Amelia Collins, Miss New York 2023, recently visited the Adirondacks in support of her work with the Miss America Organization. As Miss New York, Ms. Collins works with the New York By Rail Organization to encourage train travel throughout New York state. Trip planning began shortly after Ms. Collins began her reign as Miss NY. Over the past couple of months, details were finalized and an itinerary developed, primarily focused on foliage, farms, and local foods. Miss New York’s visit highlighted the ease with which people can take the train to access the Adirondack region, showcasing Amtrak’s route from New York City to Montreal with stops along the way in the Adirondacks. Her itinerary aligned with the Amtrak route, along the shore of Lake Champlain. The visit showcased the region’s farm-to-table initiatives including meals that featured locally grown food. The region’s farms, lodging, restaurants, farmers markets, attractions, and hiking opportunities played key roles in the itinerary, all set against a backdrop of beautiful fall colors. While in the region, Ms. Collins visited the communities of Essex, Westport, Moriah, Ticonderoga, Elizabethtown, and Keene. She met local community leaders, visited local businesses that focus on supplying locally grown produce, meats, cheese and flowers. She hiked some of the area trails and learned about the region’s rich history. Throughout her visit, Miss NY captured video and photographs that will be shared on the Miss New York Instagram page and on the New York By Rail social media accounts in upcoming weeks. Additionally, she will summarize her experiences in a blog written for NY By Rail that will be shared in a weekly newsletter, along with the video highlighting her experiences. According to Communications Manager Jane Hooper, the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism (ROOST) undertakes a media relations strategy as part of its overall marketing effort. “We work with travel writers, editors, and social media content creators to encourage story development about the Adirondack region; ultimately sharing information about travel to, and within, the area,” she said. “Writers and social media content professionals present the Adirondacks to their audiences which contributes to the ‘story’ of the Adirondacks through words, photos, and video. The stories are also reinforced through ROOST’s advertising campaigns, encouraging potential visitors to begin planning their own Adirondack adventure.” Collins is continuing the work of Miss NY 2022, Taryn Delanie Smith. Earlier this year, ROOST worked with Smith to arrange a similar trip to the Lake Placid region. As a social media content creator, Ms. Smith’s proficiency with various social media platforms increased the Miss America NY Instagram account significantly. The campaign Smith developed with NY By Rail was a success, recently receiving a New York State Travel Industry Association (NYSTIA) award. As Miss NY 2023, Amelia Collins is continuing this effort. “I’m so proud to work with NY By Rail, traveling our beautiful state and learning about so many of the interesting communities along the way,” she said. “The North Country is beautiful, the scenery is spectacular and the people were incredibly friendly. I can’t wait to visit again.” Miss New York’s adventures in the Lake Champlain Region, and throughout the state, will be available on Instagram @missamericany and @newyorkbyrail. The Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism is the destination marketing and management organization for Hamilton and Essex counties, including the communities of Lake Placid, Tupper Lake, and Saranac Lake, all located within the Adirondacks in New York state. About New York By Rail New York By Rail is an annual magazine produced along with NewYorkByRail.com, a web version of the magazine, under a publishing agreement between Amtrak and Martinelli Custom Publishing that promotes Amtrak train travel, primarily in New York, and features information on Amtrak trains, routes, services and destinations and attractions. New York By Rail has an agreement with the Miss New York Organization for Miss New York to visit destinations via Amtrak and promote her experiences through a blog, video and social media. Amtrak service between New York City and Montreal resumed on September 11, 2023.

ROOST and The Olympic Authority would like to welcome you to a Business After Hours! As we prepare for the winter season, we'd like to extend an invitation for an informative update. All business owners, managers, marketing, sales, and frontline staff are encouraged to join us for an enjoyable social hour on the new deck and in the bar/lounge area. When: Tuesday, October 17, 2023 Where: Roamers Café – Olympic Center Time: 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. What: Social Hour – Hors D’oeuvres + Cash Bar All business owners, managers, marketing, sales, and frontline staff are welcome to attend and enjoy an informational social hour on the new deck and in the bar/lounge area. Join us to find out more about: Olympic venue attractions and activities for winter 2023-24 Upcoming events Winter marketing updates Eclipse 2024 preparations Live music by Andy Walkow. Hors d’oeuvres, beer, and wine will be served. RSVP and enjoy one complimentary drink on us when you pre-register! RSVP to Kristin@roostadk.com.

