GLENS FALLS, NY – The Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce (ARCC) is excited to announce the promotion of two team members. Former Marketing Director Amanda Blanton will now serve as Vice President, Marketing & Communications, and former Events Manager Carol Ann Conover will now serve as Director of Events & Community Engagement.
“These two ladies have really grown in their positions, and as the ARCC is ready to take it to the next level I am confident that Amanda and Carol Ann will continue to lead and excel in their roles,” said ARCC President & CEO Tricia Rogers.
Ms. Blanton joined the ARCC team in August of 2016, after serving as a marketing & call center representative for a credit union in Saratoga Springs. She has been responsible for all marketing and communications for the Chamber, hosts the Chamber’s weekly radio show, regularly writes for business related publications, and has successfully increased the ARCC’s social media presence. She also serves as the staff liaison to the Adirondack Nonprofit Business Council.
“Every step in my career path has certainly led me to where I am today. The past 7+ years at the ARCC have been a rewarding and educational experience. I feel much pride and joy in the work that I do for this organization and greater community. I am truly excited to grow in my new role,” said Ms. Blanton.
Ms. Conover joined the team in January of 2021, bringing with her a diverse professional background spanning multiple business sectors. She has been active in the Adirondack region and Glens Falls community since moving here permanently in 2013. Carol Ann also serves as the staff liaison for the ARCC’s Women’s Business Council, Veterans Business Network, and Leadership Adirondack.
“Growing with the ARCC and our amazing community these last 3 years has been nothing short of inspiring. The way our members come together to support our mission and celebrate each other is truly a gift. I’m excited to continue the momentum and excitement this team has created in my new role as Director of Events & Community Engagement – I am grateful to my teammates for this opportunity and to our members for their constant support and encouragement. Thank you for putting your trust in me and in the ARCC. Together, there is no limit to what we will achieve!” said Ms. Conover.
About the ARCC
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. Our mission is to support our business community through advocacy, education, connection, and collaboration.
GLENS FALLS, NY – The Hyde Collection is thrilled to announce the well-deserved promotions of Kate Wilkins to Chief Advancement Officer and Ginevra (Gina) Fisk to Creative Director, effective January 1, 2024. These new roles showcase the museum’s commitment to strategic growth and innovative engagement, led by two talented individuals who embody a passion for art, expertise within their individual professions, and a deep connection to The Hyde’s mission.
Kate Wilkins, a rising star in the museum development world, steps into the crucial role of Chief Advancement Officer. Her unwavering dedication and strategic vision have already proven instrumental in driving fundraising success. Since joining The Hyde in 2021, she spearheaded a refocused global fundraising approach, which was key in securing historic funding for the museum.
“We are fortunate to have Kate leading our campaign and development efforts,” says John Lefner, President and CEO. “Her creativity, knowledge, and passion for The Hyde are truly inspiring, and we have no doubt she will propel our philanthropic growth to new heights.”
Wilkins’ impressive background speaks volumes about her qualifications. Holding a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Alfred University and a Master’s in Museum Studies focusing on Advancement Communications from Harvard, she further strengthened her expertise with a Graduate Certificate in Non-Profit Management from the same prestigious institution. Her local roots and extensive experience in cultural institutions like Proctors Collaborative and Opera Saratoga add invaluable context and understanding to her role.
“The Hyde Collection is a truly special place, to me personally, and in our cultural landscape,” Wilkins expresses. “The opportunity to dedicate my professional passion to securing philanthropic support for this remarkable institution is incredibly meaningful. I am proud to continue our work fostering artistic exploration, preserving The Hyde’s collection, and advancing education in my new role.
On the creative front, Gina Fisk ascends to the position of Creative Director, bringing a wealth of talent and strategic vision to The Hyde’s marketing and design initiatives. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Media and International Business from the Rochester Institute of Technology, she joined The Hyde in 2014. She has been the driving force behind the museum’s visual identity for nearly ten years, from managing social media and crafting promotional materials to designing exhibition graphics and leading advertising campaigns. Her intimate connection to The Hyde dates back to her childhood art classes in South Glens Falls, further fueling her dedication to showcasing the museum’s treasures to the world.
