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The ARC New York Turns 75

Written by Amanda Graves on . Posted in Business, Community, Featured, GFT Business Report, News.

Photos provided by the WWAARC.

The Arc New York, an organization dedicated to helping people with developmental disabilities, is celebrating 75 years of service and support this year with a push to grow their reach even further. The organization, now with 35 chapters in the state, takes a holistic approach in providing people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) the resources and opportunities they need to lead a successful and fulfilling life. 

To help celebrate the organization’s success and longevity, our region’s local chapter, the Warren, Washington, & Albany Counties ARC (WWAARC), is holding a membership drive to increase advocacy and leadership for those within the IDD community. 

Originally founded in New York City, The Arc New York has been around since 1949, and is the largest organization serving people with developmental disabilities in New York State. The overall goal of the non-profit organization is to raise awareness and support those who are part of the IDD community throughout their entire life. The Arc New York has an abundance of resources that aid in helping people with an IDD find jobs, get an education, and live as independently as possible while still having the support needed to thrive in society. 

The WWAARC was established in the 1950’s as a way to service New Yorkers living further upstate. Today, there are chapters in every county within New York State, having helped over 60 thousand people with an IDD.

For its 75th anniversary celebration this year, The Arc New York has several exciting events planned. One of the activities is a gala which will be held at the Hall of Springs in Saratoga Springs. 

The gala includes live music, a sit-down dinner, silent auction, and a keynote address from Broadway actor Mickey Rowe. 

The WWAARC is also actively promoting their own membership drive. This drive occurs every year and is a way to raise awareness for the organization and gain community support. 

Executive Director Dan Murray shared, “We want to find people that are willing to say that they support our field and the people that we support.” Dan became involved with The Arc New York 32 years ago, after returning from serving in the military. He was familiar with the organization because his cousin, Bobby, had Down syndrome and received resources from the Rensselaer chapter.  

“I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life and I happened to walk through the doors of an Arc, which is close to my home where I was living at the time, and as they say the rest is history. I just fell in love with the people.” Throughout his career, Dan has seen how beneficial The Arc chapters are, and how they impact those with an IDD. 

One example of their services is helping the people in their programs build a career. Job developers will meet with those seeking employment and discuss their interests and what they are looking to do for work. Then, the organization assists in each phase of the process from writing a resume to preparing for interviews. 

Following that, they assign a job coach who helps the individual adjust to their new career until they are confident enough in their abilities to handle the role independently. While the goal is always to get the person as independent as possible, someone will always be there to check in periodically and make sure they’re continuing to be successful. Not only does this give people with an IDD financial freedom, it also builds their confidence as they become self-sufficient in their career. 

Building a strong community is extremely important to the WWAARC. “It gives us a stronger voice as the level of advocacy,” said Dan. Currently, they are spreading awareness through their membership drive. Becoming a member of the WWAARC is simple, but the impact it makes is vital to the organization and the people it supports. All that is required is a $1 donation that covers the cost of registration, but even this can be waived if it is an issue for someone. The membership drive is not a fundraiser, it is simply a way to grow the WWAARC’s presence within the state and build a larger community of those supporting people with an IDD. “The more members we have, the greater the voice, the greater the influence, and the greater the results,” Dan shared. He went on to explain that “Our goal is always to provide the best environment and the best life possible for the people that we support.” This year, the goal is to gain 500 new members. For more information about the WWAARC and to become a member visit their website at: wwaarc.org

Preserving Memories: Crider Grave Care

Written by Amanda Graves on . Posted in Business, Community, GFT Business Report.

Photos Provided.

Cemeteries are a popular spot for many people, whether they are visiting a loved one or just going for a walk. 

The gravestones are full of names and keep the memory alive for those who have passed. Unfortunately, as time goes on and under the strain of various weather conditions, some of the stones become illegible. 

Lorin Crider noticed this problem and decided to educate herself on how to properly clean and care for gravestones. Today, she has started her own business so everyone can keep their loved ones’ stones in the best possible condition and keep their memory alive.

As a child, Lorin loved riding her bike through Bay Street Cemetery. “It goes back to when I was a child and I’ve always loved gravestones because I always loved family names,” she explained. 

As Lorin got older, her fascination only grew, and she came across someone online who cleaned gravestones. This piqued her interest, and she began to research more about the process. “I just started seeking out the training for that and then here I am a few years later, and each year I try to learn a new skill.”

She began attending historical association meetings about four years ago. They shared that stones should never be touched with anything except for water and a really soft brush to prevent damage. Lorin then started training at Atlas Preservation, a company that works in many national cemeteries like Arlington and Gettysburg. 

During her time there, Lorin was introduced to D/2 Biological. This product was commissioned by Arlington and Gettysburg because they wanted to have a product that was safe and had been tested for many years to ensure it would do no harm to the older stones. Today, D/2 Biological is the only product that Lorin trusts to use on gravestones. 

In addition to discovering D/2 Biological, Lorin also learned several new skills at Atlas Preservation including how to raise a stone, straighten a stone, repair broken tablets, and reset stones. “I loved it and I thought, ‘You know the only way I can afford to do this is if I open up a business,’ because D/2 is expensive,” Lorin said.

In order to continue her passion, Lorin created Crider Grave Care. The purpose of her business is to preserve people’s legacy by making sure their stones are legible and in the best possible condition. She also wants to prevent people from making common mistakes like power-washing or bleaching stones, which results in a lot of damage. For sandstone or brownstone graves, Lorin only sprays D/2 Biological, but doesn’t brush the stone at all. She does the same if a stone is peeling off in layers, which is known as delamination. 

