Market 32 and Price Chopper, Vermont Principals’ Association, Invite Local High Schools to Compete in “Food Drive State Championship”
Schenectady, N.Y., Sept. 29, 2025 – In recognition of Hunger Action Month in September, Market 32 and Price Chopper and the Vermont Principals’ Association (VPA) are officially launching a first-ever Food Drive State Championship to rally local high school communities in the fight against hunger. Throughout the 2025–2026 academic year, high schools across Vermont will compete to see who can collect the most nonperishable food donations, all of which will be donated to nearby food banks and pantries. Winning schools in each of four divisions (based on basketball alignment) and one overall winner will be crowned as “State Champions.”
Each divisional champion will receive a $500 Market 32 and Price Chopper gift card and an exclusive “Food Drive State Champs” banner to hang in their school. The community with the highest overall donation total will also receive an additional $1,000 in Market 32 and Price Chopper gift cards.
“We know the power of teamwork and school spirit, and this challenge gives students, families, and staff an exciting way to make a lasting impact in their communities,” said Amanda Terencio, Market 32 and Price Chopper zone director for Vermont stores. “Every can, every box, and every contribution will help our neighbors in need put food on the table.”
The following nonperishable items will count toward each school’s donation total:
- Peanut butter and jelly
- Canned soups and meals
- Cereal, oatmeal, and granola bars
- Canned fruit and vegetables
- 100% juice
- Canned protein, including tuna and chicken
- Beans
- Pasta
- Macaroni and cheese
Donations of low-sodium, low-sugar, or whole-grain versions of these products are encouraged. To spice up the competition, monthly standings and updates will be revealed on the VPA’s social media channels and website, allowing communities to follow along throughout the school year.
“The Vermont Principals’ Association is excited to partner with Market 32 and Price Chopper in launching the Food Drive State Championship,” said Jay Nichols, VPA’s Senior Executive Director. In a time with increasing food insecurity for many Vermonters, the VPA sees this as a fun and meaningful project that schools can engage in to better serve those in need in our communities.”
For more information about the Food Drive State Championship and how to get your school involved, visit vpaonline.org and sign up your school by clicking here.
*Note: Glass containers cannot be accepted as part of donations.
10 Year Pharmacy Series: Women’s Health Awareness
James Delaney
Pharmacy Student, PharmD Candidate 2026
Women’s health is about more than just annual check-ups—it’s about building a foundation of wellness that supports every stage of life. National Women’s Health & Fitness Day, celebrated on September 24, is the perfect reminder to prioritize preventive care, healthy habits, and regular screenings. As pharmacists, we see firsthand how small steps toward wellness—whether it’s staying active, eating well, or keeping up with recommended vaccines—make a big difference over time.
One of the most important aspects of women’s health is prevention. Vaccines such as the HPV vaccine, flu shot, and updated COVID-19 boosters help protect against serious illnesses. Routine screenings, like mammograms, cholesterol checks, and blood pressure monitoring, play a key role in catching health issues early when they are most treatable. We encourage women to use this month as a chance to review their health goals and schedule any appointments or preventive services they may have put off.
Our pharmacies can be a convenient place to start. We are here to provide guidance, answer questions, and support your health journey in a welcoming and accessible setting. Whether you’re looking for advice on nutrition, exercise, vaccines, or managing a chronic condition, we are here as part of your healthcare team. Together, we can make women’s health a priority—not just on September 24, but every day of the year.
10 Year Anniversary Pharmacy Series: Get Smart at the Pharmacy – Planning for School Success
As you watch the sales for school supplies, don’t forget to check out your medicine cabinet and ensure you have some supplies on hand for those days that start with a groan instead of a hug. These recommendations are meant for a hopefully quick bout of the “bug du jour”. Keep your family members’ overall health needs in mind and contact their MD if any symptoms are severe.
- Top Priority – If your child or family member requires medication during the school day, be sure to check with your pharmacist and get medications and directions organized before they head out on that first day. This is most important for emergency medications such as Epi-Pens, or chronic medications, like insulin. Knowing about options that are extended release could make a big difference in your child’s day and yours. Having age-appropriate over the counter meds to triage allergies, fevers and sore throats will save a trip when no one feels like going to the store.
