fbpx
Skip to main content

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

Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB Announces Staff Updates

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

Photos Provided by The Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB.

Lake George, NY – The Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB (LGRCC&CVB) is pleased to announce key staff updates that reflect the organization’s commitment to enhancing member services and supporting the local business community. These strategic changes include new hires and promotions that will drive marketing initiatives, member engagement, and overall community presence.

Megan Seeley, Marketing Director (LGRCC&CVB)

Megan Seeley was promoted to Marketing Director at the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB (LGRCC&CVB).  Previously, Megan served as the Marketing Manager of the Lake George Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau (LGRCVB), where she was instrumental in promoting the region to group business in the form of conventions, meetings, sports events, weddings, motorcoach group tours, and more. In her new role, Megan oversees the marketing and communications efforts for Chamber members as well as consumer and group tourism markets with the Convention & Visitors Bureau. As Marketing Director, Megan develops overall marketing strategies for the Chamber and the LGRCVB, oversees the marketing plans for both organizations, and manages the promotion of Chamber and member events. She is also responsible for maintaining the Chamber’s presence in the community through participation in events and committees. Her extensive experience and dedication to the local community are invaluable in her new role.

“I am thrilled to lead our marketing team and develop initiatives that will elevate tourism and strengthen our community connections. Working with growing audiences is incredibly exciting, as it allows us to introduce more people to the beauty and charm of the Lake George region. Together, we can showcase all that this area has to offer, from stunning landscapes to vibrant local businesses. I look forward to collaborating with our team and community to create memorable experiences for visitors and foster a thriving tourism industry”, adds Seeley. 

Molly Fitscher, Marketing Coordinator – Lake George Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau (LGRCVB)

The Chamber is excited to welcome Molly Fitscher as the new Marketing Coordinator for the Convention & Visitors Bureau. Molly holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Alfred University and a Media Arts Certificate from SUNY Adirondack. Molly’s previous experience includes roles as a Design Intern at Black Dog and a Marketing Intern at Park Street Hospitality, where she excelled in creating mockups, redesigning menus, and developing brand identities. At the LGRCVB, Molly will collaborate with the Marketing Director to execute comprehensive marketing plans, create and place paid advertisements, manage social media, update digital platforms, and craft engaging email marketing campaigns.

“Molly Fitscher brings a fresh perspective to our marketing efforts as the new Marketing Coordinator,” said the Executive Director. “Our organization looks forward to enhancing our marketing strategies with our refreshed team.”

Angela O’Reilly, Membership Manager – Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce (LGRCC)

Angela O’Reilly brings a diverse career background and a passion for customer service to her role as Membership Manager. Her career journey has included roles in the hospitality, cosmetology, banking, and construction industries. Angela’s dedication to impacting the local community led her to her role at the Chamber, where she ensures every member feels valued and appreciated. 

“Angela O’Reilly is dedicated to making each member feel like an integral part of our community. She is excited to build strong connections and ensure our members thrive,” stated Gina Minzter, Executive Director at the LGRCC&CVB. 

As Membership Manager, Angela plans and executes a business membership sales and retention plan. She works closely with the Chamber staff to ensure member engagement. Angela conducts business interactions, follows up on membership inquiries, and communicates the Chamber’s value to prospects.

About the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB (LGRCC&CVB):
Dedicated to propelling year-round tourism and nurturing a thriving business community in the Lake George region, the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB, Inc. is steadfast in its endeavors. The Chamber’s primary objective is to stimulate the growth and progress of its member enterprises by providing an array of opportunities, including networking functions, educational programs, ribbon-cutting ceremonies, and more. Established in 1952, this member-centric organization operates as a not-for-profit 501 C (6) corporation. Encompassing a regional perspective, the Chamber boasts a membership exceeding 450 entities spanning diverse sectors of the business landscape. For deeper insights, please explore lakegeorgechamber.com. Engage and connect with the Chamber across various social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

About the Lake George Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau (LGRCVB): 

The LGRCVB is a division of the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB and works as an extension of the Warren County Tourism Department. While the Tourism Department markets the Lake George Area to the leisure consumer tourism market, the mission of the LGRCVB is to bring year-round, weather-proof group business to Warren County in the form of meetings, conventions, reunions, sports events, weddings, and more. Connect with the LGRCVB on Facebook, Instagram and by visiting meetlakegeorge.com .

