By Paul Post

The wait is over!

Nine years ago, the City of Glens Falls applied for a potentially game-changing $10 million state grant to revitalize downtown.

Money came through a year later and in October 2023, following pandemic-related delays, workers broke ground on a new market center, part one of a huge multi-phase effort to transform South Street. On Friday, May 16, hundreds of people gathered to celebrate opening of the Events Downtown Center, nicknamed “The Ed” in honor of the late Ed Bartholomew, the Warren County Economic Development Corporation leader, whose driving force made the project possible.

“This property in 2016 was the definition of downtrodden,” Mayor Bill Collins said. “A jumble of rundown buildings, garbage in a parking lot, no residents. Hot Shots was closed, had been abandoned and stripped of all its copper plumbing by vandals. Sandy’s was on its last operating legs and, of course, the so-called incubator building had been closed for over two decades. Look at how far we’ve come.”

“Who would have ever believed we would ever have been here amidst all of this progress today? Ed Bartholomew that’s who,” Collins said. “He painted the vision with Mayor (Jack) Diamond, shared the vision with the community, worked with Mayor (Dan) Hall to build forward momentum. After his (Bartholomew’s) untimely death, a coalition of citizens was brought together to continue that progress. Thank God that they did.”

One of the center’s primary tenants, Glens Falls Farmers Market, will hold its first event there from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, June 7 with a variety of special activities.

“I’m really excited about it,” market President Tom Wells said. “It’s going to be a new experience for our customers and vendors. I’m excited about the way the building has turned out. It’s deceiving. When you get inside there’s a lot more room than it appears from the outside. It will be awesome when you can open the overhead doors, there’s a little breeze in there with music out back.”

The market is currently at Aviation Mall, with 38 vendors, but will have room for more at its new South Street home, creating business opportunities for the region’s growers and producers.

“I think it’s going to help out the South Street community, too, all those businesses and local restaurants,” Wells said. “A lot of them use our vendors for their fresh produce.”

Gregg Singer and Larissa Ovitt are especially pleased with “The Ed’s” completion. In October 2023, they opened the Golden Monkey Lounge directly across the street, and are counting on the center to generate South Street foot traffic.

“We put our stake in the ground a long time ago,” Singer said. “We’ve been waiting for this, it’s finally here and we’re excited.”

The center’s unique, leaf-shaped design is an attraction in and of itself. Outside, several large leaf-shaped patterns are found in the surrounding pavement, there’s a setting out front for people to sit and relax, and a performance space at the rear of the property for musicians to entertain crowds.

The $4.5 million, 6,000-square-foot structure was built by Latham-based Bunkoff General Contractors. Chief foreman Mike Cole said the distinctive architecture made it a special, challenging and rewarding project to work on. The handsome interior has huge white pine timbers and cedar ceilings.

The $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) grant has also funded a variety of other work including improved streetscapes, green infrastructure, a mile-long arts trail, SUNY Adirondack culinary program’s move to 14 Hudson Street, and renovation of three other buildings – the former Hot Shots tavern and Sandy’s Clam Bar on South Street, and a business incubator behind Hot Shots on Elm Street.

The Hot Shots and Sandy’s buildings will have first-floor commercial space with apartments overhead.

When completed, Saratoga Springs-based Bonacio Construction plans to start work on a large, six-story, multi-use building that will wrap around Sandy’s, which includes occupying the parking lot where the Farmer’s Market was previously held.

Separately, developer Chris Patten is currently renovating a large building directly across from Hot Shots at the corner of South and Elm streets, with first-floor commercial space and apartments on upper floors.

In addition, he’s begun work at the point of land previously occupied by a Rite-Aid store, where South and Broad streets meet. Plans there call for a first-floor parking garage with apartments above, for workforce housing.

“Now we have it all – office space, retail space and apartments,” said prominent Glens Falls businessman Ed Moore. “Apartments bring people. People make business.”

He described “The Ed” as a “foundational brick in the wall that we’re building on to make this town better and better.”

Deputy New York State Secretary of State Kisha Santiago applauded Glens Falls officials for ongoing efforts to improve the city.

“Glens Falls is really leveraging its community spaces like this market and events center,” she said. “It serves as a beautiful and shining example of why this DRI program is so essential. Communities need businesses and jobs to thrive.”