- Liquids are Mandatory – and water doesn’t always cut it. Keep some shelf-stable clear liquids in the pantry for those days when sore throats and rumbling tummies are making a tough day tougher. Juices should be clear, low acid and light colored.
- Keep some straws on hand. They triple the volume of liquid when compared with sipping, especially for the lethargic or stubborn patients. Juice boxes with straws, clear Pedialyte-type drinks and ginger ale are easy to stash away for a sick day.
- Another pantry staple, soup, particularly chicken noodle, is “souper-food” for most mild illnesses: warm liquids soothe throats and tummies, replace sodium, and the noodles come in distracting cartoon shapes that many children can recognize and focus on.
- Plain crackers can be stashed next to these supplies– can go with the soup, or be eaten on their own, easy carbohydrates that can break down quickly and get your stomach “started up” again.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends returning to regular foods and drinks as soon as possible. A good start may be (surprise!) chocolate milk. It is a nutrient-rich package of protein, fluid and electrolytes, and regularly used in sports programs to rehydrate.
Wishing all our students a healthy, successful year!
Market 32 Launches Pet Food Drive to Help Celebrate 10 Years of Caring for Every Family Member
[Schenectady, NY, September 15, 2025] In celebration of Market 32’s 10th anniversary, Market 32 and Price Chopper stores are inviting customers to help make a difference in the lives of pets in need through the purchase of $10 bags of pet food.
Now – October 4, shoppers will have the option to purchase and contribute a bag containing five dog food or cat food items. All donations will be distributed to animal shelters local to each store, ensuring these organizations and local families facing hardship can keep their pets healthy and well-fed.
“Pets are family, too,” said Pam Cerrone, director of community relations for Market 32 and Price Chopper. “We’re happy to provide a simple and affordable way for customers to support animal shelters and neighbors who may be struggling to feed their pets. Together, we can make sure that every pet gets the care and nourishment they deserve.”
The donated pet food will benefit animals awaiting adoption at local shelters, as well as outreach programs that provide support to pet owners experiencing food insecurity. It will help stretch resources further and keep pets healthy.
The Pet Food Drive is part of Market 32 and Price Chopper’s ongoing commitment to nourishing communities through hunger relief, health and wellness, and care for families, including pets.
10 Year Anniversary Pharmacy Series: Immunization Awareness/Kickoff
James Delaney
Pharmacy Student, PharmD Candidate 2026
As pharmacists, we are proud to serve as one of the most accessible healthcare providers in our communities. Immunization awareness is one of the most important initiatives we lead each year, and now is the perfect time to kick off the conversation. Vaccines are not just about protecting individuals—they help protect families, friends, and the entire community by preventing the spread of serious illnesses.
This season, we encourage everyone to check their immunization records and make sure they are up to date. Whether it’s your flu shot, the latest COVID-19 vaccination, the newly available RSV vaccine for eligible adults, or the pneumococcal vaccine to protect against serious lung infections, staying current with your vaccinations is one of the simplest and most effective ways to safeguard your health. Many of these vaccines can be administered right in our pharmacies, often without an appointment, making it easier than ever to stay protected.
If you have questions or concerns about vaccines, we welcome the opportunity to talk with you. Our goal is to listen, provide accurate information, and help you feel confident in your healthcare choices. By working together, we can make a meaningful impact this immunization season and support a healthier, safer community for all.
NASCAR Star Ross Chastain Shifts “10 Years Fresh” into High Gear
Schenectady, N.Y., Sept. 11, 2025 – Racing met retail as dozens of fans steered over to Market 32 in Malta, NY, on Wednesday to meet NASCAR star Ross Chastain. The high-octane meet-and-greet near the neighboring Albany-Saratoga Speedway brought Cup Series Playoff fever to customers, marking one of the first marquee events in Market 32’s 10-week-long “10 Years Fresh” campaign.
