Business Quarterly - Summer 2017

THE SOURCE FOR DOING BUSINESS IN COLUMBIA & GREENE COUNTIES SUMMER 2017

Tourism Attracting, accommodating, and entertaining tourists and locals in our region

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CG Business Quarterly | SuMMeR 2017

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SUMMER 2017 | CG Business Quarterly |

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STICKY

Notes

BLASS MARKETING, a 48-year-old family-

owned marketing firm with offices in Charlotte and Upstate New York, has won a BMA Carolinas 2017 ProAds award for the firm’s essential work on Clariant’s 2018 ColorForward® “Consumer Color Directions 2018” forecasting brochure. The BMA Carolinas ProAds Awards recognize the best B2B marketing campaigns in the Carolinas.

Each entry is judged on quality of work, objective, strategy and results.

SPOT ON STORAGE, a brand new self-storage

facility at 61 Maple Ave. in Catskill, open for business in April. The almost four acre site offers a large selection of temperature controlled storage units in different sizes. The facility has a computerized gate access and a camera surveillance system to ensure that customers belongings stay safe. The Spot On Storage facility is for residential and business customers.

THE RODNEY SHOP is now open at 362 Main

Street in Catskill. Inside customers will find original artworks, prints that were produced in Japan, Japanese products from the 1990’s and 2000’s and other collector’s items. The shop features books, postcards, posters, prints and more.

SALUNE HAIR STUDIO has opened a new location in Hudson. Just under two years after her move north from Brooklyn, owner Lune Wynyard has grown her tiny one-chair private studio into a

Rodney Alan Greenblat is pictured with his wife, Deena Lebow; Greene County Legislator Matt Luvera, friends, family and members of the Greene County Chamber at the grand opening of The Rodney Shop in Catskill. The shop features art, projects, poetry, books, gifts and collectibles.

five-chair salon in a street-level storefront located on Hudson’s historic 7th Street Park. After four months of renovation,the doors were opened in early June.

COMMERCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND ALARM SYSTEMS (CIA) located in Catskill, was inducted into the

John Lombardi, owner of

Alarm Industry Hall of Fame, earning the industry’s highest honor. Lombardi was recognized at the International Security Conference in Las Vegas on April 5.

CLYNK, a ‘drop and go’ bottle redemption service, is now available at the Hannaford Supermarket & Pharmacy, 223 Main St., Cairo.

The recycling service provides an easy means for shoppers to redeem bottles and cans while creating new opportunities for charitable fundraising through ongoing, virtual bottle drives.

The Board of Directors of the MOUNTAIN TOP ARBORETUM announced Marc Wolf as the new executive director, following the planned completion of Joan Kutcher’s 15-year tenure.

Kutcher will continue to advise the Arboretum as a consultant responsible for overseeing the construction of the Education Center.

The TIM BERRYHILL

ALLSTATE AGENCY

located in Hudson and Albany recently achieved Allstate’s “Claims Certified” designation, available to a select group of agencies in New York State. By completing a special series of claims education requirements, agency owner Tim Berryhill and his staff furthered their commitment to supporting customers before, during, and after the claim process.

Coldwell Banker Village Green Realty earns President’s Award of Honor Joan Lonergan, Principal Broker and Candida Ellis, Managing Partner, at Coldwell Banker Village Green Realty recently announced Coldwell Banker Village Green Realty has received two international achievement awards.

The PRESIDENT’S AWARD OF HONOR for their 2016 sales production, making them the #1 ranked brokerage in both the Hudson Valley Catskill Region MLS and the Columbia Greene Northern Dutchess MLS* for 2016. The PRESIDENT’S AWARD OF HONOR is presented to the top 7% of Coldwell Banker Affiliated Brokerages every year. Coldwell Banker Village Green Realty has received this prestigious award before in 2013, 2014, and 2015, and has maintained their status as the #1 RANKED BROKERAGE in the Hudson Valley Catskill Region MLS and the Columbia Greene Northern Dutchess MLS every year from 2011-2016.* “I feel that it is our agents’ expertise, work ethic and consistently excellent service that has allowed us to achieve a place amongst the elite international brokerages of Coldwell Banker. In 2016 we reached a level of production that is often achieved by brokerages in locations where there is a 4|

CG Business Quarterly | SUMMER 2017

significantly higher average sales price than we see in many of the Catskill and Hudson Valley communities where we base our business.

We work very hard to be constantly improving the way we present our listings, reach out to city buyers and contribute to the communities we represent. We all try to ‘wake up and be awesome.’ It’s made a difference.”

- Candida Ellis, Managing Partner, Coldwell Banker Village Green Realty’s Woodstock Office received an individual award: the INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT’S PREMIER OFFICE award, presented to the top 3% of Coldwell Banker offices internationally. Coldwell Banker Village Green Realty’s Woodstock office has been a recipient of this award every year since 2013.

Coldwell Banker Village Green Realty has 5 locations and represents Ulster, Greene, Columbia, Dutchess and Orange Counties. Coldwell Banker Village Green Realty has been an affiliate of the Coldwell Banker® System for 15 years. *According to Columbia Greene Northern Dutchess MLS Statistics and Hudson Valley Catskills Region MLS Statistics 2011-2016.

T Contents

THE SOURCE FOR DOING BUSINESS IN COLUMBIA & GREENE COUNTIES

years, actors Fern Sloan and Ted Pugh, along with their colleague Ragnar Freidank, have been bringing students to Hudson for several weeks at a time, sharing their extensive knowledge of the Michael Chekhov Acting technique. Michael Chekhov (1891-1955) was the nephew of playwright Anton Chekhov. He worked with Constantin Stanislavsky who referred to him as his “most brilliant student.” The Chekhov technique proposes that the character has an independent life from the actor. “You still use yourself, but go through the psycho-physical approach where physical movement and the imagination call up the feeling life,” explained Sloan.

The students who attend each session at the Michael Chekhov School come from around the globe. The several-weeklong acting beauty in Camphill Hudsessions take place in aNatural shared space at Solaris, ourArts. own“We backyard son’s Center for the Social wanted to be in Hudson,” Pugh said about the decision to locate the school in the county seat. The high number of artists in the city and the proximity to New York by car or by train were leading reasons to establish the school in Hudson.

“A Practical Immersion in the Michael Chekhov Technique,” a five-week course recently wrapped up in Hudson led by Pugh, Sloan, Freidank and Joanna Merlin. Eleven actors ranging in age from their 20s to their 50s from six different countries spent this time living and working in Columbia County, getting to know the area in their spare time. “Hudson is so full of surprises,” said Pugh. “There’s always something going on.” Sloan added the caliber of the people that attend the acting school is high. “These are actors who are serious about the craft.” The most recent session saw students in class five days a week from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

“It’s really intense,” said Sloan of the program’s regimen. “We want the community to know we are here, what we are doing with the school,” said Pugh.

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Founders of the Michael Chekhov School of Acting at 360 Warren St. in Hudson from left: Ragnar Freidank, Fern Sloan and Ted Pugh.

“It’s a rare opportunity to work in a small group with dedicated teachers in an atmosphere of openness and creativity,” said Merlin, faculty member and the last living direct student of Chekhov.

All of the school’s faculty are seasoned actors and teachers for the Michael Chekhov Association (MICHA). “Michael Chekhov speaks to the spirit of things,” said Kathryn Doshi of India, a student in the most recent immersion course. “Rather than going on stage to receive the audience’s approval, I am going on stage to give a piece of myself as a gift for them. It requires the belief that you have something worth giving,” said Doshi. “Chekhov honors the intuition and the spirit of the artist and he empowers you. He’s the first teacher I’ve found who lays a path.”

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Stars in the making travel the globe to study in Hudson 18 |

michaelchekhovschool Michael Chekhov School of Acting A Theater Laboratory

CG Business Quarterly | SPRING 2017

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Good food is not a privelege

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Meeting th e of today’s expectations travelers

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ON THE COVER The newly installed sculpture called “Revolution” by Kris Perry, an American metal sculptor whose work includes large kinetic pieces and sound sculptures. The piece is located in front of Basilica, down by the Amtrak train station. Columbia Economic Development Corp. Chairman Tony Jones says “Basilica gets 35k visitors a year” and is “a gateway to hip Hudson”.