Glens Falls PR Shop Goes Nuts

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

Green PR Firm Expands Portfolio with Cali-based Organic Pistachio Producer

Photos provided by Sustainable PR.

Glens Falls, NY –Sustainable PR, a green-focused PR firm was awarded a national account with  California pistachio producer, Nichols Farms. Sustainable PR will implement a multi-faceted PR campaign to position Nichols Farms as a leading producer and distributor of organic nuts. 

“Our campaign will develop brand messaging, and coverage in retail and food trade media as well as local media,” explained Tony DeFazio, Sustainable PR Founder and CEO. “We will also advise the company on influencer outreach and social media tactics. A core element of our effort will help Nichols Farms grow their organic line of products and help it achieve its growth and sustainability goals.

Nichols Farms Headquarters

The pistachio market’s growth mirrors Sustainable PR’s. The firm has expanded its client base by 50% in 2024 and seen revenue increase 150% from 2023. The surge is fueled by growing investments in environmental protection and eco-conscious products, triggering the demand for communications strategies that elevate companies’ sustainability initiatives.

“Plant based proteins are a large and growing segment of the food industry,” says Tony DeFazio, founder of Sustainable PR. “Sustainably minded buyers as well as consumer wellness trends are fueling a push towards healthier food choices. The pistachio market is seeing the fastest growth, and we are at the center of that helping Nichols Farms capitalize on the growth opportunity.” The global pistachio market was valued at approximately USD 4.20 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow to USD 5.62 billion by 2031. “We are excited to help expand and grow the Nichols Farms brand – especially its organic pistachios” Added DeFazio. 

Christine Trageser, Senior Brand Manager at Nichols Farms, commented, “Sustainable PR’s proven track record of media relations in the food industry and their deep understanding of sustainability communications made them our clear choice. We are confident that their expertise will help us connect with retailers and consumers who value quality, environmental responsibility, and delicious pistachios.”

About Nichols Farms

Since 1961, Nichols Farms has tilled the fertile soil of the San Joaquin Valley in California to supply the highest quality almonds and pistachios to families across the nation. The Nichols family are caretakers of the land and committed to sustainable agriculture- integrating water recycling, composting, and other conservation practices into their farming- while generating onsite solar energy to power their operations. Nichols Farm’s organic pistachios have emerged as their flagship product with a complete line of dry-roasted flavored varieties, including hot honey, habanero lime, maple butter, and rosemary garlic. Today, four generations of the Nichols Family work together to grow, process, package, and market pistachios to retailers across the nation.

For more information about Nichols Farms visit their website nicholsfarms.com.  

About Sustainable PR

Sustainable PR is a public relations agency based in the Adirondack region of New York which brings earned media expertise to green companies. Founded in 2020 by PR agency veteran Tony DeFazio, the agency builds public relations campaigns which help companies realize their sustainability commitments and take advantage of a growing sustainability market. For more information about Sustainable PR’s mission and services, visit their website sustainablepr.com or call (518) 223-9962.

 Quilting in the Adirondacks Quilt Show!

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

The Hudson River Piecemakers Quilt Guild warmly invites you to “Quilting in the Adirondacks,” a quilt show that will inspire with close to 100 quilts on display. Featuring an impressive array of Bonnie Hunter mystery quilts, Barbara Nichols Challenge Quilts, Kids Quilts, and a celebration of the Adirondacks quilters of all ages and skill levels.

Explore a stunning exhibition with both professional and people’s choice judging. Browse our boutique for unique handmade gifts and items. Enhance your skills with our quilting technique demonstrations and discover the heartwarming community service projects spearheaded by the Guild. Quilt appraisals also available. Special quilt raffle, exciting gifts, and much more!

Dates: August 3 & 4, 2024

Location: Hadley-Luzerne High School, 273 Lake Ave, Lake Luzerne, NY 12846

Host: Hudson River Piecemakers Quilt Guild 

Join us for a joyous celebration of creativity and craftsmanship. For more information visit Facebook events: Hudson River Piecemakers Quilt Guild Show

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.

Additional Casting Announced for Adirondack Theatre Festival’s Starry 30th Anniversary Season

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

Performers from Broadway’s Six and Sleep No More join festival in Glens Falls, continuing through August 7. 

GLENS FALLS — Adirondack Theatre Festival (ATF) announced additional casting today for its 30th Anniversary season. Keri René Fuller (Broadway’s Six) will join the cast of The King’s Wife and Robert Najarian (Sleep No More) will join Dial “M” for Murder. 

