Author: Staff Report

Strength in Numbers: MeetingPoint Professional Networking

Written by Staff Report on February 7, 2024. Posted in Business, Featured, GFT Business Report, News.

In the dynamic world of business, the adage ‘it’s not what you know, but who you know’ holds significant weight.

The essence of success often lies in the robustness and strength of professional networks. This is the cornerstone upon which MeetingPoint is built, a platform dedicated to fostering professional connections that spur relationship development, knowledge sharing, and business growth.

A Selective and Diverse Community

MeetingPoint’s membership comprises a distinguished array of professionals, including attorneys, CPAs, financial experts, select consultants, and various personal and business advisors. Our focus is on quality over quantity, admitting only a select group of professionals known for their niche expertise. This strategic diversity ensures a rich blend of knowledge and experience, providing an invaluable environment for collaboration and information exchange among our members.

Regional Presence & Expansion

With an established presence in the Capital Region and Upstate New York, MeetingPoint boasts four active chapters: Albany, Saratoga, Hudson Valley, and Glens Falls. This regional spread not only enhances our reach but also offers members a diverse array of perspectives and opportunities.

Our Vision: Creating Opportunities Through Engaging Activities

MeetingPoint is more than just a networking group; it’s a community focused on creating meaningful business opportunities. Our activities, ranging from meetings and events to insightful exercises, delve into the business personas of our members. We aim to transcend the traditional exchange of business cards, fostering an environment where connections are made naturally, free from the pressures of obligatory referrals.

Member Benefits:

Monthly Connection-Centric Meetings
These gatherings are tailored to foster organic referrals and establish strong professional bonds. The emphasis is on achieving practical outcomes for all participants.
Network Expansion Opportunities
Members are encouraged to attend meetings across different chapters, broadening their professional horizons and uncovering new growth opportunities.
Expert-Led Presentations
Keeping members at the forefront of their fields, our presentations are more akin to TED Talks than traditional boardroom briefings. These sessions, led by members or guest speakers, offer actionable insights for professional advancement.
Social Engagements
We organize casual yet strategically valuable networking events like happy hours, golf outings, and charity activities. These events are designed to strengthen connections in a relaxed atmosphere.

Join the MeetingPoint Community!

We are actively seeking new members within the following industries:

-Personal Injury Attorney
-Divorce Attorney
-Commercial Litigation Attorney
-Commercial Real Estate Professional
-Labor and Employment Attorney

If you’re a professional advisor looking to expand your network and influence, MeetingPoint could be your next strategic move.

MeetingPoint stands as a testament to the power of professional networking done right. By fostering an environment of diverse expertise and providing a variety of platforms for connection, we are redefining the way professionals collaborate and grow. Join us in this journey of creating enduring professional relationships and unlocking new business horizons.

Contact Charles Amodio of Ferraro, Amodio & Zarecki CPA’s for any questions: camodio@fazcpas.com or visit our website at meeting-point.us!

Free In-Person Seminar on Wills vs. Trusts! Presented by Herzog Law Firm

Written by Staff Report on February 7, 2024. Posted in Featured.

Herzog Law Firm, a trusted name in estate planning and elder law, invites you to another installment of their “Wills vs. Trusts” seminar. This seminar provides an invaluable opportunity for individuals and families to delve into the intricacies of estate planning. Join us for another installment of this seminar, designed to empower you with the knowledge needed for secure and well-informed estate planning decisions.
You will have the opportunity to engage with knowledgeable legal professionals who will address your
questions and concerns, offering you valuable guidance in planning for your family’s future. Key topics
covered include safeguarding your home and assets, as well as effective strategies to circumvent court
proceedings and mitigate long-term care expenses. Explore the advantages of revocable and irrevocable
trusts, advance directives, and wills under the guidance of our seasoned attorneys!

Seminar Details:

Date: Wednesday, February 14th

10 AM Presented by David Kubikian, Esq.
2PM Presented by Phillip Vacchio, Esq. of Herzog Law

Venue: Embassy Suites by Hilton, Saratoga Springs

Attendance is free!
Please RSVP to info@herzoglaw.com or by calling 518.465.7581.
For more information about Herzog Law Firm and to explore additional resources, please visit our website at www.HerzogLaw.com.

About Herzog Law:

Since 1946, the Herzog Law Firm PC has been dedicated to providing our clients with unparalleled legal
advice and counsel. As a full-service Estate Planning and Elder Law firm, we pride ourselves on being able to
walk you and your family through all stages of Estate Planning, Medicaid Planning, Tax Planning, and Estate
Administration.
At the Herzog Law Firm, our goal is to develop a long-term relationship with our clients and their families while
preparing and implementing an estate plan that addresses their individual needs and circumstances. We are
committed to preserving and protecting the assets clients have acquired during their lifetime.

