What's New In Glens Falls: Events, News & Business In Glens Falls

Calling All Amateur Bakers - 'Digging Into Dessert' Needs You

2013-05-20T15:26:53Z

Lookout Cupcake Wars, there's a sweet new competition in town to benefit the Double H Ranch's Annual Gala, and you can be a part of the action! 'Digging into Dessert' invites local amateur bakers to dig up their most delectable desserts for a chance at $4,000 and other cash prizes.

Entries must be submitted via video - just like a real Food Network Star! Put together a creative culinary video that will make others want to taste your recipe! You cast it; you direct it; you shoot it! Put your personality into it; you have total creative control including your very own dessert recipe, which must contain a 'secret ingredient.'

]]> The 'secret ingredient' must be an item off of co-sponsor Dunkin Donuts' menu. Filling from a Boston Crème doughnut, flavored coffee or even a savory item from the lunch menu can be used as long as it's listed in the recipe. So, get creative and bring out your inner 'Iron Baker.'

The top three finalists will receive cash prizes and will also serve their desserts at the Double H Ranch Annual Gala where attendees will vote for their favorite. Top three prizes are:

First Place: Golden Nugget $4,000
Second Place: Silver Nugget $1,000
Third Place: Bronze Nugget $750.

Hurry, though. Entries for 'Digging into Dessert' must be submitted by May 24. The judging will take place at the Great Escape and Splashwater Kingdom in Queensbury NY Thursday, June 27, 2013. Visit here for official rules and regulations.

What dessert recipe will you be digging out of your box to participate in this local baking challenge to support Double H Ranch?

Make Your 'Good Move' Today with Glens Falls Hospital

2013-05-17T13:00:00Z

The Glens Falls Hospital has launched a new health campaign just in time for swimsuit season!

The Health Promotion Center of Glens Falls Hospital started 'Good Move' this week -- a campaign focused on encouraging the community to take proactive steps toward good health by making one 'Good Move' at a time.

The goal of the program is to help individuals and families make healthier eating choices, increase activity and use preventative care. Beginning this week, posters, billboards and messaging will be placed throughout the Glens Falls community carrying various healthy ideas for everyday life.

Some of the healthy suggestions are:

walking your kids to school
snacking on a piece of fruit
exploring a nearby park
visiting a local farmer's market for fresh produce
and talking to your doctor about healthy choices that are right for you and your family.

]]> "We are excited to provide a resource that will help our community members incorporate healthy ideas into their lives," says Melissa Chinigo, program coordinator, Health Promotion Center. "Quick and easy tips on making good moves will be all around you. Being healthier can be easy - and fun."

In addition to Glens Falls Hospital's 'Good Move' program promoting healthy choices, the Creating Healthy Places to Live, Work and Play program has partnered with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Warren County and the City of Glens Falls to make improvements to East Field Park.

Some of the proposal includes:

improvements to an existing trail within the park for walking/jogging
construction of a raised-bed community garden
and a rain garden.

What healthy improvements or 'Good Move' to your life or home will you be making this summer?

10 Questions with Barbara Sweet, Executive Director of Tri-County United Way

2013-04-24T22:25:26Z

The Tri-County United Way is an organization dedicated to helping people in Warren, Washington, and Saratoga counties. Their mission is to improve the lives of people in their communities by making a positive impact with the help of volunteers and other organizations to help identify and resolve the problems of our neighbors! ]]> The United Way's Get Connected program connects volunteers with non-profit organizations in our community, such as the Family Service Association of Glens Falls Inc., which helps families cope with situations beyond their control, such as financial and emotional problems due to job loss; or the WWARC, which offers opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

I sat down with Barbara Sweet, Executive Director of the Tri-County United Way, to find out more about their Get Connected Program; how all of us can volunteer to make a better community, and the rewards of dedicating your lives to helping others!

1. How does the Tri-County United Way's Get Connected Program help local not-for-profit agencies?

Get Connected enables the public to learn about the non-profit agencies in our community - their missions, volunteer opportunities, in-kind needs, upcoming events, job openings, etc. Get Connected is a great place for local non-profits to gain new volunteers, advocates, and possible donors. It's also a great place for them to get the word out about the services they provide.

2. What are some of the local organizations you help fund and where does the United Way get their funding from?

Tri-County United Way helps fund a wide variety of local non-profit organizations from youth services, such as the Glens Falls Youth Center, to emergency needs at Family Service Association, to the senior services, such as the Glens Falls Senior Citizens Center. We rely on the donations of our generous community members, and conduct employee workplace Giving Campaigns at many local businesses.

3. How does the Get Connected program help in promoting events for local non-profit organizations and how can we find out about these events?

Events posted by an organization on our site will be listed on that agency's individual page, or can also be viewed by clicking on "Events" at the top of the main page. This also helps us all schedule events that will not conflict with other groups events.

4. How can someone interested in volunteer work find out about available opportunities in their area through Get Connected?

By clicking on the "Needs" category, the user may browse all volunteer needs listed by our agencies and narrow their search by clicking on a particular category of volunteer opportunities, in-kind donation needs, etc., listed on the side bar.