Empire State Development Regional Director Mike Yevoli said “The Ed” creates a sense of place that will “bring tourists, make people want to move here, make companies want to invest here.”

“This is phase one of many phases we’d like to see happen here at South Street,” he said.

“The Ed” is expected to host many different kinds of events, year-round, and would be the focal point of outdoor festival-type gatherings when South Street is temporarily closed off.

South Street long ago earned the nickname “street of dreams” because it was a place where people with hope, hard work and a little money could earn a slice of the American pie. More recently, it had fallen into a state of decline evidenced by many closed, boarded-up storefronts.

Now it’s come alive again, fulfilling Bartholomew’s dream of a revived center for economic vitality.

Bartholomew, who passed away in 2020, was mayor Glens Falls from 1978-85, and its director of economic development from 2010 to 2013 when he became president and chief executive officer of the Warren County EDC.

Collins unveiled a plaque bearing Bartholomew’s likeness and an image of large “The Ed” signs that will be placed on the building’s exterior.

“We’re confident that this center will be a significant energizer for our downtown,” he said. “We believe it will continue strong sales tax revenue. We believe it will draw more heads in beds at the Queensbury Hotel. It will be a gathering place that our city will be well known for throughout the state and we owe it all to Ed’s vision, his determination to make this city better.”

The plaque describes Bartholomew as “Mr. Glens Falls.”

“Ed epitomized that audacious spirit – the Glens Falls difference – that focused on making Glens Falls a better place to live and work each day,” it reads. “It was his vision and his ability to create partnerships that brought this building and the entire Downtown Revitalization Initiative to life, and his city will be forever grateful.”

The post ‘The Ed’ Opens In Glens Falls As Centerpiece Of Downtown Revitalization And Community Renewal appeared first on Glens Falls Business Journal.

Revolution Rail Co. has kicked off its 2025 season with the reopening of its three Adirondack rail biking locations in North Creek, Hadley and Thurman.The company, founded in 2017, offers scenic rail biking excursions along historic railroad tracks. Riders travel across bridges, alongside rivers and through Adirondack forests on custom-built, pedal-powered rail bikes. Each location offers a different route and landscape, attracting families, couples and group outings throughout the region.

Revolution Rail’s popular “Rails to Sails” package, a joint venture with the Lake George Steamboat Company. The experience includes a rail biking tour paired with a sightseeing cruise on Lake George. New this season is the reverse option, “Sails to Rails,” which begins with a lake cruise and transitions to a ride from the Hadley station.

“At Rev Rail, we’re all about creating memorable experiences that help people feel good and unplug,” said Robert Harte, CEO of Revolution Rail Co. “We’re thrilled to partner again with the Lake George Steamboat Company—an institution that’s been offering cruises for over 200 years.”

Seasonal rides also include Twilight Tours, returning to North Creek starting June 14.

Revolution Rail has earned Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award four years in a row, placing it in the top 10% of attractions worldwide. The company has hosted more than 330,000 riders across its stations in New York, New Jersey, Maine and Colorado.

For more information  visit revrail.com.

The post Revolution Rail Kicks Off 2025 With Adirondack Tours, New Sails-to-Rails Package In Hadley appeared first on Glens Falls Business Journal.

The Saratoga Regional YMCA (SRYMCA) is proud to announce the public launch of its Capital Campaign to revitalize and reimagine the Glens Falls Branch—one of the community’s most cherished gathering spaces for over 130 years.

With a goal of raising $5.5 million, this ambitious campaign will breathe new life into the aging facility, ensuring it continues to serve thousands of families, children, and individuals—while expanding our capacity to welcome even more in the years ahead. Planned renovations include modernized locker rooms, enhanced wellness areas, essential infrastructure upgrades, and the addition of an exciting new indoor youth climbing center.

“This building has been a cornerstone of health, connection, and community spirit in Glens Falls for over a century,” said Paul Bricoccoli, Chair of the Glens Falls YMCA Capital Campaign Committee and former Board Member. “Now it’s time to give it the care and investment it deserves—so it can continue to serve today’s families and inspire tomorrow’s leaders.”