Adirondack Region Cat Adoption Center’s Featured Cat of the Week: Pepper

Written by Staff Report on January 31, 2024. Posted in Community, Featured.

After being rescued, one year old Pepper spent some time in foster care raising her two kittens. Now that she is experiencing meeting new people, she cannot hold back her affections! Even enjoying being held, Pepper is sure to become your best friend. She loves to be at the center of attention and doesn’t want to share the spotlight with anyone else. The whole world is her personal stage. We’re just spectators!

If you are interested in learning more about Pepper, 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

www.animalleague.org/adirondackregion
Facebook: theanimalleagueadirondackregion
Instagram: AnimalLeagueAdirondack

Adirondack Region Cat Adoption Center’s Featured Cat of the Week: Princess

Written by Staff Report on January 22, 2024. Posted in Community, Featured.

After taking some time to settle in, three-year-old Princess is getting comfortable here at the adoption center. She’s come a long way, now cannot receive enough attention! This friendly girl knows what she wants and knows her worth. And we hear she’d prefer being an only cat as she craves your undivided attention. If you’re looking for a “queen bee” of the feline sort and have a lap available for Princess, consider adopting her!

If you are interested in learning more about Princess, 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

www.animalleague.org/adirondackregion
Facebook: theanimalleagueadirondackregion
Instagram: AnimalLeagueAdirondack

Adirondack Region Cat Adoption Center’s Featured Cat of the Week: Tony

Written by Staff Report on January 15, 2024. Posted in Community, Featured.

Tony is, in three words: A Complete Love! He is three-year-old guy with a soft, black suit and an ample purr. His behavioral resume would include the following traits: affectionate, friendly, active, curious, lovable, and sociable — and he won’t hesitate to climb on a lap if one is available. Come meet him and see for yourself!

If you are interested in learning more about Tony, 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

www.animalleague.org/adirondackregion
Facebook: theanimalleagueadirondackregion
Instagram: AnimalLeagueAdirondack

Veterans and Active Military Personnel to be Honored with Free Admission to Magical Evening at Lake George

Written by Staff Report on January 12, 2024. Posted in Columns, Community, Featured, In the Arts.

On January 25, 2024, Winter’s Dream Welcomes Those Who Have Served and Those Who Are Serving Our Country!

LAKE GEORGE, NY — Lake George Winter’s Dream is proud to announce Military Appreciation Evening, a special event to honor veterans and active military service members. On Thursday, January 25, 2024, the Lake George Winter’s Dream experience will be free for all active military and veterans. In addition, their guests will enjoy 20% off ticket prices. Attendees are required to show a valid form of military identification upon entry. Acceptable forms of ID include a Military ID, DD-214 with valid Driver’s License, Veteran’s ID Card or Veteran’s status on Driver’s license or Government-Issued ID Card.

Lake George Winter’s Dream draws on the rich emotions, sensations, and magic of the winter season in a series of multimedia installations that create an immersive, dreamlike experience. Located in the courtyard and on the bastions of the Fort William Henry Historic Fortress, Lake George Winter’s Dream takes place in a location with significant military history. The experience includes original music, lights and multimedia as visitors are immersed in six installations: First Snow, Winter Woods, Frozen Lake, Full Moons, Dreamscapes and Cabin of Dreams. Winter’s Dream is fully accessible to persons of all abilities.

Lake George Winter’s Dream is not just an attraction; it’s an exploration of the winter spirit, creating memories that last a lifetime. By offering free admission to active military and veterans on January 25, 2024, the Warren County Coalition aims to express gratitude for their service and provide an opportunity for these heroes to enjoy the magic of Winter’s Dream with their loved ones.

“We wanted to show our deep appreciation for the many sacrifices made by our military personnel and their loved ones. Lake George Winter’s Dream is a celebration of the beauty and wonder of winter, and we are thrilled to share this experience with those who have served our country,” said Vincent Crocitto II, Chairman of the Warren County Coalition.

Complete details and a link to secure tickets for Military Appreciation Evening can be found at LakeGeorgeWintersDream.com/events. Each ticket to Lake George Winter’s Dream comes with a discount savings passport that unlocks special deals and pricing at attractions, lodging, restaurants, and retailers. Discounts range from 10-20 percent as well as buy one get one offers and more. Early booking is recommended to secure preferred dates and times.

