SARATOGA SPRINGS — Christopher Lyons, Executive Director of AIM Services Inc. of Saratoga Springs, announced today that Jeff Vukelic, President and CEO of Saratoga Eagle was unanimously elected to the AIM Services Board of Directors at its April 2020 meeting. 

“AIM Services is very near and dear to my heart for personal reasons and I embrace their ‘person-centered’ focus of support,” said Vukelic at his first AIM Services board meeting.

Vukelic immediately offered the organization a $10,000 Giving Tuesday Now challenge grant to help the organization reach its 2020 annual fund goal and continue to provide essential care during the COVID19 pandemic to the vulnerable population that AIM serves every day. Vukelic has agreed to match every donation to AIM dollar-for-dollar, up to $10,000, through May 30, 2020.

“Jeff recognized the opportunity Giving Tuesday Now presents for AIM and wasted no time in offering this generous challenge,” said Lyons. “At a time when our direct support professionals are giving new meaning to supporting others and dedication to their jobs, Jeff stepped up to show that appreciation and fill an important health care need locally.” 

“It is a critical time in our country and in our community and it will take all of us working together to raise what we need to ensure those with diverse abilities are not forgotten during this pandemic.” said Vukelic.

Vukelic joins AIM Board President Brian Gwynn as well as other board members Martin “Buddy” Glastetter, Neil Edmonds, John Paolucci, Jim Norton, Robert Ricketts, Tara Anne Pleat, Denise Stasik, Don Kozak, John Fleming, Linda Casse, and Mitch Havens in guiding the growing service organization. Vukelic also currently serves as vice chairman for the board of directors of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, is a member of the board of trustees of the Saratoga Regional YMCA, and is a trustee at LeMoyne College.

 Located in Saratoga Springs, AIM Services, Inc. is a non-profit organization serving over 3,000 individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities and their families, in Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties, with a reach covering all of eastern New York including Long Island’s Suffolk County. AIM Services, Inc. provides support unique to each person’s individualized needs, goals and dreams. AIM’s mission revolves around promoting inclusion, independence, and self-confidence in those they serve through community-based services, advocacy and education.

In response to the COVID19 crisis, a new national day of giving, Giving Tuesday Now was created for May 5. The goal is to maximize the ability of charitable organizations to raise funds during this critical time. For AIM Services, which serves a uniquely vulnerable population, the event is especially poignant and Vukelic’s challenge becomes critically important during this health crisis. By announcing the $10,000 challenge, Vukelic hopes to motivate others to donate in order to help AIM secure resources it needs to continue to serve the thousands of members of the disabled population and provide the DSP workers with the safe PPE that they need. As of May 7, almost $6,000 has been donated, exceeding the halfway mark to their $10,000 match goal.

More about AIM’s annual fund, Keeping Their Dreams Alive can be found on their website.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — “Doors are closing. People are closing. It’s already too late for many businesses,” said Heidi West, Lifestyles of Saratoga owner. 

West is just one voice of many small business owners all coming to the same consensus, it may already be too late for the once bustling downtown Saratoga. While some stores embraced reinventing to keep business going for them amid COVID-19 restrictions, others were not so lucky. 

“A lot of doors are closing. We don’t have much time left to be honest. We do need to figure out how to be safe and be open all at the same time,” West said. “All of this makes it an uphill battle but…give us a fighting chance. Open our doors so we can get through it.”

The community of Saratoga Springs has felt the impact of economic restrictions before. In 1945, the community was filled with rundown structures following both the Great Depression and World War II. It was not until 10 years later, in 1958 the Planning Board moved forward with the city’s master plan for renewal. 

For years to come, the city saw plenty of urban renewal. However, individuals and small businesses owners lost low-cost rents and had “no choice” in what was happening, seeing the destruction of neighborhoods and facing costly relocation expenses. 

Small businesses worry that the town can revert back to those moments in history and time is not on their side as restriction stay in place. However, just as locals saw the creation of the new normal then, businesses are facing the new normal of today.