Chastain, driver of the No. 1 Chevrolet Camaro for Trackhouse Racing and an eighth-generation watermelon farmer, signed autographs and greeted guests during the one-day appearance. His agricultural roots provided a natural tie-in to Market 32 and Price Chopper’s focus on fresh produce. The Malta location and many others carry his family’s Melon 1 watermelons, making him the perfect driver to help accelerate the celebration.
“This was a fantastic way to rev up our anniversary festivities,” said Market 32 and Price Chopper President Blaine Bringhurst. “Ross Chastain is more than an elite motorsports athlete. His lifelong dedication to farming reflects the same commitment we have to sourcing the high-quality food and products our customers count on us for. He brought incredible energy to our Malta store, and the enthusiasm from fans showed us just how much our communities appreciate the unique experiences we’re able to bring to the table.”
Chastain also signed several cases of Busch Light – his primary sponsor – which are available for purchase at the Malta store for customers 21 and older at no extra charge while supplies last.
The “10 Years Fresh” campaign, which kicked off September 7 and runs through mid-November, will feature sampling events, exclusive product offerings, special savings opportunities, and community engagement experiences across Market 32 and Price Chopper stores. The Chastain appearance represents the next lap in a series of celebratory moments designed to thank shoppers for their loyalty – including a chance to win Free Groceries for a Year, receiving an additional 32 million AdvantEdge Rewards points, and weekly PICS product giveaways – while showcasing Market 32’s customer-oriented and innovative spirit.
To learn more about Market 32’s 10th anniversary celebration, visit https://www.pricechopper.com/anniversary/.
California Table Grapes are a top pick for your busy lifestyle in September! Packable and snackable, they are a fun addition to your Labor Day celebration and everything else you do. Fresh and cool, California Tables Grapes are easy to take on a picnic or pack for travel or any event. They make the grade for back-to-school lunches and after school snacks, and they offer energy and hydration for sports or late afternoon workouts – just toss a go-bag in the car to keep passengers young and old hydrated and happy!
What are table grapes?
Table grapes are grapes that are specifically grown to be enjoyed fresh, as opposed to those grown for juice or wine. Today over 99% of the commercially grown table grapes in the U.S. come from California. With more than 80 varieties, they are in-season and in our stores from July through December. Table grapes can be red, green, or dark purple/black, and are different flavors, shapes and sizes. They are well-known kid favorites and offer all ages an easy way to enjoy more fruit.
Culinary Connections – Sweet and Savory Solutions
California Table Grapes have a place at every meal and event!
Breakfast: They are an easy companion to any breakfast, ready to join cereal, granola or protein bars for those quick morning meals. Smoothie lover? Freeze grapes to add their flavor, nutrition and hydration benefits to any smoothie recipe. Heart Smart Grape and PB Smoothie | Grapes from California Green Grape Power Smoothie | Grapes from California How about hearty oatmeal or Quinoa Breakfast Cereal with Grapes and Pistachios | Grapes from California?
Brunch or Lunch
Chicken and California Grape Salad | Grapes from California is a great fresh salad or, for a fun twist you can add grapes to Market 32 Chicken Salad! This easy flatbread will make your coworkers jealous! California Grape and Goat Cheese Flatbread | Grapes from California For convenience, this recipe could be made on naan or pita bread.
Grapes are also very versatile – their bright flavor notes complement all 5 basic tastes – sweet, sour, bitter, salty and umami. This lovely Lemony California Grape and Beet Salad | Grapes from California marries grapes and beets in a luscious lemony dressing. Enjoy with one of your favorite proteins, like Market 32 Rotisserie Chicken or leftover grilled steak. That may make your lunch list every week!
Market 32 Kicks Off ‘10 Years Fresh’ Initiative with Savings for Shoppers, Commitment to Local Growth
Schenectady, N.Y., Sept. 8, 2025 – Market 32 and Price Chopper, the trusted neighborhood grocer, are proudly launching a “10 Years Fresh” campaign to celebrate a decade since opening the doors to the first Market 32 store. The multifaceted initiative will provide customers with extra savings to stretch their grocery dollars and showcase the company’s commitment to serving local communities.