5. What are some ways in which you promote the Tri-County United Way's Get Connected program?

We are working on increasing our promotion of the site through social media, and always promote the program when presenting at employee workplace campaigns, informational health fairs, etc. We also utilize media, such as radio, television interviews, and press.

6. What other programs does the Tri-County United Way offer that impact the people in our region?

The Red Bookshelf program has collected nearly 17,000 children's books since its start in the fall of 2011. Books are collected at all Glens Falls National Bank locations and are recirculated throughout the community for children to take home and keep, free of charge.

We also work with the local banks and Crandall Public Library to collect non-perishable food items to help keep our local food pantries stocked.

Our resource guide provides contact information for a wide variety of human services, ranging from emergency shelter/food/heat, to counseling needs and prescription assistance. The guide is being distributed at common public locations throughout the community and is also available on our website.

7. You spend so much time helping others, what do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I enjoy spending time with family and friends; quality time at the YMCA; kayaking, travel, and reading!

8. What can someone who wants to help, but just doesn't have the time, do to help the Tri-County United Way?

Give us a call; we'll figure something out!

9. Reflecting on your experiences, can you tell us of a particular story or cause that really touches your heart?

Several years ago we gave out extra monies through some of our agencies to help out with heating bills. I was very touched to come into my office one day and find a lovely note from a woman who had needed assistance, had since been able to improve her financial situation, and sent us a check for the amount she had been given. We are contacted on a daily basis by many who are in need of assistance, and it makes us feel really good to be able to help out by providing information regarding resources through which people can find assistance.

10. Is there anything else you would like to add about the Tri-County United Way and the wonderful programs it offers our region?

Just that it is wonderful to have the support of so many people in our region, who are generous and caring and give back to the community in so many ways. I am very fortunate to be in a position where I work with such talented and dedicated people who truly care and assist our communities.

Interested in giving time or money to the Tri-County United Way? Call them at 518-793-3136 or visit their website at www.tcuwny.org/.

Quincy Farm Brings New Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) to Glens Falls!

2013-04-18T13:22:38Z

Between Albany and Saratoga Springs NY, lies the quaint town of Easton, NY, home of the new Quincy Farm - a small, diverse and sustainable vegetable farm on the Hudson River!

]]> Husband and wife owners, Luke Deikis and Cara Fraver, along with their beloved black lab, Tucker, bought the 40-acre farm in Washington County NY in 2011 and have since been selling their super fresh, naturally-grown vegetables at the farmer's markets in Glens Falls, Malta, Saratoga Springs, and Schenectady; and through the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program in Ballston Spa and Malta, along with three winter markets as well!

This year, the husband and wife farming team started a CSA program at the Glens Falls YMCA as well! What is CSA? Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) makes it possible to buy local, seasonal food directly from the farmer at an affordable price because the farmer sells a certain number of "shares" to members. These "shares" pay for the growing season's expenses in advance, and when the harvest comes in, members receive a portion of the seasonal produce throughout the farming season! For more information about becoming a CSA member, email quincyfarm@gmail.com.

You can find Luke and Cara at the various farmers markets around the Glens Falls and Saratoga Springs NY regions selling a rainbow of beautiful, all-natural vegetables at their tables - from broccoli to cherry tomatoes to radishes, butternut squash, carrots, and sunshine watermelons! What makes their bounty so healthful and fresh? No fertilizers, fungicides, or pesticides! Just earth, seeds, and water!

Luke and Cara admit that, at times, Quincy Farm can be a struggle. After all, if farming naturally was easy...everyone would be doing it! But their dedication in providing their customers with produce that is yummy and wholesome is, they believe, worth the effort.

Want to find out more about how you can help the community and yourself by purchasing all-natural produce from Quincy Farm in Easton NY; how to organize a Quincy Farm CSA distribution in your area; how to become a CSA member; or to locate a farmers market where you can purchase a box of Quincy Farm's wholesome harvest? Contact Luke and Cara at Quincy Farm by email at quincyfarm@gmail.com, or call 518-290-0296.

Visit the Glens Falls Farmers Market! Whether you are from Lake George NY, or further north in the Adirondack region, Glens Falls NY is just a short drive and well worth it for fresh fruits, veggies, and other homegrown and homemade goodies! Located at the South Street Pavilion during the summer (Saturdays 8am-noon, May - Nov.), and at the Christ Church United on Bay Street during the winter (Saturdays 9am-noon, Nov. - April).

Come by Glens Falls Farmers Market this Saturday, purchace a box of Quincy Farm vegetables, and experience what true, all-natural produce should taste like!

10 Questions with Executive Director Christine Dixon of Wiawaka Holiday House

2013-04-17T03:00:22Z

Remember summer camp? Well, Wiawaka Holiday House Inc., on the shore of stunning Lake George NY takes women back to a simpler time where there were no televisions or phones in your room (no, seriously...no TV's), less chaos, and more time to realize an incredible Adirondack Mountains view, canoeing, and the invigorating feeling of swimming in the cool water of Lake George! ]]> Wiawaka brings women into the quiet of the great outdoors for the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate, no matter their financial circumstances!