Photo by Michael Molinski of Molinski Photography, Hudson, NY.

SuMMeR 2017 | CG Business Quarterly |

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CG Business Quarterly | SUMMER 2017

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Contents

8DEVELOPMENT ECONOMIC

Diverse array of destinations contributesest.1943 to $131 million in traveler spending annually

22 TECHNOLOGY Resolving to unplug from

25 PS21 A permanent, state-of-the-

Publisher’s letter

art theater nears completion

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NETWORKING Were you seen meeting and greeting to build your business

Barry Jackson

Jackson’s Old Chatham House 646 Albany Turnpike, Old Chatham, NY

devices

TELL US, HOW DID JACKSON'S OLD CHATHAM HOUSE ORIGINATE? My grandparents started it back in 1945. It originally was just a five seat bar with a few tables in the building, next to the current restaurant. Our family owned a pub in Liverpool, England back in the 1800's and has been expanding ever since. I guess it is in our blood!

WHAT IS THE RESTAURANT BEST KNOWN FOR? Food-wise: our Prime Rib and Burgers, but really, I think it is the way we try to make everybody feel welcome, like family.

We have a warm, welcoming, rustic, country atmosphere.

There is little doubt the mid-Hudson Valley region is a magnet for tourists—from daytrippers drawnHAS to the charm of the IN region’s unique shops and restaurants to YOUR PLACE REAL HISTORY COLUMBIA vacationers who stay at the variety of resorts and COUNTY. IS THERE A FAMILY SECRET YOU'DB&Bs BE for some rest and relaxation, the areaTOhas it all. I don't know about a family WILLING SHARE? secret, but we really just try to take care of everyone the best

can. It of is not just the drink and service--it is thebe overstated. Studies from Theweimpact tourism onfood, our local economy cannot whole package.

We truly care about people and believe if you with tourism show it is both Columbia and Greene County agencies involved take care of the people, they will take care of you. large and growing—in visitors, money spent, impact on the local economies and jobs.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE TIME OF THE YEAR IN

COLUMBIA COUNTY AND WHY? I definitely like the

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Jackson’s Old Chatham House, since 1945

fallissue best, all colors, it Quarterly cools down.takes Working in the at kitchen This ofthe Business a look the industry from a number of and there is just so much going on in the fall around viewpoints and industries. It is a good read and here. compliments the ongoing covColumbia County is so beautiful to just drive around the back erage of this vital industry that we cover daily in our newspapers and on our roads and check out all the farms, animals and foliage. You websites. can go hiking, kayaking then go get something to eat. Our family always looks forward to the blessing of the hounds in

with Hunt Club.thank It is just terrific time and of year I’dOctober also like to the personally ouraadvertisers sponsors, who understand the and our busiest. importance of this magazine and in funding locally-based journalism in general.

Columbia-Greene Media’s audience large and growing, and these supporters WHO DO YOU CREDIT MOST FOR THEisRESTAURANT'S areSUCCESS? a main reason why we are able to continue to grow our news staff at a time I give most of the credit to all the staff, without when other media entities are not as fortunate. them none of this is possible. They do such a great job and we consider them an extension of our family. We have been

Reach Us

overenjoy the generations, with take great aworks but So blessed sit back, this issuenot of only BQ and trip yourself—there is so much to whobeautiful we are thankful seegreat andpeople do in tothis area! (you know who you are!).

Write to us Business Quarterly Magazine,

c/o CGM, 1 Hudson City Centre, Hudson, NY 12534 Open 7 Days a Week www.jacksonsoldchathamhouse.com Email advertising@columbiagreenemedia.com Accepting advertising, press releases, news shorts and information of interest to the business community of Columbia and Greene Counties.

For advertising rates

Call (518)828-1616 ext. 2463

(518) 794-7373

FOLLOW US ON Mark Vinciguerra, Publisher Columbia-Greene Media

The Columbia Greene Business Quarterly is produced by Columbia Greene Media, a division of the Johnson Newspaper Corporation and may not be reproduced or copied without the express written consent of the publisher.

facebook.com/cgbusinessquarterly

SUMMER 2017 | CG Business Quarterly |

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BUSINESS

Tourism is key to New York State, Hudson Valley 55 room Wick hotel, financed by the Columbia County IDA in partnership with the Hudson IDA, which is due to open this fall.

“Hudson, and by extension Columbia County, is all inspiring - representing the convergence of past and present by balancing important environmental, social, and economic conditions. Hudson A diverse array of destinations contributes to $131 million harbors the arts, tourism, and entrepreneurism to encourin traveler spending annually in Columbia County, generage the type of economic and community-driven growth to ating $15 million in local and state taxes. These activities sustain our city for years to come,” said Hudson Developlead to over 2,000 jobs in the community producing over ment Corporation President Sheena Salvino. $61 million in income.

Hudson serves as a gateway to the rest of Columbia Coun“Tourism is key to New York State, Hudson Valley and ty, with its Amtrak station being the third most popular in Columbia County economies, as tourists spending supports the state. The county amplifies the environmental and culjobs, generates tax revenues, and the industries that cater tural strengths of Hudson with scenic bike routes, summer to the needs of these visitors,” said Ann Cooper, Columbia concerts, and ample opportunities for tourists to enhance County Tourism Department Administrator. their experience. A rising craft beverage industry, along Columbia County leads the Hudson Valley in annual travwith numerous farms to visit, align with the agritourism eler spending growth, and there is still potential thanks to trend across upstate New York. Other attractions like the millions in recent investments. Improved infrastructure, Martin Van Buren National Historic Site and Olana State including broadband access, will add to the visitor experiHistoric Site bring historical tourists into the county. ence. New exciting development projects, such as Basilica F. Michael Tucker, President and CEO, Hudson, promise to increase the number of tourist destina- Columbia Economic Development The Columbia Economic Development Corporation identified tourism as a key area of economic activity in the Corporation tions. county in its 2016 Strategic Plan and supports the County’s These new investments will also help diversify the economy to ensure that Tourism Department’s initiatives. Robust partnerships among local organiwhile the tourism sector thrives, we are not dependent on it. zations contribute to accomplishing these goals. Jeff Hunt, President of the Among regional destinations, the City of Hudson is a favorite place for visi- Columbia County Chamber of Commerce, said, “Tourism is a big part of our tors from across the Northeast. Hudson has been cited in the New York Times membership base and we are very supportive of efforts to bring more people recently for undergoing an “elegant transformation” and “being a destination to the area.” on the rise.”

CEDC also works firsthand with businesses that are supported by tourism It is no wonder that Columbia County is being recognized. Its abundance of industry. By providing loans, business assistance, and other resources, CEDC boutique shopping, craft breweries and distilleries, eateries, art, theatre and is here to help the community prosper. The coming years will be an exciting musical culture, historical sites, and riverfront environment make for an ideal time to watch new projects throughout Columbia County combine with our recreational location. With new hotels in the core Hudson area, day trips are historical strengths to produce a new era of growth for the region’s tourism bound to turn in to weekend trips and full vacations. A notable example is the industry. ​usiness growth and economic development can never B be separated from natural, historical, and cultural resources. Columbia County is blessed to have assets in these areas that attract visitors and generate economic activity.

COLUMBIA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

LOAN PROGRAM l

Contact Mike Tucker

mtucker@columbiaedc.com

518-828-4718

4303 Rte. 9 Hudson, NY 12534 www.columbiaedc.com 8|

CG Business Quarterly | SUMMER 2017

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Loan Amounts: $2,000 - $100,000 Rates: 5.0% - 7.5% Geography: Columbia County (SBA Microloans also available in Greene Co.) Loan Terms: 2-10 Years (6 years maximum on Microloans) Eligibility: Startup and Expanding Businesses Technical Assistance & Training Available

by Jacqueline LaChance

High Falls, Columbia County’s highest waterfall, can be found at 540 Roxbury Road in Philmont |9 SuMMeR 2017 | CG Business Quarterly Photo

by Molinski Photography

SPOTLIGHT ON

Columbia Land Conservancy

Summertime means getting out and hiking, bird watching, fishing and more at one of 10 public conservation areas maintained by the Columbia Land Conservancy. From the south in Ancram to the north in New Lebanon and everywhere in between, there are more than 2,500 acres and 30 miles of trails on some of Columbia County’s most scenic and ecologically important lands available to explore at no cost. The CLC works with private landowners and communities to conserve land that protects wildlife habitats, farmland, scenic views and historic areas. These public conservation areas function as a privately-run public park system while protecting the rural character of the area. All conservation areas are free and open to the public daily from dawn to dusk. All dogs must be leashed and there are no trash receptacles.

