Saratoga, Warren, and Washington County have no shortage of fantastic goods and services to offer! In this podcast, our host Mike Nelson will clue you in on the amazing gems hidden in your very own community!
Habitat for Humanity
Season 3, Episode 6
Michael Nelson and Katherine Kressner interview George and Fawn from Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren, and Washington Counties. Discussion focuses on the change in H4H model, challenges they see in fund raising and more.
PRODUCTION NOTE: The opinions reflected in this podcast are not indicative of the views of Saratoga Business Report, SaratogaBride.com LLC, Glens Falls Business Report, or Five Towers Media.
Festival of Trees set up at the Queensbury Hotel in Glens Falls, NY.Photos provided.
Winter is right around the corner and with the cold temperatures comes what some would consider to be the jolliest time of the year. Kick-off the holiday season by attending the 33rd annual Festival of Trees at the Queensbury Hotel in Glens Falls. The festival not only has activities for everyone of all different ages, but benefits the Prospect Center, an affiliate of the Center for Disability Services. Come join fellow community members and celebrate the true meaning of the holiday spirit, all while enjoying local talent, vendors, and decorations that are sure to put a smile on your face.
The Prospect Center provides several different services for individuals of all ages with disabilities. They have adult services, education services for students ages 5 through 22, family support, medical, and therapy services. Additionally, they have a newly opened respite facility for those who need a safe place for their disabled loved one to stay. Overall, the Prospect Center helps hundreds of people within Warren, Washington, and Saratoga County. Part of the reason they are able to provide so many services and help so many people is because of the community involvement and fundraising. The Festival of Trees not only helps raise money for the Prospect Center, but it showcases the amazing talent within the local community, and gives families the opportunity for a fun holiday experience.
Anne Costigan, senior vice president of communications and development at the Center for Disability Services (CFDSNY), shared that “this year we have some very special entertainment.” Kicking off the event on Friday, November 29, Kelsey Dodd will be performing at 11 a.m. “Kelsey has just released her first album so she will kick off the entertainment,” said Anne. Currently, Kelsey is a senior at Emma Willard and has been involved with the CFDSNY since she was a kid. The following day, Ryan Clark, a pop artist that has performed a “Concert for a Cause” to benefit the Prospect Center, will perform at 11 a.m. This will be Ryan’s 10th year performing his Concert for a Cause. “Something that’s very special about Kelsey and Ryan is Kelsey was introduced to the center for disability services through our annual telethon when she was 8 years old. Ryan was introduced to the prospect center as a youngster through their telethon. Both of these young people have remained involved with Prospect Center and the Center for Disability Services and continue to give back,” explained Anne. These are just two of the amazing performances that people can expect at the festival.
In addition to local entertainment, people will have the opportunity to see beautifully decorated Christmas trees, wreaths, kissing balls, swags, and gingerbread houses. They will be available for purchase, and a boutique will feature local artisans arts and crafts to continue your holiday shopping. Donated baskets will also be raffled off to several lucky individuals. Saturday and Sunday, The Queensbury Hotel is also hosting a breakfast with Santa. Children will have the opportunity to get their photo taken and receive a special gift from Santa Claus while enjoying a delicious breakfast. The breakfast cost $25 for adults and $19 for a child. If all the activities put you in a dancing mood, CMA winner from Froggy 100.3 and Big Country 104.9/97.7 Kevin Richards will lead a “Kickin’ Country Dance Party” for only $10. All proceeds from the event go towards supporting the Prospect Center and the wonderful services they provide.
Overall, the Festival of Trees is a great way to support a good cause, get some holiday shopping done, and have fun all at the same time. “When people come through, you just can’t help getting into that holiday spirit and it’s just truly a magical event,” shared Anne. The holidays are about giving and so many people and businesses give their time, energy, and money to make this such a special event. For more information about the different events, sponsors, and committee visit the website: https://cfdsny.org/events/festival-trees.
Pumpkin Chunkin’ returns to Lake George on Saturday, November 9, 2024, from 1 to 5 p.m. Festivities, organized by Adirondack Pub & Brewery, will take place in the event field near the Brewery behind the parking lot at High Peaks Distilling, 1 Canada St. in Lake George. Admission is free. The event is rain or shine.