The Village of Saranac Lake announces the return of its New Year’s Eve celebration: North Country New Year. The event will feature live performances, family-friendly activities, local food, comedy shows, and fireworks, taking place throughout the downtown Saranac Lake area on December 31 from 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm. Previously known as First Night Saranac Lake, North Country New Year is continuing the tradition of New Year’s celebration through local community events, arts and culture in a family-friendly atmosphere. North Country New Year is extending an invitation to community members throughout the North Country region; the celebration is open to visitors from throughout the Adirondacks. Entertainment and music will be provided by local, regional and out-of-town performers, showcasing their talents at many venues throughout the Saranac Lake community. “After a three-year hiatus after the recent pandemic, our organizing committee is really excited about this event,” said Kenzie Marine, organizing committee member. “New Year’s Eve is always a fun night. The musicians, performers, activities and exciting atmosphere that we are working to develop will combine to ensure that everyone who visits the Saranac Lake area that evening will be able to celebrate 2023 while welcoming 2024 in grand style.” Ahead of the event, a coloring contest has been established, open to children and teens. The contest will be judged by the organizing committee, with the winning artwork used for the North County New Year’s Eve event buttons. The contest begins immediately; coloring contest materials have been distributed through area schools and the chamber of commerce. Contest participants must submit their artwork to the Saranac Lake Chamber of Commerce and Welcome Center, or to their local elementary school by November 1. Additional information can be found at: NorthCountryNewYear.com. Marine explained that a committee has been assembled to plan North Country New Year. “While we are busy planning for this year’s event, we also have ideas for next year,” she said. “This is definitely an event that we hope to expand.” The mission of North Country New Year (NCNY) is to plan and execute a substance-free, family-friendly New Year's Eve experience in the Saranac Lake, Lake Placid and Tupper Lake communities and the surrounding region. Committee members include Peter Crowley, Dave Hirshblond, Colette Hirshblond, Rachel Karp, Jordanna Mallach, Kenzie Marine, Ashley Milne, and Tracey Schrader.

LAKE PLACID — After more than 40 successful years supporting communities and sustainable tourism as Chief Executive Officer of the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism (ROOST), Jim McKenna today announced he will conclude his service in the position on April 30, 2024. The ROOST Board of Directors will conduct a national search for his successor with the assistance of an experienced firm that has placed top executives in the Destination Marketing and Management field across the United States. Local and regional candidates will also be encouraged to apply. Jim McKenna formed ROOST to help grow the local economy and improve the quality of life for residents based on the principles that tourism must reflect the needs of communities and neither disrupt nor inhibit the environment or the heritage of those communities. That philosophy contributed to ROOST’s growth and expansion beyond its initial service area, earning a reputation as a formidable organization and a national model for sustainable economic growth. Jim also serves as Co-Chair of the North Country Regional Economic Development Council, the state’s primary economic development body in Northern New York. “For decades, Jim McKenna has been the face and voice for Adirondack tourism,” said Governor Kathy Hochul. “He's been instrumental in supporting and preserving the region's winter sports legacy, and promoting the area's incredible year-round events and attractions that welcome visitors from around the world. I was proud to work with Jim to bring the 2023 Winter World University Games to the North Country, and to join him on the ice for the Opening Ceremony. He's been a tremendous partner, and his leadership will be missed." Nick Politi, Chairman of the ROOST Board of Directors and Associate Real Estate Broker/Owner of Merrill L. Thomas, Inc., said, “Jim grew ROOST from humble beginnings into a recognized leader in destination marketing and management. He did so not only through his determination and charisma, but also because he chose excellent employees for the team. Of Jim’s many lasting contributions to our region, surely one of his most