A common misconception is that if a stone is delaminating it is cheap, when in reality it is very common for marble stones to do this because of the climate. Snow and cold winters are naturally damaging to the stones no matter how expensive the material was to purchase. Occasionally, Lorin will use a special soft brush to further clean a stone. The whole process can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour for an average-sized stone. 

“Interestingly, the older stones take less time,” explained Lorin. This is because older stones are more fragile, and therefore, the less you touch it the better.

While cleaning the stones, Lorin loves to hear about the stories of who the people were and what happened to them. A story that stuck with her was when she got hired to clean a family’s gravestones and noticed that three of the people all passed in the year 1952, while the fourth survived longer. 

After asking about what happened, Lorin learned that a mother and her two kids had been traveling on a plane that crashed, and none of them survived. The husband had not been on that plane, but he had lost his wife and children that day. By cleaning their stones, Lorin is able to keep their story alive. 

Last September, she was also hired to clean the Pruyn family stones, who were the original owners of the Finch Pruyn paper mill. The Pruyn family was very influential in Glens Falls and are remembered for doing a lot of good for the town.“It’s an instant gratification. You instantly feel like you did something good for someone,” Lorin shared.

Despite getting hired often, Lorin’s business makes no money. 

“Any jobs that I do get I turn around and put that plus more into cleaning veteran stones,” she explained. At least once a week, Lorin will spend a full day at the Queensbury Cemetery cleaning veteran stones. 

She feels a special attachment to veterans because her father and grandfather both served in the military. “I thought of my grandfather and my father, they’re veterans, and they were getting flags every year and I just wanted to clean their stones. I wanted to make sure that people could continue to read who that person was that was the veteran, and I wanted to give back somehow,” she said. 

Her father, Wayne, had a special impact on Lorin and is a huge reason for why she loves gravestones so much. He served in Vietnam in the U.S. Army 1st Infantry, so he was on the front line of the fighting. He received a bronze star and three purple hearts for his service. 

“Anytime I see any from Vietnam I think of my dad. He just passed a year and a half ago and he was my hero, so this is why this has really become a passion for me,” Lorin shared.

Lorin will also voluntarily clean any stones that stand out to her in addition to the veteran stones. “There are times I just love a stone and think ‘I’ve got to clean that stone,’” she shared. 

While cleaning a stone once, she discovered two small bumps coming out of the ground. She was able to bring them out of the ground and discovered that they were tablets for two babies, and the original stone she was cleaning was the mother. She brought the tablets out of the ground and reset them so now everyone knows that they were all a family and are buried together.
“If they were my children, I would want somebody to do that for their stones,” Lorin explained.

When she’s not busy at the graveyard, Lorin works for Open Door Mission as the Director of Development. She is in charge of events, donor relations, tours, and more. Between her business and full-time job, Lorin keeps busy, but her passion for what she does motivates her to continue. 

“I can be completely filthy, because I usually am when I’m cleaning, and exhausted and hot and I don’t care. I’m just so energized by being in cemeteries and reading the stones and working on them,” she shared. Lorin has helped keep the names of those from several years ago alive and she continues to help preserve the legacy of those who have passed.

Adirondack Theatre Festival Announces Starry Cast for 30th Anniversary Season 

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

Pictured left to right: Ashley Perez Flanagan, Jessica Frances Dukes, Parris Lewis, & Nicholas Baroudi

Adirondack Theatre Festival (ATF) announced casting for its 30th Anniversary season. Multiple Broadway and television veterans will join local talent for a starry showcase of new work. 

The season kicks off with the world premiere musical comedy Todd vs the Titanic by the creators of the Off-Broadway hit Murder for Two, which ATF originated in 2010. Joe Kinosian, who composed the music of Murder for Two and played all twelve suspects in the world premiere production, will star in Todd vs the Titanic. 

The madcap musical follows an apocalyptic event outside a theater in Schenectady, which wipes out every member of the cast of a musical about the Titanic… Every member, that is, except for Todd, who has the show’s smallest part. Alone and terrified, Todd soldiers on and plays all of the roles himself in the hope that someone out there is listening. Todd vs the Titanic is a hilarious one-man tour de force and a moving tribute to the power of art to sustain us. ATF’s production will transfer to the Hangar Theatre in Ithaca following the run in Glens Falls from June 27 – July 3. 

Next, audiences can catch a sneak peek of a new play commissioned by ATF and created and performed by Jessica Frances Dukes (Netflix’s Ozark and Broadway’s Trouble in Mind). Dukes, an Obie Award winner and Screen Actors Guild Award nominee, makes her playwriting debut with Worth: An Intimate Exhibition, an autobiographical investigation of the value of art and artist. ATF will present a developmental reading at the Lower Adirondack Regional Arts Council (LARAC) Lapham Gallery from July 12 – 14 in partnership with the Lake George Theater Lab. 

More Broadway stars arrive at ATF for The King’s Wife, a concert presentation of the new pop musical with a score by Grammy-nominated Nashville songwriter Jamie Floyd. 

The King’s Wife imagines the secret history of the first wives of Henry VIII. Parris Lewis (Tina: The Tina Turner Musical – first national tour) plays Catherine of Aragon and Matthew Griffin (Tina: The Tina Turner Musical – Broadway) plays Henry VIII. They are joined by Ashley Perez Flanagan (Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812 – Broadway), Jimmy Rae Bennett (the voice of Floyd in Grand Theft Auto V), Namisa Mdlalose Bizana, Austin Ku, Morgan Reilly, Briar Magee, and Richard Putorti Jr. 