In addition to the 10 public conservation areas, this summer will include a series of special events ranging from sunset yoga every week at Ooms Pond in Chatham to a kayak paddle at Lake Taghkanic , according to Rebecca Walker, CLC communications manager. “We’re excited about all of the great opportunities we have planned for folks to connect with the land this summer,” said Walker. “Our sites are home to some of Columbia County’s most special places and they provide a lot of different ways to enjoy the great outdoors.”

Round Ball Mountain - This conservation area is in southern Columbia County at 503 Carson Road in Ancram. The site covers 415 acres with 6.5 miles of trails for moderate to strenuous hiking. The property has steep wooded slopes that rise to a summit of 1,318 feet with rocky outcroppings and small cascading streams. There are seasonal views of farmlands and the Taconic Mountains. On Aug. 12 from 9 a.m. to noon there will be a guided, intermediate-level hike with CLC staff to the top of Round Ball Mountain.

Drowned Lands Swamp - Also located in Ancram, this site is located at 653 Route 3 and features 114 acres, 1.5 miles of trails and easy to strenuous hiking. A lower trail provides views of the wetlands and a scenic trail climbs the prominent knoll known locally as “Old Croken,” which rises to a summit with scenic views of surrounding farmlands. Sixty-two acres of this site are part of the Drowned Lands Swamp complex, one of the largest wetlands in New York State. Local folklore recounts whiskey stills operating here during Prohibition, either on the property or across the road. Reportedly, still operators used the flagpole on top of Old Croken to notify potential buyers when new batches were ready.

High Falls - This conservation site is located at 540 Roxbury Road in Philmont and covers 47 acres with 1.5 miles of easy to moderate hiking. This site features the county’s highest waterfall, which cascades 150 feet and the Agawamuck Creek, a designated trout stream with fishing by permit. The creek was named “creek of many fish” and supports trout, bass, perch and eel. High 10 |

CG Business Quarterly | SPRING 2017

Falls and the Agawamuck Creek have historically been an important part of Philmont’s development. In the early 19th century, hydropower was the chief source of energy for industry and led to the growth of a bustling village called Factory Hill, later named Philmont. In Philmont’s heyday, the waterfall provided power for 17 mills. The dam above High Falls was built in 1845 and the remains of one of the old mills still stands on the creek’s northern slopes.

Greenport Conservation Area - Located at 319 Joslen Boulevard in Greenport, this site includes 737 acres with 7.17 miles of easy to moderate hiking. This property includes one mile of wheelchair accessible trail and provides visitors the opportunity to enjoy views of the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains from a gazebo and picnic area. In the early 1600s, prior to European settlement, Mahican Indians lived and hunted the woods along the Hudson River. In 1661, the land was purchased from the Mahicans by a Dutch settler and used for farming. From 1892 to 1937 there was an active brickyard along one of the trails that leads through forests and across streams, including a trail to a high bluff with views of the river’s North Bay. A “Sip & Stroll: Pinot and Pollinators” will be part of an evening series on Aug. 17 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. focusing on pollinators and how to create a habitat for them.

Harrier Hill Park - Owned by Scenic Hudson and managed by CLC, this property is at 6729 Rod and Gun Club Road in Stockport and features 6 acres and 1.5 miles of easy to moderate hiking. Great views of the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains, a universally accessible trail and a 2-mile connector trail to the Greenport Conservation Area make this a popular site. At the park’s pavilion, shaped like a corncrib in homage to the land’s previous incarnation as a dairy farm, visitors can escape the sun, but keep the binoculars handy. The surrounding fields, also protected by Scenic Hudson and CLC, support a wide variety of birds — including the Northern harrier, the hawk for which the park is named. A short, universally accessible trail leads from the parking area past a farm pond to the pavilion.

Siegel-Kline Kill - Located at 1452 County Route 21 (Garage Place) in Ghent, this 55-acre site includes 1.5 miles of easy hiking trails. The property features a working farm field and more than 1,800 feet of frontage along the Kline Kill, including fishing access by permit. The property was originally part of an extensive dairy farm operation with a farmhouse located southwest of the parking area. George Kittle operated the dairy farm from the late 1960s to the late ‘80s where his family raised dairy cows, grew corn and hay and sold cattle. The fields, with 25 acres of excellent agricultural soils, continue to be hayed by a local beef farmer. There are a number of different aquatic species in the Kline Kill, including brown trout stocked by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. The Kline Kill empties into Kinderhook Creek in nearby Kinderhook. From there, the Kinderhook Creek

Left, visitors take in Hand Hollow, the Columbia Land Conservancy’s most northern preserved space featuring 447 acres of woodlands, streams and a 21-acre lake.

Below, a couple relaxes by Sutherland Pond at Ooms Pond in Chatham.

flows southwest until it becomes Stockport Creek and drains into the Hudson River in the town of Stockport.

Borden’s Pond - Within walking distance of the Village of Chatham, Borden’s Pond is at 1628 Route 203 in Ghent and is spread out over 62 acres with 1.75 miles of easy to moderate hiking. A lower trail leads visitors along a small stream while two trails travel along ridgelines to an upland forest. The area offers visitors an opportunity to experience diverse wildlife habitat and forest composition with a gentle, sloping streamside walk and a view of a wetland that was once Borden’s Pond. The trails meander through an upland forest and climb a steep ridge, offering seasonal glimpses of the distant Catskill Mountains. In the 1920s, the Borden Milk Company, which had a processing plant near Chatham, dammed the stream to create a pond for harvesting ice in the winter. The company cut and hauled out the ice with horses and used it to keep their dairy products cool. Remnants of old stonewalls lacing through the woodlands on this property tell of an earlier time when the property was cleared for pastures.

Schor Conservation Area - Located at 58 Shore View Drive in Red Rock, this site is 233 acres with 2.5 miles of moderate to strenuous hiking.

Woodland trails travel though upland forest and hemlock groves to a rocky overlook with views of the Catskills and the Hudson Valley. There is a pond for fishing by permit and a picnic pavilion. Highland cattle used to graze on the rolling pastures and now the fields support dairy cows and beef cattle.

“Jon’s Pond,” a tranquil setting for reflection and enjoyment by the community is a popular destination on the property and a great location for children and families to observe aquatic wildlife, fish or picnic at the pavilion. Great blue heron and belted kingfisher can be seen waiting for fish and amphibians along the water’s edge. Traveling around the pond, trails lead visitors through the forest along stonewalls, fern glens and along the edges of earlier logging trails. The habitat supports a diverse population of mammals including fisher, bobcat, coyote, deer and the occasional moose. There will be a “Mushroom Ecology Walk” at the Schor Conservation Area on Sept. 9 from 9 to 11 a.m. teaching participants how to find and identify them.

Ooms Pond - This site is at 480 Rock City Road in Chatham and includes 180 acres with 2.9 miles of easy to moderate hiking trails. Rolling fields on the property encircle a 35-acre pond for fishing and boating. There are excellent bird watching opportunities here and fishing is allowed by permit. Traversing through rolling grasslands around Sutherland Pond, trails reveal a pastoral landscape that captures the essence of Columbia County. The conservation area is named after two families who have been in the area for generations. The pond is named after the Sutherland family who lived across from the conservation

area on Rock City Road in the 1800s. In the 1950s, the Ooms family came to the area from the Netherlands and began a dairy operation on the fields surrounding the pond. The pond has served many community functions over the years. Ice harvested from the pond was sold to neighboring households and in the Village of Chatham for refrigeration and a community beach was opened on the northern shore of the pond, providing earlier generations with a place to learn to swim. This summer, Supersoul Yoga of Chatham has teamed up with the CLC to offer yoga classes at Sutherland Pond every Thursday from 7 to 8 p.m. through Aug. 31 with a $10 suggested donation.

