TO THE EDITOR: Anthony Constantino, the CEO of Sticker Mule, has advertised his business experience as an important reason to vote for him to succeed Elise Stefanik as our CD-22 representative in the House of Representatives.
But perhaps more relevant to North Country voters is the record of businessman Blake Gendebien, Democratic candidate for the House. Blake is a local dairy farmer producing food for our tables. He directly employs about a dozen people, but he has also been a long-time member of Agrimark (Colby cheese), a cooperative run by its members, and was vice chair of its board for three years.
Blake and his wife Carmen also own “A Wholesome Glow,” a line of skincare products they produce on their farm. In their spare time Blake and Carmen also started “Jules of Life,” a nonprofit to help families dealing with pediatric cancer.
Blake clearly has both the knowledge and the experience to work effectively for households facing the daily tasks of feeding their families, handling health issues, and other matters so important to them.
CLAIRE GILMORE
Tupper Lake
TO THE EDITOR: One hundred days ago, I took office as Mayor. What a busy few months it’s been.
Together, we’ve adopted a budget, welcomed new members to our leadership team, continued advancing important infrastructure projects, and worked to improve the way Village government operates. There is still a tremendous amount of work ahead of us, but I am as optimistic about Saranac Lake today as I was on my first day in office. Maybe even more so.
One thing has become increasingly clear over the last one hundred days: the strength of Saranac Lake is its people. I see it everywhere. At Board meetings. At community events. On Broadway. Along the Rail Trail. In conversations that begin with, “hey, mayor…,” and usually end with a new idea, a concern, or a reminder about why this place matters.
I’m pleased to share my First 100 Days report, A Foundation for the Future. It’s an honest look at where we are, what we’ve learned, and where we’re headed. It talks about our challenges, our opportunities, and the priorities that I believe will help shape the future of our Village. I hope you’ll take a few minutes to read it (from the village website).
Thank you for your engagement, your feedback, and your continued commitment to Saranac Lake. Whether you’ve lived here your entire life or arrived more recently, we’re all fortunate to call this place home.
And as always, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact me directly at: mayorbrunette@saranaclakeny.gov
KELLY BRUNETTE
Mayor Village of Saranac Lake