The season closes with Jeffrey Hatcher’s edgy new adaptation of Dial “M” for Murder. This stylish twist on the thriller made famous by the Alfred Hitchcock film features Nicholas Baroudi (Law and Order: Organized Crime and Fosse/Verdon) alongside Yesenia Iglesias, Dennis Schebetta, and Sigrid Sutter. Dial “M” for Murder runs August 1 – 7. 

Single tickets for Todd vs the Titanic, The King’s Wife, and Dial “M” for Murder at the Charles R. Wood Theater range from $25 to $49. Tickets for the reading of Worth: an Intimate Exhibition at LARAC are $15. Tickets may be purchased by visiting www.atfestival.org, or by calling the Wood Theater Box Office at 518-480-4878, or in-person at the Box Office at 207 Glen Street. The Box Office is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from noon to 5 p.m. 

About Adirondack Theatre Festival 

Martha Banta and David Turner, along with a 12-member founding committee, created the Adirondack Theatre Festival in 1993 and presented its first 18-day season of new and contemporary theater at the French Mountain Playhouse within the Lake George RV Park in 1995. Today ATF is the only professional theater festival in New York’s Capital region dedicated to new musicals and plays. Each summer ATF produces a nine-week season at the Wood Theater in Glens Falls. The organization operates under a Small Professional Theatre Agreement with Actors’ Equity Association. The actors seen on the ATF stage, as well as the designers and directors, have worked regularly on and off-Broadway, on television and in movies.

Dr. M. David Howard’s Legacy of Service

Written by Amanda Graves on . Posted in Business, Featured, GFT Business Report.

A Veteran’s Journey to Building a Million-Dollar Company


Howard’s  A-10 Warthog Unit when they were deployed to
Al Jaber Kuwait during Desert Shield; as well as Haiti and many other places.

Dr. M. David Howard – Chairman & CEO of  ERBESSD INSTRUMENTS. 

Breaking the Mold

When he graduated high school, U.S. Air Force veteran Dr. M. David Howard noticed most people followed one of two paths: attend the local community college or start work at the paper mill. However, he knew that neither of those options was right for him. 

“I grew up in a small town; I wanted to see the world and do something different,” David said. This unique drive, along with his incredible work ethic, allowed him to overcome several obstacles and become the chief executive officer (CEO) of a six-million-dollar company. Today, David is proof of the incredible results that can be achieved through hard work and determination.

A Legacy of Service

Born to young parents, David spent a lot of time with his grandfather, who had a huge influence on him. “My grandfather was also in the Air Force, and I kind of wanted to follow in that legacy because he’s the one that, for all intents and purposes, raised me,” explained David. His grandfather always spoke very fondly of his military experience and even met his wife while serving in the Air Force. These stories inspired David to enlist in the Air Force following his high school graduation. Additionally, he knew that by joining the military, he would have the opportunity to learn lifelong skills and see the world.

A Distinguished Career

He joined as a crew chief, a flightline maintenance engineer on fire and reconnaissance aircraft. After completing a year of classroom and laboratory training, David was assigned to the 560 Wild Weasels, the last F-4 squadron in the Air Force. For about two years, he worked on Vietnam-era planes and was deployed to several different places, including the Middle East and Haiti. 

Next, David was assigned to the 75th Fighter Squadron out of Pope Air Force Base in North Carolina. With this unit, he worked on the A-10 Warthog. This unit, in particular, was extremely influential on David, who shared that he “enjoyed that unit very much. A lot of great people, a lot of very influential people in my career came from the 75th.” 

While in this unit, David was given an early (“below-the-zone”) promotion to senior airman. Additionally, he also went to the Noncommissioned Officer’s Academy and Airman Leadership School. David was then relocated to Osan, Korea, where he worked on U-2 spy planes for 18 months.
During this time, he was promoted again to Staff Sergeant. In his new role, David was responsible for all night shift operations and had a group of junior airmen that reported to him. After being on active duty for six years, he decided it was time to begin his civilian career. While he no longer actively served, David remained in the National Guard for several years.

Transitioning to Civilian Life

He started working at General Electric (GE) and decided to pursue higher education at the same time. Because of all the classes he had taken while in the Air Force, David was already close to completing his associate’s degree. He only needed two more classes to obtain his degree, which he completed at Excelsior in Albany, New York. This was a huge accomplishment, not only for himself but for his family as well. 

“I was the first person in my family to actually get any form of a college education,” he shared. 

David continued pursuing his education and completed his bachelor’s degree in only two years. During this time, he was working full-time at GE and raising his daughter as a single dad. He learned at GE that if he ever wanted to be in a management position within his field, having a master’s degree would be a necessity.

Loving and Learning

While working on his master’s degree, he met Megh, who would become his future wife. They were both attending the South High Marathon Dance, an annual fundraiser event for local charities. David had gone back to the dance every year, but this was Megh’s first time returning as an alum. They immediately had a connection and became friends. 

However, as their feelings grew, they started a relationship and today are happily married. With Megh’s support and lots of hard work, David was able to complete his master’s degree. Passionate about furthering his education, David decided to get a doctorate degree. 

“For me, I just had a drive,” he shared, “I wanted to be the first to do it in my family, so I went for it, got my doctorate, and never looked back.” 

To this day, David still continues to educate himself in any way he can. Currently, he is working on an online machine program certification through the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). 

“You’re never going to know everything, and the way the world’s changing with digital media, digital information, big data, cloud data, and artificial intelligence and machine learning, if you don’t stay on top of these things and focus on that continuous learning, you’re just going to get left behind,” he explained.