Rolling out over the next 10 weeks, customers can expect:
- The opportunity to win Free Groceries for a Year
- Special savings thanks to the company’s plans to give away an additional 32 million AdvantEdge Rewards points— customers have already saved over $19 million so far in 2025; now Market 32 is helping shoppers save even more
- Free weekly PICS product giveaways and celebratory sampling events
- The option to purchase an anniversary flower bouquet in Market 32 stores for $10, with $1 from every purchase supporting local food banks
- eCoupons on signature items dropping weekly
- Details about expanded multicultural offerings
- Exciting updates about even more ways Market 32 plans to serve its communities in its stores and outside of them
The Market 32 concept started as a bold idea to create a more modern grocery shopping experience to meet the changing needs of customers. The new store design would be so different, it called for an entirely revamped brand—beginning with its name—which pays homage to founders Ben and Bill Golub, who opened their first grocery store in 1932. The new brand identity emphasized a fierce commitment to giving back, providing fresh locally grown and made products, and delivering excellent value every day.
In the 10 years since the company launched its new brand, communities have come to rely on Market 32, and customers’ input and preferences continue to guide the brand’s local offerings and strategies.
“The last 10 years have been about evolution, impact, and enduring freshness,” said Blaine Bringhurst, president of Market 32 and Price Chopper. “But this anniversary is not just about the age of our stores—it’s about the customers who choose to shop with us, every devoted team member, and the community partners and local vendors who deliver something special to our shelves. We’ve grown together for a decade, and this is just the beginning of our story. The Market 32 concept was shaped by and for our customers, and we’re committed to the important work of listening and adapting to ensure this remains true for decades to come.”
Yesterday, customers, employees, community partners, and elected officials gathered at Market 32’s location in the Clifton Park Shoppers World Plaza to reflect on 10 years of impact and toast to the future. This Market 32 location was one of the first three proof-of-concept stores that the company opened in 2015. Free product samples from over 20 local and national producers offered guests a chance to savor some of the products and flavors synonymous with the innovative spirit of the brand. Additional sampling events will take place during the 10-week initiative across several Market 32 locations
“This milestone is a testament to the power of what it means to truly listen to the needs of customers,” said John Persons, CEO of Northeast Grocery, Inc. (NGI), the parent company of Market 32 and Price Chopper. “Since inception, Market 32 has built meaningful and longstanding partnerships, grown its loyal customer base, and consistently delivered when our communities needed us most. At Northeast Grocery, we’re thrilled to see our teammates, shoppers, and neighbors come together in support — and to be a part of the journey.”
Today, the Market 32 brand has firmly established a fresh-forward, food-focused identity and people-first commitment. The company’s impact can be measured in the employment opportunities it provides, the local families it feeds, the generous donations of food and funding given to local nonprofits, and the local businesses and farms it supports. Over the last 10 years, Market 32 and Price Chopper have contributed over $11.7 million in financial donations for charitable causes, raised over $17.3 million through in-store fundraisers, and donated over 21 million pounds through its Fresh Recovery program, which donates unsold fresh food to area food banks. The company has successfully converted and opened 51 Market 32 stores across its six-state footprint, in addition to its 78 Price Chopper locations and Market Bistro. With over 15,500 employees and partnerships with hundreds of local businesses, the company remains deeply rooted and committed to growing in the communities it serves.
While the anniversary serves as a celebration of Market 32’s past, the company is also looking ahead to its future, with plans to continue investing in store renovations and customer experience, as well as ambitions to accelerate expansion efforts throughout its geographic footprint. Market 32 is inviting customers—old and new—to stop by stores and be part of the next decade and beyond.
To learn more and follow along for the latest weekly updates, visit pricechopper.com. To engage with the campaign on social media and share your favorite Market 32 memories from the last decade, head to Facebook and Instagram.
Market 32 and Price Chopper and Customers Raise Over $57,000 for Muscular Dystrophy Association
Schenectady, N.Y., August 29, 2025– Thanks to the incredible generosity of customers and teammates, Market 32 and Price Chopper are proud to announce a total donation of $57,313.45 in support of the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). The recent in-store round-up campaign raised $47,313.45, and Market 32 and Price Chopper matched the fundraiser by providing an additional $10,000.00. The donation was revealed during a ceremonial check presentation at the Market 32 in Slingerlands, NY.
