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Oktoberfest Draws Big B-Spa Crowd, New Distillery Unveiled

Written by Jonathon Norcross on . Posted in Business.

The City of Albany Pipe Band performs on Washington Street outside Speckled Pig Brewing Co. and The Still at Speckled Pig. 
Photo by Jonathon Norcross.

BALLSTON SPA — Hundreds of revelers packed Washington Street outside Speckled Pig last Saturday for an Oktoberfest block party, which provided the first glimpse of the brewing company’s new next door distillery.

The Still at Speckled Pig, housed in the former home of Jim’s Garage, featured a modern, dark, green-and-black interior with a long white bar and plenty of seating. Two garage doors opened to an outdoor patio with Adirondack-style chairs and fire pits. Cocktails and seasonal beers were served, though a full food menu was not yet available. The party began at noon, with attendees quickly filling up nearly every inch of the distillery space. 

Oktoberfest featured free commemorative mugs for the first 150 attendees, a dunk tank, a bouncy house for kids, live music from the City of Albany Pipe Band, Bavarian pretzels, bratwurst, and pizza.

Community Bank Adds Saratogian as Commercial Banking Officer

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.

Photo of 
Alyssa Mastrianni provided.

ALBANY — Community Bank announced this week that Saratoga Springs resident Alyssa Mastrianni has joined as Commercial Banking Officer on the Middle Market team, managing existing clients and expanding business relationships. In her role, Mastrianni will be the primary point of contact for clients to provide strategic advice, tailored solutions, and financial products fostering business growth and profitability.

 Mastrianni worked as a commercial banker in J.P. Morgan’s Emerging Middle Market segment. She also held roles as a treasury associate in J.P. Morgan’s Investment Bank, focusing on financial institutions and insurance, as well as earlier positions as a service associate and teller. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Alyssa is a graduate of the University of Rhode Island and Saratoga Leadership.

Ballston Spa National Bank Announces Merger: $1.3 Billion Bank Being Created

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

BALLSTON SPA — Ballston Spa Bancorp, holding company for Ballston Spa National Bank (BSNB), and NBC Bancorp, holding company for The National Bank of Coxsackie (NBC), jointly announced on Wednesday morning a merger whereby the banks will combine forces and create a $1.3 billion community bank serving the greater Capital District and surrounding markets.

The combined bank will conduct business under the BSNB charter, with the NBC locations known as “Coxsackie Bank, a division of Ballston Spa National Bank.”

“In addition to the elevated presence in our communities, the combined company will have a larger market capitalization, greater lending limit and increased visibility and liquidity, unlocking value for both sets of shareholders,” said Christopher R. Dowd, president and CEO of BSNB, in a news release. “Consumers and businesses in the Capital Region have a demonstrated need for personalized service, greater flexibility and diversity in products. Together, we can address those needs faster and more effectively.”  

“Both our banks have similar cultures, values and philosophies,” said John A. Balli, president and CEO of NBC. “Joining forces will expand our combined footprint, create a larger, more competitive institution in the Capital Region and open the door to new opportunities for lending, investment and community partnerships.”

The combined company’s Board of Directors will consist of nine directors from BSNB and four directors from NBC. Richard P. Sleasman, the current Chairman of BSNB’s Board of Directors, will serve as Chairperson of the Board of the combined company and the combined bank.

Christopher R. Dowd, the current President and CEO of BSNB, will serve as Chief Executive Officer, and John A. Balli, the current President and CEO of NBC, will become President of the combined bank. James Dodd, current EVP and Chief Financial Officer of BSNB, and Jim Conroy, EVP and Chief Banking Officer of BSNB, will remain in their current positions. Caitlin McCrea, SVP and Chief Financial Officer of NBC, will become SVP of Finance and Treasurer for the combined bank.

The Boards of Directors of both companies have unanimously approved the transaction, and all board members from both sides have agreed to vote their shares in favor of the merger. Completion of the merger is subject to customary closing conditions, including approval of the banking agencies and shareholders of both companies, and closing is expected to occur in the second quarter of 2026. The combined holding company will be known as Ballston Spa Bancorp, Inc. and trade under its existing symbol of BSPA. Ballston Spa Bancorp, Inc. currently trades on OTCPK and intends to apply to be quoted on the OTCQX in anticipation of closing.

Founded in 1838, Ballston Spa National Bank (“BSNB”) is the wholly owned subsidiary of Ballston Spa Bancorp, Inc. As of June 30, 2025, BSNB manages approximately $912 million in total assets and serves individuals, businesses, organizations and families through 13 full-service branches across Albany and Saratoga Counties in New York State.

Established in 1852, The National Bank of Coxsackie (“NBC”) is the wholly owned subsidiary of NBC Bancorp, Inc. As of June 30, 2025, NBC holds $525 million in total assets and serves its community through 8 full-service branches across Albany, Greene, and Schoharie Counties in New York State, with an additional commercial loan production and administrative office in Latham.

Discover Saratoga Announces Two New Hires

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Discover Saratoga recently announced two additions to its team: Heather LaFountain as office manager & member services and Terese Russell as advertising & sponsorship specialist.

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.

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, in a news release. “Their extensive experience, combined with their passion for building relationships and supporting our members, will further strengthen our ability to promote Saratoga County as a top destination for visitors and events.”