The campaign’s momentum is already strong, thanks to a generous $500,000 lead gift from longtime Y supporters Bill and Susan Dake. The Charles R. Wood Foundation has also stepped up with a $250,000 matching grant, challenging the community to rise to the occasion and double the impact of every gift.

Major early supporters include Adirondack Trust, Arrow Bank, Della Auto Group, Hudson River Community Credit Union, Kathleen and Dan Grasmeder, Nemer Auto Group, Price Chopper’s Golub Foundation, The Glens Falls Foundation, and The Sandy Hill Foundation.

With 30% of the goal already raised, the Saratoga Regional YMCA is calling on the community to help close the gap. Whether it’s $25 or $25,000, every donation brings us one step closer to a brighter future for Glens Falls.

To mark this important milestone, SRYMCA will host a Capital Campaign Kick-Off Celebration at Common Roots Brewing in Glens Falls on Wednesday, June 18th. This event will recognize key donors and share the vision for the facility’s transformation.

To support the campaign or learn more, please contact Allie Mantica, Director of Development, at (518) 583-9622, ext. 395 or allie.mantica@srymca.org.

Together, we can build a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant future—for everyone.

The post Saratoga Regional YMCA Launches Capital Campaign To Transform Glens Falls Branch appeared first on Glens Falls Business Journal.

The Center for Economic Growth (CEG) has announced the selection of Heather McDaniel as chief economic development officer. This key position, which reports to CEG’s president and CEO Mark Eagan, is responsible for development and implementation of strategies and initiatives to drive regional economic growth and broad-based prosperity.

McDaniel has more than 20 years of experience in economic and community development. She most recently served as president of Ithaca (NY) Area Economic Development. She has served the organization for 18 years. McDaniel was hired as an Empire Zone coordinator in 2007, becoming director of economic development services in 2008, and vice president in 2014. She served as president for the last seven years. Prior to Ithaca, she worked in cooperative housing and redevelopment in New York City and began her career with Cushman Wakefield in Los Angeles.

“Heather brings balanced experience as a collaborative and results-oriented economic development leader,” said Mark Eagan, president and CEO, Center for Economic Growth. “She joins a strong team, which positions us well as we advance strategies to help the Capital Region realize its true economic potential.”

“I am thrilled to embark on this exciting journey at CEG and contribute to the advancement and development of the Capital Region,” said McDaniel. “I look forward to working with the team and stakeholders to ignite a dynamic and prosperous economic future.”

Ryan Silva, executive director of the New York Economic Development Council added, “Heather McDaniel is a talented and accomplished economic development professional. Her skillset, experience, and passion for the work will bring tremendous value to the Center for Economic Growth as they work to accelerate economic opportunity across the region.”

McDaniel holds an undergraduate degree in sociology from the University of California Berkley and a Master of Urban Planning from New York University’s Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service. A recognized economic development professional, McDaniel holds two designations: Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP) and Certified Economic Development (CEcD).

She succeeds Katie Newcombe, who accepted a position last month as state director of Economic Development for National Grid. McDaniel will begin her new role in early July.

The post CEG Names A Seasoned Professional As Its Chief Economic Development Officer appeared first on Glens Falls Business Journal.

After a decade of serving delicious, award-winning pizza, The Pizza Shop in Warrensburg is excited to announce its rebranding to Canepa’s Pizza Shop, effective March 18. The new name reflects the Canepa family’s legacy and deep roots in the community.

The ownership, led by Giovanni and Maggie Canepa, remains unchanged, and customers can expect the same high-quality pizza they’ve come to love since the restaurant’s opening in December 2014. The name change simply adds a personal touch to the business that has become a local favorite.

“We want our customers to know that while we’re changing the name, everything else remains the same,” said Giovanni Canepa, co-owner. “Our focus is still on providing the best pizza and a welcoming atmosphere for families and friends. We wouldn’t be where we are today without the amazing team we have, and we are incredibly grateful for the dedication and hard work of our staff.”

Canepa’s Pizza Shop has earned widespread recognition, including multiple “Best of the Region” awards and an appearance on the Rachael Ray Show. Known for its fresh ingredients and traditional methods, the pizzeria continues to be a standout in the area.