Beginning Innovations

After years of working at GE, David decided to leave and he became the director of engineering for Commtest Instruments. He was very successful in this position; however, the company was acquired by GE, and he did not want to work for them again. He had signed a five-year non-compete agreement when he left GE, so during this time, he worked on continuing his education and teaching at various universities, including Savannah Technical College. 

After the five years were over, David was ready and eager to get back into his field of work. He and Megh also decided to move back to New York, as they both missed the area. “I was always a proud Upstate New York kid, my wife was the same. We loved the area,” he shared.

When he moved back, David met Dr. Thierry Erbessed. Thierry had already been developing instrumentation used for various machines, and David approached him suggesting they do something together. From there, Thierry, his wife, and brother teamed up with David and Megh. David likes to consider themselves “doctors for machines.” 

They design, manufacture, and sell sensors that are able to diagnose problems in machines. This allows companies to fix any issues unknown to the human eye before a catastrophic failure occurs. Their company differs from competitors because they are focused on creating the best experience for their customers instead of only making a profit. 

David shared that “the success of the business is directly a result of the passion that our employees have for what we do for our customers.”

The Balancing Act

Since the start, the company has continued to grow into a six-million-dollar company, but Thierry and David have no plans on selling the business. 

“We’re not interested because I don’t ever want to work for someone else again. I enjoy working for myself, I enjoy leading the team that has created the company we have today,” he explained. 

Additionally, David enjoys that his business is bringing jobs back into the area. As someone who felt limited in his options when he graduated high school, he is proud that his company is offering more opportunities. David also gets to work closely with his wife, who is the chief marketing officer and director. The two even share an office, and they both understand and respect the other’s expertise and don’t try to overstep.

As a workaholic, David sometimes struggles to balance all of his different roles in life. “It’s a very busy life trying to juggle being an entrepreneur, running a business, being a dad, being a good husband, and also trying to be a good example for the kids and being an active member of the community,” he explained. 

David with his wife, Megh, and their children.

Despite the challenges, he always prioritizes his family. Currently, his oldest daughter, Angela, is taking after her father’s entrepreneurial spirit and owns the Oopsy Daisy Flower Farm. He also has an eleven-year-old, Masen, who plays both softball and soccer and loves arts and crafts. His youngest daughter, Lucy, is a gymnast who recently won second in the state for the beam. He has two grandsons, Tanner and Tatum, whom he loves to visit. 

David also enjoys going to his campsite on the Hudson River, where he sees his close-knit friend group that he refers to as the “circle of trust.” Every year, David goes to Lake George for a military reunion to reconnect with those he served with in the Air Force. Overall, David keeps very busy, but this drive gave him the well-deserved success he experiences today.

Argyle Cheese Farmer: Crafting Cow Culture

Written by Megin Potter on . Posted in Business, Community, Featured, GFT Business Report.

Photo by Han Hopman.

Dave Randles has seen six active dairy farms disappear from the five-mile stretch of Argyle where his family’s farm has existed since 1862. Today, the animals are gone from their farm too, and the land that remains is used only for growing crops. 

In 2020, Dave and his wife, Marge, owners of the Argyle Cheese Farmer, moved onto greener pastures in Hudson Falls – trading steep grassy slopes with great views for the sleek sophistication of a state-of-the-art dairy processing plant. Equipped with an observation window, visitors can see first-hand the future of this industry. 

“The reality of farming is truer here than in the press,” said Marge. 

Get Big or Get Out

New York’s dairy industry is critical to the state’s economy. New York is an agribusiness global leader with an innovative dairy community that produces more than 15 billion pounds of milk annually, making it the fifth largest dairy producer in the nation.

But producing more milk has not meant more profits for most of the state’s farmers – or cheaper prices for consumers. 

“People want cheap food but if farmers were paid what they needed to have to make a living wage, shoppers couldn’t afford it,” said Marge.

“People need to eat,” explained Dave, “but economically, dairy farming doesn’t pay. You work, and work, and work – hard – and don’t get anywhere.”

The price of machinery and production costs have risen while volatile milk prices wedge dairy farmers into a position where they must expand their herd or consolidate. These larger dairies have improved margins because they can buy supplies in bulk, are less vulnerable to market fluctuations, and have more money to invest in more efficient equipment, better quality feed and forage, and the “Cadillac” of cow bedding materials – sand. 

What Dreams are Made Of

Dave and Marge met at Cornell University in the 1970’s and Marge, a Certified Financial Planner, ran a successful accounting business for 20 years before the couple released a line of Argyle Cheese Farmer products in 2007.  

In 2020, Argyle Cheese Farmer teamed up with Hudson Fall’s Ideal Dairy Farm to purchase the Lewis Super Grocery store on Burgoyne Avenue. 

“We wouldn’t be here today without Ideal Farm,” said Marge. Not only does Ideal Farm’s size and scale make them efficient, they have invested in genetics to create “cookie-cutter cows” and provided creature comforts (like fans and automated back-scratchers) for them.

After renovating the building to give it a red and white exterior, reminiscent of the barns that used to commonly dot the landscape, when visitors walk inside this cheese shop they are greeted by the enticing aroma of bread baking in the commercial kitchen. 

Argyle Cheese Farmer’s delightful baked goods are just one of the many ways they’ve incorporated Ideal’s milk into their product line. In addition to the amazing dry, crumbly cheese curds that have made them famous, the Argyle Cheese Farmer shop carries items you won’t commonly see at their 65 retail locations (which include Hannaford, Price Chopper/Market 32 Supermarkets, Stewart’s Shops and area farmer’s markets, among others). 

