Summer-weary parents, we have news. Habitat's new director.
AIM brings back the fashion show, beautifully!
Welcome to the “Lunch Break” email from the editors of Saratoga Dispatch.
Three stories in today’s lunch break:
Top: For kids and their summer-weary parents, Northshire upstairs is open!
Mid: Habitat for Humanity has a brand new director. We have the interview
Bottom: Party pix from AIM’s revamped fashion show. Find out who’s best-dressed!
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Kids: Northshire Bookstore reopens upstairs
In an email to their list, Northshire Bookstore announced the reopening of the kids section of the bookstore at 424 Broadway starting today.
“It’s been a long road since our Saratoga Springs store was closed unexpectedly on July 4th, and all of us at Northshire have been incredibly heartened by the warm wishes we’ve received from so many of our friends and customers,” the store wrote.
The store flooded July 4 when a pipe on a floor above them leaked. The entire store was closed until July 31 when the main floor reopened, with a smaller children’s books and toys section on that floor to accommodate families. In the meantime, they sold books online and curbside and moved most author events to the Saratoga Springs Public Library. event with Mark Marchand will take place in the store on Aug. 26 as scheduled; however; story time in Saratoga is cancelled until further notice, they wrote.
“We are so excited to welcome our youngest book lovers back to the store!” they wrote.
First interview: Habitat for Humanity’s new Exec. Director, Sharon Horton
Horton tells the ‘Dispatch’ why housing support for some is an investment for all.
By: Lauren Halligan Behan, Saratoga Chamber
This exciting Positively Saratoga news is brought to you by our friends at the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.
There’s a new leader at the helm of our local Habitat for Humanity.
Sharon Horton was recently appointed Executive Director at Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren, and Washington Counties, bringing new energy, proven leadership and a powerful personal connection to Habitat’s mission.
The famous nonprofit is a donor-driven, volunteer-powered organization committed to making homeownership a reality for those striving toward that dream while addressing the critical need for affordable housing in our community.
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In this Q&A with the Dispatch — her first interview since taking on her role — Horton shared more about her vision for the future of the organization.
Q: What is your goal in this new role?
A: At its heart, this role is about community investment — every home we help build becomes a generational asset, a source of pride, and a catalyst for healthier and more vibrant neighborhoods.
My goal is to serve Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington counties by revitalizing neighborhoods, strengthening our local housing inventory, and expanding pathways to affordable homeownership. When families can put down roots, it stabilizes schools, supports small businesses, and keeps the local workforce strong — benefits that ripple across our communities.
Q: Why is Habitat for Humanity’s mission important to you?
A: My journey, from raising three children as a single mom to becoming a homeowner and leading mission-driven nonprofits, rests on the same values Habitat champions: strength, stability and the power of community. Purchasing my first home on my own opened doors to independence and security, and I witnessed the profound impact on my family’s well-being.
Just like the families we serve, I used homeownership to build a foundation for the legacy I hope to leave my children and grandchildren. I’m deeply grateful for the neighbors, mentors and opportunities that made that possible. I’m committed to paying it forward for local families ready to do the same.
Q: What does this summer entail for the organization?
A: This summer brings renewed energy in leadership, along with a clear focus on growth and impact. Our ReStore continues to thrive, and its success directly fuels our mission: every purchase and donation helps fund the construction of affordable homes and the revitalization of neighborhoods across our region.
We’re actively moving forward on our Warrensburg project, with the foundation and site work targeted for completion by early fall and the home set before the holidays. We are currently encouraging and accepting applications for this home from qualified local families.
Q: How can folks help Habitat for Humanity in their community?
A: We are continuously inspired by the time, talent, and treasure our volunteers bring to this mission. Their hands-on commitment, whether swinging a hammer, organizing donations or offering professional expertise, forms the backbone of our work. Their efforts amplify our impact and sustain the heart of everything we do.
Q: What else do you want folks to know about Habitat for Humanity?
A: Our homebuyers are hardworking local families with low to moderate incomes who are committed to achieving the dream of homeownership. Participants are selected based on need, readiness and partnership.
Habitat partners with families earning 50–80% of the area median income to create a clear path to affordable homeownership. This is more than purchasing a house — it’s building a legacy of stability, equity and opportunity.
Ways to get involved:
• Volunteer at ReStore: Support sales that fund our mission through customer service, merchandising, and donation processing.
• Build Site Crew: Whether with brush strokes or placing the last stone in the garden path, your efforts help complete the home.
• Serve on the board or committees: Lend leadership, governance, and strategic insight to strengthen organizational health.
• Donate goods to ReStore: Give new or gently used furniture, appliances, building materials, and home goods.
• Make a financial gift: One-time or monthly gifts help us purchase materials, keep homes affordable, and accelerate builds.
• Become a sponsor and support with in-kind services: Businesses can underwrite build days, sponsor events, or donate professional services and materials.
Applications are currently being accepted. Learn more and find out if you qualify for our Homeownership Program at glensfallshabitat.org.
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Dish Saratoga
AIM Services’ croquet bash brings back fan-fave fashion show
Plus: Award-winners, record-breaking fundraising and party pics.
By: Abby Tegnelia
AIM Services’ Croquet on the Green and Garden Party has always had excellent fashion — but the event’s actual fashion show had been long retired. The always stylish Natalie Sillery — who will next reign over a runway at Sunday’s Tribute to Transforming Lives at the 1863 Club — however, brought the Best Dressed Contest back this year.
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It must have added a layer of excitement — the afternoon affair overall raised a record-breaking $73,000 for recreation programs for people with disabilities.
There were three Best Dressed awards given out at the comeback fashion event at Gavin Park last week, including
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