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IT Trends for Businesses in 2024

Written by Staff Report on . Posted in Featured, GFT Business Report.

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.

Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce: Bright Prospects for 2024

Written by Amanda Blanton on . Posted in ARCC Spotlight, Business, Featured, GFT Business Report.

As 2023 comes to a close, many businesses reflect on the year’s accomplishments and begin to make plans for the next year. Budgets are being drafted, finalized, then visited again. Nonprofits and service organizations are making their final appeals. And businesses are wondering how they can do better next year.

But upon reflection of 2023, the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce (ARCC) is proud of our greater business community, and optimistic for 2024.

Within the ARCC membership, we have seen a lot of positive shifting in the business community. Businesses south of Saratoga Springs are choosing to build their business and connections in the North Country. Small businesses are expanding and opening additional locations. Entrepreneurs are popping up and taking a chance on their dreams. Conversations on workforce development, alternative hiring options, childcare, public transportation, and more are being had regularly with solutions on the horizon. These are all signs of a healthy business community, working collaboratively towards a better future.

2023 ARCC HIGHLIGHTS

The ARCC organizes many opportunities to connect, share resources, and collaborate for our member businesses. These include monthly networking mixers, focused meetings for our councils & committees, educational workshops, and celebrations of community. We welcomed over 3,000 attendees to

our events in 2023. We hosted over 32 ribbon cuttings in 2023, exceeding the number of celebrations we hosted in 2022. We also welcomed more new members in 2023 compared to 2022 and are enjoying an 89% retention rate.

The ARCC Business Expo, which was held in early November at The Queensbury Hotel in Glens Falls, was an incredible community-focused event that brought the community and businesses together for an evening of discovery, connections, and networking. We were fortunate to have 88 exhibitors, compared to 74 in 2022, ranging from all types of industries and business sizes. Even more exciting, 36 of the exhibitors were new to the event this year.

From nonprofits & human service organizations to health & wellness and professional services, the event was buzzing with activity. This year’s business showcase had something for everyone. Many businesses featured demos of their products, such as Mahoney Alarms, who had a great setup of their camera and security systems. Adirondack Winery, Lake George Wine Outlet, and Springbrook Hollow Distillery were all giving out samples of their beverages. And Park Street Hospitality delighted guests with some yummy Autumn-themed treats.

For the golf enthusiasts, PSG Golf set up a putting green, and The Luxury Box had a golf simulator. And for those who like their toys to drive, float, or ride, the Expo had a vehicle from Romeo Toyota of Glens Falls, and a boat & snowmobile from Pilot Knob Marina & Powersports.

Prior to the Business Expo, was our annual Business Awards, held in early October. This event is a true celebration of businesses and nonprofits in our region. The room was packed with over 200 attendees cheering on the nominees and celebrating the winners. This year, 38 businesses and nonprofits were nominated in 7 categories, making this award ceremony one of the biggest in recent years.

LOOKING FORWARD

The ARCC will continue to host our flagship events, council/committee meetings, and plenty of opportunities to network & connect, but we are looking forward to providing educational opportunities that are unique to our area.

In January, we will welcome a panel of speakers to discuss alternative hiring opportunities for businesses. Some may have heard of “second chance” or “fair chance” options for hiring, but don’t know the details. The ARCC, along with partner organizations, is assembling a panel that will educate our business community on alternative hiring opportunities they may not be aware of.

This is scheduled for Thursday, January 25, 2024 at a location to be determined. Stay tuned to the ARCC website for announcements: www.adirondackchamber.org.

The ARCC is looking forward to continuing to bring resources, educational events, and opportunities to connect our business community in 2024 and for many years to come.

Blue Collar StartUp – Episode 45: Revolutionizing Workforce Development with BoomNation

Written by Command on . Posted in Business, Columns, Community, Entertainment, Featured, Media.

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Brent Flavin and David Johnson, co-founder & CEO, and Sales VP respectively of BoomNation! Finding workers and finding work – that’s the biggest challenge the trades are facing. BoomNation breaks through the drawbacks of job boards, combining effective professional services with a fun and personal user experience. If you breathe Blue and want to work Blue, BoomNation is your solution!

Listen to the episode HERE!

GlobalFoundries-Malta Foundation Awards $144,000 to 30 Area Groups

Written by Staff Report on . Posted in Business, Community, Featured, News.

Photo provided.

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.