Argyle Cheese Farmer offers a selection of milk products including 11 flavors of hard cheese; creamy cheesecakes in a variety of sizes; quark (a simple, European-style cream cheese), and take-and-bake meals like pizza and macaroni and cheese. Ice cream, gelato, sorbet, and frozen yogurt, are joined by their robust line of Greek yogurts, including the New York State Fair’s Best in State award-winner made with syrup from Argyle’s Highland Maple Farm. 

Carrying European and other local artisanal cheeses, milk products, and goods, as well as souvenir items, this shop satisfies visitors with fancy cheese needs and those looking to pick up affordable, locally-made grocery staples.

Anything Argyle is A2

Although Ideal Dairy Farm, established in 1908, now raises 3,000 cows and cultivates 4,500 acres of farmland in Warren and Washington counties, Argyle Cheese Farmer products are made only from their herd of 250 cows producing A2 milk. 

Making a splash in recent years because it is considered more digestible for people experiencing symptoms of lactose intolerance, A2 milk has been a saving grace for many consumers who had previously sworn-off dairy. 

Creating the recipes for their products comes naturally to Marge, she said, but adjusting to their current scale of production has had its challenges.Instead of making yogurt three times a week in 50-gallon vats, they now use a 1,200-gallon vat for yogurt and a 500-gallon vat for cheese production. 

Through their observation window, visitors are educated about the process and see the safety measures in place while learning the history of the unique and talented dairy producers and processors that provide significant contributions to New York’s agriculture industry, the economy, and to the health of our communities.

The Argyle Cheese Farmer, 2358 Burgoyne Ave, Hudson Falls, is open Monday – Saturday 8am-7pm, and Sunday 9am-4pm. They will be participating with Ideal Dairy in tours throughout July & August, and are a designated stop on the 2024 County Bounty Tour on September 7th & 8th.

For more information, visit their website at cheesefarmer.com

Get the Best of Both Worlds: Adirondack Safari & GlampADK

Written by Amanda Graves on . Posted in Business, Featured, GFT Business Report, News.

Photos courtesy of Adirondack Safari / GlampADK.

While many people love getting outside during the warmer months of summer, the idea of sleeping on the hard ground in a tent is not always appealing. Fortunately, glamping combines the best parts of camping with all the luxuries of a hotel. 

Andrew Percetti runs Adirondack Safari, located along Schroon Lake, where guests can enjoy all the normal camping activities while spending the night in a lavish tent. For those who want the glamping experience to come to them, Andrew also created GlampADK, a mobile service perfect for several different special occasions. Each business offers different benefits, but both give guests an unforgettable experience.

In September 2018, the previous owner of Adirondack Safari was packing up for the season and selling some of the tents. “I just saw the deal, didn’t know what I was going to do with them, and I bought a few of them,” said Andrew. 

One of his friends had a party rental business that set up tents for different events, like weddings, and Andrew realized there was no convenient place for everyone to stay on the property. Traveling from a hotel to an outdoor venue can be an inconvenience. This gave Andrew the idea to create GlampADK,
a mobile service that brings luxury tents directly to the venue. In addition to weddings, GlampADK is perfect for birthday parties or just a fun backyard camping experience.

Shortly after starting GlampADK, Andrew was offered the opportunity to purchase Adirondack Safari. “I went from buying a couple of tents, not knowing what I was going to do, started GlampADK which is a delivery service, to then taking over Adirondack Safari all within a year and a half,” said Andrew. 

Unfortunately, COVID-19 was just starting at the time Andrew took over ownership, so the camp wasn’t operational for a while. However, this gave Andrew time to expand GlampADK. Because it was an outdoor service, Andrew was able to get the business on the essential list. The tents could be set up while following required safety procedures and provided people with a fun activity they could do right from their backyard. 

Even now, as things have returned to normal, GlampADK is still a popular and fun way for those wanting to elevate their backyard camping experience.

The tents for GlampADK can hold anywhere from one to five queen beds, each with a real mattress and bed frame. They are fully carpeted and can easily be connected to a power outlet. If an outlet is unavailable, Andrew offers power rentals. The tents all have a fan so everyone can be comfortable even during the hot summer nights. 

Additionally, they are sturdy enough to protect from weather conditions like rain. As long as people keep the doors to the tent closed, they will stay dry and comfortable. On average, each tent takes only about an hour to set up. The tents at Adirondack Safari are the same high quality; the only difference is it is not mobile like GlampADK. “Adirondack Safari you come to us, GlampADK we come to you,” Andrew explained.

Upon arrival at Adirondack Safari, guests can expect to find a variety of fun activities for any age. People can enjoy free river tubing, bingo, karaoke, kayak rentals, outdoor movie showings, Native American performances, scavenger hunts for children, cornhole, and more. Additionally, guests have access to charcoal grills, campfires where wood gets delivered directly to the tents, and picnic tables. 

Andrew shares that the overall goal is to be “providing a service that’s unique and different than someone just staying at a hotel.” Hotels can feel isolating at times, but Adirondack Safari allows for a sense of community. 

Overall, the camp allows people to “get to do the most important thing, which is just spending time with the people that they love and care about; their friends and family. But then also having all the cool activities at the same time,” shared Andrew.

Adirondack Safari’s season begins mid-June and goes until early September. GlampADK runs a little longer from April to November if weather permits.
If you’re interested in booking from either business, the sooner you call the better. For more information about GlampADK, visit: www.glampadk.com and for more information about Adirondack Safari, visit: www.adirondacksafari.com.

Amanda’s House

Written by Amanda Graves on . Posted in Business, Community, Featured, GFT Business Report.