The campaign, which ran from July 1 – 31, invited customers to round up their change to the nearest dollar at checkout to help fund MDA’s critical work in accelerating research, enhancing care, and providing life-changing programs for children and adults living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and related neuromuscular diseases.
“We’re grateful to our customers and teammates who came together to make this campaign a success,” said Pam Cerrone, Market 32 and Price Chopper director of community relations. “Every dollar raised helps MDA continue its mission to transform lives through science and support.”
The money raised will help fund cutting-edge research leading to new treatments and therapies, nationwide care centers that provide multidisciplinary support, and MDA summer camps that offer life-changing experiences for kids with neuromuscular diseases.
“Market 32 and Price Chopper have been true partners to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, helping us advance research, fund multidisciplinary care through our nationwide MDA Care Center Network, and create life-changing opportunities like MDA Summer Camp for families we serve,” said Ruth Ann Dailey, the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s chief development officer. “In just the past two decades, more than 25 new treatments for neuromuscular conditions have been approved – progress made possible through the generosity of their leadership, employees, and customers. As we celebrate MDA’s 75th anniversary, we are deeply grateful for this enduring partnership and legacy of progress, and we look forward to continuing the momentum for families today and for generations to come.”
Market 32 and Price Chopper have a history of giving back to the communities they serve that dates back to their origins in 1932. This campaign is part of our ongoing effort to support organizations that advance health and wellness.
Meat & Company Named ‘Best Taco in the 518’ at Connect Center’s Fifth Annual Tacos for Life
Sponsored by Market 32 and Price Chopper, Competition Featuring Top Capital Region Chefs and Restaurants Supports Youth Enrichment Programs
On Friday, Market 32 and Price Chopper proudly partnered with the Connect Center for Youth (CCFY) as the title sponsor for the fifth annual Tacos for Life fundraiser. This event, which began as a small celebration for students in CCFY’s Connect Kitchen Summer Taco Camp, has grown into one of the Capital Region’s most anticipated culinary competitions and summer block parties.
At this year’s Tacos for Life, Meat & Company earned the title of the “Best Taco in the 518” for their K-pop Crispy Chicken Taco after facing stiff competition from several prominent and aspiring local restaurants and chefs. Runner-up was The Daisy Bar and Kitchen, and Tipsy Moose won People’s Choice.
Guests were able to purchase an all-you-can-eat taco tasting tour for $30, with all proceeds from Tacos for Life benefitting the Connect Center, which provides a safe, supportive setting for local youth and their families in the Greater Capital Region. Its programs offer a wide range of youth-focused initiatives and activities, including after-school enrichment, nutrition security, workforce development, and S.T.E.A.M.-based instruction for underserved children and families.
“Supporting the Connect Center and its mission aligns perfectly with our commitment to nourishing neighborhoods—both in and out of our stores,” said Pam Cerrone, Market 32 and Price Chopper director of community relations. “Tacos for Life is an exciting, fun, and delicious way to support vital youth programming, and we’re proud to play a role in connecting the community with great food for a meaningful purpose.”
Hundreds of attendees came out to support youth development programs and enjoy unlimited taco samplings from some of the area’s very best culinary creators. This year’s participants included:
CCFY Taco Camp
“Tacos for Life is more than just a fun community event—it’s an opportunity to bring people together in support of our youth,” said Ben Williams, executive director of the Connect Center for Youth. “Every taco our guests enjoy helps fund programs that empower, educate, and provide safe spaces for young people in Cohoes and beyond. We’re thrilled to see our community come together for such an important cause.”
A key part of the event was the inclusion of 20 students from the Connect Kitchen Taco Camp, who each spend a week participating in hands-on culinary learning. With support from Market 32 and Price Chopper, including the donation of PICS brand products and key ingredients, the students created and prepared their own unique taco recipe to serve to attendees at the event. Additionally, the company annually provides in-kind support via marketing, advertising, and public relations activities to bring greater awareness to this community-wide celebration, which provides life-changing opportunities to dozens of young people.
To learn more about the Connect Center for Youth, visit www.connectcenterforyouth.org.