New Cannabis Dispensary Opening in Schuylerville

Written by Jonathon Norcross on . Posted in Business.

SCHUYLERVILLE — The owners of Brownies Dispensary in Colonie are opening a second location at 1164 NY-29 in Schuylerville, the company announced last Friday. The store has scheduled a grand opening celebration with free food and live music for Sept. 26.

“We are proud to announce Brownies Dispensary Saratoga,” the company wrote in a Facebook post. “We’re thrilled to expand our footprint and make our premium selections even more accessible. Our mission has always been to promote a healthy, fun lifestyle through safe, effective, and delicious products. With this second location, we’re doubling down on our dedication to quality, community, and responsible consumption right here in the heart of the Capital Region.”

Brownies describes itself as a “family, woman, veteran, and Black-owned business.” Its Colonie location first opened in February of 2024. According to state officials, it was the first Upstate cannabis shop to be majority-owned by a Black woman.

“In a world filled with gloom, we want to be that daily experience that leaves you with a smile on your face walking in and out the door,” the company says on its website.

Brownies’ Schuylerville shop will be open seven days a week and offer pickup and delivery service. Products for sale are expected to be the same as those offered in Colonie.

Job Showcase Held at Empire State University

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.

Connections are made at the Saratoga Job Showcase held on Sept. 12 at Empire State University in Saratoga Springs. This event was presented by Empire State University, the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, the Veterans Business Council, Empire State University Veterans and Military Resource Center, New York State Department of Labor, Saratoga Economic Development Corporation, Saratoga County Workforce Development, Naval Support Facility – Saratoga Springs and The Fleet and Family Support Center. Photo provided by the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.

Market 32 Kicks Off “10 Years Fresh” Campaign

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.

CLIFTON PARK — Earlier this month, Market 32 hosted a ‘10 Years Fresh’ campaign kickoff in celebration of a decade since opening its doors, held in the Shoppers World Plaza location in Clifton Park.

Community leaders and elected officials (including state senators, assembly members, town leaders) came together and shared remarks commending Market 32’s impact as an employer, corporate citizen, and contributor to local economic growth in the Capital Region. 

The event—complete with celebratory samplings from over 20 local and national brand partners—launched a multifaceted 10-week initiative that will provide customers with the chance to win Free Groceries for Life, earn an additional 32 AdvantEdge Rewards points savings, and showcase the company’s commitment to serving local communities.

Networking Event to Benefit Veterans and Military History

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.

Image provided by the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Veterans Business Council of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce and the Friends of the NYS Military Museum are teaming up for a special networking event at the New York State Military Museum.

The Mixer at the Museum is scheduled for 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 25 at the New York State Military Museum, located at 61 Lake Ave. in Saratoga Springs, and is open to all who support the military and veterans.

Admission is free for Veterans and Active-Duty Military personnel and pay what you wish for others with a $10 suggested donation to support the mission of the Veterans Business Council to foster business connections and career opportunities within the local veteran community. Proceeds from the event’s cash bar will benefit the Friends of the NYS Military Museum, an organization that helps to support the care, preservation, and interpretation of the Military History Collection of the State of New York.

The event offers a unique opportunity to explore world-class military memorabilia while connecting with fellow veterans, active military members, and supporters. Attendees will have access to the museum’s collection while enjoying refreshments and connecting with like-minded individuals who share a commitment to supporting the veterans and military community.

Advance registration is requested. Registration is available at tinyurl.com/vbcmixer2025.

Food and Agriculture Office Opens in Ballston Spa

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Business.

BALLSTON SPA — The New York State Center of Excellence for Food and Agriculture at Cornell AgriTech (CoE) has opened a new satellite office in Saratoga County. The expansion brings Cornell’s expertise in food science, business development, and product innovation closer to food, beverage, and agriculture entrepreneurs and businesses across the Capital Region and beyond.

The new office, a collaboration between the CoE and Cornell Food Venture Center, offers:

• Business mentoring and connections to Cornell research and resources.

• Food safety testing and product development guidance in an on-site lab.

• Support for startups and established businesses to grow and succeed in New York state.

Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner secured $500,000 in state funding to help make the office possible. The office is located within the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Saratoga County at 50 W. High St. in Ballston Spa.

New Saratoga Hotel Set to Open Next Month

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

Rendering of The Ambler Hotel, formerly known as the St. Charles Motel. 
Image via Weekender Hospitality, LLC.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Ambler Hotel will celebrate its grand opening early next month, according to the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.

The Ambler is the renamed, renovated, redesigned, and rebranded structure at 188 South Broadway that formerly housed the St. Charles Motel.

Keir Weimer, the founder and CEO of Weekender, told Saratoga TODAY last year that the creative concept of The Ambler was “Palm Springs meets an urban New York market.” The brick exterior has been painted white and the rooms will feature some bold pops of color. The hotel will also be a smart one, meaning it’ll offer WiFi-enabled keyless doors that allow guests to check in at any hour, large-screen TVs loaded with apps, and WiFi thermostats.

As a brand, Weekender prides itself on creating rooms that function as basecamps for adventurers. The Ambler will be within walking distance of downtown Saratoga Springs, allowing its guests to explore the vibrant Spa City on foot.