Held annually after Halloween, Pumpkin Chunkin’ offers something for all ages. At this festival like no other, attendees can feel like they’re transported to the Middle Ages in a medieval village complete with a blacksmith forge, battle demonstrations, and craft vendors. In addition to the catapulting pumpkins, entertainment includes a fairy interactive storyteller, medieval battle demos, dancing witches, a fire dancer, music, carnival rides, the Great Pumpkin Drop and more. New this year is a Potions Bar with handcrafted drinkable ‘potions’—offering non-alcoholic options for kids, and a few with a kick for adults.
Since carved pumpkins don’t catapult well — they fall apart — people are invited to bring their jack-o’-lanterns from Halloween for The Great Pumpkin Drop, the finale of Pumpkin Chunkin.
“This event started eight years ago as mainly just catapulting pumpkins, but it’s grown into something really unique, like a mix between a carnival and a medieval fair. There’s something for the whole family. Every year the number of vendors and attendance grow,” said John Carr, owner of Adirondack Pub & Brewery.
In addition to the pumpkin catapults there will be apple slingshots, children’s activities including a giant slide and bounce house, carnival rides and games, food and beer trucks, live music and more.
Entertainment
Aasguard Enterprises, Purveyor of Medieval Mayhem, Axecitment, Hand Pillaged Chaotic Goods
Big Show Entertainment
Gem Theatre Dancing Witches
Green Mountain Amusements
Opal Raven Cirque
The Shire of Glenn Linn
Thimbleberry the Woodsprite
Wandering Monsters
Artisan and Food Vendors
Adirondack Fudge
Adirondack Highland Designs
Adirondack Pub & Brewery Hops Chop & Roll Food Truck
All Things Delicious
Fries Before Guys
Munchville-NY, llc
Muddy Trail Jerky Co
Nature’s Images by Brad Wanik
Pyscho Signs and Crafts
Sniffs and Snacks
Sunny Sips
T&T Designs Papercrafting and Gifts
The Bull and Bee Meadery
The Rayzors Edge Chainsaw Sculpture
Tupperware with Robin’s Crafts and Hickory Floral
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.
Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) of Saratoga County’s Taste New York (TNY) Adirondacks Welcome Center promotes the region’s local tourism industry, rich history, food, and beverages. The Center is a partnership between CCE of Saratoga County, Cornell University, NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets (AGM), and the NYS Empire State Development Corporation.
The Taste NY Welcome Center Manager oversees all aspects of the Center and helps ensure a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment for staff and customers. The Manager frequently builds and maintains tactful, collaborative relationships with vendors, NY State agencies, Cornell University, and other CCE associations.
The Manager leads and motivates staff resulting in informal programs and education about NYS farmers and other producers; positive customer service to members of the public; generation of sales; minimizing losses; and ensuring the store and website is visually distinctive and impeccably maintained.
This position works in-person including early mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays based on the Center schedule ensuring appropriate staffing and supervisory coverage levels.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree plus experience relevant to the role of the position.
Experience relevant to the role of the position.
Ability to create and maintain a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment for staff and customers.
Ability to effectively manage an informal, educational-based retail environment, ensuring positive public and customer service experiences.
Travel Requirements: Ability to meet regular travel requirements associated with this position. A valid NYS driver’s license and ability to drive and driving record acceptable for agency insurance coverage are required.
Ability to constantly work flexible hours related to the Market schedule, including early mornings, nights, weekends and holidays.
Ability to communicate effectively and tactfully through verbal, written, and electronic methods.
Ability to use windows-based software, QuickBooks, internet, and Microsoft Office Suite.
Ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks and complete work with integrity, accuracy, and within established deadlines.
Work Environment: In addition to the Working Conditions; the work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions. This position works constantly in a retail setting. This position frequently maneuvers around the sales floor, stockroom, and office. This position frequently operates point of sale registers, office computer, and other equipment. This position frequently lifts, moves and/or transports products, supplies and equipment.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with retail environments, managing vendor and/or governmental relationships, agriculture, and agri-tourism.