I sat down with Wiawaka Holiday House Executive Director, Christine Dixon, who describes more about the programs and opportunities for women at Wiawaka.

1. Does Wiawaka Holiday House have a motto that it lives by?

Wiawaka's mission is enrichment and revitalization for all women at a historic lakefront setting. We believe every woman has the right to experience renewal.

2. What does an overnight (or two) at Wiawaka consist of?

An overnight visit at Wiawaka includes meals, full use of the grounds and any workshops scheduled during your stay. Some workshops have a presenter or materials fee which is an additional charge. Guests can participate in as much or as little as they like.

3. Can you give us some examples of the classes, workshops, or programs that are offered to women who retreat to the Wiawaka Holiday House?

Workshops tend to focus on self-expression, health and wellness, and life skills. You'll find everything from yoga and Pilates, to writing and art classes, to historical lectures and musical performances. This summer we'll have stand up paddling from LG Kayak, Carl Heilman, and two book signings to name a few.

4. Would you describe Wiawaka Holiday House as a summer camp for women?

I'd describe Wiawaka as a cross between a girl scout camp and a Victorian bed and breakfast.

5. How can women take advantage of your programs if they are financially unable?

Wiawaka offers financial assistance to any woman with little to no income. Contact me or the registrar and we'll send you the simple, confidential request form. We stand behind our belief that every woman has a right to renewal and help as many women as we possibly can.

We depend on donations from individuals and organization through the Fuller Respite Program to subsidize a woman's visit. Wiawaka is a 501C3 not for profit organization and donations are fully deductible as allowed by law.

6. What does a season pass to the Wiawaka grounds include, and what doesn't it include?

A season pass entitles a woman to unlimited day visits and includes full use of the grounds and attendance at open workshops. Meals or workshop fees are not included and cost extra.

7. Tell us about the Arts & Reintegration Retreat you have scheduled in August?

This summer is the fifth season I will partner with Creative Healing Connections to provide the Arts & Reintegration Retreat for women veterans. Women veterans will come from all over the country to participate in storytelling, songwriting, dream work, yoga and meditation to heal from the trauma many female veterans experience from serving in the military.

This program is funded through grants and donations so the women veterans don't have to pay to attend. Without these funding sources, this programming would not be possible.

8. Do you accommodate events or parties at your grounds for people looking for a beautiful Lake George backdrop?

Yes, during our pre and post season weeks in June and September, Wiawaka is available for special events like weddings, corporate retreats, reunions, etc. It's a stunning piece of property and a unique space for special events.

9. Do you have any fundraising events coming up to support the Wiawaka Holiday House?

This summer, on June 29th, we're holding the Wakonda Lodge Gala at Wiawaka to celebrate the restoration of Wakonda Lodge. Tickets and event details will be on our website at wiawaka.org.

Also throughout this summer, we're hosting a series of musical performances on most Thursday nights which will raise funds for a much needed facility improvement at the historic House of Trix.

10. How can someone volunteer at Wiawaka House?

Anyone interested in volunteering can contact me at director@wiawaka.org. Volunteer opportunities are listed on our website: www.wiawaka.org.

Do you know any women who could benefit from the programs and peaceful rejuvenation offered at Wiawaka Holiday House in Lake George NY?

Chronic Pain? See What A Local Chiropractor Has To Say!

2013-04-16T18:57:03Z

Our community welcomes a new chiropractor to the area! Dr. Jeff Sawyer joined Tackett Chiropractic Center in Queensbury, NY just a few months ago on January 2, 2013.

We thought we'd pick Dr. Sawyer's brain for some advice, tips and insight from an expert. If you are suffering from chronic pain -- whether it's your back, neck, joints, muscles or other ailment -- find out what Dr. Sawyer has to say!

What kinds of ailments can a chiropractic visit help?

Chiropractic Adjustments treats the spine and nervous system. Your spine houses your spinal cord, which is the communication center between your brain and body. Over time, from poor posture, trauma and everyday wear and tear, you lose mobility causing restrictions or areas of decreased motion in the spine. This doesn't allow for proper biomechanical function, causing pressure on the nerves exiting the spine, going to every organ, muscle and tissue of your body. The pressure on the nerves causes interference, like static on a cell phone, and information is mixed up or lost. Chiropractic adjustments relieve the pressure on the nerves and allow your brain to communicate with your body clearly.

How long does an average session last?

Typically, the initial visit, which consists of a thorough history, comprehensive exam and X-rays if needed, takes about 40 minutes. Every visit from there on out takes about 15-20 minutes, case depending.

What are some common things you hear from your patients after a chiropractic session?

"I wish I had done this a long time ago."]]>
Is there any particular season that you see a higher volume of patients?

No, back problems are not seasonal. Most of us are sitting in desks all day or performing repetitive movements, which predispose us to injury.

How old were the oldest and youngest patients you've ever seen?

