Chamber of Southern Saratoga County officials say they have aggressive plans in 2019 to address local and regional issues such as workforce, business development, economic and community concerns—with a focus on alignment with educational institutions, a passion for community and high-profile events, and a willingness to partner with other organizations where practical and effective.

Matthew J. Grattan, director of community and economic development of the Office of the Vice President for Research at SUNY Albany, is the chairman board chairman for 2019.

“The Chamber board along with its dedicated staff is committed to strengthening our role as a driver of community and economic activity in Southern Saratoga County,” said Grattan. “The Chamber and our members continue to face a challenging business environment in terms of the ability to attract and retain talent and new proposed regulations that could impede growth.”  

He directed attention to the ongoing workforce challenges faced throughout Tech Valley: 

By Christine Graf

Local business owner Ruth Boals recently relocated New Attitudes Salon & Spa from Henry Street to 1 Phila St. in Saratoga Springs. 

The city native spent most of her life in Florida. She returned 10 years ago to care for her ailing grandmother.

“I like Saratoga and always wanted to come back because I thought it was beautiful,” said Boals. 

She is putting the finishing touches on her new space in the lower level of 1 Phila St., just off Broadway. Previous tenants included shoe store Stephanie Anne’s and Reruns Consignment.

“I totally changed the space, and it’s still not done,” said Boals. 

The Adirondack Trust Co. opened the newly rebuilt Wilton branch at 650 Maple Ave., Wilton in January.

The previous branch, at the intersection of Northern Pines Road, was destroyed by fire in 2017.

The new Wilton Branch interior was designed by Ed Rovetto of Rovetto Design and features a dynamic, curved teller station; high ceilings; exposed wood; and a full-wall rendering of the Adirondacks at sunset by photographer Jonathan Zaharek.

Michael Phinney of Phinney Design was the principal architect, and Munter Enterprises built the branch. It also includes new teller cash recyclers, which officials said will help employees process customer transactions faster.

Ribbon Cafe in Ballston Spa was the big winner at the 21st annual Chowderfest held on Saturda in and around Saratoga Springs.

Event-goers sampled a variety of chowder from participating vendors for $1 and voted for their favorite. Winners were chosen in seven categories.

The winners are as follows:

The Wesley Community hosted players from the Adirondack Thunder, the ECHL affiliate of the New Jersey Devils, for a special visit with seniors residing at the Wesley Health Care Center in January.

The players spent the afternoon participating in various activities and handing out Thunder memorabilia and collectible items to residents at the long-term care center.

On the following day, the Adirondack Thunder in turn welcomed nearly 75 residents and staff from The Wesley Community to its home game against the Wheeling Nailers at Cool Insuring Arena.