Position Details
This is a full-time, exempt position. Compensation paid at the rate of $60,000 annually. Excellent benefits, based on eligibility, including:
Paid Vacation, Sick, and Personal leave
Paid Holidays
NYS Health Insurance Program (including free Dental Insurance)
NYS Retirement (NYSERS)
Long-Term Disability Insurance
Total Care Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Tax Deferred Annuity Plan
Flexible Spending Accounts
Group Universal Life Insurance
Personal Accidental Insurance
Legal Plan Insurance
Long Term Care Insurance
Auto and Homeowner’s Insurance
Pet Insurance
New York’s College Savings Program
ClearPoint Credit Counseling Solutions
All applications must be received on-line by 11:59 pm on November 22, 2024. Position closing dates may change based on Association needs.
Cornell Cooperative Extension is a collaboration among Cornell University, the United States Department of Agriculture, the State of New York, and the residents of New York State. Per NYS Law, county and regional extension service associations are subordinate governmental agencies. This employment opportunity is with the entities listed and not with Cornell University. Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. Individuals who bring a diverse perspective and are supportive of diversity are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce (ARCC) is pleased to announce that the 36th Annual J. Walter Juckett Community Service Award will be presented to George A. Ferone. Mr. Ferone will be presented with the award at the ARCC Annual Dinner on the evening of March 7, 2025 at The Sagamore Resort.
Mr. Ferone had a longstanding career at Tribune Media Services, Inc. where he completed a tenure of just over 44 years. Upon his retirement he was a highly respected member of their executive team and regarded as a leadership role model in the business community. One of his major contributions was working with local municipalities to build a 40,000 square foot facility on Media Drive in Glens Falls, which led to keeping 400 jobs locally. His commitment to our workforce included service on the Saratoga/Warren/Washington Counties Workforce Investment Board, and the Job Discovery Promotion & Planning Committees.
“Mr. Ferone gave so much to our community and we are so grateful for his service,” said ARCC President & CEO Tricia Rogers. “His dedication to his career, coupled with his many years of community service, clearly demonstrate his love for our community.”
Mr. Ferone’s commitment to the health of our region is evident in his board and committee service for Glens Falls Hospital, the Glens Falls Hospital Foundation, and Albany Med Health Systems. Having served Glens Falls Hospital for close to 20 years, his continued dedication to the well-being of our communities goes above and beyond. His extensive service to our communities also includes serving as a board member for the Tri-County United Way, Adirondack Civic Center Coalition, Prospect Child and Family Center, and the Adirondack Hockey Coalition to name a few. Additionally, he served 14 years on the ARCC Board, including two terms as Chairman, and even serving as Interim President for a time.
ADIRONDACK REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE “It is a tremendous honor to congratulate George Ferone on receiving the 36th Annual J. Walter Juckett Community Service Award, a well-deserved recognition of his extraordinary dedication and long-time service to our community,” said Marc Yrsha, Current ARCC Board Chair and Senior Executive Vice President, Chief Banking Officer, Glens Falls National Bank and Trust Company. “His countless hours of service and unwavering commitment to the health and vitality of this community have made a profound impact, and we thank him for all he has done.”
The J. Walter Juckett Award, named in honor of the longtime chairman of the Sandy Hill Corporation, was created 36 years ago to recognize and honor a deserving member of the community who has selflessly gone above and beyond by contributing time and energy to help others. To see a list of past honorees, please visit the Chamber’s website: www.adirondackchamber.org/j.-walter-juckett-community-service-award.
About J. Walter Juckett
J. Walter Juckett had a remarkable business career and was a major community leader in his adopted home, the Village of Hudson Falls, and the entire region. His leadership and commitment spanned a wide range of civic, charitable, religious, political, business and educational activities. He was recognized with honors for his work and contributions to the Boy Scouts of America, New York Business Development Corporation, Salvation Army, Norwich University, Presbyterian Church, Hudson Falls Central School and many other organizations. He was a tireless supporter of the arts, having served as a director of the Lake George Opera and a major force in The Hyde Collection Capital Campaign.
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, 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.
ARCC Mission: To support our business community through advocacy, education, connection, and collaboration.
How a former musician connects veterans to each other – and local services.
By: Megin Potter
The Beatles, Steely Dan, and jazz culture inspired a young Jeremy Duers to pursue the fine arts at the Crane School of Music after graduating from the Lake George Central School District. Failing to secure full-time gigs in local orchestras however, led to Jeremy joining the US Marines, like his father had before him thirty-nine years earlier.
“At the time, it was a great option,” said Jeremy.