“Gina has been a steady hand and guiding force for our marketing efforts,” remarks John Lefner. “Her artistic sensitivity, combined with her marketing and project management expertise, make her the perfect candidate to elevate The Hyde’s online presence, develop fresh strategies for our advancements, and forge valuable collaborations within our community.”
Fisk’s enthusiasm for her new role shines through: “I’m incredibly excited to contribute to The Hyde’s future in this expanded capacity. Creating innovative online experiences, collaborating with talented minds across the museum, and building meaningful partnerships within our community are very important to me. I can’t wait to see what we can achieve together.”
“The Hyde Collection’s leadership team now shines even brighter with the promotion of these two dynamic individuals. Kate Wilkins and Gina Fisk stand poised to guide The Hyde on an exciting journey of growth, engagement, and continued artistic excellence,” stated Lefner.
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.
We are always shocked when cats that have spent their entire lives outdoors end up being well socialized and affectionate towards humans. This was the case for Buckwheat, who was trapped at an outdoor feline community. Who knows what this sweet guy went through for the three years he spent without a home. He is independent and quite content spending the day sleeping in his box with his favorite blanket. Buckwheat can get overwhelmed easily so he will need a quiet home that gives him the space to feel comfortable and confident.
If you are interested in learning more about Buckwheat, 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
Donald Walton has been training in martial arts since he was seven years old. But it wasn’t until he found Saratoga’s Elite Academy of Martial Arts at 19 that he began to take his training seriously. On Friday, November 17th, over a decade later, Walton received his Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt from Alliance Jiu Jitsu instructor James Bruchac.
“Jiu Jitsu helped bring out who I truly was and helped me become a better person. It gave me purpose and forced me to face myself and improve daily. I am not sure if I would be alive today if it weren’t for this place and this martial art,” Walton said in a statement after his belt ceremony.
Now 32 years old, Walton has become an integral part of the academy’s coaching staff. If one walks into the Saratoga academy on any given night, Walton can be seen teaching striking and grappling classes to children, beginners and devoted martial artists alike. Walton also represents the gym as a professional MMA fighter (with a record of 1-0), a status he acquired earlier this year in February after his round two submission win over Jason LaPage in Barre, Vermont.
“I really enjoy being a professional fighter, even though it hasn’t quite sunk in yet,” Walton said. “There’s a lot more opportunity at the pro level when it comes to opponents, plus you can finally start earning money on your fights, which is always nice.”
Yet, Walton – a student turned teacher, turned professional – has bigger ambitions than just fighting for his own name. He is blending his love of fighting with his entrepreneurial spirit and starting his own fight promotion, based in his hometown – Saratoga Springs. “My goal is to help the level of our community’s martial arts and help give people avenues to be able to make it in this sport if they want to. I’m not doing this for me; I’m in this to help the community,” Walton told us.
Coming in the new year, Walton has teamed up with a local venue to host a night of amateur fighting. But it won’t just be a one-off event. Hopefully, for Walton it will be the first of many nights. Walton continued,“When I was looking into starting my own fight promotion, I reached out to good friends of mine in the fighting world, many of them are experts when it comes to the business side of things,” Walton said.
“All I know, really, is fighting, so I had to build a good team. The owner of DonnyBrooke Fight Promotions [a well known promotion for amateur and professional fighters in the Northeast, based out of Barre, Vermont, where Walton got his debut victory] suggested I work under his name. They have a database of fighters, people reaching out for bouts and a well-established name, so it was a no-brainer for me,” Walton said.
In essence, it’s a franchise deal. Walton will work under the DonnyBrooke name and become the face of the promotion in New York, working closely with fighters throughout the region. The first event is slated for March of 2024, with a venue already established – the Saratoga City Center. “We thought it was the perfect venue for what we are trying to do. The space, the price, all of it. Plus it’s right here in my hometown.”
The City Center has been receptive to MMA events before, having hosted Kaged Kombat roughly a decade ago, at a time where MMA wasn’t nearly as popular. “I looked into a lot of venues, places were either overcharging for very little to nothing, or they just couldn’t fit what I was looking for – in terms of the size of the cage, the seating for the crowd etc,” Walton continued, “the City Center checked all of our boxes for a venue and I really want to keep our relationship with them for the future.”