Next weekend at Adirondack Theatre Festival, 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 book by playwright Mêlisa Annis and score by Grammy-nominated Nashville songwriter Jamie Floyd. The King’s Wife imagines the secret history of the first wives of Henry VIII. Keri René Fuller, who played Jane Seymour in Six, steps into the role of Anne Boleyn. Parris Lewis (Tina: The Tina Turner Musical – first national tour) plays Katherine of Aragon and Matthew Griffin (Tina: The Tina Turner Musical – Broadway) plays Henry VIII. They are joined by 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 presentation runs July 19 – 21 and features direction by Tamilla Woodard (Hadestown). The concert is produced by special arrangement with Tony-nominated producer Jennifer Kranz. 

The season closes with Jeffrey Hatcher’s edgy new adaptation of Dial “M” for Murder, the thriller made famous by the Frederick Knott play and the Alfred Hitchcock film. Robert Najarian, who appeared in the original US company of Sleep No More, plays

Lesgate alongside Nicholas Baroudi (Law and Order: Organized Crime and Fosse/Verdon) as Tony Wendice, Yesenia Iglesias as Maxine Hadley, Dennis Schebetta as Inspector Hubbard, and Sigrid Sutter as Margot Wendice. Dial “M” for Murder runs August 1 – 7 and features direction by Marcus Kyd. 

Single tickets for 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 5pm. 

About Adirondack Theatre Festival 

Hailed as “the best-kept entertainment secret in upstate New York” (Glens Falls TODAY), Adirondack Theatre Festival is the only professional theatre festival in the Albany region dedicated to new musicals and plays. 

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 theatre at the French Mountain Playhouse within the Lake George RV Park in 1995. Today, ATF produces a nine-week season at the Wood Theater in Glens Falls each summer. 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.

Lake George Celebrates Charles R. Wood Day 65th Anniversary of Gaslight Village  

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

Lake George, NY – The community of Lake George is proud to announce a special celebration honoring Charles R. Wood, the visionary known as the father of the American theme park, on July 12, 2024. This event marks the 65th anniversary of the iconic Gaslight Village, a cherished  part of Lake George’s history.  

The community celebration will be held at Charles R. Wood Park / Festival Commons, at 11 a.m.  The celebration will feature the unveiling of a special plaque bearing Mr. Wood’s likeness,  commemorating his contributions to the theme park industry and his lasting impact on the Lake  George region. Each attendee will receive a commemorative magnet featuring the Gaslight  Village logo as a keepsake.  

Special guests at the event include current Mayor Ray Perry, Bobbie Wages and Charlene Wood,  daughters of Charles Wood along with other devoted fans of Gaslight Village.  

Join us in celebrating the legacy of Charles R. Wood and the magic of Gaslight Village. 

Event Details: 

– Date: July 12, 2024  

– Location: Charles R. Wood Park / Festival Commons, Lake George, NY 

– Time: 11 a.m.  

– Special Unveiling: Plaque with Charles R. Wood’s facial likeness  

– Commemorative Gift: Gaslight Village logo magnet  

– General Public is invited to share stories and photos of Gaslight Village: https://form.jotform.com/241795186281162

For more information, please contact the Village of Lake George, 518-668-5771 or the Lake  George Regional Chamber of Commerce, 518-668-5755.  

About Lake George:

Lake George is a beloved tourist destination known for its stunning natural  beauty and rich history. The community continues to celebrate and honor the contributions of  individuals who have shaped its legacy.  

Tubby Tubes River Co. Celebrates Expansion with Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Lazy River Tubing Promotion

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

Lake Luzerne, NY – The Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce (LGRCC) is pleased to announce a ribbon cutting ceremony for Tubby Tubes River Co., a valued member of the LGRCC, on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at 12:30 PM. The event will be held at Tubby Tubes River Co.’s newly expanded facility located at 1289 Lake Ave., Lake Luzerne, NY. 

The ceremony will include a tour of the new facility, showcasing the new building, bathrooms, changing area, new sign, and waiting/entertainment area. Remarks will be delivered by Jamie Johnson, Owner of Tubby Tubes; Gina Mintzer from the Lake George Chamber; and elected officials. 