Between Dr. Tackett and myself, we have seen a 99-year-old man and a 2-week-old baby. Birth is a traumatic event for a baby especially in breach or other complications. Getting their spine checked is a must; it can help alleviate colic or even chronic ear infections.

What sparked your interest in becoming a chiropractor?

I was a teenage patient of Dr. Tackett's originally for low back pain. Within a few visits, he had me feeling like a million bucks. I have never been one that liked taking medication when not obviously necessary.

Are chiropractic visits covered under most health insurance plans?

Most, yes. Not all, though. We have an extraordinary billing specialist who would be more than happy to answer any of your insurance questions.

Are chiropractic adjustments safe?

Chiropractic adjustments are gentle, safe and effective. There is nothing to be scared of. You will know what is going on every step of the way and feel more than comfortable every time you are adjusted.

Between visits, would you recommend applying hot or cold compresses to sore muscles and joints?

As we all know, heat feels good, but ice is what you want to be using. The cold helps decrease inflammation, in turn, decreasing pain.

What would you say to someone who manages their aches and pains with pain killers?

Stop masking your symptoms and find out the cause.

Are you masking your symptoms when you could be treating the cause? I know this applies to many of us, so if you are experiencing chronic pain and living on pain medication, you may want to pay a visit to the chiropractor to see if they can help. Thanks to Dr. Sawyer for answering our questions!

Learn more about Tackett Chiropractic Center >>

Exciting Changes Planned for Greenwich's 21st Annual Whipple Festival!

2013-04-16T16:47:21Z

The 21st Annual Whipple City Days Festival, held Father's Day weekend in Greenwich, NY is just a few months away. Once just a local craft fair, over the years the festival has grown in popularity to include a parade; craft, commercial, and food vendors, along with games and live entertainment. Changes to the festival this year will certainly make it even more popular!

]]> This year the festival will run Friday and Saturday only (June 14 and 15), due to Sunday being Father's Day and the day with the lowest attendance. Other major changes you can expect are Artisan's Market in the main park, featuring local craft vendors and a beer garden, hosted by the Adirondack Pub and Brewery of Lake George, NY, which is expected to be a large draw.

The event will still be held in Mowry Park and will begin Friday evening at 6pm with a themed parade. This year's theme is "Friday Night at the Movies." A regional contemporary Irish group, "Hair of the Dog," will be the live music Friday night. The festival will begin again at 8:30am on Saturday with a 5k race, affordable family games, food vendors, exhibits, free horse-drawn carriage rides, and a Revolutionary and Civil War re-enactment! Admission is free.

Check out our regional calendar for more event information and other upcoming Glens Falls events!

Coming This June: Sketch Design Lounge!

2013-04-09T15:07:50Z

Glens Falls NY may have the most unique, creative, and posh location for parties and classes yet, with the opening of Sketch Design Lounge!

]]> Offering classes in basic fashion illustration and design to elementary through high school-age kids, Sketch Design Lounge owner Rhianna Hogan-Cerro has students use their individual style to fashion their own clothing by drawing from a model, creating the design, and illustrating a collection.

Sewing classes are offered for beginners and advanced students as well, and students have access to high-quality art materials from charcoals to watercolors!

With an ultimate goal of inspiring creativity in individuals who may not be very artistic, as well as the students who want to pursue a career in fashion design, Sketch Design Lounge offers a setting where they get to be the designer!

If you live near Queensbury NY or Glens Falls, this is the perfect spot for an awesome birthday party your child will never forget! Birthday parties include options from fashion design to sewing to dress up, and offer the birthday girl an opportunity to create her own party by choosing options from an activity list.

For high school students interested in pursuing a career in fashion design, Sketch Design Lounge offers the opportunity to help them build their portfolio for college with classes like Advanced Fashion Illustration.

Sketch Design Lounge, which is currently holding sessions in a private home, will be moving in June to 21 Bay Street in Glens Falls, NY. The new 1,000 square-foot space will have a dress-up room, runway, and will offer party packages with themes like "spa day" and "pretty princess dress-up."

School and sports can keep kids so busy and tense, but Sketch Design Lounge, a modish and unique Glens Falls business, offers them a creative outlet where they can unwind and use their imagination to create one-of-a-kind designs!

If you live in Albany, Saratoga Springs, Lake George NY, or just north in the Adirondacks region, call Sketch Design Lounge today, and book a party your child will recall with fond memories!

10 Questions with Mike Nelson, Vice-President of Koke, Inc.

2013-04-03T20:28:55Z

Koke Inc., a material handling and industrial equipment company located in Queensbury NY, and primarily involved in the development and sale of non-powered equipment, has pleased small local Adirondack companies and international companies alike. With their willingness to custom build to the client's needs, it's no wonder they are a successful Queensbury business!

]]> I sat down with Mike Nelson, Vice-President of Koke Inc., and asked him a few questions about their products and services, and learned that their commitment to customer satisfaction is so strong, not only do they custom make equipment for their customers, but they don't even use a receptionist or voicemail so that you always get live service!