DonnyBrooke’s New York promotion will put on fights in a variety of disciplines, including mixed martial arts, muay thai, kickboxing and grappling. The fights will be at an amateur level to start, but Walton plans on eventually hosting professional bouts under his promotion.
“I’ve found out that a lot of our local fighters are used to fighting only under one or two promotions, because really, there aren’t a lot of promotions near us. My goal is to have local fighters, be able to compete with fighters from all over the country, creating a fresh pool of talent.” Undoubtedly, this will create a lot more opportunity for local fighters to be seen and work their way up the ranks from amateur to professional, just as Walton did. Plus, for local martial arts fans, it’s a great way to support the local scene while enjoying fight nights right in Downtown Saratoga.
When asked where he sees DonnyBrooke Fight Promotions in the future, Walton said, “I’m hoping, years from now, to have DonnyBrooke partnered for One Championship to be a feeder into a larger, international promotion.” One Championship is a world-renowned fight promotion that began in 2011. The Singapore-based promotion works with smaller promoters all over the world to add to their ever-growing pool of fighters. They even pull from a New York City-based promotion, Warrior’s Cup, which was established in 2006.
“Warrior’s Cup is an amazing promotion, but they had to start where we are now – at the beginning – and slowly build themselves, and that’s what I want to do now, to build this promotion large enough to partner with One Championship,” Walton said.
For more information about DonnyBrooke Fight Promotions, or to buy tickets for upcoming events, check them out on Facebook or visit DonnyBrookeFightPromotions.com
When industrial controls and automation company RASP Inc. added a 6,000-square-foot facility to its complex over the summer, its Gansevoort footprint swelled to over 30,000 square feet.
That’s not bad, considering that the company owner started the enterprise nearly three decades earlier on the landing just outside his front door as the only employee.
“It was me from day one,” recalled owner and chief executive officer Ron Richards of the business — then called Protech — he created in 1995. “I was the designer, the programmer, and I built the panels. I was building control panels on my porch at my house.”
In the succeeding 28 years, the enterprise has changed its name (to RASP), moved from its original location (in South Glens Falls), exponentially increased its staff (to the current total of 35 employees), and, now, augmented its building complex.
The new facility “is a combination manufacturing site and offices,” said Richards, who was born and raised in Corinth. The Saratoga County site – originally 22,000 square feet, supplemented four years ago by a 2,500-square-foot facility — simply was not sufficient to keep up with the demand for the company’s services. “We ran out of office space,” Richards said.
Richards, 56, describes his company as a kind of jack-of-all-trades in the electronics industry.
“We’re what’s called a systems integrator, which is just a fancy [term] for ‘we do a lot,’” said Richards with a laugh in a recent telephone interview. “We’re an electrical engineering firm, we’re also programmers for industrial use, we’re also a manufacturer, and we’re also a service company.”
The majority of the staff is composed of panel builders, though RASP currently employs 10 engineer-programmers who “design the control systems that we may or may not build,” Richards said.
On its website, the company lists programming topics such as HMI (human-machine interface) proficiency. For HMIs, commonly known as touch screens, RASP can program, enhance, or customize graphics. One of the topics listed under the RASP website’s “engineering” section is “motion and servo controls,” which Richards said falls under the category of automation.
“It could be a simple motion like a conveyer, or it can be a complicated machine that’s doing a lot of operations,” Richards said. It’s typical for one of RASP’s clients to design a machine, then approach RASP with a fairly direct request: ‘We need this thing to work.’ As Richards explains, “We build the controls, not the machine itself.”
RASP does not make a standalone product of its own. But it does just about everything else.
“We consider ourselves a manufacturer’s extension for other companies,” Richards said. “They come to us. If their machine needs a new control panel, we [can] design it, build it, and program it. It can be a chemical company or a manufacturer in water treatment, medical, power, machine builders — we get to see all kinds of different companies.”
Growing up, Richards attended Corinth High School and studied electronics at BOCES in Saratoga. There, he volunteered for a summer job at Raloid Tool Co. in Mechanicville, where he learned how to make electrical control panels
“That’s how I got introduced to industrial controls,” he said.
Later, after studying electronics at Fulton-Montgomery Community College and going back to work at Raloid (as well as serving a four-year stint in the U.S. Air Force), Richards struck out on his own – with RASP the result.