Hand Hollow - Located in northern Columbia County, Hand Hollow is at 387 Gale Hill Road in New Lebanon and features 447 acres with 2.8 miles of easy to moderate hiking. Streams, a 21-acre lake, woodlands, meadows, wetlands and active beaver ponds make up this conservation site where fishing is allowed by permit. Named after the Samuel Hand family who migrated from Massachusetts to settle in Lebanon Springs in the late 1700s, this diverse habitat is home to deer, black bear, bobcat, wild turkey and migrating birds. The Hand Hollow Conservation Area includes a patchwork of former small family properties given to the CLC to protect open space now and into the future. In the mixed open fields, visitors should be on the lookout for small mammals and songbirds. The Eastern meadowlark is found here, along with the Eastern bluebird, which inhabit nesting boxes constructed by CLC with the help of area school children. Waterfowl like mallards, black ducks, common pintails and blue-winged teals enjoy the food and seclusion the beaver dams provide.

Otters and great blue herons nest here in early summer.

“There are so many ways for people to get involved this summer,” said Walker of the CLC. “Whether you choose to attend an event or volunteer, there’s something for everyone.”

For more information, contact the CLC at (518) 392-5252, stop by their office at 49 Main St. in Chatham or go to www.clctrust.org.

SPRING 2016 | CG Business Quarterly |

11

TAX BREAKS

DiNapoli: Tax breaks from IDAs continue to climb

Recent reforms will improve IDA transparency and accountability New York’s Industrial Development Agencies (IDAs) provided $695 million in net tax exemptions in 2015, an increase of 10 percent from the prior year, according to a report issued today by New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli.

“New York’s IDAs are tasked with generating economic development and job creation, but it can be difficult for taxpayers to follow the costs and benefits of these activities,” DiNapoli said.

“Our annual report tracks IDA performance and shows the costs associated with their decisions. Now, because of recent reforms requiring more disclosure, taxpayers will have even more information to evaluate the cost and impact of economic development activities taking place in their own backyards.”

DiNapoli’s report found the state’s 109 active IDAs provided approximately $1.2 billion in total tax exemptions in 2015. These exemptions were partially offset by $500 million in payments in lieu of taxes (PILOTs), leaving the total net exemptions for the year at $695 million – an increase of $63.2 million, or 10 percent, from 2014.

Estimated job growth slowed and the cost per job gained increased, according to the report. In 2015, IDA projects reported a total of 608,825 full-time jobs, with an increase of 224,734 jobs over the life of these projects, at a median cost of $2,326 per job gained. In 2014, cumulative job gains for projects active in that year equaled 235,888 with a median cost per job gained of $1,882.

The five IDAs with the largest job gains in 2015 were: New York City (33,956 jobs at a net cost of $2,522 per job gained); Monroe County (22,714/net cost of $1,090 per job); Suffolk County (12,976/net cost of $618 per job); the Town of Amherst (9,658/net cost of $793 per job) and the City of Yonkers (8,004/net cost of $4,320 per job).

The Comptroller’s annual repor also found: n During the five-year period starting in 2011, overall exemptions given by IDAs were down $211 million. But because of a $400 million, or 45 percent, drop in PILOT payments during this time frame, the total value of net exemptions actually rose $190 million. Exemptions are primarily related to local real property taxes; n The majority of projects in 2015 were associated with county IDAs, with

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CG Business Quarterly | SUMMER 2017

2,713 (61 percent) of all active projects. City IDAs accounted for 932 projects in 2015, nearly half of which were from the New York City IDA; n

Long Island (795 projects), Western New York (786) and the Finger Lakes (746) had the largest number of projects in 2015; n

Long Island ($161 million) and the Mid-Hudson Valley ($138 million) had the highest total net exemptions; and n

Manufacturing accounted for 1,187 projects, or 26 percent of all projects, in 2015.

It has continued to be the most common project purpose, but its share of the total has dropped by 3.5 percent since 2011.

DiNapoli noted that project data in this report predates new IDA reforms that went into effect in June 2016. The reforms, based on legislationadvanced by his office in 2015, will improve the process of how IDAs approve new projects, the quality of the information they gather about the projects, and the policies for recapturing financial assistance if project goals are not met. The Comptroller also said PILOTs, which partially offset tax exemptions, represent revenues for multiple jurisdictions, making careful budgeting for all impacted entities increasingly important.

Moving forward, DiNapoli’s staff will assess how well these procedural improvements have strengthened public accountability and transparency of IDAs. To read “Annual Performance Report on New York’s Industrial Development Agencies,” go to: http://osc.state.ny.us/localgov/pubs/research/ida_reports/2017/idaperformance.pdf A Map of 2015 IDA Data by Region is also available, go to: https://osc.state. ny.us/localgov/pubs/research/ida_reports/2017/2015_ida_data_by_region. htm To read the Comptroller’s IDA reform legislation, go to: http://www.osc.state. ny.us/legislation/2015-16/oscb_ida_201516.htm For access to state and local government spending, public authority financial data and information on 130,000 state contracts, visit Open Book New York. The easy-to-use website was created to promote transparency in government and provide taxpayers with better access to financial data. Follow the Comptroller on Twitter (@NYSComptroller) and Facebook (facebook.com/ nyscomptroller)

BUSINESS PROFILE

John & Sarah Smith Rip Van Winkle Country Club 3200 Rt. 23A, Palenville, New York 12463 3RD GENERATION OWNERS, THAT'S FANTASTIC. WHEN DID YOU KNOW YOU WANTED TO STAY IN THE FAMILY BUSINESS AND HOW DID IT COME TO BE?

My grandparents Ray and Patricia Smith purchased the golf course in 1949, my father Ray Smith grew up on the golf course and along with my Mother Christine still help with daily operations. I grew up on the golf course as well and loved being at the golf course it was a natural fit for me. I love the area there is so much to do we are very fortunate to be able to live and work in such a beautiful area.

WHAT DO YOU THINK HAS STAYED EXACTLY THE SAME FROM EACH GENERATION? I don’t think anything stayed the exact same. The world we live in changes daily so as a small family business we have changed with the times. We diversified into the restaurant and banquet facility in the early 2000s which allowed us to become more then a seasonal business.

HOW HAVE YOU SEEN THE GOLF INDUSTRY CHANGE AND GROW FOR THE BETTER? I like to believe golf is a lot like life. You have to work hard to be successful at golf, the more you practice and play the better you get. Golf grows Integrity, honesty and sportsmanship.

WHAT ELSE IS A REALLY SPECIAL PART OF THE BUSINESS THAT VISITORS AND GUESTS ENJOY?

When our guest arrive they see we are very family oriented, and our co-workers are, as well. Our guests see faces they are familiar with and know we are going to do everything we can to ensure a wonderful experience with us.

HAVE SOMETHING UNIQUE TO SHARE ABOUT YOUR PLACE, NOT WIDELY KNOWN (YET)? The Rip is your

home away from home-- relaxed, family oriented, and reasonably priced. The restaurant offers delicious meals, we have a beautiful 9-hole golf course and we have a free outdoor concert and fireworks every 4th of July Weekend. Kids golf for free at our place.

www.rvwcc.com

(518) 678-9779

/Rip-Van-Winkle-Country-Club SUMMER 2017 | CG Business Quarterly |

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BUSINESS

Meeting the Expectactions of Today’s Travelers of a problem to begin with. The saying “the customer is always right” is only true in that regardless of the circumstance, one bad experience can lead to many others shying away from your business if that complaint goes viral on the information superhighway.