Jamie Johnson, Owner of Tubby Tubes, expressed his excitement about the expansion: “Today marks a significant milestone in the journey of Tubby Tubes River Co. With the ribbon cutting of our new welcome center, we are not just opening doors to a building but a new enhanced adventure experience. Our commitment to providing exceptional fun and lasting memories remains stronger than ever. Here’s to a bright future filled with exciting new possibilities for everyone in the Tubby Tubes family!” 

“I am thrilled to celebrate Tubby Tubes River Co.’s expansion. This new facility showcases their commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for visitors. The enhancements represent a direct investment in our area and a commitment to attracting more families and adventure seekers to our beautiful region,” said Gina Mintzer, Executive Director of the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce. 

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony 

Registration and a 12:15 PM arrival time is requested. RSVP on the Chamber & CVB events page on lakegeorgechamber.com. To celebrate this milestone, Tubby Tubes River Co. is offering a Family Four Pack Giveaway valued at $160. Refreshments, including a Nettle Meadow cheese board, will be served to attendees. 

Lazy River Tubing Promotion 

Additionally, there will be a special promotion for a $25 tubing adventure open to the public on the 12:30 PM departure using the promo code: “RIBBON”. Reservations are required. Book online at: tubbytubes.com. 

About Tubby Tubes River Co. 

Nestled in the picturesque Adirondack Mountains, Tubby Tubes in Lake Luzerne offers a thrilling and unforgettable outdoor adventure experience for ages 2 and up. Known for its exhilarating tubing rides down natural water slides and scenic lazy river floats, Tubby Tubes River Co. combines the beauty of nature with the excitement of water activities. Families and friends can enjoy a day filled with laughter and fun. With a friendly and dedicated staff ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience, Tubby Tubes has become a beloved destination for both locals and visitors seeking adventure and relaxation in the Greater Lake George Area’s stunning landscape. 

For more information, please visit tubbytubes.com. 

About the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB 

Dedicated to propelling year-round tourism and nurturing a thriving business community in the Lake George region, the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB, Inc. is steadfast in its endeavors. The Chamber’s primary objective is to stimulate the growth and progress of its member enterprises by providing an array of opportunities, including networking functions, educational programs, ribbon-cutting ceremonies, and more. Established in 1952, this member-centric organization operates as a not-for-profit 501 C (6) corporation. Encompassing a regional perspective, the Chamber boasts a membership exceeding 450 entities spanning diverse sectors of the business landscape. For deeper insights, please explore lakegeorgechamber.com. Engage and connect with the Chamber across various social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

Cornell’s Used Auto Parts Hosts Successful Car Show Benefiting Double H Ranch

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

GREENFIELD, NY – A vibrant showcase of automotive history and culture unfolded at Cornell’s Used Auto Parts in Greenfield this past weekend, where the local community gathered for their 2nd annual Car Show. The event featured an impressive array of vehicles ranging from meticulously restored early 20th-century classics to the latest models, with a special emphasis on American muscle cars.

Building on last year’s success, this year’s show highlighted standout examples of iconic classics from the golden age of American auto manufacturing, with a wide range of Pontiacs, Chevrolets, Chryslers, and Fords, drawing enthusiasts and casual admirers alike. The gleaming chrome and revving engines of classic muscle cars such as the Ford Mustang and the Chevrolet Chevelle SS turned the venue into a thrilling time capsule of US-made automotive prowess. While plenty of other manufacturers were featured, it was the domestic steel that truly stole the show.

Awards were handed out for Best in Show for multiple categories, including modern, classic, and muscle cars, as well as an overall winner. “We are thrilled with the turnout and the enthusiasm from the community,” said Mike Colvett, General Manager of Cornell’s Used Auto Parts. “It’s a great way to celebrate our love for cars while supporting a fantastic cause.”

Cornell’s is no stranger to community-building, as they continue to grow their network of customers – both individuals and businesses such as dealerships – by providing reliable, low-cost parts that are also eco-friendly. That simple formula, combined with Cornell’s steadfast dedication to customer service, is the engine that drives their success.

The event not only served as a celebration of automobile heritage but also as a charitable gathering, successfully raising over $6,400 for Double H Ranch. Located in Lake Luzerne, Double H Ranch provides specialized programs and year-round support for children and their families dealing with life-threatening illnesses.

Attendees were treated to more than just a display of iconic cars. The event included a live DJ, a grill manned by the Cornell’s crew themselves, and a family-friendly atmosphere, giving gear-heads of all ages and experience levels a chance to enjoy the afternoon.