When the business was incorporated in 1995, Richards and his two original partners — whom he declined to name — used the first letter of their last names plus the “P” in the word “products” to come up with RASP. His current business partner, Michael Close, joined the company in 1997.
Though RASP counts behemoths such as Rockwell international, General Electric, and Emerson Electric among its clients, most come from within a 50-mile radius of its Gansevoort complex. “But because we’re building for other companies, the products can go anywhere in the world,” Richards said. “I have an employee in Canada (and) we’ve done work in New Jersey, we’ve done work (for firms) in Chicago, California, Texas.”
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic and other economic uncertainties, many companies have struggled to stay in business over the past few years. Through nearly three decades, however, RASP has thus far weathered every financial storm.
“We’re in a good position,” Richards said, humbly. “When the economy is doing well, companies are spending money. When the economy is not doing so hot, many companies may downsize, and if they’re downsizing, say, in their maintenance department, then they call on us. Or maybe they are manufacturers themselves, and they can’t support as many engineers, they can call on us on an as-needed basis. So we tend to stay strong in both good and bad economies.”
According to Richards, his primary goal is “keeping the people I have. It’s just a great team. Everyone here – they are team players. They take pride in their work. They do whatever they have to do when asked,” although, he adds, “I don’t have to ask too often.”
While he is happy with his company’s niche in the electronics industry, Richards is not complacent.
“A lot of what we build is what we call one-offs, or low volume. We design and build [a product], and it goes on a machine, or it goes to a customer, and we never build that one again. In the new facility, I’m hoping to build more repeat business. We’re trying to get the word out that we’re looking to handle larger volumes [for a company that needs] to build dozens, or hundreds, or even thousands of something.”
When it comes to electronics support, RASP, it would seem, has it all under control.
For more information, go to rasp-controls.com, email info@rasp-controls.com or call 518-747-8020.
While there are some things that stay the same year after year, IT isn’t one of them.
One of the things we love most about this industry is the constant evolution of tools, solutions, and technologies.
What’s going to have the biggest impact on IT for businesses in 2024? Here are ADNET’s predictions, based on industry insights, our national network of partnerships, and global trends we’re seeing – and tips for implementing them at your organization.
AI FOR BUSINESS
You’ve probably been hearing a lot about AI in the past year, and that’s not likely to change in 2024. With tons of business applications being developed for the technology, it’s poised to become an integral part of how organizations operate.
Businesses can already use AI in lots of different ways. Beyond ChatGPT, major corporations like Microsoft are investing substantial resources in the technology. These new AI applications are highly customizable and can be adapted to the unique needs of your business. They can help you generate or explain content, serve your customers, leverage search capabilities, and translate conversational language into code.
Most AI applications are available as a subscription model – some are even free. But as with any tool, “free” can be more of a warning sign than a draw. There’s nothing wrong with using free tools, but make sure you’re reading the full terms and conditions if you plan to. With the rise of new technologies comes new security risks. When incorporating AI into your business strategy, make sure you’re doing it with privacy and security in mind and discussing it with your IT partner.
ENABLING WORK-FROM-ANYWHERE
In 2020 and the years that followed, there was a mass exodus when it came to working in offices. Now, there’s a widespread push to return to a more traditional office environment. But ignoring the benefits of enabling your team to work from anywhere could be detrimental to your business. There’s no right answer to whether you should allow your team to work from anywhere, but not offering it can hurt your business.
Flexibility not only helps with talent retention and recruitment, it also helps people stay productive regardless of common barriers. While some organizations are encouraging a more traditional office environment, many are embracing what enabling their teams to work from anywhere allows. Working remotely can give your employees more work-life balance, and ultimately lead to more productivity.
ADNET has had a work-from-anywhere policy in place for years and built our new office spaces with that in mind. We’ve seen the benefits with our team – people are more productive, focused, and happier – and our clients are too. But at the end of the day, we need to prioritize security for the clients we serve. We wouldn’t allow our team to work remotely without leveraging the proper security tools and an expertly implemented cloud environment.
Is your organization looking for ways to implement a work-from-anywhere policy? Our next tips for building secure cloud environments and pursuing digital transformation can help.
