd, he added, “We’re looking forward to the next 100 years of serving our communities.”

20th Annual Restaurant Week Returns

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.


Image provided by Discover Saratoga.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Discover Saratoga announced Tuesday the return of Saratoga County’s Restaurant Week, which will take place Monday, Nov. 3 through Sunday, Nov. 9. 

Participating restaurants will feature a variety of prix fixe menus, including three-course dinners priced at $25 or $35 and lunch specials for $15. Prices do not include tax or gratuity, and reservations are highly recommended.

Some of this year’s participating restaurants include the Thirsty Owl Bistro, Bocage Champagne Bar, Brasserie Benelux, Coat Room, Hattie’s, Standard Fare, Brook Tavern, and the Wishing Well.

“We’re thrilled to celebrate 20 years of Saratoga Restaurant Week—an event that continues to highlight the incredible culinary talent and creativity found throughout our county,” said Darryl Leggieri, president of Discover Saratoga, in a news release. “This week not only showcases our restaurants but also drives visitation and supports the many local businesses that make Saratoga County such a special place to dine, stay, and explore.”

For more information, visit www.discoversaratoga.org/restaurantweek. 

A Frightening Family Affair: 35 Years of Double M Haunted Hayrides

Written by Jonathon Norcross on . Posted in Business, Featured.


Image via Double M Haunted Hayrides.

BALLSTON SPA — Family-run businesses usually evoke fond thoughts of kids learning a trade from their forefathers, carrying on traditions that would otherwise be lost to time. Add to this wholesome image an undead outlaw, a demented clown, and a homicidal nurse and you’ll have a better picture of what the Martin family has been working on for the past 35 years.

Leo Martin is the current owner of Double M Haunted Hayrides and he’s been developing his talent for terrifying locals since he was 19 years old, when his parents first got involved with a haunted hayrides franchise based in Syracuse in the early 90s. Now, Leo hopes that his 22-year-old son may one day take the reins.

“He loves this,” Martin said of his boy. “He was born and raised in it.” 

Martin’s wife Jennifer is also involved, helping to run the entire operation. “I can’t do it without her,” he said.

As the decades have unfurled, Double M’s terror-inducing attractions have grown in both size and scale: 50 employees eventually became 140, the hayride trail has expanded exponentially, and one haunted house was joined by six more. Plus, there are now vendors selling everything from haunted character paintings to carved foam pumpkins to apple cider donuts (courtesy of Lakeside Farms). Joining the festivities this year is a smoking, blinking “deadly drink.”

None of that should distract from the main attraction, however. Martin has been perfecting haunted hayrides for decades and he knows what separates a top-tier ride from a mediocre one.

“It’s all about the total immersiveness,” Martin said. “Some hayrides might not incorporate woods and, to me, you can’t have a good hayride without going through the woods. It’s a natural backdrop. It adds so much to it. We have sound systems on our wagon with music in the background that helps tell the story. It’s how well your actors are trained and how well you flow traffic and get people in and out. It’s a whole thing, not just one element or the other.”

The logistical and creative process for planning these haunted attractions begins in March, when Martin sits down with his staff to assess last year’s operation, come up with characters, and brainstorm new ideas. Trade shows are another source of inspiration.

“The haunted industry as a whole is much bigger than people think it is,” Martin said. “In St. Louis in March, there’s a huge haunted trade show and there are companies that build animation and props that also have a lot to do with ideas and how you do haunts.”

Martin’s favorite original creation is Scary Harry, a ghost cowboy that has become Double M’s signature character and helps connect the business’ seasonal haunted hayrides with its year-round Western store that sells a wide selection of boots and apparel.

Double M Haunted Hayrides is open for Halloween, from Oct. 30 through Nov. 1. Buy a ticket online…if you dare. 

Thrift Store for Fabric and Fabric Arts Opens in Ballston Spa

Written by Jonathon Norcross on . Posted in Business, Featured.


Photo via Sew Something Creative.

BALLSTON SPA — A new thrift store specializing in fabric and yarn opened at 154 Milton Avenue in Ballston Spa earlier this month.

“The idea is simple,” Louise McAndrew, owner of Sew Something Creative, told Saratoga TODAY. “Take all the fabric and yarn that might otherwise end up in a landfill and put it in one place so all those creative souls can come buy it.”

McAndrew said that after Joann Fabrics closed all of its stores earlier this year, locals are looking for a new way to get the sewing, knitting, and crocheting products they need. The shop carries all kinds of fabrics, including cottons, fleece, flannel, satin, and upholstery

“I want shopping at my store to be a fun and reasonably priced experience,” McAndrew said. “Keeping prices low is my top priority.” 