So what does a tourism or hospitality business do to manage the expectations of guests and deliver on the promises made? How can bad information or unfair reviews be addressed to make sure potential guests are not turned away? The answers start with taking a strong look at your destination or business with a fresh eye. Does everything you present in your promotions truly represent what your destination or business actually offers? If it doesn’t, you have two choices. Upgrade your destination or business to Today’s consumer is both well informed yet at the same meet what’s offered or refine what you are saying to more time badly misinformed. It is both the blessing and the accurately portray what visitors will find upon their arrival. curse of social media and apps designed to give everyone The most important step to take is to make sure that the all of the information they need to make the right travel information presented about you on all forms of media is decisions. The blessing of all these resources is that you accurate and that you can deliver everything it says about can scan the world for vacation destinations online and your business. By being truthful you can immediately replan nearly every detail of your stay. You can locate all of the great things to do and see, and be a part of and learn Jeff Friedman, President/Executive duce the number of bad or unfair reviews. about even the best places all the locals go. The informa- Director, Greene County Chamber of However, doing that is only half the battle today. Our sotion available to us on our devices offers a vast and end- Commerce ciety today is not good at face to face interaction or conless supply of opportunities to plan the best trip ever. For frontation. Today most people never let you know they are destinations and businesses, managing and promoting that information and dissatisfied when they are at your business. They do however take it out on dispensing it in the best possible way, without over promising what cannot be you on social media and apps. As a result, the next most important task is to delivered or experienced, is the greatest challenge to overcome. manage your online feedback. Be diligent. Address concerns. Work with the The curse of all of this information, especially through social media and apps, app developer and social media outlets to learn how to manage the reviews is the management of bad or false information and more specifically that bad people will see. or unfair review or feedback that can snowball into the loss of visitors to your It takes time and energy but it will pay off in making sure that potential guests business. It is impossible to make every single visitor happy. There will al- see you the way you want to be seen. In the end, it is all about delivering a ways be something that does not meet with someone’s satisfaction regardless fantastic experience to your guests and travelers to your community. It’s about of right or wrong, whether it was preventable or not, or even if it was much meeting and then exceeding their expectations.

In our modern world of social media, mobile phones and devices, travel and hospitality apps, and access to more information and real time feedback than ever before, it can be a challenge for any region, community, venue or business to meet the expectations of travelers and visitors. By their design, websites, brochures and other promotional materials are created to entice potential guests to come visit and enjoy the offerings of each destination.

The challenge comes in making sure that the promotion and promises made for that destination meets with the expectations of the guests once they arrive to enjoy their leisure time there. For if they fail to do so, all those modern sources of information and feedback will be sure to let everyone know.

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CG Business Quarterly | SUMMER 2017

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IMMERSION CLASSES IN THE CITY OF HUDSON DRAW STUDENTS WORLD-WIDE

MICHAEL CHEKHOV SCHOOL OF ACTING

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CG Business Quarterly | SPRING 2017

by Jacqueline LaChance

Students from

A THEATER LABORATORY The most recent class at the Michael Chekhov School of Acting front row from left: Hadar Be'Hochma (from Israel), Thais Loureiro (from Brazil), Ted Pugh, Fern Sloan, Nancy Graham, Sergio Hortega. Back row from left: Aoibheann Murphy (from Ireland), Kathryn Doshi (from India), Ty Hungerford (from Australia), Holly Chetcuti (from Australia), Salome Krell. Missing from photo: Ragnar Freidank, co-founder of the school and student Kate Udall.

Around the Globe

T

wice a year, students come from around the world to participate in intensive immersion classes at the Michael Chekhov School of Acting at 360 Warren St. here. For the past three years, actors Fern Sloan and Ted Pugh, along with their colleague Ragnar Freidank, have been bringing students to Hudson for several weeks at a time, sharing their extensive knowledge of the Michael Chekhov Acting technique. Michael Chekhov (1891-1955) was the nephew of playwright Anton Chekhov. He worked with Constantin Stanislavsky who referred to him as his “most brilliant student.” The Chekhov technique proposes that the character has an independent life from the actor. “You still use yourself, but go through the psycho-physical approach where physical movement and the imagination call up the feeling life,” explained Sloan.

The students who attend each session at the Michael Chekhov School come from around the globe. The several-weeklong acting sessions take place in a shared space at Solaris, Camphill Hudson’s Center for the Social Arts. “We wanted to be in Hudson,” Pugh said about the decision to locate the school in the county seat. The high number of artists in the city and the proximity to New York by car or by train were leading reasons to establish the school in Hudson.

“A Practical Immersion in the Michael Chekhov Technique,” a five-week course recently wrapped up in Hudson led by Pugh, Sloan, Freidank and Joanna Merlin. Eleven actors ranging in age from their 20s to their 50s from six different countries spent this time living and working in Columbia County, getting to know the area in their spare time. “Hudson is so full of surprises,” said Pugh. “There’s always something going on.” Sloan added the caliber of the people that attend the acting school is high. “These are actors who are serious about the craft.” The most recent session saw students in class five days a week from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

“It’s really intense,” said Sloan of the program’s regimen. “We want the community to know we are here, what we are doing with the school,” said Pugh.

Founders of the Michael Chekhov School of Acting at 360 Warren St. in Hudson from left: Ragnar Freidank, Fern Sloan and Ted Pugh.

“It’s a rare opportunity to work in a small group with dedicated teachers in an atmosphere of openness and creativity,” said Merlin, faculty member and the last living direct student of Chekhov.

All of the school’s faculty are seasoned actors and teachers for the Michael Chekhov Association (MICHA). “Michael Chekhov speaks to the spirit of things,” said Kathryn Doshi of India, a student in the most recent immersion course. “Rather than going on stage to receive the audience’s approval, I am going on stage to give a piece of myself as a gift for them. It requires the belief that you have something worth giving,” said Doshi. “Chekhov honors the intuition and the spirit of the artist and he empowers you. He’s the first teacher I’ve found who lays a path.”

michaelchekhovschool Michael Chekhov School of Acting A Theater Laboratory

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CG Business Quarterly | SPRING 2017

Students work on an exercise in class space the school uses at Solaris, Camphill Hudson’s Center for the Social Arts.

The AcTors’ ensemble In 1985, Sloan and Pugh and two colleagues founded The Actors’ Ensemble in New York City inspired by Chekhov, working together to develop the art of the actor and to create theater ensemble. Since its founding, the Ensemble has created and performed theater productions across the United States, Europe and Russia and developed a two-year college level acting program through Sunbridge Col“It’s a rare lege.

In 1993, Pugh and Sloan relocated to Coopportunity lumbia County and in the spring of 2015 to work in a The Actors’ Ensemble founded the Michael Chekhov School in Hudson. Currently, Sloan small group and Pugh are working with Australian actress Carter on writing a book about their with dedicated Danielle work with the Chekhov technique. teachers in an Pugh has appeared on Broadway, OffBroadway and in regional theaters around atmosphere of the country. He has also taught workshops the U.S., Europe and Russia. He openness and throughout was a founding member of the Long Wharf Theatre in New Haven, Connecticut and becreativity” gan his career at Arena Stage in Washington, D.C. in 1962.

–– MERLIN, Prior to founding The Actors’ Ensemble, FACULTY MEMBER Sloan played leading roles in numerous regional theaters in the U.S. and Off-Broadway. She has taught the Chekhov technique in the United States, Europe and Canada. After training at the Michael Chekhov Studio in New York City, Pugh was on the faculty at the Studio for the last seven years of its existence. Sloan

and Pugh were certified to teach the technique from Beatrice Straight, winner of the Academy Award for “Network,” founder of the Michael Chekhov Studio in New York City and the one responsible for bringing Chekhov to America.

Friedank is originally from Germany and now lives in Columbia County. He studied the Chekhov technique in New York City with Pugh and Sloan and has been collaborating with The Actors’ Ensemble for more than 20 years. He has been on the faculty of the acting programs of The New School for Drama, Columbia University, Sarah Lawrence College, Brooklyn College, Marymount Manhattan and the Michael Howard Studios in New York City.

All three are featured master teachers in the acclaimed DVD series, “Master Classes in the Michael Chekhov Technique,” produced by the Michael Chekhov Association (MICHA) and published by Routledge (UK).

The next session begins in July.

For more information, contact Fern Sloan at (518) 392-5497 or go to www.michaelchekhovschool.org.

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SPRING 2017 | CG Business Quarterly |

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And the winner is...

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The Best of Columbia County is a Reader’s Choice Contest and our readers have spoken!

Now available on newstands or at high traffic tourism and visitor sites throughout the region or read it online at www.columbiacountybest.com.

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CG Business Quarterly | SPRING 2017

BUSINESS PROFILE

est.1943

Barry Jackson

Jackson’s Old Chatham House 646 Albany Turnpike, Old Chatham, NY

TELL US, HOW DID JACKSON'S OLD CHATHAM HOUSE ORIGINATE? My grandparents started it back in 1945. It originally was just a five seat bar with a few tables in the building, next to the current restaurant. Our family owned a pub in Liverpool, England back in the 1800's and has been expanding ever since. I guess it is in our blood!