After passing his physical fitness exam and nailing the audition for an orchestral percussionist at the Schuylerville High School auditorium, Jeremy bypassed the traditional route prescribed for musicians. On September 14th, 1999, he shipped out to the US Marine Corps recruit training depot in Parris Island, S.C. After Marine Combat Training in North Carolina, he went immediately to his first duty station at the Logistics Base in Albany, GA.
Jeremy Duers, Coordinator, Veterans Peer to Peer
“Get Ready, Marines!”
The Marine Band unit Jeremy was in was the largest on the base. Their mission: to bridge the gap between the military and civilian populations. Playing an important role as goodwill ambassadors, they performed in ceremonies and events within the country and abroad (with notable performances in Scotland, Iceland, and the US territories).
A lot changed after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, remembers Jeremy. Just three hours after seeing the second plane crash into the World Trade Center building in New York City, his unit mustered up; rifles and supplies at the ready.
As a member of the Anti-Terrorism Force Protection (ATFP) unit, Jeremy was among the forces assigned to defend the Georgia base which was, at the time, one of the military’s largest arms depots in the world.
A History of Conflict
In 2004, after receiving the US Navy Good Conduct Medal, a diagnosis of severe Crohn’s disease led to Jeremy’s medical discharge from the military. Married with two children, he didn’t want to go back to being a starving artist again, he said. So he started studying the history of political conflicts at SUNY Adirondack.
“I was a much better historian than I was a musician,” he explained.
Fascinated by history, particularly the Cold War, Jeremy earned an associate’s degree at SUNY Adirondack, a bachelor’s from Skidmore College, and a master’s from Union College before teaching history in Houston, TX for three years.
When he returned to Lake George in 2017, Jeremy taught 11th grade Social Studies in Granville while also coaching football and wrestling for the combined Lake George and Hadley-Luzerne school districts. In 2020, he began teaching middle school history at Hadley-Luzerne.
“As a devout Catholic, for me, it’s always been about how I can help. With teaching I was trying to help kids and give back,” he said.
Serving Those Who Served
Now, Jeremy has returned to the SUNY Adirondack campus, and as the Coordinator of Adirondack Peer-to-Peer Support Services, a Joseph P. Dwyer Project, he ensures veterans in Warren and Washington Counties have the resources they need within a supportive social network.
“This program and SUNY are a great fit. They have a number of the resources we need to accomplish our mission,” he said, whether that’s hosting a yoga or art class, bingo, or a jam band.
Along with a small (but effective!) cadre of part-time mentors and volunteers, Jeremy mans the “bat phone” taking calls from across two counties to improve the health and wellness of at-risk veterans.
Through a confidential, one-on-one, peer-to-peer approach, veterans are connected to each other and to local services, learning about opportunities and special programs for them and their families. Designed to build and sustain a social safety net, the program hopes to reach veterans suffering from the crippling social isolation that can manifest into hunger, homelessness, or death by suicide.
“There are veterans in terrible shape who are just languishing with physical, mental, and psychological problems,” Jeremy explained.
Working from what was a blank slate when he arrived, Jeremy said he’s “building the plane while flying it” and helping between 200 to 500 veterans each month with his Rolodex of resources. From providing rides to medical appointments or the grocery store, to securing resume-writing services, to helping those facing a tenuous housing situation with a place to stay, and advocating for alternative sentencing (depending on the severity of the crime). For every veteran that Adirondack Peer-to-Peer Support Services helps, the ripple effect is a force multiplier strengthening the economy, he said.
If you, or someone you know, could possibly benefit from Adirondack Peer-to-Peer Support Services, or you are interested in assisting as a coach, mentor, leader, or friend, follow them on Facebook @ADKP2P and visit https://adkpeertopeer.org.
As we approach the busiest season of the year, it’s easy to get swept up in the constant hustle. From business deadlines to personal commitments, our to-do lists seem never-ending. In the midst of all this, how can we stay focused and make sound decisions? Enter the clarity break—a key concept in the Entrepreneurial Operating System® (EOS®) that can transform how we approach our busy lives.
What Is a Clarity Break?
A clarity break is a simple yet powerful tool emphasized in EOS. It’s the practice of stepping away from the daily grind to reflect, think, and refocus. In a world that values hustle, taking intentional pauses can feel counterintuitive, but EOS teaches us that these breaks are essential for strategic thinking and long-term success.