SECURE CLOUD ENVIRONMENTS
No matter where your team works, a secure cloud environment can benefit your business. In addition to not having to replace aging hardware every few years, empowering you and your team to securely access your business-critical data helps when the unexpected happens. In 2020, we were able to seamlessly pivot to working from home when we needed to – with no interruption to our ability to provide service to our clients, thanks to having a secure cloud environment in place.
Cloud has been gaining momentum for years now, but with major backers like Microsoft and Amazon, the technology and support have never been better. Small and large companies are transitioning to cloud instead of upgrading on-premise hardware. If you’re not already leveraging the cloud, you’re missing out.
Before making big hardware purchases this year, you might want to discuss cloud options with your IT partner. You could save money and end up with a more efficient, flexible solution.
DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
Digital transformation encompasses many different things – but mostly it’s about enabling your business to become more effective and efficient by using digital solutions and tools like AI, managed IT services, managed security services, application services, productivity training for your team, and more.
While it’s not a single product or piece of technology, digital transformation is one of the biggest IT trends we anticipate for 2024. Businesses are looking to compete in a challenging economy, and digital transformation is a way to do that. Focusing on what your business needs to scale and shift quickly is imperative. Modernizing your technology, policies and process has a positive impact on your clients, team and business.
But don’t get caught up in the buzzwords with these IT trends – make sure your IT partner is having real discussions about the business
challenges these tools solve. Not every single solution is right for everyone, and that’s okay. Making sure you have the right technologies and tools in place isn’t necessarily trending, but it’s the most important thing you can do.
If you have questions about any of these technologies and if they’re relevant to your business, or how you can leverage them as part of your strategy to meet your goals – reach out to a trusted IT partner and have the conversation. Implementing anything without a strategy and security in place can be a costly risk. This is by no means a comprehensive list of new tools and technologies, but if you’re looking to get ahead of the IT curve in 2024, it’s a great place to start.
Need help implementing any of these technologies and tools, or want to learn more about how they can transform your business? Reach out to us at thinkADNET.com – we’d be happy to help.
Through its joint foundation, GlobalFoundries and the town of Malta recently awarded its 2023 grants, which totaled nearly $150,000.
The GlobalFoundries-Town of Malta Foundation presented 30 grants amounting to $144,331 at the David R. Meager Malta Community Center at the annual awards ceremony. It was the 13th consecutive year for the grants, which benefit local organizations and programs. Since 2011, the foundation has provided nearly $1.9 million to Malta-area endeavors.
“Each year, the GF-Town of Malta Foundation invests in our community by spotlighting the phenomenal work of local organizations consistently working for the people of Malta and the surrounding area,” said Jennifer Pickering, president of the GF-Town of Malta Foundation. “We look for projects that are creative, innovative, and inclusive in their scope and provide the most benefit to the greater Malta community. The foundation board and organization representatives are pleased to present funding to a variety of projects and programs that give back and enhance our region.”
The largest award, $27,546, went to the Malta-Stillwater EMS, while the Town of Malta Parks, Recreation and Human Services received $11,100. Four local groups — the Ballston Spa CSD Partnership for Innovation in Education Fund, Rebuilding Together Saratoga County, Rugrunners Robotics, and Saratoga Bridges — each received $10,000, while the Malta Senior Citizens Inc. was awarded $7,500 and the Malta Community Center Food Pantry via St. Peter Lutheran Church received $6,500.
Recipients of between $5,000 and $3,000 included the Ballston Spa High School Parent Teacher Student Association ($5,000), the Roundabout Runners Club ($5,000), the Town of Malta Spotlighter’s Theatre Troupe ($4,550), the Malta Youth Commission ($4,500), CAPTAIN Community Human Services Inc. ($4,000), the Town of Malta Veterans Committee ($3,500), and the Saratoga Lake Protection and Improvement District ($3,000).
Other recipients were the Malta Ridge and Round Lake fire departments ($2,500), the Round Lake Malta Youth Baseball League ($2,300), the Malta League of Arts ($2,000), Best Buddies New York ($2,000), Chango Elementary School ($1,990), and Round Lake Library ($1,800).
In addition, Gateway House of Peace, James’s Warriors, Saratoga Regional YMCA – Malta branch, the Association to Preserve/Protect/Plan Round Lake, and the Ballston Spa Soccer Club each received $1,500, while the Shenendehowa Central School District received $1,045, and the Ballston Spa Middle School Parent Teacher Association was awarded $1,000.
