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!
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!
Improving the Community with The Town Tinker
Episode 50
In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Scott Lufkin, Argyle native and star of The Town Tinker!
The Town Tinker is all about taking on cool projects, but not just for himself – whether it’s restoring tombstones and church bells, clearing sidewalks, or crowdsourcing a new town skating rink, Scott is community-first, making his native Argyle a better place for everyone. Listen to his amazing stories here in this episode, and check out his YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@towntinker
00:21 – Introductions
01:22 – The Town Tinker: Restoration, Clearing, and More!
03:44 – Argyle Loses its Dry Status
06:58 – A Lifelong, Local-Loving Tinker
08:19 – The Dead Lufkin Tours: A Crazy Story
11:30 – Repairing a Gravestone: Modern Methods
12:48 – Re-Engraving the Stone: A Ghost Dictates?!
13:43 – The Old Xers
14:32 – What’s Next: The Argyle Park?
16:47 – Sometimes… You’ve Got to Just Do It.
18:16 – The Argyle Skating Rink: A Community Project
23:20 – Restoring a Civil War Church Bell
24:45 – Planning a YouTube Channel: Mike’s Video Idea
26:36 – Chickens, Sheep, Pigs: Mike the Regenerative Farmer
29:49 – How to Get in Touch: Check out The Town Tinker on YouTube!
33:25 – Closing Remarks
PRODUCTION NOTE: The opinions reflected in this podcast are not indicative of the views of Saratoga Business Report, SaratogaBride.com LLC, Saratoga TODAY, Glens Falls TODAY Business Report, or Five Towers Media.
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.
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.
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.
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.
In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Brendan Manning, the Vice President of Education & Environment at AGC New York!
The AGC (Associated General Contractors) specializes in discovering and solving the problems caused by federal and state legislation that pertain to the trades, and informing and working with local tradespeople based on that information. Whether it’s by focusing on the legal side, directly training local business owners, or partnering with local organizations, the AGC is a fantastic Blue Collar advocate! Listen to this episode to learn more about their important mission!
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