Lake George Winter’s Dream received financial support from Warren County as part of the public-private effort to foster year-round tourism and local employment. This attraction is supported by Warren County Tourism/Lake George Area and the Warren County Coalition.

Lake George Winter’s Dream is created and produced by the award-winning multidisciplinary studio Moment Factory. Headquartered in Montreal, the studio also has other locations in Paris, Tokyo, New York City and Singapore. Since its inception in 2001, Moment Factory has created more than 500 unique projects worldwide, including the Lumina Night Walk and the AURA series. In collaboration with renowned artists, brands, museums, theme parks and cities, its productions span the globe and include such clients as the NBA, Changi Airport, Disney, Sony, Boston Museum of Science, Universal Studios, AT&T, the Reims Cathedral and Billie Eilish.

The Hyde Collection Receives Highest National Recognition From the American Alliance of Museums

Written by Staff Report on January 12, 2024. Posted in Featured, In the Arts.

Glens Falls, NY—The Hyde Collection recently received reaccreditation from the American Alliance of
Museums (AAM), the only organization representing the entire scope of the museum community. Of the
nation’s estimated 33,000 museums, 1,106 are currently accredited.

Recognized as the field’s gold standard for museum excellence for fifty years, AAM accreditation
signifies a museum’s quality and credibility to the entire museum community, governments and outside
agencies, and the museum-going public. The Accreditation Program helps to ensure the integrity and
accessibility of museum collections, reinforce the educational and public service roles of museums, and
promote good governance practices and ethical behavior.

Through a rigorous process of self-assessment and review by their peers, accredited museums
demonstrate they meet the museum community’s standards of best practices and are educational entities that are appropriate stewards of the collections and resources they hold in the public trust.
“We are very proud that The Hyde has received reaccreditation from AAM and are honored to be among a peer group of museums that share the Hyde’s commitment to professional excellence in all aspects of
museum operations,” said John Lefner, President and CEO of The Hyde Collection.

AAM accreditation recognizes a museum’s commitment to excellence, accountability, high professional
standards, and continued institutional improvement. Developed and sustained by museum professionals
for 50 years, the AAM’s museum accreditation program is the field’s primary vehicle for quality
assurance, self-regulation, and public accountability. It strengthens the museum profession by promoting practices that enable leaders to make informed decisions, allocate resources wisely, and remain financially and ethically accountable to provide the best possible service to the public.
The Hyde Collection is open Thursday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm.

About The Hyde Collection

The Hyde is one of the Northeast’s exceptional small art museums with distinguished European and
American art collections. The core collection, acquired by Museum founders Charlotte and Louis Hyde,
includes works by such artists as Sandro Botticelli, Tintoretto, El Greco, Rembrandt, Peter Paul Rubens,
Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres, Edgar Degas, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Georges Seurat, and Pablo Picasso and American artists Thomas Eakins, Childe Hassam, Winslow Homer, James McNeill Whistler, and Anna Hyatt Huntington. The Museum’s Modern and Contemporary art collection features works by artists including Josef Albers, Dorothy Dehner, Sam Gilliam, Adolph Gottlieb, Grace Hartigan, Ellsworth Kelly, Sol LeWitt, Robert Motherwell, Ben Nicholson, Robert Rauschenberg, and Bridget Riley. Today, The
Hyde offers significant national and international exhibitions and a packed schedule of events that help
visitors experience art in new ways. Visit www.hydecollection.org

Throughout the years, the Museum has expanded considerably from the historic Hyde home. It includes a modern museum complex with an auditorium, classroom, five galleries, and a state-of-the-art storage
facility.

Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce Welcomes New Board Member

Written by Staff Report on January 9, 2024. Posted in ARCC Spotlight, Business, Featured.

GLENS FALLS, NY (1/9/2024)– The Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce (ARCC) is pleased to announce the addition of Chris Barden, Chief Operating Officer of North Country Janitorial, to their Board of Directors in 2024.

“We are so excited to welcome Chris Barden to the ARCC Board of Directors,” said ARCC President Tricia Rogers. “Chris brings with him a lot of knowledge on the operations of a small business, as well as giving back to the community.”

Mr. Barden joined North Country Janitorial Inc. (NCJ) in 2011 and currently holds the position of Chief Operating Officer. He joined NCJ after a 10-year career with Casella Waste where he was the Senior Operations Analyst. Mr. Barden is a former army officer and graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point. He leverages his diverse background as a soldier, a waste management professional, a leadership training instructor, and as an entrepreneur to facilitate a responsive and proactive operational setting at North Country Janitorial. Additionally, Mr. Barden serves on the Board of Directors of the Warren County Economic Development Corporation and the Adirondack Vet’s House.