1. Your company specializes in non-powered material handling and industrial equipment. Can you give me some examples of your best-selling products?

Safety Personnel Baskets, Dock Plates, and Pallet Trucks.

2. Does your company have a motto, and if so - what is it? If not - what do you think it would be?

We don't have one, but if we did, it would be: "Think before you say no!" We have so many resources, that we can come up with a solution to a customer's problem virtually every time.

3. Do you have any personal favorite products that you believe are just absolutely necessary because they make material handling and industrial life much, much easier?

Our Order Picker Platforms can be custom built to suit the customer's needs. When you can have something built to YOUR needs and wants, then the customer's business life just got much easier.

4. What sort of custom products can you design...or have you designed?

We have done large, high capacity loading docks for our military, to very complex aluminum platforms the automotive industry uses to transport front bumpers and air dams.

5. What sets Koke Incorporated apart from its competitors?

We all take pride in what we do. From design to shipping, almost everyone is involved in an order in some capacity. Most importantly, we do not have a receptionist or voice mail. You will always get a live body when calling our company!

6. Why did Koke Incorporated begin in Queensbury, NY, and continues to call it home today?

John Koke, CEO, came here from Montreal on his honeymoon. After living up and down the East coast, he'd always loved this area. After working for several companies, he settled down here and started the company. It continues to operate here because of good people and a nice community. With logistics and communications so advanced today, we can be just as successful here as any metropolitan city.

7. Have you done business with any well-known local, national, or international companies?

Locally: Angio Dynamics, SCA, Overhead Door of Glens Falls, and Web Graphics. Nationally: IBM, Kodak, Estes Express, and Wal-Mart. Internationally: Pfizer, IBM, BT, Astra Zeneca.

8. Do you get many satisfied repeat customers?

Most of our orders come from distributors, who routinely place orders. We have over 6,000 customers who have purchased from us at one time or another.

9. Would you consider Koke Incorporated employees to be a tight-knit group?

Yes. Our average age is in the low 40's, so we are a mature group who are dedicated, but still young enough to have a good time.

10. Is there anything else you would like to add about your company?

The work Mannix Marketing is doing for us has generated many more direct sales leads than ever before! While we currently work mostly with distributors, it's clear to see that direct sales will play a major role in our future and distributors continue to consolidate in the marketplace.

Make sure to call Koke Inc. for all of your material handling and industrial equipment needs and talk to a professional who - well, if they don't carry it, then they might be able to make it!

Siam Thai Sushi Restaurant Moving to Downtown Glens Falls!

2013-04-02T14:42:14Z

Siam Thai Sushi restaurant, a popular, authentic Thai and Japanese eatery, serving Glens Falls NY and the surrounding area, will be relocating from its Glen Street location to 14 Maple Street, on the intersection of Bay and Maple Streets in downtown Glens Falls!]]> The new location, next to the historic Rogers Building, offers Siam Thai Sushi restaurant a larger location, allowing them to expand their menu, add a children's menu, sushi bar, and a full-service bar offering a large line of Sake and spiked Thai Iced Tea!

The move, scheduled for right around June 1, 2013, gives the restaurant an opportunity to subtly create a new atmosphere with an ambience slightly more romantic and calm, providing more seating and more parking, and a great view of City Park!

Siam Thai Sushi restaurant's move to downtown Glens Falls, corroborates the city's reputation as a great place for casual and eclectic dining. Joining several other exciting and diverse restaurants that provide unique dining experiences, Siam Thai Sushi is bringing a taste of Thailand downtown!

Curtis Putney, of Glens Falls NY, says of Siam Thai Sushi - "Their sushi is the best you can get in town and my favorite thing on the menu is their avocado salad; it's very delicious!"

Whether you are downtown shopping in Glens Falls NY; enjoying the nightlife; or attending an event at the Glens Falls Civic Center, be sure to stop into Siam Thai Sushi for some delicious, authentic Thai food!

10 Questions with Bill Mason of Glens Falls Brewfest 2013!

2013-03-21T19:30:15Z

GlensFalls.com talks with Glens Falls Brewfest organizer Bill Mason about the upcoming beer lover's event on Saturday, May 4, 2013 at the Queensbury Hotel in Glens Falls NY!

]]> The beer and ale tasting event will feature the best pubs and local breweries, giving you the chance to pick a favorite new beer! Here, Mason tells us what to expect from the festival and what it takes to pull off such an event!

1. Do you consider yourself a beer connoisseur?

Hardly! I have always preferred only a beer or two when I am out. I like most beers. My buddies - and the other two organizers, Chris Reed and John Cordes, always make fun of me because I'll drink lots of beers that they consider to be not so good. Their loss!

2. Where are your favorite places to enjoy a beer locally?

Davidson Brothers, Coopers Cave, and Adirondack are my favorite brew pubs. Of course, my very favorite bar is the Sans Souci. It is around the corner, the food is great, and the atmosphere is easy-going and relaxed. All of these establishments will be represented at this year's Brewfest. They are generous contributors and I thank them very much.