The fear of a loved one becoming hurt or ill is something that many people worry about, and unfortunately for some, this fear becomes a reality. When this occurs, many stressors arise in addition to the emotional toll of the situation. Financial struggles, traveling, and more can add to the already difficult situation for the family. 

While no one can prevent illness or harm, many people work hard to ease some of the other burdens. 

Amanda’s House is an excellent example of the good that can come from a tragic situation, and the impact a community can have on those in distress. At her four-month check-up, Amanda Cafaro was diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia. The town of Glens Falls came together to support Amanda and her family in any way that they could. They raised funds to help pay for her medical treatments, but unfortunately, Amanda passed away after a six-month battle on September 24, 1998. 

Despite being only 10 months old, Amanda had an extremely big impact on the Glens Falls community. After her passing, her family wanted to use the funds that were raised to do something for the community in her name as a remembrance of both Amanda and her impact on the town. Amanda’s grandfather, Tony Cafaro, suggested they create a home for those traveling long distances to be with loved ones who are sick. He was inspired by his own stay at a Ronald McDonald house when Amanda was receiving her treatments.

In 2001, Finch Pruyn & Co. rented the house to the Amanda committee for $1. Located at 22 Henry Street, Glens Falls, the house is only about a seven-minute walk from the Glens Falls Hospital. 

From there, volunteers began renovating the house, and furniture and appliances were purchased by different organizations. The house officially opened in 2002 and successfully housed hundreds of people. 

However, the house had to cease operations in 2013 due to financial issues. Wanting to continue Amanda’s legacy, the Glens Falls Hospital worked closely with the house’s board of directors and the community rallied to keep the house open. Beginning in 2015, the Glens Falls Hospital took over operations of the house, and it is still operating to this day. 

“The house really is a story born out of love and support through family and community,” shared Glens Falls Hospital Director of Volunteer Services, Tom Lyons.

The house itself comprises three private bedrooms, each with its own lock, and two bathrooms. There is a driveway that provides one spot to each family. The house is also equipped with a washer and dryer, linens like blankets and towels, a coffee maker, stove, microwave, and anything that someone needs to comfortably rest while their loved one is at the hospital. Security members monitor the property and volunteers keep up with the overall maintenance of the house. The goal is to keep guests safe and comfortable so they can focus on their loved one. 

“Our guests that stay there have so many more things to be concerned with. It’s a stressful situation, they’re traveling a long distance, and we’re there to provide a soft landing,” Tom said. 

The referrals for the house come directly from the Glens Falls Hospital staff. To stay at Amanda’s House, a person typically has to be coming from at least an hour away. Usually, people will stay for a period of five days, and then they can evaluate their situation to decide if they need longer. If the house is ever full,
the Glens Falls Hospital has many partners that they work with to provide families other rooming options. For example, the Queensbury Hotel will provide discounts to patients at the hospital.

The impact that the house has had on the town is indescribable. From its origin, thousands of people have spent the night. “It’s profound. I’m very grateful to be involved with it, it’s a very special home. It truly is a home away from home,” shared Tom. Last year, the house had around 350-night stays, and this year they are on pace to match, if not exceed, that number. 

While it is heartbreaking for any family to be in the situation where their loved one is ill, the home gives them the comfort they need during such a difficult time. Additionally, so many people have been inspired by Amanda’s story and all the house provides that they themselves volunteer to keep the house functioning. 

“It’s a privilege to be part of it, to be in a position to help others and to work so closely with volunteers that are interested in helping others as well,” Tom said.

If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer, you can visit the Glens Falls Hospital website for more information. To donate to Amanda’s House directly, visit the following website: www.glensfallshospital.org/services/community-services/amandas-house

Future-Proof Your Sales: 4 Essential Technologies & Trends

Written by Alan VanTassel on . Posted in Business, Featured, GFT Business Report.

The sales landscape is constantly evolving. What was considered state-of-the-art yesterday might not generate leads or close deals today or tomorrow. To achieve ongoing and sustainable success, it is crucial to adopt modern trends and emerging technologies within your sales organization.

Here are four essential technologies that will help future-proof your sales operations:

1. CRM Systems

OA robust Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Its value has been proven over the years, empowering sales organizations to gain a competitive advantage.

Some of the benefits of a well-designed and executed CRM software system are:

Streamlined Data Management: Powered by a centralized hub for customer data, CRMs organize and analyze contact information, sales history, communication records, and more. This provides a complete picture of customer interactions and relationship potential.

Enhanced Sales Pipeline Management:  CRMs visualize sales pipelines, track deals at every stage, and accurately forecast revenue potential. By automating tasks like lead nurturing and follow-up communications, sales reps can utilize their time more effectively.

Data-Driven Insights:  CRMs visualize sales pipelines, track deals at every stage, and accurately forecast revenue potential. By automating tasks like lead nurturing and follow-up communications, sales reps can utilize their time more effectively.

Improved Collaboration: CRMs allow teams to share information, collaborate more effectively, and nurture a cohesive and efficient sales team operation.

2. Virtual Selling

Over the last decade, the way customers interact with businesses has fundamentally changed. Today, leveraging virtual selling tools and tactics is essential for engaging connected prospects and nurturing leads effectively. Key benefits of virtual selling are: 

Omnichannel Engagement:Establish preferred-channel connections across multiple platforms, including social media, email, and video conferencing. 

Targeted Content Marketing: Deliver personalized content that addresses customer needs and pain points. 

Real-Time Interaction: Offer immediate engagement and support to prospects through chatbots or live chat features.

Data-Driven Prospecting: Utilize social media listening tools and sales intelligence platforms to identify potential customers and tailor personalized outreach efforts.