Customers who donate from their stash of yarn and/or fabrics will in exchange receive a discount on items purchased from the store. The discount doesn’t expire, and its quantity varies depending on the size of the donation (with a cap of 25%). 

McAndrew also said that her business will eventually offer sewing, knitting, and crocheting lessons for both adults and children. The shop has a room in the back suitable for classes. 

Sew Something Creative is open Thursdays (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.), Fridays (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.), Saturdays (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and Sundays (1 p.m. to 4 p.m.).

Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga Celebrates Brush Box Project Ribbon Cutting

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.


Photo provided.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — On Oct. 16, community members gathered at the Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga (THS) farm to celebrate the completion of new, custom-built brush boxes.

The idea first took root in April 2024, when THS Board Member Sharon Dominguez sent an email about building brush boxes to help organize grooming supplies used in equine-assisted psychotherapy sessions. In response, Equine Care Manager Rachel Hodgson shared design concepts and ideas. From there, the project grew into a collaboration that included both Curtis Lumber and students from The Charlton School.

“This started with a spark of connection that grew into something so much bigger than we could have imagined,” said Kim Weir, director of strategic growth at THS. “These brush boxes are more than just a place to hold brushes. They represent care, creativity, and community coming together for a shared purpose. Projects like this remind us that we are all in this together, and when we collaborate, we create something truly beautiful.”

RISE Housing and Support Services Hosts 4th Annual Fundraiser

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.


Photo of the 2024 “Rocky” cocktail party provided.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — RISE Housing and Support Services will once again roll out the red carpet for its premiere fundraiser, a presentation of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” on Friday, Oct. 24 at 6 p.m. at the Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga Springs.

This year’s evening promises an “immersive” Rocky Horror experience, with opportunities for audience participation, pre-show entertainment, and a program highlighting the ongoing impact of RISE in the Capital Region.

“Each year, this event grows bigger and better, and it’s such a joy to see our community come together in support of the work we do,” said Sybil Newell, executive director of RISE Housing and Support Services, in a news release. “The Rocky Horror fundraiser not only raises essential dollars that help us provide safe housing and supportive services, but it also reflects the spirit of inclusivity and joy that is at the heart of RISE.”

Proceeds from the event will directly support Homebase Therapeutic Community Center, a supportive, safe community for vulnerable citizens. RISE’s mission is to provide safe, healthy housing and support services to people with mental health concerns, substance use, and other life challenges.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.riseservices.org/event/rocky-horror-picture-show/. 

Sports Memorabilia and Trading Cards Store Opening in Wilton Mall

Written by Jonathon Norcross on . Posted in Business, Featured.

Vintage Sports Club logo via the company.

WILTON — Vintage Sports Club is scheduled to celebrate its grand opening at the Wilton Mall on Saturday, Oct. 25.

The shop will have vintage and signed sports memorabilia, trading cards, man cave items, a sports lounge with a TV, and a “nostalgic” candy and snack bar.

The company was co-founded by Leejay Pollacchi, a graduate of both Saratoga Springs High School and Skidmore College. Pollacchi played on the Thoroughbreds baseball team from 2010 through 2013, finishing with a career batting average of .313. His accolades included Second Team All-Conference in 2013 and Liberty League Tournament MVP in 2012.

Pollacchi also serves as the VP of marketing at Dimer UVC Innovations, the company that created GermFalcon, a device that uses ultraviolet light to sanitize airplane interiors.

Therapy Practice Opening in Ballston Spa

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business, Featured.


Photo of the new Performance Sanctuary therapy office provided.

BALLSTON SPA — The Performance Sanctuary—a therapy practice and wellness center designed to meet the needs of high-performing professionals, caregivers, athletes, and purpose-driven individuals—announced that it will open next month in downtown Ballston Spa. An open house is scheduled for Nov. 8 and the official opening will occur on Nov. 11.

The Performance Sanctuary bills itself as “a modern-day refuge for mind, body, and soul” that blends “clinical expertise, trauma-informed care, and cutting-edge performance strategies.”

Services will include individual therapy; performance coaching; a spa with infrared sauna, cold plunge, red light therapy, vibration plate, salt booth, ceragem beds, massage chair, meditation training headsets and audio programs, and vibroacoustic meditation cushions; group classes such as yoga, pilates, and therapy; and community workshops and retreats.

The space is curated with calming aesthetics, cozy nooks, high-tech recovery and wellness tools, and nature-inspired details to support nervous system safety and holistic well-being.

Community members, local professionals, and wellness seekers are invited to experience the space firsthand at the open house on Nov. 8 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.