3. What are your favorite beers?

#1 is Davidsons IPA. After that, my second favorite is probably the Radeau Red from Coopers Cave or Beaver Tail Brown Ale from Adirondack. I also can't resist Sam Adams. I drink plenty of Budweiser as well...Didn't I say I like most beers?

4. What can you tell us about the brewers that will be at the Glens Falls Brewfest this year?

Of course, we have all of the local brewers. Aside from that, there will be many brewers to choose from. We deal both with brewers and distributors and each year we are finding that more and more brewers want a table. Last year, we had 40 different brewers, each with 2 - 3 selections. This year, we will have at least that many. It makes it very difficult for our customers to select the ones they want to sample - a good problem if you ask me.

5. What sort of entertainment or speakers can we expect to see at this year's Brewfest?

We will once again have two bands throughout the event. Cabin 3 will be in the Ballroom and Sunglow Polka Band will be in the Adirondack Room. If anyone tries to speak - good luck to them! This year we will be raffling a kegorator to one lucky customer. I want to buy tickets for that, but I believe I am disqualified...Darn!

6. What can you tell us about the groups that will benefit from the proceeds of this event?

We support two local non-profit organizations: The Adirondack Theatre Festival and The Feeder Canal Alliance. Both of these are hard working organizations with working boards. They both bring a tremendous amount of value to our area. The members of our Brewfest board have been avid supporters of both of these organizations for years, and we are very proud to use this fun event to help them.

7. What exactly goes into the planning of a Brewfest?

It is huge! We start with the location and date. We have always held this event at the Queensbury Hotel and find it to be a perfect location, due to the sort of intimate nature. We have one guy who deals mainly with the brewers and distributers - that is a huge job! Then we need ice, bins, sponsors, sample glasses, advertising, printing, hotel rooms for brewers, signs, loads of volunteers, website and on-line ticket sales, and entertainment. We start meeting the moment the Brewfest ends and have countless meetings throughout the year to make it happen. It is loads of fun because it is all about beer, but it is loads of work too!

8. What sort of food will be available?

This year we will have food donations from Coopers Cave, Sans Souci, Talk of the Town, Poopies, and Dickies Barbecue. There will be pizza, pulled pork, soups, chili, and other good food. Our customers get beer sampling tickets and food sampling tickets with their entrance fee - so the food is complementary. It is not meant to be a meal, but it is good to give everyone a bite to eat in the middle of 4 hours of beer sampling! And the food is hearty and delicious!

9. Can you give us any spoilers as to any unusual flavors or varieties we can expect to find at this year's event?

This year, we are going to repeat our "cask room" feature. This is where the breweries make a small batch of cask-conditioned brew, and share their best. We are expanding it this year to a larger room and including "rare beers" as well. Last year, we charged a small extra fee for these samples and most people thought it was well worth it. Since it is all about more money for the charities, and more and better beers for our customers, everyone wins! Maybe this is a good time to mention that we are also repeating the wine table this year. Adirondack Wine Merchants are donating a table and sampling for a second year! We have found that some of our customers have friends that don't understand what this craft beer thing is all about. We get them in the door with wine and then maybe they figure it out.

10. Do you have any tips on how to get the most out of a Glens Falls Brewfest experience?

Get there early and look around. We open the doors at 3:30 and begin to pour at 4:00. This has reduced the long lines that we had the first few years and gives people a chance to preview the various offerings. We provide a map with the location of the breweries. Food starts about 5:00 and runs until about 7:00, so plan some time for that. As with any tastings, you should avoid the stronger brews at first and sort of build to them. Then grab a slice of pizza or some soup and start over! This isn't rocket science - it's beer!

Location: Queensbury Hotel, Glens Falls NY
Date and Time: Saturday, May 4, 2013 from 4:00 PM - 8:00 pm
Cost: $35 in advance/$40 at the door/$10 for designated drivers

Come for great beer from local pubs and breweries, complimentary finger foods from popular restaurants and eateries, entertainment, and a commemorative glass!

So, will you be attending the fun festivities at the Glens Falls Brewfest 2013 in Glens Falls, NY?

Nuns of New Skete Make "Sinfully" Delicious Cheesecakes!

2013-03-15T17:47:48Z

About 30 miles from Glens Falls NY is Cambridge, New York, home of the Eastern Orthodox Nuns of New Skete - a monastery famous for their 13 flavors of 4 pound cheesecakes! ]]> The New York Times featured the Nuns of New Skete in a warm article entitled, "Mixing Scripture in the Batter," enlightening readers to the cheesecake-making business that has given the nuns nationwide acclaim!

According to the Times, the self-supporting nuns and five assistants earn their daily bread by baking one to two days per week, about 200 cheesecakes at a time and then freezing and shipping the decadent desserts. In 2012, they sold over 10,000 cheesecakes through their gift shop, online store, wholesale distribution, and fundraisers.

The nuns' large commercial kitchen has the facilities to make up to 400 cheesecakes per session, ranging from simple flavors like their deluxe and chocolate cakes, to pumpkin, key lime, and Kahlua (just to name a few)!