3. AI for Sales

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a powerful technology transforming sales organizations rapidly. By integrating AI tools, businesses can gain a competitive edge and streamline communication with prospects and customers. AI in sales can significantly boost productivity, accelerate response times, automate lead generation, and reduce costs.

For example, sales can be optimized using AI for strategies and features such as these: 

Intelligent Lead Scoring: AI algorithms analyze customer data to predict which leads are of the highest quality and most likely to convert. This helps prioritize sales team efforts to maximize results. 

Virtual Assistants and Chatbots: Automate time-consuming and repetitive tasks like lead qualification and appointment scheduling. For instance, chatbots can offer 24/7 customer support, answer FAQs, and allow sales reps to focus on complex interactions that benefit from a personal touch. 

Predictive Analytics: Analyze historical data to forecast future customer behavior. This enables sales teams to identify at-risk customers and take proactive steps to retain and motivate them. 

Personalized Sales Coaching: Analyze sales calls and provide real-time feedback, empowering sales reps to improve their communication skills, strategic approaches, and negotiation tactics. AI empowers sales reps by freeing them to utilize their unique skill sets, ultimately optimizing sales results.

4. Sales Playbook

The Sales Playbook is a custom sales optimization plan developed for your team through an expert sales leader and client insights. By coupling this tailored information with the power of AI, you can create a strategy, methodology, and processes for sales success. A well-designed Sales Playbook includes: 

Outreach Messaging: Craft compelling and consistent messages for all stages of the sales funnel. 

Points of Differentiation: Clearly articulate what sets your product or service apart from competitors. 

Ideal Customer Profiles: Identify and target the customers who are most likely to benefit from your offers. 

Consistent Sales Process: Develop a repeatable process to drive revenue growth and ensure every team member is aligned. 

By leveraging a comprehensive Sales Playbook, your sales team will be well-equipped to drive consistent and sustainable revenue growth.

The Bottom Line

The integration of these technologies into your sales operations is not just about keeping up with the latest trends; it’s about staying ahead of the curve and ensuring long-term success. By adopting CRM systems, AI and machine learning, virtual sales tools, and data analytics, you can future-proof your sales strategy, enhance efficiency, and drive sustainable growth. 

Contact Alan at avantassel@salesxceleration.com or 518-232-8000 to get started.

Building an Effective E-Commerce Website

Written by Kelsey Sherman on . Posted in Business, Featured, GFT Business Report.

I’d like you to take a moment to picture, in your mind, the perfect storefront.
Imagine the window display, the type of products being offered, the type of customers that come through the door, and, if you listen closely enough, the sweet sound of the ringing cash register. 

When we talk to new brick & mortar businesses, that’s typically the first place they go. It’s all real, it’s all tangible, and it’s how business was conducted almost exclusively until around the turn of the century.

But what if you could expand that storefront? What if that perfect front door were accessible to any customer, anywhere in the US, within seconds? What if your store were open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, without having to pay a brick & mortar staff all that overtime?

If you’re a business owner still not quite ready to take the leap into online sales, these are the important questions to consider. We’ve seen incredible success in the e-commerce markets with everything from homemade goods to production-line equipment, from luxury handbags to cannabis flower. It has the potential to completely transform a business and its revenue streams.

Why Create an E-Commerce Website For Your Business? 

The decision to establish an e-commerce presence is not just about staying relevant; it’s about unlocking new opportunities for growth and innovation. By venturing into the digital marketplace, businesses can:

·Reach a broader audience. Your products are now accessible to customers 24/7 worldwide, opening avenues to generate sales while you sleep or take a vacation. It conveniently removes any travel or geographic restrictions.

· Increase sales potential. According to Statista, global retail e-commerce sales reached an estimated 5.8 trillion U.S. dollars in 2023. Projections indicate a 39% growth in this figure over the coming years, with expectations to surpass $8 trillion by 2027. With such staggering growth forecasts, businesses have a tremendous opportunity to leverage e-commerce platforms to expand their sales potential and capture a larger share of the ever-growing online marketplace.

· Build brand visibility and credibility. An e-commerce website serves as a digital storefront for your brand. This allows you to showcase your products and convey your brand message to a larger audience, enhancing brand recognition and credibility.

Steps for Developing an E-Commerce Website 

Beginning the process of developing an e-commerce website requires careful planning and strategic execution. Let’s outline the fundamental steps to guide you through this process:

STEP 1. Understand & Define Your Business Goals

Define your objectives, target audience, and growth metrics to align your e-commerce strategy with your overarching business goals. To do this, start with the why: 

  • Why do you want to sell online? 
  • Do you want to drive online traffic to supplement brick-and-mortar sales? 
  • Do you want to expand your B2C business to B2B or vice versa? 
  • Apart from these baseline goals for your business, consider e-commerce metrics: 
  • Do you plan to sell locally or internationally, too? 
  • How many products do you plan to sell? 
  • What kind of growth would you like to see post-launch, and how will you measure it? 

STEP 2. Design the Intended Shopping Experience

Consider the desired experience for your customers. Tailor the functionality of your e-commerce website to align with your user experience objective, taking into account aspects such as navigation, product exploration, and the checkout process. For instance, does your target audience prefer a swift and straightforward checkout process for familiar products, or do they prefer to explore your site for additional offerings? Depending on your answer, you may need to adapt your site structure to accommodate different customer journeys.