“This name change is a celebration of the past 10 years and the support we’ve received from the community,” said Maggie Canepa. “We’re excited to continue this journey and look forward to the future.”

While the name is updated to Canepa’s Pizza Shop, the menu, service, and atmosphere will remain exactly the same. The Canepas are committed to maintaining the quality and customer service that has made them a beloved part of the Warrensburg community.

To mark the rebranding, a ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place in partnership with the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce (ARCC) on May 29th at 12pm. The Canepas invite the community to join them in celebrating this milestone.

The new logo for Canepa’s Pizza Shop was designed by Trampoline Design, an award-winning creative agency based in Glens Falls. Known for their innovative approach, Trampoline Design’s work perfectly captures the restaurant’s updated identity while honoring its roots.

The Canepas have always been dedicated to Warrensburg, building strong relationships with customers over the years. This name change reflects their ongoing commitment to making Canepa’s Pizza Shop a staple in the community for years to come.

The post Warrensburg Favorite The Pizza Shop Rebrands To Canepa’s Pizza Shop Honoring Family Legacy appeared first on Glens Falls Business Journal.

By Paul Post

Ben Bernard cut his baseball business teeth at East Field with the Glens Falls White Sox in the early 1980s.

A few years later, when he owned the Albany-Colonie Yankees, The Sporting News named him America’s Double-A Executive of the Year.

Eleven years ago, he went back to East Field where it all began, as new owner of the Golden Eagles, comprised of top-flight college players, which became the Glens Falls Dragons, preparing now for their 10th season in the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League.

The ballpark Bernard took over had seen much better days. Bleacher seats weren’t safe, lighting was bad – a far cry from the venue’s glory days when future big leaguers such as 1983 AL Rookie of the Year Ron Kittle and Hall of Fame pitcher John Smoltz played there.

Slowly, despite a summer without baseball during the COVID-19 pandemic, East Field has made a steady comeback. Five hundred stadium-style seats were installed behind home plate last year, wooden bleachers are new and LED lighting casts a brighter glow when the sun goes down.

This spring, city Public Works crews spruced things up by removing unsightly trees just inside the gate.

“We survived, that’s all I can tell you,” Bernard said. “Now we can concentrate back on the field and marketing of the team.”

At Heritage Park, in Colonie, Bernard oversaw one of minor league baseball’s best-run operations and the Yankee lineup, at various times, featured future all-time greats such as Derek Jeter and Mariano Rivera.

At East Field now, his job is much different.

“I didn’t mow the lawn in Albany,” Bernard said, smiling.

While he’s in the outfield riding a tractor, Assistant for Baseball Operations Mark Rogers sells ads and secures business sponsors, while Victoria Ferguson staffs the office – overseeing interns, handling player contracts and trying to find housing for players who come from outside the Capital Region.

Lack of host families makes it hard to recruit premier talent from the nation’s best college baseball programs.

“I’d love to have a team that won all the time,” Bernard said. “But I look at it differently. If guys from the local area are playing baseball, that means their families get to come here and watch them. The biggest thing is kids coming out here to the ballpark. You see Little Leaguers out here with their parents. That’s what this ballpark is for.”

East Field also helps stimulate the local economy.

Parents and friends of players on opposing teams such as Amsterdam, Albany and Oneonta quite often visit local restaurants prior to games and fuel up their vehicles before heading home.

“They’re spending money, no doubt about it,” Bernard said.

In addition to the Dragons, several youth tournaments are planned this summer including one by Rhode Island-based Firecracker Sports, which brings 75 teams to the Capital Region, using East Field as one of its venues.

“Lake George hotels probably benefit the most from that,” Bernard said. “A lot of things go on here that people don’t know about.”

Glens Falls High School Baseball Coach Matt Stevens is planning a Memorial Day Weekend baseball camp, Bernard said.

But the key to East Field’s future is putting people in seats during Dragons games. Drawing on its rich history, Bernard is planning a “Throwback Night” this summer when players wear jerseys with the logos of every team that’s ever played at East Field – White Sox, Tigers, Cardinals, Lumberjacks, Golden Eagles and Dragons.

The observance coincides with this year’s 30th anniversary of the Lumberjacks’ 1995 Northeast League Championship, a team managed by former major league pitcher Dave Lapoint, of Glens Falls.

