The Warren, Washington, Albany ARC invites you to take part in their Fall Scarecrow Competition!
The scarecrows on display were handmade and decorated by program staff and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Help us declare our winners and vote for your favorite scarecrow from each location! First, Second, and Third place prizes will be awarded for both the Capital District and Lake George Region. You can see all of their creations at either of the following locations:
Capital District: 334 Krumkill Rd. Slingerlands 12159
Warren, Washington, Albany ARC (WWAARC) is respectfully committed to providing services, advocating for and offering opportunities to individuals with intellectual or other developmental disabilities and their families; by supporting them in the realization of their fullest potential.
FAZ Forensics, a boutique forensic accounting firm specializing in business valuation and litigation support, is thrilled to announce its recognition as one of the 2024 Best Places to Work by the Albany Business Review. This honor reflects the firm’s commitment to cultivating a positive, inclusive, and collaborative workplace environment, which has been a priority in recent years.
At FAZ, firm culture is held in the highest regard, and the firm is dedicated to creating an environment that exemplifies its core values. Receiving this recognition, based entirely on employee feedback, is a significant achievement that underscores their mission to build a great company together.
“FAZ is a WE. There’s not that hierarchy that most companies have,” said Christian Leva, Analyst at FAZ Forensics. “You don’t feel that here. It’s one team. we’re all in it together”.
Samuel Tesfamariam Haile, Analyst at FAZ Forensics, remarked, “Many of the engagements we work on are teamwork. You have access to everybody, especially to the partners who have a wealth of knowledge that you don’t have. I find that a very special thing. There is a connectedness that you don’t find in large companies.”
Headquartered in Saratoga Springs, FAZ Forensics provides expert forensic accounting services to a wide range of clients, including businesses, law firms, insurance companies, and not-for-profits. The firm’s highly skilled team excels in resolving complex financial disputes, offering services such as fraud and financial investigations, economic damages assessments, and business valuations.
FAZ Forensics would like to thank the Albany Business Review for recognizing companies that prioritize employee well-being and positive workplace culture across the Capital District.
About FAZ Forensics FAZ Forensics is a trusted CPA firm specializing in forensic accounting, business valuation, and litigation support. With a team of experienced forensic accountants and business advisors, the firm serves middle-market business owners, legal professionals, insurance companies, and government entities.
Event will feature keynote discussion on: “Reimagining Talent in Modern Workplaces” with Netta Jenkins, CEO of Aerodei
The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce and Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce are joining forces to present a workshop exploring how a sense of belonging in companies and communities affects talent recruitment, workforce retention and community investment.
The event is scheduled for 8 to 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 9 SUNY Adirondack – Saratoga Campus at 696 Rt. 9 in Wilton. Pre-registration is required, and the fee is $40 to attend.
Attendees will learn practical insights and best practices from expert presenters and panelists at this half-day workshop about building belonging in companies and communities.
The workshop will feature a Keynote Conversation on: “Reimagining Talent in Modern Workplaces” with Netta Jenkins, CEO of Aerodei, author, and leading authority on global inclusivity.
Other highlights of the Building Belonging schedule include a presentation and discussion on “Community Belonging: Data, Insights and Potential Workforce Impacts” as well as panel discussions featuring business leaders from regional companies and organizations about “The Impact of Belonging on Talent Recruitment and Community Investment” and “Building and Sustaining a Company Culture of Belonging.” Committed panelists to date include representatives from: GlobalFoundries, Saratoga Hospital, Warren County EDC, SUNY Adirondack, Saratoga EDC, North Country Janitorial, Six Flags Great Escape, Arrow Financial, Elite 9, Adirondack Studios, with more to be announced as confirmed.
“The ARCC is thrilled to partner with the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce and many other business leaders to offer this panel discussion. Our hopes are that attendees leave with a better understanding of ensuring employees feel a sense of belonging and are inspired to share this knowledge with their colleagues. We are certainly better when we work together,” said Tricia Rogers, president and CEO of the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce.
“We are delighted to offer this new workshop in partnership with the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce as an opportunity for businesses and nonprofits in our area. Creating a sense of belonging is crucial for organizational success, as it aids in attracting and retaining talent and enhances community engagement,” said Todd Shimkus, president and CEO of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce. “By establishing an environment where individuals feel valued and included, companies can build stronger teams, improve retention rates, and contribute positively to their communities.”