Why Now? Because It’s Go Time!
The end of the year is racing toward us, and it’s crunch time! With everything ramping up, it’s easy to get lost in the chaos and miss the bigger picture. That’s where clarity breaks come in to save the day. They give you a chance to hit pause, refocus, and ask yourself: What really matters right now? Where should my energy be to make the biggest impact? EOS champions clarity breaks as the secret weapon for staying aligned with your vision, knocking out top priorities, and avoiding burnout—just when you need it most!
Learn from EOS Expert Mark O’Donnell
Mark O’Donnell, Visionary at EOS Worldwide, explains just how crucial clarity breaks are for leaders and business owners. In his video, he shares tips on maximizing the benefits of clarity breaks and how they have helped countless leaders maintain focus. Watch the full video, and learn more at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nn5s3GOXFJE.
How to Take a Clarity Break
1. Schedule it: Block time on your calendar, just like a meeting. Start with 30-60 minutes once a week.
2. Find your space: A quiet place where you won’t be interrupted, whether it’s your office, a coffee shop, or a park.
3. Disconnect: Turn off distractions. No phones, no emails—just you and your thoughts. 4. Reflect and Write: Use this time to reflect on your business, your personal goals, and challenges. Write down the insights that surface, following the EOS principle of documenting key ideas.
Feel the Impact!
Clarity breaks aren’t just a nice-to-have—they’re game-changers! By giving yourself the time and space to think clearly, you’ll sharpen your decision-making, stay ahead of the competition, and tackle the season with unstoppable momentum. You’ll be working on your business, not just in it, and that’s where the magic happens. So, buckle up and get ready to crush your goals with a clear mind, fresh ideas, and laser focus!
Most people would agree there is a big difference between a house and a home. Someone may have an image of a structure that they would consider to be a nice house, but it’s the memories made inside, the stability it provides, and the comfort of having a place to return to every day that truly turns a house into a home. Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren, and Washington Counties (HFH-NSWWC) is working tirelessly to provide that opportunity to families working toward home ownership. Currently, they are fundraising for a project in Hudson Falls that could open the door for multiple families to achieve that reality.
HFH-NSWWC already owns a parcel of land in Hudson Falls where they’re building a 3-bedroom, 1,245 sq. ft. home, using modern means of construction. What started as a plan for one home has expanded with exciting new opportunities. An adjacent lot has become available, offering the chance to build another home there, and another nearby lot is also on the market. Altogether, if HFH-NSWWC reaches their fundraising goal, they could provide four homes in the same neighborhood—giving four families a safe, stable home and lend to a neighborhood revitalization.
Fawn Montanye, Director of Development for HFH-NSWWC, explained, “We have a very direct vision of working with what we have. If we’re able to acquire more, we’ll be able to do more.” What began as a single home in Hudson Falls could soon become a small community of families. HFH-NSWWC has set a goal of raising $75,000 to make this vision a reality.
As a nonprofit, the HFH-NSWWC depends on community involvement and fundraising to sustain their efforts. No donation is too small whether it be financial contributions or volunteering your time. “The biggest challenge is how do we serve an appropriate number of families to make an impact and be meaningful,” shared Fawn. With community support, this challenge can be overcome and allow the HFH-NSWWC to serve more people. “We’re really seeking to be collaborative with the community,” said Fawn. Habitat for Humanity is often misunderstood as an organization that simply provides homes to individuals based on hardship alone. In reality, they partner with diverse families who are working hard to achieve homeownership, meeting specific income qualifications, and demonstrating their ability to pay an affordable mortgage and contribute sweat equity. “These are workforce housing families. These are folks who are already pursuing mortgages and looking to have homes in their areas,” explained Fawn, “We supply an affordable decent housing inventory and at that same time, allow the opportunity for folks who are already working towards home ownership to achieve that goal, and that stability, and really look to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty and contribute to neighborhood revitalization.”
The Hudson Falls project has the potential to give multiple families the security of knowing they can afford a safe home for their family. Fawn explained how rewarding it is, “To see the relief and just knowing how much less worry is involved, the lessening of stress on any given day, the ability to sleep better at night, to be able to look at your kids and say ‘we did this.’” As individuals, we have the power to make a difference for our communities and help those around us. This project is the perfect opportunity. In order to learn more about the HFH-NSWWC and donate today visit their website: https://glensfallshabitat.org/.