“It’s not like we are going to open our doors the way they were six months ago, not by any stretch. Our new normal will be gloves, masks, and disinfecting, but with our doors open. But we have to at least be able to open our doors,” said Pam Worth, owner of Spoken Boutique.

As restriction continue to wear on businesses, coming back from what was lost may not be possible. Safety is at the forefronts of any plans business owners create with the hopes
of reopening.

“It is my opinion…I can be safer than a big box store. I have a 12 step program already typed up about how I’m changing protocol,” West said. “Even being allowed to have an one-on-one appointment with that protocol in place would be helpful. We just need to keep moving forward.”

Todd L. Shimkus, president of Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, has drafted a “Plan for Saratoga County’s Economic Recovery” through a collaboration with the Downtown Business Association, the City Center, Discover Saratoga, SEDC, and the Saratoga County Prosperity Partnership.

{loadmoduleid 268}

“We’ve been sharing [the plan] with Federal, State, County and local officials. The development of this plan is in part a way for Saratoga County to demonstrate that we have a plan to safely reopen. The Governor has said this is a pre-requisite for businesses and we’re hoping that by doing this collectively with common operating procedures that we will position Saratoga County in a positive light,” Shimkus said. 

Shimkus shared two key aspects of the multi-part plan. Recovery kits for small business have been created to include a startup supply of PPE for all business. They also have met with local restaurants and will be doing the same with hotels and retailers to develop common cleaning protocols that those businesses will pledge to follow once reopened.

“Our focus is on making it crystal clear that health comes first in Saratoga County and that our local business community is united in working together to keep everyone safe so that we can reopen sooner,” Shimkus said. 

Pam Worth feels that downtown has a strong impulse of businesses wanting to prove they can open safely.

“Saratoga is a much different town than most, being one of the top five downtowns in all of the United States. I feel who better to set the precedence in what should happen in a beautiful resort town but Saratoga Springs,” Worth said. “We all want to open our doors safely and set the right precedent to what is the new normal. But in order for all of that to happen, we have got to get the doors open.”

Maddy Zanetti, Impressions of Saratoga owner with Marianne Barker, said they plan to take extra precautions, clean things more, and stay distant from customers as soon as their doors are open. Zanetti feels that foot traffic will take a while to pick up, as people adjust to going out and feeling comfortable around others.

“We are definitely worried about how this year is going to pan out for us, but we are making the most of it and doing the best we can,” Zanetti said. 

West believes it’s not too late to bounce back, but the key is getting safety plans in place as soon as possible. If she can’t open by June 1, she will have to focus on different plans in terms of closing doors. 

“My success is the success of my 20 employees, who are suffering, and the success of the whole community. I really just want a voice for the small business. It’s becoming crucial at this point in my opinion,” West said. 

Worth believes with the downtown leaders being business owners, everyone can bring an opinion and structure as to how they can get the town up and running again. 

“Saratoga is an amazing downtown community that wants nothing more than to survive and to stay successful,” Worth said. “The strong local community that we have, and the local people that support our downtown, are the ones that are going to keep us alive.”

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Impressions of Saratoga and The Dark Horse Mercantile are now delivering Saratoga Mother’s Day Porch Packages.

Each Porch Package is delivered in a reusable Saratoga tote and filled with locally made food products and Saratoga specific items. There are basic “pre-assembled” Porch Packages from $25 to $150 price points featuring all Saratoga made products and are also fully customizable.

Marianne Barker and Maddy Zanetti, Co-Owners, are “contactless delivering” all local Porch Packages by walking, biking, or driving them to their destination and they have recruited help from family members too. In addition, many are being shipped all across the country. 

They have teamed up with other local businesses and now have products from Saratoga Coffee Traders, Angel Wings BBQ sauce and Saratoga Tea & Honey, plus the vendors they already worked with; Cobble Hill Farms, Mapleland Farms, Dean’s Delicious Dog Treats, Adirondack Candle Co., Saratoga Spicery, Saratoga Beef Jerky, Healthy Gourmet, Sunnyside Gardens, Saratoga Candy Co, Sundaes Best, Lazy Dog, Saratoga Chocolate Co, Decresente, and more.