STEP 3. Choose the Right Platform for Your Business

Selecting the right e-commerce platform is crucial for your online store’s success. Consider factors like scalability, customization, integration options, and security. Popular platforms include WooCommerce, Shopify, and Squarespace, each catering to different needs. Look for seamless integrations with payment gateways, shipping providers, and marketing tools. Consider your level of customization needs—some platforms offer drag-and-drop builders, while others provide more flexibility for developers. Ultimately, choose a platform that aligns with your business goals and budget, and supports long-term growth.

STEP 4. Populate Product Listings

Compiling high-quality product images, detailed descriptions, and pricing information is crucial for showcasing your offerings to potential customers on your e-commerce website. Organize products into categories and subcategories for easy navigation, and implement filters and search functionality for user convenience. Manage inventory levels accurately to prevent overselling and backorders, and consider implementing promotional strategies to drive sales. Regularly review and update product listings based on customer feedback and sales data to optimize your e-commerce strategy for success.

STEP 5.  Configure Payment & Shipping Settings

Configure payment gateways, shipping options, and tax settings to offer flexible and convenient options for your customers. Integrate multiple payment methods such as credit cards, digital wallets, and alternative payment solutions to accommodate diverse preferences. Optimize shipping options and pricing to provide transparency and affordability, reducing cart abandonment and improving customer satisfaction with smooth and cost-effective checkout experiences.

STEP 6.  Quality Assurance & Launch

Conduct comprehensive quality assurance (QA) testing to ensure the functionality, performance, and user experience of your e-commerce website meet expectations. Test key features such as checkout process, payment gateways, and responsive design across various devices and browsers. Address any issues or bugs identified during testing, and optimize load times and navigation for optimal performance. Once testing is complete, launch your website with confidence, and monitor closely for any post-launch issues or opportunities for improvement.

Conclusion

Developing a successful e-commerce website requires strategic planning and execution. By integrating essential functionalities and adhering to a structured approach, businesses can establish a compelling online presence that resonates with customers and drives sustainable growth.

At Five Towers Media, our experienced team can guide you through each stage of the process, offering expertise in website design, development, and optimization. By prioritizing user experience, security, and functionality, we can help you create a compelling online storefront that captivates customers, and fosters loyalty in an ever-evolving competitive e-commerce landscape.

Visit us at fivetowers.us to get started today!

ARCC Seeking Nominations for 36th Annual J. Walter Juckett Community Service Award

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

Pictured: ARCC President Tricia Rogers and 35th Annual J. Walter Juckett honoree Robert Nemer. Photo courtesy of Andy Camp.

It was about 36 years ago, when board members of the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce (ARCC) got together and decided to create an award that would honor a community member for their philanthropic work and positive impact in our region. 

They named the award the “J. Walter Juckett Award” after a businessman whose leadership and commitment transgressed a wide range of civic, charitable, religious, political, business and educational activities. 

But who was J. Walter Juckett?
Before making his impact in our region, J. Walter Juckett attended and graduated summa cum laude with a degree in electrical engineering from Norwich University, a private military college in Northfield, Vermont.
He also met his wife Elizabeth there. After his mother, mother-in-law, and wife all succumbed to cancer, Juckett was inspired to find ways to prevent, detect and treat cancer. 

With some strategic partnerships, the Lake Champlain Cancer Research Organization (LCCRO) was formed in 1979, and after Juckett’s death in 1988, the LCCRO morphed into the J. Walter Juckett Cancer Research Foundation. To this day the Foundation provides funding for continued cancer research projects at the University of Vermont Cancer Center.

After receiving his engineering degree, Juckett began his career at the Hurlbut Paper Company in Massachusetts where his father, Frank A. Juckett, served as President.  But during the depths of the Great Depression, the Juckett father-son team were enticed to move to Hudson Falls, NY to take over management of the Sandy Hill Iron and Brass Works – a manufacturer that specialized in equipment for the paper industry. The Jucketts positively shaped the future of Sandy Hill and the pulp and paper industry.

Aside from his successful business career, Juckett was recognized as a major community leader in his adopted home, the Village of Hudson Falls, and the entire region. 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. Juckett also served as President of Richmor Aviation, Director of the Glens Falls Insurance Co., Director of Kamyr Inc., Director of Glens Falls National Bank and Trust Company, Chairman of the Lake Champlain Cancer Research Organization, and Chairman of the Adirondack Samaritan Counseling Center. He was a tireless worker for the arts, having served as a director of the Lake George Opera, and a major force in The Hyde Collection Capital Campaign. The list goes on and on…

Juckett left behind a legacy of hard work, community service and inspiration. Scholarships, awards, and foundations carry his name, which made naming an annual community service award after him most appropriate. And here we are, 36 years later, seeking the next J. Walter Juckett Award honoree.

If reading some of J. Walter Juckett’s story has inspired you to do some good work in your community – great! If his story is reminiscent of someone you know, the ARCC wants to hear about it. 

Through July 8th, the ARCC will be accepting nominations for our 36th Annual J. Walter Juckett Award. We are looking to recognize and honor an extraordinary individual who has selflessly gone above and beyond by contributing time and energy to help others. 

Past honorees include Charles R. Wood, Paul E. Pontiff, Esq., Bob Joy, Elizabeth Miller, Mark Behan, Dr. John Rugge, and most recently Robert Nemer. These individuals founded, owned, and operated successful businesses & organizations and gave back to their communities by serving on boards, committees, task forces and more. We are fortunate to live and work in a region where individuals such as them live and work alongside us.

Please visit the ARCC website for more information, and to submit your nominations, before July 8, 2024: adirondackchamber.org/j.-walter-juckett-community-service-award

The 36th Annual J. Walter Juckett Award will be presented at the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner on March 7, 2025 at The Sagamore Resort in Bolton Landing.