This event is sponsored by Bond, Schoeneck & King Attorneys; Discover Saratoga; Saratoga Arms; the Saratoga Economic Development Corporation; Stewart’s Shops; and Wilcenski Pleat Law.
About the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce: Since 1918, the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce has been opening doors and closing deals for businesses throughout the Saratoga County community. Guided by a strong and sustainable vision, the Chamber leads the way in maintaining and strengthening a healthy business climate, initiating constructive community action, and creating a community where all can thrive.
About the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce: Founded in 1914, the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce (ARCC) is comprised of members representing a myriad of business entities across industry sector lines. The ARCC’s mission is to support our business community
Join Alpha Win for the 18th Annual Lake George Triathlon, a premier weekend event of endurance and entertainment. Set against the scenic backdrop of Lake George, this event features a range of race options including Sprint, Olympic, and Long Course triathlons, as well as aquabike and duathlon categories. Athletes from the Northeastern Collegiate Triathlon Conference will also compete, showcasing some of the top collegiate triathletes in the region.
WHEN: Schedule below:
Saturday, August 31, 2024
7:00 AM: Long Course race at Million Dollar Beach
6:15 PM: Exclusive dinner aboard the Lake George Steamboat Company’s Mohican
This year’s event, under the motto “A Distance For Everyone®,” is designed for participants of all abilities. The triathlon is a part of Alpha Win’s New York events, including the Saugerties Triathlon, Hudson Valley Triathlon, and Hudson Valley Marathon.
Race Director Tommy Struzzeri: “We are excited to welcome athletes back to the beautiful shores of Lake George for a weekend of racing. The Lake George Triathlon combines experienced athletes and newcomers to the sport. I look forward to seeing everyone achieve their goals.”
Gina Mintzer, Executive Director, Lake George Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau: “The Lake George Triathlon Festival attracts athletes and families alike, contributing significantly to the local economy. Participants will enjoy the pristine waters, scenic routes, and vibrant local atmosphere.”
The event is sponsored by Xterra, Trek Saratoga, Warren County Tourism, Glens Falls Hospital of Albany Med Health System, and Adirondack Brewery. Alpha Win proudly partners with the Lake George Land Conservancy to support the preservation of the Lake George watershed.
Event Highlights:
Meet some of the top collegiate triathletes from the Northeastern Collegiate Triathlon Conference.
Enjoy the scenic race courses set along the beautiful shores of Lake George.
Join the community for a festive atmosphere that includes an exclusive dinner cruise.
Registration: Athletes can register online before August 31 at alpha.win. Volunteers are also needed and will receive a free t-shirt and refreshments. Interested volunteers should email info@Alpha.win with their availability.
About Alpha Win: Alpha Win, formerly HITS Endurance, was founded in 2011 with the mission to promote health and wellness through multi-sport events in a family-friendly environment. It offers a variety of race distances for all skill levels, from beginners to professional athletes.
About the Lake George Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau (LGRCVB): The LGRCVB, part of the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB, aims to attract year-round group business to Warren County, including meetings, conventions, and sports events. For more information, visit meetlakegeorge.com or follow @meetlakegeorge on social media.
Join the ARCC for our Annual Community Shred Day and Food Drive in partnership with Confidata and Aviation Mall. This is a FREE EVENT with the donation of at least one non-perishable food item per shred box to benefit our Non-Profit partner: L.E.A.P.
When: Saturday, September 14th from 9:00 – 11:00 am
Where: Aviation Mall (in the parking lot near the old Sears), 578 Aviation Road, Queensbury
What: Community members are invited to bring paper items that they would like to be securely shred on-site. Participants can bring up to 5 boxes to shred (box size cannot exceed 24″ X 12″ X 10″). Please remove all metal bands, bindings and clips from hanging file folders or bound documents. This event is rain or shine.
Photos courtesy of the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce.
The Veterans Business Network (VBN) of the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce (ARCC) invites you to their annual Veteran Suicide Awareness & Prevention Walk. The number of veteran suicides continue to rise world-wide. The ARCC’s Veteran Business Network is committed to helping raise awareness and create an impact on prevention.
When: Thursday, September 12th beginning at 3:30 pm
Where: Glens Falls City Park, Glens Falls
What: Resource tables for Veterans & community members from 3:30 – 4:00 pm. At 4:00 pm brief opening remarks by ARCC President Tricia Rogers and members of the Veterans Business Network, followed by the walk. After the walk will be raffle drawings, and closing remarks at the gazebo. This event is rain or shine.