 “Since we will still be unable to gather with our moms this year, we thought a Mother’s Day Porch Package would be a great way to spread some joy. You can add a flowering plant from Sunnyside Gardens to any local deliveries and we have a bunch of fun Mother’s Day Cards tool,” says Barker.

 Zanetti said, “The two original Saratoga Porch Packages that we developed just three weeks ago have been so successful that we created Saratoga Porch Packages and added more than a dozen new ‘Pre-Assembled’ Porch Packages, some specifically for Mother’s Day. We will be including ‘Saratoga Porch Packages’ into our everyday business once the doors open again. Right now we have porch-packing stations set up around the back of the store. The response and support has been incredible.”

Currently, Porch Packages can be ordered Monday – Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. by calling 518-587-0666 or 24 hours a day online at SaratogaPorchPackages.com. Porch Packages are distributed with “contactless delivery.” You can also send email inquiries to Impressions@ImpressionsSaratoga.com. 

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Just as local eateries convert to online orders and to-go options, other small businesses reinvent themselves to adapt to the ever-changing times.

Something Bleu Bridal reinvented the bridal dress shopping experience, introducing two types of appointments for brides to be. Owners Kathyrn Metzler and Marissa Mackay developed concierge bridal appointments and Zoom party bridal appointments for brides to find their wedding gown, while still following social distancing guidelines. 

“These new appointments are unconventional but can still be enjoyed. You should still feel like you’re getting some of the bridal experience that you pictured in your mind,” Mackay said. “We wanted to discover a way to be in business when we are not allowed to be in business as we were.”

The concierge appointments includes a personal Zoom consultation where the bride can choose up to five gowns. Those five gowns are then transported to the bride to try on in the privacy and safety of their own home. Deliveries of the dress will be made within one-hour of their store location and dresses can be held for 24-hours. 

“The idea of having a concierge appointment seemed like the most natural way that we can service our brides in a really custom fashion with all of the conditions the world is in,” Mackay said. 

Zoom Party Appointments have become a permanent fixture for the boutique. Currently, Mackay and Metzler use the appointment to provide the bride a customized service at a distance. They use the appointments to gain a feeling towards the aesthetic the bride would like on their wedding day. However, they plan to use Zoom to include family and friends who live farther away in the bridal experience once social distance restrictions are lifted.

“Personal connection is really important to us, so we make sure that the consultation portion of the appointment is as close as possible to the experience of shopping in our store, including a tour of our collection, time spent getting to know the bride and her style, and the opportunity to choose from among our large collection of dresses and accessories for an at-home try on,” said Mackay in a release.

So far three brides have participated in the concierge and Zoom bridal appointment. Mackay said they all went well, as the brides were shopping for their upcoming wedding and all found a dress they love.

Something Bleu Bridal isn’t the only local business that has reinvented to serve the community. Local eateries, bakeries and deli’s have became contact free establishments. Finding shopping staples such as eggs, milk and flour can be purchased at food eateries in the community. The Bread Basket Bakery is offering call-in orders for flour, sugar and yeast. They also offer bread delivery through Battenkill Valley Creamery. Another eatery, the Spring Street Deli & Pizzeria, created a grocery menu with popular grocery items that people can order and pick-up. Both stores allowing delivery or pick-up cuts down of social contact, creating a safer environment than a larger supermarket.

For projects to do at home, Saratoga Paint and Sip are offering take home projects, called Take ‘N Paint Kits. Starting at $25, the curbside pickup kit contains everything needed to create the paintings. They also offer a private Zoom room, where an artist will instruct the group through the project.

For dog owners, North Country Paws for Obedience is offering a train at home online session starting in May. Based in South Glens Falls, the online courses are described as interactive, informative and engaging. Interested parties can sign up online.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Due to the COVID-19 crisis and the current need to maintain social distancing, the date of our 2020 Annual Golf Classic changed to September 23, 2020.