WHAT IS THE RESTAURANT BEST KNOWN FOR? Food-wise: our Prime Rib and Burgers, but really, I think it is the way we try to make everybody feel welcome, like family.

We have a warm, welcoming, rustic, country atmosphere.

YOUR PLACE HAS REAL HISTORY IN COLUMBIA COUNTY. IS THERE A FAMILY SECRET YOU'D BE WILLING TO SHARE? I don't know about a family secret, but we really just try to take care of everyone the best we can. It is not just the food, drink and service--it is the whole package. We truly care about people and believe if you take care of the people, they will take care of you.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE TIME OF THE YEAR IN COLUMBIA COUNTY AND WHY? I definitely like the

fall best, all the colors, it cools down. Working in the kitchen and there is just so much going on in the fall around here.

Columbia County is so beautiful to just drive around the back roads and check out all the farms, animals and foliage. You can go hiking, kayaking then go get something to eat. Our family always looks forward to the blessing of the hounds in October with the Hunt Club. It is just a terrific time of year and our busiest.

WHO DO YOU CREDIT MOST FOR THE RESTAURANT'S SUCCESS? I give most of the credit to all the staff, without

them none of this is possible. They do such a great job and we consider them an extension of our family. We have been blessed over the generations, not only with great works but great people to who we are thankful (you know who you are!).

Open 7 Days a Week

www.jacksonsoldchathamhouse.com

(518) 794-7373

SPRING 2017 | CG Business Quarterly |

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TECHNOLOGY

Resolving to unplug from devices Many people now spend ample time each day texting, POSTING to social media and watching videos on their smartphones. Devices such as phones and tablets might play big roles in many peoples’ lives, and few may realize just how much time they’re spending on their devices.

According to Nielsen’s Total Audience Report, Americans aged 18 and older now spend more than 11 hours a day watching television, listening to the radio or using phones and other electronic devices. Common Sense Media, a nonprofit focused on assisting people in navigating the world of media and technology, notes that American teens and tweens spend about nine hours using media for enjoyment. Research conducted by Silentnight, a United Kingdom-based bed and mattress company, found that mobile phone usage, at eight hours and 41 minutes per day, in the UK has now exceeded the amount of time people spend sleeping. Sleep experts warn that constant exposure to electronic devices is contributing to poor sleep and can have other negative effects on a person’s health.

Cutting back on electronic device usage can prove challenging. However, with some patience and practice, it is possible to wean off devices without digital withdrawal symptoms. n Keep tech devices out of the bedroom. Make bedrooms device-free zones so they don’t disturb sleep. Various studies have found the blue light emitted from phones and other electronics can wreak havoc with the body’s natural circadian rhythms, reducing melatonin production and causing the body to think it’s daylight. Turn off devices at least 60 to 90 minutes before bed to give the mind time to wind down. n Reach for a book. When a diversion is needed, grab a book or another reading material. Keep magazines, traditional books instead of e-books and newspapers at the ready. n Turn off notifications. Eliminate pop-ups and audible sounds. Check posts and emails on your own schedule. n Delay turn-on times. Push back the time that you first turn on a phone or

another electronic device by a couple of minutes per day. n Leave phones home when running quick errands. Leave phones at home when stepping out of the house to run quick errands. Follow suit when shopping for groceries or heading to the gym for a workout. n Set limits. Establish a schedule when devices can and cannot be used in the house, enforcing this schedule strictly. When not on devices, get outdoors or engage in physical activity.

A popular new resolution is to cut back on the amount of time spent using electronic devices. This can reduce dependence on technology and help improve overall health as well. ne charged can help in case of emergency. n Apps: The right apps can make all the difference, especially for travelers whose road trip itinerary is not set in stone. The smartphone app GasBuddy can help drivers find the cheapest gas near them, while an app like AroundMe helps travelers find the nearest restaurants, pharmacies, banks, gas stations, and hotels, among other things. And don’t forget to download a music app like Pandora or Amazon Music (available to Amazon Prime subscribers) so you and your fellow road warriors can be entertained as you travel far and wide. n LED road flares: Traditional road flares tend to burn out rather quickly, with some lasting as little as 15 minutes. That can be a problem for travelers who experience car trouble and end up stranded far away from auto body shops. Some flameless LED road flares can last for hours on end off of a single charge, providing drivers with some peace of mind should they be stranded and forced to wait awhile before a tow truck or mechanic arrives.

The spirit that inspires travelers to take to the open road still exists, but nowadays drivers can make their road trips even more fun by taking along the appropriate tech.

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THE SOURCE FOR DOING BUSINESS IN COLUMBIA & GREENE COUNTIES

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23

BUSINESS

Kinderhook Bank Corp. and Patriot Federal Bank Merger Kinderhook Bank Corp. (OTCQB: NUBK), the parent bank holding company of The National Union Bank of Kinderhook (“Kinderhook Bank”), and Patriot Federal Bank (“Patriot”) recently announced an agreement to merge in an all-stock transaction. The proposed merger of the two community banks is subject to approval by regulatory agencies and the shareholders of Patriot and customary closing conditions.

The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2017.

The combined organization would operate as Kinderhook Bank with 11 offices across five counties and, based on financial results as of December 31, 2016, approximately $601 million in total assets, $446 million in total loans and $521 million in total deposits. Patriot would merge into Kinderhook Bank and their shareholders would receive 0.300 shares of Kinderhook Bank Corp. common stock for each share of Patriot common stock. Upon closing, Patriot shareholders will own approximately 29% of the stock in the combined company, on a fully-diluted basis.

Patriot, headquartered in Canajoharie, NY, is a federally chartered savings institution organized in 2005. It serves customers in Montgomery and Fulton counties, NY, from offices in Amsterdam, Canajoharie and John-

Kathleen J. Wolfe, president and chief executive officer of Patriot, said “Combining with Kinderhook was a clear strategic choice for Patriot. Our customers and communities will benefit from the resources of a larger banking organization committed to serving local businesses and individuals.

We believe our combined growth prospects are strong.”

Endicott Financial Advisors LLC served as financial advisor to Kinderhook and rendered a fairness opinion in connection with the transaction. Cranmore, FitzGerald & Meaney served as legal counsel to KBC. The Bank Advisory Group served as financial advisor to Patriot and rendered a fairness opinion.

Hunton & Williams served as legal counsel to Patriot.

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ENTERTAINMENT

State-of-the-Art Theater nears completion Each summer, world-class dance, drama, films and workshops take to the stage at PS 21, Performance Spaces for the 21st Century, a picturesque venue at 2980 Route 66, a mile outside of the Village of Chatham. As the twelfth season begins July 15 “under the Tent,” exciting things are happening as a permanent, state-ofthe-art theater on the property nears completion.

Operating for the last dozen years under a temporary saddle span tent, PS21 was started by Judy Grunberg, founder and president, with a vision of bringing first-rate art performances to the area.

“Columbia County is an arts-driven area,” said Sam Reilly, marketing assistant and site manager at PS21. “We are growing and it’s exciting. PS21 has become more than just an art space – it’s a destination and we are an integrated piece of the fabric in the area’s art, dance and theater community.”

PS21 draws its audiences from Columbia County, the Capital District and the Berkshires and is particularly well-known for bringing Parsons Dance to the area. Founded in 1985 by artistic director David Parsons and award-winning lighting designer Howell Binkley, Parsons Dance is known for its energized, athletic ensemble work and has collaborated with iconic artists across all disciplines, including Billy Taylor, Allen Toussaint, Annie Leibovitz and Alex Katz.

Through a grant from the New York State Council on the Arts, Parsons Dance celebrates its twelfth season at PS21, spending most of July on site in Chatham developing new dance works, teaching dance classes and offering rehearsals open to the public. Parsons Dance will present two performances as part of the Chatham Dance Festival at PS21 Aug. 4-5 at 8 p.m. Since PS21’s first summer season in 2006, Parsons Dance has returned to the Tent each year to present ensemble performances to sold-out houses. This summer, while in residence, David Parsons and a guest choreographer will develop a new work, according to Grunberg.