#HelpCantWait: Give Blood with the American Red Cross on January 3rd

Written by Command on . Posted in Community, Featured, News.

The Glens Falls Cool Insuring Arena is hosting a Red Cross blood drive on January 3rd from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm in memory of Ken Hand and Dave Strader, who both passed away due to cholangiocarcinoma, or Bile Duct Cancer.

Dave and Ken were two individuals who impacted the community with their kindness, and inspired countless individuals through their courageous fight against this rare and aggressive type of cancer. Ken Hand was a retired Army helicopter pilot, a UPS 757/767 aircraft Captain, avid blood donor, and above all, a loving father of five children and husband of 32 years.

Dave Strader had a profound impact on the hockey community by becoming an NHL Broadcaster and was known as “the voice” of hockey for a career spanning over the course of 35 years. The pinnacle of his career was his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame. Dave was also a loving husband of 41 years ,and a supportive father of three children. This blood drive commemorates the inspiring lives they led and raises awareness about Bile Duct Cancer.

Please donate blood in loving memory of Ken Hand and Dave Strader on Wednesday, January 3rd at the Cool Insuring Arena, 1 Civic Center Plaza, Glens Falls. Receive an exclusive long-sleeved t-shirt. #HelpCantWait for patients in the ER, fighting cancer or facing a life-threatening illness.

Click on the link below to schedule your lifesaving appointment. Please share the link with your friends and family. Thank you! 

https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=IMOHANDSTRADER

Blue Collar StartUp – Episode 44: Fabricating the Future

Written by Command on . Posted in Business, Columns, Community, Featured, Media.

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Terrence Musto and Robert Manasier – the creator of Fabbro Industries, and the business mentor that helped him do it! From a humble start building custom bikes to running his own professional fabrication shop, Terrence’s business is a stunning example of the kind of value a business mentor like Robert can provide. Want to learn how to take that idea of yours to the next level? Listen to this episode to get a few clues!

Listen to the episode HERE!

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

Written by Staff Report on . Posted in Community, Featured.

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.

If you are interested in learning more about Ariel, please contact the Adoption Center at 518.409.8105 ext 101 or adoptadk@animalleague.org. You can also complete the adoption application using the link: www.animalleague.org/adkpreapproval

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

Join WWAARC’s at their Winter Wonderland Holiday Tree Competition on Dec. 14!

Written by Staff Report on . Posted in Community, Downtown, Entertainment, Featured, News.

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.

For more information, please visit: https://wwaarc.org/ww-trees-2023/

Buying Local – Episode 49: Building Better Culture with Tom Schin

Written by Command on . Posted in Business, Community, Entertainment, Featured, Media.

Buying Local Glens Falls

Episode 49: Building Better Culture with Tom Schin

Welcome to Buying Local!

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!

Building Better Culture with Tom Schin

Episode 49

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Tom Schin, the man behind the important consulting business of Build Better Culture! Every organization thinks they have a great workplace culture – but not all of them actually do! Tom knows the secrets to employee satisfaction and retention… But you might be surprised by how inherent they are! Listen to this episode to find out more!

00:21 – What Do You Do? Nothing, I Just Got Fired Today!

02:10 – The Masks They Wear

03:44 – The Show Starts Proper

04:25 – 20% Scary: Starting Your Own Business

05:50 – A Brief History of Tom Schin

10:58 – Build Better Culture: Show That You Care!

13:36 – Don’t Just Be a Manager: Be a Leader!

16:10 – Tom Can Help… If You’re Willing to Change!

17:34 – Storytime with Tom Schin

18:06 – Target Markets, and Balancing Priorities

24:15 – The Five Towers Culture

27:20 – Do You Want to Be a Leader?

28:23 – Taking the Tension Out of Retention: The Power of Stay-Interviews

32:20 – What Does the Future Hold?

33:30 – Annual Reviews? NO! Talk Regularly!

34:56 – Prepare Tomorrow’s Workforce Today!

36:10 – How to Get in Touch

36:47 – Shoutout to Brandi Tyler at Unbroken Athletics!

38:50 – 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.

Details

  • Host

    Michael Nelson

  • Guest

    Tom Schin

  • Runtime

    39 min, 32 sec

  • Air Date

    December 11th, 2023

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Temple Beth El’s Latke Fest Set for  Sunday, December 10, 2023

Written by Staff Report on . Posted in Community, Entertainment, Featured, Food.

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.