enduring is ROOST itself and the excellent staff he put into place. ROOST is currently in the best position it has ever been to continue in its mission and exceed expectations. We look forward to beginning a national search to identify Jim’s successor. Though ROOST’s programs and day-to-day work will continue to evolve as they always have, one thing will remain the same: ROOST’s success in catalyzing sustainable growth and prosperity for our region. On behalf of the entire board, I wish Jim many happy, rewarding years pursuing his future endeavors and thank him with heartfelt gratitude for his outstanding service.” “The past four decades leading ROOST have been rewarding in so many ways,” said Jim McKenna. “I am proud of the great distance the organization has come, the impactful things we have done to make our communities stronger and more sustainable, and the excellent team we have built. I am blessed with energy and enthusiasm for new endeavors and a peace of mind driven by my confidence in the people of ROOST to continue the work we have done and achieve new heights. ROOST has never been stronger or better positioned for the future. When we started more than 40 years ago in the wake of the 1980 Olympic Games, the assets and great potential of this region were self-evident. But we knew that if planning for the future wasn’t done properly, grounded in sustainability, preservation, our residents and our heritage, our success as a region was not assured. By remaining faithful to the principle that successful tourism must first reflect the needs of the community, our efforts at ROOST have helped build a special region that people want to visit, and in which people want to live.” Former New York State Senator Betty Little said, “It is difficult to imagine tourism in the North Country without Jim McKenna. In my 25 years in the state legislature, Jim was a force who redefined efforts to promote this special region and contributed greatly to its prosperity. Jim has been a truly regional thinker who is able to see and proactively prepare for the long game. The entire region will miss Jim and his leadership, but his hard work has prepared ROOST and our communities for many more decades of success.” Empire State Development Vice President & Executive Director of Tourism Ross D. Levi said, “Success in economic development requires innovation and vision, and Jim McKenna has employed both throughout his career. The region's tourism-based economy has greatly benefited from his consistent efforts to push the envelope on innovative marketing. Under his leadership, ROOST was among the first organizations to recognize that the most sustainable tourism promotion is that which benefits not only visitors, but the residents who host them in their communities. We will miss him in his role as one of the leading voices of the state's tourism industry.” Essex County Board of Supervisors Chairman Shaun Gillilland said, “Jim McKenna is a giant in tourism and economic development whose shoes will be very difficult to fill. Over his decades of leadership, ROOST has grown from an organization that resembled a small chamber of commerce to a true powerhouse of destination marketing and management that recognizes the interconnectedness between tourism promotion, destination planning and sustainable economic growth that works not only for people who visit but also for people who live here. One of his major visionary accomplishments is the development of the occupancy tax as a dedicated revenue stream to fund these vital initiatives. By transferring responsibility for these expenses from local taxpayers to our visitors, Jim ensured a level of financial stability that was necessary for Essex County’s success, and he paved the way for other important initiatives including the Community Tourism Enhancement Fund (CTEF) that has supported community betterment projects needed for tourism growth.” Hamilton County Board of Supervisors Chairman Brian Wells said, “Jim McKenna is a regional thinker, as demonstrated by his outreach to Hamilton County and the invaluable services that ROOST has rendered here. He and his colleagues have enhanced our planning efforts by helping us see the big picture and how our promotional efforts could fit with the broader trends in the region and create opportunities of mutual benefit with our surrounding communities. With Jim’s encouragement and assistance, Hamilton County also transitioned to digital marketing to show our beautiful assets to the world, and it has made a world of difference to us.” North Elba Town Supervisor Derek Doty said, “Jim McKenna has been an icon and cornerstone of our region. His hallmark