Sen. Roy McDonald recently announced a new district-wide program to recognize Rensselaer and Saratoga County small business owners for the significant contributions they make to our communities.

“During this time of economic hardship we realize that large companies sometimes become too big to sustain themselves, leading us to recognize the importance of our small businesses that provide services while employing local people in our communities,” McDonald said. “In Upstate New York the small farms, corner grocery stores, and all small businesses play a significant role in maintaining the character of our communities.”

The first recipient of the award was John Murphy, owner of the Snowman ice cream shop in Troy. The Snowman has been in operation since the early 1950s and is well-known among residents of the Lansingburgh section, and the city of Troy as a whole.

Utilizing original recipes, the Snowman has grown to offer mobile catering for private parties, school events and public concerts in the town of Brunswick and Powers Park.

“The Snowman, like many small businesses in Rensselaer and Saratoga counties, is a staple in the community,” McDonald said. “Many residents have discovered that these types of small businesses help to create a local identity of which they can be very proud.”

Saratoga County businesses: If you're interested in how recipients are chosen for the award, call McDonald's Albany office for more information, 455-2381.