Do you enjoy a challenge? How about one that invites you to revel in the beauty of the rolling hills, pristine lakes, and expansive views of the Southern Adirondacks, just minutes away from Saratoga Springs. The Gateway 8 is comprised of 10 hikes, four bike rides, and four paddles, that highlight the beauty Upstate New York has to offer. Complete eight activities and earn a patch, sticker of your choosing, and a place in the pantheon of Gateway 8 finishers; complete four activities – Gateway 8 Lite – and earn a sticker of your choosing and see your name inscribed on the list of Gateway 8 Lite finishers. Whether you’re an experienced outdoors adventurer or a complete beginner, this is the perfect challenge for you.
Originally from Queensbury, NY, Jennifer Kietzman had moved around a lot living in various different places. In 2018, she returned to the area and decided to settle in Corinth, NY. Wanting to become an active member in her community, Jennifer began exploring different ways to get involved with the people around her. “Soon after we moved here I wanted to find ways to meet people and get involved in the community so I joined what they call here the image committee,” she explained, “The aim of that group is to really promote healthier living among Corinth residents.” She enjoyed her time on the committee and was able to meet numerous people who all shared a common interest in improving their town’s health and wellness. “I just got really involved in the community and found that it was a really rewarding experience to do that. Having lived in cities and other small towns, but mostly college towns and cities, I hadn’t really found opportunities to volunteer in the ways I could here,” she said. Through this committee, she also discovered the Healthy Corinth Coalition. “The aim of the coalition is to improve the health and well-being of Corinth residents,” Jennifer explained. Her experience with the image committee and the Healthy Corinth Coalition motivated Jennifer to begin brainstorming ideas for a project that would align with bettering the community’s health and well-being.
Jennifer had heard of Dan Smith’s Chester Challenge, a hiking challenge that encourages hikers to explore Chester’s expansive trail network. Having discovered how many great trails there are in and around Corinth, literally in her own backyard, Jennifer thought she could create something similar. “Being a relative newcomer to this specific area, I was really surprised by how many great hikes there were and how beautiful the roadways are,” she shared. Jennifer brought the idea of creating a hiking challenge to the coalition and with the support of the Town of Corinth, Village of Corinth, Healthy Corinth Coalition, and an Economic Development Fund Grant offered by the Saratoga County Department of Planning and Economic Development, she began creating the challenge.
Originally, she thought the challenge would only consist of hiking trails, but she quickly changed her mind. “Through conversations with others and reflection on my own experiences in the outdoors near my home, I realized that to really do the area justice and highlight all that it has to offer, the challenge had to include hiking, biking, and paddling,” Jennifer explained. Some of the people who were instrumental in the creation of the ADK Gateway 8 were Peter Fedorick and Sunny Nealey. Peter, Outings Coordinator for the Crooked Canes, suggested that the challenge include various paddles. Sunny, a member of the Healthy Corinth Coalition and avid biker, assisted in mapping out the biking routes. The contributions of Eric Butler, Corinth Town Supervisor, Dave Borque, creator of Great Brant Lake Challenge (to be launched in 2025), Dan Smith, creator of the Chester Challenge, and Rachel Clothier, Town Historian and Director of the Town of Corinth Museum, were also invaluable.
Registration for the challenge is simple and done completely online through the Gateway 8 website. In addition to providing descriptions of the activities included in the challenge, complete with maps, trail highlights, and historical information, the website showcases all of the participants who were successful in completing both the Gateway 8 and Gateway 8 Lite. In addition, finishers of the Gateway 8 receive an embroidered patch and a car or water bottle sticker, while finishers of Gateway 8 Lite receive a sticker of their choosing, all of which feature the Gateway 8 logo. “I wanted something striking. My favorite patches have an abstract quality to them and are not simply pictorial,” shared Jennifer, adding “The logo has a bold graphic appeal with echoes of the specific landscapes participants will encounter.” Additionally, the website includes photographs Jennifer hopes will inspire adventures and spotlight some of the many interesting features, flora, and fauna you will encounter. “In participating in the challenge,” Jennifer related, “I not only want people to complete the required number of activities, but I hope that their appreciation for their surroundings grows as they stop and take notice and wonder about the places through which they are venturing.” To start the challenge today and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Southern Adirondacks visit the website: https://adkgateway8.com/.