Participants are asked to contribute a minimum $1.00 donation per person at the time of event (cash or check only, please). Proceeds from the walk will benefit the Veteran’s programs of Kee to Independent Growth, LLC.
Grasso was rescued from a hording site and quite shut down and fearful when he arrived. Nervous about being in a new environment, surrounded by new people, but he’s been warming up to us. He observes everything with a wide-eyed wonder and can be coaxed into playing and gentle petting once an introduction has been made. And when he’s grown used to you, he transforms into such a flirt! He loves other cats, studying their behavioral examples and emulating them. Deep down, he’s a sweetheart who just wants positive attention — and who loves other cats. Grasso’s purrfect family would be one with feline experienced adults, older children and a friendly feline companion who will be patient and encourage him to be proud of who he is.
If you are interested in learning more about Grasso, please contact the Adoption Center at 518.409.8105 ext 101 or adoptadk@animalleague.org. You can also complete the adoption application using the link: www.animalleague.org/adkpreapproval
Quiet and mellow, Skye can often be found perched in her cat tree watching the activities of her roommates. She has a gentle and quiet demeanor, making her a reassuring presence to her feline roommates. Skye is a little hesitant at first introductions, but she’ll relax with a good petting session. In fact, this is the surest way to liven her up! She starts to whirl and twirl to make sure that you’ve pet every inch of her, all while rumbling with purrs! She’s receptive to attention in her own understated ways.
Photos Provided by The Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB.
Lake George, NY – The Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB (LGRCC&CVB) is pleased to announce key staff updates that reflect the organization’s commitment to enhancing member services and supporting the local business community. These strategic changes include new hires and promotions that will drive marketing initiatives, member engagement, and overall community presence.
Megan Seeley, Marketing Director (LGRCC&CVB)
Megan Seeley was promoted to Marketing Director at the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB (LGRCC&CVB). Previously, Megan served as the Marketing Manager of the Lake George Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau (LGRCVB), where she was instrumental in promoting the region to group business in the form of conventions, meetings, sports events, weddings, motorcoach group tours, and more. In her new role, Megan oversees the marketing and communications efforts for Chamber members as well as consumer and group tourism markets with the Convention & Visitors Bureau. As Marketing Director, Megan develops overall marketing strategies for the Chamber and the LGRCVB, oversees the marketing plans for both organizations, and manages the promotion of Chamber and member events. She is also responsible for maintaining the Chamber’s presence in the community through participation in events and committees. Her extensive experience and dedication to the local community are invaluable in her new role.
“I am thrilled to lead our marketing team and develop initiatives that will elevate tourism and strengthen our community connections. Working with growing audiences is incredibly exciting, as it allows us to introduce more people to the beauty and charm of the Lake George region. Together, we can showcase all that this area has to offer, from stunning landscapes to vibrant local businesses. I look forward to collaborating with our team and community to create memorable experiences for visitors and foster a thriving tourism industry”, adds Seeley.
Molly Fitscher, Marketing Coordinator – Lake George Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau (LGRCVB)
The Chamber is excited to welcome Molly Fitscher as the new Marketing Coordinator for the Convention & Visitors Bureau. Molly holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Alfred University and a Media Arts Certificate from SUNY Adirondack. Molly’s previous experience includes roles as a Design Intern at Black Dog and a Marketing Intern at Park Street Hospitality, where she excelled in creating mockups, redesigning menus, and developing brand identities. At the LGRCVB, Molly will collaborate with the Marketing Director to execute comprehensive marketing plans, create and place paid advertisements, manage social media, update digital platforms, and craft engaging email marketing campaigns.
“Molly Fitscher brings a fresh perspective to our marketing efforts as the new Marketing Coordinator,” said the Executive Director. “Our organization looks forward to enhancing our marketing strategies with our refreshed team.”
Angela O’Reilly, Membership Manager – Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce (LGRCC)
Angela O’Reilly brings a diverse career background and a passion for customer service to her role as Membership Manager. Her career journey has included roles in the hospitality, cosmetology, banking, and construction industries. Angela’s dedication to impacting the local community led her to her role at the Chamber, where she ensures every member feels valued and appreciated.