Last year, the Dragons hosted an Adirondack Thunder night, which drew a big crowd, and Bernard believes there’s an opportunity for the Dragons to capitalize on the hockey team’s success by joining forces with cross-promotions.

Thunder President Jeff Mead said, “We’ve never really done that formally. If they wanted us to do that (Thunder Night) again, we would be more than willing to, and help them in any way we can.”

The Thunder set a franchise attendance record this year, averaging more than 4,500 fans per game including 16 sell-outs, despite having a last-place team.

“They’ve got great marketing, a great organization,” Bernard said. “I feel down the road it would be great to have those guys become part of this.”

The post Glens Falls Dragons Ready For 10th Season As East Field’s Comeback Gains Momentum appeared first on Glens Falls Business Journal.

By Paul Post

His wholesale bread business is so good that Kevin Haux only needs to open his retail shop two days per week.

But it seems to be doing quite well, too, based on the steady stream of customers going in and out.

The Haux Nest Bread store will mark its first anniversary in June, located at 430 Dix Avenue, near Queensbury Avenue (Airport Road).

“I love my wholesale accounts, the consistency, so I don’t see myself getting rid of them,” 26-year-old owner Kevin Haux said. “I see myself expanding on those. But we’re not really set up for wholesale here. Ultimately, I would like to have this place be just for counter space, a retail shop, and have someone invest with me and do the baking elsewhere at a bigger setup.”

The business is named (Haux pronounced like “hawks”) after his grandparents’ summer camp in Bolton Landing.

He started it four years ago in the kitchen of his parents’ home on Chestnut Ridge Road in Queensbury. “I dragged my whole family into it, voluntarily,” Haux said, smiling.

His mom, Lisa Haux, and his sister, Haley Ward, help keep things running smoothly.

Haux Nest specializes in naturally leavened, hearth-style and old world-style breads; crusty crunchy sourdough; brioche-type cinnamon rolls; cookies and muffins; and breakfast sandwiches on brioche buns with a choice of bacon or ham.

A Queensbury High School grad, Haux attended Johnson & Wales University in Providence, R.I., which has a prestigious culinary arts program, but went there to study advertising and became interested in the business side of the food industry.

However, health issues forced him to leave after one semester, so he returned come, enrolled at SUNY Adirondack and began pursuing a newfound passion for baking. “I have ulcerative colitis,” Haux said. “I always tried to cook for myself to stay healthy. I figured if I’m going to eat carbs, sugar and breads I might as well do it myself and make it as healthy as possible.”

“I started baking and cooking for family,” he said. “That turned into doing little catering gigs and to-go meals for friends and family. After a couple of years, I got into sourdough.”

Wholesale accounts are primarily for large hearth-style country white and whole wheat loaves and baguettes, sold to eateries such as Park & Elm in Glens Falls, Saratoga Olive Oil and Hamlet & Ghost in Saratoga Springs.

In addition to the Queensbury retail store, Haux Nest goods may also be purchased at Pure n’ Simple health food store in Glens Falls.

The Dix Avenue retail shop was previously occupied by Deliciously Different cake decorating studio. “Thankfully the infrastructure was set up for a bakery,” Haux said. “I slowly collected ovens, refrigerators and shelving. We’re going in the right direction.”

The Haux Nest Bread store is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday and Saturday only.

The post Young Baker Builds Popular Bread Business From Home Kitchen To Queensbury Retail Shop appeared first on Glens Falls Business Journal.

New aircraft hangers and other improvements have been made at Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport in Queensbury to meet an increased demand from the owners of both small and large aircraft.

“There is a very large demand for T-hangers used by small, general aviation aircraft,” said Robin Mapp, airport manager for Warren County.

He said a $1 million project added eight new aircraft hangers several years ago. Ninety percent of the cost of the construction was paid by the New York State Department of Transportation.

Construction of new hangers by airport owner Warren County and by Rich Air, the airport’s fixed base operator (FBO), are underway this year as well.

This year the county finished another six-bay hanger and later in 2025 will demolish an old hanger built in the early 1940s and replace it with another six-bay hanger.