The ARCC would also like to express our gratitude for the Board service of Crystal Grimaldi, of Ideal Dairy Farms. Grimaldi served as ARCC Board Secretary for many years, and the ARCC thanks her for her dedication to the organization and her continued support. Jennifer Whalen, of Rozell Industries, will now serve as Board Secretary.

About the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce

Founded in 1914, the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce (ARCC) is a membership organization representing businesses in New York State’s Washington, Warren, Essex, and Northern Saratoga Counties. The ARCC is a 501c6 not-for-profit corporation, governed by volunteer Board of Directors, and does not receive any funding from local, county or state governments. Our mission is to support our business community through advocacy, education, connection, and collaboration.

Funky Ice Fest Celebrates Winter and Music With Ice Sculptures, Arcade Games and Cocktails

Written by Staff Report on January 9, 2024. Posted in Featured.

Free Admission for Grooviest Ice Bar in Adirondacks!

LAKE GEORGE, NY — Preparations are underway for the grooviest winter bash in the Adirondacks so grab your crew and get ready to get funky!

Here’s the lowdown: Funky Ice Fest returns to Adirondack Pub & Brewery located at 33 Canada Street, Lake George, on Jan. 19 and 20 and Jan. 26 and 27 — the last Fridays and Saturdays in January — from 4 to 9 p.m.

Funky Ice Fest has been bringin’ the vibes since 2016, carving out a one-of-a-kind experience to groove outside beneath the winter moon and a disco ball while sipping craft cocktails and other locally-made Adirondack Brewery beer and drinks.

The Pub serves up a far out ice bar experience with a side of nostalgia complete with funky tunes, classic arcade games like Pac-Man, and a whole lotta chill. Show up in your grooviest threads and rock those afros handed out by the Pub. Plus, they’re not just servin’ up hand-crafted cocktails – Adirondack Brewery’s bringing the craft beer and beverages, and tasty food specials, too.

“Prevent cabin fever, Get out and have some fun outdoors dancing under the stars. It’s like a celebration of funk and disco wrapped into one. Every year it grows and becomes more funky and fun,” said John Carr, Founder of Adirondack Pub and Brewery.

Picture this: tons of Instagram-worthy photo ops with a variety of ice sculptures.

In addition to the ice lounge complete with full bar and high top tables, sculptors Kirk Sheloski and Anthony Giorgianni are carving an ice throne, ensemble of instruments including a playable piano, harp, standup bass, xylophone and more, as well as animals, crystals and other fun smaller sculptures. The craft cocktail menu features award-winning spirits from High Peaks Distilling, John Carr’s distillery next door.

Admission is free.

About Adirondack Brewery:

Adirondack Pub & Brewery is a microbrewery located in the heart of Lake George at 33 Canada Street serving up fresh craft beverages and tasty, all-American comfort food.

Established in 1999, Adirondack Brewery continues to brew fresh craft beverages including ales and lagers, hard cider, seltzers, lemonades and teas, and its non-alcoholic offering, Bear Wizz Root Beer. Adirondack Brewery strives to use the finest local ingredients. To read the full story please visit adkbrewery.com/story. Follow the Brewery on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

Step Back in Time: Canal Life – Fun, Facts & Folklore

Written by Staff Report on January 8, 2024. Posted in Columns, Community, Entertainment, In the Arts.

Glens Falls Feeder Canal Alliance Celebrates 35 Years with an Illustrated Talk

GLENS FALLS, NY – The Glens Falls Feeder Canal Alliance is delighted to announce a special event, “Step Back in Time: Canal Life – Fun, Facts & Folklore,” featuring an illustrated talk by Pattie Simone, the Executive Director. The event will take place on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at 7:00 pm at the Crandall Public Library, 251 Glen Street, Glens Falls, NY 12801.

Join us in commemorating 35 years of the Glens Falls Feeder Canal Alliance as we delve into the rich history of the 200-year-old Feeder Canal and Towpath Trail. This waterway has played a crucial role in shaping Glens Falls and other Adirondack communities. The evening promises to be an engaging experience for history enthusiasts and curious minds alike.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the fascinating past through vintage photos, captivating stories of the individuals who lived and worked along the canal, and the exciting plans for trail and canal improvements. The Glens Falls Feeder Canal Alliance envisions enhancing this 4-season recreational gem for the benefit of the community.

This event is free of charge and will be hosted by the Folklife Center. Seating is limited, so be sure to arrive early. For more information and to stay updated, please visit www.crandalllibrary.org.

The Folklife Center at Crandall Public Library is funded in part by the New York State Council on the Arts, supported by the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.