If you wish to hold your spot, register a foursome, provide a sponsorship, or make a general donation visit the Center for the Family online.

For those who wish to wait, we understand.  Our country is facing an unprecedented time with much fear and anxiety felt by many – especially our clients, both current and new. That is why Saratoga Center for the Family remains open. Our therapists continue to be available by providing telehealth therapy appointments. Our Child Advocacy Center is open for reported child abuse cases.  Our educational programming continues to be offered online. 

We look forward to the day when we can once again see our supporters and friends at dinners, food and wine tastings, and out on the golf course.  Until then, we continue to forge ahead, ensuring that our critical services are available and accessible for those who need us.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — For nearly three years, people in recovery, or those seeking recovery from addiction, could walk through the doors of Healing Springs Recovery Community Center located on High Rock Ave. in downtown Saratoga Springs.  That all changed a month ago.   

The doors closed for the nearly 60 people who walked in daily to the Center for a cup of coffee, attend a meeting or workshop, talk with a recovery coach or simply get a hug and a warm greeting. But the recovery community is resilient and adapted to the challenges of isolation and imposed change. Staff and volunteers at Healing Springs have created connections in new ways. 

Ben Deeb, a Certified Recovery Peer Advocate shared, “The opposite of addiction is not sobriety, but human connection. We are committed to keeping conversations going and being there for one another.” 

Healing Springs Recovery Center now offers online meetings every day for anyone to talk sobriety and recovery. Meetings start with morning check-in, meditation, coffee with Megan, Family Support and night check-in, to wrap up the day. Healing Springs continues to offer support and resources by telephone.   

“If you, or a loved one, are ready to go to treatment, we can help you navigate that process,” explained Brendan Norton, the agency’s Family Support Navigator. “We offer support for families who are impacted by a loved one’s addiction.”

If someone is unfamiliar with joining a virtual meeting online, Healing Springs staff can help you through the process. You can reach staff by telephone at 518-306-3048. 

You can find a calendar of Healing Springs Recovery Center’s on-line meetings on Facebook.  For phone support call 518-306-3048, Monday through Friday.

SCHENECTADY — Palette café announced a new location in Schenectady slated to open at a later date.

Owner of Palette, Catherine Hover, announced new partners as she prepares to open her second co-working space alongside the one she currently owns on Broadway. Hover’s first co-working space opened in November 2019. 

Denise Gonick, former president and chief executive officer of MVP Health Care, and Steve Gonick, co-owner of Steve & Nicole, LLC and co-founder at Passport for Good, have teamed up with Hover for Palette’s expansion to Schenectady. The local couple has vast experience coaching business and not-for-profit organizations. Recently, the Gonick’s have directed their efforts toward local entrepreneurs promoting socially conscious businesses, adding leadership and funding to help bring these concepts to market or expand their reach. 

“We believe in the vision Catherine has created for Palette,” said Denise Gonick. “Our local communities thrive when there is support and collaboration. This and Catherine’s endless positive energy are what attracted us to Palette. She is driven to better the community and the women within who aspire to be their greatest selves.” 

Denise Gonick worked her way to the top after getting her bachelor’s at Hofstra University, and her Law Degree at Albany Law School. Denise enjoyed a successful career in health care, spending nearly 25 years at the nationally recognized, not-for-profit health insurer MVP Health Care. Denise was a game changer at MVP becoming the first female CEO in 2012 and diversifying its portfolio of offerings, including the early adoption of telemedicine. She currently serves on several corporate and non-profit boards and is a frequent speaker on leadership. 

In addition to his corporate responsibilities, Steve Gonick recently did a stint as Executive and Entrepreneur in Residence at Ithaca College, where he has provided mentorship and opportunities to hundreds of students, many of them based in the Capital District. 