Producing food and liquors to barter and sell has been a practice for monastic orders for thousands of years, although today the marketing and selling of these products is quite different. The New York Times states that the Nuns of New Skete have a business manager, marketing director, distributor, and technology expert for their online store (and yes...they have a Facebook page)! They share these resources with the Monks of New Skete in Cambridge NY, who are known for their German shepherd breeding and puppy training books.

What hasn't changed over thousands of years? Their commitment to God! The Nuns of New Skete pray all day long as they slice huge blocks of cream cheese and crush vanilla cookie crumbs for crusts.

When asked how the idea for selling cheesecakes to remain self-sufficient came about, the nuns told the Times that it began over 35 years ago when an abbot suggested they try a specialty food. Ever since then, the nuns have been using the faithful recipe of Sister Magdalene Oliver, a nun of New Skete that passed away in 2003. The recipe is so delicious in fact, it has been voted "Best Cheesecake in the Tri-Cities Area," referring to Albany, Schenectady, and Troy, NY.

The nuns are self-sufficient in other ways as well, making many of their own tools, cooking, and packaging equipment in their carpentry shop in Cambridge NY. Helping the Monks of New Skete with their breeding program and using their own talents to create everything from iconography to blueprints for an expansion, have helped them make and save money.

If you live in Glens Falls or Albany NY, visit the nuns of New Skete in Cambridge and treat yourself to a 16-slice sinfully delicious raspberry chocolate cheesecake!

Click here to read the New York Times article in its entirety: "Mixing Scripture into the Batter."

Already had a slice of heaven? Give us your review of the famous Nuns of New Skete cheesecakes!

Local All-American Soap Box Derby Traditions Continue

2013-03-14T04:15:21Z

The All-American Soap Box Derby will continue as a local tradition as the racing event enters its second decade and welcomes a new director, Lisa Wells. The event was in danger of being cancelled if new leadership couldn't be found, so Wells comes as a breath of fresh air to many local kids, parents and event supporters in the community.

In addition to leading a Girl Scout Troop, Wells was motivated to volunteer as race director by her 11 year old daughter, Bethany, who won the stock division in Glens Falls in 2012. Bethany went on to compete at the national All-American Soap Box Derby championships in Akron, Ohio with racers from all over the country. In Akron, Wells and her other two children, Ann-Marie and James, volunteered on the national race support staff while her husband, John, focused on racing.

]]> Wells is seeking volunteers to serve on the organizing committee as she plans for the future. She has turned the event around after the organizers announced in 2012 that the future of the local race was in jeopardy unless new leadership could be found. William Brown, a Glens Falls area businessman, established the local race in 2003.

Wells is excited for this year's race, which is open to children ages 7 to 16, and will take place June 15 on Murray Street hill in Glens Falls (with June 16 scheduled as the rain date). The registration fee and insurance to host the local race have been paid for this year, so the focus will be to recruit enough racers, as a minimum of 12 children in each of three divisions is required.

The race is open to children from throughout the region and beyond, and has drawn competitors from as far away as Quebec.

The city of Glens Falls provides support for the race, and the town of Queensbury has budgeted for a $5,000 contribution to the event. The committee has also built up a collection of race cars over the years that can be reused as long as they are taken apart and reassembled each time.

Sportsmanship, determination and friendly competition are all qualities the Soap Box Derby hopes to instill in its participants.

Are you excited the tradition will continue in Glens Falls?

Amanda's House to Remain Open Under Ownership of Glens Falls Hospital!

2013-03-13T20:38:31Z

It looks like Amanda's House, a home away from home for patients and family members who have traveled to Glens Falls Hospital for treatment, will be able to continue their decade-plus services!

]]> Glens Falls Hospital and the board of directors announced that the hospital will assume ownership and management of the facility, which since 2001 has operated as a not-for-profit organization. The organization has had a hard time in recent years with the increasing challenges of raising the money to keep the house open.

"This is yet another example of how Glens Falls Hospital serves as a vital health care safety net for people across a six-county region," said Donna Davison-Smith, president of the Amanda's House board of directors.

Amanda's House was founded in memory of Amanda Cafaro, a 10-month-old baby girl who lost her battle with leukemia in September 1998, after touching the hearts of many people across the Glens Falls region.

Tony Cafaro, Amanda's grandfather, came up with the idea of a "home away from home" for patients and family members, when he stayed in a similar home while Amanda was hospitalized in Boston. The fund established for Amanda's medical costs served as the initial funding for Amanda's House.

Glens Falls Hospital has worked closely with Amanda's House since it opened in 2001. "We are pleased to be able to continue helping our patients and their families and loved ones during their time of need," states David G. Kruczlnicki, President and CEO of Glens Falls Hospital. "Helping them is consistent with the mission of our organization and at the core of what we do."

2012 was the busiest year ever for Amanda's House, with more than 150 guests! Located only a few blocks from the hospital at 22 Henry Street in Glens Falls, NY, Amanda's House Inc. will donate the house and all assets to the hospital.