The car show also offered an opportunity for local auto enthusiasts to share stories and knowledge about restoration techniques and automotive history. “These events are crucial in keeping the spirit of classic American cars alive,” noted Jake Richards, a participant and car restorer.

As Cornell’s Car Show grows each year, it continues to attract more participants and spectators, each adding to the fabric of this unique community event. With the dual appeal of celebrating automotive history and supporting a noble cause, Cornell’s Used Auto Parts Car Show has cemented its place as a much-anticipated local tradition.

Looking forward to next year, Cornell plans to expand the event with even more cars and activities to continue supporting the vital work done by Double H Ranch. “Seeing the community come together, sharing their passion for cars while helping others, is what makes all the effort worth it,” Colvett concluded.

For those who missed this year’s show, plans are already underway for next year’s event, promising to be bigger and even more engaging.

To learn more about Cornell’s Used Auto Parts in Greenfield Center, visit their website at cornellsusedautoparts.com

Adirondack Theatre Festival Puts Single Tickets on Sale for Buzzy 30th Anniversary Season

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

Performances run in Glens Falls on June 27 – Aug. 7. 

Adirondack Theatre Festival (ATF) put single tickets on sale today for its 30th Anniversary season. One performance is already sold out, and audiences are encouraged to book their tickets now. 

The season kicks off with the world premiere musical comedy Todd vs the Titanic by the creators of the international hit Murder for Two, which ATF originated in 2010. ATF’s production of Todd vs the Titanic will transfer to the Hangar Theatre in Ithaca following the run in Glens Falls. 

ATF Producing Artistic Director Miriam Weisfeld said, “The world takes notice of the brave new work nurtured here at the Adirondack Theatre Festival. In the last six months alone, Pump Up the Volume received a Broadway industry presentation, Mystic Pizza launched a West Coast tour, Murder for Two traveled to Shanghai, and The Life and Slimes of Marc Summers bowed off-Broadway. This season’s shows are already on track to make a national impact: ATF’s Todd vs the Titanic will transfer to Ithaca’s Hangar Theater, and the reading of Worth: an Intimate Exhibition has already sold out its opening night. ATF is punching above our weight like never before, thanks to the tenacious support of our community.” 

Todd vs the Titanic is a one-person musical comedy set inside a theatre in Schenectady. The action follows an unnamed apocalyptic event which has wiped out most of the human race, including every cast member of a new musical about the Titanic… everyone, that is, except for Todd, who was cast in the show’s smallest role. As the world burns, Todd attempts to perform the epic Titanic musical alone, without his partner, without his fellow cast members, and possibly without anyone else in the world being alive. Todd vs the Titanic is a hilarious and heartfelt tour de force about the power of art to sustain us. 

Next, ATF will stage a concert presentation of the new Broadway-aimed pop musical The King’s Wife (running July 19 – 21). With music and lyrics by Grammy-nominated

Nashville songwriter Jamie Floyd and book by Mêlisa Annis, the sweeping epic imagines the secret history of the first wives of Henry VIII. The concert will be directed by Tamilla Woodard, Chair of Yale University’s prestigious Acting Program at the David Geffen School of Drama. The concert is produced by special arrangement with Tony-nominated producer Jennifer Kranz. 

The season will close with Jeffrey Hatcher’s edgy new adaptation of Dial “M” for Murder (running Aug. 1 – 7), the play by Frederick Knott which inspired the iconic Alfred Hitchcock film. Said Weisfeld, “This delicious season takes us on an epic journey from dazzling comedy, to breathtaking drama, to stylish thrills. And it reminds us that great stories start here at the Adirondack Theatre Festival.” 

Additionally, ATF audiences can sneak a peek at a newly commissioned ATF play. Worth: An Intimate Exhibition, is a one-person play written and performed by Jessica Frances Dukes, who starred in the Netflix hit Ozark as Agent Maya Miller. Dukes will perform a developmental reading at the Lower Adirondack Regional Arts Council’s Lapham Gallery from July 12 – 14. Tickets to this special presentation are priced at $20. 

Single tickets for Todd vs the Titanic, The King’s Wife, and Dial “M” for Murder currently range from $25 to $49. 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 5pm. 

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 theatre at the French Mountain Playhouse within the Lake George RV Park in 1995. Today ATF is the leading professional theatre in New York’s Capital Region dedicated to emerging artists, new plays and new musicals. 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.