Staying ahead of the curve is not just an advantage – it’s a necessity. In the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing, Account-Based Marketing stands out as a strategic powerhouse. Its emphasis on personalization, efficiency, alignment, data-driven decision-making, increased ROI, and enhanced customer retention make it a must-have for businesses looking to thrive in the modern marketplace.
Unlike broad marketing that tries to reach many people, ABM focuses on tailoring messages for individual accounts. It’s like having personalized conversations with the people or businesses you really want to connect with. If you haven’t already embraced ABM, now is the time to make it an integral part of your marketing playbook and unlock the full potential of your business.
Why ABM Matters
Personalization that Resonates:
ABM revolves around hyper-personalization. Instead of casting a wide net and hoping to catch leads, ABM targets specific high-value accounts. By tailoring your marketing efforts to the unique needs and pain points of these accounts, you’re not just reaching prospects – you’re connecting with them on a deeper level. This personalized approach fosters stronger relationships and increases the likelihood of conversion.
Efficient Resource Allocation:
In the world of marketing, resources are precious commodities. ABM allows you to allocate your resources strategically by focusing on accounts that matter most to your business. This means a more efficient use of time, budget, and manpower. Rather than spreading your efforts thin across a broad audience, you can direct them where they’re most likely to yield results.
Alignment of Sales and Marketing:
One of the perennial challenges in many organizations is the misalignment between sales and marketing teams. ABM bridges this gap by fostering collaboration and shared goals. When both teams are on the same page, the result is a seamless and coordinated approach to engaging target accounts. This alignment not only streamlines the sales process but also enhances the overall customer experience.
Data-Driven Decision Making:
ABM relies heavily on data and analytics. By leveraging insights into your target accounts, you can make informed decisions about your marketing strategy. This data-driven approach allows for continuous optimization, ensuring that your efforts are always aligned with the evolving needs and behaviors of your target audience.
Increased ROI and Revenue:
The ultimate goal of any marketing strategy is to drive revenue, and ABM excels in this aspect. By focusing on high-value accounts with a higher likelihood of conversion, ABM often results in a more significant return on investment (ROI). The precision targeting and personalized messaging lead to increased engagement and, ultimately, more closed deals.
Enhanced Customer Retention:
ABM doesn’t end when a lead becomes a customer. In fact, it’s just the beginning. The personalized approach that defines ABM continues throughout the customer lifecycle, fostering loyalty and encouraging repeat business. By consistently delivering value and understanding the evolving needs of your customers, you can build lasting relationships that go beyond the initial sale.
How ABM Works
Spotting Important Accounts:
ABM starts by figuring out which accounts are most important for your business. This involves working closely with both marketing and sales teams to pick out the accounts that are the best fit. This is also known as your Target Market.
Getting to Know Each Account:
Once you’ve chosen your important accounts, it’s time to learn more about them. What are their needs, challenges, and goals? This information is key to creating messages and content that will speak directly to your client’s pain points.
Using Different Ways to Connect:
ABM uses a mix of methods to connect with chosen accounts. This might include personalized emails, social media messages, custom content, and even events designed just for those accounts. The idea is to make sure the experience is consistent and personal at every step.
Teamwork Between Sales and Marketing:
ABM is all about teamwork. Your sales and marketing teams work together closely to make sure everyone is on the same page. This teamwork ensures that marketing efforts line up with the sales strategy, making the approach more effective.
Learning and Adjusting as You Go:
ABM relies on data to make smart decisions. By regularly checking how well your campaigns are doing, you can make changes to make them even better. It’s like fine-tuning your strategy, based on what’s working and what isn’t.
In Conclusion
As you dive into the world of Account-Based Marketing (ABM), think of Five Towers Media as your seasoned co-pilot. We’re not just another agency; we’re the GPS for your marketing journey. In the land of digital strategies, we’re the ones who know the shortcuts, the scenic routes, and how to dodge the occasional marketing pothole. ABM might sound like alphabet soup, but with us, it’s more like a secret code for unlocking success. So, why go solo in this marketing adventure when you can have Five Towers Media riding shotgun? Let us help you navigate. Success loves good company!