At the same time Rich Air has its own hangers, including recently completed hangers for larger aircraft such as Gulfstream 650 jets, said Stephen Abbott, Rich Air’s general manager.

Rich Air manages approximately 70,000 square feet of hanger space and 37 T-hangers for smaller planes. The fixed base operator also provides fuel and repair services.

The county, with funding from the Federal Aviation Administration, has also completed a new building to house snow removal equipment replacing an older facility from the 1940s. Runway lighting – specifically taxi way lights – were upgraded to energy efficient LED lights to enhance visibility and reduce maintenance costs.

Mapp said projects planned for this year feature the installation of solar arrays on two unused land sites. The renewable energy initiative is expected to generate approximately $130,000 each year for the county.

The county has also identified more than 200 acres across ten designated development areas, offering opportunities for both aeronautical and non-aeronautical uses, Mapp said. Each of these development areas requires compliance with FAA regulations such as airspace reviews and environmental assessments.

The Airport master plan is also being updated, outlining a 20-year vision for the airport’s development. The master plan can be reviewed on the county website (warrencountyny.gov).

The airport property includes 500 acres with north-south and east-west runways. It is just three miles from downtown Glens Falls and serves the aviation needs of the southern Adirondacks, Lake George, and the greater Glens Falls-Capital Region area. The airport is named in honor of Floyd Bennett, who was born  in Warrensburg in 1890 and was the pilot for Admiral Richard E. Byrd’s flight over or near the North Pole in 1926. He died in 1928 from injuries (pneumonia) after a rescue mission.

Some years ago the airport had commercial flights coming in on a regular basis. For example Mohawk Airlines offered service in an out of the airport back in the 1960s ending in the early 1970s. The airport’s terminal building and tower remain in place, serving as office space for county and Rich Air personnel. The county has three full-time employees at the airport and Rich Air has about seven or eight employees at the airport.

Rich Air built four large hangers in recent years for jet aircraft. Only two of these hangers are still available for use by privately-owned jets and charter jets, Abbott explained.

He said the number of flights coming into the airport each day varies depending on the time of the year. The busiest time for the airport is between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Airport manager Mapp said a typical off-season day may see 10 flights coming into the airport. During the Saratoga horse racing season in July and August as many as 50 flights may land at the airport from “all different parts of the country,” Mapp said.

“We get a mix of everything,” Abbott said about flights coming into the airport. He said it might be people flying in to visit the Sagamore resort on Lake George or people coming in to attend performances at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center. During the Adirondack Thunder season in Glens Falls, professional hockey scouts may fly in to observe up and coming Thunder players.

“We service anything and everything,” Abbott said. Rich Air also makes ground transport arrangements for people staying at local hotels. He said Rich Air has arrangements with some hotels and limo drivers offering reduced rates.

Rich Air works with some local businesses year-round, such as the Sagamore and Irving Tissue. These businesses like the convenience of the airport. “There are no lines, no waiting,” Abbott said. For these businesses “time is money” and they save time by flying into Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport.

“We are always looking at ways to improve the airport. Working with the county is a win-win situation,” Abbott said.

Abbott noted that Rich Air services all type of aviation missions at the airport not just ones for based aircraft and corporate charters. New York State Police, US military and other government aircraft and Med Flights aircraft use the airport. He said the airport is a “vital lifeline and benefit to the region!”

The airport also offers community services such as airport tours and flight instruction (leafair.net). The 109th Airlift Wing of the New York Air National Guard flies its large C-130 Hercules planes into the airport on training missions. Another common sight in the skies around the airport are Army National Guard helicopters. The Blackhawk helicopters from the Army Aviation Support facility No. 3 in Latham use the airport for nighttime training operations thanks to the airport’s pilot controlled lighting system.

The post Warren County Airport Adds New Hangars, Supports Growth In Private And Corporate Aviation appeared first on Glens Falls Business Journal.

By Rod Bacon

It is never too early to embark on a career as an entrepreneur.

When he was 11 years old, Blake Mahieu started mowing lawns in his neighborhood, soon adding other yard maintenance tasks to his services. He built his client roster to 25 weekly clients, continuing to operate this business through his high school years at Christian Brothers Academy in Albany. 