has been his recognition that our communities need to be strong and healthy for our tourism industry to thrive. He has not been afraid to take calculated risks in pursuit of that philosophy, and the results often speak for themselves. The recent completion of $104 million in renovations and improvements to the Lake Placid Olympic Center, which helps keep our infrastructure fresh and our Olympic legacy relevant, is one such example of Jim’s forward-thinking leadership and advocacy. His many other accomplishments that have changed the face of North Elba for the better include the creation of the North Elba Local Enhancement and Advancement Fund (LEAF), which has provided over $3m for non-profits and community projects, and creation of a North Elba/Lake Placid Destination Management Plan (DMP) to balance tourism with communities needs and advance the objective of diversifying our local economy. It is a legacy of which he can be proud. Lake Placid Mayor Art Devlin said, “I first got to know Jim when I was on the visitor’s bureau board in 1994. Not only was he in charge of the bureau but was also on many of the major boards in the area, giving him a lot of knowledge and a chance to network throughout the county. Due to this, Jim became a big force not only in Lake Placid, North Elba, Essex County and the State of New York but also in the international sports community. I have mixed feelings about Jim stepping down as CEO. I’ll miss his day-to-day presence, but he has earned a chance to step back and enjoy life. Jim was instrumental in bringing the International Children's Winter Games and the Winter World University Games to our area, which helped secure major upgrades to our Olympic sports venues and put Lake Placid back in the spotlight as a winter sports capital, ensuring our viability for decades to come.” Garry Douglas, President and CEO of the North Country Chamber of Commerce, said, “When I came to the North Country Chamber 31 years ago, Jim McKenna had already been in his key position for ten years. He has been an amazing regional leader in tourism and economic development and a greatly valued friend and colleague as we have both led our organizations to where they are today. Indeed, as we first set about regionalizing our Chamber, Jim was the first to partner with us. And when I stepped down as Co-Chair of the Regional Economic Development Council a few years ago, my first call was to Jim to encourage him to be open to succeeding me. What he has achieved for our region is extraordinary and a lasting legacy he can be very proud of. We thank him for all of his leadership and collaboration and wish him all the best in what we know will be his continued endeavors.” Jennifer Holderied, General Manager at Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort in Lake Placid, said, “My family has been in the hospitality business in Lake Placid since the 1960s. Lake Placid has transformed itself from the summer season only destination my parents first moved to, to the year round, Olympic legacy destination we all know and love today. We have all, from generation to generation, had the pleasure of working with Jim on various boards, projects and events over that time. But, regardless of the decade, the goal was always the same: to bring visitors to the Adirondacks and share with them the community that we love. Jim’s vision for our region has always been a grand one. We thank him for his many years of service and leadership.” The Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism (ROOST) is a 501c6 not-for-profit corporation. ROOST is the Destination Marketing and Management Organization (DMMO) for Lake Placid and Essex County, Hamilton County, Saranac Lake, and Tupper Lake in New York. ROOST has continuously evolved to stay ahead of the changing destination marketplace. Its Destination Marketing focus is based on traditional advertising, digital marketing, public relations, and by harnessing the power of electronic media. In-house staff manages all facets of its tourism marketing initiatives for the regions it serves. Additionally, ROOST supports the region with destination development and management strategies and a hands-on approach to fostering and promoting growth. Its main office is in Lake Placid, with satellite offices in Crown Point, Saranac Lake, and Tupper Lake. Jim McKenna on Whiteface Mt with view of Lake Placid lake and the Adirondacks. photo by Nancie Battaglia Taken February 8, 1984, of Jim and members of the Lake Placid delegation – hosts of the 1980 Winter Olympics – delivering the Olympic Flag into the stadium during the Opening Ceremonies of the 1984 Winter Olympics hosted by Sarajevo.