Alicia Svigals’ Klezmer Fiddle Express - The PS21 season opens July 15 at 8 p.m. with composer, violinist and vocalist Alicia Svigals, a world-renowned klezmer fiddler performing with accordionist Lauren Brody and double bassist Brian Glassman. Svigals is the founder of the Grammy-winning Klezmatics, which she co-directed for 17 years. She has written for many performers including violinist Itzhak Perlman, the Kronos Quartet and playwright Tony Kushner.

Chopin & Candlelight - Pianist Lincoln Mayorga performs Chopin’s Twenty-Six Preludes in a musical and dramatic presentation on July 16 at 2 p.m. The performance will include readings by actors Nancy Rothman and Martin Anderson of the correspondence and diaries of the composer and his lover, George Sand, during their stay on the island of Majorca during the winter of 1838-39.

In addition to being nationally and internationally known as a classical and jazz pianist, area resident Mayorga is also an arranger, producer and composer.

Dishwasher Dreams - In a one-man show, actor and writer Aladdin Ullah tells the story of his father, Habib, a steamship worker from East Bengal, who jumped ship and made his way to New York’s Lower East Side in the 1920s, settled in Harlem in the ‘30s and worked for years as a dishwasher and line cook in this performance on July 21 at 8 p.m. Directed by Regge Life, Ullah explores his father’s life as well as his own childhood growing up in East Harlem in the 1970s and ‘80s. Accompanied by table player Avi Sharma, Ullah tells the story with a deep sense of humor, drama and empathy for the

The sign for the current PS21 season directs theater-goers to the top of the hill at 2980 Route 66 in Chatham where the Tent is situated in an apple orchard. A stateof-the art permanent theater is nearing completion near the temporary stage.

American immigrant experience. For the past decade, Ullah has been pioneering as one of the first South Asians to perform stand-up comedy on national television networks including HBO, Comedy Central, MTV and PBS. Simone Dinnerstein, Piano - The 12th Annual Paul Grunberg Memorial Bach Concert features pianist Simone Dinnerstein performing Bach’s Goldberg Variations on July 22 at 8 p.m. American pianist Dinnerstein gained an international following with the success of her recording of Bach’s Goldberg Variations. Released in 2007 on Telarc, it ranked No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Classical Chart in its first week of sales and was named to “Best of 2007” lists of the New York Times, Los Angeles Times and The New Yorker.

Please see THEATER, page 26 SUMMER 2017 | CG Business Quarterly |

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THEATER, from page 25

The Velocity of Geography - A staged reading of James Farrell’s new play, “The Velocity of Geography” will be July 23 at 2 p.m. directed by Robert Zukerman. The play explores the complexities of experience behind the story of a father and daughter who emigrate from Romania to New York City in 1988, fleeing the oppressive regime of Nicolae Ceausescu. Farrell’s plays have been produced at Circle Repertory Company in New York City, South Coast Repertory in Los Angeles, Northlight Theatre in Chicago, the Cleveland Playhouse, Jewish Repertory Theatre, Seattle Public Theatre, Stageworks in Hudson and many other theaters. Farrell has been a resident playwright at Circle Repertory Company, where he also served as literary manager.

Teicher collaborates with one of the world’s most eminent swing and vernacular jazz dancers, Nathan Bugh, to riff to the music of Ella Fitzgerald. Teicher began his career at age 16 as a founding member of Dorrance Dance and was awarded a 2011 Bessie Award for Outstanding Individual Performance.

Monica Bill Barnes & Co. - Performances by this contemporary American dance company will be Aug. 18-19 at 8 p.m. and “brings dance where it does not belong,” according to Grunberg. A team of collaborators create and produce each work entirely from its own rulebook, finding humor in life’s everyday triumphs and failures. The company consists of Monica Bill Barnes, artistic director, choreographer and performer, Anna Bass, associate artistic director and performer, Robbie Saenz de Viteri, creative producing director and performer and designers Kelly Hanson, set and costume, and Jane Cox, lighting.

Mettawee River Theatre Company - “Before the Sun & Moon” is an ancient Korean folktale and a magical story in which a husband and wife discover the power of love and devotion through many unexpected challenges and wild adventures. The show goes up July 26 at 8 p.m. and incorporates masks, puppets and other visual elements. In 1976, Ralph Lee became artistic director of the Mettawee River Theatre Company, which has been a center of his creative activity ever since.

Mettawee’s productions are based on creation myths, trickster tales, Sufi stories, legends and folklore from the world’s many cultures. Lee received the 1996 Dance Theatre Workshop’s Bessie Award for “sustained achievement as a mask maker and theatre designer without equal.” He has been Scenes from past performances at PS21 are pictured here. Dance, theater, workand films fill the summer calendar at the open-air arts venue celebrating an artist-in-residence at the Cathedral shops its twelfth year. of St. John the Divine since 1984.

Rory Block’s Gospel & Blues Fest Weekend - The weekend kicks off July 28 at 8 p.m. with The Campbell Brothers presenting a rich variety of materials from the African American Holiness Pentecostal repertoire. Chuck Campbell on pedal steel guitar, Phillip Campbell on electric guitar and bass, Darick Campbell on lap steel and Carlton Campbell on drums. The Campbell Brothers have their music and performances featured in the Sacred Steel exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American Heritage and Culture.

Two beloved masters of slide, five-time Blues Music Award winner Rory Block and Texas Music Hall of Famer Cindy Cashdollar offer an evening of the blues on July 29 at 8 p.m. as part of the Blues Fest Weekend lineup.

Rory Block has been heralded by Blues Revue as “one of the greatest living acoustic blues artists” and has preserved the Delta blues tradition and brought it to life for 21st century audiences around the world. Dobro, steel guitar and lap steel player Cashdollar’s unerring ability to complement a song or step out with a phenomenal solo has led her to work with the likes of Bob Dylan, Van Morrison, Rod Stewart, Levon Helm and many more.

A co-presentation of local gospel choirs hosted by Chatham’s Payne AME Church Choir and Block will be July 30 at 2 p.m. at The Old Methodist Church, 8 Church Lane, Chatham Center in a co-presentation of PS21 and ChurchLIVE. In addition to Chatham’s Payne AME Church, choirs from Hudson, Kingston and Albany will present the best in gospel music with a reception following the performance. The event is free and donations will be gratefully accepted.

Caleb Teicher & Co. - Tap, jazz and modern dance come to the PS21 stage Aug. 11-12 at 8 p.m. with Caleb Teicher & Co. The program includes “Variations,” in which three tap dancers make Bach’s Goldberg Variations leap from the page; Small & Tall, in which “small” Macy Sullivan and “tall” Lindsey Jones pair up for a funny and heartwarming duet using a mashup of vernacular jazz, tap, modern and lame acrobatics, and “Meet Ella,” in which 26 |

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Ephrat Asherie Dance - Ephrat Asherie Dance (EAD) is an urban dance theater company that combines the rawness of underground styles with a contemporary dance aesthetic performing Aug. 25-26 at 8 p.m. Asherie trained extensively in ballet and modern dance but found her artistic home in breaking, hip-hop and house. EAD has presented work at FiraTarrega in Spain, the Doris Duke Theater at Jacob’s Pillow and the River to River Festival.

Christopher K. Morgan - The season concludes with a performance by Choreographer Christopher Morgan Sept. 2-3 at 8 p.m. followed by a question and answer period and reception. In Pohaku, an evening-length solo dance, Morgan brings together storytelling, hula, modern dance, classical music and projection design. He incorporates personal stories into the larger story of Hawaii’s native people. Morgan’s native Hawaiian ancestry and a diverse, international modern dance career that moved him to Munich, Washington, D.C., New York, Dublin and London, all influence his choreography. In addition to being artistic director of his dance company, Morgan is the director of the Dance Omi International Dance Collective residency in Columbia County.

Workshops for Kids, Adults - Several different workshops for kids from theater to dance to tap to drumming take place at PS21 this summer.

Offerings include: Theater Arts & Playwriting July 10 to Aug. 11 on Mondays and Wednesdays for ages 5-12; Theater Arts Intensive Aug. 7-10 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. for ages 8-13; modern dance with the Parsons Dance Company July 12-28 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. for ages 12-18; contemporary tap dance by Caleb Teicher & Company dancers Aug. 10-12 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. for ages 12-18; and West African Dance & Drum by Jamal Jackson and Frank Malloy Aug. 14-18 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. for ages 9-18.