“Catherine laid out an impressive strategy where Palette can be a valuable resource for their customers as we embark on an economic recovery for the Capital Region,” Steve Gonick said. “She is a unique entrepreneur who has been able to flex and thrive during this challenging time. When we heard her plans, we wanted to be a part of it.” 

Hover is leasing about 4,000-square-feet in the Foster Building located at 508 State Street in Schenectady. Palette will also utilize space on the first floor for a café. The cafe will offer coffee, light fare, baked goods, and cocktails in a comfortable setting. It’s a place that will continue to celebrate culture, shared ideas and connections. 

“Denise and Steve are the perfect partners for Palette,” said Catherine Hover. “They fully understand what my team and I envision and have worked hard to provide in our community. Through their experience in successful business growth, we will be better positioned to bring my concept to the next level. This is just the beginning of a beautiful business relationship.” 

Hover created Palette to support local women but the cafe is open to the community. While the café offers coffee and bites to eat, Palette Upstairs is designed as a larger co-working environment. Conference room and areas for larger event gatherings are available with event programming and membership opportunities.

Palette will be open to members who hold yearly, monthly and even day passes which include access to concierge services, programming and other perks. Corporate memberships will also be available.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Though the holidays may be past us, the generosity of this magical season is still being felt thanks to Stewart’s Holiday Match Program. 

The program matched donations from customers and donated a total of  $1.8 million to 1,753 organizations throughout the area who serve children. Franklin Community Center is honored to be a recipient of their generosity again this year.

The $5,000 donation received by Franklin will be used to offset costs associated with Franklin’s after school prevention program, Project Lift. 

“This show of community support came at the perfect time” states executive director Kari Cushing. “With our current climate so much different than anything we have ever experienced, our community’s children’s programs are now more vital than ever. We are very fortunate that Stewart’s Shops puts such a strong emphasis on philanthropy throughout the areas they serve.”

Project Lift, which has been operated by Franklin Community Center for over 30 years, is a unique and comprehensive after-school program for youth in grades 1-6 that places emphasis on positive youth development, raising self-esteem, and the development of refusal, decision-making, problem solving and communication skills. The research- based program is designed to enhance resiliency and equip children with information to make healthy decisions on their own.  Project Lift is free to the enrolled students, who also have access to the Community Center’s ancillary services, as needed.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — We are Brewnited, a collective of local brewers focused on giving back to our community. Our mission is to raise funds for our hospitality industry partners the best way we know how:  with a beer.

“Shortly after restrictions were put in place, I, out of habit, decided to head out for a beer. Quickly realizing I couldn’t, my brain filled with all of the bar and restaurant workers I know who are suddenly out of work with no income.  I remember thinking, ‘how can I help, even some of these guys?’… The next day at work I reached out to other local brewers, who, like me, owe our livelihoods to bars and restaurants that have supported our brands for so long. From this came the idea of a virtual collaboration beer where we could donate all proceeds directly to hospitality workers while creating a platform for other community members to contribute, knowing funds will be distributed locally,”  said Max Oswald of Northway Brewing Company.

Adirondack Brewery, Artisanal Brew Works, Bolton Landing Brewing Co., Common Roots Brewing Co., Druthers Brewing Co., and Northway Brewing Co. have collaborated to bring you Negative Input, an American Lager that represents our unity in these challenging times. We are working together to take the negative input that we are overwhelmed with and flip it upside-down to get a positive outcome.

All profits from the sale of these 4-Packs will be distributed to hospitality workers in Saratoga and Warren counties who are out of work due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Springs printing plant, Quad is considering whether to spend $45 million to install two new presses, which add 74 new jobs over the next two years. 

The printer of Time, W Magazine, and Popular Mechanics is seeking $9 million in incentives to justify making the investment in New York instead of Wisconsin where Quad is headquartered. 

Besides the incentive package, which is expected to include $2.25 million is assistance from National Grid as well as $6 million for Empire State Development.

Quad would need a building permit before it is allowed to start work. The company wants to get its approvals in place so that once the situation with the coronavirus improves, Quad can begin its expansion project.