Have you or anyone you know been thankful for the services offered at Amanda's House in Glens Falls NY? We welcome your stories!

10 Questions with Habitat for Humanity's Courtney Shaler Smith

2013-03-13T19:36:53Z

Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren, & Washington Counties Executive Director, Courtney Shaler Smith, talks with GlensFallsRegion.com about the all-volunteer organization, located in Glens Falls NY. As the local organization's first Executive Director ever, she tells us about the local chapter; projects and upcoming events; and ways to donate and volunteer!

]]> Can you tell us a little about the history of Habitat for Humanity?

Established in 1991, Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren & Washington Counties has built 20 houses as an all-volunteer organization, partnering with families to provide them with simple, decent, and affordable housing. Support for this work comes from local businesses, churches, community organizations and individuals.

As an affiliate to Habitat for Humanity International, www.habitat.org, we coordinate all aspects of Habitat home building in our local area - fund raising, building site selection, partner family selection and support, house construction, and mortgage servicing. Habitat for Humanity believes in giving a hand up not a hand out. In partnership with families in need, we build simple, decent, and affordable housing.

When did your chapter of Habitat for Humanity switch from a volunteer organization to professional staff?

In Spring 2012, the board held a retreat to develop a strategic plan for our chapter. As part of this process, it recognized the difficulty of growing the organization without full-time staff. The board also reached out to several similarly-sized Habitat chapters in the region that had made the change from an all-volunteer-run organization to professional staff to learn about their experiences. The board concluded that in order to be better able to meet the housing needs of families in our area, we needed to have full-time professional help. They began the search in the Fall of 2012, and on January 2nd of this year, I joined Habitat as their first Executive Director.

How can someone donate to Habitat for Humanity?

Those individuals, businesses and organizations wishing to donate are welcome to use the Paypal link on our website or it can be sent directly to our office:

Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren & Washington Counties

4 Glens Falls Technical Park, Suite 4

Glens Falls, NY 12801

Your gift could help buy:

$10 = Box of Nails
$35 = Roof Shingles
$50 = Low Flow Toilet
$75 = Window
$100 = Kitchen Sink
$150 = Front Door
$500 = Siding
$1000 = Wallboard
$2000 = Flooring

How do you choose recipients for houses?

Partner families will be selected based on the following criteria:

Demonstrated financial need (not able to obtain a mortgage through standard channels).
Residence and/or employment in Warren, Washington or northern Saratoga Counties.
Present living quarters are substandard (examples include but are not limited to no indoor plumbing, leaks in roof, inadequate heating, overcrowding - 3 or more per bedroom or children of different genders sharing a bedroom, unsafe or unsanitary conditions, or not handicapped accessible.)
Meet HABITAT financial guidelines (must be able to afford a monthly mortgage payment of $600 to $650).
Exhibited willingness to participate in the program (each family is expected to provide 500 hours of volunteer labor....sweat equity!).

If someone is interested in volunteering for Habitat for Humanity, what should they do?

We are always looking for volunteers with or without construction skills. If you are interested in helping out on the job site, we have volunteer opportunities for crew leaders, greeters, hammer swingers, and sandwich makers. If you are interested in helping out in the office, serving on a committee or participating as a board member, let us know. Fill out our volunteer survey at: http://www.glensfallshabitat.org/get-involved/volunteer-survey/.

Few things in life are more rewarding than seeing the gratitude expressed by a new homeowner when they are presented with the keys to their new home. The knowledge that you were able to help a family realize a dream, possibly a new beginning, can be tremendously satisfying.

What projects do you have going on right now?

Right now we have a remodel on Platt Street in Glens Falls, as well as building lots in Glens Falls and Lake George...all waiting for families!

What upcoming events do you have happening?

On Friday, March 22nd at 4pm, we are having an Open House and Ribbon Cutting to celebrate our new office at 4 Glens Falls Technical Park, Suite 4. The public is welcome to attend.

On Tuesday, April 2nd at 5:30pm, we are having a Family Information Night. We will be going over the application process and requirements for becoming a partner family. Anyone interested in attending should RSVP by calling 793-7484 or send an email to .

What is your background with not-for-profit organizations?

I have over 15 years of experience in the not-for-profit sector. Most recently, I coordinated community health grants that covered 4 counties, expanding outreach efforts, building capacity and mobilizing community involvement. I am a graduate of the College of St. Joseph with a B.A. in Business and Leadership. In 2012, I was named one of the Post Star's "Top 20 Under 40." Additionally, I serve in a volunteer capacity Ambassador for the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce, and as a troop leader for Girl Scouts of Northeastern NY.

What was the most prestigious moment in your career, so far?

The most prestigious moment for me in my career was when I was chosen by the Habitat Board of Directors to be there first ever Executive Director. As a child I grew up in a trailer park, so to be able, as a career, to assist families in obtaining decent and affordable housing really spoke to me on so many levels.

If you could describe Habitat for Humanity in one word, what would it be?

How about two words: life changing!

Let us know if you going to support your community by donating either time or money to Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren & Washington Counties!