A free workshop called “Stones and Stories” by choreographer Christopher Morgan takes place July 16 from 11 .m. to 1 p.m. The session incorporates storytelling, movement and chanting and is open to all ages.

“Slide Guitar with Rory Block” is a workshop July 29 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at ChurchLIVE, 8 Church Lane in Chatham Center.

Just For Fun Fridays, Movie Tuesdays - Free performances for kids take place July 21, 28, Aug. 4, 11, 18 at 1 p.m. Storytelling, songs, dance and drumming are included. Free films are screened at the tent every Tuesday July 18 through Aug. 29 at 8:30 p.m. A sampling includes, “Moscow on the Hudson,” “The Immigrant,” “Avalon,” and “The Namesake.”

For ticket prices and more information about the PS21 season, go to their website at www.ps21chatham.org or call Brown Paper Tickets at (800) 8383006.

IN THE

NEIGHBORHOOD

Your key to buying a vacation home

For vacationers and day trippers, the lure of Columbia, location you can use to begin your search. Current real estate values, utility Greene, Dutchess and surrounding counties is unmistakable. Against the bustle costs, municipal services, taxes and facilities, zoning laws that may affect and demands of urban or suburban living, the down-shift gears of our rural life your property – all are topics that a local Realtor can assist you with as well. brings visitors back again and again to explore hiking and When you meet with a real estate professional, ask about cycling trails, skiing and snowshoeing, poking about the his or her expertise with selling vacation properties. Ask farmer’s markets and back roads and visiting hip and trendy how many vacation home listings he has listed, how many Hudson. From her, you can venture to our region’s cultural years she has worked in the industry and inquire about any spots right here and in the nearby Catskills and Berkshires. particular specialties – some Realtors have earned the ReAs Realtors®, we see it often: visitors to our area get sort and Second-Home Property Specialist (RSPS) certificomfortable after they check in for a few days, a week, cation, which indicates specialized training in buying and or a month. They are charmed and unwound by the easier selling second homes. pace. They find they can slip in and out of the city with As you are searching for your vacation residence, you ease by car or train, or often, they can keep up with their should also be getting your finances in order. If you are city jobs from a local coffee shop or from their vacation adding a second mortgage to your financial life, it will spot. They start to wonder: why not get a weekend place expand your debt-to-income ratio, and you may need to here? Soon, they drop in to local real estate offices and make a substantial down payment on any second-home start looking at listings. Soon, the visitor becomes a new purchase. Be ready to dive into some paperwork, and ask resident, with a permanent foothold in the community. your Realtor how to connect with locally based banks and A survey by the National Association of Realtors ® found closing attorneys who can help streamline your process. that vacation home buyers typically purchased property Ronald Caplan, 2017 Columbia-Greene Are you considering renting your vacation home when you 200 miles from their primary residence. Even if you are Board of REALTORS® president are not using it? If so, ask your Realtor about renting to familiar with your targeted search area, chances are you others. He or she can advise you on potential restrictions, are not up to speed on local market conditions. Once you have a general idea advantages and disadvantages, and tips for making your vacation home a topof the area and type of vacation home you want, your next step is to contact a notch investment as well as a fun retreat for your family. You may also want locally-based Realtor. Working with a professional can save you time, money help connecting with locally-based caretakers or property managers. and a lot of stress, by providing first-hand local knowledge about the local market. He or she can help you determine what you can afford and what towns A vacation home can be a great getaway and long-term investment. Vacation homes often become retirement homes, but in many cases, well before retireor neighborhoods fit your wish list.

Before you begin looking for a vacation home, meet with a Realtor to talk ment, some families decide to decamp from their busy urban lifestyles for a about what kind of home you want, and where. Hassle-free condo? Or a house new full-time life in the country. A Realtor can help make it happen. where you can putter and garden? Do you want a cabin in the woods or a spot in town? Knowing what you want can help establish a price range and

Ron Caplan is president of the Columbia-Greene Board of Realtors®, columbiagreenerealtors.org.

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RUB ELBOWS WITH...

Farming IS Rural Prosperity

TESSA EDICK Photo via www.goodfoodjobs.com

About you: Entrepreneur, Foodie, Author, Speaker and Philanthropist, is that how you would best characterize yourself or is there more? I am a school food activist, too! Officially, I am a food entrepreneur, Founder + Executive Director of the FarmOn! Foundation, a 501(C)3 non-profit organization and public charity.

What fuels your drive, to be the best you can be, wearing so many hats?

Passion to revitalize a respect for farming as a noble profession and development of a replicable model to rebuild rural prosperity in America with the next generation of farmers - and farm fresh food from farmers I trust to feed me ;) Tell us, what is the one professional achievement you are most proud of?

Building a youth education organic farm for our youth and community to learn and save farming in a partnership with SUNY (my alma mater).

Is there any new projects in the works? Putting FarmOn! the map with Google! Learn more at our July 29, 7th Annual HOOT! at Empire Farm in Copake. The event features a delicious meal prepared by a celebrated chef and sourced locally. Up to 500 guests from New York City, Connecticut, Berkshires, Saratoga Springs, Capital District and the Hudson Valley attend the benefit dinner that changes the way you think and connects you to where your food comes from in an authentic and meaningful way. Guests shop local at the farmer’s market cocktail hour complete with live music, vendors, a silent auction and local libations in the student run Victory Garden with tour and tasting in the fields the students grow. Featuring a Hudson Valley cheese course, oyster boat and an organically grown sustainable farm fresh feast.

To cap off the night, guests enjoy live music and dancing under the stars with a barn party to follow dessert.

What do you like to do in your free time? What free time? There is no shame in sleeping and I love to cook and host dinner parties with friends.

Founder + Executive Director, FarmOn! Foundation Age? Ageless...

Where are you from? Upstate New York Finger Lakes Region/Syracuse Family members? Brother Kipp Edick, Architect Empire Farm and a sister, Tara Edick Smith, MD.

lia’s first Did you hear about Austra“Rescued Food Grocery Store”?

Do you think we’ll ever become as strict with food standards in the U.S. as overseas?

OzHarvest’s new marketplace in Kensington is brilliant! And as long as food is not digital - we all must eat - good food is not a privilege and that joy drives our spending. And that spending on food is our choice, we the people vote with our food dollars and if we choose to opt out of the processed food system and spend responsibly on food from people we trust, who needs regulations - we will recreate the food standards with our communities in the same way Amazon.com hopes to with Whole Foods Markets - in fact - they should partner with OzHarvest!

Rural prosperity should drive us to wellness and good health because Food is Medicine. And “Eating is an Agricultural Act” Wendell Berry said.

What else would your business neighbors be surprised to know about you? No surprises, just join us! Together we get our hands dirty working in the fields growing vegetables to sell with youth and teaching them the business of food on an organic working farm. It’s inspiring! Stop by!

SUMMER 2017 | CG Business Quarterly |

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NETWORKING oto

Contributed ph

a new res Inc. opened Our Community Ca continue the work of to office in Chatham ed. Pictured (L-R) is in ne helping families nt Jeff Chamber Preside Columbia County ard member bo res Ca ity un Hunt with Comm board ident Lori Weaver, Tracy Muller, Pres Salvatore, Treasurer l member Michae amber lumbia County Ch Dawn Steward, Co y Kneller and Am t tan sis as e administrativ er. ador Dave O’Conn Chamber ambass

The Old Klaverack Brewery should fit across two columns as a wide, horizontal image with this caption: The Old Klaverack Brewery in Claverack celebrated the opening of their new tasting room with the Columbia County Chamber staff and board members.

Hagar’s Harbor Bar and Restaurant is open for boaters, takeout, delivery and live entertainment in Athens.

Pictured with Greene County Chamber representatives are owners Joe & Marcia Puorro with General Manager Dennis Walker.

Robert LaCosta, a board-certified hearing instrument specialist has opened a HEARt Ear Boutique in Hope Plaza, Coxsackie. LaCosta is pictured at the new location with members of the Greene County Chamber of Commerce, business neighbors and staff members.

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CG Business Quarterly | SUMMER 2017

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