Adirondack residents and visitors are encouraged to shop locally this holiday season. Community events, craft fairs, small business Saturdays, and holiday-themed shopping events have been scheduled throughout November and December. Many of these community- and business-based events focus on the importance of supporting local shops, services, and restaurants throughout the holiday season by presenting unique shopping experiences, highlighting the availability of unique gift ideas, and showcasing personalized service. “Holiday stroll” events have been planned in a number of towns and villages. The events combine an opportunity to visit these communities, while taking advantage of specials at many local businesses, allowing them to check items off their gift list. Community-based craft fairs and other holiday events within the region’s communities also provide exceptional shopping experiences, while also sharing opportunities to learn about interesting small businesses and talented local artisans. According to Jane Hooper, communications manager at the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism (ROOST), the organization supports local business by helping to promote the services and products available within the region to both visitors and residents. “Seasonal events showcase the communities and businesses within them that provide unique gift ideas, hand-crafted treasures and personalized service,” she said. "Through our annual #ShopADK campaign ROOST actively promotes small business, along with local communities throughout the Adirondack region. Shopping locally directly supports our neighbors who own and work in these establishments." Small Business Saturday, taking place on November 25, is a nationwide day dedicated to supporting small businesses and communities. Founded by American Express in 2010, this day is celebrated each year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving in the U.S. Since it started in 2010, consumers have reported spending an estimated $163 billion at small businesses. Small businesses throughout Adirondack region communities offer specials, giveaways, special store events, and more. “Our local businesses are committed to ensuring that people enjoy their shopping experiences throughout the year,” commented Hooper. “Exploring our Adirondack communities and discovering unique local business is especially fun during the holidays, with many special events and activities taking place.” The Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism is the destination marketing and management organization for Hamilton and Essex counties, along with the communities of Lake Placid, Tupper Lake and Saranac Lake, all located within the Adirondacks in New York state. Community Shopping Events Country Christmas Tour in Indian LakeDates: Thursday, November 23 - Friday, November 24Town/Location: Indian LakeDescription: A two-day event showcasing “Made in the Adirondacks” arts and holiday gifts. Family activities, wreath making.Website: https://www.adirondackexperience.com/events/country-christmas-tour Adirondack Christmas on Main Street in InletDates: Friday, November 24 - Sunday, November 26Town/Location: InletDescription: Downtown shops will be open and offering specials. Activities, refreshments, Santa, tree lighting.Website: https://www.adirondackexperience.com/events/adirondack-christmas-on-main-street-in-inlet-0 Speculator Holiday StrollDate: November 24, 2 - 6pmIn its 15th year, the holiday stroll invites holiday shoppers to explore the community, along with its unique shops - perfect for finding that unique gift.Website: https://www.speculatorchamber.com/events/holiday-stroll?theme=speculator Holiday Shopping and Dining Night in TiconderogaDates: Friday, December 1, 5 - 8pmTown/Location: TiconderogaDescription: As part of Ticonderoga Area North Country Christmas, enjoy holiday shopping and dining night with promotions, specials, a holiday farmers market, live music, a parade of lights, and free raffles. Lake Placid Holiday Village StrollDates: Friday, December 8 - Sunday, December 10Town/Location: Lake Placid Description: A Lake Placid tradition, the Holiday Village Stroll is a family and couples weekend. The event spans three days and includes a skating party, photos with Santa, a free movie showing, and scavenger hunt. Website: https://holidayvillagestroll.com/ Tupper Lake Holiday StrollDates: Friday, December 15 - Saturday, December 16, 4pm - 7pmTown/Location: Tupper Lake Description: A community event featuring specials on Park Street, a holiday movie night, and vendors at the Tupper Lake Depot.Website: https://www.tupperlake.com/events/park-street-stroll Holiday Craft Fairs Newcomb Holiday Craft Fair Dates: Saturday, November 18, 10am - 3 pm and Sunday, November 19, 11am - 2pmTown/Location: Newcomb Description: Local craft and