“Angela O’Reilly is dedicated to making each member feel like an integral part of our community. She is excited to build strong connections and ensure our members thrive,” stated Gina Minzter, Executive Director at the LGRCC&CVB.
As Membership Manager, Angela plans and executes a business membership sales and retention plan. She works closely with the Chamber staff to ensure member engagement. Angela conducts business interactions, follows up on membership inquiries, and communicates the Chamber’s value to prospects.
About the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB (LGRCC&CVB): Dedicated to propelling year-round tourism and nurturing a thriving business community in the Lake George region, the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB, Inc. is steadfast in its endeavors. The Chamber’s primary objective is to stimulate the growth and progress of its member enterprises by providing an array of opportunities, including networking functions, educational programs, ribbon-cutting ceremonies, and more. Established in 1952, this member-centric organization operates as a not-for-profit 501 C (6) corporation. Encompassing a regional perspective, the Chamber boasts a membership exceeding 450 entities spanning diverse sectors of the business landscape. For deeper insights, please explore lakegeorgechamber.com. Engage and connect with the Chamber across various social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok.
About the Lake George Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau (LGRCVB):
The LGRCVB is a division of the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB and works as an extension of the Warren County Tourism Department. While the Tourism Department markets the Lake George Area to the leisure consumer tourism market, the mission of the LGRCVB is to bring year-round, weather-proof group business to Warren County in the form of meetings, conventions, reunions, sports events, weddings, and more. Connect with the LGRCVB on Facebook,Instagram and by visiting meetlakegeorge.com .
Green PR Firm Expands Portfolio with Cali-based Organic Pistachio Producer
Photos provided by Sustainable PR.
Glens Falls, NY –Sustainable PR, a green-focused PR firm was awarded a national account with California pistachio producer, Nichols Farms. Sustainable PR will implement a multi-faceted PR campaign to position Nichols Farms as a leading producer and distributor of organic nuts.
“Our campaign will develop brand messaging, and coverage in retail and food trade media as well as local media,” explained Tony DeFazio, Sustainable PR Founder and CEO. “We will also advise the company on influencer outreach and social media tactics. A core element of our effort will help Nichols Farms grow their organic line of products and help it achieve its growth and sustainability goals.
Nichols Farms Headquarters
The pistachio market’s growth mirrors Sustainable PR’s. The firm has expanded its client base by 50% in 2024 and seen revenue increase 150% from 2023. The surge is fueled by growing investments in environmental protection and eco-conscious products, triggering the demand for communications strategies that elevate companies’ sustainability initiatives.
“Plant based proteins are a large and growing segment of the food industry,” says Tony DeFazio, founder of Sustainable PR. “Sustainably minded buyers as well as consumer wellness trends are fueling a push towards healthier food choices. The pistachio market is seeing the fastest growth, and we are at the center of that helping Nichols Farms capitalize on the growth opportunity.” The global pistachio market was valued at approximately USD 4.20 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow to USD 5.62 billion by 2031. “We are excited to help expand and grow the Nichols Farms brand – especially its organic pistachios” Added DeFazio.
Christine Trageser, Senior Brand Manager at Nichols Farms, commented, “Sustainable PR’s proven track record of media relations in the food industry and their deep understanding of sustainability communications made them our clear choice. We are confident that their expertise will help us connect with retailers and consumers who value quality, environmental responsibility, and delicious pistachios.”
About Nichols Farms
Since 1961, Nichols Farms has tilled the fertile soil of the San Joaquin Valley in California to supply the highest quality almonds and pistachios to families across the nation. The Nichols family are caretakers of the land and committed to sustainable agriculture- integrating water recycling, composting, and other conservation practices into their farming- while generating onsite solar energy to power their operations. Nichols Farm’s organic pistachios have emerged as their flagship product with a complete line of dry-roasted flavored varieties, including hot honey, habanero lime, maple butter, and rosemary garlic. Today, four generations of the Nichols Family work together to grow, process, package, and market pistachios to retailers across the nation.
For more information about Nichols Farms visit their website nicholsfarms.com.
About Sustainable PR
Sustainable PR is a public relations agency based in the Adirondack region of New York which brings earned media expertise to green companies. Founded in 2020 by PR agency veteran Tony DeFazio, the agency builds public relations campaigns which help companies realize their sustainability commitments and take advantage of a growing sustainability market. For more information about Sustainable PR’s mission and services, visit their website sustainablepr.com or call (518) 223-9962.