Information on the 2024 grant application process will be available on the foundation’s website in August 2024.
Hey, my name’s Ariel, and I’m the softest, most lovely little lady. I’m a little bit shy still but if you sit with me and give me neck scratches, soon I’ll be rolling into your hands for more! I have a sweet, soft purr that I only let my most favorite humans hear. Most kitties get bored of talking, but your gentle conversation really calms me and makes me feel safe. If you’re patient and willing to give me the time I need, I promise I’ll never leave your side.
QUEENSBURY, NY — Embrace the spirit of the season with our Winter Wonderland Tree Competition, an enchanting event set to spread joy and festive cheer. Join us on Thursday, December 14, from 4 PM to 7 PM at 436 Quaker Rd, Queensbury, for a magical evening filled with music, hot cocoa, and a visit from Santa Claus!
Highlights of the Event
Festive Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit as you stroll through our two locations, adorned with more than 45 beautifully decorated holiday trees.
Hot Cocoa Delight: Sip on complimentary hot chocolate as you wander through the Winter Wonderland. Warm up your heart and hands while enjoying the delightful decorations.
Sweet Treats: Indulge in candy canes, adding a touch of sweetness to your winter evening.
Musical Magic: Let the sounds of holiday tunes serenade you throughout the event, creating a harmonious backdrop to the festive festivities.
Vote for Your Favorite Tree Online
Don’t just be a spectator; become a part of the magic by voting for your favorite tree online. Your voice will contribute to the excitement as we crown the Winter Wonderland Tree Champion!
Donations Welcome
In the spirit of giving, we welcome any donations to support and enhance this community event. Your generosity will help make future celebrations even more magical.
Free Family-Friendly Community Event
This Winter Wonderland Tree Competition is a free, family-friendly event open to all. Bring your loved ones and share in the joy of the holiday season.
Please join Temple Beth El on Sunday, December 10, 2023 from 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm for their Annual Latke Fest! It’s time for another year of food, music and fun! Now in its thirteenth year, Latke Fest continues to be a Glens Falls community celebration with music, contests, latkes and more. Cooks and eaters of all ages, faiths and cooking abilities are welcome.
If you would like more information, or to join the cooking competition, please contact the Latke Fest organizers at latkefest@glensfallstemple.com. The deadline for cooks is December 4, 2023, but spots are going fast. Join teams from Glens Falls community organizations and businesses, as well as aspiring cooks of all ages, faiths and cooking experience. The winning team earns the coveted title of “Golden Latke” along with prizes and bragging rights for the year. Awards also go to the best condiment. Cooks are encouraged to get creative with their tasty toppings.
In addition, the organizers are always seeking volunteers for the day of the event, along with sponsors at all levels for both monetary and in-kind donations. You don’t have to be a member of Temple Beth El, or Jewish, to participate. It’s time to come together and celebrate our community and the spirit of the holiday season. All are welcome!
Tickets are available at the door and tables can be reserved by calling the Temple office.
Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for kids ages 5-11, and $200 for a reserved table (includes 8 tickets plus goodies). All proceeds go to support Temple Beth El and the Glens Falls Jewish community. Cash, check, PayPal or credit card accepted.
For more information, please contact latkefest@glensfallstemple.com or call the Temple Beth El office at 518-792-4364.
Latkes and Hanukkah
Hanukkah means “re-dedication.” The holiday is an eight-day celebration commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem.
Fried foods such as latkes and donuts are traditionally eaten on Hanukkah in commemoration of the day’s worth of oil that miraculously burned for eight days. This custom of eating fried foods on Hanukkah is at least nine hundred years old.
About Temple Beth El
Founded in 1924, Temple Beth El invites all traditional, inter-married, and non-traditional Jewish families and singles in our community and neighboring communities to join in our congregation. The mission of the congregation is to worship God in accordance with the faith of Judaism; to cultivate a love and understanding of Jewish heritage; to stimulate fellowship in the Jewish community and to strengthen the bonds of loyalty with the Jewish people everywhere; to practice the principles of righteousness, justice and unity in society at large; and to follow and further the teachings of Reform Judaism.