vendor saleWebsite: https://www.adirondackhub.com/events/newcomb-holiday-craft-fair Annual Christmas Fair at First United Methodist ChurchDates: Saturday, November 18, 9am - 2pmTown/Location: Ticonderoga Description: Christmas Fair featuring gifts, Christmas decor, silent auction Website:https://www.lakechamplainregion.com/events/annual-christmas-fair-at-first-united-methodist-church Wilmington’s Holiday Craft & Gift FairDates: Saturday, November 18, 10am - 2pmTown/Location: Wilmington, Twisted RavenWebsite: https://www.whitefaceregion.com/events/wilmingtons-holiday-craft-and-gift-fair Small Business Saturday Artisan MarketDates: Saturday, November 25, 10am - 4pmTown/Location: Schroon Lake, Mountainside Bible ChapelDescription: Showcase of local vendors, silent auction, raffle, and foodWebsite: https://www.adirondackhub.com/events/small-business-saturday-artisan-market Holidays in EssexDates: Friday, December 1 - Saturday, December 2Town/Location: Downtown EssexDescription: Christmas tree lighting, caroling, craft fair, performance by the Sweet Adelines, kids’ activities, pancake breakfast, cookie decorating, puppet show, and Santa. Ticonderoga Area Farmers’ Market-Holiday MarketDates: Friday, December 1, 5pm - 8pmTown/Location: TiconderogaDescription: Ticonderoga Area Farmers Market for a special Holiday Market. Vendors will be set up inside the TACC Office, offering an array of local products, gifts, raffles.Website: https://www.lakechamplainregion.com/events/ticonderoga-area-farmers-market-holiday-market Sparkle VillageDates: Friday, December 1, 4 - 8pm and Saturday, December 2, 10am - 3pmTown/Location: Harrietstown Town Hall, Saranac LakeDescription: Now in its 38th year, this annual event showcases unique businesses, distinctive holiday gifts and one-of-a-kind treasures, shoppers can visit one-of-a-kind local makers and vendors. Admission is $3 for adults and free for children under the age of 12.Website: https://www.slareachamber.org/sparklevillage Craft Fair at Adirondack Community ChurchDates: Friday, December 8 - Sunday, December 10Town/Location: Lake Placid Description: Local craft fair, bake sale 3rd Annual North Pole at Hunter Way FarmDates: Saturday, December 9, 12pm - 3pmTown/Location: MoriahDescription: Farm animals, hot chocolate, elves, photos with Santa, gift shop Holiday Fair at Oak MountainDates: Saturday, December 9, 1pm - 7pmTown/Location: Oak Mountain, SpeculatorDescription: Live music, activities for kids including gingerbread houses, face painting, and an appearance from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Shopping from various vendors and the festival of trees.Website: https://www.adirondackexperience.com/events/holiday-fair-at-oak-mountain Holiday Business Events My Hope Flower Farm Holiday Open HouseDates: Friday, November 17 - Saturday, November 18, 9am - 6pmTown/Location: TiconderogaWebsite: https://www.lakechamplainregion.com/events/my-hope-flower-farm-holiday-open-house Vendor Sale at Tromblee’s GreenhouseDates: Saturday, November 18, 10am - 4pmTown/Location: Crown PointDescription: Discounts, vendor saleWebsite: https://www.lakechamplainregion.com/events/vendor-sale-at-tromblees-greenhouse McClelland Family Farm Opening - Christmas at the FarmDates: Friday, November 24, 5pmTown/Location: Tupper Lake - 107 Old Wawbeek RoadDescription: The farm is turning into a Christmas wonderland. Trees, boughs, wreaths, Christmas decor, and more will be for sale. Kick off your holiday season with lights and magic at the farm.Website: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094581903672 Tromblee’s Greenhouse Christmas Open HouseDates: Saturday, December 2 - Sunday, December 3, 10am - 4pmTown/Location: Crown PointDescription: Door prizes and discounts, kids craftsWebsite: https://www.lakechamplainregion.com/events/tromblees-greenhouse-christmas-open-house T.F. Finnegans Ladies' Night | Gentlemans’ Night Dates: Thursday, December 7th and Thursday, December 14th, 7pm - 9pmTown/Location: T.F. Finnegans, 79 Main Street, Saranac LakeDescription: Ladies Night | Gentleman's NightVisit during ladies night to enjoy free wine and appetizers while filling out a personalized wish list. Then, send your beau to the subsequent gentleman's night on December 14 so they can enjoy beer and snacks while they shop your list. Website: https://www.tffinnigan.com/ Event listing(s): https://www.saranaclake.com/events/ladies-night-at-t-f-finnigans | https://www.saranaclake.com/events/gentlemans-night Kids’ Shopping DayDates: Sunday, December 3, 12pm - 5pmTown/Location: BluSeed Studios, 24 Cedar Street, Saranac LakeDescription: Visit with kids of all ages to shop for fun and inexpensive gifts from the holiday shoppe, stroll through the decorated trees, enjoy the hot chocolate bar and decorate cookies.Website: https://www.bluseedstudios.org/festival-of-trees