Never one to rest on his laurels, however, he added another business to his resume while still a student. A family friend in New Jersey had a company specializing in eliminating irritating insects from residential properties.

“He offered to show me the ropes and didn’t want any equity in the company, and I thought ‘when is an opportunity like this ever going to happen again’ so I jumped at it,” Mahieu said.

 He established Upstate Bug Busters, a company that protects outdoor spaces from unwanted insects like ticks, mosquitoes, fleas, gnats, spiders, ants, stink bugs and chinch bugs. He uses an all-natural, environmentally friendly solution that is delivered via a high-pressure system mounted on a truck that ensures maximum coverage of a client’s property. The formula was devised by the family friend, who also manufactures and markets it nationwide. Mahieu purchases it from him. 

He said the solution contains all natural essential oils rather than harsh chemicals. The high volume 300 psi delivery system allows him to fully saturate all the areas where bugs live, which include lawns, plants, tree trunks, most flower beds, retaining walls, and the bottom sides of leaves. To ensure full coverage he sprays 30 feet into any woods surrounding the property.

“For a while I was operating both  businesses simultaneously but Bug Busters really took off so I gave up the lawn business last year to concentrate on it,” said Mahieu. 

In the year since he started the business his client base has gone from eight monthly customers at the start of the season to 46 at the end. To date, he has 102 signed up for 2025. The season runs from April to October. He serves Niskayuna, Albany, Scotia Glenville, Clifton Park, Saratoga, and Queensbury.

Obviously, pricing depends upon the size of the yard, but Mahieu said the average is $150-$165 an application. He uses software that is integrated with Google Earth so when a potential customer contacts him he asks for their address, enters that into the program and can see an overhead view of the property. He then drags-and-drops the dimensions and can have a price quote within two to three minutes.

Mahieu self-financed the business by selling two dirt bikes he owned when he raced motocross when he was younger. He was also still running his lawn care business, which provided income while he built up Bug Busters.

Currently, he is operating the business himself but says if his customer base continues to grow he will be hiring employees, possibly this season.

In addition to working at his business Mahieu attends Hudson Valley Community College, majoring in Entrepreneurship. 

Response to Upstate Bug Busters during its inaugural year has been extremely positive. For example, one customer said, “We just started using Upstate Bug Busters this past year for a monthly lawn treatments. Blake made our transition from our previous pest company to his very smooth and professionally. Blake was very informative with the types of treatment and what they treat. I highly recommend Upstate Bug Busters for all your bug needs.

Another said, “We have tons of mosquitoes where we live and I’m highly allergic, which makes it difficult to be outside. Blake did our first application and I haven’t seen a mosquito since. It’s nice to finally sit outside on our porch or be in our background playing with our son and not getting attacked.”

Mahieu has been a member of the Capital Region Chamber since he started the business, and they recently held a ribbon cutting to recognize his success in the first year. He attends networking mixers and the annual dinner, and has found the chamber to be a valuable resource in expanding his business.

He also believes in giving back to the community. He donates toy to Toys For Tots and supports K9s For Warriors, an organization that pairs veterans with service dogs. 

For further information go to upstatebugbusters.com.

The post Upstate Bug Busters Gives Homeowners Peace Of Mind By Eliminating Unwanted Insects appeared first on Glens Falls Business Journal.

In 2025, the VITA team welcomed 9 new IRS-certified volunteers, bringing the total to 49 dedicated individuals. Among them, 35 served as tax preparers while 14 managed appointment scheduling and client coordination by phone. Collectively, the team contributed 3,566 volunteer hours—valued at $127,342.

Operating from five traditional VITA sites and two mobile teams, the program scheduled 2,473 appointments and completed 2,133 tax returns. These efforts generated $3.2 million in federal and state refunds for local families and saved an estimated $746,550 in tax preparation fees—offering a combined impact of $4.08 million across the region.

Between January 25 and April 12, VITA sites offered 846 hours of free tax assistance, with operations varying from one to several days a week, ensuring flexible access for clients across all three counties.

As the 2025 tax season concludes, Tri-County United Way is already preparing for a stronger 2026 by training additional volunteers, expanding access to services, and working to reach more families in need. The continued success of the VITA program is made possible by the dedication of its volunteers and the ongoing support of the community.

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